Toy Review: ReAction Figures “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”

Leonardo, Raphael, Bebop, Rocksteady

ReAction Figures

Super 7

Our Score 3.5 out of 5 stars

Within the past few years the toy makers at Super 7 have brought to market some really cool products which have helped establish the brand as one of today’s top retro toy companies. Their 3.75” ReAction Figures especially has been a continued growing line for the San Diego, CA based company and now includes over a dozen licenses including “Aliens”, “Universal Monsters” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”. Our in house toy tester Ian had the chance to check out the first four figures from the “TMNT” line (Raphael, Leonardo, Bebop and Rocksteady) and put them through the paces to see just how well they could handle the rigorous play of an active 7 year old.

Prior to turning them over to Ian I had the chance to check out the really nice artwork that adorns each package. The artwork is all new however it stays true to the original Kenner blister packaging of the early/mid 1980’s. On the back you get a witty bio of each figure along with a picture of the full line in that series. I should point out that these figures do have a 14 and up label on them as they are intended more as an adult collectible. That’s not to say someone younger can’t play with them but the figures do include small pieces some of which are quite pointy and sharp.

Each of the figures looked just as good out of the packaging as they do in it as Super 7 did a great really nailing the details despite the figures smaller size. The four figures all feature 5 points of articulation and come with between 2 and three accessories which can be placed in the hands of each figure. Though Ian is a huge turtle’s fan he seemed to have more interest in Bebop and Rocksteady partially because of their off the wall look and “cool weapons” as he put it. Raphael and Leonardo still got plenty of play but in our house it is hard to compete with a punk rock warthog and rhino.

With the Holidays quickly approaching we highly recommend checking out the Super 7 “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle” Reaction figures. All four figures we checked out are available now and in the coming months more figures including Donatello, Michelangelo and Shredder are set to become available so help that collector on your list expand his or her collection this season with the latest offerings from Super 7.     

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Product Feature “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” Limited Edition Raphel Statue Gift Set

Are you a fan of collectible DVD/Blu-ray gift sets? As a collector, I have purchased many over the years including “Pacific Rim” and recently the “Spartacus: The Complete Series” Limited Edition gift sets. You make not know it but all of these amazing figures/statues that comes with the movies are made by a fantastic company, Snap Creative. I was shocked to look around my office and realize that I had dozens of their products already.

I had the chance to interview CEO of Snap Creative, Bill Howard, to chats about their work with the recently released Blu-ray of “Transformers: Age of Extinction”, read here. Since then I have been tracking their upcoming releases closely. Their latest is with the Blu-ray release for reboot of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” including a highly detailed collectible statue of Raphael from the film.

If you want this amazing Amazon exclusive Raphael statue you would need to buy the Limited Edition Gift Set of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2014)”, which includes a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD. When you want to talk about detail, this statue is outstanding. I mean, every detail is perfect from his red bandanna and his new look for the reboot. As you can see above Raphael, posed ready for battle with his twin sais geared up.

I was a fan of this reboot and they really captures him perfect by using the digital character model that they did in the movie to make this status. The figure stands 6.5 inches tall, which is standing on a small display base with street sewer entrance. The whole thing spans over 7 inches wide and nearly 5 inches deep. If you are a TMNT fan, then this Raphael statue is a must-have.  Can’t wait to see what Snap Creative has planned next for us!

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Board Game Review “Monopoly: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Edition”

I have been playing Monopoly as long as I can remember but I guess I can say that I have never actually played Monopoly till I played “Monopoly: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Edition”. Even though this is not the 80’s cartoon that I grew up with, I still love it and if you are a fan of the current Nickelodeon cartoon you are going to love it also. If you are a hardcore fan of the 80’s cartoon and not a huge fan of the new series, don’t worry because there is a Monopoly edition coming out in November for that as well.

