Review of The Muppet Movie (1979) by Jonathan P — 07 Feb 2011

Ah, the Muppets. Where would my childhood be without you? As a kid, I liked the Muppet movies, even the bad ones like Muppets in Space, but ironically, I appreciate them more than ever! Jim Henson created a wonderful franchise, and as far as humor and wit, this one tops the list. You have so many great cameos from all of the big name stars. It's amazing to see how Kermit's journey to Hollywood plays out with all of these supporting actors, and we get a snippet of comedy greatness from each of them, woven together to create the overall best comedic atmosphere I have ever experienced in a family film. The songs in the movie are also a treat. The songs are never cheesy or embarrassing, they don't insult your intelligence, they are absolute classics. Every single one.

This film was an analogy of Jim Henson's career as a filmmaker and how he got started, his journey, the hoops he had to jump through, and at the end of the film, the Muppets remind us that if you follow your dream you can bring happiness to millions of people, just like Jim Henson did. This moral is not presented in a over the top way, in fact, you get the feeling as if Jim Henson is speaking to you. As someone who wants to become a filmmaker, this is one of the many reasons why Jim Henson is one of my biggest inspirations.

Overall, this movie is deserves a 100 all across the board. This is THE Muppet Movie. THESE are the Muppets. THIS is who they are. THIS is truly what a family film is meant to be. THIS MOVIE shows how Jim Henson's Muppets were meant to be.

As for the following sequels, they don't quite live up to the original as much, but The Great Muppet Caper and a Muppet Christmas Carol (the former being just as enjoyable, and the latter being great in it's own right: still living up to being the first and best post-Henson Muppet film to date) are also good recommendations for those who want to see Muppets at their best.