Of all the theatrical film releases I’ve anticipated this year, The Muppets tops the list. Unlike most films, there is a bit of history with The Muppets. I remember enjoying the show and films as a young girl with my father, who had a sincere appreciation for the comical and lighthearted aspects of life, and knew that watching The Muppets for the first time without my father and with my own children was going to be bittersweet. Thanksgiving is a season of togetherness and I can’t think of a better time to debut such a film than now.
After being away from the big screen for a number of years, the Muppets are back! Written by Jason Segel and Nick Stoller, the film is a reunion story of sorts. As the film opens, we learn that it’s been many years since The Muppet Show, and Kermit, Fozzie, Animal, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo have each gone their separate ways. Newcomer Walter, who happens to be a Muppet and the brother of Gary (played by Jason Segel), is feeling awkward and different as the two grow up together when he happens upon The Muppet Show. He connects with the show and the Muppets in a meaningful way and becomes the world’s biggest Muppet fan.
Many years later, Gary decides to bring Walter on a trip he’s planned to Los Angeles to celebrate his 10 year anniversary with Mary, his longstanding girlfriend. A visit to the Muppets studios is a must and something Walter cannot wait to do. Upon arrival, we learn that the venue is not being kept up and solely being used for tours, since the Muppets have not been together in some time. Walter’s disappointment is evident, and looking for any shed of light on this dismal situation, he ventures into Kermit’s office where he overhears the plans of businessman Tex Richman to demolish the theater to drill for oil. As you can imagine, Walter is quite disturbed by this and we learn that in order to save the theater, the Muppets will have to raise 10 million dollars to purchase it.
Mary, Gary, and Walter seek out Kermit to inform him of the plan, in hopes of gleaning some light on raising the money to save the theater. The only plausible solution is to do a show, which is naturally what the Muppets do best. What ensues is a hilarious quest to bring the gang back together and put on a show that will raise enough money to save the theater.
The story is heartwarming with a hint of nostalgia. The writers stayed true to the spirit of The Muppets, evident in the slapstick humor and joyous musical numbers. The film is laugh-out-loud funny, particularly for those of us who grew up with The Muppets. I previewed the film a second time earlier this week with a friend, and both of us were literally laughing aloud while our 2 children stared intently at the screen. While the story is purposefully simplistic, I imagine that younger children like my son won’t get some of the humor. But what’s unifying about the Muppets is their optimistic view on life that draws in both young and old.
With six new musical numbers, a slew of celebrity cameo appearances, and a creative team dedicated to preserving the spirit of Jim Henson and the Muppets, the film will delight audiences this holiday season.
The Muppets are in theaters now.
If you live in the Los Angeles area, you can see the film at the famous El Capitan Theatre through January 8th, 2012. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of seeing a number of films at the theater, which always offers a unique experience. Before each showing of the film, Kermit and Miss Piggy will appear live onstage to lead guests in a Holiday Sing-A-Long. All guests will receive a free Jingle-bell bracelet to get them in the spirit of the film and the holidays. Additionally, Miss Piggy will have her couture wardrobe collection from the film on display for viewing after the film. Items include her designer Zac Posen gown and her peep-toed Christian Louboutin pumps. On select days, guests can enjoy Disney’s Most Sensational Muppet Party before or after the film at Disney’s Soda Fountain & Studio Store. Highlights include finger sandwiches, fruit salad, cupcake decorating, and a special gift and commemorative photo by Kodak. Reservations are required. Lastly, on November 29th, the theater will host a special Tiny Tot Tuesday at 10:45 am. This is an ideal time to see the film with little ones since the lights are dimmed (as opposed to out) and the sound levels are reduced. Be sure to check Plum District and FamilyFinds for special ticket pricing.
No compensation was received for this post. I attended a screening of the film which helped facilitate this review.
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