In this edition you have the ability to take over New York City and take off featured 22 locations found in current TV series like Donnie’s Workshop & Lab (Replacing Boardwalk and Park Place), Rock Bottom Boxing Club, Antonio’s Pizza-Rama, Kraang’s Lair, Shredder’s Hideout and Splinter’s Dojo. Instead of only traveling by trains in the original game, here you can travel in high tech turtle mobiles like the Patrol Buggy, Foot Clan Bike, Stealth Cycle, and ShellRaiser from the series.

There are six new collectible tokens included. Of course, you get the choice to either play for the side of good or the side of evil (or even Pizza). The tokens included are Kraang, Spike, Throwing Star, Mutagen, Shredder’s Mask, and of course PIZZA. The classic Chance and Community Chest cards are translated into Allies and Enemies cards.  This edition features  not money but Turtles cash featuring your favorite characters: $1.00 Shredder, $5.00 Raph, $10.00 Leo, $20.00 Mikey, $50.00 Donnie, $100.00 April, and $500.00 Splinter.

I was a little taken back that you couldn’t necessarily play with a token as each of your favorite turtles but I commend the brave choice to shake things up and be a little brave. If you are a turtle fan, you will no question find this game especially fun and creative. I look forward to sharing this game with my daughter as she grows up. She is two years old and already a huge fan of TMNT, so this will be popular game for sure in our house (or at least until the 80’s cartoon version comes out).

 

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Nintendo 3DS Video Game Review “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”

Publisher: Activision
Developer: Magic Pockets
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Rated: Everyone 10+
Release Date: August 5th, 2014

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I have been a Turtle fan for 30 years now. I have grow up with them and now my daughter is growing up with them. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” is third Activision game for the franchise and is a tie-in based around the new 2014 reboot, which is dominating theaters. The first game was based on the new Nick 2012 cartoon, it was not terrible but not amazing either. The second was called “Out of the Shadows”, which is a little better but this is easily the best of the bunch. Understand that it is still a movie tie-in game on a handheld device, but it is still fun to play and has good reply value.

Official Premise: They were born in shadow. They live in shadow. And they fight in shadow. New York City’s crime rates are still on the rise and the city’s civilians are trembling in fear! Baxter is formulating an evil plan and this time he has both mutants and robots at his disposal. Join the local brethren of vigilantes who need to rally together to put a stop to this evil once and for all! It’s team TMNT, Splinter and April O’Neil in the fight against the worst evil to face the beloved NYC in this adrenaline-pumping story!

Before we get into the game, let’s get this out of the way that these turtles DO NOT JUMP! This is a quite a bummer, especially if you grew up like myself playing the arcade game. The game still had a lot going for it though don’t worry. You are able to play as all four turtles, switching as you please throughout each level. Each character has their own special abilities and contribution to the gameplay. For example, Donatello has a longer reach for wide attacks and Michelangelo is very fast.

A reason why I really enjoyed did was that doesn’t the character’s abilities you are also able to earn XP and level up each of your characters skills, weapons etc. The 3D on the game is actually a must as well. I played without it, I honestly didn’t enough it as much. If you are looking for more after this, don’t worry Turtle fans because Nickelodeon is hooking us with “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Danger of the OOZE” coming right around the corner on Nov 11, 2014. So more is just around the corner.

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TMNT fan? Check out Turtle Power Podcast’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie SpoilerCast

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie SpoilerCast – TPP Episode 32 – August 8, 2014
CLICK HERE TO DIRECT DOWNLOAD THE mp3

SpoilerCast!!! They dive shell first into the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie! Make sure you watch/listen to this show AFTER you’ve watched the movie. They analyze this TMNT movie from every angle and try to help you the Fellow Turtles Fan understand its impact.

Official Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie Website:
www.teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com

 

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Celebrate the Release of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and Win FREE Pizza from Pizza Hut! [ENDED]

Pizza Hut and the popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have teamed forces on a summer-long promotion celebrating the return of an all-time favorite Pizza Hut pizza: Cheesy Bites AND the arrival of the new movie featuring the pizza loving Turtle brothers, appearing in theaters nationwide on August 8th from Paramount Pictures.

