With Disney+, Disney’s own Netflix, releasing on Nov. 12, and Hulu and Amazon Prime Video showcasing their own original shows, the streaming wars have been heating up. Netflix may not be the leading streaming service after Disney+ puts forth their original Star Wars and Marvel shows. They’re trying to make reasons for subscribers to keep the service, and they have certainly proven themselves with their latest prequel series, Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance. Age of Resistance is a ten-episode TV series that acts as a prequel to Dark Crystal, a movie released in 1982 that is famous for its use of puppets. Although, Age of Resistance doesn’t require a watching of the movie to be enjoyed. It is a gorgeous, action-packed, deep story with important themes.

The most apparent feature of this show is that all the characters are puppets. This may originally drive people away from the show for its very different look, but it quickly becomes one of the best parts of it. Everything feels real and touchable, which just makes watching every episode more enjoyable. Sometimes characters may lack emotions and some movements may look fake, but this actually isn’t usually noticeable. The puppeteers did an amazing job making puppets look and feel real. Although a small amount of computer-generated-imagery(CGI) is used, many environments are sets that the puppets walk through and interact with. Also, when CGI is used to create environments, the results are absolutely stunning and gorgeous. One of the most gorgeous places is the Sanctuary Tree, which resembles a cherry blossom tree.

  One of the best aspects of Age of Resistance is the characters. Everytime one of the main trio(which are all part of an elf-like species called the Gelfling) is onscreen, this show becomes pure fun because they’re such lovable characters. Rian is a warrior that just wants to spread the truth and clear his name. Deet is a kind, caring, and always wants to help others. Brea is curious and always seeks knowledge. Although, when the series’

villains, humanoid-esque vultures called the Skeksis, are onscreen, scenes become quite hard to watch because they treat everyone terribly are are extremely grotesque. This is probably the effect the creators were looking for, but it just makes the viewer want the protagonists to be onscreen again. The politics going on between the Skeksis are very interesting, though,

and make up for how annoying the Skeksis are. Another super lovable character named Hup arrives in episode two, and is loyal, wants to become a paladin(his weapon of choice is a spoon), and also speaks in another language that no one understands. He quickly becomes the viewer’s favorite character and steals every scene he is in. Although, as with any show with hour-long episodes, some scenes fell bland and dragged out. Most scenes are very interesting, but there are some that are quite slow.

This story is all about hope. The Gelfling are small creatures ruled over by their powerful Skeksis overlords. There are seven Gelfling clans that are divided, with power struggles happening between themselves, let alone with the Skeksis. When the Skeksis reveal their true selves through some very disturbing actions, the Gelfling must try to resist, but the odds are bleak. The protagonists must hold on to hope, and one character even states that if they die, their sacrifice will inspire others. Another major theme is prejudice and discrimination. The seven clans are terribly divided, and they have a hierarchical system that puts some clans over the others. One clan is known for being dirty and is believed to be extinct, so they aren’t allowed to meet with the clan leader or even sit with the “higher” clan. The main villains themselves see the Gelfling as an inferior race that deserves to be ruled over. Censorship is also very big in this series. The Skeksis can hide the truth and make up lies that will be believed easily because they’re the infallible “Lords of the Crystal” so they can’t be wrong. This is very relatable to dictatorships and many countries in our world, where the internet may be shut down so the rest of the world doesn’t know the truth.

  The voices behind the puppets are phenomenal, with quite a few well-known voices. The cast includes Taron Egerton(Kingsman: The Secret Service), Mark Hamill(Star Wars), Keegan-Michael Key(Key & Peele), and for some reason, many Game of Thrones actors. 

One thing to note before watching is that this show can be incredibly disturbing. The PG rating makes absolutely no sense. It’s a surprise for an episode to go by without the death of a recurring character, and most of these deaths aren’t even offscreen. Torture is also very present. There are also many scenes that are just plain disgusting, which are mostly just the Skeksis hanging out, with tons of mucus and eating bugs. Many creepy creatures are featured too, including giant spiders and huge worms. One scene even features an insignificant but recurring character being beat to death. While the death is offscreen, sounds can be heard and their shadow is shown. Maybe think twice before watching with a younger sibling. 

  Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance is something new and unique in an age of an influx of live-action action movies. It’s a refreshing step forward for Netflix and it shows that they’re willing to try new things. Age of Resistance is visually stunning, has extremely lovable characters, real-life themes, an amazing voice cast, and is also horrifying at the same time. It’s this blend of things to love that makes Age of Resistance a a phenomenal TV show.

9/10