25th Anniversary Follow That Bird Edition! [Archive]

frogboy4

12-05-2008, 07:53 PM

The cover art is okay. I prefer the beautiful poster cover, but it's already been released that way. I can understand the inclusion of Elmo on the cover, but kids will get fussy when he only appears silent in the background for two seconds. Maybe they'll think the movies so good and forget all about Elmo. I hope it's widescreen.

AAO

12-05-2008, 08:10 PM

I accidentally just found that today and had to post it on the here! The cover is a little ... blah on account it's stock footage of the character's profile... Including Elmo.. ugh! But the featurette should be cool. I hope it's like new interviews as well as old and stock footage of the movie being filmed!

It seems that this DVD will be popular with mom and dad.. and the kids will catch on and be excited about Sesame Street pre-Elmo! Let's hope!

AAO

12-05-2008, 08:12 PM

And the Elmo in Grouchland 10th Anniversary... I wouldn't cry if they didn't... lol... :P

The Shoe Fairy

12-05-2008, 08:28 PM

Woohoo!

BobThePizzaBoy

12-06-2008, 02:24 PM

And the Elmo in Grouchland 10th Anniversary... I wouldn't cry if they didn't... lol... :P

LOL, neither would I but I just want to own a widescreen copy for posterity and being a completist.

theprawncracker

12-06-2008, 03:39 PM

This is AWESOME news! So good to hear and good to see! Kermit was in the trailer too, which is wonderful! I, like everyone else, am a little miffed by Elmo on the cover. Why not Ernie and Bert? Seriously! :grouchy: They should at least get the back cover then...

Oh well! Still VERY exciting!

SSLFan

12-06-2008, 06:41 PM

:wisdom:Yay! This is great. Although it seems odd Elmo is on the cover, i mean, he's only in there briefly, and doesn't even have any lines. LOL, some kids are gonna be ticked. I hope this DVD exposes kids to Classic Sesame, and back when the street was considered a whole, and EVERYONE played an important part. I already have the original DVD but look forward to buying this one also.

And I agree, I hope Bert and Ernie are at least on the back of the cover.

heralde

12-06-2008, 07:54 PM

Oh my, that is awesome! Eh, from the way everyone was talking I thought there was a close up of Elmo or something, hehe. The cover's OK, at least all the other guys are in it and Big Bird is most prominent. :)

I hope parents are inclined to buy it for their kids! It's message of different people living together is still needed today. ;)

AAO

12-06-2008, 08:16 PM

A lot of people have been complaining because it's not the original painting of the theatrical release which is amazing! But if you look closely at the "sky"... it's from the original paiting... so there's a piece there... haha.. but i didn't even bert and ernie not there.. ugh! I'm just excited about the features! I'm so thrilled.. i really want to see interviews with caroll spinney...

heralde

12-06-2008, 08:28 PM

A lot of people have been complaining because it's not the original painting of the theatrical release which is amazing! But if you look closely at the "sky"... it's from the original paiting... so there's a piece there... haha..

Yeah I get you, I like the original painting too. I guess they wanted to differentiate this one, or make it look like all the other SS DVDs.

I just hope no parents write into Amazon saying, "Nice, but where was Elmo?" Lol. Though I've read the Amazon reviews for the original FTB DVD before, and thankfully most parents say their kids liked it as much as today's SS (sometimes more ;) ).

Drtooth

12-06-2008, 10:08 PM

Okay, was I the only one who was about to click on one of the links, and seconds later hear:

"We're no strangers to lo-o-o-ve... You know the rules, and so do I..."

I felt, jeez... this has to be some sort of prank. Warner Brothers is "re-releasing" the 3 TMNT movies, basically with the same disks that have been around since the 90's with new slip covers. Hearing they'll have special features (and hope beyond hope WIDESCREEN... whooooaaaah) wets my appetite, and gives me a good reason not to buy that 7 dollar regular tape...err...disk.

I just hope no parents write into Amazon saying, "Nice, but where was Elmo?" Lol. Though I've read the Amazon reviews for the original FTB DVD before, and thankfully most parents say their kids liked it as much as today's SS (sometimes more ).

Ugh, I HATE people like that. Sesame Street isn't a babysitter you call every 5 minutes. if your child only pays attention to Elmo, get them only Elmo. And if your kid is less than 3 years old, they may not like a full length movie, even Elmo in Grouchland (which is why it tanked).

That said, I hope Sony takes this as a cue to release a widescreen version of EIG with bonus features. I'm a completest.

heralde

12-06-2008, 10:12 PM

if your child only pays attention to Elmo, get them only Elmo.

Or expose them to classic Sesame Street as well as the new stuff, so they don't grow up thinking only new is good and old is bad. Believe me, it will pay off later in life. Just because your kid likes one thing now, doesn't mean they shouldn't be shown other things that could be good for them. ;)

Redsonga

12-06-2008, 10:15 PM

Ugh, I HATE people like that. Sesame Street isn't a babysitter you call every 5 minutes. if your child only pays attention to Elmo, get them only Elmo.
Or get them SS without as much Elmo and just let their tastes widen even if they whine ;)

heralde

12-06-2008, 10:18 PM

Or get them SS without as much Elmo and just let their tastes widen even if they whine ;)

Thank you, exactly what I'm saying! :halo:

The Shoe Fairy

12-06-2008, 10:20 PM

Or get them SS without as much Elmo and just let their tastes widen even if they whine ;)
Who says that The Muppets had to be SS. Prehaps some fraggles would be the cure...:coy:

heralde

12-06-2008, 10:23 PM

Who says that The Muppets had to be SS. Prehaps some fraggles would be the cure...:coy:

How true! The point is I'm glad my parents exposed me to a bunch of different books and shows, even when I wasn't immediately enthusiastic, because I eventually learned to love them and enjoy them. Sometimes life is about discovery, not instant gratification. :)

AAO

12-06-2008, 10:23 PM

now we're getting waaay off topic.. problem is ppl somehow bring Elmo into every classic SS thing comparing.. let's just focus on the DVD coming out and what will be on it! That's the best part of it all...

the featurette is featured in the promo for the dvd.. so let's just ponder on what's to come! not what's already here and gone... past is the past.. elmo's come and kindly took over but let's look at the greater things that this dvd could promise classic SS fans!

