What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this computer-animated comeback of the Ninja Turtles franchise can be dark and, at times, slightly frightening. Obviously, it includes several scenes of ninja fighting, including one upsetting brawl between two of the brothers. Raphael is hot-tempered and defiant; he's a rogue crime-fighter by night. There are gargoyle-like monsters, and four warriors resurrected from stone proclaim their intention to rule the world. Some of the cartoonish violence may be too intense for the youngest elementary schoolers, but most kids -- especially boys -- will be psyched to see the sword action.
- Families can talk about the longevity of the Ninja Turtles franchise. What makes these four sword-wielding brothers so popular? Do kids genuinely love them, or is it just good marketing? If kids watch the animated TV show or have seen the original 1990 movie, which version do they like best? Why? Families can also discuss sibling relationships and cooperation. Master Splinter forbids the turtles from fighting until they can fight as "one." What does he mean? Oh, and most kids will need an explanation of the brothers' Renaissance names, not to mention '80s slang like "cowabunga."