What started as a funny thought by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird became a dark storyline concerning four turtles brothers fighting to keep their city safe, collectively knowns as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Not too long ago, The Last Ronin showed an apocalyptic future where the last turtle fought to finish their life’s mission. But between then and now, the franchise has tried to become more family-friendly to gain mainstream popularity. One of the foremost attempts was a light-hearted animated series that introduced many motifs and changes that have remained to this day. Written by Erik Burnham with artwork from Tim Lattie, colors by Sarah Myer, and letters from Jake M. Wood, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Saturday Morning Adventures #2 is a fun, nostalgic romp.
Constantly being defeated left and right by the Mutant Turtles has left a sour taste in Shredder’s mouth. He blames it all on his current incompetent menagerie of henchmen and demands Krang send him someone worthy. The villain’s search for a weapon inspires him to crash April O’Neill’s report on a new scientific invention. The turtles respond to April’s S.O.S. only to encounter a rock soldier named Thrum. In the tussle that ensues, the gun shocks Thrum and Michelangelo together. Michaelangelo doesn’t feel a thing, but Thrum suddenly becomes more empathetic and renounces violence. But nobody leaves Shredder’s army without facing his wrath.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Saturday Morning Adventures #2 has everything that a fun read needs — a bumbling antagonist, playful chemistry between the heroes, and a warm story with a moral. Readers can feel the wacky energy of the ’80s-era kids’ cartoon immediately. The issue begins from Shedder’s point of view as he takes out his frustrations on the people around him, setting up the whole premise. Once the turtles arrive at the scene, the story shifts into the next gear. Their energy and pure heart literally infect someone as hardened as Thrum, making the final stretch of the book a remarkably wholesome experience. The dialogue can be a bit cumbersome, but the book never takes itself too seriously.
Lattie’s pencils and Myer’s colors enliven the mood and make this issue a joy to read. Their combined might opens a portal to the past that lets nostalgia flow into every panel. The cartoonish aesthetic is everywhere as the mutant turtles frolic around, making fools of their enemies. Lattie sprinkles old easter eggs like the Turtle Blimp, one of the most recognizable vehicles from the animated series, into the issue to reward longtime fans. Myer sticks with the old color schemes but makes them look even brighter, which gives the issue a vibrant look. The wonky lighting and explosion effects make this issue a fun, freewheeling feast for the eyes.
With each issue featuring a self-contained story, this week’s book gives a new character a chance to shine and find their meaning in life. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Saturday Morning Adventures #2 demonstrates that no matter where people come from, they can always be a better version of themselves than they are today. It sends a strong message wrapped in the sugary coating of excitement and adventure. In a way, this is the perfect continuation to the series of yore, and with more issues on the way, one can expect even more uplifting stories in the coming months.
