Why would an adult be interested in watching a documentary about a puppeteer who voices a pre-school children's show character?
Childhood Dream
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey is a delightful story about young Kevin Clash's enchantment with Sesame Street. His youthful fascination took him from viewer to puppet maker to ultimately masterminding the most lucrative character in the history of the franchise.
The story is non-stop charm as viewers learn about Clash cutting up his father's overcoat to make his first puppet, his shyness at meeting Jim Henson for the first time, and the video that Elmo made welcoming Clash's new baby daughter into the family.
Early Career
Clash' career in children's television began early. While still in high school, the puppet master and a few of his creations were invited to join the cast of a local Maryland tv show. No wonder that classmates voted Clash "Most Likely To Be A Millionaire" in a school annual.
Also during high school, a trip to New York City provided Clash with the opportunity to make the acquaintance of Kermit Love (The Muppet Show, Sesame Street). Love would later introduce Clash to a friend named Jim Henson, who would become a pivotal person in his career.
After graduating, Clash skipped college and went right to work for Bob Keeshan on his popular national morning show Captain Kangaroo.
Dream Job
In 1984, Clash fulfilled his childhood dream and became a member of the Sesame Street cast.
Clash had two recurring characters on the kiddie show when co-worker Richard Hunt threw a furry red puppet at his friend and suggested he find a personality for the character.
The result is the giggly, baby-talking, bundle of love that has rock star status with the pre-school set.
Under Clash's guidance, Elmo has used his popularity for good. A meeting with the red fleece TV sensation is a popular request for seriously ill children.
Elmo's popularity has expanded over many mediums including tv, movies, and sing-along DVD's. It has also moved across borders. The film features Clash training the cast of the French version of Sesame Street.
Constance Marks' charming documentary is a delight from beginning to end but again, why would an adult be interested in a film about a puppeteer?
Clash's story is proof that if you follow your passion the money will follow. It is also an affirmation that everyone has a message for the world.
The next time you hear that adorable red puppet giggle out "Elmo loves you", be certain that he really means it. So does Kevin Clash.
The DVD will be available for purchase on April 3, 2012 from Amazon.
Teresa Wentz - Teresa Wentz holds a Master of Media Arts degree from the University of South Carolina. She has worked in various fields in the film ...
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