Brian Henson, the son of Muppet creator Jim Henson, is set to direct this upcoming Muppet-like crime drama, The Happytime Murders.  Since Disney bought the rights to the Muppets in 2004, Henson Studios won’t technically be using Muppets – but in every other sense other than the name, they are our familiar friends.

Brian Henson has previous experience directing  Muppet movies, including Muppet Treasure Island and Muppet Christmas Carol.  Katherine Heigl is currently in the talks to star, with Kung Fu Panda screenwriter Todd Berger.

IM Global, which is a film financing and distribution company, posted concept art and also provided a synopsis of the film:

In a world where puppets co-exist with humans as second class citizens, puppet private eye and disgraced ex-cop, Phil Phillips, is hot on the trail of the serial killer who murdered his brother and is now targeting the cast members of the famous 80s television show, “The Happytime Gang.” As the killings continue, Phil’s former flame, Jenny, is next on the list. It’s up to Phil and his ex-partner, Detective Edwards, to find the culprit, but as bad blood and old resentments resurface the clues start pointing to the only viable suspect, Phil himself. Now he’s on the run with only his wits and hardheaded determination, as he tries to solve, “The Happytime Murders.”

Below is an enlarged picture of the concept art, which looks like a crime scene at a puppet sex shop.

There is no release date yet, but we will keep you posted with any forthcoming details!

What do you think of the “Muppet-like noir”? Would you see it?