Dinklage’s Toxic Avenger Film Shelved, Comic Relaunch Announced
The Vanishing Act of “The Toxic Avenger”
There’s a ghost in horror cinema, and it goes by the name “The Toxic Avenger,” starring Peter Dinklage, Elijah Wood, and Kevin Bacon. Last year, the film’s announcement came with a shiny new trailer from writer/director Macon Blair. First-look images made the rounds at several horror film festivals in September.
However, “The Toxic Avenger” seems to have vanished. Word on the street is that it’s been shelved, deemed “unreleasable,” a label that makes movie buffs cringe.
Why the Shelving?
A producer told World of Reel that the film is “too out there” for a theatrical release and has little commercial potential. Despite positive reviews, the producer said it is still “unreleasable.” If it gets green-lit, it may head straight to video-on-demand or streaming.
The movie boasts a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score from 24 reviews. However, solid reviews aren’t insurance against being too niche. The producer boldly predicted, “I wouldn’t be surprised if we see it on Tubi a few years from now.”
A New Hope: Comic Book Relaunch
In another twist, the original creator, Lloyd Kaufman, is spearheading a comic book relaunch. This new comic takes cues from the original movies and properties, not the Dinklage version. Filmmaker Adam Masnyk confirmed, “This is what we were officially told.”
The comic, led by two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist Matt Bors and artist Fred Harper, aims to build on the character. Melvin Junko, a bullied nerd, returns as the titular hero. He fights against a harsh quarantine imposed on Tromaville after a mysterious train spill of toxic waste.
The Future of The Toxic Avenger
While the unreleased Toxic Avenger film remains uncertain, fans can find solace in the comic book relaunch. The beloved character will continue to fight for truth, justice, and all things toxic in comic book form.
As creator Lloyd Kaufman says, “Toxie loves you and so do I.” A sentiment you can’t help but appreciate, no matter how toxic.
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Image credit: cosmicbook.news
