What was Power Rangers based on? The beloved TV show, which has captivated audiences around the world for over two decades, has its roots in a Japanese tokusatsu series known as “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” This Japanese show, created by Haim Salkin and created by Toei Company, served as the inspiration for the American adaptation that would become a global phenomenon.
The original concept of Power Rangers was born from the fusion of two distinct genres: tokusatsu and superhero. Tokusatsu, a Japanese genre that translates to “special filming,” is characterized by its use of live-action film techniques to create high-octane, action-packed sequences with minimal special effects. This style was a perfect fit for the Power Rangers format, as it allowed for epic battles and dramatic rescues without the need for extensive CGI.
In the early 1990s, Haim Salkin, a producer with experience in tokusatsu, approached Toei Company to license the rights to their “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” series. Salkin, along with his team, worked closely with Toei to adapt the show for an American audience. The result was a new version of the show that retained the core elements of the original, while incorporating elements of American pop culture and a more relatable cast of characters.
One of the key aspects of the Power Rangers series that set it apart from other tokusatsu shows was its emphasis on teamwork and the importance of friendship. The show’s premise revolves around a group of ordinary teenagers who are granted superpowers and transformed into costumed heroes known as “Rangers.” These Rangers must come together and work as a team to combat an array of evil forces, ranging from intergalactic conquerors to ancient monsters.
The original “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” series, which aired from 1993 to 1995, featured five main characters: Jason Lee Scott, Kimberly Ann Hart, Zordon, Alpha 5, and Rita Repulsa. These characters were reimagined for the American version, with actors like Jason David Frank, Amy Jo Johnson, and Walter Jones taking on the roles of the iconic Rangers. The show’s unique blend of action, comedy, and drama resonated with viewers, leading to a long-running franchise that has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and movies.
What was Power Rangers based on, then? It was a combination of Japanese tokusatsu and American superhero culture, with a focus on themes of teamwork, friendship, and the power of unity. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain and inspire viewers of all ages, making it a true classic in the world of television.
