Empire acquires rights to Jim Henson screenplay

[GelflingWaldo]

Empire Films has acquired the production and distribution rights to "Henson," an original screenplay by Robert D. Slane that chronicles the life and achievements of Jim Henson. Empire is planning to start production on the feature film this summer. A theatrical release for the film is currently slated for 2009.
More information: http://www.muppetnewsflash.com/2008/02/jim-henson-bio-pic-in-works.html (http://www.muppetnewsflash.com/2008/02/jim-henson-bio-pic-in-works.html)

[EasyBeinGreen]

http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=41639

Empire Film Group, Inc. has acquired the motion picture production and distribution rights to Henson, an original screenplay by Robert D. Slane that chronicles the life and achievements of Muppets creator, Jim Henson. Empire has pegged the film for production in late summer with a $30 million budget to be funded through a consortium of international presales and co-production partners.

"This is a major project about an entertainer of legendary stature and worldwide acclaim," said Dean Hamilton-Bornstein, CEO of Empire Film Group. "The script is superb and should provide a terrific roadmap for a completed film that will satisfy both mainstream audiences and critics. We're very excited about this acquisition and the commercial caliber of this project."

Henson covers the life of puppeteer, filmmaker and entertainment mogul Jim Henson, from his early fascination with television as a teenager, through his spectacular career and life achievements. Empire anticipates hiring a major director, such as Penny Marshall, and hopes to attract notable star cast in key roles. Bornstein will act as Executive Producer, with Empire Home Entertainment President Eric Parkinson producing the film along with Xavier Mitchell.

"Jim Henson is one of the best known and most beloved entertainers of all time," said Parkinson. "His story is inspiring, tragic, heartwarming and epic, and will make for an important and entertaining motion picture. This is the sort of movie that Empire will be pursuing as we build the company into a leading independent studio."



So Exciting.... who could play Jim? I've always thought Jeff Daniels would make a good Jim Henson

[MrsPepper]

WHAT? That is the craziest thing I have ever heard!

I wonder who will play Jim? And I wonder if they have talked to his family to see what they think. I say this only because of this line: "Empire is planning to hire a major "well-known" director for the project and hopes to attract a notable cast of stars as well." I'm not too sure if that is a good thing yet, but I won't pass judgement until we hear more.

Wow. Still not sure what to say. But it's definitely interesting news! It's a cool idea, and since apparently "the script is superb", I can't wait to hear more news.

2008 has been the craziest year for new Muppet news so far.

[kermiegirl]

Oh my gosh! Are you really serious? I wonder who will play Jim Henson, his wife, children, and fellow puppeteers such as Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson, Steve Whitmire, etc. I think someone like Jeff Daniels or some major/minor actors like him could be Jim Henson; maybe they could be people who have been associated with the Muppets could star in it.

[Luke]

Hmmmmm not sure what to say - it would be nice to have a film of Jim's life but often these people who've bought rights do hype up talk of it to get studios on board, like $30 Million Budget, All Star Cast, Theatrical etc etc. I'd be surprised to see that actually happen, possibly - but if it ends up as a lower budget direct to dvd - well, he deserves more than that! I can imagine the film, it could be good, his life wasn't all that traumatic though so i'd be interested how they would build up any tension or drama.

It must have been licensed from Henson Legacy so it's gonna be the candy coated version of his biography, but that surely would lead to stories of what he was really like behind the camera, and his death being sensationalized in the tabloids so they would be better off giving a balanced version of him. I'm mixed on this, the last time a biography was attempted (for Random House) the Hensons decided not to go ahead, as i said, could turn out to be a nice film, but might also drag up a lot of stuff that is maybe best left in the past.

[frogboy4]

Well, it will have some sort of conflict as all films do. The question is how deeply they'll delve into his life. Honestly, I don't want to hear too many specifics of his marriage other than reported facts and the bond he shared with Mrs Henson through the end of his life.

I imagine there will be backround on his upbringing and mostly his endless pitching ideas, disappointment, successes, more disappointments, a bit on Disney (as it surrounded his last days) and likely some sort of memorial. Now, that's actually a lot. I would like to see his impact on television from a behind the scenes perspective. That is mainly what catches my interest. Still, I feel some might be too sanitized. We'll have to see. This is exciting.

I wonder if the writers strike helped get this already-penned script into the production phase or if that's totally unreleated?

[Buck-Beaver]

Did anybody else notice that Empire's major credit to date is the Blonde and Blonder trilogy? (oh yes, they're planning a trilogy). Then again, New Line started out with Nightmare on Elm Street so I guess everybody has to start somewhere.

What I am curious about is whether or not they've secured the co-operation of Disney, Sesame Workshop and/or the Henson Company and Foundation. It would be really difficult to make a movie if they aren't able to use any of Jim's trademarked characters. I think you'd be cheating the audience and it wouldn't be possible to tell the story properly.

This should be interesting.

[Speed Tracer]

Edward Norton.

His smile reminds me of Jim's.

[Luke]

What I am curious about is whether or not they've secured the co-operation of Disney, Sesame Workshop and/or the Henson Company and Foundation.

I'm also dubious on this story. They'd probably need Henson Legacy for his image rights, but then they still couldn't use the Muppets, Sesame, or even any of the character names without all the permissions. A $30 million big budget theatrical on Henson pitching puppet shows they can't talk about and dying from a "cold" - it's hardly Malcolm X is it? It all just sounds too, um, wierd. I'm all up for a nice film though! The original source for this is at http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release.do?id=816910

[theprawncracker]

...Wow... that would be... incredible... wow.

[TheJimHensonHour]

Red Green needs to play Jim Henson hands down he almost even sounds like Jim when he talks in his normal voice and has a beard like Jim and everything!
But seriously Penny Marshall they lady from the old k-mart commercials who used to hang out with Rosie...she's a well known director? since when..?
This is all very exciting though!

[lowercasegods]

Everything Buck has said has also crossed my mind. A cohesive, comprehensive film about Jim's life would require nothing short of huge alliances not seen since Disney, Warners, MGM and whoever holds sway over Fleischer's cartoons allowed their characters to cohabitate in Roger Rabbit. I can't see Disney just offering the Muppets up for a bio pic that they weren't producing, and if they did have a hand in it, the movie would end up being so sanitized and void of any possible so-called negative aspects (Jim and Jane were separated? That ain't Disney!) that it could barely be considered a bio pic. If Sesame Workshop, The Henson family and Disney can shake hands and play nice, everything else would fall into place for a movie like this. But without absolute agreement and involvement, the odds are stacked against such a film becoming a reality, let alone a success. However, if Jim taught me anything, it's optimism. If the rights have been granted, it's a step in the right direction. Get a good recognizable actor on board to placate the studios and the scales might just tip, and the three property holders might be more inclined to join forces. I would like to see this film happen. Finally, a bio pick for ME, I thought when reading this news. But beyond blind faith and a whole lotta hope, I have to just sit back and see what happens before I can get too excited.

[EasyBeinGreen]

http://webzoom.freewebs.com/filmpix/02_Jeff_Laura_filingcbts.jpg


That picture alone convinces me that Jeff Daniels could play this part.

[frogboy4]

LOL! She's not just the shrill lady with Rosie in the old K-Mart ads.:D

Women directors in Hollywood are scarce. My film student alter-ego could provide many theories on why that is, but I'll spare you. Trust me, it's better that way. It should be noted that Penny Marshall (aka Laverne) has been well-known for helming high-profile, well-received projects with star-power. Some are better than others in my opinion. Some aren't good at all.

"Awakenings" with Robert De Niro and Robin Williams (critically acclaimed), "Big" with Tom Hanks, "A League of Their Own" with Gina Davis, Tom Hanks and Madonna, "The Preacher's Wife" with Whitney Houston (back when she was popular) and Denzel Washington, "Jumpin' Jack Flash" with Whoopi Golberg.

[ploobis]

I hope Frank Oz gets to direct this movie! Either him or Brian Henson, Who do you think should direct this movie?

[Speed Tracer]

I would LOVE Jess Daniels to play Jim. The only concern might be the age, He's almost the age Jim was when he died. Still, there's no denying that when it comes to resemblance, Daniels is as close as we could get... and their voices are even remarkably similar. And, heck, age shouldn't be any concern, I guess. Kevin Spacey was an amazing Bobby Darin in "Beyond the Sea" and he was a full six years older than Darin was when he died when the movie was released. Jeff Daniels would be perfect.

And, this is sort of out there, but David Cross for Frank Oz, anybody? The resemblance between him and Frank is uncanny, and if you saw him in his brief role as Allen Ginsberg in "I'm Not There" you know he's capable of shredding his loudmouth image in favor of real performances (not to knock against Cross, man's one of the funniest and truest comics out there).

[Speed Tracer]

Oh, and I did a bit of research on the guy who wrote the screenplay, Robert D. Slane. He wrote some movie called "Come Away Home" a few years ago which didn't get much of a release, and he wrote and directed a short film called "The Fine Line Between Cute and Creepy" which is an amusing little title.

And does anyone think the title "Henson" is just so... impersonal? I think just "Jim" would be the best title. It's just... Jim was such an open and accepting guy about everything, including himself. I've heard a lot of stories about how people would meet him, call him "Mr. Henson", and he would just ask them to call him "Jim". The point of this movie should be to convey that aspect of the man among the many others. I really hope "Henson" is just a tentative title.

[TheJimHensonHour]

http://webzoom.freewebs.com/filmpix/02_Jeff_Laura_filingcbts.jpg


That picture alone convinces me that Jeff Daniels could play this part.
ok I've still got my heart set on jolly mr. red green but Jeff Daniels looks very good there and would fit the look well but could he play jims voice well enough.
this is steve smith aka red green
http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/pix/smith_st_gg_cp_9527797.jpg
http://geekent.com/blog/archives/pics/playhouse_pic.jpg

I hope Frank Oz gets to direct this movie! Either him or Brian Henson, Who do you think should direct this movie?
Frank Oz might be a little biased about how things should be...that could either be really amazing or really bad.

