Bass of the Gorgonites: Loyalty and Tenacity in Small Soldiers
Introduction
The late ’90s brought us a plethora of unique and memorable films, but few combined action, comedy, and a surprisingly deep exploration of morality quite like “Small Soldiers.” At its core, this film pitted two factions of militarized toys against each other: the aggressively programmed Commando Elite and the misunderstood Gorgonites. While Chip Hazard and his team of plastic soldiers reveled in destruction, the Gorgonites, led by the peaceful Archer, simply sought refuge and escape. Amidst the chaos and mayhem, one Gorgonite stood out for his raw strength, unwavering loyalty, and perhaps surprisingly, his relatable frustration: Bass.
Bass, a hulking figure of rocky textures and immense power, is more than just muscle. He represents the heart of the Gorgonite struggle, embodying their desire for peace while remaining fiercely protective of his companions. His loyalty to Archer, his brute strength in battle, and the now-iconic catchphrase, “I can’t take it anymore!” have cemented his place as a fan favorite and a crucial element in the film’s narrative. Through Bass, “Small Soldiers” explores themes of good versus evil, the burden of responsibility, and the importance of unwavering dedication to one’s friends.
The Granite Giant: A Character Portrait
Bass is immediately recognizable for his imposing physical presence. Crafted from a material resembling granite, he is easily one of the largest of the Gorgonites, both in stature and in sheer bulk. His design reflects a primitive strength, with rough edges and a sense of geological power. He is a towering figure, a fortress of muscle and stone among his more agile and tactically-minded comrades. This sheer size not only makes him an intimidating opponent to the Commando Elite but also provides a constant visual reminder of the Gorgonites’ underlying strength and resilience.
Beyond his appearance, Bass’s personality is a fascinating blend of unwavering loyalty and a short fuse. He is fiercely devoted to Archer, following his leadership without question and placing himself in harm’s way to protect his leader and his fellow Gorgonites. His loyalty extends to the entire Gorgonite community, as he is seen constantly ensuring their safety and well-being.
However, this dedication comes at a price. Living under constant threat from the Commando Elite, constantly facing danger, has clearly taken its toll. Bass is prone to fits of frustration, often expressing his exasperation with the never-ending conflict with his famous outburst: “I can’t take it anymore!” This catchphrase is not simply a comedic quirk; it’s an expression of the emotional toll of perpetual warfare, of the constant need to be vigilant, to defend, to survive.
His relationships within the Gorgonite group are crucial to understanding his role. With Archer, there’s a clear bond of trust and respect. Archer understands Bass’s power and relies on his physical strength, while Bass acknowledges Archer’s leadership and strategic mind. He also displays a protective nature towards Ocula, the Gorgonite seer, and stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Slamfist and the other warriors, forming a cohesive unit against the Commando Elite threat. He is a brother in arms, a dependable presence in the face of constant danger.
Ultimately, Bass’s purpose is simple: protect the Gorgonites and help them achieve their ultimate goal – to find their home, “Gorgon.” He’s the protector, the warrior, the loyal friend.
A Moral Compass in a Plastic Battlefield
“Small Soldiers” presents a stark contrast between good and evil, although the lines aren’t always that clear cut. The Commando Elite, led by the merciless Chip Hazard, are programmed for destruction, treating everything as a target and reveling in violence. Bass, in stark opposition, exemplifies the Gorgonites’ desire for peace and escape. He only resorts to violence when absolutely necessary, defending himself and his comrades from the unprovoked aggression of the Commandos.
Unlike the Commando Elite, who embrace warfare as their inherent function, Bass and the Gorgonites long for tranquility. Their mission isn’t conquest or domination; it’s simply to find a safe haven, a place where they can exist without fear of annihilation. Bass’s behavior underscores this inherent goodness, demonstrating a reluctance to harm anyone unless pushed to the absolute brink.
Even when faced with the escalating chaos and the seemingly endless onslaught of the Commando Elite, Bass strives to maintain a degree of restraint. His “I can’t take it anymore!” outbursts, while initially humorous, highlight the immense pressure he is under, the constant internal struggle between his desire for peace and the necessity to defend himself and his friends. He shows how the horrors of conflict can wear down even the strongest and most well-intentioned individuals. The film forces us to confront the question: What does it take to push someone to the point of breaking?
Memorable Moments of Might and Frustration
Throughout “Small Soldiers,” Bass delivers several unforgettable moments that cement his status as a compelling character. From thrilling action sequences to moments of unexpected humor, Bass leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
One of the most memorable moments involves Bass facing off against a swarm of Commando Elite soldiers within the Abernathy household. Displaying immense strength and tactical awareness, Bass manages to hold off the attack, buying time for Archer and the other Gorgonites to escape. His determination and unwavering loyalty are on full display as he battles the Commando Elite, using his immense size and strength to his advantage.
Another key scene showcases his interactions with Alan Abernathy, the teenager caught in the middle of the toy war. Initially wary of the humans, Bass gradually develops a sense of trust towards Alan, recognizing that he is an ally in their struggle. This bond underscores the Gorgonites’ ability to discern genuine kindness from malicious intent, further contrasting them with the indiscriminately violent Commando Elite.
His outbursts of “I can’t take it anymore!” also become a defining characteristic, adding a layer of humor and relatability to his otherwise intimidating persona. Whether faced with a particularly frustrating obstacle or a particularly relentless attack, Bass’s exasperation strikes a chord with the audience, reminding us that even the strongest among us have their breaking points. These moments of frustration humanize him, making him more than just a simple strongman.
The Voice Behind the Stone: The Creation of Bass
The character of Bass was brought to life by the talented voice actor Jay Mohr. His gritty and emotive delivery perfectly captures the character’s inner turmoil, balancing the raw strength with the underlying frustration. Mohr’s performance adds depth and nuance to Bass, making him a memorable and engaging character.
The character design of Bass also played a crucial role in establishing his identity. His rocky appearance, combined with his massive size, conveys an immediate sense of power and resilience. The texture of his skin, resembling weathered granite, reinforces his status as a creature of the earth, a force of nature capable of withstanding immense pressure. It’s a perfect visual representation of his character: solid, dependable, and unyielding.
An Enduring Figure of Strength and Loyalty
Bass remains a beloved character for audiences of “Small Soldiers” because he embodies the timeless qualities of loyalty, strength, and perseverance. He represents the unwavering dedication to one’s friends, the ability to find humor even in the face of adversity, and the courage to stand up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against you. He is a reminder that true strength lies not only in physical prowess but also in the unwavering commitment to one’s values.
He fits into a familiar archetype: the “gentle giant.” Think of characters like Chewbacca from Star Wars or even Sully from Monsters Inc. These characters present a physically imposing figure, but their heart is what wins over the audience. Bass embodies this dichotomy perfectly, wielding his power for good and protecting those he cares about.
He serves as a symbol of the underdog, representing those who are constantly fighting against overwhelming forces. His struggles resonate with audiences who have ever felt like they are up against an impossible challenge, offering a message of hope and resilience. Even when pushed to his limits, Bass never gives up, continuing to fight for his friends and for a better future.
Conclusion: The Heart of the Gorgonites
In conclusion, Bass of the Gorgonites is far more than just a brute force presence in “Small Soldiers.” He is a complex and compelling character who embodies the very spirit of the Gorgonites. His unwavering loyalty, his immense strength, and his relatable frustrations make him a memorable and endearing figure. He is the protector, the warrior, the loyal friend, and above all, he is the heart of the Gorgonite struggle. He stands as a testament to the power of friendship, the importance of perseverance, and the enduring appeal of a character who, even when pushed to his breaking point, never loses sight of what truly matters. And, of course, he will always be remembered for those iconic words: “I can’t take it anymore!” Bass remains an icon of loyalty and Tenacity in the world of Small Soldiers.
