SXSW 2011: Being Elmo Review

I will say it right here and right now. I bawled my way through this documentary. Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey is a movie that I think everyone can appreciate. The film takes us behind the life of Kevin Clash, the voice and puppeteer of Elmo. His story is both inspiring and amazing. Clash started working with puppets when he was ten, after seeing episodes of Captain Kangaroo and other Saturday morning television shows. His first foray into puppet building came when he tore up his father's fur coat and made it into a monkey. His parents, instead of being angry, helped their son meet his goals and set him on the path to Sesame Street.

Clash talks a lot in the movie about being made fun of in high school. Even his sister's admit in an interview that they would tease him for playing with dolls. However, things changed when Clash was cast in a local TV show to run the puppets. He was still in high school at the time. Fast forward to a phone conversation and then visit with legendary puppeteer Kermit Love, and Clash was on the fast track to meeting his idol Jim Henson. The rest was history. He worked on films like Labyrinth and shows like The Muppets.

Then he was cast in Sesame Street, and after playing a few lesser known characters, he got the chance to wear a puppet called Elmo. That high pitched voice and loving demeanor came out, and the rest his history.

The film does a good job of making the audience feel nostalgic. Old footage of Saturday morning classics had grown men ooohing and aahhhing. And people were crying at footage of Clash doing the rounds for the Make a Wish Foundation. The film was a feel good movie, and brought back memories for many audience members, as seen at the Q&A afterwards. Elmo himself made an appearance and people well into middle age were asking for hugs and the opportunity to really tickle Elmo. This film may come off as a little too sappy for some, but for me, it was the right blend of interesting and nostalgia. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5 and recommend it for anyone with a childlike heart.

And make sure to check the blog for exclusive footage of Louise interviewing Kevin Clash and the filmmakers of Being Elmo. Visit www.beingelmo.com for more information about this adorable film.