Ok, when and what are the titles :) !?
I cant tell you how great this is to have you keep them coming out. I know the economy is bad, all I can ask is maybe sell them for 39.99 a set ? Is that something you can do ? DMS
FYI, Deep Discount is selling Vol. 14 for $39, and all of the earlier box sets are selling in the $35-$40 range, so unless Shout will be including some very expensive titles in Vol. 15, I would imagine Deep Discount will be selling it for about the same price.
Ive got all the box sets, I used Deep Discount before with their free media mail shipping, I prefer not to wait 2 weeks myself. Anyway, Amazon has been the best of the online sales for me, fast and easy...Id still like to see the prices of the sets to go down more. DMS
The economy can't get so bad that MST3K fans can't scrape up 40 or 50 dollars thrice a year for a new DVD set. Keep them coming, because I'm buying EVERYTHING.
The prices don't need to go down more. It's a relatively small company putting out quality product to a relatively small audience, Dsman. There needs to be some sort of profit incentive for them in order to keep doing so. There's always Ebay and the discount DVD sites for patient fans looking for a bargain, but that retail price is totally fine, as long as the quality of the sets is maintained.
If anything, raise the price by two bucks and improve the quality of the boxes that they're packed in. They're a little bit more flimsy than what we were getting out of RHINO.
Two weeks you are doing good with DeepDiscount. I ordered a copy of "JFK" for $5 and it didn't show up for almost 5 weeks. I honestly thought I'd been ripped off for a bit.
I'm fine with the box set prices right now. The iTunes side is a bit high but I'm sure there's also extra digital licensing agreements that factor into that arrangement.
----- Original Post -----
by dsman71 at 2/10/2009 9:00:46 AM
Ive got all the box sets, I used Deep Discount before with their free media mail shipping, I prefer not to wait 2 weeks myself. Anyway, Amazon has been the best of the online sales for me, fast and easy...Id still like to see the prices of the sets to go down more.
DMS
Yes the economy can get that bad, maybe if the stimulus package passes things can get better in the long term. I am always looking for the best prices. I admit I will buy the sets at any cost, but maybe I was hoping for a little less. There is no harm in asking. MST isnt the only DVDs I buy. The sets are worth every penny. I know online has better deals in the stores most of the time, unless you get some coupon for the store. I dont mean to come off cheap, because I am a shopper to the very end. DMS
I'm really surprised that Shout! hasn't announced a listing for Volume 15 yet. If my memory serves me, they already had a listing for Volume 14 within a month after the release of the 20th Anniversary Edition. Like everyone else, I always like to take educated guesses as to what SF has coming out next. My guesses would include:
- 105 The Corpse Vanishes
- 403 City Limits
- 621 The Beast of Yucca Flats
- 1007 Track of the Moonbeast
I admit, I'm hoping that there will be a slant towards CC-era shows, but whatever comes out will be fine with me.
I think I went with Rocket Attack USA, Attack of the the Eye Creatures, Colossus and the Headhunters and Track of the Moonbeast
I will say The Corpse Vanishes, Beast of Yucca Flats, Castle of Fu Manchu and Samson vs the Vampire Women crossed my mind...
Maybe it will be a mix of these 8 like show 1007 and 621 like you said above :) It should be fun no matter what DMS
There could very well be truth to the notion that SF wants to cover as many Season 10 episodes as possible. I wouldn't mind it so much, since I missed a portion of that season for whatever reason, I don't remember! In response to you dsman71, I would love to see Attack of the The Eye Creatures in particular, but according to Travis' list of "probable" releases, it doesn't look good. If memory serves, it belongs to Susan Hart, who is reportedly not a fan of the show.
Still, stranger things have happened. I've been very intrigued with B Ward's words of a "title coming in at the 4th quarter" and in doing so changing their plans on this release....could it be AottEC? Here's hoping we find out, and soon!
I think The Eye Creatures has a chance since the DVD was put out by Retromedia. It might be public domain. Invasion of the Saucer Men is owned by Columbia which the Eye Creatures is a remake. I would not be surprised if The Eye Creatures came out and I still believe in my Season 10 theory that that is a target Season - there are 2 more Season 10 titles that SF can get, so I think they will get them and move on to 8 & 9. Pure speculation. DMS
I second Laserblast's request: please give us an update on Volume XV!! I'm glad I'm not the only one checking Shout Factory's website obsessively, waiting to read what's next!
