The Muppets

The Muppets

(James Bobin, 2011)

Rating: 4/5

Reviewed by Dave Lancaster

Summary: Breezily paced, cameo-laden 'The Muppets' is a triumphant family film with plenty of energy that should satisfy all ages.
 

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Jason Segel and Nicholas Stoller previously wrote the brilliant adult comedy 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' which Segel also starred in. This, their revamp of classic family show 'The Muppets', is a whole other animal but just as enjoyable in its own way.

Segel stars as Gary, a pretty average guy. He's been going steady with his girl Mary (an infectuously bubbly Amy Adams) for 10 years now. To celebrate that milestone anniversary, they're set to visit Los Angeles when Gary decides to invite his muppet brother Walter along for the ride.

Walter is the world's biggest fan of the Muppets so when he finds out that an evil oil baron (Chris Cooper! Rapping!) plans to drill under the old muppet theatre, he convinces the disbanded Muppets to get together for a benefit show to save the theatre.

What doesn't make this a complete rip-off of 'The Blues Brothers' storyline is the subplot that Gary and Mary's relationship are threatened by Gary's devotion to his brother.

The plot isn't original, but its presentation is suitably vibrant. Segel writes in enough jokes to satisfy the adults as well as the kids. Another plus point that makes for family viewing is the roster of cameo appearances - Dave Grohl, Alan Arkin and Selena Gomez are three of many diverse players of which this seems to be a passion project.

But given the stars that flocked to the TV series (Steve Martin, Robert De Niro etc), it's somewhat frustrating that Jack Black is built up as the celebrity pinnacle for the film. You keep on expecting a bigger bang, but we are left to simmer moderately with Black's predictable antics. Still, the Muppets themselves with their winning personalities always stole the show anyway.

'Flight of the Conchords' star Bret McKenzie's songs are wonderfully melodic, catchy and perfectly suited to the Muppets' trademark mix of smart, darkly funny quips. McKenzie's composition 'Man or Muppet' triumphed with an Oscar win this year. You can watch the music video right HERE at Cinemas Online.

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