“It’s time to play the music. It’s time to light the lights”. That’s right, The Muppets are finally returning to the big screen for our enjoyment in… The Muppets.

This clever trailer was released in theatres across the US recently. Although, having read the title of the post, you will already know what the trailer is for, it was initially released under the fake name Green with Envy – complete with fake movie posters for theatre lobbies. You can only imagine the joy on audiences’ faces when the big reveal arrived.

As with past Muppet movies, this film has a slew of famous faces to back up its, well, famous faces. Joining the party this time are Jason Segal (who also wrote the screenplay), Amy Adams, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Helms, Selena Gomez, Emily Blunt, Jack Black, Neil Patrick Harris, John Krasinski, Rashida Jones, Danny Trejo, Katy Perry, Ricky Gervais, Chris Cooper, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal, Rico Rodriquez, Alan Arkin, Judd Hirsch, Dave Grohl… ok, time to take a breath. Wow, that’s some list.

The muppet movies where wonderful to watch growing up so I hope this film does them justice. Judging by this first trailer, it definitely will. Plus who wouldn’t want to see Beaker on the big screen again!?! Enjoy!

With the help of three fans, The Muppets must reunite in order to save their old studio from a greedy oil tycoon.

The Muppets is directed by James Bobin, co-creator, writer and director of the hit TV shows Flight of the Conchords and Da Ali G Show.

The Muppets is due for release in the US on 23 November, but not released in New Zealand until 1 January, 2012 – “That’s terrible!” as Statler and Waldorf would say.

We all know things haven’t quite been the same since Jim Henson passed, but what do you think about this trailer? What’s your favourite Muppet movie? And what’s your favourite Muppet sketch?