Hollywood’s history with live-action anime adaptations has given fans plenty of reasons to be cautious, but the upcoming Naruto movie is making significant progress. The long-awaited project has secured a major studio partnership, received the green light, and moved closer to production under filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton.
Based on Masashi Kishimoto’s hugely popular manga, the film will bring Naruto Uzumaki and the Hidden Leaf Village to live action for the first time. Cretton’s experience directing martial arts-heavy action in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, alongside his work on Spider-Man: Brand New Day, gives the adaptation an experienced filmmaker at its center. However, its biggest challenge will be translating the manga’s emotional relationships, distinctive ninja battles, and expansive world without losing what made the original story popular.
Sony Joins Lionsgate as the Live-Action Naruto Movie Gets Greenlit
One of the biggest developments is the partnership between Lionsgate and Sony Pictures. Following a competitive bidding process involving multiple studios, Sony has joined the project as a co-financier and international distributor. Lionsgate will continue overseeing development and production while handling domestic distribution.
The agreement gives the adaptation access to Sony’s international distribution network and its experience with anime and manga properties. Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson described Sony as a strong partner, citing its global reach and expertise in Japanese entertainment. TheWrap’s report details the partnership and the film’s production plans.
Production is expected to begin in spring 2027. However, neither studio has announced a theatrical release date.
Destin Daniel Cretton Wants to Preserve Naruto’s Emotional Core
Cretton’s involvement could be particularly important for an adaptation that needs to balance elaborate action with character development. His work on Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings demonstrated his experience with martial arts choreography, while Short Term 12 showcased his ability to handle emotionally driven stories.
The filmmaker has also expressed his personal connection to Kishimoto’s manga. In a statement published by TheWrap, Cretton said,
“As a longtime fan of ‘Naruto,’ I’ve always loved that beneath the extraordinary action is a story filled with heart, humor, and humanity.”
Kishimoto has also previously praised the director’s approach. In the official announcement of Cretton’s appointment, the manga creator described him as an open-minded filmmaker willing to incorporate his input, adding that the adaptation could deliver both spectacular action and profound drama.
Naruto Live-Action Movie Begins Worldwide Casting Search
The film has already started searching for its central cast. In July 2026, the official Naruto website confirmed a worldwide casting search for the three young members of Team 7: Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno. Casting announcements for other characters are expected to follow.
No lead actors have been officially confirmed, and the movie does not yet have a release date. Naruto’s official casting announcement also included a statement from Kishimoto expressing excitement about meeting the actors who will portray his characters.
With its director, studio partnership, and production window now established, the Naruto live-action movie is moving beyond years of development uncertainty. Whether it can become a successful Hollywood anime adaptation will ultimately depend on how faithfully it brings Kishimoto’s characters and world to the screen.