Movie Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is an irreverent animated delight

The history of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles adaptations is a checkered one. After starting as a comic book in the early 1980s, it was first adapted into a beloved animated TV series. In the early ‘90s, came three live action movies, all reviled. Multiple other animated and live action projects followed, each earning the same scorn as the big-screen trilogy.

So fans have a right to be skeptical of the latest movie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, although it is thankfully in the animated realm instead of live action. Led by writers/producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film goes back to basics, showing how Leonardo (voiced by Nicolas Cantu), Raphael (Brady Noon), Donatello (Micah Abbey), and Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr.) came to be, as well as how they chafe under the strict rules of mentor/father figure Splinter (Jackie Chan).

A chance meeting with aspiring reporter April O’Neil (Ayo Edebiri) gets them out of the sewers, where they embark on a mission to stop the rampages of a villain known as Superfly (Ice Cube). The discovery that Superfly and his gang are also mutant versions of animals/insects throws them for a loop, but the turtles’ desire to become heroes who would be accepted by human society keeps their eyes on the prize.

The film, directed by Jeff Rowe and Kyle Spears and written by Rogen, Goldberg, Rowe, Dan Hernandez, and Benji Samit, is exactly the antidote the property needed for the two Michael Bay-produced live action films in the 2010s. The filmmakers understand the irreverent tone the film needs to strike, as well as establishing the distinct personalities of each of the turtles.

What really sets the film apart is the animation style, which can best be described as “purposefully rough.” Many of the characters have odd angles to their faces, and everything appears scuffed, as if it was drawn quickly. It’s perfect for a story about mutant creatures who live underground. Nothing in the film is pretty to look at, but it draws you in nonetheless.

Per usual for nostalgic properties like this, there is plenty in the film that will appeal to both kids and adults. The kinetic story, with lots of action scenes and fast-paced editing, will keep the attention of anyone with short attention spans, while a variety of references will have parents chuckling knowingly. Out-of-the-norm choices, like scoring a chase scene to 4 Non Blondes’ 1993 song “What’s Up?,” illustrate the effort to appeal to multiple generations at once.

The Ninja Turtles themselves are voiced by young actors, which drives home the impetuous decision-making and goofiness of the teenagers. Joining bold-faced names like Ice Cube and Jackie Chan are Rogen, Rose Byrne, Paul Rudd, Maya Rudolph, John Cena, and even Post Malone, each of whom adds a unique flair to their voice work.

There’s no need to fear disappointment from yet-another Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie; Mutant Mayhem is a success from beginning to end. The look, the tone, and the attitude of the film are all as good as any fan could hope; let’s just hope they don’t screw up the (inevitable) sequel.

---

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem opens in theaters on August 2.

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

April O'Neil, Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Leonardo in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.

movies film

weekend event planner

Here are the top 14 things to do in Houston this weekend

Photo courtesy of RodeoHouston

Houston native Lizzo plays RodeoHouston on Friday, March 13.

We’re officially in rodeo mode, which means Ubers and METRORails will be filled with cowboy hat-wearing folk, heading over to NRG Park and indulging in all the western extravagance.

But there are always other things going on in the city, including the grand opening of a new restaurant, a stage adaptation of a F. Scott Fitzgerald masterwork, the opening night of FotoFest, and the beginning of Jazzy Sundays in the Park.

So, go outside and feel the power of love!

Thursday, March 5

The Green Room Grand Opening
The Green Room, an intimate, 26-seat restaurant next to Heights & Co, will have its grand opening this weekend. This restaurant aims to offer Houstonians a more intimate, technique-driven and hospitality-forward dining experience. The dinner menu will change monthly, with an optional five-course Chef’s Dinner Party menu and a wine program featuring grower champagnes, certified organic producers, and premium wines by the glass. 4 pm.

Mid Main Houston presents First Thursday Block Party
The businesses of Mid Main Mid Main Lofts invite the community to celebrate another First Thursday, benefiting the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation and supporting Team Escalante Express in the upcoming Run for the Rose 5k. The block party will also celebrate the birthday of Jennifer Escalante, the Sig’s Lagoon co-founder who passed away in 2024. This First Thursday honors her lasting impact and legacy within the community. 6 pm.

Akaash Singh: Generational Triumph Tour
Akaash Singh is a nationally touring stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor. His career took off with many television shows including MTV’s Wild’n Out, Netflix’s Brown Nation, and HBO’s The Leftovers. After finding success in TV, he pivoted his focus toward the podcast Flagrant, co-created with fellow comedian/pal Andrew Schulz. His two-day stop in Houston has him performing four shows, but the early shows are already sold out. Thankfully, the late shows still have tickets. 9 pm.

Friday, March 6

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The annual Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo features a wide variety of events, including a livestock & horse show, music & concerts, attractions & activities, and daily rodeos. Headlining music performers this weekend include Lizzo, Dwight Yoakam, and Forrest Frank. Weekday rodeos start at 6:45 pm, with the main show happening at around 8:45 pm. Weekend rodeos start at 3:45 pm, with the entertainer taking the stage at approximately 5:45 pm. For a full schedule of events, go to the official website. Through Sunday, March 22. 8 am.

