Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles Forever. Produced by 4 Kids Entertainment. 2009.
Plot: In some way or form, most people have had contact with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The series has spawned several television programs, movies, video games, and comic books. Yet, each incarnation remained independent of the others...until 2009.
The turtles from the original 1987 cartoon inexplicably find themselves in the more "serious" world of the 2003 cartoon. As the eight turtles find themselves foreigners to their own selves, they discover multiple universes of turtles stalked by foes (old and new), allies (old and new), and an unexpected origin.
Genre: Ninjas, Movies
Reading Level: Not Rated, but I think it was labeled as TV Y-7.
Similar Titles: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2003)
Personal Thoughts: While some may argue (justifiably) that the turtles are a bit of a stretch of the "ninja" theme, they provided many childrens' first encounter with the concept of a ninja. As such, this merits inclusion. Anyway...
By all rules, this should not work. The context is geeky, the series are too wide apart, 2003 Splinter's design is wrong, and the original actors are all silenced by the union. Yet, despite the rules, the movie works believably (in a sci-fi kind of way), unexpectedly, and naturally. The characters remain true to their sources and respond to the situation in a characteristic way. However, the story also manages to avoid becoming contrite or predictable. Even the ending, which could easily become sappy, manages to provide a pleasant surprise. Overall, the movie is definitely a must-see for any TMNT fan.
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