Founder/Editor James Shotwell is spending all week (and most of next week) covering the Independent FIlm Festival Boston. Each day James will be filling us in on the previous night’s films, parties, and any additional info he finds.

Two days ago I never would have thought a puppet, or rather a muppet, would be able to move me to tears. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always been a fan of puppetry, but who isn’t? Between Sesame Street, The Muppets, Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal, and The Neverending Story, I dare say everyone should be able to find something they love about puppetry. However, never in a million years would I have guessed I’d still be entertained and educated by puppets in my 20’s the way I was last night at the Boston premiere of Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey.

I know it sounds silly, being moved by a man with a sock and some fleece attached to his arm, but those who’ve seen the film will understand that Being Elmo is about much more than the title may lead on to believe. This is a film about chasing dreams, staying true to yourself, and never giving up no matter what the world and those around you try to say or do.

Being Elmo follows the life and times of Kevin Clash, better known as the man behind Elmo. Narrated by Woopi Goldberg, the film paints a vivid retelling of Clash’s rise through the world of puppeteering and how being such a cultural icon has affected his personal relationships. Personally, I went into the film expecting a “feel good” tale and while that is exactly what I got, I was pleasantly surprised to find many more layers as well. Specifically, the film’s continual focus on the idea that, in life, you simply have to “go for it” when it comes to your dreams. Clash, who was on hand afterwards with Elmo, reiterates again and again how he simply knew he was doing what he was meant to be doing and it shows in each and every scene. Whether he’s making thousands laugh through television or changing the life of one child in need, Clash does so without complaint, knowing he wouldn’t rather be anywhere else on the planet.

People NEED to see films like Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey. Forget the redundant Hollywood dribble of explosions and unrealistic situations, Being Elmo entertains, educates, and inspires with a single story of drive and dedication that everyone can learn from. Don’t wait for DVD, find a theater and see this NOW.

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James Shotwell

James Shotwell is the founder of Under The Gun Review. He loves writing about music and movies almost as much as he loves his two fat cats. He's also the co-founder of Antique Records and the Marketing Coordinator for Haulix. You should probably follow him on Twitter.

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