Naruto Film Gains Momentum as Destin Daniel Cretton Joins Sony and Lionsgate Financing Plans

A project gains momentum

Reports of a live-action Naruto movie first surfaced in 2015, when Lionsgate was negotiating for the franchise’s film rights. Michael Gracey was reported to be attached as director, but little progress followed for years.

The project is still in development at Lionsgate. More recently, Destin Daniel Cretton has joined as writer and director, signaling renewed movement on the adaptation.

Cretton earns Kishimoto’s support

Cretton, who co-wrote and directed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, will produce the film alongside Avi Arad, Ari Arad and Emmy Yu of Arad Productions, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto said he believed Cretton was well suited to the project after seeing his work and meeting him. Kishimoto praised Cretton’s focus on character-driven drama and his openness to the creator’s input.

Kakashi casting remains unconfirmed

Recent reports say Charles Melton is in final talks to portray Kakashi Hatake, a popular character in the series. Kakashi serves as a mentor to Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke and is a powerful ninja from the Hidden Leaf Village.

No casting has been officially announced for the live-action film. The report’s headline mentions Sony and Lionsgate co-financing, but the article text provides no further details about Sony’s role.