Power Rangers Lost Galaxy

Lost Galaxy was the fifth TV series bearing the Power Rangers name; it originally aired in 1999 and falls in sequence behind Power Rangers in Space, though it doesn't continue its predecessor's storyline. A few characters cross over between the two series, but overall Lost Galaxy charts its own course in the Rangers timeline. The premise is fairly simple: Five teens become galactic superheroes through their own courage and some mighty cool powers from a set of legendary weapons, and they travel the universe in colorful unitards fighting a line-up of mutant bad guys. For older kids -- and boys especially -- there's plenty of action and adventure to like here, and with a clear visual distinction between good and evil, there's little gray area to complicate the process.

That said, the show is violent, and a few integral characters are killed as it plays out, so there are some dark themes to consider. What's more, despite those trademark cheesy costumes and weapons that mark many of the Power Rangers series, some of the villains will be pretty scary to sensitive kids. If your older kids do watch, you can help offset the effect of these messages by drawing their attention to what's good about the show, including the Rangers' teamwork, their unselfishness, and the friendship that develops from their common goals.