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FAQ sheet for Mystery Science Theater 3000, update
_Mystery Science Theater 3000_
Frequently Asked Questions
This version is edited and modified by Matthew Duhan ([email protected])
from a version edited by Lisa Jenkins ([email protected]) from
an originally compiled list from the _Satellite of Love Newsletter_ edited by
Rich Kulawiec ([email protected]). As you can see, a lot of people went
into making this possible.
Last updated: April 17, 1994
New to this version:
World Wide Web sites
Note: Mystery Science Theater 3000 has undergone many changes since it was
first aired on November 24, 1988 on KTMA. Thus, for the more efficient
organization of questions, I have divided the show roughly into five phases
of evolution.
Phase 0 KTMA days
Phase 1 Comedy Central season 1 (episodes 101-113)
Phase 2 CC season 2 & 3 (eps. 201-405)
Phase 3 CC season 4 & 5 (eps. 406-512)
Phase 4 CC season 5 and up (eps. 513- )
When answers refer to a particular phase, this is what is meant.
/----CONTENTS----\
Notes Notes on authors and organization of the FAQ
Contents You're reading 'em!
The Basics Simple information to get started.
Song Lyrics The Love Themes.
Other Guides Other informational guides available elsewhere.
Fan Club Best Brains' information club.
Other Stuff Interesting stuff that doesn't fit anywhere else.
Electronic Forums Various computer forums.
Props and Sets What the 'bots and sets are made of.
'Bot Stuff Questions about the 'bots not covered elsewhere.
The Obscure Only for the "true fan"!
Credits Thanks to people who helped.
/----THE BASICS----\
Q: What's the show all about?
A: _Mystery Science Theater 3000_, also known as MST3K or MST 3000, is a
program carried by Comedy Central on various cable companies. It was
originally shown in Minneapolis, Minnesota on an independent station, KTMA
TV23 (see "The Obscure"), and then was picked up by HBO's Comedy Channel which
later merged with Viacom's HA! and became CTV which was later renamed Comedy
Central (whew!). The show's premise is to view really bad movies and heckle
them.
Mike Nelson, a hired temp, was blasted into space by his evil bosses in Deep 13
who force him to watch bad films and monitor his reactions. Mike, in order to
keep his sunny disposition, heckles the movies with the help of three robots
constructed from parts of the satellite.
On Earth, the mad scientists steal Mike's inventions and select the cinematic
horrors, disguising them as experiments to inflict on Mike and the robots.
They in turn respond by unmercifully shredding the movies from beginning to end
while they are watched from behind sitting in the theater. The heckling draws
from pop culture and yuppisms, and many times consist of current issues in the
news and media. During the "host segments" they do parodies and annoy the mad
scientists.
Q: How did the show come to be called _Mystery Science Theater 3000_?
A: Jim Mallon said on a recent interview on CompuServe, "When the show was to
debut on KTMA we didn't have a title. So I said to Joel 'what do you think?'
And without blinking he said "Mystery Science Theater 2000". But since we were
so close to the year 2000 we decided to shift it up one thousand years.'
Q: Who is this Joel that people talk about and appears on the midnight shows?
A: (Phase 0-3) Joel Robinson was the original character blasted into space by
the mad scientists. He worked at Gizmonic Institute as a janitor. In 512
"Mitchell," he managed to escape from the ship (see "The Obscure"). Joel is
the one who originally built the robots to keep him company (see "Song
Lyrics").
Joel Hodgson, who plays Joel Robinson, is the original creator of Mystery
Science Theater 3000, and one of the founders of Best Brains.
Q: This "new guy" Mike Nelson looks familiar. Where have I seen him before?
A: Mike Nelson is already known for his special characterizations of Jack
Perkins, Michael Feinstein, Gamera, Mothra, Morressey, Torgo, and hexfield
viewscreen guests (Phase 1-3) among many others. Mike began hosting in 513
"The Brain That Wouldn't Die" (Phase 4).
Q: Who is Dr. Larry Erhardt (Phase 0-1)?
A: Dr. Larry Erhardt, played by Josh Weinstein, was the other original mad
scientist (see "The Obscure"). He left the show in Phase 2 and was replaced by
TV's Frank, who is only an assistant, not another scientist.
Q: Who's better, Joel or Mike (Phase 3/4), Larry or Frank (Phase 1/2)?
A: Everyone has their own opinion as to who is better. Please do not waste
time and bandwidth by repeatedly bringing up this topic. Think about it, won't
you? Thank you.
Q: Why did Joel "step down" from his on-screen role (Phase 4)?
A: Joel Hodgson decided to take it easy for a while and not host the show
anymore. He has other plans in the making, including other television shows
and movies. He is not leaving the company which he founded (Best Brains, Inc.)
however. As of episode 512 "Mitchell", Joel was replaced by Mike Nelson, head
writer for MST3K. Joel is still with BBI, but he is not in front of the
camera. He is still supposedly involved with all aspects of the show that he
was previously. It is rumored that Joel will be taking a three month
sabbatical, after which he will be involved in the day-to-day operations about
1/3 of the time he is now, and go back to doing stand up comedy. (Source: 501
"Warrior of the Lost World" among other places).
Q: Why did the Mads send Mike into space (Phase 4)?
A: Because Joel had escaped with the help of Gypsy, and they needed someone to
replace him (see "The Obscure").
Q: Why did the Mads send Joel into space (Phase 0-3)?
A: Because he came up with better inventions, and he was only a janitor.
Q: When is the show on?
A: (All times Eastern/Pacific)
Monday through Friday night 12:00 Midnight
Saturday evening 7:00 PM
Sunday morning 10:00 AM ( usually a repeat of Saturday evening)
Monday through Friday 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM (Mystery Science Theater Hour)
Q: What is this Mystery Science Theater Hour?
A: Best Brains and Comedy Central decided to divide the normal two-hour shows
into two-part one-hour shows. There were several reasons for this decision.
First, it allows the show to be viewed at an earlier time block, due to its
shorter length. Also, it will more easily allow the show to go into
syndication, if the Brains ever wish to do so.
Q: So what's the difference? Should I watch and tape both versions?
