[DreamSword]

Episodes 24+25: Reflection

I honestly could've separated this into two different posts.

Because, see, while this is technically a two-parter, the structure isn't the same as the previous ones have been.

Rather than being one big story split into two separate parts, the first episode instead provides details needed in order for the second part to be executed. Outside of that, they're almost two separate episodes entirely.

As such, I'll be structuring this post just a tad differently than what I have for other two-parters. Rather than talk about both at once, I'll start by focusing (mostly) solely on episode 24, and then transition into talking about mostly 25. Sound good?

If one were to sum up part 1 in its most simple of aspects, well, it's our Battlizer episode! And man, the SPD Battlizer, while not my favorite in the franchise, IS really cool, just like how most of them are. In terms of pure aesthetic, I love how it has two modes it can swap between, the finisher is one of the coolest in Power Rangers, and it's the biggest function of our boy RIC!

It ties into the overall story rather nicely as well; showcasing just how far that Jack has come with his swordsmanship, and while it's never directly stated, I like to believe the technology for it came about thanks to Sam, given how the suit also utilizes a recolor of the Omega Morpher. The mere existence of the suit itself and how it's exclusive to the Red Ranger is also what triggers some painful memories to come to the forefront for Sky.

While it is a shame that Sam wasn't around for this one(explained as him having been sent off on a different mission), it does at the very least help serve the narrative in making sure that B-Squad can't get a clean victory against Slate, gives Jack and Sky more screen time(which is important for this particular tale) and also helps to set up for events to come in Part 2. But if we're talking just a pure character angle, then sure, I can see how some might be disappointed. Me though? I didn't really mind.

It's also the third episode to utilize the fireballs more extensively. So for those obsessed with the explosions, yes, I am keeping track.

Combine all that with the emotionally powerful scene featuring Sky and Mirloc during the episode's' climax and it's an overall solid setup episode, even if one or two extra details might've been nice.

Sam has a great showing in this episode.

One thing that both Power Rangers and its source material, Super Sentai, have always been great about is showcasing their characters through body language. And Sam's' mission to save his friends from the Infinite Reflection is no exception to that rule.

Through Sam's' Dance Battling and general attitude while fighting Mirloc, we can gleam a good deal about his character.

He's got the instincts of a leader, is great at distraction and misdirection tactics, and is quick to assess a situation and what needs to be done. And as shown in these past few episodes, being able to turn into a sprite has its advantages.

So put this information together with the old "Sam" two-parter, and what we get is a kid who comes from a troubled upbringing who eventually was able to find the good in himself and did all that he could to become a sort of Paladin for the Power Rangers. Even symbolized by his White suit and the lenses on his forehead being shaped like angel wings. Do any of those characteristics sound familiar? If not, it should, because what I'm getting at here is that Sam shares many a trait with the most famous White Ranger ever, and you're all free to hate me for that comparison all you want.

But really, the big, juicy bits of these two episodes have been Mirloc and especially Sky. Mike Drew does a fantastic job playing Mirloc with his iconic raspy voice. It's not exactly subtle that Mirloc is based on Hannibal, and with that comes a truly memorable villain in the Power Rangers franchise. He knows how to hit people where it hurts, in more ways than one.

And then there's Sky. Chris Violette does a great job at showing the emotional turmoil Sky goes through in alot of his focus episodes, and most especially these two. His lashing out at Jack and Cruger is totally understandable, and it's absolutely believable how much Sky loved his father. The climax of the episode, where Sky gets to be the Red Ranger and equip the Battlizer is one of the most iconic scenes in the entire show for many a good reason. It's not even a fight; Mirloc stands no chance from the start, and it is oh so satisfying to see.

While I'm sure certain bits of both episodes could be fine tuned to a degree, I just love how it all plays out in the end. And really, the only complaint I could even think to go into with this one has less to do these episodes in and of themselves, but moreso a certain event that happens afterward. But, we'll have to save that for the near future.

Like always, SPD does a great job at delivering strong character development and emotional resonance with these two episodes. Fantastic stuff.