Lionsgate is officially moving forward with its live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto's acclaimed manga series, Naruto, announcing a significant partnership with Sony Pictures. The film, helmed by Destin Daniel Cretton—director of Spider-Man: Brand New Day—will see Sony co-finance and distribute it internationally. Production is slated to commence in spring 2027.
This collaboration marks another venture between Cretton and Sony, following the success of this year's Spider-Man: Brand New Day. According to a press release from Lionsgate, Sony Pictures CEO Tom Rothman expressed enthusiasm for the reunion, stating, "we had a sweet success this summer with Destin and are delighted to be back in his capable hands," referring to the Naruto project as an "A-level adaptation." This move follows a three-year deal Cretton signed with Sony, under which he will develop and produce films through his production company, Hisako.
Lionsgate will retain oversight of the movie's development, production, and domestic distribution. Cretton is attached to write, direct, and produce the film, which will be based on Kishimoto's globally popular franchise. The original series centers on Naruto, an orphan striving to become the leader of his ninja village. The narrative expands to include a large ensemble cast as Naruto pursues his ambitions.
Cretton announced in July that a worldwide casting search had begun for the central trio of characters: Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. While no official casting has been confirmed by Lionsgate or Cretton, reports indicate that Charles Melton is in discussions for the role of Kakashi, the mentor figure to the main trio. The film aims to adapt the narrative established in Kishimoto's original manga and its subsequent anime iterations.