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REVIEW: TMNT X Stranger Things Wave 2

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

The Second Wave of 80’s Crossover Nostalgia…Fresh From The Sewers of Hawkins!

With the recent announcement from IDW Publishing about a TMNT/Stranger Things comic crossover coming this summer, Playmates Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Stranger Things Upside Down Remix packs that hit stores late last year suddenly doesn’t seem so random as everyone made it out to be. 

The first wave of figures included Leonardo/Eleven and Raphael/Hopper. The newly released second wave includes Mikey/Dustin and Donatello/Lucas. Both Stranger Things and TMNT are no strangers to toy licenses. Besides the absurdity of the crossover, one can see the difference in styling of these toy designs: with our believed Turtles harkening back to Eastman and Laird’s original 1985 Mirage Comic appearances. As for the Stranger Things characters, they sort of walk the line between true likeness and animated stylings. Which, all in all, makes these toys unique in their own right…and a “must-get” for Turtle and Stranger Things fans alike. But I guess that’s the point, isn’t it? 

Compared to the first wave, Lucas and Dustin’s sculpts have a more true-to-form likeness of the actors that portray them on the show. And the details are there, from Dustin’s graphic tee, vest patch and hat to Lucas’s sweet kick and 80’s shorts. 

As for the Mikey and Donnie, not much can be said apart from Raph and Leo from the previous wave. Playmates does a good job at capturing the intimidating look of Eastman and Laird’s ‘85 run (complete with little turtle tails). The Turtles sculpts are solid…yet redundant…mostly because they’re missing the little flairs that make each turtle individuals that were implemented for the animated series. They have their appropriate weapons, scowls, red bandanas, and belts. Skin Tone is the same dark aqua-like green. Great figures for diehards that want a set of Mirage toys that won’t break the bank, but probably confusing to many casual fans. 

What’s overlooked here is the figures overall presentation and included accessories. Both properties have their adorning logos (with TMNT having the original Mirage logo and art) and the packaging needing to be “flipped” to view each character. A great gimmick alluding to Stranger Thing’s “Upside Down” adventures throughout the series. The box also gives a quick synopsis on why this crossover is happening to begin with (besides dollar signs of course):

“The Turtles have tracked TCRI’s latest illegal experiments from NYC to Hawkins, Indiana, where it’s trying to harness the power of the upside down. The half-shell heroes must team up with eleven and her friends to try and stop TCRI’s next experiment before it succeeds.” 

Another overlooked aspect of the figures that actually sounds pretty great for what it is. And we’re hoping that is the basis for the upcoming comic series as well. There’s also a lot of little on theme accessories included with the sets like cassette decks, spray cans, backpacks, 80s tech, and Eggo waffle ninja throwing stars because why not? If I had to go out, it would definitely be by way of a waffle throwing star. 

In conclusion, Playmates toys has been using the Ninja Turtles to crossover in every way they can the past couple years, whether it be with Cobra Kai, Street Fighter, and Stranger Things. They make for interesting collectables. Nostalgic, yet a sign of modern pop culture. The Mirage inspired TMNT figures are great to have for the diehard Turtle fans, and the Stranger Things figures are solid in their own right. There’s a strong chance of overlapping fandoms all things considered and these look great in the box and out.  My only question is will there be a wave 3 in the future? 

Perhaps Mike and Splinter? Max and April? Will and Shredder? Kraang and the Demogorgon? 

Only time will time, dudes and dudettes. Stranger Things have happened. Comment below and let us know if you collect these Playmates TMNT X Stranger Things figures!

The second wave of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Stranger Things Upside Down Remix is exclusive to Target stores and retailing for $39.99. You can also pick up the first wave for a little cheaper if you want all four Turtles.

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Comic Book NewsNews

TMNT & Stranger Things Comic Crossover Announced!

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

The TMNT head to the Upside Down this Summer!

And the only things that can make it more 80’s would be some dense hairspray! IDW publishing confirmed that, this summer, one of the largest properties born out of the 1980s is about to collide with one of the biggest hits of recent years channelling the 1980s. It appears that writer Cameron Chittock and artist Fero Pe are attached to the upcoming series, their surnames listed on the full cover that was shown by IDW Publishing. This remains to be confirmed by either party just yet.

It’s no mystery that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have crossed over with a slew of popular franchises. Three volumes of TMNT/Batman have been published while the second volume of a Mighty Morphin Power Rangers crossover is currently ongoing. Other crossovers have included TMNT/Ghostbusters, TMNT/X-Files, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Usagi Yojimbo, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. Street Fighter (set to be published this year). Not to mention the TMNT crossing over with various multiverses of themselves throughout various forms of media.

Yet this crossover may not come as such a surprise to some shellheads, as Playmates Toys have released TMNT x STRANGER THINGS action figure packs as early as last year…making the team up not as random as it may seem. And with a new wave of TMNT x Stranger Things action figures hitting Target stores this year, the collision shows no signs of stopping just yet. The action figure packs may also give a hint at what the announced comic book series may entail, as the toys read:

 “The Turtles have tracked TCRI’s latest illegal experiments from NYC to Hawkins, Indiana, where it’s trying to harness the power of the upside down. The half-shell heroes must team up with eleven and her friends to try and stop TCRI’s next experiment before it succeeds.” 

While a team up of these properties may seem a bit “random” at first, one may argue that plotline isn’t as preposterous as we thought, in fact, we are actually looking forward to this.

This isn’t Stranger Things first comic rodeo either, as the property isn’t shy in the funny pages. From character focused prequel comics to a crosser over with Dungeons and Dragons, Stranger Things is a property able to entertain in many forms of media. As are our favorite heroes in a halfshell.

So here’s to a fun and interesting summer and hoping we can see Eleven share a slice of pizza with our Turtle brethren and perhaps a Kraang can meet a Demogoron

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Comic BooksReviews

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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Comic Book NewsComic BooksReviews

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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