Along with the celebrated return of Cheesy Bites Pizza, Pizza Hut will include an exclusive online only “hidden menu” that features unique Cheesy Bites Pizza recipes inspired by the personality of each Ninja Turtle. The recipes are as follows and are available for $13.99.

  • Donatello’s Favorite Pizza: chicken, mushroom, green pepper and tomatoes
  • Leonardo’ s Favorite Pizza: onions, black olives, green pepper and mushrooms
  • Michelangelo’ s Favorite Pizza: pepperoni, ham, pineapple and jalapeño
  • Raphael’ s Favorite Pizza: pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon and beef

Media Mikes is excited to giveaway one FOUR codes for $20 dollars off your order at participating Pizza Hut locations. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of this prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email with your favorite Ninja Turlte and why? This giveaway will remain open until August 15th at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to our readers in US only. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

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Win Tickets to an Advance Orlando FL Screening for “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” [ENDED]

Who’s ready for the reboot of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”. Heroes in a half shell TURTLE POWER!! The film hits theaters on 08.8.14 but you could be one of the first to see it!! Here is that you need to do if you would like to win some tickets to an advance screening in Orlando, FL.

In order to win tickets we need YOU submit a photo or leave us a comment below as to why your are the biggest fan. You can submit your to us on our Twitter or Facebook pages using the hashtag #MediaMikesTMNT. Only one entry per person, per household. The best ones will be chosen and will win one of the following prizes:

GRAND PRIZE (best entry) will get VIP/GUARANTEED seats for them and a guest
Ten (10) runners will be chosen to win regular tickets for them and a guest

Winners will be chosen and notified on the morning of 8/6

ORLANDO- 8/6 REGAL WATERFORD LAKES – 7:30pm

Darkness has settled over New York City as Shredder and The Foot Clan have an iron grip on everything from the police to the politicians. The future is grim until four unlikely outcast brothers rise from the sewers and discover their destiny as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O’Neil and her wise-cracking cameraman Vern Fenwick to save the city and unravel Shredder’s diabolical plan.

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Product Review “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Z-Line Water Tower Washout Playset”


I wish they cool toys like this when I was a kid. With the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Z-Line Water Tower Washout Playset” you can literally build a city and then use your “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” character to zip-Line from wall to wall. It is pretty cool once you get it all setup and going. I have been a fan of the TMNT since the 80’s and I have a two year old daughter and we bought really enjoyed this!

This does not come with any “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” figures but it will most with any of the new Turtles figures or even the old ones as well. I tested my old 1980’s Michaelangelo and it worked perfectly. The directions were easy to put this together, if you are wondering how it holds on the wall, don’t worry there are no screws involved. It is held by 3M tape, which could work well or not well due to your texture on your wall.

The Water Tower Washout is not the only playset available either. There are three other playsets available including a Window Wipeout Playset; Billboard Breakout Playset and Fire Escape Free Fall Playset. These are connectable so you can wire up the entire room with these Z-Lines. Some parents might not dig this too much but I totally think it would be awesome to have the whole room as a Z-line obstacle course.

Here is what is included in the box: Water Tower Play set, 4 Command Strips from 3M, 4 wall clips, 1 gargoyle launcher, 1 C-Clamp, 2 tension cylinders, 2 Z-line pulleys, 1 two-hand handle, 1 one hand handle, 2 48″ Zip-line, 1 72″ Zip Line, 1 Angle Gauge. It definitely requires some parent’s assembly but once it is up and ready. It is very easy to manage and use. Also priced very well, this is a great product for any fan of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, young or old.

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Book Review “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History”

Author: Andrew Farago
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Insight Editions
Release Date: June 24, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” are my jam. They just are amazing. I grew up with them from the very first episode on TV when I was a kid. I had all the action figures, t-shirts, Halloween costumes etc. What I love the most about them is that they have been around for 25 years now and are just as cool as they were when I was a kid. With the new live-action $100 million dollar movie coming out this August only proves that point. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History” is the latest companion book put out by Insight Editions. This book is literally a must own for any TMNT fan, no question. It has the same feel as other Insight releases like “The Dark Knight Manual” and literally a piece of art itself.

