The Problem With Apritello (and why it's okay to ship it)

[@matti.8465]

April's tendency to lead Donnie on reflects how the writers refuse to commit to Apritello. They clearly loved the status quo of Donnie having a hopeless crush on April, they didn't want to confirm whether she's into him or not because then the relationship dynamic would have to change. If they confirm that April likes Donnie then the two of them would have to become a couple, if they confirm she doesn't like Donnie then they would no longer be able to make jokes or stories focused on that crush without things being uncomfortable.

[@ginogatash4030]

So basically it's shitty writing.

[@Cringey_Catholic]

Yeah, that's a pattern I keep seeing with the TMNT 2012 writers; they want to have their cake and eat it, too. They want to explore all of these story lines and headcanons without considering how it might affect the pre established material. This can be seen both with Donnie X April and with Karai X Leo after (spoiler alert) Karai is revealed to be Splinter's daughter Miwa during the season 1 finale, even though Leo's crush on Karai was already put in place. It's kinda annoying, really. The over ambition of the writers really does weigh down the show's potential.

[@thewitchwannabe5116]

Like you said I think the main problem with Apritello is that the writers didn’t commit to it. Going back to the parallels to Adrinette even while Adrien didn’t reciprocate Marinettes feelings we still see how he finds her awkwardness and silly moments endearing and how he regards her as a great friend, and it’s easy to see how that endearment led to Adrinette becoming canon. But most of the time April is visibly put off and uncomfortable by Donnie and his advances, which although understandable it’s hard for the writers to later justify her seemingly returning his feelings.

[@erikbihari3625]

Marinette is still worse because the more messed up things she did, and the show treating it As cute and quirky, including characters in universe! Guess the tmnt writers just wanted donnie to be more three dimensional by making him(the most logical one)overwhealmed by emotion and don't see that they could never work leading to awkward moments for comedy. Again, marinette ended up doing more creepy things, but donnie still isn't ok, he was at least more hands off with april rather than making her his entire personality!

[@ElectricWalkman]

I feel like the writers at most points just didn’t know how to properly write April’s character, which is a shame considering how much potential she had (I’m still pissed we never actually found out what happened to her real mother after the fake Kraang one they found in the farmhouse). But regardless of that, she’s still one of my favorite characters on the show & I found her relationship with Donnie to be incredibly sweet in the later seasons once they kind of stopped with the the “will they won’t they” love triangle mess.

[@MorganWenninger]

I like the headcanon that April is aroace and is confused with romance

[@thefloppestfish]

oh THATS why i related to her as a kid

[@anxiousoptimism5517]

Since aroace is a spectrum, “Little to no romantic or intimate attraction,” I headcanon that she is aroace and poly. I’m not sure where on the aroace spectrum she would be, but it’s my headcanon.

[@larrythelobster1595]

No... it's just bad writing.

[@MorganWenninger]

@@larrythelobster1595 it could be both of someone wants it to be

[@anxiousoptimism5517]

@@larrythelobster1595 never said canon. It’s headcanon. I don’t know about the poster of this comment we are replying to, but I personally agree that is bad writing. Some headcanons/interpretations that came from the writing were likely not intended.

[@carsenstrange]

Despite Donatello being my favorite character in the show, I always felt that this ship wasn’t very well handled. Like you said, I always preferred the Apritello scenes where they show that both characters care for each other, rather than romance

[@Farm_charm_sanctuary]

Same. I LOVE 2012 Donnie…. when he’s not simping. He’s actually a great character. It’s just the ship that was done wrong. I liked their dynamic in 2003 way better, when they’re actually just good friends and he does seem to be pretty fond of her in that series too but it’s really subtle.

[@Ozzygirl17]

I like Raphael+Mona Lisa, to be honest. These two definitely had a more mature depiction of their relationship; I’d actually like to see the history of their relationship explored. Interesting that it actually completed its romantic relationship in 5 episodes compared to Donnie+April in 5 seasons. Another reason Donnie’s obsession bothered me is it definitely interfered with the relationship with his brother, especially with Raphael.

[@shadetee234]

Just because the series was quick to pair Raph with an adult doesn't mean the ship is good.

[@Ozzygirl17]

@@shadetee234 Fair point. However, the amount of time someone spends isn’t indicative of quality; it’s what’s done with it. Granted, April and Donnie’s relationship couldn’t be a consistent focus, but this video shows the issues with it, especially in a children’s show.

[@tmntgirl4life]

@@shadetee234I always assumed Mona was his age since they never gave her an actual age. The ship the most icky for me was Leo and Karai. That was some George R R Martin writing

[@hassanalkhalaf1115]

What history? They rushed into a relationship immidiately after they fought. All they did is kissing and making out without even knowing shit about the other. He literally doesn't even know her name neither can he pronounce it. That's like dating someone from a different background but changing their name. At least Donnies emotion were real and believable. Raph and Mona were just goofy

[@Ozzygirl17]

@@hassanalkhalaf1115 First, I hope you are having a good day. Second, I can see, to an extent, what you are saying. Here’s what I see: 1. Raphael is the only one of the turtles who doesn’t fall in love with her at the first sight of her. Yes, not really the best thing to do, changing someone’s name if you can’t pronounce it. However, he tried initially (could’ve tried harder, I’ll admit), but she never insisted on calling her by Y’Gythba. Then again, none of the others, outside the Sal Commander and Dregg, call her by name. 2. Evil of Dregg was about her and Sal Commander betraying the turtles. This is the reason why I believe Raphael’s love story has the most maturity. I don’t see the other ships dealing with this level of betrayal. He does forgive her in the end, but Insecta Trifecta shows that he was still bothered by it. The show itself, as a whole, doesn’t level up to the maturity of Avator the Last Air Bender (not fair to judge this show by its predecessor), but it has its moments. Like what you like and dislike what you dislike. I’m still in favor of Raphael+Mona Lisa, so I would appreciate it if you respect that. Also, TMNT is going to focus on the turtles as a whole more than their romantic partners.

