This Monday at 12:00 Pm on PBS, “Sesame Street” brings a special cultural experience with Season 53 Episode 13, titled “Nani Bird Visits.” Viewers are in for a delightful treat as Big Bird’s Aunt arrives from Hawaii, offering a unique glimpse into the rich and vibrant Hawaiian culture.
The episode unfolds with a warm and educational exploration of Hawaiian traditions, customs, and special aspects that make the islands distinct. As Big Bird’s Aunt, known affectionately as Nani Bird, shares her insights and stories, young audiences can expect to embark on an exciting journey of discovery.
Tune in at 12:00 Pm for an engaging and educational Monday afternoon with “Sesame Street.” Through the lens of Big Bird’s family, the episode not only fosters cultural appreciation but also weaves in the beloved characters and playful elements that make “Sesame Street” a cherished and timeless program for children and families. It’s...
The episode unfolds with a warm and educational exploration of Hawaiian traditions, customs, and special aspects that make the islands distinct. As Big Bird’s Aunt, known affectionately as Nani Bird, shares her insights and stories, young audiences can expect to embark on an exciting journey of discovery.
Tune in at 12:00 Pm for an engaging and educational Monday afternoon with “Sesame Street.” Through the lens of Big Bird’s family, the episode not only fosters cultural appreciation but also weaves in the beloved characters and playful elements that make “Sesame Street” a cherished and timeless program for children and families. It’s...
- 11/20/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Sesame Street is changing its format after decades, switching from a magazine-style format to a more narrative-driven style with two 11-minute segments and a new animated series in between. The shift away from the classic magazine style may be a detriment to Sesame Street's ability to entertain young children with shorter attention spans, potentially risking the loss of some of its educational lessons. However, the pivot to a narrative-driven style may be vital for Sesame Street's modernization efforts while maintaining the positive messaging at its core.
Sesame Street is changing its format for the first time in the entirety of its run. Debuting in 1969, Sesame Street has become one of the biggest children’s shows and public television series of all time. Featuring classic characters such as Elmo, Big Bird, Kermit the Frog, and Miss Piggy, Sesame Street has been spun off into a number of feature film adaptations.
Sesame Street is changing its format for the first time in the entirety of its run. Debuting in 1969, Sesame Street has become one of the biggest children’s shows and public television series of all time. Featuring classic characters such as Elmo, Big Bird, Kermit the Frog, and Miss Piggy, Sesame Street has been spun off into a number of feature film adaptations.
- 10/30/2023
- by Hannah Gearan
- ScreenRant
Sesame Street's 56th season will see a change in the formatting of the show, as well as the introduction of a new segment.
In 2025, Sesame Street will drop its original format of clips and small segments to adopt a more long-form narrative format that they are hopeful will appeal to young audiences. Per THR, Sesame Workshop CEO Steve Youngwood stated, "We felt like this was a moment to step back and think bigger about how we evolve it." Sesame Street's new addition to the show will be called Tales from 123, and will serve as the animated segment that will become the middle portion of the show.
Related: Sesame Street Fans Are Shocked by Cookie Monster Sharing His Real Name
Sesame Street was introduced in 1969 as an educational children's television program, helmed by Joan Ganz Cooney, Lloyd Morrisett, and Jim Henson. It premiered on PBS, with original episodes moving...
In 2025, Sesame Street will drop its original format of clips and small segments to adopt a more long-form narrative format that they are hopeful will appeal to young audiences. Per THR, Sesame Workshop CEO Steve Youngwood stated, "We felt like this was a moment to step back and think bigger about how we evolve it." Sesame Street's new addition to the show will be called Tales from 123, and will serve as the animated segment that will become the middle portion of the show.
Related: Sesame Street Fans Are Shocked by Cookie Monster Sharing His Real Name
Sesame Street was introduced in 1969 as an educational children's television program, helmed by Joan Ganz Cooney, Lloyd Morrisett, and Jim Henson. It premiered on PBS, with original episodes moving...
- 10/30/2023
- by Kaitlin Humes
- Comic Book Resources
On Monday, November 6, 2023, at 1:00 Pm on PBS, “Sesame Street” brings Season 53, Episode 10, titled “Big Bird’s Happy to Be Me Club.” This delightful episode centers on Big Bird’s desire to join the Good Bird’s Club, but he encounters some challenges from its members.
In this episode, young viewers can expect a valuable lesson about friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance. Big Bird’s journey to be a part of the club highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of peer pressure.
“Sesame Street” has been a beloved show for generations, known for its educational and heartwarming content. This episode, like many others in the series, aims to teach children important life lessons in an engaging and entertaining way.
The episode is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the significance of being comfortable with who they are and embracing their uniqueness. “Sesame Street...
In this episode, young viewers can expect a valuable lesson about friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance. Big Bird’s journey to be a part of the club highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of peer pressure.
“Sesame Street” has been a beloved show for generations, known for its educational and heartwarming content. This episode, like many others in the series, aims to teach children important life lessons in an engaging and entertaining way.
