Muppets Most Wanted

Having regained the legal rights to the Muppet Theatre and their trademark, The Muppets are unsure what to do next. Dominic Badguy suggests they go on a European world tour with him as their tour manager. Kermit is hesitant, but the rest of the Muppets love the idea. Unbeknownst to the Muppets, Dominic is working for Constantine, a criminal mastermind who is a near-exact doppelgänger of Kermit. After escaping from a Gulag in Siberia, Constantine begins plotting with Dominic to steal the British Crown Jewels.

When the Muppets arrive in Berlin, Dominic books a prestigious venue for them to perform at. Frustrated with Miss Piggy's insistence on getting married and the group's incessant request for the night's performance, Kermit goes for a walk in East Berlin at Dominic's suggestion. Constantine ambushes Kermit and glues a fake mole onto his face. Kermit is mistaken for Constantine and sent to the Gulag. Constantine takes Kermit's place; Dominic convinces most of the Muppets that Constantine is Kermit, but Animal is suspicious of Constantine.

During the Muppets' show that night, Constantine and Dominic steal paintings from a nearby museum. The next morning, Interpol agent Jean Pierre Napoleon and CIA agent Sam Eagle reluctantly collaborate to apprehend the culprit because one of the paintings was on loan from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Napoleon believes the culprit is "The Lemur", the second most wanted criminal in the world. Meanwhile, Kermit attempts to escape the Gulag several times but is repeatedly thwarted by prison guard Nadya, who eventually deduces his true identity. She orders Kermit to help organize the prisoners' annual talent show.

Following hidden instructions on a stolen painting of Thomas Blood, Constantine and Dominic divert the tour to Madrid. Constantine allows the Muppets to plan their own performances, which confuses Walter due to Kermit's usual systematic method of scheduling the group's shows. During the show that night, Constantine and Dominic break into the Museo del Prado to steal a key needed for their impending theft of the Crown Jewels. Despite the Muppets' performance being chaotic and incongruent, the show in Madrid receives critical acclaim. Sam and Napoleon deduce that the Muppets' tour is connected to the crimes. Sam and Napoleon interrogate the Muppets, but decide the Muppets are too stupid to plan such elaborate crimes. The instructions on the stolen key lead Constantine and Dominic to schedule the next show in Dublin.

In Dublin, Walter discovers that Dominic has been giving away show tickets and bribing journalists to give good reviews, while Fozzie notices Kermit's resemblance to Constantine. They both realize that Constantine has taken Kermit's place, with Dominic's help. Constantine attacks Walter and Fozzie, but Animal fends him off and the trio escape from their train to rescue Kermit. During the performance, Dominic steals Blood's locket from the Bank of Ireland and Constantine proposes to Miss Piggy onstage. Piggy accepts, and the pair plan a wedding ceremony to be held at the Tower of London, where the Crown Jewels are kept.

Fozzie, Walter, and Animal reach the Gulag on the night of the talent show. They help Kermit and multiple other prisoners escape, which infuriates Nadya. Kermit, Fozzie, Walter, and Animal infiltrate the Tower as the wedding begins, and Dominic, with the help of Bobby Benson's Baby Band, manages to steal the Crown Jewels.

Kermit interrupts the ceremony, revealing Constantine's ruse. In response, Constantine takes Miss Piggy hostage and flees to a helicopter, where he is intercepted by Dominic, who is actually the Lemur and intends to double-cross him. Constantine ejects Dominic from the helicopter and tries to escape with Piggy, but Kermit jumps aboard and the rest of the Muppets climb atop each other to stop the escape.

Kermit and Piggy subdue Constantine, and Sam and Napoleon arrest Constantine and Dominic. Nadya suddenly arrives, intending to re-arrest Kermit for organizing the biggest prison escape in the Gulag's history. The other Muppets tell Nadya if she arrests Kermit, she would have to arrest all of them as well. Realizing how much the Muppets matter to Kermit, Nadya relents and pardons him. The Muppets perform "Together Again" at the Gulag with Constantine and the other prisoners participating.

• Ricky Gervais as Dominic Badguy/The Lemur ({{IPAc-en|,|b|a:|d|'|g|i:}} {{respell|BAHD|GHEE}}), the world's second most wanted criminal and Constantine's accomplice who poses as the manager of a fictional international talent agency.
• Ty Burrell as Jean Pierre Napoleon, an Inspector Clouseau-esque French Interpol agent who works with Sam Eagle on finding Constantine.
• Tina Fey as Nadya, a high-ranking prison guard at Gulag 38B who is obsessed with Kermit the Frog.

• Steve Whitmire as Kermit the Frog, Foo-Foo, Statler, Beaker, Lips, Rizzo the Rat, Link Hogthrob, the Newsman and Andy Pig{{cite web|title=Muppets Most Wanted: Press Kit|url=http://www.wdsmediafile.com/media/muppetsmostwanted/writen-material/muppetsmostwanted5320bec17a99d.pdf|publisher=The Walt Disney Studios|access-date=June 6, 2014|archive-date=December 15, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215091702/http://www.wdsmediafile.com/media/muppetsmostwanted/writen-material/muppetsmostwanted5320bec17a99d.pdf|url-status=dead}} (Additionally, Kermit is portrayed by Jim Henson in a scene featuring archival material from Sesame Street and The Muppet Movie.)
• Eric Jacobson as Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Sam Eagle, Animal and Marvin Suggs
• Dave Goelz as Gonzo the Great, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Zoot, Beauregard, Waldorf and Randy Pig
• Bill Barretta as Pepe the King Prawn, Bobo the Bear, Big Mean Carl, Rowlf the Dog, Dr. Teeth, The Swedish Chef, Carlo Flamingo, Baby Boss and Leprechaun Security Guard
• David Rudman as Scooter, Janice, Miss Poogy, Bobby Benson and Wayne
• Matt Vogel as Constantine, '80s Robot, Sweetums, Floyd Pepper, Pops, Robin the Frog, Lew Zealand, Crazy Harry, Camilla the Chicken Uncle Deadly, and Dr. Julius Strangepork
• Peter Linz as Walter and Manolo Flamingo
• Louise Gold as Annie Sue

Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Salma Hayek,{{cite news |url= https://www.eonline.com/news/479471/why-salma-hayek-is-a-hero-to-her-daughter |title=Why Salma Hayek Is a Hero to Her Daughter |last1=Malkin |first1=Marc |date=November 10, 2013 |publisher=E! |access-date=March 11, 2024 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210211214001/http://www.eonline.com/news/479471/why-salma-hayek-is-a-hero-to-her-daughter |archive-date=February 11, 2021}} Saoirse Ronan{{cite news |url=http://blogs.indiewire.com/criticwire/muppets-most-wanted-cameos |title={{-'}}Goodnight, Danny Trejo': Why 'Muppets Most Wanted's' Too-Many Cameos Feel Just Right |last1=Adams |first1=Sam |date=March 21, 2014 |publisher=Indiewire |access-date=March 26, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326094127/http://blogs.indiewire.com/criticwire/muppets-most-wanted-cameos |archive-date=March 26, 2014 |url-status=dead }} and Christoph Waltz{{cite web|last=Cheirif|first=Samantha|title=Christoph Waltz Talks 'Django Unchained', Deleted Scenes and 'The Muppets' Sequel; Reveals He Might be Doing a Cameo and Dancing with Miss Piggy|url=https://collider.com/christoph-waltz-django-unchained-muppet-sequel-interview/219677/|publisher=Collider.com|access-date=December 29, 2012|archive-date=August 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814115309/https://collider.com/christoph-waltz-django-unchained-muppet-sequel-interview/219677/|url-status=dead}} appear as themselves.

