Why are the turtles so important to us? How have they managed to turn our heads?

~~Davetello~~ · 09-08-2014, 04:10 AM

I'm heading out to play soccer soon, but I thought I might post this topic first. Hopefully it will generate some thoughtful discussion for me to read when I return in a few hours.

I must say that I think about this a lot and I still can't really come up with a satisfactory answer. It's obviously a combination of things - a plexus of different factors which come together to create this unique and wonderful franchise.

Most of us became hooked on the FW series, but it's more than that. There's clearly something of more substance there otherwise we'd have forgotten about the turtles years ago. There's depth to the turtles - it's not a shallow property. But why do we care so much?

I can't really say why the turtles matters so much to me. The turtles and the supporting characters (but primarily the guys themselves) have simply made an everlasting impression on me. I care about them almost as if they are real and not fictional - in brief moments I will remember that they don't really exist, that they have never existed and - most importantly - that they could never exist, and I find myself disappointed. Disappointed that I will never know them. This seems like a very strange way of thinking and I'm thinking that I might be judged for saying so - even here amongst people who 'get' the turtles like I do. But it's how I feel... there's no point sugar-coating it.

The FW series, Mirage, 4kids, the original film, TMNT, the games, hopefully Archie in future etc. I care about it all and would never want to be without it. I enjoy other properties e.g. Batman, Breaking Bad, Star Wars. I know that - objectively speaking - those properties have produced a higher quality of storytelling than the turtles - but they just don't get to me in the same way.

I imagine this is what it's like to fall in love. I don't think I've ever been in love as I'm quite emotionally empty and find it hard to feel for people in that way. But I would guess that it's just something which you 'feel' and don't really understand on any rational level - it isn't sensible, it's just there. It's a passionate caring for something and it has no rhyme or reason to it. You know that there's better out there in an objective manner - but you just don't care about objectivity in this instance.

Apologies if I've come across as a drooling sycophant in creating this thread. I just thought it might be interesting to debate why the turtles turn our heads and affect us on an emotional and psychological level. Suffice it to say I could go on, but I've offered enough of a platform now. I've set the stage, and now it is yours.

*Prowler* · 09-08-2014, 11:38 AM

Why do I like the TMNT and why are they my favorite franchise after all these years? I really don't know. If I dislike or don't care about something I can easily tell you the reasons, but when it comes to stuff I care or like about... I find it a lot damn harder to explain.

I can tell you that my favorite things about the franchise include the humor, the chemistry between the characters, the Japanese mythology behind it, the sci-fi, etc. Also, I like how the Turtles are outcasts and trouble comes to them instead of them going right into it(well, sometimes they do).

But the main reason is probably because it was the first "big" franchise that held my interest when I was a kid. If it had been Batman or Dragonball, I'd most likely be as big of a fan of one of those as I am of the Turtles as well.

*Mzx10484* · 09-08-2014, 11:46 AM

The reason lies in my childhood that partly continues until today.

*CyberCubed* · 09-08-2014, 11:49 AM

Because it was so different than everything else. It's an action cartoon/comic but without the Turtles being traditional superheroes like Batman or Spiderman.

It's the different ways you can use them. Turtles can be serious, silly, inbetween. The stories can be realistic dealing with ninja's or street gangs, or sci-fi with aliens, mutants and monsters.

Also the 4 Turtles personalties are based on popular stereotypes. There's always the leader/responsible one, the short tempered one, the smart and scientific one, and the class clown or party attitude one. It's based on real life.

*Refractive Reflections* · 09-08-2014, 11:51 AM

Here's one reason I mentioned earlier why TMNT stands out compared to other superheroes:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Refractive Reflections

One aspect I think should be mentioned, but I don't think I've read so far, is that I appreciate how the Turtles' fighting skills require training and practice.

To be honest, I never found other superheroes resonate with me (not a comic book fan) and therefore never cared about them because most of their superpowers were just "dumped" or bestowed on them without requiring any type of effort or perseverance (i.e. Superman, Spiderman, etc.) or they had all the overt, plentiful resources to do so much crime-fighting (i.e. Batman's wealth). I value how these Turtles come from such humble backgrounds and (more importantly) actually train themselves up from their modest possessions/circumstances to do extraordinary things rather than easily acquiring their "powers" and then somehow be able to save the world in an instant. For me, the Turtles' struggle and perseverance parallels social, grassroots movements where there's a greater respect for those who led change with modest resources rather than an individual with political power and/or wealth who "had it all" and could easily change things.

