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‘The Toxic Avenger’ Star Elijah Wood on Cult Remakes and Why He Loves Weird Movies

‘The Toxic Avenger’ Star Elijah Wood on Cult Remakes and Why He Loves Weird Movies

Elijah Wood will always be associated with the Lord of the Rings movies, but the actor has also built up a varied array of unusual characters across his career. Maybe his weirdest yet comes with The Toxic Avenger, the long-awaited remake of the cult classic that’s finally hitting theaters later this month. Wood has a memorable supporting role as Fritz, the brother and henchman of Kevin Bacon’s sleazy villain. He’s not as freaky-looking as the title mutant, played in human form by Peter Dinklage, but he comes awfully close.

io9 got a chance to talk to Wood about The Toxic Avenger (and a few other things in that vein) at the recent San Diego Comic-Con.

Cheryl Eddy, io9: Fritz is many things. He’s the head of security, he’s a music manager, he’s the villain’s brother. And he’s also very unusual looking. Did you come up with a backstory for him to explain what his life’s been like until this point?

Elijah Wood: No, but I think the writing’s on the wall there, like, he was born physically deformed, probably picked on. His brother was always smarter, more handsome, more capable. I think he desperately wanted to be loved and sort of wasn’t; he was kicked to the side and treated like shit. And so I think that turned him into, well, “I guess I’m the henchman,” and I think that brought out, not necessarily an evil in him, but I think it was like, resentment breeds dark deeds. I think that’s kind of how he became who he is.

And then, of course, his brother was just like, “I’m going to have you do my bidding,” to which he sort of acquiesced. And I think you see that in the movie; he probably really wants just to be loved. He’s actually sort of a sweet guy, and he’s just misunderstood.

io9: We saw you earlier this year playing a very different sort of villain in The Monkey. Which character do you think is more odious?

Wood: Oh, [The Monkey’s] Ted Hammerman, without question. Odious is a great word, by the way. Yeah, Ted is awful. Just a toxic male [who] thinks he knows better than everybody else. He’s got his whole perspective on what makes a great father, although I don’t think he really does know what makes a great father. That was a blast. I love Osgood [Perkins, director of The Monkey] too, and it was a joy to come and join that for a bit. I’ve been a fan of his for a long time.

io9: You starred in the Maniac remake back in 2012. And now you’re in the new Toxic Avenger. What draws you to these cult-beloved titles, and is there one you’d like to see be remade in the future, whether or not you star in it?

Wood: It’s all circumstantial. That one, I was drawn to it because it was taking the source material and doing something really different with it. Remakes are tricky, you know, and both of these films are related in the sense that they made something new of the source material rather than regurgitating it in the same way.

I was really attracted to Maniac because… my character doesn’t really show up. It’s primarily a POV film. I love POV horror; it’s really interesting. There’s a great POV horror film from the ‘60s, Peeping Tom. It reminded me of Peeping Tom a little bit, about how wonderful to take this and put you sort of in the mindset of, or at least the POV of, the characters. That was the reason I wanted to do that. And I love the creative team behind that film.

And then this one, I mean, Macon [Blair, director of Toxic Avenger], I’ll do anything Macon asks; I’m a huge fan of his work. I worked with him on this movie called I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, and so I’ll do anything for him. He’s a dear friend. And then to be asked to play a character like this in this universe was just a blast. I think it was clear that it was an approach to the original material that was very much its own but had total reverence for what Lloyd [Kaufman of Troma Entertainment] had created.

So it was circumstantial that these two things came into my life. I don’t know that I’m seeking these things out, but I love genre, and I’m always going to be interested in making something weird and funny and absurd.

The Toxic Avenger hits theaters August 29.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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#Toxic #Avenger #Star #Elijah #Wood #Cult #Remakes #Loves #Weird #Movies

Often written about and reviewed on WIRED, OnePlus is a favorite device maker among Android enthusiasts who want the kind of clean design you get with an iPhone. Carrying several types of phones, tablets, keyboards, and other tech gear, OnePlus uses an Android-based operating system, is universally unblocked and works with all US carriers. We know how important your tech purchases are (duh, we’re WIRED) and we have a OnePlus promo code to help you save.

Offers Now Available for OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 13

The anticipated OnePlus 15 has launched with new buzz-worthy features and improvements on the already-polished tech from techy fan favorite, OnePlus. It’s true what they say: the early bird gets the worm. When you subscribe today for OnePlus newsletters and information about the latest drops, you can get $50 off or a chance to win the OnePlus Pad 3 for free. And, if you decide on the OnePlus 13 instead, you can get a Black Eclipse12 GB RAM with 256 GB ROM for $900, and get a free gift with purchase.

