Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Directors: Constance Marks, Philip Shane, Madman Entertainment.
Cast: Kevin Clash, Whoopi Goldberg, Frank Oz.
The uncomplicated fuzzy red Muppet called Elmo—with a big orange nose and comically crossed eyes—is familiar to all fans of Sesame Street.
However, not many people would know the name of Kevin Clash, the puppeteer who breathes life and soul into him with his voice and hands and knows how to make his character come “alive”.
We all know and love Elmo. The documentary tells how Clash grew from humble origins in Baltimore and loved the escapism provided by shows like Captain Kangaroo and Sesame Street.
Not only is it a fascinating look inside the world of puppetry, but it also provides a great narrative of a man who pursued his life-long dream. The fact that he made his dream come true is a big win!
It’s easier said than done to make a “piece of fabric react like a human being would”, but Kevin infuses an engaging sparkle into Elmo with a special laugh that is his trait.
In Being Elmo, we discover the man behind the Muppet, and find that he is as clever, smart and considerably optimistic as his famed character.
Kevin has realised a dream he’s had since he was nine years old and was inspired by Jim Henson (creator of The Muppets).
Winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, it is a meaningful look behind the scenes. This feel-good insight, which showcases the story behind an oft-forgotten and largely invisible artistry, is engaging for both young and old.