The episode is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the significance of being comfortable with who they are and embracing their uniqueness. “Sesame Street...
- 10/30/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
There’s never been a creative artist quite like Jim Henson. The Mississippi-born Henson was arguably the world’s most famous puppeteer, but he was much more than that. A cartoonist, actor, inventor, animator, writer and filmmaker, Henson was in a class by himself, whether his work appeared in films or on television. In addition, Henson founded the enormously successful Jim Henson Company, an entertainment mainstay that has lived on to produce family entertainment long after Henson’s untimely death in 1990.
After Henson got his start at age 18 creating puppets for a local station in Washington, D.C., he was approached by the Children’s Television Workshop to help develop a new series for PBS, “Sesame Street.” Soon kids around the world were marveling at the antics of Big Bird and his friends, and the show’s success led Henson to expand his Muppet empire with such further successful series...
After Henson got his start at age 18 creating puppets for a local station in Washington, D.C., he was approached by the Children’s Television Workshop to help develop a new series for PBS, “Sesame Street.” Soon kids around the world were marveling at the antics of Big Bird and his friends, and the show’s success led Henson to expand his Muppet empire with such further successful series...
- 9/20/2023
- by Tom O'Brien, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
Amongst members of the Senate, Ted Cruz (R) has a storied history of internet mishaps. From liking porn using his official X (Twitter) account to fighting with Big Bird about vaccines, the Texas Senator’s reflexive posting has made him one of the most lampoonable figures in government. But August could go down as a banner month for Cruz, who publicly embraced not one but three easily debunkable hoaxes over the course of just a few weeks.
It’s been more than a decade since the meme known as “Hurricane...
It’s been more than a decade since the meme known as “Hurricane...
- 8/31/2023
- by Nikki McCann Ramirez
- Rollingstone.com
There were always two sides to the Jim Henson Company during Henson's lifetime. On one of them, you have the puppets they created for "Sesame Street" and "Fraggle Rock," shows that are as wholesome and earnest as their googly-eyed stars. On the other one, you have the often frightening and twisted puppets that Henson and his crew invented for "The Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth," as well as those for even creepier fantasy movies like director Nicolas Roeg's "The Witches." The Muppets, in case you were wondering, straddled the line between the two sides.
More than 30 years after its founder's death, however, Henson's legendary Creature Shop is now working on the "Five Nights at Freddy's" movie. As anyone even remotely familiar with the premise for the original "Fnaf" video games could tell you, Blumhouse's film adaptation is a far cry from even the darkest projects Henson's company developed under his watch.
More than 30 years after its founder's death, however, Henson's legendary Creature Shop is now working on the "Five Nights at Freddy's" movie. As anyone even remotely familiar with the premise for the original "Fnaf" video games could tell you, Blumhouse's film adaptation is a far cry from even the darkest projects Henson's company developed under his watch.
- 8/7/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Over a long and illustrious career, puppeteer Jim Henson created some of the most original and fascinating creatures in film and television. While most of his creations were kid-friendly and comforting—like Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster among other Sesame Street and Muppets staples—Henson was equally talented at crafting creepy and unsettling characters, especially for his antagonists. Notable baddies that showcased Henson’s aptitude for the disturbing include the Skeksis from The Dark Crystal, the Goblins from Labyrinth, and the Witches from The Witches. However, all of these pale in comparison to one of Henson's earlier, lesser-known creations, which managed to be utterly unnerving in its experimental design and unconventional puppetry.
- 6/10/2023
- by Andrew McGowan
- Collider.com
When Haim stop by Sesame Street, A is for Alana, D is for Danielle, and E is for Este. As for the other letters? Watch the trio sing their ABCs on the children’s show and find out below.
Big Bird, Bert, Cookie Monster, Elmo, and other beloved Sesame Street residents were happy to help Haim sing the alphabet, where K stands for ketchup and I stands for ice cream. Oscar the Grouch joined the festivities as well, if only to offer more grumpy words for the singalong.
Haim’s episode of Sesame Street will be available to stream on HBO Max on May 11th. The band, whose last album was 2020’s Women in Music Pt. III, has upcoming performances slated for Governor’s Ball and Ohana Festival. They’ll also open up for Taylor Swift on a few dates on her “Eras Tour.” Grab tickets to a show via StubHub,...
Big Bird, Bert, Cookie Monster, Elmo, and other beloved Sesame Street residents were happy to help Haim sing the alphabet, where K stands for ketchup and I stands for ice cream. Oscar the Grouch joined the festivities as well, if only to offer more grumpy words for the singalong.
Haim’s episode of Sesame Street will be available to stream on HBO Max on May 11th. The band, whose last album was 2020’s Women in Music Pt. III, has upcoming performances slated for Governor’s Ball and Ohana Festival. They’ll also open up for Taylor Swift on a few dates on her “Eras Tour.” Grab tickets to a show via StubHub,...
