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.
In a world where reboots and adaptations are a dime a dozen, Paramount’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem manages to bring a refreshing twist to the beloved franchise. Helmed by director Jeff Rowe and backed by the creative minds of producers Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and James Weaver, this new computer-animated instalment stands out as the first big-screen adaptation to truly dive into the adolescent experience of the iconic mutant ninja turtles. Through a captivating blend of animation styles, a dynamic coming-of-age narrative, and a fusion of humour and heart, Mutant Mayhem rejuvenates the turtles' saga while paying homage to its nostalgic roots.
From the very beginning, Mutant Mayhem captures attention with its unique approach to animation. Building on the personalized scrapbook aesthetic introduced in the acclaimed Netflix film, the movie marries an array of animation techniques – from hand-drawn watercolours to sleek CGI – resulting in a grungy sketchpad sensibility that is both captivating and fitting. This unconventional choice emphasizes the film's themes of imperfection, authenticity, and the youthful energy that defines the turtles.
The film opens with the turtles – Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello – engaging in quintessentially teenage behaviour, foregoing their responsibilities for a glimpse of a normal life. The rebellious spirit and awkward gangly nature of adolescence permeate the movie's very form, enhancing the relatability of the protagonists and inviting the audience into their world. The mantra voiced by Splinter (Jackie Chan), their rat sensei and father figure, sets the tone for their journey: the turtles' struggle for acceptance in a world that often rejects difference.
On the trail of the criminal mastermind Superfly (voiced by Ice Cube) and his crew of mutants, the turtles decide to take matters into their own hands, becoming vigilantes in pursuit of justice and heroism. This narrative arc beautifully encapsulates the universal theme of adolescence: the search for identity and belonging in a big, scary world. The film’s writing team, which includes Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Jeff Rowe, Dan Hernandez, and Benji Samit, deftly handles these themes, infusing them with playful humour and a gentle touch.
A remarkable decision made by the filmmakers is casting actual teenagers to voice the turtles. This move injects authenticity and vitality into the characters' interactions, and their chemistry on-screen feels genuine and endearing. As they banter and squabble, their camaraderie feels vibrant and relatable, anchoring the film’s core themes of friendship, growth, and acceptance.
Amidst the fast-paced action and lighthearted banter, Mutant Mayhem takes a deep dive into more intimate forms of acceptance. Jackie Chan delivers a poignant performance as Splinter, navigating the complexities of parenting and guiding his sons through the transition from adolescence to adulthood. His portrayal encapsulates both fierce commitment and quiet contemplation, effectively encapsulating the bittersweet essence of watching one’s children grow.
In terms of visual creativity, the movie stands alongside recent animations like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse in pushing boundaries. The animation bursts with life, with kinetic fight scenes and dynamic sequences that keep viewers engaged. The fusion of 2D and 3D techniques, along with the incorporation of diverse animation styles, contributes to the movie’s unique visual appeal. The film's choice to delve into a more impressionistic, less photorealistic style is an intentional departure from mainstream American animation, further accentuating the turtles' gritty and imperfect nature.
The film’s soundtrack, featuring a nostalgic blend of '80s and '90s hip-hop, adds another layer of depth to the experience. While some action sequences may occasionally become challenging to follow, the film's energy and momentum never waver, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The interplay between the turtles' rapid-fire banter and the film’s visual allure maintains an entrancing synergy that captures the essence of teenage camaraderie.
Seth Rogen's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem successfully reboots the franchise, and it's evident that a lot of care has gone into crafting a story that resonates with both nostalgic fans and new audiences. The film traverses familiar territory with the turtles' origin story, allowing audiences to reconnect with the characters' roots and values. However, it's in the third act that the film truly hits its stride, culminating in a resolution that ties together themes of growth, acceptance, and heroism.
The characterizations of the mutants and their interactions remain a highlight. Superfly (Ice Cube), along with his motley crew of mutants, adds complexity and challenges to the turtles' journey. The film's humorous and endearing portrayal of these characters, including warthog Bepop (voiced by Seth Rogen) and rhino Rocksteady (voiced by John Cena), enhances the film’s overall charm and entertainment value.
In a bold move, the movie reimagines TV reporter April O'Neil (voiced by Ayo Edebiri) as a fellow teenager, infusing her character with newfound relatability. This transformation adds depth to her role, aligning her aspirations with those of her mutant friends, and turning her into an integral part of their coming-of-age story.
While the film isn't without its flaws – the third act feeling slightly less impactful and the villain's character falling short of potential – Mutant Mayhem excels in embracing the core spirit of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The film's ultimate achievement lies in its ability to deliver a thrilling and heartfelt story that balances nostalgia with fresh perspectives.
Paramount’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem represents a triumphant entry into the turtles' cinematic legacy. Through its inventive animation, relatable characters, and exploration of themes such as acceptance, growth, and friendship, the film captures the essence of adolescence. This new adaptation successfully intertwines nostalgia with modern sensibilities, delivering a dynamic and visually creative experience that resonates with both old fans and the new generation. As the turtles continue to evolve, they remain as relevant and relatable as ever – a testament to their timeless appeal.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is in NZ cinemas from September 14th, 2023