Redsonga

12-06-2008, 10:24 PM

Who says that The Muppets had to be SS. Prehaps some fraggles would be the cure...:coy:

Well, I figure baby steps :). I think that it would help to have a taste for all sorts of characters though:). And this movie is good for that...

heralde

12-06-2008, 10:25 PM

now we're getting waaay off topic.. problem is ppl somehow bring Elmo into every classic SS thing comparing.. let's just focus on the DVD coming out and what will be on it! That's the best part of it all...

Yes yes, we're just concerned about how the DVD will be received by today's kids (and their parents ;) ). Hopefully minds will be open. Classic SS isn't just for older fans. :)`

the featurette is featured in the promo for the dvd.. so let's just ponder on what's to come!

I do hope it has some genunie talk about the movie, and not too superficial. :)

AAO

12-06-2008, 10:31 PM

Yes yes, we're just concerned about how the DVD will be received by today's kids (and their parents ;) ). Hopefully minds will be open. Classic SS isn't just for older fans. :)`

I do hope it has some genunie talk about the movie, and not too superficial. :)

i agree!

i do want interviews with Carroll Spinney and some of the human cast as well as other muppeteers... y'know? Sadly, I know that there probably can't be any "puppeteer" stuff with Carroll - like how they operated Oscar or Big Bird cuz it's for kids! Maybe as an easter egg? lol

could u imagine the shock kids would get then? oh my!

I would just like to know the whereabouts of miss finch and the dodo's.. not only the charaters but as wellas the puppets! that'd be great to bring'em out of storage and use them on SS!

Redsonga

12-06-2008, 10:37 PM

Sadly, I know that there probably can't be any "puppeteer" stuff with Carroll - like how they operated Oscar or Big Bird cuz it's for kids! Maybe as an easter egg? lol
could u imagine the shock kids would get then? oh my!

I actually even as an adult don't really want to see that, call me a silly little kid if you want to, but I still like thinking of them as two different 'people'. BB is one of the muppets I have a hard time seeing as just a 'thing':wisdom:. JR Gorg, Kermit, Barkley and Snuffy are also on that list :coy:

AAO

12-06-2008, 10:53 PM

well... i agree.. even though I know Carroll etc... is in there performing. I stillfeel like he's real. The only time I don't feel that is when Matt Vogel performs him.. I'm not use to that yet... being a puppeteer with some of our furry friends from muppets etc.. is fun! Treelo from Bear in the big blue house always seems real to me when we "perform" together.. lol...

but Carroll never wanted cameras around or anything when he was taking the 'bird' off or on... especially kids. there was a story of carroll filming as big bird in central park and a kid saw big bird taken off of him and the kid freaked out. carroll put the bird back on and chased after him to tell him that Big Bird was okay... lol . how sweet!

Even though you would see Jim in interviews with Kermit on his hands.. there was a relative reality to that Kermit was real. Just like when Kermit was on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson... the techs kept putting the mic on Kermit instead of Jim.. they forgot he was a puppet! haha!

A&E Biography was the first time that Big Bird was really "revealed" on camera as Big Bird in shots from the "hurricane episodes"... There's shots of him taking the bird on and off and operating him.. it was great to see.. Bear works the same way as Big Bird and it's so neat! I love the way they're performed...

But the dvd, i understand, wouldn't have that kind of material... it should though have lots of inteviews or making of the movie.. SOMETHING! It needs to be boosted and shown... at least pics of the set they built just for that movie... that set was amazing!

heralde

12-07-2008, 12:09 AM

Redsonga

12-07-2008, 12:43 AM

Personally I grew up seeing Muppet documentaries and how the puppets worked and it never bothered me, even at a very young age. I loved learning more. But all kids are different. I would have been relieved if I saw that there was a person under a puppet or costume becaused I got scared easily, lol.
I've always more lived in my own fantasy bubble *lol*
I guess I am one of the few where human beings scared me a lot more often than puppets:sympathy:. To me, puppets could do no real harm but real people, there was no limit to what they could do..but then, most of the live action movies I saw when I was little were very..depressing:p
But the dvd, i understand, wouldn't have that kind of material... it should though have lots of inteviews or making of the movie.. SOMETHING! It needs to be boosted and shown... at least pics of the set they built just for that movie... that set was amazing!
There should be something about the first main humans on SS, I have not seen Bob do anything in a long while:concern:

heralde

12-07-2008, 12:50 AM

I've always more lived in my own fantasy bubble *lol*
I guess I am one of the few where human beings scared me a lot more often than puppets:sympathy:. To me, puppets could do no real harm but real people, there was no limit to what they could do..but then, most of the live action movies I saw when I was little were very..depressing:p

Well I was a weird kid, lol. I was very shy and not particularly more comfortable around people. Just that I had a very active imagination and got nervous around those live walk around characters. Though, I didn't mind Sesame Place, so maybe it would have been OK, lol.

The Shoe Fairy

12-07-2008, 01:48 AM

Well I was a weird kid, lol. I was very shy and not particularly more comfortable around people. Just that I had a very active imagination and got nervous around those live walk around characters. Though, I didn't mind Sesame Place, so maybe it would have been OK, lol.
Lol I shook hands with a walk around banana and a doughnut off wrigley's ads. And some woman was like "Gee people are getting kinky with that banana"

frogboy4

12-07-2008, 02:15 AM

Caroll Spinney has done book signings with Oscar on his hand. I've been to one and there were plenty of kids around so I wouldn't see an issue with it in a behind the scenes capacity. The bird thing is a little more traumatic as it involves head removal. I hope there's of footage of Jim Henson, Richard Hunt, Jerry Nelson and Frank Oz too.

