New Horizons

In early 2012 I decided I was going to write reviews for every episode of Power Rangers. As Samurai was airing at the time I decided to start there. And that's what you'll find on this blog. My first twenty Power Rangers "reviews" covering the first season of Power Rangers Samurai. If you enjoy my pointless ramblings about a show aimed at kids then click that tab at the top that says New Reviews and follow me on my journey to over analyse twenty years of Power Rangers.

White Ranger Supremacist Power

I first watched the original Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers back when it originally aired and at the time I was far too young to realise that the decision to make the Black Ranger African American and the Yellow Ranger Asian was a controversial decision.

I didn't grow up in what you'd call a racially diverse area. In my primary school there was maybe two black kids and no Asian kids I can recall. It was largely a white school. Racism wasn't really something I ever came across. I consider myself very lucky in that respect. One of the black kids was in my class and none of us ever saw this as an issue. She was one of us. She was exactly the same as the rest of us. When I got to high school I first came across racism a concept I've never really understood. Maybe I'm far too naive but I always hoped racism was going out of fashion.

Back to Power Rangers and I always hoped that the Black/Yellow Ranger was completely unintentional. I didn't want to think that it had been a racist decision. The second season saw the races switched in these roles and all series have had a racially diverse cast. Was it just tokenism? Was every black actor actually just the token black shoved in to hide a racist hierarchy's true thoughts on racial harmony. There has always been more white actors in the show and I'd always hoped that was just a coincidence. Then we get a story like the one that's been going round this week.

The story is that of actress Sundai Love being told she couldn't win a part on the next season of Power Rangers because they'd already chosen one black actor. That's right. Not a case of you weren't right for the part or you weren't good enough but that one black actor is more than enough for a team of Power Rangers. I can't believe in the 21st century someone would believe that's an acceptable thing to say. Now we don't know who's said this or how far up it goes but it's an incredibly unprofessional and offensive thing to say. For more details on this story check out Rising Sun Tokusatsu who cover this story in a far better way than I have.

I'm hoping this will all turn out to be a massive mistake and that race plays no part in who gets parts. There shouldn't be racial quotas in a modern world. Kids should grow up seeing that all people are equal not that anyone who isn't white is only there to make up the numbers.

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #20

Episode 20: The Ultimate Duel

Written by:  Jonathan Rosenthal

Directed by: Akihiro Noguchi

At long last we reach the gripping finale of the first season of Power Rangers Samurai. It’s been one hell of a ride for us all. We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve fallen in love with Kevin and we’ve waited with baited breath to see Red Ranger Jayden battle the bearded warrior Deker in the ultimate duel. As you can tell from the title of this episode we’ve finally arrived at that point. We know there’s a second season to come so unfortunately we will not be seeing the downfall of Captain Half Arsed today. Hopefully Super Samurai will see the final downfall of the idiotic Master Xandred, but it is not with future events we should concern ourselves; now is the time for the ultimate duel. Can Jayden defeat Deker once and for all? Will Bulk get a face full of goo? If he does will I remember how many times it’s happened previously? Will I follow this review with a review of that pointless Halloween clip show? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

We kick off exactly where we left off last time. Mia and Emily are facing off against a rather pissed off Dayu who is still annoyed at Mia’s intrusions in her dream world. Emily’s in a bad way. They really don’t make Ranger suits like they used to do they? One hit from Dayu and Emily is de-morphed and severely injured. This wouldn’t have happened in Zordon’s day. She’s not the only one in a bad way. As Antonio points out, Jayden is far too exhausted to  take on Deker. He expended a lot of symbol power getting Mike and Kevin into the dream world then he had that whole Megazord battle. Typical Deker turning up at the worst possible moment and demanding a duel. But as is always the case with these things something else comes up. This time it’s a group of Moogers. Damn you Xandred this duel promises to be the most epicly epic thing ever! Why do you ruin anything that even threatens to defeat the Rangers? Why do you suck so hard? Anyway, Deker wants the Red Ranger for himself so these Moogers are going down. As Antonio points out they’re not even a challenge for the well groomed swordsman. How can Jayden possibly defeat such a foe? Rangers don’t fight for the sake of fighting but looks like this time he ain’t got no choice. Deker has given Jayden 24 hours before they will duel. He’s threatened to unleash his Nighlok half on the innocent if Jayden fails to show. Looks like the duel is on. Noon tomorrow. By the sea. Sweet.