Jemaine Clement plays The Prison King; Danny Trejo,{{cite web |url=http://www.iamrogue.com/news/interviews/item/8663-iar-exclusive-interview-ray-liotta-talks-the-iceman-the-place-beyond-the-pines-sin-city-a-dame-to-kill-for-and-the-muppets-again.html |title=IAR Exclusive Interview: Ray Liotta Talks 'The Iceman,' 'The Place Beyond the Pines,' 'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For' and 'The Muppets ... Again!' |publisher=iamROGUE.com |date=April 11, 2013 |first=Jami |last=Philbrick |access-date=July 6, 2013 |archive-date=April 15, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130415055942/http://www.iamrogue.com/news/interviews/item/8663-iar-exclusive-interview-ray-liotta-talks-the-iceman-the-place-beyond-the-pines-sin-city-a-dame-to-kill-for-and-the-muppets-again.html |url-status=live }} Dylan "Hornswoggle" Postl,{{cite web |date=November 21, 2013 |url=http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/christmas-bounty-premiere-wwe-scooby-doo-the-next-khali-jr-update-hornswoggle-muppets/ |title=Christmas Bounty Premiere, WWE & Scooby Doo, The Next Khali, JR Update, Hornswoggle & Muppets |publisher=Wrestlingnewsworld.com |access-date=January 28, 2014 |archive-date=December 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202230654/http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/christmas-bounty-premiere-wwe-scooby-doo-the-next-khali-jr-update-hornswoggle-muppets/ |url-status=live }} Ray Liotta,{{cite news|last=Sneider|first=Jeff|title=Liotta reunites with 'Muppets' for sequel|url=https://variety.com/2013/film/news/liotta-reunites-with-muppets-for-sequel-1118064972/|access-date=January 23, 2013|newspaper=Variety|date=January 22, 2013|archive-date=January 23, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130123114919/http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118064972/|url-status=live}} Tom Hiddleston{{cite web|last=Connelly|first=Brendon|title=Tom Hiddleston Is The Great Escapo In The Muppets ... Again|url=http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/03/24/tom-hiddleston-is-the-great-escapo-in-the-muppets-again/|publisher=Bleeding Cool|access-date=March 26, 2013|archive-date=March 25, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130325235739/http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/03/24/tom-hiddleston-is-the-great-escapo-in-the-muppets-again/|url-status=live}} and Josh Groban#Soundtrack appear as Gulag 38B inmates. Stanley Tucci plays Ivan, a Gulag 38B Watchtower Guard.

James McAvoy, Chloë Grace Moretz, Miranda Richardson, Russell Tovey, Mackenzie Crook, Toby Jones, Rob Corddry, Hugh Bonneville, Tom Hollander, Sean "Diddy" Combs,{{cite web |url=http://www.toughpigs.com/p-diddy-to-meet-p-prawn/ |title=P. Diddy to Meet P. Prawn in New Muppet Movie |publisher=ToughPigs.com |date=May 21, 2013 |first=Ryan |last=Roe |access-date=July 6, 2013 |archive-date=September 22, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922085113/http://www.toughpigs.com/p-diddy-to-meet-p-prawn/ |url-status=live }} Celine Dion,{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a484483/celine-dion-to-sing-theme-song-for-the-muppets-again.html |title=Celine Dion to Sing Theme Song for The Muppets Again |work=Digital Spy}}{{dead link|date=November 2016}} Zach Galifianakis,{{cite news|title='Muppets Most Wanted' Trailer: Kermit Is In Trouble|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/20/muppets-most-wanted-trailer-kermit-in-trouble_n_4310534.html|access-date=November 20, 2013|date=November 20, 2013|archive-date=November 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131127024244/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/20/muppets-most-wanted-trailer-kermit-in-trouble_n_4310534.html?utm_hp_ref=entertainment|url-status=live}} Frank Langella,{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2013/04/frank-langella-is-cleveland-browns-owner-in-draft-day-476085/ |title=Frank Langella Is Cleveland Browns Owner In 'Draft Day' |website=Deadline Hollywood |date=April 16, 2013 |author=Mike Fleming, Jr |access-date=July 6, 2013 |archive-date=June 30, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630113412/http://www.deadline.com/2013/04/frank-langella-is-cleveland-browns-owner-in-draft-day/ |url-status=live }} Ross Lynch,{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/muppets-most-wanted-teaser-trailer-features-slew-celebrity-cameos-upcoming-muppets-sequel-video|title='Muppets Most Wanted' Teaser Trailer Features Slew Of Celebrity Cameos In Upcoming 'Muppets' Sequel|work=International Business Times|date=March 21, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2013|archive-date=December 10, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210121519/http://www.ibtimes.com/muppets-most-wanted-teaser-trailer-features-slew-celebrity-cameos-upcoming-muppets-sequel-video|url-status=live}} Til Schweiger{{cite news|last=Eisenberg|first=Eric|title=Liotta reunites with 'Muppets' for sequel|url=https://www.cinemablend.com/new/Muppets-Again-Adds-Inglourious-Basterds-Til-Schweiger-35801.html|access-date=February 15, 2013|newspaper=Cinema Blend|date=February 15, 2013|archive-date=February 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130219015004/http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Muppets-Again-Adds-Inglourious-Basterds-Til-Schweiger-35801.html|url-status=live}} and Usher{{cite web |url=http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/04/05/another-muppets-sequel-cameo-confirmed-and-this-one-brings-the-fancy-footwork/ |title=Another Muppets Sequel Cameo Confirmed – And This One Brings The Fancy Footwork |publisher=BleedingCool.com |date=April 5, 2013 |first=Brendon |last=Connelly |access-date=July 6, 2013 |archive-date=June 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130629042750/http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/04/05/another-muppets-sequel-cameo-confirmed-and-this-one-brings-the-fancy-footwork/ |url-status=live }} also appear in minor cameos.

Some actors filmed scenes that were cut from the theatrical film release, but were later restored on the film's DVD and Blu-ray release. The actors include:{{cite web |url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a467528/peter-serafinowicz-dexter-fletcher-cast-in-the-muppets-again.html |title=Peter Serafinowicz, Dexter Fletcher cast in 'The Muppets ... Again' |work=Digital Spy |date=March 21, 2013 |first=Justin |last=Harp |access-date=July 6, 2013 |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924115646/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a467528/peter-serafinowicz-dexter-fletcher-cast-in-the-muppets-again.html |url-status=dead }} Dexter Fletcher and Peter Serafinowicz as Gulag guards, and Bridgit Mendler, Debby Ryan, Jake Short, and Tyrel Jackson Williams as wedding guests.