Drtooth

12-07-2008, 08:54 AM

Or expose them to classic Sesame Street as well as the new stuff, so they don't grow up thinking only new is good and old is bad. Believe me, it will pay off later in life. Just because your kid likes one thing now, doesn't mean they shouldn't be shown other things that could be good for them. ;)

But then again, it's hard to tell if a 1 year old can pay attention to anything... they like to explore the world around them most of all. If you just learned to walk, wouldn't you try to run?

I'd expose them to classic SS when they're older, and can appreciate it. A lot of the indignant parents that write those reviews buy these things for kids under 3 years old. And it's been proven TV isn't effective on kids that young.

Zack the Dog

12-07-2008, 10:31 AM

This is great news! I love the promo! I didn't think the first dvd release had a promo? or maybe i missed it. The cover as mentioned before makes me hate photoshop, lol! But I'm happy they already released it with the original poster art so you can just switch the dvd cases if you like. It also nice to see that Kermit was in the promo so we don't have to even have speculate that Kermit's part being edited out.:)

heralde

12-07-2008, 02:53 PM

But then again, it's hard to tell if a 1 year old can pay attention to anything... they like to explore the world around them most of all. If you just learned to walk, wouldn't you try to run?

I'd expose them to classic SS when they're older, and can appreciate it. A lot of the indignant parents that write those reviews buy these things for kids under 3 years old. And it's been proven TV isn't effective on kids that young.

I think you're right that TV watching period doesn't help 1 year olds much. They should get more opportunity to move around and explore. But I did watch SS when I was that young, before Elmo was around and I still enjoyed it (at least that's what my parents say lol). Kids didn't start watching it when they were 4 even back in the day. And I'm positive there are 1 year olds who enjoy classic SS today, as well as the Elmo stuff. :)

Redsonga

12-07-2008, 03:38 PM

But then again, it's hard to tell if a 1 year old can pay attention to anything... they like to explore the world around them most of all. If you just learned to walk, wouldn't you try to run?

I'd expose them to classic SS when they're older, and can appreciate it. A lot of the indignant parents that write those reviews buy these things for kids under 3 years old. And it's been proven TV isn't effective on kids that young.

If they are one year old though, I really don't see showing them the older show from the start as making them 'run'. It is such an early age that they are taking everything in and much of those things shown from the first five years is known to grow their tastes and character to began with, so why not give them something with more depth? Why not Big Bird's SS, FR, and classical novels like my parents did with me? Not non-stop hours of tv you understand, but when you do have tv it might as well be something good, older SS should not be seen as something you have to appreciate rather than just being able to enjoy from the start IMHO. Anymore that the fact that I did not know 99% of the guest stars on SS when I was little means that I didn't enjoy it and shouldn't have been watching it :coy:

muppetfan89

12-07-2008, 07:32 PM

I am so excited about this. I just wished they used the original cover, that's a great one. I already have that edition of the film, but I might trade it in, so I can get this one...:)

I also hope the features are great and not kiddy stuff. I hope they have a behind the scenes documentary and interviews with the cast, particurally Carroll Spinney, I would love to hear his experience with having his character in his own movie. He never talks about the movie in his autobiography for some reason.

heralde

12-07-2008, 07:38 PM

I also hope the features are great and not kiddy stuff. I hope they have a behind the scenes documentary and interviews with the cast, particurally Carroll Spinney, I would love to hear his experience with having his character in his own movie. He never talks about the movie in his autobiography for some reason.

Yeah I know that would be the best! Well, from a fan's pov, the film was a huge deal of course. But maybe for the actors it was just one of the many big events in 40 years. ::shrugs:: :)

Redsonga

12-07-2008, 08:08 PM

I am so excited about this. I just wished they used the original cover, that's a great one. I already have that edition of the film, but I might trade it in, so I can get this one...
I also hope the features are great and not kiddy stuff. I hope they have a behind the scenes documentary and interviews with the cast, particurally Carroll Spinney, I would love to hear his experience with having his character in his own movie. He never talks about the movie in his autobiography for some reason.

When I like the first movie poster of something I print a copy of it and just slip it/glue it into/onto the factory made one :). Instant better picture:excited:! I've done it with all of my favorite 80's movie dvds, the Care Bears Movie, and Secret Of NIMH posters are ten times better than the new art:coy:

Libba Yuki

12-07-2008, 08:20 PM

I like your idea Redsonga, I'll probably end up doing that when I get this on dvd. The original cover was so much nicer!

Anyway, it's really funny that I stumbled across this thread today...because a few hours ago I was discussing with my sister about getting this on dvd (since we both loved it growing up, and it still lived up to my memories of it when I caught part of it on tv last year).

I'm very much looking forward to this dvd release!

dwayne1115

12-08-2008, 07:23 AM

What would be great is if they would have ethier a Big Bird Comentery or a Carol Spinny Comentary.

Drtooth

12-08-2008, 11:53 AM

What would be great is if they would have ethier a Big Bird Comentery or a Carol Spinny Comentary.

Or better yet, an Oscar the Grouch commentary...

"Yeah, this scene took 5 hours to shoot, and we kept doing take after take after take. The whole thing lasts 2 minutes just for that, and everyone was screaming their heads off by the end of it. I REALLY wish they made more movies. That sort of stuff is what Grouches LIVE for! Heh heh heh."

Baby Gonzo

12-08-2008, 12:40 PM

frogboy4

12-08-2008, 01:15 PM

Wow. That cover only reminds me of why I hate DVD covers and movie posters of today. It looks like bad Photoshop. At least with the old DVD, we had very nice cover art.

Don't get me wrong. I'm glad to see this re-released! I'm curious about the special features.

This cover is simple and moderately attractive, but has no depth, artistry or interest beyond the initial grab of attention that something Sesame is about. I get it - crisp clean big portraits of the characters pops more than the beautiful hand drawn poster. Still, I think we've conditioned people (especially young people) to expect this look rather than something of quality. This current image is rather disposable while the other is a work of art. I think there's a market for companies to advertise alternative classic covers to a mature market of cinemaphiles. Comic books do it, why not DVDs? Also a send away coupon for a promotional reprint of the poster would also be a nice addition. Just a thought. In this current economy there's more than one way to turn a buck. This sort of thing used to be fundamental with records and comics when I was a kid. It would work here too. :wisdom:

Drtooth

12-08-2008, 01:57 PM

This cover is simple and moderately attractive, but has no depth, artistry or interest beyond the initial grab of attention that something Sesame is about. I get it - crisp clean big portraits of the characters pops more than the beautiful hand drawn poster. Still, I think we've conditioned people (especially young people) to expect this look rather than something of quality. This current image is rather disposable while the other is a work of art.

