Lionsgate has confirmed production of a live-action film based on Masashi Kishimoto’s manga Naruto. Sony Pictures is partnering on the project, contributing to its financing and handling international distribution. No release date has been announced.
Destin Daniel Cretton, whose credits include Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, will write and direct the film. Charles Melton, known for Riverdale, has been cast as Kakashi Hatake, the ninja who guides Naruto and his companions. The actor playing Naruto has not yet been chosen.
Filming is expected to begin in spring 2027. The story follows a boy determined to become the leader of his village, earn its residents’ recognition and attain the title of Hokage.
The Naruto manga ran from 1999 to 2014 and has sold more than 250 million copies across over 60 countries and territories. Its animated adaptations have been shown in more than 145 countries.
Sources: Folha Ilustrada.