The Muppets returned to theaters this year in a big way with director James Bobinâs aptly named The Muppets. While the film could have easily become a heavy-handed and groan-worthy kids movie, Bobin and Co. delivered a sweet, funny, and ultimately touching flick that is just as effective for 7-year-olds as it is for cold, cynical cinephiles. When the Oscar hosting gig was once again up for grabs earlier this year, a campaign to have our lovely Muppets take up the duties gained some significant traction. While producers ultimately went with Billy Crystal, the whole idea got us thinking: what awards could the film actually win? Hit the jump for our take on The Muppetsâ chances in this coming awards season.With regards to the Academy Awards, the film looks to have a pretty decent shot in the Best Original Song category. It would appear that the three tracks from The Muppets that have the best chances are âLifeâs a Happy Songâ, âPictures in My Headâ, and âMan or Muppetâ. âMe Partyâ and âLetâs Talk About Meâ would also be eligible, though it seems like the first three are the most likely to garner nominations. Besides the honor of an Oscar nomination, a nod in Best Original Song also means that weâll be getting a performance from the Muppets themselves during the ceremony (granted the producers donât cut this portion from the show).I think theyâre all worthy numbers, but the tear-inducing âPictures in My Headâ may be the frontrunner of the group (though thereâs a soft spot in my heart for âMan or Muppetâ). So who would accept the trophy if one of the songs from The Muppets won? Flight of the Conchords mastermind Bret McKenzie is the credited writer on âLifeâs a Happy Songâ and âMan or Muppetâ, while Jeannie Lurie, Aris Archontis, and Chen Neeman are responsible for âPictures in My Headâ (which McKenzie produced).Though much less revered, the Golden Globes are sure to play host to more than one Muppets nomination. While itâs been a few years since a âkids movieâ was recognized in the Best Motion Picture â Musical or Comedy category (The Incredibles in 2004, though last yearâs Alice in Wonderland could technically fit the âkids movieâ bill), itâs gonna be damn hard to overlook The Muppetsâ overwhelmingly positive critical reaction. The Disney pic stands at 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, not to mention the thousands of hearts The Muppets have captured in the non-critic community. Also noteworthy is the fact that the Golden Globes lean heavily towards popular films in their major categories, so this also works in the picâs favor. The film will most likely be going up against Bridesmaids so it'll be a bit of a fight, but if enough voters are feeling warm and fuzzy about the flick then it definitely has a shot. Additionally, The Muppets again has an extremely good chance of landing in the Best Original Song category at the Golden Globes for the aforementioned numbers.While The Muppets seem destined for at least some awards recognition this year, the more important thing is that Bobin, Segel, and Stoller have crafted a fantastic movie. The Muppets is a worthy entry to the long-lasting franchise thatâs sure to reward audiences with repeat viewings chock-full of more laughs, tears, and above all fun.Be sure to keep an eye on the site, as we'll be running a few more Awards-themed articles taking a look at some of this year's more popular films that may not exactly fit into the "Oscar Movie" mold.
What Awards Can THE MUPPETS Actually Win?
What Awards Can THE MUPPETS Actually Win? We break down what Oscars and Golden Globes The Muppets could win this awards season.