The Toxic Avenger is perhaps one of the more famous cult classic films. It might just be the film that brought Troma to the center of pop culture in the 80’s. All of that in mind, it’s clear when a reboot was announced people would be skeptical. The film finally had its premiere at Fantastic Fest last week and we had a chance to check it out.

We have been hearing whispers and talks about a Toxic Avenger remake, but nothing ever came out of it. It was a shocker when we heard the line up for this year’s Fantastic Fest consisted of the remake. The film stars Peter Dinklage, Elijah Wood, and Keving Bacon. It is direct by Macon Blair and comes from Lionsgate and Troma Pictures with Lloyd Kauffman even in attendance. The big question is does the film live up to the original?

I think that’s a hard question to answer because I just feel the original couldn’t be made today. It’s a film that is a product of its time and it’s humor is far too crass for today’s standards. I will say the remake does a good job at making something close to the original while also being its own thing. Macon Blair adds enough references and homages for fans of the original while not alienating newbies to the franchise.

The performances are vastly superior and honestly surprised me. Peter Dinklage as Toxie is a great anti-hero that you really feel for. Elijah Wood also plays a very complex character that truly had me invested. Kevin Bacon plays an incredibly cartoonish villain in the best way possible. It’s clear there was love and passion in the cast as they really put in their all.

In terms of violence and the comedy I think Toxic Avenger works as a midnight cult type film. There were moments where I was wondering how this can ever be shown in a mainstream theater. However, if you’re a fan of the original and you get the chance to watch it, definitely check it out.

We give The Toxic Avenger a 3.5/5.

Will you be watching The Toxic Avenger? Leave a comment to let us know!