The Toxic Avenger (18) |Close-Up Film Review
Dir: Macon Blair, US, 2023, 102 mins
Cast: Peter Dinklage, Kevin Bacon, Luisa Guerreiro, Elijah Wood
Review by Carol Allen
Small and sexy Peter Dinklage plays put upon janitor Winston, a widower desperate to earn the respect of his son Wade (Jacob Tremblay). Dinklage plays the role straight and is actually rather moving, particularly when he appeals for support to his big boss, gross plutocrat Bob Garbinger (Kevin Bacon) and is given the bum’s rush by Garbinger’s “associate” Kissy (Julia Davis) who bears a distinct resemblance to Melania Trump at times.
However it’s shortly after that that Winston falls foul of the toxic pollutant mixture from which Garbinger and his dad have made their millions and surprise, surprise, he turns into the monstrous looking avenger of the title – now played by physical comedy actress Luisa Guerreiro in heavy disguise with Dinklage still providing Winston’s voice.
Garbinger’s supporters are a ruthless lot, particularly a colourful punk band who look like refugees from Mad Max’s mob. There’s also Garbinger’s creepy younger brother Fritz, played by former Hobbit Elijah Wood, referencing Marty Feldman’s Igor from Young Frankenstein. But Toxic can outgross them any time. Limbs, necks, even heads go flying around in gallons of blood and everyone had better duck when he wields that toxic janitor’s mop.
It’s not everyone’s cup of gore , though I particularly relished the tv news reports of Toxic’s exploits, which are both rude and witty. It is though harmless, cartoonish fun and for those who like this sort of thing, as Miss Brodie once said, this is the sort of thing they like.
Don’t rush for the exit once the credits roll – the cast list is fun – and after all the “thank you”s to various people, there’s a little extra scene tacked on to the end for you to enjoy.