You know what I really don’t care about? What’s happening with Master Xandred. Guess where we’re kicking off post credits? Yep with that whiney, useless red burke. The brain box has realised that if Deker defeats the Red Ranger then the sealing powers will be gone forever. Hear that Xandred? That’s the sound of my slow hand clap as you realise the obvious you gosh darn imbecile! Speaking of complete losers the previous episodes Monster of the Week Rhinosnorus is still hanging about. Xandred points out he completely failed his mission last time out. So what are they gonna do with him? Oh they’re gonna send him back.

What’s going on at Shiba house? Well Mia’s fussing over Emily. She’s feeling guilty about hesitating when it came time to battle Dayu leading to Emily’s injury at the hands of the tormented Nighlok. Mia thinks she can no longer let her feelings get in the way of the mission, but there are more important things to discuss. The gang have a meeting to discuss Jayden’s upcoming duel with Deker and nobody is happy about the Red Ranger battling the bearded swordsman alone. Kevin especially has major issues with a one on one duel- it’s not the samurai way gosh darn it! But is there any other way? Deker will only be satisfied by his one on one duel against Jayden and the cost of not duelling him is just too high. Mia’s on Jayden’s side she now realises the well groomed one will not stop until he fulfils his destiny and experiences that ultimate duel. Kevin’s seeing the big picture; Jayden is the only one who can seal Master Xandred away once and for all. For a change Mike is on Kevin’s side but Jayden’s having none of it. He storms out leaving Kevin devastated, a look of deep love on his face.

Dayu is still devastated at the loss of her harmonium. She’s lamenting her loss in some tropical forest when who happens upon her? None other than ex husband Deker!  Is he her ex husband? I don’t know how it works. Does becoming a half Nighlok with no memory of his past life nullify their wedding vows? If any lawyers are reading this and know of a precedence for this please let me know.  Deker is surprised to see the ex. in the human world. What’s she doing there? Well what’s he doing there? His answer is his ultimate duel is on tomorrow. I think he’s a bit slow.

Back at Shiba house Jayden is training hard. Kevin’s still trying to talk his leader out of taking on Deker alone but the Red Ranger is having no of it. This is Jayden’s destiny and not even the awesomeness of Kevin can sway him. Kevin being the legend he is finally accepts Jayden’s decision and agrees to help him train. What a guy. The rest of the gang are discussing the impending duel. Antonio believes they have no reason to worry- Jayden can beat anyone. Emily and Mike agree but Mia’s gone all dark on us. I like this new Mia. She’s a lot more dedicated to death and destruction. Deker has to be finished! Even Ji’s in agreement. Deker is prowling around outside confident tonight will be the final night of his curse **SPOILER ALERT for those that have yet to see Super Samurai** he obviously hasn’t read a synopsis for next season snigger snigger.

It’s the morning of the duel and Jayden’s looking rough but determined. He leaves Shiba House knowing it all depends on him now. As he walks the grounds the other Rangers wish him luck and encourage him to succeed. Just as he’s about to leave the worst possible thing happens. The Nighlok sensors have gone off! NO! Why now? This is the worst possible time for it. Rhinosnorus is back! Jayden has to face Deker so he has only one choice. He must hand over leadership of the Rangers to his most trusted lieutenant Kevin! He hands over the discs necessary to form the Megazord. With the rest of the Rangers now ready to take on Rhinosnorus, Jayden must leave to face his destiny.

Rhinosnorus appears to have tracked down Woody Allen and apparently didn’t enjoy Midnight in Paris because he’s attacking him. Now I hate Owen Wilson as much as the next guy, that annoying voice that stupid face god damn him, but I personally think Rhinosnorus is a little out of order. Luckily for Woody the Power Rangers have arrived and manage to pull some awesome poses, especially Kevin. I guess the episode is running a little short because we’re treated to an extended transformation sequence. As the Rangers duel Rhinosnorus Deker awaits the Red Ranger on the beach. Deker is quick to compare the Red Ranger to himself something annoys Jayden. As Deker says at last the time has come. Fight!

This is what we’ve been waiting for such a long time. The ultimate duel is finally under way. Jayden is still trying to talk Deker out of fighting. He doesn’t truly understand that Deker has no choice. It is his destiny to have the ultimate duel and Jayden is his destined opponent. The battle is intense and the two warriors are fairly evenly matched. Deker realises that Jayden truly is his equal and today will be the end of his course. As the two warriors continue to duel we head back to the other Rangers as they continue to battle Rhinosnorus. He’s proving quite a difficult foe for our Ranger chums but Kevin soon sorts him out with his Hyrdro Bow and we all know what that means…

Antonio is too weak to join the others in a spot of Megazord action but I can’t see Rhinosnorus being too much trouble for our heroes. Kevin’s getting a bit flustered in his first battle as leader but Emily believes in him and so do I! And our faith in the Blue Ranger is soon justified as they finally defeat Rhinosnorus. Now that’s over we can focus on why we’re all here. The ultimate duel.

