There are few characters as ubiquitous as Kermit the Frog. It’s likely you even read his name in his voice, as it is as iconic as his appearance. Even if Kermit isn’t your favorite Muppet, there is a good chance that you do have a favorite. Jim Henson Idea Man is a love letter directed by Ron Howard to the man who gave the world so many beloved characters and inspired others to give it even more.
The film is a fairly straightforward telling of Henson’s life. It focuses primarily on his career but also dives into his early relationships with Jane Nebel, his wife and co-founder of the Muppets, and Frank Oz, his frequent collaborator. The biggest draw of the film is all of the cool archival footage and behind-the-scenes moments with Henson creating.
There are a few stylistic elements that add a little visual flair to the otherwise straightforward documentary. The first time Frank Oz is about to appear as a talking head, an interview animation is used to build the set he’ll be sitting in. This style repeats a few times, adding a unique and memorable element. Considering that the subject of the documentary is such a revolutionary artist, it makes sense to try and add some aesthetic appeal.
Fans of the Muppets will have several moments that’ll send them back to the moment they first fell for the characters. An easy favorite section of the documentary focuses on the Muppet Show, and how it nearly didn’t happen. The idea that no network thought there was an audience for a now-beloved TV series is crazy. The behind-the-scenes shots and the conversations paired with their unwavering determination of Henson add to his legacy.
Of course, if you’re more interested in the Creature Shop instead of the muppets, there is plenty in this documentary to scratch that itch. Jennifer Connelly gives some great insight into Labyrinth, and there is also a section about TheDark Crystal. It is crazy to look back at the initial reaction to those now beloved cult classics.
There is much for even the biggest fans of Henson to learn about the icon. However, the film never quite hits the levels of Won’t You Be My Neighbor or Butterfly in the Sky. It could be that Henson’s impact on culture is more superficial than emotional. Even the section on Sesame Street never quite hits the emotions or the nostalgia that the aforementioned documentaries can do with ease. It could also be the selection of content or the focus of the film isn’t trying to appeal to that level of emotion, choosing to instead simply inform the audience. Whatever the reason, it never hits a level that makes the tears flow.
Jim Henson Idea Man is a very watchable documentary. Learning about the initial construction of Kermit the Frog and watching Henson at work in a variety of moments in his life is just interesting. Anyone who has ever connected with any iteration of the Muppets or the Creature Shop will likely find something in this film to enjoy.
Jim Henson Idea Man will be on Disney+ starting on May 31.
Rating: Decent Watch
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