[@nameillprobablyregret6533]

It's important to note that Donnie had also never seen a human person before April

[@Agent0range9]

Never seen a member of the opposite sex period basically

[@nameillprobablyregret6533]

@@Agent0range9 I don't think he's seen a human person of the same sex either

[@khaliyahjefferson832]

Wait don't they have a TV or something like

[@nameillprobablyregret6533]

@@khaliyahjefferson832 did they have it before season 1 though? Like was it already there? I don't remember

[@khaliyahjefferson832]

@@nameillprobablyregret6533 yeah they did which is crazy cuz they would've been seen human women before or maybe it's not seen

[@thatonedabifan]

I always loved the scene in season 1 where they're fighting the purple dragons and Donnie goes "Did you see how I flipped the guy over the counter? Did it look cool?" and April tries to lie to make him happy, feeling bad when he sees through it. Compare that to her completely ignoring him in season 3 when he's trying to show her a dumb trick. It just kinda made me sad. I miss their old scenes in season 1 a lot. Also, I see this is your first video! I'm a small youtuber myself. I loved it! I am excited to see what you do next.

[@kirabalgo]

Hey Tori! I definitely can see the dislike towards April, however, growing up she was one of my favorite characters, and to this day still is from the 2012 show. I agree with you that we should acknowledge the flaws and problems of both characters, but that it’s still okay to ship it. You’ve done a beautiful job with this video 🫶 your dedication, detail, research, everything is so on point and well organized. I hope you do more videos like this cause I’m hooked!!!

[@torisaursky]

Thank you! I definitely want to make more stuff like this but it also took a LONG time to put this together so idk how soon that’ll happen haha

[@diegolorente8435]

@@torisaursky I subscribe to your channel

[@bionicmagi6388]

"Some people take the whole love triangle mess and instead ship - " Me: Casey with Raph, yes. " - Casey, April, AND Donnie together in a polyamorous relationship." Me: I mean Capriltello, right, Cap...Capriltello....

[@torisaursky]

LMAO we love Rasey in this house

[@speedboom9392]

I have no problem with the idea of a romance or even just a crush. They are both fully sentient and humanoid. My problem is it’s poorly written in my opinion. I actually really enjoy Leo’s crush on April in Mutant Mayhem because I think it’s well written, really cute, and not bordering on stalker level behavior. It probably won’t go anywhere but if it did, I wouldn’t mind. At the very least, I think the Mutant Mayhem writers know what they want to do with that dynamic in the future whatever that plan is. That’s what I consider to be the biggest problem with Donnie and April. There was no plan. They put it in the show as a cute little thing but realized “oh we don’t have a resolution for this” and they didn’t want go one way or the other so they just kept making sure the show went with this back and forth which I think ultimately hurt both Donnie and April (and to a lesser extent Casey) as characters. That’s just my opinion though.

[@torisaursky]

Absolutely agree, I think a lot of people are upset about Mutant Mayhem Leo’s crush on April because 2012 didn’t execute it well, but to be honest I kind of hope they get together so it becomes the front runner for April being shipped with one of the turtles. But we’ll just have to see how it plays out :)

[@devinher234]

What ew!

[@Freezient]

Completely agree with this. One of directors for MM even liked a tweet about wanting Leo and April to be canon. I kinda doubt they’ll canonize April x Turtle pairing but it’d be very intriguing to see

[@teapasterelix]

I agree! Leo's crush in MM is well written and ADORABLE. I also feel like Leo catching feelings for April gives the turtles the motivation to help her out during their first encounter [well, mostly Leo wanting to help her out. We did see Donnie telling him they had no reason to help her, but ofc Leo's feelings push him to help April get her scooter back, so the other turtles had no choice but to follow him.]

[@Freezient]

@@torisaursky I agree, before watching your video I started to hate Apritello, and because i was falling out of the ship and the series itself, then I realized its not the pairing’s fault, they’re just a victim of poor writing, its sad that people started hating on apritello because of the unfortunate writing. It’d be interesting if they canonized Leonardo x April in future MM sequels, i’m not sure if they’d be the first one to do it, but it would be cool if the first canon turtle x april ship is with their leader, Leonardo

[@MariAnimates]

Funnily enough, I actually wanted Donnie and Casey because they had better chemistry and moments than they did with April. In Speed Demon when they made the car, those boys are so genuinely happy that it's so cute!!

[@torisaursky]

Absolutely, I love them sm

[@Kyrusisgone]

Yes

[@Aisha_Gii]

Marinette: **exists** 2012 Donnie: "STOLE MY WHOLE F***ING FLOW! WORD FOR WORD, BAR FOR BAR!"

[@khaliyahjefferson832]

Marinette: hey at least I got a boyfriend unlike you're simp ahh

[@erikbihari3625]

Marinette;"did you also climb inside her room and smelled her bedsheets, or kissing her not knowing she was Not a wax statue"? Donnie;"No, you weirdo". Don win!

[@Kasjan_Waligala]

The and why it's okay to ship it section honestly makes me really happy. April and Donnie are probably my fav 2012 ship but not because of how they are in cannon as I'm fully aware how badly they are written. It's just that I separately really love both of them and I'm super attached to both of them, plus those nice cute moments that writers didn't fuck up, plus nostalgia (I watched the series when it was originally coming out and I was like 9 and through all these years even if I realized how bad the writing for them is, I still had a such a soft spot for them) plus the rewrite of them that I made in my head is super neat. They are special to me even if they are written like garbage

[@softsquishysuga]

This comment is 100% me :')

[@madisontucker649]

Me too!!!

