From TMNT Front Lines... [Archive] - Page 2

Kevin Munroe

01-19-2007, 08:04 PM

Hey guys,

Writing from a darkened room on the WB lot where we're still working on the post of the movie. It's looking and sounding amazing. And the notion of being in a room with a full orchestra playing to a TMNT movie is almost impossible to describe.

Johnnyblaze/Vegita – Not sure about NYCC plans, but I think there are some in the making. I can't speak for WB, but I know 4kids and Mirage will be there in full force. Would be nice to make it there to show some stuff. I'm talking to the folks at Mirage now about going out there.

Comet – Yeah, Mikey uses his nunchucks, but we're having to work around it wherever possible. I know it's a lot tougher for some overseas markets on some of those topics. Just know that whatever we get into the movie will be squeaking by.

Ardnealy – What would I do differently on the next one? Lots of things, and there are things I wouldn't change at all. I would probably communicate with the fan base sooner. As far as the rest, probably have to wait to see how this one pans out before doing a full post-mortem.

Gobo – Yeah, Splinter should always be in it. We ever-so-briefly discussed having him die (ironically even before Mako passed away), but then Pete reigned us in. While an emotional moment, it would be sad to think that Mako's version of him would only exist for part of the comeback movie. So no, Splinter should be in all the tmnt adventures imo. Sort of the difference between Happy Days and Joanie loves Chachi... or Three's Company and Three's a Crowd... take your pick.

Show – Success point for the film? Not sure – that's more of a producer/book-keeping sort of question. But I'd imagine most of the decision comes from domestic box office. As for Shredder figure, I think it's just a fun nod from Playmates. His involvement as-is in the movie wouldn't warrant a real figure, but it's kind of neat to have him in the toy line from what I've seen. All the disgruntled fans who think the only enemy of the TMNT is Shredder can create their own stories at home.

Gobo - Yeah, the advertising can be a frustrating thing if you analyze it too much. I've seen a lot of momentum on fast food tie-ins, merchandising, tv campaigns, press, etc. so it's hard for me to think that it's being neglected. I personally love a good teaser a year out and long roll up to release. But I think we're going to see a huge blitz on TMNT from here to the end... starting... soon. The cautious optimist in me also thinks that you don't have educate the public on what TMNT is as much as you would an original new property. But then again, Spiderman blows that theory out of the water. Either way, it's in everyone's best interest to have the movie do well, so I'm not that worried, frustrating as it is for you guys.

TMTWBR - Voice Actors – Ha. I'm not even sure what we can or can't say... it's funny dealing with producers sometimes. I saw the list that Dan put up on the Mirage site. I've always found Dan to be a very trustworthy guy who is usually pretty reliable. He's a good dude.

Draconic – Image is actually a different company from Imagi. But Bruce is about as cool as they come. I've known the Dark Horse folks for a long time through other projects, and they told me that the My Name Is Bruce project is really fun.

Gotta get back to it. We're also doing color timing at nights, so now it's time to go to another dark room. Sounds like it's complaining, but far from it.

Speak soon,

Kevin

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

01-19-2007, 08:48 PM

Once again, thanks for making the time Mr. Munroe.

I'm glad TMNT hasn't been negelcted in the advertising dept.

Hope to see you guys at NYCC, if you can get the comic fans intrested, you're all set.

IveyAngelo

01-19-2007, 09:56 PM

Thanks for answering so many questions I truly hope you can make it to NYC Comic Con! I know a group of fans and myself that will deff be there!

I wanted to ask you what your thoughts are of the comics that Mirage Studios is doing leading up to the movie? Are you excited about those as well? I know that's one of the things that I think is really cool with this movie and I can not wait to go to my comic store and pick them up!

johnnyblaze

01-20-2007, 05:36 PM

Hey guys,

Johnnyblaze/Vegita – Not sure about NYCC plans, but I think there are some in the making. I can't speak for WB, but I know 4kids and Mirage will be there in full force. Would be nice to make it there to show some stuff. I'm talking to the folks at Mirage now about going out there.

sweet, hope to get your autograph bro

Jester

01-20-2007, 05:53 PM

Hey Fellow Kevin,
Any word on which fast food franchise will get the TMNT tie in?

Jester has no problem looking like a fool and ordering a kid's meal for TMNT movie tie in toys....say that 3 times fast...:D

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

01-20-2007, 06:40 PM

I should have asked earlier but, any chance we'll see you guys at Wizard World LA this year. Seeing as how it's starts on March 17 and goes on through the 19, only days before the movie releases.

sgtfbomb

01-20-2007, 10:28 PM

Hey Kevin,

As far as the score goes, will there be referrences to DuPrez's score from the earlier films? I think that would be so cool. Also, form the trailer, it seems like they are in the original sewer, and having heard there was going to be some continuity between the original films and this new film, did you think about having them in the abandoned Subway tunnel like in the sequals?

TMNT

01-21-2007, 01:20 PM

Hey Kevin,
Here on the boards we've speculated of what possible references to the other TMNT incarnations there will be but can you give us an idea of what you're planning to do? Yes, we've all seen the trophy room picture and that is a big enough reference in itself but is there anything else like maybe a song or dialouge, or something? Thanks.

EDIT: I've picked up the novelization and there are some references in there. All I can say is, man, you really get it. But out of curiousity, any that weren't included in the novelization (more subtle ones, perhaps in the background)?

Shark

01-23-2007, 05:01 AM

Wow, Kevin Munroe. Must be a pain to have to read 7 pages of post, and building, and responding to every last one of them. Then again, I'm sure your also proud to do so. Must be great working on such a big TMNT project. I envy you, but then again, I wouldn't make a very good movie anyway :D

I've seen all the older movies when they first hit theaters, so it's going to be great going to see another one on the big screen again after about, what, 13, 14 years? Would bring back alot of memories for me. I remember seeing the very first one, back when it hit theaters. In fact, it was the very first time I ever been to a theater. So seeing yet another TMNT movie in theaters, will just give me that great feeling all over again. I can't wait, and I hope this won't be the last time. Thank you Kevin Munroe for bringing back those memories for me, and many of us.

On a sidenote, and less emotional note, I'm also happy to see Karai as a villian. Obviously, she's one of my top three favorite villians (aside from Slash, and Armagon, both of which never appeared in the original comics sadly). Shredder is okay, but I've gotten sick of him due to him being in every episode of the old cartoon, as well as two movies, and half the new series. The same villian over and over gets kinda old after 20 years. So some new villians are nice. I wasn't really planning to ask a question, and just wanted to post my feelings, but then I thought of one, so I edited it in here. As for my question, if you guys plan to make a sequel, do you think we may be seeing Karai again? That is, unless she's killed off in this one...I'll be sad :( But then I'd get over it before the credits roll. I'd love to have a better question, but I really don't have any other questions.

EDIT: Thought on another question today. Will Raph, or any of the turtles, be taken out and unconscious for half the movie again? I hated when they did that to Raph, my favorite turtle back then in the first movie. And will we be seeing Casey in a Hockey Mask in this one? And if you only answer one question at a time, well, the Karai question is my most important one. If you can't answer that, than my second question would be my next most important.

TMNT

01-23-2007, 11:57 AM

Hey Kevin,
You mentioned in your last post that the marketing will start...soon. I was just wondering, where is the "official" official website for this movie? You have an Imagi site which honestly has just recently changed its release date from March 30th to the 23rd and the Warner site merely has the teaser and trailer. So much has been revealed and yet, there is no proper site up yet. I mention this only because the likes of Spiderman (May) and Ghost Rider (Feburary) are up and running and even Transformers (July) is up and at it. TMNT (March) is still lacking that aspect. I'm not worried, I'm just a bit frustrated as nothing is being done publicity wise. Yes, I'm sure it'll pick up but would it kill the studio to promote it just a little bit? That sounds more like a rant but just a concern.

johnnyblaze

01-25-2007, 09:05 AM

Kevin, did you guys decide on an age for the turtles in the new flick?

Spawn Guy

01-25-2007, 09:36 AM

Kevin,

As an artist and a fan, how much fun have you had with this?

Vegita-San

01-26-2007, 10:14 PM

Just read the interview someone did with Mr.Grey.

It's really great to see that you guys did fight for the voice actors to remain unknown. I don't want Kevin Spacey voicing Leonardo :). Although, some celebs who really do ACT in animated movies rather than just read, like James Earl Jones, or Patrick Stewart, or Dan Aykroyd, I would not mind at all :)..

If we can get you and Mr.Grey there at NY Comic Con, that would be worth going for just that alone :).

I'd love a book that's just directors talking about how studio executives think they know what's best for a movie, when they really have no talent at all.. but I'd like to think WB has more talented folks than most other studios there as far as animation properties go :).

Krutch

01-26-2007, 10:47 PM

Man, this rules, this thing you do here. We're all very appreciative of it! thanks!

Alot of people seem to be a bit nervous of the 81 minute runtime... Is there anything you can say to ease their worries? Personally, I have no problem with it, as long as its a character driven story with intense action... but maybe thats just me.

Thanks again in advance!

(psst, you catch and fix up the animation errors from the trailer? :P)

Shark

01-26-2007, 10:54 PM

81 minutes? First I'm hearing of that... I wonder if the new TMNT video game will add more to the story, like an extension to the movie, or if it follows the movie exactly.

Shreddar90

01-27-2007, 07:06 AM

Well the first tmnt is only 95 minutes and the second is only 88. I mean you have to realize this an animated film they never last too long.

Raph'N'Roll

01-27-2007, 09:30 AM

Hello Kevin.
I have a question about the censorship in the UK and Ireland of the Nunchucku.
You mentioned in an interview that seeing this weapon outside Mikey's belt is a no no, I must correct myself that was Gray.
This puzzles me as the ban on such weapons has been relaxed in the UK, all of Bruce Lee's movies have had the Nunchuku scenes restored, and the original Turtles movie was re-released in cinema's about two and a half years ago with all of the Nunchuku scenes present.
Then when it was released on DVD for the first time over here a couple of months later, the advertising campaign made the fact that all of Mikey's and other scenes featuring the Nunchku had been restored a SELLING POINT.
So you can understand why I'm somewhat confused over your statements regarding this weapon.
I emailed the BBC a couple of years ago just before the new cartoon was due to hit these waters, and they replied saying that the Nunchucku shouldn't be a problem and wouldn't be censored.
As a fan I am concerned over this, because the original movie was completely butchered when it hit these shore's in 1990.
Even Splinters "for when you die it will be without honour" speech was cut, Shredder just flipped over his head and strait into the garbage truck, I kid you not, the cuts were that bad.
So for European fans there is something to worry about, I'll import the American version when it comes out on DVD, but seeing an inferior and watered down version of the original TMNT CGI just leaves a bad taste in ones mouth.
I know it's not your fault if that's the law, but I've heard differently about it that's all.

Kythring

01-27-2007, 12:17 PM

Yo Kev,

81 MINUTES??!!!!

C'mon! Really??

Warhorse

01-27-2007, 12:48 PM

Hey Kevin.

If this movie does well and we have a sequel, would you be able to have more negotiating room to ask the studios for a PG-13 film, or are we stuck with a PG for eternity?

AquaParade

01-27-2007, 03:57 PM

Hey Kevin! Still cant wait for March 23. I gotta few more questions for ya I hope you wouldnt mind answering...

#1. I watched an interview from comic-con today that I beleive was recently posted on these boards and you mentioned that after Gatchaman, you arent interested in doing anything with ninjas and teenagers and so fourth...does this mean your no longer interested in doing a sequel?

#2. A lot of people are talking about the novelization of the movie and saying that Leo comes off as flat, out of character, a little annoying, and more as a plot device set up for Rapheal. I guess this isnt really a question, but this really worries me. I guess I just wanted to make sure that Leo doesnt appear to us as flat and boring come March 23.

#3. I was really glad to hear in that same comic-con interview that you guys are trying to push for a possible pg-13 rating if the movie warrants a sequel. I think a pg-13 sequel featuring the Shredder and or The Rat King, would be very appropriate8) What do you think the actual chances of this happening are?

#4. My biggest concern with the movie now has got to be the 81 minute running time. This has me a little freaked out. I guess after all the years of waiting, I was really hoping we'd get something a little longer to gawk at. I cant wait for this movie, but I'm scared it will feel like it ended way to soon after it starts. You mentioned before that one of your cuts had about 120 minutes of footage. Is that footage still attainable. What do you think the chances are of at least 15-20 minutes of extra footage being thrown onto a dvd release, possibly even a directors cut version if the extra scenes are considered more mature. Also, is any of that extra footage worth viewing in your opinion? Thanks for your time!

johnnyblaze

01-27-2007, 04:04 PM

oohh I have a question--can you let us in on any of your dropped story ideas. I know in the set visits you mentioned another time travel story and the turtles ending up in space. can you spill some details on those ideas? Pwease??

trench

01-28-2007, 08:54 AM

First off, I'm extremely excited for this movie. The first Ninja turtles film is one of my all time favorite movies, (I don't really like the other two) and when I heard this film was going to be more in the vain of the first film, I was overwhelmed with glee. I'm a little confused however on where this film is supposed to be placed. I've heard that this is supposed to be a remake, but I've also heard that it is supposed to be like Superman Returns and a sequel to the first movie and ignoring the events of the other two, and I was wondering if you could clarify which it is?

Kendamu

01-28-2007, 09:59 AM

Zelda

01-28-2007, 12:05 PM

Hey again! As you can see....we've been reading those interviews ;)
ah-ha, here's the one I was remembering:
http://www.superherohype.com/news/tmntnews.php?id=5133

Just wanted to speak up for us female turtles fans! You guys really don't have to do anything special to reach us besides bring us a great film. It never bothered me that there wasn't a female turtle and Venus....being both a female stereotype AND a 'stupid foreigner' stereotype was more offensive than anything ^_~

For some reason I'm even remembering a Technodrome poll a while back where our female/male ratio was close to an even split? So... we're out here!

The great thing about turtles is that the characters and bond between them is so strong that it doesn't matter if it's guys or girls or young or old...it appeals to all of us. Actually, I love the guys a whole lot more than I like April. She was cool in movie 1 but otherwise I don't pay her much attention....it's all about Raph and Mikey for me! (: ...not that I'll complain about Karai being in it....she's awesome~!

Someone mentioned wanting to ask you about 'Laird's commandments' but I haven't seen that they did yet..... so, can you share any of these do's and don't's of the turtles?

