POWER RANGERS UNLIMITED: EDGE OF DARKNESS #1 (COMIC REVIEW)
By: RogueSymbiote
Spoilers Ahead!
Since 2016, Boom! Studios has vastly expanded the Power Rangers Universe. From introducing new rangers and villains to retroactively fixing major plot holes, the Power Rangers comic series has been an absolute gem. Power Rangers Unlimited: Edge of Darkness #1 once again proves this beloved 90's franchise is alive, thriving and in the most trustworthy of hands.
Writer Frank Gogol (No Heroine, Dead End Kids and the highly anticipated Unborn) weaves a captivating tale with Power Ranger's ultimate unknown, the Phantom Ranger. Upon Zordon's request, the Phantom Ranger investigates the devastation from a supposed Empyreal attack. Flashbacks reveal the Phantom Ranger's role in protecting Lady Fienna and her young daughter Rita (yes, THAT Rita) from Tenga warriors and the insidious Master Vile. The fallout results in major revelations for both Rita's past and Phantom Ranger's very existence.
Artist Simone Ragazzoni (Power Rangers: Drakkon New Dawn) beautifully illustrates a mix of action packed beat downs with powerfully emotion sequences. The panel layout and flow are expertly crafted and incredibly unique. I am in awe of how much Simone is able to fit on a page while maintaining a clear narrative. His attention to detail is immaculate. The art is only elevated by the stunning color work by Igor Monti (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers). This particular artist/colorist combo makes for one of the best one-two punches in the industry. Letterer Ed Dukeshire (Once & Future) rounds out the team ensuring all emphasis through dialogue is accurate and visually engaging.
Power Rangers: Edge of Darkness #1 is a must read. Not only is it a key issue with major reveals for the Phantom Ranger, but sets up monumental implications for the future of the entire Power Rangers comic universe. *Cough cough Dark Spector *cough cough. Frank Gogol has the perfect tonal understanding of what a Power Rangers comic should be. With (mor)phenomenal writing and exhilaratingly beautiful art, Power Rangers: Edge of Darkness is another home run for Boom! Studios and the Power Ranger franchise.
If me gushing over this book is not enough to sway you, it has sold out at the distributor level and is going into a second printing with an amazing new cover by Simone Ragazzoni. First print covers done by the incomparable Dan Mora, Junggeun Yoon, Vincenzo Riccardi and Derrick Chew. Seriously... buy this book! If you are a Power Ranger fan, this is a must own for your collection.
