Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2023 Movie review : Mutant Mayhem – The turtles are back and better than ever

Plot

Welcome To Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2023 Movie review. Fifteen years ago, a Techno Cosmic Research Institute (TCRI) strike force is ordered by executive Cynthia Utrom to capture rogue scientist Baxter Stockman, who has stolen company secrets and technology, and any research. Desiring a family, Stockman creates a mutagen to create his own mutant family, starting with a housefly maggot. Before he can create more mutagen, the strike force arrives.

In the ensuing gunfight, Stockman is killed, and the mutagen falls into the sewers of New York City. The mutagen transforms four turtle brothers—Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, and Donatello—and a rat named Splinter into humanoid mutants. Splinter adopts the turtles and trains them in the art of Ninjutsu.

Fast forward to the present day. The turtles have been living in the sewers for years, training under Splinter and keeping to themselves. But they are starting to feel restless. They want to explore the outside world and experience what it’s like to be normal teenagers.

One day, the turtles meet a young woman named April O’Neil. April is a budding journalist who is investigating a mysterious crime syndicate that is operating in New York City. The turtles offer to help April, and they soon find themselves embroiled in a dangerous adventure.

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The crime syndicate is led by a ruthless mutant named Superfly. Superfly is planning to unleash an army of mutated animals on New York City in order to take over the city. The turtles must use all of their skills and training to stop Superfly and his army before it’s too late.

Along the way, the turtles learn more about themselves and what it means to be a family. They also learn that they can make a difference in the world, even though they are different.

The turtles’ journey begins when they are called to investigate a break-in at TCRI. The turtles discover that Superfly has stolen a powerful mutagenic device. Superfly plans to use the device to mutate all of the animals in New York City into his own army.

The turtles race against time to stop Superfly before he can activate the mutagenic device. They track Superfly to an abandoned warehouse, where they engage in a fierce battle. The turtles are outnumbered and outmatched, but they eventually manage to defeat Superfly and destroy the mutagenic device.

However, Superfly escapes, and he vows to return. The turtles know that they must be prepared for the next time Superfly attacks.

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In the aftermath of the battle, the turtles decide to come out of the shadows and reveal themselves to the world. They know that they can’t defeat Superfly on their own, and they need the help of the people of New York City.

The turtles become public heroes, and they are hailed as the city’s saviors. They use their platform to promote acceptance and tolerance for all creatures, regardless of their differences.

The turtles also learn more about their own origins. They discover that they were created by Stockman using the same mutagen that created Superfly. This revelation forces the turtles to confront their own dark side.

The turtles realize that they have the potential to be just as dangerous as Superfly. But they also realize that they have the power to choose their own destiny. They decide to use their powers for good, and they vow to protect the city from all threats.

In the end, the turtles defeat Superfly and his army once and for all. They save New York City, and they become true heroes.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a story about family, acceptance, and the power of choice. It’s a story about four ordinary teenage turtles who become extraordinary heroes. It’s a story that will inspire audiences of all ages.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a fun and exciting film with a positive message. It’s a film that the whole family can enjoy.

Action Sequences

The action sequences in the 2023 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem movie are designed to be visually stunning, exciting, and comedic. The filmmakers use a combination of traditional animation, CGI, and practical effects to create dynamic and engaging fight scenes.

One of the most notable action sequences in the movie is the Turtles’ battle against Superfly in his lair. Superfly is a dangerous mutant who has been terrorizing the city, and the Turtles know that they have to stop him.

Image source- imdb

The fight scene is set in a dark and industrial environment, and the Turtles use their ninja skills and weapons to take down Superfly and his minions.

Another memorable action sequence is the Turtles’ chase through the city sewers. The Turtles are pursued by Bebop, Rocksteady, and Mondo Gekko, and they must use all of their agility and cunning to escape. The chase scene is fast-paced and exciting, and it features some of the Turtles’ most impressive acrobatic feats.

The action sequences in Mutant Mayhem are also notable for their humor. The Turtles are known for their wisecracks and their ability to make light of even the most dangerous situations. This sense of humor is evident in many of the action scenes, and it helps to keep the audience engaged and entertained.

Here are some specific examples of the action sequences in Mutant Mayhem:

The Turtles vs. Superfly: The Turtles infiltrate Superfly’s lair and engage in a fierce battle against him and his mutant minions. The fight scene features a variety of weapons and techniques, including katanas, nunchaku, and explosives. The Turtles also use their environment to their advantage, knocking Superfly and his minions into traps and obstacles.

The Turtles vs. Bebop and Rocksteady: The Turtles are chased through the city sewers by Bebop and Rocksteady. The chase scene features some of the Turtles’ most impressive acrobatic feats, as they leap over obstacles, swing from pipes, and even ride on the backs of mutant crocodiles.

