The Dark Crystal Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "The Dark Crystal" on the newly released 1080p Blu-ray offers a notable improvement over its 2009 predecessor, though it remains somewhat overshadowed by the stunning 4K UHD version. This Blu-ray edition is presented in a 2:39:1 1080p AVC transfer with an average bitrate of 24 mbps, delivering a darker and richer image that feels more natural. The remastered transfer showcases significant enhancements in detailing, from the intricate costumes to the textured environments. The colors are more robust and deeply saturated, lending a filmic richness to the visuals. However, it lacks the sharpness, depth, and color vibrancy provided by the HDR in the UHD release. Black levels on this Blu-ray appear pale in comparison, and grain is less pronounced.

Despite these comparisons, in isolation, this Blu-ray still delivers an impressive visual experience. The primary colors pop vividly, with the purple crystal and lush green world of Thra standing out particularly well. Contrast and black levels provide a pleasing sense of depth, although optical effects are still noticeable as they are integral to the original negative. Enhanced color timing adds a fresh look to characters such as Kira, whose hair now exhibits green highlights mixed with bright white tones. While the Blu-ray can’t match the exceptional output of the UHD version, this release signifies a substantial upgrade in clarity and sharpness over previous editions, ensuring that fans of "The Dark Crystal" will appreciate the visual improvements in this new anniversary edition.

The audio presentation of The Dark Crystal on this Blu-ray features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack, offering a significant but not monumental improvement over the older Dolby TrueHD 5.1. With an average bit rate of 2.1 Mbps and peaks up to 2.7 Mbps during climactic scenes, the sound mix is detailed and offers ample clarity for various effects, articulate voice performances, and richly composed music by Trevor Jones. The soundstage is sufficiently immersive, capturing the ambient nuances of the film's intriguing landscapes, though it falls short compared to the Dolby Atmos track available on the UHD release.

Dialogue is consistently clear and precise, an essential in maintaining the narrative and emotional gravity of the puppet characters. Lower-end frequencies receive adequate attention, delivering a sufficient sense of heft during action sequences like the Garthim attack at Aughra's place, but do lack the pronounced impact found in the Atmos version. Ambient sounds are well-layered, enhancing the overall stage immersion and providing a genuine surround presence that was somewhat confined in previous Dolby Digital 5.1 mixes.

In summary, while this audio mix might not reach the expansive heights of an Atmos track, it offers a respectable and dependable experience. The intricate sound details and balanced audio elevate the immersive quality of the film, making it a valuable upgrade from older tracks and an overall commendable choice for viewers who seek clarity and depth in their audio experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Dark Crystal" presents a comprehensive suite of bonus features, blending older favorites with new additions. Maintaining the professional quality expected, it includes audio commentary by artist Brian Froud and an insightful interview with Lisa Henson and Toby Froud in the new featurette, "The Myth, Magic, and Henson Legacy." This disc caters to both longtime fans and newcomers by offering a balanced mix of retrospectives, detailed documentaries, and engaging visual galleries. The technical execution of extras enhances the viewing experience through meticulously upscaled content, ensuring clarity and immersive quality. While some features from prior releases are absent, the new content sufficiently compensates, solidifying this Blu-ray as a definitive edition for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: With Brian Froud.
• Storyboard Track
• The Myth, Magic and Henson Legacy: Interview with Lisa Henson and Toby Froud.
• The World of The Dark Crystal
• Reflections of The Dark Crystal
• Deleted Scenes
• Original Skeksis Language - Test Scenes
• Storyboards: Gallery of images.
• Photo Galleries: Three-character illustration galleries.
• Teaser Trailer
• Theatrical Trailer

Sony’s re-release of Jim Henson and Frank Oz's "The Dark Crystal" on Blu-ray presents a landmark dark fantasy experience, characterized by its intricate puppetry and imaginative world-building. The movie's story follows two young Gelflings, Jen and Kira, on a quest to reunite a broken shard with the titular dark crystal to restore peace to their land. What stands out in this edition is the stellar 1080p video transfer and the DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. The film's remarkable visual design features rod and cable-operated puppets, delivering a tactile authenticity absent in modern CGI-heavy movies.

"The Dark Crystal" remains visually compelling, offering a rich tapestry of practical creature effects from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Scenes like the Skeksis' movements clearly demonstrate the extensive craftsmanship involved, with three to six puppeteers controlling each creature. This release elevates the viewing experience; finer details of characters like Aughra and Lord Chamberlain are more pronounced, enhancing appreciation of the film's meticulous production value. The darker tone of the movie, coupled with scenes of genuine danger, provides an edginess uncommon in many contemporary family films, making it a unique viewing experience for older children and adults alike.

Available in DigiBook packaging, the Blu-ray set includes both a BD-50 disc and a digital copy redeemable via Movies Anywhere. While additional special features from previous releases are preserved, new additions include an AVC transfer and a fresh featurette on the making of the film. For home theater enthusiasts with 4K setups, a concurrent UHD edition offers even superior video and Dolby Atmos audio. Overall, this edition is recommended for both new viewers and those seeking to revisit this iconic film in enhanced quality.

The Dark Crystal remains an enduring classic, capturing the imagination with its intricate puppetry and rich fantasy world. The latest Blu-ray edition delivers an impressive HD experience, bolstered by a comprehensive array of bonus materials. This restoration effort breathes new life into the film, preserving its visual splendor and enhancing the audio quality. It's a testament to the lasting impact of Jim Henson’s visionary work, offering a vibrant and immersive viewing experience.

Sony’s meticulous restoration is evident in the improved video and audio fidelity. While not on par with the UHD disc's superior video and Atmos audio capabilities, this release surpasses the aging 2009 version. The inclusion of both new and previously available bonus features adds significant value, making it an attractive option for fans and collectors alike. Packaged in a visually appealing DigiBook, this Blu-ray edition serves as a worthy addition to any collection, particularly for those who have yet to transition to 4K.

This release of The Dark Crystal pales, technically, compared to the UHD disc, which offers substantially improved video and Atmos audio. It's a bit better than the aging 2009 release, and it does come bundled in attractive DigiBook packaging. For that, and given the relatively low price, it's a worthwhile add to the collection. Still, the UHD -- which includes this disc -- is the better buy, even for fans who have yet to make the jump to the 4K format. Better to plan ahead and have what is one of the best-looking discs on the market ready to go for day one.