OnePlus Phone: OnePlus 12 Now Available

As mentioned, we at WIRED love OnePlus because of the affordable price point while maintaining solid quality. The newest iteration of the OnePlus 12 impressed us. One of the biggest drawbacks in previous models was the camera quality, but OnePlus has done a lot of work to improve it in the past few years and it’s now on level with competitors like Samsung. Our senior reviews editor and tech overlord Julian Chokkattu called the newest iteration a “Very Good Phone” (high praise from him). It also charges with blazing speed.

We also made a bold statement about the OnePlus Pad, whose existence we (perhaps polarizing) said “proves that Android tablets don’t have to suck”—and still think it’s a worthy iPad alternative, especially at a fair price point in the $400 range. Plus, we love their fun folding phone, the OnePlus Open, and recommend the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro if you’re a huge computer nerd.

OnePlus Promo: 30% Off OnePlus Buds 4

Looking to upgrade your sound experience for less? The OnePlus Buds 4 are a great choice for most people, with 11mm audio drivers for balanced, true-to-life acoustics for an unmatched sound. The high-resolution audio features LHDC 5.0 technology and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for super sound quality. Plus, they feature active noise cancellation so you can tune out the world and focus on what matters most to you. The Buds 4 have even more smart features, like adaptive mode which switches between ANC and transparency modes, and an ergonomic, comfortable in-ear design.

#Top #OnePlus #Promo #Codes #Monthcoupons,shopping">Top OnePlus Promo Codes: 30% Off This MonthOften written about and reviewed on WIRED, OnePlus is a favorite device maker among Android enthusiasts who want the kind of clean design you get with an iPhone. Carrying several types of phones, tablets, keyboards, and other tech gear, OnePlus uses an Android-based operating system, is universally unblocked and works with all US carriers. We know how important your tech purchases are (duh, we’re WIRED) and we have a OnePlus promo code to help you save.Offers Now Available for OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 13The anticipated OnePlus 15 has launched with new buzz-worthy features and improvements on the already-polished tech from techy fan favorite, OnePlus. It’s true what they say: the early bird gets the worm. When you subscribe today for OnePlus newsletters and information about the latest drops, you can get  off or a chance to win the OnePlus Pad 3 for free. And, if you decide on the OnePlus 13 instead, you can get a Black Eclipse12 GB RAM with 256 GB ROM for 0, and get a free gift with purchase.OnePlus Phone: OnePlus 12 Now AvailableAs mentioned, we at WIRED love OnePlus because of the affordable price point while maintaining solid quality. The newest iteration of the OnePlus 12 impressed us. One of the biggest drawbacks in previous models was the camera quality, but OnePlus has done a lot of work to improve it in the past few years and it’s now on level with competitors like Samsung. Our senior reviews editor and tech overlord Julian Chokkattu called the newest iteration a “Very Good Phone” (high praise from him). It also charges with blazing speed.We also made a bold statement about the OnePlus Pad, whose existence we (perhaps polarizing) said “proves that Android tablets don’t have to suck”—and still think it’s a worthy iPad alternative, especially at a fair price point in the 0 range. Plus, we love their fun folding phone, the OnePlus Open, and recommend the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro if you’re a huge computer nerd.OnePlus Promo: 30% Off OnePlus Buds 4Looking to upgrade your sound experience for less? The OnePlus Buds 4 are a great choice for most people, with 11mm audio drivers for balanced, true-to-life acoustics for an unmatched sound. The high-resolution audio features LHDC 5.0 technology and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for super sound quality. Plus, they feature active noise cancellation so you can tune out the world and focus on what matters most to you. The Buds 4 have even more smart features, like adaptive mode which switches between ANC and transparency modes, and an ergonomic, comfortable in-ear design.#Top #OnePlus #Promo #Codes #Monthcoupons,shopping

reviewed on WIRED, OnePlus is a favorite device maker among Android enthusiasts who want the kind of clean design you get with an iPhone. Carrying several types of phones, tablets, keyboards, and other tech gear, OnePlus uses an Android-based operating system, is universally unblocked and works with all US carriers. We know how important your tech purchases are (duh, we’re WIRED) and we have a OnePlus promo code to help you save.

Offers Now Available for OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 13

The anticipated OnePlus 15 has launched with new buzz-worthy features and improvements on the already-polished tech from techy fan favorite, OnePlus. It’s true what they say: the early bird gets the worm. When you subscribe today for OnePlus newsletters and information about the latest drops, you can get $50 off or a chance to win the OnePlus Pad 3 for free. And, if you decide on the OnePlus 13 instead, you can get a Black Eclipse12 GB RAM with 256 GB ROM for $900, and get a free gift with purchase.

