The live-action adaptation of Naruto is moving closer to production. Lionsgate has reportedly given the film the green light, with Sony Pictures joining the project as a co-financing and international distribution partner. Filming is expected to begin in spring 2027.
Destin Daniel Cretton will write, direct and produce the adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s manga. The filmmaker, who also directed Spider-Man: Brand New Day, will work with both studios to bring the franchise to the big screen.
The partnership divides distribution responsibilities between the two companies. Sony will handle the film’s international release, while Lionsgate will oversee its domestic distribution alongside development and production.
In a statement accompanying the update, Cretton spoke about the humour, emotion and humanity beneath the story’s action. He said the team intends to preserve what existing readers love about Naruto while introducing its world to new audiences.
Preparations for the film have already included a worldwide casting search. An earlier official announcement invited actors to audition for Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura, the three young members of Team 7.
For now, spring 2027 is the reported start of filming, rather than the film’s theatrical release window.