Power rangers reboot rumored: franchise failure fue a hunger games-style gamble

Published on 10/04/2026 18:01 in movies • Keely Diven

Remember the 2017 Power Rangers movie? It’s a cautionary tale of ambition exceeding reality, and now, thanks to a recent interview with actor Dacre Montgomery, the story behind its spectacular financial flop is even more revealing.

A four-picture deal gone wrong

Montgomery, fresh off his role in the upcoming Faces of Death reboot, revealed that Lionsgate initially envisioned the film as the cornerstone of a sprawling, four-picture franchise – a ‘whole big thing,’ as he put it. But the studio apparently had bigger plans in mind, aiming to transform the series into a full-blown Hunger Games-style event.

That’s a colossal shift, and one that ultimately doomed the project. Montgomery explained that the studio’s desire for a massive, ongoing franchise, rather than a focused narrative, was the driving factor behind the film’s failure to recoup its substantial $100 million investment.

The final box office tally? A disappointing $142 million worldwide. A stark reminder that chasing blockbuster potential without a solid foundation can be a disastrous strategy. Lionsgate certainly learned a valuable – and expensive – lesson.

A potential second shot

A potential second shot

Despite the initial setback, whispers of a reboot are already circulating. Montgomery suggests that Saban, the original IP owner, may have sold off the rights, hinting at a potential resurgence for the franchise. ‘Power Rangers means a great deal to a lot of people,’ he stated, expressing optimism for the property’s future. He’s not wrong; the legacy of the Mighty Morphin’ crew is undeniable.

And while the initial gamble failed spectacularly, it’s a fascinating case study in the perils of franchise expansion without a clear strategic vision.

Alongside Montgomery, Naomi Scott, Becky G, RJ Cyler, and Ludi Lin all contributed to the 2017 film, alongside a supporting cast including Bill Hader, Elizabeth Banks, and Bryan Cranston. The movie is currently available for rent or purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV.