Listen! A cinematic adventure is brewing in Hyrule, and it’s not just a rumour passed down by a wandering bard. Nintendo has officially revealed that The Legend of Zelda movie will grace the silver screen before the decade’s end. But like any quest worth embarking on, this journey from console to cinema requires careful planning and meticulous execution.
This quick update, shared in Nintendo’s latest financial report, follows the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, as Nintendo expands its cinematic adaptations of beloved franchises. The film’s targeted release window is between 2025 and 2029, capturing the essence of the iconic video game in a live-action format. The full quote is as follows: “Looking ahead, we are creating a new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros., set for theatrical release in April 2026. Additionally, we are planning and developing a live-action film of The Legend of Zelda.“
The upcoming Zelda movie is not a reboot but will continue within the universe established by the games, which has captivated fans for over 38 years. The narrative has traditionally centered on the adventures of Link and Princess Zelda as they thwart the malevolent Ganon in the mystical land of Hyrule. Interestingly, the most recent game instalment, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, broke tradition by featuring Princess Zelda as the main character.
Wes Ball, known for Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, is set to direct the film, with Sony Pictures collaborating with Nintendo on financing and distribution. The script will be penned by Derek Connolly, known for his work on Jurassic World. This extended timeline for the film’s release provides director Ball with the flexibility needed to balance his commitments, including another upcoming Planet of the Apes movie projected for a 2027 release, allowing Ball to focus fully on both major projects without compromise.
While The Legend of Zelda movie will require patience, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a monumental addition to Nintendo’s film adaptations. The project’s active development and strategic planning suggest a cinematic experience that aims to faithfully bring the enchanting world of Hyrule to life. Fans can look forward to a “live-action Miyazaki” style film, as described by Wes Ball, who aims to deliver a serious and respectful adaptation of the beloved series.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
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