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Category: Comedy

  • Happy Gilmore (1996)

    Happy Gilmore (1996)

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    At age 17, a young Adam Sandler first took at comedy clubs after his brother urged him to do so. This led to a small role on The Cosby Show and the lead in the mostly-forgotten comedy Going Overboard. However, his career took off when comedian Dennis Miller discovered him and introduced him to SNL producer Lorne Michaels. Sandler was hired as a writer in 1990, became a featured player the following year, and was a massive hit. After being fired in 1995, Sandler decided to pursue films, having previously appeared in supporting roles in Coneheads and Airheads. He scored a hit with Billy Madison, which he co-wrote with his college roommate and SNL writer Tim Herlihy. Following its success, Herlihy and Sandler started working on their next project, hiring actor-turned-director Dennis Dugan to helm the project. After a three-month shoot, February 1996 saw the release of Happy Gilmore.

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    Synopsis

    Happy Gilmore (Adam Sandler) is an aspiring hockey player whose life isn’t going anywhere and has serious anger issues. While visiting his grandmother (Frances Bay), he learns that the IRS is foreclosing on her house because of back taxes. He chats with the movers, who challenge him to a long-drive contest, and he hits the ball 400 yards away. Happy decides to hustle people at a golf range, where he runs into former pro golfer Chubbs Peterson (Carl Weathers). At Chubbs’ persistence, Happy enters into a local golf tournament, which he wins, getting a spot on the pro tour. Happy’s unorthodox skills and crass antics make him a fan favorite, which upsets pro golfer Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald). Meanwhile, Happy falls for Virginia Venit (Julie Bowen), who helps him take down Shooter and get his grandmother’s house back. Will Happy get the house back, or will Shooter shoot him down?

     

    Review

    Happy Gilmore is vulgar, crass, foul, and utterly stupid, but it’s also weirdly endearing and better than you’d expect. It’s got the tropes you’d see in future Sandler films: crude humor, rampant product placement, celebrity cameos, and SNL alumni. However, it’s not as bad here, probably because there’s a sort of innocence lacking in Sandler’s more recent comedies. It helps that the central motivation for Happy’s actions is trying to help someone close to him instead of himself. In terms of his direction, Dennis Dugan does a decent job, though it’s nothing too special or extraordinary. There are some cool POV shots of the goofball and some good use of filters for the dream sequences. Otherwise, it looks no different than your standard 90s comedy, though it’s not going for any artistic merit. It’s going for dumb, fun entertainment, and it mostly succeeds where it counts.

    As the hero, Adam Sandler does a good job, only mugging for the camera when appropriate, but is otherwise likable. Julie Bowen works as the love interest, and Frances Bay is incredibly sweet and lovable as the grandmother. However, it’s Christopher McDonald who absolutely steals the show as Shooter McGavin, chewing up as much scenery as he can. Carl Weathers also seems to be having fun as the old golf coach who acts as a wise sage. Richard Kiel and Bob Barker have some fun cameos, Barker especially since he gets to beat up Adam Sandler. Also, Ben Stiller has a brief but funny appearance as the orderly at the nursing home Happy’s grandmother stays at. At an hour and 33 minutes, the film goes by quickly and has a decent pace to keep you entertained. Overall, Happy Gilmore won’t appeal to everyone, but it’s a decent sports comedy.

     

    Buy Happy Gilmore from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3pOAJbY

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  • Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown (1991)

    Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown (1991)

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    Released in 1986, Class of Nuke ‘Em High was another major hit for Troma Entertainment, still vying for mainstream status. Unfortunately, following the disastrous release of Troma’s War, Troma had to majorly restructure themselves to try and stay afloat. One attempt they made to try and appeal to mainstream audiences was Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D., but that was a failure. While working on that film, Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz noticed wrestler-turned-actor Jeffrey Beltzner under the pseudonym Brick Bronsky. They liked him so much that they offered him the lead role in an upcoming sequel to their ’86 hit. They hired Eric Louzil, who previously directed Lust for Freedom and Fortress of Amerikkka and produced Sizzle Beach USA. However, rather than being a direct sequel, Louzil decided to make his own standalone film separate from the original. In 1991, Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown was released.

