The Sesame Street documentary is a fascinating look at the people who made the beloved children’s television program a success. Featuring more than 20 original interviews, the documentary introduces the audience to the visionaries who created the show. It also includes exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.
Jim Henson
Sesame Street, which debuted on the American public television network PBS in 1969, has become one of the most successful children’s shows of all time. It is still airing in 140 countries around the world. This documentary is a good introduction to the show’s history and the people who made it happen.
The 107 minute film doesn’t go anywhere, but it does a good job of putting the show’s creators front and center. A lot of interviews with children and spouses of show’s stars are sprinkled throughout. However, it does a poor job of digging deeper into the show’s history and the darker side.
For example, while the documentary cites the famous slash, it fails to mention the true cost of the show’s production. But the most notable item in the show’s budget was the puppets themselves. Luckily, Jim Henson and his cast of Muppets enjoyed their fair share of fame and advertising success.
One of the best parts of the show was the creation of Kermit the Frog. Henson’s gifts of creativity were unmatched. Combined with the surreal animation and anarchy humour of Frank Oz, the muppets provided a perfect fit for the Sesame Street concept.
Frank Oz
The Street Gang documentary looks at the origins of Sesame Street. It features interviews with cast and creatives, and behind-the-scenes footage of Jim Henson and Frank Oz running the Muppets. Previously unpublished photographs are also included.
Michael Agrelo directed the film. He was inspired by the memoir by the show’s creator, Joan Ganz Cooney. His focus is on the first two decades of the show.
Although the movie never gets into the darker side of the show, it does address some rough patches. In one scene, we learn that director-writer Stone was battling depression. This was perhaps due to the lack of recognition for Stone.
Another scene involves the children of Stone and Henson, who reveal that putting the show together was a consuming task. One of them mentions that his father sometimes worked four days in a row.
As a bonus, the trailer includes footage of the original cast members. Kermit the Frog, Cookie Monster, and Ernie and Bert all appear.
Marilyn Agrelo
If you’re a fan of Sesame Street, you’ll be glad to know that there’s a documentary on the show. The film explores the early days of the beloved children’s program, and introduces viewers to the creators of the series. This movie includes more than 20 original interviews, as well as behind-the-scenes footage. You’ll also learn about the impact the show has had on its creators, and the visionary minds behind the show’s success.
Agrelo’s film follows the legacy of Sesame Street, which is considered one of the most influential children’s television shows of all time. Its creators and stars tell their stories, and the film highlights the early days of the program, when it was a groundbreaking experiment. In the film, you’ll see how they overcame obstacles to make their show a success.
Agrelo, who is Cuban-American, has written and directed numerous short films, commercials, and children’s television shows. Her feature debut was An Invisible Sign (2005). She was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2006 Academy Awards.