The live-action Naruto movie from director Destin Daniel Cretton is moving forward after Sony Pictures joined Lionsgate as a co-financier and international distributor. Lionsgate has greenlit the project and plans to begin production in spring 2027.
Under the arrangement, Lionsgate will lead development, production and domestic distribution, while Sony handles international distribution. The deal followed a competitive bidding process, according to Lionsgate’s announcement.
Cretton, whose credits include Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Short Term 12, is set to write, direct and produce the adaptation. Sony Pictures CEO Tom Rothman said the company was pleased to work with Cretton again after their recent success together. Cretton also has a three-year agreement with Sony to develop and produce films through Hisako, the production company he runs with Jeyun Munford.
The film is based on Masashi Kishimoto’s series about Naruto, an orphan in a fantasy world inspired by Japan’s feudal era who dreams of becoming Hokage, or village leader. The story follows him alongside a growing cast of characters.
Cretton announced in July that a worldwide casting search had begun for Naruto and his fellow Team 7 members, Sasuke and Sakura. No casting has been confirmed by Lionsgate or Cretton. Charles Melton has reportedly been in talks to play Kakashi, the team’s mentor.
Sources: Polygon.