Where would you start someone who's never seen TMNT [Archive]

Cowabunga Carl

07-11-2012, 10:54 PM

Jester

07-11-2012, 11:02 PM

I had a tough go between the 1st 2 choices, but as the one that came to mind first I picked the 1st movie. It's a good blending of the Mirage source and the FW camp.

Donnie

07-11-2012, 11:05 PM

When I wanted to introduce my girlfriend to the Turtles, I showed her the first movie. Like Jester said, it's a nice blend of FW and Mirage, and it can be taken somewhat seriously just incase she didn't know that TMNT isn't just for kids. :)

Cowabunga Carl

07-11-2012, 11:20 PM

I was thinking the first live action movie. Exactly for the reason Jester said.

Cipher

07-11-2012, 11:21 PM

Does she like art?

Start her on the comics and just tell her to push her way through and have fun with the first 15 issues.

I'm really just speaking from my experience with my fiancee though. Your mileage may vary.

Also, I don't know. You could just let it happen organically. Chances are you'll be watching or reading something TMNT-related at some point while she's around. She'll probably express interest. From there, she can either try it out and latch on, or decide she's fine letting you keep it to yourself. Either way is fine, and it may be less awkward. Again speaking from experience with other interests.

CyberCubed

07-11-2012, 11:24 PM

I'd say my top 3 choices would be:

- First issue of Mirage #1.

- Season 1 of the original cartoon

- First movie

Although jumping right into the 4kids series isn't a bad choice either. It just feels "wrong" to start with it because it still feels relatively new and isn't the old stuff from the 80's and 90's.

Walkabout

07-11-2012, 11:28 PM

First two choices for sure, probably the movie.

Is there a trend here?

Jester

07-11-2012, 11:29 PM

Trend? What do you mean?

Cipher

07-11-2012, 11:36 PM

Actually, if you aren't going to go with the comics or don't think they're up her alley, and you don't want to just let it happen on its own, I have to put in a hearty vote for the original Fred-Wolf mini-series.

It's good all-ages fun and remarkably well done. The problem with the other versions is that they really don't wear their blend of seriousness and kid-friendliness well. We forgive it because we're either nostalgic or are already fans and willing to take whatever adaptations come along. But the first movie, as good as it is, hasn't aged very gracefully and is a tonal mess. The 4Kids series, I would only ever start an adult on if they were already very comfortable watching kids' series. A lot of its sins are unforgivable without the context of knowing it aired on Saturday morning and was advertising a toy line, and if you try to push it on anyone as a serious show, it's going to be really hard to stomach. Fine pieces to watch later, but not the best thing to show someone if you're trying to demonstrate why this is a property you love or a modern classic.

But the first season of the Fred-Wolf version is good, tonally consistent fun that does a great job of introducing the characters without those distractions.

Cowabunga Carl

07-11-2012, 11:43 PM

I meet this girl at church, and hang out with her right now when we are working on the play she wrote. I got the lead part playing the hero. So I figure that is a good start of getting to spend more time with her. Anyway I'm using the TMNT as an excuse to get her to come hang out sometime honestly.

She is into Manga so the original comics aren't out of the question at some point.

CyberCubed

07-12-2012, 12:27 AM

Donnie

07-12-2012, 12:31 AM

I noticed most female fans tend to prefer the comedic nature of the original cartoon anyway. There's a reason the old show was also popular with girls, it wasn't merely an action show but it was comedic and the characters all played off each other.

I would imagine that most female fans (not all, ladies) dropped off the band-wagon after the OT. Most girls I know only knew of the Turtles because of the OT, and some heard of the movies but didn't see them.

Newton Gimmick

07-12-2012, 01:07 AM

Assuming she's over the age of 12, yeah, I'd go with the movie. She'd have to be a little kid to really "get" the OT.

First movie. If she likes that, 2K7 TMNT movie. Skip the other movies. If she's still on board, some of the 2K3 toons.