It's far more relatable and endearing for the audience to see humble people, with the same modest environment, achieve something great and momentous through hard work rather than reading a person having some over-the-top, extreme power to accomplish anything. I mean how many people can relate to having an over-the-top skill or talent so quickly without any form of training or practice?

Yes, the Turtles have been depicted having a significant strength edge above humans and innate, martial arts talent, but they had to be developed, and those advantages are miniscule in comparison to the powers of Superman, Spiderman, and many other superheroes. (Therefore with all that being said, one could see why these 2014 Turtles having these apparent "Hulkish" strength capabilities, is one of my many reasons as to why I look unfavorably upon how this film is developing. ...But that's a whole other can-of-worms argument.

)

Ville Leskinen · 09-08-2014, 02:20 PM

For me personally, it's about trying to fill my needs of connection (to my childhood), belonging (I was always the outsider as a kid and got bullied a lot as a teen but feel "at home" amongst other fans) and comfort (being a child is the happiest time of your life, even if you get picked on).

And then there's the excitement of finding something new in the stuff you already love (fan art, the hope for a good new movie

) that makes you forget the starving children and world pollution.

*IndigoErth* · 09-08-2014, 02:27 PM

I dunno, it's a mix of things I suppose. Not quite human and yet a lot of about them is probably a lot more relateable then many other fictional hero type characters. Heroes, but minus the 'super,' they have to work for what they want in life just like we do.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davetello

I care about them almost as if they are real and not fictional - in brief moments I will remember that they don't really exist, that they have never existed and - most importantly - that they could never exist, and I find myself disappointed. Disappointed that I will never know them. This seems like a very strange way of thinking and I'm thinking that I might be judged for saying so - even here amongst people who 'get' the turtles like I do.

Nah, no judgement here, completely understand the occasional feeling of disappointment.

For older, longtime fans these guys are like old friends I guess. And esp if someone has a fave they really identify with a lot, it's easy to feel (or at least I do) that if they stepped into the real world you and that particular character could probably be good friends. And a little disappointing when that would-be buddy can't ever be real... (Though I think often I feel more bad for them over that fact than I do myself. Such awesome people deserve to exist darn it. lol Esp when the real world is stuck with so many crappy humans.) But perhaps unlike a lot of other fictional heroes, if we can't have them then at least in some ways we can aspire to be a little more like them at times. (And not necessarily by taking martial arts and kicking peoples asses. lol)

I mean we can't really relate to characters who have super powers and whatnot all that much - if they're human, or appear to be, there's that, but beyond that...what. The Turtles though... they work hard for their skills, they too like many of us have siblings they fuss and fight with, love and protect. They have a teacher/parent who is protective over them, maybe too much so, and they get in trouble him. They try to live life the best they can and deal with crap that comes along, not sure about where they really fit in the world...like most real people. There is so much about these guys that people can connect with that the fact that they're not quite human doesn't even end up mattering all that much, they're just funny looking people is all.

Additionally I think maybe some part of it could come down to us also being a rather lonely species. We surround ourselves with pets, esp those species who seem to want to be with humans, and we love that some wild animals like dolphins actually show interest in us. But they'll never understand us. All we really have is our own kind. Like the Turtles, we're weird in this world. There may be a lot of us, but we're weird. We're basically mutated talking monkeys and we have no one else outside of our own kind that understands us. Maybe that's why we seem to love creating movies and shows with talking animals. And elevate some like the Turtles to being people, not simply talking animals... other beings we could interact with and who'd actually 'get us,' and for the most part live like us, what's not to love.

Gorilla Grodd · 09-08-2014, 03:07 PM

It grabbed my attention and held it at such an early age because it is just such a unique and vibrant world with just so much variety in the cast of characters and the types of stories you can tell with them. You can put them in pretty much any setting and it still plays to their strengths. You can't necessarily say that with a lot of other characters.

Martial arts action, ninjas, aliens, freaky monstrosities, scifi dimension hopping, low tech, high tech, silly humor, deep introspective stories, mindless popcorn movie stories, friendship, family bonding, sibling rivalry, revenge. Just anything I kind of have a taste for at any given moment there is a TMNT story that hits that mark.

The reason I'm so attached to them I think is largely just due to how long I've been into these stories and characters. I think a lot of it has to do with the amount of time invested. There are lots of movies that I've seen where I really enjoy the characters, but when they die or sequels are never made it doesn't really bother me that much. Because it's only been 90 minutes. But books, comics, and TV shows are a different animal because there are hours upon hours invested into these characters for a number of years.

