lead the discussion
The Muppets - 2011
Movie Info
Rating: PG
Age-appropriateness: Slapstick violence. Cartoonish fighting.
Overview: Walter learns how to believe in himself as he goes on an adventure to save The Muppets studio. Believing in yourself is a key part of growing up, and it’ll always involve overcoming failure.
Themes: family, siblings, friendship, teamwork, hope, quality time, greed, laughter, perseverance, growing up, failing, charity
The Quick 3
Ask these quick questions to hit the major themes of the film.
1. Laughter. How much do you love to laugh? What are some things that make you laugh?
The Muppets said that laughter is one of the best things in the world. When we laugh, we can have hope that everything is going to be okay.
2. Growing up. Do you ever have trouble believing in yourself?
Walter is afraid to perform before he thinks others might laugh at him. Gary encourages him, saying, “It’s easy to believe in others. But sooner or later, you have to believe in yourself, because that’s what growing up is.”
3. Quality time. Is there anyone you really want to spend “one on one” time with?
Amy was a little sad that she couldn’t spend “one on one” time with Gary. Walter seemed to always be around, and Gary loved hanging out with his friend.
After The Movie Discussion Guide
Follow this 5-10 minute discussion guide to drive an in-depth conversation.
1. Walter said “even the sunniest days can have a few clouds in them.” Nothing is perfect, and bad things sometimes happen. What are some of the bad things that are in your life right now? Do they get in the way of your “sunny days”?
2. Walter would watch The Muppets, which would help him escape the tough parts of life. It would give him hope that life is still good. Walter calls “laughter” one of the greatest gifts on earth. What are your favorite shows? Do they give you hope for the future?
3. Amy was a little sad that she couldn’t spend “one on one” time with Gary. Walter seemed to always be around, and Gary loved hanging out with his friend. Is there anyone you really want to spend “one on one” time with?
4. Tex Richman wanted to tear down The Muppets studio in order to access the oil underneath. He lied and said he wanted to build a Muppets Museum, but he never intended on doing that. Tex didn’t care about The Muppets, he just wanted to make money. His actions were greedy. Greed is having a selfish desire for money and toys. Are you ever greedy? Do you ever love your things more than you love other people?
5. The Muppets hold a telethon to raise money for their studio. If you held a telethon, what do you think would be the best thing to raise money for?
Minute By Minute Guide
Use this break down of the entire movie in addition to the “After the Movie” discussion guide. Great for repeat viewings.
:06 Life’s a Happy Song. Gary and Walter are loving life and having a great day. Who are the people by your side in life? Who are some friends that make your life great?
:19 Pictures in My Head. Kermit remembers some of his favorite memories and he misses his “old days”. Do you have a favorite old memory? What’s something you wished you could go back and do again?
:31 Kermit tries to get all of The Muppets back together again. Many of them have started new lives after the show. Animal has been spending time at anger management. James 1:19 says, "Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” How do you typically react when you are angry?
:41 When the Muppets pitch their telethon show to the networks, many of them say “no”. The Muppets have to keep trying and trying if they wanted to get approval for their show. They show a lot of perseverance. Perseverance is the ability to get through difficult tasks. What’s something that you want to accomplish that requires perseverance?
:51 The first few rehearsals go really poorly. It’s going to take the Muppets a lot practice before they’re ready for the show. Kermit uses this as an opportunity to help Walter finds his talent. What are you most talented in? What are the things you’re really good at?
:52 Me Party. Mary has a party by herself. Have you ever thrown a party by yourself? What would that party look like?
:56 Let’s Talk About Me. Tex sings a song about how rich and awesome he is. Pride is feeling that you are the best and most important. Do you know anyone who is prideful? How do you think they became that way?
1:03 Man or Muppet. Gary forgot about his 10 year anniversary with Mary. Gary must decide if he’s going to prioritize his relationship with Mary over his relationship with The Muppets. What do you think he should decide?
1:14 Walter was getting ready for his debut performance, but he got nervous and couldn’t follow through. Have you ever gotten nervous before a big event?
1:22 Rainbow Connection. Kermit and Piggy sing a song together to try to raise the money they need. What’s one of the favorite things you like to do with your friends?
1:25 Walter is afraid to perform before he thinks others might laugh at him. Gary encourages him, saying, “It’s easy to believe in others. But sooner or later, you have to believe in yourself, because that’s what growing up is.” Do you ever have trouble believing in yourself?
1:31 Kermit encourages The Muppets, because they tried together and they failed together. Kermit is proud of their effort and he acknowledges that they did try their best, which is all they can do. He’s proud. When was the last time you failed at something important? Were you proud of your efforts?