The Muppet Movie is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated movies since the last movie featuring the lovable felt scamps, and now it’s even better. According to The Playlist, Bret McKenzie – a member of New Zealand’s 4th most popular folk parody duo – will be acting as music supervisor for the film as well as penning some songs for it. This is a fantastic marriage. McKenzie has the sort of childlike wonder and ridiculous instrumental prowess that could churn out some truly great songs to be sung by hands inside artistically shaped cloth. Hopefully he’ll suggest a massive ensemble of Mahna Mahna.

First it was called The Greatest Muppet Movie Of All Time, then it was awash in a world of no title, and now it seems to simply be called The Muppets. No matter, though. A Muppet Movie by any other name would still smell like Animal and still be the best ensemble cast of the year. The rabid percussionist is drumming his brains out in this first promotional photo for the movie that won’t strike theaters until Christmas of next year, and for some reason, iProduct Placement has wriggled its way in as well. It’s great to see Jason Segal, and it’s great to see all those familiar faces. Christmas 2011 can’t get here fast enough.

Even though Walt Disney Studios hasn’t given the official green light to the next Muppet Movie, they are setting a release date. The project is currently in the hands of Forgetting Sarah Marshall writers Jason Segel and Nicholas Stoller, with Flight of the Conchords helmer James Bobin attached to direct. As of today, the film will hit theaters Christmas Day 2011 (December 25th for those keeping score).

Fresh with a new name, the Muppets will be saving the Rec Center and achieving greatness.