Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure is a beloved children's special that combines the enchantment of Halloween with the educational and entertaining world of Sesame Street. This delightful and animated program was first released in 1988 and has since become a Halloween tradition for many families. The storyline revolves around the beloved Sesame Street characters, including Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie Monster, and the rest of the gang. It begins on Halloween night when they discover a mysterious pumpkin on Sesame Street. As they approach the pumpkin, they're transported to a magical Halloween carnival where they embark on various adventures. Throughout the special, the characters encounter a range of Halloween-themed obstacles, from spooky ghosts to talking pumpkins.
Renowned composer Jerry Goldsmith provides a score rippling with somber strings, and eerie, warbling, carnival numbers. Goldsmith’s soundtrack is decidedly understated. Nevertheless, it works brilliantly in conjunction with the cinematography, screenplay, and powerful acting performances for a technical tour de force.
Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn t become apparent until the conclusion. Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn t become apparent until the conclusion.
Throughout the special, the characters encounter a range of Halloween-themed obstacles, from spooky ghosts to talking pumpkins. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and the importance of being yourself. The special incorporates classic Sesame Street humor, catchy songs, and engaging storytelling to captivate young viewers.
‘Magic’ (1978) a mesmerizing psychological thriller (review)
1978 psychological horror flick “Magic” stars Anthony Hopkins, Burgess Meredith, and Ann-Margret. The Richard Attenborough-directed horror film received a 1979 Edgar Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay from the Mystery Writers of America, and earned Hopkins BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations for his lead role. With its superb screenplay, excellent cast, and fantastic mystery elements, 1978’s “Magic” remains an oft-overlooked horror romp.
Charles “Corky” Withers (Hopkins) is a failing professional magician. Mentor “Merlin” (E.J. Andre) advises Corky to assume a gimmick catering to show business. Flash forward a year, and Corky resurges as one of the most popular magic exhibitions. It’s his combined ventriloquist and magician act, centering on the crude-talking dummy Fats, which fostered such success.
Seasoned agent Ben Greene (Meredith) is prepared to set Corky up with his own television show. However, Corky refuses to sign the contract, and instead travels to the Catskills. Initially, it appears that Corky remains frightened of success. But after reuniting with his former high school crush Peggy Ann Snow (Margret-Ann), Corky begins to work his magic. Although Snow is married to estranged husband Duke (Ed Lauter), Corky woos her with a few card tricks.
“Magic” shines as a technical masterpiece. Hopking plays both Corky and Fats, and while his Corky is a bit stiff, Fats bubbles with personality. Additionally, Corky’s originally one-sided character radically changes as the story progresses. Over the course of the film, it’s clear that Corky is deranged.
Ann-Margret lends an inspired performance as Peggy Ann Snow. Margret plays a realistically indecisive and honest character. Her constant questioning of whether or not to leave Duke and pursue a relationship with Corky feels stikingly genuine. Peggy comes delightfully to life under Ann-Margret who plays her character with an air of charm and innocence. Similarly, Burgess Meredith is terrific as the believably energetic Ben Greene.
Renowned composer Jerry Goldsmith provides a score rippling with somber strings, and eerie, warbling, carnival numbers. Goldsmith’s soundtrack is decidedly understated. Nevertheless, it works brilliantly in conjunction with the cinematography, screenplay, and powerful acting performances for a technical tour de force.
What truly sets “Magic” apart is its sleight of hand. Repeatedly, “Magic” presents a slow boil which proceeds to defy expectations. Additionally, throughout “Magic” the viewer isn’t quite sure if there’s a supernatural element or merely madness. Its finale particularly reminds me of another 1978 horror filck, “The Legacy” starring Katherine Ross and Sam Elliott. Not because the endings are topically similar. Rather, it’s the shocking, unpredictible final scenes which parallel one another. Yet “Magic” concludes on a much bleaker note than “The Legacy.” “Magic” doesn’t pull its final trick until the third act, and there’s a massive payoff. The last shot is remarkably, and refreshingly, dark.
