Welcome to this community-fueled script-restoration sideblog! This here be the Masterpost. Prolly a good place to start. So, questions first...
What is this project?
It's an attempt to restore the original outline of Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from before it got unnoficially cancelled. You see, Rise's season 2 was originally planned to have approximately 25 episodes but that number was cut in half at the behest of Nickelodeon, leading to us only getting half of the season released. Right now, this project's goal is just to put together a firm concept for what the show COULD have looked like and to create scripts or comics of each episode, keeping as true to the show as possible. If anyone is motivated, we will also restore the episodes into full animations in the future.
What will be changed about the show?
Essentially just the finale, the last four episodes, which will be drawn out over several brand-new episodes. We have no plans to change anything that would alter the movie's setting at this time. The season should, ideally, end on a similar note and place as the original show does.
Who can help with this project?
Anyone motivated to! This isn't a high-pressure project that requires you to have insane levels of skill writing or drawing or anything, or even much time to devote. It's just something to enjoy doing, so anyone who is interested is welcome!
How can I help?
Just being here is support enough for us! But if you want to adopt a script you can take a look at the concepts and volunteer by commenting on the post, or by sending a DM to @snowbriar. All the concept drafts have been finished, so right now we have 28 episodes that are neither written nor drawn in any way.
What's the status right now?
After a six-month hiatus, we are currently sharing completed concepts and some scripts for the project and are needing writers or artists to flesh out some of these concepts!
We hope you enjoy! I will update the questions as needed so let me know if you still have any.
Rules and Disclaimer below.
Episode Scripts start here
Episode Concepts Start Here
Resources
Disclaimer: this is a fan-run non-profit project. All rights of the TMNT franchise and likenesses belong to Paramount.
Rules/statement: criticize with kindness, compliment with authenticity. This blog is for a show marketed towards children so please help keep this space clean and safe. Tcest dni. Proship dni. SFW.
Summary: while mysteriously stood up in a roommate/assistant/best friend get-together, Warren Stone begins to question if he's being replaced. As it turns out, he IS being replaced in at least one area of his turtle-hating villainous life--by his literal better half, AKA: Warren Stone 2.0?! As Warren is caught in the middle of a clearly losing battle between the turtles and his seemingly superior bearded clone, grown and raised by April O'Neill herself, Warren finds his own heroic worth as he battles one on one with Warren 2.0.
Second in a series. Warren Stone 2.0 follows up after Hypno is kidnapped by Shadow Fiend in 'The Clothes Don't Make the Turtle' episode.
If you want to watch what little we have of the official storyboard for this episode, check it out here.
A restored script can be read here on Ao3.
Screenshots in edit by @rottmnt-background-screenshots and @randomrottmntscreenshots !
Summary: Raph is excited to go to his hero Ghostbear's wedding, and Mikey decides to tag along. But because it's an exclusive villains-only party, they are turned away. However, they soon realize that they have accidentally gifted Ghostbear a black hole machine and they have to take on the personas of Shadybug and Dr Rude to sneak in. Once inside, they soon realize that the happy couple is not so happy, and Mikey tries to get Ghostpepper's side of the story while Raph grabs the black hole machine. Eventually, despite setbacks, it's revealed that none of the guests care about Ghostbear and are all there because they are fans of Ghostpepper, and not even Ghostbear's best friend Meatsweats showed up to the wedding. Raph inspires them with a rousing speech about the only thing that's important is being each other's biggest fans, and the happy couple is happily wed. Although they are also kidnapped by Shadow Fiend right after.
First in a series of concepts, long in the making. I took a several-month break from working on these, but they have been done for a while. This concept has actually already been turned into a script! You can read it on Ao3 here.
If you want to see what little we have of the official animatic, you can check it out here!
Next
Screenshots in edit by @rottmnt-background-screenshots and @randomrottmntscreenshots !
I also compiled the ROTTMNT: Wedding Crashers clips. I tried to prioritize better quality so it's a little all over the place. This is just for media archival purposes. If anyone has any cleaner or additional clips let me know and I'll be happy to throw them in!
Another piece for the ROTTMNT Open the Floodgates and it's a couple of fake screenshots from the cut storyboard of Episode 28, "Shadow of Evil." This little homage to the 90's film made me so happy since it's my favorite of the TMNT films (and I love that Mikey still only uses paper, as mentioned earlier in the series). The background is a cleaned-up screenshot, the original boards were drawn by @jjconway and the Donnie and Mikey are drawn by me.
Still love this show and all its little gems, @nickelodeon @paramountpictures
Warren Stone sits alone at a table for two, looking impatient and disappointed as he checks the time.
WARREN
Breaking News: more like a breaking
heart! My roomie/partner/best friend is
a no-show. I thought we were supposed
to be working on card tricks, not a
disappearing act. I don’t suppose he’s
gotten a…new assistant? But who could
be better than me?! I’m THE Warren Stone!
