This week sees the release of a sequel to 2014’s reboot of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise. And as it happens, this years release is in many ways – also a remake. Thankfully the generation for whom this film is targeted – probably aren’t too familiar with the history of the Pizza loving Mutant Ninjas, or else they could be disappointed that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows lacks a lot of originality. This Michael-Bay-Blockbuster remake of the Turtles Franchise borrows a lot of it’s storyline from 1991’s easily forgettable TMNT 2: The Secret of the Ooze. In some ways I guess you could claim that as a homage to the classic, as retelling a familiar story from the Turtle’s world allows for many bizarre cartoon villains from the animated children’s series to finally been brought to life on the big screen.
Much like this film’s 1991 counterpart, this film wasn’t particularly memorable itself, but that’s not to say there aren’t a few easy laughs, and some hugely fun action sequences. In terms of how it looks, this movie hits the mark for a modern blockbuster and provides some pretty believable special effects despite the far fetched cartoony nature of the content. The turtle brothers are clearly animated, however the characters have a strong history which helps you suspend disbelief just enough to enjoy a wild ride with the Turtle Teens through their sewers. If you’re a fan of Will Arnett’s goofball comedy stylings, there are plenty of jokes and references to keep you smiling throughout the film. And the special effects have come a long way since the 2014’s film from the same studio. Out of the Shadows delivers a lot of advancements with explosions, detailing on the CGI creatures and stunt work. Sadly though, the film is a lot less progressive when it comes to costume choices for Megan Fox. One scene almost without explanation see’s her quick change into an overly revealing school girl skirt to rouse an antagonist.
So apart from the odd groan at overly convenient plot points or unnecessary closeups of Megan Fox’s body parts – i did manage to enjoy TMNT: Out of the Shadows for what it was. A film the younger generation will enjoy, and a modern enough re-imagining to keep the decades old franchise alive.
