Legend of Zelda Movie Filming Begins in New Zealand Amid Trilogy Reports

Nintendo’s beloved Legend of Zelda franchise is officially making the jump to the big screen, with principal photography for the live-action adaptation now underway in New Zealand.

Produced in partnership with Sony Pictures, the film is capturing the attention of gamers and cinephiles alike, amid reports that the project may evolve into a full trilogy inspired by the iconic Triforce relic central to the series’ lore. The commitment to shoot in New Zealand places the Zelda movie in company with other fantasy blockbusters such as The Lord of the Rings, a heritage noted within the film community for its sweeping vistas and experience with epic productions.

As of 2024, Zelda stands as one of Nintendo’s most storied franchises, having sold over 150 million units worldwide since its inception in 1986.

The Nintendo Switch has seen record-breaking success with entries like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, both developed under longtime producer Eiji Aonuma. A central discussion among fans surrounds the possible trilogy structure, with each installment potentially focusing on one piece of the legendary Triforce—Courage, Power, and Wisdom.

This approach pays homage to a narrative motif woven throughout the series, where the destinies of Link, Zelda, and Ganon/dorf are perpetually intertwined.

"Given the richness of the Zelda universe, capturing its depth in a single film would be challenging," one industry observer noted.

"A trilogy allows each aspect of the Triforce to stand out and gives the characters room to develop." Additional excitement comes from speculation about creative involvement from Nintendo legends Shigeru Miyamoto, Eiji Aonuma, and famed composer Koji Kondo.

While official casting details remain closely guarded, some have expressed hopes for creator cameos—potentially echoing Stan Lee’s iconic appearances in Marvel films, though likely less comedic and more in keeping with Hyrule’s tone. Sony Pictures’ involvement marks the second major Hollywood adaptation of a Nintendo franchise, following the blockbuster success of 2023’s The Super Mario Bros.

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With the Legend of Zelda film announced in late 2023, audiences are attuned to news about its direction, tone, and cast.

Both Miyamoto and Aonuma have publicly committed to ensuring that the adaptation remains faithful to the heart of Zelda, with Miyamoto previously stating, "We want to make sure this is a film for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series." The prospect of a Zelda film trilogy is particularly resonant given the series’ deep narrative roots and the symbolism of the number three within the franchise.

While details about release windows and casting remain unconfirmed as of mid-2024, updates are expected ahead of production milestones, and Nintendo fans will be watching closely—as will the rest of the industry.

Stay tuned for coverage on every major announcement, from Nintendo Direct reveals to future eShop tie-ins and beyond.

Zelda Nintendo Sony New Zealand Legend of Zelda Sony Pictures Eiji Aonuma Shigeru Miyamoto Koji Kondo