A: The Mystery Science Theater Hour has introductory host segments given by
Jack Perkins, first seen in 310 "Fugitive Alien" (played by Mike Nelson). In
order to fit these introductions, about 5 minutes have been cut from each
episode. As with the reruns, Best Brains has only done MSTH versions of
Phase 2 up. General consensus seems to be to tape the new introductions
but not the movie in edited form.
Q: So who is that guy introducing the Mystery Science Theater Hour?
A: In real life, this is Mike Nelson. However, he is supposed to be Jack
Perkins, the host of A&E, another cable channel. Jack Perkins typically
thinks that everything is "wonderful" and "what good TV is made of," even
if it is really trash.
Q: If I have a satellite dish, can I pick up Comedy Central?
A: Yes.
West Coast: G1/01
East Coast: F3/21
However, it is scrambled. You can subscribe to Comedy Central if you have a
satellite dish by contacting one of a dozen programming resellers. Comedy
Central is VideoCypher-II Plus encoded but since it's a commercially supported
channel, the subscription fee is nominal. The West feed runs same programming
but is delayed by three hours.
Q: I'm thinking of starting an MST3K group/club in my school/area. How can I
get permission to show episodes?
A: To screen episodes at conventions or public group meetings at no cost to
the public, contact the following person:
Tony Fox, Vice President Media Relations
Comedy Central
1775 Broadway
9th floor
New York, NY 10019
Office: (212) 767-8746
FAX: (212) 767-8582
Q: How can I get to view episodes I don't have?
A: Post your request to the newsgroups or the newsletter (see also "Electronic
Forums") Alternatively, you might want to try sending mail to someone else
(check From: lines) who has commented on the particular show you want.
Q: Hey, I'd really like to see them do a GOOD movie. Why do they only show
bad films?
A: The point of the show is that these are movies that deserve to be made fun
of. It is not merely a matter of it being a bad film, or bad plot, or cheesy
effects, but all of these, along with bad acting, bad camera work, excessive
padding, etc.
Q: So how come they don't do "Plan 9 From Outer Space" which is probably the
worst movie of all.
A: Best Brains has said that they do not want to do this movie for two
reasons. First, the voice-over from Criswell would interfere with the
commenting that Mike and the 'bots would make. Second, the movie already
pokes fun at itself.
Q: What's this I hear about an MST3K movie?
A: Details right now are sketchy, but here's what we know. BBI has plans to
make an MST3K full-length film, to be released in theaters hopefully in late
1994. The movie will be similar to the TV show, with a regular film being
shown and heckled, and host segments in the middle, beginning, and end. The
host segments will probably be a bit longer, but the major part of the film
will still be heckling another movie. Mike Nelson will star in it (not Joel).
/----SONG LYRICS----\
Q: What are the lyrics to the opening song?
A: There are three different versions of the opening song.
Phase 0
"Love Theme from Mystery Science Theatre [sic] 3000"
Lyrics: Joel Hodgson and Josh Weinstein
Music: Charles Erickson and Joel Hodgson
Sung by: Joel and the Joels [Joel Hodgson]
In the not-too-distant future--
Next Sunday, A.D.--
There was a guy named Joel,
Not too different than you or me.
He worked in a satellite loading bay,
Just polishing switches to pay his way;
He did his job well with a cheerful face,
But his bosses didn't like him
So they shot him into space.
We'll send him cheesy movies,
The worst ever made.
Joel says when you got lemons,
You make lemonade.
Now keep in mind he can't control
When the movies begin or end,
Because he used the extra parts
To make his robot friends.
Robot roll-call--
Cambot
Servo
Gypsy
Crow!
If you're wondering how he eats and breathes
And other science facts,
Just repeat to yourself "It's just a show,
I should really just relax
For Mystery Science Theater 3000."
Phase 1-3
"Love Theme from Mystery Science Theatre [sic] (3000)"
Lyrics: Joel Hodgson and Josh Weinstein
Music: Charles Erickson and Joel Hodgson
Sung by: Joel and the Joels [Joel Hodgson]
In the not-too-distant future--
Next Sunday A.D.--
There was a guy named Joel,
Not too different from you or me.
He worked at Gizmonic Institute,
Just another face in a red jumpsuit.
He did a good job cleaning up the place,
But his bosses didn't like him
So they shot him into space.
We'll send him cheesy movies,
The worst we can find (la-la-la).
He'll have to sit and watch them all,
And we'll monitor his mind (la-la-la).
Now keep in mind Joel can't control
Where the movies begin or end (la-la-la)
Because he used those special parts
To make his robot friends.
Robot Roll Call: (Let's go!)
Cambot! (Pan left!)
Gypsy! (Hi, girl!)
Tom Servo! (What a cool guy!)
Croooow! (What a wisecracker!)
If you're wondering how he eats and breathes
and other science facts (la la la),
Then repeat to yourself, "It's just a show,
I should really just relax
For Mystery Science Theater 3000!"
Phase 4
"Love Theme from Mystery Science Theatre [sic] (3000)"
Music: Charles Erickson and Joel Hodgson
Lyrics: The Brains
In the not-too-distant future
Way down in Deep 13,
Dr. Forrester and TV's Frank
Were hatching an Evil Scheme.
They hired a temp by the name of Mike,
Just a regular joe they didn't like.
Their experiment needed a good test case,
So they conked him on the noggin
And they shot him into space. (Get me down!)
We'll send him cheesy movies,
The worst we can find (la-la-la).
He'll have to sit and watch them all,
And we'll monitor his mind (la-la-la).
Now keep in mind Mike can't control
Where the movies begin or end (la-la-la)
He'll try to keep his sanity
With the help of his robot friends.
Robot Roll Call:
Cambot! (Show yourself!)
Gypsy! (I'm not ready!)
Tom Servo! (Hello there!)
Croooow! (That's one "o"!)
If you're wondering how he eats and breathes
and other science facts (la la la),
Then repeat to yourself, "It's just a show,
I should really just relax
For Mystery Science Theater 3000!"
Q: In Phase 4, why is it so difficult to understand what is said during the
"Robot Roll Call?"
A: The Brains have said that they intentionally made it difficult to understand
what was being said so that people would tune in and listen more. It also adds
a sense of mystery (at least until it is posted in the FAQ :).
Q: Where have I heard "Satellite of Love" before?