[@mayamaya6182]

It was such an honor to be able to be able to take a part of the poll! This was very well done! Allow me to rant about a few points Ive said in another Apritello video : I've never been a big fan of romantic (sub)plots, as someone who's seen both these shows, I always end up making fun of it. But honestly, I see why the writers thought of lumping April and Donnie together. In all previous iterations and present iterations included, Donnie and April have always been seen having a great relationship with each other, albiet platonic. In 2003, April and Donnie bond over their similar interest in science while in Rise, April and Donnie have their own focus episodes together and genuinely seem to care about each other's well being. I guess my only gripe about this iteration's April is that the other iterations have done her character (in my opinion) _better_. Even in 1987, April still had her own character seperate to the turtles and this lead to my inherit dislike (not hatred) of 2012 April. In the end tho, I agree that this ship was just a victim of poor writing. 2012 has a weird history of writing romance in general 😭 It's funny actually- even though I never found myself liking the ship, I still find myself calling out for Donnie whenever April was in trouble. In terms of Donnie's more "tame" advances, I found myself rooting for him and sometimes feeling bad for him. Maybe this has something to do with me usually liking hopeless romantic characters despite not liking romance at all. I just wished they handled Donnies (and Aprils for that matter) character better and characterized him outside of his love triangle. If you like Apritello, my props to you! But I just never found myself shipping April with any of the turtles romantically. But with the coming of Mutant Mayhem, we'll have to see how that goes WHEHEHEH

[@beachchair8081]

About the scene where the two r throwing popcorn at each other, in the context of the episode where Raph is lonely (til Mona shows up) while his brothers all have some romantic interest/dating someone (Mikey) it could be an indication of how the writers do want you to root for them

[@oneandonlysound99]

And Leonardo and Karai's dynamic was actually handled pretty well too.

[@ami-spei3337]

Actually, it was a fanservise chapter. But at the same time, the animatiors of course were rooting for them.

[@josephbiddle1637]

This is the first time I’ve heard about the polyamorous ship for Capritello. And honestly, I love it already. Donnie and Casey had some major chemistry, even in just a budding bromance kinda way, whenever they weren’t fighting over April. Seeing the boys getting so excited about the car they built together in Speed Demon was the happiest I remember Donnie ever being when April wasn’t the subject. Not when he built Metalhead, not when he found out one of his brothers had cheated death, just geeking out over the car with Casey.

[@kaptain_awesome4900]

I grew up on this show, and I really enjoyed your break down and analysis of this ship. I remember laughing at it like Donnie’s brothers when I was young, but now that I’m older and am currently rewatching the show, while I don’t necessarily like the ship, I feel more sorry for Donnie than anything else. I personally don’t like April having a romantic relationship with any of the turtles, but that’s just me.

[@Hypershadic23]

I think it starts pretty innocent but as time goes on Donnie makes it a little creepy and April just kinda goes back and forth on being a bitch to him. It sucks because they do have some pretty good moments together but it's so inconsistent that I would have rather had them never even attempt it. I always prefer it when April acts as a sister/fifth honorary turtle to the team instead of a love interest.

[@playcoarmboy1836]

My biggest problem with it is that we didn't get a closure to apritello

[@Ria__2010-l3z]

SAME BRO

[@thewitchwannabe5116]

Script 10/10 Editing 10/10 Opinion 10/10 Great job bestie

[@torisaursky]

You’re so sweet TYSM 😭💕

[@abbiemm2player777]

she the best video commentary about apriltello ship problem you are the best tori!

[@Multi-fandomEldingArum]

I enjoy the commentary on this: explaining all the negatives, but remembering the positives of their relationship. I personally like this ship. Not love it, but I like it. Looking back, I think the biggest problem, for me at least, was that the never fully committed to it. You are right in how confusing it is if they want us to root for the ship or not. I do feel that it is fair to point that Donnie’s decisions, while not necessarily justified, are somewhat understandable because he’s not an ordinary teenager; he’s a human sized turtle whose been living in the sewers for most of life while also training to be a ninja. He is also more into science and technology. Maybe it’s fair to say he doesn’t understand feelings as much as tech and science? I don’t know. Either way, this ship definitely does have problems, the moments that seem very genuine between the two are the reasons why I personally like the ship. Good job with the video.

[@nakisonprevilon9525]

This was such a great analysis, i was always talking about how this ship never made any sense. I always thought April was too afraid of the change that their relationship would have if she ever rejected him, but after seeing this I can see so many other angles to this

[@thefabuloustrash05]

Very well done! I fully agree with the reasons and explanations for apritello, and I love how you didn't hate on the ship or shame the people who do like it. For me personally, I don't hate the ship, in truth I don't like the idea of April having a romantic relationship with any of the Turtles, but 2012 apritello had cute potential and could've been a nice friends to lovers story. Coming from a writer, it was wasted potential. Oh well, at least we have RaMona! (aka the BEST ship in the series lol). You really went all out on your research and I really enjoyed it! It would be fun to see you analyze more TMNT 2012 stuff like the other ships, character dynamics or character arcs.

[@torisaursky]

Thanks, I’m glad you liked it!

[@tmntgirl4life]

The only accuse I can think of Donnie following her is that at this point in the show they know the Krang want April and have tried to abduct her in the past and the foot being allies to the Krang also share the same agenda. So we can say Donnie following her just making sure she gets home/her destination in one piece. Sure it’s still stalky but there is a good reason. After all in the same episode April does get kidnapped.

[@allypalmar1409]

One thing I found disappointing about TMNT 2012 was the fact that throughout the ENTIRE FIVE SEASONS they didn't manage to truly establish even ONE ship, not one!

[@fictionalmediabully9830]

When I read comments like this, I immediately think of "Star Vs. the Forces of Evil".

[@pugtie4695]

What about raph and monalesa

[@Jesus-wh4sm]

@@pugtie4695yeah that relationship was established

[@mummytrolls]

April’s character had so much potential and they just threw it away for a love triangle

[@Gracesopinions-qq8dt]

Then there’s that time Raph saved April and she has the audacity to go: saved by Raph?? I’m never gonna live this down >:( Like, girl, he could just leave you-

[@pepperimps01]

I loooooove this analysis so much!!! Also really appreciate you not hating on April 💛 Also as an aroace person...her actions are verrrrry close to what I used to do

[@torisaursky]

April is absolutely overhated, she’s honestly a victim of bad writing and had such potential to be beloved character

[@TheHalfblood.Studios]

I was watching this show when I was discovering my own aro/acespec identity, and I also related to April a ton.

