"The Doozers" preschool series under development

[Traveling Matt]

L.A.-based The Jim Henson Company has teamed up with Toronto's Decode Entertainment to bring beloved Fraggle Rock characters The Doozers to life in a 3-D animated preschool series that the pair plans to unveil at MIPTV.

Anyone familiar with the calypso-tinged strains of the theme to Jim Henson's much-loved early '80s puppet series Fraggle Rock should recall the tiny hardhat-clad characters that toiled tirelessly in the background, building miniature structures ultimately gobbled up by the much larger Fraggles. In this series, those wee workers known as the Doozers have been cast into the spotlight and will take on their construction work above ground. Moreover, underpinning the show that focuses on a trio of new apprentice Doozers - named Baxter, Puzzlebea and Daze, who learn through teamwork and cooperation - is a curriculum built around green technology and eco consciousness.

"The curriculum is related to our other science shows," says TJHC co-CEO Lisa Henson, "but it's oriented toward ecological concepts and ways of thinking about re-use, waste, economizing and limiting our ecological footprint." To help craft the curriculum, Decode EVP of production and development Beth Stevenson says her team, which is heading up production efforts in Toronto, has brought in an advisor who specializes in green building practices. "He's a civil engineer from the University of Toronto whose input brings a whole other level to the scripts," she says. "He turned us on to the notion of vertical building and has introduced us to futuristic, enviro-friendly tools that we have versioned for the Doozers."

As for the business nuts and bolts, TJHC and Decode have set the budget at US$300,00 per half hour for the 52 x 11-minute series and have moved into pre-production and are testing animation. Decode Enterprises is handling worldwide distribution outside the US, while Henson looks after global L&M activities. The pair is currently gauging broadcast interest and looking for presales to kick the project into full production by fall 2009 for a 2010 delivery.

http://www.kidscreen.com/articles/news/20090324/doozers.html

[Traveling Matt]

The front page of the website, www.kidscreen.com, currently offers a look at a CG Doozer from the new series.

Hopefully this will be a success and may create more permanent brand strength and awareness, in addition to contributing positive synergy to the film.

[minor muppetz]

First CGI Twiddlebugs, now CGI Doozers? Well, it might work well...

[Traveling Matt]

Here's a link to that photo, in case it disappears from the home page:

http://www.kidscreen.com/articles/news/20090324/doozers.main.jpg

[Colbynfriends]

First CGI Twiddlebugs, now CGI Doozers? Well, it might work well...
You never know. I think this sounds kind of interesting. Thanks for sharing that with us, I can't wait to see what develpos.

[Redsonga]

Eeek! They look scary O.o! I dunno, I am not fan of the doozers but at least I thought they looked cute in Fraggle Rock...These new ones, not so much, even for CGI...

[RedPiggy]

LOL ... I'll have to get used to the Charlie-Brown-esque-won't-your-head-fall-off thing. I was kind of surprised about the names. I thought the running gag with Doozers was using tech names ... could they be named after buildings or something? It took awhile in the FR series for the writers to seem to enjoy writing the Doozers. It's nice to see (finally) an attempt to bring them out as much as the Fraggles and Gorgs. They shouldn't be boring just because they like to work instead of playing around. Our country barely has a work ethic as it is. A little Doozer-morality won't kill us. :)

edit: Ya know, I don't recall seeing antennae on that pic...

[KingMokey]

Great, just what we need from Henson. More of the "hey, remember this? You used to like this!" that I'm used to, with surprise surprise, NO puppetry involved. I'm beginning to think more and more that this is Henson's long-term plan, to completely phase out puppetry from its core programming. Puppeteers are expensive, let's move more toward 3D animation, which is less expensive!

Sorry to be so negative (and in my first post! where are my manners), but this new prospect of a Doozers show frightens me. For two reasons, one because I love the original Fraggle Rock so much, and two because I'm sorry I have NO confidence in Henson in its current state to produce anything that will live up to the beauty and charm and legacy of the original material. Feel bad saying it like that, but that's the facts.

[Oscarfan]

I wonder if we'll see some Fraggle cameos in the show.

[Traveling Matt]

Considering how environmentalism is a major theme of this show, I think it sounds promising and could certainly parallel the original series while speaking to our world now. It's one of the few JHC concepts that really seems like something Jim would do today. I wish them luck.

