Elijah Wood may forever be linked with the iconic Lord of the Rings series, but his career also showcases a remarkable lineup of eccentric characters. This month, he’s stepping into a particularly unusual role in The Toxic Avenger, the highly anticipated remake of the cult classic. Wood portrays Fritz, the brother and henchman to Kevin Bacon’s unscrupulous villain. While he might not be as grotesque as the title character, portrayed by Peter Dinklage, Fritz comes pretty close.
Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Wood at San Diego Comic-Con about The Toxic Avenger and a few other intriguing topics.
Fritz: A Complex Character
Cheryl Eddy, io9: Fritz has a multifaceted role as the head of security, a music manager, and his brother’s henchman. Did you create a backstory to explain his life experiences up to this point?
Elijah Wood: Not exactly, but it’s clear that he was born with physical deformities and probably faced bullying growing up. His brother likely outshined him in intelligence and charm. I think Fritz craves love and acceptance but was left on the sidelines, which molded him into a henchman. He’s driven not by pure malice but by a deep-seated resentment that leads him to dark actions. Ultimately, he seeks love and understanding but is often misunderstood.
Comparing Characters: Who Is Worse?
io9: Earlier this year, you portrayed another villain in The Monkey. How do you think Fritz compares to that character?
Wood: Oh, without a doubt, Ted Hammerman from The Monkey is far more odious. “Odious” is the perfect word for him. Ted embodies toxic masculinity and has this misguided perspective of what makes a great father, though he really doesn’t grasp it at all. It was a joy to collaborate with Osgood Perkins, and I enjoyed this challenging role immensely.
The Attraction to Cult Titles
io9: You were in the Maniac remake and now The Toxic Avenger. What draws you to cult classics, and are there any that you’d like to see remade in the future?
Wood: It’s generally circumstantial. I was drawn to The Toxic Avenger because it reinterpreted the original source material creatively. Remakes can be tricky, but both this and Maniac uniquely honor their origins while bringing something fresh. I find that POV films, like the original Peeping Tom, are fascinating because they immerse the audience in the characters’ experiences. Working with director Macon Blair was a massive draw; his vision for this project resonated with me deeply.
The Future of Remakes
Are there other cult classics you think deserve a modern twist? Remakes should maintain the spirit of the original while offering something revitalizing. For now, my focus remains on projects that intrigue me and allow me to explore weird, funny, and absurd narratives.
The Toxic Avenger hits theaters on August 29. Don’t miss it!
What is the release date for The Toxic Avenger? It’s set for August 29. Make a note in your calendar, as this is a film you won’t want to miss!
Who directed the new version of The Toxic Avenger? The film was directed by Macon Blair, known for his innovative storytelling.
What makes The Toxic Avenger a cult classic? The original film captivated audiences with its outrageous humor, unique characters, and over-the-top storytelling, paving the way for this exciting remake.
If you want to learn more about Elijah Wood’s other projects and insights into the industry, continue exploring related content. For the latest trends and news in entertainment, check out Moyens I/O.