First Look: ‘The Legend of Zelda’ Live-Action Movie Reveals Link and Zelda in Stunning New Photos

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Nintendo’s iconic ‘The Legend of Zelda’ has offered fans their first glimpse of Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. The images, released by Nintendo, coincide with the recent trailer debut for ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,’ signaling a new wave of Nintendo properties making their way to the big screen.

A Hyrule Reimagined: Behind the Scenes of Nintendo and Sony’s Epic Collaboration

Two years after the initial announcement, Nintendo and Sony Pictures are actively bringing the world of Hyrule to life. Directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on ‘Maze Runner’ and ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ the film stars relative newcomers Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth in the pivotal roles of Zelda and Link. This ambitious project represents a significant step for Nintendo, venturing further into live-action filmmaking after the success of the ‘Super Mario Bros. Movie.’

The released photos showcase Link in his classic green tunic – albeit without the iconic cap – and Zelda in a striking outfit inspired by Link’s blue attire from ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.’ This design choice hints at a potentially more proactive and central role for Zelda in the narrative, deviating from her often-damsel-in-distress portrayal in previous iterations. The costumes, while faithful to the source material, have sparked debate among fans, with some questioning whether a live-action adaptation can truly capture the magic of the beloved video game series.

Director Wes Ball previously expressed his desire to create a film that feels “like something real,” balancing seriousness and whimsy. He articulated a vision for a grounded yet fantastical experience, a challenge given the inherently fantastical nature of the Zelda universe. The initial images offer little insight into the film’s tone, leaving fans to speculate until the release of a trailer.

Filming is currently taking place in the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, as confirmed by a leaked set video and a message from Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto. Miyamoto, serving as a producer on the film, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the movie is on track for a worldwide release on May 7, 2027. The leaked footage also suggests that Dichen Lachman (known for ‘Severance’) may be joining the cast as Impa.

Nintendo’s broader strategy involves building a consistent pipeline of film adaptations. A recent financial report revealed the company’s ambition to establish a regular cadence of movie releases beyond 2027, signaling a long-term commitment to expanding its presence in the entertainment industry.

While fans eagerly await the Zelda film, Nintendo recently released ‘Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom’ as the latest installment in the franchise. A follow-up to the critically acclaimed ‘Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom’ remains unannounced, but anticipation is high for the next chapter in Link and Zelda’s enduring saga. Do you think a live-action Zelda can truly capture the magic of the games, or is animation the only way to do Hyrule justice? And what role do you envision for Impa in this new adaptation?

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘The Legend of Zelda’ Movie

• What is the release date for ‘The Legend of Zelda’ movie? The film is currently scheduled for worldwide release on May 7, 2027.
• Who are the lead actors in ‘The Legend of Zelda’ live-action movie? Bo Bragason will portray Princess Zelda, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will play Link.
• Where is ‘The Legend of Zelda’ movie being filmed? Filming is taking place in New Zealand, known for its stunning natural landscapes.
• Who is directing ‘The Legend of Zelda’ movie? Wes Ball, director of ‘Maze Runner’ and ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ is at the helm.
• Will Shigeru Miyamoto be involved in the film’s production? Yes, the legendary game designer is serving as a producer on the project.
• What inspired Zelda’s costume in the movie? Zelda’s outfit draws inspiration from Link’s blue attire in ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.’
• Is there a trailer for ‘The Legend of Zelda’ movie available yet? As of November 16, 2025, a trailer has not yet been released, but is anticipated in the coming months.