When The Muppets came out in 2011 people really liked it and therefore a sequel was made. The sequel Muppets Most Wanted was not as successful as it's predecessor. It wasn't as much a financial hit and people didn't dig it as much and it seems like The Muppets are back to the way they were after Muppets From Space. I actually really loved Muppets Most Wanted. At the time I thought it was better than The Muppets and in ways it is. The jokes are smarter. The songs are better and it feels more like a traditional Muppet movie than it's predecessor but this movie is not without it's flaws. The flaws are that Walter has more screen time than Gonzo and even Fozzie. That's just wrong! And the humans need to take a huge backseat to the Muppets. Tina Fey more than Ricky Gervais and Ty Burrell. Overall I think this is a great Muppet movie but it's so depressing how underrated it is. I hope this is not the end of The Muppets on the big screen. I'm an aspiring actor and filmmaker, maybe I should be like Jason Segel and try to bring them back if nobody else does. Even then I've always wanted to make a Muppet movie.
137 Reviews
A very enjoyable Muppet romp, but missing something...
TheDemko21 March 2014
So, I saw it last night... and as much as I enjoyed it, something seemed missing. For a devoted fan like me, I believe the missing piece was the emotional impact that many of the great Muppet movies have had. Don't get me wrong, MMW was definitely fun, and I highly recommend it to anyone with kids, to keep the legacy alive. There was plenty of in-joke meta humor, sight-gags, visual puns (Christoph Waltz cameos as himself, dancing the Waltz with a bear), like the last one (and so many before that), which I love. There were references to previous movies (including nice plot AND song callbacks to The Muppets Take Manhattan - one of my favorite Muppet movies ever), and characters (Rizzo and Kermit's nephew Robin get a fun moment). And maybe it's just because the first movie of the Muppets reboot was SO damn good, and contained such incredible levels of nostalgia, but for long-time fans like myself, MMW didn't connect with me quite as well.
One big missing piece of the puzzle from the last movie, though, is Jason Segel. Even though this was written by Nicholas Stoller, Segel's writing partner in the first movie, the dialogue and the jokes sometimes fell a little flat. Segel's obvious deep-seeded love and fandom of the Muppets showed through in his script, and that same level of love wasn't here. Plus, Segel as Gary in the first movie, just brought a lot of on- screen fun with him. But of course, I understand that the Muppets don't typically have any permanent human counterparts, so if he had just continued writing on this one, I'd have been happy.
The songs were cute and fun, but nothing here nearly compares to the last film's soundtrack. Nothing catchy enough to stay in my head, like 'Man or Muppet' or 'Life's a Happy Song' were. No emotional punch like 'Pictures in My Head' was. I'm afraid that Bret McKenzie will not likely be able to continue his streak of Best Song Oscars. One of the more fun musical highlights, though, was Constantine's (the villain - who was just basically Kermit with a mole and ... a frog in his throat *rimshot*) off-handed seduction of Miss Piggy in one of his (THREE!) songs, "I'll Get You What You Want".
The human co-stars of the movie were Ty Burrell (Modern Family), Tina Fey and Ricky Gervais. All three shine in their scenes, and all seem to be up for all the fun of your typical Muppet movie, but Fey really stood out in her song "In The Gulag". She plays an over-the-top stereotypical Russian guard, keeping Kermit under lock and key for being mistaken for Constantine (the World's Most Dangerous Frog!), complete with Kermit, at one point, wearing a "Hogan's Heroes"-style hat. The rest of the human cameos were really fun, too. Hobo Joe re-cameos in this one, a carryover from the first movie. There's a cute surprise cameo at the end of the movie. The other standout amongst the cameos for me was Danny Trejo, who at one point, late in the film, you realize is playing... Danny Trejo, the Russian gulag prisoner, which I found to be immensely hilarious. A lot of the cameos are 'blink and you'll miss 'em', though. So the movie does have some rewatchability value for me, at some point.
The last thing I'll point out here is that there seemed to be a lot of Muppet cameos as well. MANY different older generation Muppets show up as background characters, so it was fun to play 'Spot the Familiar Muppet' throughout the film. My favorite was the Muppet Newsman, who unfortunately, had nothing bad happen to him.
So overall, I think the Muppet legacy has a great chance at continuing their legacy, and I think the last movie gained a lot of new young fans of the franchise, who will all enjoy this one immensely (since kids don't really have the same sort of emotional attachment to the Muppets that I might). I enjoyed the movie greatly for what it was, but am slightly disappointed in the movie for what I thought it could be. I look forward to the next movie, and may actually go back and give this one another chance, to see if maybe I misjudged it the first time around. Sometimes Muppet movies are like that... they take a second viewing to really appreciate the more subtle humor elements, catch some of the sight gags you might have missed the first time around, etc.
If any of you were planning to go this weekend, please don't be swayed by my review here to convince you otherwise. Go see it! And please come back and tell me how wrong I am. I'd love that, more than anything.
One big missing piece of the puzzle from the last movie, though, is Jason Segel. Even though this was written by Nicholas Stoller, Segel's writing partner in the first movie, the dialogue and the jokes sometimes fell a little flat. Segel's obvious deep-seeded love and fandom of the Muppets showed through in his script, and that same level of love wasn't here. Plus, Segel as Gary in the first movie, just brought a lot of on- screen fun with him. But of course, I understand that the Muppets don't typically have any permanent human counterparts, so if he had just continued writing on this one, I'd have been happy.
The songs were cute and fun, but nothing here nearly compares to the last film's soundtrack. Nothing catchy enough to stay in my head, like 'Man or Muppet' or 'Life's a Happy Song' were. No emotional punch like 'Pictures in My Head' was. I'm afraid that Bret McKenzie will not likely be able to continue his streak of Best Song Oscars. One of the more fun musical highlights, though, was Constantine's (the villain - who was just basically Kermit with a mole and ... a frog in his throat *rimshot*) off-handed seduction of Miss Piggy in one of his (THREE!) songs, "I'll Get You What You Want".
The human co-stars of the movie were Ty Burrell (Modern Family), Tina Fey and Ricky Gervais. All three shine in their scenes, and all seem to be up for all the fun of your typical Muppet movie, but Fey really stood out in her song "In The Gulag". She plays an over-the-top stereotypical Russian guard, keeping Kermit under lock and key for being mistaken for Constantine (the World's Most Dangerous Frog!), complete with Kermit, at one point, wearing a "Hogan's Heroes"-style hat. The rest of the human cameos were really fun, too. Hobo Joe re-cameos in this one, a carryover from the first movie. There's a cute surprise cameo at the end of the movie. The other standout amongst the cameos for me was Danny Trejo, who at one point, late in the film, you realize is playing... Danny Trejo, the Russian gulag prisoner, which I found to be immensely hilarious. A lot of the cameos are 'blink and you'll miss 'em', though. So the movie does have some rewatchability value for me, at some point.
The last thing I'll point out here is that there seemed to be a lot of Muppet cameos as well. MANY different older generation Muppets show up as background characters, so it was fun to play 'Spot the Familiar Muppet' throughout the film. My favorite was the Muppet Newsman, who unfortunately, had nothing bad happen to him.
So overall, I think the Muppet legacy has a great chance at continuing their legacy, and I think the last movie gained a lot of new young fans of the franchise, who will all enjoy this one immensely (since kids don't really have the same sort of emotional attachment to the Muppets that I might). I enjoyed the movie greatly for what it was, but am slightly disappointed in the movie for what I thought it could be. I look forward to the next movie, and may actually go back and give this one another chance, to see if maybe I misjudged it the first time around. Sometimes Muppet movies are like that... they take a second viewing to really appreciate the more subtle humor elements, catch some of the sight gags you might have missed the first time around, etc.
If any of you were planning to go this weekend, please don't be swayed by my review here to convince you otherwise. Go see it! And please come back and tell me how wrong I am. I'd love that, more than anything.
Loyal To Quality
billygoat107120 March 2014
The Muppets of 2011 was a surprise, it is one of the rare throwbacks that excellently lives up to the material which brings nostalgia to the old fans and potentially earns new ones from the current generation. That little film gives us faith to their upcoming films, and here it is, the latest sequel that once again delivers the same delight and enthusiasm. This quality is always a welcome, however the storyline doesn't seem to offer anything new or say anything important. But none of it will ever matter in the end, Muppets Most Wanted is quite entertaining because that is what this material is always best at.
This edition tries to be like any blockbuster today by pulling off a bombastic and thrilling tone since it involves criminal schemes and exciting mysteries, but these aren't the most interesting parts the film has. Many can immediately notice it suffers finding fresher ideas for the main plot, but those aren't exactly what we care for. It's really about being loyal to their thing: absurd humor, shining talents, and best of all, singing. The attempt of heightening things up is probably for the film to fit in to this epic sized era of cinema. But the truth is the plot is really not as special as the quirks, the most memorable parts that end up to the storyline are either the Muppets' amusing naivety from Constantine's disguise as Kermit or the two agents' ridiculous arguments about the size of their badges.
While the classic stuff are kept, the only thing that was elevated is the songs. Bret McKenzie gives the same joy of the last movie, the beat goes from groovy to Broadway. Every musical set piece is just wonderfully enjoyable. The craft is nothing to talk about since they're always neat, and the voices too have always been full of life. The celebrity cast seems like they're having a good time: Ricky Gervais is kind of just doing his own thing. Ty Burrell seems to be parodying Inspector Clouseau and it's quite fun, he has a delightful chemistry with his Muppet partner, Sam the Eagle. People might only notice the accent in Tina Fey, but she still made the character likable anyway.