Deker and Jayden continue their clash of swords with neither of them truly winning the encounter. There’s lots of rolling around and swooshing of swords. Deker is ready to end this duel and he strikes the Red Ranger. The blow appears deadly and it forces Jayden to drop his sword. Surely it’s over now? NO! As Jayden’s sword falls he catches it with his other hand and attacks an unsuspecting Deker. His second blow breaks Deker’s sword into two pieces. The duel is over Jayden has won. Deker is released from his curse and falls from the Cliffside before disappearing forever (no spoilers here). The battle’s taken a lot out of Jayden but he’s won and that’s the important thing. The other Rangers run to his aid. Back at Shiba House Jayden thanks Kevin for leading the Rangers in his absence and Kevin is pleased but makes it clear that they need Jayden. Looks like Antonio has prepared a fish super for the celebrations. Absolutely golden. Jayden admits to the rest of the Rangers that part of him wanted to fight Deker to prove he’s meant to be the Red Ranger (foreshadowing?). That’s Deker finished but Master Xandred is still free and will continue to cause more havock, but that’s a tale for next season. We’ve got time for just one more “Rangers together Samurai forever”  before we sign off.

Next time: Party Monsters

Pictures taken from Samurai Power Rangers Gateway.

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #19

Episode 19: Broken Dreams

Written by: Jill Donnellan

Directed by: Akihiro Noguchi

The ultimate duel is nearly on us! Yes we’re fast approaching the end of the first season of Power Rangers Samurai. It’s been one hell of a ride and there’s still a few exciting adventures to be had before we say goodbye Samurai and hello Super Samurai! What does this penultimate episode hold for us? Will we finally find out the truth about Deker and Dayu? Can we make it through a whole episode without Deker stroking his sword and banging on about the ultimate duel? Will Bulk ever get covered in goo again? For the answers to these questions and more read on…

At Shiba House the Rangers are in training. There’s a whole lot of stick-whacking going on. Jayden has a look of grim determination; he’s still being haunted by Deker’s words. Warped. Twisted. These words appear to be hurting Jayden more than any blow from the part-Nighlok’s blade ever could. The other Rangers are concerned about their leader. Kevin is worried about the after-effects of Jayden’s time as Deker’s prisoner. Emily lets him know that they’re all there for him. Before they get chance to delve further into the troubled psyche of their leader Mia arrives with dire news. She’s cooking for them all tonight! Hiding his distaste quite excellently, Kevin asks what’s the occasion? and Mia explains it’s for Antonio who has been working so very hard on repairing the Black Box. Jayden’s not in the mood for such things and storms off. Mike, ever the funny man, makes a crack about how it’s a bummer for Jayden first being poisoned then having to deal with Mia’s cooking. A remark that doesn’t impress Emily.

Post credits and we’re back with Master Xandred the half-arsed incompetent king of the Nighloks. What’s he doing? I hear you ask. Well he’s complaining as usual. What’s upset Captain Half Arsed this time? Well he’s pissed off that Dayu didn’t even try to destroy Deker after he ordered her to. Well why don’t you try and do something yourself for a change? You useless, annoying gimp! You’re really starting to grate my cheese now. I’m eagerly awaiting your demise. I will laugh as you are finally defeated by the Samurai Rangers in the series finale you putz! Octoroo tries to defend Dayu but she’s feeling pretty down and tries to persuade Xandred to destroy her. Xandred, showing a rather nasty side he should probably use against the Rangers, decides to destroy her in a different way and takes his anger out on her harmonium. Apparently Dayu chose to give herself up to the darkness and that can never be reversed. There is a flashback to a human Deker and we are left once again wondering just what the heck is going on? Dayu is devastated by the loss of her beloved harmonium flees the ship leaving Xandred and Octoroo. It’s time to whip out the monster of the week. This time round its Rhinosnorus. Who I’m sure will be just awesome.

You know what I’m wondering right now? That’s right I’m wondering what our loveable incompetents Bulk and Spike are up to! Well the answer appears to be eating- the lucky sods! I’m pretty damn hungry myself right now. Although apparently that’s all we’re seeing of the comedic duo for now as we’re off following the rampage of a very angry Dayu. She’s only gone and attacked a busker who was innocently strumming his guitar. I personally hate buskers so this scene is very enjoyable. She needs the filthy hobo’s musical essence to repair her instrument (snigger). Luckily for him Mia just happens to be out doing her grocery shopping and is there to save the day. She sneaks off to Morph which brings me back to the importance of secret identities in the Power Rangers universe which I first raised in the previous review.

