This is Raphael Unleashed. The version of the Ninja Turtles I’ve always wanted to see on the big screen. Enter into the darker side of the TMNT universe. A world where brotherhood is tested, violence has consequences, and Raphael’s rage is both his greatest weapon and his greatest flaw. It’s TMNT pushed to its limits: visceral, dramatic, and a hell of a lot of fun to watch.

Let’s honor the iconic roots of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles while viewing it through a darker, cinematic lens. A grounded action thriller packed with chaos, conflict, and brutal martial arts, while carrying the emotional depth and high-stakes drama of a prestige series.

A long standing goal of mine is to create a TMNT film or episodic series. Paramount Pictures, if you’re listening… Let’s Talk.

John Likens is an Emmy Award-winning Director, Designer, and Animator based in New York City. His unique combination of artistic vision and technical skill has earned him a reputation as a sought-after creative in the Commercial, Film, and Television industries. With an eye for creating unforgettable visuals that boast a cinematic and contemporary edge, Likens has been able to create stunning commercial films for clients like Apple, Meta, Shiseido, US Army and more. He is known globally for his iconic title sequences for films like Deadpool & Wolverine, Deadpool 2, Eternals, and Iron Man 3. In the TV world he’s worked on series such as Your Friends & Neighbors, SEE, Warrior, HBO’s The Night Of, What We Do in the Shadows, and Netflix’s GODLESS.

What sets him apart is his ability to work across mediums, seamlessly transitioning from live-action commercial films to fully CG animated projects. His versatility and expertise have earned him accolades from SXSW, Clios, The ONE show, PROMAX, The Telly Awards, and most recently won the Title Sequence of the Year at The Motion Awards by Motionographer.