MST3K: The RiffTrax Experiments - Sting of Death

 

The first episode of Mystery Science Theater 3000 I ever saw in full was The Day the Earth Froze. My uncle would bring over VHS tapes recorded from Comedy Central (my grandparents didn't care to pay for cable at the time), and even though I didn't get many of the jokes, I knew I loved this show.

MST3K and its many offshoots — Cinematic Titanic, Film Crew, and (of course) RiffTrax — have been part of my life since I was a kid. Sometimes in very literal ways, since family friend Harold Buchholz worked on the show's return. It's become so entrenched in the nerd subculture that multiple conventions I've been to have had their own MST one-offs. RiffTrax was, and remains, my comfort watch if I'm ever having a bad mental health day. (My friends know if "Fun in Balloonland" is on the big screen, it's been a tough one.) And right around this time five years ago, my uncle was sitting at the dining room table transcribing Santo in the Treasure of Dracula for the Gizmoplex writers' room.

And now, we have Mystery Science Theater 3000: The RiffTrax Experiments, starting with "The Sting of Death." I was a Kickstarter backer, so I grabbed tickets for myself and friend Katy early. So, was it worth it?

Yes, absolutely.

So I'll be honest. At no point during the Kickstarter process did I ever doubt this would go well, both because of RiffTrax's two-decade track record and the look of the campaign in general. There was no "scope creep": they were making four episodes, and any extra money raised would go into making those four episodes better. RiffTrax has always had a solid business plan, as evidenced by how long it's been around and the directions in which it's grown. So success and being "worth it" was never a worry. At this point it was all about the vibe.

Frankly, it's all summed up in the new intro:

In-camera effects, models that are obviously models but still look nice. I don't dislike or resent the direction that the Netflix/Gizmoplex era took, especially considering how much of it was made during lockdown. But this has that home-grown small-team feel that enticed so many people in the first place.

The easiest way to do a proper review is, I believe, a breakdown of all the bits that make an MST3K episode:

The Intro
See for yourself above. Jonathan Coulton didn't get fancy with his cover: he went for the original sound and stuck with it. Again, no beef with the brassy Netflix-era opening — those trumpets get me going. But Netflix/Gizmoplex era was always meant to bring MST3K into the 21st century; this is an unapologetic throwback, so an unapologetic throwback tune is the best choice.

And the visuals get the job done. I love the new SOL model with the sign out front, I love seeing familiar set pieces floating though, and it's fun to wonder about what's coming in the next episodes given the clips we see.

Anyway, 10/10 opening.

The Host/Mad Segments
This consists of both a brief cold open before the intro and the banter between the hosts and Mads before the film. The intro gets right down to business; while it doesn't really matter how or why Mike and the Bots are back on the SOL, a good enough reason is given that ties back well enough to the 1999 finale. And, of course, Pearl has a new evil scheme in play: one that is fairly relevant to the here and now. (And is just a reminder of how evil she is.)

Understandably, this had to be a bit more front-loaded with "where have they been?" jokes, so it's expected that this segment would be primarily narrative. I'm hopeful that we'll get to see a few more straight-up antics in the following three installments.

The ending segment was short and sweet, mainly delivering on punchlines and giving us some extra silly costume moments. Again, it's great to see that homegrown, low-budget look (even though the Kickstarter did gangbusters, that doesn't mean we have to gild the cow town lily).

Other Host Segments
This is the one place where I think things fell a little short, but that's an issue with modern MST3K of any stripe. The mid-movie host segment was very good. It had a funny song and goofy costumes, and it felt very reminiscent of the more unselfconscious era of the show. I loved it.

That said. I did say host segment, singular. We got one within the movie proper. And I'm not sure if that's down to runtime or what, but I feel like we've been getting fewer of these mid-show skits in the modern era. Which is a shame. We're here for the riffs, obviously, but these bits in the downtime are a big part of why we care about these hosts.

Fortunately, there were mid- and post-credit ones. We had a letter segment during the Kickstarter backer listing (and boy was it nostalgic to see that Fan Club address pop up on the screen), and there was a post-credits skit between Mike and Servo that was one of the funniest things of the night. Unfortunately, my friend Katy and I were the only ones still in the theater when that popped up, and I'm kind of wondering why they went with an MCU post-credit instead of letting this one live naturally within the runtime.

The Doors
WOW. Okay, they've gone absolutely nuts with these. They're still miniatures and practical effects, but they're less styles of doors and more scenes that you move through. (Scenes from much better movies, generally.) I won't give away what they are for those who've yet to see it, because the reveal of the scenes was delightful, but I really love this approach to the doorway segment.