Obviously you could show her the comics if she's really into it, but that's not really something you can "spend time with her" doing. Comics are sort of a personal time thing.

mysterycolor

07-12-2012, 03:20 AM

definitely start with the movie- it is a fun introduction and if she likes it you can show her the other movies (i recommend the first live action, SOTO, 2k7 then tmnt 3)- if she likes those then maybe show the comics (if she's a reader) or even maybe the cartoon... but to start her off with the OT would be way too overwhelming (imho) because to get into it you have to learn the characters and quite honestly- wouldnt you rather she get to know you ;) if she is a collector of anything toy related showing her the figures (and plushies!) would be fun as well. Good luck with your lady Hob :)

p.s.
if she isnt head over heals for the turtles right off the bat- dont necessarily write her off- people are allowed to have separate interests and still be in a relationship

Candy Kappa

07-12-2012, 03:30 AM

The 1st movie. It's a good movie, and films are easier to digest and less time consuming then five episodes of the first FW season, and the movie can be watched in company of friends and have some soda and candy to go.

Second choice would be season 1 of FW series. If you got the extra time, it applies pretty much as the first movie. You can watch it with friends and have some snack to it.

If she's already a comic book readier, you can recommend the comics, if not. something on the TV is better.

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-12-2012, 04:23 AM

1987 show, season 1-2

Icebot

07-12-2012, 05:04 AM

I would start with the Fred Wolf toon, that's what got me into ninja turtles.

Impervium Gem

07-12-2012, 05:09 AM

Depending on what they would prefer to see at the moment, either the movie or the mini-series might be a good idea. I voted for the movie here since it sometimes takes a while to get a feeling for a new show and watching more than one episode in a row can feel a little strange, at least it has happened to me quite a few times (not with the Turtles, of course) and I noticed I often get used to film happenings quicker. But if I know they enjoy cartoons (or are interested in learning more about what I've been babbling about in excitement :D) I'd definitely recommend them the Fred Wolf series.

pannoni1

07-12-2012, 05:56 AM

I would start a newbie with Turtles Forever since it combines elements of several incarnations of the franchise, and was part of the reason why I got back into TMNT. They also won't realize that the "1988" voices are different from the original cartoon. From there, based on their favorite part of the special, they then could go from there to their respective universe.

However, if he/she doesn't have a preference, this would be my suggestion to them. Since the majority of product is animated, I'd then direct them to the 1987 mini-series, since that is how the bulk of the people were introduced to the franchise. It's the simplest story to understand, and the five episodes are comparable in length to the first movie, which is what I would show to someone right after the 1987 mini-series. Next, I would ask if they'd like the movie or animated series better. If they picked the movie, then I would direct them to the other movies, followed by the 4kids series. If they liked the mini-series, then I would direct them to the rest of the Fred Wolf series. Afterwords, if they saw the OT, I would them direct them to the Archie comics and instruct them about the 1988-1996 Playmates line. If they choose the movies/4kids route, then I would tell them about the original Mirage comics that those universes were based off of.

Scud

07-12-2012, 07:11 AM

Either the first movie or Season one from '87.

My first choice would be the movie, unless you/she does not have time to sit through it all at once.
The first season would allow her to get a taste in bite size chunks.

~S~

Candy Kappa

07-12-2012, 07:52 AM

Start with the Pen & Paper RPG!

TMNT_Guy

07-12-2012, 08:18 AM

Most people I show TMNT to immediately get confused as to why there are giant mutant turtles walking around. I'd recomend something that has the their origin told rather quickly. Either the Mirage TMNT #1 comic or the first episode of the 88' series are an excelent start. Because of that, I'd definitely recomend skipping the 4Kids series or the CGI movie. You might be able to get away with the first movie, though.

Cowabunga Carl

07-12-2012, 08:42 AM

if she isnt head over heals for the turtles right off the bat- dont necessarily write her off- people are allowed to have separate interests and still be in a relationship

Oh I know that, it's just I want her to understand a little what it is. I want her to be okay with me being into it and collecting TMNT related things. I've dated girls before who weren't okay with me being a "geeK".

zkarlette

07-12-2012, 10:04 AM

In my opinion I've noticed that grown girls overall like the 4 kids series better than all the other stuff it's serious enough, it shows origin, story and personality of the turtles and the best look if you ask me.