A distracted waiter walks by his table, reading from a list.
WAITER
Stone…Stone…sorry, I don’t see your
name on the list. You’ll have to wait
at the back of the line with everyone
else without a reservation.
WARREN
But you already seated me–
Nevertheless, Warren is booted onto the sidewalk with a splat where he picks himself up with frustration.
WARREN
(angrily)
Newsflash: tensions are dangerously
high. Isn’t there anyone who still
knows the name of–!
MIKEY
Warren Stone! He’s this way!
Mikey, in hot pursuit, unknowingly squishes Warren Stone underfoot as he runs past. Warren peels himself back up in confusion.
WARREN
Wait, was that one of those loser
mutant turtles? The fuel to my burning
hatred and my greatest ne–
SQUISH–it’s Raph’s foot on him next as he and Donnie run after Mikey.
RAPH
Our greatest nemesis! Or one that I can
remember off the top of my head,
anyway. Who knew he could fight like that?
DONNIE
The peril I feel right now has placed
him at least in the top three.
As Raph and Donnie run off, Warren shakily stands back up, looking pained, yet oddly touched and proud.
WARREN
They really see me as their greatest
nemesis? Finally! It’s about time they
recognized me for–
SQUASH–Leo takes a breather from running, standing directly on Warren with April not far behind.
LEO
That fabulous beard! Seriously, April,
did you see it? I could not take my
eyes off it.
APRIL
(nervous)
Um, nope, I know nothing about beard
maintenance, why would I know that??
Come on, he went this way!
LEO
(looks under foot)
Oh, gross. Look out for gum on the
sidewalk, guys.
April runs past while Leo scrapes off Warren and continues after them. Warren presses himself up for the final time, looking crumbled.
WARREN
Beard? Ugh, talk about misinformation!
It’s time for me to STEP UP from being
STEPPED ON and be the greatest greatest
nemesis they’ll ever encounter!But
just in case…
EXT. OUTSIDE CLEM’S STOREFRONT - DAY
Warren drags a series of bear traps behind him through the street until he reaches the sidewalk.
WARREN
Now to raid Clem’s secret stash of
mystic weaponry, and if those turtles
try to stop me, these bear traps–I’m
rebranding ‘turtle traps’–will capture
them once and for all!
The window of Clem’s Candy store is suddenly hit from within by an energy blast strong enough to explode the window, and out flies Raph, Donnie, Leo, and April, who all land hard on the opposite side of the street, each in their own style of defeat.
April sits up and shakes herself back into focus.
APRIL
(disappointed)
Aw, man…
That’s when April catches sight of her idol - THE Warren Stone! The worm smoothly fixes his fabulous pompadour back into perfection.
Another zap sounds, and now it’s Mikey’s turn to get tossed out the window. His path sets off the bear traps as he passes through the air, causing them all to snap shut in a backfired chain reaction onto Warren Stone’s gummy-worm bod.
The turtles and April gather themselves into an opposing defense, weapons drawn.
DONNIE
(to Warren)
Stand back, total stranger! We are
fighting our greatest foe.
Warren begins peeling the traps off himself.
WARREN
Stranger?! NO! I am your gr–
From the remains of the storefront stands what appears to be ANOTHER Warren…with a fabulous beard??
WARREN 2
Dateline now: you turtles are toast.
WARREN
Newsflash: this story just took a
shocking turn!
Warren 2 gives an evil grin as he pulls out a bow, which was the source of the energy blasts that took out the window. The turtles scatter to avoid his rapid fire, splitting into teams.
Raph jumps in front of Donnie, blocking several blasts before he gets knocked back, and they both crash into a building.
Mikey and Leo use their weapons to team up, and Leo creates a portal, almost landing a hit on Warren 2–but the worm smugly dodges and blasts Leo out of frame.
April sneaks up to grab the original Warren and runs off with him in her hands.
APRIL
Keep fightin’! I’ll get this guy I
totally don’t recognize to safety!
WARREN
I am not leaving until I crack the
story of this troublesome twin!
Mikey runs up alongside April.
MIKEY
Are you talking about Warren Stone 2,
total stranger?
Another blast fires from Warren II and Mikey ducks his head into his shell to dodge.
WARREN
How can you not know my name?! It’s the
same name as HIS!
MIKEY
You’re Warren 2, too?
Mikey’s not so lucky with the next blast and gets knocked into a wall while April keeps running with Warren.
WARREN
NO, I AM WARREN STONE…uh–ACTUAL!
April stops to hide behind a mailbox near where Raph and Donnie are taking cover in the alcove of a building.
RAPH
Wait a minute–
(dodges energy beams)
–Hey, guys, he does look
familiar…April, aren’t you the
president of this news guy’s fan club?