I have zero interest in something like CSI or Law & Order, but if for whatever reason I took the time to sit down and watch all 15 season or whatever of one of those shows I would probably be pretty attached to the characters by the end of it. So you take that and apply it to something like TMNT which I've been attached to since my earliest memories and that "bond" to these fictional characters is just incredibly strong.

~~fridaynightdestination~~ · 09-08-2014, 03:23 PM

Well today some kids attacked me and my friend, and I was thinking "I wish I had someone like one of the Ninja Turtles as a friend they could stand up for me and beat them up." But alas, I don't, because they aren't real. If one, if not all of the Ninja Turtle's were real and if I was friends with them that'd be awesome, but they aren't real so I don't, and there's nothing I can do about it.

*Wildcat* · 09-08-2014, 08:53 PM

I like the turtles for the martial arts and unique characters. Still its not my number 1 favorite franchise. Its probably my second.

My number 1 is Sonic. That I do have a bigger emotional connection with. It goes beyond the games and such, which I do enjoy, but for me its more than that. In my mind Sonic is real.

I got into the turtles first but I just liked Sonic more. His speed, the way he looks, the personality.

jenna · 09-09-2014, 02:08 AM

What a great discussion topic. Thank you, Davetello, for such insight and honesty.

For me I think its attraction is that it is a unique spin on the 'underdog' story. Anyone who has ever felt that they don't fit in the world can relate to it.

I don't really think of TMNT as 'superheroes' and as such can't really compare with the Spidermans and Supermans of the world. Yes, they were mutated in a freak accident with a mysterious chemical, but other than their form it didn't grant them super strength or skill (despite what is suggested in that OT episode 'The Gang's All Here'

) The turtles had to earn their abilities. And that's part of their appeal.

The fact that they are turtles also challenges the view of the traditional hero. It's rewarding to watch because it teaches that even the unlikeliest hero can achieve great things. There's hope for us all.

The backdrop of ancient Japanese culture, art, mysticism is fascinating and gives the story depth. This is why I really love the Nick series and 2k3, because care has gone into the martial arts and there are convincing fight sequences. Martial arts are beautiful and powerful. I know that TMNT started off as a parody and is viewed by many as simple Sci-fi, but it's been done in a way which gives it a richness, which is why I think it has evolved into something of such substance.

I love the distinction between shadow and light. It's not used in the traditional good v evil context. Shadow in TMNT is a sanctuary and 2k3, 2007 and Nick have all used this concept to their advantage, using the moon or street lamps to backlight the turtles, or having them shrouded in shadow so that just their eyes are visible etc.... it gives the turtles an edge and gives the environment a sense of dark, sinister beauty.

The humour is also very appealing. It feels good to laugh and this is always worked in well with the right balance.

The main thing for me though - and this is what will always keep me coming back to turtles - is the characters. They are so wonderfully troubled, optimistic, intelligent, damaged, sanguine, ultimately hopeful.... I could go on.... they are all really engaging in their own ways and they feel so real for it.

Also, I think there is a social angle. Hideous things happen in our world. I think that there is an element of wish-fulfillment in TMNT: There is something so wonderful about the idea that a crime-riddled city is being secretly guarded from the shadows, by mysterious creatures who wish to protect it. You might get a glimpse of them as their shadows pepper the sky as they traverse the rooftops, but then they've vanished, and you'll wonder if you ever really saw them.

pharaohyami5000 · 09-09-2014, 10:03 AM

It is a unique idea. I don't know if I can get into this series if say humans were the turtles and Splinter (well he was for Classics and Nicks I believe; dunno about the other medias).

Characters can be loved, tolerated or hated, main story can be relaxed or exciting (though a chain of dull episodes happen, which I can tolerate up to 2 in a row; 3 is a risk and 4+ will make me lose interest for a few days or so), and execution of these elements determine greatly for me whether or not to be a fan of these different categories.

Turtles, I love the characters beginning with their heroic, daring and comedic actions in the Classic series and I enjoy the story structure and tense atmosphere in the 2k3 series. Heroes and villains can be found in any place, this is one good example of that.

Leofan26 · 09-09-2014, 11:45 AM

I have a reason for liking each turtle.

Leo being my favorite, I love how protective he is over his brothers to the point that his fear of loosing one of them over thinking he's an awful leader. I also like his fighting skills and styles. His relationship with Karai, sister or crush and how it's developed is another plus in my book, I really love his connections to the Shredder plots

Even though Raph is maybe one of my least favorites, the relationship between them in the past shows and films has always been one of my favorite aspects. I wish the 2012 series showed it a bit more but it seems that role Raph had has been passed down to Donnie sadly

Donnie, in the past shows I've always loved how sweet he is and his obsession with science. In the 2012 series that side of Donnie is being overshadowed by his crush on April to the point that it makes him un like able in my opinion. This jealous side to him we've been seeing of him doesn't make him look good. I'm hoping he gets over her and goes back to the old Donnie I loved, or made it less shoved in your face and focused more on other things, who knows in store for us in season three guess will wait and see eh?

