And the Oscar goes to...TMNT?

A new post on Murphy's blog reveals that the WB seems to be pushing TMNT to get nominated for an Oscar in the "Best Animated Feature Film" category. Pretty gutsy move, especially with Pixar's Ratatouille a shoe-in to not only get nominated, but to win the category. But I suppose getting a nomination would really help bolster TMNT's status in Hollywood and with the movie-watching crowd. We still have no official word about a possible sequel; however, if WB proves successful in getting TMNT an Oscar nod, then we can look forward to seeing the awesome foursome in action once again.

TMNT Sequel?

Steve Murphy reported in his blog that a TMNT sequel has yet to be confirmed or denied; however, several fans on the message boards are saying that it's just a matter of "when" and not "if". Apparently, some sources at various comic cons (including San Diego) have stated that we will be seeing another TMNT movie on the big screen.

For me, it's more of the old cliche "I'll believe it when I see it." I'm hopeful for a sequel, but I'm not going to be celebrating until I read an official announcement from Mirage, Warner Bros, or anyone else associated with the first film.

Random Ramblings

I went to the San Diego Comic Con last month for the first time ever. I'm still debating whether or not I want to write about it (three days worth is a lot to write about), but we'll see. It truly was an incredible experience, and I've still got a pile of goodies to sort through.

Steve Murphy recently posted an explanation about Jagwar's new look for the next release of TMNT action figures. Even though the original sculpt wasn't based on the Jagwar we know and love, I still think it'll be a good way to introduce an old character to a newer, younger audience. Who knows? If Playmates is satisfied with sales, maybe we'll get a retro action figure for every wave released. One can dream...

I recently discovered the blog of Tristan Huw Jones, a comic-book writer and big TMNT fan. He worked on Tales of the TMNT #36, which was an incredible issue. Paul Harmon's artwork and Tristan's writing really reminded me of the early Mirage issues, especially along the vein of "Return to New York". I know "dark and gritty" is such a cliched way to describe the TMNT, but I think this representation of them really fits the bill. I loved it, and I can only hope that we'll be seeing more from Tristan and Paul.

I'm a little nervous as we approach the end of the week. I really want to see the TMNT DVD do well in sales and rentals, but from initial reports I've read online, the guys in green may have their work cut out for them. With rumors swirling that a sequel is dependent on good DVD sales, I'm crossing my fingers. I loved the TMNT movie, but I will admit that I wish the characters were fleshed out more with some more action scenes for good measure. I was extremely disappointed that the "ninja tag" scene got cut. I think it would've set up the tension between Raph/Leo a little bit better, as well as give Don and Mikey some more screen time. Nonetheless, the movie was an enjoyable ride, and I want the ride to continue.

Mouse Guard

I first heard of Mouse Guard via word of mouth. Then, while I was at the San Diego Comic Con, I managed to speak to Mouse Guard creator/artist/writer David Peterson and get a few signed items. I had never read a single issue of Mouse Guard, but because I heard so many good things about it, I just dived in and purchased the collected volume 1 hardcover (which David signed and sketched in) as well as issue one of volume 2 (also signed). The guy was extremely kind, answering all of my n00bish questions without hesitation. If any of you get the chance to meet him, please do so. Not only is his work incredibly written and beautifully drawn, but he's a real class act as well. Thanks, David!

Jagwar!!

Just a quick note: Murph posted an early look at the upcoming Jagwar action figure. Damn, that looks amazing!

Okay, first official post!

Steve Murphy, an awesome writer and very important staff member for Mirage, recently blogged about two very exciting projects: 1) the beginnings of a TMNT retro clothing line featuring Krang, Rocksteady, and Bebop from the old toon; and 2) Jagwar, popular member of the Mighty Mutanimals and ally of the TMNT (from the Archies series), will be making his debut in action figure form!

First, regarding OT merchandise... I think it's a great idea! I grew up watching the OT every Saturday morning, and I thought the villains of the show were just as entertaining as the turtles themselves. Who doesn't get a kick out of Shredder berating his useless mutant henchman, or Krang whining and burping at Shredder for his incompetence? It'll be great to see these guys again, even if they're only on t-shirts. Let's hope we'll be seeing more merch from this new retro line.

Jagwar! I can't believe he's going to get the action figure treatment. It's literally been almost ten years since we've seen an Archies character show up in any medium, let alone the toy line. With the Forever War looming over the horizon, I certainly hope that Jagwar won't be the last Archies character we'll be seeing. On a side note, I wonder how Playmates is going to present the turtles from different countries. I'm hoping for some cool looking costumes! And for those who are groaning about getting too many TMNT variants... at least we're not getting another round of "extreme sports" turtles. Err... just ignore the 2nd Mikey movie figure for that last line to work. Anyway, I'm going to be picking Jagwar up as soon as he hits the shelves. He was always my favorite Mutanimal, and even though the entire team was destroyed in the comics, at least he'll be back if only for a brief moment in the sun (unless, of course, Mirage has other plans).

Special thanks to Murphy for sharing this news with us turtle fans!

Woo, it's dark in this here cave...

So! I've decided to start blogging. The main focus of this blog will be my thoughts on current news regarding the TMNT. However, knowing me, I'll probably end up blogging about other random things as well (turtle related or not).

I'm new to this whole blogger thing, so it's going to take me some time to get used to it. We'll see how this goes.