Power Rangers Reboot Sparks Controversy with Generative AI Remaster

The Power Rangers franchise, a global phenomenon that has captivated audiences for decades, is poised for a potential resurgence. However, this return to form is not without its share of controversy. As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the Power Rangers saga, the franchise is contemplating a revisit to its roots with the help of generative AI, a technology that has sparked heated debate across various creative industries.

During the recent New York Toy Fair, attendees were privy to an announcement that has sent ripples through the Power Rangers fandom. Playmates, the current holder of the franchise’s toy license, is reportedly collaborating with Hasbro to re-release the iconic Mighty Morphin Power Rangers series on popular streaming platforms YouTube and Netflix in July. The objective remains consistent with previous iterations: to introduce a new generation to the captivating world of Power Rangers and reignite the passion of longtime fans.

While the concept of revisiting Mighty Morphin Power Rangers is not entirely novel—the series enjoyed a rebroadcast on ABC in 2010, complete with updated visual effects and a revamped intro sequence—the distinguishing factor of this new version, subtitled "Re-Ignition," lies in its utilization of generative AI to remaster the series. This decision has ignited a fierce debate among fans and industry observers alike, particularly given the controversial nature of the technology.

Generative AI, which has rapidly gained prominence in recent years, has been a subject of intense scrutiny and division. Eagle-eyed viewers have previously exposed studios for employing generative AI in the remastering of films such as "True Lies" and "Aliens," as well as in the creation of cover art for classic movies. The backlash against such practices has been severe, extending beyond the realm of cinema to encompass any company in any visual medium that has utilized generative AI or employed individuals who have failed to disclose its use.

At the time of writing, Hasbro and Playmates have yet to unveil any visual materials or demonstrations showcasing the application of generative AI in "MMPR: Re-Ignition." However, if the rumors prove accurate, this move is likely to further alienate longtime Power Rangers fans, who have expressed growing fatigue with the recurring emphasis on Mighty Morphin. The discontent is further compounded by last year’s controversial auctioning off of decades’ worth of props and costumes, a decision that left many fans feeling disillusioned and betrayed.

The use of generative AI in "MMPR: Re-Ignition" raises several critical questions about the future of the Power Rangers franchise. Will the technology enhance the viewing experience, or will it result in a visually jarring and artistically compromised product? Will fans embrace the updated visuals, or will they lament the loss of the original series’ charm and authenticity?

The potential benefits of using generative AI in remastering the Power Rangers series include:

• Enhanced visual quality: Generative AI can potentially enhance the visual quality of the original footage, resulting in sharper images, more vibrant colors, and improved clarity. This could make the series more appealing to modern audiences accustomed to high-definition content.

• Cost-effectiveness: Generative AI may offer a more cost-effective alternative to traditional remastering techniques, which can be expensive and time-consuming. This could allow Hasbro and Playmates to allocate resources to other aspects of the franchise.

• Time-saving: Generative AI can automate certain tasks involved in the remastering process, such as color correction and image enhancement, thereby reducing the overall production time.

However, the potential drawbacks of using generative AI in "MMPR: Re-Ignition" are equally significant:

• Loss of authenticity: Generative AI can alter the original visual style of the series, potentially resulting in a product that feels artificial and inauthentic. This could alienate longtime fans who cherish the original series’ unique aesthetic.

• Ethical concerns: The use of generative AI in creative industries has raised ethical concerns about copyright infringement, the displacement of human artists, and the potential for creating deepfakes and misinformation.

• Unpredictability: Generative AI algorithms can sometimes produce unexpected or undesirable results, requiring extensive manual adjustments and revisions.

The Power Rangers franchise has a long and storied history, spanning multiple television series, movies, comic books, and merchandise. The franchise has consistently evolved over the years, introducing new characters, storylines, and visual styles. However, the core themes of teamwork, heroism, and fighting for what is right have remained constant.

The decision to revisit Mighty Morphin Power Rangers with the help of generative AI represents a significant turning point for the franchise. It remains to be seen whether this gamble will pay off, attracting new audiences and revitalizing the passion of longtime fans, or whether it will further alienate the fanbase and tarnish the legacy of the Power Rangers.

io9 has reached out to Playmates for confirmation on "Re-Ignition’s" use of generative AI, and will provide updates as soon as a response is received. As the Power Rangers fandom awaits further details, the debate surrounding the use of generative AI in "MMPR: Re-Ignition" continues to rage on, highlighting the complex and evolving relationship between technology and creative expression.