Cowabunga, you’ll have fun! Whether or not you grew up with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) 1980s animated television show, the comic books, or even the other movies, there is so much to be enjoyed in the new TMNT movie. At just over 1.5 hours, you’ll be invested in this Mutant Mayhem that functions as a standalone origin story, plus a foundation from which to launch subsequent sequels. While Shredder is not the villain, stick around for his subtle debut in a mid-credits scene.
After years of being sheltered from the human world, the Turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers. Their new friend, April O’Neil, helps them take on a mysterious crime syndicate, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them.
Since I have not watched any TMNT shows or movies since the animated series in the 1980s, I can’t comment on what is or isn’t canon or what would or would not be, but I can say that from what I remember about the old show, this feels like a reimagination that is simultaneously fresh yet familiar. Perhaps some characters are interpreted differently for this movie than they have been in the past, but the character dynamics, conflict, and relationships make sense within this world. Nicely plotted and paced TMNT moves quickly and leanly–sometimes a little too leanly, but I digress. Most of the humor in the movie works well, but there is one recurring joke that does grow tiring to the point that the punch is less funny than it would have been had the joke been setup and developed more sleekly.
The movie is incredibly postmodern in the sense that the characters reference real life celebrities, TV shows, movies, etc. And while it was cute for a short while, the constant pop-cultural references grew a little tiresome. It’s like salt: fantastic in small amounts; unhealthy in large amounts.
I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, I cannot figure out why studios and writers insist on sprinkling in adult language in a movie that is undeniably geared towards kids (if for no other reason, it is released by Nickelodeon). Reminder: you do not need to include foul language (in however small amounts) in order for adults to watch…they are going to watch anyway, and maybe even be more inclined to introduce their kid(s) to the TMNT.
Suffice it to say, TMNT is a lot of fun, and if you’re looking for a throwback superhero movie with some heart, then I’ve no doubt that you’ll enjoy this movie.
Ryan teaches Film Studies and Screenwriting at the University of Tampa and is a member of the Critics Association of Central Florida and Indie Film Critics of America. If you like this article, check out the others and FOLLOW this blog! Interested in Ryan making a guest appearance on your podcast or contributing to your website? Send him a DM on Twitter. If you’re ever in Tampa or Orlando, feel free to catch a movie with him.
R.L. Terry ReelView 