The Legend of Zelda is one of Nintendo's oldest and most profitable franchises, so it makes sense the series would be one of the first to be converted into a feature film. Due to a deal with Sony, Netflix has obtained exclusive streaming rights to the Zelda movie ahead of its release. This is just one of Netflix's latest power plays, cementing the platform's status as a leader in streaming services.

As of now, the service's prices haven't increased due to the deal, but Netflix's price plan is already famously inflated. The simpler plans are somewhat cheap, but the premiums for removing ads are somewhat unjustified. Netflix's latest deal might not only secure their platinum streaming status, but make it so that no rival platform can reliably compete.

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Netflix Has Been making Waves in the Streaming World

The Company Started Small, But Has Become a Streaming Giant

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Netflix had somewhat unsuspecting origins as a film rental site during the late '90s. The platform was once laughed at by Blockbuster, but slowly replaced the platform over time. After Blockbuster went out of business, Netflix would transition their business model to focus on streaming during the mid 2010s. Before long, Netflix was leading the streaming crusade, taking charge of what many assumed would be a simple fad.

As of now, Netflix is the most popular streaming service today and has held the title for several years. A lot of this has to do with Netflix getting the jump on its opponents, but Netflix has always had a great understanding of its consumer base. Even when Netflix makes a controversial change, like establishing a home login location, they have become too popular to acutely feel the repercussions.

The streaming giant also has a huge category of both new and original content. The platform is responsible for one of the first successful live-action anime adaptations through Netflix's One Piece, and has consistently confirmed that the sky is the limit for the service. However, one recent deal could have skyrocketed Netflix higher than ever before.

Netflix Just Entered a New Deal With Sony Pictures

The Deal Secures Many Exclusive Streaming Rights

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In late January 2026, Netflix and Sony Pictures struck a streaming deal which secured streaming rights for the production company's subsequent titles. This essentially means that Netlfix gets first pick of any Sony film after it debuts in theaters. Fans have already become concerned this revelation could cause Netflix's price points to increase, ut they were most likely going to raise prices anyway based on other streaming advancements anyways.

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Sony's recent deal is likely a last-ditch effort to stay relevant in the coming years. The studio has access to some incredible franchises, but has severely mismanaged its lineup until recently. Now that Netflix has agreed to step in, more eyes will be on Sony Pictures than they have had in years.

Through partnering with Sony, Netflix has also partnered with Nintendo. Sony Pictures owns the creative rights to all Nintendo live-action films. This essentially confirms Netflix has exclusive access to any upcoming live-action Nintendo title, including the recently announced Legend of Zelda film.

This Deal Gives Netflix Exclusive Streaming Rights to the Upcoming Legend of Zelda Film

The Film Could Jump Start Nintendo's Live-Action Cinematic Universe

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The Legend of Zelda is one of Nintendo's oldest and most popular gaming franchises of all time. The series has spanned literal decades and has been on every Nintendo console since the original. The story follows the reincarnation of the Hero Link and his attempts to stop various forms of Ganon, and his minions, throughout different alternate timelines.

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The Legend of Zelda has also been chosen as one of Nintendo's flagship titles for their live action film initiative. There's no telling what other franchises Nintendo might include, but Zelda was a clear choice from the beginning. The somewhat realistic fantasy nature of the games is perfect for a movie capable of capturing fans' hearts, both new and otherwise.

So far, almost nothing about the film has been announced except for the cast and several still images. The images have led many to believe that this film is likely to center around The Breath of the Wild era of the games. However, the film could have a completely original plot. Only time will tell if the series holds up, but fans are already somewhat disconcerted that the hero is missing his iconic green hat.

The Zelda Movie Will Get a Theatrical Release Before Streaming on Netflix

The Legend of Zelda Could Become an Actual Successful Live-Action Adaptation

Link and Zelda in the Legend of Zelda
Link and Zelda in the Legend of Zelda
Credits: Nintendo

The Zelda film should arrive on Netflix relatively soon after it's theatrical release. The deal might've even shortened the time that the movie would stay in theaters, but that could cause more eyes to be on the film anyway. The only people a deal like this really affects are the actors, like in Scarlett Johanson's case with Disney. However, the fact that the film is getting a theatrical release at all proves movies are taking a step in the right direction.

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Nevertheless, the movie could end up becoming one of the most popular live action video game films in history. After the relative failure that was The Witcher, Netflix needs a big win. Having The Legend of Zelda and other Nintendo titles on the platform exclusively could provide all that and more. While it's clear the film has no issues with its promotion, now it falls to the actual movie to carry the weight.

Unfortunately, many fans are already going into the movie with a clear idea of what they want to see. Overall, only time will tell if the live-action Legend of Zelda film is successful. The Zelda movie has a lot of potential, but Sony's deal with Netflix has many worried. It's possible Sony either really believes in the upcoming project or was just eager to get rid of it once the theater hype has subsided. Either way, Legend of Zelda fans are in for an interesting ride.