The live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda has begun production, bringing the highly anticipated Nintendo film a step closer to its 2027 release. This upcoming feature will be directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on The Maze Runner trilogy, and will star Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as the hero in green. Ainsworth is a British actor known for his roles in Son of a Critch, Disney’s live-action Pinocchio, and The Sandman. This film was first announced in 2023, and production is said to last five months.

According to The Legend of Zelda‘s listing on the Film & Television Industry Alliance, the live-action Nintendo film began filming in Wellington, New Zealand, on November 4 and is scheduled to finish on April 7, 2026. Based on this scheduling, there is a chance that a teaser or small previews for the upcoming film could be released during the franchise’s 40th anniversary. The listing also featured a plot summary, which reads:

“A live-action adaptation of the video game franchise ‘The Legend of Zelda’ follows Link, a young warrior destined to protect the magical kingdom of Hyrule from the forces of darkness. The land is under threat from Ganon, a ruthless warlord who seeks the Triforce — an ancient relic said to grant limitless power. To stop him, Link must embark on a perilous journey, battling monstrous creatures, exploring treacherous dungeons, and solving intricate puzzles to uncover sacred artifacts that can aid him in his quest.”

As of writing, there is no official announcement on who will play Ganon or other characters in the franchise. The only names attached so far are Ainsworth and Bo Bragason, who was confirmed to play Princess Zelda. There have been a few fan cast selections to play the notable Hyrule villain, including Jason Momoa, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Idris Elba.

What Do We Know About ‘The Legend of Zelda’ Live-Action Movie?

Image via Nintendo

The Legend of Zelda is a live-action fantasy film based on the 1986 video game franchise of the same name, and the third Nintendo film to be released, following The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Just like the previous movies, Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto is involved in the project with Sony Pictures. Initially, The Legend of Zelda was scheduled to come out on March 26, 2027, but it was pushed to May, with Miyamoto citing he wanted to “take the extra time to make the film as good as it can be.” While it’s too early for any sequel news, Nintendo has announced plans to build a consistent release schedule for its future movie projects.

The Legend of Zelda live-action adaptation is scheduled to be released on May 7, 2027. Follow Collider for the latest updates.

Release Date

May 7, 2027

Writers

Derek Connolly

Producers

Shigeru Miyamoto, Avi Arad

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  Benjamin Evan Ainsworth

  Link

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  Bo Bragason

  Princess Zelda