Live-Action Naruto Movie Plot Details and First Mission Confirmed

Inside the Official Plot Synopsis

The official plot synopsis describes an alternate universe where children train to become ninja. The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a gifted and challenging new recruit assigned to his first mission alongside teammates Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno.

The assignment quickly escalates into a dangerous scenario, pushing Naruto to face both external threats and the literal demon sealed within him that fuels his power.

While the synopsis does not explicitly name the mission, the original manga and anime series introduced Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura’s first major operation as the “Land of Waves” arc. Industry observers note that this foundational arc provides a straightforward entry point for adapting the expansive universe to live-action.

Shifting Casting Calls and Target Ages

Behind the scenes, the production’s approach to casting has evolved. Lionsgate launched a worldwide casting call in July 2024 seeking Asian actors over the age of 18 to play 16-year-old versions of Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura.

However, a subsequent casting call issued in October 2024 shifted the target age range down to 13- to 15-year-old actors specifically for Naruto and Sakura.

Filming Timeline and Unannounced Release

The shifting casting parameters leave the exact chronological age of the main characters in the film unconfirmed until Lionsgate releases further details.

Production timelines place the start of filming in the United Kingdom in early 2025. Lionsgate has not yet announced a theatrical release date for the project.