From TMNT Front Lines... - Page 3

*Spitfire* · 12-07-2006, 01:26 PM

I got a question for ya Kevin, my favorite TMNT character is Leatherhead. Now that your moving TMNT into this CGI medium the ability to add him into the movie is there and much easier then making a huge mutant gator costume.

So I ask is there any chance of him popping his head in? I'm not sure if your even discussing sequels since this film isn't even done yet but I wonder if the idea of putting him in has even been tossed around the office?

*BigApple3AM* · 12-07-2006, 01:31 PM

All I can say is the first Ninja Turtles movie is a masterpiece in my eyes. There is hardly another movie I've watched or quoted more often. I'm a bit worried about the whole monster/fantasy angle though. The reason I love the first movie is because it was different from the comics and the cartoon, a blend really but completely set in reality. I used to yell down sewers (even though I didn't live anywhere close to New York) because I thought the turtles might be real (I was like 4). I admit I'm not the biggest CGI fan ever, it could really work for the turtles and that's not what worries me, it's the fact that CGI has no limitations and therefore we can see some pretty crazy unrealistic stuff. I've never met Mr. Laird but from what he's said in his comics I agree with a lot politically and philosophically. Still I've never liked the SciFi/Fantasy aspect of the Turtles aside from the original cartoon and comics. The new comics and cartoon take themselves too seriously which really bugs me. I'm just worried about the fantasy in this movie. I won't go in expecting the original movie, but please to let it get as wacky as say Ghostbusters (a great movie but now what I expect from Turtles).

From what you've said I trust you guys that it will be an awesome movie, you're a lucky guy considering that everyone on this site, and any turtle fan in general, would jump at the chance to work on the turtles movie, let alone direct it. Even if the movie was an abomination I've already decided that my minimum theather viewing is 3 times, though I'm sure I'll enjoy it immensely every time.

Good luck with the rest of the movie, hopefully you guys will do a bang up job and we'll see a ton of animated action movies in the USA, including TMNT 2

*gobo* · 12-07-2006, 02:45 PM

To start off, I'm a tad concerned with the runtime. I know it has already been discussed, but I want some guarantee that the movie won't be a second less than 100 minutes. Can you make such a promise? If it's less than that, it will be discouraging that the corporations involved think this is just your average, animated, kiddy tripe. I know it's not your choice, but please fight this kind of overgeneralization tooth and nail. Typically, the only live-action films that are limited to 90 minutes are those that aren't planned very well (often improv comedy, especially those involving SNL alumni). So, why limit a well-planned, animated feature that way?

And, I've mentioned it elsewhere often enough, but I'd hate for anything about TMNT to be made inappropriate for any age. So, to be more specific with a previous question of mine, can you say if there will be any songs on the soundtrack with explicit lyrics? I hope not (though I don't know why since I'm not a parent). Even if it's an edited version of a song with explicit lyrics, I'll be upset. I'll get over it, but I'll be upset as well as less likely to recommend the CD to people.

Also, I have a suggestion for the eventual DVD release. I'm sure it's a bit early to be thinking about that, but it can't hurt to prepare yourself for future projects, right? Can I send it to you as a private message? I'd rather not junk up the tread with my slight off-topicness.

Aztec General · 12-07-2006, 02:51 PM

Kev,

Any word on a TMNT (1990) Special Edition? The fans are clamoring for it and there's so many great scenes that were deleted. It'd be a perfectly complement to the new film.

Here's a link to an online petition for it:

http://www.petitiononline.com/mod_pe...ed.cgi?tmnt1se

TMNT · 12-07-2006, 03:44 PM

Welcome to the Technodrome Kevin! I've been keeping up with this thread and didn't want to post until I had a good question. I think I have one now. It is this: we have heard numerous times that this film is on the borderline of PG and PG-13. Murphy claimed it was darker than the live action films. I just wanted to hear from you, have you hit that border? By that I mean, are you seriously pushing PG-13? Thanks for talking to us fans, we really appreciate it. I'm sure I'll think of other questions later. Thanks.

TerranigmaFreak · 12-07-2006, 03:55 PM

Quote:

To start off, I'm a tad concerned with the runtime. I know it has already been discussed, but I want some guarantee that the movie won't be a second less than 100 minutes. Can you make such a promise? If it's less than that, it will be discouraging that the corporations involved think this is just your average, animated, kiddy tripe. I know it's not your choice, but please fight this kind of overgeneralization tooth and nail. Typically, the only live-action films that are limited to 90 minutes are those that aren't planned very well (often improv comedy, especially those involving SNL alumni). So, why limit a well-planned, animated feature that way?

