As I supplied some questions, this is really a TZ/HJ team-up, so...
HJU: Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer a couple questions, Bruce. Let's get this started. So, tell us a little about yourself.
BK: I'm married. My wife was an actress that I cast in a series I did called P.S.: I LOVE YOU. Asked her to marry me after six weeks and got married after three months. That was 13 years ago. You may know Leah Ayres her from her co-starring role in BLOOD SPORT with Jean Claude VanDamme. I have an eleven year old son. He's a hardcore skateboarder. He was once an overt PR fan. Now he doesn't watch on a regular bases, but sits and watches, and loves, S.P.D. I have a dog and a cat. I love golf, fishing and most sports.
HJU: Where did you get your education from?
BK: Los Angeles City School System. United States International University and a small stint with University of California.
HJU: What inspired you to get into the television biz?
BK: My parents are both award winning writer/producers. I grew up all around the business, but never wanted to be in it. I found myself at 24 working in a restaurant with no career in sight. A friend asked me if I wanted to try and write a script and I agreed. I found that 1. I could do it, and 2. I was pretty good at it. I think it is a process of osmosis. I was around it all the time growing up. My parents even use to take my life situations and put it in their scripts. I tried to hit them up for a consulting fee...they threatened to take away my allowance. Bottom line, writing and producing was all I knew. It was something I had to do.
HJU: What was your very first gig?
BK: It was a Saturday morning show called BIG JOHN; LITTLE JOHN... It was by the creator of Gilligan’s Island and was about a man who would transform into a ten year old kid, or a six month old baby at the most inconvenient of times. It was on only one year. But it got me hooked. Though my parents were producing big time sitcoms, they wouldn't give me a break until I made it on my own. Also I had a fear that I would walk into a meeting and my Mom would start in on my long hair, my clothes, who I was dating, why don't I ever call, etc... That said, it took a while before I worked for them.
HJU: What was your very first break?
My first break came when I was working on a short lived series at Paramount called STRUCK BY LIGHTNING. Bottom-line. Frankenstein's monster was alive and working as a handyman in a small New England town. It starred JACK ELAM...IT was very funny but never caught on. Across the lot was MORK and MINDY. I worked my way into their office and pitched some series ideas. They bought one and I wrote it in my spare time. They liked it and put me on staff as a story editor. Working with Robin Williams and the number one show in television at the time, that was a big break.
HJU: Tell us a little of what it was like to begin in the business?
BK: I was lucky in some aspects because I saw the business all around me growing up -- the fun…the success, but also the misery and the heartbreak. Like I said earlier, for me...There was nothing else I thought I could do. I was not a white shirt and tie man. Couldn’t work on an assembly line. One of the best times I had when I first started out was when on a hot summer day I was sitting in a pool with my then partner, Philip Taylor, and I was drinking a beer and we were talking over a story for Mork and Mindy and I realized, here I was, at work.. sitting in a pool, drinking a beer. Doesn't get much better.
HJU: How did you become involved in the production of this Power
Rangers series?
BK: I have worked for Disney Channel in the past, two years of Jett Jackson, garnishing a Gemini award, (CANADIAN EMMY) for best children's show.... I had a good relationship with the DC brass and when the opening for PR appeared... They thought of me because of my background in action/comedy/adventure. They asked me to write a Dino Thunder to see if they were compatible with me and me with them. I met Doug and Ann, they showed me three Japanese tapes and I was to select one that I would want to adapt to the American version. I chose the one I did and needed to quickly write the script. I did... Disney liked it, but Doug and Ann changed it a lot to fit their needs for their storyline, It is hard being an outside writer and coming into a continuing storyline show and hitting a home run. Bottom-line: 90% of what I wrote never made it into the final show that was shown on TV. The same goes for freelancer scripts for this year...If a writer from the outside gets 40% of their work on screen, they're a huge success in my book. To get the character voices and seasonal arc correct is nearly impossible. As a matter of fact, there is no "correct"... there is just what I want to put down on paper. It is totally subjective, but if I am responsible for the show and I will use what I want on the screen. Live and die with that. Just as Doug and Ann did with my script. No hard feelings. It was their show and they were free to do what they liked.
HJU: What was your impression of Power Rangers when you first heard of it?
Back in the early 90's I was working in Canada on a show called MY SECRET IDENTITY. One of the actresses on the show had a younger brother called to L.A. to read for a pilot called POWER RANGERS. They told me about the show and I thought interesting. Kids in helmets. When the show came out a year or two later I watched as everyone did and was intrigued by the huge success and what they got on screen for the notorious low budget. I wasn't a regular fan, but I watched it occasionally.
HJU: Do you know of the older audience and/or Ranger Board? (Fans who
have followed PR since day one)
BK: I didn't know until I came onboard PR. I thought great. 35-year-old men dressed in Spandex sitting at their computers in their moms’ basements. I started to read Rangerboard and was amazed at the comments at the tail end of DT. I agreed with a lot of the comments and thought S**T, these guys know their stuff. Not just about the history of PR, but about story structure and continuity. I'd better be truthful or I will get plastered. And to be truthful, everyone involved with the show...EVERYONE…reads Rangerboard. And now they are starting to become aware of HenshinJustice.
HJU: Now that you're a part of the Power Ranger Legacy, how has your
views of the franchise changed?