Let me look into when I could provide you with that information. I will say that the new artwork has begun and is looking very nice. Look for this release sometime this summer.
Already looking ahead to XVI, as well. Looks like that one will be pretty big. More details to come...
B Ward, you are a master of suspense! But it sounds like you guys really do have something big planned!! Can't wait to hear about what's on set XVI as well.
INVASION OF THE SAUCER MEN is owned by Susan Hart/the Nicholson estate. She may still have some say over EYE CREATURES (it being a word-for-word remake), despite the Retromedia release.
----- Original Post -----
by dsman71 at 3/9/2009 6:40:05 PM
I think The Eye Creatures has a chance since the DVD was put out by Retromedia. It might be public domain. Invasion of the Saucer Men is owned by Columbia which the Eye Creatures is a remake. I would not be surprised if The Eye Creatures came out and I still believe in my Season 10 theory that that is a target Season - there are 2 more Season 10 titles that SF can get, so I think they will get them and move on to 8 & 9. Pure speculation.
DMS
Hey Travis..
Maybe, maybe not. She might since it is a remake, she might not because its not part of the Susan Hart library
Only time will tell :)
Day the Earth Froze and The Magic Voyage of Sinbad were also released by Retromedia - I wonder if they have similar rights' issues like the Eye Creatures in terms of those coming out...
Time will tell :) DMS
Volume 16 pretty big ?
Of course that is subjective, but my mouth is watering.
Can we get a double announcement what the titles are ?
Or least whats on 15 DMS
Thanks for the heads-up, Brian! Not to be a pain, but will that announcement include the next two sets or just Volume XV? (Can you tell that I can't for for this?)
MST3K VOLUME XV
102- Robot vs the Aztec Mummy
509 - The Girl in Lovers Lane
604 - Zombie Nightmare
616 Racket Girls
JULY 7th !! YES !!
HAPPY INDEED :) !!
While none of the episodes rank above a B + in my book (although ANY MST on DVD is better than none), what really has me stoked is the extras:
Extras will include:
• Glimpses of KTMA
• The Design And Speculative Technology Of MST3K: Joel Hodgson And Trace Beaulieu Visit M.I.T.
• New Interviews with “Zombie Nightmare” stars Frank Dietz, Jon Mikl Thor and John Fasano.
• Kevin Murphy And Trace Beaulieu in a Sneak Peek of the upcoming indie feature film Hamlet A.D.D.
• Trailers/promos
• 4 limited edition mini-posters
I agree that any episode going to DVD is a great thing ! I like all these episodes. Aztec Mummy is an early one, not very popular but its a great way to see early MST, Im glad SF has gotten the ok to release it. Out of this set Girl in Lovers Lane and Zombie Nightmare are my 2 favorites. My book gives Zombie Nightmare an A- everything else is basically the same as Laserblast !
Hey B Ward, I'm very pleased with this box set. I really like three out of the four episodes, with Racket Girls being the only blemish (in my humble opinion). The extras sound very intriguing! I'd especially will find the "Zombie Nightmare" interview interesting; that treatment was among their better ones in the later part of the Comedy Central era.
Excellent batch of episodes! The extras sound terrific. ZOMBIE NIGHTMARE was a delightful surprise (I didn't realise Code Red was going to be releasing it this year, otherwise I would have listed it as "Extremely Likely" earlier). GIRL IN LOVERS LANE and RACKET GIRLS are great episodes, and it's always nice to get another Season 1 episode in high quality (I love the host segments to ROBOT VS. THE AZTEC MUMMY).
Im looking forward to this set I like all the episodes, some more than others, but to have them in potentially pristine condition on DVD especially a historical Season 1 show is really exciting. Im thrilled with this set. Its good to see an all CC set again. If SF releases the sets often enough then I can see them skewing a little here and there like next set can be all SciFi or 3 Mike or Joel or something...
What a great set !
102- Robot vs the Aztec Mummy, is a great chance to see Josh again as Servo and Dr Erhardt. I love watching the early ones to see how things used to be before all the progress the show made
509 - I love this episode ! Ive waited a long time for this one. Sometimes B movies are entertaining and for me this episode really clicks and it is a decent B cast with Brett Return of the Fly Halsey and Jack Kiss Me Deadly Elam...