I guess this must be the television project mentioned in a recent press release. Since it sounds like it might come before the movie, it's possible this will be the first new Fraggle material in nearly twenty-five years. I'm all for it, even if they do need to add antennae.

[RedPiggy]

Great, just what we need from Henson. More of the "hey, remember this? You used to like this!" that I'm used to, with surprise surprise, NO puppetry involved. I'm beginning to think more and more that this is Henson's long-term plan, to completely phase out puppetry from its core programming. Puppeteers are expensive, let's move more toward 3D animation, which is less expensive!

Sorry to be so negative (and in my first post! where are my manners), but this new prospect of a Doozers show frightens me. For two reasons, one because I love the original Fraggle Rock so much, and two because I'm sorry I have NO confidence in Henson in its current state to produce anything that will live up to the beauty and charm and legacy of the original material. Feel bad saying it like that, but that's the facts.
Well, I'm sure you're not the only one rolling your eyes at CGI. However, does that really get rid of puppetry? One of the newer documentaries I've seen had the Henson folks use motion-capture to animate their CGI stuff and also waldo-like devices to animate faces. So, technically, puppetry is still a factor, at least the way they do it.

[frogboy4]

Doozers easily lend themselves to CG so I'm not upset. I just hope that the Fraggle mythology remains adequately intact and that the writing is kept universally appealing rather than Barneyfied. I also hope the top-heavy Doozer design is tweaked a little, textures are added and quality is a priority (not to mention voice casting). :busy:

[Colbynfriends]

I wonder if we'll see some Fraggle cameos in the show.
I hope so, that'd be neat. :excited:

[a_Mickey_Muppet]

Ohhh sweet news! :) looking forward to his NEW DOOZER show :)

[minor muppetz]

Great, just what we need from Henson. More of the "hey, remember this? You used to like this!" that I'm used to, with surprise surprise, NO puppetry involved. I'm beginning to think more and more that this is Henson's long-term plan, to completely phase out puppetry from its core programming. Puppeteers are expensive, let's move more toward 3D animation, which is less expensive!

I thought it was the other way around. Regarding 3D animation being less expensive than puppeteers.

[Redsonga]

LOL ... I'll have to get used to the Charlie-Brown-esque-won't-your-head-fall-off thing. I was kind of surprised about the names. I thought the running gag with Doozers was using tech names ... could they be named after buildings or something? It took awhile in the FR series for the writers to seem to enjoy writing the Doozers. It's nice to see (finally) an attempt to bring them out as much as the Fraggles and Gorgs. They shouldn't be boring just because they like to work instead of playing around. Our country barely has a work ethic as it is. A little Doozer-morality won't kill us. :)

edit: Ya know, I don't recall seeing antennae on that pic...

It's the nose..I can handle the big head but everything is off center and squished looking:eek:. I have nothing against CGI doozers if they look like doozers and not sea sick ant...thingies:o.

[The Shoe Fairy]

Wow, this certainly does look exciting.

[heralde]

Honestly, the face looks off to me. And I do think CGI is being used too much when it's not always reliable and when other technologies would still work fine. But I'd have to see it in motion.

[Kiki]

Lol, I've always found The Doozers to be kinda boring but this is a rather cute concept. Younger generations will discover FR, as well.

[beaker]

Whoah, wasn't expecting this. Well I for one hope the "Cgi" Jim Henson Muppet type shows for kids do well, be it this or Sid the Science Kid or Skrumps.

That'd be a trip if this actually takes off, ala Dora Explorer or Veggietales. Definitely did not expect Fraggle Rock to come back to television in any form.

Im starting to realize that in the long run, the Muppet sell to Disney was in hindsight a *good* thing. As Jim Henson Company can focus on the cgi kid shows, Fraggle Rock movie, Dark Crystal 2, the Puppet Up/HA movie, and everything else.

[Beauregard]

Oh!

*pauses*

Oh! I am actually surprised at myself, because the idea of this show does not upset me or make me feel worried or anything! The Doozers really are the kind of creatures that would work well in CGI (Although I don't want to see them as CGI in the Fraggle Movie...) But in a side project, probably based further from the main centre of Fraggle Rock with new characters, this is kinda exciting.

And it will also probably bring people back memories of regular Fraggle Rock, and also draw attention to those tiny little creatures that are usually ignored! They have a great work-ethic, and would make great role-models!

