For most adults, Jim Henson’s Muppets are a symbol of their childhood. They were everywhere; on TV, on the radio, in toy stores. Then, like all great things, they slowly fade into memories. Fortunately for fans, the 70s are back and better than ever as the Muppets have returned to prominence with their first big screen adventure in more than a decade. Can the film spark an interest with a new generation or is this one franchise that is better left in the past?

The Muppets chronicles one fans attempt to reunite the old gang back together for one last performance in order to save the old Muppet studio being bulldozed by an evil oil baron. Muppet fanatic Jason Segel stars as Gary, whose Muppet brother Walter (Peter Linz) dreams of meeting Kermit and the rest of the Muppet crew. When Walter joins what was supposed to be just a romantic trip between Gary and his girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams) to Los Angeles, the trio discovers the evil plot to tear down the Muppet studio. Only they can reunite everyone together and raise the money needed to save the studio and the Muppets from being forgotten forever.

While adults will instantly recognize all the familiar faces and voices of Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Gonzo, the film gently introduces the franchise to new audiences. It isn’t afraid to poke fun at the fact that the Muppets have been out of the spotlight so long and that new, less interesting shows have taken over. In classic Muppet fashion, the film tends to break the fourth wall often, making it known that you’re watching a movie or blatantly making references to special effects and filming techniques. It’s all one big comedy show to them.

In addition to all the Muppet humor, there are plenty of musical numbers scattered throughout, most of which are new to the film. Everyone, including Jason Segel, Amy Adams, and even Chris Cooper lends their voice to some form of singing. The songs are catchy and the dance numbers are even more spectacular. If you’re a fan of either comedies or musicals, The Muppets delivers on both fronts.

Joining the Muppets are a hodgepodge of celebrity cameos; Neil Patrick Harris, Sarah Silverman, Zach Galifianakis, Jack Black, Selena Gomez, and many more. Seeing who randomly pops up on screen is all just part of the fun of The Muppets.

That’s the thing about The Muppets; it’s just plain fun. You can clearly tell that Jason Segel and the rest of the cast had a ton of fun filming the movie; just look at the smiles on their faces. No doubt you’ll have a smile on your face as well after walking out of the theater. In the end, The Muppets is a great fan service to the franchise, and a welcoming introduction to a whole new generation.

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