Power Rangers Samurai Episode Review #13

Episode 13: An Unexpected Arrival

Written by: David Schneider and Seth Walther

Directed by: Akihiro Noguchi

This series really is flying by. We’re already at that point. Yes that’s right it’s that time again. Time for what? Time for a sixth Ranger! Yes our favourite Samurais are about to recruit a new member to the team. Just what colour will this new Ranger be? Will his or her acting be bad enough for me to bring out the Kevin’s Dad scale? Will this new Ranger take the time to squirt Bulk in the face? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

A mysterious youth walks across the beach with a fishing rod over his shoulder, pulling a cart behind him and brandishing the legend “Antonio’s Fresh Fish.” He looks upon the nameless city which is home to the Samurai Rangers and says: “wait till they get a load of me, this will be golden baby.” He’s also appears to have his own folding zord. Just who is this mysterious youth? Is he the new Ranger? What colour Ranger will he be? As I know you’re all incredibly eager to know the answers to these questions and because I don’t want you fretting through the rest of this review I’m going to answer these questions for you now. Antonio. Yes. Gold.

At Ranger HQ the Nighlok sensor is going off and the current Rangers are on their way to check it out. They sure do a lot of running. Maybe Ji should get them some sort of vehicle- a five seated bike perhaps? Jayden feels like someone’s watching him, but there’s no sign of a Nighlok. Strange things are afoot in the nameless city today. The gang head back to Ranger HQ just missing Antonio as he passes by.

Post credits and the Rangers return to tell Ji there was no sign of Nighlok activity. Their conversation is interrupted by a mysterious bowman launching an arrow at the Dojo carrying a message. Okay, he’s mysterious for about five seconds before it’s revealed to be Antonio. That guy gets everywhere. What words of wisdom does this message carry? See you soon. Classic. Mia’s confused and scared by the message. Is it a warning of a Nighlok attack? Well, judging by the intelligence of their leader, Captain Half-Arsed, I’m assuming not. Anyway the house is protected by symbol power so no Nighlok can penetrate the grounds! Mike thinks there’s something fishy about this and he’s sniffed the message, so I think he means literally. Emily isn’t keen on the smell of fish apparently.

Jayden’s acting a bit odd. He thinks he can feel something, but no one else can. He’s jumpier than a Mexican jumping bean (is that a real thing or did I make it up?). Jayden can sense something other-worldly but the others don’t believe him. Even Ji’s a bit sceptical of Jayden’s claim. Surely Jayden can’t be wrong? Well it certainly looks like it as he very nearly takes off Emily’s head with his sword (snigger). Looks like Jayden’s flipped. He’s prowling the dojo chasing shadows. The others doubt him but I believe him completely. Especially as we see there’s a Nighlok behind it all. He’s watching Jayden through some sort of magic mirror thing the cunning bastard. Jayden’s lost it now. Things are so bad he’s splashing water in his face! He’s now muttering something to himself about it being gone, I wonder if that’ll be explain later; *spoiler alert* it does. Can a Nighlok really have a well thought out plan to make the others doubt the Red Ranger? Where the hell was this kind of planning the rest of the season?

The next day the non-crazy Rangers are out investigating the broken gap sensor. And who do they happen to come across? That’s right! Antonio is there trying to sell his smelly fish. He’s given a flier to Emily and that flier has writing very similar to the writing on the message they received at HQ. Emily shows some detective skill by comparing the two and the Rangers are fairly sure they’ve found their man. When they confront him he makes a run for it. Quite suspicious behaviour for a fish vendor I’m sure you’ll agree. And just what is this big moment he’s preparing for? He manages to floor them with the old chucking ice on the floor so they slip on it routine, and before they can recover and give chase they receive a call from Ji. Jayden’s headed to Spring Valley. I think Ji’s worried the Red Ranger is about to off himself after no one believed him about the whole feeling a presence thing. Looks like the rest of the gang are just as worried. The team split in two. Kevin and Mia go to find Jayden whilst Mike and Emily chase fish guy.