Muppets Most Wanted has the feeling for a TV Special worth or something, because definitely there is hardly anything grand about the film other than the spectacles, but it's really hard to say anything bad to the Muppets since the spirit of the show is still there. Its significance is just too little compared to the last movie since that one had a message why this show is so special. This sequel only exists probably just to fit in, but then again it's still a very fun time at the movies. New and old fans can appreciate every bit of it, because nothing can entertain you like this than the Muppets.
This edition tries to be like any blockbuster today by pulling off a bombastic and thrilling tone since it involves criminal schemes and exciting mysteries, but these aren't the most interesting parts the film has. Many can immediately notice it suffers finding fresher ideas for the main plot, but those aren't exactly what we care for. It's really about being loyal to their thing: absurd humor, shining talents, and best of all, singing. The attempt of heightening things up is probably for the film to fit in to this epic sized era of cinema. But the truth is the plot is really not as special as the quirks, the most memorable parts that end up to the storyline are either the Muppets' amusing naivety from Constantine's disguise as Kermit or the two agents' ridiculous arguments about the size of their badges.
While the classic stuff are kept, the only thing that was elevated is the songs. Bret McKenzie gives the same joy of the last movie, the beat goes from groovy to Broadway. Every musical set piece is just wonderfully enjoyable. The craft is nothing to talk about since they're always neat, and the voices too have always been full of life. The celebrity cast seems like they're having a good time: Ricky Gervais is kind of just doing his own thing. Ty Burrell seems to be parodying Inspector Clouseau and it's quite fun, he has a delightful chemistry with his Muppet partner, Sam the Eagle. People might only notice the accent in Tina Fey, but she still made the character likable anyway.
Muppets Most Wanted has the feeling for a TV Special worth or something, because definitely there is hardly anything grand about the film other than the spectacles, but it's really hard to say anything bad to the Muppets since the spirit of the show is still there. Its significance is just too little compared to the last movie since that one had a message why this show is so special. This sequel only exists probably just to fit in, but then again it's still a very fun time at the movies. New and old fans can appreciate every bit of it, because nothing can entertain you like this than the Muppets.
A fine return to Muppet caper form
amesmonde5 April 2014
The Muppets find themselves wrapped into an European heist caper headed by a Kermit the Frog look-alike and his sidekick Number Two.
The last film put the Muppet's back on the the map, director/writer James Bobin and writer Nicholas Stoller corrects Bobin's own previous instalments niggles, gone is the focus on a new Muppet character and less focus on (real) human actors, here there's more Muppets, more songs, comedy and action.
Packed with one-liners gags and with the obligatory cross section of famous cameos including Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, Frank Langella and Ray Liotta to name a few there's all you'd expect from a Muppets musical comedy caper. This offering even excels it predecessor and brings the Muppet's even more to life with some CGI (footwork) but without taking away any of the puppet characteristics of the Muppets we've grown to love along side the human leads Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey who are on fine form.
This is another proper big budget outing set in the 'real' world and not cheap TV movie nor is it based on a classic story. Most Wanted is a fine return to form and sits well with the classic Muppet capers. Highly recommended.
The last film put the Muppet's back on the the map, director/writer James Bobin and writer Nicholas Stoller corrects Bobin's own previous instalments niggles, gone is the focus on a new Muppet character and less focus on (real) human actors, here there's more Muppets, more songs, comedy and action.
Packed with one-liners gags and with the obligatory cross section of famous cameos including Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, Frank Langella and Ray Liotta to name a few there's all you'd expect from a Muppets musical comedy caper. This offering even excels it predecessor and brings the Muppet's even more to life with some CGI (footwork) but without taking away any of the puppet characteristics of the Muppets we've grown to love along side the human leads Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey who are on fine form.
This is another proper big budget outing set in the 'real' world and not cheap TV movie nor is it based on a classic story. Most Wanted is a fine return to form and sits well with the classic Muppet capers. Highly recommended.
"Muppets Most Wanted" Left Me Wanting More
D_Burke20 March 2014
When I reviewed "The Muppets" (2011) upon its release, I was ecstatic about it. I loved the story, the songs, and everything the Muppets themselves did in the movie.
Most people who saw "The Muppets" who were not Muppet fans before seeing it enjoyed the film. Muppet fans themselves, in addition to loving the movie, could sense the heart and passion the filmmakers put into every aspect, and felt no doubt everyone involved in making "The Muppets" were Muppet fans themselves.
"Muppets Most Wanted" is the 8th Muppet movie, but the first one that is technically a sequel because it acknowledges the events that took place in its immediate predecessor. Many of those involved in "The Muppets" return in this sequel, including director and co-writer James Bobin, co-writer Nicholas Stoller, songwriter (and Oscar-winner) Bret McKenzie, and all the Muppets including newcomer Walter . . . but something was missing.
As I watched the film, I could see all the Muppets were there, and it seemed like they were trying to perform "The Muppet Show" as well as they did in their previous film. There was a coherent story about a criminal mastermind who happened to look identical to Kermit the Frog, and exploits this coincidence to help him escape from prison.
I wanted this movie to make me laugh. I want to tell everyone that the Muppets are cool and funny again like I did back when I saw "The Muppets" . . . but I can't.
The problem may have had to do with the story, or at least the motivations of antagonist and Kermit-lookalike Constantine. With his partner in crime Dominic Badguy (pronounced BA-jee, & played by Ricky Gervais), he uses the Muppets' world tour as a front to rob European museums of their precious diamonds.
"The Great Muppet Caper" had a similar plot, but that movie was more clever because virtually all the Muppets in that movie parodied how overdone such a plot was. This movie doesn't even want to acknowledge the banality of that hackneyed plot line, or even consider why any modern audience would care about a jewel heist.
Also, whereas the songs were a major strength in "The Muppets", the song "We're Doing A Sequel" is the only one worth remembering. It's a promising, tongue-in-cheek song that acknowledges the stigma and symptoms of sequelitis, only to allow the whole film to fall victim to its own diagnosis.
Many of the other songs are surprisingly mundane, considering McKenzie wrote far more brilliant songs for "The Muppets". For example, the song "I'll Get What You Want (Cockatoo In Malibu)" has lyrics that include "I can give you anything you want/Give you anything you need/I'll make your dreams come true/Give you anything you want".
You're waiting for a funny line, but McKenzie, for the first time in his songwriting career, never delivers one. Considering the hilarious, genre-bashing songs he made famous with Flight Of The Conchords, it feels as if he didn't even try.
Last but not least, everything "The Muppets" did right with celebrity cameos, "Muppets Most Wanted" did wrong. You see Christoph Waltz dancing the waltz, Salma Hayek getting on and off stage, Danny Trejo in prison, and Celine Dion just singing.
You don't see Gonzo doing a crazy stunt (you only hear him talking about it), Fozzie Bear telling a joke, or most of the Muppets doing what they do best. Even Lew Zealand forgets to throw a fish.
Of the human stars who actually have relevant roles, Tina Fey and Ty Burrell actually look like they're having fun. Ricky Gervais is surprisingly dull, being both unfunny enough to stand alongside the Muppets, and not menacing enough to be a villain.
The Muppets are the stars of this movie, not the humans. Somewhere in the making of this movie, the filmmakers left their love of the Muppets, and their desire to make them intriguing characters, by the door, and it shows by what you don't see the Muppets do.
"Muppets Most Wanted" has some laughs, but they are more like light chuckles with no feelings of joy or poignancy. The Muppets have already proved they can make a comeback, but this is not the movie that proves their staying power.
"Muppets Most Wanted" is by no means a terrible movie, but I hope the Muppets prove their worth in their next movie. I hope there is a next movie.
One last note: The Walt Disney Company has not yet released "The Muppet Show" Seasons 4 & 5 on DVD in addition to many other long-unavailable Muppet TV specials (e.g. "A Muppet Family Christmas" (1987)), yet has purchased Marvel Comics and the Star Wars franchise. Maybe the problem lies with Disney not caring enough about the Muppets.
Most people who saw "The Muppets" who were not Muppet fans before seeing it enjoyed the film. Muppet fans themselves, in addition to loving the movie, could sense the heart and passion the filmmakers put into every aspect, and felt no doubt everyone involved in making "The Muppets" were Muppet fans themselves.
"Muppets Most Wanted" is the 8th Muppet movie, but the first one that is technically a sequel because it acknowledges the events that took place in its immediate predecessor. Many of those involved in "The Muppets" return in this sequel, including director and co-writer James Bobin, co-writer Nicholas Stoller, songwriter (and Oscar-winner) Bret McKenzie, and all the Muppets including newcomer Walter . . . but something was missing.
As I watched the film, I could see all the Muppets were there, and it seemed like they were trying to perform "The Muppet Show" as well as they did in their previous film. There was a coherent story about a criminal mastermind who happened to look identical to Kermit the Frog, and exploits this coincidence to help him escape from prison.
I wanted this movie to make me laugh. I want to tell everyone that the Muppets are cool and funny again like I did back when I saw "The Muppets" . . . but I can't.
The problem may have had to do with the story, or at least the motivations of antagonist and Kermit-lookalike Constantine. With his partner in crime Dominic Badguy (pronounced BA-jee, & played by Ricky Gervais), he uses the Muppets' world tour as a front to rob European museums of their precious diamonds.
"The Great Muppet Caper" had a similar plot, but that movie was more clever because virtually all the Muppets in that movie parodied how overdone such a plot was. This movie doesn't even want to acknowledge the banality of that hackneyed plot line, or even consider why any modern audience would care about a jewel heist.
Also, whereas the songs were a major strength in "The Muppets", the song "We're Doing A Sequel" is the only one worth remembering. It's a promising, tongue-in-cheek song that acknowledges the stigma and symptoms of sequelitis, only to allow the whole film to fall victim to its own diagnosis.