I completely agree with you. Not only that, but having more time could mean more plot/story and character development, and also more action. Sure, not every long movie uses all of its time wisely, but we're not asking for a 180 minute movie here.

IveyAngelo · 12-07-2006, 08:05 PM

Hi Kevin!

My name is Michele, I'm a huge TMNT fan and it's an honor to see you talking with us fans. I got one question,

In February there is a convention in New York city, it's held by the same people who do San D con, New York City Comic Con. It's less than a month before the movie comes out, and I was wondering if there was any chance of seeing you as a guest there! I know I emailed the convention asking about seeing if they could get you, and they liked the idea. I was wondering if they have gotten in touch with you or anything. It'd be a real treat for us East Coast fans to get the chance to meet you as well!

Thanks again for taking the time to answer questions and chat with everyone. That's really cool.

*sdp* · 12-07-2006, 09:47 PM

I only have one future question:

If the movie did good but not a success for a second movie, or if it only did 'alright' but DVD sales were great.

If that were the case and we couldn't get a second movie, what are the chances of at least doing more as DTVs?

**Jo Dawn** · 12-07-2006, 10:27 PM

Consider this thread officially 'Stuck'.

A huge and grateful Welcome! to you, Kevin. It's great to have you on board.

I'd give you an official Mango, but, well... methinks you're a tad over loaded at this time, from our very giving greeters!

Just watched the trailer (my official reaction can be seen here).

Long story short, I am officially excited for this movie, like a kid in a candy shop!! My biggest fear were the voices; I've always been a huge VA fan, in anything I watched, and to have voices that were out of character would have demolished me. I was MORE than pleasantly surprised. Don sounded pretty good! Almost like his perfect voice; the 2K3 counterpart. I couldn't ask for more! (Except that Corey Feldman not be his voice. Corey, I love ya, but not as Donnie!!)

My fear now, is that this is going to be another Leo/Raph extravaganza, like, well... most of the other movies were. Now, I love them both (Leo being my second favorite, after, of course, Donatello), but... I felt the other movies were a tad unfair to fans of the other two, Mike and Don (especially Movie 1).

Granted, I will give you... You thrilled me, Kevin, when I watched as Don did more in this trailer than in ALL of the first movie! A huge Huzzah to you, sir!

Seeing him use the computer gave me new hope also. I'd be 'ok' with Leo and Raph getting a tad more face time... IF (and this is a big 'if', I suppose) Don is NOT out of character, like, again, Movie 1. (Liked the movie, but not the characterizations, sorry) I was a tad concerned by the part in the trailer where Mike jumps into Don's arms and they both scream... Amusing, yes... But I certainly hope that Don is not a watered down version of Mike, like he was portrayed in the, um... First movie. Heh.

You've certainly made me feel like a little kid again, good sir. I am excited for this movie, like I haven't been for a movie in a long time!! I only pray that Don is at his geeky best! And not Mike's sidekick. I won't be able to take that, I'm afraid. Don just isn't... MIKE. I am putting faith that the characterizations are true to the characters themselves this time around.

Thanks for taking the time to come and visit us! See you at the midnight showings!!

*Krutch* · 12-07-2006, 11:01 PM

Greeting Kevin! Thanks for stopping by at the TD!

I'm sure you're busy so lets skip the salad and get to the turkey.

Two quick questions for ya!

1) How involved in the project is Peter Laird? Like, what exactly does he do to aid the movie? Or is he basically just there to give the nod to things?

2) Considering the premise of the script, the turtles will/may have to battle huge monster creatues. One of the concerns i've heard is that it'd basically be like watching four Jackie Chans fighting an elephant. How much "Ninja on Ninja" fighting will there be in the movie? Or, do these creatures also know martial arts?

...

3) K, yeah I snuck another one in here but its simple, lol. Do you have a favorite turtle? (awaits the classic "i love all the turtles equally" respsone

)

Thank you so much for giving us all the opportunity to ask you questions. Your passion for the franchise and pleasing the fans first really puts everyones minds at ease. Cant wait for the trailer tomorrow! Cheers!

GreenWillow · 12-08-2006, 01:09 AM

Hi Kevin--
I was also in San Diego for your preview and I came away completely assured that the Turtles were in good hands. I have to tell you that for the past, oh, thirteen years, a cgi TMNT film has been at the top of my wish list. It seemed like the only way to capture both the speed and graceful movement that was lacking in the costumed versions and the dark realism that is missing from cartoon animation. I mean, I love all the other versions, but cgi seemed like it had to be the best of both worlds.