Jayden’s looking pretty serious as he walks to the water’s edge at Spring Valley. He’s not going to pull a Reggie Perrin is he? This is where we get the official introduction to our Monster of the Week. Vulpes has been spying on the Red Ranger using his enchanted eye. Looks like Octoroo has summoned this particular Nighlok to see if Jayden’s been practicing the sealing symbol. Unfortunately that all-seeing enchanted eye is on the blink and spying on the Red Ranger is no longer an easy thing to do. Looks like Vulpes will have to go and face the Red Ranger. Elsewhere, Mike and Emily are struggling to keep up with Antonio. He’s just too fast they cry, for the millionth time this episode. Now I don’t like to criticise, but if you can’t keep up with a guy dragging along a cart of fish you’re not really fit to be a Power Ranger.

Back at Spring Valley and Vulpes has arrived. He’s using his girly little mirror erm... I mean his enchanted eye to try and track down the Red Ranger. Looks like Jayden was ready for him as the enchanted eye is snatched from his hands by a folding zord. Jayden majestically leaps out of the water and starts whacking the Nighlok with his sword. Mia and Kevin arrive to give us thickos an explanation of what’s going on. This is the Nighlok Jayden was sensing before. Just in case you didn’t get it. Jayden explains how he figured out how water can break the Nighlok’s spell. It’s rather impressive deduction from the Red Ranger. The mirror is destroyed and Vulpes reveals why he’d been spying. It’s time to battle and they’re gonna need the rest of the gang, so the call goes out to Mike and Emily who’ve lost Antonio. Looks like Antonio is ready for his big moment too.

With that, the five Rangers are united and ready to battle! Unfortunately Vulpes has a few tricks up his sleeve that make this battle a lot more difficult than they expected. The sly bugger has only got a reflective ability that makes him impervious to the Rangers Spin Sword attacks. Things are looking grim for our Samurais; they’ve been un-suited by the latest attack and he’s about to finish them with a powerful attack whilst they’re unmorphed. What the heck are they gonna do? You know what these guys really need right now? A mysterious youth with some exploding fish. Enter Antonio. Looks like this is the big moment he was talking about. Kevin seems disappointed that Mike doesn’t recognise Antonio after he’d spent so long chasing him. But that’s really not that important right now. Antonio has a Samurai Morpher! What a shock to anyone who’s been speed reading this review. He’s only a Gold Ranger! How awesome is that? I’m not particularly keen on the costume; maybe it’ll grow on me but it ain’t as nice as the other ones. But the man is more than the suit, so let’s see what Antonio is like in action before we judge him. Looks like he’s pretty damn good at the Mooger fighting. Antonio moves so fast he needs a slow mo replay for us all to catch up with him. Now that’s hardcore! He manages to take down a whole army of Moogers single handed then it’s time to take on Vulpes himself. He gets a spot of help from Jayden in this battle and there’s a hint that these two know each other. But before they have chance to elaborate on that they’ve defeated the first form and we all know what that means…

Looks like we’re cracking out the Battlewing Megazord again. Gotta love the tiger helmet and breast cones. Unfortunately, Vulpes has the ability of invisibility and that’s proving difficult for the Rangers. Luckily for them the Gold Ranger has a zord all of his own, the Octozord. Now I’m not a fan of Mega Mode, I think it looks pretty stupid, but I must admit I do actually really like the look of the Gold Ranger in Mega Mode. The Octozord is fairly cool and his ink attack comes in very useful for exposing the invisible Nighlok. Thanks to the help from Antonio the Megazord is able to finish Vulpes once and for all, and all is well with the world once more. Post battle it’s quite a sight to see the fully suited up Gold Ranger dragging along his fishing cart. Looks like Jayden knows Antonio. Time for a flashback. With child actors. Dear god. To say the acting is bad is such an understatement you wouldn’t believe it. The acting is so bad that it may have actually broken the Blake Foster scale. Looks like Jayden gave Antonio the Octozord when they were abysmal child actors as a reminder they will always be friends, no matter how far apart they are. Despite the awful acting it is quite an emotional scene, as Antonio promises to become a Samurai Ranger to assist Jayden when he becomes the Red Ranger. Back in the present it’s time for some good natured sparring and even Kevin seems impressed with the new Gold Ranger. Although Kevin doesn’t look to keen on him joining the team.

Whether Antonio is to become a full time member of the Samurai Rangers is a question for next time. This is where our journey must end dear reader.