Many of the other songs are surprisingly mundane, considering McKenzie wrote far more brilliant songs for "The Muppets". For example, the song "I'll Get What You Want (Cockatoo In Malibu)" has lyrics that include "I can give you anything you want/Give you anything you need/I'll make your dreams come true/Give you anything you want".
You're waiting for a funny line, but McKenzie, for the first time in his songwriting career, never delivers one. Considering the hilarious, genre-bashing songs he made famous with Flight Of The Conchords, it feels as if he didn't even try.
Last but not least, everything "The Muppets" did right with celebrity cameos, "Muppets Most Wanted" did wrong. You see Christoph Waltz dancing the waltz, Salma Hayek getting on and off stage, Danny Trejo in prison, and Celine Dion just singing.
You don't see Gonzo doing a crazy stunt (you only hear him talking about it), Fozzie Bear telling a joke, or most of the Muppets doing what they do best. Even Lew Zealand forgets to throw a fish.
Of the human stars who actually have relevant roles, Tina Fey and Ty Burrell actually look like they're having fun. Ricky Gervais is surprisingly dull, being both unfunny enough to stand alongside the Muppets, and not menacing enough to be a villain.
The Muppets are the stars of this movie, not the humans. Somewhere in the making of this movie, the filmmakers left their love of the Muppets, and their desire to make them intriguing characters, by the door, and it shows by what you don't see the Muppets do.
"Muppets Most Wanted" has some laughs, but they are more like light chuckles with no feelings of joy or poignancy. The Muppets have already proved they can make a comeback, but this is not the movie that proves their staying power.
"Muppets Most Wanted" is by no means a terrible movie, but I hope the Muppets prove their worth in their next movie. I hope there is a next movie.
One last note: The Walt Disney Company has not yet released "The Muppet Show" Seasons 4 & 5 on DVD in addition to many other long-unavailable Muppet TV specials (e.g. "A Muppet Family Christmas" (1987)), yet has purchased Marvel Comics and the Star Wars franchise. Maybe the problem lies with Disney not caring enough about the Muppets.
Muppets lost some charm
macdaddy359822 March 2014
I hate to give the Muppets anything less than a 10, I really do. I'm an enormous Muppets fan, but this movie disappointed on a couple counts.
First, they started using CGI - A lot.
The charm of the Muppets is that... well, they are puppets. That somehow got lost in translation in this movie when some scenes included full bodies of dancing and walking Muppets. In the past movies, Muppets were shown full-bodied only as stop-action; but the CGI thing just takes the fun and mystery out of it.
Another negative is over-saturation of the Muppets. They are everywhere now, from car commercials to my lunch at Subway. Disney is milking the franchise to death, sadly, so the movie doesn't have that special pop.
All that said, the movie starts with a bang. It's a hilarious transition from the last film, though the absence of Jason Segal is quickly noticed. A cameo may have done justice there.
Overall, the movie is fun; though the writing didn't get a lot of laugh- out-loud moments like their other films. The evil Kermit concept was well executed and the human actors were excellent in their roles. A few good songs, but nothing I'd commit to memory to sing on a road trip.
It's worth a watch for every Muppet fan, and overall a strong 7 out of 10.
First, they started using CGI - A lot.
The charm of the Muppets is that... well, they are puppets. That somehow got lost in translation in this movie when some scenes included full bodies of dancing and walking Muppets. In the past movies, Muppets were shown full-bodied only as stop-action; but the CGI thing just takes the fun and mystery out of it.
Another negative is over-saturation of the Muppets. They are everywhere now, from car commercials to my lunch at Subway. Disney is milking the franchise to death, sadly, so the movie doesn't have that special pop.
All that said, the movie starts with a bang. It's a hilarious transition from the last film, though the absence of Jason Segal is quickly noticed. A cameo may have done justice there.
Overall, the movie is fun; though the writing didn't get a lot of laugh- out-loud moments like their other films. The evil Kermit concept was well executed and the human actors were excellent in their roles. A few good songs, but nothing I'd commit to memory to sing on a road trip.
It's worth a watch for every Muppet fan, and overall a strong 7 out of 10.
Together Again and Again and Again
mike4812820 November 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Totally lacks the originality of the original Muppets Movies that our family grew up with. I own all of the first six movies plus more than one season of The Muppet Show, a few TV specials and other Jim Henson films. "Together Again" is apparently their new theme song as it is used as the movie finale for the third time? I still wish I could get a real copy of the John Denver Muppet Christmas Special. I "cling" to the old VHS tape of it that still plays! Yes, many good "humans" in the movie. Tina Fey is terrific. Many singers including Celine, Lady G., Josh, and Tony Bennett . Many cameos in the film, but you and the kids may not recognize them all. Hardly anything else original to speak off which means it plays like a cliché-sequel. A "rip-off" of "The Great Muppet Caper", "The Muppet Show" and "The Man in the Iron Mask". Good grief! I thought Miss Piggy and Kermit got married when The Muppets took Manhattan? Enjoyable of course, but hardly collectible. I have other favorite Muppet films that I like much more.
Starts well but fizzles when Kermit taken from group
SnoopyStyle3 December 2014
Kermit and friends are given a sequel right after finishing the last movie. Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais) convinces the Muppets to go on a world tour. Meanwhile evil frog Constantine escapes from a Russian gulag run by Nadya (Tina Fey). Badguy is actually Constantine's second and he sets Kermit up to get arrested while Constantine takes over Kermit's place. Badguy and Constantine break into a museum during a show to steal paintings. Sam the Eagle and Inspector Jean Pierre Napoleon (Ty Burrell) investigate. Napoleon suspects the second most dangerous criminal The Lemur. However, the painting is only a map for Constantine to do an even bigger heist down the road.
This starts well with the movie breaking down the 4th wall and singing about the sequel. It's fun and then Kermit is separated from the other Muppets. It's still fun but it loses the chemistry of Kemit leading the group. It doesn't happen all at once but eventually the separation takes a toll on the film. The group needs a leader and Walter can't be it. Kemit needs to escape much earlier. He spends too much time in the gulag which is not the funniest place. Also the gulag doesn't introduce any new friends for Kemit.
This starts well with the movie breaking down the 4th wall and singing about the sequel. It's fun and then Kermit is separated from the other Muppets. It's still fun but it loses the chemistry of Kemit leading the group. It doesn't happen all at once but eventually the separation takes a toll on the film. The group needs a leader and Walter can't be it. Kemit needs to escape much earlier. He spends too much time in the gulag which is not the funniest place. Also the gulag doesn't introduce any new friends for Kemit.
Wonderful songs! Wonderful Muppets! Wonderful film!
docdoolittle21 March 2014
Having read a few strangely critical reviews, I felt compelled to add my own for balance. I am not going to compare this to this Muppet movie or that. I already see too many people doing that.
Having grown up with the original Muppet Show and seeing every movie and many TV specials, I have seen this bunch put together movies and shows with varying success.
The return to the big screen a few years ago was very welcome, and very well done. With this movie, I think they topped that and quite a few others! To me, as a lifelong fan, this easily ranks near the top of the best Muppet movies made.
Once I heard the opening number to the movie, I knew I was in for a treat. Every song in this movie was pure Muppet. Jim Henson always had a way of celebrating the best we all have to offer with a twinkle in his eye and a joke or two along the way. That spirit lives on in this movie. Whether it's doo wop, cheesy 70s music, or just a fun musical number, they cover a lot of ground.
The plot, as you may already be aware, involves some creative switcharoo, which is played off very well. This leads to a number of interesting scenes on both sides.
The movie is paced very well, and does a good job of switching back and forth between story lines. Just as you become reinvested in one, you're switched back to the other. You will most likely see your favorite Muppet at some point, although only a handful have significant parts. I always enjoy the familiar faces in the background scenes.
The human/Muppet ratio was back where it should be. Any proper Muppet movie should always star the muppets, with humans being "around". This delivered that perfectly, but also picked the perfect co-stars. Ty Burrell is fantastic, and his time with Sam the Eagle is wonderful, and something I had been looking forward to. Of course Tina Fey is great as well. She's Tina Fey!
There is a lot of well done will they or won't they at the end. You'll have to see for yourself if they do or if they don't!
And finally, while the matinée I went to wasn't hugely attended, there were a number of kids in the audience, and they all seemed to like the movie very much, even clapping at the end.
I personally enjoyed this movie quite a bit. I laughed A LOT. It's fun. It's silly. It's somewhat absurd at times, and that's what the Muppets are all about. And of course, they remind you how great it is to stick together with your friends and family. And any movie that can get the seal of approval from kids that includes clapping must be doing something right!
Having grown up with the original Muppet Show and seeing every movie and many TV specials, I have seen this bunch put together movies and shows with varying success.
The return to the big screen a few years ago was very welcome, and very well done. With this movie, I think they topped that and quite a few others! To me, as a lifelong fan, this easily ranks near the top of the best Muppet movies made.
Once I heard the opening number to the movie, I knew I was in for a treat. Every song in this movie was pure Muppet. Jim Henson always had a way of celebrating the best we all have to offer with a twinkle in his eye and a joke or two along the way. That spirit lives on in this movie. Whether it's doo wop, cheesy 70s music, or just a fun musical number, they cover a lot of ground.
The plot, as you may already be aware, involves some creative switcharoo, which is played off very well. This leads to a number of interesting scenes on both sides.
The movie is paced very well, and does a good job of switching back and forth between story lines. Just as you become reinvested in one, you're switched back to the other. You will most likely see your favorite Muppet at some point, although only a handful have significant parts. I always enjoy the familiar faces in the background scenes.