Mikey, ok I take back my comments about Raph being my least favorite of the turtles, that title goes to Mikey actually. Each series they seem to not know what to do with him. Still, I'll give a good positive comment on him and why I used to like him, the the live action flicks I think did him the best and got me to like him a lot. It's the shows that's a major turn off to his character to me but again that's me

zodiac brave · 09-09-2014, 12:20 PM

i think, for me, the allure of the turtles has evolved as i have over the years.

as a kid, it was the idea that they were four fun-loving bros that kicked butt and ate pizza...the basis for a lot of the original fan's love, as well. as we are all aware of, they were everywhere. it was sensory overload and as a kid, of course, you just go with the flow. they were so popular that i couldnt help but be swept up in the hype.

as i moved on to middle school, i discovered the mirage stuff and the "maturity" of those stories sort of stoked the fire and opened my eyes up to a whole new world in which my old friends were also able to romp around in, but in adventures that were a bit more appealing to someone of my age at the time.

that continued on into high school, but by then, i'd dug a little deeper and learned everything i could about the real-world origin. i was interested in writing and art, and the idea of two buddies getting together one night and a riffing on some drawings was romantic to me. even if the turtles hadn't become the phemonemon they had, that sole idea, just being in a situation where you could go crazy with creativity and create something from a place of utter love and enjoyment for the sake of creation and the love of the medium seemed so moving. and it didnt hurt that the creation had INDEED become a hugely popular franchise, either.

once i was a few years outta high school, the 2k3 show began and it was a reflection of those darker stories i'd come to love a few years before. then mirage volume 4...

basically, there was always something new for me to check out and get into and it seems like each of these incarnations has arrived and reflected a tone that really spoke to me at whatever time it was in my life.

they are basically like best friends or family to me. the character of splinter really, REALLY resonates with me, particularly form the original movie. i grew up with a really crappy dad. to this day, i can let a lot of things roll off my back or sort of rationalize, as things that just happen during life. its not perfect and theres a lot of crap people have to go through, but life is life and we have to power through. that said, i still have difficulties when it comes to my "father issues" and the scene with raph where splinter explains that no matter what may be going on in his head, his father and brothers will always be there. tmnt has always been about family and for someone who came from a broken home and had to put up with so much hassle from other kids, as well...well...tmnt was everything i needed.

i love it for that and always, always will.

*Warhorse* · 09-09-2014, 09:04 PM

So many different little things. The biggest one though, I find it easier to relate to these guys than any other fictional character. Most characters are the solo artists. They have a few friends, but most of the time, except for the occasional girlfriend and maybe a parent, they are alone, and well, even though I am an only child, I was never alone. I had three cousins that lived right next door to me, and I still hang out to this day, so I think the biggest aspect is the family closeness of the Turtles. They fight and bicker and definitely have thier polar opposites, but in the end, they are still family, just like my cousins and I are. This family setting is what I think sets it apart from other franchises.

*IndigoErth* · 09-09-2014, 10:54 PM

Thinking...

I think a big thing that also really resonates with me, centered square on my fave, goes to the fact that I live in a society/world that values the extroverts and risk takers, it likes the people who jump in there head first, those who are the life of the party.

I'm the cautious one, the observer, the one that wants to think it through first and never dives in without knowing what I'm getting into, the one who will never be the life of the party and maybe some might find me boring because of it or think I'm a stick in the mud because I'd prefer to play by the rules, do what I feel is right and remain true to myself.... But Leo is much like this. And he, fictional or not, is awesome and makes it ok and awesome to be that sort.

~~Davetello~~ · 09-10-2014, 07:48 AM

Thanks for all of the lovely and intelligent responses. I am glad you all enjoyed the question

Very tired right now but I will reply to a selection of comments when I feel more refreshed.

Mellie · 09-10-2014, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davetello

I can't really say why the turtles matters so much to me. The turtles and the supporting characters (but primarily the guys themselves) have simply made an everlasting impression on me. I care about them almost as if they are real and not fictional - in brief moments I will remember that they don't really exist, that they have never existed and - most importantly - that they could never exist, and I find myself disappointed. Disappointed that I will never know them. This seems like a very strange way of thinking and I'm thinking that I might be judged for saying so - even here amongst people who 'get' the turtles like I do. But it's how I feel... there's no point sugar-coating it.

