Good afternoon Heroes, and happy Thursday as we continue into the new age of Power Rangers with Prime’s fourth issue. Although, we apologize for this delay, as things have been hectic here on our side, mostly with Wheels’ heating problem. Anyway, for this issue things are picking up where the previous issue left off. Specifically, with Lauren Shiba becoming the Prime Red Ranger, and the VR Troopers arriving to arrest “this criminal.” However, as we get further into this issue we will discovers that the Eltarians have other plans now. So, without further ado it is Morphin’ Time, as we jump into this review for Power Rangers Prime #4.
Comic Credits
- Artist:Michael YG
- Colorist: Fabi Marques
- Lettering: Ed Dukeshire
- Writer: Melissa Flores
- Designer: Madison Goyette
- Assistant Editor: Caroline Butler
- Editor: David Mariotte
- Editor-in-Chief: Matt Gagnon
- Cover Artist: Dan Mora
- Hasbro Special Thanks to Linda Lee, Tayla Reo & Ed Lane
[Warning: The following review contains spoilers, so readers should proceed at their own discretion]
Review
Now, this issue begins with a brief flashback to ten years ago, where Jun and Janessa visit Eltar. Here they are greeted by Commander Yorlam, who is shocked and angered by Jun’s appearance. Specifically, Yorlam is appalled that Jun has not undergone the Eltarian custom of shaving his head bald. Additionally, Yorlam scolds Janessa for allowing Jun to be somewhat spoiled due to living on Earth. Although, Janessa attempts to explain away her and Jun’s actions as trying to fit in with Earth’s humans. Yet, this interaction goes to show how the Eltarian’s have a superiority complex, and how it went into affecting Jun. Especially, since during this time Jun seems to be uncomfortable around Eltarians. Whereas, in the present day, Jun has been shown to mistreat others below his status. So, it shows that Jun is conflicted between who he wants to be, and what his culture demands of him. However, I feel like Jun’s interest in the Power Rangers is a way for him to rebel.
Anyway, as this issue returns to the present day, Lauren is surprised that her Ranger suit has changed. However, Rita’s response to this realization is, “you must grow beyond mere fire power, if you are to serve me.” So, for an in-universe explanation this seems to be a valid justification for a new suit and powers. Although, fans should assume that with a new universe our heroes would get a new everything. Also, with Rita creating this new power, it is hinted that these Ranger suits may encompass multiple powers and abilities. For example, while the suits are Mighty Morphin inspired, the Rangers could have weapons based on other teams. Unfortunately, there is not enough time to learn about the Prime powers, as the Eltarian police force rushes them down.
Thankfully, Lauren quickly makes an opening for the others to escape and avoid being spotted. Additionally, Valentina is the quickest to flee, but is forced to convince Jun and Mark to follow her lead. Especially, since Jun forgets how his status may protect him, but it will not protect Mark or Orion. Coincidentally, Jun wanted to stay due to his fascination with Power Rangers, while Orion and Mark wanted to help. Furthermore, as they make their escape the group runs into Bulk who looks to join them for his own safety. Yet, as the group starts getting closer to the exit, each member slowly begins to have second thoughts.
Meanwhile, the Eltarian police orders Rita and Lauren to surrender, but Rita is quick to admit that she prefers violence. Additionally, the accompanying panels are great, as Michael YG frames Lauren as quickly dashing into the fray. Like by just having Lauren in the foreground accompanied a whooshing effect, it gives that sense of superspeed. Also, it is great to see Lauren being able to properly defend herself, as she throws herself at the Eltarians. Furthermore, Rita amazingly reanimates a T-rex skeleton for extra support, which was drawn and colored beautifully. However, there is a moment of comedy when the skeleton is standing confused, so Rita must order it to attack. Although, I do not think that is a horrible addition, as that type comedy fits Power Rangers usual style.
So, as mentioned early the others begin to have second thoughts on leaving Lauren and Rita behind. Specifically, Orion who tells everyone else that they should not run away, and they should see things through. As a result, Orion heads back to help Lauren, and reluctantly Val drags everyone else along with her. Although, Val’s excuse is that Jun and Mark were going to return with Orion whether she agreed or not. However, as they return to Lauren’s position, they witness her being blasted by the VR Troopers to their surprise. Additionally, with the VR Troopers appearance they order the Eltarian forces to stand down, which angers Janessa, Jun’s mother. Especially, since Janessa goes to tell Ryan Steele that humans do not order Eltarians around, further imposing their superiority. Coincidentally, this interaction did make me question the VR Troopers alignment moving forward, as the Eltarians might dissolve them. Like I can see them joining the rebels willingly, or be forced to through some type of betrayal.
Then the last two pages deal with the others deciding on if they should become Power Rangers or not. Surprisingly, I feel bad for Ryan and Val’s situation even though their relationship has been forced upon readers. However, I assume later issues will explore how in-depth these characters care for one another. Yet, from this point it shown that neither Ryan or Val wanted this escalate as far as it has become. Especially, with Val crying and apologizing as she reaches outs to become one of Rita’s new Power Rangers. Whereas, Jun accepts the power as a means to have free will, to live a life that he wants. So, this somewhat confirms my theory that Jun’s interest in Power Rangers is to rebel against the system. Meanwhile, Orion and Mark accept this opportunity because they most likely represent the type of Ranger fans are used to.
As a result, this completes the five core members of the Prime team, but I hope there will be more. Currently, I am really invested in seeing how this team of Rangers will operate going forward. Also, I really want to know what obstacles they will have to overcome since they are fighting a government. Like I guess we will not see too many monster battles, but we might see mecha on mecha action. Especially, since the VR Troopers had a Megazord-like giant robot during the show’s original run called the VR Troopertron. Although, they could possibly have two robots since the VR Shoulder Cannon was actually Space Sheriff Shaider’s mecha. However, I merely want to see how much this world will be explored, from its locations to its supporting characters. For example, besides having Bulk around, who will be the Rangers other allies? Like will we have other legacy characters appear, or brand-new ones like Val and Jun? Ultimately, we do not know at this time, but we can tell that a revolution is about to occur.
Overall, this issue has been well worth the wait, and it pays off by completing the Power Rangers Prime team. As always, the creative team behind this title put in a fantastic job from its writing to its art. Additionally, Melissa Flores continues to write complex characters with dynamic relationships, where those relationship often get heavily tested. Especially, when looking back at Melissa’s previous work with the Power Rangers brand and with the Massive-Verse. Whereas, Micheal YG and Fabi Marques bring the action with their illustrations and colors. So, I can only assume that the next issue will be loaded to the brim with hot-blooded blazing action. Anyway, until that time comes, I have been Ben Odinson and I am heading out for now!
