Even in a time when seemingly everything gets a remake, it is still possible to be surprised. Street Trash is a remake of the 1987 cult classic. The new version is set in 2050 South Africa. The middle class no longer exists in a dystopian future that is composed of the ultra-rich and the homeless. In an attempt to eradicate displaced people, the government has created a deadly chemical. A group of friends risk everything to save society.
The original Street Trash has the gory special effects that are expected from the body melt sub-genre but is an all around boring watch. Aside from the infamous penis football scene, there is nothing memorable about it. It is not a matter of whether director Ryan Kruger (Fried Barry) could do the source material justice; it is if he could make it interesting at all.
Thankfully, Kruger is able to deliver an entertaining watch that is true to the ridiculous nature that did not work so well the first time around. This is mainly due to the plot. Though there is probably too much going on, the throughline comes across. For all the crude jokes and nonsensical randomness, Street Trash is a story about elitism and class. It is unexpected and allows things to be enjoyed on more than just a visceral level.
But what truly makes the film succeed is the fact that it never takes itself too seriously. The central message is never treated lightly, but Street Trash is primarily an over the top spectacle. From its fast paced opening that concludes in graphic fashion to the disgusting climax filled with melting bodies, the movie bombards the audience. Things move at the rapid fire pace that is needed in this type of movie.
Ryan Kruger’s Street Trash is the rare remake that makes the original feel unnecessary. It is raunchy, silly, and gross. The special effects look great while its drugged out band of heroes are a fun group to spend time with.
Street Trash comes to digital platforms November 19
