Chris Cooper reviews Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #29…
“Recovering from the events of City Fall, the Turtles seek sanctuary in the countryside. They bring with them new questions, tension within the family — and a stowaway! Don’t miss this first issue of the newest TMNT arc, “Northampton”!”
City Fall was a massive event in the TMNT universe. The story not only had massive repercussions for the characters, but was a huge dose of action and excitement. Following on from that could have been a hard task, but #29 gives everyone, including us, some time to start to decompress.
It really is the perfect way to follow such a strong story arc.
Anyone who reads my reviews will know I can’t stop complimenting Mateus Santolouco’s artwork. But Ross Campbell’s subtler, more calming style suits the story perfectly. His work may not be as jaw droppingly kinetic, but the emotion he is able to create on the turtles (who spend a fair amount of time sans mask) is incredible. Several panels really hit hard with their emotional impact.
Seeing Raphael dribbling in his sleep, and Donatello use a headlamp to read through the night are touching elements that add character and draw you in. Great stuff.
Now that the physical battle is over for the most part, it’s time for the whole cast to try to heal. This is reflected in April’s Father who is recuperating from a stroke. The hope is that the fresh air and open space will help him. Hopefully it will help our mutants too.
Whilst you’re here, check out the cover. How beautiful is that? It captures the solitude of Leo and the beauty of the surroundings amazingly well.
The final pages hint at some massive secrets soon to be revealed. TMNT starts a new arc meaningfully, whilst finishing 2013 in fantastic form.
Chris Cooper
Originally published December 18, 2013. Updated April 11, 2018.