OnePlus Phone: OnePlus 12 Now Available

As mentioned, we at WIRED love OnePlus because of the affordable price point while maintaining solid quality. The newest iteration of the OnePlus 12 impressed us. One of the biggest drawbacks in previous models was the camera quality, but OnePlus has done a lot of work to improve it in the past few years and it’s now on level with competitors like Samsung. Our senior reviews editor and tech overlord Julian Chokkattu called the newest iteration a “Very Good Phone” (high praise from him). It also charges with blazing speed.

We also made a bold statement about the OnePlus Pad, whose existence we (perhaps polarizing) said “proves that Android tablets don’t have to suck”—and still think it’s a worthy iPad alternative, especially at a fair price point in the $400 range. Plus, we love their fun folding phone, the OnePlus Open, and recommend the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro if you’re a huge computer nerd.

OnePlus Promo: 30% Off OnePlus Buds 4

Looking to upgrade your sound experience for less? The OnePlus Buds 4 are a great choice for most people, with 11mm audio drivers for balanced, true-to-life acoustics for an unmatched sound. The high-resolution audio features LHDC 5.0 technology and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for super sound quality. Plus, they feature active noise cancellation so you can tune out the world and focus on what matters most to you. The Buds 4 have even more smart features, like adaptive mode which switches between ANC and transparency modes, and an ergonomic, comfortable in-ear design.

#Top #OnePlus #Promo #Codes #Monthcoupons,shopping">Top OnePlus Promo Codes: 30% Off This Month

Often written about and reviewed on WIRED, OnePlus is a favorite device maker among Android enthusiasts who want the kind of clean design you get with an iPhone. Carrying several types of phones, tablets, keyboards, and other tech gear, OnePlus uses an Android-based operating system, is universally unblocked and works with all US carriers. We know how important your tech purchases are (duh, we’re WIRED) and we have a OnePlus promo code to help you save.

Offers Now Available for OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 13

The anticipated OnePlus 15 has launched with new buzz-worthy features and improvements on the already-polished tech from techy fan favorite, OnePlus. It’s true what they say: the early bird gets the worm. When you subscribe today for OnePlus newsletters and information about the latest drops, you can get $50 off or a chance to win the OnePlus Pad 3 for free. And, if you decide on the OnePlus 13 instead, you can get a Black Eclipse12 GB RAM with 256 GB ROM for $900, and get a free gift with purchase.

OnePlus Phone: OnePlus 12 Now Available

As mentioned, we at WIRED love OnePlus because of the affordable price point while maintaining solid quality. The newest iteration of the OnePlus 12 impressed us. One of the biggest drawbacks in previous models was the camera quality, but OnePlus has done a lot of work to improve it in the past few years and it’s now on level with competitors like Samsung. Our senior reviews editor and tech overlord Julian Chokkattu called the newest iteration a “Very Good Phone” (high praise from him). It also charges with blazing speed.

We also made a bold statement about the OnePlus Pad, whose existence we (perhaps polarizing) said “proves that Android tablets don’t have to suck”—and still think it’s a worthy iPad alternative, especially at a fair price point in the $400 range. Plus, we love their fun folding phone, the OnePlus Open, and recommend the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro if you’re a huge computer nerd.

OnePlus Promo: 30% Off OnePlus Buds 4

Looking to upgrade your sound experience for less? The OnePlus Buds 4 are a great choice for most people, with 11mm audio drivers for balanced, true-to-life acoustics for an unmatched sound. The high-resolution audio features LHDC 5.0 technology and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for super sound quality. Plus, they feature active noise cancellation so you can tune out the world and focus on what matters most to you. The Buds 4 have even more smart features, like adaptive mode which switches between ANC and transparency modes, and an ergonomic, comfortable in-ear design.

#Top #OnePlus #Promo #Codes #Monthcoupons,shopping

Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re never late.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Tells time.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter C appears twice.

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter C.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

CLOCK

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints">Wordle today: The answer and hints for May 12, 2026
                                            
                                                            Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re never late.If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
        SEE ALSO:
        
            Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
            
        
    

        SEE ALSO:
        
            NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 12, 2026
            
        
    
Where did Wordle come from?Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.What’s the best Wordle starting word?The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.What happened to the Wordle archive?The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers. Is Wordle getting harder?It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.
        SEE ALSO:
        
            NYT Pips hints, answers for May 12, 2026
            
        
    
Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:Tells time.
        
            Mashable Top Stories
        
        
    
Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators todayDoes today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?The letter C appears twice.Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…Today’s Wordle starts with the letter C.
        SEE ALSO:
        
            Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL.
            
        
    
The Wordle answer today is…Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.Drumroll please!The solution to today’s Wordle is…CLOCKDon’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

                    
                                            
                            
                        
                                    #Wordle #today #answer #hints

Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re never late.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Tells time.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter C appears twice.

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter C.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

CLOCK

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints">Wordle today: The answer and hints for May 12, 2026

Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re never late.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Tells time.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter C appears twice.

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter C.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

CLOCK

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints

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