Muppets From Space

Released 1999
Stars The Great Gonzo, Kermit the Frog, Rizzo Rat, Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy, Jeffrey Tambor, Pat Hingle, Andie MacDowell
Directed by Tim Hill

One might think the mere presence of all those cute, fuzzy Muppets in a movie would be enough to guarantee a certain level of entertainment. After all, the popular puppet creations of the late Jim Henson have been around for about three decades (since their debut on Sesame Street), and there has been little change in the way they look, move, or talk. In an era when computer generated digital images are creating the likes of Jar Jar Binks, the Muppets remain cheerfully old-fashioned. Unfortunately, their latest adventure, Muppets from Space, proves that, without a solid script, a Muppet movie can be just as bad as any other dud.

The storyline, such as it is, has Gonzo wondering what species he belongs to and why there are no others like him on Earth. The longed-for answer comes from beyond the stars: his own kind are on their way to meet him. Meanwhile, a U.S. government operative, worried about an attack on the planet, captures Gonzo to learn information about the impending visit. At that point, the rest of the Muppets, including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Rizzo Rat, come to his rescue. Unless you're a hard-core fan or have a gaggle of kids clamoring to see the film, there's little reason to patronize Muppets from Space. Instead, rent one of the previous Muppet movies.

Summary by James Berardinelli

I wish I had read this review before I rented this movie, but my kids saw the trailer and wanted to see it. They enjoyed it, but I wish I had introduced them to the Muppets in a better way. To be fair, I actually introduced them to the Muppets in Disneyworld with "The Muppets in 3D," which is a total blast. Then we watched this movie, which has a tired plot and no energy. My suggestion is to steer clear of this stinker. --Bill Alward, March 20, 2002