Quick little ditty about a legacy I'd like to call the...

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Come on, if you're at least 20 years old, you know you love them. I know I do.

When I heard that they were making a new TNMT movie, I was pretty stoked. I was the kid with all the action figures, the pajamas, and the sheets. When I was 3, my dad and I even filmed an episode of the TNMT called, "The turtles save Baby Jesus." I bet you can imagine how awesome that was. So awesome. And no, my dad was not, and still is not religious at all. Obviously.

So tonight was the big night that I finally got to feast my eyes upon the movie. And really, it was great. If I was to rate it, I'd give it an 8.5/9. Half marks are lame, so maybe I'll just go with the 9.

Here's why the movie rocked:

1. The Characters
For me, it was so important that the movie stayed true to the characters. Donatello is the smart one, Leonardo is the leader, Michaelangelo is the funny one, and Raphael is the misunderstood one. Thankfully, the movie stayed true with the personalities and if anything, developed them further. Splinter also appeared in the movies, and was just as wise as ever. The only character I was slightly dissapointed with was April O'Neal. She never "fought crime" so I'm not sure why she did in this movie. And Sarah Michelle Geller as the voice? Weak. She may be Buffy or whatever, but she's definitely not cool enough to fill April's shoes.

2. The Humour
The comedic genius behind the origional Turtles TV series that aired back in the 80s is one that's very hard to replicate. It's cheesy, but yet it works. And sometimes it's even unexpected. But myself, along with most of the audience, did laugh out loud at several moments, which is important. They nailed the old "witty but cheesy" humour dead on.

3. The Music
I'm no music expert, and there isn't much to say here, but the music worked and made the movie that much stronger....and classy.

4. The Animation
Going in to the movie, I must admit, I was a bit worried about how this dangerous, dark looking animation style would pan out. And when I saw the faces of the "humans", like April, I couldn't help but compare them to Bratz dolls. Big eyes, and big heads, minus the slutty clothing. However, as soon as the battles started (specifically the one between two of the turtles), the animation was absolutely stunning. You almost become one of the turtles (which for me is a life long goal that I can now check off my list) as the animation moves so fluently accross the screen. It was completely artistic and beautiful, and its dark style really appealed to the now grown up, old school fans that it should be appealing to.

The bad parts? Yeah there were some, like the Bratz doll looking humans, but that's all I could really find. Maybe I'm so biased though that I really shouldn't be writing a review at all. But really? I don't care. The TMNT are awesome and I hope everyone, young and old, goes and checks it out so that they'll make another one. Now, it's time for me to hit the sack in my old school TMNT pajamas. That's right, I still have them....

A Movie Review of Sorts

You've probably realized that over the last 6 months, Jake has really been slacking off when it comes to movie reviews. I have to say, it's been probably harder on me then it has been for him to watch him develop from "the movie guy" to "mr. hard working hydroponics guy." Working three jobs, Jake is busy. Although, he's still finding time to catch the occasional movie, keep up with his TV, and play videogames. And for that I'm thankful because it's staying true to his character. He is a media whore, and I've turned into a mini media whore over the past 2.5 years because of that. But that's why there's been a lack of updates. It's not due to a lack of passion, but rather, to a lack of time.

Anyways, it's still important to at least comment on the occasional movie, and hence, here I am.

Last night Jake and I were going to see 300. But, it was sold out so we ended up going to see Bridge to Terabithia instead. I think both of us were a little bit relieved that we got to see the more light hearted, not so violent movie.

Bridge to Terabithia is based on a novel written in 1977. I actually read it myself in 5th grade (1997), and just loved it. Even though I knew exactly what was going to happen since it followed the novel very closely, it was still an enjoyable, touching little film. Both the main characters, Josh Hutcherson (Jess) and AnnaSophia Robb (Leslie) play convincing outcasts who share an imaginative spirit in common and quickly become best friends. Their relationship is so believeable that you can't help but share their adventures and I know personally, memories of my own childhood came flooding back.

Plus, the little actress who plays Jess's little sister, May Belle (Bailee Madison) was so adorable and cute that it made me want to name my own future daughter May Belle. If she doesn't melt your heart then damnit, I don't know what will.

As a side note, Jake cried like a little girl throughout most of the movie. It was sad, in his defense, and probably isn't exactly suitable for really young kids or kids who are especially sensitive. That's all I'm going to say about that because I don't want to give it away.

It's really refreshing though to see movies that are more than guns and explosives being made. I think it's important to keep movies around that actually have deeper meanings and a hopeful tone to them. It's a good influence for kids and it encourages them to make believe and to just enjoy and appreciate life. That's a good message if I ever heard one.

And again, it's short. Can't argue with that.

I suppose the next movie we'll see is the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles flick. And damnit if that won't be the best show ever. I was practically raised on the TMNT. Everything I learned, I learned from them. Alright, so that's a bit of an exaggeration, but still. I'm sure Jake will write a review for that one, so be sure to keep your eyes open for it.

Until next time?