604 - Easily my favorite Season 6 episode and another average movie that I really enjoy. I also heard that it is getting released from Code Red in a non MST format - which means you will see some of the gore that was cut for the MST version. It is not great, but it is a little creepy at least to me. Great episode
616 - Racket Girls - lady wrestlers ! Kind of a forgotten film - obscurity city.
It is nice to see Season 6 thrown in the mix, it has been a while. I remember the early Rhino sets had Season 6 and a few popped up here and there like Dead Talk Back & Sinister Urge..but otherwise not a whole lot..
Im thrilled Season 1 is getting released...I think Robot Monster & The Crawling Eye are the big ones from this season that Ive read fans would like to see from Season 1. DMS
Awesome! Although I have to admit the best DVD set SF has released so far still remains as the 20th Anniversary Edition, but I'm not saying the other two aren't top-notch as well.
I'm looking forward to this one. I can't wait to see more KTMA footage, and I haven't really seen these episodes before. In fact I still recall Rhino's MST3K poll from a few years back and out of the 137 episodes in that poll, here are Volume XV's episode rankings:
1.THE ROBOT VS. THE AZTEC MUMMY (#63)
2.THE GIRL IN LOVERS LANE (#96)
3.ZOMBIE NIGHTMARE (#21) (Yes, the highest ranking in this DVD set)
4.RACKET GIRLS (#122)
It's great to see that SF is still clearing out more of the underrated episodes (Manhunt in Space) as well as misfires (First Spaceship On Venus) and not just the fan favorite episodes (WereWolf).
Its a good balance of fan favorite and not that way we dont get stuck with all non favorites when we get down to the last of the episodes that can be released. Id still buy it, but can you image a set with 4 shows from the bottom 100 from the Rhino list ?
I like the diversity in the sets too, my guess is the next set might have more sci fi channel stuff again.
The pattern Shout! is taking with these releases is very interesting; it does seem as though they're combining fav episodes (like "Zombie Nightmare") with more obscure ones ("The Robot vs. The Aztec Mummy") in each box set. I'm guessing that there's a method to this madness, perhaps they don't want to load up a box set with all popular episodes now, and then face the possibility of having a volume that's filled with "less-than-stellar" episodes in the future. Being a fan, there really isn't such a thing as a bad box set, but I certainly don't speak for all fans of the show.
Before, I mentioned "Racket Girls" as being the weakest episode of this set, it doesn't mean I won't watch it again.
I like the fact that they've committed an entire set to the CC days of the show. Rhino did an all-Mike, SciFi-era release on both Volumes 4 & 5, which as a long-time fan made me wonder if they had completely forgotten about Joel. (They later compensated by making Volume 7 all Joel, as well as 3 Joels and a shorts collection on Volume 6). I wouldn't be surprised if Shout! mixes things up again and has an all-Mike set for XVI!
I dont think we will have an all Mike set, but I can see 3 Mikes from Scifi. But then again I think it really depends on how often they get released. If the are released often enough then I can see more lop sided releases like this one, because the next set XVI can be released shortly after (a few months) and be skewed the other way. It will be interesting to see future releases. I think the next Volume will have 3 Sci Fi episodes because my gut feeling tells me they bumped a sci fi episode for Zombie Nightmare - I would say the next set could be Seasons 8, 9, & 10 represented and a Joel from Season 1 again
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Dear B Ward.
First, thanks for all the time you spend answering customer questions here on the forum.
I and some other "MSTies" have posted on MST3Kinfo.com that we're a bit concerned that the pace of DVD releases is already slowing down. Rhino releases slowed to a trickle the past few years, I was hoping Shout Factory would be releasing DVD sets for MST3K at a much faster pace, at least one per quarter if not faster. Volume XV is quite a few months after Volume XIV. Can you possibly speak about what kind of release schedule and spacing between releases Shout Factory is aiming for with MST3K DVD sets? Thanks very much!
P.S. My episode wish list for future sooner rather than later DVD releases:
Any season 2 Robert Lippert movie: Lost Continent, Rocketship X-M, King Dinosaur, Jungle Goddess as well as Hercules, Robot Holocaust, Crawling Eye, Teenage Caveman, Daddy-O, It Conquered the World, any Gamera or Fugitive Alien episode, Time of the Ape, Viking Women and the Sea Serpent, Rocket Attack USA, Being From Another Planet, Warrior of the Lost World, Amazing Colossal Man, War of the Colossal Beast, Castle of Fu Manchu,
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I for one am thrilled with this next set's line-up. Zombie Nightmare and especially Girl in Lover's Lane are among my favorite episodes (I can't say how excited I am to see an official Girl In Lover's Lane release!), and I do like this pattern of releasing a Season One episode in each set. I missed out on a lot of the Season One eps when they aired (Best Brains tried their best to keep them from being rerun), and all I've got are pretty crappy bootlegs...I mean, copies...of these episodes.
