A Comprehensive Guide to Where the Power Rangers Was Filmed

The iconic Power Rangers series has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world for over three decades. From the Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers to the most recent films, the show has had diverse filming locations, reflecting the expansion of the franchise over time. This guide will explore the locations where different Power Rangers series were filmed, providing insights into the production process and the unique sites used to create these beloved television shows and films.

Early Filming Locations in Los Angeles and Ventura

From Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers to Wild Force, the series was primarily filmed in and around Valencia and Santa Clarita, just outside Los Angeles. These locations were chosen due to their proximity to Saban’s studios and their scenic beauty. Some of the frequently-used outdoor locations included Bronson Canyon, the Vasquez Rocks, Griffith Park, Hahn Park, and Castaic Lake. The exterior of the old Command Center was a composite of the House of the Book on the Brandeis-Bardin Campus of American Jewish University in Simi Valley and the Vasquez Rocks.

The Transition to New Zealand

Starting with Ninja Storm and continuing through the Power Rangers series, the show made a significant move to New Zealand, primarily in Auckland. This decision was driven by a combination of tax incentives and a picturesque setting that could accommodate the action-intensive scenes required for the series. Filming in New Zealand allowed for the creation of elaborate sets and the use of stunning natural landscapes, providing an immersive and visually appealing viewing experience.

Specific Filming Locations in Los Angeles and Surrounding Areas

Filming for the earlier seasons of Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers took place in various parts of Los Angeles County. Special mention must be made of the exterior of the old Command Center, which was the House of the Book on the Brandeis-Bardin Campus of American Jewish University in Simi Valley, composited with the Vasquez Rocks. The Angel Grove High School setting was at the Ulysses S. Grant High School, and the aerial shots of the youth center were from a Simi Valley church.

Additional Locations and Context

When the movie shoots extended beyond their initial timelines, secondary filming locations were utilized. In the case of the first movies, the 1995 Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers movie was shot in Australia, predominantly in Sydney and Bombo Quarry. For these movies, sets were built at the Sydney Showground, which is now known as Disney Studios Australia. Additionally, when shooting times were longer than anticipated, first-unit material for a handful of MMPR episodes was filmed in Sydney, with the second-unit scenes and morphed footage coming from Los Angeles.

The Turbo movie also saw location shooting in Oakland and Maui, further diversifying the filming locations. By the time of the 2017 film, the settings were expanded to include Vancouver, Richmond, and Kamloops in British Columbia, Canada, showcasing the shows’ ongoing journey through different filming locations.

As the franchise has grown and evolved, so too have the locations that cater to the high expectations of both fans and producers. From the vibrant landscapes of New Zealand to the diverse locales of Los Angeles and beyond, the Power Rangers series continues to captivate audiences with its dynamic and exciting storytelling and filmmaking techniques.