 

Mia hides when she’s morphin but surely everyone knows they’re the Rangers as they all live in the Shiba House which is obviously the home of the Power Rangers. Anyway, as usual that doesn’t actually matter. The fight between Mia and Dayu isn’t long but at least Dayu finally finds a decent use for a busker, using him almost as a human shield before throwing him at the Pink Ranger. Maybe we should all try using buskers as human shields in conflicts, it’ll make walking through our town centres a lot less awkward. What this poor street urchin needs now is a distraction…

It’s time for the Monster of the Week to show us what he can do. He passes gas apparently. Perhaps not a farty gas but it’s enough to knock out Bulk and Spike. He also gasses the hobo, freeing him from repairing Dayu’s instrument. Luckily for us the rest of the Samurai Rangers have arrived to assist Mia. As the Rangers tackle the villainous Rhinosnorus Dayu makes a run for it, dragging the stinking, unconscious, guitar-strumming hobo with her. Luckily Mia notices and chases after her. Jayden saves Emily from a blast of monster gas and sends her to assist Mia. These guys could really do with some backup. Luckily for them Antonio is on the scene and tells them to leave it to him. But before he’s even had chance to morph he’s got a face full of gas and he’s down for the count. Not so golden this time eh Antonio?

 

Apparently Rhinosnorus is all about the dream eating so I guess we should salute the writers for not calling him “Dreamo” or “Sleepy Monster” although the name Rhinosnorus obviously came from that massive horn on his face. This Nighlok has work to do and his powers are stronger in the dream realm so he jumps into a portal above Antonio’s head and heads off to find Dayu. Elsewhere Mia and Dayu are still battling over the fate of the hobo. Things take a turn for the worse though when Rhinosnorus turns up and gasses the pair, leaving them to face the dream world.

Ji’s got the lowdown on our Monster of the Week. The villainous beast puts his victims to sleep, entices them into a fantasy world and then devours them, preventing them from ever stepping foot in the waking world again. Looks like the remaining Rangers are going to have to enter the dream realm; luckily Jayden has enough power to achieve this feat. In the dream world Mia is apparently aware she’s a bad cook despite the others hiding their disgust so well, but in the dream world she’s a master cook and she’s about to have a dinner party! Unfortunately for Mia that party ain’t happening as she’s not alone. She’s only seen Deker! In a suit! With his beard! Carrying a bride?!?!!? Just what the fudge is going on? Elsewhere, Jayden has used all his symbol power to open a gateway for Mike and Kevin to enter the dream world. It takes quite a strain on the Red Ranger and he is unable to follow them through.

In the dream world Kevin shows the early signs of mental illness as he believes the dream world, people in Victorian style dress in a black and white world, is completely normal. Mike looks worried and he’s not alone in that. Just what the heck is wrong with ya Kev? We live in a multicolour world and I’ve never owned a parasol! Mike doesn’t think it’s normal either Kevin, maybe it’s time to see a psychiatrist. Luckily they’ve managed to track down Antonio in the dream world and he’s still got plenty of terrible gold-based puns to amaze us with.

 

Looks like Antonio’s biggest dream is of catching the biggest fish in the world and winning a trophy. What a lameoid. He could have such better dreams. My own personal dreams involve me and Kevin running hand in hand on a sandy beach whilst Kevin’s dad watches on, commentating in that amazing voice of his. But I digress.

 

We’ve reached what is perhaps the single best moment in the whole of Power Rangers Samurai. Bulk has arrived on horse back in full Samurai gear. And he looks amazing. He makes quite a dapper Samurai warrior and I’m thinking a Samurai Bulk spin off would rock! He is aided by young Spike as his retainer and it’s good the two comedy stooges finally get some quality material to work with. But just as things are getting hilarious that pesky Nighlok bastard Rhinosnorus arrives to try and eat our dynamic duo. He has a really weird arse. What the hell is he? Have bee have rhino?

Luckily for Bulk and Spike Kevin and Mike are able to morph and those super Samurais of ours are ready to take this Nighlok down. Unfortunately Mike’s on his arse in moments and it hurts. Poor guy. Nothing worse than a sore arse trust me. Looks like Rhinosnorus has a few moves- I bet he was a disco king in his youth. He’s throwing magic dream boulders at our Ranger chums and things aren’t looking good for Mike and Kev. It’s a rock.

