Power Rangers (2017) Movie Review: A Nostalgic Reboot with a Modern Twist
Power Rangers, directed by Dean Israelite, is a 2017 reboot of the beloved franchise that captivated audiences in the 1990s. This reimagining of the iconic series brings together a new generation of heroes while retaining the spirit of teamwork and friendship that defined the original show. Starring Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, RJ Cyler, Becky G, and Ludi Lin, the film blends action, humor, and heartfelt moments, delivering an engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Plot Overview: A New Generation of Heroes
Set in the fictional town of Angel Grove, the film follows five high school misfits—Jason Scott (Dacre Montgomery), Kimberly Hart (Naomi Scott), Billy Cranston (RJ Cyler), Trini Kwan (Becky G), and Zack Taylor (Ludi Lin)—who stumble upon a mysterious power coin while exploring an abandoned mine. After discovering the ancient artifacts, they unwittingly awaken a dormant threat in the form of Rita Repulsa (Elizabeth Banks), a former Power Ranger turned villain seeking to harness the power of the Morphing Grid for her nefarious plans.
As the teens come to terms with their newfound powers, they must learn to work together as a team to stop Rita and save their town from destruction. Each character undergoes personal growth, facing their insecurities and learning the value of friendship, trust, and sacrifice. The film’s narrative deftly balances action-packed sequences with character development, ensuring that the stakes feel personal for each member of the team.
Themes: Friendship, Identity, and Responsibility
At its core, Power Rangers is about friendship and the challenges of adolescence. The film explores themes of identity as each character navigates their individual struggles while trying to fit into a group. This focus on personal growth allows the film to resonate with a modern audience, showcasing the complexities of teenage life.
The theme of responsibility also plays a significant role in the film, as the characters learn that with great power comes great responsibility. As they embrace their roles as Power Rangers, they come to understand the importance of teamwork and the sacrifices required to protect those they care about. This lesson is particularly poignant in today’s society, where collaboration and understanding are crucial for overcoming challenges.
Character Development: A Diverse Cast
The film’s diverse cast is one of its standout features, offering a fresh take on the Power Rangers mythos. Each character is well-developed, with unique backgrounds and challenges that add depth to the story:
- Jason Scott, the Red Ranger, grapples with the pressure of leadership and the need to prove himself after a serious mistake in his past. Dacre Montgomery delivers a strong performance, portraying Jason’s journey from a troubled teen to a confident leader.
- Kimberly Hart, the Pink Ranger, faces her own struggles with bullying and self-acceptance. Naomi Scott’s portrayal adds emotional depth to the character, showcasing her growth from a social outcast to a strong, empowered individual.
- Billy Cranston, the Blue Ranger, is portrayed as a tech-savvy genius on the autism spectrum. RJ Cyler’s performance is both heartfelt and inspiring, representing a more inclusive depiction of intelligence and friendship.
- Trini Kwan, the Yellow Ranger, explores her identity and sexuality, providing a refreshing perspective on representation in mainstream media. Becky G brings authenticity to the role, highlighting Trini’s inner conflict and journey toward self-acceptance.
- Zack Taylor, the Black Ranger, is characterized as a confident and charismatic individual dealing with family pressures. Ludi Lin’s energetic performance embodies Zack’s adventurous spirit while showcasing his vulnerability.
Together, the characters form a relatable and dynamic team, with their interactions adding humor and heart to the film.
Direction and Visual Effects: A Modern Take
Directed by Dean Israelite, Power Rangers successfully balances nostalgia with a modern approach. The film captures the essence of the original series while incorporating contemporary themes and storytelling techniques. Israelite’s direction ensures that the film maintains a brisk pace, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.
The visual effects in Power Rangers are impressive, especially during the action sequences and the transformation scenes. The design of the Zords and the Power Ranger suits pays homage to the original series while updating them for a modern audience. The action is dynamic and well-choreographed, providing exhilarating moments that thrill fans of the franchise.
Music: A Nostalgic Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack features a mix of contemporary hits and classic tracks that evoke nostalgia for longtime fans. The use of music enhances key moments, amplifying the emotional impact and adding to the film’s overall energy. The original theme song from the series makes a triumphant return, eliciting excitement from fans while introducing new audiences to the iconic tune.
Reception: A Mixed Response
Upon its release, Power Rangers received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its character development and modern take on the franchise, while others felt it fell short in certain areas, such as pacing and plot execution. However, audiences generally responded positively, appreciating the film’s blend of action, humor, and heartfelt moments.
Fans of the original series found Power Rangers to be a respectful and engaging reboot that successfully captures the spirit of the franchise while making it accessible to a new generation. The film’s emphasis on teamwork, friendship, and personal growth resonated with viewers, allowing it to carve out a place in the hearts of both old and new fans.
Where to Watch Power Rangers Online
For those interested in watching Power Rangers, the film is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Rent or buy the movie here.
- YouTube: The film can be rented or purchased directly.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
These platforms make it easy for fans to experience this nostalgic yet modern take on the Power Rangers franchise.
Conclusion: A Fun and Empowering Adventure
Power Rangers (2017) successfully revives the beloved franchise, offering a thrilling adventure filled with heart, humor, and valuable life lessons. With its diverse cast, engaging character arcs, and impressive visual effects, the film stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Power Rangers while making it relevant for today’s audience.
As audiences join Jason, Kimberly, Billy, Trini, and Zack on their journey to becoming heroes, they are reminded of the importance of friendship, identity, and the responsibilities that come with power. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, Power Rangers delivers an entertaining and empowering cinematic experience that celebrates the spirit of teamwork and heroism.
