Lionsgate has announced a significant development in its plans for a live-action adaptation of the iconic manga series “Naruto,” with Destin Daniel Cretton, known for directing “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” stepping in to helm the project.
Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, revealed today that the studio has finalized a deal with Cretton to both write and direct the upcoming film adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s beloved manga creation.
“Naruto” has achieved remarkable success globally, with over 250 million copies of the manga sold across more than 60 countries and territories. The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with aspirations of becoming his village’s protector and leader, known as the village ninja.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Cretton remarked on the honor of meeting Kishimoto-san in Tokyo and shared his excitement about collaborating to bring “Naruto” to life on the big screen.
Kishimoto himself expressed confidence in Cretton’s ability to capture the essence of “Naruto,” citing the director’s talent for creating compelling human dramas. He praised Cretton’s open-mindedness and willingness to collaborate, foreseeing a film that combines spectacular action with profound drama.
Producing the adaptation are Avi Arad, Ari Arad, Emmy Yu for Arad Productions, along with Jeremy Latcham. Cretton will also produce alongside Jeyun Munford through his company, Hisako.
Fogelson emphasized the studio’s belief in Cretton’s vision for the film, confident that it will resonate with both existing fans of “Naruto” and newcomers to the franchise.
The project marks a reunion between Cretton and Lionsgate, following their collaboration on “The Glass Castle.” James Myers, who oversaw that project, will similarly oversee “Naruto” alongside Jon Humphrey.
Bonnie Stylides handled the negotiations for Lionsgate.
In addition to “Naruto,” Cretton is also slated to direct a sequel to “Shang-Chi,” and he recently served as an executive producer on the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese.”
The “Naruto” adaptation has been in development at Lionsgate for several years, with Michael Gracey initially signed to direct the project in 2015.
