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TMNT #131: REVIEW

by Chris M. P.
written by Chris M. P.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #131

Story by Sophie Campbell

Art by Pablo Tunica and Ronda Pattinson 

Published by IDW 

Released July 27th, 2022

The Story So Far: Following Donatello and Alopex’s escape from the clutches of Dr. Barlow, a clash with the Punk Frog gang, and the crash landing of a mysterious Triceraton ship in the heart of Mutant Town, the Splinter Clan retreated to their lair for a much-needed respite. But instead of rest they were met with the urgent invitation to protect the world from an impending apocalypse-an invitation from none other than their old nemesis, the now reformed Oroku Saki.

Shredder and the TMNT: Trusted Alliance or Volcano Ready to Burst?!

After Rat King’s Armageddon Game was teased over a year ago, I truly thought the plot line was MIA. But it has indeed begun and bled into the main TMNT book with issue 131. The idea of this story arc is enticing. The TMNT teaming up with Oruku Saki, learning new techniques, facing inner conflicts as we wind up for the big showdown. A classic warrior’s journey storyline and, while basic, has been sorely missing from the TMNT’s plot. Issue 131 is like Yoda training Luke Skywalker with some Nightmare on Elm Street thrown in for good measure. It’s a solid first chapter in the mainline’s new arc, the only downside being Tunica’s unfinished looking art and Pattinson’s flat colors.   

The Rad!

  • Shredder and the TMNT teamup: Classic characters forever at odds putting them aside for the greater good. Familiar but interesting as we fans have a softspot for ‘ol Shredhead. Eager to see how this plays out.
  • Nightmare on Shell Street: Great nightmare sequences for each warrior preying on their guilty consciences. Also interesting that Leo did not have one! Great character work by Campbell. 
  • Splinter Tease: A spiritual reunion could really make this arc much more special if done correctly. It has been 31 issues since the TMNT have ost their father. And this is comics afterall…nobody is ever truly gone. 

The Bad 

  • Forgettable art direction: Tunica’s artwork this time around seems too digital and soft. Pattinson’s colors are flat and standard. Artwork is not bad by any means, but definitely feels uninspired. I felt the book could’ve added some more confident lines and bolder colorful highlights. 
  • Black Magic: Adding “magic” offense and becoming a mythical ninja is nothing new or bad. But seeing Oroku Saki shoot a fireball from his mouth is an interesting direction. I feel like the final battle will look like something out of Avatar The Last Airbender, and I’m not sure if the TMNT really need that. 

Notes: TMNT #131 is a good step forward in this Armageddon Game arc. I feel Campbell’s character drama could actually benefit the story much more working alongside the Armageddon Game-Opening Moves followed by the main Armageddon Game title. Only (Turtles in) Time will tell!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #131 is available wherever comics are sold! 

 

 

 

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Comic BooksReviews

TMNT#130: REVIEW

by Chris M. P.
written by Chris M. P.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #130

Story by Sophie Campbell

Art by Pablo Tunica and Ronda Pattinson 

Published by IDW 

Released June 29th, 2022

The Story So Far: The earth-shattering story arc conclusion! Punk Frogs, mad vivisectionists, frankenmutants, and psychic powers-the TMNT and their friends have had their hands full of late with all kinds of twisted and terrifying chaos. And now, to top it all off, a new problem waiting to happen is rocketing its way to Mutant Town from Burnow Island! Donatello, Alopex, Sheena, and their new friend, Venus-with an unexpected astral hand from Oroku Saki-escaped the clutches of the maniacal Dr. Barlow only to find themselves pursued by the doctor’s beastly henchman. Elsewhere, the rest of the Splinter Clan’s search for their imprisoned comrades led to an intense battle with the Punk Frogs-a battle that left Carmen, the newest member of the Splinter Clan, badly injured. And all parties were left shocked when a mysterious object crashed into Barlow’s lab…

Put Down Shredder’s Revenge! It’s TMNT Readin’ Time Dudes!

