A New York cop is investigating the deaths of a group of kabuki actors. To his surprise, he's become possessed with one of their spirits. This enables him to transform into a superhero so he can fight the dreaded "Evil One." In the early days, superheros came from other planets and sometimes from our own. In most cases they look human, only they have superhuman abilities. They also tend to have attractive features, but one movie would change all that.
In 1984, Lloyd Kaufman of Troma Entertainment unleashed the first TOXIC AVENGER film. It introduced the world to a different kind of superhero. Rather than a dashing man, the character began as a nerd and became a hulking mutant with super strength. The film went on to be a cult hit and spawned two sequels before the end of the 80s. In between, the company many many different kinds of film. However, Toxie would not be the only time they came up with a superhero.
Hinted at in THE TOXIC AVENGER PART II, the idea for this film was originally a joke by Lloyd. But then Japanese investors took to the idea and it started to become something more. After a long and troubled production, the end result was SGT. KABUKIMAN N.Y.P.D. It featured many things fans love about Troma's film, but was also different. This time, the filmmakers used more restraint and the response was mixed. But despite it's faults, the film is another good time from the independent a company that wouldn't die.
Troma movies are not known for having good acting. Another word you couldn't really use here however is wooden. Every member of the cast gives a lively performance and seem to be having a good time. Some play it straight, which is amusing in itself, while others just sink their teeth in. This leads me to the tongue in cheek nature of the film. There are plenty of hilarious gags and lines throughout the film.
Made on a low budget like most of these films, the film's effects are actually quite good. One great example is the guy who gets the chopsticks in his face. And that's just the tip of the iceberg as far as the film's inventiveness goes. From the transformation scenes to how our hero deals with the baddies, the filmmakers really let their imaginations run wild. The same goes for the production design, which is stronger than in many of Troma's films.
The score for the film is fun as is the main title theme. It's not as catchy as the TOXIC AVENGER theme, but it's not easily forgotten either. There are a couple problems that hinder the film somewhat. There are some poor editing choices and the film runs on a few minutes too long. Another trip to the editing room could have fixed that right up. Also, the visual effects look incredibly dated and stick out like a sore thumb.
Over 20 years old, KABUKIMAN is still a fun and crazy ride. It's not as over-the-top as the company's other works, but don't let that deter you. There's plenty of goods here to hold your interest and tickle your funny bone. It's a shame they haven't made a sequel, but the film actually stands on it's own really well. If a lot of the recent superhero movies have disappointed you, this one might just cheer you up.
7/10
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