THE DARK CRYSTAL (1982)

It's the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, muppetational episode of The Unenthusiastic Critic yet, as Michael and Nakea discuss Jim Henson and Frank Oz's 1982 film The Dark Crystal. First, we're talking about the unparalleled legacy of Jim Henson, and how the Muppets shaped our formative years. Then—in anticipation of the new prequel series from Netflix—we're watching The Dark Crystal, a labor of love from Henson that was not particularly loved by critics and audiences. Is The Dark Crystal a misunderstood masterpiece, or was it a rare misfire from the late, great Muppet master?  Program 0:00: Prologue: from The Muppet Show 0:46: Preliminary Conversation: Jim Henson & The Muppets 18:10: Interlude: from Sesame Street 18:43: Cultural Osmosis: Pre-Viewing Discussion 24:32: Interlude: Original Trailer for The Dark Crystal 26:40: The Verdict: Post-Viewing Discussion 51:33: Outro and Next Week's Movie 53:16: Postscript, from The Muppet Show For show-notes, links, additional episodes, and other information, please go to unaffiliatedcritic.com.