Next time: Room For One More

Pictures from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Review #12

Episode 12: Jayden’s Challenge

Written by: Jill Donnellan and James W. Bates with David Schneider

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

Last time was intense. We learned that Jayden was the only one capable of defeating Master Xandred once and for all. We learned that Spike had fallen madly in love with the Pink Samurai Ranger and we learned Deker wouldn’t let anyone get in the way of his duel with Jayden. The last episode ended with Jayden abandoning the rest of the Rangers after deciding this was his battle and his alone. Has he really abandoned the rest of the Rangers for good? Can he defeat both Xandred and Deker alone? Will there be more creepy romance fantasy sequences from Spike? For the answers to these questions and more read on.

We kick off with Ji worrying that the weight of leading the Samurai Rangers has become too much for Jayden. Jayden himself though is more worried about the threat he poses to his fellow Rangers. He’s realised that they will do anything to protect their leader, and he can’t put them in that kind of danger. If only they knew the truth eh Jayden? Jayden vows never to let his team put themselves in danger to protect his power to seal Master Xandred, and Ji decides he needs to give Jayden room to make his own decisions, and on this downer we hit the credits.

Post credits we’re with Bulk and Spike who are continuing their training to be Samurai warriors. Today’s training apparently involves sleeping on the floor, which all samurais do of course. Spike wants a bedtime story from Bulk- was I the only one secretly hoping Bulk would regale us a tale from the Zordon era?- but alas no such luck and Spike is soon fast asleep. Cue a quite frankly disturbing yet amusing dream sequence, with Spike prancing around with the Pink Samurai Ranger. Now I can understand a young boy’s love for a pink ranger. I mean I grew up with Amy Jo Johnson. Aaaah Amy Jo why did you ever leave us? Wait what was I saying? I never had any creepy dream sequences, at least none I care to share on this blog. Anyway it’s a weird sequence and I’m not too disappointed to see it end.

Back at Ranger HQ, Emily and Kevin are still recovering from the injuries they received in the last episode. Kevin’s been keeping himself busy whilst in bed; he’s got out his sketch book and he’s been making plans to combine the Megazord with the Battlewing. That’s our Kevin for you, what a guy! Ji is over compensating; he’s far too jolly and the others know why. They know Jayden’s gone, but Ji is confident he will return. Down on the good ship Xandred, last week’s Nighlok is still hanging about, making a complete mockery of the monster of the week formula. Robtish is making excuses for why he failed to defeat the Red Ranger and is blaming Deker. Xandred has decided he’s going to destroy Deker. I’m sure Deker is shaking in his boots as Xandred has proven himself to be an efficient and gifted villain so far. Jackass. Apparently Xandred’s plan to destroy Deker is to send the Moogers to fight him. That’s right, the crappy grunts he sends to fight the Power Rangers every week. The same grunts that lose every single week. Bravo Xandred bravo. I am looking forward to your eventual downfall you useless gimp. After Deker easily defeats the Moogers, Xandred decides to join the battle himself. About bloody time he did something. Despite being a piss poor leader Xandred is pretty handy with a sword and Deker can’t match him.

You know what’s been missing from the series for a while? That’s right an absolutely terrible child actor! Well good news folks this episode features a turn by one such child. Jayden’s sat outside a playground (hey I’m saying nothing) when he spots a crying child. Apparently the kid’s dad has left town for a job. Jayden can relate. Except his dad’s job was to defeat Xandred and he didn’t do it very well. Jayden misses his dad and decides it’s time for a flashback with some strangely relevant lessons. To make the kid feel better Jayden decides to make him a paper plane. Elsewhere we learn sleeping on the floor did Bulk no favours. Back with Jayden and he’s decided that life for kids shouldn’t involve monsters. But guess what’s coming? That’s right, monsters. Typical! Luckily for the kids Jayden is there to kick some Mooger butt. The Nighlok sensor has gone off and the other Rangers are ready to answer the call, but Ji explains that Jayden has always struggled with allowing others to get involved in this fight. But they’re a team and the Rangers are dedicated to fighting the good fight. Huzzah.

