Toxic Avenger, bands, filth – Troma will throw a party at the drop of a f*****g hat and this time, the bash is in aid of filmmaker Jim Ojala. Toxic Shock Fest is taking place Saturday, August 2nd at the Norshor Theatre in Duluth.
Jim Ojala started dabbling with filmmaking and videography right out of Duluth Central High in the mid 90’s. Thanks to Minnesota Public Access television, Jim and co-writers launched “My Three Scums.”
It was a comedy/horror series based on three bizarre social outcasts who became underdog heroes bringing horrific crimes to justice. The controversial series garnered mixed reviews, but there was one important fan who took notice of Jim’s work. “My Three Scums” caught the attention of Troma’s Lloyd Kaufman.
In 1999, Jim packed his bags and left for the asphalt jungle to work on the new Toxie project; Citizen Toxie: The Toxic Avenger 4 with Lloyd.
Jim landed in the special effects makeup department on Citizen Toxie. He picked up a most valuable skill that has taken him to projects on “Saturday Night Live,” The Blue Man Group and “Phantom of the Opera” among others.
In late 2001, Jim moved to Los Angeles where he has worked on some of the most prestigious special effects shows and music videos including: “Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Angel,” “Elton John” and “Danzig.” Elton John and Danzig – there’s two names you’ve never seen side by side before. Maybe they’ll do a duet together sometime, or maybe a porno.
Never losing sight of his biggest passion, filmmaking, Jim has written a new feature film, in which he plans to shoot primarily in Duluth and the surrounding area in 2004.
Citizen Toxie will screen at Toxic Shock Fest with perforances by The Incredible Torture Trio, Psycho Nubs, Ripsnorter, and Both.
Tickets are $7 presale at the Norshor Theatre and $10 at the door the day of the event.