[@fictionalmediabully9830]

I enjoy TMNT 2012 a lot, but the romantic stuff I couldn't tell if it was a running joke or a subplot much of the time. I've since moved on to other Nickelodeon programming like "The Loud House", but I still enjoy rewatching many episodes.

[@dangerbuffrocky]

I think another parallel to Apritello is Jaya in Ninjago especially in the first Season and Season 6 when they acknowledge the problems in their relationship and actually become a healthy couple by the end of Season and beyond. Great video btw!

[@xavierjaramillo1843]

I've always loved Apritello, I find it to be rather cute. It's one of the reasons Donnie is one of my fav characters. I love how passionate, gentle, and kind Donnie is around April. Though I do agree that their relationship has many flaws, Donnie referring to April as "my" and the music box he gave her are just wrong, and April's inability to commit or reject either Donnie or Casey is worse. Off-topic but does anyone else find Casey to be a bit of a perv around April? I also don't like how harsh and hypocritical Donnie acted with Bigfoot, and the fact that Donnie fell for April on sight before he even got the chance to talk to her is just weird, it kinda makes it seem as if he only cares about her looks, though later on it's made clear that he does indeed care about her feelings.

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

I noticed no one talks about how creepy Casey comes off and it really annoying considering they are swift to bash Donnie and totally forget about Casey and his shenanigans.

[@GraceOfDiamonds]

I love so much how you were able to telepathically take my feellings about Apriltello and properly put it into words and explain it way better then i ever could.., you also could and did actually put it into words where i could never. I'm very much looking forward to your tmnt videos now, especially your 2003 one, I love 2012 Donnie but I think 2003 Donnie has the best characterization, he's not just a nerd or a genius, he's creative and innovative and passionate. i love so much how they didnt just make him "the nerdy turtle."

[@Lunar_Can_Draw]

Saw part of this video on TikTok and I’m so glad I went to see the full vid

[@harmonydew6486]

I will forever defend April on the side of her 'leading donnie on' because that basically sounds like a normal teen with teen emotions being super confused about romance at all. In fact, with capable writers, you could even give Apriltello the option of having a moral value of "teen romance, it's messy and emotions are hard, but with proper communication it can actually work out." In fact, you could even argue that April has been really clear with establishing boundaries when Donnie and Casey fight over her and she very clearly makes it obvious that she hates it when they fight (courtesy of Speed Demon) so you can't really say that she 'lead them on' or 'not pick a side' because her side is "I love you both (platonically or romantically doesn't matter) but I hate it when you two fight"

[@khaliyahjefferson832]

Exactly That's like saying that pb was leading Finn on but she knew that he liked her and she never gave him a chance anyway

[@ParkournPrankster]

If you ever did a sequel, can you do one regarding Timothy/Mutagen Man? Considering hes the only other human that unlike with April, Casey, and Karai, that was mistreated by them and was left frozen only to die.

[@ashesGeek]

I feel like he should've been the key point of Donnie and April making retro-mutagen. Let's say Timothy attacks April, but it happens she's friends with Turtles again and he tries to kill her. She gets hurt while censorship the blood and some of it drops onto mutagen. After escaping Mutagen Man Donnie discovers that her DNA is the key for retro-mutagen(it happens before "Kraang Conspiracy"). Donnie makes retro-mutagen, saves Timothy, apologies to him for not saving from this accident and then celebrates the success of the experiment. They act lovey-dovey but then quickly back away trying to hide their blush. It wouldn't be the start of the relationship, but April might have started to guess Donnie sees something more in her than just a friend.

[@frini_theodoropoulou2937]

Watching this I realized that most of the facts about the Apritelo ship were thoughts that I had when I first watched the show back in 2012! I didn't like it then, still do, but I always have this thought in the back of my head about April and Donnie getting together at one point because of their dynamic. I'm totally agreeing with you for the bad writing on both and I'm seeing it better now that I'm also re-watching the series. The charts were incredible and at some point I was shocked with the numbers! And the comparison to Adrianete? Man, that was something that never came up to my head and I thank you for putting it in! Personally I'm on the option of both characters staying good friends, best friends even, because their characters fit more to that kind of relationship instead of romantic BUT if they both had a good development, at least for April. She had potential like most of the female characters of the series and unfortunately she sticked being the side character, the "girl" as you pointed out "of the group", the love interest because, again, of the writers. Nevertheless the whole video was truly amazing and interesting and I really loved the approach of the ship, the explanations, the justifications to these explanations, the charts...everything! If you ever think of doing something similar for the other ships and, generally, the whole show I'll be so eager to watch it!

[@ami-spei3337]

I used to be like April as a teenager, so that never bother me. She likes both but she ain't gonna do smtg about it until they do, and the same time, she is afraid to change the things because she also likes the attention when it's not too weird... I do remember those guys that until this day never confess but I knew that they have photos of me and videos without my consent and they know I know. So... I'ts simple, if they don't say something about it neither her.

[@blackhammerxp5489]

as a person who watched the series from beginning to end from its first day on the air to the end of the series, Apriltello is an example of a ship that had many great moments but bad execution in terms of the consistency of its writing. more than likely because the series is owned by Nickolodian & them not wanting to promote a humanoid teenage mutant turtle dating a teenage human girl & be called out for being weird. Personally had the series/Franchise been bought by Cartoon Network, the series would've been more dark, and serious, but still maintained its comic humor & fantastic storytelling. And when talking about the ship between Donnie & April, the ship would've had better writing &the two would have ended up together. It's pretty clear April cares very deeply about Donnie & in her own way has feelings for him, but again the series never directly state it for obvious reasons, and you can kinda see by the time season 4 & 5 pop in they're practically dating but again it's not directly addressed. I don't have much of a problem with the ship now in comparison to when the show first aired 11 years ago & still love rewatching the series. But I believe if the show had a fully-fledged movie. I'd want that relationship to be addressed & them ending up together. BUT HEY, that's just me.