Back at the battle that annoying kid is proving himself to be quite the fool. He’s only trying to retrieve Jayden’s paper plane from under the foot of the Nighlok! What a tool. He also pulls some quite odd faces that make me question whether he is a poor child actor or merely a shaven chimp dressed in human clothes. Unfortunately he doesn’t meet a bloody end at the hands of Robtish. Jayden to the rescue once again. Jayden’s ready to destroy the Nighlok and I’ll be glad when he does it; I’m sick of his god awful Scottish accent. I have nothing against the Scottish, but I once nearly left home because my mum had a Scottish friend staying with us for a few weeks. Drove my barmy it did. Just as all looks bleak for Jayden, the rest of the gang arrive to join the battle and he’s pretty happy to see them. Time for another flashback. This time his dad is making him a paper plane and telling him he will one day have to lead the Rangers against Master Xandred. Wait a minute… wasn’t that his job? Surely he was planning on succeeding? That’s not really the attitude to have when you go into battle is it? Anyway it’s time for the Rangers to suit up and get ready to take this Nighlok down! They are able to defeat Robtish when they work as a team and we all know what that means…

We’ve got a super sized Nighlok and unfortunately he’s still Scottish. It’s time to call on the folding zords and the shoulder pads of doom. Robtish calls upon some flying Moogers… Flying Moogers, really? On the plus side, looking up to see these ridiculous creatures helps Bulk cure his bad neck. Awesome! Robtish and the flying Moogers are proving too much for the Megazord. Time to bring out the Battlewing? Oh yeah! It’s time to test Kevin’s theory about combining the two. It works, but unfortunately it makes the Megazord look like it’s had a bad boob job. The Megazord is able to take to the skies now and take down those flying Moogers. The theme song is playing so that can mean only one thing it’s time to kill us some Nighlok. A final blow from the Megazord’s gigantic sword is more than enough to kill the Scottish beast. Back at Ranger HQ, Ji is very happy to see Jayden return. it’s quite a touching moment to see student and teacher reunited. The gang get to spend the evening having fun they’re gonna catch a movie, a romantic comedy with zombies apparently, so that’s Shaun of the Dead for them. Jayden’s allowed the night off the battle against the forces of evil will still be there tomorrow. And so will I with yet another pointless review of a kids’ show.

Next time: Unexpected Arrival

Pictures taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Review #11

Episode 11: Test of the Leader

Written by: David Schneider and Samuel P. McLean

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

Xandred’s finally decided to tackle the Red Ranger and Spike develops a crush on the Pink Ranger. It’s all action in this week’s episode. Will we learn more about the sealing spell used to imprison Master Xandred? Will Bulk and Spike have some actual interaction with the Rangers? Will this review be better than the rather weak ones that have preceded it? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

For a change we kick off with Master Xandred and his crew. Octoroo has been worrying about what Deker said a few episodes back. Deker did seem a tad surprised that Xandred wasn’t being a bit more active in his pursuit of the Red Ranger and he’s not the only one as I’m sure anyone who read my review of that episode will have realised I was very surprised too. Octoroo has been doing his research and he’s discovered that the power to seal Xandred lies with the Samurai Shiba family headed by the Red Ranger (yeah Jayden sure looks like a Shiba). So at last Xandred finally decides it’s time to take action against the Red Ranger about bloody time. What genius scheme has he got? Oh he’s sending Mooger’s the grunts the Rangers defeat every single week. Way to bring your A game Xandred ya putz.

Post credits and we’re kicking off with Bulk and Spike. The Power Rangers are in this episode right? For a couple of guys that don’t appear to have jobs they spend a lot of time shopping or at the arcade. Anyway our hapless heroes have run into rampaging Moogers. They may not have the skills of Samurai warriors but they certainly have the heart. Bulk and Spike stand their ground and prepare to fight the Moogers armed only with bread sticks and an umbrella. Those brave souls truly know no fear. Well for about five seconds before they scarper in fear. Ah well. Just as things look the bleakest for Bulk and Spike the Rangers arrive to save the day. Mia leaps to the aid of Spike and he appears to  be quite smitten with the Pink Ranger. Like father like son I guess.

There are little Moogers and giant Moogers so the team has been split in two. Mia and Emily deal with the runts whilst the boys crack out the recently acquired Samurai Battlewing. The Battlewing certainly proves it’s worth by taking down those giant Moogers pretty quickly allowing the boys to rejoin the girls for a good old fashioned Mooger beat down. But these Moogers aren’t giving up easy they just keep coming and coming. Just what the fudge is going on? These Moogers are only interested in one thing and that thing is Jayden! The Red Ranger has built up a pretty good team and they are all willing to stand by his side and try and protect him from this Mooger attack. Jayden’s wanted to try out a new symbol combo for a while and decides to leave Emily completely defenceless by taking her sword. It works out though and the Moogers are dealt with. Once the battle is complete talk turns to Captain Half-Arsed I mean Master Xandred. They all seem to be a bit surprised to discover he’s back. Who the hell do you think has been sending all these damn Nighloks to fight you? Geez! Back down with Xandred and co it appears only Octoroo actually cares about what’s going on with the Rangers. Seriously these guys are the worst villains ever. They deserve every single defeat.

