While Marvel and DC are often seen as the reigning champions of superhero movies, there are alternatives beyond these behemoth franchises. Marvel’s extensive cinematic universe, with 30 movies since 2008, and DC’s 12-film lineup may overshadow other superhero offerings, leading many to overlook them. One notable example is the Power Rangers franchise, particularly the 2017 reboot that diverged significantly from its ’90s predecessors and garnered praise for its unique approach.
Directed by Dean Israelite, known for the dark superhero movie Chronicle, Power Rangers (2017) stands out by infusing an indie vibe into the superhero genre. The film, although featuring classic superhero elements such as characters with powers, a villain, and action sequences, feels refreshingly distinct. It serves as an origin story, incorporating familiar elements from the Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers TV show while introducing a more nuanced and diverse group of teenagers.
Unlike traditional, squeaky-clean high-schoolers, the 2017 Power Rangers characters are depicted with attitude and individual complexities. The film delves into their personal struggles, presenting a modern take on the iconic team. The characters, including Jason, Kimberly, Billy, Zack, and Trini, confront issues such as dissatisfaction, social status shifts, family troubles, and personal identity.
What sets Power Rangers apart is its commitment to character development, avoiding the temptation to rush into superhero antics. The film prioritizes building the team’s dynamics, emphasizing teamwork and friendship over immediate heroics. The characters don’t even become Power Rangers until the third act, a decision criticized by some but integral to the film’s thematic focus.
Power Rangers also earns praise for its progressive elements often overlooked by audiences and critics. The ensemble is ethnically diverse, and the film features a character with autism (Billy) and another exploring her sexuality (Trini). The film’s commitment to inclusivity is a positive step within the superhero genre.
Despite these merits, Power Rangers (2017) faced challenges at the box office, grossing $142 million worldwide against a $105 million budget, marking it as a financial disappointment. While receiving acclaim for visual effects, cinematography, music, and performances, it was criticized for product placement, the delayed introduction of Power Rangers, and tonal inconsistencies.
Despite its flaws, Power Rangers (2017) stands out as a character-driven superhero film with a progressive approach, challenging the dominance of Marvel and DC. The film’s box office struggles prevented it from launching a franchise as initially intended, but its impact on superhero storytelling remains notable. As the superhero genre continues to evolve, Power Rangers serves as a unique and memorable entry that deserves recognition alongside its more prominent counterparts.
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