Leo pipes up from inside the garbage can he’d been blasted into. Ah, so that’s where he went…
LEO
So, how are there two of him then?
An energy blast knocks Leo and his garbage can over.
DONNIE
Quite the conundrum. April, can we get
your thoughts on this before you slink
away unnoticed?
April pauses from attempting exactly that, looking guilty as she still holds onto Warren.
APRIL
(unconvincingly)
Slink away? Me? Never!
(beat)
(drops the act)
Okaaaay, my secret’s out. Warren 2 may
or may not be, but definitely is, the
arm I sliced off of Warren 1.
INT. APRIL’S APARTMENT - FLASHBACK
Warren Stone’s severed arm in a frame mutating over time.
APRIL
(Voice Over)
See, the arm kinda kept growing ‘til it
was a totally new Warren!
A fully grown and bearded Warren 2 comes to terms with his newfound consciousness.
WARREN 2
This just in: my arm is rocking this
new bod - not to mention, a beard.
April quickly turns from shocked to thrilled.
APRIL
(VO cont.)
(excited)
My very own Warren Stone! It was like a
dream come true! So I raised this
anchorworm as my own. Even helped him
figure out what the best side for the
camera was.
April helps teach Warren 2 proper beard maintenance. Warren 2 contemplates in a hand mirror.
WARREN 2
My left side? But my other cheekbone is
way more chiseled–
April shows him a photo reference from her phone.
WARREN 2
(self-admiring)
Oh, you’re right! Where have you been
all my life, left side?
APRIL
(VO Cont.)
It was great! Until he started worming
his way from sweet to sour, and he
broke bad. He did what he wanted. I
don’t know where I went wrong.
Shots of April catching Warren 2 drinking milk straight from the container, stealing the game controller outside of his turn, recklessly juggling several items including Mayhem, the milk jug, and a knife.
Then April opens the door to an apartment, her window left open.
APRIL
And then one day, he just split.
EXT. NEW YORK STREETS - END OF FLASHBACK.
RAPH
Huh. Did you try giving him juice with
less sugar? That’s what we had to do
for Donnie when he started showing
signs of being particularly vengeful.
Donnie frowns at this.
APRIL
This isn’t my fault!
LEO
So you’re saying you didn't teach him
how to hotwire a crane?
Leo gestures to where Warren 2 is doing just that.
APRIL
(guilty)
…So? I also taught him how to tie his
tie. Does that mean I’m responsible if
he uses widely available knowledge to,
say, tie you up and use your shells to
make a wrecking ball and break into a
bank?
WARREN 2
Ooh, what an excellent idea.
MIKEY
A classic nature vs nurture–AHH!
April has only a moment to look guilty before Warren 2 uses a remote control on the crane to go after and snatch up the turtles, who unsuccessfully attempt to scatter. April dives just in time with Warren behind a van.
APRIL
You gotta do something, Warren!
WARREN
Folks…
Warren stares longingly into the distance, where the turtles are getting thrashed around by the crane. Warren 2’s laughter echoes through the air.
WARREN
(defeated)
It seems that Warren Stone - top
headliner, news anchor, and greatest
foe of the mutant turtles is
being…upstaged.
Warren scrunches his face in anger. April’s face lights up in determination.
APRIL
(reporter voice)
Is he going to sit here and take it?
Find out in our next update with April
O'Neill.
WARREN
I like your lingo, kid. But what can I
do? I’m afraid this reporter is…old news.
APRIL
Join the club. Look, I know how it
feels to put so much work into
something you’re proud of only for it
to grow a beard, disregard the better
half of your advice, and terrize your
friends like you specifically told him
not to.
WARREN
…You lead a strange life.
April
I know. And I know this wouldn’t have
happened if I hadn’t harvested your
severed arm-
WARREN
Wait, wha -
APRIL
But I thought that I could create
another you, or at least have an idol
that wasn’t missing in action or a
lousy mutant super villain.
Warren looks visibly offended.
WARREN
Ignoring your unsolicited criticism,
there are bigger problems at hand.
Perhaps dwelling on old news is the
worst thing a reporter can do.
April nods her head enthusiastically, a big smile growing.
APRIL
Then why don’t we show this overgrown
disaster that we’re not the ones to be
overlooked! Together as a team, we can
take your copy down!
WARREN
Teamwork…yes! I’m familiar with this
method. Well then, O'Neill. It’s time
to chase the hottest trail.
APRIL
Aw, yeah!
They bump fists.
Cut to:
SLAM! The turtle-made wrecking ball hits the building, the growing hole revealing the targeted safe. Warren controls this all from on top of a billboard.
WARREN 2
One more swing and I’ll be in the
vault.
Cut to an annoyed Leo within the tied bundle of wrecking ball turtles.
LEO
You'll be in the vault?! We're the ones
doing all the work!
