Saban Makes Two Theatrical Moves

Saban is teaming with Lionsgate to develop the first-ever feature film based on its Power Rangers property, the day after it announced the launch of a new film distribution division.

“Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” debuted as a live-action TV series more than 20 years ago and has been in continuous production ever since. The brand has subsequently grown into one of the most recognizable in the world with extensions in toys, apparel, costumes, video games, DVDs, comic books and a host of other merchandise.

"Lionsgate is the perfect home for elevating our Power Rangers brand to the next level," says Haim Saban, creator, Power Rangers. "They have the vision, marketing prowess and incredible track record in launching breakthrough hits from The Hunger Games to Twilight and Divergent. In partnership with the Lionsgate team, we're confident that we will capture the world of the Power Rangers and translate it into a unique and memorable motion picture phenomenon with a legacy all its own."

Saban Brands’ new live-action film franchise will re-envision the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, a group of high school kids who are infused with unique super powers that they must harness and use as a team to save the world.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Haim Saban and his team to maximize the potential of this immensely successful and universally recognized franchise," says Jon Feltheimer, chief executive officer, Lionsgate. "The Power Rangers stories and characters have been embraced by generations of audiences for more than 20 years, and today they are more powerful than ever. We have the ideal partner and the perfect brand with which to create a motion picture event that will resonate with moviegoers around the world for years to come."

In other Saban movie news, Saban Capital Group has launched a new film distribution division in advance of the Cannes Film Festival, Saban Films.

The new division hopes to acquire eight to 10 features films a year, which it will distribute in North America. The company is currently in talks with a distribution partner and plans to release films theatrically as well as across digital platforms.

“I have a long-standing and deep affection for independent film and saw an opportunity in the theatrical distribution arena as well as an emerging distribution platform strategy that focuses on cable, satellite and telco VOD,” says Saban. “Film is a natural progression for Saban Capital Group with existing interests already in television, media and brands.”

Former RLJ Entertainment executive Bill Bromiley will lead the new division as president.