The human/Muppet ratio was back where it should be. Any proper Muppet movie should always star the muppets, with humans being "around". This delivered that perfectly, but also picked the perfect co-stars. Ty Burrell is fantastic, and his time with Sam the Eagle is wonderful, and something I had been looking forward to. Of course Tina Fey is great as well. She's Tina Fey!
There is a lot of well done will they or won't they at the end. You'll have to see for yourself if they do or if they don't!
And finally, while the matinée I went to wasn't hugely attended, there were a number of kids in the audience, and they all seemed to like the movie very much, even clapping at the end.
I personally enjoyed this movie quite a bit. I laughed A LOT. It's fun. It's silly. It's somewhat absurd at times, and that's what the Muppets are all about. And of course, they remind you how great it is to stick together with your friends and family. And any movie that can get the seal of approval from kids that includes clapping must be doing something right!
'Muppets: Most Wanted' is quite fun, but I don't think it has a replay factor like the last one did.
bryank-0484417 August 2015
Warning: Spoilers
It's very difficult to find a sequel that's as good as the original. There aren't a lot out there that are great sequels, but when they do come along, they are remembered forever. And maybe what worked so well for the first Muppet film that starred Jason Segel and Amy Adams is that it had a human element to it, and didn't just follow the Muppets around. That's not to say that this sequel 'Muppets: Most Wanted' isn't a lot of fun and very entertaining. It is, but it doesn't have that magic that the last one had.
Instead, we get a true to Muppet form movie as our favorite creatures set out on a multi continent tour full of shows, burglaries, and jewel heists. A theme that has been done before with the Muppets. But at least the Muppets are self aware that sequels are never quite as good as the original as they sing in their opening song called 'We're Doing A Sequel'. But this sequel is not all fun and games at all, as we start out exactly where we left off on the first film right outside the theater in Los Angeles, where the Muppets have dinner with a high-powered manager named Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais), who encourages them to go on a world tour with their show.
Little do the Muppets know that Dominic is an actual bad guy who is planning on robbing priceless works of art and jewels from each place the Muppets play at in hopes of taking over the world as the planet's number one criminal. But he can't do it alone. He needs the help of Constantine, the world's most dangerous frog, who is a Russian ninja complete with an accent and mole and looks exactly like Kermit. It's funny, because in light of recent events in the actual news, this Russian bad frog is quite a coincidence. Once Constantine breaks out of a Siberian prison run by Nadya (Tina Fey), he switches places with Kermit, as Kermit is transferred back to the Siberian prison full of bad guys.
While Constantine and Badguy are robbing art galleries and banks, Kermit is trying to survive prison life, but luckily for him, Nadya loves musical theatre and wants to put on a great performance for the annual prison talent show. And Kermit is just the frog to make it happen. Meanwhile, it seems nobody realizes that Constantine is actually Constantine, but rather Kermit with a col, due to his thick Russian accent. He even woos Miss Piggy into marriage within 48 hours which is to take place in London, the same place he plans to rob a precious piece of history and blow everyone up after the job is done. Even new guy Walter doesn't see through Constantine at first.
Instead Animal is the only one who knows the real Kermit. Ty Burrell plays a version of Inspector Clouseau, searching for clues to the serial robberies, which gets several laughs. There are several references to other films such as 'The Sound of Music', a full number from the play 'A Chorus Line', and even 'The Seventh Seal'. And the music by 'The Flight of the Conchords' this time around isn't as great as the first one, but it does have some good moments with some catchy tunes. In fact, there is one number that is sure to get big applause from older fans. And returning director James Bobin along with his co-writer Nicholas Stoller must be big fans of Mel Brooks, because there are some silly scenes that play during the film similar to something Mel Brooks would have done including a bunch of rough and tough prison inmates who break out into song and dance Broadway style.
The lights are not out on the Muppets by any means. There are plenty of laughs for all ages and some fun over-the-top performances. And the cameos keep coming including Celine Dion, Christoph Waltz, Ray Liotta, Danny Trejo, Frank Langella, Salma Hayak, Tom Hiddleston, Puff Daddy, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Zach Galifianakis to name a few. 'Muppets: Most Wanted' is quite fun, but I don't think it has a replay factor like the last one did.
Instead, we get a true to Muppet form movie as our favorite creatures set out on a multi continent tour full of shows, burglaries, and jewel heists. A theme that has been done before with the Muppets. But at least the Muppets are self aware that sequels are never quite as good as the original as they sing in their opening song called 'We're Doing A Sequel'. But this sequel is not all fun and games at all, as we start out exactly where we left off on the first film right outside the theater in Los Angeles, where the Muppets have dinner with a high-powered manager named Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais), who encourages them to go on a world tour with their show.
Little do the Muppets know that Dominic is an actual bad guy who is planning on robbing priceless works of art and jewels from each place the Muppets play at in hopes of taking over the world as the planet's number one criminal. But he can't do it alone. He needs the help of Constantine, the world's most dangerous frog, who is a Russian ninja complete with an accent and mole and looks exactly like Kermit. It's funny, because in light of recent events in the actual news, this Russian bad frog is quite a coincidence. Once Constantine breaks out of a Siberian prison run by Nadya (Tina Fey), he switches places with Kermit, as Kermit is transferred back to the Siberian prison full of bad guys.
While Constantine and Badguy are robbing art galleries and banks, Kermit is trying to survive prison life, but luckily for him, Nadya loves musical theatre and wants to put on a great performance for the annual prison talent show. And Kermit is just the frog to make it happen. Meanwhile, it seems nobody realizes that Constantine is actually Constantine, but rather Kermit with a col, due to his thick Russian accent. He even woos Miss Piggy into marriage within 48 hours which is to take place in London, the same place he plans to rob a precious piece of history and blow everyone up after the job is done. Even new guy Walter doesn't see through Constantine at first.
Instead Animal is the only one who knows the real Kermit. Ty Burrell plays a version of Inspector Clouseau, searching for clues to the serial robberies, which gets several laughs. There are several references to other films such as 'The Sound of Music', a full number from the play 'A Chorus Line', and even 'The Seventh Seal'. And the music by 'The Flight of the Conchords' this time around isn't as great as the first one, but it does have some good moments with some catchy tunes. In fact, there is one number that is sure to get big applause from older fans. And returning director James Bobin along with his co-writer Nicholas Stoller must be big fans of Mel Brooks, because there are some silly scenes that play during the film similar to something Mel Brooks would have done including a bunch of rough and tough prison inmates who break out into song and dance Broadway style.
The lights are not out on the Muppets by any means. There are plenty of laughs for all ages and some fun over-the-top performances. And the cameos keep coming including Celine Dion, Christoph Waltz, Ray Liotta, Danny Trejo, Frank Langella, Salma Hayak, Tom Hiddleston, Puff Daddy, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Zach Galifianakis to name a few. 'Muppets: Most Wanted' is quite fun, but I don't think it has a replay factor like the last one did.
A Parade of Extremely Tired Clichés
brent_or22 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I'm a Muppets fan and really enjoyed the 2011 film, but I am very, very disappointed with Muppets Most Wanted. This film is just an endless string of clichés. Very rarely is it genuinely witty or surprising. The script wrings all of the effect possible out of heist film tropes, caricatures of non-Americans (stuff that probably would have been HILARIOUS if this was 1964) and of course, the Muppet cast wearing their well-worn roles.
Easier for me to summarize are the good points. Ty Burrell was born to play a French Interpol detective in a Muppets film. Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords works great as a young-Topol-lookalike Russian. And there are a few random gags here and there that hit home. Oh, and two or maybe three of the songs are either weird or catchy enough to be enjoyable.
But that's it. The plot is nothing great. The dialog lacks wit. Most of the songs are simply dialog set to autopilot melodies. The premise feels like it belongs in a decade of the past. "Kermit identity crisis" and "Muppets heist-related film" have already sort of been done in The Muppets Take Manhattan and The Great Muppet Caper, respectively. Not exact equivalents, but close enough to make Muppets Most Wanted seem like a lesser retread. I'm glad that the Muppets franchise has been re- energized, but like Star Trek, I have a hard time feeling like it's worth it unless they develop better stories for future installments.
Easier for me to summarize are the good points. Ty Burrell was born to play a French Interpol detective in a Muppets film. Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords works great as a young-Topol-lookalike Russian. And there are a few random gags here and there that hit home. Oh, and two or maybe three of the songs are either weird or catchy enough to be enjoyable.
But that's it. The plot is nothing great. The dialog lacks wit. Most of the songs are simply dialog set to autopilot melodies. The premise feels like it belongs in a decade of the past. "Kermit identity crisis" and "Muppets heist-related film" have already sort of been done in The Muppets Take Manhattan and The Great Muppet Caper, respectively. Not exact equivalents, but close enough to make Muppets Most Wanted seem like a lesser retread. I'm glad that the Muppets franchise has been re- energized, but like Star Trek, I have a hard time feeling like it's worth it unless they develop better stories for future installments.
Best Muppet Movie Since the Original Three
singlern0525 March 2014
Jim Henson's successors have tried for years to re-capture the magic of the original Muppet Movie, The Great Muppet Caper, and Muppets Take Manhattan and have failed to take us to that special land of wonderment.
2011's "The Muppets" tried hard (maybe too hard) but stumbled out the gate by making us sit through unbearable musical numbers such as Texas Richman's rap and Amy Adams' "Me Party." It's plot also focused on a new Muppet, Walter, as well his human brother Jason Segel and his girlfriend Amy Adams rather than center around the original Muppet cast that we love so dear.
