Dir: Peter Jackson
Cast (Voices): Donna Akersten, Stuart Devenie,
Mark Hadlow, Ross Jolly
Unrated, Approx: 94 Minutes
Spectrum DVD
- The Feebles
- Just the Feebles
- Frogs of War
toys."
everybody reading this review knows, I'll say it anyway: This film's cast is comprised entirely of puppets! These
muppet-like creatures perform some of the most shocking deeds I've ever seen. This gimmick alone, of fornicating,
drug using, knife throwing, machine gun toting puppets would usually be the sole drawing card of such a film. Peter
Jackson though, twists all of these elements into a brilliant, twisted masterpeice. Not only is there a disgusting shock
around every corner, but also a touching love story and some excellent cinematography.
Taste but due to lack of funding began this project. This movie never comes as a side project though. Jackson and
company went over the deadline with shooting and eventually turned in an unfinished piece titled Frogs of War, only
to steal the film back to finish shooting.
The plot concerns a muppet-style variety show the day before the curtains go up. From there we break off into
several side stories criss crossing frequently as the manic action comes to a head. The primary story follows Robert
(Wobert, as he introduces himself to everyone), a new member of the chorus, who is fallen for another cast member,
Lucile. We also have a bunny who is fearful that he's contracted an STD during an orgy, a frog who's addicted to
smack after enduring Deer Hunter-like experiences in Vietnam, a muckraking fly, and elephant involved in a paternity
suit, a rat who makes porno films in the basement, and an unstable Hippo who's lover's infidelity sends her on bloody
rampage. All of these subplots come together in an explosive climax that defies description.
overshadowed by the show stopping number Sodomy. Sodomy is performed by the director Sebastian (a cute little
fox) when several numbers have to be unexpectedly cancelled. The producer warned him against performing this
song and watches with his mouth agape. Finally, when gets over the shock he orders his assistant to '...have that
fudgepacker ELIMINATED!' There is so much going on here that it becomes difficult to keep track of what's
happening. The film's only potential flaw would possible be that it jumps around too manically and it becomes difficult
to focus on any one story. That pitfall is usually avoided though, through the characters' distinct personality.
legitimate video release until 1995. It's original video release from Dead Alive Productions is long out of print. There
is a Canadian video and DVD available from Substance. Unfortunately, this DVD is featureless and cuts into the
movie about 1 second late (the first part of the line, 'Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for the Fabulous
Feebles Variety Hour!' comes out '-dies and gentlemen...'). The picture and the sound are acceptable but there is
room for a lot of improvement. There is also a German PAL laserdisc in circulation but is difficult to come by as only
500 copies were produced. The LD is also full frame with no features. Hopefully, with Anchor Bay's excellent release
for Bad Taste we will see similar treatment in the near future for Meet the Feebles.
appearance in. Not to worry though, there is plenty to keep your eyes open for. Right before the actual show begins
(not the earlier dress rehearsal) two aliens from Bad Taste can be seen in the audience. Also, listen to the producer
Bletch's voice - it's Doug Wren, who plays Lord Crumb in Bad Taste! For more information and triva, visit the Peter
Jackson website.
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