Muppets Most Wanted
Muppets Most Wanted | |
---|---|
Directed by | James Bobin |
Written by |
|
Based on | Disney's Muppet characters and properties |
Produced by | |
Starring | |
Cinematography | Don Burgess |
Edited by | James Thomas[1] |
Music by | Christophe Beck |
Production companies | |
Distributed by | Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures[3] |
Release dates |
|
Running time | 106 minutes |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Budget | $50 million[4][5] |
Box office | $80.4 million[5] |
Muppets Most Wanted is a 2014 American comedy film[6] directed by James Bobin, produced by David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman, and written by Bobin and Nicholas Stoller. Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Mandeville Films, it is the eighth theatrical film featuring the Muppets,[7] and serves as a sequel to The Muppets (2011). The film stars Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey, alongside Muppet performers Steve Whitmire, Eric Jacobson, Dave Goelz, Bill Barretta, David Rudman, Matt Vogel and Peter Linz.[8] It was also Tony Bennett's final film before his retirement in 2021 and death two years later. In the film, the muppets become involved in an international crime caper while on a world tour in Europe.
Aside from co-writer Jason Segel, the majority of the production team behind The Muppets returned for Muppets Most Wanted, including Bobin, Stoller, Hoberman, and Lieberman.[9][10] Bret McKenzie and Christophe Beck also returned to compose the film's songs and musical score respectively.[11] Principal photography commenced in January 2013 at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, England.[12] The sound mix was produced by Dolby Digital.[13]
Muppets Most Wanted had its world premiere at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles on March 11, 2014, and was released theatrically in North America on March 21, by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. The film made less than its predecessor, grossing $80.4 million worldwide on a budget of $50 million. It received positive reviews from critics who praised its humor, music, and emotion. The film was dedicated to longtime Muppet performer Jerry Nelson, who died during the film's development, and Jane Henson, who died two months into production.
Plot
[edit]Having secured the rights to the Muppet Theatre and their trademark, The Muppets are unsure what to do next. Dominic Badguy suggests they go on a European world tour with him as their tour manager. Kermit is hesitant, but the rest of the Muppets love the idea. Unbeknownst to the Muppets, Dominic is working for Constantine, a criminal mastermind who is a near-exact doppelgänger of Kermit. Having escaped from a Gulag in Siberia, he begins plotting with Dominic to finish what Thomas Blood started: Stealing the British Crown Jewels.
When the Muppets arrive in Berlin on their train, Dominic books a prestigious venue for them to perform at. Frustrated with the group's incessant requests for The Muppet Show and Miss Piggy's insistence on getting married, Kermit goes for a walk in East Berlin at Dominic's suggestion. Constantine ambushes Kermit and glues a fake mole onto his face. Mistaken for Constantine, Kermit is arrested and sent to the Gulag. Constantine takes Kermit's place; Dominic convinces most of the Muppets that Constantine is Kermit, but Animal is suspicious of Constantine.
During the Muppets' show that night, Constantine and Dominic steal paintings from a nearby museum. The next morning, Interpol agent Jean Pierre Napoleon and CIA agent Sam Eagle reluctantly collaborate to apprehend the culprit because one of the paintings was on loan from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Napoleon believes the culprit to be "The Lemur", the second most wanted criminal in the world. Meanwhile, Kermit attempts to escape the Gulag several times but is repeatedly thwarted by prison guard Nadya, who eventually deduces his true identity. She orders Kermit to help organize the prisoners' annual talent show.
Following hidden instructions on a stolen painting of Blood, Constantine and Dominic divert the tour to Madrid. Constantine allows the Muppets to plan their own performances, which confuses Walter due to Kermit's usual systematic method of planning The Muppet Show. During the show that night, Constantine and Dominic break into the Museo del Prado to steal a key needed for their impending theft of the Crown Jewels. Despite the Muppets' performance being chaotic and incongruent, the show in Madrid receives critical acclaim. Sam and Napoleon deduce that the Muppets' tour is connected to the crimes. The pair interrogates the Muppets, but decide the Muppets are too stupid to plan such elaborate crimes. The instructions on the stolen key lead Constantine and Dominic to schedule the next show in Dublin.
In Dublin, Walter discovers that Dominic has been giving away show tickets and bribing journalists to give good reviews, while Fozzie notices Kermit's resemblance to Constantine. They both realize that Constantine has taken Kermit's place, with Dominic's help. Constantine attacks Walter and Fozzie, but Animal fends him off and the trio escape from their train to rescue Kermit. During the performance, Dominic steals Blood's locket from the Bank of Ireland and Constantine proposes to Miss Piggy onstage. Piggy accepts, and the pair plan a wedding ceremony to be held at the Tower of London in London, where the Crown Jewels are kept.
Fozzie, Walter, and Animal reach the Gulag on the night of the talent show. They help Kermit and multiple other prisoners escape, and Nadya is infuriated. Kermit, Fozzie, Walter, and Animal infiltrate the Tower as the wedding begins, and Dominic, with the help of Bobby Benson's Baby Band, manages to steal the Crown Jewels.
Kermit interrupts the ceremony, revealing Constantine's ruse. In response, Constantine takes Miss Piggy’s hostage and flees to a helicopter, where he is intercepted by Dominic, who is actually the Lemur and intends to double-cross him. Constantine ejects Dominic from the helicopter and tries to escape with Piggy, but Kermit jumps aboard and the rest of the Muppets climb atop each other to stop the escape. Kermit and Piggy subdue Constantine, Sam and Napoleon arrest Constantine and Dominic, and Nadya arrives in London, intending to re-arrest Kermit for organizing the biggest prison escape in the Gulag's history. The other Muppets tell Nadya if she arrests Kermit, she would have to arrest all of them as well. Realizing how much the Muppets are important to Kermit, Nadya relents and pardons him. The Muppets perform "Together Again" at the Gulag with Constantine and the other prisoners participating. Nadya is going to sing her part, but the film ends before she can do so, causing her to yell Kermit's name.