Bulk’s hamming it up old school as he proudly displays his “injuries” from his first Samurai battle. Spike’s applying bandages and I’m pretty sure we can all see where this is going. Spike’s fantasising face is something I can live without seeing ever again but I was right Bulk’s all bandaged up like a mummy. Back at Ranger HQ and the team are about to learn one of Jayden’s secrets. There’s a secret symbol that the last Red Ranger used to seal Xandred away with. Queue a flash back sequence to that fateful battle. We see the previous Samurai Rangers getting hacked and slashed by Xandred’s forces (these Rangers look slightly Japanese as they de-morph…). Basically we get to see Xandred sealed away but we do learn that only Jayden has the power to defeat Xandred once and for all. Only downside is it takes unbelievable symbol power to achieve even Jayden’s father couldn’t get it quite right! Octoroo has realised this and he’s picked a new Monster of the Week to take on Jayden. This week’s Nighlok is Robtish who for some unknown reason has a Scottish accent.

The revelations about Jayden’s ability to use his symbol power to seal away Captain Half-Arsed once and for all has got the Rangers talking. They’ve now decided that it’s their mission to protect Jayden above all else something he’s not particularly keen on. It’s a burden to him realising just how far his team will go to protect him and it’s a burden he doesn’t want to carry. He gets quite forceful with them reminding them they’re a team and they need to look out for themselves. Before things can get too heated the Nighlok sensor goes off and the Rangers have to head out to meet their latest foe. Robtish reveals to Jayden and the gang that Xandred is aware of the Red Rangers abilities and challenges him to a duel. Kevin doesn’t want Jayden getting involved in this kind of battle but Jayden ain’t sitting this one out. Jayden duels Robtish as the rest of the Rangers battle the Moogers. Oh look Deker’s popped by to watch the action. Things aren’t look good for Jayden. With the aid of his double slash Robtish has floored and disarmed the Red Ranger. He’s about to try the move again when Kevin and Emily bravely jump in front and take the brunt of the attack. Jayden is devastated to be responsible for his friends getting hurt. Just as he’s about to deal with Mike and Mia Deker intervenes and starts kicking everyone’s arse. This leads to a rather exciting three way duel between the Red Ranger, Deker and Robtish. It’s rather fun watching the three of them battle so fiercely and Jayden proves himself to be quite the warrior despite going down so easily earlier. Luckily for him Robtish is all dried out and is forced to depart.

With Robtish gone it’s time for the main event. Deker versus Jayden. Unfortunately the battle against Robtish has left Jayden weakened and it’s all about the battle for Deker so he postpones their duel. I am rather looking forward to these two finally getting down to a proper battle I’m sure it’ll make very entertaining viewing. As for now Deker gives Jayden a flash of his human form and his beard before departing once again. The battle has left Kevin and Emily in a bad way and it’s quite clearly distressing Jayden who blames himself. As the rest of the team recover at HQ Jayden departs into the dark of the night refusing to put his friends at risk again. This is his fight and he needs to do it his way. So ends the episode and we’re left with all new questions to answer  but they’ll have to wait until next time dear reader.

Next time: The story continues in Jayden’s Challenge

Pics from the PRS Gateway as always

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Review #10

Episode 10: Forest for the Trees

Written by: Jill Donnellan and Seth Walther

Directed by: Jonathan Brough

It’s a Mike focused episode this time round and as far as I’m concerned that’s a good thing. We’ve even got a whole new Megazord to enjoy! Will Jayden pick the right Ranger for the job of piloting the Beetle Zord? Will Mike learn some valuable life lessons? Is there such thing as too many zords? Will Bulk have a return to form and get squirted in the face? Will this be the last time I ponder over such a query? For the answer to these questions and more read on dear reader read on!