As for future releases, a couple of under-rated episodes I'd like to see are Radar Secret Service and Operation Double 007. And of course Attack of the the Eye Creatures and, my all-time favorite episode, Santa Claus. I'd chop off a limb (Mr. Ward's choice) and send it in to Shout! Factory if it would hasten the release of Santa Claus on DVD.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I don't know, looks like we'll get 3 sets this year. 3 sets a year sounds a heck of a lot better than what Rhino was doing toward the end. In fact, if you browse the release dates on Amazon, Rhino maintained a schedule like Shout's for the first 4 sets (assuming we get a third set this year, which looks possible). Then they slowed down to 2 sets a year or so.
The only incredibly quick space between sets was vol. 2 to vol. 3 (Feb and April 2003), but even then vol. 4 didn't hit until November.
Shout is currently working at the best pace Rhino achieved in their 5 years of releasing MST3k. Considering the complexities of releasing MST, I think that's pretty impressive and probably about the best that can be expected.
I and some other "MSTies" have posted on MST3Kinfo.com that we're a bit concerned that the pace of DVD releases is already slowing down. Rhino releases slowed to a trickle the past few years, I was hoping Shout Factory would be releasing DVD sets for MST3K at a much faster pace, at least one per quarter if not faster. Volume XV is quite a few months after Volume XIV. Can you possibly speak about what kind of release schedule and spacing between releases Shout Factory is aiming for with MST3K DVD sets? Thanks very much!
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
----- Original Post ----- by TomServo at 3/18/2009 9:07:21 PM
Dear B Ward.
I and some other "MSTies" have posted on MST3Kinfo.com that we're a bit concerned that the pace of DVD releases is already slowing down.
Honestly, I'm a tad bit shocked. Our first set was released in October of 2008. Or THIRD set is coming this July. And a fourth can be expected by the end of the year--and anyone that knows DVD releases knows that means in time for the holiday shopping.
Seeing as how we usually let a volume of any other series breathe for six months before releasing another set, how is this a slow pace?
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I couldnt agree with you more Brian. Youve put out more than Rhino did in a year.
I dont know how often you read these but at some point you might run out of easy pickings and might have to ask for rights of Season 3 movies and Season 8 Universal movies..do you think you could get some of those movies from the people who own them ? DMS
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I think part of the reason why there's a degree of panic is because, in the first six months or so, Shout! really portrayed an aggressive and passionate image of getting MST3K completely released. It wasn't very long after the 20th Anniversary set that an announcement for Volume XIV came out, something which Rhino had never even approximated in their time as the show's dvd distributor. So fans (myself included) automatically got it in their minds that once XIV was out, SF would be ready to unroll Volume XV, and that it would be released in just as timely a fashion. So when it took well over a month after XIV's release for any info about XV's content to surface, and that XV wouldn't be released until July, some people jumped to the conclusion that the "extra" amount of time being taken to put these sets together meant that Shout! was having difficulties obtaining rights.
Personally, I think SF has done a very good job with their releases, and it looks to me as if they're more fan-friendly than Rhino ever was. One suggestion I'd make is that any info about Volume XVI should be released ASAP after July 7. Even if the release date is in November or December, it would at least prove that Shout is intent on providing as many episodes as possible - as quickly as possible - to the fans!
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I've got to say this just sounds like MSTies being too demanding. The announcement for volume 15 came less than 2 months after the release of Volume 14. There were times we'd wait for 4,5,6 months from Rhino.
I know the fanbase has a history of being demanding (I think I read somewhere that the suits at CC and maybe sci fi dreaded the MSTies because they were so aggressive). So let's just sit back and enjoy the wonderful sets that SF is putting together for our enjoyment. I like that SF is keeping lines of communication with the fans, and I'd hate to see that go away.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I definitely understand the desire for information, but XV isn't even out yet and I've already confirmed that we're working on XVI.
