The Raphael Thread

[Jester]

So in the Turtle Duo thread someone asked why we don't just have a thread where we discuss each of the Turtles in each iteration. So here's a thread dedicated to Raph. Which Raph is your favorite Raph? Which Raph gets the most character growth? Which Raph makes you wanna pull youtr hair out?

For me, Rob Paulsen's take on Raphael is what made me a Raphael fan to this day. If it wasn't for his snarky, sarcastic delivery, I'm not sure if he'd be my favorite Turtle. When Raphael is voiced by anyone else, I'm quite disappointed. I have to admit, when I rewatched the European Vacation arc, I actually got to a point where I was okay with the non-Paulsen Raph, but I was happy when I got to season 4 proper, where he was back in full force.

[ssjup81]

Yes yes yes!! I think that's why I liked Raph so much as a kid! If it hadn't have been for Rob, I probably wouldn't have liked the character as much as I had. Rob was perfect for Raph's sarcastic, smart allecky remarks. I always liked that type of humor. I liked Raph so much, unlike everyone else who would go straight to Mikey for the old games, I'd pick Raph.

I can't say he's my favorite either since it depends on the actual medium. For instance, in Mirage, my fav is Donny followed by Mikey. In the Archie comic, ironically, once again, I'm liking Donny followed by Raph. For the OT series, it was always Raph and after him, Mikey. Revisiting the series, Donny is close to edging over Raph.

Anywho, of course I'll have to go with OT Raph as my favorite Raph and Archie Raph coming in second.

As for best development...I can't really say. The bias in me wants to say Archie because of Ninjara, but Mirage is really good with that too.

[Powder]

OT Raph rules, I find him somewhat obnoxious in mirage (& image, though I love his becoming the Shredder storyline & all that), somewhat obnoxious in 2k3, pretty cool in the first film, very likable in the second two, overdone in TMNT, OK in Next Mutation, just there in Archie, of no good use in the video games, & I have nothing to say of his new incarnation as it's not out yet.

So all in All, OT Raph is my favorite, I think he's given a lot of personality growth in the third film (I shouldn't have to explain, but if anyone needs me to feel free to ask) and I can't really be bothered with him in the comics. He's often too over the top.

[Jester]

I'm not sure if I give OT Raph too much credit, by having Raph be my favorite in most mediums. The others come off as just as one note to me. Leo's the defacto leader. Donnie (who I guess I could say is my favorite in the 4Kids series...maybe.) is the brain. Mikey (who I really like in the Mirage and by extension Image Comics) is the "party dude" for lack of a better term. Raph is the angry one, and when done right, that is through snark and wit and not straight up anger (which is Raph in all mediums aside from the OT). So I dunna. I like Raph, dispite his hugly different interpretations across the media.

[Icegaze]

1. CGI 07 Raph
2. 2k3 Raph
3. Mirage Raph

OT Raph was annoying. Movies 1 and 2 Raph was okay-ish, I guess. I don't know about the other versions of Raphael.

I'm just hoping that Nick's Raph will kick shell much like the CGI 07 Raph.

[Jester]

OT Raph was annoying.
Sacrilege!

Than again, to each their own.

[Icegaze]

Sacrilege!

Than again, to each their own.
lol Sorry. :trazz:

I know you adore OT Raph but I really was never a fan of our red bandana-wearing turtle in the '87 show. And given the fact that I've completely outgrown the '87 show as a whole, OT Raph appears to me as less appealing then ever..

CGI 07 Raph was a real pleasant surprise for me and even had me questioning my so-ever long lasting loyalty to Leo.

[Donnie]

My opinion on Raph changes according to the medium. In the past I would have written him off as my least favorite, based purely on his anger and incapability to talk things out or think things through. But there's more to Raph than that.

What I like about Raphael is his vulnerability to the tensions of the world. He's a lot like Leo in that sense, although he'd probably never admit it. And let's face it, we can all relate to anger. When it takes you, sometimes you just can't stop it. So Raphael is easily identified with.

I think my favorite adaption of Raphael would be the Raph of the first movie. He's vulnerable, angry, and just a plain ol' badass. Second I would favor the 2k3 Raphy. Although I think his anger gets annoying in that series and is possibly overdone, his loyalty to his brothers and his ability to realize why he messed up in certain situations (even if it took a lone walk) makes him very attractive. I didn't mind Next Mutation Raph, either. Mirage Raph...hm...it depends on the issue. :)

He was likable in the OT series, but I never paid an extraordinary attention to him there, and it wasn't until "Turtles Forever" that I realized how much of a smart-aleck he actually was! I never thought of him as annoying in the OT.

[TheCanadiandrome]

Sacrilege!

Than again, to each their own.

yeah no kidding. OT Raphael pwns! :tcool:

[PizzaPower]

i have to say it is the old toon raphael that i love the best.

[Redeemer]

I will have to say the first movie raph. But I did love the OT Raph as well

[plastroncafe]

Paulsen's Raph is certainly what got me into the Turtles in the first place, but much as I love him I've come to love the New York Brawler-version more.

[Herald7]

First movie Raph was an amazing character and I think achievement all around. I never once thought "Wait, this a puppet." You really could feel his pain and his complicated friendship with Leonardo.

OT Raphael is also a wonderful character, contributing a lot of the show's humor and edge. I do wish they'd discussed more of why he was so cynical about life, I think it would have been interesting, lol.

I find it quite humorous that the creators thought they could switch voices and the kiddies wouldn't notice. I could always tell when Raphael was different. Kids are young, not stupid! :P

[ssjup81]

Hm, yes, I adore OT Raph. His character is crude and cynical, only it's toned down a lot compared to his other incarnations. I wish they would've expanded on that. In the ep where he became all nice, I wish they could've mentioned why he was so grumpy. The implication from the ep is that he has a nasty attitude in general.

