Book Review: The Dark Crystal Bestiary by Adam Cesare

The Definitive Guide to the Creatures of Thra

I knew a little about the Dark Crystal stories (what fantasy person doesn’t) but I can’t say I knew too much. In fact, most of what I knew was due to seeing some production about it that was done with puppets, which were amazing in the 80’s but not so much for 2024.

My expectations for this book, as you can imagine, was pretty low. So you can imagine the joy I had when I discovered the book was filled with pencil, pen and watercolour original drawings of beasts – some of which I’ve never seen before. Well, that a lie. Most of them I’ve never seen before.

They are completely original. There might be one or two that you can kind of see where perhaps they might have been inspired from, but for the most part, they are incredible unique.

Each page of the bestiary is filled with rich artwork that brings the intricate beauty of Thra’s creatures to vivid life. From the noble Gelflings and wise Mystics to the terrifying Skeksis and beyond, Cesare and the artists capture the essence of Henson’s original vision while adding layers of depth and context that enhance every creature’s unique attributes and roles within the world of Thra.

Adam Cesare delves into the lore and backstory of each species, detailing their cultural habits, environments, and roles in Thra’s ecosystem. The text does a superb job of blending known elements from the film and expanded universe with new insights and details that enrich the reader’s understanding of this complex world.

About the Author: Adam Cesare

Adam Cesare is a prolific author known for his contributions to the genre of horror and speculative fiction. His works often delve into the macabre, blending traditional horror elements with fresh, contemporary themes.

While Cesare is widely recognized for his novels and short stories that explore the darker sides of human nature and supernatural realms, he is also adept at engaging with existing mythologies and expanding upon them, as he does with “The Dark Crystal: Bestiary.” His writing is noted for its dynamic pacing, engaging narratives, and the ability to evoke both dread and awe, making him an excellent fit for exploring the rich and complex world of Thra.

About “The Dark Crystal”

“The Dark Crystal” is a groundbreaking fantasy film released in 1982, directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz. It is renowned for its ambitious use of puppetry and animatronics. The film is set on the fictional planet of Thra, a place of magic and wonder, populated by a variety of unique creatures, each crafted with intricate detail by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.

The story revolves around the quest of Jen, a young Gelfling, who embarks on a journey to restore balance to his world by repairing a powerful broken crystal. The narrative explores themes of duality, harmony, and the struggle between good and evil, conveyed through the stark contrast between the benevolent Mystics and the malevolent Skeksis.

Inspiration Behind “The Dark Crystal”

Jim Henson, the visionary creator of “The Dark Crystal,” was driven by a passion to craft a dark fairy tale infused with his vivid imagination and the intricate details of a fully realized fantasy universe. The film’s distinctive aesthetic and the fantastical creatures that populate it draw heavily from the elaborate and otherworldly illustrations of Brian Froud. Froud’s deep involvement as a conceptual designer endowed the film with a unique and cohesive visual style that diverges sharply from conventional fantasy motifs of that time.

Creature features from the Dark Crystal Bestiary

This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into the diverse and intricate beings that form the backbone of the rich lore established in Jim Henson’s original film and expanded upon in subsequent media. Here’s an overview of the types of creatures you would encounter in this fascinating book:

• Gelflings: The Gelflings are an intelligent, elf-like species known for their grace and deep connection to the living world of Thra. They are central to the lore of “The Dark Crystal,” depicted as brave and resourceful, with a complex societal structure and spiritual depth.
• Skeksis: In stark contrast to the Gelflings, the Skeksis are malevolent creatures known for their corruption and decadence. These bird-reptilian hybrids serve as the primary antagonists within the universe, embodying the darker aspects of power and control. The book delves into their origins, their role in the decay of Thra, and their complex hierarchies.
• Mystics (UrRu): The Mystics, also known as UrRu, are wise and gentle beings, acting as counterpoints to the Skeksis. These creatures are known for their spiritual depth, slow nature, and deep connection to the mystic arts. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the world.
• Podlings: Podlings are small, nature-loving creatures that embody the joy and simplicity of rural life in Thra. These humble beings are closely attuned to their environment and are depicted as joyful and communal, living in harmony with the land.
• Garthim: Formidable and frightening, the Garthim are crab-like enforcers created by the Skeksis to hunt down the Gelflings. They are a testament to the dark magic and technological prowess of the Skeksis, serving as a symbol of the oppression faced by the inhabitants of Thra under Skeksis rule.
• Crystal Bats: These flying creatures serve as the eyes of the Skeksis, spying over the lands of Thra. Crystal Bats are depicted with a transparent, crystalline structure that allows them to blend into their surroundings, making them perfect for reconnaissance.

Should you get The Dark Crystal Bestiary Book?

This is tricky, because this book is part of a world that, if you are involved with, then it might be a bit random.

HOWEVER, if you like monster and bestiary books because it opens up a world for you and makes you feel inspired by the strange lore within the pages, then YES. Get this book.

These type of creatures are no where else to be found, except here. Other books might have trolls, giants, and fairies, but this one has oddities and weirdness beyond any other.

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