And I have to say again how fantastic this movie looks. Yeah, I'm with people on wanting it to be longer but other than that I just don't see how it could possibly be the least bit disapointing in any way. I'm already planning on seeing it multiple times in theatres (and at least once outside the country since it opens while I'm vacationing in New Zealand :D WHEE!) and as it is, I rarely see movies in theatres even once. Just from the trailer, I see so much attention to detail in the visuals, characters, story....... it amazes me daily...March and the subsequent DVD release can't come fast enough!!

Shark

01-28-2007, 08:06 PM

Hello, Mr. Munroe.

I've noticed that it's been a big trend for the past several years to include humorous footage (outtakes, random humor, extras, etc.) in the ending credits and after the ending credits of movies. Will TMNT be getting a similar treatment?

I hope not, or I won't be able to see in until the DVD release. In theaters here, once the movie hits the credits, the staff kick you out, and the curtain closes before the credits is even over.

Warhorse

01-29-2007, 05:05 AM

^I would hope you and your fellow patrons stand up and demand to see the manager. Movie going is expensive, and if you want to see the end credits for whatever reason, once you buy that ticket, you have every right to!

Just tell them you have a cousin that made the movie and you wanted to see their name in the credit.;)

Bevandera

01-29-2007, 07:38 AM

Everyone's getting a little overanxious at the 81 minutes runtime...that's without credits. Unless they're running the credits at an unheard of scroll speed, this will be as long or longer than Secret of the Ooze. The first movie was...86 or 87 minutes without credits. It's five minutes difference.

Turtleman100

01-30-2007, 12:25 PM

Are there any bad words in the movie.

Warhorse

01-30-2007, 06:53 PM

Are there any bad words in the movie.

I sure hope so!

Shark

01-30-2007, 08:57 PM

Does Kevin even post here anymore? Two nights ago, when I was veiwing who was online, he was PMing someone, so I assumed he was going to get back to this topic O.o

Bevandera

01-31-2007, 07:32 AM

At this point, they have less than two weeks to finish everything - his free time has got to be pretty limited right now. He probably stopped by, saw that he had a private message or two and answered them...then saw that he had 25 new posts in this thread and didn't have time to go through and answer all of them, so he didn't.

It might not have helped that some of us have taken an awesome opportunity like our own private Q&A with the director of an upcoming movie and been plain-out rude with it (Kythring). Also...questions about whether one of the main antagonists dies are probably not something he would want to answer - I doubt we're supposed to ask about spoilers...at this point though you can pick up the movie novelization if you're dying to know, Shark :)

Anyway...he said there would be gaps in his visits, it's crunchtime, and he's still visiting the site. Let's just be thankful for that. He'll get to this thread when he can.

Shark

01-31-2007, 05:33 PM

ardnealy

01-31-2007, 06:06 PM

Do the turtles live in the lair from the first or second movie? Thanks

LeafVillage Turtle

02-01-2007, 10:11 AM

Dear, Kevin,

This may have already been asked before, but will the CG recreations of scenes from the first Ninja Turtles movie you guys did as tests be on the DVD? I just watched the movie again last night, and I'd love to see those tests.

Vegita-San

02-02-2007, 06:11 PM

Hey KEvin, here's a great way for WB to deliver promotion, and to payback for having stars 'forced' into the movie...

Have Patrick Stewart on the Late Show with David Letterman. Paul Schaffer starts off by playing the Star Trek theme, but then 5 seconds in, cuts off and plays the original series theme music :).

How great would that be?

Raph's Girl

02-02-2007, 08:05 PM

Have Patrick Stewart on the Late Show with David Letterman. Paul Schaffer starts off by playing the Star Trek theme, but then 5 seconds in, cuts off and plays the original series theme music :).

Actually it would be better if Patrick was on the Jay Leno show... Jay's a TMNT fan and a Trekkie. :evilgrin:

iris

02-02-2007, 08:44 PM

Bah. Forget Patrick Stuart. Kevin needs to go on The Daily Show! We must reach our core audience of stoned slackers!

Vegita-San

02-03-2007, 02:15 PM

Bah. Forget Patrick Stuart. Kevin needs to go on The Daily Show! We must reach our core audience of stoned slackers!

In that case, go on Ferguson or Conan :).

Has Leno ever publicly said he's a Turtle fan? Or just joking?

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-10-2007, 12:00 AM

Hey Kevin,

Since we know who's playing General Aguila, and possibly Serpentie, any chance we'll find out whos playing Gato and Mono? Do they even speak for that manor?

TMNT

02-10-2007, 10:40 AM

Hey Kevin,

This question pertains to the use of Mikey's weapons. Apparently, he doesn't use them. By that I mean, no one is seen being hit by them. Yes, there aftershock is seen but no actual violence. I haven't seen it but a "review" mentioned this. All I want to say that if WB wouldn't allow it, then you should've just went to PG-13. I think more people would have been more intrigued to know that a TMNT film gained a PG-13 rating. Anyway, my question is, apparently there has to have been some cuts in the film in terms of violence or whatever. All I want to know is if those 'cuts' will make it into the dvd? I mean, you can't tell me you have NO shots of Mikey in action WITH his weapons? I believe Mikey gets faded in terms of his action scenes but he makes up for it by using other things (cymbals and combat coldcuts).:lol:

Shark

02-10-2007, 03:17 PM

Wasn't it already stated that they can't go PG-13 because WB wouldn't allow them? Which makes me fear they still wouldn't be allowed a PG-13 in the sequel.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-10-2007, 05:36 PM

Wasn't it already stated that they can't go PG-13 because WB wouldn't allow them? Which makes me fear they still wouldn't be allowed a PG-13 in the sequel.

I think if this movie does well enough, They'll be allowed more negotiating room.

Plus, Warner Bros has to give into our demands, and if more people demand and PG-13 TMNT, then they'll deliever.

Aztec General

02-10-2007, 05:40 PM

So far the reviews are pretty positive (even AICN's completely unTMNT knowledgable review contained very little venom). That must be a comforting thought.

Mr. Arctic

02-10-2007, 06:35 PM

I think if this movie does well enough, They'll be allowed more negotiating room.

thats for sure. so make sure you see it lots of times with lots of friends and spread the word THAT IT IS AWESOME!

Ecto Jedi

02-11-2007, 01:34 PM

Hmm...Kevin hasn't been around here in a while, huh? Bummer.

johnnyblaze

02-11-2007, 01:42 PM

I imagine he's still trying to get this thing compeltly locked up and ready to go

Kevin Munroe

02-12-2007, 03:59 PM

Hey Everyone,

So see? You can't say I didn't tell you at the beginning about blacking out from the boards for periods at a time. But I “have” been dropping by, just to make sure all is well. Thanks to those defending my schedule on the board. Ha.

To say that it's been a crazy month would probably be the understatement of the year. Remember those great Vietnam POW movies of the 80's – like Uncommon Valor and all the Chuck Norris Missing in Action's? Well, that's been the last month – a bunch of people carrying malnourished POW's to a waiting helicopter in a rice paddy as AK47 gunfire explodes all around. In this analogy, a few of us are the soldiers, and the film has been the POW we're carrying on our backs. Just trying to finish the mission.

Okay, that was too complicated, but I'm going on 4 hours sleep. Sue me. But all ended well and I'm happy to say that for all intents and purposes, the film is DONE. We're just spending a week doing film outs, etc. More quality control stuff than anything that involves creative choice.

In the end, the picture looks amazing and the sound is phenomenal. Klaus' score is emotional and driving, and you'd never guess you were watching an animated flick if you just closed your eyes and listened to the sfx. A LOT of people were involved in making that happen, and each one of them kicked major butt.

What else? We did a couple of test screenings in NY and in California. One was for the younger set (a given with marketing, so don't freak out), and the other was more the “alumni” crowd. The numbers were fantastic and far beyond what anyone outside of our little circle ever expected. I don't want to oversell it, but everyone left those screenings realizing what kind of a movie we made, and how well received it will be across the board. So... yay.

For all the probing marketing questions, I agree it's been slow to start. But I've seen the plans and they're planning a very big blitz for this – tv, instore, internet, junkets, etc. So I'm not worried at all... if that's any consolation to anyone out there. I went to London last week to screen the film and saw a bit of their marketing plans as well, and everyone is treating it as a big movie.

What else. I'm going to be at New York Comicon. I think we're doing something with Ubisoft, and there might be a signing. And I think that a movie-specific panel is planned for Wondercon in SF the week after, or something. Hey, what a treasure trove of non-specific information.

I got a very cool opportunity to be sent an early version of the video game, and it is REALLY cool. And that's not a shameless plug, as I can't benefit at all from it. It's just a really fun game that totally reflects the vibe of the movie. It's been running nonstop at our house for the past few days. Gamers and fans will be pleased.

And those points aside... time for some q's... (some of these are weeks old, I know)

Ivey – Yeah, I'm really excited about seeing the Mirage pre-film comics. There was a lot that we wanted to put in as lead ups/intros in the movie, but decided to trim really early in the process. Hopefully that will be in there in a small way.

Jester – Can't say what fast food franchise it is. Apparently it's a big deal to keep secret. It's a big deal, tho. Trust me.

TMTWBR – Not sure about wizard world LA. We're right here, so maybe they'll plan something. That weekend is our premiere in LA, and I think I'm heading to Hong Kong right after that. But I'm sure if we can, we'll figure something out.

Sgtfbomb – No, no refs to DuPrez's score. Not a creative slight, but we're just painting a new music tapestry here. The score is BIG, which is great. Sitting on a stage, watching near 100 musicians play to a TMNT film on screen was amazing. We didn't consciously copy any past sewer lair designs. We played with the idea of the subway station for a bit, but I just didn't like the train line in any of the designs we tried. I'm really proud of that design, especially their training dojo.

TMNT – thanks. Yeah, most of the in-jokes that I wanted were in there. We were going to have a pet store with four turtles in a glass bowl and have this jackie chan-ish moment where the guys see them in the pet store window during a fight. But we ran out of time modeling-wise in HK to do them.

Shark.- thanks for the response. That's cool. As for Karai in a sequel, yeah, she's really cool and I'm really happy with her character. Be great to have her back. Turtles “do” get unconscious, but not for half the movie at all – I didn't like that either. Yes, Casey dons at least one hockey mask.

TMNT – yeah, the site is up now. Pretty cool too. I like it.

Johnnyblaze – we never specifically set an age. I like that 18-19 range of just becoming a real adult on your own, etc. It's the kick you out of your nest point in your life. Good character drama age.

Spawn Guy – As an artist and fan, it's been the time of my life. Sorry that can't be a longer raving. But it's true.

Juggalo – Running time. Yeah, the hot topic that came from that press day. I can tell you that the film was longer, as are most films. But it feels good for the movie as a final product. It hits hard and fast, and I really don't think it feels like a short movie at all, and I'm trying to look at it unbiased. And that's not counting the credits, so it's not like you'd see “TMNT – running time: 82 minutes” in a newspaper. It'll be listed longer. Interesting tidbit for everyone – Iron Giant is listed as 86 minutes, and animated movies don't get much better in my book. Different movie, but just saying...

Raph n' Roll – Some of those censorship comments have been fretted about a little too much. I said in all the interviews that I can't speak for individual territories on their rules/regulations regarding content. I know that we screened for a few international people, and some weren't concerned at all about the violence, while others voiced a bit of concern about it getting hit with the PG-13 equivalent in their territory. But they have their ratings boards, and we'll see.

Warhorse – Yeah, success breeds a lot more power however you deal it. I want a world where we can have PG13 and R rated commercial animated films. It's an uphill battle and TMNT took a lot of hits for it, but we're slowly making progress. After us will come Beowolf, which will hopefully push the bar a bit. Same with 300 to somewhat of a degree.

Underoath – 1. Ha. No, my interest in tmnt franchise isn't dying at all. I just realized after I signed to do Gatchaman that I was developing another movie with teenagers and ninjas. It's a completely different movie, character similarities aside. 2. People can think what they want about Leo. I personally like the novelization a lot, but didn't read it specifically looking at Leo. But I think that his film treatment is very rich, so maybe it's in the acting. 3. Chances of a PG13 or chances of shredder/rat king? I'd say both are too far out to tell, but would both kick equal amounts of butt. 4. Chill about the run time till you see the flick and yeah, we're speaking about the dvd with WB right now. Big plans for now.

Johnnyblaze – Dropped story ideas? I probably can't tell you now or here. Maybe on the dvd or someplace else. They got pretty crazy. I was pushing hard at one point for something involving the Terra Cotta Warriors from China, but we dropped it. There were Zombies at one point. Lots of dirty laundry to air when the time is right.

Goongasnootch (I love that) – No, nothing humorous at the end credits. But I'm a big fan of Cannonball Run.

Zelda – Cool. One of the stats from the screenings is that we scored huge with girls/women. It was really great to hear that. Yeah, the “Laird Commandments” weren't really things etched on a tablet. Just a flippant remark of mine about the fact that Pete has things he will and will never consider with the franchise.

Turtleman – No, no big bad words. Not being a priss about it, but it wasn't really necessary.

Ardnealy – It's a new lair.

Leafvillage – Those early tests were really cool. But I'm not sure of the legalities where it's a new line movie. Even if WB is somehow affiliated with New Line. I'm not counting on it, but it'd be awesome. A couple that we tried were the “fight?” “fight” “kitchen?” “Kitchen.” “Pork rind?” sequence, and also the “Two words that could solve all our problems – time share”. There's a fun tidbit... and possible the closest anyone will get to seeing it.

TMTWBR – Aguila's voice is already out, which is cool. Everyone is wrong about Serpiente. (tho grey IS in the movie) Gato speaks, but Mono doesn't – big nod to Non on Superman II. They're all great pro voice actors.

TMNT – Mikey DOES use his nunchucks, and does it really well. He never once approaches using a sausage link as a weapon.

So yeah, that's it for now. (written over the course of a few sessions here) I'll be able to check in a bit more often... no doubt from hotel rooms over the next few weeks.

Thanks for the patience, and I hope that you'll see it's well worth it. Not much longer now...

Best,

Kevin

Ecto Jedi

02-12-2007, 04:13 PM

Wow, thanks for taking the time to reply to all of those questions! :o

That's incredible.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-12-2007, 04:57 PM

As always, a pleasure Mr. Munroe. I really hope to see you at Wizard World L.A. this year. I just have to shake your hand and say thank you ofr all of this. I'll be the guy in the ninja turtle shirt and Batman-baseball hat.

