Family Puppet Films: A Delightful Collection

Description: This film marks the big-screen debut of the beloved Muppets, following Kermit the Frog's journey to Hollywood. It's a perfect blend of humor, music, and puppetry, making it an ideal family watch.

Fact: The film features cameos from several celebrities including Steve Martin, Mel Brooks, and Orson Welles. Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, also makes a brief appearance.

Description: Kermit, Fozzie, and Gonzo travel to London to investigate a jewel theft, leading to a series of comedic misadventures. It's a fun, fast-paced film with a nod to classic caper films.

Fact: The film was shot on location in London, including scenes at the real Elstree Studios. Charles Grodin, who plays the villain, was initially hesitant to work with puppets.

Description: The Muppets attempt to produce their own Broadway show in this light-hearted comedy. It's a celebration of friendship, dreams, and the power of perseverance, all wrapped in Muppet charm.

Fact: The film features a young Joan Rivers as a casting agent. It was also the last Muppet film to feature the original voice of Miss Piggy, Frank Oz.

Description: A Muppet retelling of Charles Dickens' classic, this film features Michael Caine as Scrooge, delivering a heartfelt performance amidst the Muppets' comedic antics.

Fact: The film was originally much darker, but Disney requested changes to make it more family-friendly. It's one of the few Muppet films where Kermit does not play a lead role.

Description: Elmo's journey to Grouchland to retrieve his lost blanket is filled with lessons on sharing, friendship, and the importance of possessions. It's a heartwarming addition to the Sesame Street universe.

Fact: The film features a song by Mandy Patinkin, who also voices the character Huxley. It was the first feature-length film to star Elmo.

Description: This revival film brings the Muppets back to the big screen with a story about saving their old theater. It's a blend of nostalgia and new adventures, appealing to both old fans and new viewers.

Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Man or Muppet." It also features a cameo by the late Jim Henson's son, Brian Henson.

Description: This dark fantasy film uses intricate puppetry to create its entire world, focusing on the quest of two Gelflings to restore balance to their world. Its unique visual style and storytelling make it a standout in puppet cinema.

Fact: The film was the first to use a new type of animatronic technology called "Goo", which allowed for more realistic facial expressions. It took over five years to develop the puppets and their movements.

Description: While not exclusively a puppet film, Labyrinth features extensive use of puppets and animatronics, telling the story of Sarah's quest through a fantastical maze to rescue her baby brother. Its imaginative world and memorable characters make it a family favorite.

Fact: David Bowie's Goblin King character was originally intended for Michael Jackson. The film's puppets were created by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.

Description: This adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic tale features the Muppets in a swashbuckling adventure. It's filled with humor, catchy songs, and memorable puppet performances.

Fact: Tim Curry, who plays Long John Silver, was also considered for the role of Captain Hook in "Hook" but lost out to Dustin Hoffman.

Description: Dorothy's journey to Oz is reimagined with the Muppets, offering a fresh take on the classic tale with plenty of humor and heart.

Fact: Ashanti plays Dorothy, and Queen Latifah voices Aunt Em. The film was initially intended to be a direct-to-video release but was later given a television premiere.