American entertainment company Lionsgate has reportedly began its quest for cast members in the "Power Rangers" reboot. It is believed that Kiwi actor KJ Apa is leaning towards a lead role in the said film.
Casting for the forthcoming big screen version of "Power Ranger" which is based on the popular kid's television show that has approximately 20 various iterations, has started. According to Variety, the studio is set to begin testing young talent, as they aim to chance upon up-and-coming actors and actresses to create the team.
The publication added that Lionsgate is looking to include Daniel Zovatto ("It Follows"), Ross Butler ("Chasing Life") and Brian "Sene" Marc are among those testing for Zack, also known as the Black Ranger. Meanwhile KJ Apa ("Shortland Street"), Austin Butler ("The Shannara Chronicles") and Mitchell Hope ("The Descendants") are testing for Jason, also known as the Red Ranger.
The Mary Sue, on the other hand, reported that Naomi Scott ("The Martian") and newcomer Stephanie Scott ("Insidious: Chapter 3") are up for the role of Kimberley, also known as the Pink Ranger. It is believed that the studio is looking for fresh faces that will fill out the team, but will most likely look for bigger names to take the role of the antagonists, although no further details have been revealed on that part.
As for the role of Jason, the Red Ranger, Kiwi actor KJ Apa is believed to take the part. According to Scout, the Kiwi heartthrob is one of the notable talents Lionsgate is looking at to take the role of the Power Rangers' leader. His audition was quite astonishing that Hollywood agents have reportedly described him as the young Tom Cruise.
The film may be a huge opportunity for KJ Apa, who is best known for his role as Kane Jenkins on "Shortland St." The actor has recently filmed his first Hollywood film in Dreamworks production "A Dog's Purpose," alongside Dennis Quaid and Britt Robertson in Vancouver, Canada. He will reportedly play a high school quarterback.
The reboot to "Power Rangers," which will be helmed by Dean Israelite, reimagines the origins of the "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," a squad of high school kids who find themselves infused with extraordinary powers. And with the aid of giant mechanical robots, known as Zords, they unite to save the world.
Although the search for new cast members has started, Lionsgate has yet to announce a release date for "Power Rangers" reboot. Further details about the said film are kept under wraps.
What do you think about Kiwi actor KJ Apa being the Red Ranger? Will the new "Power Rangers" be as awesome as the previous ones? Let us know at the comments below.
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