To say this film was an unlikely hit among adults would be wrong. But it’s not entirely a children’s film either. Somewhere, amid a vivd array of felt, strings, fart-shoes, explosions and phenomenal (do do do do do) cabaret, is a U film that really is universal. The Muppets have made a welcome return to our cinema screens with a comedy that’s as much for their old fans as the new.
When the Muppet’s number one fan Walter (voiced by Peter Linz) goes on holiday from Smalltown to Hollywood with brother Gary (Jason Segel) and his girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams) he has one mission: to visit the Muppet studios. When there, he overhears baddie Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) – a wealthy oil baron – planning to take over the studio and drill for the oil that’s underneath. The Muppets need $10,000,000 to save the studio – can they do it?
With a classic musical opening number – involving the entirety of Smalltown’s population of 102 – it takes next to no time to get hooked on the cheesy, yet self-aware story of a young muppet, finding himself and his place in the world. This film, more so than the previous Muppet movies, parodies its own genre: talking directly to the audience, travelling by map and using montage “to save time” – this is where most of the adult-appealing humour derives from. Rooted in current times, The Muppets presents a subtle but strong analysis of capitalism and greed in Tex Richman’s character, as well as a triumphant – but almost unbelievable – ending that undermines our reliance on money. With new voices and new writers, the film is a seamless addition to Jim Henson’s classics. Segel’s script is fast, feel-good and funny; delightful to watch and it won’t disappoint – no matter what your age.