The Movie Itself
Sting of Death was such a good starting point because it's everything a "good" cheesy movie should be: predictable, poorly acted, oddly shot, filled with laughable effects, and with that sort of X factor of weirdness that gives the hosts a lot to talk about. It's also got more gratuitous butt shots than a Taishi Tsutsui manga. It's a great warm-up, especially considering how many "effects" shots there are that don't even need a joke to get a laugh.

The Riffs
With a strong team of both MST3K and RiffTrax alums and (what looks to be) a smaller writer's room than Netflix/Gizmoplex, the riffs were pretty tight.

This may just be me being overanalytical (as I tend to be), but I think when it comes to riffs, there's an MST3K cadence and there's a RiffTrax cadence. In other words, Mike and Tom and Crow sound different from Mike and Kevin and Bill, despite being the same people. The first 10-15 minutes of riffs had (in my opinion) the RiffTrax cadence. But the further the movie went on, the more it sank into classic MST3K delivery. In hindsight, I actually remember my eyes being drawn down to the silhouettes more in the second half of the movie — like I was crediting the in-theater characters more than just listening to RiffTrax's disembodied voices.

That doesn't mean I think part of the riffing was "good" and part was "bad." (RiffTrax is good, after all.) It's just something I noticed that kind of fascinates me on the performance end. It's a weird mix of "coming back" and "never left."

So that's a lot of talk about one episode of a funny movie puppet show. What's the short version?

The short version is, Mystery Science Theater 3000: The RiffTrax Experiments feels like home. It feels like weekends on the sofa with my uncle watching his VHS recording of The Human Duplicators, like waiting for my MSTie newsletter in the mail. The Gizmoplex years proved that MST3K can move and advance with the times: The RiffTrax Experiments prove it doesn't need to.

If you haven't already, be sure to grab your tickets for September 13!

MANGA REVIEW: The Assassin Laughs at Twilight, Vol. 1

THE ASSASSIN LAUGHS AT TWILIGHT Vol. 1
by MeguriKukuru, illustrated by Paneguma
Available September 15

Chisato trained to be a doctor so he could wake his beloved sister Kayo from her thirteen-year-long coma. But tragedy strikes on the day of the surgery, killing both siblings before the operation can take place. But it's not the end for Chisato. He finds himself reborn in the fantasy world of Aberrant. And like all isekai heroes, he's got an impressive new power... unfortunately for him, he's been reborn as a master assassin!

Accompanied by the soft-spoken Mil, Chisato seeks out jobs that blend his passion with his talent: autopsies and, if necessary, revenge. His new role sees him coming in contact with goblins, ghouls, angels, and much more. His prices are steep, but his results speak for themselves. And maybe, despite his change in fortune, he can do something to help others on his new career path.

I'm unfamiliar with the original light novel of The Assassin Laughs at Twilight, but that doesn't spoil one's enjoyment of the manga. It's a nice change from the typical isekai fantasy tropes. Yes, there's a superpowered reincarnation, but this series is (at least for now) free of so many of the now-bland building blocks that make this fantasy subgenre so samey. The chapters in this volume are about half setup, half mystery, and the mystery chapters are engaging. Notably, these are the types of mysteries you can play along with, with hints scattered throughout that an astute reader could pick up on.

While this is a darker title, that doesn't necessarily mean it's grim. Our protagonist has a lot of heart, even if his methods are unusual. This is one I absolutely recommend to readers who are burnt out on traditional isekai, or readers looking for that often-overlooked fantasy/mystery blend.

DRINK PAIRING: Elixir of Serenity
For a story set in a world where potions have effectively replaced physicians, a selection from Velvet Hammer felt appropriate! This is their evening blend, with ingredients designed to help you relax and get a good night's sleep. I love mixing this sparkly cherry-flavored powder with a decaf tea as I do some late-night writing!

BOOK REVIEW: The Sherlock Society: Art Attack

 

THE SHERLOCK SOCIETY: ART ATTACK
by James Ponti
Available September 8

I've been on a bit of a mystery kick lately, likely because the 'ber months are kicking off and it just feels right. So Art Attack, the latest installment in James Ponti's middle-grade mystery series The Sherlock Society, hit at the perfect time. And once again, The Sherlock Society does for detective fiction what Ponti's City Spies did for spy fiction.

For those late to the party, the Sherlock Society is a group of five: Alex Sherlock, his sister Zoe, his school friends Lina and Yadi, and his retired journalist grandfather. Together, the unlikely group scours Miami for cases cold and hot. They're even being called on to solve cases for others. But one catches their eye: a behest to find Funky Munky, an anonymous graffiti artist whose "guerilla gorilla" has earned them both fans and notoriety across the city. With Miami Art Week coming up, a hotel developer wants to hire Funky Munky to paint a mural for him, and he's willing to pay top dollar to both the artist and the detectives. After all, if anyone can find an unfindable artist, it's the Sherlock Society!

