It’s time to play the music
It’s time to light the lights
It’s time to meet the Muppets (again) on
the Muppet Show Movie tonight.

In the 12 years since Frank Oz’s fantastical puppet creations were last seen on the big screen (in the underwhelming ‘ Muppets From Space’), they’ve become somewhat obsolete.

In an age where cartoon characters have R rated dialogue and 3D animation is becoming the norm, the old-fashioned formula of the Muppets’ is sorely missed, and it’s their ‘disappearing act’ that is at the core of the story.

Treated as if they were real actors, the film re-introduces us to them as if they’ve all been out of work (a true-to-life statement) and what paths did they take in life when their careers in the spotlight fizzled. When crisis arises (thanks to a nifty oil tycoon - perfectly played by Chris Cooper - who plans on taking ownership of the old Muppet theatre), the gang is forced to seek each other out and band together; can the Muppets stage a glorious comeback and relive their glory days? A question that is ultimately answered by the film itself.

A passion project for lead actor and writer Jason Segel (Marshall from TV’s ‘How I Met Your Mother’), ‘The Muppets’ is so full of joy and heart and treats the characters with a real fondness and respect that it really makes you appreciate their unique brand of humour. It’s laced with clever pop culture references, not to mention stellar cameos, but breaks the fourth wall and addresses itself in such a way that it knows how simple it is. Though it’s aimed at a younger market (who will no doubt enjoy the film), it really is the older audiences who grew up with Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie and the crew that will truly appreciate this comedic slice of fresh air.

Welcome back guys, we’ve missed you!