In March 2012, after the critical and commercial success of The Muppets, Walt Disney Studios negotiated a deal with James Bobin and Nicholas Stoller to direct and write, respectively, an eighth installment. Disney green-lit the film on April 24, 2012.{{cite news|last=McClintock|first=Pamela|title=CinemaCon 2012: Pixar Announces New Latin-Themed Project, Disney Plans 'Muppets 2'|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-pixar-muppets-sequel-dia-de-los-muertos-315796|access-date=January 18, 2013|newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter|date=April 24, 2012|archive-date=April 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426114149/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-pixar-muppets-sequel-dia-de-los-muertos-315796|url-status=live}} Along with Brian Henson, Bobin is the only other person to have directed two Muppet films.{{cite web|last=Radish|first=Christina|title=Director James Bobin & Songwriter Bret McKenzie Talk MUPPETS MOST WANTED, the Hensons' Reaction to the Film, the Pressure of Following an Oscar Win, and More|url=https://collider.com/james-bobin-bret-mckenzie-muppets-most-wanted-interview/|publisher=Collider.com|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=March 21, 2014|archive-date=March 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322020614/http://collider.com/james-bobin-bret-mckenzie-muppets-most-wanted-interview/|url-status=live}}

Writing began in April 2012 after a couple of weeks of outlining.{{cite web|last=Weintraub|first=Steve|title=Exclusive MUPPETS Sequel News: It's a Caper, Will Have New Muppets, Jason Segel Might Cameo, Possible Summer 2013 Release, More|url=https://collider.com/the-muppets-2-sequel-caper-nicholas-stoller-interview/|publisher=Collider.com|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=April 14, 2012|archive-date=March 30, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140330035117/http://collider.com/the-muppets-2-sequel-caper-nicholas-stoller-interview/|url-status=live}} Jason Segel, co-writer and star of the previous film, declined any involvement with the eighth entry, citing that he had accomplished his ambition of bringing the characters to the forefront with the 2011 film.{{cite news|last=Beard|first=Lanford|title=Jason Segel not involved in 'Muppets' sequel|url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2012/03/05/jason-segel-not-involved-muppets-sequel/?cnn=yes|access-date=January 19, 2013|newspaper=Entertainment Weekly|date=March 5, 2012|archive-date=October 7, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007073024/http://insidemovies.ew.com/2012/03/05/jason-segel-not-involved-muppets-sequel/?cnn=yes|url-status=live}} Despite this, Bobin and Stoller quickly began work on the film based on Disney's demand. Taking on the form of a caper, the film was inspired by both The Great Muppet Caper and The Muppets Take Manhattan as well as The Pink Panther and The Thomas Crown Affair. Bobin said that the film was "a tip of the hat to the old-school crime capers of the '60s, but featuring a frog, a pig, a bear, and a dog—no panthers, even pink ones—along with the usual Muppet-y mix of mayhem, music and laughs".{{cite news|last=Zakarin|first=Jordan|title=Disney Reveals Muppet Movie Sequel's Name and Synopsis|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/muppets-again-new-muppets-movie-416805|access-date=January 30, 2013|newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter|date=January 30, 2013|archive-date=March 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130313195317/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/muppets-again-new-muppets-movie-416805|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Maytum|first=Matt|title=First official images from sequel The Muppets ... Again!|url=http://www.totalfilm.com/news/first-official-images-from-the-muppets-2|access-date=January 30, 2013|newspaper=Total Film|date=January 30, 2013|archive-date=February 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130203124208/http://www.totalfilm.com/news/first-official-images-from-the-muppets-2|url-status=live}}

The first actor to be attached to the film was Christoph Waltz in the role of an Interpol inspector. Waltz dropped out due to scheduling conflicts (though he would end up appearing in a cameo as himself) and was replaced by Ty Burrell.{{cite news|last=Kit|first=Borys|title=Ty Burrell to Star in Disney's 'Muppets' Sequel (Exclusive)|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/ty-burrell-star-disneys-muppets-399354|access-date=January 18, 2013|newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter|date=December 7, 2012|archive-date=December 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121209012826/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/ty-burrell-star-disneys-muppets-399354|url-status=live}} In December 2012, Ricky Gervais confirmed his casting.{{cite news|title=Ricky Gervais confirms that he will star in 'The Muppets' sequel|url=https://www.nme.com/filmandtv/news/ricky-gervais-confirms-that-he-will-star-in-the-muppets/293639|access-date=January 19, 2013|newspaper=NME|date=December 20, 2012|archive-date=December 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121223064326/http://www.nme.com/filmandtv/news/ricky-gervais-confirms-that-he-will-star-in-the-muppets/293639|url-status=live}} Tina Fey was later confirmed in January of the following year.{{cite news|last=Kit|first=Borys|title=Tina Fey in Talks to Join Disney's 'Muppets' Sequel (Exclusive)|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/tina-fey-disneys-muppets-sequel-409623|access-date=January 18, 2013|newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter|date=January 8, 2013|archive-date=January 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130110033320/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/tina-fey-disneys-muppets-sequel-409623|url-status=live}}

Originally commissioned under the title The Muppets ... Again!, principal photography began in January 2013, at London's Pinewood Studios in Iver, Buckinghamshire.{{cite web|title=FIRST LOOK: Disney's 'The Muppets ... Again!' Kicks Off Production in London|url=http://blogs.disney.com/movies/2013/01/30/first-look-muppets-again/|publisher=Disney Movies Blog|access-date=January 30, 2013|archive-date=February 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130204210315/http://blogs.disney.com/movies/2013/01/30/first-look-muppets-again/|url-status=live}} Filming also took place at the Tower of London, a site where the Crown Estate rarely grants permission to do so.{{cite news|last1=Kit|first1=Borys|title=Inside the 'Muppets Most Wanted' Premiere: Tina Fey and Her Accent, James Bobin on Shooting in the Tower of London|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/inside-muppets-wanted-premiere-tina-688202|access-date=October 11, 2015|work=The Hollywood Reporter|date=March 12, 2014|archive-date=October 7, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007143249/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/inside-muppets-wanted-premiere-tina-688202|url-status=live}} Additional filming locations in London included Leicester Square, Tower Hill, the Richmond Theatre, Wilton's Music Hall, Freemasons' Hall and The Historic Dockyard, Chatham.{{cite web|author=Kent Film Office|url=http://kentfilmoffice.co.uk/2014/03/muppets-most-wanted-2014/|title=Kent Film Office The Muppets Most Wanted Article|date=March 18, 2014 |access-date=August 11, 2015|archive-date=January 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160119103249/http://kentfilmoffice.co.uk/2014/03/muppets-most-wanted-2014/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=London locations double for Europe in The Muppets Most Wanted|url=http://filmlondon.org.uk/news/2014/march/london_locations_double_for_europe_in_the_muppets_most_wanted|publisher=Film London|access-date=March 29, 2014|date=March 26, 2014|archive-date=March 30, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140330214051/http://filmlondon.org.uk/news/2014/march/london_locations_double_for_europe_in_the_muppets_most_wanted|url-status=live}} In addition to the United Kingdom, scenes were also shot at Union Station, the Walt Disney Studios and Paramount Studios lots, and on Hollywood Boulevard (to recreate the previous film's ending) in Los Angeles.{{cite web|last=Sciretta|first=Peter|title=/Film Visits The Set Of 'Muppets Most Wanted'|url=https://www.slashfilm.com/film-visits-the-set-of-muppets-most-wanted/|publisher=/Film|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=January 8, 2014|archive-date=April 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408000420/http://www.slashfilm.com/film-visits-the-set-of-muppets-most-wanted/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Shaw-Williams|first=H.|title='The Muppets ... Again!' Set Photos – Jason Segel's Character Returning?|url=https://screenrant.com/muppets-again-sequel-set-photos/|publisher=ScreenRant|access-date=May 16, 2013|date=May 10, 2013|archive-date=June 8, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130608020609/http://screenrant.com/muppets-again-sequel-set-photos/|url-status=live}} On June 13, 2013, the title of the film was changed from The Muppets ... Again! to Muppets Most Wanted, although the original title is mentioned in the opening song.{{cite news|last=Rome|first=Emily|title='Muppets' sequel gets new title, 'Into the Woods' gets release date, and more Disney updates|url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2013/06/13/disney-updates-muppets-into-the-woods-tomorrowland/|access-date=June 14, 2013|newspaper=Entertainment Weekly|date=June 13, 2013|archive-date=October 12, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012042704/http://insidemovies.ew.com/2013/06/13/disney-updates-muppets-into-the-woods-tomorrowland/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web |last1=Schillaci |first1=Sophie |last2=McClintock |first2=Pamela |date=June 13, 2013 |title=Disney Dates Musical 'Into the Woods' Opposite 'Annie' in December 2014 |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-dates-musical-woods-opposite-568528 |work=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=June 14, 2013 |archive-date=September 21, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921055135/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-dates-musical-woods-opposite-568528 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Stewart|first=Andrew|title=Disney Schedules Two Untitled Marvel Movies for 2016 and 2017|url=https://variety.com/2013/film/news/disney-dates-two-untitled-marvel-movies-for-2016-and-2017-1200496896/|work=Variety|access-date=June 15, 2013|date=June 13, 2013|archive-date=June 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130618025308/http://variety.com/2013/film/news/disney-dates-two-untitled-marvel-movies-for-2016-and-2017-1200496896/|url-status=live}}