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History” takes us through the entire history of these heroes in a half shell. We are in their first appearance with their black-and-white comics to the new hit animation show from Nickelodeon and even the latest Michael Bay–produced live-action movie. There are tons of great interviews with every key figure in the Turtles’ evolution including co-creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, animation legend Fred Wolf, creature effects maestro Brian Henson, and even Vanilla Ice, who made my made the song “Ninja Rap” from the film “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II The Secret of the Ooze”. So there are plenty of great content to accompany this visual history.

I was found myself just starring at each page for minutes just soaking up all the details and beautiful content included in this book. This is one of those books that you need to go through a few times just to get every time out of it. Also like I mentioned, like “The Dark Knight Manual”, this book has numerous pull outs and bonus extras included through the book. I love that Insight comes out with these great books for their fans, it is a really a treat opening this book it is not only visual amazing with the high quality images but also with the additional content. If all that isn’t enough in the back of the book, there is a reprint of the original #1 comic included, which is worth the price of the book alone and then there is also a fold out decent poster size of our green friends. If you love TMNT, I just cannot stress enough that you need to have this in your collection!

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“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie” Starring Megan Fox, Will Arnett and Whoopi Goldberg Inspires Nationwide Stretchkins Fitness Toy Craze

NEW YORK, June 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles the new film from Paramount and Michael Bay starring Megan Fox, Will Arnett and Whoopi Goldberg will open nationwide on August 8 and is set to be the family smash hit of the summer.

For kids who want to take home their very own ninja turtle look no further than Stretchkins. The fun fitness toys have started a craze on the East Coast, and are now available nationwide at Walmart and Toys “R” Us. The officially licensed Ninja Turtle Stretchkins will go into stores in all 50 states from July.

Priced from $19.95, kids can have fun and get fit with their very own Stretchkins, available as Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo and Donatello, in addition to the classic Playful Puppy, Pretty Unicorn, and Red Dragon models.

The much loved line of life-size stretchable, cuddly toys, are great for summer as they encourage boys and girls to get up and moving, kick up their heels, and get physical, all while having good time.

Marvin Azrak, a grandfather of 13, developed Stretchkins to take action against child obesity; “I wanted to create a new type of toy, one that would get my grandkids off their seats, away from their computers and video games, and into action.”

Whether you decide on a classic model or one of the fab four turtle designs, each toy comes with an accompanying ‘Dance and Stretch’ DVD that helps children enjoy happier, more active lives.

About Stretchkins
Stretchkins come in five fun designs: Playful Puppy, True Blue Elephant, Pretty Unicorn, , Red Dragon and Jumping Frog. The Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles will go on sale in July 2014.

Available online and nationwide in Toys “R” Us and Walmart, each classic design retails at $19.95 while branded designs retail at $29.99, plus any shipping and handling costs.

Stretchkins is currently used by autism non-profits where it has proven to hold value in encouraging play and development in autistic children who respond well to the various figures.

Learn more at: https://www.stretchkins.com

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Emerge from the Shadows onto the Big Screen and into Fans’ Hands

Playmates Toys to Introduce New Toy Line Based on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Film

El Segundo, CA – June 18, 2014 – Playmates Toys, the creative force behind the successful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toy line over the last three decades, is set to introduce a new product line inspired by Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies’ summer blockbuster film, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, directed by Jonathan Liebesman, written by Josh Appelbaum & André Nemec and Evan Daugherty and produced by Michael Bay, hitting theaters August 8. The movie line of toys will include an assortment of products for Turtles fans, including action figures, vehicles and role play gear.

“We are proud to introduce an all-new line of toys that reflect the personalities and distinctive look of the Turtles in the movie,” said Karl Aaronian, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Playmates Toys. “The range of toys will provide kids and fans of all ages with a one-of-a-kind ninja play experience that brings their favorite characters from the film to life.”