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

No it’s me too 😅

[@elizabethhurlbut1475]

Thank you so much for also defending Apritello. Of all the TMNT adaptations with the Turtles being attracted to April (all the brothers have in one iteration or another), I prefer 2012 Donnie. It starts as a crush but over the episodes you can see his genuine compassion and love for her. You're correct, the show never committed, the mixed signals April kept sending was a bit nuts . Even when it seemed Donnie had no chance because he was a mutant turtle and Cassie was a human, surprise! April is a mutant too. "Welcome to the Family" I thought Donatello was adorable, and watching his 'happy' moments with April always made me smile.

[@Animesia2]

If I may speak freely , I find it funny when TMNT 2012 was on everyone loved all the ships in this series (canon or non-canon). Now that its over and we've experience ROTTMNT suddenly everyone has a problem with them . Very Ironic !!

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

I noticed that too 🤔

[@AnonDudeBro]

I think the main reason for that is because most of us were younger and didn’t connect the dots about the dynamics of the parties involved. (ESPECIALLY with LEO & Karai). When the media presents something as okay, kids are a lot less likely to question it. This issue was one that was in a lot of older cartoon shows and Anime at the time, so I’m not surprised we generally didn’t question it until rewatch haha.

[@JoyfulJester6371]

For me the sweetness definitely outweighs some of the awkward writing and I still think that Donnie is a better love interest for April then Casey in this particular series.

[@MorganWenninger]

On TikTok I see some people hate April for no reason she never made it clear that she doesn't care about him

[@khaliyahjefferson832]

Tho it would've been great if she told him hey Donnie you're acting freaking weird and I think this isn't working see I'm a human and you're a turtle and I think you should go to therapy my boy

[@abbiemm2player777]

i really like donnie being smart hardworking brave coolest lovable to his 3 brothers and powerful than he fell in love april

[@ChurchoftheLatterDayShrek]

For me Donnie simping for April was especially weird as I always headcanonized her as the turtle's surrogate big sister or aunt. Never once did it every occur to me they'd have romantic feelings for her in any iteration. The new Mutant Mayhem movie does a similar thing but it's Leonardo crushing on her. Luckily Leo is less weirder about it but still.

[@NearsightedNarhwal]

Mutant Mayhem Leo feels realistic for how a Teen with a crush would actually act. Donnie was just being a literal stalker.

[@etsap1236]

I try not to look too deep into ships and just focus on whether I enjoy them or not. Cause to be fair these are teenagers and they are often awkward and cringe-worthy. But they can still be entertaining. The only ship with the turtles I dislike is Shinigami and Mikey. Not that it's bad, it was just suddenly super forced and I already liked Renet with Mikey. Leo and Karai arguably have the best development in their relationship, while Ralph and Mona have the healthiest dynamic. I think Donnie and April is the most realistic relationship and kinda adorable because of it. So yeah cute couple moments can be entertaining even if it's a will they won't they scenario.

[@fightingmedialounge519]

I would also add that the reason this ship suffers, and why some people can look at Adrian and marinette more fondly, is their dynamic outside of romance. Donnie and april are shown to be close friends who deeply care for each other and have a strong sense of trust between them. So when the writers go from showing that to having one or both of them make questionable choices in regards to their romantic prospects, it at best further confuses fans about how their suppose to view them, and at worst puts into question how much of donatellos cocern for her comes from a sincere place. On the other hand Adrian and marinette are shown to be strangers who like aspects of each other but don’t fully know the person their in love with. So while she may behave in a creepier fashion, the story always potrays that as a result of her not really being close with him, and suggest that she'll get better as she starts to know him better.

[@Luqkyami]

I love their dynamic but I also love jonatello and how they are like just “bro but romantically” (I’m pretty sure rasey is like this too) I feel like anyone is allowed to like these ships. And not get bullied for it. I wish some fans didn’t just shove ships down people’s throats🙁

[@annareneechavez7193]

thanks so much for doing this, i have never been able to bring myself to hate apriltello but as i’ve grown up i’ve definitely grown more and more weirded out by some of the behavior. so thanks for the deep dive and actually dissecting the issue areas, while acknowledging the good parts!! if you’re ever searching for another topic to pick apart, i’d love an analysis on the animosity that arose between fans of 2k12 and rottmnt… i remember that being a HUGE storm to weather when the shows first ended/started and i think there’s a lot to look at there

[@jayheadley8061]

The way I would do Apriltello is to have Donnie secretly have a crush on April but keep it to himself to avoid ridicule from his brothers and April's boyfriend, Casey, whom he loathes with a passion. Because April is a human being and Donnie is a mutant turtle, it would further increase his insecurities. Despite all this, he'll still have a great general dynamic with April as besties like Rise's, but whenever Casey is involved, he tries his very hardest to contain his jealousy and resentment towards him, but at the same time, believes that April is better off with Casey, being human. His brothers would have already figured out about his affection for April since day 1, but kept quiet until the cat was out of the bag. Knowing how insecure Donnie gets Leo and Mikey would be more understanding, Raph and Casey would be too, but still occasionally mock him, much to his annoyance. When April finds out, she would have a hunch that Donnie fancied her, but wouldn't string him along. Donnie eventually confesses his feelings for April, knowing it won't change anything, but will still have closure from April, which he does April will assure him that this crush doesn't affect their friendship and she appreciates his honesty and will still be best friends, leaving Donnie very content and more confident with him as mutant turtle. That's what I would do if I writing Apriltello.

[@anikxa6401]

This video essay is amazing! I can't imagine how much time you've spent on making it. I'm looking forward to seeing your next videos!