Image source- imdb

The Turtles vs. Mondo Gekko: The Turtles battle Mondo Gekko in a high-speed chase through the streets of New York City. The chase scene features some of the most visually stunning effects in the movie, as the Turtles race through traffic and narrowly avoid crashing into buildings.

Overall, the action sequences in Mutant Mayhem are well-choreographed, visually stunning, and exciting. They are also infused with humor, which helps to keep the audience engaged and entertained.

In addition to the specific examples above, the action sequences in Mutant Mayhem also feature a variety of other elements that make them unique and memorable. For example, the filmmakers often use slow-motion and close-up shots to highlight the Turtles’ acrobatic skills and martial arts prowess. They also use creative camera angles and editing techniques to create a sense of dynamism and excitement.

Overall, the action sequences in Mutant Mayhem are a highlight of the movie. They are visually stunning, exciting, and comedic, and they help to make the Turtles’ adventures even more memorable.

Character Development

Character Development in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

The 2023 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film, Mutant Mayhem, focuses on the teenage aspect of the Turtles and their coming-of-age journey. The film explores the Turtles’ individual personalities and challenges, as they learn to navigate their new lives as mutants and heroes in New York City.

Leonardo

As the eldest brother and leader of the Turtles, Leonardo is often burdened by the weight of responsibility. In Mutant Mayhem, Leonardo struggles to balance his duty to protect his family with his own desire for freedom and adventure. He also develops a crush on April O’Neil, which complicates his life further.

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Over the course of the film, Leonardo learns to let go of some of his control and trust his brothers more. He also realizes that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. By the end of the film, Leonardo has become a more confident and balanced leader.

Raphael

Raphael is the hot-headed and rebellious member of the Turtles. He often clashes with Leonardo over his leadership style and his desire to take more aggressive action. In Mutant Mayhem, Raphael is also struggling with his own insecurities and self-doubt.

Throughout the film, Raphael learns to channel his anger and frustration in a more productive way. He also comes to realize that he can be a valuable member of the team, even if he doesn’t always agree with Leonardo. By the end of the film, Raphael has become a more mature and responsible Turtle.

Donatello

Donatello is the brains of the Turtles. He is a brilliant inventor and strategist, but he can also be socially awkward and insecure. In Mutant Mayhem, Donatello is struggling to find his place in the world. He feels like he’s not as strong or brave as his brothers, and he’s not sure what he wants to do with his life.

Over the course of the film, Donatello learns to embrace his strengths and weaknesses. He also realizes that he doesn’t have to be the same as his brothers to be a valuable member of the team. By the end of the film, Donatello has become more confident and self-assured.

Michelangelo

Michelangelo is the youngest and most carefree of the Turtles. He’s always up for a good time and loves to make people laugh. In Mutant Mayhem, Michelangelo is struggling to balance his carefree attitude with his responsibilities as a mutant hero. He also has to deal with the fact that he’s not as strong or skilled as his brothers.

Throughout the film, Michelangelo learns to be more serious and responsible. He also realizes that he can use his sense of humor and creativity to help the team. By the end of the film, Michelangelo has become a more mature and capable Turtle.

Splinter

Splinter is the Turtles’ father figure and mentor. He is a wise and experienced warrior, but he can also be overprotective of his sons. In Mutant Mayhem, Splinter struggles to let go of his control and allow the Turtles to make their own decisions.

Over the course of the film, Splinter learns to trust his sons and give them the freedom to grow and learn on their own. He also realizes that he can still be a mentor and guide, even if he’s not always hovering over them. By the end of the film, Splinter has become a more supportive and understanding father.

Overall, the character development in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is well-rounded and believable. The Turtles each face their own challenges and learn valuable lessons along the way. By the end of the film, they have all grown and matured as individuals and as a team.

Themes

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) explores a number of themes, including:

Acceptance and belonging: The Turtles are mutants, and they have always felt like outsiders. They want to be accepted by the human world, but they are also afraid of being rejected. The film explores their journey to find their place in society, and to learn that it is okay to be different.

Image source- imdb

Family: The Turtles are a close-knit family, and they rely on each other for support. The film shows how important it is to have a strong support system, especially when you are facing challenges.

Coming of age: The Turtles are teenagers, and they are struggling to figure out who they are and what they want to do with their lives. The film explores their journey to becoming adults, and to learning how to use their powers for good.

Choice: The Turtles are faced with a number of difficult choices throughout the film. They must decide whether to stay in the shadows or to come out into the open. They must also decide whether to trust humans or to fight them.