The production design was done by Eve Stewart, who took a tongue-in-cheek approach to each country setting while also being influenced by the retro style of "crime capers of the '60s and '70s".{{cite web|last=Laverty|first=Christopher|title=The Muppets Most Wanted: Set and Costume Visit|url=http://clothesonfilm.com/the-muppets-most-wanted-set-and-costume-visit/33992/|publisher=ClothesOnFilm.com|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=January 9, 2014|archive-date=March 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322073719/http://clothesonfilm.com/the-muppets-most-wanted-set-and-costume-visit/33992/|url-status=live}} Rahel Afiley returned as the costume designer, compiling the wardrobe for both Muppet and human characters. In addition to Afiley's own creations, English fashion designer Vivienne Westwood also contributed four outfits for Miss Piggy while United States retailer Brooks Brothers created more than 200 items for the male cast.{{cite web|last=Christine|first=Marie|title=Miss Piggy's Vivienne Westwood wardrobe for 'Muppets Most Wanted'|url=http://www.cinemazzi.com/miss-piggy-vivienne-westwood-costumes-muppets-most-wanted-wardrobe/|publisher=Cinemazzi.com|access-date=March 22, 2014|date=March 18, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322081748/http://www.cinemazzi.com/miss-piggy-vivienne-westwood-costumes-muppets-most-wanted-wardrobe/|archive-date=March 22, 2014|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|last=Chan|first=Stephanie|title='Muppets Most Wanted's' Cast Gets Dressed by Brooks Brothers|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/muppets-wanteds-cast-gets-dressed-690380|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=March 22, 2014|date=March 21, 2014|archive-date=March 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328050924/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/muppets-wanteds-cast-gets-dressed-690380|url-status=live}} Discussing Miss Piggy's wedding gown, Westwood said, "It's called the Court dress and is inspired by 17th-century English royalty and the court of King Charles II. It has been designed ... in a white pearl sequin fabric made from recycled water bottles."{{cite magazine|last=Oltuski|first=Romy|title=Miss Piggy Talks With Vivienne Westwood|url=http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-designers/miss-piggy-talks-with-vivienne-westwood|magazine=Harper's Bazaar|access-date=March 22, 2014|date=February 11, 2014|archive-date=March 20, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320143256/http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-designers/miss-piggy-talks-with-vivienne-westwood|url-status=live}}

{{quote box|quote="If we are doing CG compositing, ... we always have puppeteers perform it. We never go down the road of having a full CG character, which you could easily do. It feels that the joy of this movie is the Muppets exist. They're real; you can touch them. There are very few forms of entertainment in the contemporary world that exist like that, and Muppets are the last bastion of it, and it would be shame to lose that."|source=—James Bobin on balancing practical and digital effects.{{cite web|last=Thompson|first=Luke Y.|title=TR Interview: James Bobin, Master of Muppets (Most Wanted)|url=http://www.toplessrobot.com/2014/03/tr_interview_james_bobin_master_of_muppets_most_wa.php|publisher=ToplessRobot.com (Voice Media Group)|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=March 21, 2014|archive-date=March 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322051321/http://www.toplessrobot.com/2014/03/tr_interview_james_bobin_master_of_muppets_most_wa.php|url-status=live}}|width=35%|align=right}}

Visual effects were done primarily by The Senate Visual Effects. The effects studio worked on 425 shots that included CG builds and set extensions, matte paintings, particle and laser effects, animation, and rod removals.{{cite web|title=The Senate Visual Effects {{!}} Muppets Most Wanted|url=http://www.senatevfx.com/projects/muppets-most-wanted?PHPSESSID=89b749ef09397671499955294bfa44b1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131124024006/http://www.senatevfx.com/projects/muppets-most-wanted|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 24, 2013|publisher=The Senate Visual Effects|access-date=March 21, 2014}} Additional visual effects work was done by Double Negative, Factory VFX, and Nvizible.{{cite web|last=Gartier|first=James|title=Animation and VFX Winter Movie Preview 2014|url=http://www.awn.com/vfxworld/animation-and-vfx-winter-movie-preview-2014|publisher=Animation World Network|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=January 3, 2014|archive-date=April 2, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140402203059/http://www.awn.com/vfxworld/animation-and-vfx-winter-movie-preview-2014|url-status=live}} As with the previous installment, the film required blue screen for scenes that required digital compositing. While green screen is more traditional for color keying, the screen's shade of green would clash with Kermit and therefore be unusable; Sam Eagle's shade of blue is suitable on blue screen.{{cite web|last=Brew|first=Simon|title=29 nerdy things we learned on the set of Muppets Most Wanted|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/the-muppets/29307/29-nerdy-things-we-learned-on-the-set-of-muppets-most-wanted|publisher=Den of Geek (Dennis Publishing)|access-date=March 21, 2014|date=February 19, 2014|archive-date=March 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322060006/http://www.denofgeek.com/movies/the-muppets/29307/29-nerdy-things-we-learned-on-the-set-of-muppets-most-wanted|url-status=live}}

Audio mixing and editorial services were done by Todd Soundelux and 424 Post. Based out of Todd-AO's Santa Monica facility,{{cite web|last=Giardina|first=Carolyn|title=20-Time Oscar Nominated Re-Recording Mixer Kevin O'Connell Joins Todd-Soundelux|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/20-time-oscar-nominated-recording-646424|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=March 24, 2014|date=October 9, 2014|archive-date=June 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140608185705/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/20-time-oscar-nominated-recording-646424|url-status=live}} Kevin O'Connell and Beau Borders worked on the film as re-recording mixers alongside 424 Post's supervising sound editors Kami Asgar and Sean McCormack.{{cite web|title=Muppets Most Wanted - TODD-SOUNDELUX|url=http://www.toddsoundelux.com/portfolio_detail/muppets-most-wanted|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140324185530/http://www.toddsoundelux.com/portfolio_detail/muppets-most-wanted|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 24, 2014|publisher=Todd Soundelux|access-date=March 24, 2014|date=March 17, 2014}}

The first assembly cut of the film ran around two and a half hours.{{cite web|last=Weintraub|first=Steve|title=Director James Bobin Talks MUPPETS MOST WANTED, Finding the Story for the Sequel, Putting Together the Cast, ALICE IN WONDERLAND 2, and More|url=https://collider.com/james-bobin-muppets-most-wanted-alice-wonderland-2-interview/|publisher=Collider.com|access-date=March 25, 2014|date=March 25, 2014|archive-date=March 26, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326032720/http://collider.com/james-bobin-muppets-most-wanted-alice-wonderland-2-interview/|url-status=live}}

