Well, unlike the insipid earlier edition, there is a genuine effort to create a coherent story this time around. To say that this one is notches above its dull predecessor on every count is not overplaying the praise.
There is a marked improvement in the writing, even if it isn’t consistent. You can’t miss the fact that the screenplay’s focus remains on the titular characters and their pathos, despite the constant tug to orchestrate lofty action pieces. The Ninja Turtles stand out as individual characters with distinct personalities, each of whom have their own share of pain to deal with. Their inferiority complex and desire to be acknowledged helps play the emotional card with great subtlety.