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    Synopsis

    The Tromaville nuclear reactor has been rebuilt by the Nukamama Corporation, who’ve incorporated it into a new college. Dubbed the Tromaville Institute of Technology (T.I.T.), student Roger Smith (Brick Bronsky) is an aspiring reporter for the college paper. Unbeknownst to him, the science teacher Professor Holt (Lisa Gaye) is creating an army of subhumanoids for the Nukamama Corporation. While she has noble intentions, Dean Okra (Scott Resnick) wants to use the subhumanoids for the corporation’s nefarious deeds. During a sexual experiment, Roger meets and falls in love with Victoria (Leesa Rowland), who turns out is a subhumanoid. Also, it turns out the subhumanoids are melting down, meaning that Victoria will meet the same fate. With time running out and the school in chaos, Roger must find a way to save his new girlfriend. It’s a subhumanoid meltdown coming on through, and we’re dead anyway, so let’s fall to a goo!

     

    Review

    Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown is a bit of a disjointed mess, but it’s a fun mess. Even though it wasn’t directed by Lloyd Kaufman, this still feels like a typical Troma film in style and tone. There’s plenty of nudity, gore, and overall craziness to satisfy the most hardcore Troma fans, but at a cost. The film’s biggest problem is the pacing, as it takes a good 30-40 minutes for the plot to kick in. Many scenes in the film feel like isolated skits that have nothing to do with the overall movie. Granted, Troma films aren’t really known for having deep, intricate plots, but it’s hard to stay interested when it drags. Also, with some exceptions, none of the characters are particularly memorable, including The Squirrels, this movie’s version of The Cretins. Aside from their wacky appearances, they don’t do much.

    That said, there are some bright spots in the cast, particularly Brick Bronsky, Lisa Gaye, Leesa Rowland, and Scott Resnick. Bronsky acts as the film’s straight man, and he works thanks to his charisma, humor, and impressive physique. It’s easy to see how Kaufman and Herz saw potential in Bronsky to become a star in his own right. Returning from The Toxic Avenger Part II, Lisa Gaye is once again hamming up her role with glee. Scott Resnick is pretty fun as the corrupt yet unusually high-pitched dean, and Leesa Rowland has solid chemistry with Bronsky. The finale is easily the best part of the movie, as there’s tons of destruction, chaos, and mayhem. Plus, we get the introduction of the fan-favorite character Tromie the Radioactive Squirrel, though it only slightly validates the film. Overall, Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown is an enjoyable if disjointed mess.

     

    Buy Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NM52mf

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  • The Toxic Avenger Part II (1989)

    The Toxic Avenger Part II (1989)

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    After The Toxic Avenger and Class of Nuke ‘Em High were hits, Troma hoped Troma’s War would be another hit. Unfortunately, the film was severely trimmed at the behest of the MPAA, and the cut version released was a flop. Because of this, any hope of Troma being able to compete with the major studios was quickly dashed. Moving forward, Troma would be reworked into an independent studio, putting more emphasis on doing their thing rather than competing. To try and bounce back, Lloyd Kaufman decided to make a sequel to his most popular film at the time. It was decided to film a large part of the film in Japan to expand its reach in foreign markets. Unfortunately, none of the original cast returned, and there were some issues regarding the Japanese actors’ ability to speak English. Eventually, The Toxic Avenger Part II was released in 1989.

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    Synopsis

    Tromaville has become a nice place to live since The Toxic Avenger (Ron Fazio) cleaned up all the crime. Unfortunately, Toxie is severely depressed since there’s no evil to beat up, though his blind girlfriend Claire (Phoebe Legere) helps. However, the evil organization Apocalypse Inc, led by the Chairman (Rick Collins) and his assistant Malfaire (Lisa Gaye), is emerging. After losing some of their men to Toxie, the organization tries figuring out how to get Toxie out of Tromaville. Thanks to his psychologist, they learn that Toxie has father issues and that his father lives in Tokyo. Toxie is convinced to travel to Tokyo to find his father, along the way meeting Japanese local Masami (Mayako Katsuragi). With her help, he finds his long-lost father Big Mac Junko (Rikiya Yasuoka), who’s been smuggling drugs with fish. Will Toxie have to kill his own father, and what will happen to Tromaville?