BK: I love the show. I love the history of the show. I've met with the producers from Japan and what they have done through nearly three decades of PR is truly amazing. This is without doubt: 1) The best experiences of my life and 2) one of the hardest shows to do. I think the appearance from the creative community is that this is just something thrown together and put out there for kids. But there is so much care and love put forward by the cast and crew it is amazing. If a mistake is made, it is not through sloppiness or not caring. It just becomes overwhelming at time to put out this many episodes, at such a low budget, in such a short amount of time. We have actually shot four shows in nine days. That is unheard of in the states.
HJU: Past incarnations have been campier than others. What made you
go for a more tightly plot sci-fi route?
BK: My goal from day one was “if I am going to do this series, I am going to make this year, S.P.D. the best season P.R. has ever had. It will be truly subjective, but I will give it my all and expect that from everyone else – the cast, the crew, the executives at the channel.” That and the Japanese footage dictates what you can and can't do. Dekaranger was great, but I wanted more. I wanted a head BAD GUY and more familiar characters in this cast then Deka had. I wanted to create a futuristic world that we had not seen before. I brought GREG ARONOWITZ onboard because I knew he could create that world. Disney loved him and all the fans get the benefit of his talents. He is a genius at what he does. He adds millions of dollars of experience to out limited budget show. He designed, Gruumm, Piggy, Kat, the Terror Space Craft and many of the aliens that decorate our backgrounds and many, many future characters that will fall into place as the series unfolds.
HJU: How do you feel about the fact some people are calling SPD the
best season of Power Rangers in years?
BK: I think they are right. LOL! Now they can all come over to my house for dinner. All kidding aside. That is what Greg, Koichi, Sally and myself all set out to do at the beginning of the year. Koichi had his hands full. Greg, Sally and myself were all brand new to the franchise. We can talk again about this after the 38th episode airs .
HJU: The Incredible Hulk, Mork & Mindy, and The Fall Guy are a part
of many people's fond childhood memories. What was it like working on
those shows as oppose to working on your more current projects, such
as Power Rangers SPD, Black Hole High, and the Famous Jett Jackson?
BK: "ARGGGHHH! A multiple part question. I hate those." I love my resume and the eclectic variety of shows I have done. A quick digression... I was 10 years old and my dad would come into my room and find me entranced in a Daredevil, Hulk, Spiderman, or Fantastic Four comic book. He would look around my room and see comics everywhere. He would shake his head and tell me that I'll never amount to anything by reading comics. FLASH FORWARD 15 to 20 years and I walk into his office with $$ CHECKS $$ from Spiderman and the Hulk and I show them to him. He remembers it as he encouraged me to read comic books. Even bought them for me.
I loved Mork and Mindy. Working with Robin was a party every week and he was an absolute genius. The Hulk and Spiderman were childhood favorites and a completion of those memories. Fall Guy was really fun. Stunts, comedy...just a lot of good times through the 80's.
The biggest difference between those shows and the shows I've worked on in the past few years -- Black Hole and Jett Jackson, even a show called ALLEN STRANGE for Nick -- the difference is that now I am the boss. It is the best. I do have to answer to the network, but they've been great. Really supportive. Especially Gary Marsh, Adam Bonnett and Jermaine Turner. Jermaine is the biggest PR fan in the world. Bottom-line: I get what I want into the series. The last word in a script is mine. If the show is a failure it is my responsibility alone; if it is a hit, I'll share the credit with all those responsible. What could be better than that? Real Super hero stuff.
I love working in this genre...
HJU: How hard is it to go from those self-contained universes into a
series with 530+
episodes in the can?
BK: Hate to say it. But it wasn't hard at all. I write and produce the best that I know how to do, with each series that I do. I cannot go half-assed into anything and either can Greg. That is why we work so well together. Here we are in N.Z Beautiful country...and on our off days we're at the studio, I'm writing and Greg is sculpting. No life. Power Rangers has been our life. There were a few adjustments such as two sets of Broadcast Standards and Practices notes. Always need to remember that this show is written for younger kids. Sometimes I read the comments on Rangerboard and they seem to forget the target audience for this show. I know the target audience but still feel I can do a show for them and for the older audience. It does not have to be an either or situation.
And the transition was made easy by Koichi, Jackie Marchand, our lifesaver, and John Tellegren.
HJU: What have you learned throughout your career that you're
applying to Power Rangers SPD to make it so much fun for fans to get
into?
BK: What I've learned about writing can be summed up simply.... If you have likeable, and I guess even unlikable characters that people love to watch each week. You could stand them in a grocery line for thirty minutes and people will watch. So what I set out to do was create a world of characters that people would like, or like to hate. If I accomplished that, then I am half way home. Then if I can put these characters, no matter how fantastical into situations that the audience can identify with...I'm further along the way. I know that a lot of you in fanworld have not liked Mora... Yet I think one of the funniest scenes we've done so far is when Mora forces Gruumm to get Broodwing to drink tea with her. Maybe you have to have your own kid to appreciate the power the little ones have. Here was Broodwing, pretty powerful in his own right, being forced to drink tea with a little girl because of his fear and need for Gruumm's business.
HJU: One of the things fans are loving most about this show are its
slight nods to continuity, that have exploded in a lot of speculation.
Whose ideas have it been to use Andros's cloak, to mention KO-35, and
the use of Wes Collin's TimeRed costume?
