Opinions, analysis and random musings from an independent filmmaker
Friday, March 30, 2012
IT'S NOT EASY BEING GREEN
For some reason, Hollywood hates fun.
I don't know if it is because they are terrified of not being taken seriously, or because fun is inefficient.
I am on the outside looking in, after all.
In any case, we are losing what could be classic memories before they happen.
This time it's The Muppets.
Beloved by millions.
Educators and friends to generations of children and adults.
But not good enough for the Oscars, apparently.
During the recent Academy Awards telecast, the Muppets were banned from singing their Oscar nominated song, "Man or Muppet".
http://www.avclub.com/articles/the-oscars-doing-their-best-to-make-sure-you-wont,68933/?mobile=true
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WWWTW1P8rQ = the song.
Now, I know acting and filmmaking are an art, on some level, and are not to be taken lightly.
I know that in Hollywood, sometimes all people have is their credibility.
But, I don't care.
The film industry has many responsibilities, and one is entertaining people. Forget the audience at your own peril.
I meet so many wonderful creatives and filmmakers who are beautifully attuned to good storytelling and can also put themselves in their audiences perspective. It makes them great filmmakers.
And telling a great story is about taking risks. All creatives are at risk of looking foolish and being ridiculed for their art. But when they get it right, you can change lives.
Or, at the very least, you can guide people to that thing we all crave: fun.
Imagine Kermit and Billy Crystal on stage together. We would be talking about it for years. Fantastic!
Yes, the Oscars are steeped in esteem and prestige.
But come on, the Muppets have been around since 1954. They've earned it.
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