I've watched both the teaser and the trailer now way more times than I want to admit, just soaking up the *feeling* in those images. Very beautiful.

So you've made my wish come true, and thank you!

(BTW, I was the one in the giant rat costume, Ninja-rapping around on stage in that ComicCon video)

Kevin Munroe · 12-08-2006, 02:53 AM

Pizza – I have a bunch of favorite scenes. Hard to pick one. But you'll see a few quick shots of them in the trailer today/tomorrow. There are some great action seq's, but there are great family moments with Splinter and his sons. One still gives me a tingle when I watch it, and there are a few that make me unconsciously smile when we're reviewing them. ...and I've seen them all hundreds of times.

Duke - Yeah, the Turtles do get banged up a bit in the movie. We have a TON of destruction in our environments, so we needed to do the same a bit with the Turtles. We had to be careful – no blood is allowed in PG, but it didn't really affect the intensity of the fights. As for martial arts specialists, we talked about getting a choreographer, but it just didn't make sense with how camera-driven we wanted a lot of the shots to be, not to mention schedule. BUT, it turns out that the hundred animators in Hong Kong are insanely well-versed in martial arts (stereotypes aside). But not only have a lot of them trained in it, but they also all grew up with a healthy diet of Hong Kong cinema. It's like how american animators grew up on Chuck Jones and Bob Clampett... only with swords. So we just tried to give them as much “all hell breaks loose” freedom as possible. The fighting is really fun here.

Leonardo – No, I actually haven't been working much with the video game team. I know that Mirage has been quite involved. But they've been using our assets and art direction. What I've seen looks fun, in a Prince of Persia kind of way. There's talk of us doing a commercial for the game, so that'd be fun to work on.

Buslady – Thanks for the thanks. And I understand the cgi vs. live action thing. I think both could work. And it's not a matter of realism to me, but more believability. And not that I prefer one over the other in theory, but to me, the integration of characters, mood and environment in cgi is WAY easier to accomplish than in live action. Your eye just wants to believe more in live action, (and notice the shortcomings) whereas it sort of takes a vacation when you're watching good cgi. Anyway, thanks for giving it a chance. I think you'll see how it just feels different from other cgi stuff – it's only just a medium.

johnnyblaze – You never know... you just never know.

(tho, you'd be surprised at how hard it is to say “god” in a pg movie these days...)

iris – you have no idea how difficult at times. But credit to WB and TWC for jumping up and seeing what we had here.

Spitfire – Leatherhead isn't in there. I love him too. There are a lot of nods to comic/movie lore scattered around. It'll be fun to see what people catch when they watch.

Ecto – I get the concerns. I think we hit a good classic mix of turtles' character-based comedy.

Gobo – Wow. The tough q's. I can't confirm or deny runtime yet. It's a battle we continue to fight for some of the same reasons you mentioned. (our first over-indulgent cut of storyboards was 120 minutes! We've since pared it down) No explicit lyrics.

Aztek – I have absolutely no clue about the SE of the first movie. Different company. But it would be awesome. Tom (Gray), one of our producers did the first three movies and he's regaled me with a lot of stories over the past couple of years.

TMNT – Yeah, it's darker. More intense action. We haven't gone to the MPAA officially yet.

Michelle – Thanks for the nice words. NYCC sounded like fun and a bit nutty last year. Would be fun.

Sdp - I couldn't tell you. Not my dept.

Jo Dawn - Nice of you to say. And yeah, we're being big sticklers for character-specific dialogue, action, design and all that. There are some fun jokes, but nothing that is breaking any sacrosanct tmnt rules. And Donnie is anything but a watered down Mikey.

Juggalo – Pete's been involved at every step, particularly at the beginning of development of the story and movie. The Turtles fight monsters, sure, but they also fight a lot of foot ninja, not to mention a couple of other bad guys that are well-versed in hand-to-hand combat. As for my favorite turtle? Yeah, I've learned to not cop for the “they're all my favorite” answer. But I'll say that it changes from week to week, dependent upon what we're working on. I'm currently loving Raph's character a lot – I think we really pushed his depth with this movie. Next week it'll be Mikey. I'm fickle like that.

Greenwillow – Wow - Thanks!

Okay, that looked a lot shorter when I started it...