- 5/10/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Music
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt vetoed funding last month for the state’s public television network, a decision he says was triggered in part by content he has deemed “indoctrination” of children.
Calling the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority an “outdated system,” Stitt said in an interview with Fox News Digital, “The big question is why are we spending taxpayer dollars to prop up or compete with the private sector and run television stations? And then when you go through all of the programing that’s happening, the indoctrination, the over-sexualization of our children, it’s just really problematic, and it doesn’t line up with Oklahoma values.”
An Oeta spokesperson did not immediately return a request for comment.
But Stitt’s move signals a potential new chapter in the culture wars, which has seen conservative communities restrict books from school and public libraries over content they have deemed inappropriate for children.
Calling the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority an “outdated system,” Stitt said in an interview with Fox News Digital, “The big question is why are we spending taxpayer dollars to prop up or compete with the private sector and run television stations? And then when you go through all of the programing that’s happening, the indoctrination, the over-sexualization of our children, it’s just really problematic, and it doesn’t line up with Oklahoma values.”
An Oeta spokesperson did not immediately return a request for comment.
But Stitt’s move signals a potential new chapter in the culture wars, which has seen conservative communities restrict books from school and public libraries over content they have deemed inappropriate for children.
- 5/8/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
The Masked Singer panelist Nicole Scherzinger has impressed everyone with her iconic looks on the season 9 theme nights, but there were five that were especially memorable. Nicole and her fellow panelists, Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, and Ken Jeong join in celebrating each episode by dressing up in clothing or costumes that represent the theme. They have immersed themselves in the theme nights since these episodes were introduced during The Masked Singer season 8.
The Masked Singer season 9 featured nine special theme nights, in which the panelists had a blast dressing up to match the episodes. The first round of the competition kicked off with Opening Night, which was followed by Abba and New York Nights. Round two brought DC Superheroes, Sesame Street, and Country Nights. In the third and final round, there were '80s, WB Movie, and The Masked Singer in Space Nights. Nicole dressed the part on every episode,...
The Masked Singer season 9 featured nine special theme nights, in which the panelists had a blast dressing up to match the episodes. The first round of the competition kicked off with Opening Night, which was followed by Abba and New York Nights. Round two brought DC Superheroes, Sesame Street, and Country Nights. In the third and final round, there were '80s, WB Movie, and The Masked Singer in Space Nights. Nicole dressed the part on every episode,...
- 4/29/2023
- by Lorianne Palinkas
- ScreenRant
Jimmy Kimmel found yet more reasons to mock Tucker Carlson during his monologue on Thursday night, this time by recalling all of the TV jobs Carlson has also been fired from throughout his career.
Yes, Carlson was fired by Fox News on Monday. But before that he was fired by MSNBC, before that by PBS, and before that by CNN. And Kimmel joked that means he’s won the “Egot of cable news.”
“It’s easy to forget how much Tucker Carlson have accomplished over his career. He’s been fired by Fox, CNN, MSNBC and PBS. That’s like the Egot of cable news,” Kimmel said. “That’s called the Egot fired – is what it is.”
Kimmel added, “I forgot he got fired by PBS. He called Big Bird a gay chicken, and they had to let him go.”
Of course, we still don’t know why Fox canned Carlson.
Yes, Carlson was fired by Fox News on Monday. But before that he was fired by MSNBC, before that by PBS, and before that by CNN. And Kimmel joked that means he’s won the “Egot of cable news.”
“It’s easy to forget how much Tucker Carlson have accomplished over his career. He’s been fired by Fox, CNN, MSNBC and PBS. That’s like the Egot of cable news,” Kimmel said. “That’s called the Egot fired – is what it is.”
Kimmel added, “I forgot he got fired by PBS. He called Big Bird a gay chicken, and they had to let him go.”
Of course, we still don’t know why Fox canned Carlson.
- 4/28/2023
- by Joshua Vinson
- The Wrap
Two all new celebrities in disguise took on returning champ Fairy for “Country Night” on Wednesday’s “The Masked Singer.” After a performance of “Angel from Montgomery” by Bonnie Raitt, Fairy advanced to the Battle Royale where she got her wings clipped by Macaw. The magical performer pulled off her mask to reveal actress, author and host Holly Robinson Peete. Panelists Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy, Ken Jeong and Nicole Scherzinger were flabbergasted that none of them were able to guess Fairy’s identity.
“How did you guys not know? I cannot believe it!” exclaimed Holly during her unmasked interview with host Nick Cannon. “I feel like I know everybody on that panel and nobody knew!” When asked why she wanted to be part of “The Masked Singer,” the entertainer responded, “I’ve always sort of been a closet singer. I sang the theme songs to ‘Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper’ and ’21 Jump Street.
“How did you guys not know? I cannot believe it!” exclaimed Holly during her unmasked interview with host Nick Cannon. “I feel like I know everybody on that panel and nobody knew!” When asked why she wanted to be part of “The Masked Singer,” the entertainer responded, “I’ve always sort of been a closet singer. I sang the theme songs to ‘Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper’ and ’21 Jump Street.
