Review of The Great Muppet Caper (1981) by Johnny T — 01 May 2012

My favorite of the Henson-era productions by far. Back in the day, I couldn't get into the original Muppet Movie (comparatively scary and dark!) and Muppet Show (TV series) for one reason or another, but this particular movie holds a special place in my heart for I believe a few key reasons.

1. The score and overall music in the movie is a quantum leap over its siblings and I think quality any way you look at it. Safe, great harmony, singable, memorable, and exciting. Notable excerpts include Miss Piggy Fantasy, in which Kermit and the villian (Charles Grodin) vie for Miss Piggy's affection (in a daydream of hers) in a soaring operatic crescendo (followed by a slap back to reality). Also note Couldn't we ride (below), "Steppin' out with a star", "Happiness Hotel", and "Hey, a Movie!".

2. Certain scenes were very relevant to my childhood. I loved to ride bikes, and there's one scene where "Couldn't we wide" plays while all muppets and kids alike ride bikes together through a beautiful park.

3. There's enough action and adventure that keeps a young audience excited, while at the same time never being real threatening for any length of time. Muppet humor and sarcasm is sprinkled appropriately throughout the flick for extra flavor.

I'm not sure I can really explain better and more professionally, but I'm glad to have it on DVD and look forward to watching it with my young daughter.