Nintendo's Live-Action Legend of Zelda Film Now Shooting

Nintendo has reportedly started filming its much-anticipated live-action The Legend of Zelda movie in New Zealand, with production slated to run until April of next year. This exciting milestone comes as the Film & Television Industry Alliance (FTIA) recently updated the project’s status to "in production".

Location and Expectations

Based in Wellington, the filming location has sparked excitement among fans, who are hopeful that it will capture the enchanting landscapes reminiscent of Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings series.

Plot Details

While many details remain under wraps, Nintendo announced in July that the film will star young actors Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Zelda and Link, respectively. The movie will follow Link, a young warrior on a quest to protect the magical kingdom of Hyrule from the evil warlord Ganon.

The official synopsis states:

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

Fans can expect a thrilling adventure filled with battles against monstrous creatures, treacherous dungeons, and intricate puzzles.

Production Team

The project is produced by Nintendo's esteemed Shigeru Miyamoto, alongside Avi Arad, former CEO of Marvel Studios. Distribution will be handled by Sony Pictures Entertainment, which is also co-financing the film. The screenplay is being crafted by Derek Connolly, known for his work on Jurassic World, with Wes Ball, director of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, at the helm.

In earlier discussions, Ball emphasized his vision for the film emphasizing that it should feel "grounded" and "real," aiming to fulfill the fans' expectations for a serious yet whimsical portrayal of the beloved franchise.

Release Date

The Legend of Zelda is scheduled to hit theaters on May 7, 2027. Nintendo has hinted at a commitment to a steady release of video game movies following the success of the Super Mario film, making fans eager for potential updates in the upcoming months.

Source: IGN