Cast
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Steve Whitmire
as Kermit the Frog / Rizzo the Rat / Beaker / Elvises (voice)
Dave Goelz
as The Great Gonzo / Dr. Bunsen Honeydew / Waldorf / Zoot (voice)
Bill Barretta
as Pepe the King Prawn / Bobo the Bear / Johnny Fiama / Swedish Chef / Lew Zealand / Howard Tubman / Rowlf the Dog / Elvises (voice)
Eric Jacobson
as Miss Piggy / Fozzie Bear / Animal / Yoda / Elvises (voice)
David Arquette
as Daniel
Joan Cusack
as Rachel Bitterman
Matthew Lillard
as Luc Fromage
William H. Macy
as Glenn
Whoopi Goldberg
as Daniel's 'Boss'
Carson Daly
as Self
Kelly Ripa
as Self
Joe Rogan
as Self
Molly Shannon
as Self
Robert Smigel
as Triumph, the Insult Comic Dog (voice)
Zach Braff
as Dr. John "J.D." Dorian
Crew
Director
- Kirk R. Thatcher
Writer
- Jim Lewis
- Tom Martin
Producer
- Martin G. Baker
- Warren Carr
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kirk R. Thatcher brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Charlie Brown Christmas, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Christmas Carol and The Christmas Show explore similar territory, It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 29, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 28m
