Follow That Bird

1985 • 88 minutes

About this movie

The first film to be adapted from the popular children's television series Sesame Street, Follow That Bird follows the story of Big Bird after a social worker (Sally Kellerman) takes him away from Sesame Street to live with a family of birds in Illinois. Unhappy in his new surroundings, Big Bird attempts to hitchhike back home to Sesame Street. Over the course of his journey he meets a number of odd and charming characters, in the form of cameos by Chevy Chase, Sandra Bernhard, Waylon Jennings, Dave Thomas and John Candy. The music for this engaging family film was written by Van Dyke Parks and Lennie Niehaus.

Ratings and reviews

"Follow That Bird" is a classic Sesame Street movie that's perfect for kids of all ages. It's a heartwarming story about friendship and family, and it's full of fun songs and silly antics. I especially love the part where Big Bird runs away from home and goes on a big adventure. It's a great movie to watch with the whole family.

When people are discussing the best Muppet movies, they far too often forget Follow That Bird. Sure it's a Sesame Street movie so obviously you have to make concessions for the audience, but the story, character arcs, the music, all top notch and memorable for a lifetime. It really deserves more than a footnote in the already great Henson filmography.

I still recall going to the movies with my mother as a child and seeing this. Now I'm 41 with my own children and I was so happy to share a childhood experience with them.