The creators of Muppets Most Wanted understood these shortcomings and comically pointed them out. I'm not saying that Muppets Most Wanted is as good as the original three, or date say better. But it is as close to Muppet-Greatness as we've been since Jim Henson's passing.
The writers found that perfect balance between silly and witty. The plot centered around the beloved original characters, while introducing a hilarious new villain. The musical numbers had that uplifting, old-school feel and never induced cringing.
We finally have a post-Henson Muppet Movie that will stand the test of time. Rejoice!
2011's "The Muppets" tried hard (maybe too hard) but stumbled out the gate by making us sit through unbearable musical numbers such as Texas Richman's rap and Amy Adams' "Me Party." It's plot also focused on a new Muppet, Walter, as well his human brother Jason Segel and his girlfriend Amy Adams rather than center around the original Muppet cast that we love so dear.
The creators of Muppets Most Wanted understood these shortcomings and comically pointed them out. I'm not saying that Muppets Most Wanted is as good as the original three, or date say better. But it is as close to Muppet-Greatness as we've been since Jim Henson's passing.
The writers found that perfect balance between silly and witty. The plot centered around the beloved original characters, while introducing a hilarious new villain. The musical numbers had that uplifting, old-school feel and never induced cringing.
We finally have a post-Henson Muppet Movie that will stand the test of time. Rejoice!
The Muppet sequel
Prismark1028 March 2015
After being successfully rebooted in 2011 in The Muppets they return in Muppets Most Wanted and end up in London (their spiritual home) as well as other European cities.
The famous again Muppets have a new manager Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais) and they embark on a world tour but the tour is a front as Badguy and his cohort Constantine (A Kermit lookalike who has replaced Kermit) rob historical venues across Europe. Tina Fey is fun as the prison guard in a Russian gulag where the real Kermit has been sent to.
Ty Burrell is Interpol Inspector Napoleon, co investigating with CIA agent Sam the Eagle while at the same time poking fun at French stereotypes.
There are many cameos some are blink and you miss them ranging from James McAvoy, Lady Gaga, Christoph Waltz, Frank Langella, Ray Liotta, Danny Trejo, Salma Hayek and Tom Hiddleston.
The film is fun enough, a solid and enjoyable film with a good musical number (The Gulag Song) near the end of the film. Its not as good as The Muppets and borrows from earlier films such as The Great Muppet Caper. Then again the film acknowledges that sequels are not as good as the original film in its opening number. Jason Segel's absence is felt in this film and it also does feel a little bit flabby here and there.
The famous again Muppets have a new manager Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais) and they embark on a world tour but the tour is a front as Badguy and his cohort Constantine (A Kermit lookalike who has replaced Kermit) rob historical venues across Europe. Tina Fey is fun as the prison guard in a Russian gulag where the real Kermit has been sent to.
Ty Burrell is Interpol Inspector Napoleon, co investigating with CIA agent Sam the Eagle while at the same time poking fun at French stereotypes.
There are many cameos some are blink and you miss them ranging from James McAvoy, Lady Gaga, Christoph Waltz, Frank Langella, Ray Liotta, Danny Trejo, Salma Hayek and Tom Hiddleston.
The film is fun enough, a solid and enjoyable film with a good musical number (The Gulag Song) near the end of the film. Its not as good as The Muppets and borrows from earlier films such as The Great Muppet Caper. Then again the film acknowledges that sequels are not as good as the original film in its opening number. Jason Segel's absence is felt in this film and it also does feel a little bit flabby here and there.
They admitted the Truth
colxanba23 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
In the opening musical number of the Film they admitted it wouldn't be as good as the first Film....
With a very basic plot and loads of cameos the film could have been good, but instead it was far too long to hold my family's attention. Ricky Gervais wasn't believable as a proper baddie in the true over-the-top-obvious Muppet fashion and his performance together with the length of the film (at almost 2 hours) made for an uncomfortable time...some families actually left the cinema before the end. The few laughs were few and far between...so in conclusion unless you are as besotted with the Muppets as Tina Fey's character was I'd save your money for something else.
With a very basic plot and loads of cameos the film could have been good, but instead it was far too long to hold my family's attention. Ricky Gervais wasn't believable as a proper baddie in the true over-the-top-obvious Muppet fashion and his performance together with the length of the film (at almost 2 hours) made for an uncomfortable time...some families actually left the cinema before the end. The few laughs were few and far between...so in conclusion unless you are as besotted with the Muppets as Tina Fey's character was I'd save your money for something else.
Bad frog!
Pjtaylor-96-1380444 February 2022
'The Muppets: Most Wanted (2014)' picks up right after the muppets finish filming 'The Muppets (2011)'. This meta self-awareness continues throughout the piece, though to varying degrees, and is especially evident in the opening musical number in which the characters sing about doing a sequel. The first film must be based on a 'true story', though, because its events (the muppets getting back together, Walter being introduced) are directly referenced as having happened to the muppets even though the opening makes it explicit that the film itself is the reason for the muppet's reunion and subsequent success (which kicks in prior to their picture even being edited, since this starts as soon as they shoot the last shot and wrap up production). Confused? Well, the flick doesn't want you to think about it. It steams ahead with almost reckless abandon, unconcerned with most of its throwaway humour, which leads to a 'just go with it' vibe and prevents any semblance of self-seriousness. It's a distinct yet mostly successful approach that fits with the inherent silliness of the age-old 'puppets and people' concept. The flick is enjoyable enough for what it is, filled with a host colourful core characters and a slew of throwaway yet inoffensive celebrity cameos. There are plenty of lively musical numbers and the piece is relatively funny on occasion (though never side-splitting, by any means). A lot of the comedy is based around ever-so-slightly xenophobic stereotypes, but this feels more lazy than malicious. Therefore, it isn't particularly bothersome, even though it does make a lot of the movie seem somewhat old-fashioned. The most successful aspects of the feature are its villains, a dastardly doppelgänger and an in-the-closet furry. Their evil plan is as predictable as you'd expect, but the picture doesn't make a point of focusing on its plot and just uses it as a catalyst for its somewhat creaky comedy and its catchy song-and-dance routines (the latter of which includes an excellent 80s pop-ballad parody). Ultimately, this is a well-executed and generally enjoyable affair. There isn't anything particularly wrong with it, but it's only ever so engaging or, even, entertaining. It's good enough for a bit of throwaway fun, though. To be fair, it never pretends to be anything more than that. 6/10.
The Muppet movie, I didn't wanted. It wasn't that good. Still, it was alright.
ironhorse_iv10 April 2014
Warning: Spoilers
This movie wasn't that funny. It had a lot of old jokes that remind me of funnier oldest films that did the gags a lot better. First off, I have to say, I don't hate the film; I just feel disappointed with the results. After all, it's coming off of 2011's Muppet Movie that had a lot of heart, put into it. That film is one of the better films in the series, but this movie is really, really not good. Directed by James Bobin, the movie acts like a sequel to the last movie, as the comeback was such a success that it allow Kermit the Frog (voice by Steve Whitmire) and the Muppet Show gang to do a European tour. On the way, Kermit get kidnap and mistaken for Constantine (voice by Matt Vogel), the world's most evil frog. There is a theory that says that Constantine is the Black Sheep of Kermit's family and probably Robin's estranged dad. We don't know who Robin's parents are, and Constantine's resemblance was uncanny, except for the mole. Anyways, Kermit is sent to a Soviet prison control by a ruthless warden Nadya (Tina Fey); while the real Constantine took Kermit's place in the tour with his henchman Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais) acting as their manager. Little do the Muppets know, that the two criminals are using the tour to steal Europe's most prize Jewels. I have to say, this plot isn't even new to the Muppets. The movie seems a rehash, recycle or reboot of 1981's The Great Muppet Caper. The movie has even the balls to show us, better Muppet's movies in the movie. The movie does have pop cultural references gags that might remind people of 1996's Mission: Impossible, 1994's Shawshank Redemption, 1971's The Waltons and others. My favorite is the gulag audition montage is "I Hope I Get It" from 1985's A Chorus Line. It's seem like a lot of things in the film are taken from better comedy films. The character of Jean Pierre Napoleon (Ty Barrell) is a lousy rip-off of Inspector Jacques Clouseau from the Pink Panthers series. I also found it weird that Constantine sounds like 2005's Borat. The whole evil twin idea has a lot of scenes that remind me of 1940's Great Dictator and 1933's Duck Soap. This is not the first time Kermit did a mirror routine with a doppelgänger. He also did this with a wind-up mechanical version of himself in the Ruth Buzzi episode of The Muppet Show. That joke is really tiresome. If you going to do old jokes, at less, do something new to it as to play homage, so it's doesn't felt like the film is stealing the joke. The jokes were pretty hit and miss, depending if you find meta, break the fourth wall humor, funny. I like meta humor, but a lot of the material here are not that funny. I find nothing funny about the Gulag scenes. I have a sense of humor, but gees. I don't think, the Gulag was the best thing to put in a kid movie. First off, Russia isn't the Soviet anymore. So, I kinda find the Gulag thing outdate and kinda offended. In Stalin's Gulag 1.6 million died there from 1934 to 1953. It's like making a movie where the cast of Sesame Street is in Nazi Germany concentration camp. It just doesn't sound good. I kinda disappointed at Ricky Gervais, as the movie doesn't give him any funny moments. I guess, they didn't want him to anger people like the Emmys. He was playing it too safe in this film. He plays second banana to a sock puppet, most of screen time. I think the only person that I found funny in this movie is Sam the Eagle's role as a CIA agent. There is a lot of celeb cameos in this film ranging from singers like Usher, Tony Berrett, and Lady Gaga to famous actors like Christoph Waltz, Danny Trejo and others. Without spoiling it all the stars, I did find Tom Hiddleston as the funniest of these celebs cameos. I didn't mind the Product Placement like Subway and UPS as it help with the plot. Now to the music. I found the musical part, alright. "I'm Number One" and "I'll Get What Your Want" are really good. It makes sense, because in addition to being a Muppet performer, Matt Vogel is also a musician, and even had his own band. "Something So Right", complete with a Céline Dion cameo was a little too much of a cheesy ballad. My favorite is the "Interrogation Song." The worst is 'We're doing a Sequel' has the lyrics that pretty much explain, why this movie is here, and why isn't that good. I guess, this movie was originally going to be called "The Muppets Again"? Looks like they finished the song before changing the title. The movie even makes a new version of "Together Again," from 1984's Muppet Take Manhattan. Since Jason Segel is completely unaffiliated with this movie, the film is missing a lot of its heart. The 2011's movie was chiefly concerned about how the Muppets felt they weren't relevant and that no one cared about them anymore and how much they were special to everybody childhood. Here in this movie, I really don't get what the movie is trying to put out as a message. Here they launch a comeback world tour that seems successful until it's revealed that their "audiences" to come see their shows and newspapers to post rave reviews were fake. If you going to make fun of how much your movie is going to suck, a lot of people are going to start to look at it, and say, 'yeah, when I think about it, it's wasn't good'. It's probably one of the reasons, why this movie didn't do so good in the box office. At less, the movie made the credits entertaining.
