Comic Book Review - Power Rangers #9
Rob reviews Power Rangers #9...
After months of teasing, the Empyreal threat has finally been revealed. Last time out the Omega Rangers attempted to halt the destruction of Hartunia at the hand of a single Empyreal warrior. Unfortunately, not everything went to plan and the Rangers got tossed about like ships in the wind by the more advanced Empyreal. This defeat then resulted in the destruction of Hartunia which sent both the Hartunian survivors - and the Rangers fleeing.
Yet, even after the dust had settled there's yet another twist in the tale. And it leads back to Zordon's past...
With the Rangers and what's left of the Hartunians back at Safehaven, it's safe to say that tensions are at a knifes edge. As Trini attempts to gain the attention of the Yellow Emissary, Drakkon makes another bid for freedom.
The last few issues of Power Rangers have made for some compelling reading. Ryan Parrott certainly knows how to make each issue a page-turner and this one is no different. Each page is full of action and exposition that begs you to keep on turning to the end. The fact that Power Rangers will also eventually tie back into Mighty Morphin makes the whole 'Unlimited Power' arc a real epic.
Since taking the mantle of the Omega Rangers Jason, Trini, and Zack have had many trials and tribulations, yet they all pale in comparison to what's happening here. Since Power Rangers #1 we've also seen a change in character throughout team Omega. With the seeming betrayal of Zordon, to trusting Lord Drakkon, these aren't the same characters that ended Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. The character building continues as Parrott deals with the aftermath of Power Rangers #8.
Out of everyone Drakkon has gone through the most change. On the surface, the former Lord has acted much in an advisory role as he's directed the Rangers to various locations and to take various actions. If anything Drakkon is the Omega Rangers Zordon. He's there to talk about the higher workings of being a Ranger and in Trini's case, Drakkons knowledge allows her to tap into the Morphing Grid. Yet we've also seen Drakkon's nefarious side creep through. Especially with his growing influence over Jason, whilst constantly comparing him to the Jason of his reality.
I still don't necessarily trust him as a "good guy" and I'm fully expecting a betrayal to soon be on the cards. Whether this is with Lord Zedd or the Empyreal's is yet to be seen.
The artwork continues to shine - as it has through the Power Rangers run. Both Mortarino and Hidalgo bring plenty of breathtaking visuals that are each packed with a great degree of detail that enhances and builds upon the Parrot's writing.
Power Rangers #9 is another compelling read. While it's not as action-centric as previous issues, this slow down does allow for a more emotional story. With the Omega Rangers each dealing with their defeat in their way Ryan Parrott builds upon their character layers by adding plenty more. With both Mighty Morphin and Power Rangers heading for a collision, I can't wait to see how it connects.
Rating: 9/10
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