Also, I seem to remember that Jim Henson was always a big fan of his little Doozer creations. I think this show would fit into his original Fraggle Rock vision.

[RedPiggy]

It's the nose..I can handle the big head but everything is off center and squished looking:eek:. I have nothing against CGI doozers if they look like doozers and not sea sick ant...thingies:o.
Personally, I think it's just because of his expression. It may look more normal in motion.

[The Shoe Fairy]

Whoah, wasn't expecting this. Well I for one hope the "Cgi" Jim Henson Muppet type shows for kids do well, be it this or Sid the Science Kid or Skrumps.

That'd be a trip if this actually takes off, ala Dora Explorer or Veggietales. Definitely did not expect Fraggle Rock to come back to television in any form.

Im starting to realize that in the long run, the Muppet sell to Disney was in hindsight a *good* thing. As Jim Henson Company can focus on the cgi kid shows, Fraggle Rock movie, Dark Crystal 2, the Puppet Up/HA movie, and everything else.
Funny you say trip, I find FR quite frankly a very trip-inducing tv show.:insatiable:
Oh and that Doozer needs a smaller head/fatter body. And I agree with Redsonga. That nose has serious problems.

[Drtooth]

Whoah, wasn't expecting this. Well I for one hope the "Cgi" Jim Henson Muppet type shows for kids do well, be it this or Sid the Science Kid or Skrumps.

And of course, coming from Henson, we can expect to see some puppetry involvement behind the CGI. I mean, Sid ain't just some wire frames floating around in space... they're connected to body performers and the WALDO system of remote head puppetry. Doozers did use the WALDO system from time to time... so, in an essense, the only thing they're trading is CGI bits for foam and plastic.

I agree, as long as they keep it in tact with Sid's style, and they don't Barney or Dora the thing up, we could see something golden. Plus, Doozer merchandise. Come on, how can anyone not be excited for that prospect?

And I might as well add, we have that Fraggle Rock film about to be made. What better way to get interrest in the franchise than with a new series? There was this Japanese movie based on one of their old 1970's TV show being made... and as soon as they unveiled those plans, they unveiled a plan to remake the cartoon series for a new generation. It might work over here too.

[bazooka_beak]

Well... um... wasn't expecting this. Don't quite know what to think :P

[ravagefrackle]

why does it always have to be CGI, good grief

[Foodie]

Egad. :smirk:

[mbmfrog]

This is as close as a Fraggle Rock Comeback as we're going to get. And I'm going to enjoy every moment of this new series. :excited:

[Davina]

i have my concerns.. but where the main target market is pre schoolers, i will cut them some slack... i do wonder about the names.. not very doozery.. but,.. ok, whatever.. new generation, myabe their parents were a bit rebellious...

it has potental and i'm going to stay optomistic for now..

and really wish i'd had more then 3 hours of sleep last night so i could spell better, sorry..

[MJTaylor]

It all sounds good to me. I can't wait to see it.

[ftnpro]

As I read the article, I thought, "This might just work, since the Doozers were background characters, the ecological theme is appropriate, and they lend themselves to CGI." Then I saw the photo, with the Doozer's freakishly-swollen head! Yikes!

Since they are "testing" the animation right now, let's hope they make the Doozers look more like... Doozers.

[CarrieTheGreat]

Just what we need, another preachy liberal show constantly haranguing at kids about how humans are the biggest danger to the planet. Hogwash!

Fraggle Rock only did that a couple of times; most of the shows were about having fun and how to get along with other people. The truth is that human beings clean up their messes far better than any animal, and technology has made our lives much better, not worse.

I wouldn't have it any other way, and I don't care how big my so-called carbon footprint is. I have a right to live, and live well.

Carrie

P.S. The CG Doozer looks really ugly, too!

[emily]

I'm really excited about this! I have a preschooler now, who adores Sid the Science Kid, and I'm excited about the prospects of a doozer show for my pre-preschooler. He'll be just the right age in 2010!

[Rax]

I was really exited when I read the title, but then I saw the word CGI. :concern:
Why, why, Why? Why CGI? It's so overrated. I mean, CGI movies look pretty good mostly, but CGI series look woody, crappy, and cheap. This "new" style is still too expensive for a series to make it look good.