I'm so happy someone else feels exactly like I do. Reading that gave me goosebumps, haha.

~~Davetello~~ · 09-10-2014, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mellie

I'm so happy someone else feels exactly like I do. Reading that gave me goosebumps, haha.

Yep, it's a paradoxical feeling - depressing in that these guys aren't real (see posts above implying we could be good friends with them if they were), yet it's also comforting because we know that - unlike real friends - there's no chance that they will ever die, and large parts of their lives will be available for us to watch, read or play until we die ourselves

arkangel · 09-10-2014, 12:30 PM

For me, as a 14 year old in 1985, I was initially drawn to the comics as there was absolutely nothing to compare it to. The concept was completely off the wall, but the storytelling didn't feel campy, like it was a spoof of other comic characters (even though it was to a degree). There was a level of seriousness, honesty and fearlessness in how Eastman and Laird approached the characters, the setting, and storylines that made me feel like this world they created could actually exist in the gritty, urban sprawl of modern day New York. It had a feeling of realism that surpassed anything I was reading from Marvel or DC at the time. You didn't know if the Turtles were going to make it through their next encounter. There was a sense of palpable danger and anxiety provoking intrigue. You couldn't wait till the following issue to route for them. They also had very distinct and well thought out personalities. With other comic heroes, there was always a disconnect. They were all 2 dimensional pictures on a page, requiring a strong suspension of belief. With TMNT you didn't have to. You bought it right away. Lastly, it gave me a feeling that I was special. I was part of a hidden world where secret battles waged to which the average New Yorker was completely unaware. Ancient vengeance from Ninja masters and their clan, a scheming robotics genius, unknown alien plans under the guise of a legitimate corporation, vigilantes with golf clubs and baseball bats crossing rooftops at night and a caring and loving family of mutants at the centre of it all, giving hope that they would persevere, despite the odds. This was cool at 14 and remains cool at 42.

09-08-2014, 04:10 AM	#1
~~Davetello~~ Banned Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Greater Glasgow, Scotland, The Ununited Kingdom Posts: 1,712	Why are the turtles so important to us? How have they managed to turn our heads? I'm heading out to play soccer soon, but I thought I might post this topic first. Hopefully it will generate some thoughtful discussion for me to read when I return in a few hours. I must say that I think about this a lot and I still can't really come up with a satisfactory answer. It's obviously a combination of things - a plexus of different factors which come together to create this unique and wonderful franchise. Most of us became hooked on the FW series, but it's more than that. There's clearly something of more substance there otherwise we'd have forgotten about the turtles years ago. There's depth to the turtles - it's not a shallow property. But why do we care so much? I can't really say why the turtles matters so much to me. The turtles and the supporting characters (but primarily the guys themselves) have simply made an everlasting impression on me. I care about them almost as if they are real and not fictional - in brief moments I will remember that they don't really exist, that they have never existed and - most importantly - that they could never exist, and I find myself disappointed. Disappointed that I will never know them. This seems like a very strange way of thinking and I'm thinking that I might be judged for saying so - even here amongst people who 'get' the turtles like I do. But it's how I feel... there's no point sugar-coating it. The FW series, Mirage, 4kids, the original film, TMNT, the games, hopefully Archie in future etc. I care about it all and would never want to be without it. I enjoy other properties e.g. Batman, Breaking Bad, Star Wars. I know that - objectively speaking - those properties have produced a higher quality of storytelling than the turtles - but they just don't get to me in the same way. I imagine this is what it's like to fall in love. I don't think I've ever been in love as I'm quite emotionally empty and find it hard to feel for people in that way. But I would guess that it's just something which you 'feel' and don't really understand on any rational level - it isn't sensible, it's just there. It's a passionate caring for something and it has no rhyme or reason to it. You know that there's better out there in an objective manner - but you just don't care about objectivity in this instance. Apologies if I've come across as a drooling sycophant in creating this thread. I just thought it might be interesting to debate why the turtles turn our heads and affect us on an emotional and psychological level. Suffice it to say I could go on, but I've offered enough of a platform now. I've set the stage, and now it is yours.