[@jukebox_draws]

This is the first tmnt video essay I’ve ever actually enjoyed watching! Your analysis hits the nail right on the head and the fact that you RESEARCHED AND STUDIED AND CONDUCTED EXPERIMENTS 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻CHEFS KISS I definitely would love to see more videos like this breaking down more tmnt ships and even Miraculous I’d love to hear your analysis on LeoSagi as a ship and an explanation on how it’s different in every iteration and how Usagi’s separate universe and canon makes this crossover ship so interesting

[@GreayWorks]

I don’t think it helps that in this version of Shredders whole motive is that he’s a scary controlling incel and that’s portrayed as scary

[@torisaursky]

LMAO calling Shredder an incel is actually so real though 💀

[@GoodShockwave]

What a incel

[@tylerbertram7065]

To be fair the original Shredder was also an incel.

[@mitchilldudebre8712]

This is fascinating. I was fucking flabbergasted when you brought out the graphs. Fantastic stuff, plus as someone who shipped Apritello when I was much younger, this was intriguing.

[@jayheadley8061]

(Unpopular opinion alert!) I'll be the first to admit that this shipping so pointless when I first saw this as a teenager, but in comparison to other incarnations, I always prefer Donnie being the one fancying April and it made more sense to me because they're both intelligent nerds. I'd take this over Leo or Mikey having the hots for her. But that's just my opinion. Probably because I grew up with the 2012 series, I have gotten used to Apriltello.

[@Tmntfan101]

I really enjoy your TikTok and I was also able to participate in the survey and you make some really good points. I feel like the fandom is a little bit too hard on April I want to like her, but I guess the fandom has rubbed off on me a little too much so it’s hard for me to like her I am hoping to see more turtle content

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

Same I used to kinda like her but then the fandom kicked in and I was like shoot I shouldn’t like her 😆

[@Usersareoverratted]

I don't hate april but the show made it so i couldn't really enjoy her character to its full potential. April in the fandom is made fun of and hated like you pointed out multiple times and honestly i see why. But let's not forget the sh1t she went through during the show that is traumatizing. not making excuses for her behavior in the love aspect of her life btw though she has every right to be uncomfortable with donnie's stalking/obsessive behavior and Casey's also having a bit of obsessive behavior and need to make everything a DATE... But ignoring that, what i dislike is that the show didn't really use the sh1t April went through as character development they just made it a little plot for one episode instead of helping her with her development as the girl character of the show. they just made her back into a "love confused, emotional" teen she has been since season one. If the show focused more on April and her character she would no doubt be (close) on par with kagome from inuyasha(my favorite girl). Just let the girl have character development PLEASE...😭

[@Usersareoverratted]

but i did enjoy the adorable moments of donnie acting like a normal person(turtle?) with a crush and actually being pretty sweet to April instead of creepy. Despite my hc of April being AroAce if donnie acted like that ALL the time i would deff ship(not that he acts like a creep all the time its just the moments he does stands out a lot). also April is not that bad just the show didn't expand her character as much as it should've been!

[@Usersareoverratted]

also Casey pretty cool just STOP MAKING EVERYTHING A DATE FOR THE LOVE OF TMNT.

[@Usersareoverratted]

sorry for my rambling i just wanted to talk about my hyperfixation and how it could be improved. Its my legit childhood and favorite show. ( i really just wanted an excuse to let my inner child to take the wheel)

[@AnonDudeBro]

Great Video! Honestly, I also think the reason people were more willing (myself included) to give Donnie more leeway for his mistakes than April was because you got the sense that the guy really *was* trying his best to be respectful in the ways he knew how. Because Donnie was shut in a sewer for most of his life, it’s much more understandable that he wouldn’t really understand boundaries with women or anyone who wasn’t family outside of the media that may have been on their tv (where boundaries are often very unrealistic). It was more infuriating for me when April played with his feelings because when you see it that way, April had more “power” in their dynamic as being more socially adept and was “abusing” it to manipulate him knowing she wasn’t sure if she was going to commit to him romantically. It’s really cool to see that we all agree regardless that neither party is innocent haha.

[@23-punnybee]

SO glad i'm not the only one who noticed the similarities between apriltello and adrienette

[@nintenprincess4947]

you did such an amazing job with this video essay!! the editing, writing was perfect 🤩 also excited for the 2003 Tmnt video

[@FoldBlox]

The reason why she stopped Donnie saying his feelings because her Dad was there and apparently end for season three she felt more feelings for Donnie? April calls me stupid as an NPC with her manipulation

[@jessicaholloway79]

You did a great job articulating the pros and cons of this ship. I'm looking forward to seeing what you put out in the future!

[@ligma6898]

ONE OF THE BEST VID ESSAYS I'VE EVER WATCHED HOLY FU And the way you defended the ship as well to give the viewer a different perspective!! And the research you did, the amount of examples brought up must've taken so much time. Incredible job

[@Jake_is_Miffed]

great video!!!! makes me want to watch the show now lol. i wish you the best of luck in future over-analyzing endeavors 👍

[@FeatheredCreature]

I kinda forgot about this show honestly. But its cool hearing about it again since it was a favorite of mine back when it was going!

[@shanaeverowe9626]

I think the target audience for the two shows in your relationship comparison plays a role in how they are received as well. Granted both relationships are troublesome, but better writing could have helped them come across less creepy.

[@jabisdumb]

I think another part that makes it uncomfy for me (at least visually) is that with the way they’re both designed/modelled Donnie is so much *bigger* than April? Like, she’s shorter than Casey, but Donnie is like a full foot taller than her. His shoulders are twice the width of hers, his _fingers_ are as wide as her _wrist_ . Which is not to say a dynamic between them couldn’t work with all this remaining true, but to me it kinda makes it all just that tiny bit worse that he’s all weird about her and also like, his hand is bigger than her whole head.

[@kosaku_kq5601]

30:08 I was unaware this was a popular fanon kind of the thing. I admit I had to rewind a couple of times to understand if I heard that correctly. While I still don't see the appeal of this one myself, you brought up the charm of head canons yourself well enough in the video. In short one man's trash is another man's treasure and all that, just surprised it was quite popular.

