I Was a Teenage Monster

"I Was a Teenage Monster" delightfully spoofs Frankenstein, as John Hoyt's mad scientist puts on a Transylvanian accent, and hunchbacked assistant Byron Foulger ('I live to grovel!') gets to indulge in the kind of mischief that Dwight Frye could appreciate. As the Monster, Richard Kiel was perfectly cast, decked out in groovy clothes, Roger McGuinn shades, and Beatle wig (Mike: "he looks like a long haired, near sighted Monster with a guitar!") After the scientist transmits the musical abilities of The Monkees into his creation, Peter wonders if they can regain their talent: "we don't have any to spare!" (this was one of the episodes showing Tork's belt buckle on the side, so as not to scratch his guitar). Appearing unbilled as Dr. Mendoza's beautiful daughter (waiting for the sequel!) is Bonnie Dewberry, who later turns up in "Monkees in Texas." The lone track this time is "Your Auntie Grizelda," composed by Jack Keller and Diane Hilderbrand, recorded Oct 14 1966, which featured Peter Tork's very first lead vocal (issued on the second LP). Broadcast no. 18 (Jan 16 1967), "I Was a Teenage Monster" was 21st in production, filmed Nov 1-3 1966.

You know there had to be a mad scientist story somewhere along the way, right? The gang turn up in the spooky castle of Dr. Mendoza, fittingly played by John Hoyt (best remembered as the scientist in ATTACK OF THE PUPPET PEOPLE). Yes, there is a monster, and who better than 7 foot Richard Kiel, perhaps the best James Bond henchman of them all.

Kiel is dressed in a Beatle wig, fitted with groovy shades, a guitar and is positioned to become the next rock sensation -- that is if the crazy doc can scientifically transport all the guys talents into him? Not a bad idea, if you're nuts.

The laboratory ain't bad, replete with individual metal headsets ready for transmission. A must see. Kiel is a standout, and a scene stealer, as can be expected. He even dances a few steps, but the best of it is the episodic chase around the lab. The guys facial expressions are absolutely priceless, especially Micky -- and what is that stuff he's drinking?? Also look for veteran character actor Byron Foulger as the hunchback assistant, and with some funny lines.

Series director James Frawley's voice is used as the mirror's voice. Credit this hilarious script once again to Dee Caruso, the first man of classic tv comedy. Recommended. SEASON 1 EPISODE 18 remastered dvd box set.