This Gory Superhero Story Starring Peter Dinklage Leans Into The Absurd In The Best Possible Way

The Toxic Avenger reimagines the 1984 cult classic film, but it retains all the quirks and charm of the original in gory perfection. A supernatural black comedy that holds nothing back, The Toxic Avenger delivers a stunning and horrifying retelling of a tragic superhero who turns his misfortune into heroism. With Peter Dinklage leading the cast and impressive practical effects, it’s impossible to look away.

Winston Gooze works as a janitor for a corrupt pharmaceutical company that has come under fire for its reckless disposal of toxic waste and other issues. When Winston becomes ill, his desperation leads him to some uncomfortable confrontations. However, this also leads to Winston becoming the Toxic Avenger, a horrifying creature who must earn the trust of locals and his step-son through his heroism.

The Toxic Avenger Is Designed For A Specific Niche

The humor of The Toxic Avenger, along with the excessive violence throughout, may immediately turn off some viewers. However, the humor, the practical effects, and the bizarre world-building make this an enjoyable film. The Toxic Avenger knows exactly what it is, and it unapologetically leans into the absurd and crude humor that makes it so charming.

It’s a great and hilarious film held up by a talented cast, intelligent writing, and beautiful cinematography.

It’s impressive how vast the world of this film feels, and how quickly it sets the tone for what’s to come — from the names of places and characters to the actual fight scenes between Toxie and the criminals who plague his home. It’s rich and worthy of exploration. What’s more, the comedy is not so abstract that it’s a challenge to find moments to laugh. Everything about it works, and it does so to an impressive degree.

Of course, this is largely down to the performance of Luisa Guerreiro, who wears a practical costume as The Toxic Avenger, and the rich and emotive voice of Peter Dinklage, which further enhance the character. Additionally, Kevin Bacon stands out as the corrupt CEO, as does Elijah Wood in the role of his younger brother, Fritz. All around, it’s a great and hilarious film held up by a talented cast, intelligent writing, and beautiful cinematography.

The Toxic Avenger Is Defined By Its World Building

Toxie holding a broom in The Toxic Avenger

Some superhero movies lean into the otherworldly, inventing new places and events, while others attempt to stay more grounded. The Toxic Avenger jumps into another dimension where it feels at home with films like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.

The Toxic Avenger pushes the boundaries in several ways, but it all feels important, and fun.

Writer-director Macon Blair is the visionary who redefined the classic Toxic Avenger story from 1984, along with the franchise that it built, and made it entirely new and fresh. Blair’s influence is felt in every inch of the film, and it results in an iconic story that manages to blend black comedy with environmental messages and pure entertainment value.

It’s dark, twisted, but it also explores emotion and connection, all while exposing real issues of greed and pollution. The Toxic Avenger pushes boundaries; it’s important and fun. From Dinklage’s incredible wit and gravitas to the connection explored between Toxie and the people of his community, this film delivers fun and unexpected twists.