I feel this is the best for someone who didn't grew up with the TMNT, the movies might be a little cheesy for her ,but we all know why we love them ,the comics a little complicated and deep and once again the 80's toon a little to kiddie maybe, for us all of this is a staple in out lives but for someone grown up and new to the TMNT who knows...

And it's true what MC says, if she likes it great, but if not it's no deal breaker each should have their own likes...

Master Splinter

07-12-2012, 10:11 AM

I would go with the first movie. If she enjoys it tell her that there are different universes of TMNT and the movie took a cue from the original cartoon and original comic...

-ms

gobo

07-12-2012, 12:50 PM

Start them on 2K3, and you run the risk of them thinking all other versions are a disappointment.

Cipher

07-12-2012, 01:23 PM

I seriously don't get the argument for starting people on the 4Kids series.

I mean, I guess it depends on who it is. But I feel you'd actually have to be more immature to bite into the 4Kids series than the first Fred-Wolf season. (Later seasons are incredibly silly, but the first five episodes are one of the best introductions to a Turtles universe we've ever had.) And I second the movies being kind of cheesy, even the first one.

CyberCubed

07-12-2012, 01:59 PM

I'd force them to sit through all 193 episodes of the original cartoon. Twice.

And then move on to the other stuff.

Mr.Turtle

07-12-2012, 05:58 PM

better start with 2k3 and then movie 1 and then movie 2007. thats it. if u wanna watch movie 2 and 3, no one's gonna be in ur way but be prepared to be disappointed.

Candy Kappa

07-12-2012, 06:11 PM

I'd force them to sit through all 193 episodes of the original cartoon. Twice.

And then move on to the other stuff.

If she don't like it by then, she have to go :P

Drose18

07-12-2012, 06:21 PM

Depends what kind of girl she is. if shes fun and stuff give her ot. If shes more for action then comedy give her mirage. If she wants a mix give her the movies or 2k3.

Jester

07-12-2012, 06:42 PM

I think the 1st movie is also just more accessible. It's "one and done." Tells it all, and is over in 90 minutes. That and live action, to me anyway, seems more accessible than animation, especially animation with lots of continuity like 4Kids, or over 100 episodes, like the FW series.

TurtleTitan97

07-12-2012, 06:43 PM

I vote for the 1st movie. :)

gobo

07-12-2012, 06:56 PM

I'd show the highlights in the order I saw them: Playmates' pilot miniseries, then movies, then 4kids.

Mr.Turtle

07-12-2012, 07:52 PM

i dont kno abt u guys but when i start watchin something new, i start with the tv version then movies...but its just me.

Jephael

07-12-2012, 08:03 PM

If a friend or relative was interested in learning about the TMNT, I'd give them a small sample of each iteration.

CyberCubed

07-12-2012, 09:18 PM

Fun fact: I had my siblings sit down and watch all 193 episodes of the original cartoon and they became huge fans. They now like the 4kids series, the comics, and are interested in the Nick show.

Mr.Turtle

07-12-2012, 09:22 PM

^ r they lil kids?

Slade

07-13-2012, 12:13 AM

You've probably done this already, but if not, why not just start off with telling her what you love about the Turtles and go from there. Show her your favorite incarnation whatever that may be, see where that leads.

If none of that works, just stick in move 1. :D

Genesis

07-13-2012, 03:46 AM

Depending on circumstances, I start people off on the Mirage comics or the first movie. Chances are, they've seen or otherwise have some mental grip on the OT, though oftentimes sorely lacking for detail or accuracy (and since that series is my least favourite of their good incarnations, it hardly matters). The 1990 film has a lot going for it as a way to start people off, due to its accessibility and relatable portrayal of the characters, as well as the aforementioned blending of Mirage and '87 elements. It's pretty much as good as it gets.

To me, however, the point of bringing someone into the fold is to show him or her where it all came from, and there's nothing that more appropriately conveys that than the Mirage comics. It dispels all misconceptions right off the bat and gets them started in a much more expansive way.

And in my experience, it's very true that girls more typically respond to 2k3, and certainly not without reason. Personally, I don't get why anyone would use the OT to start anyone off. I've too much interest in experimentation to have them step into it the way most millions of people did in the late 80's and early 90's. I prefer the road less travelled.
Start with the Pen & Paper RPG!Haha, F-ing right!

thelouisguy

07-13-2012, 05:24 AM

The first live action movie.
The first 15 issues of the Mirage comics (+ Return to New York, + City at War)
The first 2 seasons of the 4Kids 2K3 series.

