- Primary Subject: Sony Pictures co-financing and partnering with Lionsgate for the live-action Narutofilm.
- Key Update:Sony Pictures has joined Lionsgate to co-finance and distribute internationally the live-action Narutomovie written and directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, officially greenlighting production for a spring 2027 start.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: November 4, 2026
- Quick Answer: Sony and Lionsgate are co-producing the live-action Narutomovie directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, with filming scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
Following years of delays and development, the live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s iconic manga Narutohas received a major studio boost.
Sony Pictures has officially joined forces with Lionsgate to co-finance and distribute the blockbuster film directed by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Spider-Man: Brand New Day).
Sony Partners With Lionsgate on Destin Daniel Cretton’s Live-Action Naruto Movie
Credit: Studio Pierrot
According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, Lionsgate has formed a partnership deal with Sony Pictures for the feature adaptation of Naruto in live-action.
Under the deal, Lionsgate will retain domestic distribution and oversee production, leaving Sony Pictures to handle international theatrical distribution, considering the latter’s extensive experience in the anime market, including its ownership of Crunchyroll.
“We share an enormous ambition for Narutoand 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 Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson in a statement.
Sony’s Motion Picture Group CEO and chairman Rothman added, “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.”
Original creator Masashi Kishimoto remains closely involved in the project, having previously praised Cretton as a visionary director capable of capturing the core humanity and heart of the story.
With Cretton attached to write, direct, and produce, the long-running project has been officially greenlit and set to start production in spring 2027.
What Naruto Fans Can Expect From the Live-Action Adaptation
Credit: Studio Pierrot
Bringing the Hidden Leaf Village into live-action comes with immense expectations, but Cretton’s vision aims to honor the spirit of thes depth in ninja techniques and character development while balancing its humor that defined Kishimoto’s original manga
Famously known for his legendary hand-to-hand fight choreography in Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi, Cretton brings a proven track record for translating intricate martial arts set pieces to real-world cinema.
Industry reports suggest the feature film will focus on foundational early story arcs, which would allow audiences to build a similar connection with Team 7’s origins before expanding the cinematic universe.
For now, production for the live-action Narutoadaptation is slated to begin in spring 2027. Stay tuned for more updates on this story right here on Epicstream!