I just have a quick question/comment. Probably the best aspect of the Image TMNT comics was that it established Mikey as a writter. And I liked that, it showed Mikey in a new light and proved he had more depth. And I know a sequel isn't set in stone as of yet, but I was hoping if you guys do get to do a TMNT 2, do you think something like that could be touched upon? Like making him dabble in writting or art or poetry?

misnomer

02-12-2007, 05:30 PM

awww....no cold cut action? glad to hear that mikey gets to use his nunchucks...as a lifelong tmnt fan, am really looking forward to this!
I suppose the question I'd like to ask...

from a few early reviews, it sounds like mikey and don may have been shortchanged in the screen-time department. Granted the drama between leo and raph is a great place for the movie to focus on but I was just wondering what your view is on this?

gobo

02-12-2007, 05:30 PM

Rock! You really have put us at ease, Mr. Munroe. Though, I do have to say that, as far as the film's marketing is concerned, people are only concerned that it will be too brief. There's just under six weeks left before the premiere, so we just want the nay-sayers to eat their words. :evilgrin:Probably the best aspect of the Image TMNT comics was that it established Mikey as a writer. And I liked that, it showed Mikey in a new light and proved he had more depth. And I know a sequel isn't set in stone as of yet, but I was hoping if you guys do get to do a TMNT 2, do you think something like that could be touched upon? Like making him dabble in writing or art or poetry?
Who do you think is writing >> (that means 'Fast Forward')? :P Is there any better reason for the numerous Mikey-centric eps? :goof:

Kunoichi_Haruko

02-12-2007, 05:32 PM

Thank you, Mr. Munroe. You have alleviated my fears of Mikey's 'chuck usage, among other things. :sighs: I feel uplifted. :)

Aztec General

02-12-2007, 06:21 PM

Here's a question I'm surprised no one asked:

What's the final budget going to be?

Roseangelo

02-12-2007, 06:48 PM

Hi Kevin,

Thanks for taking the time to answer the pile of questions that have accumulated over the past few weeks. Hopefully with the movie "done" you can start to reenter the world of the "sane" (although it could probably be said that none of us are truly ever there).

I've been thinking of attending WonderCon anyways, so if you get any details on what day the panel might be, please share! There's a group of us who might be able to make it and all of us wouldn't want to miss such a panel!

Thanks again for all your time. Each post you make reassures me about how awesome this movie is going to be as little concerns pop-up in the back of my head. And all that does is boost my anticipation even more (just when I thought it couldn't get any higher)!

Shark

02-12-2007, 06:55 PM

Hey Everyone,

So see? You can't say I didn't tell you at the beginning about blacking out from the boards for periods at a time. But I “have” been dropping by, just to make sure all is well. Thanks to those defending my schedule on the board. Ha.

Yeah I view the 'Whose Online' alot to see if anyone is posting in my 'Shadow Assassin' RP, and noticed you PMing someone. I could only bet people send you like 100 PM's. Thats got to be rough.

Shark.- thanks for the response. That's cool. As for Karai in a sequel, yeah, she's really cool and I'm really happy with her character. Be great to have her back. Turtles “do” get unconscious, but not for half the movie at all – I didn't like that either. Yes, Casey dons at least one hockey mask.

Awesome, someone famous said my nickname! I've got something to brag to my friends about now XD

Wow, didn't expect all of my questions answered, thats awesome.

I have another question. I understand that Leo and Raph get the majority of the movie, much more than Mike and Don. I was wondering what is the reason for that? Actually, I have no idea how to ask that question correctly >.< Now, I honestly don't mind, since Leo and Raph are my favorites anyway ^^

EDIT: Meh, noticed someone already beat me to that question, and asked it better too.

Thanks for the patience, and I hope that you'll see it's well worth it. Not much longer now...

Bah, even if it's as bad as Ninja Turtles 3, I'll still love it. Not saying it will, and heard alot of great things about the movie, but I'd love it no matter how bad it is, simply because it's TMNT. Hell, I even liked that sad Ninja Turtle/Power Ranger crossover episode, and it can't get much worse than that.

Vegita-San

02-14-2007, 10:25 AM

Speaking of sequels...

If some movies do more than 50 million on opening box office weekend, a sequel is usually commissioned right away. Case in point, TMNT 1.

Even though you might not be able to announce it, is there any 'time limit' to announce a sequel? Or in other words, if we don't see one announced 4 months after release date, could one be forgotten about?

Masked Ninja

02-14-2007, 03:47 PM

I don't believe so... look at Bambi 2. :roll: That's what, 64 years after the initial release? So legally, no. But for companies themselves and their policies? I'm sure it depends.

ardnealy

02-14-2007, 07:27 PM

How important is Casey Jones to this franchise? ( I promise Mr. Munroe that this is my last question, Thanks)

Class is Pain 101

02-15-2007, 08:23 PM

How important is Casey Jones to this franchise? ( I promise Mr. Munroe that this is my last question, Thanks)

I sure hope he is extremely important and gosh they should just make like a whole movie on him, that would be BA

Raph's Girl

02-16-2007, 01:15 PM

TMTWBR – Aguila's voice is already out, which is cool. Everyone is wrong about Serpiente. (tho grey IS in the movie)

SW33T!! Grey Delisle rocks!! I have a feeling since she's not voicing April, Karai, or Serpiente that Grey is the voice of Siba Noor (read the novelization or Legend of Yaotl to find out who she is). :evilgrin:

I have a question regarding Grey:

Grey Delisle is known for her voice acting (she's the current VA of Daphne Blake) but she's also an acomplished singer (she's even sung on the Scooby Doo soundtracks, particularly Witch's Ghost) and has several albums out. Will any of her songs be on the soundtrack??

Krutch

02-16-2007, 11:12 PM

Kevin,

I cannot stress how IMMENSLEY thankful we all are to have you taking time to answer questions straight from the fans. This trait alone boosts you up to my top 3 favorite directors(take that, Bryan Singer!).

So, taking advantage of your kindness, lol, i'll ask one more question.

Will you be sticking around here after the movie is in and out of theaters?

Thanks again for everything. Now just sit back, relax, enjoy your success, and watch your bank account growwwwwww....8)

Vincent

02-17-2007, 03:47 AM

Grey Delisle is known for her voice acting (she's the current VA of Daphne Blake)

Jeepers! I just realized there are two Daphne Blakes in this movie.

gobo

02-17-2007, 05:54 AM

Holy turtle... You're right! ^_^

Raph's Girl

02-17-2007, 07:32 AM

Jeepers! I just realized there are two Daphne Blakes in this movie.

James Arnold Taylor, Kevin Michael Richardson, Mako (who ironically enough voiced a character called The Ancient One) and Mikey Kelley have also done voices in "What's New Scooby Doo" as well as some of the movies. And Mikey Kelley voiced Rip Runner, a relative of Rev Runner in Looney Toons Unleashed. Rev Runner is voiced by Rob Paulsen (Kevin Michael Richardson voices Tech E Cayote and Slam Tasmanian in that show) :evilgrin:

Shark

02-17-2007, 11:05 AM

Kevin,

Will you be sticking around here after the movie is in and out of theaters?

I was wondering that myself.

Sanjuro

02-17-2007, 01:15 PM

Hey Kevin.

I've been out from the TMNT forum loop for a while but have been very excited for the film. I'm not big on asking alot of questions like this but thought why not one of them being a selfish question anyway.

1. The one thing that scared me about you directing it is your lack of a beefy resume. However hearing your comments at the previous comic-con impressed me very much and instilled me with much confidence in you. So basically my question to you is who are your influences and/or favorite directors. I have no doubt during certain scenes of the film you thought to yourself "Wouldn't it be awesome if this scene was kind of done in the spirit of this scene."

2. Are there going to be any advance screenings open to the public in Massachusetts? My friends spring break is the week of the 18-25 in March and I was going down to Texas to visit him. I'm pumped about seeing it in one of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas and watching it with a bunch of pizza and a pint. But after hearing people who attended these screenings can't help to be a tad jealous.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-17-2007, 04:48 PM

James Arnold Taylor, Kevin Michael Richardson, Mako (who ironically enough voiced a character called The Ancient One) and Mikey Kelley have also done voices in "What's New Scooby Doo" as well as some of the movies. And Mikey Kelley voiced Rip Runner, a relative of Rev Runner in Looney Toons Unleashed. Rev Runner is voiced by Rob Paulsen (Kevin Michael Richardson voices Tech E Cayote and Slam Tasmanian in that show) :evilgrin:

And Rob Paulsen was in Barnyard with Ady McDowell, who was in Beauty Shop with Kevin Bacon.

Jester

02-17-2007, 04:50 PM

And Rob Paulsen was in Barnyard with Ady McDowell, who was in Beauty Shop with Kevin Bacon.
That's 6 degrees!!!!

Shark

02-17-2007, 07:17 PM

Dammit...I was talking to my cousin earlier today, and had a DAMN good question (for me anyway), but message boards aren't his thing...so I have to ask...and I can't remember it! >.< Crud...Meh, I'll edit it in anyway, but odd's are the question has been asked.

EDIT: Ah, remembered it as soon as I posted. If this movie takes places years after their privious adventures, how old are they exactly now, and wouldn't they been the AMNT by now, Adult Mutant Ninja Turtles? (Good name for a sequel, no? ...No...). Anyway, yeah, how old are they in this film and are they adults by now?

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-17-2007, 09:01 PM

Shark

02-17-2007, 09:06 PM

Then how old were they in their previous answers? Meh, Leo and Raph seem too much like adults to me, so I had to ask their ages. The turtles were always around 16-17, so I assumed a few years later, they'd been 18 and up. Meh, just trying to verify their ages.

TMNT is cooler than MOTU

02-17-2007, 09:11 PM

Shark

02-17-2007, 09:19 PM

I've wondered that myself, but not enough to be totally curious about it. Although I have heard 2 have a deleted scene in it, which wasn't on the DVD, but I doubt it's true. Probably just a rumor.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-17-2007, 10:23 PM

I know this isn't directly related to the CGI flick...

But do you have any idea why they didn't release special edition DVDs of the 1st 3 flicks to tie in with the new movie? From a marketing standpoint, this would make perfect sense.

Because this movie is being distributed by Warner Bros. The originals were distributed by New Line Cinema.

Roseangelo

02-17-2007, 11:40 PM

If this movie takes places years after their privious adventures, how old are they exactly now, and wouldn't they been the AMNT by now, Adult Mutant Ninja Turtles? (Good name for a sequel, no? ...No...). Anyway, yeah, how old are they in this film and are they adults by now?

Kevin answered this in his last post:
Johnnyblaze – we never specifically set an age. I like that 18-19 range of just becoming a real adult on your own, etc. It's the kick you out of your nest point in your life. Good character drama age.

Shark

02-18-2007, 01:34 AM

Kevin answered this in his last post:
Johnnyblaze – we never specifically set an age. I like that 18-19 range of just becoming a real adult on your own, etc. It's the kick you out of your nest point in your life. Good character drama age.

Ah. I don't read every question, so I was hopeing that if it was asked, someone would tell me before hand. Thanks.

johnnyblaze

02-18-2007, 01:03 PM

that means our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are about to become Adult Mutant Ninja Turtles

Raph

02-18-2007, 01:25 PM

Anarchistguy

02-18-2007, 01:40 PM

Or Donald Ducks nephews are also still in there 9 or 10 years old or something ;)

Did you forget about Quack Pack? ;)

Shark

02-18-2007, 02:54 PM

Well I think that will never happen. Just look at Tintin for example, he's been around for 80 years now, you dont see him all wrinkled and with a wheelchair by now. Or Donald Ducks nephews are also still in there 9 or 10 years old or something ;)

Stewie has been one years old for what, nearly 10 years now? Even Brian joked about it. And that one woman on the same show has been pregnant for years. They joked about it once, but I wouldn't be surprised if they had a joke segment of an adult crapped up in there. Been about that long.

And the Simpsons, Bart's been though about 15 Christmas's as a 10 year old. And Maggie still can barely walk or talk.

Raph's Girl

02-18-2007, 03:03 PM

Or Donald Ducks nephews are also still in there 9 or 10 years old or something ;)

1: The TMNT are in their mid 30's in the comics

2: Donald's nephews are Teenagers around 16/17 in the current toons and in House of Mouse were a boy band.

3: Goofy's son is in his early 20's. He's aged the most. From being born in the 60's to being a pre-teen in the 90's. In House of Mouse he was 17. In Extremely Goofy Movie he went off to college. And is still in college as of Mickey's Twice Upon A Christmas.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-18-2007, 03:18 PM

Well I think that will never happen. Just look at Tintin for example, he's been around for 80 years now, you dont see him all wrinkled and with a wheelchair by now. Or Donald Ducks nephews are also still in there 9 or 10 years old or something ;)

In the new series, the Turtles have aged a year. In the comics, they're in their 30's. So yeah, they've aged in real time.

Plus like whats been said, Goofy's soon Max and Donalds nephews have aged, and so have all the characters of Naruto.

Some animated characters do age.

Kevin Munroe

02-21-2007, 06:49 PM

Hey Everyone,

Trying to get some rest, but doing a lot of press stuff as of late. TV campaign should hopefully be starting strong within a week. Going to New York Comicon this weekend, and I think plans are still on for a Wondercon event the following week. Otherwise, everyone here at the office are hip deep in the TMNT game... and no, that's not a shameless plug. It's just a really really fun play.

TMTWBR – I would love to see Mikey's character expanded more if we did further adventures. The writer thing is cool because it takes him out of "dude" territory but still allows him to stay in character/cool.

Misnomer – Yeah, if you had to pick “stars” of the movie, Leo and Raph are in the fg a bit more. But it's also a story about family, so it's not like Don and Mikey are completely forgotten. They still play a big role in the movie. As a fan it bums me out that we have to concentrate on any turtle more than another, but storywise, it just pays off more when you have a bit more invested in a specific turtle or pair... at least for this one.

Aztek – Budget? Way too big for me to pay for myself, and probably way less than most people would think when looking at the movie. And way way less when you compare it to other big budget cgi productions.

Roseangelo – Thanks. Sanity is a matter of perception, I suppose.

Vegita et al – Not sure what the expiration date is on a sequel announcement. A lot of factors to consider. Wish I could tell you more. This is all new to me too, tho.

Ardnealy – Casey's importance? Pretty important in this franchise as we've advanced his character a bit more in terms of his vigilantism. He's a good voice for Raph to speak with in his darkest moments in this incarnation. In the future, there could be big plans.

Raph's Girl – No, none of Grey's songs are in the movie.

Jugglo – Yeah, of course I'll stick around. But if you guys can start a Gatchaman sub-forum, that'd be cool too. Ha.