RAPH
(under his breath)
Pipe down, Leo! Don’t make him mad…
LEO
Or what–he’ll smash us into a wall?
WARREN 2
Mutant turtles about to make me king of
the news! Story at 11.
Warren 2 violently swings them back to gear for another slam against the building.
LEO
(weakly)
I blame you for letting me talk.
WARREN
We interrupt with a breaking story: ME!
As April drives into the scene, Warren leaps from the van to stretch himself between two lightposts, his elastic body stopping the turtle’s swing a mere inch from impact with the safe. The turtles celebrate–except Donnie.
DONNIE
No, no, no, no, no–no cheering yet!
They slingshot backwards.
DONNIE
Clearly you all forgot my four-part
lecture series on elastic recoil.
The turtles’ shells create a few new craters as they bounce between buildings while Warren watches.
WARREN
Let’s go live to April for an update on
taking over the crane.
April pops up from a nest of wires.
APRIL
I’ve almost got control!
WARREN 2
Too late, April, but I appreciate you
raising me. I’ll be sure to thank you
at this year’s Newsies. And beardies!
(narrows eyes)
As for you, Old Warren…
WARREN
Hold on, who are you calling old?
Warren springs forward through the air toward his newest nemesis, dodging his original–and still swinging–turtle nemesi along the way.
MIKEY
Hey, it’s that other worm guy who’s not
Warren 2!
WARREN
You know, it’s making it very hard for
me to save you.
Warren leaps onto equal footing with Warren 2 in a stand-off. Meanwhile, April sparks two wires together.
APRIL
Just one more wire…got it! Crane
license ahoy!
April yanks on the levers on the crane, then leans out the window to the turtles.
APRIL
I’m sorry I got you kidnapped, but
you’re safe now!
The momentum of April’s licensed crane maneuver sends the brothers flying into yet another solid wall, where they safely groan with pain.
LEO
(sarcastic)
Oh, well, thank you for that, but we’ll
take our chances with the evil worm.
Cut to the warring Warrens on top of the billboard. Warren 2 flares his beard like the blade of an ax.
WARREN 2
You’re no match for the future king of
the news!
Warren matches his move with his own sword-like pompadour.
WARREN
Oh, please, you’re yesterday’s news.
I'M king of the news!
Their battle is fierce–hair-raising even! Until Warren is flung down onto the ground below, defeated. Warren 2 jumps down to stand over him victoriously, ready to end it with one last chiseled grin until–SQUISH!
Warren 2 disappears underneath the turtle-wrecking ball as April finally sets them down onto solid ground.
APRIL
No one steals Warren Stone’s headlines!
Warren 2 crawls out from under the turtle pile, having seen better days.
WARREN 2
You win today. This is Warren Stone 2,
signing off…for now…
Warren 2 pulls out a mystic jewel and slams it into the ground, creating a portal through which he disappears.
WARREN
Well, you are Warren 2 for a reason.
APRIL
And don’t come back!
(victorious laughter)
We make a pretty great team, huh?
WARREN
Your skills on the field aren’t half
bad, kid. In fact, working by your side
has made me long for my long-lost
roommate/partner/best friend. It’s
been a while since I’ve seen his
hippo-like face. His case will be my
next trail.
APRIL
Hypno? What happened to him?
WARREN
(looks to camera)
Find out next on Channel 6 News!
Still tied up with his brothers, Leo blinks at the original Warren Stone in front of him.
INT. Lair Main: We see Raph scrolling through social media and Mikey on the floor, sketching something in his notebook. Raph suddenly gasps and clicks on a post by Ghostbear. The post says WEDDING OF TWO FAMOUS WRESTLERS, GHOSTBEAR AND GHOSTPEPPER, TODAY.
1. Raph
Ghostbear’s getting married?!
2. Mikey
What?! Lemme see!
Mikey squeezes in to see and Raph reads the article aloud.
3. Raph
Two famous wrestlers, the renowned Ghostbear and the remarkable Ghostpepper, publicly announced their engagement only a week ago and today is the day when they finally tie the knot.(Long gasp as Raph stares into space) Mikey. MIKEY. My idol is getting hitched, I’m so proud of him! I gotta get ready so I can see it!
Mikey grabs Raph’s phone as he drops it to run to the closet. He squints at the screen and reads aloud.
4. Mikey
This is a private event. Villains and family only.
Raph jumps back over and stares at the screen, tears beginning to form in his eyes. He snatches the phone away.
5. Raph
Eh, Ghostbear and I are like family, it’ll be fine!
6. Mikey
In that case, I’m coming too! Since the family of my family is my family.
7. Raph
That doesn’t- I mean- Alright, just behave yourself. But we really should bring a gift of some sort. Ghostbear deserves only the best on his wedding day!
INT. Lair Kitchen: Splinter is looking at the settings on a seemingly ordinary toaster.