09-08-2014, 02:20 PM	#6
Ville Leskinen Foot Soldier Join Date: Jul 2009 Posts: 120	For me personally, it's about trying to fill my needs of connection (to my childhood), belonging (I was always the outsider as a kid and got bullied a lot as a teen but feel "at home" amongst other fans) and comfort (being a child is the happiest time of your life, even if you get picked on). And then there's the excitement of finding something new in the stuff you already love (fan art, the hope for a good new movie ) that makes you forget the starving children and world pollution. __________________

09-08-2014, 03:07 PM	#8
Gorilla Grodd Thug Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Gorilla City Posts: 65	It grabbed my attention and held it at such an early age because it is just such a unique and vibrant world with just so much variety in the cast of characters and the types of stories you can tell with them. You can put them in pretty much any setting and it still plays to their strengths. You can't necessarily say that with a lot of other characters. Martial arts action, ninjas, aliens, freaky monstrosities, scifi dimension hopping, low tech, high tech, silly humor, deep introspective stories, mindless popcorn movie stories, friendship, family bonding, sibling rivalry, revenge. Just anything I kind of have a taste for at any given moment there is a TMNT story that hits that mark. The reason I'm so attached to them I think is largely just due to how long I've been into these stories and characters. I think a lot of it has to do with the amount of time invested. There are lots of movies that I've seen where I really enjoy the characters, but when they die or sequels are never made it doesn't really bother me that much. Because it's only been 90 minutes. But books, comics, and TV shows are a different animal because there are hours upon hours invested into these characters for a number of years. I have zero interest in something like CSI or Law & Order, but if for whatever reason I took the time to sit down and watch all 15 season or whatever of one of those shows I would probably be pretty attached to the characters by the end of it. So you take that and apply it to something like TMNT which I've been attached to since my earliest memories and that "bond" to these fictional characters is just incredibly strong. __________________

09-08-2014, 08:53 PM	#10
Wildcat Foot Elite Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: AZ Posts: 3,505	I like the turtles for the martial arts and unique characters. Still its not my number 1 favorite franchise. Its probably my second. My number 1 is Sonic. That I do have a bigger emotional connection with. It goes beyond the games and such, which I do enjoy, but for me its more than that. In my mind Sonic is real. I got into the turtles first but I just liked Sonic more. His speed, the way he looks, the personality. __________________ Nothing can survive the will to stay alive, cause if you try, you can do anything.

09-09-2014, 12:20 PM	#14
zodiac brave Stone Warrior Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: san antonio, tx Posts: 822	i think, for me, the allure of the turtles has evolved as i have over the years. as a kid, it was the idea that they were four fun-loving bros that kicked butt and ate pizza...the basis for a lot of the original fan's love, as well. as we are all aware of, they were everywhere. it was sensory overload and as a kid, of course, you just go with the flow. they were so popular that i couldnt help but be swept up in the hype. as i moved on to middle school, i discovered the mirage stuff and the "maturity" of those stories sort of stoked the fire and opened my eyes up to a whole new world in which my old friends were also able to romp around in, but in adventures that were a bit more appealing to someone of my age at the time. that continued on into high school, but by then, i'd dug a little deeper and learned everything i could about the real-world origin. i was interested in writing and art, and the idea of two buddies getting together one night and a riffing on some drawings was romantic to me. even if the turtles hadn't become the phemonemon they had, that sole idea, just being in a situation where you could go crazy with creativity and create something from a place of utter love and enjoyment for the sake of creation and the love of the medium seemed so moving. and it didnt hurt that the creation had INDEED become a hugely popular franchise, either. once i was a few years outta high school, the 2k3 show began and it was a reflection of those darker stories i'd come to love a few years before. then mirage volume 4... basically, there was always something new for me to check out and get into and it seems like each of these incarnations has arrived and reflected a tone that really spoke to me at whatever time it was in my life. they are basically like best friends or family to me. the character of splinter really, REALLY resonates with me, particularly form the original movie. i grew up with a really crappy dad. to this day, i can let a lot of things roll off my back or sort of rationalize, as things that just happen during life. its not perfect and theres a lot of crap people have to go through, but life is life and we have to power through. that said, i still have difficulties when it comes to my "father issues" and the scene with raph where splinter explains that no matter what may be going on in his head, his father and brothers will always be there. tmnt has always been about family and for someone who came from a broken home and had to put up with so much hassle from other kids, as well...well...tmnt was everything i needed. i love it for that and always, always will. __________________ what we were after, was lashings of ultra-violence.

