Besides, fans of MST3K only need know that another collection exists, and theyre sold. The latest, Volume XXVI (aka 26, if you dont like maths), may not have any classics among its four-ep offering, but any episode is worth owning.
Among this batch, my favorite is the most recent: 1988s Alien from L.A., a sci-fi comedy that marked swimsuit model Kathy Irelands first and final lead role on the big screen. And theres a good reason for that: her squeaky voice, which our hosts chalk up to a helium addiction and compare to squeeze toys.
In the discs bonus interview with Alien from L.A.s director, Albert Pyun (1990s Captain America), he calls Irelands voice kind of shocking and a challenge to work with. (Then again, he also thinks if he made the film today with the benefit of CGI, it would be spectacular. Now, now, Al, lets not get ahead of ourselves.)
To continue playing favored nations, running a close second is Danger!! Death Ray, a 1967 spy film so inept, it earns those two exclamation marks. While not quite as hysterical as the gangs treatment of Neil Connery in Operation Kid Brother on the previous DVD set, the 007 rip-off is a real slice of Italian bologna. And one of its butchers, MST second host Mike Nelson, is profiled in the latest Life After MST3K segments; true fans already know what hes been up to.
From 1962, The Magic Sword is one of those colorful matinee fantasy epics that often made their way aboard the Satellite of Love, but this one has the distinction of being directed by frequent MST target Bert I. Gordon, who had seven other films (by my count) receive similar treatment. Apparently a good sport, Gordon is interviewed in the extras.
Finally, theres The Mole People, a fairly beloved film because it came from Universal Studios atomic-age wave. While certainly better on its own than this series usual fare, its still pretty silly. Perhaps speaking to its higher esteem, Shout! Factory has included a thorough, half-hour featurette on the 1956 films production. Rod Lott
Hey! Read This:
Captain America (1990) DVD review
Mike Nelson interview
MST3K vs. Gamera: Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXI DVD review
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XX DVD review
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXII DVD review
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXIII DVD review
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXIV DVD review
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXV DVD review