Are You Buying Illumination CEO Denying Plans for Zelda Movie?

After the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, it would only seem natural for Nintendo to continue along the film adaption route, right?

Hollywood Insider Jeff Sneider recently reported a potential animated adaption of The Legend of Zelda may be on the way though there’s no official word on that. That hasn’t stopped many from attempting to connect the dots and deducing their own theories.

Illumination CEO Chris Melendandri, however, isn’t one for the theories as he offered a soft denial on the reports.

I don’t know where that came from. 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 reports. This is just about what’s next between Nintendo and Illumination.
Chris Melendandri, Illumination CEO

There’s a few things to note here.

First, of course Melendandri is going to deny the reports. Why would he reveal one way or the other at this stage of the game?

Second, this quote is a flimsy example of a denial. To me, it’s more of a sidestep and deflection instead of a flat-out denial. There are a multitude of reasons why he would sidestep instead of deny and they all head in different directions.

Third, it appears that The Legend of Zelda movie may not happen under Illumination, despite its success with The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Rather, it may be under Universal Pictures.

**Image Credit:** Nintendo (via Red Bull)

Sneider reports Universal Pictures is seeking the rights to The Legend of Zelda as the studio negotiates with Nintendo. Sneider also claims if Universal obtains the rights, it could opt to go with Illumination, DreamWorks Animation, or even do a live-action film, but no discussion has taken place on this decision.

Still, it could explain Melendandri’s deflection as these discussions may be in the early stages. Additionally, it’s likely completely out of his hands.

That said, it is interesting to see Meledandri admitting he is on the Nintendo Board of Directors. This tidbit and the fact that Universal has opened two Super Nintendo World lands in its theme parks in both Japan and California hint at a solid relationship.

Keep in mind, there’s a lot of speculation going on here. Many are using these points to connect the dots, but in all likelihood, we may not know for a few years. That doesn’t mean it’s not fun to dive down the rabbit hole.

So what do you think? Is a The Legend of Zelda movie in the realm of possibility? Do you buy Melendandri’s deflection? Let us know in the comments below or head over to our Discord channel to join the conversation.

Sources: The Wrap, Yahoo Entertainment

Featured Image: Nintendo (via The Verge)

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