Cast
[edit]- Ricky Gervais as Dominic Badguy/The Lemur, the world's second most wanted criminal and Constantine's accomplice who poses as the manager of a fictional international talent agency.[14]
- Ty Burrell as Jean Pierre Napoleon, a French Interpol agent who works with Sam Eagle on finding Constantine.[14]
- Tina Fey as Nadya, a high-ranking prison guard at Gulag 38B who is obsessed with Kermit the Frog.[14]
Muppet performers
[edit]- Steve Whitmire as Kermit the Frog, Foo-Foo, Statler, Beaker, Lips, Rizzo the Rat, Link Hogthrob, the Newsman and Andy Pig[15] (Additionally, Kermit is portrayed by Jim Henson in a scene featuring archival material from Sesame Street.)
- Eric Jacobson as Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Sam Eagle, Animal and Marvin Suggs[15]
- Dave Goelz as Gonzo the Great, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Zoot, Beauregard, Waldorf and Randy Pig[15]
- Bill Barretta as Pepe the King Prawn, Bobo the Bear, Big Mean Carl, Rowlf the Dog, Dr. Teeth, The Swedish Chef, Carlo Flamingo, Baby Boss and Leprechaun Security Guard[15]
- David Rudman as Scooter, Janice, Miss Poogy, Bobby Benson and Wayne[15]
- Matt Vogel as Constantine, '80s Robot, Sweetums, Floyd Pepper, Pops, Robin the Frog, Lew Zealand, Crazy Harry, Camilla the Chicken and Uncle Deadly[15]
- Peter Linz as Walter and Manolo Flamingo[15]
- Louise Gold as Annie Sue[15]
Cameo guest stars
[edit]Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Salma Hayek,[16] Saoirse Ronan[17] and Christoph Waltz[18] appear as themselves.
Jemaine Clement plays The Prison King; Danny Trejo,[19] Dylan "Hornswoggle" Postl,[20] Ray Liotta,[21] Tom Hiddleston[22] and Josh Groban[23] appear as Gulag 38B inmates. Stanley Tucci plays Ivan, a Gulag 38B Watchtower Guard.
James McAvoy, Chloë Grace Moretz, Miranda Richardson, Russell Tovey, Mackenzie Crook, Toby Jones, Rob Corddry, Hugh Bonneville, Tom Hollander, Sean "Diddy" Combs,[24] Celine Dion,[25] Zach Galifianakis,[26] Frank Langella,[27] Ross Lynch,[28] Til Schweiger[29] and Usher[30] also appear in minor cameos.
Some actors filmed scenes that were cut from the theatrical film release, but were later restored on the film's DVD and Blu-ray release. The actors include:[31] Bridgit Mendler, Debby Ryan, Dexter Fletcher, Peter Serafinowicz, Jake Short, and Tyrel Jackson Williams.
Production
[edit]Development
[edit]In March 2012, after the critical and commercial success of The Muppets, Walt Disney Studios negotiated a deal with James Bobin and Nicholas Stoller to direct and write, respectively, an eighth installment.[8] Disney green-lit the film on April 24, 2012.[32] Along with Brian Henson, Bobin is the only other person to have directed two Muppet films.[33]
Writing began in April 2012 after a couple of weeks of outlining.[34] Jason Segel, co-writer and star of the previous film, declined any involvement with the eighth entry, citing that he had accomplished his ambition of bringing the characters to the forefront with the 2011 film.[35] Despite this, Bobin and Stoller quickly began work on the film based on Disney's demand. Taking on the form of a caper, the film was inspired by both The Great Muppet Caper and The Muppets Take Manhattan as well as The Pink Panther and The Thomas Crown Affair.[33][34] Bobin said that the film was "a tip of the hat to the old-school crime capers of the '60s, but featuring a frog, a pig, a bear, and a dog—no panthers, even pink ones—along with the usual Muppet-y mix of mayhem, music and laughs".[14][36]
The first actor to be attached to the film was Christoph Waltz in the role of an Interpol inspector. Waltz dropped out due to scheduling conflicts (though he would end up appearing in a cameo as himself) and was replaced by Ty Burrell.[37] In December 2012, Ricky Gervais confirmed his casting.[38] Tina Fey was later confirmed in January of the following year.[39]
Filming
[edit]Originally commissioned under the title The Muppets ... Again!,[7] principal photography began in January 2013, at London's Pinewood Studios in Iver, Buckinghamshire.[12][40] Filming also took place at the Tower of London, a site where the Crown Estate rarely grants permission to do so.[41] Additional filming locations in London included Leicester Square, Tower Hill, the Richmond Theatre, Wilton's Music Hall, Freemasons' Hall and The Historic Dockyard, Chatham.[42][43] In addition to the United Kingdom, scenes were also shot at Union Station, the Walt Disney Studios and Paramount Studios lots, and on Hollywood Boulevard (to recreate the previous film's ending) in Los Angeles.[44][45] On June 13, 2013, the title of the film was changed from The Muppets ... Again! to Muppets Most Wanted, although the original title is mentioned in the opening song.[46][47][48]
The production design was done by Eve Stewart, who took a tongue-in-cheek approach to each country setting while also being influenced by the retro style of "crime capers of the '60s and '70s".[49] Rahel Afiley returned as the costume designer, compiling the wardrobe for both Muppet and human characters. In addition to Afiley's own creations, English fashion designer Vivienne Westwood also contributed four outfits for Miss Piggy while United States retailer Brooks Brothers created more than 200 items for the male cast.[50][51] Discussing Miss Piggy's wedding gown, Westwood said, "It's called the Court dress and is inspired by 17th-century English royalty and the court of King Charles II. It has been designed ... in a white pearl sequin fabric made from recycled water bottles."[52]
Post-production
[edit]"If we are doing CG compositing, ... we always have puppeteers perform it. We never go down the road of having a full CG character, which you could easily do. It feels that the joy of this movie is the Muppets exist. They're real; you can touch them. There are very few forms of entertainment in the contemporary world that exist like that, and Muppets are the last bastion of it, and it would be shame to lose that."
