"The Dark Crystal" released 1982

Jim Henson's and Frank Oz's visual masterpiece, The Dark Crystal, was released December 17, 1982.  Although it got mixed reviews at first, it has since gained a cult-like following.  The Dark Crystal had groundbreaking animatronics

It received a Saturn Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films for Best Fantasy Film.

A prequel has been produced and airing on Netflix.

Happy birthday, Admiral Ackbar!

Actor and puppeteer Tim Rose, born July 17, 1956, is probably unrecognizable without his make-up, but is best known for his role as Admiral Ackbar in the Star Wars series.  He also appeared as the title role in Howard the Duck and as Treasurer in The Dark Crystal.

His famous line "It's a trap!" is one of the most memorable lines in movie history.