An animated movie based on The Legend of Zelda isn’t happening, according to Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri.
Last week, it was reported by film reporter Jeff Sneider that Nintendo and Universal were “close” to a deal for Illumination to produce a movie based on the Legend of Zelda. In an interview with The Wrap, however, Meledandri said that there are no plans to turn Zelda into a film.
“I don’t know where that came from,” Meledandri said. “I mean I can understand how people would surmise all sorts of things because obviously, we’ve had a great experience working together.
“My relationship with Nintendo now includes being on their board of directors, so I understand how people can surmise these things. But in terms of the specifics, that was just something that I’ve been hearing lots of rumors. This is just about what’s next between Nintendo and Illumination.”
During that same interview, Benjamin Renner, a director at Illumination, added that he hears a new rumor every week and that this week’s was Zelda.
In his original report, Sneider said that he heard the deal was “close” and that Universal was going to pay a “pretty penny” for the rights after the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Related: Two Classic Zelda Games Added To Nintendo Switch Online
What do you think of Illumination CEO Meledandri’s comments saying that a Legend of Zelda movie isn’t happening? For more Insider Gaming, check out what popular game is getting an animated adaptation in the form of a TV series.
