Reason 163

Muppet movie standards. From the moment I saw Kermit plucking a banjo and singing "Rainbow Connection" in the middle of a swamp in The Muppet Movie I have been a stalwart supporter of everything Henson. Just thinking about the plethora of felt-covered characters that have populated "Sesame Street," "The Muppet Show," and every other project created over the years that celebrates Jim's vision for puppet domination makes my heart go all atwitter. What I cannot abide, however, is tarnishing the Muppet's reputation for heartfelt stories, clever jokes and catchy songs by churning out dreck like Muppet Treasure Island in an attempt to make a quick buck. Apparently, some production companies believe members of Generation X will flock to the theaters, tots in tow, to see Fozzie, Gonzo and the rest of the gang up on the big screen, no matter how random the storyline may be. Um, I'm not sure the folks at Disney got the memo - the Muppets are not a vehicle for recycling tired plots that have received cinematic treatment a bazillion times before. What's next, the Muppets explore Atlantis? How about the Muppets go to camp? Thankfully, Jason, you and I are riding the same train of thought when it comes to the future of our furry friends. It's time Kermit and the gang returned to their roots, hobnobbing with B-list celebrities, cracking wise and praising the power of friendship in toe-tapping song and dance numbers. So, no pressure or anything, but your screenplay for The Greatest Muppet Movie Ever Made better knock my Scooter-trimmed socks off. Otherwise I may have to rethink this whole friendship thing.