     

    Review

    While it expands on what the original established, The Toxic Avenger Part II feels somewhat excessive and longer than expected. There are fun and ridiculous action sequences, but many of them go on for longer than they should. At times, it feels like the filmmakers were more concerned with doing something goofy rather than moving the plot forward. For instance, the opening sequence has at least three to five fight sequences that go on for roughly 10 minutes. Admittedly, there are some moments of silly over-the-top gore thrown in, but they drag out the runtime considerably. Things don’t change much once Toxie’s in Tokyo, as the same emphasis on action and violence over the story continues. At slightly over 90 minutes, it feels longer due to the messy pacing and scenes that seemingly never end. It feels like excess for the sake of excess rather than delivering a message.

    That said, this is still an entertaining film that’ll more than satisfy any hardcore Troma fan and then some. While not as good as Mitch Cohen, Ron Fazio makes for a good Toxie, even if his voice is off. Rick Collins and Lisa Gaye make for fun over-the-top villains, clearly chewing up every bit of scenery around them. Phoebe Legere can be a bit grating as Claire, but she provides enough fan service to satiate any Tromaholic. It’s somewhat difficult to judge Rikiya Yasuoka and Mayako Katsuragi’s performances since they’re dubbed, but they’re very expressive and active. Jessica Dublin, returning from Troma’s War, is fun as Toxie’s mom, though she isn’t given much to do. While the sequel is a bit of a mess, but it’s still just as entertaining as any other Troma film. Overall, The Toxic Avenger Part II is a flawed but enjoyable follow-up to the original.

     

    Buy The Toxic Avenger Part II on Amazon: https://amzn.to/355KBqn

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  • Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955)

    Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955)

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    Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man was another hit for Universal, grossing over $1.5 million at the box office. The duo followed that up with 1952’s Comin’ Round the Mountain before doing the independent production Jack and the Beanstalk. Their first color film, Abbott and Costello later made Abbott and Costello Meet Captain Kidd, which was also in color. Both films were distributed by Warner Bros., and the latter was directed by Charles Lamont, who they worked with frequently. Though they continued working with Universal into the 1950s, their popularity started waning and Costello’s health was starting to fail. For instance, they withdrew from 1954’s Fireman Save My Child and were replaced by Hugh O’Brian and Buddy Hackett. With the emergence of Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis, Abbott and Costello had a few movies left at Universal. One of those films was 1955’s Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy.

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    Synopsis

    Bud Abbott and Lou Costello are stranded in Cairo when they overhear Dr. Gustav Zoomer (Kurt Katch) discussing a legend. He talks about the mummy Klaris (Eddie Parker), the guardian of Princess Ara’s tomb who carries a special medallion. This medallion supposedly shows the location of her treasure, which is being protected by Semu (Richard Deacon) and his followers. At the same time, a local businesswoman named Madame Rontru (Marie Windsor) overhears the conversation intending on stealing the treasure. Bud and Lou try getting work from Zoomer, but Semu’s men Iben (Mel Welles) and Hetsut (Richard Karlan) murder him. They make off with Klaris, but Bud and Lou manage to find the medallion, though Lou accidentally eats it. Things get further complicated when Rontru abducts them, inadvertently starts working with Semu, and make their way to Ara’s tomb. Hijinks ensue once Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy!

     

    Review

    Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy, while entertaining, feels like a somewhat tiring effort, and you can see why. While they’re clearly trying and they have plenty of energy, you can tell this is near their end. Abbott’s definitely much older by this point, and Costello isn’t taking as many pratfalls as before. Not only that, but there are some bits here that are copied from some of their most popular sketches. It almost feels like them trying to hold onto whatever relevance they had left by reworking their old material. Even still, they still work well together, and their shtick still works, even if it isn’t as fresh. Marie Windsor is quite good here, really playing up a femme fatale quality straight out of a film noir. Her more serious tone works off well against Abbot and Costello’s comedic stylings, though it tends to clash at times.