“Playmates has outdone themselves yet again, with an incredible product offering for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie,” said Manuel Torres, SVP Global Toys and Publishing, Nickelodeon Consumer Products. “These products – from action figures to role play toys – will provide hours of play, collectability and deepen our fans’ connection to the beloved brand.”
The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie toy line from Playmates Toys will feature the following action figures, group vehicle and role-play gear:

Action Figures
The action figure collection will include basic action figures, 11-inch figures and deluxe feature figures. The action figures are highly detailed, fully articulated and uniquely sculpted to reflect the Turtles’ appearance in the movie. In addition, each figure comes equipped with unique accessories. The basic action figures vary in heights from 4.0 inches to 5.5 inches. The collection includes Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael, as well as Splinter, The Shredder, Foot Soldier, April O’Neil and Raphael in Disguise. The 11-inch figure collection includes the four Ninja Turtles.

The Combat Warrior Deluxe Figures are highly detailed, fully articulated and uniquely sculpted, with heights ranging from 5.25 inches to 6 inches. The Turtles’ legs can be squeezed to trigger battle actions. The collection includes Leonardo with quick cut katana action, Donatello with smack-down spinning staff action, Michelangelo with triple terror twist nunchuck action and Raphael with serious slashing sai action.

Vehicles
The Turtle Assault Van is packed with ninja action features, allowing kids to drive the Turtles into their next battle and recreate their favorite scenes from the movie. Features include a spring-powered Turtle torpedo, launching luge assault vehicle, pop top hatch and side attack ramp. The control cabin holds the basic Ninja Turtles action figures.

Role Play Gear
With the Ninja Combat Gear, kids can transform themselves into one of their favorite heroes in a half shell from the film. Each set includes the Turtles’ signature weapon and bandana, allowing kids to see if they have what it takes to become a Ninja Turtle. The collection includes Leonardo with katana sword, bandana and two hand guards, Michelangelo with Nunchuck, bandana and two hand guards, Raphael with two Sais and bandana and Donatello with Bo Staff and bandana.

About the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie
In this modern-day iteration of the popular franchise that has captivated audiences of all ages for decades, the Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O’Neil (Megan Fox) and her wise-cracking cameraman Vern Fenwick (Will Arnett) to save New York City and unravel Shredder’s diabolical plan. Based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles characters created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman, written by Josh Appelbaum & André Nemec and Evan Daugherty, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is produced by Michael Bay (director and executive producer of the blockbuster Transformers franchise), Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, Galen Walker, Scott Mednick and Ian Bryce, and directed by Jonathan Liebesman (Wrath of the Titans).

About Playmates Toys
With a history of over 40 years, Playmates Toys is today among the most well-respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in the creation of imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Key brands include TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, HEARTS FOR HEARTS GIRLS and WATERBABIES. From its offices in Hong Kong and California, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.playmatestoys.com or http://facebook.com/playmatestoys

About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 35th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 19 consecutive years.

About Paramount Pictures
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.

© 2014 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

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“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” Official Merchandise Giveaway [ENDED]

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

Who doesn’t love the the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”? Media Mikes is teaming up with TVStoreOnline.com to giveaway some great official merchandise from the TMNT. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email with your favorite Turtle and why? This giveaway will remain open until May 31st at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to our readers in US and Canada only. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

TMNT Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Turtle Shell Backpack With 4 Masks

Become your favorite classic Ninja Turtles with your very own mutant turtle shell! This officially licensed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles backpack shell can be functional and part of a costume! Order yours now and begin your own ninja adventures! This backpack is shaped like a turtle half-shell and features multiple inside pockets including ones to store your iPod or cell phone. It also includes 4 felt masks to represent each Turtle.

Green, 17″ x 15″, Multiple Inside Pockets, 80% Polyester, 20% PU, Officially Licensed

TMNT Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cowabunga Michaelangelo Blue Adult T-shirt


Michelangelo, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ resident party dude, is featured on this officially licensed “TMNT” t-shirt alongside his famous catchphrase: “Cowabunga!” The fitted tee has been distressed for vintage appeal. Nunchucks not included.