So, just going by the OT series here, does Raph just like throwing his Sai?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qar3oBnz9_8
Seems out of all of the characters, his weapon was thrown the most...and I just wanted an excuse to post that clip. lol

Let's see, what else can I say about OT Raph. Going back to the series, I wish they would've done more character development with him. He was a smart alleck, he seemed to dislike supernatural stuff (why?), out of the four, he came across as the most reluctant to want to fight (why?), he was cynical (why?), etc. At least with the other incarnations of his character, you can understand why he was the way that he was, but for the OT series, it didn't seem to get into it or even remotely hint around to it.

[AcidBurn30]

So in the Turtle Duo thread someone asked why we don't just have a thread where we discuss each of the Turtles in each iteration. So here's a thread dedicated to Raph. Which Raph is your favorite Raph? Which Raph gets the most character growth? Which Raph makes you wanna pull youtr hair out?

For me, Rob Paulsen's take on Raphael is what made me a Raphael fan to this day. If it wasn't for his snarky, sarcastic delivery, I'm not sure if he'd be my favorite Turtle. When Raphael is voiced by anyone else, I'm quite disappointed. I have to admit, when I rewatched the European Vacation arc, I actually got to a point where I was okay with the non-Paulsen Raph, but I was happy when I got to season 4 proper, where he was back in full force.
wow i can not just pick one. i like comic raph because how smart ass he is and insaine. But i also grew up with 80's toon raph because of his smart ass and funny jokes. But 2k3 is the same as the comic book. But just angery and smart ass..hmmm i'll go with 2k3 because you get to it better.

[Powder]

What.

What.

[Herald7]

Let's see, what else can I say about OT Raph. Going back to the series, I wish they would've done more character development with him. he was cynical (why?), etc.

Now this is just my own personal analysis, lol, but here's one way to look at it. Some people tell jokes and make smart ass remarks in order to get the attention they feel they are lacking. Now Leonardo has the classic leader personality, Donatello's a freakin genius and Michaelangelo, well he's got enough personality for all four of them, lol. Then there's Raphael, he's not a scientist, the leadership role is already taken and one party dude in the group is more than enough. Where does he fit? He's basically the group's #2. Great, but never quite #1. A very insecure place to be in and you would probably start to get rather annoyed at life too. And historically, an easy way to get yourself noticed is to be rude. ;)

[RskimB]

Raphael has always been my favorite turtle. Even though he changes moreso than any of the other tmnt I always find myself rooting for him the most. Even if its just for stupid childhood reasons like he has sais and wears red.

The first movie's iteration is usually what I picture when I see Raph the portrayal is just so vivid.

I liked the OT characterization a lot and wish Raph's cynicism and snarkiness would come back in modern versions of Raphael.

I cant even remember Next Mutation.

Image Raph is a bit much. Mirage Raph I like a bit more but he's still rough around the edges.

Although i like 07 and 2k3 Raph I think the focus on his anger gets overblown at times.

[cryan]

In the OT Raph was the Han Solo of the group.Very cynical and sarcastic.I love characters like that.Rob Paulsen's delivery was classic.

[rufus]

The First movies Raph is my favorite iteration of the character. I always loved the scene where he is silently overlooking the city after the fight between leo and the others. Nothing is said in the scene but just his facial and body language that he gives off, pretty much sums up his character. a bit angry at the world that he wont really be able to walk on in broad daylight and how he and his brothers are the only of thier kind. at least thats what i got from the scene. My other favorite with him is when the turtles come back to thier home only to find it ransacked and thier father figure missing. Then the camera does the pan around raph as he lets off a primal scream clutching his sais.
The OT Raph is my second favorite tied with the mirage raph.
didnt really care to much for the 07 flick and havnt seen to much of the 2003 series.
and its been to long since i have read the image vol 3.

[Guitar_Raph]

Raph's been the bad boy rebel since the 1990 movie.

He was very mellow in the OT as well as COOTS where he played drums & sax. It was cool that he & Mikey wrote the music & lyrics.

Starting with Next Mutation, Raph got his own set of wheels driving motorcycles. And like Mikey/Turtle Titan, he became Night Watcher in the 2007 movie.

[Icegaze]

Raph's been the bad boy rebel since the 1990 movie.


You aren't familiar with the Mirage comics, are you?

[ryukenden]

Like a lot of people, it's the Fred Wolf toon that introduced me to TMNT.

Fred Wolf Raph: Definitely the joker of the group and I can barely recall times when he was moody.

Movie Raph: Came as a complete shock personality-wise as I was being so used to Raph from the Fred Wolf toon. Certainly got the most focus in pretty much all the movies.

Next Mutation Raph: The only complaint I got is that surfer voice.

4Kids Raph: I would put him in the same league as he is in the movies.

[ssjup81]

Now this is just my own personal analysis, lol, but here's one way to look at it. Some people tell jokes and make smart ass remarks in order to get the attention they feel they are lacking. Now Leonardo has the classic leader personality, Donatello's a freakin genius and Michaelangelo, well he's got enough personality for all four of them, lol. Then there's Raphael, he's not a scientist, the leadership role is already taken and one party dude in the group is more than enough. Where does he fit? He's basically the group's #2. Great, but never quite #1. A very insecure place to be in and you would probably start to get rather annoyed at life too. And historically, an easy way to get yourself noticed is to be rude. ;)I like this assessment. Maybe he is cynical because he is trying to find his place within the group, and being a smart alleck was just his way of covering up his insecurities. I'm surprised I didn't think of something like that, with the way I like to analyze characters I'd like to know more about. lol

Now, for the Archie series, his cynicism could be summed up as his just being a realist and "realizing" that there isn't always a bright side to everything.

[Jester]

You know what's weird about Raphael? He, of all the Turtles, seems to have a weird sense of their uniqueness, and he doesn't like it. In both the Mirage series and the Archie books, he seems to be the one who realizes that there are only 4 mutant Turtles and that they are all male.