[MuppetDanny]

Sir Chris Bonington (a british mountaineer) would be perfect to play Jim, as you see ;) : http://www.everestspeakersbureau.com/images/cb-Chris%20indoors.gif

[MrsPepper]

And does anyone think the title "Henson" is just so... impersonal? I think just "Jim" would be the best title. It's just... Jim was such an open and accepting guy about everything, including himself. I've heard a lot of stories about how people would meet him, call him "Mr. Henson", and he would just ask them to call him "Jim". The point of this movie should be to convey that aspect of the man among the many others. I really hope "Henson" is just a tentative title.

I concur; it gives a better vibe.

[Erine81981]

Sir Chris Bonington (a british mountaineer) would be perfect to play Jim, as you see ;) : http://www.everestspeakersbureau.com/images/cb-Chris%20indoors.gif
He seems to be a good lookin' Jim Henson look alike. I wouldn't mind seeing this and hope to see it in theaters other then a TV or stright to DVD but seeing how things look it i really don't mind. I would watch it no matter what.

[Beauregard]

This could be...WOW...or "Woah..." depending how they do it. I've always wanted to see a biopic of Jim Henson, and I know they could do it if they worked it right. His life is a history of failing and starting again.

Certainly they would have to get rights from Disney and SS and JHC...but that would be worked.

Now what I would hate to see is a sort of Betrix Potter movie, where Henson talks to his characters...that would just be wrong.

[Luke]

Nothing has really been heard aside the press release (if, that even was one) about exactly who is on board for this. I'd be surprised to see Disney getting involved, if the film didn't do well it could affect the Muppets image so why would they bother offering them up?

I just don't see this film happening, way too many problems. Even if they could use The Muppets, so they have some actor faking a Kermit voice during those scenes? It'd look like one of those tacky HBO biogs. And if it was an official big studio release don't they think Frank Oz is going to protect his name and image rights? He isn't even on good terms as it is.

[IgorPonweed]

Good idea, but who can really capture Jim?

[Fozzie Bear]

http://webzoom.freewebs.com/filmpix/02_Jeff_Laura_filingcbts.jpg

That picture alone convinces me that Jeff Daniels could play this part.

I throught, at first, Jeff Daniels--nah. I have changed my mind. It would be if he could get the voices down, though.

Then, the link to his guy--but can he act?
Sir Chris Bonington (a british mountaineer) would be perfect to play Jim, as you see : http://www.everestspeakersbureau.com...%20indoors.gif
I can't see it happening. I'd much prefer a tell-all book first (not unlike the recent Schulz book) before they do a movie. This is slightly frightening.

I'm torn on it, but if done well and they can get JHC, Diz, and SW behind it I'm game for it.

[minor muppetz]

Is Empire owned by Disney or any major studios? I looked up Empire on wikipedia, but couldn't find any pages. A page listing film distributors lists Empire, but it's redlinked.

I have thought for years that there should be a JIm Henson movie. After Disney bought the Muppets, I thought that Disney should be the company to distribute it (maybe under Touchstone Pictures), along with Jim Henson Pictures. If clearances from Disney for the use of Muppet characters and scene recreations can't be negotiated, then they should just give up on this production. It would be too weird to see a movie on Jim Henson's life without including the Muppets.

And for the last year I have thougth that Frank Oz should be the director. He'd know many of the stuff that I would hope the crew of this movie knows. Basically, I hope that the writers, producers, and director are very knowledgeable on Jim Henson's life, and know about the characters, productions, and people he worked with well. I hope that the people in charge know the names of Jim Henson's fellow pupeteers, know who they performed (even if most of the performers aren't mentioend by name in the movie, I don't want to see a performer performing Gonzo in one scene, and then see that same performer perform Floyd in another scene), and know what they look(ed) like.

An idea that I've always had was to use existing audio clips whenever the performers are seen working on a scene. That way, the Muppets sound the same as they did, and the actors don't have to be able to perform with the right voices (otherwise the casting might be too hard). I won't mind if the modern versions of the puppets are shown, as opposed to new versions of puppets resembling their 1970s/ 1980s looks, but I think that there should be a new 1950s Kermit puppet built for this movie. I have a feeling that the Sam and Friends characters will be rebuilt. Even though most of those puppets still exist, I doubt that The Jim Henson Company would allow for them to be used.

I wonder how hard it would be to recreate filming scenes from The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, and The StoryTeller? I'd at least be surprised if The Dark Crystal gets left out. The others could get left out, as Henson didn't perform in thsoe productions. I guess that Follow That Bird and Little Muppet Monsters won't even be mentioned, but I wonder if Muppet Babies or The Jim Henson Hour will be refferenced. Ditto with Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas. I have a feeling that recreations of scenes from The Muppet Movie wil be included, but I wonder about The Great Muppet Caper and The Muppets Take Manhatan. I also wonder if Timepiece will be refferenced.

Sesame Street just has to be represented somehow. I wonder if Jim Henson's reluctance to do the show will be overdramatic. It would be god to at least show recreated behind-the-scenes looks at the makiing of an Ernie and Bert sketch, and maybe a Kermit sketch.

I wonder if any real people will play themselves (many real celebrities portrayed themselves in Man on the Moon, Andy Kauffman's biopic). It would be great if many of the classic performers played themselves, so that we wouldn't have much of a problem with how their portrayers look. I wonder if Jimmy Dean would play himself.

For fun, when this is released, whenever a big factural error occurs we should shout "ERROR!" out loud.

[minor muppetz]

I saw the poll, and although I voted that itwouldn't be worth doing if Disney and Sesame Workshop don't give permission for the use of their characters, I would have voted for the first three chocies.

But if this ends up being made, maybe there will be demand for new documentaries and biographies on Jim Henson, maybe older biographies (like Jim Henson: The Works) will be rereleased (it's not like many of them are dated), and maybe odler docuemntaries like Henson's Place and The World of Jim Henson wil have new DVD releases. And maybe that Jim Henson Retrospective that was produced for The Mupet Show: Season One will finally be released as a DVD bonus feature.

[Buck-Beaver]

Empire appears to be a small - although very legit - independent. The press release was probably intended to drum up support and interest in the film. It's hard to believe they've pulled together $30 million independently without the rights and clearances have been figured out. I doubt many responsible film investors who understand the industry would sign off on that.

I was always surprised the Henson Company didn't consider doing something like this themselves, back when they controlled all the necessary rights, trademarks, etc. in the `90s. I am not a lawyer, but I am pretty sure the filmmakers can make it legally without permission or the involvement of the Henson family, but typically studios don't like to do that because they leave themselves vulnerable to lawsuits for defamation.

[Luke]

I am not a lawyer, but I am pretty sure the filmmakers can make it legally without permission or the involvement of the Henson family, but typically studios don't like to do that because they leave themselves vulnerable to lawsuits for defamation.

I agree, but what appeared to be a release stated they had aquired "rights", which i gathered to be his image rights, but the whole thing does read more like a journalists story that could have been about their intentions and misquoted - though it does give Empire as the source. Nothing yet has appeared on Empires press section which is kept updated, maybe a little checking could be done to find out exactly what the deal is.

[Kuriboh Man]

Maybe there will be new versions of the Original Sam & Friends Cast.

[lowercasegods]

Empire appears to be a small - although very legit - independent. The press release was probably intended to drum up support and interest in the film. It's hard to believe they've pulled together $30 million independently without the rights and clearances have been figured out. I doubt many responsible film investors who understand the industry would sign off on that.

I was always surprised the Henson Company didn't consider doing something like this themselves, back when they controlled all the necessary rights, trademarks, etc. in the `90s. I am not a lawyer, but I am pretty sure the filmmakers can make it legally without permission or the involvement of the Henson family, but typically studios don't like to do that because they leave themselves vulnerable to lawsuits for defamation.
It IS possible to make a Henson movie without permission from various parties, but at the sacrifice of a LOT of key elements to the story. I know it's a lesser example, but I think back to when they made that tv bio pic about Robin Williams in his Mork and Mindy days, and how little details had to be sacrificed, like the emblem on his uniform, to avoid copyright infringement. What we could easily end up with is a bio pic about Henson but with such memorable characters as Kurtis the Frog, Miz Porky and Fuzzy the Bear. So if this movie does get made, man, they better get all parties involved to do it right.

[minor muppetz]

I wonder how many actors will play Jim Henson in this. I'm sure that the movie will begin with Jim Henson's childhood (showing him watching television for the very first time). But would the same actor play Jim Henson when he works on Sam and Friends up to his death? And would this movie depict Henson as having a beard during his Sam and Friends days, as opposed to the correct non-beard look?

I wonder how old the actor who played young Jim Henson in Kermit's Swamp Years is, and if he's still an actor. Maybe he could play teenage Jim.

[dwayne1115]

i think the person who should play Jim is Dave Coleahea from Full house. He does a lot of voices and may have the look now i havn't seen him in about two years. ya know the guy who played Joyie on Full House that guy!

[travellingpat]

Ehhh i dont think that would work idk he just doesnt have the "Jim" look

[ploobis]

I've been thinking, When they hire an actor to play the part of Jim would they have to teach him how to puppeteer? :confused:

[frogboy4]

I've been thinking, When they hire an actor to play the part of Jim would they have to teach him how to puppeteer? :confused:

They'd have to. I think any good actor who'd want to play Jim would be (and want to be) trained in puppetry. I still think they should and will pick an actor over a puppeteer. Someone in their mid-30s would be my guess.

[Speed Tracer]

Another thought, and a more likely choice than Jeff Daniels, is Ryan Gosling.

http://www.deadlinehollywooddaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/01/ryan-gosling2.jpg

[Buck-Beaver]

I agree, but what appeared to be a release stated they had aquired "rights", which i gathered to be his image rights, but the whole thing does read more like a journalists story that could have been about their intentions and misquoted - though it does give Empire as the source.
It was a press release, put out via MediaWire. I believe the press release states that they had acquired the rights to the screenplay. No word on whether it was commissioned or if the writer did it on spec.

