Nintendo’s newly announced news app has barely been out for a day, and it’s already stirring hype. Here’s a hint – it involves the Japanese giant, Sony Pictures, and a beloved franchise set in the world of Hyrule, reimagined for the silver screen.
After nearly a year-and-a-half of radio silence, the live-action film adaptation of The Legend of Zelda is now set for theatrical release on 26 March 2027, aligning with the initial target release window between 2025 and 2029. Not much else is known about the project, including plot details and casting, but it will be directed by Wes Ball (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes). Avi Arad, whose credits include every live-action Spider-Man movie and the Spider-Verse animated features, serves as producer alongside Nintendo representative director and original franchise creator Shigeru Miyamoto.
The pic was first unveiled in November 2023, following the breakout success of the animated Super Mario Bros. Movie, with Miyamoto confirming that it had been in the works “for many years now”. “We have now officially started the development of the film with Nintendo itself heavily involved in the production. It will take time until its completion, but I hope you look forward to seeing it,” said the industry veteran then.
The news comes at a hectic period for Nintendo, which hosted a Direct showcase just one day prior, and is gearing up for a highly-anticipated second outing featuring the Switch 2 console on 2 April.
Introduced in 1986, The Legend of Zelda series follows elf-like warrior Link as he fights alongside Zelda, the princess of Hyrule, to protect their land from dark forces led by big bad Ganon. It has 21 entries and a number of spin-offs to date, and is largely considered to be one of the most successful franchises in gaming history. 2023’sTears of the Kingdom is the latest mainline entry, while Echoes of Wisdom (2024) comes in as its most recent side adventure.
The Legend of Zelda film lands 26 March 2027.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
Kevin Low
