Lionsgate has officially greenlit a live-action Naruto film, with Destin Daniel Cretton set to write and direct the adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s manga. Production is scheduled to begin in the spring.
Lionsgate will lead development and production and handle domestic distribution. Sony has secured international distribution rights and will co-finance the project.
Kishimoto is reported to be closely involved. Avi Arad, Ari Arad and Emmy Yu will produce for Arad Productions, alongside Cretton and Jeyun Munford for Hisako.
The Naruto manga has sold more than 250 million copies across over 60 countries and territories. Its anime adaptation has reached audiences in more than 145 countries and territories.
Sources: Deadline.