BTW, my favourite quote about the film so far is from the I Watch Stuff Blog:

...Seriously, they're hoping for Penny Marshall? It's like praying for a Ford Taurus--reasonably reliable and able to get you where you need to go, but pretty sad if that's your highest aspiration.
I actually really like Penny Marshall's movies, but that made me laugh. You can read the full post here (http://www.iwatchstuff.com/2008/02/jim_henson_biopic_might_not_be.php).

[Luke]

It was a press release, put out via MediaWire. I believe the press release states that they had acquired the rights to the screenplay. No word on whether it was commissioned or if the writer did it on spec.

Oh right, so its like they've bought the rights to the script from Slane, not neccasarily they've obtained any rights from Henson. The way the original newsflash story is written could be seen as a bit misleading - most people would assume that means they've got the rights to do it from Henson.

Well if it is the case all they've done is bought a spec script, and the rest is just BS about what they'd "like" to try bring distributors on board i doubt even more we'd ever see this. It's a bit of a non-story really, lol.

[superboober]

I do agree with others who've stated Frank Oz would be the best choice for this. We'd have to see what his immediate schedule would look like, though.

As long as they do it fairly and honestly, I'd love to see it. At the moment, though, I am a little worried that they will decide to inflate his faults--probably if so the womanizing aspect--to the point where he'd become unlikeable, as too many bad bioptics tend to do in the name of "dramatic effect." They should be at least partially touched on, though--it would be wrong to deny he was a perfect human being any more than it is to deny cartoons were never racist, for instance. By all means keep we the viewers updated as more news on this progresses.

[heralde]

I'll keep a healthy skeptisicm, but I'm still very interested. I've often wondered if anyone would ever do this. They probably will play up some faults, just to create drama (it IS entertainment). As long as they attempt to keep a balance at the same time, I don't mind.

It's a little annoying when I hear "All star cast." I understand stars can help create excitement for a project. But unfortunately they don't always guarantee quality. Though, Penny Marshall is a great director, I wouldn't mind her.

[Ilikemuppets]

http://webzoom.freewebs.com/filmpix/02_Jeff_Laura_filingcbts.jpg


That picture alone convinces me that Jeff Daniels could play this part.Whoa! That is creppy!:eek:

By the way I was just watching a clip of David Letterman on Johnny Carson and he was doing this voice that sounded dead on like Jim's!:eek:

[frogboy4]

Jeff Daniels only works if they only plan to make (or he only plays him for) the last decade of Jim's life. :sleep: I like Daniels, but Gosling seems a better choice for the early years. :)

[BEAR]

*...Jaw...just...drops...*

[Craig Crane]

___

[Erine81981]

*jabbers a little before putting out a complete sentence* That is dead on a look a like for Jim in his younger years. I would defiantly prefer him for the earlier years.

[Kuriboh Man]

This may sound kinda crazy and at the same time uncanny but, how about if the actors perform the Characters and If the whole copyright thing is okay the Muppeteers could dub them in afterwards? for example When the Actor of Jim is performing Kermit Steve Whitmire could Dub his voice in.

[Kevin the Frog]

Although he's not an actor, I'd like to see Steve at least have a shot at it...there are many similarities between him and Jim, and he's got the puppet / voice part down.

I'm suprised no one has mentioned Jim Carey. He did such an amazing job as Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon, and can do lots of voices, I would think he would be into it and delve deep into Henson's character like he did Andy's. He could also look like a younger and older Jim with a little makeup help. His hair still grows long!

[frogboy4]

Although he's not an actor, I'd like to see Steve at least have a shot at it...there are many similarities between him and Jim, and he's got the puppet / voice part down.

I'm suprised no one has mentioned Jim Carey. He did such an amazing job as Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon, and can do lots of voices, I would think he would be into it and delve deep into Henson's character like he did Andy's. He could also look like a younger and older Jim with a little makeup help. His hair still grows long!

Even though Jim Carey is a very capable actor there's just too much smarmyness associated with him. That choice of would make me sad. :sympathy:

[heralde]

Steve would be an interesting choice (and all the Muppet performers could be called actors ;)).

[IgorPonweed]

Even though Jim Carey is a very capable actor there's just too much smarmyness associated with him. That choice of would make me sad. :sympathy:

One of my favorite actors, but his roles seem nothing like Jim. I mean Jim Carrey first, then Jim Henson. :)

[Kevin the Frog]

With Steve, he's got the hair, the skinny profile, could possibly slightly pass with the "young Henson" look (add a beard) and makeup for the older Henson....it's really funny thinking about it. And of course if they actually get the rights to use the puppets, he's got that covered better than anyone else.

I don't want someone who just looks like Henson, I want someone who knows him as a person and/or delves into his character / personality so much to become him.

That's why I also mentioned Jim Carey. He has done some serious acting lately without any of the swarmy smart aleck type stuff (which was perfect for Kaufman). I think Carey could transform into a very gentle, serious, caring Henson, but that's just me. The way he transformed into Kaufman was just amazing, but granted he was a huge fan of Andy for many years, owned his bongos, had the same birth date, etc.

Steve has the same birth date as Henson?
ha, fun stuff to talk about on this thread, especially as a huge muppet and kaufman fan. Miss Piggy and Tony Clifton anyone?

Here's something else interesting - a "chart (http://www.stariq.com/pagetemplate/article.asp?pageid=402)" comparing the lives of Kaufman and Carey .... I bet a chart between Steve and Henson would have a lot of the same similarities. I don't know if I really buy into the whole "star" thing, but they use this to say Carey was born to play the part of Kaufman. Maybe Steve was born to play the part of Henson? :)

[dwayne1115]

yea i would feel a little better if they had the suport of the Henson Family and i would think that the family should have some say in who plays as Jim. The ones I am really interested to see being played is how there relationships where are Jim and Frank and Jim and Richard. These relationships in my opinon are very inportaint to the Muppets and border then that beacuse Jim saw something in these two men, and that was that they could do more then be a Muppeter.

[heralde]

yea i would feel a little better if they had the suport of the Henson Family and i would think that the family should have some say in who plays as Jim.

Hmm, I partially agree, but then sometimes casting directors are better left to these things. I recall when they tried making a John Lennon bio-pic and Yoko Ono allegedly wouldn't let an an actor play the role because his last name happened to be Chapman. I'm not saying the Henson family would be that extreme. I'm just saying families aren't always impartial.

[frogboy4]

I think Steve playing Jim could set a bad precedent and would likely be something Whitmire himself would want to stay away from. It's one thing to masterfully take over a man's iconic characters, it is another to step directly into his shoes and play him in a film. I know it's paying homage, but also it can seem like one person taking over every public aspect of Jim Henson's memory.

Also, there's what Dave Goelz said in a recent interview that being a Muppet performer is a great way to be famous and keep your anonymity. Not many people know who he is even though he makes the rare limited appearance. Steve wouldn't get A-listed for playing Henson in a film, but he'd have a higher public profile. I'm not sure he would want that.

I still think a seasoned B list actor taught the skills of puppetry would put-in a better performance than many puppeteers and A-list talent mentioned. Such an actor would likely be better at paying tribute to the man that Jim was rather than getting sidetracked with recognition, confusion or misidentification. There are many factors that go into such a performance, not just one or two. And actors can surprise you. Even though both are interesting choices; Jim Carrey is not the only capable actor and Steve Whitmire is not the only talented puppeteer.

Just one frogboy's opinion. :)

[dwayne1115]

I think i Got it George Clonny

[MrsPepper]

I think i Got it George Clonny

Nooooo! :eek: Seriously, Dwayne? :confused: My plea for this movie, if it gets off the ground: Please keep Hollywood away. :o

I'm not particularly sold on any of the actors people have been thinking of, but I think the closest suggestion so far has been Ryan Gosling. Until recently he has been relatively unknown, but he has been an actor for alot longer than he has been famous (Breaker High, anyone?) and he's been in alot of smaller movies that have displayed his amazing ability to get inside the skin of his characters. And physically he would be believable in the part.

The other idea would be if they did different actors for different parts of his life, like in that new Bob Dylan movie (but not as drastic... I don't want to see Jim played by Cate Blanchett, lol). Something along those lines might also be interesting to see.

[Craig Crane]

They wont cast a Muppeteer. They will cast an actor who they beleive can convey the story set out in the screen play.
They have a very small budget, so most of your suggestions are not valid, especially Carey.

They have optioned the screenplay, and thats about as far as itgoes. Screen plays get optioned all the time, and never see the light of day... so I wouldnt go getting your knickers in a twist over this one.... and when and if it does happen, you can be sure of one thing.... if Di$ney dont want to play ball, it will pretty much fall flat on its face without the Muppets..

Then, you wil need to find actors who will look as if they can puppeteer in camera.... unless of course you dont show a puppeteered performance AND the actor playing the puppeteer in the same shot. That narrows your choices down a lot as you will need to find an actor who can A: Act, B: Puppeteer and C: do a passable Muppet performance.

B&C are pretty crucial, and for thatto happen you will need to coach them. That means finnding a puppeteer who is willing to teach the unteachable (you either can do it or you cant). Then, for any set peices that require Puppet staging and choreography, you will need to find someone that can now wrangle a Muppet performance from these "newcomers" to a standard of performance that mimics the masters. Now, I have seen first hand how Kevin Clash can polish an existing puppeteers performance at a Muppet Workshop. Heck, I went in as an experienced puppeteer and came out two weeks later feeling like I had just learnt the meaning of life itself! But the flip side is that I have also seen what happens when you try and teach someone who just doesnt "get it". As the saying goes, you cant polish a turd... so casting is crucial, because you have to get not only the look and sound as close as you can, but also the skillset as well... Unlike a Marvin Gaye Biopic, Bobbay Darrin or the doors, you cant fudge something as obvious as a manually based performance. Look at Geoffry Rush in SHINE. He actually learnt how to "mime" the piano peices so the right fingers hit the right notes....