We’re putting a cap on what has been a solid, yet flawed, story arc in IDW’s TMNT universe. A lot of story tethers are flying from past issues, and #130 moves at a quick action packed pace. I’ve been critical of Campbell’s sluggish writing since she took over in #101. This current issue is the most fast paced and action heavy yet. Does that work in the story’s favor? Yes and no. Technically, the multiple story angles are tied up and we’re given a peak into the next chapter. On the other hand, the issue moves so quickly that the writing has little time to breath…so the conclusions don’t stick as well. But, overall, I enjoyed the conclusion and look forward to where we’re headed.      

The Rad!

  • Campbell has a lot to bookend in a simple 32 page issue. She does a good job at wrapping things up and planting the next storytelling seeds. Despite her past, the issue may suffer from too much action. Can’t believe I’m typing that. But, overall, it satisfies. 
  • Pattinson creates great alluring moods with her vibrant colors. 
  • Freaky Doc Barnlow is revealed to be alive and well, with sinister plans now that all he’s left with is Donatello’s blood. Could lead to an interesting baddie. 
  • Next issue teases the TMNT training alongside Oroku Saki. Could definitely be an interesting perspective and could create some great animosity and tension. 

The Bad

  • Tunica linework is decent, but the character expressions can be distracting. Is it just me or do the Punk Frogs look like the Coming Out of Our Shells tour costumes?
  • The appearance of Saki was underplayed. He’s dead and his spirit just battled demons from hell. Him fully confronting Leo was odd as Leo just seemed to be annoyed by it…like a little brother wanting to play dinosaurs or something. 
  •  I can’t say BAD or GOOD but Venus, as of now, feels ultimately empty. A controversial reintroduction to character nobody asked for…her new interpretation is bad by any means…just odd in terms of story. Again, she isn’t “bad”…but I wouldn’t put her under “good” either.

Notes: Campbell and company deliver a solid bookend to their TMNT arc. The Punk Frogs, Barlow, and his experimental atrocities peaked the storyline as of late. Issue 130 makes it clear that their story will continue…and I’m looking forward to that. Overall, if you’ve been intrigued with that past dozen or so issues, #130 is a must and a step in a new and familiar direction for IDW’s TMNT series.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #130 is available wherever comics are sold! 

 

 

 

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TMNT#129: REVIEW

by Chris M. P.
written by Chris M. P.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #129

Story by Sophie Campbell

Art by Tony Gregori and Ronda Pattinson 

Published by IDW 

Released May 25th, 2022

The Story So Far: Donatello and Alopex have been captured by mad surgeon Dr. Jasper Barlow. With Venus’s help,Donatello begins to explore the powers of the dragon scales, which he discovers give him access to the Astral Plane and visions of his past life in feudal Japan. Meanwhile, thanks to Ma’riell’s efforts, Regenta Seri has safely escaped Colonel Ch’rell’s clutches by blasting off in a Triceraton scout ship bound for New York City.

Donatello struggles to escape from the fiendish Dr. Barlow! The Turtles attempt to save him but first they’ll have to have a final showdown with the Punk Frogs!

Plus the long-awaited introduction of Sluggothy!

The Burnow Island story thread has been a slog and the introduction of Venus can go either way. After a disappointing previous issue, can IDW’s TMNT series pick up the otherwise solid momentum with Issue 129? 

SPOILER: IT DOES. 

Issue 129 exercises a great blend of action and drama with the wide range of characters and plots we’ve grown accustomed to reading about. From Donnie, Venus and the gang escaping the clutches of the twisted Dr. Barlow, The Turtles facing off with the Punk Frogs, and Raph and Casey at odds with each other the plot lines meet head on with the crash ending of a Triceratron ship! Let’s see what works and what doesn’t! 

The Rad!

