New Power Rangers Series to Debut

From: Black Belt Magazine, May 2003

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND- The Power Rangers saga continues with the 11th incarnation of the superheroes' exploits, iPower Rangers Ninja Storm. The live-action series- which combines humor and drama with a healthy dose of the martial arts- airs on Saturday mornings on ABC.

The story lines revolve around ordinary teens who take on extraordinary powers to defend the world when intergalactic evil threatens the earth. To the outside world, Tori, Shane, and Dustin lead typical teen lives in Blue Bay Harbor: Shane's a skateboarder, Dustin races motocross and Tori loves to surf. But they share something special: They are students at a secret ninjutsu school where, under the careful teaching of a wise sensei, they train in the ancient ways of the ninja warriors.

Before long, their whole world changes when Lothor, a ninja master banished into space for his evil deeds, returns to earth bent on revenge. During the confrontation with him, the sensei is magically turned into a guinea pig and cannot change himself back into a human. Left with no alternative, he enlists the help of his less-than-perfect students.

The sensei gives "morphers" to the three kids, who vow to transform themselves into superheroes when it's necessary. Shane becomes the Red Ranger and derives his power from the sky. Dustin becomes the Yellow Ranger and gains the ability to utilize the power of the planet. And Tori becomes the Blue Ranger and draws her power from flowing water.

The trio, who are now called the Wind Power Rangers, also faces the threat of two former ninja students from a rival school who join forces with Lothor. The pair, known as the Thunder Rangers, must somehow be convinced by the Wind Power Rangers to team up with them so together they can defeat Lothor.

Later in the story, another powerful ally, the Green Samurai Ranger, emerges to help the Power Rangers in the ultimate battle of good vs. evil.

Featuring multicultural heroes of both genders, the Power Rangers team continues to serve as role models for today's youth. With positive messages in each episode, the series teaches honesty, teamwork, tolerance, responsibility, and concern for the environment. The Rangers also face physical and mental challenges, embrace cultural differences, eschew negative stereotypes and affirm positive self-images- all the while providing action-packed entertainment that kids love.

Douglas Sloan and Ann Austen, who worked as writers and producers on Power Rangers (1993-97), return as executive producers. Koichi Sakamoto, a 16-year veteran of the global franchise, is the co-executive producer and episode director. Janine Dickins is the producer.

The stars include Pua Magasiva as Shane, Glenn McMillan as Dustin, Sally Martin as Tori, Adam Tuominen as Hunter (The Crimson Power Ranger), Jorgito Vargas as Blake (to Navy Power Ranger), Jason Chan as Cam, Katrina Davine as Marah, Katrina Browne as Kapri, and Grant McFarland as the sensei.