I prefer puppetry. Man, I'd even be happier with a regular (cheap ***?) cartoon, so...why does it always have to be CGI, good grief

Doozer merchandise. Come on, how can anyone not be excited for that prospect?Well, just take a look at that horrible looking CG Doozer. Man, I hadn't even seen that screenshot yet. And it's not because of his facial expression, but because his body is too tiny, his nose is off etc.

And I might as well add, we have that Fraggle Rock film about to be made. What better way to get interrest in the franchise than with a new series?True. Very smart idea. The idea still sounds cool to me. It's just the execution that makes me very concerned.

Gr, Rax

[RedPiggy]

Just what we need, another preachy liberal show constantly haranguing at kids about how humans are the biggest danger to the planet. Hogwash!
I don't think it's just that. The young'uns need to learn about working as a team, too. In every type of job I've worked in ... ya wanna know how RARE that is?

Fraggle Rock only did that a couple of times; most of the shows were about having fun and how to get along with other people. The truth is that human beings clean up their messes far better than any animal, and technology has made our lives much better, not worse.
I didn't see in the summary that this was a lecture. Again, it sounded like there's more than whining. Also, nature cleans up far better than we do. Ever see an animal landfill? Thought so. And an anti-tech stance would be weird coming from the Doozers, who rely on it to do their work. It's the Fraggles who avoid tools for the most part.

I wouldn't have it any other way, and I don't care how big my so-called carbon footprint is. I have a right to live, and live well!
You have a right to end up on Clean House, too. OOH, OOH, I have an idea! Let's teach our children that cleaning their rooms makes no difference! Crud on the stove! Forget the infection risk! Just because there's an opening on the toilet doesn't mean ya gotta use it (that one's for little boys)! You may have a right to live, but I think I'll make sure to bring gloves over first.

PS: That may have come off as rather rude. However, I feel I am merely responding to a very spoiled post. Ignore at your discretion.

[Redsonga]

I didn't see in the summary that this was a lecture. Again, it sounded like there's more than whining. Also, nature cleans up far better than we do. Ever see an animal landfill? Thought so. And an anti-tech stance would be weird coming from the Doozers, who rely on it to do their work. It's the Fraggles who avoid tools for the most part.
Nature cleans up far better than any human ever could in that it never makes things (like plastic) in the natural world that can't be broken back now into the elements it's made of to become a part of the soil:). (And knowing is half the battle :3!)

And as far as the episodes about not ruining the water in nature go I think they were needed, not preachy. After all, it is animals and humans who suffer if we don't have clean water...All humans, even those "Humans are gods and should never have to answer for what they do because animals are just a waste of space on land where I could be putting an oil drill on." thinkers -.-

[RedPiggy]

Nature can even solve the plastic problem (http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/05/teen-decomposes.html)

You're welcome! :D

[Drtooth]

You have a right to end up on Clean House, too. OOH, OOH, I have an idea! Let's teach our children that cleaning their rooms makes no difference! Crud on the stove! Forget the infection risk! Just because there's an opening on the toilet doesn't mean ya gotta use it (that one's for little boys)! You may have a right to live, but I think I'll make sure to bring gloves over first.

PS: That may have come off as rather rude. However, I feel I am merely responding to a very spoiled post. Ignore at your discretion.


Preach! I'm sick of this annoying pseudo-conservative contradictarian crap that's spewing all over the place now. Oh yeah, let's just drive dangerous, unwieldy poison spewing status symbols, and throw our trash all over the ground. And DON'T recycle! I ain't wasting valuable seconds of my time I could be not doing anything. I agree, that was spoiled, selfish and snotty, and not so much an opinion as useless whining. You don't have to believe in global warming to help stop the freaking planet from being a toxic dump. Living well is fine, but how you gonna do it when you can't breathe air or drink clean water? Total and utter partisan pundit tommyrot and balderdash!

And I really don't see how this is any uglier than the millions of staccatto, poorly conceived CGI shows I see sploping up all over the place. At least they didn't try to make them look "realistic" and human (like a certain orange fat cat).... ever see something called Turbo DOgs? It looks like it came out in 1993. If I see the same quality as Sid the Science Kid in this project, I'm supporting it. And I don't doubt it will be.

[RedPiggy]

The only people who SHOULD enjoy living in a dump are the following: grouches, rats (including Philo/Gunge), and Marjory.

