Overview

Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird is a 1985 feature film starring characters from the long-running children's television series Sesame Street. Released in late August 1985, the movie runs about 89 minutes and combines live-action, puppetry and musical numbers. Rather than being an animated picture, it is a theatrical puppet-based family comedy that expands the world of the television series for the big screen.

Plot and characters

The story follows Big Bird after a well-meaning government agency decides he would be better raised by birds in a rural home. Unhappy with the decision, Big Bird leaves the foster family and begins a cross-country journey. His friends from Sesame Street set out to find and bring him back, leading to a series of encounters, obstacles and musical interludes. The film centers on themes of belonging, friendship and identity while showcasing familiar Muppet characters alongside human cast members.

Production and credits

The movie was produced through a collaboration of established companies associated with the Sesame Street franchise. Principal production partners included the organization now known as Children's Television Workshop, the creative company behind many Muppet projects, and the Jim Henson Company, with distribution by a major studio. It features original songs and sequences designed to appeal both to children and to adults who followed the television series.

Release history and home media

First released theatrically on August 31, 1985, the film later received home video and DVD editions. A widescreen re-release was issued in 2005 to update presentation for modern home displays; more recent editions have preserved the film for new generations. Key facts include:

  • Initial theatrical release: August 31, 1985
  • Running time: approximately 89 minutes
  • Noted home video/widescreen reissue in 2005 (widescreen release)

Themes, reception and legacy

Critically, the film was generally well received as a family-friendly entry that respected the spirit of the television show while offering a longer, self-contained adventure. Reviewers and audiences highlighted its warmth, humor and songs. Over time it has been remembered as the first major theatrical outing built around Sesame Street characters, and it remains a touchstone for how children's television properties can be adapted for cinema without losing their educational and emotional core.

For readers wanting further information about the organizations and companies involved, see the production credits and studio histories linked above. The movie remains part of the broader cultural influence of Sesame Street and the Muppets in children’s media and family entertainment.