The Legend of Zelda movie is finally becoming real — and Nintendo and Sony have just given us our first look at two of its most iconic characters. This live-action film, based on the beloved Nintendo video game series, is generating huge excitement, and here’s everything you need to know so far.
Early on, fans have been waiting for a big moment: what will Link and Princess Zelda look like in real life? The first official photos released through Nintendo’s app show Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Zelda. These images are hugely important because they give us a glimpse of the tone that the filmmakers are going for — a mix of fantasy realism and faithful homage to the games.
In the photos, Link wears his classic green tunic, reminding many of versions from Twilight Princess or Ocarina of Time, though curiously, he’s not wearing his traditional pointed hat. Zelda, on the other hand, appears in a simple blue dress that seems inspired by her look in Breath of the Wild. The natural, open-field backdrop of the photos suggests that the film may draw from multiple eras of the Zelda universe, rather than just stick to a single game as its base.
Why This First Look Matters for Fans
Seeing Link and Zelda in live action is a big deal because these characters are deeply cherished in gaming. For long-time fans, these photos are a moment of validation: they show that the filmmakers are respecting the spirit of the games and not just putting any Hollywood faces in the roles. For newcomers, they serve as an introduction — a taste of what to expect from this adaptation.
It’s not just about the costumes, though. The casting choice is interesting: Benjamin Evan Ainsworth is only 16 years old, and Bo Bragason, while young, already has some acting credits. Their youth could bring a fresh energy to the characters, making the story feel more like a classic adventure. On the other hand, some fans have raised eyebrows, wondering if they can carry the weight of such iconic roles. Either way, this is a bold move by Nintendo and Sony.
What We Know About the Movie So Far
The live-action Legend of Zelda movie is being directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on The Maze Runner series and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. This gives fans hope that the film might lean into epic, large-scale fantasy, rather than being a small indie project.
Production has begun in New Zealand, a location that many will recognize from big fantasy films like The Lord of the Rings. Shooting is expected to run for several months. The release date for the movie has been set for May 7, 2027, though earlier reports mentioned March 26, 2027.
There are even rumours that this could be part of a trilogy, meaning Nintendo and Sony might have a long-term vision for Zelda’s cinematic future.
What This Means for the Zelda Legacy
This live-action adaptation could be a turning point for how video games translate to film. The Legend of Zelda games are not only about action and combat — they’re deeply rooted in lore, puzzles, and a sense of wonder. If done right, the movie could capture not just the battles but the heart of what makes Zelda special: the journey of Link, the wisdom of Zelda, and the ever-present threat of darkness.
Think of how fans felt when The Lord of the Rings movies first came out. There was fear, but also hope — could this epic world be faithfully translated to cinema? With these first images, Zelda fans are beginning to feel that same mix of excitement and cautious optimism. The green fields, the costumes, the casting — they all hint at a film that might respect the source material while bringing something new to the screen.
Why You Should Care Now
If you’re a fan of the Legend of Zelda games, this is your moment to get hyped. These first photos are not just promotional—they are a signal that the filmmakers understand the franchise’s soul. For someone who has played Breath of the Wild, Ocarina of Time, or any of the other legendary entries, seeing Link and Zelda in real life makes the possibility of a cinematic Hyrule incredibly real.
And even if you haven’t played the games, this could be your chance to dive into one of gaming’s richest stories. As the movie progresses toward its 2027 release, more details will surely come: plot, other characters (like Ganon or Impa), and possibly trailers. With every new update, the film becomes less of a dream and more of a promise.