That being said, there are some difficulties obtaining rights. Not everything we've released has been in the public domain. But hopefully, by seeing that we're already working on XVI, you'll see that we're working ahead of the game.
I think you guys will like XVI.
Brian "Know Thyself"
--Thales
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
There are no complaints from this corner regarding either the pace or selections that Shout has given us so far. I think sometimes MST fans tend to forget that Shout (and yes, even the much-maligned Rhino), actually have other irons in the fire besides our show. Folks just need to chill out and let these guys do their job. They actually do get the show and that's a big improvement over the other guys.
Brian, I have a suggestion for a future extra - Joel did a pilot called the TV Wheel for HBO shortly after he left the show, and if it's available, this might make a cool extra. Thanks.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
----- Original Post ----- by potnoodle at 3/22/2009 3:41:55 PM
Brian, I have a suggestion for a future extra - Joel did a pilot called the TV Wheel for HBO shortly after he left the show, and if it's available, this might make a cool extra. Thanks.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Hey Brian
Have you checked into the Robert Lippert movies..I noticed a few fans including myself that would like to see them released...
Just wondering :) DMS
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
TV Wheel...what a great idea for an extra! I never would have thought of that one.
Brian, keep up the good work! What Shout Factory is attempting to do, apparently, is release 16 episodes per year plus a wealth of interesting extras...it's almost as though the show is back on the air. If we can count on 4 sets every year, you'll hear nothing but praise out of us. And thanks for keeping us in the loop!
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Mr. Ward,
Thanks for the quick response. In my case, what prompted the concern was that the space between release of sets XIV and XV is somewhat longer than between XIII (anniversary set) and XIV. However, if you'll have a fourth set out by the end of this year, I'll gladly withdraw my concern.
Four sets per year or close to it was what I was hoping for, while I'm sticking by the idea that two sets per year is somewhat slow. At only two sets (eight episodes) per year, much of the original fan base for the show might not be around (or at least less concerned with buying them due to late life issues) when the final sets would be released! Eight episodes released per year is not spectacular for a show with so many as yet unreleased episodes. Rhino never released more than one or two sets in a year. If Shout Factory can do better than that, it will be a winner for them selling lots of DVD sets and a winner for the fans. Thanks again!
P.S. Oh, and as for the suggestion about the TV Wheel show from another fan, I watched that show and it was great and I also would love to see it as an extra feature. Also, what about the commercials MST3K produced for Comedy Central for their own upcoming episodes plus other things (e.g., Death and Taxes, etc.) and the 30-minute specials they did years later (e.g., Little Gold Statue Awards)? They would make GREAT extra features. I'd also love to see the Scrapbook Tape that Best Brains used to sell as an extra on DVD episodes.
----- Original Post -----
by B Ward at 3/21/2009 1:20:11 PM
Honestly, I'm a tad bit shocked. Our first set was released in October of 2008. Or THIRD set is coming this July. And a fourth can be expected by the end of the year--and anyone that knows DVD releases knows that means in time for the holiday shopping. Seeing as how we usually let a volume of any other series breathe for six months before releasing another set, how is this a slow pace?
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Some of them are with Wade Williams, some with Kit Parker films (currently licensed to VCI Entertainment).
----- Original Post -----
by dsman71 at 3/23/2009 6:29:39 AM
Hey Brian
Have you checked into the Robert Lippert movies..I noticed a few fans including myself that would like to see them released...
Just wondering :)
DMS
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
With all due respect, Brian Ward is spin-doctoring us a bit. If you do the math, it comes out to THREE sets per year, not FOUR. Only THREE sets will be released during the year of 2009. With four episodes per set, this comes out to TWELVE episodes per YEAR. This is still very disappointing. After the next set, there are 111 out of 176 titles remaining to be released. At this current rate, it'll take another FIVE years just to get another SIXTY episodes. After that, the remaining episodes will get tougher to secure, and several will never even be released. I understand that not much can be done about the film rights, but I still think that Shout can speed up the existing process with the attainable movies.
My biggest beef with Rhino was the only-four-at-a-time rule. I really thought that Shout would beat that. Sure, the packaging and extras are great, and we're getting one extra set per year, but the bottom line is that I just want to bulk up my collection as fast as possible sometime before I die. I'm not alone in having this desire. The sets are called "volumes" but they don't contain much *volume* compared to other DVD box sets. I don't appreciate Ward's comment about other series that "breathe" for six months. Those particular series usually contain an entire season of the show. This is a totally different ball game, and the comparison should not be made unless the MST3K sets are being released as entire seasons. Then I wouldn't mind six months of "breathing" time.
