Netflix has secured the streaming rights for Sony's live-action adaptation of Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda, following its theatrical and home entertainment releases. The film, part of a Pay-1 Deal agreement, is set for a May 2027 premiere. Filming is underway in New Zealand with young actors portraying Link and Princess Zelda.
The announcement comes from Japanese publication Famitsu, highlighting Netflix's role in distributing the highly anticipated project after initial exclusivity periods. Under the Pay-1 Deal, the Zelda adaptation joins other titles like a four-part Beatles film, The Nightingale, and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse for exclusive streaming on the platform.
Production on the live-action film began in November 2025 in New Zealand and is scheduled to continue until April 2026. It is slated for theatrical release on May 7, 2027. Casting includes Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda, bringing youthful energy to the iconic characters.
Since set footage emerged, observers have analyzed clues to determine which entry in the long-running Legend of Zelda series the movie draws from, though no official details on the specific inspiration have been confirmed. This development underscores the growing collaboration between gaming giants Nintendo and Sony in adapting beloved franchises for film, with Netflix positioning itself as a key player in post-theatrical distribution for such projects.