The Greatest ’80s Fantasy Masterpieces Get Must-Have Collectors Editions

By Matthew Swigonski | Published

the dark crystal

With big hair and even bigger ideas, the 1980s were a decade unlike any other, and the movies were certainly no exception, offering distinct characters that perfectly encapsulated the no holds barred era. Two of the greatest fantasy masterpieces from the 80s, Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, channeled that kinetic energy with inventive designs and breathtaking worlds from the imaginative mind of Jim Henson. On November 19, each film will see the release of limited edition collector sets that will be must-have additions to any fan’s collection… but they will not come cheap.

The Collectors Editions

labyrinth goblins

Collector’s edition boxed sets of Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal are nothing new, but there hasn’t been anything quite like the upcoming limited editions of each film. The Jim Henson films will each have three to four different editions for fans to choose from, ranging in price from $89.99 all the way to $261.97 for a deluxe limited edition collector’s set of Labyrinth.

But for some diehard fans, the hefty price tags just might be worth it when the boxed sets drop right before the holiday season on November 19.

The Dark Crystal

the dark crystal

When it was originally released in 1982, The Dark Crystal received mixed reviews from critics, who weren’t sold on the film’s overall tone, noting the lack of Henson’s trademark sense of whimsical fun throughout the movie.

Despite the initial tepid critical reaction, The Dark Crystal has developed a strong following over the last four decades, proving to be a popular home release that has seen several re-releases, including the upcoming limited edition releases.

Special Features

the dark crystal

The two-disc Limited Edition Collector’s Set of The Dark Crystal will feature a 4K UHD presentation of the film for the first time, as well as a standard Blu-ray disc. Among the features included in the boxed set, fans will receive several featurettes including The Myth, Magic And Henson Legacy, The World Of The Dark Crystal, and Reflections Of The Dark Crystal.

The collection will also include commentary with conceptual designer Brian Froud, deleted scenes, production storyboards, and original test scenes featuring the Skeksis language.

Labyrinth

labyrinth goblins

In the Deluxe Limited Edition Collector’s Set of The Dark Crystal, fans will also receive an 18″ x 24″ poster featuring the original theatrical artwork. The deluxe set will also include an exclusive hex deck, a prism sticker, and a coloring book.

Much like The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth also received a mixture of tepid reviews when it was released, with critics pointing to the film’s “lack of soul” and absence of dramatic tension throughout the story. Similarly to Henson’s previous film, Labyrinth also found a cult following in the wake of its home release, spawning several re-releases thanks to its strong sales.

Labyrinth Extras

With a demand for its own 4K UHD release, the Limited Edition Collector’s Set of Labyrinth will also come in a two-disc release that will include a standard Blu-ray disc as well.

Just like the one for The Dark Crystal, the boxed set for Labyrinth will include an array of featurettes including, Reordering Time: Looking Back At Labyrinth, The Henson Legacy, Remembering The Goblin King, The Storytellers: Picture-In-Picture Track, Journey Through The Labyrinth: Kingdom Of Characters, and the documentary Inside The Labyrinth. Also included is a Labyrinth anniversary Q&A with the film’s stars.

Included in the Deluxe Limited Edition Collector’s Set of Labyrinth will be an 18″ x 24″ poster featuring the original theatrical artwork. Fans will also receive an exclusive hex deck and maze game, a snow globe, and even a plushie.

Source: Shout Factory