[Iroh]

2K3 Raph from Seasons 1-5 is my favorite! He shows the much growth in my opinion. He acts before he speaks and he is not too insubordinate to Leonardo. When Leo lost his Budo spirit to his anger, Raph kept things in line until Leo finished his training with the Ancient One.:tgrin:

[raphfan84]

With out a shadow of a doubt my favorite Raphael would have to be Movie 1. That is exactly how I thought Raphael should be portrayed in a movie after reading some of the comics. I loved how he was really dark, a lone ranger, and could kick a** like no ones business! My next favorite in line would be 2K3 Raph. He was pretty close to the movie 1 counterpart. 3rd would have to honestly be the 2007 movie Raph just for the simple fact that I was ready to see him and Leo actually duke it out. I like Raphael in every movie, and cartoon, I really don't care for the comedy version of Raphael.

[Herald7]

With out a shadow of a doubt my favorite Raphael would have to be Movie 1.

Oh definitely, that character was a triumph of the writers, actor and puppeteer that hasn't gotten enough praise over the years. He had genuine teenage angst yet also humor that showed he was just as weirded out by this world as we were, lol.

[Time Mistress]

With out a shadow of a doubt my favorite Raphael would have to be Movie 1. That is exactly how I thought Raphael should be portrayed in a movie after reading some of the comics. I loved how he was really dark, a lone ranger, and could kick a** like no ones business! My next favorite in line would be 2K3 Raph. He was pretty close to the movie 1 counterpart. 3rd would have to honestly be the 2007 movie Raph just for the simple fact that I was ready to see him and Leo actually duke it out. I like Raphael in every movie, and cartoon, I really don't care for the comedy version of Raphael.

Ditto for me. I like my Raph ansty and angry and with a NYC accent. Though I'd say movie 1 and movie 4 are tied for me for best portrayal of Raph. Then 2k3. After I saw movie 1, Raph went from being my least favorite turtle to most. Rob Paulson is a helluva VA, but OT Raph never did much of anything for me. (Boy is it going to be weird hearing him do Donatello.)

I only hope Nickolodeon Raph is in the mould of movie/2k3 Raph.

[plastroncafe]

You know what's weird about Raphael? He, of all the Turtles, seems to have a weird sense of their uniqueness, and he doesn't like it. In both the Mirage series and the Archie books, he seems to be the one who realizes that there are only 4 mutant Turtles and that they are all male.

I've always imagined that the other three realize it, they just don't internalize it like Raph does. I find it hard to believe that Don hasn't done the biological math, but has compartmentalized it. Leo probably takes it in stride as a warrior's path. And Mike...really, what phases Mike?

[Jester]

I think Rob-hael worked for the old toon. The tone was drastically different from the Mirage source material and and any of the other media.

[Venom]

And Mike...really, what phases Mike?

Mike actually embraces his Turtley self and revels in it. :D

[Julie]

Raph is very cool and badass! :D

[Metropoliskid41]

Bump!

Raph is my favorite turtle, kind of a smartass, quick to anger, and the strongest turtle of the group. Those are all characters traits I have as well so maybe thats why I like him and Casey Jones so much :trazz:

It is going to be weird hearing Rob Paulsen do the voice of Donatello in the Nick Toon, Paulsen will always be the voice of Raph to me, its going to be weird hearing Raphs voice come outta Donnie's mouth (just like the animation error in the first episode of the OT).

I'm a pretty big fan of the Future Raph characterization in the comics, what is everyone elses favorite take on the character?

[MikeandRaph87]

So your the tough hothead,huh? I hadn't seen it...yet.:lol: I am a perfect meld of Michelangelo/Leonardo yet instead of Leonardo Raphael is my close second favorite. I like his unique personalitiy as a hotheaded jokster. Rob Paulsen is Raphael to me. The movies did a great job of studying his realist and anger traits. I hope to see more scarasm in the near future. Its apart of what made him so fun and its always great to see a character study on this great hero.

[tmntgeoff]

i love his new york accent in the 1st movie. but i also love the 87 cartoon raph too

[Avatar Yuffie]

Movie 1 Raph will always be Raphael to me.

But I adore OT Raph. I'm sorry, but his sarcastic quips really made me laugh. I wish that persona somehow survived later adaptations in another Turtle if "tough guy" Raph will be the template.

[JakeSully]

Definitely first movie and Paulsen Ralph are my faves.

[shezcrafti]

Movie 1 Raph is the ultimate for me. He's just so freaking badass!! (That's why I made the video that's in my sig.) But more than that, he's sensitive and complex. Despite his anger management issues, you can tell he's fiercely loyal to and protective of his family.

The original toon is what got me into TMNT in the first place and I loved OT Raph back then too, but I remember my world being completely rocked when I saw him in the first film. That portrayal just defines Raphael to me. Loved Josh Pais as his voice, too.

[cryan]

Like I said.I view the OT Raph as Han Solo.Solo was very sarcastic and also a bad ***.

[shezcrafti]

Have you guys seen this great Behind the Voice Actors comparison (http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/voice-compare/TMNT/Raphael/) for Raphael?

Stumbled upon it today while trying to find other non-TMNT related Josh Pais clips. It covers every iteration of the Turtles cartoons and films and has sound sample clips from each voice actor all on one page.

Very handy for us obsessive types. :tlol:

[Killer Moth]

Movie 1 Raph will always be Raphael to me.

But I adore OT Raph. I'm sorry, but his sarcastic quips really made me laugh. I wish that persona somehow survived later adaptations in another Turtle if "tough guy" Raph will be the template.

'03 Raph had his share of sarcasm, especially in Forever. Actually, '03 Raph became a good melding of the 87's sarcasm and Mirage's anger issues. In terms of personal preference, it's a close tie between the two versions, with the 87 version edging out barely. The other versions shouldn't be slighted, either, including Laurie Fuso's performance in SOTO. (No, it isn't the same as Josh Pais' in the original, but Fuso did a superb job with the role, as well.)

[shezcrafti]

The other versions shouldn't be slighted, either, including Laurie Fuso's performance in SOTO. (No, it isn't the same as Josh Pais' in the original, but Fuso did a superb job with the role, as well.)

I agree Laurie Fuso was also great/underrated. He's probably my 2nd-favorite Raph.

[Slade]

The OT is what introduced me to TMNT and Raph. Because of that show, he is and always will be my favorite. Doesn't matter wich version (except Next Mutation I could never watch that one) I love em all. Gunna start picking up some Mirage comics so it may change, but as of now I think the one I would pick over all would be the first movie Raph.

