Following our first (obscured) glimpse of Peter Dinklage as "Toxie" in the upcoming remake of The Toxic Avenger, Legendary Entertainment has released an updated synopsis to give fans a better idea of what to expect from the story.
The synopsis seems to confirm that this isn't so much a full reboot as a reimagining (possibly even set in the same universe), with the Game of Thrones alum actually playing a completely different character to the grotesque hero of the Troma cult classic.
Fans were concerned that this movie might tone down some of the original's crazier, more extreme elements in order to secure a family-friendly PG-13 rating, but it doesn't sound like that's going to be much of a problem!
“While the original film (which premiered in 1984 – almost 40 years ago!) followed the fate of Melvin Ferd Junko III (Mitch Cohen), who goes from zero to toxic hero in a case of bullying gone awry, Macon Blair’s contemporary take follows a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength all his own.
Peter Dinklage stars as downtrodden janitor Winston Gooze who, after falling into a vat of toxic waste, becomes none other than The Toxic Avenger. This timely reimagining is up to its eyeballs in environmental themes as Winston goes up against the evil forces of greed and corruption to save his son, his friends, and his community.
Even as this story exists on its own terms, the spirit undoubtedly remains connected to the original. Troma fans old and new will be pleased to know that the film has been rated “R” for violence and gore – as per Troma tradition.”
Jacob Tremblay (Room, The Predator) will also star as Toxie's son, and Taylour Page (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom) will play the female lead.
The Toxic Avenger was first introduced in the 1984 movie of the same name from indie studio Troma Entertainment, and has since gone on to achieve cult status with several sequels, a comic book series and even a short-lived 1991 children's animated show called The Toxic Crusaders.
The movie will have its world premiere at Fantastic Fest next month.