I might sound like I'm being tough, but the last year's hype had us all expecting more, and I don't feel guilty if Shout's PR guy feels "shocked" that some of us are a bit let down.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I have to agree with Jim on this one. The only reason the move to Shout factory was so enjoyed was because Rhino was doing a "Bad Job". I still don't understand what was wrong with the way rhino was releasing the series, and I still don't understand what the difference between the two companies is other than the fact that this one seems to tease us more than rhino. Atleast we knew what to expect with them, Every time we ask shout factory if something has a chance of being released we get a "Mabye, Mabye not" Answer. Could someone please tell me what the major differences between the two companies are when it comes to the distribution and release of MST3K?
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
To Jim and Notundercovercop,
Is this really an issue for you guys? I thought most of the fan community understood the difficulties in releasing this show, and was happy to have some as opposed to none. To see people coming onto a message board where an employee of Shout Factory is taking the time to accept suggestions and give us insight into the process and demanding more is a bit disheartening.
With regards to why Rhino was better, well, they weren't terrible, but they botched rights on a couple of sets (the godzilla vs. megalon fiasco) and they had a bad track record with botching the transfers/mastering/whatever of the episodes themselves (ie. the killer shrews fiasco).
Now here is a company that has done everything right, and better than Rhino, and people are complaining that it's not enough. I personally am grateful that Shout! took this property on (as Rhino seemed to be losing interest) and I hope they continue to do the great job they've done so far. Three sets a year is fantastic.
And if that's not enough, checkout one of the many traders and sellers of non-commercial MST discs scattered about the web, or go to youtube.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Id rather have 3 sets a year than 2 like Rhino did. Im basically happy whenever a set comes out. Obviously Volume 16 will be out this year and Im sure 17 & 18 will come too. I do prefer the sets come out ASAP, but at the same time I know they take time to do. As long as it is not one set every 10-12 months Im cool with it...2 sets already this year is great. At least SF is doing them as fast as they can & I am thankful for that...
Thanks again SF/Brian :) ! Keep em coming !
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Both companies used the same man to clear the rights to these movies. For all we know shout factory could very well release a movie that they don't own the rights to. As for the poor quality episodes, those were provided by Jim Mallon. Any video error is by his fault, not rhino. I'm not saying Shout factory is doing a bad job, they're doing anything but. What I am saying is shout factory hasn't taken any of our suggestions.
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I'm just in awe of some of the ungrateful fans on here.
This show hasn't even been on TV for a decade. SF takes a chance on it and gives all of us MSTies the chance at new episodes. I couldn't be more grateful to Brian and SF for the outstanding job they've done.
I get anxious for new releases too, and I'd love to see that come out more often, but let's face it: This show isn't easy to get episodes for. The fact that SF has released some episodes NOT in the public domain should be more than enough to say they are putting forth their best effort in getting us new episodes as quickly as possible. Three releases a year is truly fantastic.
@ Notundercover and Jim, I think you're in the minority here. To say that they aren't getting us product quick enough is absurd. And to say that they haven't taken any of our suggestions is a bit pretentious since there have only been TWO releases thus far.
Brian, keep it up bud. I think the general population of fans is in your corner.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I'm not ungreatful. I'm just saying What's the difference between the two companies. Niether take our episode suggestions. Both clear the same types of movies. Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Okay, gang... Let's get something straight. I'm not Shout! Factory's PR guy. I'm the guy producing these sets for you.
And I'm not trying to tease you. I never asked fans to begin speculating on the episodes being released. And I certainly never asked you to ask me what episodes were being released. You know why I don't offer up that information? Because we have a TON of deals pending. So we don't know what those episodes are going to be until we officially lock them all down and announce them. Usually, we're working two or three sets in advance and are constantly playing a game of "which episode would fill out which box set better?"
Now, let's address why certain movies are being licensed, while others aren't. We go after lots of movies. MOST of the ones we've attempted have been from your recommendations. Some of those aren't done deals. But to try to meet the outrageous demands in time between sets, we can't WAIT for them to be done deals. Otherwise, you'd complain even more. And some of them are very much done deals, in that, they will not move forward.