The film also explores some more complex themes, such as:

The dangers of extremism: The villain in the film, Superfly, is a mutant who wants to overthrow the human race. He believes that mutants are superior to humans, and that they should rule the world. The film shows how dangerous it is to believe in your own superiority, and to underestimate your opponents.

Image source- imdb

The importance of unity: The Turtles must learn to work together with humans in order to defeat Superfly and his army of mutants. The film shows how important it is to unite against common enemies, even when we are different.

The power of forgiveness: The Turtles must forgive Superfly for his crimes in order to truly defeat him. The film shows how forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing and reconciliation.

Overall, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It explores some important themes in a way that is accessible to audiences of all ages.

Here are some specific examples of how the film explores these themes:

Acceptance and belonging: The Turtles are initially rejected by the human world when they are revealed to the public. However, they eventually gain the acceptance of the people of New York City by proving that they are heroes.

Family: The Turtles are always there for each other, even when they are fighting. They show that family is more important than anything else.

 Coming of age: The Turtles learn to use their powers for good and to fight for what they believe in. They also learn to trust themselves and each other.

Choice: The Turtles must choose whether to stay in the shadows or to come out into the open. They also must choose whether to trust humans or to fight them.

The dangers of extremism: Superfly’s extremism leads him to commit terrible crimes. The film shows how dangerous it is to believe in your own superiority and to underestimate your opponents.

The importance of unity: The Turtles and the humans of New York City must unite against Superfly and his army of mutants. The film shows how important it is to unite against common enemies, even when we are different.

The power of forgiveness: The Turtles forgive Superfly for his crimes, which allows them to truly defeat him. The film shows how forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing and reconciliation.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a film that has something to offer audiences of all ages. It is a fun and exciting adventure story, but it also explores some important themes in a thoughtful way.

Direction

Direction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

The direction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) is a departure from previous TMNT films, taking a more comedic and irreverent tone. Director Jeff Rowe has described the film as a “coming-of-age story for four teenagers who discover a reality they want to live in between Splinter’s overprotectiveness and Superfly’s anger.”

Image source- imdb

The film’s visuals are also a departure from previous TMNT films, with a more stylized and cartoonish look. Rowe has said that he wanted to create a film that felt like it was “animated by teenagers.”

Overall, the direction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a fresh take on the franchise, with a focus on humor, coming-of-age, and stylized visuals.

Here are some specific examples of the film’s direction:

 The film’s humor is more self-aware and meta than in previous TMNT films. For example, there is a scene where the turtles watch a parody of their own movie.

 The film’s characters are more complex and flawed than in previous TMNT films. For example, Leonardo is struggling with his leadership role, Donatello is feeling insecure about his intelligence, and Michelangelo is dealing with anger issues.

 The film’s visuals are more stylized and cartoonish than in previous TMNT films. For example, the turtles have exaggerated features and colors, and the cityscape is full of bright colors and neon lights.

Overall, the direction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a bold and refreshing take on the franchise. It is a film that is both funny and heartwarming, and it is sure to appeal to fans of all ages.

In addition to the above, some critics have also noted that the film’s direction is influenced by anime and video games. For example, the film’s action sequences are more stylized and over-the-top than in previous TMNT films.

Overall, the direction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a unique and eclectic blend of influences. It is a film that is sure to stand out from other superhero movies.

Cinematography

The cinematography of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) is a unique and visually stunning blend of traditional and experimental techniques. Cinematographer Kent Seki uses a variety of camera angles, lenses, and lighting effects to create a dynamic and immersive experience for the viewer.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the film’s cinematography is its use of color. The film is set in a vibrant and colorful world, and Seki uses this to his advantage to create a visually appealing and exciting experience.

Image source- imdb

He often uses saturated colors and bold contrasts to create a sense of energy and excitement. For example, in one scene where the Turtles are fighting a group of mutants, Seki uses bright reds, greens, and blues to create a visually stunning and chaotic battle scene.

Seki also uses a variety of camera angles and lenses to create a sense of dynamism and excitement in the film. He often uses low angles and close-ups to make the Turtles feel larger-than-life and powerful.

He also uses wide shots and tracking shots to create a sense of scale and scope. For example, in one scene where the Turtles are racing through the city, Seki uses a tracking shot to follow them as they weave through traffic and buildings. This creates a sense of excitement and danger, and it also helps to showcase the scale and scope of the city.

Seki also uses lighting effects to create a sense of mood and atmosphere in the film. He often uses dark and shadowy lighting to create a sense of mystery and danger. He also uses bright and colorful lighting to create a sense of excitement and joy.

Image source- imdb

For example, in one scene where the Turtles are celebrating a victory, Seki uses bright and colorful lighting to create a sense of happiness and celebration.