    Eddie Parker, a stuntman who was also in Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man, does a decent job as the Mummy. The make-up is sadly a step down from the previous films, though it’s fine here given it’s a comedy. Unlike the previous films, this one has absolutely no connection to the previous Mummy movies, though I’m fine with that. By this point, The Mummy franchise had gone stale and many of them kept doing the same thing. This film repeats the plot element of a secret society that watches over The Mummy, making this more a parody. While it doesn’t entirely justify many of the weaker Mummy movies, it’s nice to see Universal taking shots at themselves. In the end, this is a decent comedy that, at 80 minutes, won’t take up much of your time. Overall, Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy is a flawed but solid comedy.

     

    Buy Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3jF3swJ

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  • Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951)

    Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951)

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    Released in 1948, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein was a massive success, grossing $3.2 million against an $800,000 budget. Following the critical and commercial success, Universal decided to pair the two with some of their other monsters. They hinted at a sequel with a cameo by The Invisible Man, voiced by Vincent Price, towards the end. However, The Invisible Man in this film would be a whole new character rather than returning from a previous film. Charles Lamont, who was working with Universal since 1942, was hired to direct due to his experience with limited budgets. As such, he was given a $627,000 budget, much lower than the last film, but par for the course. This installment was filmed between October and November 1950 with only Abbott and Costello returning from the last film. Finally, in March of 1951, Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man was released.

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    Synopsis

    Having graduated from a school for private detectives, Lou Francis (Lou Costello) and Bud Alexander (Bud Abbott) get to work. They’re visited by Tommy Nelson (Arthur Franz), a boxer on the run from the law for supposedly murdering his manager. Tommy has them take him to see his girlfriend Helen (Nancy Guild) and her uncle, Dr. Gray (Gavin Muir). Turns out Dr. Gray has the invisibility formula originally developed by John Griffin, and he injects Tommy with it. Using his visibility, Tommy plans to clear his name, hiring Lou and Bud to help find the real killer. The plan is having Lou pretend to be a boxer with Bud as his manager and Tommy doing the fighting. While Detective Roberts (William Frawley) is trailing them, Tommy grows more insane the longer he stays invisible. Will our heroes find the real killer, or will Tommy succumb to his growing insanity?

     

    Review

    While I enjoyed the previous film, I found Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man to be much funnier. The concept of invisibility has plenty of opportunities for potential gags, and this film takes full advantage of it. Most of the comedy comes from Tommy doings things while invisible and people thinking someone else did them. For instance, when Lou Costello gets in the ring and pretends to fight, with Tommy doing the fighting, it’s golden. Like last time, Abbott and Costello are in top form, trading plenty of banter and taking their share of blows. There’s more of an emphasis on physical comedy here than in the last film, though there’s some great dialogue. One of the best examples is a scene where Costello accidentally hypnotizes people to sleep using a watch. It’s a sequence that progressively gets funnier and funnier, but never overstays its welcome.

    Arthur Franz does a good job as Tommy Nelson, having plenty of fun as he gradually grows more insane. He plays off of Abbott and Costello well, exchanging plenty of banter between the two and delivering some funny lines. William Frawley is funny as the stern police detective trying to find Tommy, perfectly reacting off of the ensuing hijinks. Like before, this one plays fast and loose with the continuity, though it makes extensive reference to The Invisible Man. The film uses stock footage from The Invisible Man Returns, ironic considering Vincent Price starred in that film. Thankfully, it’s only for one scene, and they at least try to tie it in with the new footage. Universal took a bit of a gamble having Abbott and Costello meeting their monsters, but they’ve struck gold twice. Overall, Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man is a hilarious comedy that’s worth seeing.

     

    Buy Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man on Amazon: https://amzn.to/34yMxHQ

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  • Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)

    Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]From the 1940s to the early 1950s, Bud Abbott and Lou Costello were the biggest comedy duo in the world. Originally starting in burlesque shows, they first achieved success with their radio show, where they performed their greatest comedic hits. Soon enough, they signed a contract with Universal Studios, starting with One Night in the Tropics in 1940. However, it wasn’t until 1941’s Buck Privates that Abbott and Costello became a household name as box office hits. Though they were loaned out to MGM every so often, they were Universal’s biggest moneymakers next to their monster movies. Speaking of, it was only a matter of time before the boys would be paired up with the classic monsters. Though reluctant at first due to script issues, they agreed to take part in this horror-comedy mash-up. Finally, in 1948, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein was released and comedy history was made.

