P.S. Jim Henson's Film Notes

"Adventure/danger—excitement—real threat—suspense—someone in real trouble"

Today, Jim Henson is known for creating entertainment for children. But it wasn’t always that way.

In the 1960s, Henson was making experimental films. One of them, Time Piece (1965), was nominated for an Academy Award. Later, NBC hired him to write and produce an innovative, mixed-media documentary. It would be called Youth ‘68 (1968). Both of these films are fun and quirky while also being philosophical and thought-provoking.

Of course, Henson would become a seasoned writer and director—and because I couldn’t resist, I end this postscript with his notes on The Great Muppet Caper. They offer a fascinating template for developing characters and setting tone.

Here’s a very different look at Jim Henson than you might expect, along with some of his beautiful notes.

You can read my full essay on Henson for free here.