—James Bobin on balancing practical and digital effects.[53]
Visual effects were done primarily by The Senate Visual Effects. The effects studio worked on 425 shots that included CG builds and set extensions, matte paintings, particle and laser effects, animation, and rod removals.[54] Additional visual effects work was done by Double Negative, Factory VFX, and Nvizible.[55] As with the previous installment, the film required blue screen for scenes that required digital compositing. While green screen is more traditional for color keying, the screen's shade of green would clash with Kermit and therefore be unusable; Sam Eagle's shade of blue is suitable on blue screen.[56]
Audio mixing and editorial services were done by Todd Soundelux and 424 Post. Based out of Todd-AO's Santa Monica facility,[57] Kevin O'Connell and Beau Borders worked on the film as re-recording mixers alongside 424 Post's supervising sound editors Kami Asgar and Sean McCormack.[58]
The first assembly cut of the film ran around two and a half hours.[59]
Music
[edit]The musical score for Muppets Most Wanted was composed by Christophe Beck, with additional songs by Bret McKenzie. A soundtrack album was released by Walt Disney Records on March 18, 2014.[60] It features six original songs by McKenzie as well as re-recordings of contemporary music and past Muppet songs, including "Together Again" from The Muppets Take Manhattan.[61] A separate album entirely containing Beck's score (paired with the score for The Muppets, also composed by Beck) was released by Walt Disney Records and Intrada Records on April 15, 2014.[62]
Release
[edit]Muppets Most Wanted held its world premiere on March 11, 2014, at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California.[63] The film was theatrically released in the United States on March 21 and in the United Kingdom on March 28, 2014.[64] Theatrically, the film was accompanied by Pixar's Monsters University short Party Central.[65]
Marketing
[edit]A teaser trailer was released on August 6, 2013, and was attached theatrically to screenings of Planes.[66] On November 20, 2013, two different trailers were released, one for the United States and one for the United Kingdom.[67][68]
In February 2014, the Muppets starred alongside Terry Crews in a commercial for Toyota that aired during the Super Bowl.[69] Later that month, Disney partnered with Subway to promote healthy eating through an advertisement featuring the Muppets.[70] In early March, the restaurant chain started giving away free Muppet-themed bags with kids meals.[71] Spoof posters were released for the film, parodying Skyfall (called Frogfall), The World Is Not Enough (called The Pig Is Not Enough), Face/Off (called Fraud/Frog), and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (called Animal Piggy Frog Spy).[72]
In February, the Android and iOS game My Muppets Show added content from the film, including a Big House stage, various props from the movie, and Constantine as a discoverable/purchasable character.[73] From March 20 to April 1, Disney's online game Club Penguin hosted a special Muppets World Tour event. Players were able to visit nine country-themed rooms and perform alongside several Muppets.[74]
Home media
[edit]Muppets Most Wanted was released by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment on Blu-ray and DVD on August 12, 2014. The Blu-ray bonus features include three cuts of the film: the original theatrical cut (106 minutes), a truncated Statler and Waldorf cut (2 minutes), and an extended cut featuring 12 minutes of scenes not shown in the theatrical version (124 minutes). Also included are a blooper reel, a featurette called "Rizzo's Biggest Fan," and a music video of "I'll Get You What You Want" featuring Bret McKenzie.[75]
Reception
[edit]Box office
[edit]Muppets Most Wanted grossed $51.2 million in North America, and $29.2 million in other countries, for a worldwide total of $80.4 million.[5] The film earned $17 million and opened to number two in its first weekend, with $17 million, behind Divergent.[76] Considering that pre-release tracking had forecast Muppets Most Wanted at opening with takings of more than $20 million,[77][78][79] Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures distribution chief Dave Hollis said the film's opening was "definitely disappointing". Hollis said there was never a comparison between the previous film and its sequel, since Thanksgiving is a concentrated time for family moviegoing.[80] In its second weekend, the film dropped to number three, grossing $11.3 million, leading to a better second weekend than its predecessor.[81] In its third weekend, the film dropped to number five, grossing $5.1 million.[82] In its fourth weekend, the film dropped to number nine, grossing $2.3 million.[83]
Critical response
[edit]Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a score of 80% based on reviews from 207 critics, with a rating average of 6.7/10. The site's consensus stated: "While it may not reach the delirious heights of The Muppets, Muppets Most Wanted still packs in enough clever gags, catchy songs, and celebrity cameos to satisfy fans of all ages."[13][84] Metacritic gave the film a score of 61/100 based on 37 reviews indicating "generally favorable reviews".[85] CinemaScore audiences gave Muppets Most Wanted a "B+" grade rating on an A+ to F scale.[86]
Alonso Duralde of The Wrap compared the film favorably to the 2011 predecessor, elaborating, "Muppets Most Wanted remains sensational and celebrational, proving beyond a doubt that these beloved characters will continue to lead a plush life on the big screen for years to come."[87] Despite reservations over the previous installment, Brian Henson called Most Wanted a great Muppets film, saying, "I think my dad would be thrilled the Muppets are continuing. That's a big deal."[4] Peter Hartlaub of the San Francisco Chronicle gave the film three out of four stars, saying "It just feels like something the original Muppet creators might have done."[88] John Hartl of The Seattle Times gave the film three out of four stars, saying "Most of the laughs come courtesy of Tina Fey, in the role of a Siberian prison guard who can't/won't stop dancing."[89] Todd McCarthy of The Hollywood Reporter had a mixed reaction; praising Bret McKenzie's songs and the film's humor, but labeling the film overall as "an oddly off-key follow-up".[90] Justin Chang of Variety gave a negative review, stating that the film "looks and sounds eager to please but immediately feels like a more slapdash, aimless affair, trying—and mostly failing—to turn its stalled creativity into some sort of self-referential joke."[3] Anna Smith of Time Out gave the film three out of five stars, saying "'Everybody knows that the sequel's never quite as good,' sing our fluffy friends during the opening number of a film with much to live up to after 2011's terrific reboot, The Muppets. The joke proves self-fulfilling."[91] Bill Goodykoontz of The Arizona Republic gave the film four out of five stars, saying "Although this movie has lots of laughs and a willingness to poke fun at itself, it doesn't quite recapture the magic of the last movie. Close, but not quite."[92]