You know what would be a really clever line to use here? “Talk about being between a rock and a hard place.” It’s a shame these Rangers don’t use cheesy puns and terrible clichés… oh wait Mike just said it. He’s also in the mood for some disco moves himself. He’s decided to use the rules of the dream world to aid his battle against Rhinosnorus. He’s made himself all giant like and is going to play “soccer” (it’s called football and Americans who bleat on about their game being called football, “soccer” actually involves the ball and the foot spending a heck of a lot of time together!).

Well after all that Kevin and Mike awesomeness we should really take a few moments to wind down and go back to the drippy Mia. She remains unconscious in the forest just feet from an equally unconscious Dayu as Emily desperately searches for her fallen comrade. Looks like we’re gonna spend some time in Dayu’s dream world. What shocking secrets will we learn here? Read on dear chums to find out.

 

It’s Deker and his wife who has a gift for him; it’s a sword. Boy he’s sure gonna love that. If there’s one thing that Deker loves its swords, but apparently not in a euphemism for a penis kinda way because he’s married to a woman and clearly not gay! The bearded warrior also has a gift for his fine wife. It looks like some sort of guitar… If I put these clues together do I have an answer to why Dayu’s dreaming about these two…

 

Of course! The woman is Dayu. She was married to Deker! Looks like Mia’s caught up to that idea too. Shit now her house is on fire! She calls out the name of her husband. Apparently Deker is his first name. How odd. I thought it must be second name. I always imagined him as Ray Deker from Illinois. A younger brother called Randy Deker who was accidentally killed during a sword fighting match against a Soviet Warrior leading Deker to dedicate himself to the art in an attempt to avenge his brother’s death. So basically Rocky IV with Samurais. But alas that’s not meant to be.

Their crap hole of a house has burned down and Dayu cradles a coughing Deker in her arms. She’s called for help and a mysterious Nighlok has arrived offering a deal. Dayu obviously hasn’t seen this season’s episode “Deal with A Nighlok” or she’d think twice. She has to sacrifice her humanity and doom herself to an eternity in the Netherworld to save her husband’s life. She’s accepted. Unfortunately there’s a sting in the tail of this deal. Deker is saved from death but now must live as a half human half Nighlok with no memory of his life before. He will never know of the sacrifice Dayu made in the name of love and that just breaks my heart. Now Mia can empathise with Dayu and so can we dear viewer.

I’d forgotten about the poor hobo. He’s just popped out a Nighlok and a couple of Rangers. I’ll be sad to see the end of the Dream World, it was pretty cool. Mike’s made an incredibly insensitive remark about Rhinosnorus’s arse. Now I don’t like bullying, especially from people that are normally quite nice. Casual bullying is not cool kids. It might be a glandular problem or it might even be a tumour. How do you feel now Mike? Rhinosnorus has just told you it’s critical anal cancer and you’re making wise cracks? Shame on you Green Ranger.

 

But back to business! Mike and Kevin have been able to wake all the victims of Rhinosnorus. They’ve cut off his thingy that does the smokey whatsit that makes them go sleepy. The hobo’s awake! The poor guy has had one hell of a day. He looks pretty horrified by the battle that he’s awoken to and he’s off never to be seen again. Rhinosnorus has also made his escape much to the annoyance of our Rangers. Good news gang Antonio’s awake! As are Bulk and Spike! Not sure what’s happened to Jayden whilst everyone else has been in the dream world but I think he should be made to take a drugs test before he’s allowed to drive the Megazord. He looks higher than a hippy on the third day of an open air festival (joke borrowed from Red Dwarf which is much funnier than I am). Antonio’s had to carry him home. Oh god. Octoroo has sent some giant Moogers to attack them and Jayden wants to pilot the Megazord. This is not going to end well. Antonio manages to squeeze in a B-52s reference (Rock Lobster is available on iTunes) what a genius.

After a few sea food based remarks, Antonio and Jayden are able to finally finish these giant beasties for another week. Mia’s awake and apparently didn’t get the concept of the dream world as she’s just asked if she was dreaming. Idiot. Dayu’s pissed about Mia spying on her dreams and I don’t blame her, Mia is the last person I’d want in my dream world. Emily on the other hand…

Speaking of the Yellow Ranger she’s just arrived to save Mia who is pissed off at Dayu; she wanted to help her and she’s betrayed her by attacking her! Ah well the week’s battles are over and we can all relax. Especially Jayden and Antonio. Something bizarre is about to happen. A nearby garage door begins to slowly open revealing a pair of black boots… Who could this mysterious figure be? Well it’s Deker obviously and we know why he’s here but there’s one question that needs answering. Why does Deker own a garage?

It looks like the duel is finally going to happen! Can the exhausted Jayden defeat the part Nighlok sword master? For the answer to that question and more join me for the next episode of Power Rangers Samurai!

