Ep 12. Diabolik

In Mystery Science Theater 3000 season 10 episode 12, Diabolik is the focus of the crew's hilariously snarky commentary. The Italian spy film, released in 1968, follows the titular criminal mastermind as he pulls off a series of heists while evading the authorities and his rival gangster. His daring exploits and cool demeanor make him a beloved anti-hero in Italy, but the MST3K crew is not so impressed.

As Diabolik executes his various schemes, the crew offers their usual brand of witty commentary, poking fun at the film's cheesy special effects, melodramatic music, and bizarre plot twists. They also take several opportunities to riff on Diabolik's absurdly tight black bodysuit, which he wears throughout the film, and his tendency to make out with his girlfriend (and partner in crime) in various locations, including a helicopter.

Despite its flaws, the crew acknowledges that Diabolik has its charms, particularly the striking visuals and surreal set pieces. They also note that the film's enthusiastic embrace of camp and excess has made it a cult classic among fans of Eurotrash cinema.

As the film unfolds, the crew also engage in their usual tangents and pop culture references, including jokes about the Cold War, James Bond, and the various '60s-era musical acts that appear on the film's soundtrack. There are also several sketches featuring the show's quirky characters, including Tom Servo's attempts to create his own superhero outfit and Crow's obsession with trying to learn Italian.

Throughout the episode, the MST3K crew shows off their quick wit and affinity for riffing on bad movies, while also paying tribute to the weird and wonderful world of B-movie cinema. By the end of the episode, viewers will have a newfound appreciation for Diabolik and his bizarre antics, even if they can't quite take him seriously.