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“Finally I can ascend.”
Power Rangers Universe #1
Nicole Andelfinger
Simone Ragazzoni (@SimoneRagazzoni)
Mattia Iacono (@iacono_mattia)
Review by Chris Ceary
Content/trigger warnings: Evacuation
In a futuristic universe, a new batch of Power Rangers must try to untangle what is happening when their worlds are thrown into chaos. Emotions run high as an unknown danger causes a planet-wide evacuation. Will the Rangers forgo their chance of escaping with their loved ones to meet this unknown threat? Power Rangers Universe will take you on that journey.
Power Rangers Universe #1 aims to set up a rollicking futuristic space opera in the Power Rangers-verse that is similar to what Legion of Superheroes does for the DC universe. There are no familiar faces here, and the familiar concepts are seen through a future-focused lens. The story throws readers into the middle of the action and chaos of the evacuation with little setup or introduction to characters. This method adds to the frantic feeling in this 1st issue. Unfortunately, it also leaves the reader with little to grip onto. I have rarely found myself more desperate for a hint of exposition. It was hard to follow the plot and almost impossible to learn anything about the characters. The chaos was realized, but attempts to convey an idea of the overall story got lost in the action.
The art is where this story sings. The character designs hint at interesting personalities that make the reader curious to learn more about each person. So much world building is achieved through the images in this issue, which set up a grand scope for the story. This is not a Power Rangers tale focused on their life at a high school. This is a universe and the art conveys that idea. The art has hints of a chalky quality that add depth to each panel that let it pop off the page while adding layers to the images. The panels convey the chaos more effectively than the writing does, with each image in dynamic motion.
Verdict
WAIT AND SEE. The first issue of Power Rangers Universe was messy and chaotic, but through the art and character designs, there are hints at something interesting underneath. This 1st issue may have more story introduction problems than most but unfold into a grand story that will be more effectively read as a whole. Alternatively, it may remain good in concept without successful execution. This is one to check back in on once it has a chance to develop the characters, but for now, hold off.
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