[@torisaursky]

It’s at least popular in the sect of the TMNT fandom I’m in, but because the TMNT community is so vast, it’s possible it’s not as popular as it seems from my vantage point :P

[@Freezient]

TMNT 2012 was pretty much the first tmnt tv series I started to watched, its my first tmnt fandom, since I love beast x human ship trope, i’m a bit of a sucker for apriltello (or turtle x human) i’ve been seeing a lot of hate for apriltello lately though I no longer care for the ship or the 2012 butI still like it mostly for the turtle’s designs. After the new Mutant Mayhem movie, they made Leonardo being the one to have a crush on April, this made me wonder if they ever made April reciprocates the turtle’s feelings for them, cause it was easier to brush their feelings aside back then because she’s an adult woman and the turtles are teenagers and now with the modern iteration with both of them being teenagers I’m wondering how the idea of April reciprocating their feelings for them could work or if they did the creators have to address the elephant in the room of how weird it is that the human character is romantically interested in a mutant turtle? Edit: I didn’t realize April kissed him on the mouth (lip?) twice? its very confusing Edit again: you know what, this video kinda made me tolerate Apriltello, I used to really like this ship but I fell out of it and the show entirely, I did noticed how creepy it is and didn’t think much of it, but they do have a lot of cute moments together, but yeah, I think its a cute ship, just a victim of bad writing and the writers not wanting to commit and not having any direction.

[@slickyami1877]

Love that this is your first vid much luv and respect can't wait to see you get too 100k

[@emilyseigrist2226]

i have never watched this show but i loved this video omg obsessed

[@jboozey3123]

I actually really enjoyed April in my childhood to now when I rewatched the series. Her becoming the fifth turtle was everything to me. But the writing was totally iffy and it got annoying. After season 3 I considered them a couple due to their new dynamic where Donnie wasn’t really that creepy anymore and how April didn’t really flirt with Casey anymore. But that’s just me

[@coralshine27blm12]

REPOSTING!! Thanks for this, I really wish more people would take both sides of the story into account. I just really hate that I can't just love Donnie or just dislike April without my morals being called into question EDIT: Sorry I wanted to make this longer but my mom and I went to target, I got some new shirts, they're really nice. ANYWAYS. I also feel the need to add that just because Donnie and April made mistakes, that doesn't make them bad people. You're not a bad person for liking or disliking a fictional character. ALL of the characters in this show were flawed, and that's what makes them more human. Personally (and I cannot stress that enough) 12 Donnie is my favorite incarnation of Donnie, next to 2003, he's been a huge comfort for me while I've gone through bad times in my life. He's a sweet guy who has obsessive tendencies, but he's sensitive, funny, cares deeply about people he loves, and always tries to make people happy. Did he make mistakes? Absolutely. Was he perfect? No. But people forget that these guys are literally teens. They're still figuring stuff out and learning from mistakes. To me, it seems like Donnie grew and learned from the bad choices he made, and I believe episodes where he followed April were the result of bad writing, a major factor in MANY parts of the show, ESPECIALLY with April. Now, I'm going to be clear that this is MY opinion, and you have every right to like April as much as you want, PLEASE do not let my thoughts get in the way of you enjoying a character. Personally, I don't like her. She wasn't written well, I think she's a bit snippy, rude, and kind of annoying, but again, that wasn't because she's a bad person, it's because of the poor writing. Y'know I think we all need to remember a few things: - Humans (I know they're turtles, but you get the point) are by definition flawed and imperfect - These characters are children - Everyone is entitled to their own opinion on the characters - Mistakes and Flaws do not make you a bad person, it's how you grow from them - Most reasons this ship is weird is because of, let me say it again: Poor writing. - It's not the characters fault that they were written that way. - At the end of the day, these characters are good people I have my gripes with 2012 TMNT, but it's still the one I like to fanfic and fangirl over the most. That's okay. Donnie made mistakes, but he's still my favorite turtle, that's okay. I like reading fanfics where he's the center of all the angst and attention. I don't really like April and I'll admit it! I like to read fanfics where she's being kind of a b. But that's just me. Just me. You are 100% allowed to love or hate any character you want, and that doesn't mean you support ABC or condone DEF or you're GHI. This is a beloved franchise, belove it.

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

Couldn’t have said it better myself I run into the same problem whenever I say Donnie’s my favorite, it’s like everyone looks at me like I just committed murder. At the end of the day they are all flawed fictional characters and I should be able to choose which one I like without having to feel like crap because of what people say.

[@trickshot_katebishop7612]

This was an amazing video you highlighted some things I didn’t even notice. I love approach you took not just being straight negative and cynical like I’ve seen some KZbinrs but very analytical, calm, and positive. Love the video! I first watched 2012 when I was 8 and I rooted for Apriltello so much so I hated Casey, after rewatching it ten years later I still like the idea of Apritello it may not have been executed properly but it definitely has cute moments. I still personally like it I know a lot of people who hate it tho so I just keep it to myself lol 😆 Sorry for the rant, thanks for the awesome informative video you should definitely do more! 💕👏🏼👍🏼

[@jeunehibou6344]

Great video ! So excited for the future growth of your channel 🙏

[@thewitchwannabe5116]

It started!!

[@artistic_0ddball793]

I really love this video. I agree with pretty much everything that was said, and even if I didn't, it's very well-worded and edited so that it's digestible for old and new fans. Just overall wonderfully constructed.😊👍

[@d4red3v1l8]

18:05 I WASN’T EXPECTING THIS COMPARISON TO BE SO ALIKE 😭

[@captaincrunch784]

Fun fact: I had the biggest crush on Donatello when I was six years old because that's when the first TV show came out in 1987. I wanted to like freaking marry him because I thought he was adorable, and smart and brave LOL.