She will see the similarities in the stories and should "get" it quicker that way.

Genesis

07-13-2012, 08:27 AM

I hear ya, but don't skimp on Season 3. That one was brilliant, and they were never stealthier before or after. Then again, if she's not hooked enough by then to watch it on her own, then something's wrong with her.

Cowabunga Carl

07-13-2012, 10:59 AM

Thanks for all the suggestions. I have some ideas and feelings now about things. I think I'll play it by ear and just see how things go. Let them build organically to the point where something feels right.

Genesis

07-13-2012, 01:11 PM

That's pretty much how most anyone should do most anything, I think.

CyberCubed

07-13-2012, 05:11 PM

Keep in mind that most people do not read comics! Many people have never picked up a comic book in their life. It's much easier to show them a movie or cartoon than hand someone a comic.

People would rather watch something they are new to than read a comic. Just think of all the people seeing Spiderman and Batman in theaters who never read a comic in their life.

Genesis

07-13-2012, 05:29 PM

Yeah, but we're assuming that she's cool.

CyberCubed

07-13-2012, 07:56 PM

Yes but its true, any "casual" fan will be reluctant to pick up a comic. Many of the people who just saw the new Spiderman movie in theaters aren't rushing to their nearest comic book store to pick up Spidey comics.

Cartoons and movies are the gateway drug. After they watch the shows, THEN introduce them to the comics. It makes more sense that way.

Mr.Turtle

07-13-2012, 07:59 PM

i usually dont read comics coz there's no voice or music in them... im so spoiled.

Cowabunga Carl

07-13-2012, 09:15 PM

Yeah, but we're assuming that she's cool.

She is. She reads manga on a regular basis.

Genesis

07-13-2012, 09:18 PM

She is. She reads manga on a regular basis.

I know. I was just giving the Cubed one a hard time.
Keep us posted on your progress with converting your lady friend into a rabid Turtles fan, Herr Hob.

pannoni1

07-13-2012, 09:37 PM

i usually dont read comics coz there's no voice or music in them... im so spoiled.

True, but comics can often be more laid-back since they could be created without technology, plus you can be more creative giving each character a voice as you read along. I'm surprised that comics didn't get big until the late 1930s given how low-tech the process is compared to animation.

Leo656

07-14-2012, 03:00 AM

I've never failed to win anyone over with the first movie. Even people who don't give a single f*ck about TMNT seem to at least like that movie. True story: I once lived with some people who never even HEARD of TMNT, grown people in their 40s who somehow never heard of it even though they had kids around my age. They wanted to watch a movie, I put it in since they'd never seen it, and they thought it was one of the most clever, original concepts they'd ever seen in a movie. They didn't become "fans" but they were highly enthusiastic about the entire experience.

I think it's got the widest appeal of any TMNT product, so it's a good "gateway drug". Once people see a version of something that can be relatable to "real life", it's a little easier to swallow cartoons and comic books and more fantastical takes on the same subject matter, I feel.

Newton Gimmick

07-14-2012, 03:15 AM

Next Mutation!

Leo656

07-14-2012, 03:29 AM

We are trying to convert people, sir, not become legally accountable for their inevitable suicide.

Walkabout

07-14-2012, 03:39 AM

Trend? What do you mean?

Just meant that everyone is going for the first live action film (myself included) and that's what this dude should show her.

But now I read she likes Manga, so definitely the seminal Mirage comics too

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-14-2012, 03:41 AM

Many people have never picked up a comic book in their life.

I think most people have done as kids.

Mr.Turtle

07-14-2012, 09:40 AM

i think next mutation is more like a fan work... the not my type of a fan work.

Vincent

07-17-2012, 08:56 AM

So there is this girl I know who has never seen anything TMNT related. She is really cool and I enjoy spending time with her. She said she'd be up to watching some, but I don't know where I'd start her at. TMNT is really supper important to me and it's a big part of who I am. I'd also like to have this girl possibly be a bigger part of my life.

