The Happytime Murders

The Happytime Murders is a film currently in production at the Jim Henson Company. The film, part of the company's Henson Alternative brand, was first announced in October 2008. The Happytime Murders, an irreverent puppet comedy, will play on the classic film noir detective genre.[1] The film will be distributed by STX Entertainment.

The film will be released on August 17, 2018.

The film is based on an original story by Todd Berger and Dee Robertson; with the screenplay penned by Berger. Brian Henson is attached to direct.[1]

Melissa McCarthy is attached as the human lead Connie Edwards.

Plot
" “  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 hard headed determination, as he tries to solve, 'The Happytime Murders.'  ” "

Cast

 * Melissa McCarthy as Detective Connie Edwards, Phil’s ex-partner.
 * Maya Rudolph as Bubbles, Phil’s secretary.
 * Joel McHale as Agent Campbell, a stern FBI agent who is working on the case.
 * Elizabeth Banks as Jenny, a burlesque dancer and Phil's "former flame".
 * Leslie David Baker as Lt. Banning, Edward’s superior.
 * Jimmy O. Yang as Officer Delancey
 * Ryan Gaul as Officer Milligan
 * Mitch Silpa as Tommy
 * Cynthy Wu as Brittenie Marlowe

Puppeteers

 * Bill Barretta as Phil Phillips, a disgraced ex-cop who is now a private investigator.
 * Dorien Davies as Sandra
 * Drew Massey as Vinny
 * Ted Michaels as Ezra
 * Colleen Smith as Cara
 * Victor Yerrid as Larry
 * Pamela Mitchell as Topaz