Oddly enough, considering it's an anniversary edition, you WOULD tend to think that they would have made it the cover art, instead of the same old same old stock photos. But then again, when was the last time someone even saw a painted illustration for a movie poster, rather than some photo shoot. I think it's depressing that horrid films like "Mommas Boys" (or Grannies boys or whatever that was) only use illustrated poster art to bring back memories of Animal House (like those films compare)... I think the Indiana Jones 4 one was illustrated, or at least a photo manipulated to look like it.

But as far as something for collectors, I restate my quandary... it's totally yellow feathery tail backwards, if you think about it.

Redsonga

12-08-2008, 03:55 PM

This cover is simple and moderately attractive, but has no depth, artistry or interest beyond the initial grab of attention that something Sesame is about. I get it - crisp clean big portraits of the characters pops more than the beautiful hand drawn poster. Still, I think we've conditioned people (especially young people) to expect this look rather than something of quality. This current image is rather disposable while the other is a work of art. I think there's a market for companies to advertise alternative classic covers to a mature market of cinemaphiles. Comic books do it, why not DVDs? Also a send away coupon for a promotional reprint of the poster would also be a nice addition. Just a thought. In this current economy there's more than one way to turn a buck. This sort of thing used to be fundamental with records and comics when I was a kid. It would work here too. :wisdom:
That's why years ago when DVDs were young and dinosaurs ruled the earth my little OCD mind (or is it called something else now? Oh well, it is a mix of loving details and hating change:coy:) started my hobby of printing out DVD sized movie posters (glossy paper :3!) and putting them on my DVD covers to have the VHS memories and my DVDs to. I figure it is not doing anything wrong since I bought the movie at full price, sometimes three times:excited:!

mbmfrog

12-10-2008, 12:17 PM

All right, but when is is coming out, is it just in time for the 40th anniversary ?

SesameStMuppets

12-10-2008, 02:52 PM

It seems to me that we're in a bit of a catch 22...

Follow That Bird will more than likely be geared toward more of a 'Old School' generation of viewers. But unless there's a typewriter telling us that this edition isn't intended for today's pre-schoolers, it will probably be a bit kid-proof; hence an Elmo on the cover.

We probably won't be seeing any kind of interviews with puppeteers or filmamkers, as much as that pains me. The featurette will probably be along the lines of the 2 minute one from Elmo in Grouchland: character interviews and an explination of the plot. Hopefully, being that this is the 25th Anniversary (in the 40th Anniversary year) there will be a bit more depth... character commentaries would be incredible; in the eyes and ears of a preschooler anything more would just be "Who is that and why is he talking when Big Bird is; who taught him those manners, Gorgs? Wait, Gorgs?" I digress...

What might be neat is a "Big Bird's Photo Album" where you see pictures from on the set where Big Bird 'visited' as he traveled back to Sesame Street... This could be seen two ways "look at all those cool people Big Bird met" for the kids and "look at all those cool prople who got to meet Big Bird" for the adult fans.

Just a few thoughts... Can't wait to see all of this progress!

heralde

12-10-2008, 04:11 PM

But unless there's a typewriter telling us that this edition isn't intended for today's pre-schoolers

I really REALLY hope they don't do that again. :coy:

Redsonga

12-10-2008, 05:47 PM

Follow That Bird will more than likely be geared toward more of a 'Old School' generation of viewers. But unless there's a typewriter telling us that this edition isn't intended for today's pre-schoolers, it will probably be a bit kid-proof; hence an Elmo on the cover
But there is not really anything that makes the movie that way, I mean the story is very timeless and preschoolers are still preschoolers that like a good sony and silly songs :)

heralde

12-10-2008, 05:57 PM

But there is not really anything that makes the movie that way, I mean the story is very timeless and preschoolers are still preschoolers that like a good sony and silly songs

Yeah kids don't change that much, they still appreciate quality. ;)

Plus the film isn't about education so much; it's more about a touching story. :)

Not that I think the Old School sets should have had that disclaimer for education either! ;)

SesameStMuppets

12-10-2008, 06:25 PM

Don't get me wrong... I think any kid of any age could watch Follow That Bird and not be physically or emotionally harmed and/or scarred. Unfortunately, most Sesame viewers aren't interested if their interested if their furry red friend doesn't rupture their ear drums with his high squeal...

When i say this movie is for the 'Old School'ers i simply mean 20 somes or older are more apt to watch this movie than today's preschoolers. It's a sad commentary, but it's a post-Henson world and Elmo rules...

heralde

12-10-2008, 06:32 PM

I mean I won't be in denial, Elmo is very popular. But I know there are also kids who like classic SS. It was true when I was a kid and it's true now, that kids who don't follow the trend are rarely heard from. But they're still out there. ;)

SesameStMuppets

12-10-2008, 06:44 PM

I totally agree! It's too bad that the show has gone this route. Not to get off the topic of the New DVD, but this whole Elmo's World thing is dissapointing. Supposedly, the show has been reformatted to keep up with other children's television shows. What's ironic about that is that the shows Sesame Street's competing against were made to fashion Sesame Street.

Any whoo...

Any more thoughts as to more features?

heralde

12-10-2008, 06:54 PM

What's ironic about that is that the shows Sesame Street's competing against were made to fashion Sesame Street.

How true, and if you asked them, they'd say they couldn't have existed without Sesame Street in the first place. :insatiable: :wisdom:

The idea of a photo gallery is nice. As a producer from Fraggle Rock once pointed out, it's hard to find video footage from the '80s because home movies was still a growing art. That doesn't mean nothing exists of course, just have to wait and see. :)

Drtooth

12-10-2008, 07:22 PM

Hey, All I want is that they have this in wide screen. No pan and scan jive. And of course, a new digital transfer....

