As I can imagine many before me, I've held off watching this new show for a long time, afraid it'd damage the overall feeling I have for TMNT. I'll have to note the nostalgia for TMNT is particularly high for me. And the whole Nickelodium thing made me imagine this new show might turn out too kiddie. But oh man what a wonderful surprise and adventure this show has become to me so far. The new designs took a place in my heart after just one episode, and the action and animation does not disappoint at all. I've fallen madly in love with it. The humor is still present, although way less corny and tacky then in the classic cartoon. And the characters are great. Very great, in fact. It's the writing of this show that has sealed the deal for me. Each turtle's personality comes across flawlessly, and even characters that only make a single or fast appearance stick to the memory. Leatherhead, in that regard, has been a highlight. 'His' episode has been the absolute highlight for me so far. Whereas in the classic cartoon he was just a stupid, 1-dimensional cardboard-cutout side character, in this new incarnation he is emotionally laden and a very effective character you can't help but care for. And the running joke where Mickey reassures his brothers that Leatherhead is 'totally mellow', followed by one of the other Turtles to say something that makes him go absolutely bananas, was just golden.
The basic premise of the show is still present; the Turtles live in their underground, sewer lair, and get up and out on the streets to kick some robot and alien butt. I can only hope the episodes stay as strong as they have been. Furthermore I hope they have learned by now that messing too much with the premise can make the whole thing tumble towards the ground again. Fast Forward, anyone? Let's not do that again.
I'm glad the current generation of kids can enjoy a show of this quality, and be introduced to the world of the Ninja Turtles. Highly recommended for fans of the old cartoon and newcomers alike.
ps. Keeping my fingers crossed for my favorite villain, Armaggon, to make an appearance in a future episode! He's originally from the Archie comics, but I've learned that Laird has brought up the rights so it should be possible.
Booyakasha!
