Macon Blair’s take on The Toxic Avenger delivers the chaotic, grimy revival long-time fans were hoping for. As the fifth entry in the series and a remake of the 1984 cult hit, it leans fully into its identity as an ultra-violent black comedy. The mix of cartoonish gore, biting satire and surprising heart hits the right balance. Those seeking shock and excess will be well served, though anyone expecting a straight superhero story may be left uneasy.
Peter Dinklage stars as Winston Gooze, a weary janitor whose life changes after a toxic accident. He plays it with warmth and depth, giving Winston more than a monster’s rage. When the film needs emotion, he provides it. Jacob Tremblay’s turn as Wade, Winston’s stepson, adds heart and grounding to the madness.
Taylour Paige brings sharp energy as whistleblower J.J. Doherty, sparking much of the plot. Kevin Bacon revels in his sleaze as corrupt boss Bob Garbinger, while Elijah Wood adds a jittery menace as Fritz. Luisa Guerreiro, credited as the suit performer, delivers a committed physical performance as the Avenger himself.
The story is simple, which suits it. A crooked pharmaceutical company, BTH, sits at the centre, surrounded by mobsters, thugs, and a threatened community. Blair builds from these ingredients a mix of violent bursts, sick humour and moments of bleak comedy. It plays more as a parody than a reinvention, loud and filthy but laced with flashes of sincerity that stop it from being pure shock theatre.
It has flaws. The plot is deliberately thin, and at times it drifts like a collection of sketches joined by blood and slime. Some jokes drag on too long, and the middle stretch could use tightening. At just over 100 minutes, it slightly outstays its welcome. Anyone after nuance or precision storytelling won’t find it here.
Still, the film understands its purpose. Blair keeps the anarchic tone of the original alive while grounding it in the bond between Winston and Wade. Some moments shine, others fall flat, but the energy never dips for long. Strong performances, decent satire and a surprising sense of care beneath the chaos make it work.
The Toxic Avenger won’t appeal to everyone. It’s brash, shocking and unapologetically grotesque. Yet for those ready to enjoy the madness, it’s a loud, funny and oddly heartfelt reboot that respects its roots while standing on its own. I’d give it an 8 out of 10.
Out Now at https://apple.co/4ozVYwU