Mmmm, Geoffry Rush.... Now there is an intelligent casting call that could work (were it me making said call). (but im not).
Add to that suggestion Bill Nighy. Needs someone capable of a performance. Think Kurt Russell in Elvis or Gary Busey in the Buddy Holly story.... It needs to be that good.

So, personally speaking, I would have to look at and address all of those technical issues before anything else.... They obviously have a script, they are obviously "talking" about this, with statements of intent in the press release..... but if they dont approach this carefully it will blow.... If you could do a Jim Henson Biopoic WITHOUT the use of Puppets, Muppets and creatures, it would be a walk in the park..... but unfortunatly they have to feature those aspects in some shape, one way or another and with that come many hurdles, both legally and technically.

I just hope that whoever they hire as Puppet Performance co-ordinator is a perfectionist and manages to craft some unique performances from whoever he / she has to coordinate.

[minor muppetz]

I started thinking recently... How would you all feel if they made a Jim Henson movie similar to the made-for-tv movie In Search of Dr. Seuss? That movie was sort of a biography on Dr. Seuss, but didn't have any actors portray Dr. Seuss. Instead, it invovled a reporter coming to the home of Dr. Seuss, and had various Dr. Seuss creations (played by celebrities) talking about seuss, as well as clips from various animated specials and so on. Maybe a Jim Henson movie would be better in this way... a reporter interviews Kermit and other Muppets, and various clips get shown.

[dwayne1115]

I started thinking recently... How would you all feel if they made a Jim Henson movie similar to the made-for-tv movie In Search of Dr. Seuss? That movie was sort of a biography on Dr. Seuss, but didn't have any actors portray Dr. Seuss. Instead, it invovled a reporter coming to the home of Dr. Seuss, and had various Dr. Seuss creations (played by celebrities) talking about seuss, as well as clips from various animated specials and so on. Maybe a Jim Henson movie would be better in this way... a reporter interviews Kermit and other Muppets, and various clips get shown.

That would be a great way to do his movie,but if you ask most of the Muppets like Piggy and Fozzie they dont know who Jim is.

[Luke]

They obviously have a script, they are obviously "talking" about this, with statements of intent in the press release..... but if they dont approach this carefully it will blow.... If you could do a Jim Henson Biopoic WITHOUT the use of Puppets, Muppets and creatures, it would be a walk in the park..... but unfortunatly they have to feature those aspects in some shape, one way or another and with that come many hurdles, both legally and technically.

I just hope that whoever they hire as Puppet Performance co-ordinator is a perfectionist and manages to craft some unique performances from whoever he / she has to coordinate.

I guess if Henson/Disney don't get involved, as well as being nigh impossible to do without the proper Muppets, they'd also probably find it hard to get one of the major Henson connected puppet performance co-ordinators to touch the project as well - we all saw how that thing in France went even with one, but without trained Muppeteers.

I'd prefer Henson to be making it (if there was to be one) as then at least it'd be the official bio and nothing to wreck memory of him. I just see this as unlikely to ever make it to screens too - even if they got their own financial backing together they'd need Disney and Sesame Workshop, and i can't see the Henson family co-operating unless they were co-producers or something. The screenplay was probably snapped up because of Disney buying the Muppets and the people thinking they'd make some money off the back of any new Muppet popularity. I'm a bit shocked that the majority of people are all gung-ho for this and not even a bit concerned, because it blatently has car crash potential written all over it. It's nice to have someone on here who truly knows first hand what they're talking about Craig.

[superboober]

Just about any script could be a complete disaster. Then again, it could also be the one for the ages. It's all in the execution.

Certainly this could take years to come to any sort of fruition. But as long as they do it right, better late than never. We'll have to just wait and see.

[Bean Bunny]

I am suprised that there is no Walt Disney biopic as well. :excited:

[Speed Tracer]

Jim Carrey would actually make a great Richard Hunt.

[Luke]

Jim Carrey would actually make a great Richard Hunt.

Indeed he would!

[Beauregard]

Re Disney and the Muppet puppets...Kermit was featured in Mr Magorium's Wonder Eporium...and that was no Disney feature!

[dwayne1115]

and look at all the spots the Muppets have done on NBC which is owned by Universal. I wonder though if Disney still has some connections with other studios from the Roger Rabbit days.

[MuppetMarc]

I've actually been wishing one would be made for awhile. I think it would be a very touching and inspirational movie, as well as people would finally understand why Jim is my hero

[IgorPonweed]

Jim Carrey would actually make a great Richard Hunt.

Wow! I never thought about that. (Insert epiphany smilie here)

[Craig Crane]

Re Disney and the Muppet puppets...Kermit was featured in Mr Magorium's Wonder Eporium...and that was no Disney feature!

No, but watch the credits all the way through and you will see a credit acknowledging the use of the Kermit Likeness as being a copyright / trademark that belongs to Disney. Disney brought the Muppets lock, stock and barrel... any application for a license to use the characters, be it in a small part or as the key focal point in a biopic is going to come at a price that realises a return on their initial investment. Plus, they would also want absolute approval and even possible final cut on any material featuring Muppets... Its very hard to work under those conditions.

So, how much of your projected budget do you want to spend on that license? Im not sure if you all realise the actual business that goes innnto show business... but its harsh and at the end of the day, the bean counters only count beans. Sentiment gets left at the door, you can pick it up on your way out.

C'mon people, you have to realise that in order for this to work, Disney would need to be playing ball in such an uncompromised way that the film would be able to feature a lot of material that belongs to them. The only way for that to happen would be for them to produce such a film themselves, regardless of their already being a show in development.

If Empire see this through, then you need to watch a generic TV movie on Hallmark and that will give you the gist of whats in store. Pick a film about an entertainer or a terminally sick kid and thats pretty much the product you will end up with. No A-List cast members, not for $60 million dollars (about 30 million pounds)..... you'll get someone you once saw in another tv movie, about some guy you may or may not have heard about, directed by some guy who may have been assistant director on a bad episode of ER if you are lucky... Thats if you are REALLY lucky.

That is the plain truth of it it. I know you are all feverish and giddy about this, but the reality is that the output will be even more dissapointing than recent Muppet output, by Hensons and Disney combined... The only Jim Henson Biopic that would work would be one with Family participation and of course the full use of muppet archive materials and assets (the Muppets).

Yes, its a nice idea, but I think Empire have little hope of producing anything that will satisfy the fanbase. You'll be hard pressed to find anything to like about it, because you are already expecting way too much... Its for the domestic TV market with a hope for international sales, again for the mid week TV movie market.

I hope that in these comments I have not been disrespectful to Empire. I just want to highlight some of the very limiting factors and conditions they face. The very fact that there has been no press release from Hensons with regards to this mean that Empire are clearly going it alone with this... and that is yet another reason why I predict this film will either A; not happen, or B; Happen but not in the way you fans would like to see.

http://www.imdb.com/media/rm3133118976/nm0001345

You need to do something very very special in order to portray this man and his work.... and I dont think he deserves a lacklustre tv movie of the week, sandwiched between Deal or no Deal, Celebrity Squares and When stunts go wrong.

[minor muppetz]

So this is going to be a made-for-tv movie? I thought it was planned for a theatrical release.

[Craig Crane]

Look at the studio's web site and then tell me how much of their output has enjoyed a theatrical release.....

[heralde]

Honestly I don't care if it's made for TV or not. A great many bio pics are. Perhaps they're not of the highest caliber, but they're good for what they are.

[Kuriboh Man]

David Cross makes a good Look-a-like for Frank Oz.

[uppitymuppity]

What to say... I suppose everything is still in the speculation stage at this point but, might I remind you that if they have a working script and a budget of 30 mil - that film could be made. It's not a lot of money but think about a film like "Juno" was made for under 10. It could happen. 30 mil. is also in the feature film range of costs. So what, their company hasn't done much - it's all who becomes attached to this thing if it should ever see the light of day.

Disney or Henson could become involved in this - you never know...

They could never afford him but Christian Bale would make a flawless Henson.

[Luke]

What to say... I suppose everything is still in the speculation stage at this point but, might I remind you that if they have a working script and a budget of 30 mil - that film could be made. It's not a lot of money but think about a film like "Juno" was made for under 10. It could happen. 30 mil. is also in the feature film range of costs. So what, their company hasn't done much - it's all who becomes attached to this thing if it should ever see the light of day.

Disney or Henson could become involved in this - you never know...


The film probably couldn't be made once Disney lawyers jump all over it, thats before even the Henson ones start askin questions and the Henson family have even stopped biographies THEY have been involved with in the past. Seriously, how can you make a Jim Henson biopic without Kermit the Frog. It'd just be an actor picking up some generic frog puppet that doesn't look like Kermit, and him doing a voice that sounds nothing like Kermit.

They would have tried to get Henson involved already if they do want an "official" type biopic but it is standard practice for Henson to comment as well in press releases so we can assume they are not in any way involved, and seriously, they have no hope of Disney involvement unless a) Henson family were involved already, and b) they were prepared to give up a large chunk of that 30 million and control over the film.

Either this isn't going to happen (please god!) or it'd be a generic TV movie that'd probably either be bland, or start muck raking. And i believe a 30 million attached budget doesn't even mean they actually have 30 million, there may be conditions set to that like them getting theatrical distribution or all the permissions they need to do it well.

[minor muppetz]

They could never afford him but Christian Bale would make a flawless Henson.

They could never afford him? I've never even heard of him!:insatiable:

[uppitymuppity]

They could never afford him? I've never even heard of him!:insatiable:

Christian Bale = BATMAN, The Machinist, 3:10 to Yuma, American Psycho, The new Terminator... on and on - They could make him look just like Henson.

