We got basically the perfect parody of today's superhero and Ghostbuster movies 25 years ago.
This one’s a glorious mess and I mean that lovingly.
A parody of superhero tropes before superhero movies were even a proper genre. Released in 1999, it tried to spoof something that hadn’t yet become mainstream.
So instead of riding the wave, it belly flopped into cult status.
It’s based on the Flaming Carrot comics, which already lived in the absurd zone. But the film? It’s like someone mashed The Tick, Batman Forever and a late 90's rave into a blender and hit “parody.”
The set design is wild, the tone swings like a wrecking ball and the jokes? Hit or miss, but always delivered with commitment.
Looking back, it came too early. If this had dropped post Avengers, it would’ve been hailed as genius. Instead, it was shelved next to Blankman and The Specials, waiting for nerd culture to catch up.
Still, it’s a fun ride. A reminder that you don’t need powers to be a hero, just a shovel, a bowling ball with daddy issues and the courage to wear spandex in public.
great movie. Funny, heartwarming and inspiring. You don't need to have superpowers to be a hero in this world.
Reviews
Mystery Men
Richard reviewed
Mystery Men
November 9, 2025This one’s a glorious mess and I mean that lovingly.
A parody of superhero tropes before superhero movies were even a proper genre. Released in 1999, it tried to spoof something that hadn’t yet become mainstream.
So instead of riding the wave, it belly flopped into cult status.
It’s based on the Flaming Carrot comics, which already lived in the absurd zone. But the film? It’s like someone mashed The Tick, Batman Forever and a late 90's rave into a blender and hit “parody.”
The set design is wild, the tone swings like a wrecking ball and the jokes? Hit or miss, but always delivered with commitment.
Looking back, it came too early. If this had dropped post Avengers, it would’ve been hailed as genius. Instead, it was shelved next to Blankman and The Specials, waiting for nerd culture to catch up.
Still, it’s a fun ride. A reminder that you don’t need powers to be a hero, just a shovel, a bowling ball with daddy issues and the courage to wear spandex in public.