Jake Coyle of the Associated Press gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "Muppets Most Wanted fails to whip up the kind of furry frenzy that makes the Muppets special."[93] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone gave the film two and a half stars out of three, saying "The breaking point of stretching this one joke is reached early. Luckily, Muppet good will helps get you through the rest."[94] Joe Neumaier of the New York Daily News gave the film three out of five stars, saying "The film's slightly overplotted feel is offset by the zippiest musical numbers since the Muppets' deservedly beloved 1979 film."[95] J. R. Jones of the Chicago Reader gave the film a negative review, saying "The verbal wit is fairly weak this time around, though as in the previous film there's an endless succession of three-second star cameos."[96] Tom Russo of The Boston Globe gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The well-worn plot basics are dressed up nicely by the film's consistently clever humor, as well as a celebrity cameo roster that's stacked even by Muppet standards."[97] Bill Zwecker of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The pacing is spot-on, and Fey's Russian guard and Ty Burrell's Interpol agent are wonderful human additions to this comedic romp."[98] Neil Genzlinger of The New York Times gave the film a positive review, saying "It all adds up to an eventful entry in the Muppet film library but not a classic one."[99] Claudia Puig of USA Today gave the film three out of four stars, calling the film "A breezy, mirthful caper enlivened by the comic talents of Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey."[100]
Frank Lovece of Newsday gave the film three out of four stars, saying "While it may not be sensational, it's still an inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational Muppet show."[101] Peter Howell of the Toronto Star gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "You don't go to a Muppet movie looking for anything other than a few laughs with beloved puppet pals. Mission accomplished—ka-ching!—on that front."[102] David Hiltbrand of The Philadelphia Inquirer gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "Sunny and cheerful, Muppets Most Wanted is a cascade of epic silliness, good for a few fleeting and familiar chuckles."[103] Chris Nashawaty of Entertainment Weekly gave the film a B, saying "The songs are infectious, but the rest (despite turns by Tina Fey and Ty Burrell) lacks some of the gang's usual feel-good joy."[104] Christopher Orr of The Atlantic gave the film a positive review, saying "Kids will enjoy it, and there are more than enough clever gags to keep parents amused. But the film lacks the tenderness and rich nostalgia that made The Muppets such an improbable delight."[105] Erik Adams of The A.V. Club gave the film a B−, saying "The Muppets are creatures of indulgence, and their sense of humor is one of excess. Muppets Most Wanted is a mess of a movie, but anything tidier would be a poor fit."[106] Betsy Sharkey of the Los Angeles Times gave the film a positive review, saying "Though there are many delicious little moments tucked inside, the action heads in so many directions it can be dizzying to keep up."[107] Steve Persall of the Tampa Bay Times gave the film a B, saying "Muppets Most Wanted is pleasant enough to recommend as family entertainment. But the movie falls short of what immediately preceded it, musically and emotionally."[108]
Dana Stevens of Slate gave the film a negative review, saying "There's something sour and strained about this movie that's at odds with the usual Muppet ethos of game, let's-put-on-a-show cheer. Maybe that's because of the inordinate amount of screen time spent on the rivalry between two villains who are as uninteresting as they are unpleasant."[109] Michael Phillips of the Chicago Tribune gave the film two out of four stars, saying "Part of the problem here is one of proportion: The movie throws a misjudged majority of the material to the villains and lets the unfashionably sincere and sweet-natured Muppets fend for themselves."[110] Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph gave the film two out of five stars, saying "Muppet film number eight is a resounding disappointment: it's uneven and often grating, with only a few moments of authentic delight, and almost none of the sticky-sweet, toast-and-honey crunch of its vastly enjoyable 2011 forerunner."[111] James Berardinelli of ReelViews gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The inevitable sequel, arriving three years later, isn't as giddily entertaining as its predecessor but much of the charm remains, making this an ideal destination for a family excursion."[112] Eric Henderson of Slant Magazine gave the film three out of four stars, saying "Freed from the burden of starting anew, the film restores the Muppets' rightful place as stars of their own show."[113] Steve Davis of The Austin Chronicle gave the film three out of five stars, saying "This re-energized franchise has found its second wind, bursting with a creative vitality and boisterous humor that makes everything seem new again."[114]
Accolades
[edit]Award | Category | Recipients | Result |
---|---|---|---|
British Academy Children's Awards[115] | BAFTA Kid's Vote - Film in 2014 | Nominated | |
Golden Tomato Awards[116] | Best Reviewed Kids/Family Film | Won | |
19th Satellite Awards[117] | Best Original Song | "I'll Get You What You Want (Cockatoo in Malibu)" - Bret McKenzie | Nominated |
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Theatrical poster credits block via Rottenberg, Josh (October 28, 2013). "Check out the new poster for 'Muppets Most Wanted' -- Exclusive". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved March 9, 2013.
