Turbo Kid Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A BMX-riding comic book geek finds a power glove and a robot girlfriend, then has to fight Michael Ironside to save the post-apocalyptic wasteland of 1997 from… thirst, I guess?

🍿 Turbo Kid: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the Wasteland and The Kid

In a post-apocalyptic 1997, ‘The Kid,’ a young orphan, scavenges the wastelands for relics to trade for water. He lives a solitary existence, idolizing the comic book hero ‘Turbo Rider.’ The world is bleak and resources are scarce, controlled by the tyrannical Zeus and his henchmen. The opening scenes establish the harsh environment and The Kid’s resourcefulness and innocence. The deliberate 80s aesthetic, from the BMX bikes to the synth soundtrack, sets the tone for a retro-futuristic adventure. This setting also presents the core conflict: survival in a world devoid of hope and order.

Apple’s Arrival and the Turbo Glove

The Kid’s life changes when he encounters Apple, an overly enthusiastic and quirky girl who insists on becoming his friend. Initially reluctant, The Kid warms up to Apple’s unwavering optimism. While scavenging, they stumble upon a crashed ship containing the legendary Turbo Rider’s suit and a powerful weaponized glove. This discovery marks a turning point. The introduction of the Turbo Glove introduces a super-hero element, elevating the story beyond mere survival. Apple’s relentless positivity acts as a foil to the Kid’s cynicism, hinting at themes of hope and friendship amidst despair.

Zeus’s Pursuit and The Kid’s Transformation

Zeus, aware of the Turbo Glove’s power, seeks to control it. He captures Apple, forcing The Kid to embrace his destiny as a hero. Donning the Turbo Rider suit, The Kid confronts Zeus and his army, using the glove’s powers to protect the innocent and fight for justice. This section showcases The Kid’s growth. His initial reluctance gives way to bravery as he embraces the Turbo Rider persona. The action sequences escalate, highlighting the over-the-top gore and humor characteristic of the film.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• The Kid (Munro Chambers): A comic book-obsessed orphan who becomes a reluctant hero after discovering a powerful weapon.
• Apple (Laurence Leboeuf): An overly enthusiastic and mysterious girl who befriends The Kid and changes his life.
• Zeus (Michael Ironside): The sadistic leader of the Wasteland who controls the water supply and terrorizes the survivors.
• Skeletron (Edwin Wright): Zeus’s henchman, a terrifying enforcer wielding deadly rotary saw blades.
• Frederick (Aaron Jeffery): A tough cowboy-like arm wrestling champion, the protector of decent people in the wasteland.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Apple: “You did good Turbo Kid. Now when you watch the sky at night, I’ll be there.” – Apple says this to The Kid near the end of the movie, expressing her gratitude and affection before sacrificing herself.
• Zeus: “Water is life. And I control the water.” – Zeus proclaims this to assert his power and dominance over the wasteland due to his control over the scarce water supply.

💰Box Office

• Budget: CA$60,000
• Domestic Gross: $67,069
• Worldwide Gross: $67,069

💥 Turbo Kid Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, Turbo Kid is just plain FUN. I went in expecting some cheesy B-movie madness, and it delivered in spades. The gore is so over-the-top it’s hilarious, and the soundtrack is a total earworm. Apple is easily my favorite character – her relentless optimism is infectious! There were a couple of scenes that made me cringe a little, but overall, I had a great time. If you’re looking for something completely ridiculous and entertaining, this is it. It definitely makes you feel like you are back in the 80s.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 80s action and sci-fi movies”
  • “Viewers who appreciate over-the-top gore and practical effects”
  • “Those looking for a unique blend of humor and action”
  • “Cult film enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers who appreciate B-movie aesthetics”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence and gore”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Some suggestive themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Turbo Kid isn’t high art, but it’s a blast of hyper-violent fun. The retro-futuristic aesthetic is spot-on, and the practical effects are delightfully gruesome. It knows exactly what it is and doesn’t try to be anything else, making it a refreshing change from overly serious post-apocalyptic fare.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “While the thin plot and occasionally cheesy acting might deter some, Turbo Kid’s sheer enthusiasm and commitment to its 80s B-movie aesthetic are infectious. It’s a love letter to a bygone era of filmmaking, complete with buckets of blood and a killer synth soundtrack.
• IGN: “Turbo Kid succeeds because it embraces its absurdity. The over-the-top gore, the quirky characters, and the synth-heavy soundtrack all combine to create a unique and entertaining experience. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re a fan of B-movies and 80s nostalgia, you’ll have a blast.

Audience Reactions

The over-the-top gore is so ridiculous it becomes hilarious.: Viewers consistently praise the creative and excessive gore effects.

Apple is the heart of the movie, bringing light and fun to the dark wasteland.: Fans adore Laurence Leboeuf’s performance as Apple.

Overall Consensus: Turbo Kid is a cult-classic-in-the-making that delivers a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia, over-the-top gore, and quirky humor. It’s not for everyone, but those who appreciate B-movies and retro aesthetics will find it an enjoyable ride.

Awards

1. South by Southwest Film Festival (Audience Award – Narrative Spotlight)- 2015

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot on a very low budget of CA$60,000.”
• “Due to rainy weather during filming, the desert wasteland setting was altered to include ‘acid rain,’ and ponds were tinted green to simulate this.”
• “The directors François Simard, Anouk Whissell and Yoann-Karl Whissell also appear in the movie in small roles.”

🖥️ How to Watch Turbo Kid?

As of October 2024, “Turbo Kid” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play Movies. Check your local listings for availability on other streaming services and cable providers. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Turbo Kid, you might like these similar films:

• Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981): Shares a post-apocalyptic setting, vehicular combat, and a struggle for resources against tyrannical forces.
• Hobo with a Shotgun (2011): Features over-the-top violence and a vigilante fighting against a corrupt system.
• Kung Fury (2015): Is a loving parody of 80s action movies with over-the-top action and humor.

🛒 Turbo Kid Related Products

• Turbo Kid (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [VINYL]: A limited-edition vinyl pressing of Le Matos’s synth-heavy soundtrack, capturing the film’s 80s vibe. It features iconic tracks like “No Tomorrow”.
• Turbo Kid Poster: A high-quality poster featuring the iconic Turbo Kid artwork.
• Turbo Kid T-Shirt: Show off your love for Turbo Kid with this cool T-shirt. Great for fans of the film.
• The Art of Turbo Kid: A behind-the-scenes look at the making of Turbo Kid, featuring concept art, storyboards, and interviews with the cast and crew.

🎧 Soundtrack

Turbo Kid features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “No Tomorrow” – performed by Le Matos
• “Danger Zone” – performed by Le Matos
• “Thunder in Your Heart” – performed by John Farnham

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Le Matos feat. PAWWS “No Tomorrow – A Turbo Kid Tale” Directed by RKSS (Official Music Video)

Ever wondered what Apple was up to before she met Turbo Kid? This awesome music video is basically a prequel focusing on her, and it’s super stylish! I think you’ll love getting a little more backstory.

Turbo Kid – Movie Review

Thinking about watching Turbo Kid, or already seen it and want to know what others think? Jeremy Jahns breaks it all down in this review! Personally, I think he makes some great points, so check it out.

TURBO KID (2015): Interview with Laurence LeBoeuf

Want to hear what it was *really* like making Turbo Kid? Laurence Leboeuf, who plays Apple, shares some fun stories and insights in this interview. Hearing her talk about working with Michael Ironside is pretty cool!

✨ Rate