Ok. I have been all for a Muppet
re-boot since I first heard about the production. I grew up on reruns
of The Muppet Show and the film catalog. We even had a recorded VHS
tape of The Muppet Family Christmas Special. This franchise hits
home for me even more than nickelodeon or Disney (which subsequently
owns the aforementioned property). So, when I read
this via
MovieBob's post--- I became quite worried though not altogether
surprised.
Unrest within the Muppet clan has been
an industry secret for over a decade. In fact, talking with some
people who have worked closely with the family has given me a new
insight into the politics of puppetry. Disney had been after the
Muppet property for years leading up to Henson’s death and the sale
was highly disputed within the loyal workers and muppeteers. Both
movies made after the sale, Muppet Christmas Carol and Muppet
Treasure Island, were technically directed by Henson’s son but
greatly developed and created by this same loyal crew. I was a big
fan of these movies and didn't know what to think of this general
grouchy tone towards the “new blood” in the family.
I decided to give Segel the benefit of
a doubt and not jump to conclusions before seeing the film.
I saw the movie the night before
Thanksgiving and here's what I thought.
WARNING: SLIGHT SPOILERS WILL FOLLOW!!!