In the age of the superhero film, it seems like it’s only a matter of time until every superhero gets their chance in the spotlight. And now, it looks like The Toxic Avenger will make his return to theaters with a new reboot. While many have perhaps never heard of the monstrous hero from New Jersey, he actually starred in his own film in 1984. Originating in the comedy movie, he later went on to spawn four sequels. It also led to a comic books, a TV series, a musical, a video game, and four sequels.
So it’s not so surprising that a reboot is in the works, which Variety recently confirmed will be written and directed by Macon Blair. Primarily known as an actor in such films as Murder Party and Green Room, Blair recently wrote and directed the film I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore. Further screenwriting credits include Small Crimes and Hold the Dark.
The original The Toxic Avenger focuses on a janitor who works at a health club in the fictional town of Tromaville, New Jersey. When a bunch of bullies chase him out a window and into a vat of toxic waste, he transforms into a hideous creature with superhuman strength. Standing up to his bullies, he becomes a hero for the city and fights criminals wherever he sees them.
When the film first debuted it was widely ignored, but later went on to become a cult success. The rights recently went up for grabs, with Legendary Pictures getting them in December. As a New Jersey native myself, I’m always game for a film taking place in the “garden state.”
The original film starred Mark Torgl as the titular Toxic Avenger. While there’s no word yet on who will take up the mantle this time around, we’ll keep you posted.