[Raphael86]

I think first movie Raph and 2k3 Raph are my favorites. Although, Paulsen will ALWAYS be near and dear to my heart. :tgrin: Raph FTW!!

[Donnie]

On the IDW Forums, Raph is winning the favorite Turtle poll, followed by Mike and Don (tied) and Leo in last.

It's weird, cause Leo polled first on the most recent favorite Turtle thread here, but then he also placed first in the least favorite Turtle thread...hm?

[Slade]

Sweet, I didn't know Goku voiced Raph in TF.

[Green Machine]

Oh man, I'm glad I found this thread! I love me some Raph. His sarcastic whit in the original cartoon made him my instant favorite. And lets be honest, his Sai are the coolest weapons!

[Original TMNT Cartoon Fan]

I like when Raphael threatens Baxter Stockman with his sai in "A Thing About Rats".

[cryan]

Agian,Raph in the OT was the Han Solo of TMNT.There is a scnen in Return Of The Jedi where Han is trying to hot wire a control panel to open some doors then another set of doors close.I can see that happening to Raph in the OT.

[Slade]

Wow, I could have sworn I poste in here before. Must have lost the thread.

Anyway. The Raph man has been my favorite turtle since I can remember. I have a picture of my second birthday cake with him on it.

Of course my first exposure to the show was the OT. thinking about it now, I don't know why I liked him then. Red maybe? Now though, and not including comics it does have to do with red (fav color), but also his attitude. His anger. His passion. I love how he runs off away from the others and faces his issues on his own until he realizes he may need them. I'm just like this.

Far as favorite versions go I have to say I love movie 1. Followed by mirage then 07 movie 4kids series and then OT. have to pick that last cus I like em a bit more angry still classic though.

[Mr.Turtle]

i dont kno abt u guys but i cant go back n review OT... the actions just look like crap to me.

[jetfire prime]

I love Raphael. He's been my favorite ever since I was little. Out of all the turtles hes had the most interesting personality to me. He's always the first one into battle but would also be the first one to lay down his life for his brothers. Hes also the most sensitive out of all the turtles, but he would deny that and storm out. I think the first movie shows that perfectly. One scene hes smacking Donatello around like an ass, even though he was trying to console him, then a few scenes later he's crying to Splinter because he had a crap day and couldn't hold it in anymore. The other part is when him and Leo are bickering in Aprils apartment and you can see how mad and a little hurt he is when Leo calls him a jerk and scolds him on his attitude. Then after blowing off steam on the roof he just stands there, staring at the world with a sad look on his face. Theres way more to him than just being a hothead, but thats just his most well known trait, other than sarcasm. Movie 1 is easily my favorite version of the character, but I also love the original and the 2K3. So thats why Raphael will always be my favorite.

[Darth Knuckles]

He's always the first one into battle but would also be the first one to lay down his life for his brothers. Hes also the most sensitive out of all the turtles, but he would deny that and storm out. I think the first movie shows that perfectly. One scene hes smacking Donatello around like an ass, even though he was trying to console him, then a few scenes later he's crying to Splinter because he had a crap day and couldn't hold it in anymore. The other part is when him and Leo are bickering in Aprils apartment and you can see how mad and a little hurt he is when Leo calls him a jerk and scolds him on his attitude. Then after blowing off steam on the roof he just stands there, staring at the world with a sad look on his face. There's way more to him than just being a hothead, but that's just his most well known trait, other than sarcasm. Movie 1 is easily my favorite version of the character, but I also love the original and the 2K3. So that's why Raphael will always be my favorite.

I just found this thread! :teek: Yeah a lot of what you said I agree with jetfire prime. The emotion and passion he has for wanting to do the right thing quickly and act now is a major part of him. Also his emotional and more sensitive side is a major part of him as well besides his hot temper. My favorite version has to be from the original 1987 cartoon and from Rob Paulsen. The "movie-verse" of him has to be next. Then probably the Archie Comics and then Mirage Comics for me. They're all very close together in order though. But I think when I think of Raph as a character in general I actually think first about his portrayal in the 1990 movie and in TMNT (2007). I thouht those two movies really nailed Raph's personality on the most levels. I definitely love me some Raph! :tsmile:

[pannoni1]

Raphael is perhaps the most dynamic, ever-changing Turtle in the universe, and I've really grown to like him more as the years have gone by. Unlike Leonardo, who always is the straight arrow, commanding the Turtles and taking advice from Splinter; Donatello, who basically deals with science and brains, and Michelangelo, who is the cocky though at times really helpful Turtle; Raphael can really be noticeably different in character from one incarnation to the next. Mirage Raph had him as a selfish, often only wanting to help the other Turtles when it is necessary and frequently likes to wander off from them. OT Raphael was just a funny, fourth wall breaking guy who seemed to get along with the other Turtles the best of all versions. Archie Raph started out just like OT Raph but gradually became more Mirage-like, though not quite to the extreme. Raphael from the first three movies was fairly similar to Mirage's, though the fourth movie had his selfishness turned up a few notches on Leonardo. 4kids Raph was rude like Mirage/Movie Raph, but seemed to have a better relationship with the other Turtles in this version. IDW Raph is similar to Mirage Raph, and we should expect the same from Nickelodeon Raph, though perhaps in a lighter way based on the direction the series is being planned. Because of this, I feel that Raphael is a critical element to how the bad guys can react, since he's sort of the joker to the other Turtles' more predictable battle tactics.

[Raphael's Rage]

Raphael has always been my favorite turtle. Out of all of the brothers, he's been the one I always identified the most with. Like myself, Raph has issues controlling his anger, he's angsty, and usually follows his emotions rather than his head. However, we both share a passion for always doing the right thing, we're both compassionate (though we don't like to admit it), and we both care immensely for our families. Out of all the turtles, Raphael always seemed the most realistic to me. I think that's what first appealed to me about the character. He's always been my favorite, and he always will be.

