What I learned: It was very rewarding learning about Kevin Clash, his life, and his dedication to his craft. The man knew he wanted to work with puppets from a very early age and was willing to tolerate any name calling or misunderstandings that come along with a young black boy wanting to work with "dolls". It was also very cool seeing the process of creating the Elmo character and how much input Clash had.
What I liked: Clash is just an all around cool guy. He comes off as funny, smart, and very hard working. I really appreciated how supportive his family was and is. It wasn't usual for a boy in his time to be so taken with puppetry, but his parents were willing to do whatever they could to help him meet his dreams, and that's awesome.
What I didn't like: I really liked the whole film, but I would have liked to have heard more about Jim Henson. Everyone knows I'm a huge Henson fan, so maybe I should just go watch docs about him. But I just thought he'd play a bigger role in Clash's path to puppets and the rise of Elmo but it felt like Henson was more of a producer than the driving force. Clash seemed more influenced by men like Capt. Kangaroo than Henson.
Obligatory Jim Henson photo
I highly recommend this movie. To anyone who loves Sesame Street, the world of children's entertainment, or watching someone go after their life's dream with unabashed enthusiasm.
Here is the trailer:
The film is currently on Netflix Watch Instant.
Here's Elmo palling around with Ricky Gervais:
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