  • Campbell balances action and drama at a great pace. I’ve given Campbell a lot of flack for focusing on petty interspecies drama and disappointing conclusions over ninja action and adventure; but her writing has been on a peak of late. And, thankfully, continues with #129. 
  • Punk Frogs origin is as punk as you’d think as I really dig these characters from the get-go. A Fort  Lauderdale Punk band turned angsty Battletoads is a fun and cool premise that TMNT is built on. So I enjoy every panel they get. 
  • Barlow continues to be a worthy and interesting foe. And Venus is coming along to be a cool creature herself. I could see both of these characters leading to some upgrades to Donetello in the future. 
  • Solid ending with our Burnlow Island plot literally crashing into Mutant Town. Eager to see how this all plays out. 
  • Pattinson creates great moods with her vibrant colors. 

The Bad

  • Saki is thrown into things for the sake of simply being there. I feel he’s a mostly forgotten character that’s conveniently written as a scapegoat of sorts. 
  • Raph and Casey have an awkward scuffle. It starts over something I perceived as serious: Raph being concerned with Casey’s drinking and wishing for him to not turn into his father. Yet they just laugh it off as horseplay. Oddly written. Campbell seems to really struggle when it comes to writing the character of Casey Jones. 
  • Gregor’s artwork works on some levels but mostly falls flat. The more novice look of his perspectives, character stances and expressions give a feeling of classic Eastman and Laird Turtle books. But I doubt it as an homage and often makes the book look amateur. 

Notes: Campbell and Company gives us a well rounded exciting chapter of the current TMNT story. With an interesting array of villains and emphasis back on adventure (not to mention the return of the RAT KING) IDW’s TMNT seems to be back in a good place yet again. I hope everyone keeps up the good work for our trusted Heroes in a Halfshell!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #129 is available wherever comics are sold! 

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Comic BooksReviews

TMNT #128: REVIEW

by Chris M. P.
written by Chris M. P.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #128

Story by Sophie Campbell

Art by Pablo Tunica

Published by IDW 

Released May 4th, 2022

Donatello and Alopex infiltrate the lab of Dr. Jasper Barlow in a bid to ward off the next attack of the Punk Frogs! What our heroes find in the lab will shock them and reveal a connection to a villain of the past . . . but first they’ll have to defeat some deadly NEW villains!

Nearly a month ago TMNT comics were given quite the news when IDW announced Venus was returning in the previous issue. The reveal created a bit of a divide and some confusion amongst the fanbase as Venus isn’t the most revered character…but with that came intrigue as we’re open to an interesting take to usher her back into the TMNT universe. And we got just that in what I deemed FRANKEN-VENUS (thunder clap). Can Campbell and Co. keep the electricity flowing through Dr. Barlow’s twisted experiment? 

Things get explosive on Burnow Island as a matured Tricertron escapes while Donatello and Venus link minds as they unwillingly participate in Dr. Barlow’s twisted experiments. Issue 128 felt like a step down from the last couple in question. The pace moved rapidly (as a positive) but I wasn’t thrilled with the specifics of the issue…but the overall general story so far is its saving grace. Let’s go to a break down:

THE RAD: 

  • The Barlow story: It’s dark, twisted, and fresh. The wall finally breaks where he’s full on villain in 128. What he wants to do to Donnie and the Splinter Clan presently is a thrilling action sequence.
  • Donatello’s Astral Plane: a touching visual departure into the TMNT’s past lives, it was gripping to see and could add what I assume will be the reason for Donatello breaking free of Barlow’s Dragon “trance”.
  • Solid artwork with a good sense of colors to set the scenes

THE BAD: 

  • Venus: It’s only her second issue. She’s not lost or anything. But it’s revealed she’s the missing Punk Frog and she’s psychic. Well…alright. A mutant frog turned franken-turtle. Interesting direction. I’m just hoping she serves a decent purpose overall other than “why not?”
  • Burnow Island: I just don’t care about this plot thread anymore. I’m not interested. It’s taking up pages at this point.