- ^ Simon, Brent. "Review: Muppets Most Wanted". Screendaily.com. Screen International. Archived from the original on October 16, 2021. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
- ^ a b Chang, Justin (March 11, 2014). "Film Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted'". Variety. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved March 20, 2014.
- ^ a b Setoodeh, Ramin (March 11, 2014). "How Kermit and the Muppets Got Their Mojo Back". Variety. Archived from the original on May 6, 2019. Retrieved March 12, 2014.
- ^ a b c "Muppets Most Wanted (2014)". Box Office Mojo. Internet Movie Database. July 19, 2014. Archived from the original on July 7, 2014. Retrieved July 7, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted". www.bbfc.co.uk.
- ^ a b Rottenberg, Josh (January 30, 2013). "A first look at the Muppets sequel, 'Muppets ... Again!' – Exclusive". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on January 21, 2015. Retrieved January 30, 2013.
- ^ a b Brodesser-Akner, Claude (March 1, 2012). "New Muppets Movie Going Ahead, But Without Jason Segel As a Writer". Vulture. Archived from the original on March 2, 2012. Retrieved January 18, 2013.
- ^ Kit, Borys (August 16, 2012). "'The Muppets' Producer Mandeville Re-Ups With Disney (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on September 21, 2013. Retrieved September 19, 2012.
- ^ Miller, Daniel; Kit, Borys (October 31, 2012). "Christoph Waltz in Negotiations to Star in 'The Muppets' Sequel (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on November 5, 2012. Retrieved January 19, 2013.
- ^ Weintraub, Steve. "'The Muppets' Sequel Update: Filming Begins in Late January at Pinewood Studios in London; Bret McKenzie Writing New Songs". Collider.com. Archived from the original on November 6, 2012. Retrieved November 7, 2012.
- ^ a b Lussier, Germaine (January 15, 2013). "Sequel Bits: Fast and Furious 6, Star Trek 3, Muppets 2, Catching Fire, Legend of Conan". /Film. Archived from the original on January 18, 2013. Retrieved January 19, 2013.
- ^ a b "Muppets Most Wanted (2014)". Rotten Tomatoes. Fandango Media. Archived from the original on July 30, 2020. Retrieved July 6, 2020.
- ^ a b c d Zakarin, Jordan (January 30, 2013). "Disney Reveals Muppet Movie Sequel's Name and Synopsis". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 13, 2013. Retrieved January 30, 2013.
- ^ a b c d e f g h "Muppets Most Wanted: Press Kit" (PDF). The Walt Disney Studios. Archived from the original (PDF) on December 15, 2019. Retrieved June 6, 2014.
- ^ Malkin, Marc (November 10, 2013). "Why Salma Hayek Is a Hero to Her Daughter". E!. Archived from the original on February 11, 2021. Retrieved March 11, 2024.
- ^ Adams, Sam (March 21, 2014). "'Goodnight, Danny Trejo': Why 'Muppets Most Wanted's' Too-Many Cameos Feel Just Right". Indiewire. Archived from the original on March 26, 2014. Retrieved March 26, 2014.
- ^ Cheirif, Samantha. "Christoph Waltz Talks 'Django Unchained', Deleted Scenes and 'The Muppets' Sequel; Reveals He Might be Doing a Cameo and Dancing with Miss Piggy". Collider.com. Archived from the original on August 14, 2020. Retrieved December 29, 2012.
- ^ Philbrick, Jami (April 11, 2013). "IAR Exclusive Interview: Ray Liotta Talks 'The Iceman,' 'The Place Beyond the Pines,' 'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For' and 'The Muppets ... Again!'". iamROGUE.com. Archived from the original on April 15, 2013. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ "Christmas Bounty Premiere, WWE & Scooby Doo, The Next Khali, JR Update, Hornswoggle & Muppets". Wrestlingnewsworld.com. November 21, 2013. Archived from the original on December 2, 2013. Retrieved January 28, 2014.
- ^ Sneider, Jeff (January 22, 2013). "Liotta reunites with 'Muppets' for sequel". Variety. Archived from the original on January 23, 2013. Retrieved January 23, 2013.
- ^ Connelly, Brendon. "Tom Hiddleston Is The Great Escapo In The Muppets ... Again". Bleeding Cool. Archived from the original on March 25, 2013. Retrieved March 26, 2013.