Kevin

Ra · 12-08-2006, 04:16 AM

WHY THE HELL DID I HAVE TO BE AWAY FROM HERE FOR SO LONG?! *gaps* Kevin Munroe....here? Oh god...Just a second while I get this out of my system -

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!!!!!! *runs around in circles before falling over*

Okay, I'm done now

'Tis a bit late, but welcome to the Technodrome! *throws coupons in your general direction* Just for discount dry cleaning and that

Well, anyway, now that I'm all calm and sane, I'd better contribute to some of this Q&A. Most of my questions have been answered here, but this one has been nagging in the back of my mind for some time now...

If the CGI movie is a huge success, do you think another one will be in the works? Or will this be it in terms of the big screen and CGI for now?

johnnyblaze · 12-08-2006, 04:41 AM

any baby mutant turtle flashbacks? (loved that part of the first flick)

**Jo Dawn** · 12-08-2006, 05:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Munroe

Jo Dawn - Nice of you to say. And yeah, we're being big sticklers for character-specific dialogue, action, design and all that. There are some fun jokes, but nothing that is breaking any sacrosanct tmnt rules. And Donnie is anything but a watered down Mikey.

*kisses Kevin* Ah, sir, you have made my morning! Thanks for the response; I am truly happy with the trailer (my brother and I watched it a good many times last night). And to hear that you and I are on the same page (ie - being sticklers for that kinda thing!) overjoys me. Great job, my friend. I cannot wait for this movie!!

And, as a side note, alot of people are asking some great questions... so I don't have to, heh! Kevin, ya need anything here on the boards, I'm but a PM away! (I'm a supermod here, so I can hook ya up.)

Hehe, dunno what else I can do for you and your kindness!

Thank you again, it's all much appreciated.

*PizzaPower* · 12-08-2006, 06:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Munroe

Pizza – I have a bunch of favorite scenes. Hard to pick one. But you'll see a few quick shots of them in the trailer today/tomorrow. There are some great action seq's, but there are great family moments with Splinter and his sons. One still gives me a tingle when I watch it, and there are a few that make me unconsciously smile when we're reviewing them. ...and I've seen them all hundreds of times.

sweet, you mentioned the storyboards and stuff was like 120 minutes?? Well how much did you cut down, and are there any deleted scenes or extra's that will be added to the dvd when it comes out?

IveyAngelo · 12-08-2006, 07:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Munroe

Michele – Thanks for the nice words. NYCC sounded like fun and a bit nutty last year. Would be fun.

Yeah it was nutty last year, if you got into the dealer room, you didn't dare leave unless you were done for the day and that was where I wanted to be since both Eastman and Laird, and other friends that I knew were all inside the dealer room. Though I had a TON of fun there, and am planning on going again this upcoming year. It'd be great to have a TMNT movie panel so close to the release of the movie!

I think they'd have the place under a lot more control this year. Sad thing is the ticket price went up big time for those who pre-reg though I think it's because of just how big it was last year, and much bigger they're going to be making it this year. I hope you get an offical invite. It'd be really awesome to get the chance to meet you.

I have another question now though, the trailer is up... I love it. I can't count how many times I watched it, and I can't wait to go to the theater just to see the trailer itself on the big screen. I'm kind of hoping that Michelangelo is not just used for the comic relief though... since I love the trailer so much I posted the link up in my forum, on my myspace page and told friends over IRC & AIM... though the problem came when a good chunk of my friends came to me saying "We can't see it, because we're not in the US"... This movie hasn't had nearly as much promotion as a lot of other movies out there right now... and the fans are scraping for it as we can get it. The people in Canada and other countries are just as big fans as those of us in the US and I know this has to be killing them... I guess my question is "why" can't the other fans see it too? As one of them pointed out, she's only 5 minutes from the US boarder.

Keep up the Great work with the movie! And hope I didn't drag out that last question too long, for something so simple to ask...

Best,
Michele

Leonardo_Warrior_Turtle · 12-08-2006, 08:02 AM

Kevin, I do have one question that I'm surprised no one as asked.

Of course we were all saddened by the death of Mako, the voice of Splinter. We all felt he was the perfect actor to protray our favorite sensi rat. We all have been curious, however, whether or not Mako completed his voicework before his death. Can you confirm this? If not, was he replaced?