But I've seen a lot of random movies have super special editions that have a full second disk of random stuff (Monster Squad for example).

So whatever it is, I just don't wanna see a video tape ported over to a DVD with a flashy new cover.....

heralde

12-10-2008, 07:25 PM

If they had a choice, I'd be fine with that. :)

Drtooth

12-10-2008, 07:35 PM

I know a lot of people still have old televisions, mainly because I am one... but I fail to see why they produce movie DVD's in full frame still. Usually that's the only one they put on sale, and the only one you can find. They should have BOTH versions on a DVD at least.

I wouldn't usually have cared, but once again... bad experiance with Ghostbusters. Very bad, nightmarish experiance with Ghostbusters...

And Elmo in Grouchland isn't all that hot either (wow, full frame ruined that opening number in Grouchland something fierce).

heralde

12-10-2008, 07:40 PM

Yeah and even movies that didn't do well often have the option. So why can't it just be a requirement or something?

SesameStMuppets

12-10-2008, 08:02 PM

Quite frankly, any kind of special features will be welcomed (even a booklet, a kin to Old School)! I've never heard of any type of behind the scene things; the most was a picture from www.streetgangbook.com (http://www.streetgangbook.com) 's gallery. Old footage would be better than new footage, but again, anything would be great :wisdom: !

AAO

12-10-2008, 08:53 PM

I agree. I don't think "new" footage with the characters would be cool. Like, I would be worried that they would interview Elmo on what he thought or something!

I would love to see as much for this movie. It was an amazing movie! Anytime I mention it people go crazy because they loved it! I don't look at the film as a "kids film"... It's a original idea. I also noticed they break the "fourth wall" (the audience) a few times. And usually it was Big Bird.

In all other Muppet films, Kermit and the others made a point to explain or make fun of they were making a movie... Which is great! But you knew that they were "actors" whereas everything that happened to Big Bird was real in a sense...

heralde

12-10-2008, 08:59 PM

My favorite moment in FTB, even if it's a little sad, is when Big Bird is leaving and Maria yells, "Don't forget, Big Bird, we love you!" The music is so melancholy at that moment. ::sniff::

Drtooth

12-10-2008, 09:12 PM

I agree. I don't think "new" footage with the characters would be cool. Like, I would be worried that they would interview Elmo on what he thought or something!

Any old footage would have to still exist, and not be tossed aside. Remember, these movies were made before the idea of keeping footage for special features existed.... why does a film like, let's say Van Wilder 2: Rise of Taj has hours of footage? Because the film is made into a DVD before they even release it... so they hang on to all the idiotic bloopers where everyone flubs their lines and falls over stuff and every single scene that didn't need to be seen no matter what.

All I'm saying, new special features, old special features... as long as they take this directly from the film print, and not just some video tape they had lying around, I'll be happy.

heralde

12-10-2008, 09:14 PM

I wonder what Elmo would say in an interview considering his small part in the film:

"::sigh:: All Elmo did was stand in a window at the end! Elmo coulda be a contender!" Hehe

getup

12-10-2008, 09:34 PM

today is the first i've heard of this release. i will gladly replace my old full frame copy with this new remastered widescreen copy. i'm not really expecting much on the bonus features as it's a single disc and amazon is selling it for 13.99 .

getup

12-10-2008, 09:35 PM

oh yeah...and i wouldn't really even mind if elmo in grouchland was never mentioned again and possibly erased from existence. no offense to the elmo lovers, but when i saw that movie i wanted to cry. far from the quality of follow that bird.

Ilikemuppets

12-11-2008, 03:01 AM

The movie trailer is for Viewing on Hulu.

SesameStMuppets

12-11-2008, 06:34 AM

i'm not really expecting much on the bonus features as it's a single disc and amazon is selling it for 13.99

Let us not forget, though, how incredible the Special Edition Emett Otter DVD is (sans the sans of Kermit :) ) for a whopping price of only $9.99.

And we already know Follow that Bird will deliver on the Frog!

a_Mickey_Muppet

12-11-2008, 05:20 PM

This IS great news...i already have the FTB dvd WB put out in 2002...but THIS one looks awesome, i plan on getting this new dvd...but Elmo on the cover..ehhhh:concern:

frogboy4

12-11-2008, 05:22 PM

This IS great news...i already have the FTB dvd WB put out in 2002...but THIS one looks awesome, i plan on getting this new dvd...but Elmo on the cover..ehhhh:concern:

At least he's quiet and in the corner. :p

Super Scooter

12-11-2008, 05:36 PM

"Elmo can't help it if Elmo's popular!"

a_Mickey_Muppet

12-11-2008, 05:38 PM

At least he's quiet and in the corner. :p

lol yeah ture jammie :D I mean i DONT hate elmo, but theres JUST to much of him and Abbys getting there too! I wish for my old Sesame Days with Big Bird (he's my FAV out of all the SS muppets) bert and ernie and cookie and so on...When I take days off during thr week day, IF im up, I'll catch SS on our PBS, it starts at 10am here, and I can watch MOST of it, than when Elmos world comes on i walk away from my living room tv or change the channel :sympathy:

Drtooth

12-12-2008, 01:08 PM

At least he's quiet and in the corner. :p

Sitting there quitely on the corner, waiting for his paycheck for the photo shoot... Let's just say "Product Branding."

I mean, look at the cover of "Sing Yourself Sillier at the Movies"... (http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/muppet/images/6/60/Singyourselfsillier.jpg)

Cookie Monster is only in one song for 2 seconds... and yet, he's on the cover behind Telly (look very closely at Telly's hair... you can clearly see that Cookie was almost photo retouched into the scene).

JEANYLASER

12-12-2008, 02:58 PM

I love this movie I hope to get this for christmas!

muppetfan89

12-12-2008, 11:57 PM

I love this movie I hope to get this for christmas!

I would too, but it's coming out in March. :sympathy:

Super Leviathan

12-14-2008, 01:46 AM

I passed on the original DVD since it was foolscreen, but I love the movie dearly (The grouch diner might just be one of the funniest scenes in a kids' film) so I will definitely pick this up.

