Cast
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Brian Tochi
as Leonardo (voice)
Laurie Faso
as Raphael (voice)
Robbie Rist
as Michaelangelo (voice)
Adam Carl
as Donatello (voice)
Paige Turco
as April O'Neil
David Warner
as Professor Jordon Perry
Kevin Clash
as Splinter
François Chau
as Shredder
David McCharen
as Shredder (voice)
Frank Welker
as Rahzar / Tokka (voice)
Michelan Sisti
as Michaelangelo / Soho Man
Leif Tilden
as Donatello / Foot #3
Kenn Scott
as Raphael
Toshishiro Obata
as Tatsu
Michael McConnohie
as Tatsu (voice)
Crew
Director
- Michael Pressman
Writer
- Todd W. Langen
Producer
- Thomas K. Gray
- Kim Dawson
- David Chan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Science Fiction/Adventure/Action/Comedy/Family film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Michael Pressman brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1991, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $25.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Happy Partner and Highlander explore similar territory, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 22, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $25,000,000
- Revenue: $78,656,813