Overall, the cinematography of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a unique and visually stunning blend of traditional and experimental techniques. Seki uses a variety of camera angles, lenses, and lighting effects to create a dynamic and immersive experience for the viewer.

Here are some specific examples of how Seki’s cinematography is used to enhance the film:

 In the opening scene, the Turtles are shown emerging from the sewers into the neon-lit streets of New York City. Seki uses a wide shot to capture the scale and scope of the city, and he uses bright and colorful lighting to create a sense of excitement and adventure.

 In a later scene, the Turtles are fighting a group of mutants in a warehouse. Seki uses low angles and close-ups to make the Turtles feel larger-than-life and powerful. He also uses fast-paced editing and dynamic camera movements to create a sense of excitement and danger.

 In a third scene, the Turtles are celebrating a victory with their friends and allies. Seki uses bright and colorful lighting to create a sense of happiness and celebration. He also uses slow-motion and panning shots to create a sense of awe and wonder.

Seki’s cinematography is essential to the overall success of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. He uses his skills to create a visually stunning and exciting film that will appeal to fans of all ages.

Music

The music of the 2023 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a unique and eclectic mix of genres, reflecting the film’s own blend of action, comedy, and heart.

The score, composed by Academy Award winners Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, is a dark and atmospheric work that uses electronic elements and industrial sounds to create a sense of tension and excitement. Reznor and Ross have said that they wanted to create a score that was both “modern and classic,” and they have succeeded in doing so.

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The score is used to great effect in the film’s action sequences, providing a sense of urgency and danger. For example, in the scene where the Turtles fight the Techno Cosmic Research Institute, the score is fast-paced and driving, using electronic beats and distorted guitars to create a sense of chaos and intensity.

But the score is also used to great effect in the film’s quieter moments. For example, in the scene where the Turtles visit their old lair, the score is more subdued and reflective, using piano and strings to create a sense of nostalgia and longing.

In addition to the score, the film also features a number of licensed songs from various hip hop and R&B artists. These songs are used to create a sense of energy and excitement, and they also help to establish the film’s contemporary setting.

Some of the notable licensed songs featured in the film include:

 “Ante Up (Robin Hoodz Theory)” by M.O.P.

 “Eye Know” by De La Soul, Otis Redding

 “Ninja Rap” by Vanilla Ice

 “Riot” by Hugh Masekela

 “Cavern” by Liquid Liquid

 “Dance” by ESG

The use of these licensed songs helps to create a unique and eclectic soundtrack that reflects the film’s own blend of action, comedy, and heart.

Overall, the music of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a strong and memorable part of the film. The score by Reznor and Ross is dark and atmospheric, and it perfectly complements the film’s action sequences. The licensed songs are also used effectively to create a sense of energy and excitement.

The eclectic mix of genres in the soundtrack reflects the film’s own unique identity. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a film that is both familiar and new, and its music perfectly captures that balance.

Personal Opinion

I really enjoyed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023). It’s a fun, funny, and action-packed film that perfectly captures the spirit of the TMNT franchise.

I especially liked the way the film focuses on the turtles as teenagers. They’re still trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do with their lives, and they’re not always sure how to be heroes. This makes them relatable and sympathetic characters, and it helps the film feel more grounded than some other TMNT adaptations.

Image source- imdb

The animation in the film is also top-notch. It’s a unique and stylized look that really stands out from other animated films. The action sequences are also incredibly well-choreographed and exciting to watch.

Overall, I think Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a great film for fans of all ages. It’s funny, exciting, and heartwarming. If you’re a fan of the TMNT franchise, or if you’re just looking for a fun and entertaining animated film, I highly recommend checking it out.

Here are some specific things I liked about the film:

  •  The animation is unique and stylized. It really stands out from other animated films.
  •  The action sequences are incredibly well-choreographed and exciting to watch.
  •  The film has a good balance of humor, action, and heart.

I have a few minor criticisms of the film, but overall I highly enjoyed it. I would definitely recommend it to fans of the TMNT franchise, or to anyone looking for a fun and entertaining animated film.

FAQ

What makes this movie different from other Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is the first animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie to be released in a few years. It also features a new animation style that is more stylized and comic book-like. Additionally, the movie introduces some new characters, including the evil scientist and his mutant creatures.

Is the new movie connected to the previous Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is not directly connected to any of the previous Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies. However, it does share some of the same characters and themes. For example, the Turtles are still fighting crime and protecting the city from evil.

Is the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie connected to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Experience?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is not directly connected to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Experience. However, the experience is based on the movie and features some of the same characters and locations.

Is there anything else I should know about the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie?

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a fun and action-packed movie that is sure to please fans of the franchise. It features new characters, new locations, and new challenges for the Turtles to overcome. The movie is also visually appealing, with a new animation style that is sure to stand out.

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