Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie Movie Review

Although a bit more rambunctious, this is a very close adaptation of Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird's surprise hit self-published comic-book series. Four sewer-dwelling turtles that have turned into warrior ninja mutants due to radiation exposure take it upon themselves to rid the city of crime and pizza. Aided by television reporter April O'Neil and their ninja master, Splinter the Rat, the turtles encounter several obstacles, including the evil warlord Shredder. A most excellent live-action version of the popular comic book characters which will hold the kids’ interest. Much head-kicking and rib-crunching action as Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo fight for the rights of pre-adolescents everywhere. Since this was a production of Hong Kong's Golden Harvest, much of the martial arts action is far superior to that of most American kung fu features. Elias Koteas stands out as the Turtles’ ally Casey Jones, looking like a young Robert DeNiro. Combines real actors with Jim Henson creatures.

1990 (PG) 95m/C Judith Hoag, Elias Koteas, Michael Turney, James Sato; D: Steven Barron; W: Todd W. Langen, Bobby Herbeck; C: John Fenner; M: John Du Prez; V: Robbie Rist, Corey Feldman, Brian Tochi, Kevin Clash, David McCharen. VHS, Beta, LV, 8mm FHE, LIV, WTA