Today’s quick review: The Muppets Take Manhattan. After graduating from college, the Muppets decide to take their senior variety show, a musical called “Manhattan Melodies”, to Broadway. But finding a producer proves difficult, and as tempers run high and funds run low, the Muppets decide to go their separate ways. It’s up to Kermit, the musical’s writer and director, to stay in New York, sell the musical, and keep his friends’ dream alive.
The Muppets Take Manhattan is a musical comedy in typical Muppet style. Featuring a motley cast of puppets, enthusiastic musical numbers, and a fun sense of humor, The Muppets Take Manhattan sees Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo, and their friends try to break into Broadway. The movie has many of the strengths of the usual Muppet formula, but its plot, music, and ending are all a step down from the Muppets at their best.
The Muppets Take Manhattan has a few flaws that keep it from living up to its full potential. The plot has the structure of an underdog story, but there’s little in the way of intermediary progress. Much of the Muppet cast spends the movie out of town, putting a damper on the ensemble camaraderie the Muppets are known for. The musical numbers are also a step below average, fun but forgettable songs that are often only loosely tied to the story.
Still, The Muppets Take Manhattan gets enough right to be an entertaining watch. The antics of Kermit and friends hold the same appeal as ever, the story is earnest, and there are a few impressive feats of puppetry. Give The Muppets Take Manhattan a shot when you’re in the mood for something light an innocent. For a better take on a similar premise, check out the original Muppet Movie.
6.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for charm and enthusiasm tempered by mixed execution.