Nintendo has officially unveiled the first images from its much-anticipated live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, marking a significant milestone for fans and the entertainment industry alike.
The debut photos, released exclusively on the Nintendo Today! app, give a first glimpse into the ambitious cinematic project that brings one of the company’s most iconic gaming franchises to the big screen. Announced in November 2023, the live-action Zelda film is a collaborative production between Nintendo and Arad Productions Inc., with the renowned Shigeru Miyamoto serving as producer alongside Avi Arad, chairman of Arad Productions.
Arad’s production résumé includes high-profile films such as Ghost In The Shell, Venom, Uncharted, Morbius, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, adding considerable Hollywood pedigree to the project. The Legend of Zelda live-action movie casts Bo Bragason in the role of Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, the series’ legendary protagonist.
On-set footage that has surfaced recently suggests that Dichen Lachman, known for her performances in Severance and other acclaimed series, will portray Impa.
These casting choices underscore Nintendo’s commitment to bringing authentic and compelling characterizations to the beloved Hyrule universe. The movie is directed by Wes Ball, celebrated for his directorial work on the Maze Runner film series.
Production responsibilities are shared by Nintendo and Arad Productions, while financing for the project is being co-managed by Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., with Nintendo providing over half of the budget.
Sony Pictures will handle the film’s global theatrical distribution, reinforcing the studio's investment in blockbuster video game adaptations. According to a recent statement from Nintendo, the company is focused on delivering a movie that respects the legacy of the original The Legend of Zelda games while appealing to a broad international audience.
"We are thrilled to finally share a glimpse of the world we are building," a spokesperson said via the app, emphasizing the company’s excitement and commitment to quality. The Legend of Zelda franchise holds a storied place in gaming history, debuting in 1986 and consistently launching critically acclaimed titles for platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and the eShop.
With more than 135 million copies sold worldwide across all titles, Zelda’s translation to a live-action movie is set to become a major event in both gaming and cinema. The live-action The Legend of Zelda movie is scheduled for worldwide release on May 7, 2027.
As production continues to unfold, additional updates and promotional material will likely roll out via official Nintendo channels, including future Nintendo Direct presentations and the Nintendo Today! app. Fans and industry insiders alike can anticipate further announcements as the release date draws nearer, positioning The Legend of Zelda movie as one of the most anticipated entertainment events of 2027.
The debut photos, released exclusively on the Nintendo Today! app, give a first glimpse into the ambitious cinematic project that brings one of the company’s most iconic gaming franchises to the big screen. Announced in November 2023, the live-action Zelda film is a collaborative production between Nintendo and Arad Productions Inc., with the renowned Shigeru Miyamoto serving as producer alongside Avi Arad, chairman of Arad Productions.
Arad’s production résumé includes high-profile films such as Ghost In The Shell, Venom, Uncharted, Morbius, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, adding considerable Hollywood pedigree to the project. The Legend of Zelda live-action movie casts Bo Bragason in the role of Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, the series’ legendary protagonist.
On-set footage that has surfaced recently suggests that Dichen Lachman, known for her performances in Severance and other acclaimed series, will portray Impa.
These casting choices underscore Nintendo’s commitment to bringing authentic and compelling characterizations to the beloved Hyrule universe. The movie is directed by Wes Ball, celebrated for his directorial work on the Maze Runner film series.
Production responsibilities are shared by Nintendo and Arad Productions, while financing for the project is being co-managed by Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., with Nintendo providing over half of the budget.
Sony Pictures will handle the film’s global theatrical distribution, reinforcing the studio's investment in blockbuster video game adaptations. According to a recent statement from Nintendo, the company is focused on delivering a movie that respects the legacy of the original The Legend of Zelda games while appealing to a broad international audience.
"We are thrilled to finally share a glimpse of the world we are building," a spokesperson said via the app, emphasizing the company’s excitement and commitment to quality. The Legend of Zelda franchise holds a storied place in gaming history, debuting in 1986 and consistently launching critically acclaimed titles for platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and the eShop.
With more than 135 million copies sold worldwide across all titles, Zelda’s translation to a live-action movie is set to become a major event in both gaming and cinema. The live-action The Legend of Zelda movie is scheduled for worldwide release on May 7, 2027.
As production continues to unfold, additional updates and promotional material will likely roll out via official Nintendo channels, including future Nintendo Direct presentations and the Nintendo Today! app. Fans and industry insiders alike can anticipate further announcements as the release date draws nearer, positioning The Legend of Zelda movie as one of the most anticipated entertainment events of 2027.
