Disney+ has revealed the premiere date for the upcoming documentary film “Jim Henson: Idea Man“, offering a glimpse into the life and mind of the legendary puppeteer and creator. Set to debut on 31 May 2024, the film is directed by Academy Award winner Ron Howard and provides an intimate portrait of Henson, from his early puppeteering days to his global success.
“Jim Henson: Idea Man” examines the creative vision of a man who revolutionised television and inspired generations. With unprecedented access to Henson’s personal archives, Howard presents a fascinating exploration of Henson’s complex personality and boundless imagination. The film showcases never-before-seen materials, including home movies, photographs, sketches, and diaries, offering a unique perspective on Henson’s creative process and evolution.
The documentary features new interviews with Henson’s family members, including his daughter Lisa, the current CEO of the Jim Henson Company, as well as his close collaborators, such as longtime partner Frank Oz. Henson’s romantic and creative partnership with his wife, Jane, is also highlighted, providing an intimate look at the collision between their personal and professional lives.
Howard, who admits he knew little about Henson before the project, was drawn to the puppeteer’s “restless creativity“. He shares, “I felt like you could actually observe a lot about entertainment, what entertains us and why, through his journey.” The film’s interviews are conducted on a set modelled after “The Cube”, a production designed by Henson, honouring the subject’s aesthetic and sensibility.
“Jim Henson: Idea Man” is produced by Imagine Documentaries, with Howard and Brian Grazer serving as producers. It promises to be a definitive documentary about the man behind the Muppets, celebrating his art and illuminating the man behind Kermit the Frog.