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    Synopsis

    Baggage clerks Chick Young (Bud Abbott) and Wilbur Grey (Lou Costello) must deliver two crates to McDougal’s House Of Horrors. These crates are supposed to contain the remains of Count Dracula (Bela Lugosi) and Frankenstein’s monster (Glenn Strange). However, Wilbur gets a call from Lawrence Talbot/The Wolf Man (Lon Chaney Jr.), warning them not to deliver them. Unfortunately, his warning falls on deaf ears as they deliver the crates, only for Dracula to escape with Frankenstein’s monster. Dracula meets up with Dr. Sandra Mornay (Lenore Aubert), a surgeon planning on transplanting Wilbur’s brain into the monster’s body. Meanwhile, Talbot meets up with Chick and Wilbur and again pleads for their help, which they reluctantly agree to. Alongside insurance investigator Joan Raymond (Jane Randolph), they travel to Sandra’s castle to confront her, Dracula, and Frankenstein’s monster. Hijinks ensue as the Universal monsters meet the comic stylings of Abbott and Costello!

     

    Review

    Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein is often credited as the first great horror-comedy, and it’s easy to see why. First off, Abbott and Costello are genuinely funny in this, playing off each other and exchanging witty banter throughout. Their comedy perfectly contrasts with the more serious terror of the Universal monsters, especially their scenes with Lon Chaney Jr. While Chaney is once again acting his heart out and taking the role seriously, Costello responds with a comeback. Despite it being 17 years since he first donned the cape, Bela Lugosi steps back into the role effortlessly. Though not quite as fresh as his 1931 outing, Lugosi still exudes the same charm and intensity as before. Unlike the last few films, Glenn Strange is given much more to do and even say as the Frankenstein monster. It also helps that the monsters are given equal amounts of screentime.

    Admittedly, this movie doesn’t have much continuity from the other films, but it’s almost expected at this point. Also, given that this is meant to be a horror-comedy, the lack of continuity can be excused this time. Some classic horror fans might be disappointed to see the Universal monsters being seemingly made fun of, which is untrue. Sure, the monsters are involved in some wacky hijinks, but it never feels like Universal is insulting their own characters. It feels more like they’re laughing along with the audience at pitting two comedians with terrifying monsters. Unlike The Invisible Woman, where the comedy felt horribly outdated, here it’s more timeless thanks to the clever dialogue. It’s that perfect blend of slapstick antics and witty retorts that will make you howl with laughter. Overall, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein is a fun horror-comedy that even non-horror fans can enjoy.

     

    Buy Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein on Amazon: https://amzn.to/48zA2LJ.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. 

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    Where to watch Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)

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  • The Invisible Woman (1940)

    The Invisible Woman (1940)

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    Following the success of The Invisible Man Returns, Universal wanted to get a sequel out as soon as possible. However, while the past few films had elements of horror, this film would be more of a straight-up comedy. Albert Edward Sutherland, who was originally hired to direct Dracula’s Daughter, was brought in to direct with a $300,000 budget. Originally, actress Margaret Sullivan was cast in the lead role since she owed Universal one more film per her contract. She had been offered a role in So Ends Our Night and accepted, resulting in Universal filing a restraining order. Everything was thankfully settled so she could finish filming, and actress Virginia Bruce was cast instead in the lead role. Classic actor John Barrymore was hired but proved to be difficult due to not memorizing his lines and scattering them. Despite these setbacks, The Invisible Woman was released in December of 1940.