[Redsonga]

Nature can even solve the plastic problem (http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/05/teen-decomposes.html)

You're welcome! :D

I knew I had to thank the earth for something today :)
*Thanks Earth*
*Recycled just this morning to:excited:*

[Davina]

my husband wants to know what the "real" doozers will think of these new ones... names are all wrong.. missing antenna.. is this some weird genetic sub branch?

[Redsonga]

my husband wants to know what the "real" doozers will think of these new ones... names are all wrong.. missing antenna.. is this some weird genetic sub branch?

OMG mutant doozers:o! :coy: I really miss the antennae:sympathy:

[bazooka_beak]

What, no Cotterpin? No Wrench? None of the original Doozers? "Puzzlebea" is sure an interesting name XD

[DTWolf]

Well I'm looking forward to this. Sid the Science Kid is great stuff, and if they can match that level of quality with Doozers, it'll be fantastic. (But yeah, I thought the head was too big--maybe it's just really, really young Doozers who look like that, since kids have different proportions than adults do?

And merchandise! Give me figures! (Posable arms and legs, please.)

I just hope this doesn't end up cable-only, since I'm one of those backward souls who don't get cable or satellite. (I've got DTV taken care of, though!)

[RedPiggy]

What, no Cotterpin? No Wrench? None of the original Doozers? "Puzzlebea" is sure an interesting name XD
Maybe this is "Doozers: The Next Generation"? LOL ... Hmmm ... who wants to start running bets that one of these Doozers is the child of someone we know? I mean, how much effort is it to see the Doozer they show as a child between Cotterpin and Wrench?

(But yeah, I thought the head was too big--maybe it's just really, really young Doozers who look like that, since kids have different proportions than adults do?
Best explanation yet. :D

[bazooka_beak]

Maybe this is "Doozers: The Next Generation"? LOL ... Hmmm ... who wants to start running bets that one of these Doozers is the child of someone we know? I mean, how much effort is it to see the Doozer they show as a child between Cotterpin and Wrench?

Best explanation yet. :D

That's a really interesting way to think about it :wisdom:

[Redsonga]

Well I'm looking forward to this. Sid the Science Kid is great stuff, and if they can match that level of quality with Doozers, it'll be fantastic. (But yeah, I thought the head was too big--maybe it's just really, really young Doozers who look like that, since kids have different proportions than adults do?


That doesn't really work because Cotterpin in the series was a child (or at least as much of a child as Wembley) and they did show ones much younger than her and they looked just the same (only a really really cute mini size that just made you to want to pitch their little cheeks :3):sympathy:. The new look just seems..sloppy to me, like textured CGI fanart:\...It reminds me of the style of The Zula Patrol (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4uMxWucDHY) O.o

[MattFraggle]

Just what we need, another preachy liberal show constantly haranguing at kids about how humans are the biggest danger to the planet. Hogwash!

I could not agree with you more. I am so bloody sick of being told everything we do is so bloody dang evil and the poor environment is suffering OH WOE IS US!

FEH! If the Earth is warming IT'S A NATURAL CYLCE THAT HAPPENS EVERY THOUSAND YEARS OR SO! dang liberals.

Hey Henson. WHY NOT GIVE US A NEW CG FRAGGLE ROCK SHOW? You Harvard graduates-turned-movie executives know...NOTHING!

*tears hair out* AAGGGH!

[RedPiggy]

Even on Dinosaurs, with the exception of the execs at Wesayso, most of the damage came not from evil, but from ignorance and apathy. It's still a healthy tradition, as we can see.

[Redsonga]

Even on Dinosaurs, with the exception of the execs at Wesayso, most of the damage came not from evil, but from ignorance and apathy. It's still a healthy tradition, as we can see.

*sigh* What can I say I was raised by the hippie generation so my views are more than a little bit tree hugging *hugs tree:flirt:*. It's werid that it has to be seen as so black and white, I mean what with clean air and water being good for everyone:excited:. Helping a bit doesn't mean you have to give up your computer or tv, just little things like switching off lights when your not using them, not dumping motor oil down the drain..common sense things really :\

[muppet baby]

wow this sounds neat i can not wait to see it .

If it is really good i am going to watch it how ever long it stays on .

i mean it is part of the great fraggle rock after all . LOL :excited:

[Drtooth]

Even on Dinosaurs, with the exception of the execs at Wesayso, most of the damage came not from evil, but from ignorance and apathy. It's still a healthy tradition, as we can see.