Warner Bros. generally is very good about doing double dips on their movies that improve on the original release. Sony generally isn't known for that, so I doubt a better release of Elmo in Grouchland is in the cards.

heralde

12-15-2008, 05:49 PM

I would too, but it's coming out in March. :sympathy:

I guess the reason so many cool things are being released after Christmas is because companies figure the public is eager to spend whatever Christmas money they might have been given by generous relatives. Hehe ;)

dwayne1115

12-17-2008, 08:10 AM

Wow Sesame has two great things comming out after Christmas that i want. Street Gang and now this. I hope that this has more then one little featuer I really would love to hear some commentary on this.

Drtooth

12-17-2008, 08:34 AM

Warner Bros. generally is very good about doing double dips on their movies that improve on the original release. Sony generally isn't known for that, so I doubt a better release of Elmo in Grouchland is in the cards.

Cough Cough... except for the original TMNT films.... all we're getting for the 25th anniversary is a cardboard slip cover... no Digital Copy, no behind the scenes... nothing.

dwayne1115

12-17-2008, 05:44 PM

Then why re relesaes it? I would have thought that Waner would have got all the rights to the turtles after doing there lattest movie. Anyways that was way off topic. I can't wait to see this movie once agin.

heralde

12-17-2008, 05:57 PM

Because it's another opportunity for the DVD to get noticed and people to buy it.

dwayne1115

12-17-2008, 06:11 PM

Because it's another opportunity for the DVD to get noticed and people to buy it.

Good point (Hits face with Pie) mmm pie!

heralde

12-17-2008, 06:29 PM

Good point (Hits face with Pie) mmm pie!

Aw hehe don't feel bad. I do wish when companies do that, that they provide some kind of extra material.

Featurette is usually a good word to hear (as is the case with this FtB DVD, hehe).

dwayne1115

12-17-2008, 06:38 PM

Aw hehe don't feel bad. I do wish when companies do that, that they provide some kind of extra material.

Featurette is usually a good word to hear (as is the case with this FtB DVD, hehe).

No this is a good pie me the Swetish Chef the Trash Heap from (FR) Oscar and Crazy Harry made it. The Trash Heap said there where to many cooks in the kicthen so Crazy Harry blew it up. Next thing i know I'm laying on the ground with a Dozzer stick in my ear and this wonderful pie on my face!

heralde

12-17-2008, 06:41 PM

Oh, well carry on then! ;)

dwayne1115

12-17-2008, 06:53 PM

Thanks i think i will oh BTW want some pie :crazy:

AAO

12-17-2008, 09:34 PM

I just hope that the featurette is well worth it. The "Jump to A Song" feature is not a "special feature" ... it's your DVD player being lazy for you so you don't have to go Chapter to Chapter.. HAAHA!

heralde

12-17-2008, 09:38 PM

The "Jump to A Song" feature is not a "special feature" ... it's your DVD player being lazy for you so you don't have to go Chapter to Chapter.. HAAHA!

Haha, well yes, lol. Still, sometimes I do enjoy having all the songs easily found, like in an ipod. ;)

Drtooth

12-19-2008, 11:34 AM

Then why re relesaes it?

So someone who apparently didn't care about the movie being on DVD for the past 10 years can see the shiny new slip cover and say... "WOW! 25th anniversary! I'm absolutely sure I didn't care about it until now." Considering how hard us Turtles fans tried to lobby them to make a special edition, even of just the first one, and even just to release it on Bluray, I'm pretty angry at them right now for that.

This better not be a repackage, and I agree...

I just hope that the featurette is well worth it. The "Jump to A Song" feature is not a "special feature" ... it's your DVD player being lazy for you so you don't have to go Chapter to Chapter.. HAAHA!

Heh... know what bugs me? When the Special features include "Full Frame, interactive menus, select a scene, and color presentation of a color movie." Especially if the interactive menus are a way of saying, "you can click on screen to start the movie or to go to select a scene." It's a step up from video tape (not having to rewind/fast forward) and that's what's so special about it.

turkishproverb

12-22-2008, 04:54 AM

Widescreen? I have some pre ordering to do.

Ilikemuppets

12-24-2008, 05:27 PM

Whoa cool! I have to see this movie in widescreen!

AAO

12-24-2008, 10:45 PM

The overall tone with this film is so awesome. I really hope this DVD gives it the treatment it deserves!

trekkie1701E

01-01-2009, 03:30 PM

Wow!

trekkie1701E

01-01-2009, 03:32 PM

In the words of Krusty, "I think I just seltzered myself"

BobThePizzaBoy

01-06-2009, 06:14 PM

Oscarfan

01-06-2009, 08:13 PM

Bonus features could be better, but it's better than nothing.

Ilikemuppets

01-06-2009, 09:57 PM

Man! Why do I even ask things at this point like why did they stick Elmo on the cover? :p At least they didn't stick Abby on their or something... :rolleyes: It's just misleading. *sigh*

muppetfan89

01-10-2009, 06:07 AM

Amazon seems to have a picture of the back of the box now, revealing the bonus features.

An interview with Caroll Spinney (WHOA!)
Jump to songs feature (ported from the last DVD I take it)
Sing-along subtitle track (eh, okay I guess)
DVD-ROM downloadable coloring sheets
Theatrical trailerNothing too special outside of the Spinney interview which is still pretty sweet!

can't wait to see Caroll's interview, but I wash there was interviews with the rest of the cast, as well a behind the scenes documentary. Other than that, I'm excited about getting this.

Overall, it seems like another kid-friendy DVD, but I kind of expected that, but it's still good, to see the interview, and that fulm is remastered and in widescreen.

DrSarcasm

01-11-2009, 08:13 PM

And Elmo in Grouchland isn't all that hot either (wow, full frame ruined that opening number in Grouchland something fierce).

