Let’s talk about a little known film for a second, shall we? I want to introduce you to Alien Space Avenger, or just Space Avenger as the director likes to call it.
In 1992 director Richard W. Gaines made his directorial followup to Class of Nuke Em’ High. But not with Troma! Gaines had felt cheated by Class of Nuke Em High, as even though he was the Writer/Director/Editor, Lloyd Kaufman (allegedly) forced to direct shots and insert bits he felt fundamentally changed his story. It’s called creative control! Anyways, he felt the film that was released was NOT his vision, and to this day claims it’s NOT a Richard W. Gaines film. His rift lead to him splitting from Troma
You see, Gaines wasn’t the only person who felt this way, as actor Robert Prichard (Slug in Toxic Avenger, Spike in Nuke em High) felt the same way, and followed Gaines on to act in the as co-lead of his next picture. So, Gaines formed a production company called New Wave pictures!
New Wave set about creating their first feature, Space Avenger. Gaines got to writing, and this time he was determined to make the exact movie he wanted. Soon, he had Troma alumni Michael McCleery (Mother’s Day) auditioning. They pulled an unknown Kirk Fogg (Legends of the Hidden Temple) to play Comic artist and Hero, Matt!
Gaines was inspired to write a story about a comic book author, because that had always been his dream growing up. Inserting sci-fi elements, comedy, and a bit of time traveling, Alien Space Avenger was released in 1989 and was promptly forgotten. To this day it hasn’t been released outside of VHS.
t’s a shame, really. Gaines is responsible for both Splatter University and Class of Nuke Em High, which are two classic Troma greats. Gaines stated he’d love to release it on Blu-Ray or 4k, but as of 2016 was unable to do so. Such a shame, this film should be seen by more. It’s really great! 📼
