Two half-shells make a whole.
From the earliest month's of IDW's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot, there have always been various one-shots, micro-series, mini-series and other spinoffs expanding on the main series. Why not consolidate those spinoff stories into one ongoing series? That's pretty much the thinking with TMNT Universe. Not all readers will feel the need to read two simultaneous TMNT comics, but those who do check out TMNT Universe #1 will find a comic very worthy of standing alongside its sister series.
In fact, reading this issue is enough to make you wonder if IDW shouldn't have just gone the DC Rebirth route and converted the main TMNT comic into a twice-monthly series. TMNT Universe is not only very much in line with the main series in terms of tone and style, it feels like a vital addition to the franchise. This book builds directly on the current, post-Vengeance status quo as it explores the new threats that are emerging in the aftermath of Shredder's defeat. If this issue makes anything clear, it's that the future is darker and more unpredictable than ever for the Turtles. The catch is that the book doesn't completely stand on its own, and those not keen on the main series might not find much incentive to stick with TMNT Universe either.
That's not to say that TMNT Universe reads like an exact copy of its sibling. Paul Allor offsets the added darkness with an acerbic sense of humor. That humor goes a long way towards distinguishing the new villain introduced in these pages. And who doesn't love seeing the Turtles bicker with each other over which one has the best weapon?
The visuals are the one area where the book doesn't quite measure up to the main series. Damian Couceiro's expressive facial work is always a treat to behold (especially where the Turtles themselves are involved), but in general his figure work feels a bit too stiff and lacking in energy. There's not a clear flow to the action sequences, either. On the plus side, colorist Ronda Pattison makes the jump from the main comic. Her colors generate a strong, foreboding sense of mood and help maintain cohesion between the books.
For many TMNT fans, the real draw with this comic may be the backup feature. In terms of plot, there's nothing special about Leonardo battling mutant ninjas and throwing out quips. But the appeal of seeing TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman jamming with inker Bill Sienkiewicz is undeniable. Together, the two generate a wonderfully dynamic, very surreal battle sequence. It's a shame readers are only given four pages of the story in this issue, but at least that adds more incentive to keep following this series.
The Verdict
TMNT Universe #1 probably won't win over anyone who isn't already a fan of IDW's core TMNT comic. But those who already enjoy that series will find plenty to love here. TMNT Universe is a chip off the old block, but one with its own sense of humor to boot. Unfortunately, the art isn't quite up to par in the main story, though the partnership between Kevin Eastman and Bill Sienkiewicz makes the backup tale a must-read.
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