*Buslady* · 12-08-2006, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Munroe

Buslady – Thanks for the thanks. And I understand the cgi vs. live action thing. I think both could work. And it's not a matter of realism to me, but more believability. And not that I prefer one over the other in theory, but to me, the integration of characters, mood and environment in cgi is WAY easier to accomplish than in live action. Your eye just wants to believe more in live action, (and notice the shortcomings) whereas it sort of takes a vacation when you're watching good cgi. Anyway, thanks for giving it a chance. I think you'll see how it just feels different from other cgi stuff – it's only just a medium.

Kevin

Kev, I just saw the new trailer...and I'll just say I am quite confident that this is gonna be one kick ass movie. From the little bit of Raph I got to see and hear, yeah I'm happy. Donnie's being a geek like he should, behind a computer....they all seem to be characterized right. I think the voices fit, Leo sounds very close to the original movie Leo, that's cool-and he's soooo dramatic. Raph sounds like a younger version of the new toon, that's cool; and my biggest thing was he had got to have that attitude and accent...he got it yay!

Mike's lame insult at the end of the trailer was funny...

So I think you guys gotta piece of art goin' here...I can't wait to see this masterpiece.

Quote:

I'm currently loving Raph's character a lot – I think we really pushed his depth with this movie.

YAYY YAYAYAYAYAY I think this Raph-aholic will be very happy then

~~Vegita-San~~ · 12-08-2006, 01:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Munroe

Raphroehller - As far as an R-rated TMNT goes... I dunno. I see the fun it would be. But it's sort of like making Spiderman hardcore to me. Maybe it's just because we're in the middle of doing this version, but it's hard for me to see these guys violently killing bad guys and then go home to brotherly/family bickering and then also be obedient of their Father. Hey, it's like “Kids” meets “The Punisher”. Awesome. All that said, it would be great as it would just start western audiences thinking about mass market animation as something other than more talking cute animals. TMNT is a good small first step in that direction – be cool to see where it goes from here.

Heya heya,

Thanks for replying to my question in the letters page of Volume 4. Nice to know this isn't another CG movie that feels it needs 'celebrity' voice 'talent' to sell itself when there are so many talented folk out there in the feild. Could Marlon Brando have done as many voices as Mel Blanc, and actually acted with them?

Speaking of cute talking animals in CG, when will this trend break? I've lost almost all interest in 3D movies because of this trend, and I'm an aspiring 3D artist myself. While I'm still learning to do serious animation techniques, not only with humans but mechanical objects as well, is it just that much more difficult for experienced animators to create a non toony human in CG compared to animals? You'd think animating thousands of particles of fur is ten times tougher on the person and equipment than skin would be.

BTW, I've seen the new trailer, and I'm amazed out how fluid the animation looks and how fast it moves. Was there any motion capture going on with real performers (And embelished a little), or was it all done by hand? Also, how old are April and Casey? Casey looks OK, but April looks like she's about 15 in the one still shot I saw...Maybe it's the hairdoo

.

BTW, shameless self plug... my 3D work in training.. http://www.shreddersdojo.com/Forum/forumdisplay.php?f=2

12-07-2006, 01:26 PM	#41
Spitfire Writer • Director Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 12,035	I got a question for ya Kevin, my favorite TMNT character is Leatherhead. Now that your moving TMNT into this CGI medium the ability to add him into the movie is there and much easier then making a huge mutant gator costume. So I ask is there any chance of him popping his head in? I'm not sure if your even discussing sequels since this film isn't even done yet but I wonder if the idea of putting him in has even been tossed around the office? __________________ Check out my online portfolio http://www.christopherpelletier.com/

12-07-2006, 02:45 PM	#43
gobo Wacky Action Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: on Earth Posts: 12,784	My last questions of the week (I promise): To start off, I'm a tad concerned with the runtime. I know it has already been discussed, but I want some guarantee that the movie won't be a second less than 100 minutes. Can you make such a promise? If it's less than that, it will be discouraging that the corporations involved think this is just your average, animated, kiddy tripe. I know it's not your choice, but please fight this kind of overgeneralization tooth and nail. Typically, the only live-action films that are limited to 90 minutes are those that aren't planned very well (often improv comedy, especially those involving SNL alumni). So, why limit a well-planned, animated feature that way? And, I've mentioned it elsewhere often enough, but I'd hate for anything about TMNT to be made inappropriate for any age. So, to be more specific with a previous question of mine, can you say if there will be any songs on the soundtrack with explicit lyrics? I hope not (though I don't know why since I'm not a parent). Even if it's an edited version of a song with explicit lyrics, I'll be upset. I'll get over it, but I'll be upset as well as less likely to recommend the CD to people. Also, I have a suggestion for the eventual DVD release. I'm sure it's a bit early to be thinking about that, but it can't hurt to prepare yourself for future projects, right? Can I send it to you as a private message? I'd rather not junk up the tread with my slight off-topicness. __________________ Live and let live... or go to hell.

