MST3K: Samson vs. The Vampire Women

MST3K: Samson vs. The Vampire Women is a riveting cult classic film that weaves wrestling, vampires, and unforgettable comedy into a tapestry of entertainment. Released in 1995, the film presents an outrageous narrative, cleverly infused with humor and satire by the talented cast including Trace Beaulieu, Joel Hodgson, and Jim Mallon.

The movie is an episode of the beloved television series “Mystery Science Theater 3000” (MST3K), known for its hilariously candid take on some of the campiest films in history. In this episode, the characters sit through the wild, genre-bending 1962 film originally known as "Santo vs. Las Mujeres Vampiro". This fun-filled film is replete with its part of shockingly bad special effects, laughably fake vampire women, and melodramatic plots, all of which are served up for the viewer's amusement.

In keeping with the MST3K tradition, Joel Hodgson (as Joel Robinson), Trace Beaulieu (as Crow T. Robot), and Jim Mallon (as Gypsy) are “forced” to watch the bizarre film while trapped on a space station known as the Satellite of Love. As the original film unfolds, our characters offer their humorous commentary, making the movie-watching experience as entertaining as ever. The dialogue is breezy and creative, brilliantly riffing on the film, adroitly pointing out plot holes, lame fight scenes, and the absolute absurdities that make the B-movie genre so delightfully entertaining.

It’s a whole new world when the characters of MST3K stumble upon 'Samson vs. The Vampire Women.’ The original movie is a Mexican wrestling/horror film, where Samson (Santo in the original Mexican version), a silver-masked wrestler, is our hero who rises against the vampire women. When these creatures of the night seek to kidnap a young woman to crown as their queen, it's up to our wrestler-cum-superhero Samson to crash into the action and save her. However, MST3K's approach to the film means this ostensibly straightforward plot is treated with much-needed levity, filled with wisecracks, puns, and visual gags.

Besides the dramatic showdown between Samson and the vampire women, the movie also makes time for the endearing interaction among Hodgson, Beaulieu, and Mallon, who develop their own subplots aboard the Satellite of Love. The unique chemistry between the trio, their banter, and the robot puppetry are an integral part of the charm of this beloved episode. Trace Beaulieu, in particular, skillfully embodies Crow T. Robot, delivering humorous lines with impeccable comedic timing, while Joel Hodgson's deadpan humor shines as Joel Robinson. Jim Mallon adds a distinctive flavor to the mix as Gypsy, enhancing the overall narrative.

However, what truly sets MST3K: Samson vs. The Vampire Women apart is the brilliant interplay between the original film and the spontaneous reactions and interactions provided by the MST3K crew. Cleverly exploiting the corny dialogues, hammy acting, and hilariously low production values of the original film, the MST3K team's commentary and skits create a new film-watching experience that's greater than the sum of its parts.

With its comical commentary, colorful characters, and the joyously bad B-movie it lampoons, MST3K: Samson vs. The Vampire Women is more than just a television episode–it's a testament to the unique charm of MST3K and its enduring popularity. Whether you're a longtime MST3K fan or a newcomer, this movie is an excellent showcase of the series' ability to make even the poorest of movies a source of constant hilarity. Throughout the absurd action and over-the-top drama of Samson’s battle against vampire women, the witty riffing from the MST3K gang never fails to entertain, making it a enjoyable ride for anyone who loves humor and doesn't mind a few vampires here and there.