But “Magic,” for all its charm, does occasionally lose its charisma. As a horror film, it’s not particularly effective. That is, “Magic” lacks an atmosphere of fright. Rather, the film creates an air of mystery through its clever masquerade; the relationship between Fats and Corky doesn’t become apparent until the conclusion. Especially early on, Hopkins is a bit wooden. While it’s mostly cohesive, a few flashbacks are poorly placed, unnecessary, and create a disjointed flow.
Still, “Magic” manages to pull one over on the audience. I enjoyed the character progression, particularly from Hopkins’ Corky, and the endearing Peggy. With strong acting performances, taut writing, and a lovely twist of an ending, “Magic” is a truly underrated psychological horror flick.
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What truly sets “Magic” apart is its sleight of hand. Repeatedly, “Magic” presents a slow boil which proceeds to defy expectations. Additionally, throughout “Magic” the viewer isn’t quite sure if there’s a supernatural element or merely madness. Its finale particularly reminds me of another 1978 horror filck, “The Legacy” starring Katherine Ross and Sam Elliott. Not because the endings are topically similar. Rather, it’s the shocking, unpredictible final scenes which parallel one another. Yet “Magic” concludes on a much bleaker note than “The Legacy.” “Magic” doesn’t pull its final trick until the third act, and there’s a massive payoff. The last shot is remarkably, and refreshingly, dark.
One of the highlights of Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure is the song and dance numbers. Children are encouraged to sing and dance along with their favorite characters as they learn about counting, letters, and other educational themes. These interactive moments make the special both entertaining and educational. The special also touches on the concept of facing fears and overcoming challenges. The characters show courage and determination as they navigate through the Halloween carnival, reassuring children that they can conquer their own fears in real life. Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure has become a timeless classic, cherished by generations of children. It combines the charm and creativity of Sesame Street with the excitement and magic of Halloween. It serves as a reminder that learning and having fun can go hand in hand, even on a holiday like Halloween. In conclusion, Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure is a magical and entertaining special that brings the spirit of Halloween to life in the world of Sesame Street. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and educational content, it continues to be a beloved Halloween tradition for children and their families..
Reviews for "The Music and Magic of Sesame Street's Halloween Adventure"
1. John - 1 out of 5 stars:
I was sorely disappointed with "Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure." The plot was weak, and the characters seemed out of place in a Halloween-themed setting. The songs were uninspiring and forgettable. Overall, it felt like a lackluster attempt to cash in on the Halloween hype without putting any real effort into creating a captivating and entertaining storyline.
2. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars:
I wanted to like "Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure," but it fell short of my expectations. The pacing was slow, and the jokes and humor were aimed at a much younger audience. Even the animation seemed outdated and didn't hold my attention. While I appreciate the effort to incorporate Halloween themes, the execution left me underwhelmed and wishing for something more engaging.
3. Mike - 2.5 out of 5 stars:
Although "Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure" had its moments, overall, I found it to be a lackluster production. The story lacked depth and didn't hold my interest. The costumes and set designs were fine but nothing exceptional. While it may entertain very young viewers, I believe older children and adults would find it simplistic and unmemorable compared to other Halloween-themed shows and movies.
4. Emma - 2 out of 5 stars:
As a long-time fan of Sesame Street, I had high hopes for "Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure," but it failed to capture my attention. The storyline was predictable, and the songs were mediocre at best. The pacing felt slow, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I had seen it all before. It lacked the magic and creativity I associate with Sesame Street, making it a forgettable addition to their repertoire.
5. Chris - 1.5 out of 5 stars:
"Sesame Street Magical Halloween Adventure" was a letdown in terms of both entertainment and education. The storyline was disjointed and didn't offer any valuable lessons or educational content. The animation and visual effects were subpar, and the characters lacked their usual charm and charisma. Overall, it felt like a missed opportunity to create a meaningful Halloween-themed special that could engage and educate young viewers.