Mighty Morphin Power Rangers #52: A Ranger’s Work is Never Done.

At this point you’re basically blatantly in denial of Ryan Parrott’s writing ability and the overall quality of the Power Rangers books if you haven’t checked out at least an issue or two by now. MMPR #52 is no exception to this, although one of the “lighter” issues this one isn’t all milk there’s definitely some meat to it.

For starters the introduction of a new student who doesn’t share everyone’s almost blind enthusiasm for the Rangers and their adventures, really hits home a part of being a hero the rookie Adam Park hadn’t considered. Despite this idea’s frank delivery it never feels hamfisted or over the top, instead it makes one ask themselves some deeper questions about the Rangers and their role in things that really normal people wouldn’t be privy to. It shows how well the concept of aliens bringing teenagers into their big cosmic battles is being examined by writers like Parrott and his peers who’ve contributed to making the Boom universe so well built.

The art is also fantastically in line with everything you should want from a book that takes the Power Rangers concept seriously. When need be the art does a great job emoting levity and almost cartoonish kinetics, but at the same time the team of Moises Hidalgo and Walter Baiamonte brings a pressing sense of drama, danger and ferocity to the Rangers while in action against unknown menaces. Particularly I’d be slacking to not note how well the lettering is done in this issue along with the series in general. Each character’s dialogue patterns flow well and the font/style choices really gives them unique voices even down to their varied Kiyas and battlecries mid-throwdown.

All of these elements are what make this issue rock solid, yes it’s arguably just a pace mover issue but the confrontation between Kimberly and the imprisoned Drakkon alone is worth the read. The emotions are fully charged and despite being more or less confident in how the exchange would go, it still reminds you this *isn’t* just a fluff translation of the 90s show. It could very easily have ended with Kimberly putting one between Drakkon’s eyes, his escape or any number of unexpected curveball moments. So sure this might not be the most key point in the current arc but it’s still a satisfying read that will keep you following along with the series.