There have been speculations that Netflix is working with Nintendo on a new series based on the seemingly immortal video game series “The Legend of Zelda.” Neither has confirmed the series, but there are number of questions that will need to be answered in order to convert this fantasy adventure game into a live-action series.
A similar task has been undertaken before. Though we’d like to forget, The Legend of Zelda was turned into a cartoon comedy series in 1989 featuring an angsty teen Link’s frivolous adventures in Hyrule. Netflix appears to be taking a totally different approach. According to rumours, the new Zelda series is aimed at a family-friendly version of Game of Thrones. This seems to suggest a story that it deeply heroic and somewhat dark, with characters strongly developed from the many names throughout the game series.
One issue that immediately comes to mind is Link’s speech. In the game, his vocabulary consists of exclamations along the lines of “uh eh ooh!” leading some gamers to believe that Link isn’t even able to talk. Nevertheless, I have trouble imagining a Zelda series with a mute protagonist. Though the huge fan base that already exists for the Zelda games will definitely be an advantage for the success of the new series, it might be difficult to write lines for Link that live up to the expectations of his fans. The game series also provides an incredible soundtrack for the Netflix writers to work with. It seems that fans would appreciate an adaptation of classic Zelda songs over an entirely new soundtrack.
The lore of Zelda could provide a complex framework for the show, and it would be a surprise if the plot did not at least attempt to follow it. Even a strict interpretation leaves all the details to be filled in and a lot of freedom to develop the characters. One important question is the time-frame: will the show feature Link as an adult or child, or both? Throughout the game series, things get complicated. With the family-friendly angle, it seems that the protagonists will be played by young adults. A series with so much anticipation is sure to be filled with fresh faces, but for the main characters some ideas come to mind.
When I think of a real-life version of Link, Jojen Reed from Game of Thrones immediately comes to mind, and that’s why Thomas Brodie-Sangster would the perfect mild-mannered yet intensely heroic character to play Link. Expecting a tough and spunky version of Princess Zelda, there’s no one more fit for the role than Chloë Grace Moretz, best known for her role as Hit-Girl in “Kick-Ass” — she’s already proven herself a sassy action hero with a very Zelda look.
Whether the Zelda games are a current pastime or a fond childhood memory, we can look forward to the fantasy and adventure of the Legend of Zelda brought to life.
