Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #17

Episode 17: The Tengen Gate

Written by: David McDermott

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

As we fast approach the end of the season these episodes have got a theme running through them. That’s right Deker and his ultimate duel. That guy has no luck when it comes to picking times to challenge Jayden. Something always pops up. What they really need to do is compare diaries and pick a time that suits both of them. Alas Deker lacks the foresight for such things so he just turns up when things are getting complicated. This week is no different. Will Deker ever get his ultimate duel? Who is the latest member of Power Rangers alumni to appear in Power Rangers Samurai? And just what the heck is a Tengen Gate anyway? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

Captain Half-Arsed is making quite a racket. His roar is so loud it’s rolling the rocks on the beaches. Just what’s got Master Xandred all riled up? Well according Octoroo he’s absorbing some new powers that will help him finally succeed. Yeah I don’t have high hopes either. We know how it’s gonna end. He’ll be useless. You can polish a turd but it’s still a turd no matter how shiny it is. Interestingly though Master Xandred needs protecting from other Nighloks. Maybe we’ll get lucky and someone will kill Captain Half-Arsed and we’ll end up with a half decent master of evil. Not likely I know but I can dream.

Post credits and everyone’s favourite bearded sword obsessive Deker is on the prowl. Even he knows that Xandred is absorbing a power surge. Really not good to let your enemies know when you’re weak Captain Half-Arsed. He’s decided it’s time to duel the Red Ranger as there will be no interference from Xandred. Who are we kidding Deker? Something always comes up. At Shiba House the gap sensors have gone off. The Sanzu River is leaking through to the mortal world. Shit’s about to get real better call on the zords. The Megazord’s got its conical tiger bra on again. These zords have got some super sized Moogers to take on. The flying ones are back to time for the Megazord to take to the skies! The Moogers are no match for these zords and the battle soon ends with victory for our shoulder padded superheroes.

Back on the good ship Xandred Captain Half-Arsed wants to be released from the room he’s locked himself in whilst absorbing his power surge. Octoroo is worried about some scumbag Nighlok getting all up in Xandred’s face as the kids would say today. And enter our Monster of the Week Arachnitor who is just that kind of scumbag. He’s proposing a coup with Octoroo to over throw Captain Half-Arsed. Apparently Xandred can’t be beaten. So he’s destined to be a total loser for the rest of eternity. But he can be sealed away and it looks like our new Nighlok villain is planning on doing just that.

The Rangers are pissed off at the fact that they keep winning every single time yet the Sanzu River keeps on flooding. What the hell is the deal with that? Luckily Ji has a plan. The black box a magical talisman created by the original Red Ranger. But he never finished it and no one else has ever managed it. Maybe Antonio can do it. Now they just have to retrieve the Black box from the guardians of the Tengen Gate. What is the Tengen Gate? Well according to Mike it’s a big wood food but Jayden says it’s an important part of Ranger history. There’s even a stone to commemorate the first battle between the Samurai Rangers and the Nighloks. According to legend the Green Ranger was a bit of a prankster and used to annoy the hell out of the Blue Ranger. Just like now eh guys? That’s according to Daisuke the elder guardian and it’s only Grant McFarland who played one of my favourite villains Lothor back in Ninja Storm as well as playing his guinea pig based brother. Daisuke knows Jayden and he knows he has a secret. Just what is this secret? It’s not time for us to know just yet.

This week’s Nighlok is on the hunt for a Red Ranger and we’re about to learn a legend of Nighloks past with Daisuke. A young woman made a deal with the Nighlok king to save the love of her life. And I’m sure we all remember what happens when you make a deal with a Nighlok from earlier this season with that dreadful ginger kid. The bastard tricked her and turned them both into Nighloks. It took the man’s memory and made him wonder the world alone…wait a minute that sounds very familiar (hint it’s Deker). Mia feels like she’s met the woman. She has. I won’t spoil that one. Speak of the devil Deker’s here and he’s about to run into the Gold Ranger. Antonio wants Deker to accept his challenge. Deker’s hand goes straight to his sword (dirty boy) but Antonio is talking about fish. Yes the warrior eternally searching for the ultimate duel is going on a date with a Power Ranger.

The black box is unveiled and yeah it’s certainly black but it’s not that boxy. Looks like the kinda tat you see hippies selling in crappy markets. But apparently it’s the most powerful weapon the Samurai Rangers have ever had. Jayden’s swears to protect it with his life. It’s all down to Antonio now. But before he’s gonna have chance to look at the black box things are about to get very serious. The Nighloks have sprinkled something into the Rangers’ drinks. Jayden has been poisoned and the Nighloks are attacking! This leaves the other Rangers to deal with the Nighlok threat. They finally decide it’s time to call for some back up and Antonio is forced to abandon his meal with Deker and head to the Tengen Gate. Looks like Deker has decided to head there too.