- 3/23/2023
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Tonight on “The Masked Singer,” Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, The Count and Abby Cadabby bring the fun in a special “Sesame Street” episode. Grammy Award-winning superstar entertainer Jennifer Nettles joins the panelists as three celebrities sing their way through the competition.
The Season 9 contestants boast a combined 28 Emmy nominations, 6 Grammy wins, 10 gold albums, 4 Golden Globe nominations, 5 medals, 26 books, 2 Tony Award mominations, 5 lifetime achievement awards, 4 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a combined 95,231,000 records sold.
Play along with host Nick Cannon and celebrity panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, Nicole Scherzinger and Robin Thicke. Two new characters enter the competition to face off against Squirrel and two will be unmasked in the all-new “Sesame Street Night” episode of “The Masked Singer” airing Wednesday, March 15 (8:00-9:01 Pm Et/Pt) on Fox.
See See all 135 (and counting) ‘The Masked Singer’ costumes and celebrity reveals through the...
The Season 9 contestants boast a combined 28 Emmy nominations, 6 Grammy wins, 10 gold albums, 4 Golden Globe nominations, 5 medals, 26 books, 2 Tony Award mominations, 5 lifetime achievement awards, 4 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a combined 95,231,000 records sold.
Play along with host Nick Cannon and celebrity panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, Nicole Scherzinger and Robin Thicke. Two new characters enter the competition to face off against Squirrel and two will be unmasked in the all-new “Sesame Street Night” episode of “The Masked Singer” airing Wednesday, March 15 (8:00-9:01 Pm Et/Pt) on Fox.
See See all 135 (and counting) ‘The Masked Singer’ costumes and celebrity reveals through the...
- 3/16/2023
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Spoiler Alert: Do not read ahead if you have not watched the Season 9, episode 5 of “The Masked Singer,” which aired March 15 on Fox.
Two more celebrities were unmasked on Wednesday’s edition of “The Masked Singer”: Actor/comedian Malin Akerman and social media star Lele Pons were revealed to be Squirrel and Jackalope, respectively.
For Squirrel, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg got it right, naming Malin Akerman. Robin Thicke guessed Heather Graham. Ken Jeong thought it was Katherine Heigl. Nicole Scherzinger picked Kate Hudson. Guest panelist Jennifer Nettles said Anne Hathaway.
As for Jackalope, Scherzinger quickly figured out it was Lele Pons, and Thicke agreed. McCarthy Wahlberg said Jenna Ortega. Jeong went with Selena Gomez. Nettles picked Camilla Cabello.
It was “Sesame Street” night, and the episode opened with Elmo singing “What’s The Name of that Song” before turning it over to Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Grover, the Count and...
Two more celebrities were unmasked on Wednesday’s edition of “The Masked Singer”: Actor/comedian Malin Akerman and social media star Lele Pons were revealed to be Squirrel and Jackalope, respectively.
For Squirrel, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg got it right, naming Malin Akerman. Robin Thicke guessed Heather Graham. Ken Jeong thought it was Katherine Heigl. Nicole Scherzinger picked Kate Hudson. Guest panelist Jennifer Nettles said Anne Hathaway.
As for Jackalope, Scherzinger quickly figured out it was Lele Pons, and Thicke agreed. McCarthy Wahlberg said Jenna Ortega. Jeong went with Selena Gomez. Nettles picked Camilla Cabello.
It was “Sesame Street” night, and the episode opened with Elmo singing “What’s The Name of that Song” before turning it over to Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Grover, the Count and...
- 3/16/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
The Masked Singer Season 9 Episode 5 Photos Sesame Street Night Episode Description And Spoilers The Masked Singer Season 9 Episode 5 Photos Sesame Street Night – Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, The Count and Abby Cadabby bring the fun in a special Sesame Street episode. Grammy Award-winning superstar entertainer Jennifer Nettles joins the panelists as three celebrities sing their way through the competition. The Season Nine contestants boast a combined 28 Emmy Nominations, 6 Grammy Wins, 10 Gold Albums, 4 Golden Globe Nominations, 5 Medals, 26 Books, 2 Tony Award Nominations, 5 Lifetime Achievement Awards, 4 Stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a combined 95,231,000 records sold. Play along with host Nick Cannon and celebrity panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Nicole Scherzinger and Robin Thicke. Two singers will be unmasked in the all-new “Sesame Street Night” episode of The Masked Singer airing Wednesday, March 15 (8:00-9:01 Pm Et/Pt) on Fox. (Ms-905) (TV-14 L) s09e05 9×05 9.05 s...
- 3/15/2023
- by Thomas Miller
- Seat42F
Ken Jeong is known for taking big swings with his guesses on “The Masked Singer,” and this week is no different. But at least this time, he has some moral support from Oscar the Grouch.
Yes, Wednesday night’s episode brings quite a few guests to the show, including Oscar and his Sesame Street neighbors. That’s because he, Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and the gang all perform on the show too..
