MST3K - Mitchell

MST3K - Mitchell is a much-beloved episode from the incredible comedy series Mystery Science Theater 3000 (MST3K). Tapped as the twelfth episode of the fifth season, "Mitchell" is a jewel in the crown of the popular series known for its tongue-in-cheek commentary on notoriously bad or B-grade films. The show was invented by Joel Hodgson and produced by Jim Mallon, who are both part of the main ensemble along with Trace Beaulieu, Kevin Murphy, and Michael J. Nelson. Frank Conniff, another principal character, is also part of the creative production team.

The film “Mitchell” screened in this episode is a 1975 action flick featuring actor Joe Don Baker in the role of an unconventional, rough-around-the-edges cop named Mitchell. The enduring appeal of MST3K lies in how the cast cleverly landscapes a dialogue-heavy, humorous sketch over the original narrative. With their comic timing, they manage to imbue fresh life into an otherwise mediocre storyline. Expect moments of levity interspersed with the drama and action unfolding on screen as the MST3K crew borrows elements from Mitchell.

A distinguishing feature of MST3K is its unique premise. The series puts Joel, a human character, in a satellite orbiting the Earth, forced by mad scientists, Dr. Forrester and TV's Frank, to watch the worst movies ever made as part of an experiment. Joining him in this ordeal are anthropomorphic robots, Tom Servo (Kevin Murphy) and Crow T. Robot (Trace Beaulieu), along with Gypsy (Jim Mallon). The film commentary is interspersed with breaks where Joel and the robots are engaged in hilarious and often absurd sketches that reflect the theme or setting of the movie they are watching.

"Mitchell" marks a transitional point in MST3K's history. Midway through the episode, Joel Hodgson's character escapes the mad scientists and is replaced by head writer Michael J. Nelson as Mike Nelson, a new hapless guinea pig for the ongoing movie experiment. This significant shift adds an extra layer of humor and complexity to the movie commentary process. The overall episode seamlessly blends the feature film with the host segments, drawing on elements from the film to enhance the comedy, including Mitchell's obsession with beer and his unconventional detective methods.

The MST3K cast members' unique brand of humor is woven throughout this episode, making it a highly entertaining and unforgettable watch. Joel, Mike, Tom Servo, and Crow offer an endless supply of one-liners, riffing on the corny dialogue, plot holes, and '70s-era action clichés that run through the movie Mitchell. They create masterful narratives with their gifted comic timing and interplay, and the joy they take in skewering B-grade cinema is infectious. The combination of sarcasm, self-deprecation, pop culture references, and pure silliness contributes to the comedic style that defines the cult favorite series.

"Mitchell" is more than just the regular MST3K fare. It's an episode seeped in nostalgia that reminds the audience of the joy of satire, and sheer camaraderie that made MST3K a hit. It's a minor landmark, a touchstone not just for the series but for TV comedy overall.

In this episode, MST3K makes the most of the opportunities that "Mitchell" offers. If you’re a fan who enjoys comedy and the spectacle of a classic B-grade action movie being lampooned by some of the canniest minds in American television, you'll fall head over heels for "Mitchell." Whether you're desperately seeking a guffaw-inducing marathon session or a weekly chuckle, this episode of MST3K is an absolute must-watch. Equally suitable for die-hard MST3K fans or newcomers to the series, "Mitchell" is a shining example of the unpredictable charm and humor that is characteristic of the whole MST3K series.