10 Best Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Animated Series & Movies

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird in 1984, have sliced through pop culture with their pizza-fueled, ninja-kicking adventures. From their gritty comic origins to colorful animated series and films, Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo remain beloved for their brotherhood and battles against Shredder and beyond.

Each animated TMNT project brings a unique flavor, whether it’s bold visuals, heartfelt stories, or wild action. I’ve listed the top 10 animated series and movies based on their impact, character depth, and how well they capture the Turtles’ spirit. Let’s jump into the sewer and explore them.

10. Mutant Turtles: Superman Legend (1996)

This Japanese OVA, loosely tied to the 1987 series, sees the Turtles gain “Super Turtle” powers via magical stones. The bizarre plot and clunky animation, despite voices like Kiyomi Yazawa, feel like a feverish detour from the TMNT core.

It’s a niche curiosity for collectors, but the odd tone and lack of focus on the Turtles’ charm make it a weak entry. Fans might enjoy the weirdness, but it’s not essential viewing.

9. Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2018-2020)

This vibrant reboot gives the Turtles mystical weapons and a new dynamic, with Raphael as leader. Voiced by Omar Miller and Ben Schwartz, the series pops with energetic animation and humor aimed at younger audiences.

The drastic changes, like Leo’s comedic role, divide fans, and the fast pace can feel chaotic. Still, its bold style and fresh take earn it a spot for its creativity.

8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2012-2017)

Nickelodeon’s CGI series blends humor and action, with Sean Astin as Raphael and Mae Whitman as April. The Turtles face Shredder, the Kraang, and more in a modern New York setting, spawning toys and games.

The slick visuals and mix of goofy and serious episodes shine, but some arcs drag over its long run. It’s a solid entry that appeals to new and old fans alike.

7. TMNT (2007)

This CGI film, featuring Chris Evans as Casey Jones and Nolan North as Raphael, reunites the Turtles after a rift to battle an ancient evil. The standout Leo-Raph fight adds emotional weight to their brotherhood.

The animation impresses, but the forgettable villain and lack of follow-up hold it back. It’s a fun, if flawed, return to the big screen for the Turtles.

6. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2003-2009)

This series leans into the darker Mirage comics vibe, with Michael Sinterniklaas voicing Leonardo. It balances ninja action with deeper themes, facing Shredder and new foes across seven seasons.

The intense battles and character growth are highlights, though some episodes feel uneven. Its gritty edge and Turtles Forever crossover make it a fan favorite.

5. Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie (2022)

This Netflix film continues the 2018 series, pitting the Turtles against Krang with help from a time-traveling Casey Jones (Haley Joel Osment). The chaotic art style and high-energy fights keep things lively.

Voiced by Kat Graham, April shines, and the emotional stakes hit hard. It’s a thrilling standalone, though its dense plot might overwhelm some viewers.

4. Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2024)

Spinning off from Mutant Mayhem, this 2D series bridges the film and its sequel. Nicolas Cantu’s Leonardo and the crew face a reimagined Agent Bishop, blending teen drama with mutant action.

The streamlined animation and focus on the Turtles’ youth add charm. It’s a fresh, engaging addition that builds on the film’s modern vibe.

3. Turtles Forever (2009)

This TV movie celebrates 25 years of TMNT by uniting the 1987, 2003, and Mirage comic Turtles against the Utrom Shredder. Directed by Lloyd Goldfine, it’s a nostalgic mash-up of humor and action.

The clever interplay between each era’s Turtles, from silly to serious, delights fans. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the franchise’s legacy that still holds up.

2. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987-1996)

The cartoon that made the Turtles global icons, voiced by Cam Clarke and Townsend Coleman, ran for 10 seasons. Its catchy theme, goofy villains like Krang, and lighthearted adventures defined a generation.

Spawning toys and a cultural craze, its simple stories brim with charm. It’s a timeless classic that captures the Turtles’ fun-loving spirit perfectly.

1. Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2019)

This crossover film teams the Turtles with Batman to stop Shredder and Ra’s al Ghul. Troy Baker’s Batman and Darren Criss’s Raphael lead a stellar cast, blending gritty action with sharp humor.

The crisp animation and epic fights, like Batman vs. Shredder, are pure joy. It’s a near-perfect fusion of both worlds, making it the ultimate TMNT animated adventure.

Which TMNT animated series or movie tops your list, or did I miss a shell-shocking favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments!