Everyone’s favourite self-referential band of felted puppets is back and although Muppets Most Wanted doesn’t quite have the heart and dizzying charm of the Jason Segel and Amy Adams-led revamp from 2011, it more than makes up for things with an endless barrage of gags and wisecracks sure to please most of the nostalgia seeking parents.
This time around, the troupe is fresh off the success from their reunion and fall under the spell of a smooth talking manager, aptly named Dominic Badguy (Gervais), who convinces them to launch an ambitious world tour; this leads to several exotic locations and internationally flavoured jokes. Soon enough, Badguy’s nefarious intentions become clear when the group becomes embroiled in a cross-country crime caper that sees a Kermit-lookalike infiltrate them while our hero is sent to a Siberian gulag to contend with a singing Tina Fey. It all sounds rather ridiculous but hey, this is the Muppets, people!
Thankfully, director James Bobbin and Nicholas Stoller’s script keep the wackiness reigned in with clever punchlines and music supervisor Bret McKenzie, of Flight of the Conchords fame, delivers another collection of rousing and smile-inducing numbers. It’s not all blissful highs though; the movie’s middle section drags a bit and will prove a challenge for the kids. The final cameo recap-laden five minutes also contains the weakest song and awkward staging, leading to a muted finale.
Still, Muppets Most Wanted provides enough memorable moments, kinetic storyline and downright hilarity to ensure the gang is in good hands.