8. Splinter
Let’s see… Light, medium, ooh, universe crushing.
He sets the toaster to universe crushing and turns away, followed by a blackhole appearing and ripping his clothes off as he screams and a turkey falls out of the fridge. The blackhole disappears as the toast pops up.
9. Splinter
As a tired father of four teenage boys, I reserve the right to pretend like I know nothing about this. I’m sure my sons will learn some sort of life changing lesson from my uninvolvement.
Splinter grabs his toast and walks away. Raph and Mikey enter a moment later, looking around for something to give as a gift. Random shots of them lifting up and looking behind things, including Raph picking up the fridge. Mikey and Raph both slowly rise up from behind the counter, eyeing the toaster.
10. Raph
I’ve never seen this around here before. But everybody knows that a shiny toaster is the perfect wedding gift! Let’s get going!
EXT. NYC: Mikey and Raph strut outside with a dynamic shot identical to their villain entrance, except they are wearing suits and ties and no explosion, instead, sparkles, and Raph carrying a toaster wrapped in a pink bow. Raph looks down at his phone, which shows the picture of the creepy church. Fades to them being there and walking up to the front steps where Foot Lieutenant and Foot Brute are taking attendance, with a big sign that says VILLAINS WELCOME, NO HEROES ALLOWED.
11. Raph
What do you mean you won’t let us in? I’m Ghostbear’s best bud!
12. Foot Lieutenant
Putting aside the uncomfortable fact that we are mortal enemies meeting in a professional situation, you are not on the guest list and do not have an invitation. Also, the sign clearly states No Heroes Allowed, and you are the most disgustingly heroic creatures we know.
General look of anger and horror from crowd. Raph looks nervous and waves to them awkwardly.
13. Mikey
Lemme handle this, Raph. Good sirs, we only wish to pay our respects to the happy couple. We have brought a gift for them, and want to wish them all the joy in the world, because-
Foot Brute rips the present out of Mikey’s hands and flings it into the gift pile. Mikey looks upset.
14. Foot Brute
Yeah yeah, whatever. Now scram! You’re holding up the line, do-gooders!
Mikey and Raph walk back around the corner, dejected.
15. Raph
Aw, man. I was really looking forward to this! But I’m not compromising my honor by sneaking into a wedding where I don’t belong.
16. Mikey
They were so rude! Are all villains that rude? Wait, Donnie’s calling me.
Mikey picks up the phone and Donnie’s voice comes through.
17. Donnie
Mikey, did you happen to see my black-hole generating device laying around the lair? It looks like a brand new shiny, wedding-gift-worthy toaster.
Mikey and Raph realize. Raph starts to panic.
18. Mikey
Uhhh, this is a harmless black hole toaster, right?
19. Donnie
Oh yeah, if you count destroying all matter in a thirty foot radius harmless. Just let me know if you see it.
Mikey nods, sweating nervously, and slowly hangs up, just his hand moving as he slowly hits the hang up button.
20. Mikey
Anything for you, D. Byeeeee. OMIGOSH, WE JUST ATTEMPTED TO ASSASSINATE GHOSTBEAR!
The two start panicking.
21. Raph
We can’t just leave something as dangerous as a black hole generating toaster in the middle of a wedding! We have to get it back. And if we want to get in there and rescue Ghostbear, it’s going to have to be undercover. As villains.
22. Mikey
Aw, yeah. Super villain roleplay!
23. Raph
We just need to find a disguise…
They look across the street, spotting a stand covered in pigeons that reads CONVENIENT COSTUMES CO. and is run by a sad little bird yokai. Raph and Mikey look at each other knowingly. Various cuts of them donning their new costumes, followed by Mikey and Raph walking away from CONVENIENT COSTUMES CO. as the stand EXPLODES, flinging pigeons and feathers everywhere. SHADYBUG and DR. RUDE appears above their heads in strong text.
Mikey and Raph march forward with determination, and Mikey gets rid of some stray pigeons caught in his coat.
24. Raph
Aw yeah! Remember, we’ve got a mission. We’ve gotta keep a low profile. And I’m only saying so because you sometimes get a little carried away.
25. Mikey
Carried away? I never get carried away!
26. Raph
Mikey. You already have henchmen.
Cut to a full shot of Mikey, surrounded by three UGANDAN KNUCKLES.
27. Mikey
It is good to be rude, baby!
Mikey puts on a pair of sunglasses and the Henchmen follow suit.
28. Raph
Mikey!
He struts confidently offscreen while Raph is fuming in frustration. They approach the front of the church again, encountering Foot Brute and Foot Lieutenant.
29. Foot Lieutenant
Excuse me young sir, are you on the guest list?
30. Dr. Rude
Nope! Stay fresh, cheese bag.
Mikey continues into the open door, past a stunned Foot Lieutenant.
