A worldwide casting call has commenced for a live-action adaptation of the hit manga series 'Naruto,' with Lionsgate backing the project. Destin Daniel Cretton, known for directing Marvel's 'Shang-Chi,' will helm and write the film, which seeks to cast the three main characters—Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura—before expanding to supporting roles. The source material has achieved remarkable global reach, with over 250 million copies distributed across more than 60 countries.

Cretton expressed enthusiasm for bringing Kishimoto's universe to the screen, whilst the manga's creator reflected on the project's development with a sense of wonder. Lionsgate first announced the adaptation in February 2024, following an unsuccessful attempt to develop a live-action film in 2014. The production team includes established filmmakers and producers from Arad Productions, marking a significant investment in adapting one of the most influential manga properties for Hollywood audiences.