The highly anticipated live-action Legend of Zelda movie, a collaborative effort between Nintendo and Sony, has officially cast its leads. In an exciting announcement posted on X on Wednesday, the iconic Nintendo figure, Shigeru Miyamoto, revealed that Bo Bragason will take on the role of Princess Zelda, while Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will portray the beloved character, Link. This news has generated significant buzz among fans of the franchise.
In his post, Miyamoto expressed his enthusiasm for the casting choices, stating, “I am pleased to announce that for the live-action film of The Legend of Zelda, Zelda will be played by Bo Bragason-san, and Link by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth-san.” Accompanying the announcement were photos of the two actors, seemingly dressed in their respective costumes, which added to the excitement surrounding the film.
Miyamoto further confirmed that the Legend of Zelda film is scheduled for release in theaters on May 7, 2027. This timeline aligns with the increasing trend of adapting popular video game franchises into feature films, a move that has both excited and concerned fans.
The upcoming movie aims to adapt the beloved Nintendo gaming franchise that first launched in 1986. The storyline is expected to follow the young Link and Princess Zelda as they embark on a quest to save the kingdom of Hyrule from the malevolent villain, Ganon. This narrative is a classic tale of good versus evil, filled with adventure and enchantment, which has captivated players for decades.
Bo Bragason, the English actress stepping into the role of Zelda, is recognized for her performances in notable productions such as the BBC One series Three Girls and the Disney+ series Renegade Nell. Her experience in dramatic roles positions her well to portray the complex character of Princess Zelda.
On the other hand, the 16-year-old Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, also British, is known for his roles as Miles in Netflix's The Haunting of Bly Manor and William in Flora & Ulysses. His youthful energy and acting talent are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the character of Link, making him relatable to both new audiences and longtime fans of the franchise.
The film will be directed by Wes Ball, who is known for his work on last year’s Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. With Ball at the helm, fans are hopeful that the live-action adaptation will capture the essence of the Legend of Zelda series while delivering an engaging cinematic experience.
As the production of this much-awaited film progresses, fans of the Legend of Zelda franchise can look forward to seeing their favorite characters come to life on the big screen. With a talented cast and a capable director, the film promises to be a thrilling adventure that honors the legacy of the iconic video game series.