there were times where it came out incredibly cartoonish (which is to be expected. the comic book itself was like an inside joke come to life), but it had the right level of action and "edge" without being too over the top with it otherwise.

I can't speak on the sequels (my suspicion was that they were more cash grabby and kid-friendly). but that first one kind of defied expectations in a good way. I feel like the director actually gave a shit with that one.

also, if anyone hasn't seen the TMNT parodies by the dude who does the hilarious NBA Trash Talk parodies, you should watch them ASAP. that shit >>>>>>>> Teenage Mutant Ninja Noses.