You know, I just happened to put Elmo in Grouchland in my Netflix instant cue so my daughter could watch it via my Xbox 360. Imagine my surprise when I noticed that IT WAS IN WIDESCREEN! So I guess a widescreen print must be available, just not on DVD.

heralde

01-11-2009, 08:19 PM

I bet there just wasn't that much behind the scenes footage to be found; people didn't tape home movies the way we do now. At least there is one interview! :wisdom:

Drtooth

01-12-2009, 01:07 PM

I bet there just wasn't that much behind the scenes footage to be found; people didn't tape home movies the way we do now. At least there is one interview! :wisdom:

And.... REALLY...

Formats: Color, DVD-Video, Original recording remastered, Widescreen, NTSC

WideSCREEN! WHOAAAAhhhhh..... WhOAAAhhh.... (a dozen points to whoever gets that one)

An interview is as good as we can hope for, to say the least. DVD's of current movies have hours and hours and separate disks of 8 different making of features you never really get around to watching, deleted scenes that basically say, "In case you were curious, there's a scene that didn't need to be used here..." 20 minutes of actors forgetting their lines and tripping over props, and basically a lot of other stuff that screams, "Why did you bother going to see it in theaters? We pretty much just release these to DVD anyway" Indeed, new movies are made to have a short run in theaters before they make the real money.

But things like FTB, and others... all that stuff was junked and unless someone had a copy of something in their basement (Weird Al had a VHS of all the stuff cut from UHF, and that's the only reason it existed).

heralde

01-12-2009, 10:22 PM

But things like FTB, and others... all that stuff was junked and unless someone had a copy of something in their basement (Weird Al had a VHS of all the stuff cut from UHF, and that's the only reason it existed).

Yeah I mean it's rather tragic that we've only recently realized the importance of preservation and all. Still, at least we are more aware of it now. :)

And I love your signature btw, Dr Tooth! :D

Drtooth

01-13-2009, 09:53 AM

Yeah I mean it's rather tragic that we've only recently realized the importance of preservation and all. Still, at least we are more aware of it now. :)

Of course, some things, as I recounted earlier, should be best left in the trash. Too bad that you only realize that when seeing a 20-30 minute featurette of unfunny alternate lines and the cast and crew tripping over the same prop and smiling like idiots... I like my outtakes at the end of a movie over the end credits (being a Jackie Chan fan and all).

That said, I'm sure there were some great stuff from FTB we may never see or hear about ever again. And it would have been great to see all the cut sequences from all the other Muppet movies (Statler and Waldorf in TMM and MTM for one).... but then of course, a lot of cut scenes are just lengthened pauses and exchanges that need not see the light of day... which basically covers half the DVD's I've ever seen (But why the heck did they cut the 7 second frame animated Oogie Boogie dance from Nightmare Before Christmas? It was animated).

You know, I just happened to put Elmo in Grouchland in my Netflix instant cue so my daughter could watch it via my Xbox 360. Imagine my surprise when I noticed that IT WAS IN WIDESCREEN! So I guess a widescreen print must be available, just not on DVD.

My guess is that the DVD version is basically the VHS version with jump to a scene. It would be great to see it released during the 40th in a special edition with Wideframe too... (It ain't that bad of a movie... it ain't no FTB, but it ain't as bad as everyone made it out to be).

monkeyjb1988

01-27-2009, 01:58 PM

I'm glad they're releasing a widescreen FTB. While not perfect, it's still better that the full screen version. The cover is okay, but not as good as the poster art from the first one. I think it got changed so people don't think it's the same release. Anyway, I am definitely getting this DVD. I held off getting the first one only because I hate fullscreen versions of widescreen movies. Now, I can get it and enjoy the orignal composition.

muppetfan89

01-27-2009, 02:12 PM

you know what what would be cool, if there was an audio commentary with Carroll Spinney, director Ken Kwapis, and some other cast and crew members. I escpecially would like to hear how Ken Kwapis, took the approach of directing a children's film.

Kiki

01-28-2009, 02:19 AM

muppetfan89

01-28-2009, 03:58 PM

heralde

01-28-2009, 04:02 PM

becuase then kids will be dissappointed that he's only in the movie for a few seconds.

Yeah but at that point, the parents have already spent their money, hehe. ;)

I mean, I loved a certain movie when I was little, but then it got taped over. So my parents bought me a different version of the same story. At first I was really upset that it was different, and not what I wanted. But I eventually got over it and still enjoy it to this day.

Parents shouldn't be so concerned with catering to their kids' every whim. They should also introduce their kids to new things, so they don't grow up only caring about things in their little bubble. (That's the way many teenagers think today).

Drtooth

01-29-2009, 11:14 AM

Hmm, I'm quite happy with the features, I think they're pretty good. I know I'm being awfully picky, but still don't like the idea of Elmo being on the cover. I don't mind the little guy, but he only appeared in Follow That Bird fer about 2 seconds, he wasn't even a core character at the time, WHY is he on the cover? :confused: But I know we've been over this, so yeah. Can't wait! :excited:

I still think that's a pretty stupid move on SW's part...I know Elmo sells and all, but Ernie and Bert (especially Ernie) can too, and they had a much bigger part in the film. It's a branding thing if anything that Elmo's on the cover. I agree with what herald is saying, I do think some younger kids will notice an absence of Elmo... but hey, Elmo has his own movie. If kids would rather watch that, I mean, it's like 5 bucks at Target.

Though, I doubt that would seriously be issue enough with kids. it is an enthralling movie.

heralde

01-29-2009, 11:46 AM

I agree with what herald is saying, I do think some younger kids will notice an absence of Elmo... but hey, Elmo has his own movie. If kids would rather watch that, I mean, it's like 5 bucks at Target.

Well what I was saying was kids should be taught to be open to new things, not always given just the movie they want. That's not a good precedent to set. That's what many critics say about Sesame Street, that's it's too much about instant gratification. Life and learning won't always be that easy. I think it would be good for kids to be introduce to a movie that's outside of their comfort level, like Follow That Bird. :)

The other day I saw a mother and child trying to pick a tape in the store. The kid was insisting on Teletubbies. The mother was slightly annoyed because the kid had seen that video a million times. I admired that mother's resolve. Kids have to be introduced to new things; they can't always be given exactly what they want.

dwayne1115

01-29-2009, 05:44 PM

If I gave my kids everything they wanted when they wanted it I would have 4 very spoiled and disrespctfull kids on my hands. Wait a second i do have disrespectful kids on my hand, and I don't catter to there every I want!

