'Legend of Zelda' First Images Give Fans First Look at Live-Action Movie Characters
The first images from the live-action Legend of Zelda movie are here, and fans have a lot to say about the real-life renderings of legendary characters Zelda and Link.
On Monday, Nov. 17, Sony Pictures and Nintendo released the first official images of Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link, along with an announcement that filming has commenced. The Legend of Zelda is directed by Wes Ball, who previously helmed the Maze Runner trilogy (2014-‘18) and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024).
Of the three first-look images, two are close-up shots of Bragason as Zelda and Ainsworth as Link. The third shows Zelda, bow and arrow aloft, and Link together on a green hilltop, a setting reminiscent of Lord of the Rings.
Sony/Nintendo
Sony/Nintendo
Sony/Nintendo
Fans Are Enthusiastic
Fans were extremely enthusiastic about the photos. “There's something surreal about seeing pics of the real Zelda movie,” one fan wrote. “Bet it'll feel even more surreal when the first trailer drops.” “It’s so good to see they’re filming on location!” another said. “Don't know anything about these actors, but they def look the part,” yet another said. “Now someone get that dude a green hat.”
But not everyone was convinced that a live-action approach is the right idea. “Real-life Nintendo just doesn't do it for me. Would prefer if this was animated,” opined one naysayer. “Just not sure about a live-action showing of the long-standing series,” another concurred. “Having serious doubts that it will turn out well. But, I could be very pleasantly surprised. And have been before.”
Most, however, “can’t wait” to see Sony’s interpretation of the classic video game. “I doubted Wes Ball taking over the Apes franchise, but ended up really loving the movie—not to mention just the gorgeous visuals we got in the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” said one hopeful fan. “That being said, I have great confidence he'll bring justice to the first-ever live-action Zelda movie. Can't wait.”