A Muppet Family Christmas

"Peace on Earth; give me presents," says Animal, cutting to the verbal chase in summing up our two primary Christmas wishes. In this 1993 holiday special, newly transferred to DVD (and looking much, much sharper than the Muppet feature film transfers, the worst of which is The Muppet Movie [VL-7/01]), Kermit, Gonzo, and the rest of the Muppet gang descend en masse on Fozzie's mom's modest farm house where a new renter who was hoping for a quiet Christmas discovers the true meaning of the all-out-wall-to-wall family/friends gathering--especially when Bert, Ernie, Big Bird and other Sesame Street cast members unexpectedly show up for the festivities. The minimal plot has Miss Piggy braving a snowstorm to be with her beloved Kermie, but the real draws here are the good-spirited smart script, wonderful songs (including "Jingle Bells," "Jingle Bell Rock," and a pair of Christmas medleys), and huge cast (did I mention the Fraggle Rock bunch?). Excellent seasonal fare for families and fans, this feature-less disc is sure to be popular. Highly recommended. (R. Pitman)