The Rangers are dealing with a vast army of Moogers and it’s not easy work. Arachnitor manages to tie up the girls during the battle. Elsewhere things are looking grim for Jayden. The Red Ranger is suffering from the effects of the poison and before Daisuke has chance to cure him Octoroo arrives. Jayden gives himself up to protect the Guardians and there’s only thing Octoroo is interesting in. The sealing symbol of course. Outside the Rangers are struggling against Arachnitor and the Moogers. Luckily Antonio has arrived. Kevin and Emily send the Gold Ranger to protect their leader. Jayden’s not having much fun as he crawls along the ground trying to escape Octoroo. Antonio is there to save the day and Deker is there to witness his transformation into the Gold Ranger.

Xandred has recovered just in time to destroy that traitor Arachnitor. Awesome. It’s pretty good timing to be fair as the Nighlok is about to defeat the Samurai Rangers. Arachnitor is dragged back into the Netherworld. Antonio is still battling Octoroo who proves a more worthy opponent than I expected. Well he isn’t much to look at. As the two duel Deker reveals himself and Antonio finally learns that the man he’s been trying to feed fish is a Nighlok. Deker has claimed his prize and taken Jayden before making his escape. Arachnitor meets a sticky end at the hands of Xandred despite pointing out he was the one who defeated four of the Rangers. We end with Deker carrying Jayden over his shoulder revealing their duel is getting closer. What a way to end. We haven’t even been able to answer all the questions we started out with and I’m sure there will be even more questions when the story continues in the next episode.

Next time:  Boxed In

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #16

Episode 16: Team Spirit

Written by: Billy Rueben and James W. Bates

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

We’re fast approaching the end of season one of Power Rangers Samurai so what does episode sixteen have in store for us? Well Emily is the focal point of today’s episode. There’s a new Nighlok in town that’s all about the spirit stealing. I feel I should get into the spirit of the show and come up with some terrible puns and wordplay. How about “it’s going to be a spirited adventure?” that’s about the best I can come up with right now. Can the Samurai Rangers save Emily from eternal slumber? Will the Rangers make the ultimate sacrifice to save their friend? Has Master Xandred finally stopped being a half arsed villain? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

Just where is everybody? That’s the question that Emily is asking as she walks the halls of Shiba House. Kevin’s keeping an eye on her. Just what are they up to? Wow it’s Emily’s birthday, the first without her sister, and the gang are throwing her a surprise party! Ain’t that just the sweetest thing? Mia’s planning on making a cake but the rest of the Rangers really aren’t keen on that idea but they hide it well. Subtlety is a word they don’t understand in Power Rangers. I hope nothing spoils this happy day for our beloved Yellow Ranger…

Down on the good ship half arsed Octoroo’s worried about Xandred. He’s not worried about how piss poor a leader he is. He’s worried about his constant mood swings. He has a warning for Dayu. He knows she’s been talking to Deker and he warns her not to continue because it’ll annoy Xandred. Oh diddums we don’t want to annoy precious Princess Xandred do we? ‘Cause he’ll whine and complain and do nothing of any actual use like every other bloody episode.

Antonio is fishing. He’s trying to catch some of Emily’s favourite fish for her birthday. She was the first to accept him as a Samurai and Antonio won’t forget that. I know this because he told the Clawzord all about it. He also invited him to Emily’s party. Not sure how she’s gonna feel about that. I’d be pretty happy to have a zord at my party. But I don’t have parties because I don’t have friends. That’s why I have time to write these reviews. So if you enjoy these reviews and want to thank me throw me a surprise birthday party with zords in attendance next year.

Back with Octoroo and Dayu we learn that the Sanzu River has actually been rising and the Nighloks are getting stronger. Really not sure how this is happening as they get their arses handed back to them week in week out. It’s time to meet our Monster of the Week. This time around its Splitface who looks like he might actually be a severe case of genital warts. He just looks unpleasant but I’m sure he’ll be really effective…

Deker’s got problems of his own. Xandred’s attempts to bind him are doomed but due to his half human half Nighlok condition his fate his sealed. He’s touching his sword again so I guess he’s banging on about his ultimate duel. He’s a pretty cool warrior and al but Jesus Christ is he dull. Come on man you need a bit of substance. Take up a hobby. Stamp collecting, trading cards, fishing anything at all! There’s more to life than polishing your sword and that’s a lesson all teenage boys could do with learning too. This is where things start to get odd as Deker happens to pass Antonio on his way back from fishing. Antonio mistakes the villainous swordsman as a fellow fisherman and invites him for a fish supper. It’s all a little odd and Deker declines Antonio’s kind offer which is pretty fortunate as Jayden’s on the phone there’s a Nighlok attack.