A: The Jerry Lewis Telethon people call the satellite the "Satellite
of Love." It's also the title of a song recorded by Lou Reed on his 1973
_Transformer_ album produced by David Bowie. This was mentioned in 307
"Daddy-O".
/----OTHER GUIDES----\
Q: Where can I get *MOST* these guides in one fell swoop?
A: Most of these guides are available at the FTP site at gynko.circ.upenn.edu
(see "Electronic Forums").
Q: Is another FAQ available (see "Other Stuff")?
A: Yes. The original FAQ, first edited from SOLN submissions (see "Electronic
Forums"), is posted to alt.answers, alt.tv.mst3k, rec.arts.tv and news.answers
newsgroups. An additional copy is available from Richard Kulawiec (soln-
[email protected]). The FAQ that this one was modified from, by
Lisa Jenkins ([email protected]), is not posted anymore.
Q: Is an episode guide available?
A: There are several episode guides, most of which are posted periodically to
the alt.tv.mst3k newsgroup (see "Electronic Forums"). An ASCII episode guide
which can be used with a mail merge program (such as on Word Perfect) was
created by Brian Siano ([email protected]). It also includes information such
as host segment scripts and notes on the movies. Also posted are Malcom
Austin's episode guide which began the SOLN (see "Electronic Forums") episode
guide and the SOLN episode guide which includes most of the information found
in all of the episode guides. One of the most complete guides is the one
posted with this FAQ by Matthew Duhan ([email protected]).
Q: Is there an index to the episode guide?
A: Yes, it is available from Mark Meyer ([email protected]). It lists the
movies and shorts in alphabetical order, and gives the episode production
numbers.
Q: I've seen some people MiSTing USENET articles. Is there a guide to the
proper format for doing this?
A: Yes, it is available from Matt Duhan ([email protected]) or Michael
Neylon ([email protected]). In addition, there is a mailing "dibbs"
list. To subscribe, e-mail [email protected].
Q: Is there an "invention"-only guide?
A: Yes, it is available from Phil Mueller ([email protected]).
Q: Is there a cast and credits guide to the show?
A: Yes, it was incorporated with the SOLN (see "Electronic Forums") episode
guide, and is posted to alt.tv.mst3k (see "Electronic Forums").
Q: Can I get magazine and newspaper articles on the show?
A: An index of interviews and reviews guides are available from Lisa Jenkins
([email protected]). Many of the articles have been typed to
ASCII files and are in the back issues of SOLN (see "Electronic Forums") and
can be requested by publication and date from Lisa Jenkins.
Q: Is there a list of the most-often used lines on the show?
A: A catch-phrase catalog is available from Cliff Chaput ([email protected]).
Q: Has anyone transcribed song lyrics from the show?
A: A song title guide is posted to alt.tv.mst3k (see "Electronic Forums").
Many songs were transcribed in SOLN and alt.tv.mst3k and currently are kept in
a file at the gynko FTP site (see "Electronic Forums").
Q: Is there a compiled list of "dirty quotes" from the show?
A: Yes, it is available from Chuck Jordan ([email protected]).
Q: What are all the silly names the Mads' have called Joel and vice versa
(Phase 1-3)?
A: A nickname file is slowly being accumulated. It also includes "first
heard lines" which are now mainstays in the MST "language." Phase 1 has been
compiled by Paul Ashley ([email protected]). Phase 2-4 have been compiled by
Michael J. Zavisca ([email protected]).
Q: Is there a list of all the times one of the 'bots has said "Meanwhile"
during the film?
A: Yes, a "Meanwhile" list is being compiled by Doug Geiger
([email protected])
Q: Is there a "drinking game" for the show?
A: Yes, it is available from Jonathan Hughes ([email protected]).
Q: What is "Rock Climbing"?
A: There is no easy way to answer this, so see the Rock Climbing FAQ available
from Jason Corley ([email protected]).
Q: What is the "Stack O' Love"?
A: This is a Hypercard stack created by Lynn Siprelle (Sorry PC users). It
contains this FAQ, the Rock Climbing FAQ, an episode guide, a cookbook, a song
guide, and a bunch of neat sounds and stuff. It is available via the FTP sites
or at America Online (see "Electronic Forums").
/----FAN CLUB----\
Q: How do you join the MST3K fan club?
A: To join the fan club is free. Just write them at the following address:
MST3K Information Club
P.O. Box 5325
Hopkins, Minnesota 55343
Q: What do you get when you join the club?
A: You will receive your official MST3K fan club card, attached to a flyer.
Your membership number is printed at the bottom left of the address label. The
flyer entices you to buy MST3K merchandise, including t-shirts and the Life
Survival Kit (a fan club kit).
You are also put on the MST3K mailing list and receive a lifetime subscription
to the MST3K _Satellite News_ (formerly _The Binding Polymer_) and receive
updates on Best Brains activities such as live appearances and special events.
Q: Do I have to order a fan club kit to stay in the club?
A: No. The club is free. The newsletters, postcards and flyers are sent to
you free of charge, just because you took the time to write a letter and lick
a stamp.
Q: I want to order a fan club kit. How do I do it?
A: Write to the fan club address and join the mailing list first. They'll
happily send you details on all their available merchandise, including the kit.
Q: What's in the MST3K Life Survival Kit?
A: It may or may not contain the following items:
A folder stating, "Classified--contains top secret MST 3000 fan club
material." Unfolded, the inside is the "MST 3000 'MOVIE SIGN' Home Viewing
Simulator (MSHVS)," which has the picture of theater seats with Joel or Mike
and the 'bots at the bottom, with the instructions:
1) Cut out
2) Tape to your TV screen
3) Say stupid (but clever) things
Other items included in the kit:
The MST3K Experiment Guide--a list of episodes.
The lyrics to the current "Love Theme."
The MST3K Technical Journal and/or some technical updates.
MST3K Wacky Rolling Action Figure (marble not included).
A list of misspellings of Tom Servo's name.
Your official MST3K fan club certificate, which is a full 8 1/2 by 11.
A sample issue of the MST3K _Satellite News_.
Fan photos--one of Joel and the 'bots lounging in the Satellite of Love, and
one of Dr. Forrester and Frank lounging in Deep 13. These are "autographed"
with character names, and the signatures are part of the pictures.