Well, everything is about Buzz in Hollywood and generally press releases of that nature are to generate some kind of interest. It's too early to rule anything out or in. You never ever know in Hollywood. We can all speculate until we are as blue as the cookie monster but, you never know what will happen here.

If they have a good script - why not... But, they would have to use real muppets or the whole project would be irrelevant.

[uppitymuppity]

In regards to the mention of Penny Marshall directing... I know people who have worked with her and claim that she is the worst director going. She has people set up the shots and scenes for her and generally isn't a very good director. (Hope she's not reading this!)

[peyjenk]

I personally am really excited... after films like Ray, Walk the Line, etc., biopics are quite big right now and they tend to be very well done anymore. I just hope something comes of it and it isn't like all the other disappointments we Muppet fans have suffered through over the last few years.

[muppetsforever]

ok I've still got my heart set on jolly mr. red green but Jeff Daniels looks very good there and would fit the look well but could he play jims voice well enough.
this is steve smith aka red green

I think either one could do it. ( I miss watching RedGreen :cry: )

[GelflingWaldo]

ok I've still got my heart set on jolly mr. red green but Jeff Daniels looks very good there and would fit the look well but could he play jims voice well enough.
this is steve smith aka red green
Jim Henson died in 1990 at the age of 53. Both Smith and Daniles would be older than Jim was. And the film is covering his whole life, not just the last few years. You need someone in their 20s or 30s, as a lot of the film will likely cover the events of the 1950s, '60s, '70s, and early '80s. It is easier for them to have the actor "age up" for the last act of the film rather than try to have someone convincinly "age down" for the bulk of the film.

Somewhat unfortantly, the iconic vision of Jim that most of us know is from when he was in his late 40s and early 50s (the mid-1980s to 1990). It wasn't until the later years, towards the end of "Fraggle Rock", that Jim really started to be seen by the public (with appearances on award shows, talk shows, in magazines, and whatnot; plus a lot of the documentaries, interviews and productions such as "The Jim Henson Hour"). Before that (1955-1980) the number of images of Jim is lower - most images and footage of Jim are from the later years, once he really was a big celebrity and house hold name.

[Luke]

You need someone in their 20s or 30s, as a lot of the film will likely cover the events of the 1950s, '60s, '70s, and early '80s. It is easier for them to have the actor "age up" for the last act of the film rather than try to have someone convincinly "age down" for the bulk of the film.

It depends what aspect they go for in the film i think (not that there will likely be a film, or at least the one the fans are visualizing). If its truly a story of his life then sure, but if it did happen to get made and ended up as some TV movie, then the company doesn't have the best reputation - they might well get as fast as they can to the 80's era when whatever minor amount of "juicy stuff" did happen in his private life. Perhaps it might have been wise to have pointed out originally that this is all unconnected to Disney and Henson, as some people seem to be seeing this as some big official theatrical blockbuster and getting the wrong idea.

[erniebert1234ss]

Okay, so we have Jim and Richard, and probably Frank Oz, but what about Karen Prell, Kathryn Mullen, Jane Henson, and the Henson kids? I have a good one for Jane Henson: Lena Headey from 300 and The Sarah Connor Chronicles.

BJ

[crazed gonzo fa]

Just found out about this. AWESOME!

[Elchippo]

I hope Frank Oz gets to direct this movie! Either him or Brian Henson, Who do you think should direct this movie?

With as surly as Frank tends to be about the Muppets, I can't see him going anywhere near this, let alone even endorsing it. I, on the other hand, think is the most exciting news I've heard in a long time. I'd like to maybe see Jon Landau do it

But the truth is, although 30 million is a fairly healthy budget for a non-summer blockbuster, I wouldn't expect to see A-listers playing the parts.....we'll get a sort of big name for Henson and maybe even Frank Oz and Jane, but the rest will be actors for hire.....good, solid actors that we've probably seen before, but essentially "no-names" that don't make it on the marquee.

But I reiterate again: If this is what it sounds like, I'm incredibly excited!

[Kuriboh Man]

At least I know if Frank Oz directed the movie he could get all the facts about the Muppets straight.

[Luke]

Frank wouldn't even touch this if his career was on the skids and he was reduced to doing Yoda ad's for Happy Meals.

[minor muppetz]

At least I know if Frank Oz directed the movie he could get all the facts about the Muppets straight.

Unless he remembers certain things differently (like how many official Henson sources have incorrectly stated that Kermit first became a frog in The Frog Prince).

[Drtooth]

I still say I'm warey of this. Especially since it seems to be a TV film. Either we'll get an unrealistic sunny happy performance, or we'll get one where every tiny ounce of darkness is over exaggerated to make it a shock film. I did like a lot of what went down in the Mork and Mindy telefilm and I felt the Three Stooges telefilm was excellent, but other than that, they seem to be tear jerker scandal heavy half truths.

Now, I don;t have too much doubt that this will be a good film. But I want to see what focus will be taken from Henson's life. And personally, I'd rather see a documentary, much like the Charles Shulz PBS American Masters one. That was breathtakingly well done, IMO. Much higher quality than a run of the mill documentary.

[wes]

Off the top of my head

Tom Hanks to play Jim, and i liked Andrews pick of David Cross to play Oz.

Cant wait this will be great to see what angle they'll play this movie.

Movie Annoucer Voice:

In a World where Frogs eye's are ping pong ball, and Coats are sink there was a man who thought this was normal, "Henson"

[uppitymuppity]

is one of the most overrated actors that has ever lived... He's also a dinosaur!

I'll say it again CHRISTIAN BALE... along with being one of the best actors going he would go from young Jim to older Jim perfectly. Also, since he is so huge in big budget his team is itching to get him in smaller budget, meatier roles.

Look at this pic:

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o143/krishurst/cb2.jpg

[kermiegirl]

I started thinking recently... How would you all feel if they made a Jim Henson movie similar to the made-for-tv movie In Search of Dr. Seuss? That movie was sort of a biography on Dr. Seuss, but didn't have any actors portray Dr. Seuss. Instead, it invovled a reporter coming to the home of Dr. Seuss, and had various Dr. Seuss creations (played by celebrities) talking about seuss, as well as clips from various animated specials and so on. Maybe a Jim Henson movie would be better in this way... a reporter interviews Kermit and other Muppets, and various clips get shown.

Hey! That's actually not a bad idea! I loved that movie since I was a kid! And you know what? I had just rediscovered this movie and while I was watching it, I thought that instead of Dr. Seuss - who, by the way, had a life as interesting and a little bit similar as Jim's - they would talk about Jim Henson. You actually read my mind!:) Why don't we get together sometime and talk about this subject?

[peyjenk]

Look at this pic:

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o143/krishurst/cb2.jpg

I'm sold. :D Sign 'im up now, I say.

[minor muppetz]

Hey! That's actually not a bad idea! I loved that movie since I was a kid! And you know what? I had just rediscovered this movie and while I was watching it, I thought that instead of Dr. Seuss - who, by the way, had a life as interesting and a little bit similar as Jim's - they would talk about Jim Henson. You actually read my mind!:) Why don't we get together sometime and talk about this subject?

I just started a thread on this type of subject. We can talk about it there.

[travellingpat]

Wow you guys, i was just watching Arrested Development on DVD and i saw David Cross as Tobias and i thought wow...i have to go post on here that i think he should play Frank Ozzzz and i just logged on and saw that you guys were already talking about him....i definately would put him number one on my list for someone to play Frank

[peyjenk]

David Cross looks the part, but does he have the acting chops?

I really don't know... the only things I have to go on are the Chipmunks movie and an episode of Just Shoot Me.

[travellingpat]

He was on Arrested Development for three years and it seems as though he has a voice much like frank...i definately think he could work

[Muppet Pro]

This is for the Jim Henson screenplay, right. Okay, here's my opinions. I had the same idea a few years ago, that it would be cool if something like this was made. But know I just don't know what to think.

I feel that if they were going to get actors, they would have to sound simular and have latex make-up in order for the actors to seem close to acurratecy to Jim and the guys. But that's just for the looks.

Plus not only the actors need to understand their personalities but they need to be puppeteers as well. So not only are they playing the roles of Jim and the guys, but they need to perform their characters as well.

I'm afriad they might gunk some stuff up either dramatising or exadurating things too much. One false move and it reacks acuracy.

Historicaly Acurracy is my main consern.

I know on Dramatic Documentries the film makers like to dramatise everything so they can make it entertaining for the audiance.

Well I feel that documentries are Not suppost to entertain, they are to inform.

I don't mean to sound weird about this but since I'm a huge fan, I take these kinds of things very seriously.

[Luke]

I'm afriad they might gunk some stuff up either dramatising or exadurating things too much. One false move and it reacks acuracy.

Historicaly Acurracy is my main consern.

Thing is though there are lots of things about Jim that are accurate, but fans would get the wrong impression or think those parts were being over-exagerated or hyped up. His life as told by the Hensons has been very restricted to just certain points and facts for so long, most fans either didn't know them or have forgot. So its possible that they could make something a bit more personal and thought provoking yet still accurate - or they could just stick to the Henson line and make it more about his work. I'm not saying there was anything too bad going on, just that there was a bit more to him on a personal level, not just on a work one. Anything they do should still be fairly respectable obviously.

Not that i think this will ever happen unless its a low budget, generic puppet HBO TV movie, but still!

[wes]

I say don't jink it, if they get a good director like Penny Marshell who directed a "league of their own" then it has the potential to be great.

But i wouldn't hold my breath, or get all excited, you see what happen to the Fraggle Rock and Dark Crystal Sequels.

[Luke]

I say don't jink it, if they get a good director like Penny Marshell who directed a "league of their own" then it has the potential to be great.

There is just no way it could possibly happen in the way fans want without both Henson and Disney involved. Also they just said LIKE Penny Marshall - not sure how they'd afford someone on her level, top lead actor, theater distribution and licenses from both Henson and Disney, and then Disney would NEVER let the Muppets appear on the big screen without their real performers so they'd have to sort that. Not jinxing it, just stating facts, it will never happen the way they are saying, its just PR talk.

