Review | Power Rangers Samurai: A New Enemy

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Plot: What’s it about?Video: How does it look?Audio: How does it sound?Supplements: What are the extras?

Plot: What’s it about?

While the Samurai team has had success in the battle against Xandred’s minions, the conflict continues. The team has been able to sharpen their skills however, working with Mentor Ji to fine tune their combat techniques and enhance their potent Symbol powers. But the training is constant, as they must remain in top condition and learn how to use a wide assortment of weapons and Megazords. All the while, never taking a break from the battles against the Nighlok. As focused as the group is on stopping Xandred and his Nighlok monsters, new threats always lurk in the shadows. And now a new enemy has surfaced, with an intent to take down Jayden. Can the Samurai team not only keep Xandred under control, but face down this mysterious new rival, or is this too much even for the Samurai to handle?

The first four episodes of Power Rangers Samurai proved the franchise had life left, but would that momentum continue? This second release delivers the next four episodes, all in sharp widescreen transfers and Dolby Digital 5.1 sound. The trends set in the first set of episodes continue here, so fans should be more than entertained. The Nighlok arc continues on with fun battles and there is a good amount of comic relief as well. So those early episodes of Power Rangers Samurai were no fluke, which means this show has roots in the early Power Rangers format, but with plenty of fresh elements as well. So even if you haven’t loved recent Power Rangers series, this one is well worth a chance. The introduction of the mysterious new rival kicks things up a notch, so there is a lot going on this in volume. If you are even a minor Power Rangers fan, you will have a blast with Power Rangers Samurai and I can’t wait for more episodes to hit DVD.

Video: How does it look?

The episodes are presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. These episodes look terrific, with crystal clear visuals and bright, bold colors. The detail level is strong for DVD, but the real spotlight is on the show’s vivid color use. The various costumes really stand out, as well as the enchanted weapons. A colorful, sharp presentation, not much else we could demand here.

Audio: How does it sound?

I was pleased to find Dolby Digital 5.1 audio here, as the show really benefits from the added presence. The battles are enhanced of course, but the music also has a rich sound in this treatment. But the dialogue and other lower key elements are still well handled, so they’re never overpowered. This disc also includes Spanish and French language tracks.