For fans of Sesame Street and its most iconic amphibian, Kermit the Frog, the 1998 home video release offering a compilation of his best moments is a treasure trove. This video, celebrating “The Best Of Kermit On Sesame Street,” isn’t just a random collection of clips; it’s framed by a charming narrative where Grover, in his inimitable style, presents Kermit with the prestigious “Frog of the Year” award. This award ceremony provides a delightful through-line, punctuated by Grover’s poem dedicated to Kermit, hilariously interrupted by the Three Little Pigs – a nod to Kermit’s recurring Sesame Street News segments with them.
The video cleverly uses Grover’s poem as a segue into a medley of classic Kermit sketches that have charmed generations. Viewers are treated to the timeless rendition of “Bein’ Green” – the beloved 1970s version that resonates deeply with audiences. Other gems include the playful “I Love My Elbows,” the catchy “Caribbean Amphibean,” and the sweetly simple “This Frog,” each showcasing Kermit’s gentle humor and warmth. Adding to the nostalgic charm is the inclusion of the alphabet sketch, where Kermit patiently guides a young girl through her ABCs, a testament to his enduring appeal to children.
While the video effectively assembles a collection of Kermit’s highlights, its brevity, clocking in at just half an hour, leaves one wanting more. The inclusion of clip montages, particularly one featuring Sesame Street News segments, is a fun addition for seasoned viewers. However, as the original review notes, these montages might lack context for those unfamiliar with the full sketches. The absence of complete Sesame Street News segments and any material from the show’s inaugural season feels like a missed opportunity to provide a more comprehensive “best of” experience.
One particular critique from the original review stands out: the inclusion of scenes featuring Grover interacting with real children about Kermit. While well-intentioned, these segments feel somewhat disconnected from the main award ceremony narrative and, more importantly, detract from screen time that could have been dedicated to more Kermit sketches. Even with a longer runtime, prioritizing classic Kermit content would have strengthened the video’s focus.
Acknowledging the “best of Kermit on Sesame Street” theme, the video understandably omits Kermit’s Muppet Show friends. However, the review playfully suggests how wonderful it would have been to see Miss Piggy and other Muppet favorites at the award ceremony. Expanding the Sesame Street character presence beyond Grover could have also enriched the video. The reviewer suggests the inclusion of sketches like Kermit’s interview with Cookie Monster’s Little Red Riding Hood, the Elmo “happy and sad” skit, or the Herry Monster x-ray segment – all fantastic examples of Kermit’s interactions with other Sesame Street regulars.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the 1998 “best of Kermit on Sesame Street” video remains a worthwhile watch for any Kermit or Sesame Street enthusiast who can find a copy. It’s a delightful trip down memory lane, celebrating the enduring appeal of one of television’s most beloved characters and his significant contributions to children’s entertainment. It serves as a reminder of why Kermit the Frog remains a cultural icon, and this video, with its selection of classic sketches, encapsulates much of his charm and comedic genius on Sesame Street.