The MST3K Price Rebel Icon Merchandise Temple-Catalogue, which may include
such items as the MST3K Fluid Containment Vessel (MST3K mug), the Mad
Scientist Clock, the MST3K Official Command Cap, MST3K Bumper Sticklers, MST3K
Life Survival Kit, t-shirts, posters, lunch boxes, etc. (The items in the
catalogue are subject to change.)
Q: What if I'm in the fan club and I want to write another letter?
A: Letters are always welcome at the fan club, but make sure you put your
membership number on your envelope *AND* your letter so you won't be put on
the mailing list twice.
Q: Where is the membership number?
A: It is in the lower left corner of the mailing label for the first item you
receive from them.
/----OTHER STUFF----\
Q: Where can I get a list of MST3K episodes which will be airing every month
on Comedy Central?
A: "Funny Pages," Comedy Central's newsletter, is mailed monthly and lists all
the programming for Comedy Central, including the month's episodes for MST3K.
The newsletter is free. Write or call Comedy Central.
Comedy Central
1775 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
(212) 767-8600
Q: If I happen to be in the Minneapolis area, can I tour the Best Brains
studio?
A: Yes, but only on limited times due to tight schedules. Call well into
advance and make an appointment.
Update: You have to call the Thursday before the next week's Friday to
schedule a tour for that Friday. Therefore, to have a tour on Friday the 9th
you have to call Thursday the 1st.
Best Brains, Inc.
7615 Golden Triangle Drive, #J
Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344
Office: (612) 941-8024
FAX: (612) 941-8250
Q: I've got an appointment. Now, how do I get to Best Brains?
A: You can get directions by calling and asking Best Brains.
Q: What should I expect at the tour?
A: The tour only takes half an hour. Two points of interest are the
soundstage where the Satellite of Love and Deep 13 sets reside, and the
workshop where they build the props and repair the 'bots.
Q: Who plays what part in the show?
A: Here's a list of character names and the people who play them (and other
stuff they do as part of the Best Brains production staff).
--GOOD GUYS--
Mike Nelson (Phase 4): Michael J. Nelson (head writer)
Joel Robinson (Phase 0-3): Joel Hodgson (creator, executive producer, writer)
Crow T. Robot: Trace Beaulieu (writer)
(Tom) Servo (Phase 0-1): Josh Weinstein (writer)
(Tom) Servo (Phase 2-4): Kevin Murphy (associate producer, writer)
Gypsy (Phase 0): Josh Weinstein (writer)
Gypsy (Phase 1-4)): Jim Mallon (president of Best Brains, executive producer,
director, writer)
Magic Voice (not shown in credits; the voice has been done by all the
individuals listed below at various times): Jann Johnson (production manager),
Alexandra Carr (production manager), Kevin Murphy (associate producer,
writer), Mary Jo Pehl (writer)
Cambot (Phase 0): Kevin Murphy (associate producer, writer)
Cambot (Phase 1-3): Himself
--BAD GUYS--
Dr. Clayton Forrester: Trace Beaulieu (writer)
Dr. Larry Erhardt (Phase 0-1): Josh Weinstein (writer)
"TV's" Frank (Phase 2-4): Frank Conniff (writer)
Gerry: Brent Peterson, Nathan Molstead, James Smith (interns)
Sylvia: Alex Carr, Amy Kane, Robert Czech (interns)
--OTHER GUYS--
Intro Voice "Show XXX reel 1" (Phase 3-4): Timothy Scott (editor)
Jack Perkins and other extra characters (Phase 1-3): Michael J. Nelson (head
writer)
Miracle Growth Baby (After): Timothy Scott (editor)
Miracle Growth Baby (Before): Eli Mallon (Jim Mallon's son)
Robert Plant, Leech, and other extra characters: Kevin Murphy (associate
producer, writer)
Jan the Head and other extra characters: Mary Jo Pehl (writer)
Q: Why are the Mole People (the Mads' assistants) named Jerry and Sylvia?
A: The names are taken from Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, who created many super-
marionation films such as "Thunderbirds Are Go."
Q: What is Film Ventures, International?
A: Film Ventures is a company that obtains the rights to films after the
copyright has expired, and then re-releases the film under a different name
with a new credit sequence. This is how BBI was finally able to get
"Marooned" (401 "Space Travelers").
Q: So what are the names of the original films?
A: There are five films thus far given the Film Ventures, International
treatment. They are:
301 "Cave Dwellers" = "Ator The Blade Master"
303 "Pod People" = "The Unearthling"
305 "Stranded in Space" = "The Stranger"
401 "Space Travelers" = "Marooned"
405 "Being From Another Planet" = "Time Walker"
Q: What is "Keep Circulating The Tapes"?
A: At the end of the episode, MST3K has a line in the credits to "Keep
Circulating The Tapes." When MST3K first started, BBI encouraged people to
copy episodes to show to friends, as CC is not available in all areas.
Beginning with the fifth season, the tag line does not appear anymore, due to
BBI's lawyers recommending that it be removed. This is because BBI has talked
about selling episodes once the movie comes out (see "The Basics"). BBI still
allows copying of the show for private use, however.
Q: Why are there two FAQs for MST3K (see "Other Guides")?
A: The original FAQ, compiled by Richard Kulawiec ([email protected]),
was created for and by the _Satellite of Love Newsletter_ (see "Electronic
Forums") mailing list members. Until January 1993, it was only mailed to SOLN
members. This FAQ was created by demand from alt.tv.mst3k USENET newsgroup
members (see "Electronic Forums"), since the other one is not always posted,
and has not been updated since March, 1993.
Q: Are the two FAQs the same or different?
A: Although many of the basics are relatively the same, each FAQ contains
different specific information. For instance, the other FAQ has no mention of
Mike Nelson.
/----ELECTRONIC FORUMS----\
Q: Do the Brains at Best Brains, Inc. have an e-mail address?
A: Yes. It is [email protected]
Q: Are there USENET newsgroups?
A: Yes. The current active newsgroup on USENET is alt.tv.mst3k. There is
another newsgroup (alt.fan.mst3k) but it is not available at all sites. Most
articles are posted in alt.tv.mst3k and sometimes crossposted to
alt.fan.mst3k.