09-08-2014, 11:38 AM	#2
Prowler Emperor Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Portugal Posts: 9,991	Why do I like the TMNT and why are they my favorite franchise after all these years? I really don't know. If I dislike or don't care about something I can easily tell you the reasons, but when it comes to stuff I care or like about... I find it a lot damn harder to explain. I can tell you that my favorite things about the franchise include the humor, the chemistry between the characters, the Japanese mythology behind it, the sci-fi, etc. Also, I like how the Turtles are outcasts and trouble comes to them instead of them going right into it(well, sometimes they do). But the main reason is probably because it was the first "big" franchise that held my interest when I was a kid. If it had been Batman or Dragonball, I'd most likely be as big of a fan of one of those as I am of the Turtles as well.

09-08-2014, 11:46 AM	#3
Mzx10484 WEM Super Starfinder 200 Join Date: Sep 2012 Location: Germany Posts: 2,085	The reason lies in my childhood that partly continues until today.

09-08-2014, 11:49 AM	#4
CyberCubed Overlord Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 43,776	Because it was so different than everything else. It's an action cartoon/comic but without the Turtles being traditional superheroes like Batman or Spiderman. It's the different ways you can use them. Turtles can be serious, silly, inbetween. The stories can be realistic dealing with ninja's or street gangs, or sci-fi with aliens, mutants and monsters. Also the 4 Turtles personalties are based on popular stereotypes. There's always the leader/responsible one, the short tempered one, the smart and scientific one, and the class clown or party attitude one. It's based on real life.

09-08-2014, 03:23 PM	#9
~~fridaynightdestination~~ Banned Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: Michigan Posts: 553	Well today some kids attacked me and my friend, and I was thinking "I wish I had someone like one of the Ninja Turtles as a friend they could stand up for me and beat them up." But alas, I don't, because they aren't real. If one, if not all of the Ninja Turtle's were real and if I was friends with them that'd be awesome, but they aren't real so I don't, and there's nothing I can do about it.

09-09-2014, 02:08 AM	#11
jenna Mad Scientist Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Cambridge, UK Posts: 1,190	What a great discussion topic. Thank you, Davetello, for such insight and honesty. For me I think its attraction is that it is a unique spin on the 'underdog' story. Anyone who has ever felt that they don't fit in the world can relate to it. I don't really think of TMNT as 'superheroes' and as such can't really compare with the Spidermans and Supermans of the world. Yes, they were mutated in a freak accident with a mysterious chemical, but other than their form it didn't grant them super strength or skill (despite what is suggested in that OT episode 'The Gang's All Here' ) The turtles had to earn their abilities. And that's part of their appeal. The fact that they are turtles also challenges the view of the traditional hero. It's rewarding to watch because it teaches that even the unlikeliest hero can achieve great things. There's hope for us all. The backdrop of ancient Japanese culture, art, mysticism is fascinating and gives the story depth. This is why I really love the Nick series and 2k3, because care has gone into the martial arts and there are convincing fight sequences. Martial arts are beautiful and powerful. I know that TMNT started off as a parody and is viewed by many as simple Sci-fi, but it's been done in a way which gives it a richness, which is why I think it has evolved into something of such substance. I love the distinction between shadow and light. It's not used in the traditional good v evil context. Shadow in TMNT is a sanctuary and 2k3, 2007 and Nick have all used this concept to their advantage, using the moon or street lamps to backlight the turtles, or having them shrouded in shadow so that just their eyes are visible etc.... it gives the turtles an edge and gives the environment a sense of dark, sinister beauty. The humour is also very appealing. It feels good to laugh and this is always worked in well with the right balance. The main thing for me though - and this is what will always keep me coming back to turtles - is the characters. They are so wonderfully troubled, optimistic, intelligent, damaged, sanguine, ultimately hopeful.... I could go on.... they are all really engaging in their own ways and they feel so real for it. Also, I think there is a social angle. Hideous things happen in our world. I think that there is an element of wish-fulfillment in TMNT: There is something so wonderful about the idea that a crime-riddled city is being secretly guarded from the shadows, by mysterious creatures who wish to protect it. You might get a glimpse of them as their shadows pepper the sky as they traverse the rooftops, but then they've vanished, and you'll wonder if you ever really saw them.

09-09-2014, 10:03 AM	#12
pharaohyami5000 Thug Join Date: Jul 2014 Posts: 83	It is a unique idea. I don't know if I can get into this series if say humans were the turtles and Splinter (well he was for Classics and Nicks I believe; dunno about the other medias). Characters can be loved, tolerated or hated, main story can be relaxed or exciting (though a chain of dull episodes happen, which I can tolerate up to 2 in a row; 3 is a risk and 4+ will make me lose interest for a few days or so), and execution of these elements determine greatly for me whether or not to be a fan of these different categories. Turtles, I love the characters beginning with their heroic, daring and comedic actions in the Classic series and I enjoy the story structure and tense atmosphere in the 2k3 series. Heroes and villains can be found in any place, this is one good example of that.

