The Live-Action ‘Naruto’ Movie Is Finally Happening as Sony Joins Lionsgate

Masashi Kishimoto’s ‘Naruto’ is one of the most successful manga franchises ever. The series has sold more than 250 million copies and grown into a multi-billion-dollar brand, while its anime adaptation has reached audiences in more than 145 countries and territories.

The franchise has also expanded into animated series, video games and merchandise. A live-action film had been in development at Lionsgate, with Destin Daniel Cretton attached to write, direct and produce.

Now the project has a major new partner. Deadline reports that Sony Pictures is teaming with Lionsgate to co-finance Cretton’s ‘Naruto’ after a highly competitive bidding war among multiple studios.

Under the deal, Sony will co-finance the film and lead international distribution. Lionsgate will continue overseeing development and production and will handle domestic distribution. The film is also moving forward on a clear schedule. Production is expected to begin in spring 2027.

The partnership reunites Cretton with Sony after a hugely successful collaboration. He directed ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ for Sony and Marvel Studios, which has grossed $2.52 billion worldwide.

Cretton said in the announcement that he’s thrilled to work with Sony’s team again, calling himself a longtime fan of ‘Naruto’. He praised Kishimoto for creating a world where unlikely heroes do extraordinary things, with a story full of heart, humor and humanity.

That personal connection could matter to a passionate fan base. Anime adaptations often face pressure to stay faithful, and having a director who already loves the material may reassure many longtime viewers.

Both studios praised the partnership. “Sony Pictures is a perfect partner for ‘Naruto,’ and we’re thrilled to join forces,” Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said in a statement shared with Deadline.

Fogelson pointed to Sony’s experience with manga and anime and said Cretton is exactly the filmmaker to bring the vision to life. He also thanked Lionsgate’s Erin Westerman and James Myers, who developed the project, along with producers Ari Arad and Tetsu Fujimura.

Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group CEO and chairman Tom Rothman said the studio was honored to be chosen as Lionsgate’s partner. He described Sony’s team as big believers in the global power of manga and anime and referenced the studio’s success with Cretton this summer.

Several executives helped bring the partnership together. Helen Lee-Kim secured Sony’s role as the international partner, while Michael Meyer negotiated the deal for Lionsgate. With 2 major studios now backing it, ‘Naruto’ has the resources needed to deliver the large-scale action fans will expect. Sony’s global reach should also help it connect with the franchise’s worldwide audience.

The project has been in the works at Lionsgate for some time, and some outlets have described the move as a major step after a long wait. With a filming window now set, the adaptation looks closer than ever to becoming a reality.

No casting has been announced yet, and plot details are still under wraps. Fans will likely be watching closely to see who is chosen to play the title character. For now, the combination of Cretton’s blockbuster track record and the franchise’s huge global following makes ‘Naruto’ one of the most closely watched anime adaptations in development.