On 24th Feb 2024, Adam Fogelson, chair, of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group announced that Global content leader Lionsgate has closed a deal with director Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) to write and direct its highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the manga classic NARUTO.
The production team for the live-action adaption of Naruto includes Avi Arad, Ari Arad, and Emmy Yu for Arad Productions, with Jeremy Latcham. Cretton is also producing alongside Jeyun Munford through his company, Hisako
Director Destin Daniel Cretton, Manga writer Masashi Kishimoto, producers Avi and Ari Arad, and Adam Fogelson, chair, of Lionsgate shared their opinion about the upcoming adaptation
When I heard of Destin’s attachment, it happened to be right after watching a blockbuster action film of his, and I thought he would be the perfect director for NARUTO. After enjoying his other films and understanding that his forte is in creating solid dramas about people, I became convinced that there is no other director for NARUTO.
In actually meeting Destin, I also found him to be an open-minded director who was willing to embrace my input, and felt strongly that we would be able to cooperate together in the production process. To put it simply, the live action NARUTO is bound to be a film with spectacular action and profound drama. I can’t help but be excited for it.
Masashi Kishimoto
“It was a true honor to meet Kishimoto-san in Tokyo and hear his expansive vision for his creation, We are very excited to collaborate and bring NARUTO to the big screen.”
Director Destin Daniel Cretton
“NARUTO is one of the greatest manga ever written that has captivated hearts and minds globally Collaborating with the legendary Kishimoto-san and the esteemed team at Shueisha has been a joy and an honor. We are beyond excited to have Destin at the helm, bringing this cherished saga to life under the Lionsgate banner”
producers Avi and Ari Arad.
“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. Avi and I have had the pleasure of working together before and I know that as we collaborate with Destin and the team on NARUTO, we are in extraordinary hands.”
Adam Fogelson, chair, of Lionsgate
About NARUTO
NARUTO, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is one of the world’s most popular manga in the world. It has printed over 250 million copies in more than 60 countries and territories
About Destin Daniel Cretton
Destin Daniel Cretton previously directed the box office blockbuster “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”, as well as the multiple award-winner “Short Term 12”, among other films. He is set to direct a “Shang-Chi” sequel
source: official website of Naruto
