The Muppets (PG)

THE MUPPETS (PG)

MOVIESALS'S GRADE: A-

Jason Segel - Gary
Amy Adams - Mary

Calling something "cute" can go either way. It's either a sincere compliment expressing a true affection for something, or it's a patronizing way to dismiss something with a pat on the head and a "there, there."

In this case, it's a sincere compliment. The Muppets is cute, adorable, lovable, fluffy, and endearing. Jason Segel, who penned the script and is basically the driving force behind this movie even existing, is a true, passionate fan and it shows in each and every frame. He and everyone involved in this movie were clearly having a blast making it, and that translates well on the screen.

I would talk about the plot, but it is almost irrelevant. The Muppets have to get back together after splitting up years ago for one last concert. Blah blah. Who cares? No one goes to a muppet movie for the story. You go for the characters we know and love, and this film does not disappoint. It is a family movie in he true sense of the word. The kids will love the obvious gags and the physical comedy, while the adults will get a kick out of the nostalgia and the meta-humor. Segel's fingerprints are all over the script (you can see the How I Met Your Mother style humor throughout), and every bit and gag lands perfectly. This is especially true of Jack Black's cameo role, and of Chris Cooper's insane business villain. I will say it is disappointing to see all the Disney pandering with product placement and forced Disney channel star cameos, but what can you expect? Even if this movie pans big business, you don't get much bigger than Disney.

One additional note about the music. As I was listening, I swore it sounded like Flight of the Conchords, only to discover later on that Bret Mackenzie did, indeed, work on the music. The songs are just as insanely funny, witty, and charming as you'd expect knowing FOTC had their hand in it. Go for the soundtrack alone.

THE BOTTOM LINE:

Entertaining? Yes, for literally EVERYONE in your family.

Enlightening? I'm sure there's a lesson in there somewhere, but I missed it singing along and laughing my butt off.

Summary: The Muppets are back with a bang, and let's hope not for the last time.