Nintendo Reveals Stars for 'Legend of Zelda' Live-Action Film
For decades, fans have imagined how Legend of Zelda's magical world would look on the big screen. Now, Nintendo has confirmed who’ll bring the two most beloved characters, Link and Zelda, to life in its long-awaited live-action adaptation. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, fresh from performances in "The Haunting of Bly Manor" and "Flora & Ulysses," has landed the role of Link. He’s not new to intense roles, but taking on the silent, green-capped hero is a whole new challenge. His co-star, Bo Bragason, impressed audiences in both "Renegade Nell" and the gripping series "Three Girls"—she’ll portray the wise and courageous Princess Zelda.
Wes Ball, best known for steering the "Maze Runner" trilogy through wild dystopian lands, is set to direct. That gives fans plenty to buzz about, given his talent for action-packed, visually stunning stories. Nintendo isn’t going it alone either. Sony Pictures is co-producing, and two industry heavyweights are guiding the project: Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of the Zelda games, and Avi Arad, a Marvel Studios co-founder with a knack for superhero blockbusters.
Release Date, Creative Team, and What We Know So Far
The initial release was pitched for late March 2027, but the window’s shifted a bit—cinema-goers will have to wait until May 7, 2027, to step into Hyrule. No real word yet on the full story, but here’s what’s clear. This film will stick to a classic setup: Link and Zelda, side by side, battling to save Hyrule from the shadowy clutches of Ganon. The details about locations, supporting cast, and exact plot points are tightly guarded. Still, with Miyamoto keeping a close eye on the project, there’s a sense of careful respect for the original games.
Shigeru Miyamoto didn’t hide his excitement, singling out the pairing of Ainsworth and Bragason as something special for fans who have been waiting ages for a proper Zelda film. He mentioned looking forward to seeing their chemistry—and from anyone who knows how particular Miyamoto is, that’s a blessing not given out lightly.
Considering the long string of video game adaptations that have missed the mark, hopes are unusually high for this one. Nintendo’s involvement at every step signals a seriousness about getting the movie right. Between Ball’s energy behind the camera, the experienced hands of Avi Arad, and the pixel-perfect eyes of Miyamoto watching every detail, there’s plenty here to stir both old fans and newcomers. As we count down toward 2027, all eyes will be on these two young stars—and the world of Hyrule they’re about to enter.