Q: Should I post at alt.tv.mst3k, alt.fan.mst3k or both?
A: For a wider reading audience, you should post at alt.tv.mst3k. Some people
posting at alt.fan.mst3k will receive an error message from USENET stating the
newsgroup is redundant or bogus.
Q: Are there any FIDONET echos?
A: Yes. There is an echo titled MST3K that is totally separate from the
Internet group. Anyone with a Fidonet access can request this echo. It is
listed in FIDONET.NA.
Q: Are there any World Wide Web (WWW) sites for MST3K?
A: Yes. There are five currently known.
http://www.cs.odu.edu/~bianco/mst3k/MST3K.html
http://topquark.cecer.army.mil/~roland/mst3k/mst3k.html
http://www.ee.pdx.edu/catHomepages/subhuman/html/mst3k.html
http://www.unr.edu
http://tamsun.tamu.edu/~dml601a/mst3k/mst3k.html
Q: Are there any Internet BBS sites with MST3K rooms?
A: Yes, there are several currently known about.
Sunset BBS paladine.hacks.arizona.edu login: bbs
Itchy & Scratchy Show (916) 721-1701 login: guest.
Deep 13 (215) 943-9526 login: ?
Phoenix Starfighter BBS (404) 869-3410 login: ?
Rad Systemz BBS (903) 832-6213 or 838-4039 login: ?
Satellite of Love (513) 563-0759 login: ?
Renfield's BBS (703) 356-6627 or [email protected] login: ?
Q: Is there an electronic mailing list?
A: Yes, there are two. The first is edited by Rich Kulawiec and named
_Satellite of Love Newsletter_ or SOLN for short. It is a fan-run electronic
newsletter that started in the late summer of 1991. Issues come out
erratically, and does not appear to be active anymore. No new newsletters have
been mailed since February 1993. The second, more recent is edited by Scott
Dexter and names _Load Pan Bay News_ or LPBN for short. It is a fan-run
electronic newsletter that started in the late summer of 1993. It was created
due to the SOLN no longer being kept up. Issues come out about once a month.
The items in the newsletters are contributed by its readers, of which there are
several hundred, and generally consist of detailed reports of tours, lengthy
discussions on the show, reports on the Brains, transcriptions of favorite
skits, and (unauthorized) reprints of newspaper and magazine articles. In
addition, there is a mailing list devoted to MiSTing USENET articles, and
calling dibbs on them.
Q: How do I join the mailing list?
A: For SOLN (no longer very active): send mail to Rich Kulawiec
([email protected]).
For LPBN: send mail to Scott Dexter ([email protected]).
For MiSTing: send mail to [email protected].
Q: How do I submit items to the newsletter?
A: For SOLN (no longer very active): send mail to Rich Kulawiec
([email protected]).
For LPBN: send mail to Scott Dexter ([email protected]).
For MiSTing: send mail to [email protected].
Q: How do I get back issues of the newsletter?
A: From the anonymous FTP sites.
Q: Where are anonymous FTP sites for MST3K related things?
A: There are several sites:
Site: gynko.circ.upenn.edu
Directory: /pub/rsk/mst3k (SOLN back issues)
Site: isis.dccs.upenn.edu (130.91.16.6)
Directory: /pub/mst3k (pictures)
Site: spider.navsses.navy.mil (157.187.16.101)
Directory: /pub/pictures (pictures)
Directory: /pub/sounds/mst3k (sounds)
Site: ftp.cs.odu.edu (128.82.4.1)
Directory: /pub/mst3k (sounds, images, Fanfic, FAQs, LPBN back issues)
Site : mmg.im.med.umich.edu
Directory: /usr/anon/mst3k/sounds (sounds)
Site: ftp.ee.pdx.edu
Directory: /pub/mst3k/sounds/au (sounds)
Site: sumex-aim.stanford.edu
Directory: /info-mac/gui/ad (Torgo AfterDark screen saver)
Site: husc4.harvard.edu
Directory: /pub/hrsfa/SIGs/MST3K (FAQ, Episode Guide)
Please remember to limit your down-loads to less than 1 Meg per day and
to use off peak hours. This will help to ensure that sites like these
will continue to provide access to these files.
/----PROPS AND SETS----\
Q: What are the robots made of?
A: This list is very general.
---CROW---
Mostly made of sporting equipment:
Eyes and head -- glow-in-the dark ping-pong balls; pupils are square bits of
electrical tape. His head (around his eyes) is a soap dish. Top of head is a
lacrosse mask (Cooper XL7FG).
Mouth -- plastic bowling pin cut in half.
Arms -- adjustable desk lamp parts, with closed-cell foam tubing (the kind
used to insulate water pipes) on the upper part. Popeet toys for part of
upper arm. Forks for hands.
Neck -- a Popeet toy.
Torso -- a set of Tupperware from a set called "Floralier" plus part of another
set. It was a flower-arranging set. No longer made. The set consists of a
tall conical vase that snaps into a short conical vase that then snaps onto a
tray. Two trays, face to face make his shoulders and the vases are below,
turned upside down.
Legs -- more lamp parts.
The whole thing (save eyes) is then spray-painted gold over its original
plastic.
---TOM SERVO---
Mostly made of toys:
Head -- gumball machine (it comes in that red color, although the head and
torso have been painted from time to time to keep the same consistency in
color) made by Carousel Industries of Des Plains, Illinois; the name for it
is "executive snack dispenser." His beak is spray-painted silver after the
manual dispenser handle is removed.
Torso -- barrel from "Kid's Barrel Bank." Chest is a toy engine block (both
now made from a mold).
Arms -- Flashlight heads for shoulders. Slinkys for arms. Doll hands. Parts
from model kits.
Hoverskirt -- A plastic Halloween bowl. Base is made of foam tubing. Black
decorations are made from plastic that has been vacu-formed around a toy train.
---GYPSY---
Made of household items:
Eye -- heavy-duty flashlight.
Head -- two child's car seats.
Neck -- hose "drain tile."
Lips -- foam tubing.
---CAMBOT---
Phase 1
Some sort of metal part. Sphere in middle.
Phase 2-3
Rotating alarm light on top. Neck is some sort of hose, a la Gypsy.