31. Raph
You’ll have to excuse my friend, he’s rude. We’re totally not heroes dressed as fake villains thanks bye!
Raph follows after Mikey, and Warren Stone climbs up the steps after them.
32. Warren Stone
The name’s Warren Stone and tonight’s top story will be my saucy dance moves.
Saucy dance moves commence and the Foot look tired. Cut to…
INT. CHURCH: Decorations and traditional mexican imagery cover the place, it’s spooky and very cool. Raph steps over to a balcony that overlooks the whole building, wondering at everything.
33. Raph
Pinatas and ghosts! Ha! I always imagined Ghostbear getting married on an iceberg in hawaii, but this works.
Raph looks out across the balcony, looking around at all the guests below. Panning shot as he looks around the room for the toaster, which he eventually spots.
34. Raph
Bingo! (Villain Voice) Now we just gotta grab the black hole toaster without drawing too much attention to ourselves.
Mikey’s voice is heard offscreen.
35. Dr Rude
Step ASIDE posers! Make way for the biggest, BADDEST, villain in this place.
Mikey makes his way through a crowd of villains, throwing a pie in one’s face, jabbing his fingers at another, and smashing a poster on the last one’s back while pulling his pants down.
Raph is fuming and losing a grip on his villain voice as he hisses down at Mikey.
36. Raph
You’re gonna blow our cover, Dr. Carried Away! (To Himself)
OK, Shadybug. You got this. All you gotta do is stay focused and- GHOSTBEAR?!
While Raph is encouraging himself Ghostbear phases up out of the middle of the floor and Raph gets excited, scrambling and bouncing up and down.
37. Raph
Wait! Ghostbear! I should be your best man!
Raph leaps from the balcony, flying majestically forward until gravity kicks in and he collapses into a table of food. The table is obliterated and Raph is covered in food.
38. Raph
Sorry about the table, mister bear!
39. Ghostbear
Ah oi! Another problema. Nothing is going right today.
Ghostbear leaves without recognizing Raph. Mikey appears behind him, both he and the minions glaring at his brother.
40. Mikey
Way to stay on mission, Raph!
41. Raph
What? You’re the one getting carried away!
42. Mikey
Says the guy who just jumped off a balcony to save his idol!
The air crackles with static as the two brothers face off in a staring contest until Raph finally relents.
43. Raph
Okay, fine. We both made some mistakes. But from here on out we stay on mission.
Raph attempts to fist bump with his brother, Mikey begins to but then dodges the truce with style.
44. Mikey
I’m deep in character now!
Raph puts Mikey in a wrestling lock and squeezes him. The henchmen jump up and down like angry rabbits. They are interrupted when Raph looks over to see Ghostbear and Ghostpepper talking. Ghostbear sadly phases into the floor after whatever is said.
45. Raph
The happy couple’s not so happy. Think it’d be rude to ask what’s wrong?
46. Mikey
(gleefully) Why, yes it would!
Mikey squeezes out of Raph’s hold. Cut to shot of the fitting room door, then to
INT. FITTING ROOM: Ghostpepper sits despondently in the middle of the room, surrounded by brightly colored decor, outfits, and various wrestling items. There’s a knock at the door.
47. Mikey (offscreen)
Knock knock!
Mikey pops through a paper divider and sticks his head through, surprising Ghostpepper.
48. Mikey
I know it’s rude to interrupt, which is why I did it. Is there something wrong? You can tell me. I’m a doctor.
49. Ghostpepper
You are the only person who noticed. The only one of these locos who seems to care.
50. Mikey
Yeah, I’m not listening, but please continue.
51. Ghostpepper
(Gasps) So rude! I love it.
Ghostpepper begins to explain, while Mikey is reclining and reading a book at the same time.
52. Ghostpepper
My beloved thinks that the wedding is ruined because Meatsweats didn’t show up, and he was supposed to be best man, pisa rane!
Ghostpepper flings her hand into the divider, narrowly missing Mikey, and sending a powerful blast of energy across and through the church to the outside. Mikey stares in disbelief
53. Mikey
Meatsweats and Ghostbear are amigos?
54. Ghostpepper
Best amigos! But Meatsweats must have been faking just to learn my family’s recipe for picadillo del-
Mikey rudely pokes at her to interrupt.
55. Mikey
Stop talking, lady. I’m going to rudely jump to my conclusion. Meatsweats flaked, so now you need a new best man, right?
56. Ghostpepper
Si.
57. Mikey
Lucky for you, I know the perfect guy to fill in for what’s his sweats.
INT. CHURCH LOBBY. There is a pile of presents centered on a toaster with a generic ribbon wrapped around it.
58. Raph (In Villain Voice)
Mission accomplished! Now that I’ve got the black hole generator, we can stay for cake!
