Sony Pictures has joined Lionsgate as a co-financing and international distribution partner for the upcoming live-action Naruto movie, with production scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
The deal follows competitive bidding involving multiple studios and marks a major step forward for the long-awaited adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s manga.
Lionsgate will continue to oversee the film’s development and production while handling its domestic distribution.
In a statement, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said Sony Pictures was an ideal partner for the adaptation, citing the studio’s expertise in manga and anime as well as its global distribution capabilities.
“With their deep expertise in manga and anime and global distribution prowess, Sony Pictures is a perfect partner for Naruto, and we’re thrilled to join forces with Tom Rothman and his team to bring this extraordinary property to audiences around the world. We share an enormous ambition for Naruto and a commitment to making this a truly global cinematic event that stays true to what millions of existing fans love and invites so many more to embrace what makes it truly special,” said Fogelson.
He added, “I’m tremendously proud of Erin Westerman and James Myers for their work developing this film and bringing Destin aboard, and of Helen Lee-Kim for securing Sony as our international partner. Ari Arad, Tetsu Fujimura, and our producing team also deserve huge thanks for their hard work and support.”
Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group chairman and CEO Tom Rothman also praised Lionsgate’s work on the project, adding that the studio was honored to partner on the adaptation.
“Lionsgate has done a masterful job in putting together an A-level adaptation, and we are honored to be chosen as their partner. Not to mention, we had a sweet success this summer with Destin and are delighted to be back in his capable hands.”
Director Cretton said he hopes to preserve the qualities that make Kishimoto’s story special while introducing the franchise to a new generation of audiences.
“As a longtime fan of Naruto, I’ve always loved that beneath the extraordinary action is a story filled with heart, humor, and humanity. Kishimoto-sensei created a world where unlikely heroes do extraordinary things, and that’s what makes it so special. Lionsgate has been an incredible partner, and I’m thrilled to reunite with the fantastic team at Sony. Together, we’re committed to capturing everything fans love about Naruto while introducing it to a whole new generation,” said Cretton.
Lionsgate has also launched a worldwide casting search for the roles of Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, the three central characters of the manga.
Meanwhile, Charles Melton is reportedly in talks to play Kakashi Hatake.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
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