# Live-action Naruto film production > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/live-action-naruto-film-production > Updated: 2026-08-20T11:24:16.000Z. Sources: 28. Developments: 2. Lionsgate is developing a live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s manga series Naruto, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. Production is expected to begin around February 2027, with a potential theatrical release targeted for 2028. Emmy-nominated actor Charles Melton is in final negotiations to portray the character Kakashi Hatake. Known for his roles in ‘Riverdale’ and ‘Beef’, Melton is a second-degree black belt in taekwondo. While the role of the elite mentor is being finalized, an international open casting search remains active to find actors for the central protagonists: Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno. The project involves Arad Productions, with key producers including Avi Arad, Ari Arad, and Jeremy Latcham. The film aims to tell a coming-of-age story centered on Naruto’s journey to become a leader in his ninja village. Previous reports suggested filming may take place in either South Korea or the United Kingdom. ## Claims - Destin Daniel Cretton is set to direct the film. (single source) - Production is scheduled to begin in early February next year in the United Kingdom. (single source) - Charles Melton is also in negotiations with Marvel Studios for the role of Beast in X-Men. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-08-20: Charles Melton in talks to play Kakashi in live-action Naruto film Emmy-nominated actor Charles Melton is in final talks to play Kakashi Hatake in Lionsgate’s live-action Naruto film, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. 28 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/charles-melton-in-talks-to-play-kakashi-in-live-action-naruto-film ### 2026-08-08: Destin Daniel Cretton to direct live-action Naruto movie Director Destin Daniel Cretton is attached to direct Lionsgate's live-action Naruto movie, with production slated for early 2027 and a focus on staying true to Masashi Kishimoto's original series. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/destin-daniel-cretton-to-direct-live-action-naruto-movie --- Cite as: Live-action Naruto film production. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/live-action-naruto-film-production