Kermits Swamp Years: The Real Story Behind Kermit The Frogs Early Years MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +2 Content: +3

Jim Henson may be gone, but the incredible legacy of his Muppet creations continues to entertain young and old alike. Hensons characters from Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and even Star Wars Yoda seem almost as real as live actors. But the unassuming star of Hensons menagerie is the mild-mannered frog, Kermit. After 45 years of conquering TV, and the big screen with classic features like Muppet Treasure Island, Kermit offers this tale of his first adventure outside the home swamp. When his friend Goggles and the swamp bully, bullfrog Blotch, are captured by a human, Kermit and his friend Croaker set off to rescue them. Along the way, they meet Pilgrim, a stray dog looking for a home. Pilgrims talented nose leads them into town where Kermit discovers the magic of movies and his destiny. Although more subdued than the usual mayhem that abounds in Muppet productions, KERMITS SWAMP YEARS still has plenty of action to entertain young viewers.

Older fans will enjoy seeing younger versions of some favorite characters as well as the comical word play. Humorous references include a scary encounter in a farmyard with young Kermit escaping, and hoping never to meet another pig. And when he trips on a curb, Kermit is given a hand by a boy named Henson. Some scenes, such as when Goggles and Blotch are threatened by a pet shop snake, may worry younger viewers. Diagrams and threats of dissection in a high school science class could also be disturbing. But KERMITS SWAMP YEARS is a delightful addition to your family viewing library.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment, 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232