Hey, I'm sick of people throwin' their crap all over the place. And not picking up after their pets. Global warming nothing. Don't live like pigs expecting everyone to clean up after you.

And merchandise! Give me figures! (Posable arms and legs, please.)

I just hope this doesn't end up cable-only, since I'm one of those backward souls who don't get cable or satellite. (I've got DTV taken care of, though!)

I really could see this on PBS if only they could get the heck rid of Super Why. But it seems like something that would have to be on cable. Really stinks, since putting FR on HBO (not only a cable channel, but a premium one) stopped poorer kids from seeing the wonderful, beautiful show Henson created.

Of course, I have my DTV set up, but the reception, even with a new antenna sucks. All you really get is like 4 PBS's extra. And I wound up losing that many channels.

[RedPiggy]

Hey, I'm sick of people throwin' their crap all over the place. And not picking up after their pets. Global warming nothing. Don't live like pigs expecting everyone to clean up after you.
Every Muppet pig character: Hey!:mad:

[GelflingWaldo]

Just what we need, another preachy liberal show constantly haranguing at kids about how humans are the biggest danger to the planet. Hogwash!

Henson has a long tradition of promoting an environmental message - with environmental messages being a central part of such programs as Sesame Street, Fraggle Rock, Dinosaurs, Animal Show, plus Jim did numerous public service announcements starring the Muppets. In fact, the Jim Henson Company just received an award for promoting "environmental and social responsibilities" in filmmaking -- http://news.toonzone.net/articles/29031/disney-and-henson-film-companies-receive-environmental-award

This series seems to carry on that spirit along with the guiding spirit of Fraggle Rock plus (like most of Henson's work) I don't think it will be too "preachy" in its approach.

:busy:

Now regardless of your feelings on global warming, carbon footprints, holes in the ozone, air pollution, endangered species, depleting natural resources, or any of these other "liberal" issues; I think we should be able to agree that it is important to teach about stewardship of the earth and our resources. Environmentalism is still important, even if you feel that we aren’t causing the "end of the world" with any of our behavior.

When I was a kid my mother taught me to clean my room, not because a messy room would cause the house to fall down, but because having a clean room made living there more enjoyable, safer, and healthier (plus it showed respect for my stuff as my toys wouldn't get lost or broken as easily). The same is true with the world – you may feel that living on a polluted planet may not cause the earth and all of humanity to be destroyed, but if we all live more environmentally-conscious lifestyles living here will be more enjoyable, safer, and healthier (plus it shows respect for the work as our resources, habitats and wildlife won't be lost or damaged).

Responsible stewardship of the earth shows respect for nature and our planet - our home. Now if you want to discuss environmentalism or global warming or the overall environmental political movement, I would suggest taking that conversation to another thread; let's not get sidetracked here.

:busy:

So…anyway…I can’t wait for this show! I think it's long overdue and it will be great. The whole premise sounds like fun and right in line with the spirit of the Doozers.

[GelflingWaldo]

I can handle the big head but everything is off center and squished looking. I have nothing against CGI doozers if they look like doozers and not sea sick ant...thingies.

I would hold off on any real judgment of the designs until more images are released. This is just one image of a somewhat early design (his face looks a bit distorted because of his head tilit and the camera perspective). Wait until you see some more characters – and see them from different angles, with different lighting, and even in motion (it will be hard to get a true sense of if these animated Doozers are working until we see a video clip).

Also remember that a lot can (and probably will) change before the actual release. Anyone remember the early designs (http://www.muppetnewsflash.com/2007/12/meet-sid-science-kid.html) of Sid from "Sid the Science Kid" (who was also originally named Josh)? Thinks will likely change over the next year and a half as they develop the show.

Also, as for the non-tool names, the working above ground, and some of the other minor differences in Doozer culture: remember we've only really seen one group of Doozers (the clan from the area surrounding Fraggle Rock). It is possible that there are other groups of Doozers out there in the world that could have some minor cultural differences and live slightly different lifestyles. Plus the last time we viewed Doozer culture was almost 25 years, so some little things could have changed or evolved since then.

[frogboy4]

Just what we need, another preachy liberal show constantly haranguing at kids about how humans are the biggest danger to the planet. Hogwash!

