Muppet Show 30th anniversary British documentary (2006)

Best Ever Muppet Moments. Phillip Schofield narrates and the likes of Frank Oz, Brian (son of Jim) Henson, Mark Hamill, Helen Mirren, Michael Parkinson, Twiggy, Christopher Eccleston and Miss Piggy are interviewed to give their fond memories of the American cultural phenomenon that America initially refused to make.

Truth be told, this sits a little uncomfortably between being a behind-the-scenes documentary of The Muppet Show, a talking heads tribute to the Muppets in general, and a clips retrospective. It's like they knew they had to do something to mark an anniversary - be it the 50th of The Muppets themselves in 2005 or the 30th of the show in 2006 - but couldn't decide exactly which direction to take. Or perhaps it was supposed to be an all-purpose, all-encompassing extravaganza. Either way, though a bit of a mishmash, what they did ultimately go with ended up both funny and interesting, so I suppose there's really nothing to complain about. It's always fascinating to see the actual puppeteers in action, and the lid being lifted like this brings home how much hard work went into each and every scene. There are some good anecdotes throughout, and the excerpts from the original pitch video are truly something to behold. Enjoy!

Many thanks to Lee for providing this recording.

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