The live-action movie “Naruto” is launching a global casting search to find its three lead actors. The adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s classic manga is backed by Lionsgate. The casting search will cover the roles of Team 7: Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura. Additional casting for supporting roles will follow. Destin Daniel Cretton, the filmmaker behind Marvel’s “Shang-Chi” and the upcoming “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” is writing and directing the project.

“Kishito-sensei’s stories have inspired generations of fans around the world, and it is an honor to bring his world and characters to the big screen in live-action for the first time,” Cretton said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to kick off this global casting search for our Team 7 and bring the incredible ‘Naruto’ universe to life!”

Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto added: “Right now, miracles are happening to me, one after another. My work, ‘Naruto,’ is truly becoming a Hollywood movie! And an even bigger miracle is that the movie will be directed by the one and only Destin Daniel Cretton. I still can’t believe it! If so many miracles have already happened, then let’s hope there are even more. I’m looking forward to the miraculous encounters that will bring us extraordinary actors and passionate! I can’t wait to meet my movie characters!

Lionsgate announced the live-action “Naruto” movie in February 2024. The manga has printed more than 250 million copies in more than 60 countries and territories. It follows teenage ninja Naruto Uzumaki, who dreams of becoming the protector and leader of his community known as the village ninja.

Avi Arad, Ari Arad and Emmy Yu will produce for Arad Productions with Jeremy Latcham. Cretton produces alongside Jeyun Munford through their company, Hisako. Cretton previously collaborated with Lionsgate on “The Glass Castle.” The studio previously tried to get a “Naruto” movie off the ground in 2014 when it hired Michael Gracey to direct.