This is the first concept art released for Brian Henson's latest movie project "The Happytime Murders", a noir thriller with a partially puppet cast and an adult edge. Here's the blurb:
In a world where puppets co-exist with humans as second class citizens, puppet private eye and disgraced ex-cop, Phil Phillips, is hot on the trail of the serial killer who murdered his brother and is now targeting the cast members of the famous 80s television show, "The Happytime Gang." As the killings continue, Phil's former flame, Jenny, is next on the list. It's up to Phil and his ex-partner, Detective Edwards, to find the culprit, but as bad blood and old resentments resurface the clues start pointing to the only viable suspect, Phil himself. Now he's on the run with only his wits and hard headed determination, as he tries to solve, "The Happytime Murders."
As you may know, Brian and Cheryl Henson have been carrying on in their father's footsteps, creating projects full of puppet magic that have become a bit more adult in terms of subject matter over the years.
"The Happytime Murders" project has been seen as impossible to produce by some critics because of it's adult subject matter, but I think condemning the project because "puppets are for kids" is simply restricting an art form which has proven it can appeal to adults as well as children. The film is currently in the pre-production stage, so no word yet on when it will be released.
Link
I think I can dig that, as long as it's not too serious. I think something really serious with muppets in it is just silly for all the wrong reasons.
OK. So puppets are not just for kids but THESE puppets are perfect for children. And why would you want to make them less perfect for children? As a child, you love the muppets, and you maintain that affection even when you are older.
Why try to make the original muppets into characters that play little less to children and a little more to adults? Why not just invent some new puppets to use in adult entertainment?
Oh, I forgot. It's the marketing.
And lack of creativity, perhaps.