Neal Moritz to Produce New Live-Action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie for Paramount

Paramount Pictures is revving up a new live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. Veteran producer Neal H. Moritz is in final talks to lead the project. This move signals a major new direction for the beloved franchise.

The studio aims to fully leverage the TMNT brand, which it wholly owns. According to The Hollywood Reporter, this is part of a broader strategy to re-examine its slate of intellectual property.

From the Fast Lane to the Sewers: A Proven Producer Takes the Wheel

Neal H. Moritz brings a proven track record of blockbuster franchises. He is the driving force behind the immensely successful *The Fast and the Furious* and *Sonic the Hedgehog* series. His company, Original Films, will produce the new TMNT film with Toby Ascher.

This decision effectively halts other planned live-action projects. *The Last Ronin*, an R-rated film, has been shelved for now. The studio prefers a fresh start with a broader, all-ages approach.

Paramount’s Strategy to “Sonic-fy” the TMNT Franchise

Insiders report Paramount wants to apply the *Sonic the Hedgehog* formula to the Ninja Turtles. The *Sonic* films are live-action/CG hybrids that appeal to all audience demographics. They have grossed over $1 billion globally for the studio.

This strategy marks a clear shift from the previous live-action films. The last attempt, 2016’s *Out of the Shadows*, underperformed commercially. The new plan prioritizes widespread family appeal over darker, niche stories.

The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie represents a calculated reboot for a cornerstone property. With a hitmaker like Moritz guiding the shell, Paramount hopes to create its next billion-dollar, four-quadrant franchise.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Who is Neal H. Moritz?

Neal H. Moritz is a veteran Hollywood producer. He is best known for the *The Fast and the Furious* and *Sonic the Hedgehog* film franchises. His involvement signals Paramount’s serious commitment to the TMNT reboot.

How is this different from the animated movie?

This new project is planned as a live-action/CG hybrid. It is separate from the ongoing animated series, which includes 2023’s *Mutant Mayhem* and its planned sequel. The two will exist as distinct franchises.

What happened to the ‘The Last Ronin’ movie?

*The Last Ronin* has been shelved by Paramount’s new leadership. The project was envisioned as an R-rated, adult-oriented story. The studio decided it was not the right tone for the franchise’s live-action return.

When will this new movie be released?

No release date has been announced for the Moritz-produced live-action film. The sequel to the animated *Mutant Mayhem* is still scheduled for a September 2027 release. The two projects are on separate development tracks.

Why is Paramount making this change?

Paramount fully owns the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IP. The studio is looking to maximize its value with a proven, family-friendly approach. The commercial success of the *Sonic* films provides a clear blueprint.