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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

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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Comic BooksReviews

REVIEW: TMNT ANNUAL 2022

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

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Annual 2022

Story by Juni Ba

Art by Juni Ba and Ronda Pattinson

Published by IDW 

Released March 30th, 2022

 The Turtles embark on a secret mission to their roots, but a mysterious creature hunts them relentlessly. The Turtles will have to find a new way to come together to escape their foe-and the pain that haunts them. A special story of remembrance and family written and drawn by acclaimed artist Juni Ba!

“I KINDA MISS THIS, GUYS…”

Leonardo confesses that as he and his brothers face a supernatural adversary that preys on insecurities. That’s what TMNT Annual 2022 is essentially about. Yet, it’s about so much more. It’s about facing loss, overcoming insecurities, and rising above it all. And it’s a short tale executed wonderfully by Juni Ba. I miss it too, Leo. I think a majority of TMNT fans do. And I’ll touch on that in the “notes”. I wasn’t expected much with the Annual…as last years had a great story of the Rat King that (so far) has led nowhere into the main title nearly a year later. But I was immediately hooked into Ba’s story as it presented something we haven’t seen in whats felt like forever: Direction. 

Well, perhaps that’s harsh. But direction on brand with what IDW’s TMNT title has become beloved for. Ba leaves the furry fan fiction and aimless relationship drama in the sewers, and decides to paint us a picture (literally) of growth and determination. And Ba has said more in one issue than the two dozen of the mainline series.

THE RAD

  • Juni Ba tells us a brief but beautifully strong story of grief, family, and teamwork. 
  • Ba and Pattinson’s artwork is unique and stylish that fits the mood of the story perfectly. 
  • The “Leech Spirit” is an interesting and creative “villain” built for character growth. You get just enough of it in this short story.  
  • The callback of the red bandanas when the TMNT finally are fighting on the same page, and speaking of the loss of their father was poignant and beautiful.  

THE BAD

  • None.

Notes: I have been unnaturally optimistic with Sophie Campbell’s current two year TMNT run. Maybe it’s because I grew up with these characters and refuse to simply “give up” on some uninteresting direction. The last few issues have been moving in a solid direction, yet when writing like this Annual comes along….you realize what more the title could be. Ba mentions how much has changed within the IDW TMNT-verse in the form of dialogue between the Turtles. The brother’s briefly reminisce about their “old” days (intergalactic travel, Triceratrons etc) as Mikey claims he misses the “fun”. So do we, Mikey. We have our four Turtle brothers practicing the art of Ninja, voicing their doubts…reflections…and grief. All while battling an interesting villain. A dosage of action. And overcoming the odds as a family. The use of Master Splinter in the last pages of the book are heartbreaking yet important. And it leaves a lasting impression of sadness…yet hope with an optimistic message. Maybe that’s why I’m so optimistic when it comes to TMNT. Because that’s what they’ve always taught me. If you’re going to want to read an issue of TMNT this year so far, pick up TMNT Annual 2022. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Annual 2022 is now available wherever comics are sold! 

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TMNT #127 REVIEW

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

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #127

Story by Sophie Campbell

Art by Pablo Tunica and Ronda Pattinson

Published by IDW 

Released March 30th, 2021

Who is Dr. Jasper Barlow, and is he friend or foe? As the TMNT regroup from their battle with the Punk Frogs, the doctor makes some of our heroes an offer they may find hard to refuse. Plus, a tense situation between the Utroms and Triceratons goes from bad to worse!

SHE’S ALIVE?! SHE’S ALIIIIIVE!

I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the past handful of TMNT issues recently. The story actually seems to have some direction…and even if it really doesn’t…I’m still positively intrigued by where the next issue is going. The surprise announcement that VENUS was returning to TMNT lore was surprising to say the least. Especially since we’ve had more than enough of Jennika since her debut. 

On Burnow Island, Commander Zom has been terribly wounded by Colonel Ch’rell and his forces, leaving the fate of her daughter, the Regenta Seri, in the tentacles of Ch’rell’s sister, Science Advisor Maʼriell. Meanwhile, in Mutant Town, the Turtles and their friends have barely escaped a violent ambush by the Punk Frogs, and find themselves regrouping in the macabre laboratory of Dr. Jasper Barlow. Barlow promises rehabilitation through (what we found out) crude spooky experimental surgery. With Donatello being interested in Barlow’s tech (as well as repairing his cracked shell) we’re introduced to one of Barlow’s turtle “patients”…

THE RAD

  • Dr. Barlow: He’s creepy, mysterious, and intriguing. He’s a villain that has some direction and prospects. And issue #127 solidifies that further. 
    • Great Pace: Campbell keeps the plot moving and covers a lot of ground for various characters and scenarios. 
    • TMNT Goes HORROR: This issue is genuinely off putting and creepy. 
  • Venus: She’s back. Not how we remember. Sure as hell not how we’d expect. But I’m looking forward to this iteration. 

THE BAD

  • Artwork: Tunica’s art leaves something to be desired. Flat colors and “googly” awkward expressions.
  • Utrom/Triceratons: Personal opinion but this plot string isn’t really grabbing me so far. It definitely slowed down this issue. 
  • New Headquarters: The Splinter Dojo being destroyed added an interesting possible plot moving forward, but in a few panels we found out they’re just going to be living in a Church now. Makes you wonder if the Splinter Dojo burning was just for shock factor with no plan.  

Notes: TMNT #127 is creepy, kooky, and all together spooky. The introduction of Franken-Venus is fresh, alluring, and odd. I look forward to how it plays out. Between Barlow, his experiments, and the Punk Frogs…TMNT lore has been on an uptick as of late. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #127 is now available wherever comics are sold! 

 

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