09-09-2014, 11:45 AM	#13
Leofan26 Mad Scientist Join Date: Apr 2013 Posts: 1,306	I have a reason for liking each turtle. Leo being my favorite, I love how protective he is over his brothers to the point that his fear of loosing one of them over thinking he's an awful leader. I also like his fighting skills and styles. His relationship with Karai, sister or crush and how it's developed is another plus in my book, I really love his connections to the Shredder plots Even though Raph is maybe one of my least favorites, the relationship between them in the past shows and films has always been one of my favorite aspects. I wish the 2012 series showed it a bit more but it seems that role Raph had has been passed down to Donnie sadly Donnie, in the past shows I've always loved how sweet he is and his obsession with science. In the 2012 series that side of Donnie is being overshadowed by his crush on April to the point that it makes him un like able in my opinion. This jealous side to him we've been seeing of him doesn't make him look good. I'm hoping he gets over her and goes back to the old Donnie I loved, or made it less shoved in your face and focused more on other things, who knows in store for us in season three guess will wait and see eh? Mikey, ok I take back my comments about Raph being my least favorite of the turtles, that title goes to Mikey actually. Each series they seem to not know what to do with him. Still, I'll give a good positive comment on him and why I used to like him, the the live action flicks I think did him the best and got me to like him a lot. It's the shows that's a major turn off to his character to me but again that's me

09-09-2014, 09:04 PM	#15
Warhorse Emperor Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Florida Posts: 5,544	So many different little things. The biggest one though, I find it easier to relate to these guys than any other fictional character. Most characters are the solo artists. They have a few friends, but most of the time, except for the occasional girlfriend and maybe a parent, they are alone, and well, even though I am an only child, I was never alone. I had three cousins that lived right next door to me, and I still hang out to this day, so I think the biggest aspect is the family closeness of the Turtles. They fight and bicker and definitely have thier polar opposites, but in the end, they are still family, just like my cousins and I are. This family setting is what I think sets it apart from other franchises.

09-09-2014, 10:54 PM	#16
IndigoErth Team Blue Boy Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: U.S., East Coast Posts: 16,289	Thinking... I think a big thing that also really resonates with me, centered square on my fave, goes to the fact that I live in a society/world that values the extroverts and risk takers, it likes the people who jump in there head first, those who are the life of the party. I'm the cautious one, the observer, the one that wants to think it through first and never dives in without knowing what I'm getting into, the one who will never be the life of the party and maybe some might find me boring because of it or think I'm a stick in the mud because I'd prefer to play by the rules, do what I feel is right and remain true to myself.... But Leo is much like this. And he, fictional or not, is awesome and makes it ok and awesome to be that sort.

09-10-2014, 07:48 AM	#17
~~Davetello~~ Banned Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Greater Glasgow, Scotland, The Ununited Kingdom Posts: 1,712	Thanks for all of the lovely and intelligent responses. I am glad you all enjoyed the question Very tired right now but I will reply to a selection of comments when I feel more refreshed.

09-10-2014, 12:30 PM	#20
arkangel Hench Mutant Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Alberta, Canada Posts: 444	For me, as a 14 year old in 1985, I was initially drawn to the comics as there was absolutely nothing to compare it to. The concept was completely off the wall, but the storytelling didn't feel campy, like it was a spoof of other comic characters (even though it was to a degree). There was a level of seriousness, honesty and fearlessness in how Eastman and Laird approached the characters, the setting, and storylines that made me feel like this world they created could actually exist in the gritty, urban sprawl of modern day New York. It had a feeling of realism that surpassed anything I was reading from Marvel or DC at the time. You didn't know if the Turtles were going to make it through their next encounter. There was a sense of palpable danger and anxiety provoking intrigue. You couldn't wait till the following issue to route for them. They also had very distinct and well thought out personalities. With other comic heroes, there was always a disconnect. They were all 2 dimensional pictures on a page, requiring a strong suspension of belief. With TMNT you didn't have to. You bought it right away. Lastly, it gave me a feeling that I was special. I was part of a hidden world where secret battles waged to which the average New Yorker was completely unaware. Ancient vengeance from Ninja masters and their clan, a scheming robotics genius, unknown alien plans under the guise of a legitimate corporation, vigilantes with golf clubs and baseball bats crossing rooftops at night and a caring and loving family of mutants at the centre of it all, giving hope that they would persevere, despite the odds. This was cool at 14 and remains cool at 42.