Disney+ has recently released an homage to the legendary Jim Henson with the documentary Jim Henson Idea Man. Directed by Ron Howard, this film explores the rich legacy of the Muppets creator through interviews with Henson’s children and longtime collaborators such as Frank Oz
, who played Bert to Henson’s Ernie, and Miss Piggy to his Kermit the Frog. The documentary also features insights from puppeteer Basil Twist, who stated, When I accepted this challenge and needed a team who could build my designs and bring Studio Ghibli’s treasured characters to life, I knew it had to be Henson. I truly believe we are creating something extraordinary.
The Nostalgic Journey of Jim Henson’s World
Howard himself reflects on his visit to Jim Henson’s Creature Shop in Queens as enlightening. We learned so much wandering around here,
he said. The vibrant colors and intricate mechanisms of the creatures significantly influenced the documentary’s style. You just get a lift, you know, just looking around the place,
shared Howard, capturing the emotional component that old fans would inevitably experience.
The Humble Beginnings of a Puppetry Genius
Jim Henson’s journey started modestly. As a teenager in the 1950s, he created puppets for a TV job using his mother’s old coat—teal rather than green—and ping-pong balls for eyes. With Jane Nebel, his college classmate and later his wife, he crafted puppets for commercials, refining a style that melded visual charm with witty satire.
A European Revelation That Ignited Creativity
A pivotal moment came in 1958 when Henson visited Europe and encountered sophisticated puppetry forms. According to Karen Falk, Henson Company’s archivist, he realized his capacity to innovate within this medium. His subsequent return saw him contribute significantly to Sesame Street, which began in New York in 1969.
The Evolution of Iconic Characters
The resultant characters from both Sesame Street and The Muppet Show, which premiered in London in 1976, captivated millions globally. Henson’s partnership with Frank Oz was particularly fruitful. Oz described himself as moody Bert opposite Henson’s goofy Ernie—a dynamic that propelled their comedic success.
An Insight Into Workshop Shenanigans
Zaniness permeated the workshop environment. Bonnie Erickson, who designed Miss Piggy and oversaw many Muppet creations at Henson’s workshop, remarked on the peculiar yet inventive activities: ping-pong balls bouncing on toothpicks via hair dryers or pet mice skittering through Slinkys. She noted that these antics were part of discovering puppet movements.
Remembering Jim’s Leadership Philosophy
Henson’s gentle yet effective leadership style stood out. Erickson referred to him as a gentle anarchist
, while Oz remembered how he never criticized but guided like a brotherly boss instead. Making Henson laugh was an ultimate goal within their creative sanctuary.
A Visionary Who Treasured Creativity Above All
The documentary underscores how pivotal treating people with kindness and staying present were to Henson’s philosophy—ideas that resonated deeply within his work and his influence on others.
Follow Us
