With rumors surrounding the Netflix live-action One Piece adaptation going viral, anime fans are naturally curious about the fate of other iconic series.
The Naruto series, a giant in the world of anime and manga, has been at the center of such speculation.
Social media is awash with rumors that a live-action Naruto movie is in the works, with Tasha Huo, the author behind “The Witcher: Blood Origin,” said to be working on a new script.
But how much of this story is rooted in reality? Let’s explore together.
Naruto live action movie in development
Artistic ideas
Contrary to what some might believe, the live-action Naruto movie is more than just an online production of gossip. The project has been in development for many years and the story is much more than that.
The idea of adapting a live-action Naruto version is not new. Lionsgate secured the rights to the franchise in early 2015, with Michael Gracey, director of “The Greatest Showman,” initially assigned to direct the project.
By 2017, the script had been passed to Jon and Erich Hoeber to rewrite. Things seem to be progressing but not without challenges.
In a 2018 interview with Collider, director Michael Gracey talked about the delicate process of bringing Naruto to the big screen. Gracey emphasized that the script is still being worked on and that rushing writing is not an option. “We are committed to creating a script that not only excites us but also honors the legacy of the series,” he said.
Gracey expressed a strong desire to collaborate with Masashi Kishimoto, the mastermind behind the Naruto universe. “My goal is to work closely with Kishimoto to develop a script that he is excited to bring to life. After all, who understands the Naruto world better than its creator?”
Gracey shared her enthusiasm for the project, adding: “It was a great opportunity and everyone from Lionsgate to the producers understood the importance of this. responsibility.”
Fast-forward to June 2023 and the project seems to be back on track. Tasha Huo, known for her contributions to “The Witcher: Blood Origin,” wrote the draft of the new script. While details about the cast are still being kept under wraps, it’s possible that Kishimoto will be involved as a consultant.
BIG NEWS WARNING ????
MOVIE NARUTO LIVE ACTION is being played @Lionsgate develop ️
Tasha Huo, writer of The Witcher on Netflix, has completed a draft of a new script! Who’s excited? pic.twitter.com/QHCcZDrm4k
— ??????????????????? ????????????????????岸本斉史 (@kishimotomassi) August 28, 2023
The renewed script breathed life back into the project. However, it is clear that the team is proceeding with caution to ensure the adaptation matches the franchise’s esteemed reputation.
Also Read: Top 10 Rated Naruto Shippuden Episodes on IMDb
When can we expect the live-action Naruto movie to be released?
While the live-action Naruto film adaptation has made significant strides, it’s important to manage release date expectations. The film is still in the planning stages and the cast has yet to be announced.
Adding another layer of complexity is the Hollywood Writers’ Strike, which has plagued many works. Given these factors, it’s reasonable to expect to wait at least another 2 to 3 years before Naruto launches the live-action version on the big screen.
The journey of adapting Naruto into a live-action version has been a long one. a mix of highs and lows so far. The participation of seasoned professionals and original creators offers a glimmer of hope. While the project is far from being in production, at least fans can be optimistic that Naruto can finally hit the big screen in a way that’s true to its roots.