[@eggnogalcoholic]

That was me for 2012 Donatello, but I was like a teenager at the time and not six so it’s very embarrassing - I wish my parents would stop bringing it up LOL

[@shookystuff57]

When I saw clips of this on tik tok and found it here, u just gotten a new subscriber (i also downloaded tumblr cuz of ya) love ur content

[@thefabuloustrash05]

2:28 Was in the mood to rewatch this video again (which btw still amazing, well done 👏) and I wanted to point out a little comparison with Donnie using the possessive “mine” towards April vs Raph and Mona Lisa. In season 5, Raph does something similar with Mona Lisa when Biship was insulting her, jumping in to defend her and referring to Mona as “my woman”. The big difference between Donnie’s “mine” and Raph’s “mine” is that for Raph he’s in an actual relationship with Mona Lisa, they are dating, she is his and he is hers. So him saying “my” is cute and understandable cause she’s his girlfriend. While for Donnie, he and April aren’t even in romantic territory, most of the time it being one sided, so when Donnie refers to April as his it comes off as creepy cause, again, they ain’t even dating 😂

[@ItsBluBun]

I just wanna say I clicked on this video because I haven’t seen 2012 and was curious as to why people didn’t like Apritello, so I just let it play on the background while I drew. But then I hear 'and that ship is Adrinette' and I just turn to my screen immediately like- I was genuinely NOT expecting Adrinette to be brought up. But yeah, honestly, Adrinette was the reason I fell out of MLB (Marinette started to creep me out. I still keep up with MLB, but I don’t love it like I used to) so if Apritello is like Adrinette, then it’s not for me.

[@SaddieMoon]

I think another major issue people had with the ship is that Donnie is a turtle. Kinda like Sonic & Elise, I’ve heard emphasis on how bad the ship is just because one is a human, and the other isn’t. I personally don’t really agree with them as like Sonic & Elise, Donnie has the intelligence of a human. On top of Donnie being a mutant turtle anyways, his kind of mutation giving him human like proportions. On top of that, I personally just think that as long as both parties can consent, them being in a romantic relationship is perfectly fine.

[@poprocks6576]

The apritello ship also just doesn’t conclude it lives in conclusion and ends in confusion

[@eggnogalcoholic]

24:56 BTW the confusion after the first kiss on the mouth - THATS HOW THEY ENDED THE SHOWWWWW I feel so gaslit 😭😭😭

[@Leoraifans]

Also, Donnie memoried the distance of April apartment. He MEMORIZED her location.

[@SingleMomInYourArea]

Loved the short vid u did on Leorai😭

[@torisaursky]

Haha ty 💀

[@YuleKeepsOnYapping]

Honestly I don't mind romance, and I'm glad that it didn't end up with any dating between Donnie and April. (Like thank god cause considering his behavior towards her it would be kinda messed up). However, I do feel like some oppurtunity was missed. Like they could get together, they wouldn't even really have to stay together. But they dive into more problems with mutant-human dating. The fact that Donnie can't go anywhere with April, that he will be ostracized, and just... All that stuff. There could be some seriously more mature themes regarding like, discrimination and all sort of stuff. I genuinely would love to see that. I honestly dont think the writting was that bad, I just wish there was more communication between these two. Like idk, April confronting D about how she hates beong treated this way, yadda yadda. Like godness, the way they couldn't decide what they wanted really pulled this show down

[@PixelaGames2000]

I’m kinda on the fence when it comes to apriltello it’s got some good moments and so cringe moments Like there were times when I felt sorry for Donnie but I was also critical of him because cmon he has some simpy stalky behavior But he also genuinely cares for April so I say that’s a plus Overall it’s just kind of a meh ship for me it’s cute at times and also just kinda meh Anyways great video I’ll definitely be sure to check out your other content especially more TMNT sense that’s my current hyperfixation Also yes I’d love to see you cover TMNT 2003 because I rarely ever see people talk about it witch sucks because it’s such a great show

[@zephcosmic]

Great video! Thanks for highlighting that the ship DOES have positive elements, it’s pretty refreshing compared to other videos on ships I’ve seen. It feels like they finally got it right with Mutant Mayhem. While Leo has a hardcore crush on April, it doesn’t come off as creepy, just awkward, but in an adorable way, and on top of that, they also enjoy hanging out as just friends, he doesn’t try to pressure her.

[@Ajjbadger]

Whole thing, was a touchdown. Very well said, and FINALLY we're talking about not everything being April's fault 😂 well said❤️

[@budpalguy]

I like the capritello approach where April's part in the relationship is more of a qpr situation bc I like to see her as aroace :]

[@koolkel00]

Honestly, thank you Raphael for being honest with Donnie!! Someone has to!

[@colesephhh9546]

2:02 I’m sorry but that is clearly a map of the Mall of America 😂😂

[@avis8992]

This video is so good, I can't wait to see what you make for the future ♡♡

[@smedina123s]

Great analysis Tori! Awesome on the presentation! Looking forward to many more!

[@soulgalaxywolf1024]

Appreciate the nuance take with Apriltello! I only hear bad things about the ship, so highlighting some good parts and bringing up how others would try to make the writing better makes the ship more bearable. I didn't watch the full series, only the first season and episodes here and there after, but man, when Donatello becomes cringe, it's painful. I had to skip the robo scene you included, cause I can't stand it 🥲 I saw in the comments someone saying they like the confused aroace headcannon with April, and I agree. I prefer that simply 'cause with that it's relatable to me x3

[@lovelylife-tz4be]

I wanted to watch a video about TMNT but I also got a discussion about miraculous ladybug... you spoil me a good lady❤

[@Meeekuuuu]

The way I see it, Donnie's just a confused lovestruck teenager who has literally never had any sort of romantic experience before. Yes, his actions are often weird or creepy sometimes, but once again I dont entirely blame him for it since April at the end of the day never really seems fazed by it besides the few times she calls him out. I also see April as a confused teenager who does seem to like both Donnie and Casey to some extent but is too hesitant to actually take the next step with either of them as her life is already crazy enough.

[@dattebayo5948]

YES 👏👏👏

[@Dreamsight73]

I’ve always enjoyed this ship and actually included it in my tmnt next gen series, however, I can acknowledge that it’s not the greatest ship in the series and can get uncomfortable. Thank you for showing how nuanced this ship is!