BK: Most of the tributes to the past come from Koichi and most of all Jackie Marchand. I do not attempt to know anywhere close to what they know. I support their interest in the franchise and let it unfold in the series as long as it works into our arc. So when it comes to these things, I do what any successful Executive does... Get out of the way.
HJU: We've noticed a lot of prop re-use over in S.P.D., so far. The
Blue Senturion, Space Ranger helmets, Deviot, Red Time Force Ranger
and etc. While some fans certainly appreciate these as nods to PR's
past. Others are growing concerned that these props are being re-used
carelessly and may ultimately damage the rich continuity that many
longtime fans remain very passionate about.
So my question is, when doing things like having a man dressed in a
cloak and wielding drill-esque weapon. (Both signatures of Red Space
Ranger Andros one of the most popular Rangers that isn't from the
original series.) Are they done with acknowledgement of the past in
mind and intended as treats for longtime fans? Or are they simply
convenient cost-cutting measures and fanboys need to go get a life?
BK: The truth or a lie? The lie... YES! We painstakingly layer in all references to the past to satisfy the true PR fans.
The truth: It's a little of both. Both Jackie and Koichi are very respectful of the past and acknowledgement there of... Some of the props and costumes are added in with intention of the tribute to past PR years. And we operate on such a low budget that some props are recycled. If we were to start fresh every year you would not like what we could deliver for the budget. Some recycling is mandatory. We try to populate the S.P.D, world with a rich look. Rich looks cost money. Greg and I were amazed at the CSI-type work you fans do to every frame of PR. We did not realize that something shown only shortly 7 years ago would be recognized. So, no apologies from this office. We're trying to give you fans the best show possible. It's the hard facts but it is what it is.
HJU: Is Skyler Tate's father Wes Collins?
BK: We're waiting for the DNA tests to come back.
HJU: You seem to pay great attention to past seasons, do you feel
that it is important to have continuity in SPD as well for future
seasons?
BK: Again. Nods to Koichi and Jackie for keeping the rich history of PR alive. I think it’s important but every year, I am sure, is different.
HJU: Will we ever get to learn the true origins of Space Patrol Delta?
Fan theories vary from the Space Rangers starting it up (given the
appearance of the A-Squad Power Rangers), to it being an extention of
Lightspeed Rescue (given the theme and the appearance of the Delta Runners)
or Time Force (as Sky's dad's outfit proved), even with the Blue Senturion
being thought of (his appearance in the video game).
BK: A lot will be unfolded in the upcoming episodes. "Nuff said."
HJU: While I've not watched The Famous Jett Jackson myself, I hear
its influences are scattered about the show. Care to point anything
out or if you have any other Easter Egg eye winks to your past
projects?
BK: I always do eyewinks to my past. I always like to do a ROSHOMON-type show. Based on the famous Japanese story where several characters experience the same event and then we see it through their eyes. I have always found this a great joy to experience how we each see our world. PR does it around episode 20 and it’s hilarious. I also like to add a bizarre, filthy wretch of a character. This year it is Piggy. On Jett, it was THE RAT. Someone who represents the worm in all of us.
HJU: Speaking of Easter Eggs, whose idea was it to use a picture of
the 1970's classic, GoRanger in Sky's bedroom?
BK: I guess it was Miro our head of the Art Department. All fans hail Miro. He does incredible research into what he does.
HJU: There are a lot of Power Ranger Legends. Tommy, Zordon, Quasar
Sabers, and the fans still don't know the secret identity of the
Phantom Ranger. Are there any past Legends that you'd like to
incorporate into one of the PR Series that you produce? Did you want
to use some that just didn't work for SPD?
BK: Since this is my first year, it is all I can speak of. No I had no plans to bring back any of the legends.
HJU: Are there any ideas period that you just weren't able to do that
you wanted to?
BK: Sure there were many ideas. Again this is a show designed for kids. I would like to have done more adult themes... That is why I really appreciate the more dramatic episodes such as IDOL and the upcoming SHADOW Saga. And BTW, the one word titles are my idea. My first year, one word titles. Just a game I thought I'd play.
HJU: If you could do anything with SPD, regardless of sentai,
budgeting, etc., what would you do?
BK: The bathtub scenes from Deka. LOL! I would also like to do a feature with the SPD cast. Make it real, not for the kiddies...On the lines of Spiderman. Serious, dark...but still with the comedic elements.
HJU: Can you tell us exactly why Jason David Frank will not be
returning for the Dino Thunder / SPD team up (if it's true)?
BK: No comment at this time from lack of information. But thanks for asking.
HJU: What have been some of the most rewarding episode for you, the
cast and the crew to work on?
BK: BEGINNINGS 1 and 2 were awesome for us. It set the bar. Then IDOL. SHADOW 1 and 2 are great. RECOGNITION is amazing. The Roshomon episode is great. Swat 1 and 2 are good. And the last two parter is just HUGE!
HJU: What are your favorite props?
BK: Blasters! R.I.C. and SHADOW SABRE.
HJU: What was it like stepping into the franchise and what did you do
to research the Power Ranger Universe that has expanded over the last
13 years?
BK: Back to the truth or lie again? Lie: I watched every episode twice so I could get the fine details to copy what has gone down before me.
The Truth: I watched a few episodes in the early 90's. I then watched the three episodes for Dino Thunder. They sent me dozens and dozens of tapes from all different years to watch when I signed up, but then I made a conscious decision not to watch anything. My reasoning is I didn't want my ideas or dreams for this year to be influenced by or changed in reference to any past season. I wanted to bring an untainted look to the show. Good or bad, it is what I did.