The Rangers have recovered three of the long lost power disks and that means they’ve got an all new power to employ in their battle against the Nighloks. Yes combined the Beetle, the Tiger and the Swordfish form the Samurai Battlewing. I’m sure it’s awesome. Bit of an odd combination to be honest. In nature you don’t often see Tigers and Swordfish hanging out. But who am I to criticise? Also, in Ji’s book it’s referred to as the Beetle Wing Zord. A bit of miscommunication going on there somewhere methinks. Jayden and Ji need to pick the team to pilot this new Megazord. Jayden will officially be in charge of the Tiger Zord, and there’s only one choice when it comes to the Swordfish (Kevin of course- he caught it himself I’m sure you recall). But who will they choose to pilot of the Beetle Zord? Mike right? No! They’ve only chosen Mia, completely rocking Mike’s confidence completely. Mike’s pretty pissed and I don’t blame him.

Post credits, Mike’s pouring his frustration into spinning his sword and jumping around, erm... I mean Samurai training, which is very complex and a lot more than jumping around. Kevin’s eating sushi as we try and keep up the whole Japanese charade. Whilst eating sushi the other Rangers discuss Mike. They’ve noticed Mike’s been trying harder and even Ji believes he has the potential but must learn to listen. Guess what this episode is going to be about? Mike’s having flashbacks to Jayden and Kevin using their special disks and he’s still surprised they didn’t pick him but it’s given him the motivation to work harder and we all need a bit of motivation now and then.

It’s monster of the week time. This time it’s Desperaino who has some sort of despair power so the name is as subtle as you can get with Power Rangers. He makes some magic sad rain which makes a lot of people with funny accents (is this Japan, America or New Zealand? Make your mind up guys) very sad. Mike makes a joke at Kevin’s expense which seems to really hit home. Now you know me, I don’t like to criticise, but sometimes I’m left with little choice. What this episode is basically saying is that this whole time Master Xandred has had a Nighlok who can do the very thing needed to flood the Sanzu River. Why the heck didn’t you send this guy first? In fact why not send all the useless Nighloks to distract the Rangers whilst Desperaino depresses the hell out of the rest of the world? You know what Xandred, you deserve to lose, you’re just terrible. Anyway it’s time for the Rangers (who actually do the best they can take note Xandred) to battle Desperaino. Kevin decides it’s time to whip out the disks, but before Mia gets chance to use the Beetle disk it's shot out of her hand. Mike catches the disk and decides to use it himself. This leads to an argument with his team mates and gives the nasty Nighlok chance to escape. Mike attempts to use the disk but it won’t work. Damnit Mike why couldn’t you just accept you’re not ready for this yet?

Back at Ranger HQ, Mike’s getting a telling off from Ji. Ji’s disappointed and so am I. Mike is stripped of his role as the Green Samurai Ranger as a punishment for his poor judgement. Mike retaliates by using his symbol power to capture Ji’s stick. He then storms off and we’re left a Ranger short for when that pesky Nighlok returns. Kevin, Emily and Mia discuss the argument and Kevin is outraged when Mia suggests that Ji was acting as childish as Mike. Mia believes Mike has the symbol power to pilot the Beetle Zord and that perhaps Ji made the wrong decision in handing her the disk. Inside, Jayden and Ji are about to swap roles as the student becomes the teacher and Jayden explains that Mike needs a different kind of training.

Mike’s at the arcade playing some kind of beat ‘em up with a bear. He’s regretting his actions. Ah well we don’t want to focus too much on the storyline right now, let’s get some comic relief. That’s right Bulk and Spike are at the arcade too. Is there any chance Bulk’s about to get a face full of goop? It seems unlikely. Bulk is continuing Spike’s samurai training with a spot of Dance Dance Revolution. It teaches you such things as team work and balance apparently. I’m pretty sure it’s just an excuse to get Spike jumping around all manic like and it’s not long before the young scamp gets too excited and smacks Bulk right in the face. Spookily Mike walks right passed them like they’re actually in the same show! This is where we learn that mentor is a biker as he pulls up on his hog to pick up Mike for a bit of bonding and emotional growth. Then it’s Spike’s turn to feel the pain as he runs into a road sign. Oh you guys are crazy.