Competing on “The Masked Singer” this week is the reigning champ Squirrel — who Ken swore last week is Margot Robbie — along with new challengers Jackalope and Fairy. And Ken is already certain that Fairy is Angelina Jolie.
You can watch TheWrap’s exclusive sneak peek of the episode in the video above.
Also Read:
‘The Masked Singer': Rock Lobster Admits They Were ‘Devastated’ to Not Get Past One Round: ‘Incredibly Disappointing’
“Panther in the clues, that...
Yes, Wednesday night’s episode brings quite a few guests to the show, including Oscar and his Sesame Street neighbors. That’s because he, Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and the gang all perform on the show too..
Competing on “The Masked Singer” this week is the reigning champ Squirrel — who Ken swore last week is Margot Robbie — along with new challengers Jackalope and Fairy. And Ken is already certain that Fairy is Angelina Jolie.
You can watch TheWrap’s exclusive sneak peek of the episode in the video above.
Also Read:
‘The Masked Singer': Rock Lobster Admits They Were ‘Devastated’ to Not Get Past One Round: ‘Incredibly Disappointing’
“Panther in the clues, that...
- 3/15/2023
- by Andi Ortiz
- The Wrap
TV’s favorite guessing game returns with all-new singers, all-new themed episodes and the “Champion of the Masked Singer” style competition. Every episode features sudden elimination and double unmaskings, but there is a new twist entering the competition this season: for the first time ever, panelists will have the opportunity to save a singer from looming elimination with the “Ding Dong Keep it On” Bell.
Tonight two all-new contestants enter the competition to take on last week’s champ, Squirrel.
See ‘The Masked Singer’ spoilers: Who is Medusa?
Play along with host Nick Cannon and celebrity panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, Nicole Scherzinger and Robin Thicke. Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, The Count and Abby Cadabby bring the fun in a special “Sesame Street” episode. Grammy Award-winning superstar entertainer Jennifer Nettles joins the panelists as three celebrities sing their way through the competition. Who will come out on top?...
Tonight two all-new contestants enter the competition to take on last week’s champ, Squirrel.
See ‘The Masked Singer’ spoilers: Who is Medusa?
Play along with host Nick Cannon and celebrity panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, Nicole Scherzinger and Robin Thicke. Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, The Count and Abby Cadabby bring the fun in a special “Sesame Street” episode. Grammy Award-winning superstar entertainer Jennifer Nettles joins the panelists as three celebrities sing their way through the competition. Who will come out on top?...
- 3/15/2023
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Sesame Street fans are gearing up for a political fight. Following Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney's pledge to cut the federal government's subsidy to PBS ( the home of Sesame Street), fans of the show are planning a "Million Muppet March" in response. "I'm sorry Jim. I'm gonna stop the subsidy to PBS," Romney told moderator Jim Lehrer during the Oct. 3 presidential debate. "I like PBS, I love Big Bird, I actually like you too, but I am not going to keep spending money on things to borrow money from China to pay for." The puppet protest, which is set to go down Nov. 3 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is being held in an effort to save Big...
- 10/13/2012
- E! Online
He's Big. He's a Bird. And he's now a political football. The Obama campaign has put up a new web ad using Big Bird to attack Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney for threatening to kill funding for Sesame Street and PBS during last week's debate. Oh, yes they did! "Big. Yellow. A menace to our economy. Mitt Romney knows it's not Wall Street you have to worry about, it's Sesame Street," intones the narrator in the spot, which features a clip of the Muppet saying, "It's me, Big Bird." Big Bird's forced cameo didn't go over so well with the folks behind the legendary children's educational show. "Sesame Workshop is a...
- 10/9/2012
- E! Online
During the first of three presidential debates Wednesday night, the hottest topic on social media wasn't the economy. It wasn't job creation. It wasn't even the word "trillion" - although that word got thrown around a lot. It was the 8'2" yellow feathered Muppet, Big Bird. While debating President Barack Obama, Republican candidate Mitt Romney said he would cut programs funded by borrowed dollars from China - PBS included. "I like PBS, I love Big Bird," Romney said, "but I'm not going to keep on spending money on things, to borrow money from China to pay for it." The comment ignited a firestorm,...
- 10/4/2012
- by Cara Lynn Shultz
- PEOPLE.com
Film review: 'Elmo in Grouchland'
Serving as the first joint feature production between Jim Henson Pictures and the Children's Television Workshop, "The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland" is colorful, energetic, loud and something of a miscalculation as far as its target audience is concerned.
For while the parents of preschoolers might embrace the prospect of a big-screen Bert 'n' Ernie and Big Bird, this isn't the kinder, gentler "Sesame Street" of their childhood. Curiously, the filmmakers have opted for a tone thunderous rather than wondrous.
This "Sesame Street" is paved with an edgy brashness that will likely prove too intense for younger viewers -- as evidenced perhaps by the number of crying toddlers who took refuge in the lobby at a recent screening -- but will be better received by their older siblings.
