The Muppets Meet Noir in The Happytime Murders

News, Projects

We might not be getting a Who Framed Roger Rabbit? sequel anytime soon, but Brian Henson and co. are bringing us something that might just be better.

Concept art for The Happytime Murders has been released. The film takes place in a world where puppets and humans co-exist and a puppet detective must solve a series of murders.

The picture suggests an interesting mix of puppets and classic ‘40s film noir. The scene depicts a puppet lying dead on the floor of a puppet sex shop, his stuffing scattered about.

In addition to the concept art, IM Global released a synopsis of the movie:

“In a world where puppets co-exist with humans as second class citizens, puppet private eye and disgraced ex-cop, Phil Phillips, is hot on the trail of the serial killer who murdered his brother and is now targeting the cast members of the famous 80s television show, The Happytime Gang. As the killings continue, Phil’s former flame, Jenny, is next on the list. It’s up to Phil and his ex-partner, Detective Edwards, to find the culprit, but as bad blood and old resentments resurface the clues start pointing to the only viable suspect, Phil himself. Now he’s on the run with only his wits and hardheaded determination, as he tries to solve, The Happytime Murders.

Brian Henson, whose dad, Jim Henson created the Muppets, will be directing the film, however this technically won’t be a Muppets movie since Disney owns the rights to the characters and the name. Brian Henson also directed Muppet Treasure Island and A Muppet Christmas Carol. The script is written by Todd Berger (Kung Fu Panda). Katherine Heigl is attached to star.

The Pulse: For the most part I’m REALLY excited about this film. Has the feel of Roger Rabbit meets Meet the Feebles. It will be interesting to see if they push for an R rating or try for PG-13. Keep in mind, in this world Puppet sex shops exist so…. I’m a little concerned about Katherine Heigl being attached to the project. She hasn’t really done anything to impress me yet, but perhaps stepping well outside her Rom-Com comfort zone is what she needs to prove what she’s got. Heigl or no, I’ll certainly be watching the progress of this film and seeing it when it comes out.

source: Hollywood Reporter

Mike Noyes received his Masters Degree in Film from the Academy of Art University, San Francisco. A few of his short films can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/user/mikebnoyes. He recently published his first novel which you can buy here: https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Days-Years-Mike-Noyes-ebook/dp/B07D48NT6B/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1528774538&sr=8-1&keywords=seven+days+seven+years