THE DARK CRYSTAL
1982
Directors: Jim Henson, Frank Oz
Box Office: $40,577,001
An orphan girl (or puppet) sets off on a quest to find the missing shard of the Dark Crystal to restore the balance of the universe.
Why it shouldn’t have flopped: Despite its kiddyish look, The Dark Crystal is a dark and complex epic that, had it starred flesh and blood, actors, might be seen a truly great fantasy film in a genre that has too few shining examples.
Why it probably flopped: Audiences were probably expecting something a lot lighter, given the film's Muppet credentials. Who was it for? It was too dark for kids and too puppet-heavy for adults. Henson and Oz lightened up for their next more successful venture, Labyrinth.
What should have flopped instead: Conan the Barbarian. Not exactly Arnie's greatest role.
Go to the next flop