Next time: The Ultimate Duel

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #18

Episode 18: Boxed In

Written by: Seth Walther

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

Apologies to the handful of people who take time to read this blog. I don't have a good excuse for how long it's taken me to get this review done. And to make matters worse it's the longest review yet! Hopefully the next review will not take as long to get up!

Last time out things were looking grim for our heroes. The Rangers had headed to the Tengen Gate to collect the Black Box, the most powerful weapon available to a Samurai Warrior, when they had to battle a Nighlok that wasn’t completely useless. We left the Rangers defeated, with Jayden poisoned and in the grasp of Deker and Antonio as the last man standing. This week’s episode promises to be epic. Will Deker and Jayden finally have their ultimate duel? Can the Rangers master the Black Box? Can Xandred stop being a completely useless villain? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

Things are looking bad for our heroes back at Shiba House. The remaining Rangers are pretty banged up after their encounter with Arachnitor. Ji’s getting worried about the growing Nighlok threat. Soon, he believes, not even the Rangers will be able to stop Xandred and his evil minions. Ji can see only one way the team can be successful. Antonio needs to master the Black Box! But can the Gold Ranger achieve such brilliance without any formal symbol training? Well I believe in Antonio. He built his own frigging Samurai morpher- the guy’s a genius! Ji believes in Antonio too and that’s good enough for me. Elsewhere in Shiba House Kevin is determined to carry on the fight even though he’s in no fit state to do so. But what of our fallen leader? Well Jayden is currently in the possession of half Nighlok Deker. The sword loving beastie is commenting on how he seems to spend a lot of time rescuing the Red Ranger these days and he’s got a point. This is followed by a death threat so I guess Deker’s a bit of a douche. Even so he’s cured Jayden of his poisoning preparing him for their ultimate duel (yes he’s still banging on about that).

Post credits, we’re down on the good ship half arsed with Xandred and Octoroo. Octoroo is worried Xandred thinks he’d betrayed him with last episode’s high jinx. Luckily for him Xandred doesn’t believe that he’s been betrayed by his tentacle faced chum, but he does bemoan missing out on a chance to finish the Red Ranger. Now all my regular readers know I’m not a complainer. I don’t like to moan and whine about the severe stupidity of the main villain in this series, but Jesus Christ Master Xandred is just terrible. Last week he stopped the monster of the week from defeating the Power Rangers and now he’s whining about it like a little bitch. It’s your own damn fault you stupid red gimp. Xandred’s also got beef with Deker. Way to go fearless leader. You stop everyone who is even mildly successful in achieving your aims. What a genius! Well he’s sending Dayu after him. I’m sure that’ll end well. Apparently last week’s monster of the week isn’t finished yet. Xandred’s pumping him full of power (snigger) so when he mutates they can send him back. Yeah should have just left him there last week to finish the deed. Idiot.

This monster is an idiot.

What are Bulk and Spike up to this week? I hear you call. Well Bulk’s decided that it’s time to do more than train; it’s time to get out there and help people. Just what shenanigans will these two get up to? We’ll have to wait and see as we’re heading back to the Shiba house. Things aren’t going well with the Black Box. Antonio looks pretty rough as he pours all his symbol power into the ancient knick-knack. He needs to pace himself- Ji said so. But the whole world rests on the Gold Ranger’s shoulders and he won’t give up. The only problem is that if there’s another Nighlok attack he’s the only Ranger fit enough to take them on. What are the chances of another Nighlok attack today though eh? Kevin’s not taking his injury lying down. He wants to help. They need to save Jayden.

Speaking of Jayden, he’s spending a night alone with bearded beastie Deker in a dark cave. He’s been cured of his poisoning which is pretty good, but that means he’s now got to face Deker in a duel. Jayden wants to know why he’s doing this. Well you should really know by now Jayden he’s been banging on about his sword and ultimate duel. Jayden doesn’t just fight for the sake of it though. Deker used to be fully human but now he’s half Nighlok; he has to duel he has no choice. Jayden’s really not up for it even if it will cure Deker of this god forsaken curse! Deyu is there and hints at some secret involving the bearded swordsman. Just what could it be? I guess we’ll never know! Ha I’m just messing with you. Everything will soon be revealed!

A romantic evening down by the fire.

