Pros

  • The new cast shines with clever, sarcastic riffing that elevates otherwise poor movies into highly entertaining experiences.
  • All six movies in the season are included, providing a solid chunk of content to enjoy and riff on with friends.
  • The pacing has improved noticeably over the previous season, giving riffs more breathing room and enhancing overall flow.
  • Host segments are genuinely funny and not just filler for guest stars, adding to the nostalgic charm of the series.
  • The show continues to capture the spirit of classic MST3K with its unique style, humor, and trademark puppet antics.
  • The selection of "so bad they're good" movies is strong, making it ideal for fans who appreciate bad movie entertainment.
  • The Gauntlet compares favorably to some of the best classic MST3K episodes, maintaining consistent humor throughout.
  • Jonas, Hampton, and Baron effectively bring their characters’ distinct personalities to life, contributing to the fun.
  • The series remains a true original and a pioneering example of independent TV, still delivering laughs after decades.
  • Great for gifting or sharing the MST3K experience with new generations of fans.

Cons

  • Some movies are edited with content removed, which frustrates viewers expecting full versions especially in a Blay release.
  • The movie "Lords of the Deep" is widely regarded as unwatchable even with riffing, dragging down the set’s overall enjoyment.
  • Male lead performances are uneven, with some viewers finding certain characters underdeveloped or weak.
  • Roles for supporting characters like Gypsy and the new bots are limited, reducing their impact.
  • The ending of the last episode feels unsatisfactory and anticlimactic.
  • Max’s character, in particular, does not reach full potential and is underutilized.

Bottom Line

*Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Gauntlet - Season 12* on Blu-ray offers plenty of sharp riffs and nostalgia for longtime MST3K fans, making it a worthy addition to your collection. While some movie edits and weaker episodes hold it back, the new cast’s charm and consistent humor make it an enjoyable watch—especially if you love riffing awful movies with friends. If you want the full, uncut movie versions or stronger character development, keep an eye out for alternative releases or earlier classic seasons.

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