Review of Muppets Most Wanted (2014) by Xander S — 24 Sep 2014
As we grown-ups learn from dating, self-confidence is far more attractive than self-doubt. 2011's "The Muppets" worked largely because it never lost faith in itself. Even when fanboy Walter lost his confidence, another character would come along and help him get it back.
"Most Wanted," on the other felt hand, is full of self-conscious and self-deprecating jokes that would be far funnier in tiny doses. ("The studio considers us a viable franchise" is an actual song lyric, and that's about as catchy as the songs in this one get.
) It's like watching "Statler and Waldorf: The Movie." The wit is biting at first, but then when you want something sweeter and more palatable, the wit just bites. There are some truly funny moments--any scene with Tina Fey is solid at worst, and there's a "Chorus Line" joke somewhere that's just hilarious.
And I won't say it's too dark for the little ones, though I'm an uncle, not a parent, so don't take my word for it. The biggest trial for your kid might be the film's relatively gargantuan running time.
At 107 minutes (theatrical), it's the longest "Muppet" movie to date, and there's also an extended version out there that runs over two hours! In yet another fit of self-effacing pique, the extended version is advertised on the packaging as "Unnecessary.
" If even the filmmakers feel it was unnecessary, why are we expected to enjoy it?
This review of Muppets Most Wanted (2014) was written by Xander S on 24 Sep 2014.
Muppets Most Wanted has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
