Power Rangers – A Modern Reimagining of a Beloved Classic
Power Rangers (2017) is a bold reboot of the iconic franchise that began with Mighty Morphin Power Rangers in the early 1990s. Directed by Dean Israelite, the film sought to reintroduce the legendary team of teenage heroes to a new generation while paying homage to the legacy of the original series. With updated visuals, deeper character development, and a darker tone, the movie brought a fresh perspective to a property that had long been associated with colorful costumes and lighthearted action.
The story follows five ordinary high school students in the small town of Angel Grove: Jason, Kimberly, Billy, Trini, and Zack. Each of them struggles with personal challenges, from family pressures to social isolation, making them relatable beyond their roles as superheroes. Their lives change forever when they stumble upon mysterious Power Coins buried in a restricted quarry. Soon after, they encounter Zordon, a former Ranger trapped within a spaceship, and his robotic assistant Alpha 5. Tasked with protecting Earth from the returning villain Rita Repulsa, the group must learn to trust one another, embrace their new powers, and ultimately form the legendary Megazord to defeat her.
One of the strengths of the 2017 Power Rangers is its emphasis on character depth. Unlike the original series, which often leaned into formulaic storytelling, the reboot gives each Ranger a distinct emotional arc. Billy, portrayed by RJ Cyler, stands out as the heart of the group, offering humor, vulnerability, and intelligence. The film also gained attention for its representation, with Trini becoming the first openly LGBTQ character in the franchise, a step forward for inclusivity in mainstream superhero films.
Visually, the movie takes a darker and more realistic approach compared to its predecessors. The Rangers’ suits are designed with a sleek, alien-like armor, while Rita Repulsa, played by Elizabeth Banks, is reimagined as a more sinister and threatening villain. The final battle, complete with the Megazord and the monstrous Goldar, delivers a spectacle that combines nostalgia with modern blockbuster flair. The filmmakers clearly aimed to create a cinematic universe that could stand alongside other superhero franchises of the time.
However, the film received mixed reviews. While fans praised the character development, diversity, and fresh take on the story, critics noted pacing issues and felt the Rangers’ iconic action sequences arrived too late in the movie. The balance between teen drama and superhero spectacle was ambitious, but not always consistent. Despite this, the film found a loyal audience that appreciated its effort to modernize the franchise while still honoring its roots.
Though it did not launch the long-lasting franchise revival that was intended, Power Rangers (2017) remains a notable attempt to reimagine a beloved property for a new era. It showcased that beneath the flashy costumes and giant robots lies a story about friendship, responsibility, and embracing one’s true potential. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it provided a reminder that heroes can come from the most unlikely places—and that when united, even ordinary teenagers can become extraordinary defenders of the world.
