Filming of The Legend of Zelda Adaptation Begins in New Zealand

The Legend of Zelda adaptation is being filmed at locations made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Production on The Legend of Zelda film, a collaboration between Nintendo and Sony Pictures, has officially begun in New Zealand. Updated information from the Film & Television Industry Alliance (FTIA) indicates the project has moved into active production.

The main filming hub is in Wellington — the same area where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were shot. The choice is deliberate: director Wes Ball has said he intends to create an adventure film that feels grounded, visually striking, and imbued with magic.

Available reports indicate production will continue through April 2026. In a recent message to investors, Nintendo suggested a 2027 release window. The film will be the company’s next major undertaking following the animated The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which is slated for release on April 3, 2026.

The Legend of Zelda movie follows the canon of the classic games: the young hero Link must once again save the kingdom of Hyrule from Ganondorf. The lead roles are filled by Bo Bragason (Zelda) and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth (Link) — currently the only confirmed cast members.

The project is overseen by Shigeru Miyamoto, creator of the original series, and Avi Arad, the former head of Marvel Studios. The screenplay was penned by Derek Connolly (Jurassic World). Production is being financed jointly by Nintendo and Sony Pictures Entertainment, with Sony set to handle international distribution.

Source: iXBT.games