Disney has released the first trailer for the Ron Howard-directed documentary “Jim Henson Idea Man.” The documentary chronicles the story of extraordinary artist and visionary Jim Henson. In his 36-year career, Henson created some of the world’s most cherished characters, including classic Muppets like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy and all of “Sesame Street’s” iconic residents, including Big Bird, Grover, Cookie Monster, and Bert and Ernie. Henson also directed beloved fantasy films like “The Dark Crystal” and “Labyrinth.”
Henson has undoubtedly reshaped the way audiences consume entertainment through his innovative storytelling and puppetry. As with most documentaries, this one uses behind-the-scenes footage, home movies, interviews with friends and family to tell the story about the man who solely created out of innocence while also showing the good in people to everyone around the globe.
Snippets of interviews wih those who worked with him tell us that Jim felt he was put on this earth for a purpose. Another shot reveals the wonderful simplicity of Kermit’s inception. Frank Oz, who worked closely with Henson, talked about how many ideas and so many things that Henson wanted to do that his “inner life must have been sparkling.”
Jennifer Connelly, who starred in “Labrnityh,” talks about how Henson gave a space her gave to an expression of the imagination is something that she sees in everything that he did.
But the trailer also hints at the downsides to the success of Henson’s creations and how the pressures to keep up with it and still create new content may have led to a complicated lifestyle and relationship with his family.
Produced with the full participation and cooperation of the Henson family, “Jim Henson Idea Man” is an unprecedented, intimate look at Henson’s illustrious, revolutionary career and complex personal life. Using never-before-seen personal archival home movies, photographs, sketches, and Henson’s personal diaries, as well as interviews with those who knew him best, the film is the definitive portrait of one of the world’s most inspiring and iconoclastic creators.
The Original documentary will premiere May 31 on Disney+.
The original documentary from Disney Branded Television is produced by Imagine Documentaries. Howard also serves as a producer alongside Brian Grazer, Sara Bernstein, Margaret Bodde, Justin Wilkes, Mark Monroe and Christopher St. John. Paul Crowder, Meredith Kaulfers, Michael Rosenberg serve as executive producers.
