Perfect timing by Arrow in releasing this Troma distributed exploitation classic as the lust for Nazi exploitation comedies seems never-ending right now. Produced by The Institute this slice of complete nonsense was picked up and distributed by Troma in 1987. The narrative, what there is of it, follows a group of surfer Nazi’s who look to take over the beaches of California following a devastating earthquake.

Troma was established in the mid-70s but really hit the headlines in the 1980s with huge hits like The Toxic Avenger and Class of Nuke Em High. Even the name Troma has by today become associated with the most insane film content going, from the ridiculous Tromeo & Juliet  to the bleak fest of Combat Shock. Surf Nazis is a typical Troma event from the extreme low budget production values to the terrible performances by all involved. Part back comedy, part violent teen drama and part vigilante massacre picture, Surf Nazis is utter nonsense. The teen gangs, straight out of The Warriors, are now in charge of the beaches of California following a cataclysmic earthquake. The Nazis want power all to themselves but after killing a young black man for nothing they bring the fury of his retired mother upon them. Armed with a gun and hand-grenades she goes on a rampage intent on ridding the wold of those pesky Surf Nazis’s.

Arrow has gone Troma mad this August and this is one of three titles being released by the UK’s leading cult label. This time around the extras a little scaled down from the other two titles but we still get the essential director’s commentary. Peter George makes it clear that the production was a hoot and that they had very little plan as to what they would be doing next from day to day. The release also features interviews and the usual alternate art work on the DVD sleeve.

Troma films are hard to recommend to anyone who is not a true cult fan as the production values are so low. Anyone disappointed by poor acting and ridiculous non dialogue should never, in my opinion, watch these films. These are exploitation classics and as such the overall quality of what is on screen is secondary to the hysteria they are looking to create. Using the same approach now being utilised by Matt and Trey with South Park, Troma are always looking to upset as many people as possible. Surf Nazis lacks the hysteria of Class of Nuke Em High and Toxic Avenger placing it just underneath them as a true Troma classic. Saying that it’s a unique viewing experience that will leave the most hardened cult lover somewhat speechless which is as strong a recommendation as one can give.

Aled Ll Jones

Surf Nazis Must Die is out on DVD now via Arrow