Nintendo fans, brace yourselves—rumors are swirling that the highly anticipated live-action The Legend of Zelda movie might just be the beginning of an epic cinematic journey. According to recent industry buzz and insider Daniel RPK, the gaming giant is laying the groundwork for not one, but three films, potentially transforming the beloved franchise into a sprawling trilogy. With a confirmed release date for the first installment already in place, this bold move signals Nintendo’s intent to expand its presence in Hollywood following the blockbuster success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Reportedly, production details reveal that filming is scheduled to kick off in New Zealand later this year. From November 2025 to April 2026, the stunning landscapes of this picturesque country, famously the backdrop for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, will serve as the real-world canvas for Link’s fantastical exploits. The choice of location feels like a perfect fit, blending New Zealand’s lush greenery and dramatic vistas with the ethereal charm of Zelda’s universe. Could we see the rolling hills of the Waikato transformed into Hyrule Field or the rugged peaks of Tongariro standing in for Death Mountain? The possibilities are as endless as the game’s open-world exploration.
The initial Zelda film, slated to hit theaters worldwide on March 26, 2027, is being co-produced by Nintendo and Sony Pictures, with industry veteran Shigeru Miyamoto teaming up with producer Avi Arad to bring Hyrule to life. Wes Ball, known for helming The Maze Runner series and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, is attached to direct, promising a fresh yet faithful take on the iconic adventure. But the real excitement comes from whispers that this project could span multiple films, with actors reportedly signing on for a trio of adventures set in the mythical land of Hyrule.
While Nintendo has only officially confirmed the first movie, the idea of a trilogy isn’t far-fetched. Industry insider Daniel Richtman recently hinted via a Patreon post that the cast is locked in for a three-picture deal, suggesting a six-year plan to unfold this saga. This long-term commitment mirrors the confidence Nintendo displayed with The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which raked in over $1.3 billion globally and paved the way for more cinematic ventures. A Zelda trilogy could explore different eras of the franchise’s rich lore—perhaps following Link’s quest for the Triforce across multiple timelines or introducing fan-favorite characters like Ganondorf, Zelda, and the quirky Tingle in a grand, interconnected narrative.
The decision to shoot in New Zealand also underscores the project’s ambition. Known for its film-friendly infrastructure and breathtaking scenery, the country offers a practical yet magical setting that could elevate the live-action adaptation beyond typical studio fare. Director Wes Ball has previously expressed his desire to craft a film that feels like a “live-action Miyazaki,” blending whimsy and wonder in a way that honors the spirit of The Legend of Zelda. New Zealand’s natural beauty could be the key to achieving that vision, grounding the fantasy in a tangible, awe-inspiring world.
Of course, details remain scarce for now. Nintendo and Sony Pictures are keeping the plot, cast, and specific inspirations under wraps, leaving fans to speculate about which games or combination of games might shape the story. Will it draw from the sweeping scope of Breath of the Wild, the time-bending intrigue of Ocarina of Time, or perhaps a wholly original tale? Whatever the direction, Nintendo’s heavy involvement in the production, as emphasized by Miyamoto, suggests a commitment to staying true to the franchise’s legacy.
As the countdown to November 2025 begins, the prospect of a Zelda movie trilogy has the gaming and film communities abuzz. If these rumors hold true, Link’s cinematic journey could redefine how video game adaptations are approached, offering a multi-film epic that rivals the scale of Middle-earth or the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For now, all eyes are on New Zealand and the promise of a Hyrulean adventure unlike any we’ve seen before.
