Kevin Bacon is the latest to join the cast of The Toxic Avenger remake, catching the attention of diehard Troma fans everywhere.
In my interview with Troma founder/creator Lloyd Kaufman (read my interview here), the B-movie filmmaker mentioned this project was, at the time of our conversation, in very early stages and nothing was written in stone. However, with both protagonist and antagonist roles now filled by outstanding names, we may see a revamped Toxie onscreen after-all.
Best known for iconic roles such as Ren in Footloose (1984) and Val McKee in Tremors (1990), Kevin Bacon is an established name in cinema who, in more recent years, has showcased his evil side. Portraying the devilish character of Sebastian Caine in the underrated sci-fi horror hit Hollow Man (2000), Bacon proved himself capable of a darker side as the mad scientist behind a scientific breakthrough. And, in 2011, comic book geeks everywhere came to know him as Sebastian Shaw in Matthew Vaughn’s X-Men: First Class. He also played the villain again as the undead heavy Bobby Hayes in the 2013 supernatural thriller R.I.P.D.
Continuing his evil streak, Bacon has been cast as the leading villain in The Toxic Avenger remake according to The Hollywood Reporter. While details of his character have yet to be released, anyone familiar with the legendary film’s theme can guess that Bacon will likely portray an over-the-top face of corrupt corporate greed – something I can personally see him pulling off without breaking a sweat!
Opposite Bacon as the film’s lead protagonist is Peter Dinklage, which was announced last winter. Best known as Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones, Dinklage is no stranger to playing an underdog character with range and depth making him an ideal choice for the reboot.
Directing this re-imagining of The Toxic Avenger is Macon Blair who’s know for his 2017 directorial debut I Don’t Feel At Home In This World Anymore, a dark comedy starring Melanie Lynskey and Elijah Wood. Blair’s past work with Wood also may be partially responsible for the circulating rumors that said actor may join The Toxic Avenger cast. Although Wood’s involvement is unclear at this time, it would come as no surprise considering the actor is no stranger to obscure independent films.
With Bacon and Dinklage both confirmed, The Toxic Avenger reboot is making headway towards production. And, with Troma founders Kaufman and Michael Herz offering guidance as consultants and producers, this modern take on a cult classic B-movie of the ’80s is shaping up to be one highly anticipated feature.
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