UPDATE: Actor Elijah Wood is making headlines as he prepares for his role in the highly anticipated remake of The Toxic Avenger, set to hit theaters on August 29, 2023. Wood, who has long been associated with the iconic Lord of the Rings franchise, is stepping into an unusual character as Fritz, the henchman to Kevin Bacon’s villainous role.
At the recent San Diego Comic-Con, Wood shared his thoughts on the character and the challenges of remaking cult classics. “Fritz is many things—he’s not just a henchman; he’s a misunderstood figure yearning for love,” Wood explained. His portrayal dives deep into the emotional turmoil of a character shaped by his physical deformities and a lifetime of being overshadowed by his more capable brother.
With Peter Dinklage taking on the role of the title mutant, fans are eager to see how this unique narrative unfolds. Wood emphasized that Fritz’s backstory, though not explicitly detailed, is filled with pain and resentment. “He’s actually sort of a sweet guy, and he’s just misunderstood,” he stated, hinting at the character’s complexity.
This remake is generating buzz not just for its star-studded cast but also for its fresh take on the source material. Wood stated he was drawn to the project because of its innovative approach. “Remakes are tricky, but this one respects the original while creating something new,” he noted.
Earlier this year, Wood showcased his versatility in a different role as Ted Hammerman in The Monkey, a character he described as more odious than Fritz. His experiences reflect a broad spectrum of characters in his career, but he remains committed to exploring the weird and wonderful in cinema.
Wood’s involvement in cult classics isn’t new; he previously starred in the 2012 remake of Maniac. He expressed his love for genre films and the creative risks they entail. “I’m always going to be interested in making something weird and funny and absurd,” he added, indicating his passion for unique storytelling.
As the release date approaches, the excitement continues to build among fans of the original Toxic Avenger. With its blend of humor and horror, this film promises to deliver a fresh perspective while honoring its cult classic roots.
Stay tuned for more updates as The Toxic Avenger prepares to take over theaters later this month.
