Summary (tl;dr)

Nintendo has released the first official images from the live-action "The Legend of Zelda" movie, confirming that filming has begun in New Zealand with Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. Unofficial set leaks have also indicated that Dichen Lachman will portray Impa.

Essential Background

"The Legend of Zelda" is a critically acclaimed and globally popular video game franchise from Nintendo, with its first title released in 1986. Following the immense box office success of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," Nintendo announced in November 2023 its intent to produce a live-action adaptation of "The Legend of Zelda." Wes Ball, known for directing "The Maze Runner" series and "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," was confirmed to helm the project. In July 2025, Bo Bragason was officially announced to play Princess Zelda, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth was cast as Link.

The Full Story

Filming for the highly anticipated live-action "The Legend of Zelda" movie has officially begun in New Zealand. Nintendo released the first official images of its lead actors, Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, following earlier unofficial leaks of set footage online. The images reveal Bragason in a blue tunic, drawing parallels to Zelda's appearance in "Breath of the Wild," while Ainsworth is seen in Link's classic green tunic, reminiscent of his look in "Twilight Princess," suggesting the film will synthesize elements from various games in the franchise. Furthermore, leaked set footage and subsequent reports have strongly indicated that Dichen Lachman, known for her role in "Severance" and a previous collaboration with director Wes Ball, has been cast as Impa. The movie is a collaborative effort between Nintendo and Sony Pictures, with "Zelda" creator Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad serving as co-producers. The film is currently slated for a theatrical release on May 7, 2027.

Why It Matters

The official start of production and the unveiling of first-look images for "The Legend of Zelda" live-action movie represent a major development for fans and the entertainment industry. This project underscores Nintendo's strategy to translate its successful gaming IPs into major cinematic events, building on the commercial triumph of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie." The casting choices for iconic characters like Zelda, Link, and the rumored Impa are generating significant discussion among the dedicated fanbase. The visual direction, which appears to merge aesthetics from different "Zelda" games, offers a glimpse into how the filmmakers plan to adapt the expansive lore of the series, sparking both anticipation and speculation. This trend highlights the growing influence of video game franchises in Hollywood and their potential to deliver consistent blockbuster releases.

Geographic Location

• New Zealand (filming of "The Legend of Zelda" live-action movie)
• Virtual/Online (Nintendo Today App and social media posts of first look images)