The Muppets

Released: 2012

Directed By: James Bobin

Starring: Jason Segel, Amy Adams

Certificate: U

Reviewed By: Darryl Griffiths

In 1976, American puppeteer Jim Henson introduced us to the joyous and slightly nutty world of The Muppets. With their unique interpretation of songs, sharp wit and downright daft personas, they charmed the world into a frenzy and became a significant part of pop culture. A standard variety show act soon turned into a cinematic juggernaut, with peculiar recreations of old school classics such as Christmas Carol and Treasure Island. The unfortunate and untimely death of Henson at the beginning of the 90’s.. laid the foundations for the much loved characters’ popularity to slowly descend and see them drift out of the public domain. Now.. we’ve seen many successful reboots in recent times, but caution ruled the day when lifelong fan Jason Segel first confirmed he was taken it upon himself, to revitalise the beloved franchise.

Could The Muppets really appeal to it’s now mature faithful, whilst unearthing fans from a new generation?? I guess it’s time to play the music and light the lights.. as this is a triumphant comeback in every sense of the term.

The adventure begins in Smalltown, America, where we’re treated to a heartfelt life and times montage involving ‘brothers’ Walter the wannabe Muppet (voiced by Peter Linz) and manchild Gary (Segel). With the idolisation of the Muppets clear for everyone to see, Gary along with his cheerful red headed girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams) treat Walter to a once in a lifetime trip to LA. Celebrating a ten year anniversary together, general sightseeing is soon off the menu, as only one ‘landmark’ initially proves to be aesthetically pleasing. The original Muppet Studios. To their dismay, the character’s original stomping ground looks beyond repair and they overhear a plot being drawn up by devilish Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to demolish the surrounding area and drill for oil, fulfilling his own agenda in the process.

They are left with only one viable option.. raise the hefty sum of $10 million to save the theatre and assemble the Muppets back together for a one off celebrity host led telethon, despite them originally agreeing to go their separate ways. This triggering our forever grinning heroes to be lead on a merry dance through the glitz of Hollywood, the fashion conscious world of Paris.. and anger management lessons!?

Capturing the true essence of such an eclectic bunch of characters from a bygone era and nailing the family friendly tone in a contemporary setting, was never going to be a small task. But Jason Segel.. take a bow! His affection for the gang was overwhelmingly obvious for anyone who seen his Dracula puppet skit from ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and this version only accentuates it. The script is full of cheeky self references, inspired one liners and affectionate nods to their past outings, enhancing the nostalgia. Another worthy mention is a one Bret Mackenzie, whose work you may be familiar with from the quirky series ‘Flight of The Conchords’. His songwriting prowess proves to be the perfect fit for ‘The Muppets’, giving them a slightly ludicrous but ultimately feel good and laugh out loud quality. ‘Man or Muppet’.. that is all folks!

The human contingent of the cast may be efficient in their roles, Segel and Adams piling on the charm, Cooper’s ‘maniacal laugh’ antics and some killer cameos to boot (i’ll resist name dropping!). Thankfully, they don’t overshadow the real stars of the show.

Occasional pacing issues and shameful product placement from Disney aside (Cars 2 billboard.. really?), Kermit, Miss Piggy and the rest of the gang.. welcome back!

Irresistably brilliant!