Comic-Con 2014: Jonathan Liebesman on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Director of Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesJonathan Liebesman, chatted with CraveOnline‘s William Bibbiani about the film’s upcoming release and about some of the difficulties and joys associated with having the honor of being at the helm of such a project. He first asked him if it was an easy thing to take on, followed by seeing whether his influences were more from the comics or the show. Jonathan clearly noted that he wished there to be darkness to a certain extent without the film, evened out with humor and the silliness we all know and love from the cartoon and comics. Lastly, William asked if pop culture influence (which was heavy in the past), changed to mold itself around modern times. This mainly was addressing surfer speak and things of that nature. Jonathan reassured that the turtles wouldn’t be speaking in hashtags. (#lame!)

Related: Comic-Con 2014: More Avengers: Age of Ultron Concept Art

Liebesman, a South African film director, studied filmmaking at the South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance. He then transferred to NYU’s Tisch School of Arts. His first feature film debuted in ’02 with Darkness Falls. Jonathan also created a short film, entitled Rings, that connected The Ring and its sequel together. Michael Bay noticed this and had him as the director for The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning. Mr. Liebesman went on to direct such hits as The Killing Room, Battle Los Angeles, and Wrath of the Titans.

His current project, TMNT, sees Shredder and the Foot Clan having nearly total control of New York city. Politicians and even police are not beyond their grip, and it’s up to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to work with reporter April O’Neil to help rid the city of the evil Shredder’s influence and presence.

TMNT hits theaters August 8th, 2014 in the USA. Don’t forget to check back later for more of CraveOnline‘s Comic-Con 2014 coverage! 

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