The Muppets

[Daniel]

One would hope so. One thing in the series favor is it will be short-form.

[Daniel]

Two months ago a new version of "Rainbow Connection" was uploaded online. You can view it in its entirety here:



Now take a gander at this, someone edited a version to showcase Jim, Steve and Matt:



Pretty fascinating to compare. I think this highlights a lot of Matt's talents actually. Just not the voice. Sounds like a hollow version of Jim's. More noticeable side-by-side, like a pitch lower when compared to the other two. And like I've said in the past, stuffy like he has a cold. Not quite there yet...

[Ben]

Whitmire was so much closer in tone and pitch, and also just brought *life* to Kermie that Vogel is missing. Look at the pause at the end where he just stops for a moment: there’s a way to do that without the puppet resembling a soft toy. Plus the tempo is too slow and lethargic, making his already lower timbre voice sound like Bill Farmer's Goofy in places!

I really really really want to try and like the new Mr The Frog, and he obviously has big and tough flippers to fill, but he’s not nailing it. The spontaneity just isn’t there.

[Daniel]

"Muppets Now" promo:



I'm loving Joe the Legal Weasel! Also nice to see Walter, look at the treasures behind him.

Yeah, Kermie's voice. Feelings still unchanged. Up until Kermit speaks he's literally stiff like a plush doll. Steve had so many subtle quirks and traits. Even the arm flail feels subdued.

[EricJ]

Also nice to see Walter, look at the treasures behind him.

So, they're still tripling-down on Walter, their promised "All-new character!" who had absolutely no function or personality whatsoever outside of the context of the '11 movie, then?...NONE.

[Ben]

Walter finally gives one of the Whatnots a chance at a starring role.

[Daniel]

An inspiring review. Yay indeed!

[James]

I was worried, but ended up really enjoying the new Muppets show. Looking forward to more!

[Daniel]

Aside from the general issues of Kermit's voice/mannerisms, I also thought it was an absolute delight. Refreshing, though maybe in some ways playing it a bit safe.

The segments were just right and didn't drag on. I genuinely laughed at many parts. Loved Swedish Chef's segment, especially when he ordered delivery and kept shouting "No tip!". Definite highlight for me. The RuPaul interview worked so well. Howard Tubman practically stole the show. I also liked Miss Piggy and Deadly, they have such great chemistry together. Walter finding a place with the regulars was nice. Disappointed with the lack of songs. The musical numbers were one of the best aspects from "The Muppet Show". Maybe they'll make an appearance later on.

I truly believe this is going to be a stepping stone for another Muppets resurgence if it continues on this path. Fun and witty so far. Can't wait to see more!

[Dacey]

Steve's Kermit was just so warm. Thank heavens he at least got to do the last two Muppet movies before whatever drama it was finally went down, because the new Kermit is so off in ways that are truly unfortunate (and distracting!).

[Ben]

I’ve given this a lot of thought as to what isn’t quite right and he, ultimately, sounds drunk.

[Daniel]

I thought Muppisode 2 was better than the premiere, though probably could do with a little less teaching. It also felt a little samey. Still, Pepe's game show was my favorite. Classic Muppets.

[Ben]

Apparently the downside to this series is that each episode repeats the formula to the point where it becomes very samey each time.

[gaastra]

[Ben]

Well that just happened...