‘Power Rangers’ Director Explains Why Of Rita Was A Green Ranger

The Power Rangers reboot introduced audiences to a brand new and modern version of the titular team, but the film also added a new twist to the origin of primary antagonist Rita Repulsa. The opening moments of the film revealed that Rita Repulsa was originally a Green Ranger while Zordon was leading the team before she betrayed the group in her quest for power. In an interview with ComicBook.com, director Dean Israelite explained why he added this new element to Rita’s backstory.

Israelite revealed that the decision was based on the character’s television roots, where she obtained a sixth Power Coin and gave it to Tommy Oliver while he was under her control:

“When I first came up, that is what we started to talk about is that she was going to be the Green Ranger. We were trying to figure out a mythology for her, and it felt like there was real evidence in the cannon because she ultimately ends up giving Tommy the coin. That there was evidence in a way that she could be the green ranger.”

Israelite added:

“So it fits really organically into the mythology that is already there, and when we came up with that idea, it was very exciting, because we felt like we had kind of opened up this whole new prologue in a way.”

Did you approve of the decision to make Rita a former Ranger or should they have left her origin story alone? Share your thoughts below!

Saban’s Power Rangers follows five ordinary teens who must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove – and the world – is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discoverer they are the only ones who save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it’s too late, band together as the Power Rangers. 

Directed by Dean Israelite, the film stars Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, RJ Cyler, Becky G, Ludi Lin, Bryan Cranston, Elizabeth Banks and Bill Hader.

Power Rangers is now available on Digital HD, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD.

Source: ComicBook.com