When you really think about it… probably one of the most influential figures on most of our childhoods (excluding family) is probably Jim Henson (creator of the muppets). The man had a creative imagination and the ability to connect with children and adults alike like few in the history of entertainment ever have. He was a genius, plain and simple. It actually makes me giddy that I walk in front of the Henson Company offices (the picture) everyday now since it’s right around the corner from where I’m staying).
Now it appears that a full Jim Henson Biopic is in the works, and I for one couldn’t be more thrilled. The folks over at ComingSoon give us the following:
Empire Film Group, Inc. has acquired the motion picture production and distribution rights to Henson, an original screenplay by Robert D. Slane that chronicles the life and achievements of Muppets creator, Jim Henson. Empire has pegged the film for production in late summer with a $30 million budget to be funded through a consortium of international presales and co-production partners.
“This is a major project about an entertainer of legendary stature and worldwide acclaim,” said Dean Hamilton-Bornstein, CEO of Empire Film Group. “The script is superb and should provide a terrific roadmap for a completed film that will satisfy both mainstream audiences and critics. We’re very excited about this acquisition and the commercial caliber of this project.”
I don’t usually get very excited about biopic movies in general (there are a few big exceptions), but this is one film that I’ll stand in line to see. This man had an amazing life, influenced BILLIONS of children all over the world and continues to do so even long after his passing, and did things that will never be repeated.
Now hopefully this momentum can re-energize The Dark Crystal 2
