Blu-ray Review – Fortress of Amerikkka

1989's "Fortress of Amerikkka" initially presents itself as a considered understanding of divisiveness and American values, offering an introduction that details the central crisis between those who choose to live in the country and those who seek to control it under the guise of patriotism. There's a moment when the feature seems like a prescient look at the world we live in today, offering a brutal but accurate understanding of armed wackos and the hyper-masculine, Rambo-loving world they live in. Alas, this is a Troma Entertainment production, so hope for a nuanced understanding of militia activity and thinking isn't a priority. To loosely quote T'Challa, Troma "don't do that here." Instead of a blistering critique of American life, writer/director Eric Louzil ("Bikini Beach Race," "Class of Nuke 'Em High Part II: Subhumanoid Meltdown") is out to make an exploitation movie filled with dim-witted characters, loud gunplay, and topless women. That's the basic shape of "Fortress of Amerikkka," which vacillates between graphic, mean-spirited violence and goofball antics with broad performances. There's some entertainment value in the absurdity of Louzil's screenplay, but the endeavor falls short of its potential, missing a chance to give Troma a real politicized offering to help them break free of their low-budget formula. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com