My December 31 is usually just me or a few mates, chatting and planning what we’re going to do on January 1 rather than preparing to nurse a hangover.

I don’t know if it’s age, practicality or even anti-social desire, but getting my son to bed at a reasonable hour and enjoying the serenity of ABC’s coverage of the Sydney fireworks is all I need on the “wildest night of the year”.

As I’ve shifted to this mindset though, I have begun my own little tradition where I, usually without compromise, watch The Muppets (2011) at midnight.

It’s almost become a bit of a gag that I need to be home, in my PJs and watching a Blu-ray of a children’s movie while everyone is celebrating the new year.

My partner used to simply laugh at the idea of watching The Muppets every year – keep in mind she’s usually in bed by 10pm and I’m up alone in the glow of a TV – but a few days ago asked me a genuine question; Why The Muppets?

Humour aside, The Muppets (2011) is the prefect movie about new beginnings, hope and finding new self-worth as the world moves on from your previous achievements.

It’s about prioritising those around you and those that help you become a better person. It’s about not letting your past define you, while not forgetting your roots.

In other words, it’s the perfect New Year’s movie, and let me break down why.

1. The Theme of “Starting Over”

The entire plot is centered on a relaunch. The Muppets have drifted apart, their studio is decaying, and they are largely forgotten by a ‘modern’ audience.

The movie isn’t just about a reunion; it’s about cleaning off the dust, finding your spark again, and deciding that your best days aren’t necessarily behind you.

Its also not just about others, its about being the best you can be while not forgetting to support those around you.

“You always believe in other people, but that’s easy. Sooner or later, you gotta believe in yourself, too, because that’s what growing up is. It’s becoming who you want to be.”

2. The “Man or Muppet” Identity Crisis

New Year’s is a time for self-reflection and the staple, Oscar-winning song “Man or Muppet” is peak for this point.

It asks the big questions like ‘Who am I?’, ‘Who do I want to be?’ and ‘Am I a man… or am I a Muppet?’.

As you go into the new year, ask yourself if you’re actually making an impact with your choices, or are you just another muppet stuck in their ways.

3. Realistic Optimism

Unlike most saccharine New Year’s movies, The Muppets (2011) recognises that things change – and that change isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Even when the world feels like its falling apart, outlook is key.

“Everything is great, everything is grand, We’ve got the whole wide world in the palm of our hand.”

Final Thoughts

The Muppets (2011) might be a funny little way to start the New Year, but being reminded that once the clock strikes midnight, you have an opportunity to redefine yourself is one to take into it.

To steal a quote from Kermit that’s at the heart of the movie;

“We’re going to walk out of here the way we came in: with our heads held high. We’ll start at the bottom and work our way up again.”