Power Rangers bootleg fan film returns to YouTube

After a brief dispute stemming from copyright claims filed by billionaire Haim Saban, the fan made Power Rangers short film has returned to YouTube and Vimeo, albeit with a few changes.

The content of the film remains the same; it's still the same dark, futuristic take on the original Power Rangers. This time, though, there's an age restriction on the video on YouTube and a disclaimer on Vimeo from producer Adi Shankar that reads: “Deboot of the Power Rangers. My take on the FAN FILM. Not a pilot, not a series, not for profit, strictly for exhibition. This is a bootleg experiment not affiliated or endorsed by Saban Entertainment or Lionsgate nor is it selling any product. I claim no rights to any of the characters (don’t send me any money, not kickstarted, this film is free). This is the NSFW version. An alternate safe version is on youtube.” Kahn claims the disclaimer was written and posted on Vimeo before it was pulled.

On the YouTube version, there's also a disclaimer that reads: "The following in an independently produced 'bootleg universe' video that is not in any way associated with, or endorsed by Saban Brands, SCG Power Rangers LLC. or any of their affiliated companies. The video contains graphic violence, nudity, sexual situations & drug use, and is intended for mature audiences only. Viewer discretion is strongly advised."

Speaking to Deadline, film director Joseph Kahn explained, “They put these disclaimers on so kids so don’t confuse our super-violent film with their Power Rangers brand. There are no hard feelings. We signed contracts. We can play it anywhere we want on all platforms. I think they realized that people just want to see it.”

The Power/Rangers short made its debut last week and immediately went viral, having now racked up more than 12.5 million views. It's definitely a unique take on the Power Rangers franchise, one that has been incredibly well-received by fans. If you haven't yet seen it, I suggest you check it out below.