My favorite incarnation of Raph is definitely the version from the first movie. That Raphael just had everything I loved about the character put into one, definitive version. :tgrin:

[snake]

Raphael has always been my favorite turtle. Out of all of the brothers, he's been the one I always identified the most with. Like myself, Raph has issues controlling his anger, he's angsty, and usually follows his emotions rather than his head. However, we both share a passion for always doing the right thing, we're both compassionate (though we don't like to admit it), and we both care immensely for our families. Out of all the turtles, Raphael always seemed the most realistic to me. I think that's what first appealed to me about the character. He's always been my favorite, and he always will be.

My favorite incarnation of Raph is definitely the version from the first movie. That Raphael just had everything I loved about the character put into one, definitive version. :tgrin:
That describes everything I feel about Raph have a congrats mango :mango:

[Shark_Blade]

OT Raph ftw.

[snake]

On the IDW Forums, Raph is winning the favorite Turtle poll, followed by Mike and Don (tied) and Leo in last.

It's weird, cause Leo polled first on the most recent favorite Turtle thread here, but then he also placed first in the least favorite Turtle thread...hm?

I might have to vote to get Mikey up higher!

[Zulithe]

Raph was my favorite growing up with the OT and First/Second movie. With Nick, Leo is my fav. I still like this iteration of Raph but he's more of a brute who torments his bros rather than just a hothead who's good at getting into trouble. It's a subtle difference but he feels like a different character now.

Maybe as Nick has time to flesh him out more I'll gain a different perspective.

I also think Mikey is a much different take than we've seen in the older stuff (haven't watched much 2k3 so can't comment). But unlike Raph I feel Mikey is more improved. And the jokes he makes now actually feel funny sometimes, not just 100% corny every time.

Don and Leo seem very similar to past versions though. They have their added elements of course (like leo's sci-fi show and the don/april thing).

[snake]

Raph was my favorite growing up with the OT and First/Second movie. With Nick, Leo is my fav. I still like this iteration of Raph but he's more of a brute who torments his bros rather than just a hothead who's good at getting into trouble. It's a subtle difference but he feels like a different character now.

Maybe as Nick has time to flesh him out more I'll gain a different perspective.

I also think Mikey is a much different take than we've seen in the older stuff (haven't watched much 2k3 so can't comment). But unlike Raph I feel Mikey is more improved. And the jokes he makes now actually feel funny sometimes, not just 100% corny every time.

Don and Leo seem very similar to past versions though. They have their added elements of course (like leo's sci-fi show and the don/april thing).
Yes, by the end of season 1 the turtles will have there personalitys all fleshed out

[Zulithe]

Yes, by the end of season 1 the turtles will have there personalitys all fleshed out

That is my hope. They are doing an awesome job so far considering they only have 22 mins every episode to try to work that stuff in. I am patient :tgrin:

[Refractive Reflections]

My most favorite depiction of Raphael would be the OT version because I love the sarcasm and wit, and his anger (when it is shown) is more appropriately channeled in the right situations (battle situations, life-threatening situations.) Next would be the 1st Movie version.

I'll admit that Raphael is not my most favorite Turtle, but I don't dislike him by anymeans. Even though his hot-headedness and anger can get tiresome (maybe it's because I have a significant proportion of them in my family :P), it displays his passion and emotional investment in the issue, in which that is admirable. Furthermore it's this passion, that is further displayed whenever his family/friends are threatened.

The thing that makes me somewhat annoyed by his personality are his depictions, in some versions of him, having hair-trigger anger issues, that the smallest infraction gets him worked up when sometimes there needs to be another Raphael to smack some sense into him. In which that extreme anger causes others around him to walk on eggshells. It's ironic that the Turtle characterized as the "tough guy" among them, is depicted to be the first to whine and complain (and create drama) about things not going their way.

[Slade]

It's ironic that the Turtle characterized as the "tough guy" among them, is depicted to be the first to whine and complain (and create drama) about things not going their way.


THERE'S ONE THING A SAIYAI....wait....
No but seriously, just like Vegeta, that's got something to do with pride.

It's a subtle difference but he feels like a different character now.

Maybe as Nick has time to flesh him out more I'll gain a different perspective.


As the show has progressed, I'm starting to feel more like this new Nick incarnation is mixing OT and Mirage/2k3 or whatever you prefer, pretty well. He has the anger issues, but at the same time he's a smartass with his quick comebacks.

[redsai4lex]

I was short on conveniences when this thread was new, so I can't help but voice my own opinion now that I have more chances than ever. :tgrin: I will always be partial to Rob Paulsen (1987), because he is just arguably the best!! I will always remember his voice for RAPH as I was growing up, and couldn't have been happier after discovering his podcasts when they were new. Let alone actually getting an autograph and a written response concerning an assignment I shared with him. Rob Paulsen is TRULY irreplaceable, and he'll always be Raphael somewhere in my mind. I do however think Nolan North (2007) did an amazing job as Raph, and I always wanted them to make a sequel. Sean Astin (2012) though, has not only impressed me a lot having a voice that I could always picture being right for Raph, but he also nails his sarcastic side as well as hot headed attitude. He is probably so good due to personal coaching tips from Rob Paulsen. I could add more to my opinions of every single version of Raph, but honestly, I feel such a kinship with Raphael over my lifetime, that I'd more than likely start rambling if I haven't already. :tlol:

1- Rob Paulsen
2- Sean Astin
3- Nolan North
4- I: The Movie
5- II: Secret of the Ooze
6- 2k3/ 4Kids
7- TMNT III
8-Lower- Everyone else

[RaphAndDonnie]

I'll never forget the first time I heard Nolan North's Raph. It blew my mind. :o And then I heard the bit he did with Rob Paulsen on his podcast...oh it was perfection, the 2007 Raph and the OT Raph confused about which voice actor was which :lol: Sean Astin's Raph...I like it but it's no as good as the others. Well, it is better then Frank Franksen's Raph to me. I've never cared for the random New York accent. I also found Sean Schemmel to be a decent Raph in Turtles Forever.

