For such an original and successful franchise, I do not see a huge place for “The Muppets” at this year’s Academy Awards. Originally, I had prayed for the powers-that-be to allow the Muppets to host the Academy Awards, but then Brett Ratner announced Eddie Murphy. When Ratner and Murphy stepped down, I thought for sure it would happen (there were even rumblings of such things happening) but then Billy Crystal, who has hosted so many times before, was announced as the new host. How great would it be to see all the Muppets dressed up in their finest and in true form, bringing a sense of class to the ceremony yet breaking the viewer age range wide open. Though I have yet to see what “The Muppets” will be considered for, I do hope the film at least brings in nominations for Best Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, and, most likely, Best Original Song.

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE
Christophe Beck

BEST ORIGINAL SONG
“Life’s A Happy Song”
Written by Bret McKenzie
Part one performed by Jason Segel and Walter (Peter Linz)
Part two performed by Jason Segel, Walter (Peter Linz), and Amy Adams
Finale performed by Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Walter, and the Muppets

BEST ORIGINAL SONG
“Man Or Muppet”
Wrriten by Bret McKenzie
Performed by Jason Segel and Walter (Peter Linz)

BEST ORIGINAL SONG
“Pictures In My Head”
Written by Jeannie Lurie, Aris Archontis, and Chen Neeman
Performed by Kermit, Fozzie, Gonzo, Swedish Chef, Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem