On the heel of today's big announcement, how about a moment of reflection on the days that were. Above is a press photo from the first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie with Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman on the set with Leonardo. Back when two men were able to work and collaborate together to create characters and stories that inspired and brought joy to millions of people around the world.I can accept that business partnerships come and go, just as friendships do. But today's press release seems to be dripping with insincerity as far as Kevin and Peter's appreciation for each other goes. Kevin's sale of the TMNT to Peter shouldn't exclude him from being a creative mind that can occasionally be tapped for the purpose of good storytelling, but because the two of them are apparently unable to speak directly to each other, that's exactly what it does mean.
I can only hope that they'll be able to put aside they're differences just enough so that whatever participation Kevin has in next year's 25th anniversary events, there can be some sincerity showcased between these two creators. As it stands now, it seems they go as far as avoiding each other when they're at the same convention.
If the TMNT are ever going to get the respect they deserve from the world at large, there needs to be some reconciliation. There is no shame or lost pride in reconciliation; it's a standard show of being an adult.
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ReplyDeletewhat exactly caused them to drift apart over the years? While i understand that Eastman has a more hard-edge about him and possibly his approach to the characters, but... would that have anything to do with Pete's disdain or their drifting apart to now Peter owning 100%?
ReplyDeleteWe really don't know any specifics. But whatever it was, it apparently created a scar too deep for either to let bygones be bygones.
ReplyDeleteMy instinct tells me it's more Peter who is unwilling to drop the old differences/disagreements, but without knowing specifics I can't let Kevin off the hook on the matter.
On the buyout matter, however, Kevin did so willingly and voluntarily. There was nothing hostile about it.