- ^ #Soundtrack
- ^ Roe, Ryan (May 21, 2013). "P. Diddy to Meet P. Prawn in New Muppet Movie". ToughPigs.com. Archived from the original on September 22, 2013. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ "Celine Dion to Sing Theme Song for The Muppets Again". Digital Spy.[dead link ]
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted' Trailer: Kermit Is In Trouble". November 20, 2013. Archived from the original on November 27, 2013. Retrieved November 20, 2013.
- ^ Mike Fleming, Jr (April 16, 2013). "Frank Langella Is Cleveland Browns Owner In 'Draft Day'". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on June 30, 2013. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted' Teaser Trailer Features Slew Of Celebrity Cameos In Upcoming 'Muppets' Sequel". International Business Times. March 21, 2013. Archived from the original on December 10, 2014. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ Eisenberg, Eric (February 15, 2013). "Liotta reunites with 'Muppets' for sequel". Cinema Blend. Archived from the original on February 19, 2013. Retrieved February 15, 2013.
- ^ Connelly, Brendon (April 5, 2013). "Another Muppets Sequel Cameo Confirmed – And This One Brings The Fancy Footwork". BleedingCool.com. Archived from the original on June 29, 2013. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ Harp, Justin (March 21, 2013). "Peter Serafinowicz, Dexter Fletcher cast in 'The Muppets ... Again'". Digital Spy. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved July 6, 2013.
- ^ McClintock, Pamela (April 24, 2012). "CinemaCon 2012: Pixar Announces New Latin-Themed Project, Disney Plans 'Muppets 2'". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on April 26, 2012. Retrieved January 18, 2013.
- ^ a b Radish, Christina (March 21, 2014). "Director James Bobin & Songwriter Bret McKenzie Talk MUPPETS MOST WANTED, the Hensons' Reaction to the Film, the Pressure of Following an Oscar Win, and More". Collider.com. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ a b Weintraub, Steve (April 14, 2012). "Exclusive MUPPETS Sequel News: It's a Caper, Will Have New Muppets, Jason Segel Might Cameo, Possible Summer 2013 Release, More". Collider.com. Archived from the original on March 30, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Beard, Lanford (March 5, 2012). "Jason Segel not involved in 'Muppets' sequel". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on October 7, 2013. Retrieved January 19, 2013.
- ^ Maytum, Matt (January 30, 2013). "First official images from sequel The Muppets ... Again!". Total Film. Archived from the original on February 3, 2013. Retrieved January 30, 2013.
- ^ Kit, Borys (December 7, 2012). "Ty Burrell to Star in Disney's 'Muppets' Sequel (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on December 9, 2012. Retrieved January 18, 2013.
- ^ "Ricky Gervais confirms that he will star in 'The Muppets' sequel". NME. December 20, 2012. Archived from the original on December 23, 2012. Retrieved January 19, 2013.
- ^ Kit, Borys (January 8, 2013). "Tina Fey in Talks to Join Disney's 'Muppets' Sequel (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on January 10, 2013. Retrieved January 18, 2013.
- ^ "FIRST LOOK: Disney's 'The Muppets ... Again!' Kicks Off Production in London". Disney Movies Blog. Archived from the original on February 4, 2013. Retrieved January 30, 2013.
- ^ Kit, Borys (March 12, 2014). "Inside the 'Muppets Most Wanted' Premiere: Tina Fey and Her Accent, James Bobin on Shooting in the Tower of London". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on October 7, 2015. Retrieved October 11, 2015.
- ^ Kent Film Office (March 18, 2014). "Kent Film Office The Muppets Most Wanted Article". Archived from the original on January 19, 2016. Retrieved August 11, 2015.
- ^ "London locations double for Europe in The Muppets Most Wanted". Film London. March 26, 2014. Archived from the original on March 30, 2014. Retrieved March 29, 2014.
- ^ Sciretta, Peter (January 8, 2014). "/Film Visits The Set Of 'Muppets Most Wanted'". /Film. Archived from the original on April 8, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Shaw-Williams, H. (May 10, 2013). "'The Muppets ... Again!' Set Photos – Jason Segel's Character Returning?". ScreenRant. Archived from the original on June 8, 2013. Retrieved May 16, 2013.
- ^ Rome, Emily (June 13, 2013). "'Muppets' sequel gets new title, 'Into the Woods' gets release date, and more Disney updates". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on October 12, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2013.
- ^ Schillaci, Sophie; McClintock, Pamela (June 13, 2013). "Disney Dates Musical 'Into the Woods' Opposite 'Annie' in December 2014". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on September 21, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2013.
- ^ Stewart, Andrew (June 13, 2013). "Disney Schedules Two Untitled Marvel Movies for 2016 and 2017". Variety. Archived from the original on June 18, 2013. Retrieved June 15, 2013.
- ^ Laverty, Christopher (January 9, 2014). "The Muppets Most Wanted: Set and Costume Visit". ClothesOnFilm.com. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Christine, Marie (March 18, 2014). "Miss Piggy's Vivienne Westwood wardrobe for 'Muppets Most Wanted'". Cinemazzi.com. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Chan, Stephanie (March 21, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted's' Cast Gets Dressed by Brooks Brothers". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 28, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Oltuski, Romy (February 11, 2014). "Miss Piggy Talks With Vivienne Westwood". Harper's Bazaar. Archived from the original on March 20, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Thompson, Luke Y. (March 21, 2014). "TR Interview: James Bobin, Master of Muppets (Most Wanted)". ToplessRobot.com (Voice Media Group). Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ "The Senate Visual Effects | Muppets Most Wanted". The Senate Visual Effects. Archived from the original on November 24, 2013. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Gartier, James (January 3, 2014). "Animation and VFX Winter Movie Preview 2014". Animation World Network. Archived from the original on April 2, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Brew, Simon (February 19, 2014). "29 nerdy things we learned on the set of Muppets Most Wanted". Den of Geek (Dennis Publishing). Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Giardina, Carolyn (October 9, 2014). "20-Time Oscar Nominated Re-Recording Mixer Kevin O'Connell Joins Todd-Soundelux". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on June 8, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted - TODD-SOUNDELUX". Todd Soundelux. March 17, 2014. Archived from the original on March 24, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2014.
- ^ Weintraub, Steve (March 25, 2014). "Director James Bobin Talks MUPPETS MOST WANTED, Finding the Story for the Sequel, Putting Together the Cast, ALICE IN WONDERLAND 2, and More". Collider.com. Archived from the original on March 26, 2014. Retrieved March 25, 2014.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted' Soundtrack Details". FilmMusicReporter.com. January 28, 2014. Archived from the original on April 7, 2014. Retrieved March 16, 2014.
- ^ ""Muppets Most Wanted" Soundtrack To Make Mayhem March 18". PR Newswire. February 28, 2014. Archived from the original on March 18, 2014. Retrieved March 16, 2014.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted' Score Album Details". FilmMusicReporter.com. April 3, 2014. Archived from the original on April 5, 2014. Retrieved April 4, 2014.
- ^ Bell, Carrie (March 12, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' premiere, On the Scene: Tina Fey, Ty Burrell, more pick their Muppet doppelgangers". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved March 13, 2014.
- ^ "'Pirates Of The Caribbean 5,' 'The Muppets 2,' Secret Brad Bird Movie & More Set For Disney". The Huffington Post. January 14, 2013. Archived from the original on January 18, 2013. Retrieved January 19, 2013.
- ^ Rottenberg, Josh (January 7, 2014). "Disney to showcase new Pixar short 'Party Central' in front of 'Muppets Most Wanted' - EXCLUSIVE". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on January 7, 2014. Retrieved March 26, 2014.
- ^ "Just Released: 'Muppets Most Wanted' Trailer". DisneyInsider.com (The Walt Disney Company). August 6, 2013. Archived from the original on August 9, 2013. Retrieved August 6, 2013.
- ^ "Walter's Favorite Moments from the Muppets Most Wanted Trailer". Disney Insider. November 20, 2013. Archived from the original on November 23, 2013. Retrieved November 20, 2013.
- ^ Connelly, Brendon. "Two New Muppets Most Wanted Trailers – Bigger, Longer, Better Than The Teaser – Updated". BleedingCool.com. Archived from the original on November 24, 2013. Retrieved November 20, 2013.
- ^ "Muppets Cause Mayhem In Toyota Super Bowl Commercial Also Starring Terry Crews (VIDEO)". The Huffington Post. February 3, 2014. Archived from the original on March 9, 2014. Retrieved March 19, 2014.
- ^ Graser, Marc (February 14, 2014). "The Muppets Crave Subway in 'Most Wanted' Ad Campaign". Variety. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved March 19, 2014.
- ^ "The Subway Brand Launches a Muppet-Themed Campaign for Families". Subway. March 12, 2014. Archived from the original on March 12, 2016. Retrieved March 19, 2014.
- ^ "Excellent New James Bond-Style Muppets Most Wanted Posters - The Pig Is Not Enough - Bleeding Cool Comic Book, Movies and TV News and Rumors". Bleedingcool.com. March 6, 2014. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved March 23, 2014.
- ^ "My Muppets 'Most Wanted' Update". Archived from the original on March 24, 2014.
- ^ Jennings, Adele (March 18, 2014). "Exclusive: First look at the new Club Penguin in-game party takeover: Join the Muppets World Tour!". Daily Mirror. Archived from the original on February 4, 2017. Retrieved March 18, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted Blu-ray". Blu-ray.com. Archived from the original on May 16, 2014. Retrieved May 16, 2014.
- ^ Busch, Anita (March 23, 2014). "BOX OFFICE: 'Divergent' No. 1 On Track For Mid-$50M Weekend; 'Muppets Most Wanted' Very Soft; Faith-Based 'God's Not Dead' Surprises In Top Five And 'Budapest Hotel' Another Strong Per Screen". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on March 23, 2014. Retrieved March 23, 2014.
- ^ Subers, Ray (March 20, 2014). "Forecast: 'Divergent' Leaps Into Theaters -- Will It Be the Next YA Hit?". Box Office Mojo. Internet Movie Database. Archived from the original on March 28, 2014. Retrieved March 30, 2014.
- ^ Symington, Steve (March 21, 2014). "Box Office: Divergent Tracking for Twilight-esque Launch, Muppets Will Do Fine". The Motley Fool. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 30, 2014.
- ^ Faughnder, Ryan (March 20, 2014). "'Divergent' likely to pass box-office test; 'Muppets' looks solid". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 30, 2014. Retrieved March 30, 2014.
- ^ Busch, Anita (March 23, 2014). "Box Office: 'Divergent' Breaks YA Curse With $56 Million Debut; 'Muppets 2' Bombs". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on February 17, 2020. Retrieved March 23, 2014.
- ^ Subers, Ray (March 30, 2014). "Weekend Report: Moviegoers Climb Aboard 'Noah's Ark". Box Office Mojo. Internet Movie Database. Archived from the original on March 31, 2014. Retrieved March 30, 2014.
- ^ "Weekend Box Office Results for April 4-6, 2014". Box Office Mojo. Archived from the original on April 11, 2014. Retrieved April 10, 2014.