HJU: Are the actors in the Pink and Yellow costumes guys... or girls?
BK: Yes!
HJU: One fan had this to ask you, "I'm a College Student majoring in
TV Production, what advice would you give someone such as myself pretty who want a job similar to yours?"
BK: Write! Write! Write! There are no shortcuts. Even as I said earlier...My family was in the business and if I couldn't have cut it on my own. I wouldn't be where I am today. Knowing people, good looks, or a winning personality can get you in the door... But if you can't cut it, that same door slams pretty fast. Writing is everything. It all starts on the blank page. Witout it, directors can't direct, actors can't act and fans will have nothing to criticize. Write! Write! Write!
HJU: As of this year it is said that TOEI is going to have even more
input on how Power Ranger shows are handled as well as Disney having
more of a say of how Sentai is handled. If this is true, how're
things going to work differently now than they have in the past?
BK: As far as I know, everything will be the same as last year. I have not heard anything like what you have heard. Why do they tell you and not me? This doesn't bode well for me.
Here's how the note processes go for me on the way to getting s how down and as far as I know it will be the same as last year. I sit down with my writing staff and plot out what we want to do for the year. We talk to the network about it. They add their input and then we talk about what we can do to make everyone happy. Then we come up with story ideas to match or include the Japanese footage. We run the story ideas with the network and get input. We also get notes all along the way from Broadcast Standards and Practices that make sure the show is appropriate for the target audience, which by the way is not you. Then we go to first draft of the script. Network notes, BS&P notes and my notes, unless it is one of my scripts...If it is my script I ask for notes from Jackie and John. Second draft, more notes from network, BS&P and now notes come in from production to make it managible for production. Then at this stage there are notes from Koichi making sure the footage is correct and other ideas he has or wants to implement into the story. Then notes from the director, a cast read thru changing colors of the pages all the way through to let people know when changes are made...and then finally we shoot. All together6- weeks in the development of a 21:20 tv show. Then the whole process and note giving starts all over again as we go into the various stages of the editing process. You see a show with my name or Jackie's or John's on it...It has been through hundreds of eyes by the time it ever gets done.
HJU: How does the crew research the Japanese Power Ranger series
before producing the American version? Do you receive subtitled tapes
or is there a translator? Are you required to watch the full Japanese
series before doing the American one?
BK: Throughout the year we get copies of the Japanese show. We get a written translation of the show, but can usually tell what is being said before the translation. We look for good footage and then if it is a good story. This year we have been really fortunate to get great stories and footage from Japan. Yes we have taken several of their stories and followed those storylines very closely because they work and the footage dictates that is what has to be done. We modify to fit our seasonal arc. And yes, we have many episodes that are exclusively our own. We all watch the tapes as they come in...But we get the tapes so spread apart that it would not service the show to wait until we had the full season to watch.
HJU: What was your favorite Power Ranger Series to check out?
BK: SPD no doubt!!! LOL
HJU: Usually fans only know and praise stand out actors, the
Executive Producer and Koichi Sakamoto... are there any other unsung
heroes that you'd like to thank and let the fans know about so they
know who we owe some of our gratitude to?
BK: Everyone! Our cast and crew are amazing. The people at the network are great. Gary. Adam, Jermaine and Shawn. Gavin who runs the wardrobe department has done a remarkable job. Miro, who I mentioned earlier, runs the art department and designs the sets. George Port our special Fx's wizard is a gift. Charles at our post house. It goes on and on. Make-up, hair, props, monster department. Dan and Terry in prosthetics. They all deserve kudos and props. Our Kiwi actors are truly up there with the best the business has anywhere. They do not even get the show over here and they are so devoted to making it the best possible season. I am truly blessed.
HJU: I hear that the SPD Rangers and you will be doing the Geek Fan
Convention circuit this year. Care to let the fans know which
conventions you'll be hitting?
BK: So far all I know is the Shine in L.A. ion June. We're aiming for ComicCon in S.D. in July and hope to get to Chicago also. Invite us and we'll probably all show up.
HJU: Is there any chance that others in the Power Ranger Family may
join you, like legends of the past such as Johnny Yong Bosch, Jason
David Frank, Austin St. John and is there any chance that maybe some
Japanese originals such as the actors how portrayed Ban, Jasmine, and
Tetsu might ever be tapped to attend any of these conventions?
BK: I have not heard about anyone from past seasons. But it would be great id someone would put together a Ranger extravaganza and do a weekend just on Rangers.... Who knows who would show up? Maybe Henshin Justice can put together something.
HJU: It's well known that in general the hardcore fans are loving
your work. How long do you see yourself staying with the franchise?
BK: At least another year. Further than that, I’ll have to see.
HJU: Do you have anything you'd like to add?
BK: Stay tuned this will be an amazing season. Thank you for your support. We love to read your comments. Some are right on others are fanboy fantasy... We do our best. Yes, we make mistakes. As few as possible. I know you will catch any that we do... Though we do try to be vigilant. Thanks for letting me into your world. I am doing my best. I'll be open to more questions in the future as the year develops.
HJU: Thanks, Bruce!
So, random notes-
HJU: Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer a couple questions, Bruce. Let's get this started. So, tell us a little about yourself.
