'Shang Chi' helmer Destin Daniel Cretton to direct, write 'Naruto' movie

Filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton has been announced to pen and helm a live-action adaptation of the popular Japanese manga series ‘Naruto’. The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with a demon fox spirit inside him. Cretton will also produce the film alongside Jeyun Munford through his company, Hisako.

The manga series was serialized in Japan’s Weekly Shonen Jump from 1999 to 2014, focusing on Naruto’s coming-of-age journey, friendships, and ninja battles. With over 250 million copies sold in 60 countries, ‘Naruto’ has a massive global fanbase. The series, created by Masashi Kishimoto, has also been adapted into an animated series, video games, and various merchandise.

Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of ‘Naruto’, has given his blessing to Destin Daniel Cretton after meeting him in Tokyo. Kishimoto praised Cretton’s work in creating solid dramas and expressed confidence in his ability to bring ‘Naruto’ to life on the big screen. Lionsgate, who has been developing the adaptation since 2015, believes that Cretton’s vision for the film will excite both existing fans and newcomers to the series.

Adam Fogelson, Chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, stated, “This manga classic is beloved by millions of fans all around the world, and Destin has delivered a vision for the movie that we believe will excite that massive fan base as well as those who are new to it.” Fans can look forward to seeing how Cretton’s take on ‘Naruto’ will translate the popular manga series into a live-action film.