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Category:    Home > Reviews > Documentary > Biography > Children's Television > Educational > Public Television > Muppets > I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story (2014/Cinedigm DVD)

I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story (2014/Cinedigm DVD)


Picture: B- Sound: B- Extras: C+ Documentary: B



I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney story is a fascinating behind the scenes look at the man who brought to life two of the most popular characters in history - Big Bird and Grouch from the TV classic Sesame Street. Expertly edited with a touching score and incredible interviews, this documentary is a great example good storytelling and highlights the early Henson years and the personal struggles this actor was having behind the scenes when he wasn't on camera.


For over 4 decades, Caroll's characters have been cherished by generations of children. At 81 years old, the tenacious and enthusiastic performer has no intention of slowing down. I am Big Bird features incredible footage of Spinney's earliest collaborations with Jim Henson as it traces Caroll's journey from bullied child to celebrated performer. This loving portrait peels away the instances that inspired his creation of Big Bird and as the yellow feathers give way to grey hair, it is the man, not the puppet (or Muppet), who will steal your heart.


Incredible interviews include Puppeteers and Performers including Kevin Clash, Matt Vogel, Dave Goelz, and Frank Oz. Spinney himself is also in the film along with great interviews with his wife and family. If you're a fan of Henson or Sesame Street then you won't want to miss this award winning documentary.


Presented in standard definition with an anamorphic widescreen aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and lossy Dolby Digital 5.1 track, the film looks fine on DVD but could benefit a Blu-ray upgrade. Most of the footage is archival footage so the quality isn't the greatest (which adds to the effect) but the interviews are cleanly shot and executed and all of the still images used throughout are fantastic.


Extras include Deleted Scenes: Caroll on Camera, Caroll Meets Michael Jackson, Oscar the Grouch, Big Bird's Biggest Fan, First Date, Deb's Song, and Chinese Big Bird.


All in all this documentary is touching and well done. Recommended.



- James Harland Lockhart V

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