Blue, 100% Cotton, Officially Licensed, Fitted, Print is distressed for a vintage appeal

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Kelly Hu talks about voicing Karai on Nick’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”

Kelly Hu is best known for her roles in films like “The Scorpion King” and “X2: X-Men United” and is currently guest starring on The CW’s “Arrow” and Syfy’s “Warehouse 13”. She also has done quite a bit of voice over work ranging from Stacy Hirano on “Phineas and Ferb” to Karai on Nick’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Kelly about her role on “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and what we can expect from Karai.

Mike Gencarelli: Your character on Nick’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, Karai, has been around since the 1992 comics. How did you prepare for playing such a well-known character?
Kelly Hu: Fans are going to hate me when they find out that I was not familiar with the character when I auditioned [laughs]. I did do a lot of research online though. There are a bunch of great fan sites for her and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”. From what I understand this Karai is written slightly different than past Karai’s have, which is great so then it is not so predictable and audiences  who grew up with her can still enjoy it.

MG: When you signed on to the role where you aware that you would be revealed as Shredder’s daughter?
KH: I had no idea what was going to happen [laughs]. All I knew was that she was going to beat up a lot on the Turtles and other boys and I was going to get to do a lot of punching and kicking noises [laughs]. I spend so much of my time in the recording booth just grunting, hitting and making all these effort sounds.

MG: I guess you didn’t know that you would also get a chance to get some workout during recording?
KH: I know right! I think it is so funny that since I do martial arts, I am constantly getting type-cast as a fighter or a tough girl. I don’t mind at all since I really love doing it. But I think it is funny that even in my voice over work I am a martial artist [laughs].

MG: I love your character design in this show and she has changed quite a bit from her first appearance. Did you see her design prior to finding her voice?
KH: I love the way she looks. I do not recall if I had a picture before I started. You know, it is really just my own voice though. I try pitching it up a bit to sound younger like more around 20. I think the reason why I got this role comes down to me doing all the grunt sounds [laughs]. I think that is the only reason why I got this job [laughs]. But I really do love it.

MG: I know you got a little something going on with Leonardo but if you had to choose what would be your favorite turtle?
KH: I like Mikey a lot. I love the way he sounds, it is so cute. When Greg (Cipes) does his voice, I just melt. You just want to pick him up and hug him. Greg really brings his inner child out. I don’t know if he will be embarrassed that I shared this secret – I don’t think so – but the first day we were all together in the booth, Greg proceeded to pull down this pants and show up his “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” underwear and then danced around a bit [laughs]. Greg really is a child trapped in a man’s body and he is great in the role.

MG: Are you always with the rest of the cast when recording?
KH: Sometimes we are. Lately, I have been alone since I have been traveling quite a bit. I was recently in Vancouver shooting a pilot (“The Hundred” for The CW). So the last two  sessions, I have been by myself. I really enjoy it much more when everyone is in the same room. The guys are just so much fun and we have a great time together.

MG: Tell us about your upcoming episode “Karai’s Vendetta” on April 27th?
KH: I am really looking forward to this episode. This one is going to be really action packed with a lot of twists and turns. Karai is at this point where she making a change in her life. She wants to join up with the guys and do good. I love that she is not just a bad girl. She wrestles with being good and being truthful. So she really has some great and fun layers to her.

MG: You are probably known best in the voice over world for your work playing Stacy Hirano on “Phineas and Ferb”. How does that role compare?
KH: I love doing “Phineas and Ferb”. I think they are a lot alike. Stacy doesn’t do martial arts but she is kind of sassy and fun. She is Candace’s sort of voice of reason, who is completely out there and crazy. Stacy is the one who gets to bring her back down to earth every once in a while. Stacy is also a little bit quirky and social out there sometimes [laughs].

MG: What else do you have in the cards?
KH: I am still waiting to hear about this pilot, so we have our fingers crossed for that. I am still reoccurring on The CW’s “Arrow”, they haven’t killed me off yet. So hopefully I will be back next season. I also have had a reoccurring on “Warehouse 13” and should have some new episodes coming up soon as well.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: hu, karai, kelly, mutant, nicks, ninja, ...

