The setup for this series was that rather than the gang being out in some random location, like visiting an old uncle in a swamp somewhere when they stumble onto a mystery,the story is set in their hometown of Crystal Cove. The Paranormal tourist capitol of the world. This allowed for the inclusion of a supporting cast that added quite a bit of flavor. The parents for all the gang were included, and played important roles in the overall story.
Another aspect that was different in this incarnation than all previous ones was the ongoing relationship dramas of the main characters. Freddy and Daphne were on again off again romancing, as were Shaggy and Velma, which of course caused serious problems with the Shaggy and Scooby friendship.The romance is the part that everybody really hated. It did get to be a little much at times, but whatever. I can appreciate the fact that at least they tried to keep the main overall feeling of the original series but updated it. I can dig it
Scooby Doo Mystery Inc followed the X Files style of storytelling by having monster of the week episodes with an overall story arc weaving its way throughout. Very cool! The show was also crammed full of references to movies and shows and things that an old fart like me would spot that many wouldn't notice. Homages and a tip of the hat to such cult favorites as War of The Gargantuas and Humanoids From The Deep, as well as more well known films like Carrie, Saw, and Invasion of the Body Snatchers. How about the episode featuring "HP Hatecraft" as voiced by legendary Lovecraftian actor Jeffrey Combs? That same episode featured sci fi writer Harlan Ellison portraying himself. This is some killer stuff for a "kids" cartoon. The voice casting was amazing all the way with many other great choices, Gary Cole as Freddy's dad, Patrick Warburton as the sheriff, Lewis Black as Mister E, Vivica Fox as a very Pam Grier styled character named Angel Dynamite. This stuff is right in my wheelhouse.
Snippets of awesomeness are sprinkled throughout the series. Fred and Daphne come across a statue of Scrappy Doo in a museum, to which Fred says, "we were told never to speak of him again," or something along those lines. Believe me Fred, you speak for all of us. There is a great episode that spotlights "sidekicks" and guest stars Captain Caveman, the Funky Phantom, Jabberjaw, and Speed Buggy. It was live traveling back to my childhood in the 70's. Thanks again Scooby writers!
Later on in the series the Scooby gang starts talking about Zecharia Stichin, the Annunaki, and the planet Nibiru. WHAT? It's like an episode of Ancient Aliens. Are you kidding me? Ancient Sumerian civilizations and Scooby Snacks. Quite a combo. This even continues as an ongoing story in the second season. Totally bizarre. Giorgio Tsoukalos should have joined the cast.
Scooby Doo Mystery Inc is not a perfect show, and I'm not even sure right now where I would place this in the history of Scooby Doo shows. I'm thinking probably near the top. Maybe in the future I will write about my thoughts on the various Scooby shows from the 60's to the present. I have a long history with the Scooby Doo gang, as do most people in my demographic. I just wish this series had continued on with more episodes and more seasons. Oh well, now it's time for me to go watch a Vincent Van Ghoul movie marathon.
In closing, just remember the famous last words, "and I'd have gotten away with it too, if it wasn't for those meddling kids and that dog of theirs."
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