{{Main|Muppets Most Wanted (soundtrack)}}

The musical score for Muppets Most Wanted was composed by Christophe Beck, with additional songs by Bret McKenzie. A soundtrack album was released by Walt Disney Records on March 18, 2014.{{cite web|title='Muppets Most Wanted' Soundtrack Details|url=http://filmmusicreporter.com/2014/01/28/muppets-most-wanted-soundtrack-details/|publisher=FilmMusicReporter.com|access-date=March 16, 2014|date=January 28, 2014|archive-date=April 7, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407002757/http://filmmusicreporter.com/2014/01/28/muppets-most-wanted-soundtrack-details/|url-status=live}} It features six original songs by McKenzie as well as re-recordings of contemporary music and past Muppet songs, including "Together Again" from The Muppets Take Manhattan.{{cite news|title="Muppets Most Wanted" Soundtrack To Make Mayhem March 18|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/muppets-most-wanted-soundtrack-to-make-mayhem-march-18-247830941.html|agency=PR Newswire|access-date=March 16, 2014|date=February 28, 2014|archive-date=March 18, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140318185243/http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/muppets-most-wanted-soundtrack-to-make-mayhem-march-18-247830941.html|url-status=live}} A separate album entirely containing Beck's score (paired with the score for The Muppets, also composed by Beck) was released by Walt Disney Records and Intrada Records on April 15, 2014.{{cite web|title='Muppets Most Wanted' Score Album Details|url=http://filmmusicreporter.com/2014/04/03/muppets-most-wanted-score-album-details/|publisher=FilmMusicReporter.com|access-date=April 4, 2014|date=April 3, 2014|archive-date=April 5, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140405130844/http://filmmusicreporter.com/2014/04/03/muppets-most-wanted-score-album-details/|url-status=live}}

Muppets Most Wanted held its world premiere on March 11, 2014, at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California.{{cite magazine|last=Bell|first=Carrie|title='Muppets Most Wanted' premiere, On the Scene: Tina Fey, Ty Burrell, more pick their Muppet doppelgangers|url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2014/03/12/muppets-most-wanted-premiere-tina-fey/|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=March 13, 2014|date=March 12, 2014}} The film was theatrically released in the United States on March 21 and in the United Kingdom on March 28, 2014.{{cite news|title='Pirates Of The Caribbean 5,' 'The Muppets 2,' Secret Brad Bird Movie & More Set For Disney|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/14/pirates-of-the-caribbean-5_n_2474127.html|access-date=January 19, 2013|newspaper=The Huffington Post|date=January 14, 2013|archive-date=January 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130118034514/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/14/pirates-of-the-caribbean-5_n_2474127.html|url-status=live}} Theatrically, the film was accompanied by Pixar's Monsters University short Party Central.{{cite news|last=Rottenberg|first=Josh|title=Disney to showcase new Pixar short 'Party Central' in front of 'Muppets Most Wanted' - EXCLUSIVE|url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2014/01/07/disney-pixar-short-party-central-muppets-most-wanted/|access-date=March 26, 2014|newspaper=Entertainment Weekly|date=January 7, 2014|archive-date=January 7, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140107182904/http://insidemovies.ew.com/2014/01/07/disney-pixar-short-party-central-muppets-most-wanted/|url-status=live}}

A teaser trailer was released on August 6, 2013, and was attached theatrically to screenings of Planes.{{cite web|title=Just Released: 'Muppets Most Wanted' Trailer|date=August 6, 2013|url=http://blogs.disney.com/insider/articles/2013/08/06/just-released-muppets-most-wanted-trailer/|publisher=DisneyInsider.com (The Walt Disney Company)|access-date=August 6, 2013|archive-date=August 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130809015608/http://blogs.disney.com/insider/articles/2013/08/06/just-released-muppets-most-wanted-trailer/|url-status=live}} On November 20, 2013, two different trailers were released, one for the United States and one for the United Kingdom.{{cite web| title = Walter's Favorite Moments from the Muppets Most Wanted Trailer| date = November 20, 2013| url = http://blogs.disney.com/insider/articles/2013/11/20/walters-favorite-moments-from-the-muppets-most-wanted-trailer/| publisher = Disney Insider| access-date = November 20, 2013| archive-date = November 23, 2013| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131123074133/http://blogs.disney.com/insider/articles/2013/11/20/walters-favorite-moments-from-the-muppets-most-wanted-trailer/| url-status = live}}{{cite web|last=Connelly|first=Brendon|title=Two New Muppets Most Wanted Trailers – Bigger, Longer, Better Than The Teaser – Updated|url=http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/11/20/full-muppets-most-wanted-trailer-bigger-longer-better-than-the-teaser/|publisher=BleedingCool.com|access-date=November 20, 2013|archive-date=November 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131124111515/http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/11/20/full-muppets-most-wanted-trailer-bigger-longer-better-than-the-teaser|url-status=live}}

In February 2014, the Muppets starred alongside Terry Crews in a commercial for Toyota that aired during the Super Bowl.{{cite web|title=Muppets Cause Mayhem In Toyota Super Bowl Commercial Also Starring Terry Crews (VIDEO)|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/03/muppets-toyota-super-bowl-commercial-terry-crews_n_4709665.html|work=The Huffington Post|access-date=March 19, 2014|date=February 3, 2014|archive-date=March 9, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309171329/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/03/muppets-toyota-super-bowl-commercial-terry-crews_n_4709665.html|url-status=live}} Later that month, Disney partnered with Subway to promote healthy eating through an advertisement featuring the Muppets.{{cite web|last=Graser|first=Marc|title=The Muppets Crave Subway in 'Most Wanted' Ad Campaign|url=https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/the-muppets-subway-commercial-1201104172/|work=Variety|access-date=March 19, 2014|date=February 14, 2014|archive-date=March 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319222917/http://variety.com/2014/biz/news/the-muppets-subway-commercial-1201104172/|url-status=live}} In early March, the restaurant chain started giving away free Muppet-themed bags with kids meals.{{cite web|title=The Subway Brand Launches a Muppet-Themed Campaign for Families|url=http://www.subway.co.uk/media/news/the-subway-brand-launches-a-muppets-themed-campaign-for-families.aspx|publisher=Subway|access-date=March 19, 2014|date=March 12, 2014|archive-date=March 12, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312102109/http://subway.co.uk/media/news/the-subway-brand-launches-a-muppets-themed-campaign-for-families.aspx|url-status=live}} Spoof posters were released for the film, parodying Skyfall (called Frogfall), The World Is Not Enough (called The Pig Is Not Enough), Face/Off (called Fraud/Frog), and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (called Animal Piggy Frog Spy).{{cite web |url=http://www.bleedingcool.com/2014/03/06/excellent-new-james-bond-style-muppets-most-wanted-posters-the-pig-is-not-enough/ |title=Excellent New James Bond-Style Muppets Most Wanted Posters - The Pig Is Not Enough - Bleeding Cool Comic Book, Movies and TV News and Rumors |publisher=Bleedingcool.com |date=March 6, 2014 |access-date=March 23, 2014 |archive-date=March 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319223002/http://www.bleedingcool.com/2014/03/06/excellent-new-james-bond-style-muppets-most-wanted-posters-the-pig-is-not-enough/ |url-status=live }}

In February, the Android and iOS game My Muppets Show added content from the film, including a Big House stage, various props from the movie, and Constantine as a discoverable/purchasable character.{{cite web|title=My Muppets 'Most Wanted' Update|url=http://digitizemyshow.com/2014/02/muppets-most-wanted-update/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324201452/http://digitizemyshow.com/2014/02/muppets-most-wanted-update/|archive-date=March 24, 2014|df=mdy-all}} From March 20 to April 1, Disney's online game Club Penguin hosted a special Muppets World Tour event. Players were able to visit nine country-themed rooms and perform alongside several Muppets.{{cite web|last= Jennings|first= Adele|title= Exclusive: First look at the new Club Penguin in-game party takeover: Join the Muppets World Tour!|url= https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/family/exclusive-first-look-new-club-3256569|work= Daily Mirror|date= March 18, 2014|access-date= March 18, 2014|archive-date= February 4, 2017|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170204220750/http://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/family/exclusive-first-look-new-club-3256569|url-status= live}}

