Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is probably one of the best long-running series within the comic book medium. Sophie Campbell’s run on this book is a masterclass in taking characters from their lowest point and show their rise. Even further, she is capable of utilizing some wonderful tropes of the genre to create these wonderful human threads. Yes, our characters are anthropomorphic. Yes, our characters are the reincarnations of themselves in the form of turtles. But, these characters feel implausibly human, and Campbell’s rendering of them simply massages the heart.
For anyone who has experienced loss, or knows what it means to have experienced setbacks or trauma, this run is a dedication to you. Campbell relays the difficulty of trying to rally yourself and trying to be better after a massive setback. But this issue is all about rising back up, and it is so gratifying to see. Campbell has done an awesome job in nurturing the emotional needs of her story while still showcasing some wonderful visual set pieces.
IDW Publishing
The artwork is consistently flawless and easily some of the best additions to the current moments of character interaction. The world of Mutant Town has become a further safe haven for the Turtles, but also has made for a wonderful new world. Genuinely, this setting is a great new avenue for the turtles to perform the great premise of this issue: going to a concert.
This issue is reminiscent of the books of the French New Wave, which allows for these simple etchings that can ruminate on a subject and are more meditative than rushed. Campbell succeeds in allowing each issue to breathe, but also have these beautiful moments that can just excite. A standout of this run has been the character of Jennika being the catalyst for how everyone is able to bring each other together.
Colorist Ronda Pattison helps this issue pop with bold colors. The unique aesthetics laced with beautifully different shades give a unique flair to each subject within the panels. Furthermore, letters by Shawn Lee do a great job serving as a voice for each character.
Simply put, this is a run that defines what comics is all about: fun. Campbell always adds new flairs to her series, and never relents on being distinguished in her creative voice. Every issue is a magnificent splendor for all involved.
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