As Alex and his friends immerse themselves in the Miami art scene, they continue to hone their detective skills. Alex and Yadi even learn to do detective work without the aid of the Internet, thanks to getting grounded after pulling an especially dangerous stunt. But when they finally do track down Funky Munky, there are bigger problems afoot. Like the arsons spreading across the city. And the true intentions of the Society's latest client.

I love Ponti's City Spies because they're a gentle but competent introduction to the wider world of spy fiction. And The Sherlock Society does the same for detective stories: presenting mysteries that are both entertaining and relatable, while teaching young readers critical thinking skills of their own. As educational as these books are about the sleuthing process, they never feel like they're talking down to readers of any age. The stakes are the exact right height for young readers new to the genre: dramatic and meaningful without being outright deadly.

It's also exceptionally rare for adult writers to write kids well. I've been reading a lot of middle-grade and teen fiction lately, and so many stories are packed with kids who are nothing but cutting-edge, trendy, and TikTok-obsessed. Each member of the Society has their own interests and priorities, with mysteries being their common interest. The narrative is more interested in presenting believable, well-rounded characters than getting modern kids "right" — and thus it achieves both.

I'm hopeful that The Sherlock Society will go on for a long time. Both of Ponti's series are so enjoyable regardless of age, accessible no matter where you start, and a great way to introduce young family members to a beloved genre.

TEA PAIRING: Sunrise Breakfast
While Chapters does have a Sherlock Holmes-themed tea on offer, it's not coming out 'til later in the month. In the meantime, Sunrise Breakfast is my perfect pairing for this latest read. It's a simple and straightforward black tea that works well on its own, iced, or as a latte, while also keeping you nice and awake for whatever new mystery awaits. Use my code KARA15 for 15% off this and more book-inspired tea blends from Chapters Tea & Co.!

FEATURED CANDLE: Moriarty's Mind Games
While the Sherlock Society might not have their own Moriarty equivalent (yet), this smoky candle just feels appropriate. The blend of oud, tobacco, and rain brings to mind a dark parlor where crimes are solved... or perhaps schemed. Check out Frostbeard Studio for more bookish candles!

Speed-Dating with a Book

 

"Blind dates with a book" have become increasingly popular. At a time when there are always more books to read, and finding one you'll enjoy can be difficult, it's a fun (and aesthetically pleasing) way to change up the process. It's also a great way for smaller and indie bookstores to get unconventional recommendations into the hands of readers.

But what about speed dating with a book?

Wandering Pages, a local mobile bookstore that frequents my neighborhood farmer's market, set up just that in August. The event took place at Traditions Brewing and offered guests a chance to get to know 16 books and choose their favorites from across the selection.

This first iteration of the event was limited to 16 participants to keep things moving quickly, and it was a good decision for early days. It was large enough to make the selection meaningful and offer plenty of opportunities to chat with new people, but small enough to be manageable. Each participant received a "dating passport" to keep notes on each selection: number of book, immediate chemistry, and other notes. All 16 books, wrapped in traditional Blind Date with a Book style, had their own spot at a series of tables, and each potential reader got two minutes to go over the notes and make decisions. The decorations were simple, with a little wooden number marker for each book.

At the end of the speed dating segment, the host called out random numbers, and that was the order in which we selected our final books. It was easy enough to have second and third choices ready, thanks to the passport.

I ended up with my overall second choice, Debbie Cassidy's Wicked Onyx. I look forward to digging in; based on the back, this speed dating day absolutely did the trick. A pop-up shop for Wandering Pages also had additional Blind Dates (including some featured in Speed Dating) handy for attendees who wanted a little more.

Traditions Brewing was an excellent choice of spot: big enough to accommodate without being too noisy. And the drinks on tap were fantastic. I especially liked the mango coconut sour I started with.

What worked best about this first iteration of the event is that it was on the small side. I've seen a lot of events start enthusiastic and end up being too big to manage. Small and safe, no matter how promising an event is, is always the best course. There were no mishaps (that I could see), and the scheduled but laid-back vibe of the event kept things moving while still encouraging conversation.

My hope is absolutely to see more events like this, ideally with other themes and genres. There are some very cozy holidays coming up, which feels like the perfect time for it.

Be sure to check out Wandering Pages - even if you're not local, you can shop online and support a small business!

Sir Sherlock 2: The Sickle and the Sea

 

The concept of AUK Studios' new Sir Sherlock series is, as I mentioned before, a delightful one: fresh off his retirement as a beekeeper and reluctantly accepting a knighthood at last, Sherlock Holmes rejoins Dr. John Watson for another round of deductions in a more modernized London. This means working with the granddaughter of old friend Lestrade, crossing paths with a new generation of consulting detective and — in The Sickle and the Sea — stepping into a whole new era of politics.

