While there may have been a passionate segment of fans who eagerly awaited the feature film reboot of Power Rangers, that enthusiasm did not translate into the box office success that Lionsgate probably hoped would lead to a new movie franchise. In addition to grossing $85 million domestically and receiving mixed reviews, the films disappointing opening day intake of $1.2 million in China appeared to dash all hopes of a potential Power Rangers sequel. However, a report from Toy News may indicate that sequel could still possible due to an increase in Power Rangers toy sales.
According to the site, the market research group NPD data reports that Power Rangers toy sales have grown 122.8% year to date with April sales figures up 185.9% from the previous year. With these figures, Power Rangers currently ranks as the number one action figures brand.
Tess Parsons-Broome, marketing manager at master toy partner, Bandai, commented on the success of the Power Rangers toy sales.
“These are fantastic results testament to the strength of the Power Rangers brand, which at the end of April, ranks 11th across all toy properties.”
While the success of the toy line can also be attributed to the television series Power Rangers: Ninja Steel, the increased sales figures may prompt Lionsgate to consider moving forward with a sequel to latest film. As reported by the New York Times, studios are looking to action figure tie-ins to increase revenue in place of declining movie ticket and Blu-Ray/DVD sales.
While the reboot may not have the financial or critical success fans were hoping for, it would be a shame if a film that made an effort to include a diverse cast was not given a chance to develop into a franchise.
Directed by Dean Israelite, the film stars Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, RJ Cyler, Becky G, Ludi Lin, Bryan Cranston, Elizabeth Banks and Bill Hader. The film will be available on Digital HD on June 13 followed by the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray release on June 27.
Source: Toy News (via Den of Geek)
