Readers have often inquired about the avatar I employ, the Venetian plague mask icon. It's crucial to note that this has nothing to do with Covid. I selected it way back in 2016. The underlying reasoning is that a critic plays a similar role to a poison taster, informing the public about what is safe to consume. There is indeed a vast amount of bad criticism, but there is also an illustrious history of essential and incisive writing, ranging from the likes of James Agee to Clive James, and from Lindsay Anderson to Pauline Kael. Critics have a significant responsibility to educate, amuse, share, and chip away at this amorphous entity we refer to as popular culture, enabling us to make the best decisions regarding what we watch.

Unraveling the Enigmatic World of a Unique Avatar and a Troubled Film

The Significance of the Avatar

The Venetian plague mask icon I chose in 2016 holds a special place. It serves as a metaphor for the role of a critic, who dives into the depths of various forms of media to assess their worth. Just as a poison taster samples to ensure safety, a critic examines and presents their findings. This avatar is not a random choice but one that represents a certain perspective and approach in the realm of criticism. It has become a part of my identity as a writer, guiding my evaluations and adding a unique touch to my work.There is a rich history of such symbols in different cultures and art forms. The Venetian plague mask, with its mysterious allure, has often been associated with themes of mystery, danger, and the unknown. In the context of criticism, it allows me to approach each subject with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore the hidden aspects. It helps me stand out in a crowded field and makes my work more memorable.

The Garbage Pail Kids Movie: A Tale of Misguided Creativity

Writer/director Rod Amateau had an interesting career trajectory. In the 70s, he worked with stars like David Niven and Peter Sellers. This experience likely gave him the confidence to persuade Anthony Newley to star in "The Garbage Pail Kids: The Movie" in 1987. Newley was a British musical icon in the 1960s, responsible for iconic tunes like the James Bond theme "Goldfinger" and the Oscar-nominated score for "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." However, by 1987, his talent had been somewhat diminished by bad choices and excessive drinking. His performance in the movie is lackluster, rote, and unenthusiastic, yet he remains the best part of it.The worst aspect of the movie is undoubtedly the Garbage Pail kids themselves. They are played by small people with large plastic heads that barely convey any expression. Each character has a revolting function; one sneezes out vicious snot, another has acne and urinates on himself, one farts like a trumpet, and one is an alligator (named Ali-Gator) with a foot fetish. These characters come from outer space and are kept in a garbage pail in an urban antiques shop run by Captain Manzini (played by Newley).Amateau seems to be aiming for a Rabelaisian humor, aiming to blow a hole in societal norms and emphasize the base-line of humor that might unite humanity. The plot revolves around Dodger (Mackenzie Astin), a likable scamp who is being bullied. At just 15 years old, Dodger has his eyes set on the bully's girlfriend Tangerine (Katie Barberi). He decides to win her heart by creating and designing his own range of clothes, which he persuades the Garbage Pail Kids to make. The movie is set in the world of fashion and climaxes with the kids invading a staid fashion show, toppling existing codes of beauty and acceptability and making a statement for the neglected child within us all with their snotty repulsiveness.

The Musical Elements and Their Impact

Newley's contribution to the movie is minimal in terms of singing. However, there are two songs that can be regarded as badges of honor for those who choose to sit through this film. "You Can Be A Garbage Pail Kid" takes an Eye of the Tiger aspirational angle, while "We Can Do Anything By Working With Each Other" is a whistle-while-you-work song that the kids sing in their sweatshop. These songs are like a sidelong glimpse at a traffic accident; once heard, they are impossible to forget. They are like a genie or the Garbage Pail kids themselves, unable to be put back inside their container.The musical elements add another layer to the movie. They contrast with the overall tone and content, creating a unique sensory experience. The aspirational nature of "You Can Be A Garbage Pail Kid" juxtaposed with the sordidness of the movie's plot makes for a strange and memorable combination. It shows the diversity of creative choices made in the film and how they contribute to its overall impact.

The Reputation and Controversies

"The Garbage Pail Kids Movie" has gained a reputation as one of the worst films ever made. This is certainly a justified label given its misguided nature. By doubling down on bodily functions, the movie is sure to appall both parents and children. There is also a strange sexualization present that makes for an uncomfortable viewing experience. Dodger is constantly ogling and objectifying women, and Tangerine's attempts to seduce him at his young age of 15 do not sit well.Despite the lack of redeeming moments or qualities, the movie has built up a reputation as a rite of passage for masochists. One of the kids in the final scene explains, "You can't change the world by hiding yourself away." This line lands somewhat ironically given that hiding from this movie seems like a basic human right. It highlights the strange allure and endurance of such a controversial film in popular culture.