Kenton Hall pens both the script and the novelization for this new adventure, which takes place at sea on our lead trio's return from Russia. Rather than going aboard a passenger liner, Holmes, Watson, and Sergeant Lestrade cross the sea accompanied by a small crew, a handful of fellow travelers, and a great deal of grain. But the very small manifest begins to grow even smaller when one of the crew is found dead: seemingly drowned. But there are two problems: the drowned body is bone-dry, and Watson believes the victim to have died several days ago... despite them having just had dinner with him.

Before long, more of the people on board begin to lose their lives. But Holmes and Watson are quickly running out of suspects. How could someone be recently alive and dead for several days? Why are multiple drowned corpses turning up dry? And how many murderers are there really aboard the ship?

As always, Tom Baker and John Leeson are delightful together. The Red Letter Day established that this Holmes and Watson are, while recognizable, still quite different. Age and experience have made Sir Sherlock slightly more whimsical; but despite his assertions to the contrary last episode, this Holmes is still as quick-witted as ever. The banter between Baker and Leeson is beautifully natural; there are old friends reunited, aware of each other's foibles but still full of affection and respect for each other.

Kenton Hall offers every actor a fantastic story arc, but Emily Lestrade in particular has a great opportunity to shine. We see her view of her role in society and in the story: a desire for herself and all women to be judged independently on their merit rather than being subjected to any extreme of judgment. There's always a danger of new characters in classic groups feeling "off," but Katy Ashworth fits right in with her costars.

As the second in the series, The Sickle and the Sea doesn't have the baked-in issue of needing to do setup and worldbuilding. It can comfortably tell its story with all the characters introduced and known, and that works in its favor. There's more time to get down to business exploring the new "modern day" of the series — in this case, discovering Holmes's view of rebellion, revolution, and the juxtaposition of individuals and their government. Sir Sherlock was already good, but it continues to get better.

And there's a third installment currently being crowdfunded! Check out the campaign for Sir Sherlock 3: The Parting Shot, featuring a guest appearance from Sophie Aldred! And if you missed either of the previous campaigns, you can pledge for one of the bundles featuring past CDs.

BOOK REVIEW: I Am the Night

 

I AM THE NIGHT: THE ULTIMATE UNAUTHORIZED HISTORY OF BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES
by Daniel Dockery
Available September 1

I've known Daniel Dockery for quite a while through our mutual work for Crunchyroll, and one thing that's always impressed me about him is his ability to write deep dives that never once stop being meaningful, relevant, or interesting. Reading his work feels like chatting with a well-versed friend: casual but informative. Monster Kids put that strong narrative voice in book form, and I knew before reading I Am the Night that he'd bring that same care to his treatment of Batman: The Animated Series.

If you, like me, were raised in this animation renaissance, this book is as informative as it is nostalgic. For every old memory it brought to the surface, I Am the Night offers twice as many new tidbits of information. Interviews with the many people involved with this seminal series (many of which are new and conducted by Dockery himself) shine a new light on a series that has already been interrogated through numerous articles and podcasts.

The strength of both I Am the Night and Dockery's previous deep-dive, the aforementioned Monster Kids, is that these aren't just about the shows themselves. Any piece of art or media both inspires and is inspired by its contemporaries, and understanding the landscape in which a title was born increases our understanding of the title itself. Thus, I Am the Night is also about the Batman feature films and their connected marketing, the broader state of superhero comic adaptations, Steven Spielberg's foray into TV animation, the rise of other series like Animaniacs and Gargoyles, and so much more. Because BTAS challenged what animated TV series even are, it brings so much in its wake, often from unexpected corners. (Expect little jumpscares from Ralph Bakshi at extremely unexpected times.) You come away with an understanding of the making and influence of the series, yes, but also why it mattered and how its influence echoes to this day.

I Am the Night is, additionally, the exception that proves one of my own rules: repeated presence of opinion in an analytical work. In my time working on Obverse Books' Black Archive line, I've fallen prey to this while also calling out other writers on it. Sidelining a work meant to be as academic or factual as possible with comments that something is or isn't "good" is tricky, because even the most astute fan can struggle with the difference between "structurally unsound" and "not for me." But Dockery interweaves his own assessments (which are admittedly few and far between) with broad fan sentiment and the thoughts of the people who made the series, creating a tapestry of opinion that informs the work more than taking away from it. And even in the moments when something is assessed from what is clearly the author's point of view, it feels less like a proclamation and more like a casual assertion between friends.

This is a must-have for fans of BTAS, of Batman in general, and of animation of any era.

DRINK PAIRING: Elixir of Inner Light
Okay, this is largely because of the color: the sparkling orange reminds me both of the gold in the iconic Batman logo and the very cool cover of this book. But I also use this as part of my morning reading ritual, which included I Am the Night for several days. I love it because it's full of Vitamin B and D, as well as other things my work-from-home brain needs. Check out my link to try out this and other elixirs from Velvet Hammer!