Pop-Culturalist.com

When I first learned they were rebooting Power Rangers, I had mixed feelings. I was apprehensive yet excited. It brought me back to my childhood when I would wake up early on Saturday mornings and plant myself in front of the television. It was the first film I ever saw in theaters, and I remember eating countless Happy Meals in my attempt to collect each and every Power Rangers’ toy. If you asked me as a kid what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would have answered, “A Power Ranger!” These are just a few reasons why the franchise is so near and dear to my heart. So what did I think about this re-imagining? Well, it’s mighty, it’s morphin’, and it’s even better than the original! Yes, you read that correctly. This is how you introduce a beloved series to a new generation (take note Michael Bay).

Director Dean Israelite elevates the origin story we’ve come to know and love. Our five teenagers with attitude are intact and they’re kicking some serious butt. They come from all walks of life, representing inclusion and diversity. And it matters, especially for both the LGBTQIA community and to those on the Autism spectrum. Audiences will be able to see a bit of themselves onscreen. And unlike the original, our heroes are even a bit flawed. Each has their own struggle and it’s done so well that it never feels like a plot device and creates a natural connection between the viewer and the characters.

It’s equally as refreshing (and well-paced, might I add) to see that the Rangers aren’t given these powers. They have to earn them and prove that they can come together as a team to save the world. It’s an important lesson to be taught. And after some epic training scenes and an encounter with Rita Repulsa, you’ll have some serious feels when you see them line up in formation. If you’re like me, well, you’ll also be screaming on the inside.

While it may be hard to picture anyone but the original cast portraying these iconic characters, we have to give huge kudos to casting. We’re treated to the emergence of not one, not two, but five breakout stars that we wouldn’t mind seeing extend this franchise. We have Dacre Montgomery as Jason Scott, Naomi Scott as Kimberly Hart, RJ Cyler as Billy Cranston, Becky G as Trini Kwan, and Ludi Lin as Zack Taylor. And rounding out this extraordinary ensemble are veterans Bryan Cranston as Zordon, Elizabeth Banks as Rita Repulsa, and Bill Hader as Alpha 5.

The film is the perfect combination of action, story, and nostalgia. We have suits and zords for the modern age, references that die-hards will recognize, a cameo with familiar faces, and even a taste of the classic theme song. But I do have a few things I’d like changed for the sequel because Lionsgate may make up to seven more Power Rangers’ films (and trust me, I would more than welcome that!). First, I’d love to see more color in the Megazord. One of the reasons why the Megazord is so memorable is because it pops visually and you can distinctly identify each of the individual zords. In the film, it meshes too well. Second, get rid of the terrible product placement. It’s over-the-top, cheesy, and devalues the film. I shouldn’t be able to recall any brands except Lionsgate and Saban. Unfortunately, I did. But overall, all I can say is, “Go, go see the Power Rangers!” You won’t regret it. Oh! And stay past the credits.