Muppets Most Wanted was released by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment on Blu-ray and DVD on August 12, 2014. The Blu-ray bonus features include three cuts of the film: the original theatrical cut (106 minutes), a truncated Statler and Waldorf cut (2 minutes), and an extended cut featuring 12 minutes of scenes not shown in the theatrical version (124 minutes). Also included are a blooper reel, a featurette called "Rizzo's Biggest Fan," and a music video of "I'll Get You What You Want" featuring Bret McKenzie.{{cite web |url=http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=13991 |title=Muppets Most Wanted Blu-ray |publisher=Blu-ray.com |access-date=May 16, 2014 |archive-date=May 16, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140516233240/http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=13991 |url-status=live }}

Muppets Most Wanted grossed $51.2 million in North America, and $29.2 million in other countries, for a worldwide total of $80.4 million. The film earned $17 million and opened to number two in its first weekend, with $17 million, behind Divergent.{{cite web|last=Busch|first=Anita|title=BOX OFFICE: 'Divergent' No. 1 On Track For Mid-$50M Weekend; 'Muppets Most Wanted' Very Soft; Faith-Based 'God's Not Dead' Surprises In Top Five And 'Budapest Hotel' Another Strong Per Screen|url=https://deadline.com/2014/03/divergent-weekend-box-office-muppets-most-wanted-702953/|website=Deadline Hollywood|access-date=March 23, 2014|date=March 23, 2014|archive-date=March 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323120152/http://www.deadline.com/2014/03/divergent-weekend-box-office-muppets-most-wanted/|url-status=live}} Considering that pre-release tracking had forecast Muppets Most Wanted at opening with takings of more than $20 million,{{cite web|last=Subers|first=Ray|title=Forecast: 'Divergent' Leaps Into Theaters -- Will It Be the Next YA Hit?|url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=3802&p=.htm|work=Box Office Mojo|publisher=Internet Movie Database|access-date=March 30, 2014|date=March 20, 2014|archive-date=March 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328200032/http://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=3802&p=.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Symington|first=Steve|title=Box Office: Divergent Tracking for Twilight-esque Launch, Muppets Will Do Fine|url=http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2014/03/21/box-office-divergent-tracking-for-twilight-esque-l.aspx|work=The Motley Fool|access-date=March 30, 2014|date=March 21, 2014|archive-date=March 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322044514/http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2014/03/21/box-office-divergent-tracking-for-twilight-esque-l.aspx|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Faughnder|first=Ryan|title='Divergent' likely to pass box-office test; 'Muppets' looks solid|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-divergent-muppets-most-wanted-20140320,0,2624353.story|work=Los Angeles Times|access-date=March 30, 2014|date=March 20, 2014|archive-date=March 30, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140330041556/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-divergent-muppets-most-wanted-20140320,0,2624353.story|url-status=live}} Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures distribution chief Dave Hollis said the film's opening was "definitely disappointing". Hollis said there was never a comparison between the previous film and its sequel, since Thanksgiving is a concentrated time for family moviegoing.{{cite web|last=Busch|first=Anita|title=Box Office: 'Divergent' Breaks YA Curse With $56 Million Debut; 'Muppets 2' Bombs|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-divergent-breaks-ya-690460|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=March 23, 2014|date=March 23, 2014|archive-date=February 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217161811/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-divergent-breaks-ya-690460|url-status=live}} In its second weekend, the film dropped to number three, grossing $11.3 million, leading to a better second weekend than its predecessor.{{cite web|last=Subers|first=Ray|title=Weekend Report: Moviegoers Climb Aboard 'Noah's Ark|url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=3808&p=.htm|work=Box Office Mojo|publisher=Internet Movie Database|access-date=March 30, 2014|date=March 30, 2014|archive-date=March 31, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140331053038/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=3808&p=.htm|url-status=live}} In its third weekend, the film dropped to number five, grossing $5.1 million.{{cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/weekend/chart/?yr=2014&wknd=14&p=.htm |title=Weekend Box Office Results for April 4-6, 2014 |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=April 10, 2014 |archive-date=April 11, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140411133346/http://boxofficemojo.com/weekend/chart/?yr=2014&wknd=14&p=.htm |url-status=live }} In its fourth weekend, the film dropped to number nine, grossing $2.3 million.{{cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/weekend/chart/?yr=2014&wknd=15&p=.htm |title=Weekend Box Office Results for April 11-13, 2014 |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=April 29, 2014 |archive-date=April 18, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140418135513/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/weekend/chart/?yr=2014&wknd=15&p=.htm |url-status=live }}

Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a score of 80% based on reviews from 207 critics, with a rating average of 6.7/10. The site's consensus stated: "While it may not reach the delirious heights of The Muppets, Muppets Most Wanted still packs in enough clever gags, catchy songs, and celebrity cameos to satisfy fans of all ages."{{cite web|title= Muppets Most Wanted (2014)|url= https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/muppets_most_wanted/|publisher= Fandango Media|work= Rotten Tomatoes|access-date= July 6, 2020|archive-date= July 30, 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200730210535/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/muppets_most_wanted|url-status= live}}{{cite web |last= Gettell |first= Oliver |title= {{-'}}Muppets Most Wanted' a weak sequel, early reviews say |url= https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-muppets-most-wanted-early-reviews-critics-20140312,0,7177737.story |work= Los Angeles Times |access-date= March 28, 2014 |date= March 12, 2014 |archive-date= March 15, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140315041350/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-muppets-most-wanted-early-reviews-critics-20140312,0,7177737.story |url-status= live }} Metacritic gave the film a score of 61/100 based on 37 reviews indicating "generally favorable reviews".{{cite web |title=Muppets Most Wanted |url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/muppets-most-wanted |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=Metacritic |access-date=March 19, 2014 |archive-date=March 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319083111/http://www.metacritic.com/movie/muppets-most-wanted |url-status=live }} CinemaScore audiences gave Muppets Most Wanted a "B+" grade rating on an A+ to F scale.{{cite web|last=Garris|first=Daniel|title=NORTH AMERICA: 'Divergent' Debuts with Healthy $54.6M; 'Muppets Most Wanted' Underwhelms|url=http://www.boxoffice.com/latest-news/2014-03-24-north-america-divergent-debuts-with-healthy-546m-muppets-most-wanted-underwhelms|work=BoxOffice|access-date=March 27, 2014|date=March 24, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328050733/http://www.boxoffice.com/latest-news/2014-03-24-north-america-divergent-debuts-with-healthy-546m-muppets-most-wanted-underwhelms|archive-date=March 28, 2014|df=mdy-all}}