We’re off to Xandred’s ship for more cringe worthy dialogue amongst monsters. Looks like Octoroo is doing a bit of research on the Red Ranger and Deker. Why? Well he’s only teasing us for now but he feels they’ve overlooked something very important. Deker himself is spending quality time with his sword (snigger) once again. It’s good to see Deker and his beard again but it’s a shame he’s not a bit more involved in the action. He seems to have decided upon Jayden for the most epic duel of all time he’s just waiting for the right time and place. The season finale perhaps? Elsewhere, Ji has taken Mike to the forest to help him connect with his powers in a more impressive manner. Most importantly Ji returns Mike’s Samurizer! Lessons are being learned here people. Mike and Ji have found a new respect for each other and Mike even teaches him one of those cool handshakes the kids use these days.

Deker loves his sword

The rest of the Rangers are taking on the Nighlok and not having much luck. He’s flying now and no one can hit him. What a dick. Luckily Mike’s turned up to save the day. With Ji’s words still fresh in his mind Mike can now use the true power of the forest to kick some arse. Mike uses some pretty impressive pole vaulting skills to get himself airborne, which allows him to deliver the killer blow to Mr. Makes People Sad. And we all know what that means…

It’s time for some Megazording. Out come the shoulder pads of Mega Mode and we’re ready for battle once again. Only one problem; this Nighlok can fly and the Megazord is no good against an airborne attack. If only the Rangers had some sort of flying zord combination they could use… Oh wait they do! That’s right it’s time to try out the new Samurai Battlewing and Mia has decided to let Mike use the Beetle disk. That means this is a boys only affair as Kevin, Jayden and Mike pilot the new flying Megazord. Luckily there’s still room for the other Megazord to have a shot at taking down this villain and in the end the beasty is no match for two Megazords. Victory is theirs once again. Back at HQ Mike and Ji cement their new friendly relationship with Mike giving Ji a very special plant that Mike can manipulate into make cool hand gestures. I guess we’ve all learned a lot from this episode. I guess the main thing I’ve learned is that Bulk isn’t going to get squirted in the face anymore. Until next time dear readers…

Next time: Test of the Leader

Images from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway

Power Rangers Samurai Episode Review #9

Episode 9: I've Got a Spell on Blue

Written by: David Schneider and Jill Donnellan

Directed by: Peter Salmon

There’s a lot going on this week. The pesky Nighloks are up to all sorts of mischief. They’ve possessed Kevin and have taken control of the long lost Tiger Zord! Can the Rangers save Kevin? Can they retrieve the Tiger Zord? Will there be any acting so bad that I can bring back the Kevin’s Dad scale? Will Bulk get squirted in the face? Will I ever give up starting each review by questioning whether Bulk will get squirted in the face? Does it actually matter if Bulk gets squirted in the face? For the answers to these questions and more read on!

We kick off with a duel between the Rangers Red and Blue. Yes Jayden and Kevin are suited up and clanging swords in the garden. Mike’s impressed and rightfully so, it’s quite a battle. These two warriors are evenly matched and the people of Earth are lucky that they’re on the same side. Mike’s impressed with one of the warriors “mad skills” and Ji instantly assumes he means Jayden. But he doesn’t; he’s talking about the one and only Kevin. Everyone’s impressed with Kevin’s skills, with Emily noting his gracefulness with a sword (snigger) and even Mia’s impressed with his technique. Everyone loves Kevin. Except Ji, who is totally obsessed with Jayden. I think he’s a little jealous of people preferring Kevin to his own protégé. He does concede that both the boys are excellent swordsmen. The Rangers wonder what would happen if the two ever had to battle for real. But that could never happen could it? *SPOILER WARNING* That’s exactly what does happen this episode!

Deker’s hanging out with Master Xandred. The two don’t get out apparently. Deker’s out to get Jayden and he’s just checking Xandred has no issues with him doing that. Apparently he couldn’t care less as he has nothing planned for the Red Ranger. This surprises Deker, and me quite frankly. Xandred is a really half arsed villain. It’s like he doesn’t even care about succeeding in his plans to flood the Sanzu River. He has no plans to deal with the Red Ranger? He’s the gosh darn leader of your sworn enemies why wouldn’t you be planning to kick his arse? Seriously Xandred get with the programme! You’re embarrassing yourself and the rest of the Nighloks. Following Deker’s departure we get to meet the monster of the week and this time it’s the rather irritating Madimot. Madimot has a surprise for Xandred. It’s only a bloomin’ Tiger Zord! The Red Ranger’s long lost Tiger Zord in fact and I imagine he’s gonna want it back.

