Pig out with this exclusive Electronics Boutique Muppets variant.
© 2002 Palisades, The Jim Henson Company

Mania Grade: A+
Reviewed Format: Action Figures
Manufacturer: Palisades
Retail Price: $8.99
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MUPPETS

It's hard to believe that it's been some 25 years since Jim Henson gave new meaning (and a new word) to puppets. To say that SESAME STREET helped raise its fair share of kids is an understatement. And when Henson's THE MUPPET SHOW finally debuted, he wasn't just giving kids some funny puppets to laugh at; he was creating an entire world full of color, energy, wit, humor and emotion. And he did it all with just foam and a bunch of string.

Over the years there have been a number of TV shows, movies, books and even games based on KERMIT and the gang. But that's why it's a bit shocking that there's never been a real toy line (in terms of action figures that is) for the li'l guys. Thankfully, the fine folks over at Palisades Marketing were as shocked as we were, and went out and snatched up that license. With the first wave of Muppets figures currently available in stores across the country, you can expect dozens upon dozens of more characters to come in the future.

"Articulated action figures? What a splendid idea!"

© 2002 Palisades

So who made the cut for the first line? Well, a couple of sure-things and a few surprises. You can't start a Muppets action figure line without the leading lady... er, pig and her leading man (or frog in this case). So KERMIT and MISS PIGGY are joined by DR. BUNSEN HONEYDEW and the musically inclined DR. TEETH.

Let's start with the colors and paint applications. Unbelievable is a good word to kick things off with. Bright and vibrant, these Muppets figures really stand out on toy shelves filled with the same-old same-old color schemes. Why, DR. TEETH alone has a virtual rainbow across his outfit. From his beard to his scarf to his shirt, this figure really looks sharp. And all the color schemes blend beautifully with the interesting textured approach Palisades took with the figures themselves, making them look and feel more like the actual puppets they represent, rather than just simple cold hard plastic.

DR. TEETH isn't the only one smiling about Palisades' success.

© 2002 Palisades

As for the sculpting, you'd swear you'd stepped onto the MUPPET SHOW's infamous stage. A seriously top-notch job all around on these guys. Simplistic in nature (which is how the Muppets should be), these figures have a surprising amount of detail that really pushes them over the top. There's Miss Piggy's pearls and dazzling gown, Dr. Bunsen's black-rimmed glasses and the gold tooth on the keyboard-playing Dr. Teeth. There's also a gaggle of accessories. Each figure comes with some really nice props including Dr. Bunsen's newest invention, the Robo Rabbit, and Dr. Teeth's keyboard with stand.

Heck, the only real downside to this new Muppets line (besides there only being four figures in each wave... we want more!), is that the articulation is somewhat limited. Yeah, it's a real minor point especially since these guys have pretty standard action figure movement. But just don't go looking for things like knees, elbows and fingertips to start bending all over the place. Though to be fair, the amazing sculpting work done on this line would have been seriously sacrificed if those excessive points of articulation were added. Plus, the streamlined look to the figures fits perfectly with their foamy counterparts.

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All in all, Palisades' MUPPETS line is off to a magnificent start. There's also a number of kick-ass deluxe figures (like BEAKER with a lab playset) coming out with each line. And with so many Muppets characters to choose from, expect this line to have the same success and longevity as Playmates is currently having with the SIMPSONS.

Now, somebody hit the lights. It's time to get things started...

Questions? Comments? Let us know what you think at feedback@cinescape.com.