Mystery Science Theater 3000

If someone asked me to trace my personal development as a cinephile, I’m pretty sure that Mystery Science Theater 3000 would be one of the most important stops along the way. I grew up watching the show; it instilled in me an appreciation for pointless pop culture knowledge as well as an affection for so-called bad movies. Mike, Joel and the bots may have spent their time mocking ’70s and ’80s films, but there was always an undercurrent of good cheer and low-budget kinship that I admired.

After 15 years off the air, Mystery Science Theater 3000 might finally return to TV (or television’s Internet equivalent). Today, MST3K creator Joel Hodgson launched a Kickstarter called “Bring Back Mystery Science Theater 3000.” It’s asking for $2 million, which create three brand-new episodes for MSTies everywhere. If the Kickstarter receives more money, they’ll make more; $3.3 million donated will result in six new episodes, $4.4 million will generate nine new episodes, and if enough people pony up $5.5 million, Hodgson and company will create a full 12-episode season of MST3K. If you want to see bad movies made fun of by puppets, this is relevant to your interests.