"Power/Rangers", a short fan film based on the beloved children's franchise, has been an internet sensation, garnering over 11 million views on YouTube. The 14-minute short film has been circulating the internet since Monday, depicting a decidedly violent and mature spin on the franchise. The film stars Katee Sackhoff and James Van Der Beek, and was directed by Joseph Kahn (Detention) and produced by Adi Shankar (Dredd, The Grey). Rights holder Saban has not been supportive of this new take, having gone so far as to pressure Vimeo into removing the film from their site. Saban and Lionsgate plan to release their own reboot in 2016.
Recently, some of the stars of the original Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers show were asked of their opinions on the short.
Amy Jo Johnson, who played Pink Ranger Kimberly, posted the video to her Facebook page, saying, "Okay... so you've ALL probably seen this already. BUT just wanted to share. Personally I think it's kind of awesome. BUT don't tell Saban that!! I might get sued. [wink emoticon] And it's clearly NOT for KIDS!!"
Original Black Ranger Walter Jones also made a post with positive comments, though he hesitated to post the film: "I wont be posting the video of the Power Rangers deboot video because I still have fans that are kids," Jones wrote. "I will say... I thought it was very well done and entertaining. I am looking foward to other interpretations of this amazing show. I am blessed to have had the pleasure of helping to create here in the states! Its Morphing Time!!"
And finally, original Green/White Ranger,
Jason David Frank, also made a comment, only his was not so favourable. In a video post on his Facebook page, Frank was critical of the fan film, while also revealing he had been approached to star as Tommy in the film:
“I know there’s a lot of fans out there that love it and all that stuff, but I’m just a PG-13 guy. The cuss words, the drugs, all this other stuff — it doesn’t fly with me. The problem is, [the Power Rangers] are still connected with adults and kids. The ‘Super Megaforce’ and ‘Power Ranges Dino Charge’ are still on Nickelodeon, and so you can’t take a brand like this and reboot it so dark and gritty. This still is a kids’ brand.”
What's your take on "Power/Rangers"? Would you like to see a more mature version when Saban releases their reboot?
ComicBookMovie.com, and/or the user who contributed this post, may earn commissions or revenue through clicks or purchases made through any third-party links contained within the content above.