Muppets, The (2011) MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +4 Content: +4

Directed by James Bobin; written by Jim Henson, Jason Segel. Main Actors: Amy Adams, Jason Segel, Chris Cooper, Peter Linz (voice), Steve Whitmire (voice).

FILM SYNOPSIS: Jim Henson’s beloved, goofy, fun-loving muppets make a big comeback when Mary (Amy Adams), Gary (Jason Segel) and Gary’s muppet brother Walter (voice of Peter Linz) travel from Smalltown to Los Angeles to visit the famous Muppet Museum only to discover it is closed. At Walter’s insistence, they find the retired Kermit the Frog and convince him to reunite with his former co-stars for a big comeback. Tracking them all down requires detective work, including travel to Paris, France, where Miss Piggy (voice of Eric Jacobson) reigns as a glamorous fashion icon. They must put their show together before the villainous business tycoon Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) destroys the deserted museum. This brilliant combination of human actors and muppets blending perfectly in musical numbers and hilarious situations promises a 4-star entertainment experience for the whole family.

PREVIEW SYNOPSIS: The genius of the Muppets’ creator, Jim Henson, who died in 1988, lives on. His popular The Muppets Show was a children’s favorite TV program from 1976 t0 1981. This movie is a real tribute to his memory and a reflection of his big heart and love of life. The adult audiences cheer and laugh louder than the youngsters because it brings back happy times in front of the TV. Many could be heard singing along with the actors in the musical numbers.

The film has no objectionable content. The reunion of old friends starts on a slightly melancholy note with the isolated Kermit living alone with his memories and a struggling Fozzie Bear playing in sleazy joints in Reno, but escalates into pure joy when they all come together. Gary has to learn to let go of his brother so he can start a life with Mary and Walter can finally be among other muppets.

The Muppets gets this reviewer’s movie of the year award.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures