When Muppets Haunted Mansion was announced, a few months ago… no one knew what to expect. Was it going to be a direct spoof of the 2004 movie? Or a Muppets film set within the halls of the Magic Kingdom’s spooky attraction? I was extremely sceptical of the special until I saw the first trailer, and knew that The Muppets were going to deliver a brilliant special. Without a doubt.
‘Muppets Haunted Mansion’ is Great!
Well, I can assure the readers of this review that Muppets Haunted Mansion is a success and an absolutely terrific watch… From the references to the fact, the whole thing stars The Muppets. There is truly something in this for everyone to enjoy! Set in the Haunted Mansion (of course), Muppets Haunted Mansion introduces us to fan favourite Gonzo on Halloween night. Gonzo is challenged to spend one very daring night in the most grim grinning place on Earth…
As for the story, it is a solid one for sure. Without spoiling it, and giving away its tricks and treats… the storyline definitely pays homage to the Liberty Square attraction. But also adds that special Muppets magic. Not the most complex, but a very simple story that doesn’t need too many complications or plot twists within its story. It is an incredibly easy watch for sure.
Feeling Green…
As always, my only critique of any Muppets content is the feeling whenever I hear Matt Vogel in the role of Kermit the Frog. This shouldn’t be considered a spoiler, but Kermit doesn’t appear too much in the special; he has multiple roles, but doesn’t have one which could be considered a big one – this is clearly Gonzo’s story. Kermit hasn’t sounded the same since Steve Whitmire departed the role back in 2016 (for obvious reasons)
Furthermore, Muppets Haunted Mansion features a ton of references and nods to the Magic Kingdom attraction, as well as its international counterparts. With certain aspects of the ride showing up and some characters/quotes popping up here and there. Not only will Disney Parks fans enjoy the special, but a multitude of Muppets appear in the special alongside a range of fun celebrity cameos, including Darren Criss, Will Arnett, Taraji P Henson and the late Ed Asner.
Critique?
There’s not a lot within this special which I can critique. That’s probably down to how much I enjoyed it! It is extremely fun, and there are some fun little numbers in there, too.
Therefore, the success of this special can only lead to more and more specials, with the way synergy is working at the moment. I don’t believe it will be long till a Star Wars or Marvel Muppets special gets announced. If they can do it with The Simpsons, why not Muppets? I’d be interested to see where they do go next, for all we know, we could be getting more seasonal specials, or even more theme park attraction-inspired specials…
‘Muppets Haunted Mansion’ – Final Thoughts
Altogether, Muppets Haunted Mansion is a success and proof that Disney+ needs more Muppets content ASAP! It’s time to start the music, it’s time to light the lights, so Disney+ greenlights The Muppets Show tonight! This special is a ton of fun, and I recommend it to all!
Muppets Haunted Mansion begins streaming exclusively on Disney+, on Friday 8th October