BK: I'm married. My wife was an actress that I cast in a series I did called P.S.: I LOVE YOU. Asked her to marry me after six weeks and got married after three months. That was 13 years ago. You may know Leah Ayres her from her co-starring role in BLOOD SPORT with Jean Claude VanDamme. I have an eleven year old son. He's a hardcore skateboarder. He was once an overt PR fan. Now he doesn't watch on a regular bases, but sits and watches, and loves, S.P.D. I have a dog and a cat. I love golf, fishing and most sports.
HJU: Where did you get your education from?
BK: Los Angeles City School System. United States International University and a small stint with University of California.
HJU: What inspired you to get into the television biz?
BK: My parents are both award winning writer/producers. I grew up all around the business, but never wanted to be in it. I found myself at 24 working in a restaurant with no career in sight. A friend asked me if I wanted to try and write a script and I agreed. I found that 1. I could do it, and 2. I was pretty good at it. I think it is a process of osmosis. I was around it all the time growing up. My parents even use to take my life situations and put it in their scripts. I tried to hit them up for a consulting fee...they threatened to take away my allowance. Bottom line, writing and producing was all I knew. It was something I had to do.
HJU: What was your very first gig?
BK: It was a Saturday morning show called BIG JOHN; LITTLE JOHN... It was by the creator of Gilligan’s Island and was about a man who would transform into a ten year old kid, or a six month old baby at the most inconvenient of times. It was on only one year. But it got me hooked. Though my parents were producing big time sitcoms, they wouldn't give me a break until I made it on my own. Also I had a fear that I would walk into a meeting and my Mom would start in on my long hair, my clothes, who I was dating, why don't I ever call, etc... That said, it took a while before I worked for them.
HJU: What was your very first break?
My first break came when I was working on a short lived series at Paramount called STRUCK BY LIGHTNING. Bottom-line. Frankenstein's monster was alive and working as a handyman in a small New England town. It starred JACK ELAM...IT was very funny but never caught on. Across the lot was MORK and MINDY. I worked my way into their office and pitched some series ideas. They bought one and I wrote it in my spare time. They liked it and put me on staff as a story editor. Working with Robin Williams and the number one show in television at the time, that was a big break.
HJU: Tell us a little of what it was like to begin in the business?
BK: I was lucky in some aspects because I saw the business all around me growing up -- the fun…the success, but also the misery and the heartbreak. Like I said earlier, for me...There was nothing else I thought I could do. I was not a white shirt and tie man. Couldn’t work on an assembly line. One of the best times I had when I first started out was when on a hot summer day I was sitting in a pool with my then partner, Philip Taylor, and I was drinking a beer and we were talking over a story for Mork and Mindy and I realized, here I was, at work.. sitting in a pool, drinking a beer. Doesn't get much better.
HJU: How did you become involved in the production of this Power
Rangers series?
BK: I have worked for Disney Channel in the past, two years of Jett Jackson, garnishing a Gemini award, (CANADIAN EMMY) for best children's show.... I had a good relationship with the DC brass and when the opening for PR appeared... They thought of me because of my background in action/comedy/adventure. They asked me to write a Dino Thunder to see if they were compatible with me and me with them. I met Doug and Ann, they showed me three Japanese tapes and I was to select one that I would want to adapt to the American version. I chose the one I did and needed to quickly write the script. I did... Disney liked it, but Doug and Ann changed it a lot to fit their needs for their storyline, It is hard being an outside writer and coming into a continuing storyline show and hitting a home run. Bottom-line: 90% of what I wrote never made it into the final show that was shown on TV. The same goes for freelancer scripts for this year...If a writer from the outside gets 40% of their work on screen, they're a huge success in my book. To get the character voices and seasonal arc correct is nearly impossible. As a matter of fact, there is no "correct"... there is just what I want to put down on paper. It is totally subjective, but if I am responsible for the show and I will use what I want on the screen. Live and die with that. Just as Doug and Ann did with my script. No hard feelings. It was their show and they were free to do what they liked.
HJU: What was your impression of Power Rangers when you first heard of it?
Back in the early 90's I was working in Canada on a show called MY SECRET IDENTITY. One of the actresses on the show had a younger brother called to L.A. to read for a pilot called POWER RANGERS. They told me about the show and I thought interesting. Kids in helmets. When the show came out a year or two later I watched as everyone did and was intrigued by the huge success and what they got on screen for the notorious low budget. I wasn't a regular fan, but I watched it occasionally.
HJU: Do you know of the older audience and/or Ranger Board? (Fans who
have followed PR since day one)
BK: I didn't know until I came onboard PR. I thought great. 35-year-old men dressed in Spandex sitting at their computers in their moms’ basements. I started to read Rangerboard and was amazed at the comments at the tail end of DT. I agreed with a lot of the comments and thought S**T, these guys know their stuff. Not just about the history of PR, but about story structure and continuity. I'd better be truthful or I will get plastered. And to be truthful, everyone involved with the show...EVERYONE…reads Rangerboard. And now they are starting to become aware of HenshinJustice.
HJU: Now that you're a part of the Power Ranger Legacy, how has your
views of the franchise changed?