Greg Cipes talks about voicing Michaelangelo in Nick’s reboot of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”

Greg Cipes is a voice actor that is known best for his role of Beast Boy in the “Teen Titans” franchise. He is currently voicing Michaelangelo in Nick’s reboot of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”. Media Mikes has a chance to chat with Greg about his role on the show and also his other voice work.

Mike Gencarelli: How did you get involved with voicing Michaelangelo in the new reboot of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”?
Greg Cipes: I have a friend who is an executive producer on the new series. He and Nickelodeon brought me in as they thought I was perfect for the character. I brought what I thought Mikey was to the table. For me it was pretty natural and easy. The original cartoon was my favorite growing up. I learned how to meditate and got in to surfing and skateboarding because of that show. The turtles really helped shape who I am today. It was a role I could easily step into and they felt I was the guy.

MG: How was it working with Rob Paulsen who worked on the original “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” series?
GC: Rob is such a pleasure to work with. I grew up listening to him on the show and to be able to work with him now is very surreal.

MG: What is it like playing such an iconic character?
GC: It is the greatest gift I have ever received. It’s a great responsibility being a turtle and there is nothing else I would rather be doing.

MG: Can you tell us about the recording sessions?
GC: 99 percent of the time we record the shows together as a group. We all feed off each other and we are like a big family. Basically, we are getting paid to have fun.

MG: What do you enjoy most about playing Iron Fist in “Ultimate Spider-Man!”?
GC: That was another role where they came to me and said I was perfect for that role. Disney thought I was very much like him and asked what I had. I brought this very gem like aspect to the character which is similar to how I am in my real life. I would say Iron Fist is a part of my personality as is Mikey. That’s usually why I book roles. The studios will see aspects of their characters in me and then ask me to come in. You would think in the voice over world it would matter what you look like or what your personality is like but, I have been cast in all of my cartoons more by how I look and by my personality. My visual and internal characteristics seem to be a big thing which is very cool. These characters are really who I am.

MG: Having voiced so many great characters, how do you differentiate your voices for each show?
GC: Each character has its own world. I will react differently in each of those worlds. It’s almost like I am an avatar. I get to go into those worlds and live it through the character. Those characters are me in different bodies and under different circumstances. Naturally I would be acting differently in different situations. Each world and character has so much richness to draw from to make it real that things come natural. My voice just changes on its own.

MG: With “Teen Titans Go!” coming in 2013, tell us about about reprising Beast Boy?
GC: That is really exciting. I love what Warner Brothers is doing with the show. The show is just so, so funny and it is going to be a great surprise for everyone. Sam Register from Warner Brothers is the one really behind making the show what it is and for bringing it back. I have been asking him for the past 7 years to bring the show back. He would just keep telling me one day we will. Finally I got the call to come in to work on the new show. Sam is the guy behind everything. That character Beast Boy kicked off my career as a voice actor.

MG: You work again with Sean Astin in “And They’re Off”, tell us about that?
GC: Before I started working with Sean Astin on “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” I got to meet him and work with him on this project. The film is a comedic film that was really fun to work on. The cast was just so great. The film wasn’t a major release or anything but a year later I am working with Sean again. He is a really great guy that I get to work with every week.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: cipes, greg, michaelangelo, mutant, nicks, ninja, ...

Rob Paulsen talks about voicing Donatello in Nick’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” reboot

Rob Paulsen is a well known voice actor. If you don’t know his face, then you definitely known his voice. He is the man behind Yakko on “Animaniacs”, as well as Pinky (which he won an Emmy for) and hundreds of others as well. He is also the voice of Raphael in the original 1987 “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” series. This year Rob is stepping in the role of a Turtles again in Nick’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” reboot but this time voicing Donatello. Media Mikes had a chance to chat about the new show and how it was returning to the series.