You know the stories. You all hang out on the other sites. You know there are movies that will never be released on DVD because the license fee is astronomically high or absolutely impossible to get because the rights holders have no interest in seeing the MST3K version released to retail. I'd be STUPID to tell you which ones, because in some cases, we're still trying, even after being told "no" for the umpteenth time.
So, we license the ones that can be licensed. Unlike Rhino, we've attempted to stay clear of PD films as much as humanly possible. We want to hit the movies that require us to pony up a little dough, because we know those are the movies you want to see. But there are studios and rights holders that don't care what movies you want to see. So, yes, there will be times that we release a PD film or two. But, as I believe you'll see down the line, we are working to fulfill some of those dream lists. We just have to be realistic.
You will never own the complete series on DVD. Not in any official capacity, anyway. But we're trying to make sure you get as many episodes as humanly possible within a reasonable time frame. But let's talk about that time frame. We're huge fans of this series and we fought hard to get it. But, from a business standpoint, we're not stupid. If we released a set every two or three months, it would eventually be too hard for fans (especially casual fans) to keep up. And that means we'd lose sales. Well, as you've seen with other posts on this site's forums, if fans stop keeping up, we have to stop creating them. Supply and demand. Stores don't buy products that don't sell.
So we'll continue to release them in the time frame you've seen here. We're sorry if it's not fast enough. Between licensing the movies, getting the masters, creating the bonus materials, having those covers painted, and authoring the discs, we're moving as fast as we can. By the way, that adds up to about three or four months of work (not including those aforementioned deals we're making) per set.
Oh, and let's not forget the other discs we're producing. Aside from MST3K, I'm currently producing over 40 discs worth of content, most of which are coming out by the end of the summer. We're a bit busy. I'm trying to get as many MST3Ks out there as possible because I personally want to own 'em. So you will see another set. And another after that. And another after that. But you have to be patient. We're not slowing down. We just can't work as fast as you want. It's not physically possible.
Brian
BTW-- I've rejected faulty masters of MST3K already and received replacements. Our predecessors could have done the same.
"Know Thyself" --Thales
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Brian,
Thank you for clearing all the matters up, you had a lot to say and get off your chest..I cant speak for everyone, but I for one am glad when they do come out, and as eager as I am to get them ASAP, I understand why it takes a few months, and I dont mind waiting - time moves by quick anyway.
I do appreciate your time to come on here and answer the critics or just keep in touch with us about things...your comment reminded me of Obama when he addresses his critics..
I know you are doing all you can & I have both sets you released, pre-ordered the 3rd and have ZERO complaints about anything. Id rather wait 3-4 months than 6 months for sets but the bottom line is that you are the company releasing them - you update the fans like us about the whats and whens and thats good enough for me...
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
It just never amazes me...first there was whining as usual about the episode list, and as usual the usual "i dont like the box art" complaints and now the latest gripe is the sets arent being released fast enough ?? When does the crying end..
Congratulations - you have succeeded in pissing off B Ward who is doing everything he can to get any and all episodes he can. Im thrilled that I own 8 Shout episodes already with another coming on 7/7 and another in the 4th quarter of this and still plenty more to come.
I think that our patience will be rewarded as long as we have our health, a TV set and DVD player & hopefully the economy will turn around for everyone to make shopping a cheerful experience... DMS
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
You're right, I sure do Suck. I have complaints about the current company who releases the show and i'm veiwed as a crying baby. Meanwhile just about every other fan complains about the other company, even though they are doing the exact same job, and every single "complaint" they have is viewed as valid. Look at the ratio 40% of the mst3k movies that have been released by shout factory have been public domain and if the pattern continues we can expect the same. For the fiftieth time, I don't hate shout factory, I think they're doing as good a job as rhino. But to say they are doing a better job is just a crock.
----- Original Post -----
by dsman71 at 4/3/2009 7:26:20 AM
When does the crying end..
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Thank you for being understanding Mr. Ward, and thank you for clearing up any misconseptions with MST3K's release. As much as I would love to say this changes my opinion, it does not. Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
No one said about them doing better or worse than Rhino - it is the constant crying now it is over release time. Public Domain Episodes are very easy to get, so if we get a few along with non public which I am sure SF has already done it is ok (at least with me) it costs money to get non PD movies released so to save money a PD release should be made..
