After years of development, the live-action Naruto movie is finally moving forward. First announced in 2015, the adaptation has been greenlit by Lionsgate, with Sony Pictures joining as its co-financing and international distribution partner.
Lionsgate will continue overseeing the film’s development and production while handling domestic distribution. Filming is currently scheduled to begin in Spring 2027, although the movie has yet to receive an official release date.
Destin Daniel Cretton to Direct and Write
The adaptation will be directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, known for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Cretton will also write and produce the film alongside Jeyun Munford through their production company, Hisako.
Cretton has previously shared his enthusiasm for adapting Masashi Kishimoto’s manga, describing himself as a longtime fan of the series. In a statement reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the filmmaker expressed his excitement about bringing the beloved story to the big screen.
The project has experienced a lengthy development process since its initial announcement, reportedly going through multiple directors and screenwriters. The latest update has renewed hopes among fans that the adaptation is finally gaining momentum.
Naruto’s Global Popularity
The original manga follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja rejected by his village because the Nine-Tailed Fox is sealed inside him. Despite enduring prejudice and isolation, Naruto dreams of becoming the Hokage—the village’s strongest ninja and its leader.
Kishimoto’s manga began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1999 and has sold more than 250 million copies across over 60 countries and territories. Its success also led to a popular anime adaptation that reached audiences in more than 145 countries.
Despite the production milestone, details about the live-action film’s cast and storyline remain undisclosed. With filming planned for Spring 2027, fans will have to wait for further announcements regarding the movie’s development and eventual release.
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