12-07-2006, 02:51 PM	#44
Aztec General Mad Scientist Join Date: Jul 2002 Posts: 1,437	Kev, Any word on a TMNT (1990) Special Edition? The fans are clamoring for it and there's so many great scenes that were deleted. It'd be a perfectly complement to the new film. Here's a link to an online petition for it: http://www.petitiononline.com/mod_pe...ed.cgi?tmnt1se __________________

12-07-2006, 03:44 PM	#45
TMNT Foot Soldier Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 227	Welcome to the Technodrome Kevin! I've been keeping up with this thread and didn't want to post until I had a good question. I think I have one now. It is this: we have heard numerous times that this film is on the borderline of PG and PG-13. Murphy claimed it was darker than the live action films. I just wanted to hear from you, have you hit that border? By that I mean, are you seriously pushing PG-13? Thanks for talking to us fans, we really appreciate it. I'm sure I'll think of other questions later. Thanks. __________________ "We strike hard and fade away into the night." --Vol. 1, Issue 1

12-07-2006, 08:05 PM	#47
IveyAngelo Hench Mutant Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Warren, MI Posts: 327	Hi Kevin! My name is Michele, I'm a huge TMNT fan and it's an honor to see you talking with us fans. I got one question, In February there is a convention in New York city, it's held by the same people who do San D con, New York City Comic Con. It's less than a month before the movie comes out, and I was wondering if there was any chance of seeing you as a guest there! I know I emailed the convention asking about seeing if they could get you, and they liked the idea. I was wondering if they have gotten in touch with you or anything. It'd be a real treat for us East Coast fans to get the chance to meet you as well! Thanks again for taking the time to answer questions and chat with everyone. That's really cool. __________________ TMNT-L : Myspace : Deviantart : Cowabunga Corner

12-07-2006, 01:31 PM	#42
BigApple3AM Mad Scientist Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Supermarket Aisle Posts: 1,635	All I can say is the first Ninja Turtles movie is a masterpiece in my eyes. There is hardly another movie I've watched or quoted more often. I'm a bit worried about the whole monster/fantasy angle though. The reason I love the first movie is because it was different from the comics and the cartoon, a blend really but completely set in reality. I used to yell down sewers (even though I didn't live anywhere close to New York) because I thought the turtles might be real (I was like 4). I admit I'm not the biggest CGI fan ever, it could really work for the turtles and that's not what worries me, it's the fact that CGI has no limitations and therefore we can see some pretty crazy unrealistic stuff. I've never met Mr. Laird but from what he's said in his comics I agree with a lot politically and philosophically. Still I've never liked the SciFi/Fantasy aspect of the Turtles aside from the original cartoon and comics. The new comics and cartoon take themselves too seriously which really bugs me. I'm just worried about the fantasy in this movie. I won't go in expecting the original movie, but please to let it get as wacky as say Ghostbusters (a great movie but now what I expect from Turtles). From what you've said I trust you guys that it will be an awesome movie, you're a lucky guy considering that everyone on this site, and any turtle fan in general, would jump at the chance to work on the turtles movie, let alone direct it. Even if the movie was an abomination I've already decided that my minimum theather viewing is 3 times, though I'm sure I'll enjoy it immensely every time. Good luck with the rest of the movie, hopefully you guys will do a bang up job and we'll see a ton of animated action movies in the USA, including TMNT 2

12-07-2006, 09:47 PM	#48
sdp Detoxed Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Tokio, Italy Posts: 11,202	I only have one future question: If the movie did good but not a success for a second movie, or if it only did 'alright' but DVD sales were great. If that were the case and we couldn't get a second movie, what are the chances of at least doing more as DTVs? __________________ *Trapt* *urself Page MiscRave!!!* Click to join The Drome Discord server