The lights go dim and music starts to play. The altar gets brighter.
59. Todd
Who’s ready to have some fun!
Raph gasps and scrambles for a seat, getting pushed and thrown before he finds a spot. A mariachi band plays, and several trumpeters pop out of nowhere to play the intro music. Ghostbear swallows nervously. The doors to the church are throw open as flames light up the walls, showing GP and GB in big letters. Ghostpepper bursts in, greeting her fans and showing off her powers. Ghostbear goes from worried to ‘I love this woman so much’ in an instant. Ghostpepper struts down the aisle, and someone throws her a little cow creature. She sucks the energy out of it and it shrivels up. She throws it behind her and it explodes into a dramatic cloud. She reaches the altar and swings around Ghostbear’s neck as the whole room explodes. The audience is covered in debris and there’s a pause before everyone cheers.
Ghostpepper looks up at Ghostbear, who smiles at her. They take each other’s hands and eskimo kiss. Todd pops up between them, dressed as a priest.
60. Todd
Wow, that was a lot of pyro, amiright? Anyhoo, I’m Todd!
Todd begins to officiate the wedding, meanwhile we cut back to Raph, who is looking around a little.
61. Raph
Wait a minute, where’s Mikey?
Raph sort of hops up and down looking for Mikey, but then gasps when he sees Mikey walking down the aisle. We hear Mikey’s voice from off camera.
62. Mikey
A-HEM. You can’t have a wedding ceremony without a best man, right?
Raph jumps at the sound and turns to look up in shock as he sees Mikey strut down the aisle. We don’t see his face as he passes, his henchmen carrying two rings on a velvet pillow between them.
63. Mikey
Well look no further, cause the best of them all has arrived!
64. Raph
Mikey…? What’re you doing, we’re trying to lay low!
65. Ghostbear
What, who is this?
66. Ghostpepper
You said you needed a new best man for it to be perfect, so I got you the best of the best. Be careful, he is a little picante.
67. Mikey
Dr. Rude at your service sir… or not!
Mikey reaches a hand out to shake, and then slaps his hand away and boops his nose. Ghostbear is visually angry.
68. Mikey
Now let’s get a round of applause for this fine specimen of a wrestler, Ghostbear!
Some applause. A few light cheers. Raph is screaming but then stops and looks around in confusion. Mikey looks concerned.
69. Mikey
Hm-kay, rude, that’s supposed to be my thing. How about a round of applause for Ghostpepper?
Raucous cheers. People hold up signs that say ‘I heart Ghostpepper’. Mr Bear looks depressed.
70. Todd
On that cheerful note, let’s begin exchanging your vows!
Raph sees that this is a time to intervene and slips away as Todd continues to officiate. He approaches Mikey from behind and taps him on the shoulder.
71. Raph
Mikey! Psst! I’ve got the black hole generator mission accomplished and all that, now get down from there, it’s dangerous!
72. Mikey
A turtle says what? Sounds like someone is jelly cause I get to be best man to your idol. Kssss, sick burn, me!
73. Raph
Okay now that you say it that way I might be a little upset about that, but you’re being ridiculous. Get down from there before something happens!
Raph grabs Mikey’s arm and they begin to tussle a little bit, with Mikey trying his best to remain undisturbed in front of the audience.
74. Todd
And now, for those rare, precious, one-of-a-kind rings!
75. Mikey
Sorry bro, looks like it’s my time to shine!
Mikey pushes him aside and begins to walk away. Raph stumbles. The black hole toaster drops onto the ground, opening a rift that begins to suck everything into it. Including the rings. The crowd is in panic. Raph is barely holding on and is inching towards the black hole.
76. Mikey
Raph! Quick, henchmen, we have to-
Mikey stares in disbelief as his henchmen are waddling away from the danger.
77. Mikey
What? You’re leaving?! That is INCREDIBLY rude. I taught you well.
He grabs one of them, throwing it at the toaster. The toaster wobbles and shuts down before Raph is sucked into the black hole.
78. Raph
Phew, close call. Thanks buddy.
But Raph lost his mask in the process of everything and now everyone is staring at him in horror. Ghostbear in particular. In disbelief at the mess that has been made. His eye twitches and he points to Raph and shouts loudly to the sky.
79. Ghostbear
TORTUGAS!
80. Ghostpepper
LAST ONE STANDING WINS!
The audience realizes they are watching a live wrestling match and begins to cheer, but only for Ghostpepper.
81. Raph
I can’t believe I’m battling THE Ghostbear at his wedding! Do you mind if I get an autograph, Mr and Mrs Bear?
Ghostpepper sucks up the energy of a nearby Yokai
82. Ghostpepper
It will have to be a permanent one!
She raises a leg to strike at him and then Ghostbear throws a punch, which is stopped by a chain around his arm.
83. Mikey
Nobody is allowed to punch my brother except me!
