Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin (2025)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin (2025) – A Dark and Gritty Evolution of TMNT

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin” is an upcoming live-action film based on the popular 2020 IDW comic miniseries of the same name. This movie marks a significant shift in tone for the franchise, embracing a darker, more mature narrative. It is set to be the first R-rated installment in TMNT history, promising intense action, emotional depth, and a tragic story of loss and revenge.

Plot Overview

The film takes place in a dystopian future where New York City is under the brutal rule of Oroku Hiroto, the grandson of Shredder. The once-powerful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been wiped out, leaving only one survivor—Michelangelo. Unlike his previous fun-loving, lighthearted self, this version of Michelangelo is battle-hardened, grief-stricken, and driven by vengeance. Haunted by the memories of his fallen brothers—Leonardo, Raphael, and Donatello—as well as Master Splinter, he takes up their weapons and embarks on a quest to overthrow Hiroto and reclaim the city.

Live-Action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin Movie in the  Works, and It'll be Rated R - IGN

Mikey is not entirely alone in this mission. He finds an ally in April O’Neil, who has grown older and wiser over the years, and her daughter, Casey Marie Jones. Together, they seek to dismantle Hiroto’s tyrannical empire, facing overwhelming odds along the way.

TMNT: The Last Ronin (2025) - First Trailer | Warner Bros.

Production and Creative Team

The movie is being developed by Paramount Pictures, with Walter Hamada producing through his company, 18hz Productions. The screenplay is written by Tyler Burton Smith, who has worked on previous action and horror films. Though an official director has not been confirmed, James Wan (known for Saw, The Conjuring, and Aquaman) is reportedly in talks to helm the project. Wan’s expertise in blending intense action with emotional storytelling makes him an exciting choice for bringing this dark TMNT story to life.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Official Movie (2026) The Last Ronin

A New Direction for TMNT

Unlike previous TMNT films, which were aimed at younger audiences with a mix of humor and action, The Last Ronin will deliver a more mature, violent, and emotionally driven story. Inspired by classic samurai and revenge tales, it is expected to provide a fresh yet faithful adaptation of the beloved comic series. Fans of the original material and newcomers alike are eagerly anticipating this gritty reimagining of the TMNT universe.

With a compelling storyline, a talented production team, and an R-rating promising intense action, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of 2025.