Mar 18 / Sozoroo TEAM

Progress in Hollywood's "NARUTO" Live-Action Adaptation: New Director and Screenwriter Announced

Background
Significant developments have taken place in the Hollywood live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto's renowned manga "NARUTO". Lionsgate, a major American film company overseeing the production, announced on February 23, 2024, the appointment of Destin Daniel Cretton as the new director and screenwriter for the project, a piece of news eagerly awaited by manga fans.

About Destin Daniel Cretton
Destin Daniel Cretton gained recognition as the director of "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings," which grossed over $220 million in North America upon its release in 2021. His successful track record led to high expectations for his involvement in the live-action adaptation of "NARUTO". His expertise is expected to have a significant impact on the future of the "NARUTO" movie.

About Lionsgate Production
Lionsgate is a prominent American entertainment company known for its work in film and television. Particularly notable in the film industry, they excel at producing series aimed at younger audiences. With the addition of "NARUTO" to their portfolio, they will be able to offer their audiences another captivating project.

The popularity and history of NARUTO
"NARUTO" is a manga series created by Masashi Kishimoto that debuted in 1999. Its popularity spread worldwide, with over 250 million copies sold, making it one of the best-selling manga series of all time. The series received widespread acclaim for its compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and intricate world-building. Its impact on popular culture was immense, inspiring various adaptations, including anime, movies, video games, and merchandise.

The manga's success was not limited to Japan; it found a dedicated fan base around the world, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Its themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams resonated with audiences of all ages, contributing to its enduring popularity even after its serialization ended in 2014.

The anime adaptation of "NARUTO" further cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon. Premiering in 2002, the anime series captivated audiences with its dynamic action sequences, emotional depth, and memorable characters. It aired in more than 80 countries and was translated into numerous languages, expanding its reach and influence.

While the original Naruto manga came to an end in 2014, the franchise continues to thrive with sequels and spin-offs such as Boruto, maintaining its relevance in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape. The announcement of a Hollywood live-action adaptation has sparked renewed excitement among fans eager to see their beloved characters and stories brought to life on the big screen.

Evolution of the Live Action Adaptation
The Hollywood adaptation of "NARUTO" has been in the works for some time. While a project with director Michael Gracey was announced in 2015, the subsequent progress remained undisclosed. However, in November 2023, it was reported that Tasha Huo was working on the script, followed by the announcement of Destin Daniel Cretton as both director and screenwriter.

Trend of anime and manga adaptations
The trend of adapting Japanese anime and manga into live-action productions has gained significant momentum. The success of the live-action series "ONE PIECE" on Netflix has likely influenced the progress of the "NARUTO" adaptation. In addition, the worldwide success of "Yu Yu Hakusho," another Japanese manga adaptation, has raised expectations for "NARUTO. However, the success of an adaptation depends not only on the choice of director and screenwriter, but also on subsequent casting and production decisions.
The live-action adaptation of "NARUTO" continues to draw considerable interest from both manga and movie fans. As fans eagerly await further developments such as casting announcements and production updates, they remain hopeful for a faithful and engaging adaptation of the beloved series.

The full press release can be found on the NARUTO OFFICIAL SITE.
Write your awesome label here.

Join Sozoroo and Dive into the World of Anime! Enjoy a 7-Day Free Trial!

Start your anime and manga creation journey with our free trial. Ignite your passion, learn from the pros, and take the first step towards your dream career in animation.

Join Sozoroo and Dive into the World of Anime! Enjoy a 7-Day Free Trial!