Mike Gencarelli: After playing Raphael in the original 1987 series, how was it switching characters to Donatello in the 2012 reboot?
Rob Paulsen: As you can imagine, it has been an incredible thrill to get another bite of this “Turtle” apple. None of us at the beginning, now 25 years ago – a quarter century, nobody knew that this was going to be ending up being such an iconic show. It is crazy. The biggest difference is that I am involved for the launch of a new show that is already a worldwide international icon. Everybody, everywhere virtually knows about Ninja Turtles. It is an amazing experience to start a show with all that already in place, so to speak. In terms of my participation, I voiced an iconic character 25 years ago and now I am taking over another iconic character. Barry Gordon will always be the original Donatello. There is no downside man, it is all up! It has been such a huge thrill! People also really seem to be really getting behind this new show.

MG: How did it actually come about you playing Donatello this time around? Was it your choice?
RP: No, the only choice I had in the matter was whether or not I wanted to audition. Of course, I am not going to say no. When the folks at Nick invited me to audition, they asked me to specifically read for Donatello. I remember telling my agent “Do they know who I am?”. It was not out of arrogance but, as you know, there have been several adaptations of “Turtles” that had nothing to do with the original cast. I wanted to make sure that they knew I have been down this “Turtle” path before. They knew my work that I had done with Nickelodeon like, “The Fairly Odd Parents”, “Back at the Barnyard”, “Cat Scratch”, “Jimmy Neutron” and “Danny Phantom”. So the folks at Nick were aware of the fact that I did a lot of work with them. They said “We know exactly who Rob is and we are a fan of his work here, as well as “Animaniacs”, “Pinky and the Brain”, “The Tick”, “The Mask” and of course the original “Turtles”. But we think that Rob and his sensibilities would be interesting for ‘our’ vision of Donatello”. So here we are many years later and we get to talk about this great series again.

MG: Can you reflect on the fan’s responses to this new series?
RP: To the credit of Nickelodeon, I owe them a lot. I have been working with them for over 10 years. Just my work at Nickelodeon alone is what some actors would be lucky enough to call a career. I am incredible grateful to them. The fact that they included me on this show is great but even better is that they are playing up the fact that I was involved with the original. I think it is very interesting Mike, there are a lot of people that really dig the connection. I think it was a sort of happy accident. I don’t think I was hired on purpose as a nostalgic connection to the original show but it has become a cool thing for the show. The other actors even get a kick out of it since they are younger and used to watch the show growing up, especially (Greg) Cipes. I think the fans are also really digging it, especially the inter-species romance between Donatello and April. The secret is that (Executive Producer) Ciro (Nieli) and his team simply get it. They are fans of the franchise and it is very rare to have a fan of a show who is also making a show for the fans.

MG: After voicing like a million characters, you ever find it hard to come up with new voices?
RP: Hard is a relative term. What is hard? Hard is pulling hot tar on the freeway in August. That is hard. My job is pure joy. The most difficult part of my job is getting more work. In terms of coming up with new characters, I think it is a little bit tricky since I have been to that well so many times. But that is my job. My job is to take things I have done and tweak them. If you listen to Mel Blanc talk about his characters years ago, he said that he would take Daffy, add an affectation to it and soon he would have a new character. That is my challenge. I don’t want to stop working until they put me in the ground. I just love coming up with new characters.

MG: So you mentioned at NYCC 2012 that Pinky is your favorite character, how can you possible choose just one?
RP: That is exactly right Mike, it is impossible to choose. I think I prefaced it with the fact that when I get asked my favorite character, I say “The next one”. That means I am working and that is the main thing when you are an actor. It is virtually impossible to choose but I suppose if I would have to I would have to say Pinky only because 20 years later, people still love “Pinky and The Brain” and “Animaniacs”. Of course, I also won an Emmy for Pinky. I suppose if I had to make a choice, it would be him. But let me tell you Donatello is quickly becoming a favorite. After only a few weeks on the air people all over the world are freaking out in a very positive way about the Turtles. I read a lot of reviews and honestly about 85% has been really positive. You have to ask me again in another two years because Donatello might be the answer then.

Check a voice clip of Rob plugging MediaMikes.com (in several different character voices):

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: donatello, mutant, nicks, ninja, paulsen, reboot, ...
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