What are Bulk and Spike up to this week? Well they’re out hiking in the woods with Spike worried about bears, while Bulk is more worried about mosquitoes. He sprays some bug spray into the air, only for it to be blown straight back in his face. Now I’m a bit conflicted can I add another to the Bulk getting squirted in the face tally? Does it really count? I’m not sure it does so I won’t be whipping out the Bulk tally. Unfortunately Bulk and Spike are about to run into the monster of the week and he isn’t fooled by their attempts to play dead. Luckily the Rangers are there to take on the increasingly camp villain. He’s not taking the Rangers on alone though, he’s summoned the Tiger Zord to help him. Turns out the camp bastard saved the Tiger Zord when Master Xandred was sealed away all those years ago. Madimot then uses his powers of possession against the Rangers. Kevin rather selflessly saves Mike by pushing him out of the way of one of these attacks. Unfortunately he takes the full brunt of the force of it. Kevin is now under Nighlok control! He’s ordered to take on the rest of the Rangers and that’s what he does. The others are reluctant to fight against their friend. Jayden’s dealing with Madimot and his symbol power is too much for Madimot’s mind control powers. Kevin has made light work of the rest of the Rangers and this forces them into a retreat for now.

Back at HQ Ji tells the Rangers it won’t be easy to break the monster’s spell on Kevin and the Tiger Zord, but it can’t be that hard as there’s less than fifteen minutes left. He warns Jayden that there may be tough choices ahead. Back on Xandred’s ship, Octoroo is worrying about the mysterious Deker. Deker does seem to be a little bit obsessed with his sword, typical man eh? Apparently Deker isn’t a normal Nighlok he’s got a very human side! Even more shocking than that is that he’s played by Wild Force’s own jolly Red Ranger Cole Evans a.k.a. actor Ricardo Medina Jnr. (credited here as Rick Medina because he’s grownup and has a beard now).

Rick back in his Wild Force days

Rick and his beard presumably also called Rick

Kevin and the monster of the week are off causing trouble in the human world and Jayden has gone to face them, much to the anger of Mike. Ji tells him to have faith in his leader. Jayden is trying to break the spell on Kevin with no success so far. The other Rangers arrive and offer to help but he refuses to endanger anyone else. Looks like the Red and Blue Rangers are gonna have to duel. It’s hard to believe just how impossible that seemed to us at the beginning of the episode. As the duel rages on Deker turns up- Guy really needs to get a hobby if you ask me. But he’s there to tell the Rangers that Jayden is winning the fight because Kevin is too honourable a warrior and is fighting like they’re in a martial arts competition. Kevin’s out to score points but Jayden is out to win. Luckily Jayden’s winning blow is enough to finally break the Nighlok’s spell. Deker feels Jayden is the right opponent for his sword (snigger) although quite who he’s saying this to I have no idea.

Now the Rangers are reunited it’s time to suit up and take down this camp Nighlok and retrieve the Tiger Zord. Jayden’s whipped out his folding zord and the rest of the Rangers are dealing with Madimot. The duel of the zords isn’t that exciting and the Tiger Zord looks a bit silly with its legs outstretched as it rolls along. Jayden succeeds in breaking the Nighlok’s spell so all is well. The rest of the Ranger team up to take down the monster of the week and make light work of him and we all know what that means…

The Tiger Zord does make me laugh. It looks so silly, but in a good way. Jayden’s quick to use his recently reacquired zord to take on the Nighlok. The rest of the Rangers decide to join in the fun, so out comes the Megazord and we all know what a new zord means. That’s right, it’s time for a new jaunty new hat for the giant robot. How well does it wear the Tiger Zord hat? Pretty well to be fair. There’s only one way this battle can end, especially when it comes down to a battle between the Nighlok’s shield and the Megazord’s tiger drill. One last cry of “I’m the baddest of the bad,” by the irritating Madimot before he’s defeated once and for all. Back at Ranger HQ Kevin’s feeling guilty about falling victim to the Nighlok’s evil spell. He can’t believe he raised his sword against a fellow Samurai, but Jayden being the great leader he is makes him feel better about the whole thing. We leave our brave heroes playing a zord based board game. As they say the Power Rangers that play together stay together. Until next time dear readers au revoir!

Next time: Forest for the Trees

Photos as ever taken from the Samurai Power Rangers Gateway