The Dark Crystal

The Dark Crystal

Year: 1982

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Frank Oz

AdventureFantasyFamily

In a world where darkness prevails, a young Gelfling named Jen embarks on a perilous quest to restore balance. Raised by the wise Mystics, Jen discovers his true identity and sets out to reunite the shattered Dark Crystal, once wielded by ancient beings who maintained harmony. With the Skeksis' malevolent influence spreading chaos, Jen's determination to mend the crystal holds the fate of his world in precarious balance.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Dark Crystal (1982)
Trace every key event in The Dark Crystal (1982) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

The Cataclysmic Event

A devastating event occurs on a barren planet, ravaging its landscape and altering the course of life. This cataclysm creates two distinct species: the malevolent Skeksis, who use a fractured crystal to prolong their lives, and the benevolent urRu Mystics, who find refuge in a secluded valley.

1000 years ago
2

The Rise of Jen

Among the urRu Mystics, a young Gelfling named Jen is orphaned when the Skeksis annihilate his clan. He is raised in isolation, learning about the mystical powers and the burdens he must eventually carry.

Mystic Valley
3

The Mystic Master’s Gift

As the celestial bodies align for the Great Conjunction, the dying Mystic Master entrusts Jen with a sacred mission. He must restore the crystal by recovering a shard from the enigmatic Aughra, or risk falling under Skeksis tyranny.

Great Conjunction Mystic Valley
4

The Death of Leaders

The Emperor of the Skeksis perishes alongside the Mystic Master, leading to a struggle for power among the Skeksis. The ambitious General outmaneuvers the Chamberlain, leading to his exile as they prepare to hunt Jen.

Skeksis Castle
5

Capture Attempt

Learning of Jen's existence, the Skeksis employ their monstrous Garthim to apprehend him. The Chamberlain, eager to regain his position of power, joins the hunt, setting a perilous chain of events into motion for Jen.

6

Meeting Aughra

On his journey, Jen encounters Aughra and enters her mystical orrery. He chooses a shard that resonates with his flute, producing a captivating melody just before the Garthim launch an attack, leading to Aughra's abduction.

Aughra's Orrery
7

Bonding with Kira

In a treacherous swamp, Jen meets Kira, another Gelfling. They deepen their bond through dreamfasting, exchanging memories and dreams that strengthen their resolve against the Skeksis.

Swamp
8

The Garthim Assault

Jen and Kira seek refuge with the Podlings who raised Kira, but they are quickly attacked by the Garthim. Just as capture seems imminent, the Chamberlain intervenes, commanding his minions to retreat.

Podling Village
9

Journey to the Castle

Understanding the importance of his mission, Jen embarks on a determined journey to reach the Skeksis castle. Meanwhile, panic spreads among the Gelflings as they organize to confront the Garthim and protect their home.

Various Locations
10

Descent into Darkness

In a daring escape, Kira saves Jen from capture, taking them into the shadows below the castle. They encounter the Scientist, who drains the essence of Podlings to sustain the faltering Emperor.

Skeksis Castle
11

Fateful Confrontation

Frustration mounts for the Chamberlain as his plans unravel. In a moment of desperation, he attempts to eliminate Jen, who responds with the shard, marking his resolve to complete his mission despite overwhelming odds.

12

The Chamberlain’s Malice

Enraged by repeated failures, the Chamberlain threatens Jen with death while capturing Kira. The stakes are raised as Kira's fate becomes intertwined with Jen’s mission and Aughra’s wisdom.

Skeksis Castle
13

Animals Rising

Guided by Aughra's insight, Kira breaks the hold of the Skeksis over the animals, who turn on the Scientist. The chaos results in a dramatic confrontation within the castle as the balance of power shifts.

Skeksis Castle
14

The Climactic Showdown

Jen and Kira unite within the Skeksis laboratory, culminating in a decisive confrontation with the Skeksis. Together, they race for the crystal chamber as the celestial event approaches, putting everything at stake.

Crystal Chamber
15

Restoration of Balance

In a breathtaking moment, Jen plunges the shard into the crystal at the peak of the Great Conjunction. This act restores balance, erasing the Garthim and revitalizing the Podlings, while the Skeksis transform into urSkeks, marking a new dawn for their world.

At the Great Conjunction Crystal Chamber

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 16:20

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