12-07-2006, 10:27 PM	#49
Jo Dawn Inactive Moderator Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Authority On All Things Don Posts: 5,190	Consider this thread officially 'Stuck'. A huge and grateful Welcome! to you, Kevin. It's great to have you on board. I'd give you an official Mango, but, well... methinks you're a tad over loaded at this time, from our very giving greeters! Just watched the trailer (my official reaction can be seen here). Long story short, I am officially excited for this movie, like a kid in a candy shop!! My biggest fear were the voices; I've always been a huge VA fan, in anything I watched, and to have voices that were out of character would have demolished me. I was MORE than pleasantly surprised. Don sounded pretty good! Almost like his perfect voice; the 2K3 counterpart. I couldn't ask for more! (Except that Corey Feldman not be his voice. Corey, I love ya, but not as Donnie!!) My fear now, is that this is going to be another Leo/Raph extravaganza, like, well... most of the other movies were. Now, I love them both (Leo being my second favorite, after, of course, Donatello), but... I felt the other movies were a tad unfair to fans of the other two, Mike and Don (especially Movie 1). Granted, I will give you... You thrilled me, Kevin, when I watched as Don did more in this trailer than in ALL of the first movie! A huge Huzzah to you, sir! Seeing him use the computer gave me new hope also. I'd be 'ok' with Leo and Raph getting a tad more face time... IF (and this is a big 'if', I suppose) Don is NOT out of character, like, again, Movie 1. (Liked the movie, but not the characterizations, sorry) I was a tad concerned by the part in the trailer where Mike jumps into Don's arms and they both scream... Amusing, yes... But I certainly hope that Don is not a watered down version of Mike, like he was portrayed in the, um... First movie. Heh. You've certainly made me feel like a little kid again, good sir. I am excited for this movie, like I haven't been for a movie in a long time!! I only pray that Don is at his geeky best! And not Mike's sidekick. I won't be able to take that, I'm afraid. Don just isn't... MIKE. I am putting faith that the characterizations are true to the characters themselves this time around. Thanks for taking the time to come and visit us! See you at the midnight showings!! __________________

12-07-2006, 11:01 PM	#50
Krutch Like, stupid rich. Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: The Rawkzone Posts: 2,808	Greeting Kevin! Thanks for stopping by at the TD! I'm sure you're busy so lets skip the salad and get to the turkey. Two quick questions for ya! 1) How involved in the project is Peter Laird? Like, what exactly does he do to aid the movie? Or is he basically just there to give the nod to things? 2) Considering the premise of the script, the turtles will/may have to battle huge monster creatues. One of the concerns i've heard is that it'd basically be like watching four Jackie Chans fighting an elephant. How much "Ninja on Ninja" fighting will there be in the movie? Or, do these creatures also know martial arts? ... 3) K, yeah I snuck another one in here but its simple, lol. Do you have a favorite turtle? (awaits the classic "i love all the turtles equally" respsone ) Thank you so much for giving us all the opportunity to ask you questions. Your passion for the franchise and pleasing the fans first really puts everyones minds at ease. Cant wait for the trailer tomorrow! Cheers!

12-08-2006, 01:09 AM	#51
GreenWillow Hench Mutant Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: The Mountains Posts: 425	Hi Kevin-- I was also in San Diego for your preview and I came away completely assured that the Turtles were in good hands. I have to tell you that for the past, oh, thirteen years, a cgi TMNT film has been at the top of my wish list. It seemed like the only way to capture both the speed and graceful movement that was lacking in the costumed versions and the dark realism that is missing from cartoon animation. I mean, I love all the other versions, but cgi seemed like it had to be the best of both worlds. I've watched both the teaser and the trailer now way more times than I want to admit, just soaking up the feeling in those images. Very beautiful. So you've made my wish come true, and thank you! (BTW, I was the one in the giant rat costume, Ninja-rapping around on stage in that ComicCon video) __________________ Hugs, kisses, GreenFaerieDust(tm) and a small vial of Belladonna. Life is good.

