The Legend of Zelda Live-Action Movie Enters Production in New Zealand

Nintendo and Sony’s collaborative live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda has officially begun principal photography in Wellington, New Zealand, signaling a major production milestone for one of gaming’s most revered franchises.

The project, which has been closely followed by fans and industry insiders alike, updated its status to “In Production” this week on the Film and Television Industry Alliance (FTIA) website — a clear indicator that filming is underway after months in pre-production. Wellington, New Zealand has gained a reputation as a premiere destination for fantasy filmmaking, previously serving as the backdrop for cinematic epics like The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Avatar, and King Kong.

The selection of this location underscores the commitment to delivering a visually stunning interpretation of the adventure and fantasy that defines The Legend of Zelda series on platforms like the Nintendo Switch. The FTIA’s official project summary describes the film as "a live-action adaptation of the video game franchise.

‘The Legend of Zelda’ follows Link, a young warrior destined to protect the magical kingdom of Hyrule from the forces of darkness.

The land is under threat from Ganon, a ruthless warlord who seeks the Triforce—an ancient relic said to grant limitless power.

To stop him, Link must embark on a perilous journey, battling monstrous creatures, exploring treacherous dungeons, and solving intricate puzzles to uncover sacred artifacts that can aid him in his quest." While filming in New Zealand was first revealed to commence as early as November 2025, the updated production status is a significant confirmation that the project is on track for its planned release.

Barring any unforeseen delays, the The Legend of Zelda movie is scheduled to debut in theaters worldwide on May 7, 2027.

Currently, the only publicly confirmed cast members include Bo Bragason, known for her role in Renegade Nell, as Princess Zelda, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, recognized from The Haunting of Bly Manor, as the protagonist Link.

Further casting announcements are anticipated as production continues, especially as the film approaches key development milestones. Nintendo, best known for its legacy of critically acclaimed franchises and innovative hardware like the Nintendo Switch and the digital eShop platform, has stated its commitment to ensuring authenticity in its film ventures.

With Sony providing cinematic expertise and distribution muscle, expectations are high for this collaboration to deliver an experience both nostalgic for long-time fans and accessible to newcomers alike. As principal photography continues in Wellington, updates regarding additional cast, trailers, and promotional content are expected to roll out in future Nintendo Direct presentations and official press releases.

The live-action The Legend of Zelda movie not only represents a significant moment for Nintendo’s approach to transmedia adaptations but also stands as one of the most anticipated video game-to-film projects in recent memory.

Zelda Nintendo The Legend of Zelda Sony New Zealand Legend of Zelda Legend release date FTIA Bo Bragason Benjamin Evan Ainsworth Wellington New Zealand