The Sonic the Hedgehog film franchise has enjoyed considerable success, thanks in large part to the writing duo Pat Casey and Josh Miller. Having penned all three installments, including the recent Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the pair recently shared their aspirations for future video game adaptations in an interview with IGN. Among their intriguing choices was Cool Spot, the surprisingly popular game featuring the 7-Up mascot. However, their enthusiasm for the Zelda franchise, and Wind Waker in particular, truly caught attention.
“I think another easy one…would be a Zelda,” Miller stated to IGN. “I remember always when we played Wind Waker, we were always like, man…it would probably be weird if they made a Zelda movie to start with Wind Waker versus the more classic Hyrule. But we both loved Wind Waker and it’s so cinematic…So after they make this Zelda movie…maybe we can do a Wind Waker spin-off.”
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, launched on GameCube in 2002, initially sparked controversy within the Zelda community due to its cel-shaded graphics. Many fans anticipated a more “mature” depiction of Link. However, upon release, the game garnered universal acclaim and is now frequently ranked among the best Zelda titles. Fans have been clamoring for a Nintendo Switch port for years, but it remains unavailable on the platform.
As Miller acknowledges, a Wind Waker movie presents unique challenges. The game’s narrative revolves around a submerged Hyrule following the events of Ocarina of Time. Audience familiarity with Ganondorf and traditional Hyrule would be crucial for the story’s impact. Nevertheless, a spin-off seems feasible, especially if Nintendo and Sony are willing to explore the complexities of the Zelda timeline and its branches.
The Upcoming Zelda Movie
Currently, a Zelda movie is in development at Sony, with Wes Ball directing and Zelda creator Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad producing. Details have been scarce in the past year, with no casting announcements or information regarding the source material for adaptation.
Fan Interest in Wind Waker
While a Wind Waker adaptation might deviate from established Hyrule lore, the game’s distinct visual style and compelling narrative offer exciting cinematic potential. The prospect of exploring a flooded Hyrule and encountering its unique characters on the big screen is undoubtedly appealing to many fans.
Would a movie based on The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker resonate with you? Which Zelda games do you envision as successful film adaptations? Share your thoughts directly on Twitter @Marcdachamp, Bluesky @Marcdachamp, or Instagram @Dachampgaming!