12-08-2006, 02:53 AM	#52
Kevin Munroe Official TMNT Staff/Cast Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 19	Pizza – I have a bunch of favorite scenes. Hard to pick one. But you'll see a few quick shots of them in the trailer today/tomorrow. There are some great action seq's, but there are great family moments with Splinter and his sons. One still gives me a tingle when I watch it, and there are a few that make me unconsciously smile when we're reviewing them. ...and I've seen them all hundreds of times. Duke - Yeah, the Turtles do get banged up a bit in the movie. We have a TON of destruction in our environments, so we needed to do the same a bit with the Turtles. We had to be careful – no blood is allowed in PG, but it didn't really affect the intensity of the fights. As for martial arts specialists, we talked about getting a choreographer, but it just didn't make sense with how camera-driven we wanted a lot of the shots to be, not to mention schedule. BUT, it turns out that the hundred animators in Hong Kong are insanely well-versed in martial arts (stereotypes aside). But not only have a lot of them trained in it, but they also all grew up with a healthy diet of Hong Kong cinema. It's like how american animators grew up on Chuck Jones and Bob Clampett... only with swords. So we just tried to give them as much “all hell breaks loose” freedom as possible. The fighting is really fun here. Leonardo – No, I actually haven't been working much with the video game team. I know that Mirage has been quite involved. But they've been using our assets and art direction. What I've seen looks fun, in a Prince of Persia kind of way. There's talk of us doing a commercial for the game, so that'd be fun to work on. Buslady – Thanks for the thanks. And I understand the cgi vs. live action thing. I think both could work. And it's not a matter of realism to me, but more believability. And not that I prefer one over the other in theory, but to me, the integration of characters, mood and environment in cgi is WAY easier to accomplish than in live action. Your eye just wants to believe more in live action, (and notice the shortcomings) whereas it sort of takes a vacation when you're watching good cgi. Anyway, thanks for giving it a chance. I think you'll see how it just feels different from other cgi stuff – it's only just a medium. johnnyblaze – You never know... you just never know. (tho, you'd be surprised at how hard it is to say “god” in a pg movie these days...) iris – you have no idea how difficult at times. But credit to WB and TWC for jumping up and seeing what we had here. Spitfire – Leatherhead isn't in there. I love him too. There are a lot of nods to comic/movie lore scattered around. It'll be fun to see what people catch when they watch. Ecto – I get the concerns. I think we hit a good classic mix of turtles' character-based comedy. Gobo – Wow. The tough q's. I can't confirm or deny runtime yet. It's a battle we continue to fight for some of the same reasons you mentioned. (our first over-indulgent cut of storyboards was 120 minutes! We've since pared it down) No explicit lyrics. Aztek – I have absolutely no clue about the SE of the first movie. Different company. But it would be awesome. Tom (Gray), one of our producers did the first three movies and he's regaled me with a lot of stories over the past couple of years. TMNT – Yeah, it's darker. More intense action. We haven't gone to the MPAA officially yet. Michelle – Thanks for the nice words. NYCC sounded like fun and a bit nutty last year. Would be fun. Sdp - I couldn't tell you. Not my dept. Jo Dawn - Nice of you to say. And yeah, we're being big sticklers for character-specific dialogue, action, design and all that. There are some fun jokes, but nothing that is breaking any sacrosanct tmnt rules. And Donnie is anything but a watered down Mikey. Juggalo – Pete's been involved at every step, particularly at the beginning of development of the story and movie. The Turtles fight monsters, sure, but they also fight a lot of foot ninja, not to mention a couple of other bad guys that are well-versed in hand-to-hand combat. As for my favorite turtle? Yeah, I've learned to not cop for the “they're all my favorite” answer. But I'll say that it changes from week to week, dependent upon what we're working on. I'm currently loving Raph's character a lot – I think we really pushed his depth with this movie. Next week it'll be Mikey. I'm fickle like that. Greenwillow – Wow - Thanks! Okay, that looked a lot shorter when I started it... Kevin

12-08-2006, 04:16 AM	#53
Ra It's my desire? Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: In your pants. Posts: 4,441	WHY THE HELL DID I HAVE TO BE AWAY FROM HERE FOR SO LONG?! gaps Kevin Munroe....here? Oh god...Just a second while I get this out of my system - OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!!!!!! runs around in circles before falling over Okay, I'm done now 'Tis a bit late, but welcome to the Technodrome! throws coupons in your general direction Just for discount dry cleaning and that Well, anyway, now that I'm all calm and sane, I'd better contribute to some of this Q&A. Most of my questions have been answered here, but this one has been nagging in the back of my mind for some time now... If the CGI movie is a huge success, do you think another one will be in the works? Or will this be it in terms of the big screen and CGI for now? __________________ "So. The whole lot of you against little old me? How retarded."

12-08-2006, 04:41 AM	#54
johnnyblaze Stone Warrior Join Date: Jun 2006 Posts: 677	any baby mutant turtle flashbacks? (loved that part of the first flick)

12-08-2006, 08:02 AM	#58
Leonardo_Warrior_Turtle Stone Warrior Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 858	Kevin, I do have one question that I'm surprised no one as asked. Of course we were all saddened by the death of Mako, the voice of Splinter. We all felt he was the perfect actor to protray our favorite sensi rat. We all have been curious, however, whether or not Mako completed his voicework before his death. Can you confirm this? If not, was he replaced? __________________