Review of The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984) by Bradley J — 21 May 2011

Since I had never seen any of the Muppet movies, my fiance insisted that I watch this one. I honestly didn't really see the charm of it, but he sure seemed to enjoy it.

The Muppets (all of them) have just graduated college and have to decide what to do with their lives. They decide to take a variety show they'd been performing at the college and try to get on Broadway with it. Once in New York though they can't find someone to take them on. Running out of money and starting to get on each others nerves, they separate to go find jobs (and some of them turn out to be quite unusual) while Kermit stays behind in New York working as a dishwasher and by night looking for someone to produce their show. He finally finds someone, but gets hit by a car on the way back to his friends and they have to wonder if the show will go on.

Characters:

Several voice actors including Jim Henson.

I always liked the Muppet baby characters and watching adult Muppets was a little different for me. Kermit was still great but Piggy got on my nerves. I also found myself not liking Ralph the Dog as much (although he's my fiance's favorite). The human element in this film was ok but didn't really add or take anything away for me. Animal is still the best.

For a plot it was pretty standard and while the movie was funny and quirky, I had trouble focusing my attention on it. I do have to say that I don't think I'd go see their Broadway show considering it was all about a wedding but not that exciting or emotional (some will probably argue with me on this, but they probably like Miss Piggy). Its a perfectly appropriate movie for children though and I'm sure they'd have a great time watching it.

The puppetry in this movie was very well done. I was impressed to see a puppet riding a bike and several other hard tasks. I also loved all the chicken puppets (reminds me of my chickens). The music was ok, its sang by the Muppets of course and this is an aquired taste in music to be sure. But the music did fit the scenes and had the "Together Again" song which is a favorite of many.

So in conclusion while it had its funny moments and probably appeals to a lot of people, I just found this movie average.

Review by M. Reynard 2011.