Alonso Duralde of The Wrap compared the film favorably to the 2011 predecessor, elaborating, "Muppets Most Wanted remains sensational and celebrational, proving beyond a doubt that these beloved characters will continue to lead a plush life on the big screen for years to come."{{cite news |last= Duralde |first= Alonso |title= 'Muppets Most Wanted' Review: Caper Sequel Proves Second Verse Can Be as Good as the First |url= https://www.thewrap.com/muppets-most-wanted-review-tina-fey-ricky-gervais |access-date= March 20, 2014 |newspaper= The Wrap |date= March 12, 2014 |archive-date= March 20, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140320023413/http://www.thewrap.com/muppets-most-wanted-review-tina-fey-ricky-gervais |url-status= live }} Despite reservations over the previous installment, Brian Henson called Most Wanted a great Muppets film, saying, "I think my dad would be thrilled the Muppets are continuing. That's a big deal." Peter Hartlaub of the San Francisco Chronicle gave the film three out of four stars, saying "It just feels like something the original Muppet creators might have done."{{cite web |date= March 21, 2014 |first= Peter |last= Hartlaub |url= http://www.sfgate.com/movies/article/Movie-review-Muppets-Most-Wanted-5334785.php |title= Movie review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' |work= San Francisco Chronicle |access-date= March 21, 2014 |archive-date= March 20, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140320234711/http://www.sfgate.com/movies/article/Movie-review-Muppets-Most-Wanted-5334785.php |url-status= live }} John Hartl of The Seattle Times gave the film three out of four stars, saying "Most of the laughs come courtesy of Tina Fey, in the role of a Siberian prison guard who can't/won't stop dancing."{{cite web |last=Hartl |first=John |url=http://seattletimes.com/html/entertainment/2023163344_muppetsmostwantedxml.html |title='Muppets Most Wanted': Will the real Kermie stand up? |work=The Seattle Times |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 26, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326013958/http://seattletimes.com/html/entertainment/2023163344_muppetsmostwantedxml.html |url-status=live }} Todd McCarthy of The Hollywood Reporter had a mixed reaction; praising Bret McKenzie's songs and the film's humor, but labeling the film overall as "an oddly off-key follow-up".{{cite news |last= McCarthy |first= Todd |title= Muppets Most Wanted: Film Review |url= https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movie/muppets-2/review/687759 |access-date= March 20, 2014 |newspaper= The Hollywood Reporter |date= March 12, 2014 |archive-date= March 15, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140315090936/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movie/muppets-2/review/687759 |url-status= live }} Justin Chang of Variety gave a negative review, stating that the film "looks and sounds eager to please but immediately feels like a more slapdash, aimless affair, trying—and mostly failing—to turn its stalled creativity into some sort of self-referential joke."{{cite news |last= Chang |first= Justin |title= Film Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' |url= https://variety.com/2014/film/reviews/film-review-muppets-most-wanted-1201128586/ |access-date= March 20, 2014 |newspaper= Variety |date= March 11, 2014 |archive-date= March 19, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140319024729/http://variety.com/2014/film/reviews/film-review-muppets-most-wanted-1201128586/ |url-status= live }} Anna Smith of Time Out gave the film three out of five stars, saying "'Everybody knows that the sequel's never quite as good,' sing our fluffy friends during the opening number of a film with much to live up to after 2011's terrific reboot, The Muppets. The joke proves self-fulfilling."{{cite web |first= Anna |last= Smith |url= https://www.timeout.com/us/film/muppets-most-wanted |title= Muppets Most Wanted |work= Time Out |date= March 13, 2014 |access-date= March 21, 2014 |archive-date= March 21, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140321065510/http://www.timeout.com/us/film/muppets-most-wanted |url-status= live }} Bill Goodykoontz of The Arizona Republic gave the film four out of five stars, saying "Although this movie has lots of laughs and a willingness to poke fun at itself, it doesn't quite recapture the magic of the last movie. Close, but not quite."{{cite web |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/movies/2014/03/19/review-muppets-wanted-stars/6551133/ |title=Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' 4 stars |work=The Arizona Republic |date=March 12, 2014 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321065730/http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/movies/2014/03/19/review-muppets-wanted-stars/6551133/ |url-status=live }}

Jake Coyle of the Associated Press gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "Muppets Most Wanted fails to whip up the kind of furry frenzy that makes the Muppets special."{{cite news |last= Coyle |first= Jake |title= Review: The Muppets reteam with mixed results |url= http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/movies/20140319_ap_936523e9d55e4717bd2908bd093945fc.html |access-date= March 20, 2014 |agency= Associated Press |date= March 20, 2014 |archive-date= March 21, 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140321071956/http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/movies/20140319_ap_936523e9d55e4717bd2908bd093945fc.html |url-status= live }} Peter Travers of Rolling Stone gave the film two and a half stars out of three, saying "The breaking point of stretching this one joke is reached early. Luckily, Muppet good will helps get you through the rest."{{cite magazine|first=Peter|last=Travers |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/reviews/muppets-most-wanted-20140320 |title='The Muppets Most Wanted' Movie Review |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=March 20, 2014 |access-date=March 21, 2014}} Joe Neumaier of the New York Daily News gave the film three out of five stars, saying "The film's slightly overplotted feel is offset by the zippiest musical numbers since the Muppets' deservedly beloved 1979 film."{{cite web |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/muppets-wanted-movie-review-article-1.1726867 |title='Muppets Most Wanted,' movie review |work=Daily News |date=March 20, 2014 |location=New York |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320211057/http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/muppets-wanted-movie-review-article-1.1726867 |url-status=live }} J. R. Jones of the Chicago Reader gave the film a negative review, saying "The verbal wit is fairly weak this time around, though as in the previous film there's an endless succession of three-second star cameos."{{cite web |author=J.R. Jones |url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/muppets-most-wanted/Film?oid=12682044 |title=Muppets Most Wanted |work=Chicago Reader |date=March 20, 2014 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321070105/http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/muppets-most-wanted/Film?oid=12682044 |url-status=live }} Tom Russo of The Boston Globe gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The well-worn plot basics are dressed up nicely by the film's consistently clever humor, as well as a celebrity cameo roster that's stacked even by Muppet standards."{{cite web |first=Tom |last=Russo |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/movies/2014/03/20/muppets-sequel-full-cleverness-cameos/zA8JkhJdXJShI8S5y9VbKO/story.html |title=Muppets sequel full of cleverness, cameos |work=The Boston Globe |date=March 13, 2014 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321065452/http://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/movies/2014/03/20/muppets-sequel-full-cleverness-cameos/zA8JkhJdXJShI8S5y9VbKO/story.html |url-status=live }} Bill Zwecker of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The pacing is spot-on, and Fey's Russian guard and Ty Burrell's Interpol agent are wonderful human additions to this comedic romp."{{cite news |url=http://www.suntimes.com/entertainment/movies/26296554-421/muppets-most-wanted-frog-goes-across-the-pond-to-funny-effect.html |title='Muppets Most Wanted': Frog goes across the pond, to funny effect |work=Chicago Sun-Times |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321072819/http://www.suntimes.com/entertainment/movies/26296554-421/muppets-most-wanted-frog-goes-across-the-pond-to-funny-effect.html |url-status=live }} Neil Genzlinger of The New York Times gave the film a positive review, saying "It all adds up to an eventful entry in the Muppet film library but not a classic one."{{cite news|last=Genzlinger|first=Neil|title='Muppets Most Wanted' Pokes Fun at Europe|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/21/movies/muppets-most-wanted-pokes-fun-at-europe.html|access-date=March 20, 2014|newspaper=The New York Times|date=March 20, 2014|archive-date=March 21, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321024717/http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/21/movies/muppets-most-wanted-pokes-fun-at-europe.html|url-status=live}} Claudia Puig of USA Today gave the film three out of four stars, calling the film "A breezy, mirthful caper enlivened by the comic talents of Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey."{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2014/03/20/muppets-most-wanted-review/5808715/ |title=Muppets are still most wanted in wacky, charming sequel |work=USA Today |date=August 18, 2013 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321092729/http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2014/03/20/muppets-most-wanted-review/5808715/ |url-status=live }}