Nice Try Disney, But No Cigar
griffolyon1221 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Muppets Most Wanted is essentially a direct sequel to 2011's The Muppets, with this one literally picking up where the last left off. While I am exceptionally glad to find the Muppets back on movie screens, both Most Wanted, and even their last outing in 2011, seemed to be missing that spark that made me fall in love with the Muppets to begin with. Perhaps it's the absence of any Henson actively involved in the making-of process, or perhaps it's the fact that these past two Muppet films have been the first bigscreen features without the original voice of Miss Piggy and Fozzie, Frank Oz. I don't really know what it is, but Muppets Most Wanted never quite manages to reach the Muppets' previous highs. Don't get me wrong, Muppets Most Wanted is a fun and entertaining movie for the most part, it just seems like it is trying too hard to be a Muppet movie, rather than letting it flow naturally.
In Most Wanted, we find Kermit and the gang embarking on a world tour with their shady new manager, Dominic Badguy (played by Ricky Gervais). Badguy's not so subtle name is a perfect clue as to what happens next, when the world's most dangerous frog, Constantine, breaks out of prison and switches places with Kermit. Badguy and Constantine embark on a massive jewel heist using the Muppet's world tour as the perfect cover, and Kermit, trapped in a Russian prison, must find a means of escape if he's to save the day.
There are definitely shades of The Great Muppet Caper here and there, but it feels more like an imitator of that classic Muppet adventure, rather than an entirely new entry in the Muppet canon. Here's the thing with Muppets Most Wanted, the representations of the characters are spot on for the most part, and many of the jokes are quite funny, in particular Dominic and Constantine constantly going back-and-forth about Dominic being number 2 to Constantine's number 1, but it just feels like the filmmakers are still trying to justify why they were chosen to make Muppet movies in the first place. It's almost as if the filmmakers had a checklist of all the things they felt needed to be in a Muppet movie (song-and-dance numbers, celebrity cameos, etc.) and just threw the whole kitchen sink in.
There's never a real clear focus to the film, with it often feeling a touch haphazard in how it jumps from joke to joke, with not every gag landing with a laugh. Then there's the abruptness that the songs often start with, with very little build up to where it actually feels like a song was warranted at that moment in the film. And then there's the celebrity cameos, which are just getting too much. When they did them in the original Muppet movies, they were usually done very sparingly, and the cameos were of such a high level of celebrity, that when you saw them, everyone immediately knew who they were. I love that Danny Trejo finally got into a Muppet movie, but how many people will really recognize James McAvoy or Stanley Tucci when they pop up? A far cry from the days when Bob Hope and Orson Welles had Muppet cameos. Of course, I really don't want this to sound like I hated Muppets Most Wanted, I just think disappointment is more of my feeling.
Muppets Most Wanted is an okay movie, it's just not a good Muppet movie. When the bar has been set so high, it's hard to reach it. Really, the film suffers from the same problem that most modern comedies suffer from, a sense of ADD and a barrage of jokes that are not all that witty. When the Muppets revert to a few bathroom jokes in this film, all I could do was groan inside. However, this does make it all the more refreshing when a few witty jokes actually crop up. I laughed my head off when Fozzie impersonated a bear skin rug, as well as when they referenced The Seventh Seal and Silence of the Lambs. It's in these areas of cleverness that Muppets Most Wanted is the most fun and feels like the Muppets of old, I just wish they'd give Rizzo the Rat more than one measly line of dialogue. What's up Disney? Your mascot's a mouse, but you can't give a rat some love?
I give Muppets Most Wanted a 7 out of 10!
In Most Wanted, we find Kermit and the gang embarking on a world tour with their shady new manager, Dominic Badguy (played by Ricky Gervais). Badguy's not so subtle name is a perfect clue as to what happens next, when the world's most dangerous frog, Constantine, breaks out of prison and switches places with Kermit. Badguy and Constantine embark on a massive jewel heist using the Muppet's world tour as the perfect cover, and Kermit, trapped in a Russian prison, must find a means of escape if he's to save the day.
There are definitely shades of The Great Muppet Caper here and there, but it feels more like an imitator of that classic Muppet adventure, rather than an entirely new entry in the Muppet canon. Here's the thing with Muppets Most Wanted, the representations of the characters are spot on for the most part, and many of the jokes are quite funny, in particular Dominic and Constantine constantly going back-and-forth about Dominic being number 2 to Constantine's number 1, but it just feels like the filmmakers are still trying to justify why they were chosen to make Muppet movies in the first place. It's almost as if the filmmakers had a checklist of all the things they felt needed to be in a Muppet movie (song-and-dance numbers, celebrity cameos, etc.) and just threw the whole kitchen sink in.
There's never a real clear focus to the film, with it often feeling a touch haphazard in how it jumps from joke to joke, with not every gag landing with a laugh. Then there's the abruptness that the songs often start with, with very little build up to where it actually feels like a song was warranted at that moment in the film. And then there's the celebrity cameos, which are just getting too much. When they did them in the original Muppet movies, they were usually done very sparingly, and the cameos were of such a high level of celebrity, that when you saw them, everyone immediately knew who they were. I love that Danny Trejo finally got into a Muppet movie, but how many people will really recognize James McAvoy or Stanley Tucci when they pop up? A far cry from the days when Bob Hope and Orson Welles had Muppet cameos. Of course, I really don't want this to sound like I hated Muppets Most Wanted, I just think disappointment is more of my feeling.
Muppets Most Wanted is an okay movie, it's just not a good Muppet movie. When the bar has been set so high, it's hard to reach it. Really, the film suffers from the same problem that most modern comedies suffer from, a sense of ADD and a barrage of jokes that are not all that witty. When the Muppets revert to a few bathroom jokes in this film, all I could do was groan inside. However, this does make it all the more refreshing when a few witty jokes actually crop up. I laughed my head off when Fozzie impersonated a bear skin rug, as well as when they referenced The Seventh Seal and Silence of the Lambs. It's in these areas of cleverness that Muppets Most Wanted is the most fun and feels like the Muppets of old, I just wish they'd give Rizzo the Rat more than one measly line of dialogue. What's up Disney? Your mascot's a mouse, but you can't give a rat some love?
I give Muppets Most Wanted a 7 out of 10!
Not The Best Muppets Movie, but still brings a Smile!
agblum23 March 2014
While not the Best Muppet Movie you'll ever see – There are Great Bookend Musical Numbers, a few other good or decent ones in between.
There are some laugh out loud moments in the later half of the film.
Some Great Celebrity Cameos - No Surprise there of course, and some the usual Great Muppet Hilarity!
I'm not a Ricky Gervais Fan, but it did not bring down the movie for me. His musical number with the "Bad Kermit" in the beginning is well done.
While the last one movie was better - What's more to say – It's The Muppets – 3 out of 4 Stars!
There are some laugh out loud moments in the later half of the film.
Some Great Celebrity Cameos - No Surprise there of course, and some the usual Great Muppet Hilarity!
I'm not a Ricky Gervais Fan, but it did not bring down the movie for me. His musical number with the "Bad Kermit" in the beginning is well done.
While the last one movie was better - What's more to say – It's The Muppets – 3 out of 4 Stars!
An Adventure from Start to Finish
rannynm28 March 2014
The Muppets Most Wanted is a fantastic movie packed with comedy and excitement. The crowd was laughing so loudly that sometimes it was hard to hear the movie. This film is fantastic because it has the perfect combination of catchy songs and talented actors. It keeps you on the edge of your seat because you never know who was going to show up next.
The Muppets are back for the eighth time and before they finish catching up with each other, they meet Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais.) Dominic convinces the Muppets to go out on a world tour. At the same time Constantine, the world's most dangerous frog, escapes from prison and hatches an evil plan to hide his identity. Constantine kidnaps Kermit and takes over Kermit's identity. Kermit is mistaken for Constantine and is sent to prison. This leaves Constantine free to steal the crown jewels of England. It is up to the Muppets to save Kermit and stop Constantine before the world's most beloved puppets become the world's most wanted criminals.
