For All You 90's Kids (Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1)
Updated: Jan 25, 2020
POWER RANGERS/TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #1
Writer: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Simone Di Meo
Colorist: Walter Baiamonte (assists: Igor Monte)
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Publisher: Boom! Studios
Rating: 9/10
This is what team-up/crossover books are made for. Growing up in the early 90's I was a fan of both of these franchises. So my love for them goes deep. I was born in 87, so when I say I'm a TMNT fan, I'm not joking. I was watching the cartoons and had the toys as far back as I can remember. As for the Power Rangers, I still remember watching it when it first premiered. I watched every episode and had all the toys for that one also. OK, enough reminiscing. But I will say that when they announced this book, the younger Ryan that still resides in me was jumping up for joy. This is a crossover I never thought I would see. I'll be honest I never even thought about these two franchises crossing over, but after this first issue... Now I wonder what took them so long.
Ryan Parrot, who also writes the MMPR ongoing, did a fantastic job introducing new and old readers alike to all the characters. He has each ones "voice" down perfectly. The story is full of nostalgic moments but not in the way that come off cheesy. His script is full of humor, action and a touch of mystery. From what I gathered, these two teams exist in the same universe but have never met. Michelangelo seems to be the only one who know the Rangers. So when they're chasing down this mysterious Foot Soldier, who gave them trouble, turns out to be Tommy (the Green Ranger) he recognizes the costume.
When the two teams finally meet, fighting ensues and artist Simone Di Meo does an unbelievable job with the action scenes. Each kick and punch is teeming with energy. The fight scenes were choreogrpahed expertly, plus he draws one of the best versions of the turtles I've ever seen. He adds his own unique spin and I loved it. Every page is just so much fun to look at and is only made better by the amazing coloring of Walter Baiaimonte. The entire team for this book, made this one of the most fun books I read this week.
With the conclusion of the story revealing Tommy has infiltrated the Foot, and Shredder seemingly aware of it but having his own plans, this is setting up to be a really great story. If you're a fan of these characters I can't recommend this book enough. While I too can be wary of these crossovers, I can assure that his one was done to perfection. It was a fun read full of amazing art, what more can you ask for.