On paper, the introduction of an evil doppelganger for Kermit the Frog sounds like a worthy addition to the Muppet mythos. So why didn’t the much-anticipated sequel to 2011’s The Muppets connect with audiences? With the characters’ popularity seemingly restored, Muppets Most Wanted saw Disney deflate this “viable franchise” soon after its reintroduction.
Brandon from the Film Code Podcast joins the final episode of our Muppets mega-series as we investigate how Muppets Most Wanted failed to renew the fan goodwill of its predecessor. We’ll discuss all those celebrity cameos (Lady Gaga! Tom Hiddleston!), what Constantine reveals about Kermit’s role in the Muppets, and how Disney can reinvigorate the future of the Muppets.
Also, we’ll reveal which of the eight theatrical Muppet films our guests think is the pinnacle of the characters’ big-screen career!
It was a dark time for moviegoers. After Muppets from Space failed to meet expectations, the Muppets took an extended break from the big screen. But following Disney’s acquisition of the characters in 2004, they finally made their long-awaited return to cinemas with 2011’s The Muppets. And judging by the box office receipts, the world welcomed them back with open arms.
Film critic Dede Crimmins joins the show to talk about the Disney-produced legacy sequel that (temporarily) restored Kermit and friends to their former glory. We’ll talk about how Walter (performed by Peter Linz) brings a fresh perspective to the franchise in The Muppets, the film’s balance of human and Muppet characters, and Kermit and Miss Piggy’s relationship status.
In 1999, Muppets fans probably expected Kermit and friends to dive headfirst into a third consecutive literary adaptation. Instead, Jim Henson Company Pictures — this time under Sony Pictures, not Disney — decided to boldly go where no Muppet movie had gone before: the realm of science fiction. And so Muppets from Space was born.
Sandro Falce from Oldie But a Goodie stops by to discuss the black sheep of the Muppet movie franchise, the one installment that stands alone in the characters’ eight-movie run. We’ll discuss the decision to build the story around Gonzo, Pepe the Prawn’s big break, and crown “the people’s Muppet.” Also, can someone please direct us to The Muppet House? Thanks!