If you were to show someone who has never seen any Turtle stuff what would it be?

Tell her the basics and let her choose which to check out first.
The Fred Wolf series is silly fun and not heavy on plot, while the 4Kids series is primarily plot-focused with the humor working as a secondary element. If she's more interested in story, I'd say go for 4Kids, and if she's in the mood for silly, go for Fred Wolf.
Both shows changed drastically at some point, so there's always the option of going with one until interest fades (if it does), and then moving to the other.

Genesis

07-17-2012, 10:33 AM

Next Mutation!We are trying to convert people, sir, not become legally accountable for their inevitable suicide.Oh, man, did you ever get a laugh out of me, just now.

Logan

07-17-2012, 01:17 PM

I guess it would depend on her sensibilities. If she's into retro stuff, then the the first season and some of the early Mirage issues would probably be the way to go. If you want to give her something filling and quick, then I'd go with the first movie.

Leo656

07-18-2012, 03:44 AM

Genesis: Thanks buddy.

Y'know, my chick loves TMNT and I can't get her near the Mirage comics. Loves the Archies, though. Those wouldn't be a bad choice to try and win someone over with.

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-18-2012, 03:52 AM

i think next mutation is more like a fan work... the not my type of a fan work.

But now, it is at least no fan work.

Mr.Turtle

07-18-2012, 09:08 AM

sometimes i think start frm movie 2007 is a good idea too.

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-19-2012, 04:51 AM

sometimes i think start frm movie 2007 is a good idea too.

No way. Start with some work which tells the origin story instead.

Mr.Turtle

07-19-2012, 07:09 AM

but statistic shows movie 2007 got a lot of fans back, including old fans n new fans.

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-19-2012, 10:41 AM

but statistic shows movie 2007 got a lot of fans back, including old fans n new fans.

Which statistics?

Mr.Turtle

07-19-2012, 10:49 AM

^ the statistics.

FoxZerro

07-20-2012, 07:17 AM

If you want to give her something filling and quick, then I'd go with the first movie.

I definitely misinterpreted your meaning the first time I read this... I mean he met her a church for goodness sake.

On a serious note: Hob, kudos on wanting it to develop organically, forcing something usually ends up in failure. In regard to the introduction 1st movie is the way to go. Women will easily come over for a movie because at the least its a 90 minute commitment, it doesn't scare them if you invite them to watch a movie. Plus that movie is a lot of fun and has enough balance between turtles and Casey/April that even if she doesn't like the turtles stuff she should still be entertained by. Worse to worse if you're watching the movie and you see she's not feeling it you can start joking about how much of a period piece it is and show that you know its kind of flawed but still love it because its important to you. Plus in my experience its best to be able to laugh at yourself and your hobbies.

If she likes Manga, she should definitely be able to understand the concept of Four Turtles "transformed from the norm by the nuclear goo" and have a copy of TMNT #1 standing by that you can give her in the event that she like the movie. Ease that transition, plus its a nice memento of your night and will assist in keeping you in her mind.

Also remember to keep an open mind yourself regarding things she might want to share with you.

BAXTER STOCKMAN 19

07-20-2012, 08:42 AM

When i decided to get my girlfriend into the TMNT i showed her the first 4 episodes of season 1 of 1987 cartoon then i showed her the first season of 4kids cartoon and then continued until season 3 of 1987 cartoon. After that i have not showed her anything more because as she said she didnt like any of the shows. She said that they are violent and boring. I am planing to show her some episodes of Nick show but i am sure that she will hate that too. That because my girlfriend dosent like action movies and cartoons she likes only social cartoons and movies without action

Genesis

07-20-2012, 09:40 AM

Y'know, my chick loves TMNT and I can't get her near the Mirage comics.Funny. Everyone's different, I guess. I have a friend named April (the only person I've ever met with that name). When we first met and I learned her name, I almost reflexively recited, "April O'Neil, Channel 3 Eyewitness News." She laughed and said something along the lines of having wanted to be a reporter when she was a kid. I told her, "Y'know, she wasn't originally a reporter." I showed her some of my old comics, and she immediately lit up and asked if she could borrow them.

So, you never know.

Original TMNT Cartoon Fan

07-20-2012, 02:10 PM