But...yeah. Raph's always been an interesting character to me and it honestly doesn't surprise me that he gets more screen time or character development then the others. There's just...a lot to work with with a big sarcastic/ angry brute. :D

[Vivi]

Raph was my favorite turtle in the OT, and really helped me appreciate wit and humor as a young'n. But it was Raph from the first movie that turned his character up a notch, something that I think has transferred into all other incarnations of him. Nick and 2k7 movie are equally fantastic, and I love the pure aggression of 2k3 Raph.

[Shark_Blade]

I don't really like hothead character like Raph, since I'm a hothead too. I prefer the easy going turtle for a change, hence Mikey.

But if I would rank my favorite iteration of Raph, it'll be

2k12
OT
2k3

Movies:
TMNT1
TMNT4

[raph27]

Yeah! RAPHAEL RULES! :trazz: My fav is the Nick version. Movie 1 close behind though.

[redsai4lex]

Yeah! RAPHAEL RULES! :trazz: My fav is the Nick version. Movie 1 close behind though.

Raphael has got the most attitude on the team bro! :tgrin:

[TheBlueTurtle1]

THERE'S ONE THING A SAIYAI....wait....
No but seriously, just like Vegeta, that's got something to do with pride.




As the show has progressed, I'm starting to feel more like this new Nick incarnation is mixing OT and Mirage/2k3 or whatever you prefer, pretty well. He has the anger issues, but at the same time he's a smartass with his quick comebacks.

A kinda feel like that is the nick tv show, all the characters feel like a mix of the OT and 2003. It's a good thing!

[CowabungaMikey]

I love Raphael in the OT. To be honest, I like Rob Paulsen, so that's a big deal. But in the OT Raphael is just so sarcastic just like me :D I like the ep Raphael Knocks 'Em Dead

[billbot85]

Yeah! RAPHAEL RULES! :trazz: My fav is the Nick version. Movie 1 close behind though.

When I began watching the 1987 cartoon, Michelangelo was my favorite turtle. After I saw The first Ninja Turtles film (1990), however, Raphael instantly became my new favorite. His hot temper and tough attitude really made him the most unique to me.

However, watching on the 1987 series again, I consider Raph my favorite there as well.

[ninjafowlkes8705]

the movies raphael and the 2003 raphael

[Klunk1234]

To me, is the 2k3 incarnation of Raph. He also protective with his brother by especially Mikey and Leo. Despite his strong temper, I love the episode when he helped an old blind lady, showing his soft side.:tgrin:

[Whatswiththeheadbands?]

To me, is the 2k3 incarnation of Raph. He also protective with his brother by especially Mikey and Leo. Despite his strong temper, I love the episode when he helped an old blind lady, showing his soft side.:tgrin:

I love that episode. Out of all the 2003 episodes, that's my favorite filler episode.

I also like how 2003 Raphael is the most protective. If any of the other characters are in danger, Raph is the first to save them.

That also makes him my favorite incarnation of Raph.

[blindturtle02]

As I've said in the Don and Mikey threads, it's tough to pick a favorite. I just can't. So I'm contributing to all four. To me, all the TMNT have equally special places in my hearts. If it hadn't been for them, I don't think I would have developed such a passion for the superhero genre. Anyway, about Raph.

My fav incarnation of this turtle... Boy that's hard to pick! I'm gonna have to go with Rob Paulson because his portrayal was the one I was first introduced to as a kid. This Raph is just so charmingly witty and sarcastic. Yet, it's all in good fun and he's not out to hurt the rest of the TMNT. And when he's in battle, boy can he quip?!

But I'll say that the 2k3 Raph as well as the other guys helped me appreciate the comics versions. At least I think Mirageand 4kids were trying to pay homage to those. I liked this version because even though he may have been quick to anger, he was always ready to kick the butt of anyone foolish enough to go up against him and his brothers. Also in the 2k3 series, the turtles are more like brothers and less like roomies. I never saw that in the OT until I was an adult. And yeah one of my fav episodes in this series has to be when Raph helps the old blind lady as well. What was it Laird said in one of those interviews? Raph's hard on the outside but he's really got a gooey center. That's a very apt description of this guy in the series. I can't say I know him from comics but perhaps I will some day.

I love the new 2012 Raph as well. He seems pretty similar to the 2k3 version sans the Bronx accent. At least I think that's what the 2k3 and movie versions had. Or maybe that's stereotyping. Sorry if that's the case! Anyway, Sean Astin certainly nails the performance. Here again, he's angry but he's also a big softy as seen in the Spike scenes. I get the idea that Raph might be a bit more built this time around? Sounds like it anyway. Can't really tell him apart from the 2k3 show as far as personality goes. But I like this one too. He hits the hardest, yet he's extremely loyal to his fam. I'd hate to be on this guy's bad side.

[HienFan]

Ah Raph I remember I thought he would be my favourite when I saw 2003, 2012 and OT pilots in one go

Well it's definetely true for the latter two especially OT

Not so much 2003 once I saw more.

I'm not a huge fan of extremely aggressive or bad boys(there are few exception but you are lucky if that's the case) types but I like smarmy type of characters is why

And I am not a fan of the street punk/Brooklyn accent

Always liked Rob Paulsen/Michael Gough/Sebastian Arceleus the best

[Garfield]

OT Raph was my idol as a kid. I thought he was so cool the way he was sarcastic and broke the fourth wall. He was in on how it was all just a silly cartoon and even though I was young and it went over my head, I thought it was cool.

[Warhorse]

Raphael is not only my favorite Turtle, he is my favorite fictional character of all time. It started with the Fred Wolf show, mostly because my favorite color was red, but when the 1990 movie came out. That was it, I loved his personality, his angst, his raw fighting power. A couple of decades later, I would get to read some Mirage issues, and that just cemented his worth to me. I do real often how he is the most violent and deadliest amongst the Turtles, and I hope to see something of that extend in a movie or a good animated incarnation in the future. I wouldn't mind seeing him pick up Leo with his brute strength and throw him through a brick wall.

Out of the incarnations, 1990 and 2007 are now my favorites.