The scene where the inmates put on a show in prison is hilarious. It's my favorite part of the movie. Watching scary looking men sing and dance like they are on Broadway is priceless. I also enjoyed watching Constantine act like he is Kermit. You will laugh out loud when you see what happens to him as he gets ready to go on stage during a musical performance.
All the actors do an amazing job in this movie. One actor who really stands out for me is Ty Burrell who plays Jean Pierre. His witty comments and funny attitude really add to the comedy. My favorite actress in this movie is Tina Fey who plays Nadya. What makes her performance great is that on the outside she is so strict, but on the inside she is really very warm and caring. Her accent is so realistic that I thought she was actually from Russia.
The message of this movie is that true friends will always be there for you no matter how bad things get. "The Muppets Most Wanted" is perfect for both boys and girls ages 8 to 16 and I give it five out of five shimmering stars. You definitely don't want to miss this one.
Reviewed by Simone S., KIDS FIRST Film Critic. For more reviews, go to kidsfirst dot org.
The Muppets are back for the eighth time and before they finish catching up with each other, they meet Dominic Badguy (Ricky Gervais.) Dominic convinces the Muppets to go out on a world tour. At the same time Constantine, the world's most dangerous frog, escapes from prison and hatches an evil plan to hide his identity. Constantine kidnaps Kermit and takes over Kermit's identity. Kermit is mistaken for Constantine and is sent to prison. This leaves Constantine free to steal the crown jewels of England. It is up to the Muppets to save Kermit and stop Constantine before the world's most beloved puppets become the world's most wanted criminals.
The scene where the inmates put on a show in prison is hilarious. It's my favorite part of the movie. Watching scary looking men sing and dance like they are on Broadway is priceless. I also enjoyed watching Constantine act like he is Kermit. You will laugh out loud when you see what happens to him as he gets ready to go on stage during a musical performance.
All the actors do an amazing job in this movie. One actor who really stands out for me is Ty Burrell who plays Jean Pierre. His witty comments and funny attitude really add to the comedy. My favorite actress in this movie is Tina Fey who plays Nadya. What makes her performance great is that on the outside she is so strict, but on the inside she is really very warm and caring. Her accent is so realistic that I thought she was actually from Russia.
The message of this movie is that true friends will always be there for you no matter how bad things get. "The Muppets Most Wanted" is perfect for both boys and girls ages 8 to 16 and I give it five out of five shimmering stars. You definitely don't want to miss this one.
Reviewed by Simone S., KIDS FIRST Film Critic. For more reviews, go to kidsfirst dot org.
A Great Franchise
hazysistersunshine3321 April 2014
I admit this wasn't the best Muppets movie I've seen and it didn't do to well at the box office, but it is, as all their movie, just so much fun. Some of the jokes are a little outdated, but if you are a fan, you will enjoy this movie a lot. Of course, Kids will really like this movie too. The Muppets are such an institution, it's hard for them to go wrong. Of course there are a million cameos. There are also some gut wrenching laugh out loud jokes in it. I hope the low box office draw doesn't stop them making the movies. Tina Fay, as the Russian Security Guard and Ty Burrell as the Interpol French Detective really steal the show in every scene they are in. Those two actually deliver some of the best jokes. I like how they make fun of how serious Europeans are about their vacation time.
I really wanted to like it...
janjogs9 April 2014
I took my 7 and 8 year old sons to watch this at the cinema.
It was a holiday treat. The trailer made it look fun. I wanted to like it. I kept looking across at my boys, hoping to see signs of enjoyment on their faces. I didn't
They didn't complain afterwards, just noted that nothing really happened in the film, and didn't mention it again - unlike films they really enjoy and rave about for days afterwards.
Perhaps I just wasn't in the mood. Perhaps it's just not 'my cup of tea'. Some people seem to have written good reviews...
But for me this was a wasted two hours and I came out feeling slightly depressed that I'd planned a day out around such a disappointing film. There was only one person in the cinema who laughed aloud.
It was a holiday treat. The trailer made it look fun. I wanted to like it. I kept looking across at my boys, hoping to see signs of enjoyment on their faces. I didn't
They didn't complain afterwards, just noted that nothing really happened in the film, and didn't mention it again - unlike films they really enjoy and rave about for days afterwards.
Perhaps I just wasn't in the mood. Perhaps it's just not 'my cup of tea'. Some people seem to have written good reviews...
But for me this was a wasted two hours and I came out feeling slightly depressed that I'd planned a day out around such a disappointing film. There was only one person in the cinema who laughed aloud.
Charming and Review Proof
aharmas24 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
There has been a quality to the Muppets since they were created around the 70's. Who would have thought there was chemistry between a frog and a Pig? And there's one of the greatest romances in history, a relationship full of friction and angst, with a man who won't commit and a very pushy girl, with an amazing and feisty personality.
In their latest entry, Kermit is involved in international intrigue, as he's thrown into a Siberian jail and the most dangerous frog in history replaces him, as the company goes on an International tour with more than comical and musical performances. There are ulterior motives for this sneaky amphibian and his second in command, a delightful Ricky Gervais.
Things get loonier with two competing authority figures more concerned with vanity than solving the crimes. Here is a battle of the egos that will have you roaring with laughter. Ty Furrell is a talented funny man, showing timing to rival The Three Stooges and mimicking some of the great funny men of the past.
In addition to some of the terrific silly bits between all the usual members of the troop, we put the spotlight on Miss Piggy, who is a bit brasher than usual and Animal, trying to make everyone realize there's something wrong with Kermit. Along the way, we are treated to some terrific musical numbers, with more clever than usual lyrics, which are also brimming with the charming appeal of those old musical numbers when it was fun to hum the melodies and sing along. The staging is also quite good, and we keep hoping the numbers get bigger, with more singing, dancing, and some more terrific choreography. The opening and closing musical numbers certainly match some of the 1930's best; this coupled with Burgess' colorful photography is quite a treat.
Hope the audience discover this terrific little movie and enjoy a treat rarely seen nowadays. Something that is not quite a sequel, a remake, but a film that is part of a tradition that has earned a place in our hearts and our funny bone.
In their latest entry, Kermit is involved in international intrigue, as he's thrown into a Siberian jail and the most dangerous frog in history replaces him, as the company goes on an International tour with more than comical and musical performances. There are ulterior motives for this sneaky amphibian and his second in command, a delightful Ricky Gervais.
Things get loonier with two competing authority figures more concerned with vanity than solving the crimes. Here is a battle of the egos that will have you roaring with laughter. Ty Furrell is a talented funny man, showing timing to rival The Three Stooges and mimicking some of the great funny men of the past.
In addition to some of the terrific silly bits between all the usual members of the troop, we put the spotlight on Miss Piggy, who is a bit brasher than usual and Animal, trying to make everyone realize there's something wrong with Kermit. Along the way, we are treated to some terrific musical numbers, with more clever than usual lyrics, which are also brimming with the charming appeal of those old musical numbers when it was fun to hum the melodies and sing along. The staging is also quite good, and we keep hoping the numbers get bigger, with more singing, dancing, and some more terrific choreography. The opening and closing musical numbers certainly match some of the 1930's best; this coupled with Burgess' colorful photography is quite a treat.
Hope the audience discover this terrific little movie and enjoy a treat rarely seen nowadays. Something that is not quite a sequel, a remake, but a film that is part of a tradition that has earned a place in our hearts and our funny bone.
Good Muppet Movie
stevendbeard21 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I saw "Muppets Most Wanted", starring the voice of Steve Whitmire-he has performed as Kermit since Jim Henson died in 1990; the voice of Eric Jacobson-he has been doing Miss Piggy since 2001; Ricky Gervais-The Invention of Lying, the Night at the Museum movies; Ty Burrell-Modern Family_t.v., The Incredible Hulk_2008 and Tina Fey-Admission, The Invention of Lying.
This is not really a sequel-there have been several earlier movies-but this one does take place right after the 2011 Muppets movie. This one also focuses more on the Muppets themselves, instead of the human leads. The plot concerns a look alike of Kermit that is a notorious bad guy. The villainous frog switches places with Kermit and nobody can tell the difference, well almost nobody. Animal can, but no one believes him. The Muppets go on tour across Europe, unknowingly participating in some burglaries for the evil frog. Miss Piggy realizes her life long dream of singing five Celine Dion songs per show, while on tour. Ricky plays the manager that books the tour, Ty is an Interpol agent that is hot on the trail of the thefts and Tina is in charge of the Russian prison that is holding the real Kermit. There are lots of songs and lots of famous cameos-you might have seen a few of them in the trailers. Basically, if you like the Muppets, then you should enjoy this one. There is a quick scene after the end credits. It's rated "PG" for some mild action and has a running time of 1 hour & 52 minutes. I enjoyed it and would buy it on DVD.
This is not really a sequel-there have been several earlier movies-but this one does take place right after the 2011 Muppets movie. This one also focuses more on the Muppets themselves, instead of the human leads. The plot concerns a look alike of Kermit that is a notorious bad guy. The villainous frog switches places with Kermit and nobody can tell the difference, well almost nobody. Animal can, but no one believes him. The Muppets go on tour across Europe, unknowingly participating in some burglaries for the evil frog. Miss Piggy realizes her life long dream of singing five Celine Dion songs per show, while on tour. Ricky plays the manager that books the tour, Ty is an Interpol agent that is hot on the trail of the thefts and Tina is in charge of the Russian prison that is holding the real Kermit. There are lots of songs and lots of famous cameos-you might have seen a few of them in the trailers. Basically, if you like the Muppets, then you should enjoy this one. There is a quick scene after the end credits. It's rated "PG" for some mild action and has a running time of 1 hour & 52 minutes. I enjoyed it and would buy it on DVD.
