The Toxic Avenger is making a comeback in the world of comics with a new five-issue series created by Matt Bors and Fred Harper. The series is being published by AHOY Comics, a Syracuse-based publisher known for satirizing various genres including horror, space opera, social satire, sword & sorcery, and superhero stories.
AHOY Comics gained attention for their publication of 'Second Coming,' a unique story featuring Jesus Christ and a Superman-like hero becoming roommates. The company is planning to debut the Toxic Avenger mini-series in the fall.
The comic draws inspiration from the 1984 cult classic movie produced by Troma Entertainment and Lloyd Kaufman. The original film spawned sequels, a stage musical, and a cartoon series. Even Marvel published a short-lived series in the early 1990s.
The upcoming comic series will stay true to the character's roots in environmentalism while offering fans the action, mutations, humor, and visuals they expect. The story follows Melvin Junko, a teenager helping his parents run a junkyard in New Jersey, who transforms into a superhuman vigilante after a train derailment involving toxic waste.
In the comic, Melvin, now a hideously deformed creature with immense strength, battles the corporation Biohazard Solutions and its chairwoman, uncovering a vast conspiracy. The narrative explores themes of environmental devastation, corporate control, and social media mutation.
The creators aim to blend elements from the original films and the Toxic Crusaders cartoon, updating the story to reflect contemporary issues. The series delves into the frustration of ordinary people facing authorities who downplay environmental concerns, leading to drastic consequences.
The first issue of the Toxic Avenger comic is set to be released on October 9th, promising an engaging and thought-provoking take on the iconic character. Fans can look forward to a fresh interpretation that retains the essence of the franchise while addressing relevant societal issues.
