by Matt Sernaker, Managing Editor
POWER-BUNGA!
Get ready, because the team-up that took the comic book world by storm returns for a second installment with the release of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II #1! Writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Rogue Sun) and artist Dan Mora (World’s Finest, Once & Future) are back for more adventures with our favorite teenage teams. Following the radical events of the first crossover, our colorful heroes are in for quite the adventure with new out-of-this-world threats. Will the combined powers of the Rangers and Turtles be enough to save the day once more?
Without going into spoilers, we can safely say that Ryan and the creative team have kicked off this latest crossover without skipping a beat. The two teams of heroes get some great character moments within the opening pages, and readers are treated to memorable interactions and choices that will leave them ready for more. You wanted more Casey Jones? Don’t worry, you’ve got more Casey Jones! The man in the mask is back and ready for action. We also get a glimpse at some other major characters in the TMNT universe, and the implications of their involvement can only lead to trouble for our heroes in later issues. Keep an eye out for a truly laugh-out-loud interaction between April, Bulk & Skull, which stood out as my favorite moment from the first issue.
From a creative standpoint, Ryan absolutely captured the voices of both teams and their respective supporting characters during the first story arc, and it is clear that his appreciation of the mythologies and characterization has carried on with this latest release. Dan’s artwork continues to shine, providing a sense of joy and excitement with each passing page. It is hard not to be impressed with his designs and aesthetics. Colorist Raul Angulo further enhances the book with stunning choices and vivid color palettes. These characters look utterly stunning, and they truly feel like they are leaping off the page with each new release.
Overall
Rating:
ComicsOnline gives MMPR/TMNT II #1 5 out of 5 holographic choices for the heroes in a half-shell (turtle power!), and we anxiously await the rest of the issues.
Check out a preview of the first 5 pages below: