Sony and Lionsgate are collaborating on a live-action Naruto movie, with production slated to commence in spring 2027. Lionsgate will oversee production and domestic distribution, while Sony Pictures will handle international distribution. Lionsgate cited Sony's extensive experience with anime and manga, including its ownership of Crunchyroll, as a key factor in the partnership.
Director Destin Daniel Cretton expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "As a longtime fan of Naruto, I’ve always loved that beneath the extraordinary action is a story filled with heart, humor, and humanity. Kishimoto-sensei created a world where unlikely heroes do extraordinary things, and that’s what makes it so special." He added that the team is committed to honoring what fans love about Naruto while introducing it to new audiences.
Cretton, who recently directed the critically and commercially successful Spider-Man: Brand New Day, is also known for Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. His involvement has bolstered confidence in the Naruto adaptation. The film's greenlight by Lionsgate and its targeted production start date mean casting news is expected in the coming months. Actor Charles Melton was reportedly in discussions for the role of Kakashi in August.
The history of live-action anime adaptations has been mixed, with titles like Dragonball Evolution serving as cautionary tales. This new Naruto project faces the challenge of overcoming skepticism and establishing a successful precedent for anime adaptations in live-action cinema.