The Orrery FAQThe Orrery FAQ
Actually, it's not really a FAQ. It's more of a QITYPA (Questions I think you'd probably ask.) If people write me, it might actually become a FAQ.
The Dark Crystal is a children's fantasy movie that came out in 1982. It was directed by Jim Henson, based off of conceptual designs by Brian Froud, and featured a cast made up entirely of "muppets" (though not the kind you're thinking of. Kermit probably would have been eaten within moments of stepping into this movie.) Though it was critically well-reviewed, it flopped, and has semi-disappeared off the radar of public consciousness. Despite this, there remains a loyal, and surprisingly large fan base. The Dark Crystal is also the name of the large, purple crystal that is the focus of the movie's heroes and villains. Back to top.
It's about 93 minutes long...just kidding. To quote the back of the box: "The tale begins when Jen, a Gelfling (one of the last survivors of the elfin-like race), is told of a prophecy by his master - a wise and gentle mystic. Jen sets to the task of returning the crystal shard to the all-powerful Dark Crystal, making it whole again, and restoring light to the world." Got it? Back to top.
The Dark Crystal is one of the most amazing movies ever made, in terms of visuals. Designed by Brian Froud, every character and set looks like it was ripped out of a book of fantasy illustration. Watch Jen step into Augra's home for the first time, and see if you aren't struck by the amazing set design. It's a movie that children and adults can both be entertained by, though very young children might be frightened by some of the characters and situations. Back to top.
It's usually not hard to find at most video rental stores. Check the Children's aisle, or possibly Sci-fi. If you want to buy a copy, you're in luck. After many years of difficulty, the Henson company is finally rereleasing the movie on tape and DVD. It's available for pre-ordering right now at Amazon. I suggest you get while the getting's good. Back to top.
Well, like I said, it did flop at theatres. Still, I'm surprised you haven't heard of it. It's kind of a cult movie... at least among those who grew up in the eighties. Back to top.
Brian Froud is an English fantasy artist and illustrator. He's probably best known for his work in the book 'Fairies,' with Alan Lee. His most recent book is 'Good Fairies, Bad Fairies,' which you could probably still buy at your local bookstore. Besides the Dark Crystal, he also worked with Jim Henson on the movie 'Labyrinth'. Back to top.
Who's Jim Henson? Are you kidding? If you've heard of Miss Piggy, Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, or Elmo, I'm sure you've heard of Jim Henson. Back to top.
8.Where can I find out more about The Dark Crystal?
Check out my links page. All of the links are good sources for further information. Back to top.
9.Where can I get Dark Crystal-related merchandise?
It's easy to find, but not that easy to acquire. Since the Dark Crystal didn't do too good at theatres, all the stuff they were planning to release only went out in limited quantities. If you've got the moola, check out Lost World Productions. There is usually a good selection of Dark Crystal items at eBay, as well. Back to top.
10.What's this web page about?
It's about 93 minutes... kidding again. It's a page that presents information about the Dark Crystal, as well as my own (and hopefully others') original DC artwork. The name "The Orrery" refers to the Aughra's orrery featured in the movie. Back to top.
An orrery is a mechanical model of a solar system. It was named after Charles Boyle, the Earl of Orrery, who apparently had a particularly famous one built for himself. Back to top.
12.Why did you build this page?
Because The Dark Crystal is my all-time favorite movie, and I saw this web page as an interesting way to combine my love for the movie with my love for art. Back to top.
Well, my name is Andrew Weing. Do you want to know more? Then visit The Garret, my personal homepage. Back to top.
14.Why are so many pagans interested in the Dark Crystal?
Not being a pagan, I wouldn't know. I suspect it has something to do with the recurring themes of the divided state of nature, the coexistence of good and evil, and the healing and unification of self and the world. If you're a pagan and you have something to add or refute, feel free to tell me. Back to top.
15.Why do you care about this 80's kid's movie that flopped?
Because I'm an artist, and a romantic in spirit, if not in practice. The Dark Crystal is a beautiful movie to watch, and the storyline, is simple, deep, and universal. I'd count Brian Froud as one of my major influences, though I don't know if that's cause and effect. And I've always had a weird affection for children's movies that make small children cry and want to leave the theatre. Back to top.
If you think I've missed something in the FAQ, please tell me!