Film: The Muppets (U)

Director: James Bobin

Alabour of love with fan pressure from the first and rumours pushing that it must be absolutely splendid, Frank Oz’s lack of involvement giving its own message, and a passion from Jason Segel who both wrote and stars in it – this is a Muppet movie with not a small portion of hype. Add to that a score from one half of comedy musical duo Flight Of The Conchords in the form of Bret McKenzie already collecting awards and this is as intriguing a family musical film as you’re likely to find this year.

The plot is simple; when three Muppet fans hear that morally compromised (read villain) Tex Richman, played by Chris Cooper, is set to drill under the Muppet theatre for oil they set out to find the Muppets that have been scattered to the winds for years with a plan to re-unite them and save the theatre. Kermit lives alone in a Hollywood mansion, Gonzo is a high class plumber, Fozzie is touring in a tribute act called The Moopets, and we’re not going to even hint at where Miss Piggy finds herself.

Jason Segel is joined on screen by Amy Adams, showing her charming musical performance in Enchanted was no casual fluke. Spot the guest cameos too.

Released Friday 10 February
Showing at Odeon and Cineworld