Back down with Xandred and Octoroo and our old pal Arachnitor is about to transform in to some sort of super Nighlok. Yeah let’s hope he can match his normal self who nearly won last week you bloody fools! Oh well he’s off to scare some humans because that’s so much better than defeating the Power Rangers. Anyway let us not let the stupidity of our might villain drag us down let’s see what’s going on at Shiba House. Antonio is still putting himself through hell trying to fix that pesky Black Box. Things are about to get even more dangerous as he needs the symbol powers of his fellow Rangers. Kevin and the other Rangers won’t let the Golden Wonder take on this task alone, and Kev gives a rousing speech about how they need to work together. I literally had tears in my eyes man. But there’s a problem guys! The gosh darn gap sensor has been set off! Why now? The Rangers are dedicated to protecting the innocent. Antonio wants to look for Jayden whilst the others take on the Nighlok. Ji’s having none of it. He must repair the Black Box but he needs the Rangers Power Discs and they’re taking those into battle. The rest of the Rangers bravely surrender their discs to the Gold Ranger and head off into battle without them. This is dangerous guys, our heroes are in real danger. Hopefully Antonio will get that Black Box working very soon.

Elsewhere Arachnitor is blowing stuff up and Bulk and Spike are out trying to be Samurai warriors. Their latest scheme involves helping an old woman cross the road. Yes, that old chestnut. How will this comedy gold be played out you may be asking yourself right now. Well like this: Spike offers to help the old dear across the road and then shit gets crazy and we have a massive earthquake! The old woman has no time for a whimpering Spike who is holding on to her for dear life. She ditches him and makes a run for it. Classic! It does strengthen the argument for forced euthanasia of the elderly, but that’s a debate for another time.

The Rangers have arrived and Mia’s spotted a similarity between this week’s monster of the week and last week’s. It’s like it’s mutated. Yes mutated from villainous genius to slack jawed goon. Did I mention just how impressed I am with Xandred’s strategy? The fight is intense. Do the Rangers stand any chance? There are only four of them and they aren’t in the best of states. Antonio’s making progress with the Black Box but he’s hit a barrier. He just doesn’t have the symbol power to do it quickly enough. He’s losing hope and as an audience we begin to lose hope too, and without hope what do we have? The pressure of the whole world depending on his success is getting to Antonio, but it’s also inspired him. He’s gonna use satellites to track down the missing Jayden! Ji allows him to leave the Black Box for later and Antonio heads off to find the Red Ranger.

Jayden’s fully recovered, and now he’s probing Deker about why he’s so obsessed with duelling him. Just what is it about Jayden that gets Deker stroking his sword? Well they’re alike apparently. Jayden also has a secret, and they’re both warped and twisted. A bit harsh. Don’t worry though, Deker follows it up with a compliment; Jayden has a warrior’s spirit which is a pretty nice thing to say. Just as the duel is about to begin Antonio arrives to save his friend. Deker calls him fisherman- it’s like their thing you know. Looks like the duel is off again. For a guy who is so into this duel happening Deker needs very little persuading to let Jayden go yet again, but he promises the next time they meet they will duel. Like he’s said every other time. Dayu is watching and whispers an apology for what she’s done to the sword wielding half Nighlok. Just what is she sorry for? We’ll be finding out soon enough!

Back at the Nighlok battle, Kevin is kicking bottom like there’s no tomorrow. The Rangers are doing pretty well without their power discs which I won’t lie is a relief. Arachnitor is proving a pretty a difficult foe for the four remaining Rangers. Perhaps they need some backup. Enter Jayden and Antonio! The team is reunited at last and now it’s time to take this Nighlok sucker down! Time for a bit of slow mo Gold Ranger action. I’m not sure announcing his name to everyone is the best idea. Does anyone remember the good old days where the Power Rangers used to guard their identities? They have secret identities for a reason. Admittedly, they don’t try as hard to keep the Samurai Rangers identities hidden…anyway I’m getting sidetracked; we’re mid-battle- this is not the time to fret about secret identities! Jayden’s whipped out his Fire Smasher but even that isn’t enough. The Rangers are still pretty exhausted from the last episode. They need to combine their strength and use a move that doesn’t require much symbol power to finish this douche bag.  Now that Arachnitor has taken a pasting the Rangers have a bigger problem to deal with; Giant Moogers!

Bulk and Spike are determined to save the people of the nameless city. That is until they spot the army of Giant Moogers on the rampage. Our wannabe heroes make a run for it as we face a giant monster jamboree. It’s time to crack out the folding zords and attach our shoulder pads for Mega Mode; there’s a Megazord fight on the way! Antonio has a theory about these guys, a big bang theory. The Gold Ranger is gonna deal with the Giant Moogers, allowing the rest of the gang to take on Arachnitor. But before they have chance there’s an attack from even more Moogers, these time the flying variety. It’s time for the Megazord to take to the air and finish them! The theme starts playing and that means the end is nigh for these Moogers. Arachnitor has escaped to fight another day but for now victory belongs to the Rangers!

