Surf Nazis Must Die: Blu-Ray Review

A newly restored Blu-ray has been released for director Peter George’s 1987 cult classic, Surf Nazis Must Die. While this not be one of my favorite Troma films, it does have its’ fans.  While I grew up loving The Toxic Avenger, Class of Nuke ‘em High and James Gunn’s Tromeo and Juliette years later, I found that Surf Nazis lacked the craziness of Lloyd Kaufman’s previously produced films.

In the aftermath of a massive earthquake that leaves the California coast in very bad shape. A gang of neo-Nazi surfers, led by Adolf (Barry Brenner) take over and begin to terrorize the citizens and have no problem putting an end to anyone who stands in their way.  This included Leroy (Robert Harden), a local well-worker who is killed just for helping an old woman. Being African-American also doesn’t help when confronted by Nazis. Out for revenge is Leroy’s mother, Eleanor (Gail Neely) and she picks up enough firepower from the local pawn shop to do the job that rival surfing gangs are unable to do.

While Surf Nazi’s Must Die isn’t the worst of the early Troma films, it just isn’t able to deliver on its’ concept in an entertaining way.  I will say that the film does feature one of my favorite Troma posters, so it’s also a bit disappointing that the art wasn’t used on the Blu-ray, even as a reversable insert.  Still, despite my feelings about the film, this is a solid release for fans. The 1080p restoration is a big improvement over the DVD released in the late 90’s and a nice lineup of bonus features is also included. If you love the Surf Nazis, this disk is for you.

Bonus Features:

• NEW WAVE Intro by Lloyd Kaufman, President of Troma Entertainment & Creator of THE TOXIC AVENGER!
• Exclusive Interview with Director Peter George
• Hang 10 on Set! Interview With Producer Robin Tinnell
• Deleted Scenes
• The Projection Booth Podcast (Featuring special guest, Peter George!)
• Scenes From the Tromaville Café!
• The “Soul of Troma”
• Troma Promos: Radiation March & Indie Artists vs. Cartels
• Troma NOW Promo: Gizzard Face II: Return of Gizzard Face!
• Troma Short: BLOOD STAB
• + More #FanTOXIC Featurettes!

By: Marc Ferman