On April 23, 1990, the highly anticipated science fiction film "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" was released in theaters across the United States. The movie, based on the popular comic book series created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, brought the crime-fighting, pizza-loving turtles to the big screen for the first time.

Directed by Steve Barron and starring Judith Hoag as April O'Neil and Elias Koteas as Casey Jones, the film follows the adventures of the four mutant turtles – Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael – as they battle against the evil Shredder and his Foot Clan.

The movie was a massive success, grossing over $200 million worldwide on a budget of just $13.5 million. It was praised for its innovative use of animatronics and puppetry to bring the turtles to life, as well as its blend of action, humor, and heart.

The success of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" spawned a franchise that included two sequels, "The Secret of the Ooze" (1991) and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III" (1993), as well as a live-action television series, an animated series, and numerous video games and merchandise.

The film's impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. It introduced a new generation to the beloved characters and cemented their status as iconic figures in the realm of superhero and comic book adaptations. The catchphrases, the distinct personalities of each turtle, and the unforgettable theme song all became part of the cultural lexicon.

In recent years, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have experienced a resurgence in popularity, with a new animated series, a live-action reboot in 2014, and a sequel in 2016. However, for many fans, the 1990 film remains the definitive adaptation of the characters, capturing the spirit and essence of what made them so beloved in the first place.