Notes: TMNT #128 is an okay issue that simply exists to further the storyline. It’s too early in Venus’s debut to call her a dud, but I’m not too thrilled with her current backstory. The Burnow Island really has to take an interesting route NOW because they’re about to put me to sleep. Dr. Barlow is the only interesting direction we’ve been going so far, and he saves the issue.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #128 is available wherever comics are sold!

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COMIC REVIEW: LAST RONIN #5

by Chris M. P.
written by Chris M. P.

TMNT: The Last Ronin #5

Story by Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird, Tom Waltz 

Art by Kevin Eastman, Esau and Isaac Escorza, and Ben Bishop

Published by IDW 

Released April 27th, 2022

The jaw-dropping finale to the biggest TMNT story ever is here! One final showdown between mutant and Foot Clan will determine the fate of NYC. Will the Ronin be able to find some measure of peace or is he fated to meet the same end as his brothers? Don’t miss one of the most epic battles in TMNT history and the conclusion to the comic book event of the year!

Part 5 of 5: FINISH HIM! 

Has it really been 7 months?! Talk about waiting on pins and needles for the epic conclusion to THE LAST RONIN. But it’s here! We left off learning how Mikey was truly left alone. The fall of his master and brethren. And his return for revenge. The battle has been won and it is now time to head to war. Last Ronin #5 is an action packed issue and a satisfying conclusion to this elseworlds TMNT tale. 

The rebels rebel, Michaelangelo takes on Hiroto, and Casey Marie grows into her own skin. The long road to conclude this story might have an affect on how the pacing feels as of this reading, I’m eager to see how this story follows in a collected trade paperback. As of now, I was very satisfied with the final issue. I did have some qualms; though the story ends (Spoiler) with a “to be continued” which I wasn’t expecting. The conclusion had a solid pace and a great and intriguing ending. I personally just want alternate stories like this one to just end…yet in comics…it seems every possible story path needs to be continued. Let’s do a breakdown: 

The Rad: 

  • Very solid artwork throughout the issue. Mikey looks the most “Frank Miller” in this issue than the previous. Great use of color and tone, especially in the “dreamy” concluding panel. 
  • The cast (overall) was portrayed well. Mikey, his deceased turtle brethren, Casey Marie, April were all written with purpose and poise. 
  • Wonderful emotional conclusion to the TMNT lore. Whether canon or not (I know it’s not). 
  • Great action (especially between Mikey and Hiroto) with clear Dark Knight Returns inspiration. Casey Marie’s “hero” moment was earned as well. 
  • Seeds planted for the “future” are intriguing and well placed. 

 The Bad: 

  • Hiroto wasn’t anything special. His lineage was his character. Other than that, he’s not very memorable in this issue. And his ultimate demise was too simple. But it’s comics. He’s probably not dead.
  • Casey Marie revealed to be a mutant seemed a bit rushed. It might read better in a collected book.  
  • The big ‘ol robot henchman Mikey faces prior to Hiroto seemed like they strolled in from a Gundam/Final Fantasy story. Their character designs didn’t fit. 

Notes: Last Ronin #5 is a satisfying conclusion to what is possibly the most intriguing TMNT story in any medium in years. I don’t know how much of this story is Eastman/Laird as opposed to Waltz, but the entire plot comes together as an exciting, intriguing, and heartbreaking elseworlds story within TMNT lore. It has an edge and excitement that has been missing from the main title, and just the right amount of fanfare. I feel the wait between issues may have been a disservice to the story, as a collected trade will be the beneficial way of reading it…all the way through in a single sitting. Great artwork, action, insight, and heart make Last Ronin an unmissable TMNT story…and one that I’m sure we’ll be talking about for years to come. 

TMNT: THE LAST RONIN #5 IS NOW AVAILABLE WHEREVER COMICS ARE SOLD! 

 

 

 

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