Let’s try a little experiment. Close your eyes and think about The Muppets. Did you smile? Or instantly think of your favorite character? The one that defined your childhood (Mr. Snuffleupagus is mine)? The Muppets have entertained generations, and still, retain a magical quality that can reach into the hearts of a tech-savvy generation and rekindle childlike wonder in adults of all ages. Muppet Guys Talking gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the performers of some of the most iconic and beloved characters through a reunion of five Muppet performers: Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson, Dave Goelz, Fran Brill, and Bill Barretta. Oz takes the lead on this hour-plus production, engaging the other performers in stories about their characters and how they got into character performance.
Did you ever wonder why Gonzo has a thing for chickens? What elements make up Animal’s personality? Or how about what family member Bill Barretta based his Pepe performance on? These are just a few of the revelations you will discover in the film.
You can’t talk about The Muppets and not think of Jim Henson. What makes this film unique, however, is that it isn’t about Jim, but his presence is strong in this film. The performers all have special stories, many I haven’t heard anywhere else. You can add “generous collaborator” to the list of loving adjectives that surround the creator. As one performer put it, “Jim took a chance on sweetness”. It’s such a complete description of what the Muppets are and what they bring to the world.
I really loved the intimacy of this film. Viewers find the camera crew filming the performers, discovering intimate moments between them during takes and contemplative one-on-one moments with each.
The most poignant of these moments was the interview with the late Jerry Nelson who comments on how many groups who feel disenfranchised or invisible could find themselves at home with The Muppets.
I loved everything about this film and I hope it has enough success to spin off into more content. To obtain a digital download of the film visit HERE.
Written by Kai Charles
Kai Charles is a Medical Professional, Jedi Hopeful, and Independent Book Reviewer at Fiction State of Mind.
You can also find her on Twitter @yogikai , tweeting about all things relating to Books & Geek Culture
