There seem to be two directions for big-screen remakes nowadays: a radical departure or slavish devotion. In the case of 2017’s Power Rangers movie, the latter seems to be the direction it’s heading in, at least judging by the below plot synopsis, which will be immediately familiar to anyone who grew up watching the children’s TV series:
Saban’s Power Rangers follows five ordinary high school kids who must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove – and the world – is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover that they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so they will have to overcome their real-life issues and band together as the Power Rangers before it is too late.
Taking on the roles of the original cast members are Dacre Montgomery (Jason the Red Ranger), Ludi Lin (Zack the Black Ranger), Naomi Scott (Kimberly the Pink Ranger), RJ Cyler (Billy the Blue Ranger) and Becky G (Trini the Yellow Ranger), with none other than Elizabeth Banks providing antagonistic duties as Rita Repulsa. There’s no word on what other characters are being reprised, but we’ll be surprised to not see the likes of Zordon and Alpha 5. Hell, what’s Power Rangers without Bulk and Skull? Original stars Jason Narvy and Paul Schrier need to cameo.
Behind the scenes, Dean Israelite (Project Almanac) is directing, with John Gatins, Max Landis, Ashley Miller, Matt Sazama, Burk Sharpless and Zack Stentz penning the script. Marty Bowen, Brian Casentini, Wyck Godfrey and Haim Saban are on producing duties, with Brent O’Connor and Allison Shearmur on board as executive producers.
Power Rangers will be released in cinemas on 24 March 2017. For more news about the biggest movies, pick up the latest issue of SciFiNow.
