When you think of superhero IP that has yet to be remade or rebooted as a modern franchise, you probably won’t immediately think about “The Toxic Avenger” as the next big thing. Well, Legendary Pictures, the studio that just showed us a giant lizard fighting a huge ape in “Godzilla vs. Kong,” is set to do a modern remake of 1984’s low-budget, cult classic, R-rated superhero film, “The Toxic Avenger.” And while we have known that Peter Dinklage is set to star in the new film, it appears that writer-director Macon Blair is ready to add another name to the cast list.
According to Deadline, Jacob Tremblay is set to star opposite Peter Dinklage in the upcoming remake of “The Toxic Avenger.” For those not aware, “The Toxic Avenger” tells the story of a weak, nerdy guy that is bullied and thrown into a vat of toxic waste. The radiation horribly deforms the man, but also gives him super strength, turning him into the Toxic Avenger, a hero hellbent on saving citizens and the environment. The original film is from Troma, a company known for its low-budget, raunchy films that hold back nothing and push the limits of good taste. But they have a super strong cult following, specifically when it comes to Toxie.
It’s unclear what role Tremblay might play in the film, but so far, the film is two-for-two when it comes to casting, after the original announcement of Peter Dinklage. Say what you will, but these two are great actors, with Tremblay breaking out with his great performance in “Room,” as well as more recent roles in films like “Good Boys” and “Wonder.”
As mentioned, the film is set to be written and directed by Macon Blair, who is the man responsible for the underrated indie film, “I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore.” He’s also written for director Jeremy Saulnier in the thriller, “Hold the Dark.” There’s no release date set for Blair’s new “Toxic Avenger.”