Jim Henson's Creature Shop Challenge

For creature creators, a competition like this is kind of like facing down nine other basketball players for the chance at a roster spot on an NBA championship team. It's a dream opportunity to work in Jim Henson's Creature Shop, and these eager contestants aren’t shy about sharing how much it means to them and to their careers. Their genuine excitement over their work makes it fun to watch their design process, and, in so doing, you're treated to a fascinating glimpse of how these amazing effects are done by talented artists for TV shows and movies.

What's most appealing about this show is the genial way in which it presents competition. Sure, tempers flare when time is short or artistic vision isn't being realized, and you'll hear some insults or blame-laying because of it, but that's more a product of human nature than it is of cultivated controversy for the show's shock value. Instead, these challenges encourage collaboration and creative problem-solving, and these traits are rewarded by the judges alongside accolades for artistic vision and design skills. It's a good reminder that success requires a well-rounded skill set, regardless of the discipline.