Two new series, two new teams. The Unlimited Power Era of BOOM Studios’ Power Rangers continues here, and only Lord Drakkon, their greatest enemy, can save them. Writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin), artist Francesco Mortarino (Power Rangers: Soul of the Dragon), colorist Raul Angulo and letterer Ed Dukeshire reveal a new cosmic threat only the original Power Rangers, now known as the Omega Rangers — Jason, Trini and Zack — can hope to defeat. But their secret weapon is … Lord Drakkon?! Dan McMahon and Cori McCreery break down “Power Rangers” #1.
Cori McCreery: Hey, Dan! Sorry I was gone last week. Had an important training session for the Pan Global Games. I hope I didn’t miss any giant monster attacks or new Rangers popping up or anything.
Dan McMahon: Welcome back! Big update: We’re horny for Zordon now. Excited to have you back though before we head off into the final frontier. Let’s get into it.
Power Rangers in Space?
CM: So much like the new Mighty Morphin, this new series is spinning right out of plot points from the previous series. This book seems like it will continue to feature the Omega Rangers, and their efforts to protect the universe, while Mighty Morphin will continue to focus on the Earth-based team. But because the series have the same timeline, we get some fun overlap. What did you think of the Omegas hanging out in Angel Grove for a weekend?
DM: I loved when they showed up to the Juice Bar and Ernie embraced them so warmly. I really love the depth and characterization that this series is giving everyone. There is a great exchange between Jason and Rocky where Rocky opens up to Jason. He talks about how he felt like he was letting Jason down because Jason was the leader and he wasn’t. Jason is open and honest with him about how he still has no idea what he’s really doing. How do you feel about this kind of bonding in the series?
CM: That interaction was interesting to me because when Rocky joined, Jason wasn’t the leader anymore. The overlap was really short, sure, but there were nine episodes between “White Light” and “The Power Transfer.” It’s still a heartfelt moment, but I feel like that could have been brought up by Jason to reinforce his point. I will say I appreciate artist Francesco Mortarino giving Rocky a mullet in this year of our Lord Zedd 2020. What do you think of everyone’s looks in this new series?
DM: I really do love everyone’s looks in the series. They have the ’90s sort of flair but still a very modern look to them. Even more pumped that Bulk and Skull also always look gnarly because they’re fashion icons. I love how much depth the comics give to each character, and it only seems to be ramping up as we go. Even Zordon is feeling more like a three-dimensional figure rather than just a head. Although, I’d REALLY love to know what kind of fashion and personality that new Green Ranger has…
Go Green Ranger, Go!
CM: Looks like Drakkon being the new Green Ranger was a complete red (green?) herring, so now almost anyone (even Ernie) might be on the table. What do you think?
DM: Ernie or bust. … Honestly though, I have NO idea. There is Kimberly’s ex boyfriend, Skull’s new girlfriend who we know can absolutely kick some butt since she is from Eltar, and so many other choices. Hold on for this theory, though: What if it’s Billy? Through the series, we’ve often seen him doubt himself and his abilities. Being given one of the most powerful Ranger mantles would be very enticing. Especially since he was involved with the new Rangers inception. Who do you think is behind the mask?
CM: Had to go back to previous issues since the new Green Ranger didn’t actually show up this issue, but what happens at the end of the issue makes it clear it wasn’t Drakkon. But though your Billy theory is interesting, there’s the slight problem of him being there during the Pandamonium fight. I will say Ernie IS wearing green in both of these #1 issues…
As for why it can’t be Drakkon…
Prison Break
DM: There has always been a sort of cardinal rule in Power Rangers: Zordon usually is a source of wisdom and advice. The Omega Rangers though don’t really fall under his umbrella. They’re their own thing, so he has no control over them, so seeing former Rangers sort of betray him, even for the greater good, was a really fresh story beat in my opinion. I think the comics have brought such nuance to the floating head. What do you think about the whole situation?
CM: I think this is a clear case where neither side is truly in the right, and there’s more nuance that neither side is taking the time to fully review. They both have it stuck in their heads that they’re right and they won’t budge. This stubbornness is going to provide an ongoing conflict for the book, with them at odds with Zordon and his Rangers at least for the foreseeable future.
DM: Drakkon saying Jason was his favorite HITS WAY DIFFERENT after the reveal in New Dawn.
CM: Especially with how the Jason of that series almost followed in Drakkon’s footsteps near the end. Maybe Drakkon sees a bit more to Jason than Jason realizes.
DM: Cards on the table, I was not excited for more Drakkon until I read this. The Omega Rangers yanking him from jail and betraying Zordon was something I didn’t see coming, so I am super excited to see how this all unfolds…IN SPACE.
CM: The one thing I’m curious with Drakkon being welcomed to the team is how much power they’re going to be willing to let him have. I’m assuming very little, but who knows, this is all new territory. Guess we’ll see starting next issue!
Back to Action!
- Dan is still on Rita Watch 2020
- Poor Alpha. 🙁
