Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment are gifting us with another adaptation of a beloved video game franchise, and Zelda fans are getting an exciting new update. Production for Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda live-action movie is officially underway and set to shot in New Zealand.
Trailing the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Nintendo announced the live-action adaptation back in 2023. According to an updated listing pulled from Film & Television Industry Alliance, production began on November 4 and will shoot in Wellington, New Zealand. Filming is set to wrap in April 2026.
Most famously recognized as home to the Shire from The Lord of the Rings, New Zealand is known for its captivating beauty and breath-taking landscapes. As such, its grown to be a very popular film spot for various fantastical projects (The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia, etc.). Fans are hoping the location will capture that same degree of fantasy and adventure so distinctive of the video game.
Who’s in the Cast for the Legend of Zelda Movie?
Since the film’s announcement, one big question has lingered on everyone’s mind. Who will play our beloved Link and Zelda? Nintendo announced back in July of this year that those shoes will be filled by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth and Bo Bragason, playing Link and Princess Zelda, respectively. We also have a basic outline of the plot. Shared by Nintendo, it reads:
“The Legend of Zelda follows Link, a young warrior destined to protect the magical kingdom of Hyrule from the forces of darkness. The land is under threat from Ganon, a ruthless warlord who seeks the Triforce — an ancient relic said to grant limitless power. To stop him, Link must embark on a perilous journey, battling monstrous creatures, exploring treacherous dungeons, and solving intricate puzzles to uncover sacred artifacts that can aid him in his quest.”
Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto will produce the adaptation alongside former Marvel Studios CEO Avi Arad. Sony Pictures Entertainment will distribute the film.
While many of details remain a looming mystery, we are surely excited to see the mystical franchise brought to life. The Legend of Zelda hits screens on May 7, 2027.