Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #4 [Advance Review]
After three stellar issues spotlighting Raphael, Michelangelo, and Leonardo, Jason Aaron and IDW bring the first arc of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to a powerful conclusion in issue #4. With Donatello stepping into the limelight, Aaron delivers a story that’s as intense as it is introspective, portraying the tech-savvy turtle in a way that longtime fans — especially those with a soft spot for Donnie — will find both familiar and profoundly new. Back at Comic Con in July, Jason Aaron hinted that Donatello was on a rough path, and this issue makes good on that promise, giving us a Donatello who’s been worn down by his journey but determined to reconnect with his family, no matter the cost.
Let’s start with the art. Chris Burnham’s style is practically made for this story, capturing the somber and gritty tone of Donatello’s struggle. His detailed linework brings out an aged, world-weary look in Donnie, marking him as a turtle who’s seen too much but can’t stop moving forward. Burnham’s use of texture is phenomenal, from the battered fabric of Donatello’s cloak to the rough, hostile landscapes he travels. This ruggedness creates an environment that feels tangibly unforgiving, perfectly aligning with Donatello’s physical and emotional state. Shadows and sparse backgrounds heighten the sense of isolation around him, keeping the focus on Donatello’s expressions and posture as he trudges onward. The fight sequences, too, are raw and relentless, with every swing of Donatello’s staff capturing both his desperation and resilience. It’s a visual journey that pulls you into a darker, more grounded TMNT universe, one that’s less about flashy heroics and more about survival.
On the writing front, Aaron’s approach to Donatello’s character is both nuanced and bold. Known for his calm intellect, Donatello here is portrayed with a vulnerability that’s rare for him. His internal monologue reads like the thoughts of someone who’s lost his way but is still compelled to push forward. There’s a deep melancholy to Donatello’s reflections on his past and his family, underscoring his sense of disconnection. Aaron’s use of narrative captions to reveal Donatello’s inner conflict is masterful, showing how he’s haunted by memories of his brothers and his sensei, Master Splinter, while he tries to keep his mind focused on survival. Sparse dialogue reinforces the silence surrounding Donatello, mirroring his internal loneliness and letting the gravity of his journey sink in.
Aaron’s portrayal of Donatello as a character grappling with identity and purpose is refreshing for the TMNT lore. He’s not just the tech guy anymore; he’s a complex individual who’s wrestling with big questions and the weight of his past. The hesitation he feels about returning to New York — even as he yearns to reunite with his brothers — adds a layer of poignancy. We see a Donatello who’s vulnerable and introspective, confronting fears about his own limitations and a deteriorating physical condition, which makes this story feel more like a tale of self-discovery than just another action-packed adventure.
Now that the brothers are finally back together, the stage is set for some interesting dynamics moving forward. Having explored each of their individual perspectives, I’m excited to see how these recent experiences shape their interactions and strategy as they gear up to take on the Foot Clan once again. Aaron’s writing suggests that this reunion will be complicated, and that each turtle’s journey will play a role in how they move forward as a team.
If you haven’t been reading Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this arc is the perfect reason to start. Jason Aaron and IDW have delivered four issues that are gripping, emotionally charged, and accessible for both new and returning fans. Whether you’re a longtime TMNT follower or just dipping your toes in, this series offers something fresh and substantial.
In short, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #4 is a stellar conclusion to an impressive first arc. Jason Aaron has set a high bar, and I, for one, am all in to see where he takes our favorite mutants next. Go pick it up — you won’t be disappointed.