So Splitface is tearing up downtown the Nameless City stealing the spirits of the people he meets. The Rangers arrive to meet him but this Nighlok isn’t easy to take down. He splits his weird little boils apart when the Rangers try slashing him. To make matters worse he’s set his sights on the Yellow Ranger! He’s only stolen her spirit! Anyone but Emily. I like Emily. Couldn’t you have taken Mia? She doesn’t really do anything and she’s a bit wet. Emily won’t wake up! In 24 hours her spirit will belong to the Nighlok forever. The only way to get it back is to defeat Spitface. But he’s escaping to the Netherworld where no mortal can enter. Spitface escapes and the Rangers are left to face the damage he left in his wake. Antonio has found a new reserve of determination now he has to save Emily. He continues his work with the Clawzord.

Emily’s awake! That’s a relief. But it’s not all god news. She feels empty. She knows things are bad. She’s missing a spirit and you can't get through life in the Power Rangers universe without one of them! Mike seems the most concerned. She apologises for letting Splitface get her but they’re just relieved she’s okay. I’m welling up right now. It’s just so damn moving. They’re a true team. How far they’ve come since Origins Part One. Jayden promises they’ll save her. The team has fire in their bellies and it’s time to sort this mess out. Mike’s trying to draw out the villainous Nighlok. Guess who’s just turned up? That’s right it’s Deker. He’s here for his duel but he’s turned up at a bad time yet again. Perhaps not that bad. He’s got information for the Rangers. He knows how they can enter the Nighlok world. They just have to give themselves up to the Nighloks and become one of them. Could they possibly do it? Become the very thing they hate to save their fallen ally? Mike volunteers straight away declaring Emily the best of them. Jayden and Kevin are both dedicated to protecting the whole world but once Mia says she’ll go too Jayden says they’ll all go. Luckily they don’t have to because Antonio arrives and he has a plan to draw out the Nighlok!

The team are combining their symbol power to repair the Clawzord. And by Jove they’ve succeeded! Summoning Splitface back to the mortal world too. Apparently during their last battle Antonio marked the Nighlok with the same symbol he’s been using on the Clawzord. The successful repair of the Clawzord with the same symbol was enough to drag Splitface back into the mortal realm. People this is why you need a sixth Ranger. What a genius. He’s not been here long and he’s already impressing me. Fantastico! Now he’s back it’s time to kick some Nighlok arse. The Rangers are suited up and there is some kicking and punching coming Splitface’s way. Jayden finishes him with his trusty Fire Smasher and we all know what happens when the first form goes down…

Without Emily the Rangers are unable to form the Megazord! But fear not loyal readers for we have a new zord. Yes it’s Antonio’s show today as he gets to call on the mighty clawzord. And he has a few cheeky claw based lines. Gotta love that scripting. I’m not sure we need quite so many “golden moment” lines. The clawzord is a fairly impressive zord. He can stand up and everything. He’s got this whole spinny thing on his face which is pretty cool. Looks like he could do with some backup. Time for a jolly boys’ outing. Let’s get out the Samurai Battlewing and take this sucker down once and for all. It doesn’t take long for them to finish the beast and that’s enough to return all the spirits to their rightful owners.

Emily is back! We’re all happy again! Especially Mike. And she’s loving her surprise party! She’s got a card from her sister (guess she hasn’t died yet which is pretty good). They’ve even got a birthday cake. Wait a minute happy birthday Emily and clawzord? You guys so crazy! I guess technically it’s his birthday too so he deserves to celebrate. We get a tender moment where they all agree Emily is the best of them. Emily’s a bit wary of her cake until she realises Mia didn’t make it and that’s the end of this chapter. Let’s end by taking a minute to mourn the passing of a tradition. Back in Power Rangers heyday any cake that was introduced would have ended up on Bulk’s face. I guess that’s what they call progress.

Next Time: The Tengen Gate

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #15

Episode 15: The Blue and the Gold

Written by: David Schneider and Jill Donnellan

Directed by: Akihiro Noguchi

We’re fast approaching the end of the first season of Power Rangers Samurai. There’s even a slight chance I may catch up with the reviews before the next episode airs! But before we can get to Super Samurai we’ve still got the rest of season one and three specials to get through. First up we’ve got a good old fashioned Rangers at odds with each other episode. This time it’s Kevin and Antonio who aren’t getting on all that well. There’s even a new zord to contain with. Can Kevin learn to accept Antonio as a Samurai? How many more zords can they possibly suddenly find in this show? Will this be the last review I use this gimmick of starting with three questions? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

You wanna know what the best way to start an episode of Power Rangers is? Heck I don’t need to tell you because you already know. Yes that’s right, it’s time for some annoying child actors! Christ these two make Young Jayden and Young Antonio look like Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. So why are we boring forced to endure these children? Well there’s a new Nighlok in town and he’s out stealing the favourite toys of kids. He’s taken annoying child #1's soccer ball and he’s taken annoying child #2’s truck and that truck was his favourite. I know this as the child delivers the line about it with as much skill as Eddie the Eagle. I do feel the disgust shown at the Nighlok leaving his slime behind is unfair. We’ve all been there and it’s a part of growing up and I think it’s unfair to make people feel bad for a natural process.

At the Shiba House Antonio introduces the Rangers to the Clawzord, a zord that was battle damaged years ago and hidden by Ji. Antonio is dedicated to fixing the new zord and everyone’s impressed. Except Kevin, who sees Antonio as a computer nerd rather than a Samurai. No one’s happy about Kevin’s outburst but this is an issue he needs to get over. Now I love Kevin but his attitude here really disappoints me. Antonio has proved himself in two episodes now, what more do you want Kev? Antonio won’t let Kevin get him down; being a Samurai is what’s in your heart and that’s a lesson Kevin needs to learn. Jayden entrusts Antonio with the task of getting Kevin to realise Antonio is the right man for the job. Well that’s the premise of this episode set up.

Post credits and we’re with Xandred and Dayu. Xandred’s in a bad mood as usual. He’s looking for Octoroo who is apparently off planning some scheme that will finally see them escape their imprisonment down in the Sanzu River. Now I’m not a pessimist usually but I don’t have high hopes for whatever Octoroo comes up with. Apparently Octoroo is the one who’s behind the plot to steal kid’s favourite toys with the help of the Monster of the week Antberry. I’ve yet to see them take an Xbox or a PlayStation so I’m not sure how effective this plan is.

It's night time at Shiba House and Antonio is up to something. He’s placing cameras all over the dojo so he can spy on Kevin and learn what it means to be a Samurai Kevin-style. Elsewhere Deker is still injured following his encounter with Xandred a few episodes back. Dayu’s gone to find and begins to wonder why Deker saved her from the Rangers and ponders whether he does remember her. That’s quite a tease. Just what does she mean? We’ll have to wait to find out as we’re back with Antonio. The eager Gold Ranger watches Kevin undertake his daily routine of training and reading a guide book to Samurai life (always handy). The question is, will Antonio be able to match Kevin’s dedication? It’s time for us to catch up with Bulk and Spike who are getting involved this week’s plot by having their favourite panda stolen.

The following day and the shocking realisation of Sam the Panda’s kidnap has left Bulk and Spike distraught. Elsewhere, Antonio has stepped up his studying of Kevin’s Samurai lifestyle by following him. Which is probably for the best as Kevin’s about to run into a whole heap of trouble. Looks like Kevin truly is a master of the Samurai arts and has been fully aware of Antonio’s surveillance. What a guy. Kevin is still doubting Antonio’s dedication to being a Samurai and despite Antonio’s best efforts to convince him things aren’t getting any better between the two Rangers. Hopefully they can sort through these issues quickly because they’ve stumbled upon Octoroo and Antberry’s pile of pilfered goods. The bastards are only going to cut all the toys up with a special axe made from Sanzu River bedrock! Do these beasts have no conscience? Luckily for the kids, Kevin and Antonio are there to save the day. Unluckily they can’t call for back up as the signal is being blocked. Damn technology! I do wonder if these are the two best Rangers to deal with this problem, as it shows poor judgement to actually come out of hiding when an evil villain tells you to. Guess what happens when they do what Octoroo tells them to? That’s right they get shot at with a big ball of energy. Idiots. It’s time to suit up and take on some Nighloks. Unfortunately Antberry is throwing his goo around which is quite frankly sick. That’s not what it’s for. Kevin and Antonio are blasted away by Octoroo and he sends the Moogers to finish them off. That means that Antberry is now free to destroy the toys and Xandred will be released it’s all over! If only there was some sort of plot device to slow them down. Aha looks like Antberry’s axe has been blunted by his slime. He’s a very dirty boy.

