One of the best “feel-good” documentaries of 2011, Being Elmo pulls back the curtain on Kevin Clash, the man who invented the perpetually three-and-a-half-year-old red furry monster who breathed new life into Sesame Street. In a rags-to-riches tale, Clash grew up on the rougher side of Baltimore and, with the support of his family, pursued his dream of one day being part of Jim Henson’s crew. Sewing together rare archival footage with commentary from Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell, and more, director Constance Marks translates Clash’s odyssey into an inspirational crowd-pleasing film. It’s so enchanting, we found ourselves wanting to invest in a Tickle-Me-Elmo doll — consider your wallet warned.

Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey is a Submarine Deluxe release.

(Originally appeared on Flavorpill.com in December 2011)