It's surprising how a juvenile, post-apocalyptic science fiction film like ‘Turbo Kid’ can spark an appreciation for nostalgic, cheesy action movies. The directing/writing team of Francois Simard, Yoann-Karl Wissell and Anouk Wissell deliver exactly what’s needed in this playful, futuristic fantasy that invites viewers to fondly recall those delightfully silly and clichéd guilty pleasures—goofy, gory, and brimming with infectious energy. The film seems designed to playfully mock lowbrow cinema while paying tribute to films like ‘The New Barbarians,’ ‘After The Fall Of New York’ and even the over-the-top action of ‘The Road Warrior.’ Filled with unusual humor and a quirky sensibility, ‘Turbo Kid’ creates an enjoyable sense of absurdity that we all enjoy in our fondness for low-budget, sensational cinema. ‘Turbo Kid’ clearly intends to evoke the longing for those gloriously cheap, low-budget films that resonated with fans who appreciated the unintentional laughs provided by this genre. The filmmakers aren't hesitant to showcase the over-the-top violence and hedonism that define enjoyable entertainment at its best. Set in a distant future version of 1997, the orphaned Kid (Munro Chambers), stars as a lone wolf surviving in a world ravaged by acid rain and nuclear destruction. His existence is bleak, to say the least. He occupies his time in his underground shelter, riding his BMX bike, or reading comic books—especially his favorite ‘Turbo Man’ issue. Things become more interesting when he meets Apple (Laurence Labeouf), an eccentric young woman whose mysterious background intrigues him. The Kid gets a chance to prove himself when Apple's safety is threatened by the villainous Zeus (Michael Ironside), who kidnaps her and plots to control the region’s water supply—a move that understandably angers the Kid, who already has a history of conflict with Zeus. As if by chance, The Kid discovers what appears to be Turbo Man’s costume and weaponry, transforming him into a force capable of confronting Zeus, rescuing Apple, and saving the day. It's quite a turn for someone who escaped reality in a comic book only to become a real-life hero inspired by his idol. The film is undeniably over-the-top, and while the proceedings are silly, it’s hard to look away. ‘Turbo Kid,’ with its bloody silliness, proudly celebrates its creative absurdity. The campy nature works because it's geared toward unapologetic subversion into a flagrant fantasy that wears its reputation for decadence with questionable honor. The exaggerated chaos—colorful costumes, daring bike chases, manufactured doom-and-gloom scenarios, and the classic struggle between good and evil—make ‘Turbo Kid’ an ambitious, mischievous, and lively delight. The filmmakers clearly show their affection for the unbalanced, frantic films of the 80s and early 90s that filled video store shelves like soldiers approaching unfamiliar shores. Combative, unconventional, and guaranteed to leave you feeling strangely entertained, ‘Turbo Kid’ is weird and wonderful if only for the pleasure of indulging in the art of dimwitted decadence so lovingly realized in those not-so-forgettable retro films. Turbo Kid (2015) EMA Films 1 hr 33 mins. Starring: Munro Chambers, Laurence Labeouf, Michael Ironside, Edwin Wright, Romano Orzari and Aaron Jeffery Directed by: Francois Simard, Anouk Wissell and Yoann-Karl Wissell MPAA Rating: Unrated Genre: Science Fiction/Post Apocalyptic Action and Adventure Critic’s rating: *** stars (out of 4 stars)

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