Credited cast: | |||
Whoopi Goldberg | ... | Narrator (voice) | |
Rest of cast listed alphabetically: | |||
Bill Barretta | ... | Self - Puppeteer | |
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Tau Bennett | ... | Self |
Fran Brill | ... | Self - Puppeteer | |
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Carson Carr | ... | Guy Eating Cake #2 |
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George Clash | ... | Self |
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Gladys Clash | ... | Self - Mother |
Kevin Clash | ... | Self | |
Joan Ganz Cooney | ... | Self - Co-Founder - Sesame Workshop | |
Arsenio Hall | ... | Self (archive footage) | |
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Cheryl Henson | ... | Self - President - Jim Henson Foundation |
Jim Henson | ... | Self (archive footage) | |
Hugh Jackman | ... | Self (archive footage) | |
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Kermit Love | ... | Self (archive footage) |
Rove McManus | ... | Self (archive footage) |
The film traces Kevin Clash's rise from his modest beginnings in Baltimore to his current success as the man behind Elmo, one of the world's most recognizable and adored characters. Millions of children tune in daily to watch Elmo, yet when Kevin walks down the street he is not recognized. Pivotal to the film is the exploration of Jim Henson's meteoric rise, and Kevin's ultimate achievement of his goal to become part of the Henson family of puppeteers. In addition to puppeteering Elmo, Mr. Clash is arguably the creative force behind today's Sesame Street, producing, directing and traveling around the globe training other puppeteers. Includes interviews with Frank Oz, Rosie O'Donnell, Whoopi Goldberg, Carroll Spinney, Joan Ganz Cooney, Marty Robinson, Fran Brill, and Bill Barretta. Written by Anonymous
I was privileged to see the film at Sundance and was not disappointed. The heartfelt story made me love Elmo even more, who thought that was possible?
I will admit that there seemed to be a bit of a downfall missing. The guy is very likable but I could sense a missing piece. The film touches upon Clash's relationship with his daughter and the strains they endured due to Clash's work-a-holic lifestyle. Yet, the resolution quite wasn't there for me. All things were patched up with a Sweet 16 birthday bash for her. With that said, it doesn't ruin the film and merely left me curious.
The history of Elmo and Clash's relationship with Jim Henson was pure magic. The behind the scenes look at the world of muppeteers truly fascinated me.
I encourage you to check out the film for yourself.