Improv Houston presents Jordan Jensen
Jordan Jensen started comedy in upstate New York before moving to Nashville, where she spent a year working for clubs and taking her comedy on the road in her pickup truck. Last year, she dropped her first Netflix special, Jordan Jensen: Take Me With You, as well as co-star in the Will Arnett-Laura Dern dramedy Is This Thing On? Catch her this weekend at Improv Houston, where she’ll hit audiences with tales of her bizarre upbringing, highly unconventional family, and filterless confessions of her time on this filthy planet. 7:30 & 9:45 pm (7 & 9:30 pm Saturday).

Memorial Hermann Broadway at the Hobby Center presents The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby, based on the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is an unforgettable journey of love, wealth and tragedy that brings the Roaring Twenties to life on stage. The story of extravagance and longing features choreography by Dominique Kelley (So You Think You Can Dance), a book by Kait Kerrigan (The Mad Ones), and a jazz- and pop-influenced original score by Jason Howland (Little Women) and Nathan Tysen (Paradise Square). 7:30 pm (2 & 7:30 pm Saturday; 1:30 & 7 pm Sunday).

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Moonlight Movies: Back to the Future
The MFAH begins its annual, month-long, time “Moonlight Movies” series with a screening of a 1985 classic. In Back to the Future, 17-year-old Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is accidentally sent back 30 years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his scientist pal Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd). A headset is provided to each guest for premium sound quality. Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably for weather and backless bench seating, and they are allowed to bring seats or cushions. 8 pm.

Saturday, March 7

The Blue Bird Circle presents Eggstravaganza
The Blue Bird Circle will present Eggstravaganza, their annual Spring Event that will feature a day of shopping, creativity, and community impact. The women-led nonprofit is committed to advancing pediatric neurology research and improving the lives of children with neurological disorders. Entering its 103rd year of service as a staple in the Houston community, the organization has created a lasting legacy built on hope, compassion, and volunteer-driven impact. 10 am.

Exwon.art presents "Blue Triumph: Art Against Colon Cancer" opening reception
"Blue Triumph: Art Against Colon Cancer" is a multifaceted creative exhibition dedicated to celebrating the victories and inspiring the ongoing fight against colon cancer. Running for one month, aligning with Colon Cancer Awareness Month, it will combine visual art, storytelling, and interactive experiences to raise awareness, honor survivors, and fuel the conversation around prevention and research. The exhibition aims to educate, inspire action, and evoke deep emotional responses, reshaping the way art is used to promote health awareness. 4 pm.

FotoFest Opening Night Party
This weekend, celebrate the grand opening of the FotoFest Biennial 2026. Global Visions – FotoFest at 40 marks four decades of groundbreaking photographic arts and education programming in Houston. The central exhibition highlights significant works and themes from each of the 20 previous biennials, from 1986 to 2024, and features work by over 450 artists from 58 countries. Experience an energetic atmosphere filled with creativity, music, and delicious food. 8 pm.

Prauper Studios present Prauper Radio: A Night of UK Soul and R&B
If you dig the soul music that comes out of the U.K., whether it’s legends like Sade and Amy Winehouse or new kids like Olivia Dean and Kwn, Prauper Studios will have a night of DJs playing nothing but British R&B. Come sip, view art, and catch the vibe the selectors are providing for the night. Complimentary RSVPs are available now. $10 admission for guests who’ve missed the RSVP window, but still wish to attend. Limited capacity. Early arrival suggested. 9 pm.

Sunday, March 8

The DeLuxe Theater presents B*tch, You Doin’ a Good Job!
In honor of the 30th anniversary of Spike Lee’s 1996 phone-sex dramedy Girl 6, The DeLuxe Theater will have a special screening and critical conversation centered on the commodification of voice, body, and identity. Following the screening, we will host a dynamic panel discussion examining the intersectionality of sex work, corporate America, and Black womanhood—and how these forces shape economic opportunity, agency, respectability politics, and community impact today. 1 pm.

Jazzy Sundays in the Park
Every Sunday this month at Discovery Green, Jazzy Sundays in the Park will celebrate the vibrancy and rich tradition of jazz as well as the incredible Houstonians who preserve the artform. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Food and drink will be available for purchase, and a pop-up market featuring locally crafted items, food, and wearables will be on site. First up to the stage will be James Francies Trio and Kinder HSPVA Jazz Ensemble. 5 pm.

93’ Til and Swanky Maven present Vinyl & Vibes: A Culinary Spin
93’ Til and Swanky Maven (the nom de plume of Houston creator Felice Sloan) will hit us with an intimate, music-driven dining experience, featuring a four-course dinner by chef Lung Ly with curated cocktail pairings. Each course is inspired by live ’80s R&B and hip-hop spun throughout the night. The experience also includes an optional vinyl exchange and on-site pop-ups by Blessings Plants & Music Houston, creating a seamless night of food, music and connection. 6:30 pm.

Photo courtesy of RodeoHouston

Houston native Lizzo plays RodeoHouston on Friday, March 13.

things to do houston event-planner weekend events