Sanjuro – Thanks. Yeah, it was daunting, but cool. It was really about just surrounding myself with really talented people that I knew wanted the same thing I wanted. I would say for directors, it's probably the usual suspects (growing up on blockbusters) – Spielberg first and foremost, Cameron, Del Toro kicks ass (Pan's was beautiful), Scorcese (I think Departed has been looping on my dvd player), Ridley Scott, Kubrick and DePalma when the stars align for him. I wish I could give you a long list of foreign directors and seem all artsy, but these guys consistently deliver in an entertaining way that I really admire. Not sure on advance screenings. I think there are a few, not sure where tho. Seeing it at the drafthouse would be awesome. I've wanted to drink lots of times while watching the movie, but probably for other reasons.

TICTM – Not sure why there wasn't a special re-release of the first three movies. I'd say it has something to do with New Line owning the rights and this being a WB movie, etc. Would have been cool. Maybe if TMNT is a success, the capitalist in everyone will be awakened and they'll re-release then... horrible reason, but hey, fans still win.

So that's all I got. More to come, including the Grauman's Chinese premiere and we're also going to Hong Kong for the big premiere out there as well. All very cool and Chinese-y.

Best,

Kevin

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-21-2007, 07:51 PM

Good to hear from you again Kevin. I can't wait to see all these new ad campaigns.

TMTWBR – I would love to see Mikey's character expanded more if we did further adventures. The writer thing is cool because it takes him out of "dude" territory but still allows him to stay in character/cool.

You don't know how glad I am to hear that.

Sanjuro

02-21-2007, 08:22 PM

Thanks for the response Kevin I appreciate a great deal. I'm a TMNT diehard but in no way can I put them in a category with my top films of the year. But I keep a special section for my "fanboy" characters and franchises that are close to my heart with Batman Begins being so far the lone film to stand out actually being a top ten movie for that year.

I enjoy great films, I love old Kurosawa. Park Chan-Wook, Del Toro, and Chistopher Nolan for films as of late. But you hit the nail on the head with Del Toro. He did the same kind of approach with Hellboy that it seems you have done here. Del Toro was...

A. Was a cool guy and said all the right and necessary things during interviews and such.
B. Loved the source material wants to do a sequel badly.
C. Worked with creators to give fans an excellent representation of the character.

But then from there he goes and directs a film as amazing and beautiful as Pan's Labyrinth was and shoots himself up to my top 5 directors WITHOUT question. I can't wait to see your style in this film and hope you can reach a level of that success.

Krutch

02-22-2007, 12:01 AM

Hey y'know what'd be funny? If it WASNT Kevin lol

Roseangelo

02-22-2007, 01:46 AM

I think plans are still on for a Wondercon event the following week.

WonderCon looks confirmed; info on the panel just got added to the Web site - Yay! I know I'll be there!

Kendamu

02-22-2007, 01:58 AM

Yo, Kevin.

Over at Superhero Hype's forums there was hypothetical spinoff talk and one idea that came up was a Casey spinoff. The conversation eventually evolved it into a Casey/Raph spinoff that would look something like Bodycount (in terms of equal character time as opposed to the awesome amount of violence). Not that I expect chances to be high, but what would the chances be of ever seeing a Casey/Raph movie and would you be interested in working on it?

ardnealy

02-22-2007, 09:21 AM

misnomer

02-22-2007, 05:25 PM

thanks for taking the time to reply to my question Kevin! that's awesome.....
:)

Splinter's Iroonna

02-22-2007, 05:46 PM

I think all the good questions have been asked. But I would like to know if you've already started thinking of possible replacements for poor Mako on the off-chance that there is a sequel.

And if you've already answered this, forgive me.

AquaParade

02-22-2007, 10:06 PM

One more question...I think...Dont kill me if I muster out one more.
Anyways, I know this would be nothing near official or anything seeing as tmnt hasnt hit theaters yet, but I was just wondering, UNofficialy, if you were to bring back the Shredder for a sequel, what do you think the best way to bring him back would be? Would you consider both of his defeats in the first 2 movies canon? Thanks!

Vegita-San

02-26-2007, 09:30 PM

Great meeting you Kevin! Seeing Gary there was an extra surprise as I didn't even know he was going to show up.

I didn't get everyones name, but was everyone there associated with the game? I noticed that the lady auctioning off the toys(the shorter lady who was around 5'3" or so) and the asian lady had their pictures taken with someone in the crowd...whoever those folks where recognised them from somewhere. I also talked to a lady my height 5'6" who seemed to have a British accent and I THINK she was with the game folks as well.

I was the guy with Ivey's group and asked if you met a guy named Bob Meyers at the studios, my next door neighbor who is friends with Thomas Gray..

Later!
Neil

TheShowstoppa

02-27-2007, 07:54 AM

Kevin,

I can honestly say that I've had my lingering doubts about whether or not this film can make it in todays society. Considering the major compaign on the television that I've seen in just the last 24 hours, I would have to say that my doubts are quickly being erased. The movie looks phenominal and the VA's sound great (it's hard for me to think of anyone else other than the current team on the 2K3 series doing voices, but they pulled it off quite well.)

As you could probably tell from my last post - I'm all about numbers. The reason why I post this time is if you could give me exact numbers for the maketing campaign and the actual cost of the movie. A lot of people don't know this, but the marketing you see on TVs and billboards all effect what the actual target for total gross for profit. Meaning, it's not just how much a movie cost to make - It includes the marketing, television ads, etc.

I hate to say, but in the coming weeks after this is released, we've got some pretty stiff competition. There're even a few movies that are going to be released the same week as this that have me a little scared, but I don't doubt this movie can hold its own. Good luck with the premiere and everything! Thanks for making me a kid all over again!

-Show

johnnyblaze

02-27-2007, 08:13 AM

I would also like to add that it was great meeting you at the Convention. I seriously can't wait to see the film, all the new footage in the commercials looks outstanding

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

02-27-2007, 03:46 PM

I wish I could have been at the convention :cry: I would kill for an autographed picture of you with the Turtles.

Michelangelo-Sama

03-01-2007, 08:56 PM

Hey Kevin any word yet if there will be a tribute to Mako in the opening or closing credits of the movie.

raphaelprime

03-01-2007, 09:06 PM

TICTM – Not sure why there wasn't a special re-release of the first three movies. I'd say it has something to do with New Line owning the rights and this being a WB movie, etc. Would have been cool. Maybe if TMNT is a success, the capitalist in everyone will be awakened and they'll re-release then... horrible reason, but hey, fans still win.

Best,

Kevin

I may have this wrong, but.... i was wondering about this the other day. I know its been said cause of New Line owning the first 3 movies, but the logo in them says 'New Line Cinema...An AOL Production Company'(if i remember correctly). Didnt AOL buy WB or WB buy AOL not long ago(still not sure). But if this is correct, then wouldnt they now own the rights aswell?

Raph's Girl

03-01-2007, 09:23 PM

Hey Kevin any word yet if there will be a tribute to Mako in the opening or closing credits of the movie.

IMO there's a tribute in the middle of the movie. If you look at this screen cap from the trailer the portrait in the background looks like Mako (atho it's probably Master Yoshi)

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/Dierna/MasterYoshiMako.jpg

sgtfbomb

03-01-2007, 11:31 PM

I may have this wrong, but.... i was wondering about this the other day. I know its been said cause of New Line owning the first 3 movies, but the logo in them says 'New Line Cinema...An AOL Production Company'(if i remember correctly). Didnt AOL buy WB or WB buy AOL not long ago(still not sure). But if this is correct, then wouldnt they now own the rights aswell?

If I remember right..New Line and WB are sister companies..the older new line dvds would come with a slip advertising other new line dvds available (back in the cardboard snapcase days) that had "time warner" all over it..still, whether or not they are sister companies, it would still be a great oppurtunity to release special editions

my advice..write letters, maybe e-mail, but avoid online petitions..write new line and let them know you'd pay for TMNT:TM and TMNT2 (and TMNT3?) special editions..fans can do this..IT WORKED FOR SUPERMAN 2 (and TMNT special edition would be easier to make..they had to completely re-edit S2)

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-01-2007, 11:59 PM

Well, i'd pay for TMNT 1, and maybe rent TMNT 2.

Kevin Munroe

03-02-2007, 03:16 PM

Hey folks,

So... nice to see the tv ads kicking in, huh? Tracking is showing that the awareness is really getting up there, which is nice. Hope everyone dug them. Be great to see what the next few weeks have in store... Started seeing displays and posters from all over the world – russia, taipei, etc. Pretty cool.

Sanjuro – Thanks for the kind words. I hope you dig it.

Goongasnootch – Chances of a raph/casey spinoff? Probably slim to none (from a studio point of view, not Mirage's). It'd be fun to do that story as a great revenge/vigilante themed tale. That one would definitely have to be pretty hardcore. Someone bring back that John Woo guy...

Splinter's Iroona – No, we haven't thought at all about replacements for Splinter's voice, as that would involve thinking about a sequel, and... well, it's a little too early. It's also nice to just live with Mako as Splinter for now.

Underoath – Yeah, we'd have to accept the two movies as canon... ridiculous as his second death was. Okay, maybe not, then. Maybe just the first one. And we have kicked around ideas, but nothing official at all...more just conversations when we're all bored at the office or out to lunch when we're desperately trying to discuss anything but TMNT.

Vegita- Nice meeting you too. It was a fun crowd. Everyone was so enthusiastic, which was great. As for the booth staff, you got me. While I didn't take any height measurements, I think they were mostly 4kids or Ubisoft PR people, and were all super cool. The creative director and game designer of the TMNT game were at the con, but I only saw them a couple of times. Everyone seemed to love the game too. Great to see little kids and grown adults playing alongside one another.

Showstoppa – A numbers guy, huh? Well, you're probably talking to the wrong guy. The film costs a lot less than anything else from the cgi world to date, with the exception of a few that honestly looked like it. As for spending on advertising, I wouldn't know. But a primetime ad on American Idol can't be that cheap. As for the following weeks, it'd be nice if word of mouth spread about the movie. Other than Robinsons, there isn't another animated thing until Shrek III, which is a month plus afterwards. I'm surrounded by people who throw out numbers all the time for bo, etc. (present company excluded), and I try to shy away from it. Could be superstition, or just the fact that I know my control over the situation was already exerted in production.

Johnny – Hey man, good meeting you too. Not sure if you were there before or after the poster shortage where everything had to be put on hold. Sorry if it was before.

Leonardosama – Yeah, there is a memoriam mention at the end of the credits that we pushed to have in there. Not a big deal, but nice nonetheless.

Raphaelprime – Yes, they are affiliated/owned, but I don't think it's as cut and dry as that.

Raph's Girl – Yeah, we really wanted to put a pic of Yoshi in there. Personally, I think the tribute to Mako is in the film itself. I've never seen Splinter as warm and fatherly as when Mako's done his voice. I'm biased, but still... wait until the Raph/Splinter toward end of movie, then tell me.

That's all for now. Quick one. Flying to Wondercon tomorrow. Have a small compilation to show that WB edited together, then do a q and a afterwards, I think. We have our crew screening on Sunday, which will be 300 of our closest friends and family. And then the official premiere in two weeks. This month seemed like the distant future just a couple of months ago. Weird.

Speak soon,

Kevin

Leonardo_Warrior_Turtle

03-02-2007, 03:23 PM

Hey Kevin! Nice to see you come and join us as the TV ads start pouring in. Got a real quick question for you. When will you start thinking about the DVD release of TMNT? Got any ideas on what you plan to put on it? I know it's early but I'm sure it's your next thought with the film virtually done.

Anarchistguy

03-02-2007, 03:34 PM

Greetings, Mr Munroe. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Now, I know this must be a dumb question, but:

-When you saw the finished product, were you satisfied with the results? Did you think it was worth all the sweat you let out?
-And how long have you been working in animation?

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-02-2007, 05:13 PM

Couple of quick questions...

1. Who's your favorite, non-Turtle, characters from each part of the franchise(comic, cartoons, movie,).

2. Any intrest in teaming with Ryan Brown for a C.O.W.-Boys of Moo Mesa movie? Or Stan Sakai for an Usagi movie?

raphaelprime

03-02-2007, 05:39 PM

Raphaelprime – Yes, they are affiliated/owned, but I don't think it's as cut and dry as that.

Ok, so i wasnt completely crazy, haha. Yeah i figured it wouldnt be that easy and i was overlooking something.

Do you know how many Tv Spots we should be seeing right now? we've all pointed out at least 3, and possibly a 4th, but was wondering if you could confirm as to how many were out so far.(EDIT:: nevermind, i found out theres 4 and have seen 'em now, haha)

Buslady

03-02-2007, 07:40 PM

*clears throat*

I AM DYING TO SEE THIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*bows*

Raph and Splinter scene????????????????????
It sounds like you guys catered to the Raph worshipper in me :D

Raph's Girl

03-02-2007, 08:05 PM

Raph and Splinter scene????????????????????
It sounds like you guys catered to the Raph worshipper in me :D

Buslady,

Oh you'll just LOVE the scene. It's one of my faves from the novelization. :evilgrin:

Buslady

03-03-2007, 08:05 PM

Buslady,

Oh you'll just LOVE the scene. It's one of my faves from the novelization. :evilgrin:

I read the book, it doesnt go into enough detail so it didnt feel really groundbreaking...the movie will give more i know ....

Splinter's Iroonna

03-04-2007, 09:08 AM

Thanks for the answer! Strangely enough, it's what I feel as well, even sequel/wise.

I was in the audience in San Diego when you announced Mako as Splinter-- I was so happy and excited. Then on the next night, while online, one of my chat buddies buzzed me about an online obituary saying that he had died. We actually thought it was a hoax, as we could find NOTHING else anywhere on the net for several hours...

Anyway, thanks again.

Ralphmacchio

03-04-2007, 04:58 PM

Dear Mr. Munroe,

I was wondering if there is an address I can send a picture or note card in order to get your autograph? I am really big fan of the series and was unable to make to the New York Comic Con, as I was presenting a project for a class. Any other situation, I would have ditched the class. But, I was hoping to get your autograph on anything. I can send you my address or whatever works best for you.

Thank you for reading this and your reply.

Sincerely,

Danny Wall

My Address:
221 Niagara Ave.
Jamestown, NY 14701

Oh, and what is your favorite comic book character besides the boys in green?

Aignatius

03-04-2007, 07:04 PM

Kevin,

It was great to be able to see and hear you speak of the movie at the panel discussion at WonderCon. I was tempted to shout out "THANK YOU!" while everyone was waiting for the trailer to play again, but I didn't, so I'll say it here. Thanks so much for helping to bring this to fruition! And to the other people who brought this about, as well!
I've seen enough now to know this movie is going to be absolutely fantastic.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-04-2007, 10:08 PM

Hey Kevin,

After TMNT and Gatchaman, have you thought of your next movie plans? Do you want to stay in animation, or branch out into doing different, non-comic related, live action movies?

