After years of speculation, fan casting debates, and cautious optimism, Nintendo has finally lifted the veil on one of its most anticipated cinematic ventures: the live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda. And with it comes the announcement that will shape the face of Hyrule on the big screen—Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda.
At just 16 years old, Ainsworth brings a youthful energy to Link, a character who has long been defined by silent courage and expressive action. Known for his roles in The Haunting of Bly Manor and voicing Pinocchio in Disney’s live-action remake, Ainsworth has already proven his ability to convey emotion through subtlety—a crucial skill for portraying a protagonist who rarely speaks.
While some fans may have hoped for a more seasoned actor, Ainsworth’s casting signals a bold move: Nintendo and director Wes Ball (The Maze Runner, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes) are clearly aiming to build a long-term cinematic legacy, potentially spanning multiple films. With Link’s stoic demeanor and expressive eyes, Ainsworth has a blank canvas to redefine the character for a new generation.
Bo Bragason, a rising British actress known for her roles in Renegade Nell, The Jetty, and Three Girls, will portray Princess Zelda. Her ethereal presence and grounded performances make her a compelling choice for a character who has evolved from damsel-in-distress to a powerful figure in her own right.
Bragason’s casting comes amidst fan campaigns that championed Euphoria star Hunter Schafer for the role. While Schafer’s popularity and influence made her a strong contender, Nintendo opted for a younger, lesser-known talent—perhaps to mirror the youthful spirit of the franchise and allow Bragason to grow into the role across future installments.
The film is directed by Wes Ball, whose passion for the Zelda universe dates back over a decade. Ball has expressed his desire to create a “serious movie” that feels “real, cool, but whimsical”—a tone reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s emotional depth and fantastical charm.
The screenplay is penned by Derek Connolly (Jurassic World), with production led by Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto and Marvel veteran Avi Arad. Sony Pictures will co-finance and distribute the film, which is slated for theatrical release on May 7, 2027.
A Journey Worth Waiting For
While plot details remain tightly guarded, fans can expect a story rooted in the timeless battle between good and evil, likely featuring the iconic villain Ganon. Whether the film draws from Ocarina of Time, Breath of the Wild, or blends elements from across the franchise, the casting of Ainsworth and Bragason sets the stage for a fresh interpretation of Hyrule’s lore.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment—not just for Nintendo’s cinematic ambitions, but for the legacy of The Legend of Zelda. With the right balance of reverence and reinvention, this film could finally give Zelda the live-action treatment fans have dreamed of for decades.
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