Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 [Advance Review]
As the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles celebrate their 40th anniversary, there's no better time for a bombastic relaunch of their ongoing comic book series. After concluding an epic 150-issue run in April, the reins have been handed over to none other than Jason Aaron. Known for his exceptional work with The Avengers, Thor, Doctor Strange, and Conan (among many others), Aaron now takes the helm for the next chapter of everyone's favorite quartet of mutant turtles. This debut issue, paired with the fantastic art of Joëlle Jones, is nothing short of a spectacular start.
The opening scene of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 immediately sets a gritty tone, with Raphael in prison. Fans familiar with Raph's character won't be surprised by this predicament. Aaron dives deep into Raphael’s psyche, depicting a turtle who feels a twisted sense of belonging in confinement. Raphael’s self-reflection is raw and unfiltered: he describes himself as "Rage and gristle and bile wrapped up in a turtle shell...a walking life support system for my knees and knuckles." His months in prison appear self-inflicted, hinting at deeper reasons to be unveiled in future issues.
Aaron’s writing shines as he captures Raphael's internal conflict. The turtle's anger, nostalgia, and sentimentality clash in a compelling narrative that paints a vivid picture of his struggle. Raphael’s agreement with the prison warden—to keep order and sniff out escapees—adds an intriguing layer to his character. The plot thickens when a trio of Foot Clan ninja disguised as prisoners complicate things for Raphael, and indicate that his brothers are in danger. Despite his lone-wolf persona, Raphael’s loyalty to his brothers drives him to action, proving he would never abandon them in peril.
Joëlle Jones' art complements Aaron’s storytelling perfectly. She maintains the streamlined design of the turtles, ensuring the action sequences flow with a dynamic energy. Jones excels in portraying Raphael’s facial expressions, from the grimaced teeth during combat to moments of confusion and somber realization. Her artwork conveys the full spectrum of Raphael's emotions, making his character feel more alive and relatable.
This first issue provides an amazing starting point for fans of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, whether you're a longtime follower of the IDW run or picking up a new issue for the first time in nearly four decades. The storytelling and artwork combine to create a narrative that is both fresh and familiar, honoring the legacy of the turtles while setting the stage for new adventures.
Jason Aaron and Joëlle Jones, along with the team at IDW, have demonstrated their commitment to this beloved franchise, ensuring that it continues to captivate both old and new fans. If there was ever a time to dive into Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics, it would be on July 24th, when this issue releases.
Overall, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 is a superb premiere issue that retains the heart of this beloved franchise and promises an action-packed narrative. Aaron’s grasp on Raphael’s character, combined with Jones’ expressive art, sets the series off on a high note. This comic is a must-read, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an exciting new chapter in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles saga.
