We’ve seen a marked increase in film and TV adaptations of video game properties, and one in particular has stood out is The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Though not exactly a critical darling, it has been very well received by the audiences, and has gone on to become one of the highest-grossing animated movies ever made.
Clearly, the partnership between Nintendo, Universal Pictures, and animation studio Illumination has been a fruitful one for all involved, and it seems they’re looking to join forces on another project- though one that won’t be related to Mario at all.
According to Hollywood insider Jeff Sneider, Nintendo is close to agreeing a deal with Universal Pictures for an animated film adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, with Illumination once again set to work on the movie. Speaking recently on The Hot Mic podcast, Sneider said that it’s going to cost Universal “a pretty penny”, given the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, though a deal is close to being agreed.
A movie based on The Legend of Zelda has, of course, been in heavy demand for as long as anyone can remember, and many series fans have felt that an animated film would indeed be the way to go. Given the massive critical and commercial success the franchise continues to enjoy, it’s no surprise that Nintendo sees room for even further growth beyond the gaming medium itself.
Of course, there might be some concerns over Illumination is the best film for the adaptation- the studio’s works have always been characterized by a rather particular brand of humour, and that doesn’t really seem like something that would gel with Zelda very well.
Either way, if a deal between Nintendo and Universal is indeed close to being signed, hopefully, an official announcement and concrete details on the project won’t be too far away. Stay tuned for further updates.
