Dacre Montgomery Reveals 2017 Power Rangers Movie Was Set for Four-Picture Franchise

The 2017 Power Rangers movie was meant to launch a four-picture franchise for Lionsgate, according to an interview with Dacre Montgomery on MovieWeb. The actor revealed the studio's ambitious plans were scrapped after the film failed to meet box office expectations, earning $142 million worldwide against a $100 million budget.

What were Lionsgate's original franchise plans?

According to Dacre Montgomery, Lionsgate had grand ambitions for the 2017 Power Rangers reboot. "It was a four-picture deal with Lionsgate. It was gonna be a whole big thing. But what can you do, right?" the actor explained. The studio wanted to create what Montgomery described as a "Hunger Games-style event franchise" — essentially turning Power Rangers into a major cinematic universe.

This approach made sense given the success of interconnected franchises at the time. Studios were looking for the next big IP to build around, and Power Rangers seemed like a natural fit with its built-in fanbase and decades of source material.

The plan would have followed Montgomery's Jason Scott (Red Ranger) and his team through multiple adventures, potentially introducing new Rangers and villains along the way. Instead, the franchise ended before it truly began.

Why the Power Rangers franchise never happened

Montgomery was refreshingly honest about why the planned sequels never materialised. "We're talking about money and big business. And it didn't make enough on the investment that the studio had made to continue making more," he said.

The numbers tell the story clearly. With a $100 million production budget and likely another $100 million in marketing costs, the film's $142 million worldwide gross represented a significant loss for Lionsgate. Studios typically need films to earn 2-3 times their production budget globally to break even when accounting for marketing and theatre splits.

Studios like Lionsgate often rush to build a big franchise with Power Rangers before fully connecting audiences to the characters. The challenge is getting the tone right — making it modern without losing the fun that made it popular in the first place.

What's next for Power Rangers

Despite the 2017 disappointment, the Power Rangers IP isn't dead. Montgomery mentioned hearing about new developments: "But I hear they're rebooting it again. I think Saban might have sold the IP off, so I'm excited for the future of that."

There's actually movement on two fronts. A separate Disney+ Power Rangers series was announced last year with the Percy Jackson and the Olympians showrunners attached. This appears to be different from the film reboot Montgomery referenced, suggesting multiple approaches to reviving the franchise.

"Power Rangers means a great deal to a lot of people. So I know that whoever steps into those shoes will be great. And I had the best time," Montgomery added, showing genuine affection for the property despite its commercial disappointment.

The 2017 cast and their post-Rangers careers

The 2017 film assembled a promising young cast that has since found success elsewhere. Montgomery went on to play Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things seasons 2 and 3, becoming a fan favourite (and fan nightmare) as the antagonistic older brother.

Naomi Scott, who played the Pink Ranger, starred in the 2019 Aladdin remake and the horror hit Smile. Becky G has continued her music career alongside acting, whilst RJ Cyler and Ludi Lin have appeared in various projects. Supporting cast members Bill Hader, Elizabeth Banks, and Bryan Cranston brought veteran star power to the production.

The cast chemistry was widely praised, even if the film itself received mixed reviews. Their performances suggested the franchise could have worked with better execution and perhaps a more focused approach to world-building.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the 2017 Power Rangers movie not followed by sequels?

The 2017 Power Rangers movie failed to meet box office expectations, earning $142 million worldwide against a $100 million budget. This wasn't enough for Lionsgate to justify continuing with their planned four-picture franchise deal.

What was Lionsgate's original plan for Power Rangers?

Lionsgate had a four-picture deal planned for Power Rangers, aiming to create what Dacre Montgomery described as a 'Hunger Games-style event franchise' — essentially a major cinematic universe around the property.

Is there a new Power Rangers reboot coming?

Yes, there are reportedly new Power Rangers projects in development, including a Disney+ series with the Percy Jackson showrunners and a potential film reboot after Saban potentially sold the IP.

Who starred in the 2017 Power Rangers movie?

The main cast included Dacre Montgomery as the Red Ranger, Naomi Scott as Pink Ranger, Becky G as Yellow Ranger, RJ Cyler as Blue Ranger, and Ludi Lin as Black Ranger, with Elizabeth Banks and Bryan Cranston in supporting roles.

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