DaveToon

03-07-2007, 09:08 AM

Hey Kevin, (a.k.a. Chuck Jones)

Dave from Midway here. Just want to congratulate you on your success!

I can't wait to see the film. Now get some sleep! :)

Dave Y

Sanjuro

03-08-2007, 06:37 AM

Damn you Kevin! I'm not arriving to Texas until the 18th. 3 days!! Thats still awesome though, just feeling down that I'll miss it. I would have easily made arrangements to try and make that event. Would have loved to pick up some TMNT swag and somthing and try to get it signed like the movie comics coming out.

Last time I went to a Q&A session/screening was for a Bruce Campbell movie. While movie wasn't GREAT it sure was funny and he was a great guy.

Michelangelo-Sama

03-13-2007, 04:57 PM

Check it out dudes and dudets TMNT Movie Featurette footage. My drool factor just kicked into over drive.

http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbmovies/tmnt/featurette/tmnt_featurette_500.mov

Roseangelo

03-13-2007, 05:02 PM

Oh! That's the bit we saw at WonderCon! Sweeet!

Michelangelo-Sama

03-13-2007, 05:45 PM

Can't wait to get my hands on the movie games. Im getting it for Nintendo Wii, Gameboy Advance and Xbox360. The gameboy advance version is like the original arcade game :D. They have screen shots for it at amazon.com. Most of you probably know that if you reserve it at EBgames you get a reprint of TMNT number 1. Is anyone else going to see it friday, saturday and sunday next week like i am :D

gobo

03-13-2007, 07:22 PM

Is anyone else going to see it friday, saturday and sunday next week like i am :D
I'm planning/hoping to.

TMNT

03-14-2007, 05:55 PM

With the movie being a few days away now, I had a question pertaining to its DVD release. We know you've done black and white tests and have even recreated scenes from the first film. I would love to see those on the DVD. But I was wondering, if it's possible to ask the studios if you could record commentary on the DVD. It'd be great to hear your thoughts, and maybe provide the fans with some tidbits and whatnot. It'll be another great feature on a hopefully already amazing DVD. Just a thought. Thanks.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-14-2007, 06:02 PM

With the movie being a few days away now, I had a question pertaining to its DVD release. We know you've done black and white tests and have even recreated scenes from the first film. I would love to see those on the DVD. But I was wondering, if it's possible to ask the studios if you could record commentary on the DVD. It'd be great to hear your thoughts, and maybe provide the fans with some tidbits and whatnot. It's be another great feature on a hopefully already amazing DVD. Just a thought. Thanks.

Yeah, and would Peter Laird be intrested in doing some commentary too? I've been waiting to hear his thoughts.

agoaj

03-16-2007, 04:01 PM

Yeah, and would Peter Laird be intrested in doing some commentary too? I've been waiting to hear his thoughts.
Commentary from Kevin and Peter would be great, but what we really need is commentary from Vanilla Ice.

discordiatookie

03-16-2007, 04:15 PM

Commentary from Kevin and Peter would be great, but what we really need is commentary from Vanilla Ice.

NOO!

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/5860/vanillahw7.th.jpg (http://img444.imageshack.us/my.php?image=vanillahw7.jpg)
(click to enlarge!)

gobo

03-16-2007, 04:41 PM

what we really need is commentary from Vanilla Ice.
Don't forget Corey Feldman. :roll:

Michelangelo-Sama

03-16-2007, 04:55 PM

I want to know if the deleted footage will make its way back on to the DVD release or on a directors cut DVD. Especially the cut michelangelo action footage that I heard about.

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-16-2007, 05:39 PM

What cut Mikey footage.

johnnyblaze

03-16-2007, 07:34 PM

I'm guessing when Mikey is training in the barn--pissed off to the point where he destroys a bunch of stuff in it.

Splinter's Iroonna

03-16-2007, 07:52 PM

*slow to realize that this refers to the FIRST movie...*

:lol: :lol:

Michelangelo-Sama

03-16-2007, 08:59 PM

Here is a link to the article. An interview with Kevin and Tom Grey where they talk about cut footage. Its towards the end of the article. I cant remember where I heard about the cut mike footage, I could be wrong about that so don't hold me to it lol.

http://www.superherohype.com/news/tmntnews.php?id=5133

johnnyblaze

03-16-2007, 09:06 PM

oh I thought you guys were talking about the first flick

Michelangelo-Sama

03-16-2007, 10:53 PM

There are a few fight scenes that were cut from the first movie that peter laird said he would like to put back into the film if they ever did a special edition of the first movie. I really want New Line to make that happen. A nice 2 disk set and no double sided disks ughhh I hate those.

Michelangelo-Sama

03-18-2007, 11:16 AM

Hey Kevin I was wondering if the classical score for the movie will be released for purchase on CD. I saw a clip of leo talking to splinter and the music was very close to the first films score like when splinter was talking to raph. I loved it.

Thad

03-19-2007, 02:03 PM

Saw it Saturday. I don't have any questions offhand, but I do have plenty of praise (and a little mild criticism).

(For other readers: there are a few very mild spoilers coming, but they're probably nothing you didn't already know.)

I really liked it. As good as the first movie and far better than the second or third. The action was intense, and the jokes didn't grate; I found myself laughing along with the kids on most of them.

The Leo/Raph fight was the high point IMO, both visually and emotionally. Those two characters were just spot-on, and it was a good choice to put their relationship front-and-center. It evoked their fight from the beginning of Return to New York, which I assume was the idea.

That said, as others have pointed out, the prominence of Leo and Raph came at the cost of screentime for the other 50% of the titular characters. Mikey was little but comic relief, and Don was barely in it (though as a guy who does tech support himself, I loved his scene in the beginning). If there's a sequel (sure hope so), I'd like to see more of those guys.

That complaint aside, though, the supporting cast was great, and each got his moment to shine -- Splinter, April, Casey, Karai, and the surprisingly deep Winters. Good stuff all around. The voice casting was impeccable too.

I liked the animation, particularly in the aforementioned Leo/Raph fight scene with the rain. The lighting stood out, and reminded me of the original movie. I'll jump on the bandwagon that says the creatures look a lot better than the humans -- I understand the idea of using exaggerated, cartoony humans to avoid uncanny valley, but they just seemed a little plastic for my tastes. And I didn't care for the six-inch waists on Karai and April -- I realize comic books aren't known for realistically-proportioned women, but that's a little creepy. Waist measurement aside, April was really interesting visually -- I liked the variety in outfits and hairstyles, something you seldom see in animation (I'm still wondering what she was thinking wearing a tube top to her job in a robotics lab in the '03 cartoon).

All in all you've made an old fan happy. I'm hoping this movie does really well; sounds like you're already itching to do a sequel.

Looking forward to it.

Great work, and thanks.

Shreddar90

03-21-2007, 05:12 PM

Is there any storyline from the comics that this movie comes from?

Kevin Munroe

03-22-2007, 09:23 AM

Hey Gang,

So it's... I dunno what time it is actually. Here in Hong Kong for the premiere here on the 23rd... which I think is today. I'm not so much jetlagged as I am restless for TMNT to finally see the full light of day, and have slept about 4 hours in the last week from all the excitement. And before all that craziness starts, just wanted to swing by and say hi.

Lots going on. A seemingly unending string of press from australia, holland, singapore, china, hong kong, thailand, etc. in the last week. Sitting down and talking about the movie is actually the easiest part of the process, so I'm not complaining. Hearing the journalists' first hand account of their fun preview screenings is great.

There's a definite TMNT presence here. We sat down for dinner on tuesday and a bus drove by the window that had tmnt plastered all over the side. Very cool. Seeing the chinese posters all over the place too.

We had our LA premiere last weekend, and it was great to see some of the cool folks from the boards here afterwards. And even cooler was that they got into the screening! See what tenacity buys you nowadays? Sitting in a room with 1200 people cheering at the screen was an unbelievable feeling. Turtle power is seemingly alive and well.

We have the glitzy Hong Kong premiere tomorrow night on the 23rd, but then immediately after that, the real fun starts with the crew screening. About 400 of my closest chinese friends who busted their humps to make the movie. Imagi was also cool enough to fly out a lot of the US crew as well, so they're all flying somewhere over the Pacific Ocean right about now. This night is all about them and their hard work, and tho I'm bummed not to be in the states for the release, I couldn't think of better people to hang with as TMNT rolls out.

(otherwise I'd be in the streets berating kids for not being in a theatre watching TMNT)

So, in an attempt to tire myself into sleep, here are some answers. (not that it's boring, but I've tried everything else)

Leonardo Warrior Turtle - I can't say specifically what's on the DVD. But I can tell you that we sent a LOT of cut footage, alt takes, animatics, etc. to WB for their consideration. Animation tests too. So we'll see. I think the production is going on as we speak of the discs.

Anarchistguy - Am I satisfied with the outcome? Yeah, definitely. We did a great movie that in no way could have ever been done at a big studio. The last thing I wanted was to work so hard and it be a rip off of other stuff out there. And we did it outside of the system, and Warners got it right away. How long have I worked in animation? If you count games, probably around 10 years between the games, comics, tv and film stuff.

TMTWBR - My favorite characters from each medium? I love Krang from the animated series. Karai from the comics. And probably Elias in the movies, nothing against Chris' voice work. Team up with Usagi or Moomesa? Never thought about it, but those are cool books. I saw Stan at the premiere on saturday, but couldn't make it over to say hi.

Ralph Machio - Other favorite comic book characters? I love Plastic man (classic one, not the newer version), Sgt. Rock and I'm a huge huge fan of Kingdom Come. Address to send for signature? Send me a PM and I'll try to get you an address.

Aignatius - Thanks!

TMTWBR - Plans after Gatchaman? Oy. Haven't even really cracked the surface of G yet, really. We're heavy in preproduction and script right now. But after that? I dunno. If it continues to be animation, we're setting up some pretty big precedents with TMNT and G to just do any animated feature. I suppose anything with a good opportunity for story and character and where I can push a visual medium.

Davetoon - DUDE! How are you?! Nice to hear from you. PM me and give me your info so we can catch up.

TMNT - Again, can't say what's on the dvd, but I know they're talking about a commentary track, which is really cool. Peter commentary? Dunno. Would be neat to hear his take on things. Or else I could do an imitation of Pete, which would be fun too. Just maybe not to him.

Michaelangelo Sama - Again, can't say about dvd, but we DID submit the full Mikey scene and the following scene in the van to WB for review. I'd love to have that on there. It was one of my favorites that has been in there since day one. Will the score be on CD? I don't know. I have a copy of it, but I legally can't sell it to you. I'm sure like all things, if the movie hits big enough, who knows what'll happen.

Thad- Thanks man. Glad you liked it! Itching for a sequel? As a fan, damn right. As a director... maybe a weekend off before we start. Okay, maybe two.

Shreddar90- No, Pete was pretty adamant to have a new storyline. It was a fun challenge. But it looks at the end like it could dovetail into a pretty wellknown comic storyline... not that I'm saying anything.

Okay, so I'm still just as awake as before. But at least I got some q and a's done.

So before the film opens up in a day or so, thanks so much for all your support and enthusiasm. You guys are the reason we did the movie, and I can only hope that you see that spirit when you eventually see it this weekend.

See you on the other side...

Kevin

The Terror of Death

03-22-2007, 01:33 PM

I can't say specifically what's on the DVD. But I can tell you that we sent a LOT of cut footage, alt takes, animatics, etc. to WB for their consideration. Animation tests too. So we'll see. I think the production is going on as we speak of the discs.

The bigfoot fight seemed to me like it was slightly cut so its good to know that it might be on the dvd. (Was it cut?)

Edit: It was not you guys who cut it. G4 TV showed a clip of the fight and they cut some of it.

Ralphmacchio

03-22-2007, 04:17 PM

Ralph Machio - Other favorite comic book characters? I love Plastic man (classic one, not the newer version), Sgt. Rock and I'm a huge huge fan of Kingdom Come. Address to send for signature? Send me a PM and I'll try to get you an address.

I will have to check those out. Thanks for the reply.

Masked Ninja

03-22-2007, 04:32 PM

I can't say specifically what's on the DVD. But I can tell you that we sent a LOT of cut footage, alt takes, animatics, etc. to WB for their consideration. Animation tests too. So we'll see. I think the production is going on as we speak of the discs.I think I just drooled. :trazz: It'd be great so see any of that stuff on a Turtles disc.

Good luck for the premiere, dude. I know I can't wait... just 26 more hours, heh. I really gotta log off and work on painting those Turtle shirts my friends and I will be wearing to the theater. It's a great time to be a Turtle fan.

Vegita-San

03-22-2007, 06:01 PM

Kevin -

Are the songs on the movie soundtrack actually IN the movie, or was it WB's attempt to get more merchandising and publicity in? I'm not a band guy, but if it was released past the 80's decade, I probably don't care for anyone who's on there :).

I heard the Nightwatcher theme on XM last night and loved it. I can't wait for the REAL score if none of those songs on the official soundtrack are in the movie.

Seeing it tomorrow either at 5PM or 7PM. Depends on where and when it's showing..

xChri5x

03-22-2007, 11:38 PM

Well, from the clips from IGN We've heard P.O.D.'s song, and Jet's song in the actual film and also, in the scene in Aprils appartment where Raph gets ticked off and starts to leave we hear the begining of a mellow song starting.
So I'd say yes. I'm not really against it though. I think it's kinda energizing. Plus the TMNT movies are known for popular music (at least at the time they were made)

Raph

03-23-2007, 04:56 AM

I AM SO PISSED. The movie will have it's premiere here in The Netherlands on April 18th, but we are only getting a dubbed version! WHY?!?!??:x

I mean movies like Madagascar and all the Disney flicks are being showed dubbed and subbed, and for TMNT we are ONLY getting a dubbed version. I HATE IT. Now I have to go to another country to see it with the original voices, cause frankly when its come to Dutch voices in cartoons/ animated movies....it sucks big time!

I'll just crawl back in my shell and wait till I can buy the US or UK DVD release :cry: :cry: :cry:

1984TMNT

03-23-2007, 12:20 PM

Kevin,

Thanks so much for caring about the TMNT and their fans. My entire family is going tonight and I am totally excited. A lot of people don't really understand why I enjoy these characters so much, but I can tell that there are others out there that do (including yourself) which makes this 28 year old happy as can be.

:D

johnnyblaze

03-23-2007, 01:01 PM

Kevin I have to say you and your cast and crew did a great job--I left the theater with a big dumb grin on my face, and i'd like to thank you guys for that. Great start to what will hopefully become a brand new run for the movie turtles.

Dr. Doom

03-23-2007, 01:11 PM

Outstanding work, Munroe. Doom is very pleased indeed. And that is no small feat! Doom attended...nay...DEMANDED a midnight showing this evening in his private theatre and decided that the film was exceptional enough to warrant his glorious praise. Enjoy it, Munroe, for it is a rare treasure!

Stepping out of character, I wanted to thank you for all your hard work on the film, I think it really paid off. I have a huge argument in store for anyone who immediately dismisses the medium in which the film was produced, because the CGI was absolutely beautiful, I was very impressed (especially the scene in the rain). That was only one small facet of this wonderful movie, there was so much there to be appreciated in what everybody put into it, especially by us fans. I enthusiastically anticipate seeing it again and again and hope there will be a sequel in the future for us all to enjoy.

Katie

03-23-2007, 01:16 PM

I just got back from watching it, Kevin....ya done good :D

Tell everyone how fantastic their work was and that a new generation of Turtle fans were left oohing and ahhing at our favorite guys in green :)

Now....I have to see it a bunch more. To pick up on anything I might have missed 8)

johnnyblaze

03-23-2007, 01:20 PM

Kevin I have to say as well that although it was a small part but that scene of Leo smiling as he watched Mike and Don sleep was great. Just that one part alone spoke volumes about how fond he is of Mike and Don. Plus Leo telling Raph he needs him after Raph gives him his new swords=:thumbsup:

gobo

03-23-2007, 11:08 PM

Hello, Mr. Munroe.

You did very well with this film. I must say, it was better than my already generous expectations. You see, in my attempt to drum up some extra viewership for this movie (in order to ensure it a sequel), I'm planning to drag each of my friends individually to see it. That means I'll be seeing it several more times while it's in theaters. With all the knowledge I had meticulously collected on it before I saw it this afternoon, I was expecting that it would become a chore to sit through after the third or fourth viewing within a month's time. Now, I know better. :D The movie is good enough that I would have watched it twice in a row if could.

Though, as I expected, I didn't think it was better than the first New Line film. Being a fan of message movies, I knew from the get-go that this movie had enough mysticism to effectively distract the audience from the message. But, seriously... Don't change the formula at all. You've forged an endearing mixture of entertaining and enlightening qualities. Bravo. The only way I could be more pleased with the movie is if I get to see the 2-hour cut someday (hint, hint).

When (not "if") you're doing the sequel, don't try too hard to best yourself. What you should strive for is to make it as good as this one. Trying to make a sequel better than its predecessor usually results in a lame, forgettable movie. I have faith that you will continue to show this franchise the respect it deserves by doing it justice once again. :)

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-23-2007, 11:50 PM

I gotta say Kevin, thank you. I loved the movie. Though it was a little too short, I still loved every second. Gobo is right, don't change the forumla, this movie worked on so many levels, The humor, the action, the emotion, the tension, all brilliantly pulled off. I really REALLY want to see where you go from here.

I just wish I could meet you in person, I'd shake your hand then buy you a pizza :D

Thanks for a great film.

triplexxx

03-24-2007, 12:00 AM

You did a great job Munroe, I was hoping the turtle would be treated pretty equally and be given equal chance to show off their skills, kick ass in battle, and save the day together. And I got my wish! Every turtle was at the top of their game in this movie, and they all got a fair share of dialog as well. Not to mention, the sci-fi/fantasy element in the story rocked, Max Winters was an excellent and very intriguing character, April was very cool, Casey was very interesting, and Karai was all right considering her pretty short time on screen.
Just one question regarding the family break-up: did you ever think at times that maybe Splinter was the main contributor to the family's break-up, they never touched upon him ever admitting he had anything to do with the break-up, but I figured it was true since he's the one that had his sons separated in the first place (penny for your thoughts?)?

iris

03-24-2007, 12:27 AM

Dearest most heavenly, peripatetic, poetic, and chic angel Mr. Munroe,

I hereby retract any hint of doubt ever expressed on my part regarding the outright awesomeness of this movie. I really liked it, is what I mean. You sir, are a man of your word.

Will you be so kind as to make available a director's cut version of TMNT?

Yours in deepest unequivocal genuflection, ;)

iris

ThemanthatwouldbeRaphael

03-24-2007, 01:52 AM

Kevin, quick question...

If you guys are fortunate enough to get a sequel, do you think as an opening you can do a quick montage of the TMNT''s adventures before TMNT. Starting with the defeat of the Shredder, then going from meeting the Utroms, fighting Stockman, the Triceratons, and meeting Renet if my theory proves correct.?

Just as a little clarification.

Fledermaus

03-24-2007, 02:10 AM

Mr. Munroe....

You seriously messed with my mind in this movie. For nearly the first half, I had no idea how this was going to end up, where it would lead me in my journeys as the viewer. You surprised me by the end with a unique cocktail of elements to make one highly enjoyable TMNT film... as great as the first for its own ways, in my opinion. Looks, VAs, ACTION, dear god the ACTION, "unorthodox" plot and continuity... and soul. I know a lot of critics are too narrow-minded to let themselves see it, but the movie does have a strong sense of its own, unique character, which I found very appealing.

I saw the movie with friends completely new to the TMNT world, friends who were aware of the comics, friends who had only grown up on the "fluffy" toon, and were truly apprehensive about the movie not being funny enough. But we all really enjoyed the film. Especially the greatest skeptic of the bunch, yours truly.

We were discussing the movie afterwards over a midnight pizza, and everyone agreed there needed to be more of the Cowabunga Carl scene. I told them that it was cut down quite a bit from its original form, and how, according to what I've learned browsing the boards here. Understandably, they were somewhat miffed that it was withheld from the final cut. They felt that, much as they enjoyed the movie, they wanted more action, more humor, and way more Michelangelo (and Don , too -- but if I understand correctly, he sadly didn't have many scenes to begin with).

I think that most people would love to see a version of TMNT you would have released were it not for a requirement to appease ratings, timeslots or conventions.;) On DVD, perhaps -- alongside the theatrical cut?

Please?

You don't have to read this:
My review of TMNT on the Technodrome. (http://forums.thetechnodrome.com/showpost.php?p=482186&postcount=37)
(On a self-aware note ... Dear God, I'm starting to talk like a architect. "journeys as the viewer"... ""unique cocktail of elements"... I could get some solemn nods of the head from my professors if I started describing something using this vague, yet specific, logical, yet nonsensical language you kind of make up as you go.:lol: Anyone who's been in or is currently going through architorture will know exactly what I'm talking about.)

ajistheman

03-24-2007, 02:25 AM

Dear Kevin, thank you for creating such a great movie with the Turtles franchise. I think you are a really talented director, and I'm sure the movie companies (Warner Brother, Weinstein, Imagi, and all the other companies that saw the movie) are impressed with you. This movie was DEFINITELY worth the wait, and considering the fact that when I was a member of the ninja turtles fan club as a kid, and it said in the newsletter that a fourth turtles movie was coming out Dec 94 (or maybe it was 95) I've been waiting quite a LONG time for this. You didn't dissapoint. Also, this is probably more rewarding for you to hear: my best friend who thinks that ninja turtles is really kiddish, and HATED when I had her watch the first movie, old cartoon, new cartoon enjoyed your movie.

also, one last thing to tell Kevin. My theater cheered and clapped when don, mike (the loudest), and raph (2nd loudest) were introduced. Plus the theater clapped at the end of the movie.

johnnyblaze

03-24-2007, 06:38 AM

I have a movie/prequel related question

I was reading the Raphael prequel book and I noticed the turtles killed the bad guys in that so it got me thinking: in Central America when Leo attacks the men in the forest--did he off them? I know one dissapeared and the body of the other one was dropped back down from the trees and all we heard from the last guy was his screams as Leo attacked. I figured it could go either way which is why you guys had it like that, but in your mind what did Leo do to them

lilraph

03-24-2007, 07:23 AM

Mr. Monroe,

Greatest movie of all time. This movie can not be summed up in words. The movie kept me involved every minute. I never felt like i was in a theater.
Going into the movie and seeing teenagers wearing costumes that were for four year olds had me a little iffy. However i still proudly displayed my tmnt shirt and raph tattoo for all to see. At the end of the movie when i had to choke back tears, being a turtle fan since about 87, the rest of the audience was in the middle of their standing ovation. Clapping and cheering from people as little as 4 to at least up to my age of 27 was an amazing site. Kevin and Peter are great, your great, mirage, imagi, warner bros, everyone did perfect. I couldnt have been happier.

Special thanks needs to go to all the big name actors that provided voices. It goes to show the idiots out there that the turtles arent some fly by night morphin power ranger crap. It shows turtles are 23 years old and still growing.

Nick Earls
Tmnt4life ( hey , thats a great next tattoo):evilgrin:

Warhorse

03-24-2007, 07:31 AM

Fantastic job Kevin. Thanks for showing Raph actually breaking swords with his sais for once, that was treat. (I have never seen Raph do this, despite his possession of the weapon meant for that, coupled with his raw strength and energy)

The voice overs were brilliant. Did you choose them yourself? Please, please, for future sequels, keep them, they were perfect for each role.

Hey, what's the chance of the Jersey Devil making a cameo in future sequels as well? He was kind of cool.:D

Buslady

03-24-2007, 08:12 AM

Keeevviinnnn!!! Your my best friend now!!! My HERO!
:D RAPH IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!! He's never been represented so perfectly and accurately on screen!!!
The team who worked on this did an AMAZING job with the fight scenes, and CORRECT use of weaponry and their knowledge of such weapons sure helped ALOT!!! I finally get to see Raph use his sai how they were meant to be used. That was freaking intense!!!
All in all I really enjoyed the movie, everybody was well portrayed, the voice work was well done, it works very well, tells a story and tells a more important family story, that's what I wanted was the family part the most. I love the fact that Raph had learned a big lesson-I enjoy watching my hero learn and grow, and that sure they may be a couple years older than say the previous movies but they're still figuring out life. We watched it twice yesterday, today I'm taking my nephew and my son! WOOHOO!

I don't expect you to remember me, but I'm the one who just wanted to shake your hand and thank you for the movie- we were at the premier to support it all but couldn't get in darn it. Sounded like a blast.

Thanks for your moment of time!!!! YOU ROCK KEV!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v431/buslady/DSC00118-1.jpg

neilbaj@gmail.com

03-24-2007, 10:16 AM

I was transported back to my childhood last night. TNMT was a lot of fun, and I loved how Mr. Munroe tackled the family aspect of TNMT. Can't wait for the sequel. And please...more Donatello and Michelangelo. I loved how those two played off one another. TNMT 2 before Gatchaman or Cat Tale. I can't wait.

Rooish

03-24-2007, 10:58 AM

Hey Kevin! I can't say anything that hasn't already been said. I was really overwhelmed during the movie, but now I realise how much I loved it.

And hey, for the sequel, I agree we need more Don and Mike. But not to overshadow Leo and Raph. I'd love to see all equal roles (mostly) and lots of interactions.

CJStyles

03-24-2007, 11:09 AM

Kevin give you my praise like everyone else! You and the crew did a WONDERFUL job bringing the film back to the way it was in the original movie. I also loved the fight scene between Raph and Leo but I think it could have been longer and intesne as well as the big brawl with the Foot but that's just me.

Other then that the character developments were great, I really feel for the characters more in this film then I have in the previous ones.

AquaParade

03-24-2007, 11:23 AM

Hey Kevin, I was gonna post this in the movie feedback thread, but I thought it'd be much smarter to make the info available to you, so you have feedback if you do decide to make the expected sequel :) Sorry if this is a little unorganized, but here ya go...

First off, Max Winters was a much cooler villian than I expected. Great job to you guys for actually creating an interesting villian in the movie. He actually had some depth and I felt for the guy.

Leo and Raph definitley got a good chunk of the screentime and it was used well. I loved the little touches we got that really worked to flesh out their relationship, small things like Leo asking April what Raph's been doing all night if he sleeps all day, and questioning why Raph hated him so much when all he was trying to do was be a better leader for them, little touches like these really made the movie for them.

The Leo and Raph fight was what I was basically looking forward to the whole time and I wasnt dissapointed. Their confrontation before the fight might have been one of my favorite parts. The rain looked great, and the fight was intense. Good job :thumbsup:

As for Mikey and donatello, I have to admit, one of my nitpicks with some tmnt incarnations is the use of mikey as the comic releif. Personally, I'd like to see a Michelangelo that shows off his young side with more than just jokes, maybe show how he's still sensitive to things like his brothers giving him a hard time, or looking for his older brothers acceptance as the youngest of em all. I dont know, just brainstorming right now. I'd also like to see a Donatello thats more philisophical(did I spell that right? lol) and calm and rational, other then just the tech geek kinda guy.

Great seeing the Foot ninja again, and Karais line before her exit, makes me crave a sequel even more than I was before. I really hope we get Shredder in the sequel, but His presence would be so great, that I'd think it'd be really hard to top it in the third one if it was ever made lol. The Shredder just really comes off to me as a final encounter for the turtles, and a fight with him would just really be a great send off to the movies if this was a trilogy, in my humble opinion :)

Sorry if some of this is hard to understand, I just woke up and am having a hard time putting my sentences together:roll: All of this is just my 2 cents on the movie that I hope you'll take into account when and if you decide to make a sequel. Overall, I loved the movie and am anxious to see it again. You did a great job and are making a lot of tmnt fans super happy. The movie got great feedback from the crowded theater I was in, There was even a big "OOOOOoooo" at Leo's "..."I'm better then you" line to Raph. So once again, Thanks for an awesome movie dude, Ill probably post again all week with reoccuring new opinions on the movie and what I think you should do for the sequel. Anyone else think it'd be a good idea to eventually create a thread dedicated to Improvement's and things we'd like to see in the future for Kevin to come check up on when the sequel gets started...I know it'll be a while but it'd still be fun to toss around our ideas and advice to Kevin :)

Vegita-San

03-24-2007, 03:35 PM

Just got back from it, and I love it :).

Are we too assume that Karai will somehow use that portal and dimension to bring Shredder back to life via mortality? Her eyes widened during an exposition scene that made me think that

What was working with Jim Cummings like? Was he the lead thief in the Nightwatcher scene?

BTW, when's the orchestral score going to be released? Only three of those songs on the soundtrack where actually in the movie, and while they weren't bad and fit in well during their appropriate scenes, I liked the original score better.

Splinter's Iroonna

03-24-2007, 05:39 PM

I will suffer the wrath of others, but I truly liked this version better than the "first" movie-- and I liked the first movie, but I wasn't "in love" with the turtles at the time. I did like it a lot, and I saw it a few times-- and I particularly enjoyed watching it during a Sat. afternoon in a theater full of kids who were fans of the show.

