It’s been a long year. I know. So, with that in mind, we are spending the last couple of entries this year on beloved family favorites. We need to laugh and breathe a little easier. So, who better to help us with that than Jim Henson and company? The Great Muppet Caper (Henson, 1981) bursts off the screen with music, love, and hilarity. Like other classic trilogies, this is another case where the second entry is the strongest, and with good reason. Jim Henson took the reins for this one and it absolutely shows. He upped the ante for Muppet shenanigans and also managed to include an endless parade of nods to golden age Hollywood. It is a true extravaganza.
The Great Muppet Caper is also a great example of that thing that Henson and crew perfected. It is the apex of material for kids and adults coexisting. There’s no cynicism, no irony. It’s just pure joy for everyone. And they don’t abandon the educational aspect for entertainment. It’s amazing! We get to have a rollicking adventure and learn a little something about ourselves and the world we live in, simultaneously. Plus, Charles Grodin sings! This movie is truly all things to all people. It’s inspiring and great fun. If you haven’t seen it in a while, do something nice for yourself and put this one in the player some time soon.
What you’ll find in this episode: the difference between frogs and bears, daring daylight robberies, cameos galore, and showstopping set pieces.
– Cole
Links and Recommendations:
Check out The Great Muppet Caper on IMDB.
Ericca’s further viewing pick of The Muppets.
Cole’s further viewing pick of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.
The online home of The Jim Henson Company.
My favorite musical performance ever from The Muppet Show.
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