Frank Lovece of Newsday gave the film three out of four stars, saying "While it may not be sensational, it's still an inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational Muppet show."{{cite web |url=http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/movies/muppets-most-wanted-review-caper-for-muppet-show-lovers-1.7440481 |title='Muppets Most Wanted' review: Caper for 'Muppet Show' lovers |work=Newsday |date=May 4, 2012 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=December 4, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171204070715/https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/movies/muppets-most-wanted-review-caper-for-muppet-show-lovers-1.7440481 |url-status=live }} Peter Howell of the Toronto Star gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "You don't go to a Muppet movie looking for anything other than a few laughs with beloved puppet pals. Mission accomplished—ka-ching!—on that front."{{cite web |first=Peter |last=Howell |date=March 20, 2014 |url=https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2014/03/20/muppets_most_wanted_finds_its_not_easy_being_a_cash_machine_review.html |title=Muppets Most Wanted finds it's not easy being a cash machine: review |work=Toronto Star |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321070726/http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2014/03/20/muppets_most_wanted_finds_its_not_easy_being_a_cash_machine_review.html |url-status=live }} David Hiltbrand of The Philadelphia Inquirer gave the film two and a half stars out of four, saying "Sunny and cheerful, Muppets Most Wanted is a cascade of epic silliness, good for a few fleeting and familiar chuckles."{{cite web |first=David |last=Hiltbrand |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/movies/20140321_Vintage_Muppets_tour_the_world__play_to_the_boomers.html |title=Vintage Muppets tour the world, play to the boomers |work=Philadelphia Daily News |date=October 22, 2012 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321190155/http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/movies/20140321_Vintage_Muppets_tour_the_world__play_to_the_boomers.html |url-status=live }} Chris Nashawaty of Entertainment Weekly gave the film a B, saying "The songs are infectious, but the rest (despite turns by Tina Fey and Ty Burrell) lacks some of the gang's usual feel-good joy."{{cite magazine|last=Ross |first=Dalton |url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2014/03/19/muppets-most-wanted-review/ |title=Capsule Movie Reviews (Mar. 19): 'Teenage' and four more |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=March 21, 2014}} Christopher Orr of The Atlantic gave the film a positive review, saying "Kids will enjoy it, and there are more than enough clever gags to keep parents amused. But the film lacks the tenderness and rich nostalgia that made The Muppets such an improbable delight."{{cite web |last=Madrigal |first=Alexis C. |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/03/a-light-loopy-em-muppets-most-wanted-em/284554/ |title=A Light, Loopy Muppets Most Wanted |work=The Atlantic |date=March 21, 2014 |access-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322030432/http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/03/a-light-loopy-em-muppets-most-wanted-em/284554/ |url-status=live }} Erik Adams of The A.V. Club gave the film a B−, saying "The Muppets are creatures of indulgence, and their sense of humor is one of excess. Muppets Most Wanted is a mess of a movie, but anything tidier would be a poor fit."{{cite web |last=Adams |first=Erik |url=https://www.avclub.com/review/muppets-most-wanted-has-feel-not-look-vintage-hens-202389 |title=Muppets Most Wanted has the feel, but not the look, of vintage Henson |date=March 20, 2014 |publisher=Avclub.com |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321184451/http://www.avclub.com/review/muppets-most-wanted-has-feel-not-look-vintage-hens-202389 |url-status=live }} Betsy Sharkey of the Los Angeles Times gave the film a positive review, saying "Though there are many delicious little moments tucked inside, the action heads in so many directions it can be dizzying to keep up."{{cite web |last=Sharkey |first=Betsy |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-muppets-most-wanted-review-20140321,0,4313415.story |title='Muppets Most Wanted' review: fun with the fuzz vs. the fuzzy |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 21, 2014 |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321085525/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-muppets-most-wanted-review-20140321,0,4313415.story |url-status=live }} Steve Persall of the Tampa Bay Times gave the film a B, saying "Muppets Most Wanted is pleasant enough to recommend as family entertainment. But the movie falls short of what immediately preceded it, musically and emotionally."{{cite web |first=Steve |last=Persall |url=https://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/movies/review-muppets-most-wanted-isnt-brilliant-but-is-pleasant-enough/2171073/ |title=Review: 'Muppets Most Wanted' isn't brilliant but is pleasant enough |work=Tampa Bay Times |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322183103/http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/movies/review-muppets-most-wanted-isnt-brilliant-but-is-pleasant-enough/2171073 |url-status=live }}

Dana Stevens of Slate gave the film a negative review, saying "There's something sour and strained about this movie that's at odds with the usual Muppet ethos of game, let's-put-on-a-show cheer. Maybe that's because of the inordinate amount of screen time spent on the rivalry between two villains who are as uninteresting as they are unpleasant."{{cite web |last=Stevens |first=Dana |url=http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/movies/2014/03/muppets_most_wanted_starring_kermit_the_frog_reviewed.html |title=Muppets Most Wanted, starring Kermit the Frog, reviewed |work=Slate |date=March 24, 1999 |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322194813/http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/movies/2014/03/muppets_most_wanted_starring_kermit_the_frog_reviewed.html?wpisrc=hpsponsoredd2 |url-status=live }} Michael Phillips of the Chicago Tribune gave the film two out of four stars, saying "Part of the problem here is one of proportion: The movie throws a misjudged majority of the material to the villains and lets the unfashionably sincere and sweet-natured Muppets fend for themselves."{{cite web |first=Michael |last=Phillips |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/ct-muppets-most-wanted-20140320,0,1903024.column |title='Muppets Most Wanted' review |work=Chicago Tribune |date=March 20, 2014 |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322194838/http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/ct-muppets-most-wanted-20140320,0,1903024.column |url-status=live }} Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph gave the film two out of five stars, saying "Muppet film number eight is a resounding disappointment: it's uneven and often grating, with only a few moments of authentic delight, and almost none of the sticky-sweet, toast-and-honey crunch of its vastly enjoyable 2011 forerunner."{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/filmreviews/10692266/Muppets-Most-Wanted-review.html |title=Muppets Most Wanted, review |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322123430/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/filmreviews/10692266/Muppets-Most-Wanted-review.html |url-status=live }} James Berardinelli of ReelViews gave the film three out of four stars, saying "The inevitable sequel, arriving three years later, isn't as giddily entertaining as its predecessor but much of the charm remains, making this an ideal destination for a family excursion."{{cite web |url=http://www.reelviews.net/php_review_template.php?identifier=2741 |title=Muppets Most Wanted |publisher=Reelviews.net |access-date=March 23, 2014 |archive-date=March 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323210949/http://www.reelviews.net/php_review_template.php?identifier=2741 |url-status=live }} Eric Henderson of Slant Magazine gave the film three out of four stars, saying "Freed from the burden of starting anew, the film restores the Muppets' rightful place as stars of their own show."{{cite web |url=https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/review/muppets-most-wanted |title=Muppets Most Wanted |work=Slant Magazine |date=March 18, 2014 |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323072646/http://www.slantmagazine.com/film/review/muppets-most-wanted |url-status=live }} Steve Davis of The Austin Chronicle gave the film three out of five stars, saying "This re-energized franchise has found its second wind, bursting with a creative vitality and boisterous humor that makes everything seem new again."{{cite web |url=http://www.austinchronicle.com/calendar/film/2014-03-21/muppets-most-wanted/ |title=Muppets Most Wanted |publisher=The Austin Chronicle |date=November 25, 2011 |access-date=March 22, 2014 |archive-date=March 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321180505/http://www.austinchronicle.com/calendar/film/2014-03-21/muppets-most-wanted/ |url-status=live }}

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• {{Official website|https://movies.disney.com/muppets-most-wanted}} at Disney.com
• {{IMDb title|2281587|Muppets Most Wanted}}
• {{TCMDb title|977320|Muppets Most Wanted}}
• {{Mojo title|muppetsmostwanted|Muppets Most Wanted}}
• {{Rotten Tomatoes|muppets_most_wanted|Muppets Most Wanted}}
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