Director Michael Bay addressed the latest changes to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie on his blog today.
Bay, who has been feeling heat from fan outbursts, seemed to add more fuel to the fire as he confirmed the new title "Ninja Turtles" for the live action movie reboot. Missing from title are the words 'Mutant' and 'Teenage' which fans have grown attached to since the turtle's hit the scene in the late 80's.
In a blog posting, Michael Bay issued a statement to fans amidst the controversy.
"Paramount marketing changed the name. They made the title simple. The characters you all remember are exactly the same, and yes they still act like teenagers. Everything you remember, why you liked the characters, is in the movie. This script is being developed by two very smart writers, with one of the original creators of Ninja Turtles. They care VERY MUCH about making this film for the fans. Everyone on this team cares about the fans. Just give them a chance. Jonathan the director, is a major fan of the whole franchise. HE'S NOT GOING TO LET YOU DOWN," wrote Bay.
Fans were already sensitive about earlier rumors about iterations to the plot that turns the beloved mutant ninja turtles into aliens. Bay announced that the reboot of the TMNT movie saying,
"When you see this movie, kids are going to believe one day these turtles actually do exist when we are done with this movie," said Bay. "These turtles are from an alien race, and they are going to be tough, edgy, funny and completely loveable."
Director Jonathan Libesman will be working with Bay to bring the characters of Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Donatello to the next generation of turtle lovers.
"This script is being developed by two very smart writers, with one of the original creators of Ninja Turtles. They care VERY MUCH about making this film for the fans," said Bay.
The removal of 'Mutant' could possibly setup the characters with an alien origin rather than the radioactive ooze seen in the original comics. Will we be seeing alien turtles from another planet in the next turtle flick? Will fans give the potential new concept a shot? Or will fans forever hold true to the original mutant ninja turtles?
Check out some screenshots of the past Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle video games and its evolution to modern day game consoles. Click "START" to begin.
