National Film Vault

FILM NOTES

Muppet Treasure Island was released by Walt Disney Pictures in February 1996, directed by Brian Henson. It marked the Muppets' third theatrical feature under the Disney banner and brought the classic Stevenson adventure to a new generation through a blend of practical puppetry and location photography. The film performed solidly at the box office and remains a fondly regarded entry in the Muppet canon, notable for its ambitious production design and Tim Curry's scenery-chewing turn as Long John Silver.

This cell, titled Gonzo, captures Dave Goelz's beloved character across three frames set against a dark background. Gonzo appears throughout in his distinctive plaid tartan hat, first looking directly toward camera, then in a second frame where Rizzo is visible at the edge, and finally holding what appears to be a megaphone or horn, suggesting a moment of characteristic showmanship from the self-styled daredevil.