MOVIE REVIEW as published at www.ocregister.com on April 6, 2012:
As the lyrics "Am I a man or am I a muppet?" reverberate through my house from four little people who have enjoyed one too many viewings of the recently released Muppet movie, a new muppet of a man has also emerged on DVD this week.
But "Being Elmo" is a different kind of muppet movie: a documentary.
Imagine Sesame Street without Elmo, who is most loved for his earnest need to be loved by his young viewers and desire to make them smile.
FILE PHOTO: NEILSON BARNARD, GETTY IMAGES
Ever heard of Kevin Clash? If not, I bet you’ve heard of the muppet he stands, stoops, and sings behind: the one and only Elmo.
"Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey" (released on a special edition DVD April 3) follows Clash’s journey from young boyhood, when he was taunted for his affinity for muppet culture, to now, when he has successfully won over a worldwide audience for his hand in bringing to life childhood’s most beloved puppet.
Filmmaker Constance Mark’s documentary is the recipient of multiple film fest awards, including Sundance’s prestigious “Special Jury Prize.” And “Being Elmo” is a definite crowd-pleaser. Clash’s story embodies creativity, goodwill, and good fortune.
By his young teens, Clash was regularly bringing selections from his 75+ homemade puppet collection to children’s hospitals and schools to perform. By 19, he was puppeteering on two network shows, including “Captain Kangaroo.” And at 25, Clash became the first black muppeteer on his hero Jim Henson’s longest lasting creation: “Sesame Street.”READ THE REST:
'Being Elmo': The man behind America's most loved muppet - OC Moms - The Orange County Register
