Jim Henson: Idea Man

While not the most comprehensive look at Jim Henson's life, this documentary covers just enough to feel like a complete package. Even with rushing through much of Jim Henson's late career work, Jim Henson: Idea Man still manages to capture who Henson was, what fascinated and inspired him. All the great behind-the-scenes material perhaps best helps let Henson be who he was, playful, dedicated, communicative, and a team player. When he knew something would be better with someone else also, say, directing, he asked that person (Frank Oz) to co-direct. And the film doesn't hide from presenting Henson fully, like noting his failure in marriage, his disappointment at his partner not wanting conventional gender roles at home, his inability to keep a healthy work-life balance, or his anxiety over all his success.

For some, however, this film will only feel adequate. And it won't cover enough. It skips over entire films, only mentions Fraggle Rock in passing, and generally rushes Henson's work late in his career. A lot of attention is devoted to Henson's beginnings, his grind at Sesame Street, and his Muppets explosion. Then it feels like the last third of the film just races through and jumbles together Henson's remaining catalogue. Again, the behind-the-scenes footage is great, as are the cool early anecdotes about Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird. But this material alone isn't enough to carry this presentation to higher heights. Perhaps given the pedigree of the director (Ron Howard), more flash or drama would be expected, but instead, this documentary feels very adequate. Good, but adequately so.