But he is knocked to the ground from behind. He turns around in surprise, seeing the three Ugandan Knuckles henchmen. One is patting the bulge on another’s head, clearly the one that Mikey threw at the toaster. The third holds up a sign that says ‘not cool, man’. Mikey sweats visibly as they ninja charge him.
We cut to EXT. CHURCH: The building jumps around violently as they fight.
INT. CHURCH: Ghostbear has Raph in a headlock while Ghostpepper bites repeatedly into his leg. They crash to the floor while Raph takes out his phone to get a picture. The camera flashes and Ghostbear stumbles back, dazed by the flash. Cut to the image, which is on Raph’s social getting lots of likes. A beat-up Raph grins at Ghostbear, who raises his fist up to summon energy in frustrated rage.
83. Ghostbear
You and Meat Sweats ruined the happiest day of my life!
79. Ghostpepper
Is that what you think?
Ghostbear’s fist is halted as he looks over at Ghostpepper. She puts her head in her hands.
80. Ghostpepper
You just cared about things being perfect, but you never even noticed how I felt. I never trusted Meatsweats but you insisted. And so I let it slide. Then I went through all the trouble to get you a best man, and you say it is ruined? You are saying it is my fault?
81. Ghostbear
Meatsweats is my best friend! He would never betray me.
82. Ghostpepper
So you say but look where we are! No meatsweats!
Ghostbear looks around at the crowd, all of which are holding up Ghostpepper signs. He sighs.
Ghostbear
You are right. I know that I am no longer a famous wrestler now that I am mutant, but I still feel feared when I think about it, because I know I am not worthy of you. And all I wanted was just for one person to support me tonight, in the most happy days of mine. But now I have ruined it all, when it should have been perfect… for you.
Ghostpepper’s eyes soften and she looks at him sadly as he hangs his head. The whole crowd is shuffling and whispering and looking unhappy. Raph slips away. Mikey points to the chandelier and Raph nods. They jump to the top, and Mikey takes a deep breath.
83. Mikey
A-HEM. The best man has to make his speech! The real best man.
Mikey nods to Raph, and Raph smiles at him. He takes a deep breath and begins.
84. Raph
If there’s one thing I know about wrestling, it’s that you are never alone. You’ll have your guys, and the other wrestler will have their guys,
but we fans just have our guys. And you’re my guy, Ghostbear! Numero uno! And no matter how much we fight, you and me are forever bound together by our love of wrestling. And if you love each other half as much as I love you, then this wedding isn’t ruined at all!
There’s a pause and a shot of the chandelier from a distance. It suddenly breaks and falls to the ground. The Ugandan knuckles start hopping up and down on Mikey.
85. Ghostpepper
Ghostie-bear, this is not ruined for me. I have had the time of my life! And I don’t want you to ever fear of being alone, because I will always be YOUR number one fan.
They share a heartfelt embrace and the crowd cheers, with many of the villains crying.
86. Todd
Wow hey, I just happened to have two brand new perfectly-sized rings in my back pocket, how about that? Now lets get you two hitched!
Todd marries them and they share a loving kiss, followed by cheers, and Ghostbear approaches Raph.
Ghostbear
Thank you for the best man speech. It is nice to know that I have at
least one fan, even if it had to be a tortuga, but also, GET OUT OF MY
HOUSE!!!
Ext. shot of the church. Raph and Mikey are flung out into the unknown. Raph hops upright and screams.
Raph
Omigosh, I just got thanked by Ghostbear!
Raph jumps around and shakes and dances and cheers. Mikey eyes him and then scoffs as he picks him up over his head like it’s nothing, beginning to walk offscreen while Raph is still jumping around png-style.
Mikey
And he says *I* get carried away…
Perspective from above, a shadow is watching them from a tree and then turns to leave. We turn back to the creepy church and watch as a shadow slowly envelops it.
We are excited to share a few complete scripts as well as some of the concepts for episodes we have been working on for you! They will be posted tomorrow in time for day 2 of Open the Floodgates 2025, so stay tuned!
Resources for the project or for anyone else to use!
for scrapped episode deets: the TMNT wiki has a great blog with links to animatics, scripts and storyboards posted by the creators. Check it out if you can, it's pretty cool!
Other scrapped episode script fragments
Answers from the creators: you can find the Q n As on twitter/X but I compiled them all in screenshot form here for convenience!
Lair layout reference
This blog also has an EXCELLENT list of useful stuff for writing and drawing in the Rise of the TMNT world. should definitely check it out if you can.
Current layout of episodes for Season 2. Episodes categorized as 'conceptless' may undergo name changes as we don't really know if any names are accurate.
Scrapped episodes will simply be drawn out over the course of the season as opposed to smashed into a two-parter.
reconstructed lair background put together by @rottmnt-background-screenshots