Redsonga

01-30-2009, 07:06 PM

[QUOTE=heralde;731784]Well what I was saying was kids should be taught to be open to new things, not always given just the movie they want. That's not a good precedent to set. That's what many critics say about Sesame Street, that's it's too much about instant gratification. Life and learning won't always be that easy. I think it would be good for kids to be introduce to a movie that's outside of their comfort level, like Follow That Bird.
SST is a whole lot...gentler? Less conflict filled? Than it was back in my day for sure..I'm not sure if I would call that having more 'instant gratification' as I would being more PC so they don't risk getting yelled at by one crazy parent :sympathy: It is a shame...But learning did use to be harder on SST and have more of a plot, IMHO:zany:

The other day I saw a mother and child trying to pick a tape in the store. The kid was insisting on Teletubbies. The mother was slightly annoyed because the kid had seen that video a million times. I admired that mother's resolve. Kids have to be introduced to new things; they can't always be given exactly what they want.
When I have a baby I am sidestepping that whole thing and not having them even see Teletubbies to began with :coy:

Drtooth

01-31-2009, 09:01 AM

The other day I saw a mother and child trying to pick a tape in the store. The kid was insisting on Teletubbies. The mother was slightly annoyed because the kid had seen that video a million times. I admired that mother's resolve. Kids have to be introduced to new things; they can't always be given exactly what they want.

What kid even still likes Teletubbies anymore? My local PBS hasn't even had it on its schedule for almost a year now. :flirt:

But I get what you're saying. Though, I think FTB is a great movie for older SS watching kids. I mean, how many of them will get the "North by Northwest" reference? I didn't even get that until I saw it on TV a few years ago.

Here's something, though... according to the specifications, it has audio in Spanish, French and... Japanese! ? ! ? ! I am definately getting this now.. (man, do I wish the Tiny Toons DVD had a Japanese audio option).

Redsonga

01-31-2009, 12:31 PM

The what reference? I don't even know what that is :(...
Anyway, I don't think 'getting' references is a requirement for truly enjoying FTB at all. I've loved it since back when all I cared about was Telly and the honker in their car...Like any good movie it has layers...And even the topmost one is better than Teletubbies;) (which my PBS still shows, along with Barney)

heralde

01-31-2009, 12:43 PM

SST is a whole lot...gentler? Less conflict filled? Than it was back in my day for sure..I'm not sure if I would call that having more 'instant gratification' as I would being more PC so they don't risk getting yelled at by one crazy parent It is a shame...But learning did use to be harder on SST and have more of a plot, IMHO:zany:

Well this was a very skilled media expert from the '70s, he was really good, not a naysayer or anything. He just meant that Sesame Street (in the old days and today) always makes learning fun and the pace is pretty quick. Whereas in school, learning can take many years and it's not always fun. He was just concerned that it wasn't representing the way life will ultimately be.

When I have a baby I am sidestepping that whole thing and not having them even see Teletubbies to began with

Amen!

Though, I think FTB is a great movie for older SS watching kids. I mean, how many of them will get the "North by Northwest" reference? I didn't even get that until I saw it on TV a few years ago.

See I've just never been a believer of that. Kids always watch movies that are "too old" for them. And even though they have no idea what's going on, somehow they enjoy them anyway. :)

Redsonga

01-31-2009, 01:34 PM

Well this was a very skilled media expert from the '70s, he was really good, not a naysayer or anything. He just meant that Sesame Street (in the old days and today) always makes learning fun and the pace is pretty quick. Whereas in school, learning can take many years and it's not always fun. He was just concerned that it wasn't representing the way life will ultimately be.
The thing is learning does start out as fun in the beginning I think, and for me at least it is still fun and I love it. It is hard of course, but being hard does not always take all the fun out of things :). I think I have SST to thank for teaching me that..or just Forgetful Jones, one of the two :3

heralde

01-31-2009, 02:03 PM

The thing is learning does start out as fun in the beginning I think, and for me at least it is still fun and I love it. It is hard of course, but being hard does not always take all the fun out of things :). I think I have SST to thank for teaching me that..or just Forgetful Jones, one of the two :3

Oh it's great that you still find learning fun, it's a rare thing. :) I think in general kids don't associate conventional school with fun and resent hard work that takes time (I'm not ripping on kids, just saying, hehe). But I do think Sesame Street occasionally tried to make the point that an important task may take time, but it's worth it. :)

petrieboy

02-01-2009, 11:58 PM

Thank goodness that the dumbing down of America is smartening up a little. Warner Bros. is releasing it WIDESCREEN? The way it was filmed? Why? Because every darned TV today is shaped that way anyway. Now just remember when you watch your old TV reruns on your widescreen TVs, you need to change the TV format so that it isn't stretched out.

This was a charming little film, and it's so good to see that it's being returned to its former glory. Extras are okay sometimes, but what's important is to get the actual film in top form.

Ilikemuppets

02-15-2009, 06:11 PM

Oh it's great that you still find learning fun, it's a rare thing. :) I think in general kids don't associate conventional school with fun and resent hard work that takes time (I'm not ripping on kids, just saying, hehe). But I do think Sesame Street occasionally tried to make the point that an important task may take time, but it's worth it. :)"Trying and trying again"

Gonzo14

02-22-2009, 05:16 PM

http://muppet.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page

On the right side it shows the cover for the 25th anniversary edition of Follow That Bird, along with Big Bird, the cover also features Oscar, The Count, Grover, Cookie Monster, and Elmo

Elmo's not even in this movie unless you count the few seconds when his head pops out of the window, Instead they could have Ernie, Bert, Telly, or Snuffleupagus, all of whom had larger roles in the movie

For the most part I like Elmo, even though I sometimes think he gets too much attention, but putting him on a cover of a movie he's not even in kinda bugs me