[Muppet Pro]

Well as long as The Henson family has the rights to look at it before it hits the theaters or TV and everything gets their approval then that's good enough for me.

[uppitymuppity]

That Empire company looks like a dud to me - this would be my biggest concern. If someone or some business of credibility were behind the project then it might be exciting.

It is a PR thing totally - they may have acquired the rights to a screenplay but in no way have they acquired the rights to Jim Henson. Isn't he and his image trademarked by now - sure he is.

We'll all be keeping our eyes peeled though - like I said earlier, "You never know what will happen in Hollyweird~!" It's an old saying that we all use here because it rings so true.

[Luke]

Well as long as The Henson family has the rights to look at it before it hits the theaters or TV and everything gets their approval then that's good enough for me.

Well no, they wouldn't. That's the whole point - it seems they have nothing to do with this. It's just a screenplay thats been optioned and talked about to try and get some backing.

[dwayne1115]

this may bring out a side of jim that some die hard muppet fans don't want to see.

[heralde]

As long as it's accurate and balanced, I don't mind if they bring up some dark points occasionally. We are all of us human beings and none of us are perfect. I think most people understand that these bio pic films mainly rely on drama. ::shrugs:: I'd still give it a try.

[wes]

There is just no way it could possibly happen in the way fans want without both Henson and Disney involved. Also they just said LIKE Penny Marshall - not sure how they'd afford someone on her level, top lead actor, theater distribution and licenses from both Henson and Disney, and then Disney would NEVER let the Muppets appear on the big screen without their real performers so they'd have to sort that. Not jinxing it, just stating facts, it will never happen the way they are saying, its just PR talk.

Ok, If you say so!:wisdom:

[BEAR]

I'm probably alone here, but what about Drew Carey as Jerry Juhl?

[theprawncracker]

I'm probably alone here, but what about Drew Carey as Jerry Juhl?
...Whoa. Actually... that is a very, very close match Bry! Ooh I'm mulling that over in my head, and really liking it. Ooooh...

[heralde]

Welll....hmmmm...I can kinda see a resemblance. But there would have to be more than that. Hmm....

[BEAR]

Welll....hmmmm...I can kinda see a resemblance. But there would have to be more than that. Hmm....

Yes, I think that the look is what made me think of him at first, but Drew Carey also has such a jolliness about him as well as a genuine warmth. I think Carey could capture the sense of humor. He was a television writer too. And those glasses! Haha!

Then again, maybe it would be better if there weren't any big named celebrities in this production. It could be distracting if not done the right way.

I dunno...I am just so excited about this. I really hope the film actually gets made because this is probably the biggest and most important thing to have happen for us Muppet fans.

[BEAR]

...Whoa. Actually... that is a very, very close match Bry! Ooh I'm mulling that over in my head, and really liking it. Ooooh...

Thanks, Prawnie. I think it could be good too.

[Luke]

I dunno...I am just so excited about this. I really hope the film actually gets made because this is probably the biggest and most important thing to have happen for us Muppet fans.

I think you are imagining this as a Henson/Disney movie, and yes that would indeed be fantastic if it was - but it isn't. I don't think people fully understand that at all. It would be great to have a film of Jim's life if Disney/Henson were to partner up with a big film studio and make something like Man On The Moon but this definitely isn't it.

:attitude:

[Muppet Pro]

Well no, they wouldn't. That's the whole point - it seems they have nothing to do with this. It's just a screenplay thats been optioned and talked about to try and get some backing.

I'm surprised that The Henson family allowed this. One false move, and reacks the accuracy of Jim's history.

[peyjenk]

I think you are imagining this as a Henson/Disney movie, and yes that would indeed be fantastic if it was - but it isn't. I don't think people fully understand that at all. It would be great to have a film of Jim's life if Disney/Henson were to partner up with a big film studio and make something like Man On The Moon but this definitely isn't it.

:attitude:

But how do we know it WON'T be?

[BEAR]

I think you are imagining this as a Henson/Disney movie, and yes that would indeed be fantastic if it was - but it isn't. I don't think people fully understand that at all. It would be great to have a film of Jim's life if Disney/Henson were to partner up with a big film studio and make something like Man On The Moon but this definitely isn't it.

:attitude:

Actually, I'm not, Luke. :smirk:

[Luke]

But how do we know it WON'T be?

It would have been co-announced with the Henson Legacy, no doubt about that. Look at how involved they are with anything Jim related.

When i'm saying that i think some people have got the wrong idea, it has to be said quite a few people have voted and posted in this thread talking about how the Henson family will manage it or which Muppets will be featured. On first reading this i thought it was Henson related.

[heralde]

Then again, maybe it would be better if there weren't any big named celebrities in this production. It could be distracting if not done the right way.



If they did go ahead with it, I would prefer unknowns, rather than the standard default celebrities who may or not fit the parts.

[BEAR]

If they did go ahead with it, I would prefer unknowns, rather than the standard default celebrities who may or not fit the parts.


Yeah, or at the least go for good actors and not just big names. That's one of the things I always appreciated about Pixar's casting.

[wes]

I'm probably alone here, but what about Drew Carey as Jerry Juhl?

know that you mention it, that a ringer!

[dwmckim]

Just like the thread for the new muppets.com, am coming to this one later in the game (you can see my commments in that other thread as to why) but at least this way i can comment on different things that have been posted so far and throw out some things that haven't been touched on as much yet.

My gut feeling is that the press release was issued the way it was as very strategic - get both the buzz going in both the show business and the fan communities, hoping that once that gets rolling than it gets harder for Disney and Henson to turn down the chance to be involved.

One of the first things they teach is you in directing classes (well at least the thing i was taught, can't say if all other teachers emphasize this) is that the main thing that will make or break and have the most influence over all other aspects of the production is casting. Personally, i would really take the time to get this right and not limit it to big names. I would actually start by putting out casting calls within puppeteer groups or unions as who knows how many skilled puppeteers out there (that don't necessarily have any relationship with Henson/Muppets) are also skilled actors...you may not find your Jim, but you may find your Dave or your Kevin etc. Steve absolutely would NOT play Jim, he's gone on record too many times about he's very shy in front of a camera when its himself and not a puppet.

Now having said that, having a skilled puppeteer isn't as much of an attribute than most people would initially think. A film ABOUT Jim Henson and his life would be the behind-the-scenes story...we don't need to see a whole mess of scenes of him performing - some yes, but not a large amount - it's the stories of HOW these productions came to be and Jim's other roles besides that of puppeteer that would ultimately be focused on. If you had an actor that was perfect for Jim in every other way but couldn't quite get down a lot of the more advanced puppetry aspects, there's a lot of work-arounds (again keeping in mind that you don't need a lot of shots of him puppeteering), long establishing shots setting the scene, closeups up "Jim" with the puppet help up (and out of frame) looking at the monitor delivering the lines into his foamy headset, cut to a shot of the puppet (being performed by a more skilled puppeteer)...you can even do similar things in a scene depicted a talk show or public appearance where Jim and Kermit on his arm are being interviewed together - in a good medium close up shot you can actually arrange it to look like it's Kermit on "Jim's hand" but the frog is being performed by someone else (watch Inside the Labyrinth for some of those scenes with David Bowie and the person doing his juggling).

There's really a whole movie that could be done and story that could be told about his teen years to his early success with Sesame alone. Not that i'd want that to be the whole movie but one could get a lot of mileage out of those early struggles. Really considering the grand scope of his life even though he died relatively young, to tell a decent story of his life, it would have to be between 2-3 hours.

When doing a biopic, it helps if you can get someone who can be a good "lookalike" either with or without heavy makeup but some of this can be sacrificed if you find the right actor who can embody his spirit. It would be just about impossible to cast the part though without having someone very tall and skinny not just because that's a common physical atribute that people always remember about him but also because his height was a major part of his personality development, being more shy and soft-spoken, tendancy to slouch, etc. (That would eliminate me, lol, i've got the acting and puppeteering chops and knowledge of the subject matter but could never meet the physical requirements!)

I don't have any fears about the way Jim himself would be presented. Granted not knowing much about the people working on this, but any biography worth its merit on Jim would need to be more concerned about how the heck to portray him WITHOUT him seeming so goody-good when so many people who knew him constantly talk about his lack of flaws, almost near inability to get angry, constantly set an example to others about how to deal with stuff. Does that mean your script is without drama? Not in the least - just look at the guy's life story! You'd see a lot of how people around him are reacting vs how Jim is managing the situation...as well as the contrast between the show business world's more jaded ways of working and Jim's fresh approaches.

Of course this would make it all the more trickier to get Disney's involvement approval - because even more than the Henson family (and we all know how protective they are), Disney would be all the more harder to deal with - they would want not only to be credited and paid well for allowing the Muppet likeness but i can't see them not also being protective (to the point of making it a condition of granting the likenesses) of how the Disney company is portrayed - and let's face it, the Disney approach vs the Henson approach would be a much needed contrast if you're going to show that part of his life (which would be almost necessary..still could be glossed over in favor of the drama of his death, but still at a hige cheating of the project's integrity)...as necessary as it would be, you would not see a scene depicting an incident like Jim meeting with Disney execs ironing details of the acquition with Jim saying "all I want is a fair deal" and being told by a Disney CEO (don't remember off the top of my head who's attributed to the quote) "grow up, you're in Hollywood now". Again, the film can be done without that Disney conflict (keeping in mind that a film depicting his life would need to be over 2 hours as it is so this can easily be stuff that gets cut, sacrificed and/or glossed over) with only mentions of Jim's selling to Disney and instantly focusing more on the shock of his sudden and unexpecting death "pushing" the "Bad Disney" parts of this era out of the story. There doesn't need to be (and shouldn't really) any big depiction of the struggles the Henson family and company have had with Disney after his passing as the movie should end with the memorial (the big vibrant celebration and foam butterflies) fading into words on the screen giving a brief epilogue of how the family and company continued to honor his creations and visions and that Disney finally acquired the Muppets in 2004 instantly going into the credits and either something like "Bein Green" or "Rainbow Connection" playing over the credits or more music from the memorial...possibly even a recreation of Steve's debut as Kermit in the "Just One Person" number from the Muppets Celebrate Jim Henson.