BK: I love the show. I love the history of the show. I've met with the producers from Japan and what they have done through nearly three decades of PR is truly amazing. This is without doubt: 1) The best experiences of my life and 2) one of the hardest shows to do. I think the appearance from the creative community is that this is just something thrown together and put out there for kids. But there is so much care and love put forward by the cast and crew it is amazing. If a mistake is made, it is not through sloppiness or not caring. It just becomes overwhelming at time to put out this many episodes, at such a low budget, in such a short amount of time. We have actually shot four shows in nine days. That is unheard of in the states.
HJU: Past incarnations have been campier than others. What made you
go for a more tightly plot sci-fi route?
BK: My goal from day one was “if I am going to do this series, I am going to make this year, S.P.D. the best season P.R. has ever had. It will be truly subjective, but I will give it my all and expect that from everyone else – the cast, the crew, the executives at the channel.” That and the Japanese footage dictates what you can and can't do. Dekaranger was great, but I wanted more. I wanted a head BAD GUY and more familiar characters in this cast then Deka had. I wanted to create a futuristic world that we had not seen before. I brought GREG ARONOWITZ onboard because I knew he could create that world. Disney loved him and all the fans get the benefit of his talents. He is a genius at what he does. He adds millions of dollars of experience to out limited budget show. He designed, Gruumm, Piggy, Kat, the Terror Space Craft and many of the aliens that decorate our backgrounds and many, many future characters that will fall into place as the series unfolds.
HJU: How do you feel about the fact some people are calling SPD the
best season of Power Rangers in years?
BK: I think they are right. LOL! Now they can all come over to my house for dinner. All kidding aside. That is what Greg, Koichi, Sally and myself all set out to do at the beginning of the year. Koichi had his hands full. Greg, Sally and myself were all brand new to the franchise. We can talk again about this after the 38th episode airs .
HJU: The Incredible Hulk, Mork & Mindy, and The Fall Guy are a part
of many people's fond childhood memories. What was it like working on
those shows as oppose to working on your more current projects, such
as Power Rangers SPD, Black Hole High, and the Famous Jett Jackson?
BK: "ARGGGHHH! A multiple part question. I hate those." I love my resume and the eclectic variety of shows I have done. A quick digression... I was 10 years old and my dad would come into my room and find me entranced in a Daredevil, Hulk, Spiderman, or Fantastic Four comic book. He would look around my room and see comics everywhere. He would shake his head and tell me that I'll never amount to anything by reading comics. FLASH FORWARD 15 to 20 years and I walk into his office with $$ CHECKS $$ from Spiderman and the Hulk and I show them to him. He remembers it as he encouraged me to read comic books. Even bought them for me.
I loved Mork and Mindy. Working with Robin was a party every week and he was an absolute genius. The Hulk and Spiderman were childhood favorites and a completion of those memories. Fall Guy was really fun. Stunts, comedy...just a lot of good times through the 80's.
The biggest difference between those shows and the shows I've worked on in the past few years -- Black Hole and Jett Jackson, even a show called ALLEN STRANGE for Nick -- the difference is that now I am the boss. It is the best. I do have to answer to the network, but they've been great. Really supportive. Especially Gary Marsh, Adam Bonnett and Jermaine Turner. Jermaine is the biggest PR fan in the world. Bottom-line: I get what I want into the series. The last word in a script is mine. If the show is a failure it is my responsibility alone; if it is a hit, I'll share the credit with all those responsible. What could be better than that? Real Super hero stuff.
I love working in this genre...
HJU: How hard is it to go from those self-contained universes into a
series with 530+
episodes in the can?
BK: Hate to say it. But it wasn't hard at all. I write and produce the best that I know how to do, with each series that I do. I cannot go half-assed into anything and either can Greg. That is why we work so well together. Here we are in N.Z Beautiful country...and on our off days we're at the studio, I'm writing and Greg is sculpting. No life. Power Rangers has been our life. There were a few adjustments such as two sets of Broadcast Standards and Practices notes. Always need to remember that this show is written for younger kids. Sometimes I read the comments on Rangerboard and they seem to forget the target audience for this show. I know the target audience but still feel I can do a show for them and for the older audience. It does not have to be an either or situation.
And the transition was made easy by Koichi, Jackie Marchand, our lifesaver, and John Tellegren.
HJU: What have you learned throughout your career that you're
applying to Power Rangers SPD to make it so much fun for fans to get
into?
BK: What I've learned about writing can be summed up simply.... If you have likeable, and I guess even unlikable characters that people love to watch each week. You could stand them in a grocery line for thirty minutes and people will watch. So what I set out to do was create a world of characters that people would like, or like to hate. If I accomplished that, then I am half way home. Then if I can put these characters, no matter how fantastical into situations that the audience can identify with...I'm further along the way. I know that a lot of you in fanworld have not liked Mora... Yet I think one of the funniest scenes we've done so far is when Mora forces Gruumm to get Broodwing to drink tea with her. Maybe you have to have your own kid to appreciate the power the little ones have. Here was Broodwing, pretty powerful in his own right, being forced to drink tea with a little girl because of his fear and need for Gruumm's business.
HJU: One of the things fans are loving most about this show are its
slight nods to continuity, that have exploded in a lot of speculation.
Whose ideas have it been to use Andros's cloak, to mention KO-35, and
the use of Wes Collin's TimeRed costume?
BK: Most of the tributes to the past come from Koichi and most of all Jackie Marchand. I do not attempt to know anywhere close to what they know. I support their interest in the franchise and let it unfold in the series as long as it works into our arc. So when it comes to these things, I do what any successful Executive does... Get out of the way.
