MST3K - Hamlet

MST3K - Hamlet is a unique blend of classic Shakespearean drama and modern comedic riffing, presented by the fantastic team of the cult television show, “Mystery Science Theater 3000” (MST3K). Starring Kevin Murphy, Michael J. Nelson, Mary Jo Pehl, Bill Corbett, and Patrick Brantseg, this film serves as an unforgettable entry in the MST3K saga. The movie is a highly engaging experience that transforms a well-known tragedy into a compelling, laughter-inducing spectacle.

The story of MST3K - Hamlet is centered around Gene Fowler Jr.'s 1961 adaptation of Shakespeare's renowned play, Hamlet - the gripping saga of a prince of Denmark who seeks revenge on his uncle for his father's murder. The intriguing twist to this classic tale is how it's presented from within the imprisoned confines of The Satellite of Love, where the main characters of MST3K are forced to endure relentless b-movie marathons.

Michael J. Nelson shines as Mike Nelson, the everyday guy stranded aboard the Satellite. He's joined by two unforgettable robots: Kevin Murphy as the gumball machine-esque Tom Servo, and Bill Corbett as the wise-cracking, golden Crow T. Robot. Mary Jo Pehl plays the delightfully villainous Pearl Forrester, the mad scientist who torments the crew with her movie selection. Patrick Brantseg comes on board as Pearl's dimwitted accomplice.

The brilliance of MST3K - Hamlet is in its unique treatment of the renowned Shakespeare tragedy. The MST3K crew, trapped in space, are subjected to the dubiously dubbed, low-budget rendition of Hamlet. Their escapade is a mix of the tragic, the mundane, and the hilarious, brought together on one screen.

The MST3K trademark style involves the key characters providing a running commentary and heckling the film – all in real time as they watch it. MST3K - Hamlet is no exception, turning the dramatic tale of Hamlet into a laughter riot through their humorous commentary and biting satire, while managing to maintain a refreshing reverence for the Bard's original work.

The team's humorous spin on the tragic tale is peppered with pop-culture references, clever puns, and absurd observations, generating a stream of consistent humor that instills this adaptation of Hamlet with a new lease on life. When the settings get too grim or dramatic in the original film, the MST3K crew's quirky quips and wisecracks serve like beacons of light, making the viewing experience far more entertaining and less emotionally exhausting.

The plot of MST3K - Hamlet takes several humorous detours as the team incorporates subplots, skits, and sketches aboard the Satellite of Love. These interludes provide a delightful contrast to the grave narrative of Hamlet, keeping the viewers both entertained and eager for the next plot twist. The charming interactions between the crew, their banter and camaraderie, add another layer of engagement to the film, offering a counterpoint to the tragic plot playing on their screen within a screen.

MST3K - Hamlet skillfully balances reverence for Shakespeare's work with the staple MST3K humor. It is not simply a parody of Hamlet, nor does it diminish the impact of the original play. Instead, it delivers the story through a unique lens, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience who might be turned off by the often-dense language and themes of a traditional Shakespeare play.

The performances of the MST3K crew elevate the film to another level. Michael J. Nelson's dry, Midwestern humor, Kevin Murphy's melodic baritone, and Bill Corbett's sarcastic wit keep the audience hooked throughout. Mary Jo Pehl's eccentric villainy and Patrick Brantseg's hapless humor also contribute to the charm of the movie.

Overall, MST3K - Hamlet presents a fresh, engaging, and thoroughly entertaining approach to a traditional Shakespearean classic. It is an ideal watch for those who enjoy parody, unconventional humor, and a healthy dose of irreverence, all wrapped up in a delightful Shakespearean package. Whether you're a fan of MST3K or new to the series, this reinterpretation of Hamlet is sure to offer an unforgettable viewing experience.