I think that covers the various thoughts i had on all this - i know i'll think of a couple other things i wanted to say after i send this through.

[frogboy4]

100% agree with that! Well stated! :)

[Luke]

My gut feeling is that the press release was issued the way it was as very strategic - get both the buzz going in both the show business and the fan communities, hoping that once that gets rolling than it gets harder for Disney and Henson to turn down the chance to be involved.

I don't have any fears about the way Jim himself would be presented. Granted not knowing much about the people working on this, but any biography worth its merit on Jim would need to be more concerned about how the heck to portray him WITHOUT him seeming so goody-good when so many people who knew him constantly talk about his lack of flaws, almost near inability to get angry, constantly set an example to others about how to deal with stuff. Does that mean your script is without drama? Not in the least - just look at the guy's life story! You'd see a lot of how people around him are reacting vs how Jim is managing the situation...as well as the contrast between the show business world's more jaded ways of working and Jim's fresh approaches.

I get the reason why they announced this prior to getting Henson or Disney involved, or perhaps they announced it after trying and failing to get involvment to see what turns up, or perhaps they didn't bother as they know it won't work - but i really don't see Disney getting involved with an Empire production. Why would they? They'd be better off just make it themselves. I think if this was to be done properly it would need to be with a bigger studio. I think there might be an outside chance the Henson Legacy might have got involved, and that might be why they optioned the script but i think the fact its been announced without Henson already points to that door being shut.

As for any controversial stuff about Jim. Yes people in the "close" Henson circle do tell stories about how calm Jim was and he may well have been like that, but there's also a lot of people who also knew him fairly closely but are outside of the Henson family who could tell a few stories about things that happened, or that Jim was involved in which could be open to portrayal in a less positive way. I doubt they'd have to look far if thats the angle they wanted to take.

[heralde]

Well you know, if you go to a guy's friends, you'll hear all the good points. If you go to the same guy's enemies, you'll hear about the flaws. Both are usually pretty accurate, at least from those people's point of view. The truth is usually somewhere in the middle.

[frogboy4]

... but i really don't see Disney getting involved with an Empire production. Why would they? They'd be better off just make it themselves. I think if this was to be done properly it would need to be with a bigger studio.

I think they could partner up. Films these days usually have five minutes of various company logos before they actually start! Empire could shoot it and Disney could pick it up and handle the release and advertising. Just a thought. That would give Empire the right to use Muppet characters and Disney a bite at some profits, or is that a little unlikely?

[Luke]

I think they could partner up. Films these days usually have five minutes of various company logos before they actually start! Empire could shoot it and Disney could pick it up and handle the release and advertising. Just a thought. That would give Empire the right to use Muppet characters and Disney a bite at some profits, or is that a little unlikely?

I would have said yes but looking at Empires background and business model i think they aren't in the same league and the whole point to them is that they make indie films for small budgets (usually 5-10m) and making them financially attractive for investors by filming in countries with tax breaks - so the whole point to them is that are a small budget alternative to major studios with direct to dvd, tv, and limited indie theatrical distribution. Nothing they've done yet has had major success but the quality looks ok.

They've just also optioned a Marvin Gaye biopic exactly the same but i'm not sure whether they have his image rights as they use the term (with Henson as well) "life story rights", which could just mean a script, or could mean trademark rights. That's why i thought they were probably looking more for Henson involvement as a co-producer than Disney but i'm sure if there was any chance of that it would have been done prior to us hearing about it and we would have heard from Nicole Goldman. So it seems more like they are trying to go it alone, at least they don't look all that sensationalist to me.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ItR4XcVSX78

[SesameStMuppets]

I think we're all saying the same thing.... The integrity of all parties has to be there. Disney can't harm the future of the Muppets, which like it or not is in their hands. Empire can't harm the past which they've taken responsibility of.

Personally, the movie's a great idea. Realistically, though, a movie to recreate the past is hard. Doing it to recreate real celebrities/ idols is harder. To completly remake an entire cast of beloved characters and the people performing them (to my knowledge) has never even been done. It seems hard. But let's not forget that we're dealing with a man who could get a frog on a bike, a pig to swim, and a bird to bring peace to a foreign country. Simple is good, and nothing is impossible!

Also, as much as I don't feel he particuarly has the maturity to handle the role, I thought of a person who may beable to take on Caroll Spinney. He may be too short, but David Spade really has some of the same features that Caroll has, especially from Sesame Street's early years. I can see him attempting the characters too; similar voices. Just an idea...

Opinions welcome. New ideas highly anticipated!

[peyjenk]

I don't mean to attack anyone's ideas, but to be honest, any movie that headlines Drew Carrey, David Cross, and David Spade is not one that I want to see... even if they are playing Muppet folks.

[BEAR]

I don't mean to attack anyone's ideas, but to be honest, any movie that headlines Drew Carrey, David Cross, and David Spade is not one that I want to see... even if they are playing Muppet folks.

Who said anything about David Spade? Yuck!

And one of the other reasons I did suggest Drew Carey is that he's a good family household name. He has a good image.

[froggiegirl18]

I just wanted to say that those that posted about Jeff Daniels, Ryan Gosling playing Jim would be a great idea. I also like the title "Jim" opposed to just "Henson". It does have a better feel to it. Also I think it could work either way as movie shown on tv,or just a show with a season or two or theatrical. As for teaching the actors puppetry, there are also ways to skirt around that issue to, camera angles and editing, got to love it. As for getting it made why don't we as a fan base write to the Henson company about it showing,letting them know are interest. We may be few and far between but we sure can create hype to those who are just general puppeteering/muppets/Jim Henson fans. Just a few thoughts. I really hope this does go through and they start working on it. I think in the right hands it really could be a great film/show. It would also be neat if someone also does a Disney bio. I would love to see both. Both were great men and have left a wonderful legacy.

[Ilikemuppets]

Do you think Disney could do a Disney bio

[peyjenk]

Do you think Disney could do a Disney bio

Why, yes, I think they could. ;)

[unclematt]

I can not wait for [I]Henson[I] to hit the theatres. I may be more excited about this film than the new Muppet film that is being written.

[Kuriboh Man]

This is so exciting! :) :super:

[uppitymuppity]

I'm sorry, I know i've been over this before. I just happened to run across this photo. Doesn't Bale have an uncanny resemblance to Jim? It wouldn't be a stretch to make him Henson.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o143/krishurst/cbale.jpg

[wes]

I'm sorry, I know i've been over this before. I just happened to run across this photo. Doesn't Bale have an uncanny resemblance to Jim? It wouldn't be a stretch to make him Henson.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o143/krishurst/cbale.jpg

Yea a Really scary Creepy Jim Henson, He is the Henson that Creeps in the night! HE IS BAT-HENSON (that was a stretch I know):)

[uppitymuppity]

Thank you Wess. I like Bale but,find him earily similar to Henson as well. He could do it right.

[unclematt]

I really hope this gets made. It is super important to me.

[Luke]

Didn't they say they wanted to be in production with this by the Summer?

[frogboy4]

:search: I was reading Blu-ray.com and found a little article about Empire (the film company with the Henson bio film rights). This has nothing to do with the Henson film, but it does show that they are a young company on the rise with real prospects. However, they are not as established as others. Releasing anything on Blu-ray shows they have some healthy investors.

Empire Film Group Announces Blu-ray Support
Posted June 16, 2008 08:13 AM

Empire Film Group has announced that they will be releasing their content, which includes the recently revealed Dakota Fanning and Robin Wright-Penn film 'Hounddog' on Blu-ray disc this January. Don't feel bad if you haven't heard of the studio; 'Hounddog' will be their first theatrical release with two more planned by the end of the year.

Obviously, its way to early to talk about specs and special features when the film isn't set to hit theaters until September, but rest assure, once these titles get official Blu-ray dates, we'll have the info.

It's a rather weird and dark film (sounds like an indie picture) but it does have name stars. That gives me a little more confidence in this Henson project. For them it would be quite a jewel in the company cap. :wisdom:

[Robin]

David Cross as Frank Oz

[Vic Romano]

Hmm, this is one of those things that's got me so excited, I don't know yet how I feel about it. Too many questions right now. I can't believe something like this hasn't been done yet, like even a made-for-tv movie. Let's put it this way; it needs to be done, the concern is will it be done right? I think of the John Denver movie and how much that upset people. Speaking of which, I was really surprised Jim wasn't featured in that movie, or Ray for that matter, although I'll admit that's me being a bit biased.

[unclematt]

I hope this is done well but Henson nor Disney are endorsing this movie if we ever see it

[frogboy4]

Well any Jim Henson film of quality and accuracy would have to go through the Henson Legacy first, then it would likely filter through the Henson Company (a separate entity) that would likely bring in Sesame Workshop and then finally Disney would have to endorse use of the Muppets. For a while the Henson Company could use Kermit in certain contexts before requiring Disney's okay. I mean they did keep the Kermit statue at the Henson/Chaplin studios, but they did cut poor Kermit out of the Emmet Otter Jugband Christmas reissue.

Gaining approval from the Jim Henson Legacy is not the easiest "rubber stamp" task. They are in charge of maintaining Jim's legacy and that's a very delicate thing. I don't think the other three companies would lend support without the Legacy - and that would be crucial. Films about other personalities wouldn't require as much cooperation because they don't depend so heavily on seeing so many copyrighted characters alongside the star.

I don’t remember how this deal was reportedly brokered, but Jim was immersed in his work so much that there could be no Jim Henson film without Kermit, Rowlf, Ernie and tons of other felt and foam silly creatures.