Phase 4
Eyelike sphere with lens in center. No hamster inside.
The original Gypsy from KTMA TV23 was made of parts which became part of
Comedy Channel's Cambot, but both robots have been revised since then.
Q: I'm building robots. Where can I find parts?
A: Wherever you can find them! Tom Servo's gumball head can be found at Mr.
Bulky's or other candy shops around the country. You might want to look for
various items at Everything's A Dollar store where everything's a dollar
(price check, Bill!). However, Tom Servo's hands and chest are hard to find,
and Best Brains generally creates more from molds. Crow's main body is also
hard to find as that Tupperware set is no longer made.
Q: What are some of the items on the set (Phase 2-4)?
A: There are seven panels and half-panels in the bridge set and what follows
is a list by panel numbered stage right to stage left. Some of these items
are off-screen most the time and will rarely if ever be seen on TV.
Upper half of stage rightmost panel -- motorman's helper; potty seat; crescent
wrench; badminton racquet; bendable Gumby doll (screwed on to wall through the
"heart"); Hot Wheels storage case; flatware trays; LEGO carrying case; shoe
lasts; model train tracks.
Lower half of stage rightmost panel -- Speak 'N' Spell; flower pots; plastic
baseball bat; Tupperware grater; ice cube trays, toy jeep; plastic ketchup
bottle.
Half panel stage right beneath window -- hair curlers; toy truck; toy golf
club; ice cube trays; Hungry, Hungry Hippos game; toy pistol; Millennium
Falcon model (this might also be the action playset); film reel; Star Wars
Snow Speeder.
Panel areas surrounding Hexfield Viewscreen -- flower pots; speaker; toy
dinosaur; toy telephone; Trouble Pop O Matic game; toy trumpets; telephone
handset; hair curlers; mouse exercise wheel; toy race car; baby rattle.
Also on stage right -- bendable Poky; Big Bird head; plastic bowling pins;
Playschool ball with shaped holes in it that kids put shaped blocks into; egg
tray; two clocks.
Pentagonal panel above door to theater -- flatware trays; kneepads; two potty
seats; Hungry, Hungry Hippos game; plastic Christmas reindeer cut in half
(upside down); front of a castle-shaped action toy playset; bird cage cut in
half (one on each side).
Hexagonal panel with hose -- speaker; flatware tray; plastic dish drain rack;
hair curlers; Jello mold; plastic baseball bats; half a plastic horse; toy
trumpets and horns.
Half panel stage left under window -- toy ukulele; toy pistol; toy boat; hair
curlers; bowling pin; ice cube tray; Darth Vader Action Figure Storage Case;
small pitcher; small toy car.
Stage leftmost full panel with hose -- motorman's helper; toy push mower;
Santa's head; toy trucks; bowling pin set; baby rattles; toy pistols; large
flashlights; canteen; pitcher; toy brontosaurus; mug rack; toy fire truck;
wrench; shoulder pads; flower pots; sections of slot car track; model train
tracks.
Also on stage left -- Fozzy figure sitting in cup; Playschool shape-ball; toy
fencing sword; plastic ladle; plastic toy shovel; toy boat; toy crane; two
kitchen clocks (one is a large "sun"); kid's doctor kit case; baby's busy box.
Desk front -- two bird bath bases (upside down); whiffle ball; toy bowling
ball; hair curlers; seven 35 mm cameras; one Polaroid camera; birdcage cut in
half (one on each side); plastic angel; doll's face; toy bird whistle.
Controls on top of desk -- spray can tops (for the buttons).
All over the set -- assorted trays; drawer organizers; bowls; divided dinner
plates; cups; silverware drawer trays; heart-shaped bowls.
Q: What is the Mads' keyboard made out of?
A: A teletype.
/----'BOT STUFF----\
Q: Which way do the 'bots face when in the theater? It looks like they
actually face away from the screen if you look at Crow.
A: The 'bots, in addition to Mike and Joel, face toward the screen, with their
backs to Cambot and thus the audience. In the opening sequence (Phase 2-3),
the shot is reversed (Joel's "Gizmonics" logo is backwards) because the shot
was set up with Crow on the left of Joel but looked better reversed, so that
they matched their order during the show. In the theater, Crow's head creates
an optical illusion due to trying to view a three-dimensional object two-
dimensionally. However, it has been seen both from the CC special "This is
MST3K" and from the tour that the 'bots do in fact face toward a white screen,
with their backs to the camera. (Actually, there is also a teleprompter on the
floor in front of them, not to mention this is where Trace and Kevin lie).
Q: Who is this Richard Basehart that Gypsy is so fond of?
A: He's the star of the TV series, _Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea_.
Q: Was Servo's name always Tom Servo?
A: No. During the KTMA episodes, it was only "Servo."
Q. Why is Tom Servo's head look a cylinder in several episodes of the Comedy
Channel's 1990/91 season (Phase 2)?
A. Servo was given a "haircut" in episode 205 "Rocket Attack USA."
Q: How can Servo zoom up and down the theater seats with no problem but needs
to be carried in the theater by Mike or Joel?
A: In episode 110 "Robot Holocaust" Servo reminds Joel to carry him over the
heating grid. Mike is also informed of this fact in 513 "The Brain That
Wouldn't Die." Apparently Servo's hoverskirt has difficulty providing enough
force to carry him over on his own, although he has done it on occasion.
The show-production reason for this is that when they enter the theater,
Mike can walk in, and Trace can slide Crow over from the right, but Kevin
must be already sitting down under where Tom Servo sits. Mike has to carry
Tom Servo in and hand him to Kevin Murphy, and carry him out at the end.
Q: How does Tom Servo know when it is time to leave the theater?
A: Because he was built with those "special parts" (see "Song Lyrics") that
tell the time.
Q: Why can't we see through Tom Servo's head in the theater when we know his
head is translucent?
A: Puppet doubles are used for filming the theater segments for the show.
These doubles are painted black (such as the evil dark spectre "Timmy" in show
416 "Firemaidens from Outer Space"). The doubles make better outlines for the
final mix and don't glare back at the camera. (Although they stick their
tongues out occasionally. *grin*)
Q: Was Servo's head always painted black?
