Rob reviews Mighty Morphin #18...
Still dealing with the aftermath of the Eltarian War, the forces on Earth are starting to rebuild. Whilst the rest of the Rangers have set off for deep space, Rocky had been left on Earth to defend against any threats that may arise. With Matt alongside, Rocky not only has to contend with protecting a defenceless Zordon but he's also got to grapple with his meaning of what it means to be a Power Ranger...
Much like the previous issue, Mighty Morphin #18 takes a fragmented approach to its story. While most of the Earth-based team are on Aegus V searching for a replacement Command Center, Rocky is left on Earth to babysit his siblings. It's these two narratives that Groom jumps to throughout.
The issue opens with Zordon returning home to what's left of his "castle". It's quite a poignant scene as the once-powerful Eltarian has been reduced to a literal head in a jar. Not only this but he's entrusted his protection to former Power Ranger; Grace Sterling. It's no secret that Grace and Zordon have quite a checkered past, and Promethea's involvement with the Dragon coin has further strained this relationship. In a surprise twist, Zordon attempts to open up to Grace about their shared past as well as how the war has affected him. It's a momentary sign of regret from the Eltarian, which sends a powerful message. Especially when Grace reminds him that it's easy to apologise when you are back against the wall.
We're then given more character building as Groom turns his narrative back to Rocky. Since the last issue, we've seen a different side to the Red Ranger as he tackles his home life. With his mother working away he is having to juggle his Ranger duties with babysitting. It's during a catch-up with Matt where the Green Ranger has an idea that will allow Rocky to be at Promethea and still babysit his siblings.
It's quite a comical scene as Matt turns up decked in his Ranger gear to surprise Rocky's family. It also helps that since the business with Lord Zedd's dome, Matt's identity as the Green Ranger is public knowledge. Anyway, under the pretence of winning a competition, the family are whisked off to the Command Center. While the family get a guided tour of the Promethea operation, Rocky's younger sister questions Zordon about being ahead in a jar, and another meets her hero, Grace Sterling!? This comical scene is soon cut short as "Earth's new sovereign ruler" arrives. Yes! King Aradon.
Away from Earth and we're back on Aegus V with the rest of the team. Continuing their search for the underwater Outpost, the team soon come under attack from the locals. Mistaking the Rangers as Eltarians, the locals don't take too kindly to their intrusion. After a brief battle, Tommy can talk their leader down and it's Aisha who then takes over with the negotiations. Without spoiling too much, we then get to see just how much of a tyrant Zartus was.
In terms of overall writing, both plots are a bit hit and miss. While the scenes with the Rangers conform to the traditional Power Ranger bread and butter, it's the scenes with Rocky and Matt that steal the limelight. The duo work well together, and their interactions are starting to play out like a buddy cop film. Rocky has been an underdeveloped character for quite some time and it's refreshing to see Groom give him his time in the spotlight. Its also clear that the family aspect is going to play a big part in moving forwards. And now with King Aradon on the scene, I'm interested to see how this develops.
Moisés Hidalgo continues to create some superb art that captures the feeling within the script. The scenes on Aegus V are particularly stunning with Hidalgo and Raúl Angulo perfectly capturing the essence of this underwater world.
All in all, Mighty Morphin #18 continues to push the series forward in its new approach. Rocky and Matt are shaping up to be a great double act, and I'm hoping we see this dynamic grow further. Away from this and it's refreshing to see Mat Groom focus on the likes of Rocky and Aisha, who have been underused for far too long.
Now with King Aradon on the scene, things are starting to pick up the pace...the road to 100 begins!
Rating: 8.5/10
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