[Vic Romano]

I think it would be cool if they did it like "Finding Neverland", where there's no clear line between fantasy and reality and the audience is shown things creatively through Jim's eyes.

[unclematt]

What a great idea vic, where jim and kermit are one in the same

[muppet baby]

i think this film will be great but , at the same time i hope that his son and frank Oz , have a lot of input because i would like to see what he was like as a father and a friend , and this movie will be a dream for me , because of what the muppets and Jim henson mean to me .

They got me though a lot of tough times as a child.

I know how chezzy that might sound but it is the truth .:):super:.

I really can not wait to see it .

[Vic Romano]

Any new news on this at all?

Having read Street Gang, I learned a lot about Jim that's typically not discussed and wondered if the film would delve into such matters. Out of all the big Muppet news that's come out in the last several months, this is still what I'm most excited and hopeful for.

EDIT: Just realized it's been over a year since this was announced and production was supposed to start last summer.

[Muppet Pro]

Any new news on this at all?

Having read Street Gang, I learned a lot about Jim that's typically not discussed and wondered if the film would delve into such matters. Out of all the big Muppet news that's come out in the last several months, this is still what I'm most excited and hopeful for.

EDIT: Just realized it's been over a year since this was announced and production was supposed to start last summer.


I'm just curious what was said in the book. I don't own it yet. Could you email me at ericcrooks@sbcglobal.net?




I'm just curious how far the documentry will go on Jim's life.
I know that here at MuppetCentral we can't really discuss rumors on Jim esspecially regarding from his personal life to his Christian Science beliefs. And even though it's not really any of the fans business, There's some of us like me that are Jim Henson Historians. It'll be cool if there was a private site for us historians to chat and stuff.

[frogboy4]

My feeling is that this idea will float around in development for several years and one distant day it will get made. The quality of it will depend on how many fingerprints touch the final draft.

[Drtooth]

As I said a long time ago about the movie Milk (among others) I am very very wary of these biopics. Remember, a lot of them have to shove in entertainment at moments that don't need them. There are some that are well done, but others that just... well, I want to see a Tina Turner biopic called "What's the Truth Gotta Do with it?" Not to mention that some of these biopics twist things to give some odd agenda...

I'm sure we won't see a damaging Jim Henson bio pic... but one that cartoonishly glazes over darker moments takes away drama. Thetre's no triumph without drama.

[Muppet Pro]

As I said a long time ago about the movie Milk (among others) I am very very wary of these biopics. Remember, a lot of them have to shove in entertainment at moments that don't need them. There are some that are well done, but others that just... well, I want to see a Tina Turner biopic called "What's the Truth Gotta Do with it?" Not to mention that some of these biopics twist things to give some odd agenda...

I'm sure we won't see a damaging Jim Henson bio pic... but one that cartoonishly glazes over darker moments takes away drama. Thetre's no triumph without drama.

True but I guess the main question is this...........is this film for entertainment purposes or for historical purposes.

I film that is going on the big screen seems like an entertainment documentry like "RAY".

but if this film isn't distributed as much and is distributed appropirately to say the Biography Channel or direct-to-DVD, Then it would odviously show that it's not for entertainment purposes.

But that's just my theory.

[unclematt]

Is this actually going to happen? I heard somewhere that Penny Marshall was going to direct.

[uppitymuppity]

http://www.movieline.com/2009/12/the-top-ten-unproduced-screenplays-of-2009-include-two-produced-screenplays-a-muppet-cast-of-thousan.php

[Luke]

It would be a great thing for the Hensons to do rather than anyone else, but without being able to use the Mups it aint ever gonna happen.

[Kimp the Shrimp]

1. The Muppet Man
By Christopher Weekes
What it’s about: The life and times of the late Jim Henson (pictured), the man behind Sesame Street and The Muppets.
What it’s like: The Andy Kaufman biopic Man on the Moon, but with puppets. This moving story depicts the life of a creative genius, with occasional surreal appearances by the likes of Kermit and Miss Piggy.
Status: Set up at The Jim Henson Co.

[Beauregard]

Hmm...I never liked that screenplay. It depressed me for weeks after reading it...Didn't seem to have any heart. Still, it would be nice for them to make a bio movie...maybe not that one though.

[Drtooth]

I said it before and I 'll say it again... I HATE biopics. Though I still want to see Man on the Moon... but they're always so... icky. they exaggerate stuff to push one agenda or another (making them look extremely good or extremely bad)... plus, when it comes down to it, I'd rather see a documentary of anything either way. At least with a documentary, it's all real. You interview people who really knew them, people who were there.... It's the same reason I don't watch too many historical movies.

Honestly, I just really don't think I wanna see this movie ever, even if it got made. Among other things, who the heck can play Jim and puppeteer and do an approximate enough voice for him?

[zns]

I think it is best to say that the only way that this movie can succeed in theaters is as long as Jim's family is directly involved 100%. Because they knew him better than anyone else, they can give the most for this picture if it ever happens.

[Davina]

my biggest problem when reading about this was the fact the the guy who wrote it apparently didn't ever even talk to anyone directly related to Jim and his work and basically just made the whole thing up.. and wasn't too pleased with some of the stuff he wanted the muppets to be doing for that matter... if i'm gonna watch a movie about jim's life, i would like to see actual family members and friends involved in the research and making of...

[beaker]

I said it before and I 'll say it again... I HATE biopics.

Dude...have you seen Frida, Ray, Capote or Chaplin? Heck I think think of at least a dozen or so biopics that were nothing less than amazing.

[Beauregard]

Yeah, but have you read the screenplay for this one?

[dabauckham]

Sorry if this was already mentioned, but how can one view a copy of the screenplay? I agree, I'm a bit on the fence about a Jim Henson biopic. It doesn't mean that it couldn't be done, but the numbe of amazingly BAD biopics greatly outnumber the outstanding ones. (I LOVED Frida, but not everyone is Julie Taymor - if the project were in her hands, for example, I'd feel a lot more confident, though even she isn't without some flaws in some of her works)

But in the end, a well-written script is absolutely essential. Which is why I am curious to view a draft, if that's even possible.

[unclematt]

From what I have read the beginning of the script needs some work but the ending is spectacular. I also heard that unless Disney opts to make the film they probably won't be able to use any of the Muppets.

[dabauckham]

Here's an Interesting article (and subsequent comments) about the Muppet Man script. Word to the wise - there is some cursing in the comments (not the main article), in case anyone is sensitive. Unfortunately, the link to the script appears to have been removed... :(

Link to article:
http://scriptshadow.blogspot.com/2009/09/muppet-man.html

[dwmckim]

I was going to post a friendly reminder that there are TWO COMPLETELY DIFFERENT Henson biopic scripts (by two different people) that have been in the news the last couple of years: the first was named "Henson" by Robert D. Slane which was acquired by Empire in 2008 and was seeming to go into preproduction (though many questioned if it would end up getting made due to the unlikelihood of both Henson Co and Muppets giving approval) and which this here thread is about.

Then there's a whole DIFFERENT script that gained buzz this year - The Muppet Man by Christopher Weekes - that got a lot of attention (so much so that it just made news again for its placement of #1 on a list of unproduced screenplays) by industry people...but does not look like its been picked up or actually being realistically considered by anyone (this is the one that is kind of a "Dreamchild"-ization of Jim Henson with aged Muppets talking to him throughout)

I was going to point out and link to a seperate thread that's about Muppet Man to avoid confusion with Henson which this thread is about but it appears someone made a foolish decision to merge that thread with this one proving once again how we apparently have a moderator who has a dangerous addiction to merging/deleting threads. I urge everyone to stage an intervention and get this poor soul the help he needs to kick this habit once and for all before he endangers the entire forum to become some sick variation of Newspeak from George Orwell's "1984". SLOOOOOWLY back away from the keyboard....call Merger's Anonymous....say aloud "My name is () and I am a Senseless Merger..."

[Beauregard]

I read an interesting article who suggested that Lisa Henson was interested in merging Henson and the Muppet Man (much as these threads appear to be merged...interesting...) into one workable script.

[Vic Romano]

Thanks for the clarification, dwmckim. I had been asking if the two were the same or not, and you're the first to provide a satisfactory answer!

[frogboy4]

Muppet Man seems to have some fantastical elements to it. The bits I read had some wonderful visuals. However, it's been noted that Jim had a great imagination, but did not live in it the way Muppet Man portrays him. In fact, Caroll Spinney mentioned specifically in his book that Jim wasn't precious with the puppets. He didn't engage with them off-screen as anything other than props to facilitate projects. This script has shades of Permanent Midnight. Personally, I think if a Jim biopic was to be made that Jane Henson should sit down with a screenwriter and provide the bulk of the whats and whens. Frank Oz would be a great person to get as well. But no meaningful script can be pieced together by use of the Wiki and have the core it needs. An aging smoking and drinking Kermit? I’m no Pollyanna, yet that just tells me that at the heart of it this author just doesn't get it.

[dwayne1115]

Here is something I was thinking about. If they made a movie that showd Jim, and posably the other Muppeteres in a not so good light, whould that not also affect how people look at the Muppets?

[Beauregard]

I agree with, Jamie. Jim was imaginative, yes, but he controlled his imagination...not the other way around.

[dabauckham]

I agree, I agree. They need to strike a balance between keeping things in Jim's life real, and not overly precious (the book "Street Gang" did a good job presenting the grit but not in any kind of sensational way), but at the same time not making a movie edgy or dark just to make money. Seeing that there are old, pot-bellied Muppets in Muppet Man reminds me a little of that awful youtube version of Nine Inch Nail's Hurt, in which Kermit is drinking himself under the table and doing all kinds of masochistic things to himself. It just felt so...wrong. And it does create an unfortunate lasting impression. That's not true to the spirit of the Muppets.

[MrBloogarFoobly]

Would anyone be able to share the script? I'd really love to read it. :)

[unclematt]

Would anyone be able to share the script? I'd really love to read it. :)

Same here.