Dayu’s music is a bit off today according to Xandred. Deems himself a music critic now eh? Well I hope he’s better at that job than he is at being the season villain. The useless jackass. Time for a bit of a flashback between Dayu and Deker. She’s questioning him on why he insists on battling the Red Ranger. Apparently he’s compelled to seek out the ultimate duel and remembers nothing of a time where he wasn’t looking for a fight. That boy’s got an unhealthy fixation on his sword. Dayu asks if anything else is important to him and he says no. Something’s gone on there if you ask me.

The rest of the Rangers begin to worry about Antonio and Kevin when they realise Kevin isn’t sticking to schedule, which is very unlike him. Kevin and Antonio aren’t in the best shape and poor Antonio even has his arm in a sling. Kevin wants them to split up and he tells Antonio to hide. We all know he can’t do that, he’s a true hero and this is something Kevin is finally learning. The two finally begin to bond as they both reveal their true samurai souls. Back at Shiba House the Rangers decide it’s time to look for the missing pair after Kevin is more than a minute late back from his morning run. You can set your watch by this guy. Antonio and Kevin are about to go back into battle with Antberry. They’re prepared for his goo based attack this time as they’re tying their weapons to their hands so they won’t slip out in all that slime. Just in time as well, as that axe is as sharp as it’s ever gonna be. Octoroo orders Antberry to destroy the coolest toy there- a plastic yellow bike. Yeah you really haven’t stolen the kids’ favourite toys; I’ve yet to see a single copy of Call of Duty (that’s a slam to all those crap parents who buy kids games that aren’t suitable for them in yo face!). Luckily Antonio and Kevin have saved the day and sent that axe flying down the well. Antberry is trying his best to slime our boys but it’s not doing him any good this time. The rest of the Rangers have found them and the whole team unite to battle the Nighlok. Octoroo makes his exit like the gutless coward he is and the six Rangers make light work of Antberry. That’s the first form taken care of and we all know what that means…

Mega Mode. Megazord. Combination with the Octozord. You know the drill. A bit of the old ice breath followed up by a samurai strike is more than enough to take down this Nighlok. That just leaves us with one last loose end to tie up. What to do with all those stolen toys. As they discuss what to do Kevin finally accepts Antonio as a Samurai and I am so very proud of the Blue Ranger right now. What a guy. Jayden thinks its best they return the items anonymously as they don’t want to draw attention to themselves. Because wearing brightly coloured spandex and stomping around in giant robot doesn’t get you any attention. It’s good that everyone gets their stuff back. Even if it does mean enduring another scene with those terrible child actors. Sam the Panda is returned to Bulk and Spike and both are very happy to see him again and that’s the best place to end!

Next time: Team Spirit

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #14

Episode 14: Room For One More

Written by: Jill Donnellan and Jonathan Rosenthal

Directed: Akihiro Noguchi

So we’ve got a new Ranger, or have we? Antonio is a special case in the world of Power Rangers Samurai. He wasn’t born in to it, he’s chosen to dedicate himself to becoming a Samurai, and that’s causing more than a few issues with our favourite spandex clad heroes. Will Antonio be allowed to officially join the team? Can the Rangers accept the Gold Ranger as the latest addition to the team? Can Antonio come up with enough woeful gold based puns? For the answers to these questions and more, read on.

Antonio is the only subject of conversation this week. Both Kevin and Mia seem a bit wary of the man in the Gold spandex. Luckily for them, and rather unluckily for us, Mia says at least Jayden can vouch for him. Unfortunately, the only way he feels he can vouch for him is through the art of the flashback. And that means bringing back the terrible child versions of Jayden and Antonio. Now this is only a suggestion, but as just about every child actor in the history of the world is usually dreadful why don’t they start using midgets instead? Anyway the flashback scene is emotional and very moving. They were friends from when they first met. The times they played together were the only times Jayden felt like a real kid. God I’m welling up just writing about it. Why do we do this to our fictional children destined to be heroes? Ji wasn’t too keen on all the playing and judging by the pathetic attempts at training undertaken by young Jayden he has good reason. Kevin really isn’t keen on Antonio joining the team. He wasn’t born into it and he has had no formal training. And they have no idea what this guy is up to. All Antonio is interested in is looking good, and he’s even got a gold tie to wear as he heads to Shiba House to join his new team mates.

