Plot: What’s it about?
Melvin (Mark Torgl) seems to be stuck in his lifestyle, which consists of mopping the floors at the local gym and being bullied and beaten by bigger guys. Melvin is a wimp and has no intent on fighting back, which makes the matters even worse for the poor guy. While he is often made fun of, humiliated, and embarrassed, Melvin is about to be pushed too far and things will never be the same. When Melvin is called in by a beautiful blonde, he jumps at the chance to do her wishes but soon discovers it is just another joke at his expense. By the end of the escapade, Melvin ends up locking lips with a crossdressing farm animal and there’s nothing worse than slipping the tongue to a sheep, now is there? This episode with the sheep drives Melvin over the edge and he leaps out of a window in an effort to end it all. Instead of cashing it in, Melvin lands in a drum of toxic sludge and his life takes a turn like you wouldn’t believe. Soon Melvin begins to change into a monstrous, muscle bound green guy also known as Toxie. Soon Melvin leaves his old loser lifestyle behind and become a crime fighting superhero like no other.
Ah yes…good ole’ Toxie, the man who put Troma on the map and spawned sequels, a cartoon television show, and even a line of action figures. This is what started it all though and even after over fifteen years The Toxic Avenger still manages to entertain me. This is a true cult classic and a must have for Troma fans the world over, as well as those who love the big green lug. This is, like all Troma movies a low budget excursion but it still delivers on all fronts, especially when it comes to hilarious dialogue and disgusting special effects. Yes the effects seem cheesy, but the look very good and still look as gross as ever. In a definite bonus this director’s cut of the film extends some existing effects and adds some new ones as well, which is always a good thing. Despite the enriching storyline and terrific bubbling effects, some will want to steer clear of this movie, but I sure don’t know why. Is this Shakespeare? No. Does it have a complex storyline loaded with deep characters? No. But it is a fun movie filled with all manner of humor and cool special effects, which is more enough to make me like it. I recommend a rental to first time viewers, but fans of the film should act now and grab this disc if they haven’t already.
This film was directed by Troma’s finest Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz, who know how to make an impressive and entertaining movie on a shoestring budget. Sure this is more based on shocking effects and lines that make the sides hurt with laughter rather than technical directing, but if the image isn’t framed right, what good is it? This film is without a doubt a classic of independent cinema and these two have a lot to be proud of with this movie. Both of these men have extensive resumes loaded with Troma classics and I have to say most of them are quite enjoyable if you like the Troma flair. Kaufman and Herz worked together on the second and third Toxie epics, but Kaufman has gone solo with the upcoming fourth entry in the series. The two also worked together to direct a couple of my all time favorite Troma classics, Sgt. Kabukiman, N.Y.P.D. and Troma’s War. Kaufman also directed such Troma masterpieces as Class Of Nuke ‘Em High, Tromeo & Juliet, and Terror Firmer. The lead in this film is played by Mitchell Cohen, who brings Toxie to life in grand fashion. The supporting cast also includes Andree Maranda, Mark Torgl (The First Turn On!!), Jennifer Babtist (Goodbye New York), Cindy Manion (Blow Out), and Robert Prichard (Class Of Nuke ‘Em High).
Video: How does it look?
The Toxic Avenger is presented in a 1.33:1 or full frame aspect ratio, which seems to be an open matte transfer. I noted no misframing or visible pan and scan, so that’s why I assume this is an acceptable aspect ratio. As with most Troma release the video is acceptable but could use some serious work. But if you’ve seen other releases of this classic, then you’ll be pleased with this improved visual presentation. The colors look bright, especially the blood reds and flesh tones seem natural, especially the bouncing breasts. The contrast is solid as well, no overly dark or light regions emerge. This has some edge enhancement and other compression errors, but you’ll be too involved with the action to notice.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original mono track is included which creates an average audio experience. While this isn’t an audio driven movie, some scenes could make do with a surround track. But as it stands this track handles it all better than you’d expect from the mono format, so I won’t complain. The music, effects, and dialogue all come through without major errors, although some hiss is evident.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release contains several Troma based goodies, but it also has many film specific extras as well. The main bonus is an audio commentary with director Lloyd Kaufman, which is one of the funniest and most informative tracks I have heard…and I’ve heard a ton of them. Kaufman tells some secrets about the production, tricks of the low budget cinema, and a plethora of hilarious anecdotes. If you’re a Toxie maniac, you owe it to yourself to give this commentary a listen. Clips from the Toxic Crusaders animated television show and Tromaville Cafe program are also included and make for an interesting watch. Two interviews can be found on the disc, one with Toxie who looks back on all this success and the other with Mark Torgl, the actor who played Melvin. Never before seen stills from the production are also on this disc, as well as trailers for this and other Troma classics. You’ll also find several deleted scenes, which offer some insight into what might have been…