Back at Shiba House, Jayden is dwelling on the words of his foe Deker. What is Jayden’s secret and is he really warped and twisted? The rest of the gang are worried about their leader and they invite him for pizza and a strategy meeting but the Red Ranger needs some alone time and turns down his team mates' offer. Jayden returns to thinking of sword polisher Deker, which makes him realise that the half Nighlok is wrong. We make our own choices and we choose who we are and what we do. This put’s a smile on the Red Rangers face and he decides to join his amigos for some food based fun. We end with another gold pun from Antonio and now we have time to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned from this episode.

Next time: Broken Dreams

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway be sure to visit it's a good site for PRS fans.

Power Rangers Samurai Magazine #1

Today sees the return of a Power Rangers Magazine to the stands in the UK and I've managed to pick up a copy for a quick review. This magazine is published by Panini Magazines and is aimed at boys between the ages of 4 and 7. I am a boy of 27 so I'm not exactly the target audience but who cares?

Issue One has two free gifts! A tribal disc shooter with 5 coloured discs representing the original five Samurai Rangers and a sheet of stickers. The disc shooter is far too much fun for a chap of my age but I've enjoyed firing discs all over the room. Unfortunately I've now lost all but one of the discs so if I'm attacked by any Moogers I'll be unable to defend myself. The sheet of stickers contains 24 stickers which are all square. There are stickers of the Rangers, the Zords, the symbols and even one of Master Xandred. They aren't exactly Earth shattering stickers but they are still pretty cool and I look forward to sticking them all over the place. 

Now on to the magazine itself. There are 34 full colour pages of Power Rangers goodness. The magazine is clearly aimed at kids so there's nothing substantial here. There's plenty of adverts for toys including the range of action figures and zords (I really need a swordfish zord so my Megazord can have a jaunty fish hat) as well as the Power Rangers Samurai Mega Bloks which I'm currently collecting. We kick off with a 2 page spread dedicated to meeting the team. We are currently approaching the half way point of the second season of Samurai on TV and it seems surprising that they've waited so long to start publishing a magazine dedicated to it. What's even stranger is just how far behind this magazine is. There's no sign of Gold Ranger Antonio here.

The centre piece of the magazine is it's brand new comic strip featuring our favourite spandex clad heroes. The artwork is... interesting. The characters don't really resemble their television counterparts. At all. Mike's a bit white. Ji's very Japanese looking and Xandred looks a bit like a gay devil. The story is basically a rehash of an episode of the TV series. Even reusing a villain. But if you're a boy between the ages of 4 and 7 it's probably an incredible read but for me it wasn't all that. But I did like the pretty, slightly racist pictures. I can't wait to see where the series goes next month.

The rest of the magazine is dedicated to the usual junk you find in this type of magazine (not that I read many of them just that Doctor Who one they do but that's mainly for the free stuff I tend not to read the actual magazine as it's rubbish). There's a double sided poster featuring a Mooger on one side and a group poster of the Rangers on the other. There's a pretty sweet competition where you can win all sorts of cool action figures  I'd try and enter but I think I'm too old. There's also a quiz that let's you know which Power Ranger you are. I'm Mike apparently. I'm not sure how reliable the test is though as you can say you answer that you do like video games and still end up being Kevin. There's a maze puzzle which I managed to complete on only my second attempt. I'm looking forward to colouring in my own Megazord although I may not follow their colour guide I like to be myself and use the colours that represent me. There's even a target for me to cut out and shoot with my disc shooter. It's that pesky Nighlok Rofer who appears in the comic strip. There's a spot the difference puzzle I'll attempt to solve later (seven differences? Are they crazy?) and a door hanger that will help me keep out Nighloks when I'm trying to write these reviews. 

The Samurai Megazord gets a double page spread as well. It takes an in depth look (well a sentence each) at all of the folding zords. There's another colouring page as well. It's a Ranger but there's no colour guide to tell me which one it is. This could end very badly. It hasn't got boobs so that rules out the girls at least. There's a word search. It's piss easy. God kids must be so stupid. I managed to find 5 out of the 6 words without looking at the answers. There's one of those puzzles where you're given a character then have to find an identical one out of a series of others. It's too hard for me. There's a data file on the Red Ranger and the answers page. I knew B was the answer! It wasn't too hard really I was just messing with you guys. The magazine ends with Mega Mail a section where we can send in our own drawings. I'll be sending mine in next week! Next month's issue comes with a free Power Sword and I'll be definitely  buying it. 

Power Rangers Samurai Magazine is printed by Panini Comics, costs £2.99 and is available in all good newsagents and super markets or you can visit the Panini Website.