But to ME, after the comics, the newer incarnation toon is my favorite-- and this movie has grabbed me so much that, when it comes out on DVD, I'll probably be the ONLY one who does NOT want the extra footage put back into the film directly, but merely added on as bonus features. I have no complaints about the film as it stands. I have many favorite scenes. I have seen it three times already, and I wish it much success. I refuse to nitpick with a fine-toothed comb over this word or that action or share a "this is how I would have done that scene" backseat directing moment with you.

I LOVED Mako-- especially that whole scene where they're at Breakfast and he is humming and singing and going to watch his stories! "BOYS!!!"

I so want to voice only ONE complaint, one that I know was completely out of your hands: THE ACTORS FOR THE TURTLES WERE SHAFTED! Their names should have NOT be relegated to such subserviant positions-- Sarah Michelle Gellar, Patrick Steward, et al, did a good job, but they are NOT the stars of this film! Only MAKO deserved his name above the title so to speak-- Whitfield, Taylor, Kelley and North should have had much more representation name/wise. Taylor and North in particular made that whole roof-top fight what it was. Yes, the graphics, the actual "fight" was beautiful, and you felt like you were watching PEOPLE, not animation-- but the acting skills of Taylor and North is what truly brought that entire thing into reality.

Thank-you for a fantastic film. Thank-you sincerely.

OH-- PS!!-- the stuff in the foil that Mikey was putting on the table-- BIRTHDAY CAKE SLICES, RIGHT????

Aignatius

03-24-2007, 05:59 PM

Kevin,
Thank you for the best movie experience I've had since the Lord of the Rings.
I'll say that for the emotional/aesthetic/visual content, and the very realistic character development.
The storyline seemed a bit chopped up, so I, too, fervently hope there's a longer version out there to come on DVD. Please, please, could there possibly be a longer version?
And a sequel? Oh yes, you've jumped in with both feet, now. You simply have to do a sequel. :D

Peanut

03-24-2007, 06:07 PM

Splinter's Iroonna

03-24-2007, 09:07 PM

Okay-- I hate to sound a hypocrite, but I would like to see the story that Splinter related (in the clip from San Diego, and from what I understand the "novel") restored somehow to the DVD:

"Child, why do you cry? You are both part of a family and a family is a bond that cannot be broken by war, by strife, by force or neglect. And more importantly, you are brothers, and brothers you shall remain despite time, argument and even distance."

Jester

03-24-2007, 09:10 PM

All I can say is "Thanks fellow Kevin. You've succeeded in making an awesome TMNT movie. to quote Shredder from the first movie on behalf of all other Kevins, 'You make us all proud.'"
;)

Ecto Jedi

03-24-2007, 09:29 PM

I just want to thank you for making something that was truly for the hardcore TMNT fan base. You really lived up to a lot of our expectations, as you can clearly see from all of this. You're going to be a hero in this fandom for a long time.

Ditto, Mr. Munroe. Wonderful job, wonderful movie, wonderful addition to the Ninja Turtles mythos. The animation was superb, the storyline was action-packed, and the interaction between the brothers was a sight to behold. Truly, one of the best renditions of the TMNT property ever put to screen.

Sequels!! Sequels and Special Edition DVDs! And more comic book tie-ins!!!

kerfootw

03-24-2007, 09:33 PM

Not to mention all the hate derived from the nostalgia bitten people who never got past the old series and live action movies--mainly I'm talking imdb. Talk about perseverance, Munroe just kept his cool, talked with as many fans as he could on the 'net, and made sure he knew what we wanted; he deserves extra for that. Glad to see the majority of that hate's disapparating on the imdb as well. :)

Buslady

03-24-2007, 09:34 PM

gobo

03-24-2007, 10:11 PM

It made the video game. Perhaps that was some of the dialogue (monologue?) the Mako wasn't able to get to.

Ecto Jedi

03-24-2007, 10:12 PM

It made the video game. Perhaps that was some of the dialogue (monologue?) the Mako wasn't able to get to.

Speaking of Mako, who was the other person to which the movie was dedicated to? German? Germane something? Who was he/she?

Splinter's Iroonna

03-24-2007, 10:16 PM

I don't know about German (Chang or Chan or something like that), but in San Diego, the special presentation opened with Mako doing the story-- so he got to it all right.

Now I feel bad, saying I wasn't going to nitpick etc-- but I LOVED that "story"-- and I loved hearing Mako tell it for the movie.

But yes, who was German Chan or Chang-- and forgive me for not remembering the last name correctly.

Kunoichi_Haruko

03-24-2007, 10:21 PM

Thank you so much Kevin. I really enjoyed this film. You and the Imagi crew did an excellent job!

Ralphmacchio

03-24-2007, 10:27 PM

Kev,

This was by far the best computer animated film since Toy Story. The relationships were spot on and the voice acting was superb. The graphics blew me away and I hope your on board for the inevitable sequel.

Cowabunga dude.

Oh, yea check your pms because I sent you one.

Jester

03-24-2007, 10:29 PM

There is more to the TMNT than the OT and the first 3 movies. I love them, sure, but I am also adult enough to realize that the only way the TMNT is going to continue to be successful is if it continues to change with the times and stay relevant, and thats why I like the 2k3 series and the new movie. TMNT has to appeal not only to fans of the OT and movies but also to the new fans of the Turtles who have become fans because of the new series, much like I became a fan from the old one.

Raven

03-24-2007, 11:47 PM

I cant really come up with the right words to say this movie rocked in a more meaning full way, but thank you so much kevin for giving us a movie that was worth seeing!

Leonardo Mystic

03-24-2007, 11:59 PM

*deeply bows* Domo arigato. Thank you very much, Mr. Munroe, for this wonderful, beautiful film. I had great expectations, and all were met and even more. I wish TMNT a huge, box-office smash success (it's possible), and I hope a sequel will come about.

misnomer

03-25-2007, 12:10 AM

wow! ...just saw the movie and thought it was great!

Totally not what I was expecting either - it felt very broad, very epic too and the tone of the movie was great. It was just really fun and entertaining.
Mikey totally stole the movie with the last line- absoultely hilarious!

My only nitpick-which is a personal preference more than anything-is that I like good ol' normal April better. She kind of grounded the turtles a bit and there was quite a cool dynamic in the comics and the first 2 movies that I missed here.

It'd have been nice for the run-time to be a bit longer too- not that it felt short, just that you can't have too much of a good thing!!!
Other than that, what can I say? I'm speechless, thank you for the great movie Kevin! :D

ToTheNines

03-25-2007, 09:18 AM

Wow, I feel like you made this movie just for me! Thanks a millions, and good luck with the sequel.

jenna

03-25-2007, 09:52 AM

Dear Kevin

Thank you so much for such an awesome movie. I was thrilled with your work and treatment of the characters. I also took precious note of the cinematic achievement and milestone in the CG world that this film is.

I was enjoying the film so much that I was gutted when it ended - would have loved the narrative fleshed out with another twenty or so minutes.

Good luck with your future ventures (particularly the sequel(!)) and I hope that you receive the recognition in the industry that you deserve for TMNT.

Jen

PrivateRadio

03-25-2007, 10:30 AM

Hey, first post here.

I just wanted to say that once I saw the scene where Mike and Don wake up when Leo gets home, I was already won over by this movie.

Thank you tons for finally making the turtles into the actual characters and brothers they're supposed to be and not just funny caricatures. and even though I'm sure the studio gave you some hell about the type of movie you were going for, getting as close to it as you possibly could.

When Leonardo made his first appearance I felt like I was 5 years old again (20 now, haha), you don't get to have that feeling often.

Now did that last line hint at Return To New York or am I crazy?

Raph'N'Roll

03-25-2007, 11:40 AM

I enjoyed the movie, but I think a more critical view would be more helpfull for the sequel if it goes ahead.
I hope you read the review thread Kevin, because the praise here is a little too positive and not objective enough.

Kendamu

03-25-2007, 01:17 PM

Kevin,

I just saw the movie last night. I have to say that nolstalgia for the very first movie is the only thing holding me back from saying that it is the best TMNT movie ever! I hope there's a sequel and I hope you direct it.

Shark

03-25-2007, 03:17 PM

Juts saw the movie, and it's become my favorite movie of all time. Not just TMNT either.

Have a question though.

Why were most of the generals never mentioned by name. I have a hard time pronouncing (and spelling for that matter) the female generals name. So aside from the toys, and the games, how are people who only see the movie supposed to know the names of the other three generals?

Hey, just noticed something. Casey and April were unmarried, and living together while dating. And in a PG rated movie too. Damn Casey is such a smooth player XD

gobo

03-25-2007, 04:21 PM

Hey, just noticed something. Casey and April were unmarried, and living together while dating. And in a PG rated movie too. Damn Casey is such a smooth player XD
Are you SURE they weren't married? O_o :D

Raph's Girl

03-25-2007, 04:25 PM

Are you SURE they weren't married? O_o :D

April introduced Casey to Max Winters as her associate and Casey kinda got pissed and mumbled that he was her boyfriend.

Sliced

03-25-2007, 05:02 PM

Well, what else to say but like everyone here. Congrats, you did it. You just revived the turtles, we of course all hope for the best regarding the final Box Office, but it should be good enough..

You really did an awsome job Kevin. And you should really do something special for the artists who just did one of the best looking CGI movie of all time. Well, you should do something special for everyone who had anything to do with this movie... but the artists needs to be proud of what they just accomplished. I have no doubt they are, but please tell them that the folks at the technodrome are all proud of how good their turtles are looking in this movie.

There's things I didn't liked in this movie, but overall, bravo to all of your team.

kerfootw

03-25-2007, 05:14 PM

Agreed. Nice job Kev.

ardnealy

03-25-2007, 05:54 PM

Good job Mr. Munroe. You brought our heros back in great fashion. Lets do it again.

Roseangelo

03-25-2007, 07:28 PM

tekninja

03-25-2007, 07:49 PM

hey kevin,

wanted to say great job. i'm so glad to see the turtles resurrected in an extremely respectable way. hope there is more to come.

I noticed something during the movie, and was wondering if you had a little animated cameo?

Laurael

03-25-2007, 07:51 PM

Hey there, Kevin! Just wanted to add my thanks to you and the team for doing a great job on the movie! Loved it! You've added lots of new fans to the turtle world(I work with some of them) and I applaud you for it! *big kiss blown your way*:D

Shark

03-25-2007, 08:20 PM

My best friend since 7th grade (that'd be almost 16 years ago), who always tolerated my TMNT obsession at best and whom I haven't spoken with on a regular basis since I moved to CA almost four years ago, went to see the movie this weekend solely out of obligation to me and she LOVED it. Getting my approval was an easy task, but getting her's... you and your team have done well, Kevin! 8)

Reminds me of my mother. She hates EVERYTHING I like. Most of the itme only because I like it. She hated TMNT for 20 years because I loved it so much. She goes to see this movie with me (out of bordem), and she loved the hell out of it. I even heard her talking with her friends about how good it was and how much she loved it. It was nice finally hearing her say something positive about something I love so much ^^ It was also the first movie ever that she stayed to watch the whole credits of, like she was into the song or something ^^

VaughnMichael

03-25-2007, 08:29 PM

Reminds me of my mother. She hates EVERYTHING I like. Most of the itme only because I like it. She hated TMNT for 20 years because I loved it so much. She goes to see this movie with me (out of bordem), and she loved the hell out of it. I even heard her talking with her friends about how good it was and how much she loved it. It was nice finally hearing her say something positive about something I love so much ^^ It was also the first movie ever that she stayed to watch the whole credits of, like she was into the song or something ^^
ahahah thats awsome same with my mother!
It would seem this movie has gained the turtles some new fans!

Time Mistress

03-25-2007, 09:02 PM

Great job Mr. Munroe! I LOVED the movie!:tparty:

Whitewolf89

03-25-2007, 09:15 PM

:D Thank you for a WONDERFUL movie, Kevin! I hope that when they make a sequel, YOU direct it like you did this one! EXCELLENTLY done, sir!:D

And btw, I can state without fear that even if I WASN'T a TMNT fan (which I am (STAUNCHLY so!)), I would have LOVED this movie!:D Which I did, immensely. And when it comes to the other theatre that we have here in West Plains, I'll go see it THEN, too. Might go a coupke of times more than that, given that adult ticket THERE are only $4.00.

Aztec General

03-25-2007, 09:25 PM

Nice work Kevin. It was seriously a great film.

ThirdMarioBro

03-25-2007, 09:33 PM

I just found out that TMNT kicked 300's ass for the box office crown this week. Congratulations on making the best TMNT movie ever, and for bringing new life to what we all know and love.

You are now my hero. :D

Shark

03-25-2007, 10:41 PM

I have no money left the see the movie a second time (spent it all seeing the movie the first time, and buying the TMNT game). So now I just can't wait for the DVD release (which I would hope has deleted scene's and uncut features, but I doubt). Dammit, now when will that DVD hurry up and get released! Damn long wait between Theaters and DVD's...

wyze2099

03-26-2007, 01:40 AM

Congrats, Mr. Monroe, on making a really great, fun movie. There's been a lot of people who were (and still are) skeptical that "TMNT" could be a good movie; hopefully a lot of them have been pleasantly surprised. Heck, i was pleasantly surprised I knew going in that the movie was going to rock.

No movie is perfect, so there are a few things in the movie I didn't think worked as well as they could have, and a couple of things that made me flat out think, "...what?", but none of the negatives came close to overcoming the positives. This movie is easily on par with the first live-action one, which completely changed the way I saw the Ninja Turtles.

Take a bow for all your hard work; your Imagi co-workers should do the same, because it's obvious you folks worked your butts off to make a great movie. CGI animation is still getting a lot of flack, but you're really proving what can be done with the medium.

As for the question: assuming you get the greenlight to make a sequel to TMNT, how would you and the others involved go about getting it underway?

Draconic

03-26-2007, 08:08 AM

Kevin, you kick so much ass that if I were to ever meet you in real life, I will no doubt fall upon my knees and ala Wayne's World, chant to you my utter unworthiness.

May you have many pleasant travels, may you have strong children capable of lifting many oxen above their heads.
May your movie make you millions of dollars, and may many pleasant looking women everywhere fall upon their knees to express their great thanks to you (in any ways they deem fit) as well. :D

Unless you're taken, in which case, nix on the latter part. :lol:

Ninjinister

03-26-2007, 01:37 PM

Mr. Munroe,

You have done the Turtles justice. We here at The Technodrome are proud of you.

