Director Jonathan Liebesman weighs in on this Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles business

I think we’re all getting a little sick of hearing about it, but damn if “turtle-gate” isn’t fun to get riled up about.  During the press junket for WRATH OF THE TITANS, director Jonathan Liebesman, who is bringing the turtle power back to the screen along with producer Michael Bay, cleared up quite a bit about the upcoming reboot of TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES.

Here’s the highlights:

Addressing the “alien” aspect:

“Look, it’s so funny—if everyone was such a die-hard fan, they would know that the TCRI canisters where the ooze comes from.  That is alien ooze.  Now I’m not saying what Michael said is exactly what the movie is, because we’re sitting in a room now figuring everything out.  So we don’t know, but we are like Michael said: we’re expanding it, and the expansion will be true to the mythology.  I promise you: fans will love it.”

On the mythology and original “Turtles” creator(s):

“Whatever mythology we’re building on or expanding is coming from that guy, Kevin Eastman’s head, who created the Turtles in the first place.  And so everything will tie in with the mythology; fans will be extremely excited with what we’re coming up with.  A lot of it is stuff he’s wanted to do for a long time, but just hasn’t had the opportunity because now we have the budget and things on this film to expand it in the right way.  And so, I’m happy that everyone is extremely passionate, and they will not be disappointed.  It’s all coming from the best possible place for this franchise.”

On the character of the Turtles:

“We’re definitely into the action, but for me what’s more important than that is that it’s a story about brotherhood and friendship and responsibility.  Right now, I’m with the characters because those are what attracted me to the movie.  They’re the best characters I’ll have had a chance to deal with.”

Lastly, Liebesman hinted at using motion capture for the Turtles performance, stating “All I’ll say is that I love how they did [RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES].  That was exceptional.”

Liebesman’s comments kind of feel like the voice of reason to all the tantrums and outrage over the proposed “alien” concept.  Personally, I think Michael Bay puts information out a little too brashly, attempting to be bold, but instead coming off as arrogant.  However, Liebesman seems to have a good grasp on where they’re going and it sounds like he’s got genuine passion for the project.  It’s hard to ask for more than that. 

I’m sure “turtle-gate” will continue to fan some flames, but Liebesman’s comments make me feel much more at ease about the whole thing.  Childhood rape may be over at this point.  Everyone go back about your business.