I think any worries we have about the team not letting Antonio join them are quickly dispelled with the opening titles which now include the golden one. Well at least we can all relax now and enjoy the journey. Ji’s not impressed with Antonio’s tardiness but he isn’t surprised by it. Ji’s still pissed off about Jayden giving Antonio a zord when they were kids. Antonio Garcia arrives at Shiba house and he’s about to make a tit of himself. Quite why the young man wearing his finest suit decided to bring a fishing rod with him I’ll never know but he manages to get it caught on his pants for a good old fashioned pants ripping gag. Nearly twenty years ago splitting pants were the bread and butter of Bulk’s role in the show. How things have changed. It breaks the tension and everyone has a good chuckle, but there are hard decisions to be made and terrible flashbacks to endure. The flashback of young Jayden making young Antonio a Samurai is beyond terrible in acting standards. Children cannot act. I’m sorry but it needs saying. Back in the present and Jayden doesn’t know what to do about his childhood friend. Ji thinks he’s too close and offers to make the decision for him.

Down with those pesky Nighloks and Xandred is whining again. God he annoys me. Worst villain ever. This time he’s whining at Octoroo about how he spends all his time studying and no time doing anything useful. That’s rich coming from Captain Half-Arsed. Well, Octoroo has got some bad news to make Xandred even whinier. He’s just dropped the bombshell that there are now six Samurai Rangers for them to deal with. Time to meet the Monster of the Week and he’s out to avenge his predecessor. Meet Steeleto- he won’t be staying long.

It’s time to catch up with our loveable comedy duo Bulk and Spike. Just what are these loveable rogues up to this time? Oh it’s more of Spike’s creepy Pink Ranger fantasies. Joy! To be fair beyond the creepiness the dream scenes are quite amusing. And following that scene a miracle happens. That’s right I can bring back the score board. Bulk has received a load of goop in the face! It’s been such a long time since it last happened I will have to check my records to see how many times it’s now happened.

Number of times Bulk has been squirted in the face this season: 5

Back at the Shiba House and Ji is probing Antonio about the Samurai Morpher he was able to create. We learn just how dedicated to his training as he was. Emily and Mike are eager for him to join them but Ji won’t allow it. Ji has confiscated his Morpher just as the Nighlok sensor goes off. Maybe I’m going soft in my old age but I was genuinely moved by Antonio’s pleas to Jayden to let him join them. And my heart broke a little when Jayden told him he wasn’t a real Samurai and that they didn’t need him. Man Jayden you can be cold sometimes. Poor Antonio is gutted.

The blade wielding Steeleto isn’t much cop. He’s spent at least a minute slashing at some guy and all he’s managed to do is ruin his suit. He’s still banging on about Vulpes. Perhaps they were lovers? Nighloks never seem that interested in each other the rest of the time. The battle is intense and I do want the Rangers to win, but I don’t know if I can condone Jayden jumping around on someone’s car. They probably worked really hard to get that car Jayden and now you’ve dented it. And for what? You’ve failed to defeat the Nighlok and he’s gone back to the Sanzu River to moisten up. They need a new strategy and now even Mia’s coming around to the idea of recruiting a sixth Ranger. Which is good news for Antonio and bad news for the Nighlok scum.

Antonio is doubting himself but luckily he’s getting a visit from his supporters Mike and Emily. Back at Shiba House, Mia is discussing the decision not to allow Antonio to be a Ranger with Jayden. The truth is Jayden is worried about his friend getting hurt. The others were prepared for the path they’ve followed. Even Kevin is up for giving him a chance! Antonio asks for his Morpher back and queue a terrible flashback. But it’s worth it because Jayden has finally agreed to Antonio being the sixth Ranger. It’s time to kick some Nighlok butt!

I’m a big enough man to admit that Antonio trying to squeeze into the line up made me giggle. Every time I’ve seen it. But right now it’s all about the fighting. Antonio is a bit too busy celebrating finally becoming an official Samurai that he forgets that they are actually there to take down these pesky Moogers. Luckily he’s a fast worker so it’s time for another high speed attack followed by an instant replay. With six Rangers the Moogers really are no challenge but I’m sure they’ll continue to be used, despite their complete lack of success at any point. It’s time to take down the Monster of the Week and it’s gonna be a joint effort from Jayden and Antonio. There’s lots of whiz bang moments as the two launch a joint attack against the bladed rogue. That’s the first form down and we all know what that means…

They’re Mega Moding it up without Antonio. But they’re gonna need the Gold Ranger and his Octozord. Mia’s just had a thought. If the Octozord belonged to Jayden’s family before he gave it to Antonio then it must be compatible with the Megazord! That’s right we’re getting what must be the millionth different Megazord combination. The Octozord adds a bit of new weaponry to the Megazord and it makes taking down this Nighlok a whole lot easier. Down he goes and the Samurai Rangers are victorious once again. Radical! Back at Shiba House they’re having a fish fiesta to celebrate. Ji admits he was wrong to exclude Antonio so quickly and Jayden admits he was wrong too. We end with a cheesy line about Antonio being worth his weight in gold and now we can look forward to more adventures with the Samurai Rangers.