Everything in the Pot Except Plot and Purpose
cultfilmfreaksdotcom26 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Thank God for Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, a scientist anal enough to remember, through the opening MUPPETS MOST WANTED song about the idea of making a sequel, that in fact there are now seven films including their first motion picture, THE MUPPET MOVIE, created under the brilliant, watchful eyes of the late creator Jim Henson
So it's good to know someone else remembers the Muppets aren't a new concept
The 1978 original was a road trip introduction to the eclectic gang, and they wound up making a movie at the end of that particular story... This was followed by THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER, a mystery spoof taking place in England And in 2011, the MUPPETS reboot had the gang traveling to Los Angeles to put on a stage show and now, like CAPER, they're traipsing throughout Europe, also spoofing the crime genre: this time with a surreptitiously nefarious bad guy actually named Bad Guy, played by Ricky Gervais, but the real villain is Kermit himself Well not exactly
The main plot has Bad Guy teaming with an escaped Russian frog, Constantine, almost identical to Kermit, who winds up putting a fake facial mole on the lovable croaker and then covering his own so that Kermit is falsely accused and sent to the same Siberian Gulag that Constantine escaped from... Meanwhile, the Muppets are being led by this awkward impostor, who winds up wooing Miss Piggy into marriage, and somehow their stage plays, despite misdirection and unstructured skits, are selling out everywhere
The real shock is with so many cooks in the kitchen, nothing really gets accomplished And while the Muppets are known for their songs, turning each movie into an adventurous musical, the tunes here seem more like distractions from lack of plot than singing-dialogue to carry the story, which worked especially good in THE MUPPET MOVIE Does the tune "Moving Right Along" ring a bell? Well in fact those songs did move things along But now the numbers, all uncatchy and completely forgettable, feel intrusive and downright annoying.
For nostalgic Muppet fans, the limited screen time of classic characters such as Gonzo, Beaker, Swedish Chef and just about everyone except Kermit, Fozzy, Piggy and Animal, is annoying and unforgivable But worse yet is that Jason Segal, who starred in the original reboot and doesn't show up at all, has left behind his awful human Muppet brother Walter, a weak replacement for Scooter, who, like just about everyone else including that funky rock band, are merely wallpaper.
The famous co-stars besides Gervais include Tina Fey as the Gulag head guard and Ty Burrell as a European detective, the latter joining Sam the Eagle. These humans try really hard but there's not enough story for them to matter. And the cameos range from Ray Liotta and Danny Trejo as Russian inmates and a mixed bag other celebs thrown in for good, or in this case, pointlessly boring measure.
But the real crime is that Kermit doesn't sound anything like himself at all, and that's not only when he's being purposely imitated by the villain... providing two bad impersonations in a single motion picture: We sure miss you, Jim!
The 1978 original was a road trip introduction to the eclectic gang, and they wound up making a movie at the end of that particular story... This was followed by THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER, a mystery spoof taking place in England And in 2011, the MUPPETS reboot had the gang traveling to Los Angeles to put on a stage show and now, like CAPER, they're traipsing throughout Europe, also spoofing the crime genre: this time with a surreptitiously nefarious bad guy actually named Bad Guy, played by Ricky Gervais, but the real villain is Kermit himself Well not exactly
The main plot has Bad Guy teaming with an escaped Russian frog, Constantine, almost identical to Kermit, who winds up putting a fake facial mole on the lovable croaker and then covering his own so that Kermit is falsely accused and sent to the same Siberian Gulag that Constantine escaped from... Meanwhile, the Muppets are being led by this awkward impostor, who winds up wooing Miss Piggy into marriage, and somehow their stage plays, despite misdirection and unstructured skits, are selling out everywhere
The real shock is with so many cooks in the kitchen, nothing really gets accomplished And while the Muppets are known for their songs, turning each movie into an adventurous musical, the tunes here seem more like distractions from lack of plot than singing-dialogue to carry the story, which worked especially good in THE MUPPET MOVIE Does the tune "Moving Right Along" ring a bell? Well in fact those songs did move things along But now the numbers, all uncatchy and completely forgettable, feel intrusive and downright annoying.
For nostalgic Muppet fans, the limited screen time of classic characters such as Gonzo, Beaker, Swedish Chef and just about everyone except Kermit, Fozzy, Piggy and Animal, is annoying and unforgivable But worse yet is that Jason Segal, who starred in the original reboot and doesn't show up at all, has left behind his awful human Muppet brother Walter, a weak replacement for Scooter, who, like just about everyone else including that funky rock band, are merely wallpaper.
The famous co-stars besides Gervais include Tina Fey as the Gulag head guard and Ty Burrell as a European detective, the latter joining Sam the Eagle. These humans try really hard but there's not enough story for them to matter. And the cameos range from Ray Liotta and Danny Trejo as Russian inmates and a mixed bag other celebs thrown in for good, or in this case, pointlessly boring measure.
But the real crime is that Kermit doesn't sound anything like himself at all, and that's not only when he's being purposely imitated by the villain... providing two bad impersonations in a single motion picture: We sure miss you, Jim!
Somewhat nostalgic.
Hellmant26 March 2014
'MUPPETS MOST WANTED': Three and a Half Stars (Out of Five)
The eighth installment in the 'MUPPETS' film franchise, and follow-up to the 2011 reboot 'THE MUPPETS', is once again directed by James Bobin and written by Bobin and Nicholas Stoller (the team also performed those duties on the 2011 hit, with lead actor Jason Segel also co-writing that movie). Segel doesn't reprise his role for this film and the movie instead stars actors Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell, and Tina Fey. It features the voice talents of Steve Whitmire, Eric Jacobson, Dave Goelz, Matt Vogel and others and once again includes a lot of big star cameos (like Christoph Waltz and Salma Hayek). I didn't find this chapter in the series to be nearly as funny or well made as it's predecessor, or the original trilogy from the 70s and 80s, but it is still quite a bit better than the three theatrical 'MUPPETS' movies of the 1990s.
The story picks up right where the last film left off with the conclusion of filming that movie and the Muppets deciding what to do next. They meet a manager, named Dominic Badguy (Gervais), who wants to send them on a world tour. Kermit (Whitmire) is reluctant to embark on this adventure but gives in to the rest of the Muppets, who really want to do the show. He's soon attacked by an evil frog, who looks just like him, named Constantine (Vogel). Constantine just escaped from a Siberian Gulag and it turns out Badguy is his henchman. The two are plotting to rob multiple museums together, while using the Muppets' tour as a cover (by staging shows next to each heist). Kermit is setup to look like Constantine (through a fake mole Constantine plants on his face) and jailed in his place. Only Animal (Jacobson) suspects Constantine is truly an impostor.
The film was inspired by the two classic 'MUPPET' caper movies of the 80s ('THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER' and 'THE MUPPETS TAKE MANHATTAN'). In that way I really liked it and found it to be somewhat nostalgic. The three lead actors are great in it, the cameos are always fun and the voice actors do their best to give the film a lot of energy but it just doesn't quite work. Most of the jokes fall flat, the songs (featured throughout the film once again) aren't nearly as well written or catchy as the last movie and it's kind of boring in places. It's definitely a disappointment if you're expecting something like the 2011 reboot or the 70s original (or it's two follow-ups) but if you really like the Muppets you'll probably find it at least somewhat enjoyable. I did.
Watch our movie review show 'MOVIE TALK' at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2f4dnLXvGI
The eighth installment in the 'MUPPETS' film franchise, and follow-up to the 2011 reboot 'THE MUPPETS', is once again directed by James Bobin and written by Bobin and Nicholas Stoller (the team also performed those duties on the 2011 hit, with lead actor Jason Segel also co-writing that movie). Segel doesn't reprise his role for this film and the movie instead stars actors Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell, and Tina Fey. It features the voice talents of Steve Whitmire, Eric Jacobson, Dave Goelz, Matt Vogel and others and once again includes a lot of big star cameos (like Christoph Waltz and Salma Hayek). I didn't find this chapter in the series to be nearly as funny or well made as it's predecessor, or the original trilogy from the 70s and 80s, but it is still quite a bit better than the three theatrical 'MUPPETS' movies of the 1990s.
The story picks up right where the last film left off with the conclusion of filming that movie and the Muppets deciding what to do next. They meet a manager, named Dominic Badguy (Gervais), who wants to send them on a world tour. Kermit (Whitmire) is reluctant to embark on this adventure but gives in to the rest of the Muppets, who really want to do the show. He's soon attacked by an evil frog, who looks just like him, named Constantine (Vogel). Constantine just escaped from a Siberian Gulag and it turns out Badguy is his henchman. The two are plotting to rob multiple museums together, while using the Muppets' tour as a cover (by staging shows next to each heist). Kermit is setup to look like Constantine (through a fake mole Constantine plants on his face) and jailed in his place. Only Animal (Jacobson) suspects Constantine is truly an impostor.
The film was inspired by the two classic 'MUPPET' caper movies of the 80s ('THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER' and 'THE MUPPETS TAKE MANHATTAN'). In that way I really liked it and found it to be somewhat nostalgic. The three lead actors are great in it, the cameos are always fun and the voice actors do their best to give the film a lot of energy but it just doesn't quite work. Most of the jokes fall flat, the songs (featured throughout the film once again) aren't nearly as well written or catchy as the last movie and it's kind of boring in places. It's definitely a disappointment if you're expecting something like the 2011 reboot or the 70s original (or it's two follow-ups) but if you really like the Muppets you'll probably find it at least somewhat enjoyable. I did.
Watch our movie review show 'MOVIE TALK' at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2f4dnLXvGI
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