- ^ "Weekend Box Office Results for April 11-13, 2014". Box Office Mojo. Archived from the original on April 18, 2014. Retrieved April 29, 2014.
- ^ Gettell, Oliver (March 12, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' a weak sequel, early reviews say". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 15, 2014. Retrieved March 28, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted". Metacritic. CBS Interactive. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved March 19, 2014.
- ^ Garris, Daniel (March 24, 2014). "NORTH AMERICA: 'Divergent' Debuts with Healthy $54.6M; 'Muppets Most Wanted' Underwhelms". BoxOffice. Archived from the original on March 28, 2014. Retrieved March 27, 2014.
- ^ Duralde, Alonso (March 12, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' Review: Caper Sequel Proves Second Verse Can Be as Good as the First". The Wrap. Archived from the original on March 20, 2014. Retrieved March 20, 2014.
- ^ Hartlaub, Peter (March 21, 2014). "Movie review: 'Muppets Most Wanted'". San Francisco Chronicle. Archived from the original on March 20, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Hartl, John. "'Muppets Most Wanted': Will the real Kermie stand up?". The Seattle Times. Archived from the original on March 26, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ McCarthy, Todd (March 12, 2014). "Muppets Most Wanted: Film Review". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 15, 2014. Retrieved March 20, 2014.
- ^ Smith, Anna (March 13, 2014). "Muppets Most Wanted". Time Out. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ "Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' 4 stars". The Arizona Republic. March 12, 2014. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Coyle, Jake (March 20, 2014). "Review: The Muppets reteam with mixed results". Associated Press. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 20, 2014.
- ^ Travers, Peter (March 20, 2014). "'The Muppets Most Wanted' Movie Review". Rolling Stone. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted,' movie review". Daily News. New York. March 20, 2014. Archived from the original on March 20, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ J.R. Jones (March 20, 2014). "Muppets Most Wanted". Chicago Reader. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Russo, Tom (March 13, 2014). "Muppets sequel full of cleverness, cameos". The Boston Globe. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted': Frog goes across the pond, to funny effect". Chicago Sun-Times. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Genzlinger, Neil (March 20, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' Pokes Fun at Europe". The New York Times. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 20, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets are still most wanted in wacky, charming sequel". USA Today. August 18, 2013. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ "'Muppets Most Wanted' review: Caper for 'Muppet Show' lovers". Newsday. May 4, 2012. Archived from the original on December 4, 2017. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Howell, Peter (March 20, 2014). "Muppets Most Wanted finds it's not easy being a cash machine: review". Toronto Star. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Hiltbrand, David (October 22, 2012). "Vintage Muppets tour the world, play to the boomers". Philadelphia Daily News. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Ross, Dalton. "Capsule Movie Reviews (Mar. 19): 'Teenage' and four more". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Madrigal, Alexis C. (March 21, 2014). "A Light, Loopy Muppets Most Wanted". The Atlantic. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 21, 2014.
- ^ Adams, Erik (March 20, 2014). "Muppets Most Wanted has the feel, but not the look, of vintage Henson". Avclub.com. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Sharkey, Betsy (March 21, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' review: fun with the fuzz vs. the fuzzy". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Persall, Steve. "Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' isn't brilliant but is pleasant enough". Tampa Bay Times. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Stevens, Dana (March 24, 1999). "Muppets Most Wanted, starring Kermit the Frog, reviewed". Slate. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ Phillips, Michael (March 20, 2014). "'Muppets Most Wanted' review". Chicago Tribune. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted, review". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted". Reelviews.net. Archived from the original on March 23, 2014. Retrieved March 23, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted". Slant Magazine. March 18, 2014. Archived from the original on March 23, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ "Muppets Most Wanted". The Austin Chronicle. November 25, 2011. Archived from the original on March 21, 2014. Retrieved March 22, 2014.
- ^ "Children's in 2014". BAFTA. Archived from the original on April 6, 2016. Retrieved November 24, 2014.
- ^ "Golden Tomatoes Awards 2014". Rotten Tomatoes. Archived from the original on January 7, 2015. Retrieved January 6, 2015.
- ^ Pond, Steve (December 1, 2014). "'Birdman' Leads Satellite Awards Nominations". The Wrap. Archived from the original on December 7, 2014. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
External links
[edit]- 2014 films
- 2010s children's comedy films
- 2014 crime comedy films
- 2010s English-language films
- 2010s musical comedy films
- 2010s satirical films
- American children's adventure films
- American children's comedy films
- American children's musical films
- American crime comedy films
- American heist films
- American musical comedy films
- American satirical films
- American sequel films
- Backstage musicals
- Films about the Central Intelligence Agency
- Films based on television series
- Films directed by James Bobin
- Films produced by David Hoberman
- Films produced by Todd Lieberman
- Films scored by Christophe Beck
- Films set in Berlin
- Films set in Europe
- Films set in Geneva
- Films set in London
- Films set in Los Angeles
- Films set in Madrid
- Films set in art museums and galleries
- Films set in prison
- Films set in Siberia
- Films set in studio lots
- Films set in Switzerland
- Films set on trains
- Films about theft
- Films shot at Pinewood Studios
- Films shot in Buckinghamshire
- Films shot in London
- Films shot in Los Angeles
- Films with screenplays by Nicholas Stoller
- Mandeville Films films
- American self-reflexive films
- The Muppets films
- Walt Disney Pictures films
- 2010s American films
- English-language crime comedy films
- English-language musical comedy films