A: No. In the KTMA episodes and first season (Phase 0, 1), the original 'bots
played their own parts in the theater segments, not stand-ins. Therefore the
movie could be seen through Servo's head then.
Q: Sometimes Tom Servo's hands flesh colored and sometimes they are white.
Why?
A: They are created from a mold using the same plastic as hearing aids are
made from. Sometimes Best Brains forgets to paint them.
Q: How many times has Servo's head exploded?
A: As far as we can tell, 5 (not counting when everyone blew up in 406 "Attack
of the Giant Leeches" during "We're a Danger to Ourselves and Others" song).
Tom's head first exploded trying to think of a good thing about 105 "The
Corpse Vanishes". In 107 "Robot Monster" it was figuring out how bumblebees
fly. In 211 "First Spaceship on Venus" his sarcasm sequencer overloaded. In
318 "Star Force: Fugitive Alien II" his head came apart completely. And in
419 "Rebel Set" it was thinking about Merritt Stone.
Q: Why are there so many questions about Servo?
A: For the same reason Gypsy doesn't "get" him: he's the wind, baby!
Q. Can Gypsy enter the theater?
A. Yes. Gypsy has entered the theater in 3 episodes, including 112 "Untamed
Youth" and 207 "Wild Rebels". She even participated in the first part of the
experiment in 412 "Hercules and the Captive Women."
Q: How many times has Cambot actively participated in the films?
A: 3. In 202 "Sidehackers" he put up an ESPN-type scorecard. In 301 "Cave
Dwellers" he helped Joel redo the opening credits. In 423 "Bride of the
Monster" he re-edited the final scene.
Q: How can we see Cambot in the opening credits?
A: Because he's looking into a mirror.
Q: Then why, in the opening credits of Phase 2-3, when Cambot looks at himself
in the mirror and pans left, the image on the set DOESN'T?
A: Because we're looking at the mirror via rocket number 9? (An oversight by
the filmmakers)
Q: Is that a hamster inside Cambot in the opening credits? (Phase 4)
A: No, it is just the light reflecting off the lens as Cambot moves slightly.
/----THE OBSCURE----\
Q: What is KTMA TV23?
A: It was an independent station in Minneapolis, Minnesota where MST3K first
aired on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1988. The station went bankrupt
shortly after putting MST3K "on hiatus," but has since returned and become
KLGT, "Sonlight 23," a religious broadcasting station.
Q: What is "Play MST for Me"?
A: It's a videotape made available for members of the fan club only. It
contains 30 minutes of songs from the various MST3K experiments.
Q: Where do the names Dr. Clayton Forrester and Dr. Larry Erhardt come from?
A: They are the names of the heroes from H. G. Wells' "War of the Worlds," and
of the 1953 George Pal film of the same name.
Q: Why is Frank listed in the credits as "TV's" Frank?
A: Originally, it was just Frank. As time went on, however, Frank adopted the
name "TV's" Frank, similar to hosts of older TV shows where the host would
buddy up to the viewer. When a TV personality became big, he would be
introduced as "TV's" so-and-so.
Q: Why is the Comedy Channel 1989/90 season production numbers different than
the original air dates (Phase 1)?
A: We honestly don't know. It is obvious from viewing the episodes that they
were shown in a different order than the production numbers tell us.
Q: Will the Comedy Channel 1989/90 season (Phase 1) be shown on Comedy Central
again?
A: No. Although Comedy Central has shown clips on _Short Attention Span
Theater_ of the first Comedy Channel season, Best Brains feels that at that
time, they did not have their "chops down" and are currently discussing re-
doing the first season episodes with the new cast.
Q. What are the differences between the Phases?
A. There are several differences:
Phase 0
Earliest version of the robots and the SOL. Looks low budget ('cause it was).
Phase 1
First year episodes were shown on Comedy Central (then the Comedy Channel).
Hexagonal panels on the SOL with plain gray fronts.
There is a new theme song.
There is a new door sequence.
There is a new commercial break sequence.
The opening credits are different/more elaborate
Phase 2
The assistant/mad scientist is Frank instead of Larry.
Tom Servo's voice is different.
The opening credits are different/more elaborate.
There is a new commercial break sequence.
SOL background is 3D (toys) instead of painted set.
Robot Roll Call has identifying letters instead of Joel staring into the
camera.
Cambot is different.
Joel sometimes wears different colored jumpsuits.
Joel no longer eats grapes after hitting buttons.
Joel actually has buttons on the desk.
Phase 3
In the opening credits, the film clip shown is from 212 "Godzilla vs. Megalon"
instead of 101 "The Crawling Eye."
Before the opening credits, there is now a still from the movie with recording
info and a voice-over, "Mystery Science Theater 3000 show XXX reel 1" instead
of a black screen with "Turn Down Your Lights (Where Applicable)."
There are now commercials shown 15 minutes before the show airs on CC that
show a clip from the movie and have either Joel and the 'bots or Dr. Forrester
and TV's Frank talking about it.
Phase 4
The human host on the SOL is Mike Nelson, not Joel Robinson.
There is a new theme song.
The opening credits are different/more elaborate.
There is a new commercial break sequence identifying the movie.
There is a new door sequence.
Cambot is different.
The Gizmonics Institute and "G" logo is gone.
The 'bots appear to be more in charge.
Q: Why is Josh Weinstein who played the original (Tom) Servo and Dr. Larry
Erhardt no longer with the show (Phase 0-1)?
A: It was never publicized why he left the show. The best guess is that he
needed time to mature (he was 18 at the time of his departure) and make his
own name in comedy. He now performs stand-up in Los Angeles and has written
for various comedy shows.
Q: Is this Josh Weinstein the same Josh Weinstein whose name occasionally
appears in _The Simpsons_ credits?
A: No, it is not the same person.
Q: What happened to Dr. Larry Erhardt (Phase 0-1)?
A: He was reported to be missing in episode 201 "Rocketship X-M" by Frank. At
that time, his face appeared on a milk carton. In episode 313 "Earth vs. the
Spider" he seemed to appear in the film, to be eaten by the spider. Joel even
commented "So that's what happened to him!" Some new invention to put Joel IN
the films gone wrong? No one knows for sure.
Q: Why does Gizmonics Institute and the "G" logo no longer appear (Phase 4)?
