After Pikachu and Mario dipped their toes into the big screen, it was only a matter of time before Nintendo’s other major IP followed suit, and things are looking quite promising. Earlier today, the Japanese gaming giant revealed their first look into the upcoming Legend of Zelda movie.
Nintendo released the images earlier today through the Nintendo Today app, showcasing Bo Bragason as Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. One of the stills showcases the two in a meadow, with Zelda wielding her bow and Link looking on in the background. It’s also worth noting that both are wearing game-accurate costumes, pointed ears included.
Naturally, these images confirm that production is underway, with filming taking place in New Zealand. Wes Ball, known for his work in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and the Maze Runner franchise, will be directing the film. Penning the script will be Derek Connolly, who wrote the scripts for Jurassic World, Kong: Skull Island, and Pokémon Detective Pikachu. Seeing how these two have a storied track record so far does put our minds at ease.
However, if that’s still not enough and you need some assurance, you’ll be happy to know that Zelda co-creator Shigeru Miyamoto is backing the project. Yes, the Nintendo legend will serve as the film’s executive producer, a clear indicator of his support for the film. Joining him on the production seat will be Avi Arad, the founder of Marvel Studios.
Earlier in July, Miyamoto revealed the two leads in a post on X. In it, he mentioned that he’s very much looking forward to seeing both of them on the big screen. He then wrote a follow-up post saying that the studio plans to release the film on 7 May 2027.
Back when the film was first announced, Miyamoto said he’s been working on a live-action Legend of Zelda film for years now, specifically with Ara. Moreover, he also shared that Nintendo itself would back the film’s overall development.
Some people may not actually be familiar with the names of the actors, but fret not; they’re veterans of their own right. So far, audiences know Bragason for her role as Clara Radley in 2024’s The Radleys and in the BBC’s Three Girls. She also did the motion capture for young Luna for Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV.
Ainsworth, on the other hand, has been a part of a few projects, such as Netflix’s The Sandman, The Haunting of Bly Manor, and 2021’s Flora & Ulysses. However, the biggest movie he’s been a part of has to be the live-action reboot of Pinocchio back in 2022, where he voiced the titular puppet (let that thought sink in in the rare event Link does speak in the movie).
Taking everything into account, the film seems to be on the right track, and there’s little cause for concern. However, we are still a ways away from the official release, leaving a lot of room for changes.
That said, there hasn’t been any word on what this film will be about, and these images don’t really help. If you look at Zelda’s clothing, it’s very reminiscent of Breath of the Wild, but Link’s outfit is more akin to Twilight Princess — minus the green hat. This is perhaps a deliberate move by the creators to keep things vague and prevent people from pinning down the story of the film, let alone how the film fits in the overall Zelda timeline.
Personally, this feels like a smart move by the creators, as Zelda fans stop at nothing to get their answers. Even days before the official images went live, fans were able to find leaked videos of the crew filming the movie. Footage in question showcases Bragason’s Zelda talking to a white-haired woman, who fans speculate to be Impa. As per the rumours, the actress portraying Impa is none other than Dichen Lachman, who acted in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and Jurassic World Dominion.
Based on the footage, Impa wears medieval-style armour. If this really is Impa, her appearance could help narrow down which game the film draws from. Traditionally, the character appears as an elderly woman who aids Link on his adventure. However, in a few rare cases, she’s in her prime and fights the forces of Ganon alongside the heroes. Games that depict a young Impa include Hyrule Warriors, Age of Calamity, Ocarina of Time, and Skyward Sword.
Of course, it’s worth noting that we’re only offering humble speculations about the upcoming film, so take them with a grain of salt. We’ll find out whether our theories and guesses are correct when the film hits theatres in 2027.
