Lionsgate has officially announced the production of a Live-Action Naruto Movie, marking a significant leap forward for fans eagerly anticipating the beloved anime’s transition to the big screen. Destin Daniel Cretton, renowned for directing “Shang-Chi” and “The Legend of the Ten Rings“, is set to write and direct the live-action adaptation.
A Meeting of Minds
Cretton has already engaged with Naruto’s original creator, Masashi Kishimoto, who will provide oversight throughout the film’s production. The collaborative effort extends to producers Avi Arad, Ari Arad, and Emmy Yu from Arad Productions, along with Cretton and Jeyun Munford’s company, Hisako.
Excitement from the Creators
Expressing his enthusiasm, Cretton stated, “It was a true honor to meet Kishimoto-san in Tokyo and hear his expansive vision for his creation. We are very excited to collaborate and bring NARUTO to the big screen.“
Kishimoto also shared his thoughts, highlighting Cretton’s suitability for the project: “I can’t help but be excited for it. In actually meeting Destin, I also found him to be an open-minded director who was willing to embrace my input.“
Naruto’s Global Legacy
Created by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto follows the coming-of-age journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young and ambitious ninja. Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1999 to 2014, the story became a global phenomenon, selling over 250 million collected volumes worldwide.
Clarity for Fans
While rumors of a live-action Naruto adaptation have circulated for some time, this official announcement provides clarity for fans who have been awaiting concrete details. Initial reports had Michael Gracey attached as the director back in 2015.
Live-Action Anime Trend
The trend of adapting classic anime into live-action formats continues with the Naruto announcement. Recent attempts, such as Netflix’s One Piece Live-Action have garnered positive feedback from fans, which seemingly generated a new wave of Live-Action announcements in the last couple of months, such as: Oshi no Ko, Avatar, Yu Yu Hakusho & Many Others.
Cretton’s Blessing and Lionsgate’s Enthusiasm
Destin Daniel Cretton, recognized for his impactful storytelling in “Shang-Chi,” carries Kishimoto’s blessing for the live-action adaptation. Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Destin has delivered a vision for the movie that we believe will excite that massive fan base as well as those who are new to it.“
Cretton, currently working on a “Shang-Chi” sequel, remains deeply involved in diverse and impactful storytelling, evident in his recent direction of episodes for Disney+’s “American Born Chinese“. The live-action Naruto movie promises to bring the iconic characters and ninja world to life for both dedicated fans and newcomers to experience on the cinematic stage.
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