Written by: Samuel K. Sloan (FarPoint Media Executive News Director)
I am a grown man easing into my sixth decade on this planet and I’m not ashamed to say that one of my favorite television programs of all time was Jim Henson’s “Fraggle Rock.” When HBO decided to cancel the series back in 1988 I was really ticked. The show ran for 5 seasons. An excellent run for a puppet show, but many, like myself, felt it had several more good years in it.
Now I am happy to report that the Henson estate has given the greenlight for The Weinstein Co. to turn the series into a live-action musical feature that will retain its great appeal for both children and adults alike.
This big screen feature will delve into the mysterious underground world of Fraggle Rock with its populace of strange but totally riotous Fraggles. The Weinstein boys have wisely chosen “Hoodwinked” director Cory Edwards to lead the charge from the center seat. The Hensons, through the late Jim Henson’s children Lisa and Brian, will oversea the production to ensure the film stays true and on track with their father’s original vision from the television show. Also on board to produce are Ahmet Zappa and Brian Inerfeld.
Once again those wily and energetic Fraggle puppets like Gobo, Wembley, Mokey, Boober and Red will be brought to life through the magic of Henson puppetry along with others in Fraggle Rock like the Doozers and the Gorgs . The basic plotline for the film will have the Fraggles venturing outside the confines of Fraggle Rock where they come into contact with human beings. Gobo and the gang think the humans are space aliens come to conquer their land.
Go FRAGGLES!
I loved this show as a kid and I still watch the DVDs now that they’re out. Definitely a Henson classic. I hope that they do this new movie well.