Nintendo Announces Live-Action The Legend of Zelda Movie in Partnership with Sony Pictures

Nintendo has officially announced the development of a live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, one of its most iconic video game franchises.

This ambitious project follows the recent success of The Super Mario Bros.

Movie and marks another significant step by Nintendo toward expanding its intellectual properties beyond the Nintendo Switch and gaming consoles.

The film promises to bring the expansive world of Hyrule and its classic hero, Link, to the big screen for the first time in a live-action format. The project brings together some of the industry’s most respected names.

Visionary Nintendo developer Shigeru Miyamoto, creator of The Legend of Zelda, takes on the role of producer, ensuring the film remains faithful to the series' origins and spirit.

Miyamoto is joined by Avi Arad, the chairman of Arad Productions Inc., renowned for producing numerous blockbuster films based on beloved characters from pop culture and video games.

Wes Ball, known for his directorial work on The Maze Runner trilogy, is slated to serve as director, bringing his experience with action and adventure to this new adaptation. Production responsibilities for The Legend of Zelda movie are shared between Nintendo and Arad Productions, reflecting Nintendo’s deep commitment to the project.

Funding is also a joint effort: the film is co-financed by Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., with Nintendo covering more than half of the budget.

Notably, Sony Pictures will handle theatrical distribution, paving the way for a wide global release that will introduce audiences worldwide to Nintendo's legendary fantasy universe. In an official statement, Nintendo outlined its vision: "By producing visual content of Nintendo IP directly, Nintendo is creating opportunities for audiences around the globe to experience the creative worlds we've developed, not only through our dedicated game consoles like the Nintendo Switch but also through expanded entertainment channels.

By engaging deeply in production and aiming to deliver joyful entertainment, Nintendo is dedicated to offering unique experiences to as many people as possible." Shigeru Miyamoto also shared his thoughts on the project: "I have been involved in developing a live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda alongside Avi Arad for many years.

With Arad’s expertise in producing major movie hits, I requested his collaboration, and now we have officially begun production with Nintendo’s active involvement.

Although the process will require significant time to complete, I hope fans are excited to see what awaits." While no further details regarding plot, cast, or release date have been announced at this time, anticipation is already building within both gaming and film communities.

With a track record of successful video game adaptations and a promise of strong creative oversight, Nintendo’s foray into visual media signals a new era for The Legend of Zelda franchise and the company’s wider film aspirations. Stay tuned for more updates as Nintendo and its partners continue development on what is poised to become a landmark moment for video game cinema.

Zelda Nintendo The Legend of Zelda Shigeru Miyamoto Sony Legend of Zelda Avi Arad Sony Pictures Miyamoto Wes Ball Arad Productions Nintendo Switch