Mighty Morphin Power Rangers icon Jason David Frank's final film has announced its release date.
Per Deadline, the North American theatrical release date for Bat in the Sun and Bascule Productions' Legend of the White Dragon has been set for Labor Day weekend 2023. This coincides with what would have been Frank's 50th birthday. Frank tragically lost his life in November 2022.
Directed by Aaron and Sean Schoenke, Legend of the White Dragon stars Frank as Erik Reed, better known as the titular hero who exists in a space not all that dissimilar from Frank's Power Rangers roots. Reed is forced to clear his name after years of hiding. Aaron Schoenke co-stars as the villainous Dragon Prime, an enigmatic antagonist whose own plot puts Reed's heroics under a ticking clock.
Jason David Frank's Power Rangers Legacy
Aaron Schoenke said of working with Frank, "We are proud to have worked with such a talented actor, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share his final performance with the world. Having been on this journey with Jason for 10 years, I know he would be beyond excited to know that Legend of the White Dragon will be opening in theaters." Sean Schoenke added, "Despite the tremendous loss, the production team has worked tirelessly to complete the film and ensure that it meets the high standards that Jason set for himself. The result is a powerful and moving tribute to his talent and dedication."
Frank made his unforgettable debut as Tommy Oliver the multi-part episode "Green With Evil" from 1993's original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers television series. Initially, Tommy played the role of Rita Repulsa's Green Ranger before being freed from her curse and joining the heroes in their fight against evil. This kicked off what has come to be the most indelible of all Power Ranger legacies, spanning multiple mantles ranging from his original Green to White Ranger transformation, as well as those of the Red Zeo, Red Turbo and Black Dino Ranger. In the ongoing BOOM! Studios comic book timeline, Tommy was even given a second shot at being evil in the form of Lord Drakkon, who has become a fast favorite among fans, not to mention one of the deadliest villains the eponymous heroes have ever faced.
Legend of the White Dragon arrives in select theaters across North America on Sept. 1.
Source: Deadline