Given the shortage of family-appropriate product out there, Elmo and friends could still generate a bit of business, but it's more likely that their future lies on video.
Elmo (voiced by Kevin Clash) embarks on his adventures after his beloved blue blanket gets away from him and ends up being sneezed into by Oscar the Grouch (voiced by Caroll Spinney), who promptly tosses it into his trash can.
Unable to wait for Oscar to return, Elmo decides to retrieve the blanket himself, but he ends up being sucked into a psychedelic, swirling tunnel that deposits him smack dab in the middle of Grouchland, the yuckiest place on Earth.
It turns out that Oscar's homeland is being terrorized by the evil, greedy Huxley (a very bushy-eyed Mandy Patinkin), who selfishly appropriates every children's possession he can get his hands on and stamps them "MINE".
With Elmo's blanket among those reclaimed items, the popular furry red monster goes on a quest to retrieve it, with a little assistance from his "Sesame Street" pals.
Although director Gary Halvorson, in his feature debut, and screenwriters Joseph Mazzarino and Mitchell Kriegman have seen fit to have Bert and Ernie stop the film for a discussion every time the on-screen happenings get a little too scary, the fact that those interruptions must occur at all provides an indication of the picture's more troubling aspects.
One wonders what the late Henson would have made out of belching Muppet characters or the giant chicken that is dispatched to peck Elmo to death.
As for the non-puppets, Patinkin's character, while certainly spirited, is just a bit overwhelming in the heavy department. Vanessa Williams, meanwhile, makes a musically entertaining appearance as the Queen of Trash who charges Elmo a trespassing fee of 100 raspberries, and we're not talking fruit here. Parents would be wise to have napkins on hand for the interactive bit that follows.
It's also fun to see such familiar faces as Bob, Gordon, Susan, Maria and Luis invited back, though they're relegated to the background.
Production values are bright and eye-pleasing, and the world beat production numbers, highlighted by the Stomp-esque "Take the First Step" and Williams' regal performance of "I See a Kingdom", are engagingly toe-tapping.
THE ADVENTURES OF ELMO IN GROUCHLAND
Columbia Pictures
Jim Henson Pictures presents
a Children's Television Workshop production
Director: Gary Halvorson
Screenwriters: Mitchell Kriegman and Joseph Mazzarino
Story: Mitchell Kriegman
Producers: Alex Rockwell, Marjorie Kalins
Executive producers: Brian Henson, Stephanie Allain, Martin G. Baker
Director of photography: Alan Caso
Production designer: Alan Cassie
Editor: Alan Baumgarten
Costume designer: Polly Smith
Music: John Debney
Color/stereo
Cast/voices:
Elmo: Kevin Clash
Huxley: Mandy Patinkin
Queen of Trash: Vanessa Williams
Oscar the Grouch, Big Bird: Caroll Spinney
Bert, Grover, Cookie Monster: Frank Oz
Ernie: Steve Whitmire
Count: Jerry Nelson
Bug: Joseph Mazzarino
Zoe: Fran Brill
Running time -- 77 minutes
MPAA rating: G...
For while the parents of preschoolers might embrace the prospect of a big-screen Bert 'n' Ernie and Big Bird, this isn't the kinder, gentler "Sesame Street" of their childhood. Curiously, the filmmakers have opted for a tone thunderous rather than wondrous.
This "Sesame Street" is paved with an edgy brashness that will likely prove too intense for younger viewers -- as evidenced perhaps by the number of crying toddlers who took refuge in the lobby at a recent screening -- but will be better received by their older siblings.
Given the shortage of family-appropriate product out there, Elmo and friends could still generate a bit of business, but it's more likely that their future lies on video.
Elmo (voiced by Kevin Clash) embarks on his adventures after his beloved blue blanket gets away from him and ends up being sneezed into by Oscar the Grouch (voiced by Caroll Spinney), who promptly tosses it into his trash can.
Unable to wait for Oscar to return, Elmo decides to retrieve the blanket himself, but he ends up being sucked into a psychedelic, swirling tunnel that deposits him smack dab in the middle of Grouchland, the yuckiest place on Earth.
It turns out that Oscar's homeland is being terrorized by the evil, greedy Huxley (a very bushy-eyed Mandy Patinkin), who selfishly appropriates every children's possession he can get his hands on and stamps them "MINE".
With Elmo's blanket among those reclaimed items, the popular furry red monster goes on a quest to retrieve it, with a little assistance from his "Sesame Street" pals.
Although director Gary Halvorson, in his feature debut, and screenwriters Joseph Mazzarino and Mitchell Kriegman have seen fit to have Bert and Ernie stop the film for a discussion every time the on-screen happenings get a little too scary, the fact that those interruptions must occur at all provides an indication of the picture's more troubling aspects.
One wonders what the late Henson would have made out of belching Muppet characters or the giant chicken that is dispatched to peck Elmo to death.
