The Legend of Zelda Movie can succeed by adapting a specific game

Important takeaways

  • Majora's Mask's dark tone and complex themes would make for a bold and mature film adaptation.
  • Termina's eerie and cyclical setting, along with unique villains, offers a visually stunning and emotionally engaging story.
  • Adapting Majora's Mask over Ocarina of Time sets the film apart, providing a new perspective and resonating story.



Nintendo recently confirmed that a The Legend of Zelda The live-action film is officially in development, which has filled fans with excitement — and a little trepidation. But here's an idea: if the movie really wants to deliver a cinematic experience that's unique and memorable, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask should be the first game for the adaptation. A movie based on Majora's mask would bring a bold, mature twist to the franchise, making it something truly special.

Majora's mask was released on the Nintendo 64 back in 2000, and it was an instant hit. The video game was a direct sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Timehowever, it was much darker in tone than the previous game, which somewhat shocked fans. Fans of the franchise had never seen anything like it before. That's one of the main reasons why it would be such a bold move for Nintendo and the studio to make this live-action adaptation of the iconic video game series. Begins the character's journey on the big screen with Majora's mask would be completely unexpected and would result in a fantastic and very dark film.


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What is The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask about?

Skull boy dancing in front of the angry moon

As mentioned above, unlike many of the others Zelda game, Majora's mask has a dark, introspective tone that explores complex themes of grief, mortality and resilience – perfect for a cinematic adaptation. The game follows Link (the hero from all The Legend of Zelda video games except The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdomwhich features Zelda as the playable character) as he travels to Termina, a mysterious land separated from Hyrule, where he finds himself in a three-day time loop. A menacing moon looms overhead, threatening to crash down and destroy Termina unless Link can prevent it.


This cycle repeats, with Link reliving the same days, picking up clues and using mysterious masks that give him unique abilities to navigate challenges. The story is not only about saving the world, but also about connecting with the inhabitants of Termina, who are each struggling with their own future destiny, even if they don't fully understand what's going on. By adapting Majora's maskthe film could capture a powerful, character-driven story that is as much about human emotion as it is about adventure. It could even resemble a Christopher Nolan film with its creative use of time and the three-day loop. That sure sounds like something The Dark Knight filmmakers would love to work with.

Why would Majora's Mask be the perfect Zelda movie?

Skull Kid with Tail and the Moon on the official cover of Majora's Mask HD


The darker tone of Majora's mask would bring a new perspective to fantasy films and offer audiences a story rich in themes of mortality and redemption. Adapting this game, rather than just starting with the more obvious Ocarina of timecould create a film that feels distinct and resonates with both die-hard fans and casual viewers who crave emotional, character-driven stories with something a little different.

The eerie, cyclical time structure of the game could also provide a tense cinematic experience, much like Nolan's films such as Dunkirk, Startand Memorywhere each cycle offers new revelations and builds tension as Link approaches his goal. There is also a hint of Groundhog Day in Majora's mask plot and time loop structure, which would lend itself perfectly to a big screen adaptation.


Termina would be the perfect setting for a live-action Zelda movie

Majora's Mask Collector's Edition

Termina, with its surreal landscapes and strange images, would be a visually stunning setting. A skilled director could take full advantage of the game's ghostly aesthetic, from the eerie, ever-falling moon to the twisted and creepy Skull Kid, controlled by the malevolent Majora's mask. These details would add a sense of mystery, danger and intensity to the story, creating an unforgettable world that feels both magical and unsettling.

Each of Termina's inhabitants carries a unique story that provides an opportunity to explore human emotions and connections in a way that few video game adaptations attempt. Link's encounters with these characters would add layers to the film, add depth to his journey and heighten the film's emotional stakes. From grieving lovers to remorseful heroes, the supporting characters could provide a heartwarming and poignant counterpoint to the action and tension.


Skull Kid and Majora's Mask themselves would make fascinating villains

majora's mask skull kid

The choice of Majora's mask as the antagonist also sets this story apart. The mask itself is a powerful, enigmatic force that manipulates the Skull Kid and drives him to wreak havoc on Termina. Unlike a traditional villain, Majora's mask gives the conflict a psychological edge and raises questions of innocence, control and destruction. This unique antagonist would give the film an unconventional, thought-provoking dynamic rarely seen in fantasy.


The very best villains on film tend to be the ones you can actually relate to or empathize with. Skull Kid is a much more empathetic villain than Ganondorf (also known as Ganon), who is really more of a brutal and formulaic antagonist from Zelda video games. It would be a missed opportunity if they chose Ganondorf – the obvious choice – over someone more nuanced and complex, like Skull Kid. He is a tough villain for Link to face, as Skull Kid is oblivious to his actions and is ultimately controlled by Majora's maskthe real force behind the chaos.

There's also the creepy Happy Mask vendor, which Link is tasked with collecting Majora's mask. Skull Kid and his two elf friends steal the mask from him at the beginning of the game, and the vendor hires Link to get it back. While he's not a villain, he's incredibly creepy and would be a great live-action role for an actor to really sink his teeth into. Seeing him brought to live-action would be brilliant, as he has a much more prominent role in Majora's mask than in other games.


What other Zelda games could this live-action movie adapt?

    child Link plays the Ocarina in The Legend of Zelda Ocarina Of Time

While Majora's mask appears to be an ideal choice, others Zelda games also have strong cinematic potential. Ocarina of time could deliver an epic fantasy tale of Link's growth from child to hero, featuring memorable characters such as Princess Zelda, Ganondorf and the Seven Sages. Breath of the Wild would offer a post-apocalyptic Hyrule ripe for exploration, with breathtaking visuals and a survival twist. And Twilight Princess could provide a dark, action-packed adventure with a somber tone and a unique sidekick in the mysterious Midna.

Reports suggest The Legend of Zelda the film might release around 2029, giving the makers plenty of time to craft a story worthy of this legendary franchise. With advancements in visual effects and the growing popularity of game adaptations, the timing could be perfect for an unforgettable cinematic experience.


A Majora's mask adaptation can set the bar high, with its deep themes, intriguing characters, and immersive world. A bold choice like this would bring a new take on the fantasy film and deliver an emotional journey that stays with the audience long after the credits roll.

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