Following the conclusion of The Last Ronin comic series’ “Re-Evolution,” TMNT fans are now buzzing about the live-action adaptation announced by Paramount Pictures last year.
Many fans will know by now that The Last Ronin centers on Michelangelo as the last surviving Ninja Turtle, who must navigate a dystopian New York in order to avenge the deaths of his brothers and Master Splinter. The upcoming film, which is said to be R-rated, will aim to capture the same intensity and emotional weight as the comic series.
But one of the most intriguing aspects for longtime fans is the potential involvement of Judith Hoag. Hoag, who played April O’Neil in the original 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film, has been asked at a string of recent comic conventions about potentially reprising her role in the new film.
While no official casting has been announced, with the film also expected to be yet another reboot in the TMNT film series, that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from spinning.
The original 1990 film remains the most beloved entry in the film series, and Hoag's return would instantly make the new adaptation a legacy sequel, connecting the new darker narrative of The Last Ronin with the original family-friendly (ish) film that introduced audiences to the Turtles on the big screen.
It would also bridge generations of TMNT fans and provide a sense of continuity while still allowing the new movie to explore mature themes.
Related: ‘TMNT’ Film Series Officially Dead in the Water as New Reboot Takes Over
Earlier this year, The Last Ronin writers, Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz, confirmed that the movie is still actively in development under Walter Hamada’s 18hz production company, with Tyler Burton Smith penning the screenplay.
While there has been little official news since the film was first announced in early 2024, Eastman noted in an interview with IGN in May that discussions with Paramount have been “wonderfully positive,” with the studio showing strong respect for the comics.
Additionally, a Last Ronin video game adaptation is also underway from Black Forest Games. Although details also remain sparse on that front, the game will allow players to step into Michelangelo’s shoes as the Last Ronin, fighting to restore justice in a dystopian version of New York City. There's also a trailer for the game, which you can watch below:
As for the film, with Hoag potentially returning and the story drawing from the comic’s rich lore, the film could serve as both a faithful continuation and an exciting new chapter in the franchise. Until then, there's plenty of Ninja Turtles content to keep fans busy.
Meanwhile, the trailer for the “RAID: Shadow Legends” Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles crossover has been unveiled.
“RAID: Shadow Legends” is a mobile role-playing video game, however, the trailer does give us a pretty good idea about how The Last Ronin might look.
But whether or not the upcoming film utilizes fully CG Ninja Turtles or goes back down the route of practical suits like those in the original 1990 film remains to be seen.
Are you excited for The Last Ronin movie and the video game? Sound off below!