Next time: The Blue and the Gold

Pictures from Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Commentary #13

Episode 13: An Unexpected Arrival

Written by: David Schneider and Seth Walther

Directed by: Akihiro Noguchi

This series really is flying by. We’re already at that point. Yes that’s right it’s that time again. Time for what? Time for a sixth Ranger! Yes our favourite Samurais are about to recruit a new member to the team. Just what colour will this new Ranger be? Will his or her acting be bad enough for me to bring out the Kevin’s Dad scale? Will this new Ranger take the time to squirt Bulk in the face? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

A mysterious youth walks across the beach with a fishing rod over his shoulder, pulling a cart behind him and brandishing the legend “Antonio’s Fresh Fish.” He looks upon the nameless city which is home to the Samurai Rangers and says: “wait till they get a load of me, this will be golden baby.” He’s also appears to have his own folding zord. Just who is this mysterious youth? Is he the new Ranger? What colour Ranger will he be? As I know you’re all incredibly eager to know the answers to these questions and because I don’t want you fretting through the rest of this review I’m going to answer these questions for you now. Antonio. Yes. Gold.

At Ranger HQ the Nighlok sensor is going off and the current Rangers are on their way to check it out. They sure do a lot of running. Maybe Ji should get them some sort of vehicle- a five seated bike perhaps? Jayden feels like someone’s watching him, but there’s no sign of a Nighlok. Strange things are afoot in the nameless city today. The gang head back to Ranger HQ just missing Antonio as he passes by.

Post credits and the Rangers return to tell Ji there was no sign of Nighlok activity. Their conversation is interrupted by a mysterious bowman launching an arrow at the Dojo carrying a message. Okay, he’s mysterious for about five seconds before it’s revealed to be Antonio. That guy gets everywhere. What words of wisdom does this message carry? See you soon. Classic. Mia’s confused and scared by the message. Is it a warning of a Nighlok attack? Well, judging by the intelligence of their leader, Captain Half-Arsed, I’m assuming not. Anyway the house is protected by symbol power so no Nighlok can penetrate the grounds! Mike thinks there’s something fishy about this and he’s sniffed the message, so I think he means literally. Emily isn’t keen on the smell of fish apparently.

Jayden’s acting a bit odd. He thinks he can feel something, but no one else can. He’s jumpier than a Mexican jumping bean (is that a real thing or did I make it up?). Jayden can sense something other-worldly but the others don’t believe him. Even Ji’s a bit sceptical of Jayden’s claim. Surely Jayden can’t be wrong? Well it certainly looks like it as he very nearly takes off Emily’s head with his sword (snigger). Looks like Jayden’s flipped. He’s prowling the dojo chasing shadows. The others doubt him but I believe him completely. Especially as we see there’s a Nighlok behind it all. He’s watching Jayden through some sort of magic mirror thing the cunning bastard. Jayden’s lost it now. Things are so bad he’s splashing water in his face! He’s now muttering something to himself about it being gone, I wonder if that’ll be explain later; *spoiler alert* it does. Can a Nighlok really have a well thought out plan to make the others doubt the Red Ranger? Where the hell was this kind of planning the rest of the season?

The next day the non-crazy Rangers are out investigating the broken gap sensor. And who do they happen to come across? That’s right! Antonio is there trying to sell his smelly fish. He’s given a flier to Emily and that flier has writing very similar to the writing on the message they received at HQ. Emily shows some detective skill by comparing the two and the Rangers are fairly sure they’ve found their man. When they confront him he makes a run for it. Quite suspicious behaviour for a fish vendor I’m sure you’ll agree. And just what is this big moment he’s preparing for? He manages to floor them with the old chucking ice on the floor so they slip on it routine, and before they can recover and give chase they receive a call from Ji. Jayden’s headed to Spring Valley. I think Ji’s worried the Red Ranger is about to off himself after no one believed him about the whole feeling a presence thing. Looks like the rest of the gang are just as worried. The team split in two. Kevin and Mia go to find Jayden whilst Mike and Emily chase fish guy.