As for the non-puppets, Patinkin's character, while certainly spirited, is just a bit overwhelming in the heavy department. Vanessa Williams, meanwhile, makes a musically entertaining appearance as the Queen of Trash who charges Elmo a trespassing fee of 100 raspberries, and we're not talking fruit here. Parents would be wise to have napkins on hand for the interactive bit that follows.
It's also fun to see such familiar faces as Bob, Gordon, Susan, Maria and Luis invited back, though they're relegated to the background.
Production values are bright and eye-pleasing, and the world beat production numbers, highlighted by the Stomp-esque "Take the First Step" and Williams' regal performance of "I See a Kingdom", are engagingly toe-tapping.
THE ADVENTURES OF ELMO IN GROUCHLAND
Columbia Pictures
Jim Henson Pictures presents
a Children's Television Workshop production
Director: Gary Halvorson
Screenwriters: Mitchell Kriegman and Joseph Mazzarino
Story: Mitchell Kriegman
Producers: Alex Rockwell, Marjorie Kalins
Executive producers: Brian Henson, Stephanie Allain, Martin G. Baker
Director of photography: Alan Caso
Production designer: Alan Cassie
Editor: Alan Baumgarten
Costume designer: Polly Smith
Music: John Debney
Color/stereo
Cast/voices:
Elmo: Kevin Clash
Huxley: Mandy Patinkin
Queen of Trash: Vanessa Williams
Oscar the Grouch, Big Bird: Caroll Spinney
Bert, Grover, Cookie Monster: Frank Oz
Ernie: Steve Whitmire
Count: Jerry Nelson
Bug: Joseph Mazzarino
Zoe: Fran Brill
Running time -- 77 minutes
MPAA rating: G...
- 9/29/1999
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film review: 'Private Parts'
Fitting for his March release date, Howard Stern comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb in "Private Parts", the shock jock's foray into yet another medium in this movie celebration of Stern's unlikely rise to radio superstardom.
Misunderstood geeks everywhere -- a sizable majority in any metropolis -- should line up for this cozy and caustic comedy and, perhaps most surprisingly, the film will appeal to educated women who have been dragged into the theater, a demographic not known for their unabashed enthusiasm for Stern's inspired sophomorisms. The boxoffice call letters for this Paramount release should be W-HIT or K-HIT, depending on your side of the FCC line.
Thematically, "Private Parts" is wonderfully non-PC, while stylistically, it's "Rebel Without a Cause", "Good Morning, Vietnam" and the triumph-of-the-nerds genre all rolled into one as it traces Howard's gangly life from yelled-at kid to yelled-at adult. The consistency is that everyone was always telling him to shut up, and he always felt misunderstood.
Unfortunately for Howard, he was never able to channel that adolescent anomie in the way a James Dean or a more accomplished girl-getter would have sublimated. Being misunderstood got him no girls, and so it seems, scant few friends. A cross between Woody Allen and Big Bird, with severe penis-size anxiety, Howard had only one outlet other than masturbation -- doing radio.
In this affectionate bio, screenwriters Len Blum and Michael Kalesniko trace Howard's life from his childhood to his paisley days at Boston University up through a triumphant 1985 love fest in Central Park. With his Hebro, prominent schnoz and black-rimmed glasses, collegiate Howard most resembled a costume-shop dork trying to find his way during the days of free love and rebellion.
The most hilarious bits are in Howard's early days as he flounders to find his voice, actually serving as a DJ in Dee-troit for a country/western station while he balances a marriage to a wonderful girl, Alison, whose only liability seems to mirror the problem most intelligent women have always endured, lousy taste in men.
Overall, "Private Parts" is biblical in spirit, with Howard the voice crying in the wilderness. Here the Philistines, of course, are philistinic radio programmers and the pusillanimous pussies of public mores. While "Private Parts" is at its most hilarious when Howard slays the authority figures, it also has a tender underside: We see that the private vs. public Howard are two very different figures, the cerebral, acerbic social satirist on one hand, the squirrelly but devotedly faithful husband and family man on the other.
Playing himself, Stern is no Mel Gibson, but that's the point. As an abrasive pain in the ass, he's actually appealing. Sidekick Robin Quivers is similarly convincing and engaging as herself, while Mary McCormack is warm as Howard's understanding wife. Amid the proper mix of lesbians, rock stars, babes, droolers and dysfunctionals, there's a character who swallows a 12-inch kielbasa -- credit to actress Althea Cassidy for that filmic feat.
From start to finish, Betty Thomas is the perfect program director, keeping an eye on the narrative dial. The tech contributions are similarly inspired and aptly off-center, particularly costume designer Joseph G. Aulisi's loopy threads. Spinning between the sputum is a soundtrack of timely tunes, some clearly tongue-in-cheek, or, in this case, cheeks.
PRIVATE PARTS
Paramount Pictures
Paramount and Rysher Entertainment present
An Ivan Reitman production
A Betty Thomas film
Producer Ivan Reitman
Director Betty Thomas
Screenwriters Len Blum, Michael Kalesniko
Based on the book by Howard Stern
Executive producers Daniel Goldberg,
Joe Medjuck, Keith Samples
Director of photography Walt Lloyd
Production designer Eric Golden
Editor Peter Teschner
Co-producer Celia Costas
Costume designer Joseph G. Aulisi
Color/stereo
Cast:
Howard Stern Howard Stern
Robin Quivers Robin Quivers
Alison Stern Mary McCormack
Fred Norris Fred Norris
Jackie Martling Jackie Martling
Gary Dell'Abate Gary Dell'Abate
Ben Stern Richard Portnow
Ray Stern Kelly Bishop
Vin Vallescca Reni Santoni
Kenny Paul Giamattti
Brittany Melanie Good
Howard (age 7) Bobby Boriello
Howard (age 12) Michael Maccarone
Howard (age 16) Matthew Friedman
Running time -- 108 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
Misunderstood geeks everywhere -- a sizable majority in any metropolis -- should line up for this cozy and caustic comedy and, perhaps most surprisingly, the film will appeal to educated women who have been dragged into the theater, a demographic not known for their unabashed enthusiasm for Stern's inspired sophomorisms. The boxoffice call letters for this Paramount release should be W-HIT or K-HIT, depending on your side of the FCC line.
Thematically, "Private Parts" is wonderfully non-PC, while stylistically, it's "Rebel Without a Cause", "Good Morning, Vietnam" and the triumph-of-the-nerds genre all rolled into one as it traces Howard's gangly life from yelled-at kid to yelled-at adult. The consistency is that everyone was always telling him to shut up, and he always felt misunderstood.
Unfortunately for Howard, he was never able to channel that adolescent anomie in the way a James Dean or a more accomplished girl-getter would have sublimated. Being misunderstood got him no girls, and so it seems, scant few friends. A cross between Woody Allen and Big Bird, with severe penis-size anxiety, Howard had only one outlet other than masturbation -- doing radio.
In this affectionate bio, screenwriters Len Blum and Michael Kalesniko trace Howard's life from his childhood to his paisley days at Boston University up through a triumphant 1985 love fest in Central Park. With his Hebro, prominent schnoz and black-rimmed glasses, collegiate Howard most resembled a costume-shop dork trying to find his way during the days of free love and rebellion.
The most hilarious bits are in Howard's early days as he flounders to find his voice, actually serving as a DJ in Dee-troit for a country/western station while he balances a marriage to a wonderful girl, Alison, whose only liability seems to mirror the problem most intelligent women have always endured, lousy taste in men.
Overall, "Private Parts" is biblical in spirit, with Howard the voice crying in the wilderness. Here the Philistines, of course, are philistinic radio programmers and the pusillanimous pussies of public mores. While "Private Parts" is at its most hilarious when Howard slays the authority figures, it also has a tender underside: We see that the private vs. public Howard are two very different figures, the cerebral, acerbic social satirist on one hand, the squirrelly but devotedly faithful husband and family man on the other.
Playing himself, Stern is no Mel Gibson, but that's the point. As an abrasive pain in the ass, he's actually appealing. Sidekick Robin Quivers is similarly convincing and engaging as herself, while Mary McCormack is warm as Howard's understanding wife. Amid the proper mix of lesbians, rock stars, babes, droolers and dysfunctionals, there's a character who swallows a 12-inch kielbasa -- credit to actress Althea Cassidy for that filmic feat.
From start to finish, Betty Thomas is the perfect program director, keeping an eye on the narrative dial. The tech contributions are similarly inspired and aptly off-center, particularly costume designer Joseph G. Aulisi's loopy threads. Spinning between the sputum is a soundtrack of timely tunes, some clearly tongue-in-cheek, or, in this case, cheeks.
PRIVATE PARTS
Paramount Pictures
Paramount and Rysher Entertainment present
An Ivan Reitman production
A Betty Thomas film
Producer Ivan Reitman
Director Betty Thomas
Screenwriters Len Blum, Michael Kalesniko
Based on the book by Howard Stern
Executive producers Daniel Goldberg,
Joe Medjuck, Keith Samples
Director of photography Walt Lloyd
Production designer Eric Golden
Editor Peter Teschner
Co-producer Celia Costas
Costume designer Joseph G. Aulisi
Color/stereo
Cast:
Howard Stern Howard Stern
Robin Quivers Robin Quivers
Alison Stern Mary McCormack
Fred Norris Fred Norris
Jackie Martling Jackie Martling
Gary Dell'Abate Gary Dell'Abate
Ben Stern Richard Portnow
Ray Stern Kelly Bishop
Vin Vallescca Reni Santoni
Kenny Paul Giamattti
Brittany Melanie Good
Howard (age 7) Bobby Boriello
Howard (age 12) Michael Maccarone
Howard (age 16) Matthew Friedman
Running time -- 108 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 2/25/1997
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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