Fraggle Rock only did that a couple of times; most of the shows were about having fun and how to get along with other people. The truth is that human beings clean up their messes far better than any animal, and technology has made our lives much better, not worse.

I wouldn't have it any other way, and I don't care how big my so-called carbon footprint is. I have a right to live, and live well.

Carrie

P.S. The CG Doozer looks really ugly, too!

:confused: Wow. What negativity for something so positive and Jim-like. The environment and symbiotic nature of the world was always a part of Jim's message, his artwork and Fraggle Rock. It appears you are projecting something not contained in this new program. The use of key words like "liberal" kind of gives that away. Geez, I'm just mystified by that post.

Here's a bit more preachifacation from Mr. Jim Henson himself:

Kermit PSA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXA0P6Hn96M)
Kermit & Penguins PSA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXA0P6Hn96M)
Fozzie & Kermit PSA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LL_G5LPcsw&feature=related)
Kermit & Miss Piggy PSA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvBDFyjbVHw&feature=related)
Reporter Kermit & Mount Rushmore (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unLmZ1kQ5QA&feature=related)
John Denver & Kermit PSA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWr-BPPyWKg&feature=related)

And the Doozer isn't ugly. He looks like a Doozer. Just oddly proportioned in this first design.

[Davina]

doozer evolution? Life beyond the Rock?

NEVER!

lol

[RedPiggy]

Also, as for the non-tool names, the working above ground, and some of the other minor differences in Doozer culture: remember we've only really seen one group of Doozers (the clan from the area surrounding Fraggle Rock). It is possible that there are other groups of Doozers out there in the world that could have some minor cultural differences and live slightly different lifestyles. Plus the last time we viewed Doozer culture was almost 25 years, so some little things could have changed or evolved since then.
Well, 'Crusty' and 'Yeaster' aren't exactly techie names either, I guess. Maybe you're right ... maybe it's the culture which determines the naming scheme.

[heralde]

At this point, I have no problem with an enviornmental message, even if it is preachy, heh. At some point, we do have to realize our responsibility to the planet and how much damage we did to it with the industrial revolution and how much damage we continue to do with big business. Technology and business have given us many good things, but they have also come at a heavy price.

[frogboy4]

At this point, I have no problem with an enviornmental message, even if it is preachy, heh. At some point, we do have to realize our responsibility to the planet and how much damage we did to it with the industrial revolution and how much damage we continue to do with big business. Technology and business have given us many good things, but they have also come at a heavy price.

I agree.

This project appears to be more informative than preachy. There was none of that garbage about people being bad, liberalism or carbon footprints as Carrie stated.

The press release cites teamwork, cooperation, green technology and eco consciousness. Those should be universal things that are beneficial to all and likely economical too.

"...the Doozers...inspire kids to make the world a better place by making smart, ecofriendly choices, and by inventing tools, gadgets, buildings, structures, and other technology that supports the environment's ecology."

That doesn't sound manipulative or heavy-handed to me. Criticizing the Doozer program for offering environmental solutions is like criticizing Sesame Street for educating children. I guess some people here the word "environment" and automatically think evil. I have never quite understood that. :p

[heralde]

That doesn't sound manipulative or heavy-handed to me. Criticizing the Doozer program for offering environmental solutions is like criticizing Sesame Street for educating children. I guess some people here the word "environment" and automatically think evil. I have never quite understood that. :p

Well I think in the past, enviornmental messages on TV were very universal. They were written in a way where no one could really argue with them. Nowadays a lot of messages, on either side, are created in a very...em...partisan way? They can't help but stick in some jibe at the other side. Or their own side's agenda on other issues leaves a bad taste. We're not seeing human beings delivering a message, we're seeing political parties. ;)

Not saying this Doozer show is like that, just pondering one reason why the issue has become so confusing. :)

[Drtooth]

Now regardless of your feelings on global warming, carbon footprints, holes in the ozone, air pollution, endangered species, depleting natural resources, or any of these other "liberal" issues; I think we should be able to agree that it is important to teach about stewardship of the earth and our resources. Environmentalism is still important, even if you feel that we aren’t causing the "end of the world" with any of our behavior.

I say, when you make something important like this a partisan/contradictarian issue, the only people who win are paid loud mouths like Rush Limburger and all of them. You basically wind up paying for books, listening to radio that's been sponsored (in this case, by people who want to sweep environmental issues under the rug, say oil companies), and feeding a beast that tells you what to think instead of coming up with your own opinion.

