What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Series · 1987
If you loved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, start with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) — a film from the same story. Below: 4 books, 1 film and 2 podcasts, each matched to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles across media.
What hooked you in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was the way the bond of a non-traditional family navigates strange, larger-than-life adventures.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Film · 1990
Adaptation
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze
Michael Pressman · Film · 1991
Adaptation
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III
Stuart Gillard · Film · 1993
Books on the same thread
Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories
Dr. Seuss · Book · 1958
Explores: Power and Corruption, Social Hierarchy, Rebellion.
If you enjoyed the way Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pits underdogs against powerful forces, you will appreciate these stories about rebellion and social hierarchy within an animal kingdom.
The Wind in the Willows
Kenneth Grahame · Book · 1908
Explores: Friendship, Adventure, Nature.
The camaraderie shared by the protagonists in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles finds a cozy, pastoral parallel in the loyal friendship of the four animals featured in this classic tale.
The Invisible Man
H. G. Wells · Book · 2007
Explores: Invisibility, Mad Scientist, Social Isolation.
Just as the heroes of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles hide their true selves from the public, this story explores the complex social isolation of a man with a secret.
The Magic School Bus
Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen · Book · 1986
Shares a thread with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Teamwork.
You will recognize the spirit of teamwork seen in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as this class works together to solve problems while undergoing a strange, transformative physical change.
Films on the same thread
TMNT
Kevin Munroe · Film · 2007
Shares 3 threads with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Good vs Evil, Superhero Animation, Martial Arts Animation.
This film provides a direct continuation of the team dynamics and brotherly bonds that defined Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, focusing on how a family reconnects during a crisis.
Podcasts on the same thread
The Adventure Zone
The McElroys · Podcast · 2026
Explores: improvised storytelling, group dynamics, high fantasy satire.
The irreverent group dynamics and high-stakes adventure that made Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles so entertaining are mirrored in this improvised fantasy quest featuring a family working together.
Anime Grind
Podcast
Explores: Personal Growth, Goal Setting, Positive Mindset.
If the martial arts training and resilient spirit of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles inspired you, this podcast applies those same lessons of personal growth and motivation to reality.
Keep exploring
Common questions
What order should I watch the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies in?
To follow the release sequence of the film series, start with the 1990 movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Follow this with the 1991 sequel Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze and conclude with the 1993 film titled Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III.
Is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles based on the 1987 television show?
The 1990 movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles shares the core premise of the 1987 television show. Both focus on four turtles transformed by a green glow who learn ninja skills from Master Splinter, formerly Hamato Yoshi, while receiving assistance from the news reporter April.
How long is the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie series?
The film series consists of three movies released between 1990 and 1993. This includes the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the second installment titled Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze, and the final entry in this specific set, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III.
Should I watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze after the first movie?
Yes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze is the direct sequel to the 1990 film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Watching the first movie provides the necessary background on how Hamato Yoshi became Master Splinter and how the turtles were transformed by the green glow.