Jayden’s looking pretty serious as he walks to the water’s edge at Spring Valley. He’s not going to pull a Reggie Perrin is he? This is where we get the official introduction to our Monster of the Week. Vulpes has been spying on the Red Ranger using his enchanted eye. Looks like Octoroo has summoned this particular Nighlok to see if Jayden’s been practicing the sealing symbol. Unfortunately that all-seeing enchanted eye is on the blink and spying on the Red Ranger is no longer an easy thing to do. Looks like Vulpes will have to go and face the Red Ranger. Elsewhere, Mike and Emily are struggling to keep up with Antonio. He’s just too fast they cry, for the millionth time this episode. Now I don’t like to criticise, but if you can’t keep up with a guy dragging along a cart of fish you’re not really fit to be a Power Ranger.

Back at Spring Valley and Vulpes has arrived. He’s using his girly little mirror erm... I mean his enchanted eye to try and track down the Red Ranger. Looks like Jayden was ready for him as the enchanted eye is snatched from his hands by a folding zord. Jayden majestically leaps out of the water and starts whacking the Nighlok with his sword. Mia and Kevin arrive to give us thickos an explanation of what’s going on. This is the Nighlok Jayden was sensing before. Just in case you didn’t get it. Jayden explains how he figured out how water can break the Nighlok’s spell. It’s rather impressive deduction from the Red Ranger. The mirror is destroyed and Vulpes reveals why he’d been spying. It’s time to battle and they’re gonna need the rest of the gang, so the call goes out to Mike and Emily who’ve lost Antonio. Looks like Antonio is ready for his big moment too.

With that, the five Rangers are united and ready to battle! Unfortunately Vulpes has a few tricks up his sleeve that make this battle a lot more difficult than they expected. The sly bugger has only got a reflective ability that makes him impervious to the Rangers Spin Sword attacks. Things are looking grim for our Samurais; they’ve been un-suited by the latest attack and he’s about to finish them with a powerful attack whilst they’re unmorphed. What the heck are they gonna do? You know what these guys really need right now? A mysterious youth with some exploding fish. Enter Antonio. Looks like this is the big moment he was talking about. Kevin seems disappointed that Mike doesn’t recognise Antonio after he’d spent so long chasing him. But that’s really not that important right now. Antonio has a Samurai Morpher! What a shock to anyone who’s been speed reading this review. He’s only a Gold Ranger! How awesome is that? I’m not particularly keen on the costume; maybe it’ll grow on me but it ain’t as nice as the other ones. But the man is more than the suit, so let’s see what Antonio is like in action before we judge him. Looks like he’s pretty damn good at the Mooger fighting. Antonio moves so fast he needs a slow mo replay for us all to catch up with him. Now that’s hardcore! He manages to take down a whole army of Moogers single handed then it’s time to take on Vulpes himself. He gets a spot of help from Jayden in this battle and there’s a hint that these two know each other. But before they have chance to elaborate on that they’ve defeated the first form and we all know what that means…

Looks like we’re cracking out the Battlewing Megazord again. Gotta love the tiger helmet and breast cones. Unfortunately, Vulpes has the ability of invisibility and that’s proving difficult for the Rangers. Luckily for them the Gold Ranger has a zord all of his own, the Octozord. Now I’m not a fan of Mega Mode, I think it looks pretty stupid, but I must admit I do actually really like the look of the Gold Ranger in Mega Mode. The Octozord is fairly cool and his ink attack comes in very useful for exposing the invisible Nighlok. Thanks to the help from Antonio the Megazord is able to finish Vulpes once and for all, and all is well with the world once more. Post battle it’s quite a sight to see the fully suited up Gold Ranger dragging along his fishing cart. Looks like Jayden knows Antonio. Time for a flashback. With child actors. Dear god. To say the acting is bad is such an understatement you wouldn’t believe it. The acting is so bad that it may have actually broken the Blake Foster scale. Looks like Jayden gave Antonio the Octozord when they were abysmal child actors as a reminder they will always be friends, no matter how far apart they are. Despite the awful acting it is quite an emotional scene, as Antonio promises to become a Samurai Ranger to assist Jayden when he becomes the Red Ranger. Back in the present it’s time for some good natured sparring and even Kevin seems impressed with the new Gold Ranger. Although Kevin doesn’t look to keen on him joining the team.

Whether Antonio is to become a full time member of the Samurai Rangers is a question for next time. This is where our journey must end dear reader.

Next time: Room For One More

Pictures from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway