Shell Shocked!

So, I’ve been feeling nostalgic today. Not quite sure why, but it’s the truth. My kids watch cartoons sometimes; they’re not the same as when I was young; much better graphics. There is a channel called Boomerang. They show classic throwback cartoons like Yogi Bear, The Smurfs, Richie Rich, and The Jetsons. They are still funny even in their not-so-politically-correct ways. Anyway, so this ‘back to the days of young’ feeling that I am having made me think of another totally awesome cartoon…The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

I love the unlikely story of radio active ooze leaking into the sewers; four unsuspecting young turtles come in contact it (and somehow survive, but if they died that wouldn’t make such a good premise would it?) and mutate. They are now human-sized, intelligent, and under the tutelage of Master Splinter who himself has become mutated through contact with the same ooze, but is full of wisdom and awesome ninja skills. He takes the four would-be ninjas, Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael, under his care to create a team of protectors of the New Yorkers that despise them so much. What is it with Superman, Spiderman, and the like getting the love/hate treatment from their resident city folk? Sorry, another post.

They are radical! Okay, that one was a bit much. My favorite is Donatello. He is virtually the co-leader with Leonardo but cool with letting him think that he’s calling the shots. And how is a walking stick that can kick some serious butt not the coolest weapon? If you haven’t guessed, I watched the cartoon, played the Nintendo game, and saw the movies. The first was the best, but number two (Secret of the Ooze) had the Super Shredder and Vanilla Ice; plus the debut of Bebop and Rocksteady. So, it couldn’t be all that bad, even if Ninja Rap was. So, if you’re feeling a little retro just remember…Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Heroes in a half-shell, Turtle Power!