Lionsgate has officially greenlit the live-action Naruto movie, with filming expected to begin in spring 2027. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Destin Daniel Cretton will write, direct, and produce the adaptation, which will be his next feature following Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
Cretton previously directed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and was already attached to the Naruto project before its formal approval. His latest film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, earned $2.5 billion, and the director is now preparing to bring Masashi Kishimoto’s popular manga and anime series to theaters.
Sony Pictures is also joining the production, working alongside Lionsgate and Arad Productions. Lionsgate will continue overseeing development and production while handling domestic distribution. The project has also received the endorsement of Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto.
Sony’s involvement follows Cretton signing a three-year first-look producing agreement with the studio in September. The company has strong ties to the Japanese entertainment industry through its anime streaming platform Crunchyroll, making it a significant partner for the adaptation.
Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said Sony’s experience with manga and anime, combined with its international distribution capabilities, made the company an ideal partner. He explained that both studios have ambitious plans for the film and want to deliver a worldwide theatrical event that respects the original series while reaching audiences unfamiliar with Naruto.
The live-action Naruto movie will adapt a franchise centered on Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of earning his village’s respect and eventually becoming Hokage, its leader. The original manga inspired the Naruto and Naruto Shippuden anime series, which became widely known for their ninja battles, extensive fictional world, and long-running character stories.
The franchise has developed a substantial international following over the years, becoming one of the most recognizable Japanese manga and anime properties. Its popularity has continued through multiple adaptations and related media.