[GreatWest]

Raph has been my favorite turtle since a long time ago, to be honest, I love almost all of his incarnations, my favorite being the 2k3 one. I really like how... dark he is in this incarnation, his anger, his sarcasm, his personality, I don't know, I just really like characters like these. I love how tough he makes himself look, when, actually, he's a big softie inside. I also love how protective he can be, and, maybe, that's one of the reasons of why he's so angry all the time, because he is always worrying. And it makes me really mad when people say that Raph doesn't care about his brothers, that he's just a big meanie, if that were true, then Raph wouldn't have cried when Leo was in a comatose state. For those who watched the 2k3 incarnation, they will remember that Raphael was the one to stay by Leo's side while he was unconscious, and if that isn't caring, then shoot me. Also, Raph's accent, that's plenty of reason to me. (just kidding)

My second favorite Raphael is the 2k7 one. A lot of people said that his anger in this movie was senseless, I don't believe in that. I understand Raph's anger and point of view in this movie, I mean, if my own brother went away for a year to train, and then, after this year was over, stopped sending letters and didn't come back for another year, I would be mad and worried. But then, he is suddenly back, without a scratch in his body, and expect everything to be back to normal? Nah my friend, I don't think so. I understand that Leonardo was ashamed of himself, that he was scared to face Master Splinter, but he has brothers, brothers that needed him. So yeah, I would be mad at Leo as well.

And, Nick's Raph. I do love him, a lot. But he's not my favorite. I feel like he's a mix of OT Raphael and 2k3 Raphael, with a lot of sarcasm, but anger as well. Buuut, he's just not my fav. Sorry.

[blindturtle02]

I really enjoy 2k3 Raph as well. There are all sorts of things I'm noticing since re-watching the 2k3 show a 5th or 6th time. I forget how many times I've seen this.

[Raphael32183]

My favorite Raph would definitely be the original one from the 80s cartoon. Its what I grew up with and hes been my favorite since. I do like him in the movies and the new Nick cartoon as well.

[IDontLikeTurtlePuns]

My favorite Raph would definitely be the original one from the 80s cartoon. Its what I grew up with and hes been my favorite since. I do like him in the movies and the new Nick cartoon as well.

Honestly the 80's Raphael was probably one of my least favorite Raphs only because he was so different from the Mirage Raphael. I'm always open to change, but the 80's Raphael was a huge change. Maybe that's why I never got into the 80's turtles.

I do like Raphael in the Mirage, movies, 4kids, IDW, and Nick incarnations though.

[raphmike]

i like raph personality very strong and good fighter only i like josh
he one play raph first movie and voice too he doing great job.

D word loud lol i really don't want say.

that why i name two turtles raphmike

[CombatColdCuts]

I will always love Raph from the first movie the best. He is my favorite turtle. I liked his character in the 2007 movie as well even though he seemed to point way too much. He was a bit bland in the original series but I think he was great in the 2k3 series.

[Shark_Blade]

http://i.imgur.com/MCoMg3e.gif
http://i.imgur.com/gNSG8XX.gif
http://i.imgur.com/SowESM5.gif

http://i.imgur.com/fDX6WGC.gif

I'm gonna go with 2k14 Raph as my fave. Maybe even more than 2k12.

[pingclang]

A lot of you guys like 2k3 Raph, which is awesome! I have to say I'll always love Mirage Raph most with 2k3 right behind him but 87 Raph is what got me started and where I first fell in love with the character so there's a real special place in my heart for him. No matter what version, you gotta love the guy.

[Sabacooza]

I've always been a Leo kind of guy but Raph is so damn cool and awesome he's a close 2nd. Can't help but love him.

[IndigoErth]

The old pain in the ass... :P Never really been a Raph person, but I love the dynamic he and Leo have. Neither would be the same character without the other.

Do love the snarly looking "cowabunga" shot/gif.

[pennydreadful]

I hear ya, Indigo - I love the dynamic between them; wouldn't be the same without it. Raph's my #1 boy but Leo's a close second. :)

[Parabellum]

I love the Raph from the vol 1 comics and first movie. I liked how him and Casey Jones started their relationship (kicking the crap out of each other).

[Warhorse]

I love it how in the first movie, he's supposed to be the loner of the group, but he's the one that brings in the most human friends.:lol:

[Foombamaroom]

I think 2014 Raphael is my favorite just because of this
"If this is our last moment together, I just want you guys to know I'm sorry. I'm sorry I was so hard on you. Every time I pushed you, I threatened you, I yelled at you, I pushed you beyond your limits is because I believe in you. I believe in each one of you. I believe in your superiority, your intelligence, and your potential! And every time I talked about walking away, it was because I was scared! I just didn't think I was good enough to stand next to you and call you brothers and say to you... I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!" - Raphael

I still do love 2003 series Raph, though.

[Prowler]

My favorite Raphael incarnation will always be Fred Wolf's. Unfortunately, I don't think we'll ever see a comical take on Raphael again. He's pretty much become the "aggressive/angry one".

[pennydreadful]

Is nobody going to talk about the fact that Raph was

knitting

in the new movie?

[Slade]

My favorite Raphael incarnation will always be Fred Wolf's. Unfortunately, I don't think we'll ever see a comical take on Raphael again. He's pretty much become the "aggressive/angry one".

He was that first.

[Prowler]

He was that first.
I know he was like that in Mirage, but I'm talking about how the mainstream audience sees him today.

[Shark_Blade]

I think 2014 Raphael is my favorite just because of this
"If this is our last moment together, I just want you guys to know I'm sorry. I'm sorry I was so hard on you. Every time I pushed you, I threatened you, I yelled at you, I pushed you beyond your limits is because I believe in you. I believe in each one of you. I believe in your superiority, your intelligence, and your potential! And every time I talked about walking away, it was because I was scared! I just didn't think I was good enough to stand next to you and call you brothers and say to you... I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!" - Raphael

I still do love 2003 series Raph, though.
I gotta be honest... I almost cried when watching that scene the first time. Like you guys are about to die and Raph suddenly overwhelmed me with this overflowing of emotional confessions??? :cry: Like I'm a hardened guy myself so I guess I can relate to him the best, it's not easy to open up when you're such a brute.

