Through The Rear Window: Movie Review ... Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Movie Review ... Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

In 1990, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-mania was at its peak. Based on a comic book series, the four heroic amphibian warriors cut a swath through fan’s hearts. Spinning off into a successful movie and animated TV franchise, the Ninja Turtle craze conjured many dollars. As with all crazes, the hype died down and it seemed the heroes would be distant memories. Now the 2014 movie comes to revive their fortunes. No longer portrayed as ‘men in rubber suits’ as previously, the new film re-invigorates the series in time to garner a new legion of devoted fans.

New York is in the grip of unending terror. Overseen by evil tyrant Shredder, the city has descended into a maelstrom of violence and decay. Witnessing this moral bankruptcy is reporter April O’Neill (Megan Fox) and cameraman Vernon (Will Arnett). Hoping something will happen their wishes come true when four ninja trained turtles appear. Led by a giant rat called Splinter, the turtles aim to free the city from Shredder’s wicked vice and show evil-doers the true might of turtle power.

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ is a fun ride. Whilst perhaps pulling its punches in terms of reducing the violence seen in the comics, it generally does the series justice. It doesn’t talk down to its audience like previous entries and ensures it can be enjoyed for all ages. The CGI rendering of the turtles works effectively due to a freedom of movement ensuring each has their own personality. Their human co-stars do a fine job with their cartoonish roles deftly veering away from being too over the top.

All handle themselves well in the many action sequences. The creativity gone into crafting new ways to test the heroes is easily seen. Much has to do with Jonathan Liebesman’s astute direction respecting the ‘rules’ of the franchise whilst adding new twists. The very basic story is a mere cipher to the fast moving action allowing viewers to dive head-first into the heat of battle.

The reliance on newer technology has greatly improved the ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ cinematic series. This should ensure its longevity with old and new fans sure to cheer for the ‘heroes in a half shell’ further into the 21^st Century.