But who cares you will whine forever about something about an MST release whether it be too many PD too long to wait, the box art sucks, blah blah
No one is forcing you to buy them, no one ever promised a rose garden when SF took over for Rhino. I know Brian is really trying and he posts here to let us know whats up.
Did DrRhino ever do that ??
No he didnt, so quit bitching and just take what you can get for mst3k when you can get it
----- Original Post -----
by Notundercovercop327 at 4/3/2009 1:09:56 PM
Thank you for being understanding Mr. Ward, and thank you for clearing up any misconseptions with MST3K's release. As much as I would love to say this changes my opinion, it does not.
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I'm sorry you don't share my opinion. Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Im sorry that I have to read whining in posts from alleged fans of the show. We are all here because we love the show & we will never get everything we want but at least someone is trying their best to bring MST to DVD - DMS
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I'm sorry you feel that way. Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
A little bit about this has already been released, as any MSTie might expect, to the Satellite News website. You can read about it here and when there is more info it will also surely appear on Satellite News.
Also, thanks again to Brian Ward for all time you take to answer questions here. We may not always like the answers, but we definitely like the fact that you take the time to provide them. It is very much appreciated. Rarely do customers receive such time and attention from any company these days.
----- Original Post -----
by The Toblerone Effect at 4/5/2009 7:56:31 AM
I look forward to hearing about that replacement, Brian! Volume XV is the very first thing I've pre-ordered on Amazon, I'm THAT excited to get this!!
Too bad about the MIT visit. I was in attendance and it was very interesting...although it probably would have needed some serious editing (IMHO). I noticed it being videotaped and wondered if it would be considered for a DVD bonus at some point. Joel and Trace were extremely engaging and very generous with their time both during and after the event. They came off as very genuine as well as grateful for and respectful of their fans. Hopefully this can become available somewhere down the road.
Thanks for all your hard work, Brian. Keep 'em coming!
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Im sorry we have to have "im sorry" exchanges with whiny members who are supposed fans of the show...
The episodes mean more to me than the bonus features in all honesty - so Im glad to see things coming out 4 x 4 x 4...if I could suggest a bonus feature the idea of seeing movies uncut would be cool for example The Girl in Lovers Lane where Jack attacks Bix (Big Stupid) lady friend at the end & dies of fright. I know Alpha DVD put it out, but this is an example.. Or just have 'deleted scenes' where the deleted scenes from the MST3K version are part of the bonus features...include the NON mst parts that were cut for the show...
Just some ideas :)
----- Original Post -----
by Notundercovercop327 at 4/4/2009 12:14:05 PM
I'm sorry you feel that way.
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
I'm sorry you feel that way.
----- Original Post -----
by dsman71 at 4/6/2009 7:46:06 AM
Im sorry we have to have "im sorry" exchanges with whiny members who are supposed fans of the show...
----- Original Post -----
by Notundercovercop327 at 4/4/2009 12:14:05 PM
I'm sorry you feel that way.
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
DMS
Shout Factory knows how to release televsion, now if only they could release Legends Of the HIdden Temple. One can always dream.
Thanks Brian for all the awesome info and for taking the time on here to answer all our questions.
I'm taking this off the topic a smidge. When can we expect to see XV available for pre-order from Shout? I pre-ordered XIV directly from you guys and would love to do so again (I could use Amazon, but I'd much rather buy it direct). I keep checking and it's not up yet.
I know you aren't the gent directly involved with that, but any idea on this would be sweet.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Including the movies sans MST3K riffs is something we've considered. Unfortunately, it requires licensing the film twice, as well as finding a print in as good of quality as the MST3K version, if not better. Many of these folks license the films they do to us because we're not directly interfering with sales of their own DVDs.
RE: Vol. 15, Pace of releases for MST3K from Shout! Factory
Thanks for letting me (or us) know the details...I guess it depends on the budget you have...
I would be happy if you just included the scenes missing from the MST version and not the entire film...maybe that way the costs wont be much. I honestly dont know much about it other than licensing must be a pain and pricey at time..
Would it cost less to just use the deleted scenes of a movie than to use the whole movie? DMS
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In response to you dsman71, I would love to see Attack of the The Eye Creatures in particular, but according to Travis' list of "probable" releases, it doesn't look good. If memory serves, it belongs to Susan Hart, who is reportedly not a fan of the show.
But it sounds like you guys really do have something big planned!! Can't wait to hear about what's on set XVI as well.