A: The Mads do not work for Gizmonics Institute, they are renegades who used to
work there, before blasting Joel into space.
The real-life reason is that Joel Hodgson owns the rights to these things.
Now that he no longer appears on the show, they have been removed.
Q: Why does Mike (and Joel) watch these bombs? What would happen if he refused
to enter the theater?
A: Since this is part of a mad experiment, Mike is forced to watch the movies.
In Phase 1, Joel was allowed to eat a grape every time he hit a button. Thus,
he was trained to watch the films (since he can't control when they run, see
"Song Lyrics"). In 208 "Lost Continent" he refuses to enter the theater, and
is zapped by remote control by the Mads. The 'bots watch because they were
programmed to by Joel and help Mike out (although they sometimes leave).
Q: Is Joel left-handed?
A: Yes, Joel is a southpaw (which leads to being weird, which results in
creativity).
Q: I remember a debate about computers in one episode. Which computer does
BBI prefer?
A: In 304 "Gammera vs. Barugon" there was a debate over whether Macs or IBMs
were better. The debate was not resolved, but was ended when Joel asked if
anyone had seen the mouse for his Amiga. In real life, BBI likes all three
types of computers. When they started they could only afford one computer and
had some debate about going Mac or IBM. Now they have 8 IBM's, 5 Macs, and
one Amiga. The writers tend to prefer Mac, though.
Q: When door 3 closes during the door sequence of Phase 2-3, it sounds like a
woman saying "pizza." What is that?
A: It is simply the sound effect and was not intended to sound like anything.
Q: Just after door 6 closes in Phase 4, there is something scurrying across the
floor. What is this?
A: It is a wind-up cockroach.
Q: How did Joel manage to get off the ship (Phase 3, ep. 512)?
A: Mike Nelson's character was introduced at the beginning of 512 "Mitchell" as
a temp in Deep 13. Through the course of the skits, Gypsy heard the Mads
talking about getting rid of him, and thought they meant Joel. She then
managed to get Joel off the ship with Mike's help (by using Frank's keys).
Joel was put in an escape pod named the "Deus Ex Machina" (located in a box
marked "Hamdingers") and launched towards Earth. The Mads, needing a
replacement, hit Mike on the head and send him up.
Q: Just what IS a hamdinger?
A: Hamdingers are miniature microwavable hamburgers made out of processed ham.
Originally intended to be a quickie snack-meal item, they tasted so bad that
most wound up being used as chum, or fish bait.
Q: In "Mant," the movie-in-a-movie in "Matinee," there is a scene where
someone says "Now who's this guy?" Is this a reference to MST3K?
A: No, it is the Mant saying this, but we do not see his lips move due to his
ant head.
Q: Why do Joel and the 'bots say "Jimmy Smitts" when someone on screen says
"switch?"
A: A few years ago Jimmy Smitts was in the movie "Switch" with Ellen Barkin.
In the ad campaign, Smitts insisted that his name immediately follow the
title, without a preface such as "also staring" or "with."
Q: Who or what is a Woozle named Peanut?
A: It is a ventriloquist act by stand-up comic Jeff Dunham (no relation). He
has a character named Peanut who claims to be a woozle.
Q: Why does Joel Hodgson hate Gallagher?
A: According to rumor, when Joel was performing stand-up before MST3K started,
he was in a club with Gallagher. Backstage before the show Gallagher went
through all of Joel's props without permission and complained about all the
gimmicks Joel was using (when Gallagher also uses "gimmicks" in his shows).
Supposedly Gallagher was very rude and insulting.
Q: Was Joel Hodgson, who created the show and plays Joel Robinson, raised in
Minnesota or Wisconsin?
A: Wisconsin.
Q: What does Gizmonic Institute do (Phase 0-3)?
A: It is the Institute for the Advancement of Naive Science.
/----CREDITS----\
Q: If I have a correction or additional information to add, who do I send
it to?
A: E-mail it to Matthew Duhan ([email protected]) with "FAQ" in the
Subject: line.
Q: Who are some of the contributors of this information?
A: Among the many folk who have sent along information, notes, and general
ideas are--
David Arnold, Paul "Monty" Ashley, Malcolm Austin, Gregory S. Bandy, Keith
Barrett, David J. Bianco, Jeremy Billones, Mark Carson, Cliff Chaput, Kevin
Cheek, Richard Clark, Stephanie M. Clarkson-Aines, Chris Cooley, Jason Corley,
Donald Cotnoir-Strong, Markus De Shon, Patrick Delahanty, Bill Dennen, Scott
Dexter, Matt Duhan, Lorenzo Ellis, Nina Eppes, Scott M. Fabbri, Anthony
Fiarito, Patrick Fitzgerald, Lynn-Anne Friese, Greg Galcik, Pat Gomes, Jamie
Green, Gerald M. Guglielmo, William Harrison, Larry Hastings, Ron Hitchens,
Marty Hoff, Dale Holod, Mark Holtz, Charles R. Hoynowski, Ed Hughes, Jonathan
Hughes, Chad Jackson, Lisa Jenkins, Brian Johnson, Mary Lynn Johnson, Todd
Johnson, Chuck Jordan, Norman Joseph, Brad Keely, Ed Klein, Johnny Klonaris,
R'ykandar Korra'ti, Rich Kulawiec, Donna K. Lang, Phil Mueller, Mark Meyer,
Kevin Murray, Frank G. Neves, Synth F. Oberheim, Mark Odell, Mary Pat, Brian
Perler, Lon Ponschock, Joshua R. Poulson, Ellen Sasse, Joel A. Schenkenberg,
William Sherman, John D. Shull, Brian Siano, Will Silver, Steve Simmons, Mike
Slusher, Dave Spensley, "The Punster," Paul Thrasher, Chuck Tomasi, Lance
Visser, Tom Wilson, Patty Winter Michael J. Zavisca.
And many other MiSTies from coast to coast.
_Mystery Science Theater 3000_, its characters and situations are copyright
1993 Best Brains, Inc. This publication is not meant to infringe on any
copyrights held by Best Brains, Comedy Central or its employees. The
information herein is subject to being wrong. This FAQ is free to distribute
as long as this notice remains intact.
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