HJU: We've noticed a lot of prop re-use over in S.P.D., so far. The
Blue Senturion, Space Ranger helmets, Deviot, Red Time Force Ranger
and etc. While some fans certainly appreciate these as nods to PR's
past. Others are growing concerned that these props are being re-used
carelessly and may ultimately damage the rich continuity that many
longtime fans remain very passionate about.
So my question is, when doing things like having a man dressed in a
cloak and wielding drill-esque weapon. (Both signatures of Red Space
Ranger Andros one of the most popular Rangers that isn't from the
original series.) Are they done with acknowledgement of the past in
mind and intended as treats for longtime fans? Or are they simply
convenient cost-cutting measures and fanboys need to go get a life?
BK: The truth or a lie? The lie... YES! We painstakingly layer in all references to the past to satisfy the true PR fans.
The truth: It's a little of both. Both Jackie and Koichi are very respectful of the past and acknowledgement there of... Some of the props and costumes are added in with intention of the tribute to past PR years. And we operate on such a low budget that some props are recycled. If we were to start fresh every year you would not like what we could deliver for the budget. Some recycling is mandatory. We try to populate the S.P.D, world with a rich look. Rich looks cost money. Greg and I were amazed at the CSI-type work you fans do to every frame of PR. We did not realize that something shown only shortly 7 years ago would be recognized. So, no apologies from this office. We're trying to give you fans the best show possible. It's the hard facts but it is what it is.
HJU: Is Skyler Tate's father Wes Collins?
BK: We're waiting for the DNA tests to come back.
HJU: You seem to pay great attention to past seasons, do you feel
that it is important to have continuity in SPD as well for future
seasons?
BK: Again. Nods to Koichi and Jackie for keeping the rich history of PR alive. I think it’s important but every year, I am sure, is different.
HJU: Will we ever get to learn the true origins of Space Patrol Delta?
Fan theories vary from the Space Rangers starting it up (given the
appearance of the A-Squad Power Rangers), to it being an extention of
Lightspeed Rescue (given the theme and the appearance of the Delta Runners)
or Time Force (as Sky's dad's outfit proved), even with the Blue Senturion
being thought of (his appearance in the video game).
BK: A lot will be unfolded in the upcoming episodes. "Nuff said."
HJU: While I've not watched The Famous Jett Jackson myself, I hear
its influences are scattered about the show. Care to point anything
out or if you have any other Easter Egg eye winks to your past
projects?
BK: I always do eyewinks to my past. I always like to do a ROSHOMON-type show. Based on the famous Japanese story where several characters experience the same event and then we see it through their eyes. I have always found this a great joy to experience how we each see our world. PR does it around episode 20 and it’s hilarious. I also like to add a bizarre, filthy wretch of a character. This year it is Piggy. On Jett, it was THE RAT. Someone who represents the worm in all of us.
HJU: Speaking of Easter Eggs, whose idea was it to use a picture of
the 1970's classic, GoRanger in Sky's bedroom?
BK: I guess it was Miro our head of the Art Department. All fans hail Miro. He does incredible research into what he does.
HJU: There are a lot of Power Ranger Legends. Tommy, Zordon, Quasar
Sabers, and the fans still don't know the secret identity of the
Phantom Ranger. Are there any past Legends that you'd like to
incorporate into one of the PR Series that you produce? Did you want
to use some that just didn't work for SPD?
BK: Since this is my first year, it is all I can speak of. No I had no plans to bring back any of the legends.
HJU: Are there any ideas period that you just weren't able to do that
you wanted to?
BK: Sure there were many ideas. Again this is a show designed for kids. I would like to have done more adult themes... That is why I really appreciate the more dramatic episodes such as IDOL and the upcoming SHADOW Saga. And BTW, the one word titles are my idea. My first year, one word titles. Just a game I thought I'd play.
HJU: If you could do anything with SPD, regardless of sentai,
budgeting, etc., what would you do?
BK: The bathtub scenes from Deka. LOL! I would also like to do a feature with the SPD cast. Make it real, not for the kiddies...On the lines of Spiderman. Serious, dark...but still with the comedic elements.
HJU: Can you tell us exactly why Jason David Frank will not be
returning for the Dino Thunder / SPD team up (if it's true)?
BK: No comment at this time from lack of information. But thanks for asking.
HJU: What have been some of the most rewarding episode for you, the
cast and the crew to work on?
BK: BEGINNINGS 1 and 2 were awesome for us. It set the bar. Then IDOL. SHADOW 1 and 2 are great. RECOGNITION is amazing. The Roshomon episode is great. Swat 1 and 2 are good. And the last two parter is just HUGE!
HJU: What are your favorite props?
BK: Blasters! R.I.C. and SHADOW SABRE.
HJU: What was it like stepping into the franchise and what did you do
to research the Power Ranger Universe that has expanded over the last
13 years?
BK: Back to the truth or lie again? Lie: I watched every episode twice so I could get the fine details to copy what has gone down before me.
The Truth: I watched a few episodes in the early 90's. I then watched the three episodes for Dino Thunder. They sent me dozens and dozens of tapes from all different years to watch when I signed up, but then I made a conscious decision not to watch anything. My reasoning is I didn't want my ideas or dreams for this year to be influenced by or changed in reference to any past season. I wanted to bring an untainted look to the show. Good or bad, it is what I did.
