Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers Volume 1 TPB
Writer: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Dan Mora
Colorist: Raúl Angulo
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Review by Anelise Farris
Nearly a year ago I reviewed the first issue of this series, but, as often happens, I get behind and wait for the trade. So, here we are with Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers Volume 1 TPB, and I could not be more excited. What struck me first about this series is that it is both inviting to readers with no familiarity of the fabulous five as well as welcoming to those who have been long-time fans of the crew.
It opens shortly after Trini, Billy, Kimberly, Jason, and Zack first become Power Rangers. They don’t yet understand how their powers work. They don’t know what their role is in protecting the world from the likes of Rita Repulsa and her monsters. They are just high-schoolers trying to get through their day-to-day life. So, while the powers are a gift, it is not all fame and glory.
And this is one of the huge strengths of this series. We really get to know these characters as people first, superheroes second. They have favorite foods and movies, diverse family backgrounds, and unique personalities. As I said in my review of issue #1, I relate to Billy the most: school nerd and coffee snob. I typically don’t like “group” stories (Justice League, Avengers, X-Men, etc.) because I get so overwhelmed. Here, however, that is not the case.
The time spent developing the individual characters makes this an easy group to get behind. The banter among the five flows flawlessly. It feels like you’re watching an old episode (one that is particularly gorgeous in the art department). It’s that smooth. As the series progresses, and Rita Repulsa’s invasion of earth amps up, the creative team beautifully balances life at Angel Grove High School and life battling literal monsters. Whether they’re hanging out at the youth center/juice bar or travelling through space, they never lose sight of what matters: family and friends.
To be fair, this compelling, character-driven story would be far less effective without the gorgeous art. It is reminiscent of a westernized manga style, and the humor definitely evokes that vibe. The soft, round linework is playful, youthful, and warm in a way that really invites you to get to know these characters. And the coloring is absolutely beautiful. I spent way too long staring at those starry skies and soothing, milky hues.
The Verdict: Buy it.
Group superhero stories have never been my thing. Power Rangers (and Marvel’s Runaways) have always been the two exceptions. And Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers Volume 1 TPB is my favorite Power Rangers comic I’ve ever read. Power Rangers fan? You’ll love it. Not a Power Rangers fan (yet)? You’ll love it. It’s a fun, emotional, character-driven ride with the coolest high-schoolers ever.