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    Synopsis

    Eccentric elderly inventor Dr. Gibbs (John Barrymore) has been getting funding from playboy millionaire Dick Russell (John Howard). However, Russell has to cut funding due to going broke, but Dr. Gibbs’ luck soon changes for the better. Fashion model Kitty Carroll (Virginia Bruce) answers his newspaper ad calling for a test subject to become invisible. The experiment is a success, but before the doctor can show his results, Carroll escapes to tell off her boss. Meanwhile, mobster Blackie Cole (Oscar Homolka) sends his goons to Dr. Gibbs’ lab to steal his invisibility machine. Unfortunately, they can’t get the machine to work, so they kidnap Gibbs and a now visible Kitty. Cole wants to turn invisible so he can escape Mexico, but Gibbs doesn’t want his machine used for evil. Hijinks ensue as Kitty, Gibbs, and Russell try to outsmart the gangsters and make their escape.

     

    Review

    The Invisible Woman sticks out from the other films in the Universal Monsters series, but not in a good way. Many of the other films played around with genres, but they all had some element of horror to them. Sadly, this one is a 1940s screwball comedy, which would be fine if it weren’t linked to a horror series. It doesn’t help either that much of the humor falls flat and is incredibly dated, though thankfully not offensively dated. It’s a lot of slapstick and quick dialogue, but much of it feels dull and doesn’t work in the slightest. The acting likewise fits, such as Virginia Bruce as the typical lady who’s way smarter than the men around her. The men are either eccentric, self-centered, ridiculously hyper, or incompetent, though some could see it as an early feminist film. Then again, that might be giving the film too much credit.

    One nice thing I can say about the film is that, like the previous films, the effects are impressive. That being said, there are times where you can see the strings and a very visible outline around the actress. It’s surprising considering the film had a much higher budget than the last film, though it’s less than the original. Obviously, this film isn’t meant to be taken seriously or considered high art, but it’s a noticeable step-down. Going back to the acting, I will say the Virginia Bruce, on top of being gorgeous, does a solid job. John Barrymore, considering the difficulties he went through, is memorable as the eccentric inventor trying to find success. Also, there are some notable appearances from Margaret Hamilton (The Wizard of Oz) and Shemp Howard of the Three Stooges. Overall, The Invisible Woman is pretty unremarkable considering what came before and is best ignored.

     

    Buy The Invisible Woman on Amazon: https://amzn.to/33PIBST

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  • Class of Nuke ‘Em High (1986)

    Class of Nuke ‘Em High (1986)

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    On a budget of $500,000, The Toxic Avenger was a hit upon release, grossing $800,000 and receiving mostly favorable reviews. The film was also a hit on home video, which helped to put Troma on the map as an independent. Following the success, co-founder and president Lloyd Kaufman decided that this is the direction that Troma should take moving forward. For their next project, they hired Richard W. Haines, who recently wrote and directed the horror-comedy Splatter University. He and Kaufman would team up to tell another story surrounding nuclear waste, but this time set in high school. Perhaps taking inspiration from Mark L. Lester’s Class of 1984, they decided to inject some blood, boobs, and crude humor. Hell, they even added “Class of” to the title to trick people into thinking they were seeing Lester’s film. In any case, 1986 saw the release of Class of Nuke ‘Em High.

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    Synopsis

    In the city of Tromaville, the local nuclear power plant springs a leak that seeps into the nearby high school. The radiation starts affecting the students, turning the preppy honor roll into a gang of vile and malicious Cretins. Lovebirds Warren (Gil Brenton) and Chrissy (Janelle Brady) are the only ones who suspect something, but no one seems concerned. Warren’s friend Eddie (James Nugent Vernon) scores some weed from the Cretins, who promise him it’ll provide an “atomic high”. At an indoor bikini party, Eddie gets Warren and Chrissy to smoke it, which leads to them making love. They end up having vivid hallucinations, Warren starts killing the Cretins, and Chrissy vomits a small creature into a toilet. As Spike (Robert Prichard), the Cretins leader, plans his attack on the school, something is lurking and on the prowl. Just what’s going on at Nuke ‘Em High?