Also remember that a lot can (and probably will) change before the actual release. Anyone remember the early designs of Sid from "Sid the Science Kid" (who was also originally named Josh)? Thinks will likely change over the next year and a half as they develop the show.

And honestly, that version of Sid looks uGlY... almost lifeless. I still don't think this Doozer is that bad looking, and it just looks like a conceptual design. But sometimes things need to be skewed to look like they're animated. A Doozer CGI that's slavishly designed to look like the same puppets might come off a bit more rigid and lifeless than they should be. Same problem when Doozers were animated in the Fraggle cartoon series.

Of course, knowing Henson the difference between the Fraggle Cartoon and this project is, while FRA (Fraggle Rock Animated) was totally hand dranw and animated, they may just make use of the WALDO, similar to what's going on with Sid... so basically, we still get puppetry... just with a CGI wire frame instead of foam and felt.

[Elmo The Second]

I wanted to start this, I haven''t heard anyones ideas on the new doozers show. You know the doozers :busy:from Fraggle Rock:smirk::coy:. Please post some reviews

[Drtooth]

In development

[Elmo The Second]

Well do you think it's going to be good

[Davina]

too soon to know really.. they havne't even decided on a final look for the characters.. it has potential, and we all certainly hope for the best..

[frogboy4]

I say, when you make something important like this a partisan/contradictarian issue, the only people who win are paid loud mouths like Rush Limburger and all of them. You basically wind up paying for books, listening to radio that's been sponsored (in this case, by people who want to sweep environmental issues under the rug, say oil companies), and feeding a beast that tells you what to think instead of coming up with your own opinion.

I agree with that. In the end - environmental causes = human survival. The planet will get along without us or any organic life, but why should it when we can ingrain new simple behaviors in or daily lives that can massively help? I always find those folk that make the environment a partisan issue are the same sort of folk that grossly oversimplify every issue until it sounds absurd. Helpful information doesn't have to be preachy and this Doozer program appears to be the right way to go. :busy:

[bazooka_beak]

Well do you think it's going to be good

All we can really do right now is wait for more news. We don't know enough to decide whether it's going to be good.

[musicgazer]

i wish they would use the actual puppets instead of doing everything cgi. so much easier on the eyes...

[Ilikemuppets]

Show sounds great. Concept sounds great. The target age group things bothers me a little. Hope they don't overly stress that.

[Drtooth]

Helpful information doesn't have to be preachy and this Doozer program appears to be the right way to go. :busy:

Yeah... this is the Doozers. Not Captain Planet... (admit it, Toxic Crusaders was much more fun intentionally).

The target age group things bothers me a little. Hope they don't overly stress that.

Again, Sid the Science kid seems to talk to that audience as well, and it manages to keep a certain structure and even reuse songs on an episodic basis.... but it doesn't come off saccharine, and Sid interacts to the home audience much like a talk show host... Ellen or David Letterman for example. It's like we're actually watching a child's pretend talk show. I'd assume the same style of writing and humor would be present. I just hope they have a few nods to the Fraggles and Gorgs for the older fans with kids watching it.

[heralde]

Yeah... this is the Doozers. Not Captain Planet...

LOL, that made me laugh. I watched Captain Planet all the time but yeah, it could be embarrassingly preachy, hehe.

[bazooka_beak]

Oh man, there'd better not be anything resembling something like Captain Planet. If the Doozers get magic rings, I'm leaving XD

[Drtooth]

LOL, that made me laugh. I watched Captain Planet all the time but yeah, it could be embarrassingly preachy, hehe.

Nigh on conspiracy theory in some episodes. I liked it as a kid, up until I realized that Toxic Crusaders got NO respect... I like to think of it, as Troma head honcho and creator of the original Toxic Avenger movie referred to it, a sweet little kid's show based off a movie where someone's head gets graphically crushed by the front wheel of a car. :D

Off that matter, I still hope this doesn't just sit there on cable. Sure, cable is in more homes now than when FR started up... but I still think it would benefit from being on PBS.

[Traveling Matt]

The latest Henson podcast (4/7) interviews Halle Stanford about the show. Sounds exciting!

http://henson.com/podcast.php

[Beauregard]

I've just heard the podcast, and am very excited for the series. Go have a listen! It's much bigger in scope than I'd ever imagined!