Legendary and Universal’s long-delayed sequel to the sci-fi action movie “Pacific Rim” has finally landed a release date.
The studios announced Tuesday that director Steven S. DeKnight‘s sequel will hit theaters on Feb. 23, 2018.
The follow-up to Guillermo del Toro‘s 2013 sci-fi film had previously been set for April 7, 2017, and then moved to Aug. 4, 2017. Last September, the studio pulled the film from its slate altogether, postponing it indefinitely amid reports that the project was being significantly retooled.
John Boyega (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) takes over for Charlie Hunnam as the star of “Pacific Rim 2,” the followup to 2013’s cinematic battle for global domination. The film is set in a dystopian future pitting underwater creatures called Kaiju against giant robots operated by dual human pilots called Jaegers.
DeKnight, whose credits include “Spartacus” and “Daredevil,” takes over directing duties from Guillermo del Toro.
The 2013 original generated more than $411 million at the global box office. The $190 million production managed only $101 million domestically but pulled off a strong performance overseas — particularly in China.
The original film also starred Idris Elba, Charlie Day and Rinko Kikuchi.
The 3D epic adventure will be produced by returning “Pacific Rim” producers Thomas Tull, Guillermo del Toro and Mary Parent.
Boyega joins the production team alongside Femi Oguns.