     

    Review

    If The Toxic Avenger put Troma on the map, Class of Nuke ‘Em High solidified their image in independent cinema. Much like their previous film, this one revels in the blood, boobs, and gross-out humor to near excessive levels. Also, similar to Toxie, this has that same slapdash, rebellious nature to it, which makes it feel even more independent. For as low as the budget is, many of the effects are well-done, especially the melting and creature effects. There are some optical effects thrown in, especially during the hallucination scenes, though these are few and far between. Admittedly, parts of the movie feel isolated from each other, like they’re random scenes stitched together without any connective tissue. Like Toxie, some scenes are pure Troma chaos, but there are tons of filler scenes in between that drag. Honestly, the quote on quote plot doesn’t really pick up until 20 minutes in.

    The acting is about on par with The Toxic Avenger: intentionally silly and exaggerated performances with actors making ridiculous faces. The Cretins, in particular, are the most over-the-top and are having fun playing such colorful villains with unique designs. Brenton and Brady fit the role of the archetypal high school couple, and Vernon works as the comedic relief. It’s interesting seeing Prichard and Gary Schneider playing reverse roles from the characters they played in The Toxic Avenger. Going back to the film’s slapdash nature, one negative aspect is that the editing sometimes comes off as choppy. Troma films are known for being chaotic, but the slightly disjointed editing can make it difficult to know what’s happening. On a final note, the soundtrack is great, filled with some really catchy rock songs including the title song. Overall, Class of Nuke ‘Em High is another enjoyable entry in Troma’s cinematic library.

     

    Buy Class of Nuke ‘Em High from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4rcckgL.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

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    Where to watch Class of Nuke ‘Em High (1986)

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  • The Toxic Avenger (1984)

    The Toxic Avenger (1984)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video src=”https://youtu.be/0boBtRksh1A?si=2wM7z6RW3M2Vb8K0″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]In its early years, Troma was known for making sex comedies like Squeeze Play and The First Turn-On. However, while working as a production supervisor on Rocky in 1975, Troma president Lloyd Kaufman had an idea brewing. After reading an article about how horror films were dead, he decided to make one set in a health club. Originally titled Health Club Horror, the concept was constantly being revised and reworked as new ideas started popping up. There was talk about the dangers of nuclear and atomic waste, so they decided to turn it into something positive. With a budget of around $500,000 – $800,000 and a cast of relatively unknown actors, they began filming in New Jersey. Little did they know that what they were making would set the standard for Troma films to this day. Finally, 1984 saw the release of the first superhero from New Jersey, The Toxic Avenger!

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    Synopsis

    Our story takes place in Tromaville, NJ, where Melvin Funko (Mark Torgl) works as the janitor at the health club. A 98-pound weakling, Melvin is constantly teased and bullied, especially by local bullies Bozo (Gary Schneider) and Slug (Robert Prichard). Bozo’s girlfriend Julie (Cindy Manion) decides to prank Melvin, but things go wrong when Melvin falls into some nuclear waste. That night, Melvin starts mutating and transforms from a weakling into a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength. With his new abilities, Melvin goes around cleaning up crime, ripping all manner of mugger, rapist, pimp, and corrupt politician. Along the way, he finds love in blind girl Sarah (Andree Maranda), and the locals are singing their praises. However, Mayor Peter Belgoody (Pat Ryan Jr.) wants Melvin, now dubbed the “Monster Hero”, taken out for ruining his operations. Will Toxie stop the corrupt mayor, or will corruption win?

     

    Review

    The Toxic Avenger is proof that you don’t need millions of dollars to make a fun and entertaining movie. Even with its low budget and inexperienced cast and crew, you can tell plenty of love put into the film. All the Troma staples are here: copious amounts of nudity, plenty of blood and guts, and ridiculously over-the-top humor. As silly as the acting is, it’s intentionally silly and cartoonishly exaggerated, especially from Mark Torgl and Gary Schneider. Some might be annoyed by the camera mugging and exaggerated delivery, but it’s done with love instead of being obnoxious. The special effects, though crude, are impressive given the small budget, and the design of Toxie is instantly memorable. The death scenes are unique and delightfully cartoonish, whether it’s deep-frying someone’s hands or stuffing someone in an oven. There’s even a scene of a kid getting his head crushed done with a watermelon!

