It ain't easy being green!
Think of the most positive things you can imagine about the late Jim Henson,
about his vast contributions to the worlds of television, film, and most
importantly, children's education. Depending on those asked, the responses
might be a little surprising, as the the man behind some of the most beloved
creations of the 20th Century meant a great many things to a great many.
From redefining the puppet industry to his charitable work in championing the
educational needs of children, perhaps the most significant achievement from the
man who made us believe a frog could ride a bike (let alone sing in melody) was
helping us all to believe in the better parts of ourselves. Faint words
for some, but how many frogs have hosted their own variety shows? Anything
was, and still is, possible in Muppetland.
As we approach the 18th anniversary of his untimely death, Hollywood's
fascination with Jim Henson is about to help break the third wall as the first
major biographical film documenting his life has been green lit, courtesy of
Empire Film Group, Inc. With a screenplay from scribe Robert D. Slane (The
Fine Line Between Cute and Creepy), the $30 million film is set to start
production duties this summer.
Tentatively titled Henson, the biographical film will follow the
life and career of the enigmatic creator, detailing his pioneering work in
television and vast success in nearly every field he was involved with. As
the project is still skeletal in structure, not much else aside from the film's
name has been confirmed, but reports have the studio eyeballing major directors
to helm what's sure to be an emotionally charged project (Penny Marshall is
rumored to be in the running). No word or even speculation on possible
lead acting roles, although as in with directing responsibilities hopes are with
notable name-brand talent to help bring the very real world of Jim Henson to
life.
Personally, this is the first time that I've ever truly been excited about
the prospect of a biographical film at first notion, as I have absolutely no
problems as a Henson enthusiast. Its hardly a surprise to see his work
enjoy such cross-generational appeal, from his work on educational programming
to directing some of the most ambitious live-action/muppet projects that have
survived the vanity labels. With the exception of Walt Disney himself, the
creative community had no better champion than the heart and soul behind Kermit
the Frog, an honor that might seem perhaps too far-reaching had it been put on
anyone else. A truly inspirational and uplifting person, Jim Henson will
always be missed, and admired.
Thanks go to
Marketwire for connecting all the rainbows.