But then they survived.. Wtf?? :mad: :tlol:

[IndigoErth]

Is nobody going to talk about the fact that Raph was

knitting

in the new movie?
:lol: Well now that I know why, and what use it went to... But I won't say cuz spoilers. :lol:

Though I'm impressed that bulky three fingered hands could handle those knitting needles and do it so well. lol

[RaphaelinSTL]

1990 Raphael or GTFO

http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs48/i/2009/175/1/f/Raph__TMNT_1990_by_GamerAshley.jpg

My friend and I are actually working on this comic where Raphael and Michelangelo are doing night patrol and they run into a creature that is basically 2014 Raphael. They go on to find out he's causing havoc in the city as Krang experiment gone wrong who's nicknamed "Liebesman."

Eventually Raph and Mike (illustrated in a similar way of the 1990 film) do battle with "Liebesman" and make short work of him. Hope to get this posted soon as there's much more to the story!

[MsMarvelDuckie]

:lol: Well now that I know why, and what use it went to... But I won't say cuz spoilers. :lol:

Though I'm impressed that bulky three fingered hands could handle those knitting needles and do it so well. lol

I know WHY he was knitting, but what used are you referring to? I don't recall seeing anything else about it after that scene....

[IndigoErth]

I know WHY he was knitting, but what used are you referring to? I don't recall seeing anything else about it after that scene....
http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/4d/08/06/4d0806c0507c0624a6f3dcd98b66ceae.jpg

Can't take credit for making the connection (if true) since I saw it mentioned somewhere, but there's this part a short time later... potentially ended up used this way? Or so it was suggested.

http://cdn.screenrant.com/wp-content/uploads/Megan-Fox-and-the-Ninja-Turtles-in-TMNT-2014.jpg


Color matches what he wears though... safe to assume Raph makes his own stuff?

[TechnoJerome]

1990 Raphael or GTFO

http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs48/i/2009/175/1/f/Raph__TMNT_1990_by_GamerAshley.jpg

My friend and I are actually working on this comic where Raphael and Michelangelo are doing night patrol and they run into a creature that is basically 2014 Raphael. They go on to find out he's causing havoc in the city as Krang experiment gone wrong who's nicknamed "Liebesman."

Eventually Raph and Mike (illustrated in a similar way of the 1990 film) do battle with "Liebesman" and make short work of him. Hope to get this posted soon as there's much more to the story!

Agreed Raph from the very first movie will always be my favorite Raph. He brought the heart and the soul to the movie imo. Raph is like Daryl from Walking Dead,the badass loner who has a soft side. He also looks he's about to drop F-bombs in every screen cap from that movie lol. I love every version of Raph that i've seen including the Alan Ritchson Raph, but Josh Pais' version is what made him one of my all time favorite characters.

[Davetello]

Raphael is now my second-favourite turtle, whereas when I was a boy he was probably my least. He's funny in the original show but I was never really drawn to the character. I enjoyed original film Raphael at the time, but I didn't understand why he was so different from FW Raph. Now that I have the benefit of Mirage I understand why, and it has given me a whole new appreciation for that iteration of Raph. He really is a big part of the entire film.

Mirage Raph is great too, and I enjoy 4kids Raph although at times he can be somewhat too cruel to Mikey. The other versions have their pluses and minuses.

I think as I've grown older I've become more cynical and world-weary - the innocence of my childhood years is gone. Resultantly, I've increasingly begun to to relate to Raphael and his frustration. I relate to Donatello in the sense of enjoying education, being thoughtful etc, but in my darker moments Raphael is the turtle I can connect to.

[DarkFell]

I grew to like OT Raph more as an adult. I even like the 90's TMNT movie Raph. Not sure about the Raphael from the Nickelodeon series although I sorta do like 2k3 Raph.

[Mew]

In the '87 cartoon, Raphael is quite sarcastic, and will reply to Milke's comments with sarcasm. He does it quite a bit, but will be rude, as suggested in the theme song. This is why Raph is my favorite turtle, and I think is more funny than Mike. His interactions with Leonardo and Donatello are sarcastic, of course, but in the 1990 movie he fights with Leo, and I do like those interactions alot. Raph is more straightforward in the Mirage comics, but the same as in the '87 cartoon in the Archie series. :tmad::trazz::tgrin:

[Luckyday]

I grew to like OT Raph more as an adult. I even like the 90's TMNT movie Raph. Not sure about the Raphael from the Nickelodeon series although I sorta do like 2k3 Raph.

2k3 Raph is just too one dimensional for my liking. He's just grouchy who has his pet the dog moment ever now and again.

OT Raph feels and acts like audience surrogate with him commenting on the some of the ridiculous and random nature of the show.:lol:

Mirage Raph has so many issues that will even make Doctor Phil go "damn".:teek:

first movie Raph was okay.

I like nick Raph the best. To me, he the most well rounded version that I have ever see. I like that his relationship with Leonardo is just mostly friendly competition then just an intense rival. He's confrontative so of course he likes to compete. I can see him being really into sports.

[Icegaze]

My favourite versions of Raphael in this order:
1. IDW Raph
2. Nickelodeon Raph
3. 2007 movie Raph
4. Mirage Raph
-. 1st movie Raph
6. 2K3 Raph

Not a fan of the FW Raph, at all. Don't know much about the Image Raph either.
The 2014 movie Raph? Err..

[Shark_Blade]

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/4d/08/06/4d0806c0507c0624a6f3dcd98b66ceae.jpg

Can't take credit for making the connection (if true) since I saw it mentioned somewhere, but there's this part a short time later... potentially ended up used this way? Or so it was suggested.

http://cdn.screenrant.com/wp-content/uploads/Megan-Fox-and-the-Ninja-Turtles-in-TMNT-2014.jpg


Color matches what he wears though... safe to assume Raph makes his own stuff?
He also said to bring Splinter into "the needle room". So that's where he usually sew and knit stuff I assume. :tlove: