The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are storming back into theaters this summer as the original 1990 live-action film celebrates its 35th anniversary with a special re-release.
On August 17 and 20, fans can relive the gritty, pizza-fueled magic on the big screen, courtesy of Fathom Entertainment, Saga Arts, and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group.
This celebratory re-release includes a brand-new featurette, Turtles Unmasked, which promises never-before-seen archival footage, extended deleted scenes, and intimate behind-the-scenes moments captured on home video. It also features fresh commentary from director Steve Barron and was produced alongside the team behind TMNT: Evolution, Mutation & Reboot.
The 1990 film was a cultural phenomenon, blending the indie comic’s darker tones with just the right amount of humor and heart. With the help of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, the Turtles came to life in practical costumes that still impress today. Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo were voiced by a cast that included Brian Tochi, Corey Feldman, Josh Pais, and Robbie Rist, with Kevin Clash lending gravitas to the wise Splinter. Judith Hoag and Elias Koteas grounded the chaos as April O’Neil and Casey Jones.
Co-creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird were hands-on with the adaptation, keeping creative control to preserve the authenticity of their gritty Mirage Studios comics. In a 2023 interview with IGN, Eastman reflected: “It was the perfect storm. Steve Barron’s vision, Todd Langen’s script, and Jim Henson’s artistry-it just clicked. We were lucky to keep full control and ensure the Turtles stayed true to our vision.”
The re-release doesn’t stop at nostalgia; it’s part of a wider celebration. A 4K physical release is on the way, and fan buzz already hints at dreams of a return to the big screen for Secret of the Ooze-perhaps even with a blast of Vanilla Ice’s iconic “Go Ninja, Go Ninja, Go.”
From the unforgettable soundtrack to the grounded visuals and memorable fights-especially the showdown with Shredder-this film remains a fan favorite decades later. While newer versions have come and gone, the 1990 original still stands tall in its shell.
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