Vegita-San

03-26-2007, 01:53 PM

would we be praising him if the movie sucked, or dragging him along saying, 'it was great!...\no really, it sucked dude\...'

:)..

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Loved the movie, and hope to see it on a better quality screen second time around,.

Ecto Jedi

03-26-2007, 02:03 PM

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Loved the movie, and hope to see it on a better quality screen second time around,.

What was wrong with the screen?

Vegita-San

03-26-2007, 02:54 PM

What was wrong with the screen?

Looked at least 20 years old, nothing having been upgraded since the late 70's, and really washed out picture. Like a DLP TV from the 80's. Those big Projection screen thingy's.

Duke Igthorn

03-26-2007, 06:41 PM

Oh my ;) To speak with Max Winters words:
Mr Munroe, you've made a very old fan very, very happy!

Ok not that old...

You did a fabulous job, indeed. The whole thing was very intense and that was good. Of course it could have been longer, of course I'd love to have seen more Mikey, Donnie and all the other stuff... but I'm sure you know all that yourself better than any of us and would have wanted it too if it was possible. And I agree that concentrating on the main plot elements was the better course of action, than maybe losing yourself in too much differating character development. I guess that would've taken out the speed in the movie, and after 10 years hiatus a straight set of how things are was in order. The sequel (which I assume is not longer an if but a when question after kicking 300 off it's throne) gives you the opportunity to concentrate on things you couldn't see for in this one. (maybe a PG-13 thingy or more? *nudge nudge* ^^)

I went to London to see it how it is meant to be seen ... in English!
I fear the german version might be as horrible as the translation for the game... which was unbearable in my opinion. Well I'll give it a try when it's released here in germany as well ;)

I absolutely LOVED Mako as Splinter! He was just perfect for this, and it is so sad he passed away. Was there more Splinter screen time planned, or did you get really everything done before it happened?

The whole voiceact was very very satisfying, especially after the fandom was very happy with the 2k3 cartoon's voices. ( I guess most people were afraid Raph wouldn't be as cool as he was in the cartoon) Well Raph rocked!

I really liked the humor! You guys watched a bit too much Lilo & Stitch while creating the little red furious monster, did'cha? *smile*
He was a real fun!

Some people were complaining about some details of the story, especially why Winters didn't revive his "family" earlier, or why the monsters are all coming to New York exactly at the right time without any apparant reason. Aprils job change, etc etc...

Well .. Terry Pratchett would have said "narrative causality", things just happen because they're beneficient for the story... and because the author wants them to happen ;)

Did you have all these details figured out, and were forced to scrap it out, or were you more the Pratchett on it? ;)

Well now I'm very eager for the DVD and I guess I speak for everybody if I ask; Could you add as much Special Material as humanly possible? Voice bloopers, Interviews, enlarged/added scenes the whole bunch of Yummy-Extra-Goodness? Or maybe if the DVD is not cost effective enough for all the extra work, some kind of download service or whatever would be a cool thing... I guess the Industry is still somehow underestimating the capabilities the Web has to offer and the demand on extra material in movies.
Well I know it's not your call, but maybe you can have a positive influence ^^
BTW, is there any HD version planned?

So thanks again for making me feel like a 12 year old again and bringing my childhood's heroes back... BIG TIME! If I ever am going to get meeting you, you just qualified for a very big hug!
(I didn't even expect Lord of the Rings as much as I did this movie, shoot me ;) )

Greets,
Dukey

raphaelprime

03-27-2007, 01:06 AM

Just got done seeing it for the 2nd time tonight(and prolly not the last) and just wanted to say,

Thank you Kevin for the incredible movie. Im really hoping WB gives it a sequel, and would really like to see you handle the sequel.

I only have one question if you dont mind. I saw the post in which you mentioned about all the extra material you sent WB for the DVD, and seen others asking about it, but as far as i read i dont think i seen this asked...

But what are the chances of you doing a Director's Cut of the movie?

Cause i know on most dvd's extra, deleted, and extended scenes are usually by themselves, but what are the chances of those actually being put back into the movie feature itself as a whole instead of a side dish(so-to-speak) for like a special edition?

Again, thank you for the very awsome movie.

R-iZZy

03-27-2007, 01:11 AM

I don't think there's more I could add to what's already been said. Kevin, you did a hell of a job! Some quirks here and there, but they couldn't even overshadow a portion of the great things that came from this movie. The relationships were spot-on, the personalities were perfectly portrayed, the dialogue was passionate in a lot of scenes, action was great! I loved it!

This may not be my dream TMNT movie (I can admit, my dream movie will never happen; it's basically a very mature-themed movie based on the "City At War" arc from the first volume of the comics), but it was damn close! Thanks to you, I can now die happy. My allegiance has always been to the Turtles. Thanks for letting me be witness to my favorite heroes of all-time (ever since childhood) being on the world's mind one more time!

Shark

03-27-2007, 01:27 AM

But what are the chances of you doing a Director's Cut of the movie?

Cause i know on most dvd's extra, deleted, and extended scenes are usually by themselves, but what are the chances of those actually being put back into the movie feature itself as a whole instead of a side dish(so-to-speak) for like a special edition?

I did mention something like this, but you put it better than I did, and I think I mentioned it in another thread.

raphaelprime

03-27-2007, 01:41 AM

I did mention something like this, but you put it better than I did, and I think I mentioned it in another thread.

Ah ok. Well like i said, i didnt see anyone ask, and then again i was mainly skimming through since i was half distracted by poker lol.

btw, like the sig. pic of karai.

Shark

03-27-2007, 02:06 AM

Like I said, I probably mentioned it in another thread, and even if I didn't, you worded it better.

It was made at random for some reason by Brandatello. I didn't have enough room in my sig to mention it though.

TMNTerminator

03-27-2007, 05:19 PM

Kevein, theres really not much else but THANKS!! The movie was great...you stayed so true to the source material...im glad it was the #1 this past weekend; it deserved it...I hope you can make another one!!!
Well, Im off to the theaters for a second showing...:D

LogicDonny

03-27-2007, 06:01 PM

Mr. Munroe,

from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all you have done with TMNT. I saw it today and I can't say how beatuiful and amazing you made the movie look and how much of a fan it made me pleased with the work you done. the voice acting, soundtrack, style was really amazing.

Are you going to plan to release a dvd with all the scenes that were removed from the final cut?

Also, if there was a sequal announced, would you be glad to work on it as well?

You deserve to work on the sequel if there will be one or will possibly be ont.

Jester

03-27-2007, 06:19 PM

Hey Kevin,
I know the movie just released, but I gotta ask:
When the DVD is created, could it be possible to make it where the deleted scenes are played within the movie as an alternate option? I wish I knew the technical term, but I'd love the have those scenes integrated into the film, but also have the ability to play the theatrical version as well.

Shark

03-27-2007, 06:25 PM

Meh, I would never choose to watch the Theatrical version if I had the full version.

I'm also more curious when a DVD will be out. I never know the time span between theaters and video/DVD release. And oddly enough, this is the first time I ever cared to know.

Splinter's Iroonna

03-27-2007, 06:47 PM

I love the theatrical version-- so I would watch both. But the theatrical version would be my first love.

The word is July 10th for the DVD-- pretty quick, I think, and that is just fine with me!

raphaelprime

03-27-2007, 09:38 PM

I wish I knew the technical term

Those are generally considered Director's Cuts

Jester

03-27-2007, 10:04 PM

There's a difference between a straight up Director's Cut and a movie that integrates the deleted scenes into the movie, it's been mentioned before. I can't remember what it's called.

gobo

03-27-2007, 10:31 PM

xChri5x

03-27-2007, 10:59 PM

It would be nice if he gave us a nice light rundown of some of the stuff that was cut

raphaelprime

03-27-2007, 11:55 PM

There's a difference between a straight up Director's Cut and a movie that integrates the deleted scenes into the movie, it's been mentioned before. I can't remember what it's called.

Only other thing i can think of then would be Unrated.

You mean that thing where the movie plays normally, but the director's cut option sends cues to your hardware at certain points to detour onto the deleted scene?

no im thinking more like The Punisher DC

Shark

03-28-2007, 12:11 AM

Only other thing i can think of then would be Unrated.

Wouldn't that be the most awesome thing ever?

I can also imagine two type's of DVD's.

TMNT for Kids: The PG one, with no deleted scene's and such, just for the kiddies, and so the soccer mom's won't whine and complain.

TMNT Uncut: The one we, the fan's, want :D and so we, the fan's, won't whine and complain :evilgrin: Come on Kevin, make it happen!

xChri5x

03-28-2007, 12:36 AM

They better not gyp us on the dvd cover art either

Jester

03-28-2007, 04:31 PM

You mean that thing where the movie plays normally, but the director's cut option sends cues to your hardware at certain points to detour onto the deleted scene? I hope that's not what you mean, because I always thought those looked awkward. To give some examples, the DVDs for The Forgotten and (Jaime Fox as) Ray both use that method.That's it...I guess I'm a weird minority who thinks that'd be cool, aslong as the Deleted scenes fit the movies continuity, and wouldn't cause more problems with story.

Spacefille

03-28-2007, 09:42 PM

That's it...I guess I'm a weird minority who thinks that'd be cool, aslong as the Deleted scenes fit the movies continuity, and wouldn't cause more problems with story.

Maybe it'll fix the slight confusion over the 12th monster.

Either way, Thank you Kevin for an excellent movie. It was very very happy making. Your guy's hard work and dedication really paid off!

AquaParade

03-30-2007, 06:27 PM

I'm anxious to see Kevin's reaction to the feedback from critics and fans and such. Probably busy though.

TMNTerminator

03-30-2007, 07:51 PM

Ok, so real quick my second impressions...

Just got back from the 7:50 PM showing...and just as good as the first time around...though I must say, it did feel like there was a bit more talking/arguing/standing around overall than I think was necessary- woulda perfered more fighting, training scenes, moving around/running etc....also, the story did feel a bit "bulky"- I mean, there was soo much too the backstory I'm still not sure I completely understand the whole monster thing..but again, I still loved it...

Michelangelo-Sama

03-30-2007, 11:48 PM

I've seen it 3 times now and it just keeps getting better every time I watch it. Mako was amazing as Splinter. Kevin you and your team knocked it out of the park. My only complaint is not enough Mike and Don screen time, and Mikey seemed to be a little dumbed down but I see the direction you were taking with him being the youngest of the 4. But I would like to see him act a little more mature in the sequel. Its so great to see a director that really cares about the fan base, unlike Michel Bay which could not care less about the fans, but I wont go into that. I really hope that you get to make the sequel. I would love to see some of the comic stories put into movie form like return of shredder or the city at war series. I cant wait to get the DVD. I really hope that all of the deleted scenes will make it back into the movie for the dvd release. You made this fan boy very happy with this film. Thank you Kevin for bringing the turtles back to life for all of us. You are the 5th Turtle.:D Any thought to bringing Kevin Clash back to voice Splinter if a sequel is made?

Shark

03-31-2007, 03:01 AM

You are the 5th Turtle.:D

Heh, maybe if he was a turtle. He's more like, the 3rd human friend or something, or the turtles 2nd sensei.

Zelda

03-31-2007, 07:57 PM

Didn't get to see it until today because I was in New Zealand...doesn't open till April there -_- The friends I brought with me were old toon fans, clueless about the comics and hadn't seen the original movies in a while and they adored it. We've been quoting it all afternoon ^_^ The dialogue was EXCELLENT. Perfectly succinct. I would have liked everything to be longer, to have more of a build up but I was still impressed by how much was packed into every second. I want to see it again and again not just because I liked it, but because there is SO MUCH to see and take in.

I also really liked Casey and April in this, even though I was convinced that I'd hate them due to CGI humans being so...icky ^_~ and Sarah "Buffy" Gellar... but I did really like them. I would lovelovelove to see more Karai!

So much happy fangirl squealing. At the end when your name rolled up on the credits I was singing "That there is the best director ever and I'm going to go onto the forums and tell him I am absolutely in love with his movie! THANK YOU KEVIN!!!!"

We were hoping for some nifty little tidbit in the end-credits though ;p ohhh well.... soooo, about this super extra footage DVD............ :D

More Mike and Donny! I wouldn't have sacrificed Leo v. Raph for them, but....still!

Thanks again (:

CyberCubed

04-01-2007, 03:57 PM

Saw the movie today, great job, Kevin!

Warhorse

04-01-2007, 07:05 PM

Oh, Kevin, damned good job, especially on Raph!

PS: Is there any chance that the Jersy Devil can somehow escape the other demension and become a permanent thorn in Raph's side, for kicks. in future sequels?:D

Ecto Jedi

04-01-2007, 08:03 PM

PS: Is there any chance that the Jersy Devil can somehow escape the other demension and become a permanent thorn in Raph's side, for kicks. in future sequels?:D

Haha...A small cameo in the sequel would be nice. Kinda like Slimer in Ghostbusters 2.

Fledermaus

04-01-2007, 08:06 PM

Haha...A small cameo in the sequel would be nice. Kinda like Slimer in Ghostbusters 2.

Or like the monkey in POTC...:D I really wouldn't mind seeing the little freak again. Raph is so hilarious when he's fuming and getting his shell kicked by Furby's inbred cousin.

Only other thing i can think of then would be Unrated.
Wouldn't that be the most awesome thing ever?

I can also imagine two type's of DVD's.

TMNT for Kids: The PG one, with no deleted scene's and such, just for the kiddies, and so the soccer mom's won't whine and complain.

TMNT Uncut: The one we, the fan's, want and so we, the fan's, won't whine and complain Come on Kevin, make it happen!

:evilgrin:

Seriously, Kevin.... I'd have to say 80% of the people I know who saw the movie (college students and beyond, most of them not even part-time TMNT fans) were very interested in there possibly being a "director's cut" version -- one unrestricted by the PG rating OR length of movie. Everyone thought it was too short by twenty minutes... We got the feeling that a lot of the film was "missing" and that's why it, at worst, felt more loosely woven together than it should have been as an urban fantasy film (kudos to iris for giving me the genre name ;) ).

If I hadn't heard this desire from so many people, I wouldn't bother telling you -- only I just keep hearing it more and more whenever people reflect on the movie. The demand is definitely there. I think you guys could do well if you had two versions of the movie available, that way you can satisfy both targets: the kids/family consumers AND the late teens/20-something-and-ups who crave something that caters more to their level of entertainment.

And as a TMNT fan, well... you can guess what my personal opinion is on the matter. Please, if you had some original version of TMNT -- the version you wanted to release to theaters, censors and kiddie demographics aside, PLEASE share it with us!!!! *gets down on knees and begs*