HJU: Are the actors in the Pink and Yellow costumes guys... or girls?
BK: Yes!
HJU: One fan had this to ask you, "I'm a College Student majoring in
TV Production, what advice would you give someone such as myself pretty who want a job similar to yours?"
BK: Write! Write! Write! There are no shortcuts. Even as I said earlier...My family was in the business and if I couldn't have cut it on my own. I wouldn't be where I am today. Knowing people, good looks, or a winning personality can get you in the door... But if you can't cut it, that same door slams pretty fast. Writing is everything. It all starts on the blank page. Witout it, directors can't direct, actors can't act and fans will have nothing to criticize. Write! Write! Write!
HJU: As of this year it is said that TOEI is going to have even more
input on how Power Ranger shows are handled as well as Disney having
more of a say of how Sentai is handled. If this is true, how're
things going to work differently now than they have in the past?
BK: As far as I know, everything will be the same as last year. I have not heard anything like what you have heard. Why do they tell you and not me? This doesn't bode well for me.
Here's how the note processes go for me on the way to getting s how down and as far as I know it will be the same as last year. I sit down with my writing staff and plot out what we want to do for the year. We talk to the network about it. They add their input and then we talk about what we can do to make everyone happy. Then we come up with story ideas to match or include the Japanese footage. We run the story ideas with the network and get input. We also get notes all along the way from Broadcast Standards and Practices that make sure the show is appropriate for the target audience, which by the way is not you. Then we go to first draft of the script. Network notes, BS&P notes and my notes, unless it is one of my scripts...If it is my script I ask for notes from Jackie and John. Second draft, more notes from network, BS&P and now notes come in from production to make it managible for production. Then at this stage there are notes from Koichi making sure the footage is correct and other ideas he has or wants to implement into the story. Then notes from the director, a cast read thru changing colors of the pages all the way through to let people know when changes are made...and then finally we shoot. All together6- weeks in the development of a 21:20 tv show. Then the whole process and note giving starts all over again as we go into the various stages of the editing process. You see a show with my name or Jackie's or John's on it...It has been through hundreds of eyes by the time it ever gets done.
HJU: How does the crew research the Japanese Power Ranger series
before producing the American version? Do you receive subtitled tapes
or is there a translator? Are you required to watch the full Japanese
series before doing the American one?
BK: Throughout the year we get copies of the Japanese show. We get a written translation of the show, but can usually tell what is being said before the translation. We look for good footage and then if it is a good story. This year we have been really fortunate to get great stories and footage from Japan. Yes we have taken several of their stories and followed those storylines very closely because they work and the footage dictates that is what has to be done. We modify to fit our seasonal arc. And yes, we have many episodes that are exclusively our own. We all watch the tapes as they come in...But we get the tapes so spread apart that it would not service the show to wait until we had the full season to watch.
HJU: What was your favorite Power Ranger Series to check out?
BK: SPD no doubt!!! LOL
HJU: Usually fans only know and praise stand out actors, the
Executive Producer and Koichi Sakamoto... are there any other unsung
heroes that you'd like to thank and let the fans know about so they
know who we owe some of our gratitude to?
BK: Everyone! Our cast and crew are amazing. The people at the network are great. Gary. Adam, Jermaine and Shawn. Gavin who runs the wardrobe department has done a remarkable job. Miro, who I mentioned earlier, runs the art department and designs the sets. George Port our special Fx's wizard is a gift. Charles at our post house. It goes on and on. Make-up, hair, props, monster department. Dan and Terry in prosthetics. They all deserve kudos and props. Our Kiwi actors are truly up there with the best the business has anywhere. They do not even get the show over here and they are so devoted to making it the best possible season. I am truly blessed.
HJU: I hear that the SPD Rangers and you will be doing the Geek Fan
Convention circuit this year. Care to let the fans know which
conventions you'll be hitting?
BK: So far all I know is the Shine in L.A. ion June. We're aiming for ComicCon in S.D. in July and hope to get to Chicago also. Invite us and we'll probably all show up.
HJU: Is there any chance that others in the Power Ranger Family may
join you, like legends of the past such as Johnny Yong Bosch, Jason
David Frank, Austin St. John and is there any chance that maybe some
Japanese originals such as the actors how portrayed Ban, Jasmine, and
Tetsu might ever be tapped to attend any of these conventions?
BK: I have not heard about anyone from past seasons. But it would be great id someone would put together a Ranger extravaganza and do a weekend just on Rangers.... Who knows who would show up? Maybe Henshin Justice can put together something.
HJU: It's well known that in general the hardcore fans are loving
your work. How long do you see yourself staying with the franchise?
BK: At least another year. Further than that, I’ll have to see.
HJU: Do you have anything you'd like to add?
BK: Stay tuned this will be an amazing season. Thank you for your support. We love to read your comments. Some are right on others are fanboy fantasy... We do our best. Yes, we make mistakes. As few as possible. I know you will catch any that we do... Though we do try to be vigilant. Thanks for letting me into your world. I am doing my best. I'll be open to more questions in the future as the year develops.
HJU: Thanks, Bruce!
So, random notes-
- Gruumm's ship is the "Terror Space Craft".
- Upcoming episodes include RECOGNITION, SWAT (Parts 1 and 2, easily the Battlizer episodes... unless they get Battlizers upon Battlizers like DT), and a Roshamon homage.
- We are, surprisingly, not the target audience.
