‘Naruto’ Live-Action Film: Everything to Know About Destin Daniel Cretton’s Adaptation, Cast and 2027 Production

The long-awaited live-action adaptation of “Naruto” has taken a significant step forward, with Lionsgate officially greenlighting the film and bringing Sony Pictures on board as its co-financing and international distribution partner. The project will be written, directed and produced by Destin Daniel Cretton, best known for “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”. Production is expected to begin in spring 2027.

The film is based on the hugely popular Japanese manga created by Masashi Kishimoto. Here is everything to know about the upcoming adaptation.

Who is making the “Naruto” live-action film?

Cretton is attached to write, direct and produce the adaptation. He will also produce through his company, Hisako, alongside Jeyun Munford. Avi Arad, Ari Arad and Emmy Yu of Arad Productions are also producing.

Lionsgate has been developing the project since 2024 and will continue to oversee its development and production, as well as handle its domestic distribution. Sony Pictures will co-finance the film and manage its international distribution. The partnership follows reported competition among multiple studios for the project.

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Announcing the collaboration, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said Sony was a suitable partner because of its experience with manga and anime and its international distribution network. Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group chairman and CEO Tom Rothman also welcomed the partnership, saying the studio was pleased to work with Cretton again.

Who is directing the film and what has the creator said?

Cretton was attached to the project in February 2024. His credits include “Short Term 12”, “Just Mercy” and Marvel’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”. He also directed “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”.

Kishimoto has publicly endorsed Cretton’s involvement. When the filmmaker was first attached, the manga creator said he had been impressed by Cretton’s action filmmaking and his ability to build character-driven dramas. Kishimoto also highlighted the director’s openness to incorporating his input during the adaptation process.

Cretton has described himself as a longtime fan of “Naruto”. In a statement announcing the Sony partnership, he said he was drawn to the story’s combination of action, humour and humanity, adding that the team wanted to preserve what existing fans love about the franchise while introducing it to a new generation.

About Naruto

The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja from the Hidden Leaf Village, also known as Konohagakure. Ostracised by many in his village because of the powerful Nine-Tailed Fox sealed inside him, Naruto grows up determined to earn the respect of those around him.

His ambition is to become the Hokage, the leader and protector of his village. Along the way, he trains as a ninja, forms friendships and rivalries, and confronts increasingly dangerous threats. At its heart, the story explores belonging, perseverance, friendship and the desire to be recognised.

The manga was written and illustrated by Kishimoto and originally ran in Shueisha’s “Weekly Shonen Jump” from 1999 to 2014. It comprises 700 chapters collected across 72 volumes and has sold more than 250 million copies worldwide.

Who is in the cast?

No cast members have been officially confirmed for the live-action film so far. In July 2026, the franchise’s official website announced a worldwide casting search for the three central members of Team 7: Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno.

In August, reports said actor Charles Melton was in final talks to play Kakashi Hatake, the experienced ninja who mentors Team 7. However, his casting has not been officially confirmed, and he should not yet be described as part of the confirmed cast.

When will the “Naruto” film go on floors?

Production is expected to begin in spring 2027. Neither Lionsgate nor Sony has announced a specific start date. The film also does not have a confirmed theatrical release date.