    With a 90-minute runtime, the film moves at a very fast pace, but it never feels like it’s rushing. What also helps is that, at its core, it’s a simple story of good vs evil with some revenge elements. It also presents an interesting duality where Toxie is saving the day but through violent means, almost becoming a villain. At the same time, it presents some pretty humorous moments of people calling Toxie a hero despite his brutal methods. It’s hard to classify what type of movie The Toxic Avenger is since it mixes comedy, horror, and superhero tropes. Still, that’s what makes the film so unique and stands out from its contemporaries, further solidifying its cult status. If you’re a first-timer to the world of Troma and are interested, this would be a great way to start. Overall, The Toxic Avenger is a prime piece of trashy entertainment.

     

    Buy The Toxic Avenger from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qJbPva.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

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    Where to watch The Toxic Avenger (1984)

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  • Big Money Rustlas (2010)

    Big Money Rustlas (2010)

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    In 1989, Detroit-based rappers Violent J (Joseph Bruce) and Shaggy 2 Dope (Joseph Utsler) formed the rap duo, JJ Boys. While initially not interested in a serious music career, they decided to take it further by signing with Psychopathic Records. They released their first EP in 1991 under the name Inner City Posse, though they couldn’t get much airtime. Around 1991, the group decided to change their name to Insane Clown Posse, don clown face paint, and make history. Despite their naysayers, the duo has earned two platinum and five gold albums, and even have their own cult fanbase. With their success, they decided to try filmmaking, starting with 2000’s Big Money Hustlas, a send-up of 70s Blaxploitation films. Years later, they decided to make another film, this time a send-up of Westerns and similar comedies, particularly Blazing Saddles. So, in 2010, ICP released their follow-up film, Big Money Rustlas.

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    Synopsis

    In the small town of Mudbug, the ruthless gambling tycoon Big Baby Chips (Violent J) has taken over. He and his henchmen Raw Stank (Jamie Madrox) and Dusty Poot (Monoxide) walk over everyone and crush anyone opposing them. One day, the outlaw Sugar Wolf (Shaggy 2 Dope) rides in and is distraught over what’s become of his hometown. His mother (Cindie Haynie) explains that while Wolf was away, his father (Ron Jeremy) and his brothers were gunned down. Determined to change things, Wolf decides to become the new sheriff, hiring town local Bucky (Jason Mewes) as his deputy. The gang gets word of this and decides to send out some of their top assassins to kill Wolf. Though he’s able to make quick work of them, Wolf loses his shooting hand, and Bucky gets killed. Will Wolf be able to save the town, or will Chips take him down?

     

    Review

    Going into this movie, I had little to no expectations, especially since I hadn’t heard any of their music before. With that in mind, I will say that Big Money Rustlas was decent at best, but unremarkable at worst. Acting-wise, everyone does a fine enough job, though some performances are so over-the-top, they border on slightly annoying. Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope do their jobs well, but Jamie Madrox and Monoxide, in particular, were irritating. As for the comedy, sadly many of the jokes fall flat, either being too predictable or vulgar for vulgarity’s sake. Admittedly, there were a few jokes that made me chuckle, so I have to give it credit for that. Also, while the movie is clearly low-budget, there’s some decent cinematography, and the Western town doesn’t look half bad. You can tell that there was plenty of effort put into this film.

    In addition to Jason Mewes and Ron Jeremy, there are appearances from Dustin “Screech” Diamond, Bridget Powers, and Tom Sizemore. While Diamond and Powers are having some fun, it feels like Sizemore is slumming it, which is slightly depressing. Going back to the comedy, some of the more offensive humor hasn’t aged well, particularly some gay and racial humor. While I enjoy plenty of off-color jokes and politically-incorrect humor, these jokes are weak and among the film’s worst jokes. Obviously, this movie isn’t trying to say something deep or have a lasting impact, but it’s just some disposable entertainment. While this hasn’t converted me to being a Juggalo (fan of ICP), I’m sure fans of ICP will enjoy this. Though I don’t regret watching this and somewhat enjoyed it, I can only recommend this if you have some drinks. Overall, Big Money Rustlas has its moments but isn’t for everyone.

     

    Buy Big Money Rustlas from Amazon: https://amzn.to/30R410z

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