A blank, empty stare.
That's the response I would typically get when someone used to ask me "What's your favorite Christmas special?" and I'd reply with EMMET OTTER'S JUG-BAND CHRISTMAS. Almost no one would know what the hell I was talking about. Well, it seems as if I'm not alone in my love for the little known Christmas special, as FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS veteran Bret McKenzie (THE REPORT) has signed on to write a live-action adaptation.
The special, which was based off of a children's book of the same name by Russell Hoban, follows the tale of a poor otter family who enter a Christmas talent contest to win a huge cash prize. EMMET OTTER'S JUG-BAND CHRISTMAS orignially aired on ABC in 1977. It was produced by The Jim Henson Company and featured multiple Muppet characters including Kermit the Frog. This new adaptation will once again be produced by The Jim Henson Company alongside co-producers Pacific Electric Picture Company and Snoot Entertainment.
In addition to writing the script, McKenzie will also compose new music for the special. He also has the option to direct the new adaptation, although McKenzie hasn't committed as of yet. The project is still in its early stages as well, on account of having yet to land a distributor.
EMMET OTTER'S JUG-BAND CHRISTMAS holds a special place in my heart. It was something my Mom and I watched every single Christmas, just the two of us. Now that she's passed on, it holds even more meaning for me. Here's hoping McKenzie's new adaptation is just as good as the orignal.
So what do you guys think of this news? Do you remember EMMET OTTER'S JUG-BAND CHRISTMAS and if so did you like it? Sound off in the comments below!