The live-action Street Fighter movie finally has a release date, set to hit theaters on October 16, 2026. The project is a collaboration between Legendary Entertainment and Capcom, with Paramount Pictures handling global distribution. Filming is already underway in Australia, and the film is shaping up to be an ambitious adaptation that blends big-screen spectacle with the spirit of the classic arcade franchise. This will actually be the third live-action attempt to bring Street Fighter to theaters.
Key Takeaways
- The new Street Fighter film is scheduled for release on October 16, 2026
- Produced by Legendary Entertainment and Capcom, distributed by Paramount Pictures
- Directed by Kitao Sakurai
- Cast includes Andrew Koji, Noah Centineo, Jason Momoa, and Roman Reigns
- Storyline takes place in 1993, focusing on Ryu and Ken
Kitao Sakurai, known for directing Bad Trip and The Eric Andre Show, is behind the camera for this adaptation. The story is set in 1993 and follows estranged fighters Ryu and Ken Masters. They are recruited by Chun-Li to participate in the “World Warrior Tournament,” a brutal contest that conceals a larger conspiracy. Along the way, both must confront the past they thought they had left behind. The focus on Ryu and Ken suggests the film is returning to the franchise’s core themes of friendship, rivalry, and personal growth.
The cast brings together a striking mix of talent. Andrew Koji, recognized for his work in Warrior and Bullet Train, will play Ryu. Noah Centineo, who appeared in Black Adam and The Recruit, is set to play Ken Masters. Callina Liang has been cast as Chun-Li. Jason Momoa takes on the role of Blanka, and WWE star Roman Reigns (Joe Anoa’i) steps into the role of Akuma. Other major names include David Dastmalchian as M. Bison, Cody Rhodes as Guile, Orville Peck as Vega, and Indian action star Vidyut Jammwal as Dhalsim. Jammwal’s involvement in particular has generated strong interest among Indian fans on social media.
This upcoming film follows two earlier attempts at live-action adaptations. The 1994 Street Fighter starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Raul Julia has become a cult favorite over time, despite its uneven reviews. In contrast, the 2009 Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li struggled critically and commercially. Given that history, fans have been especially vocal online about the new production. The choice of Sakurai as director has drawn a lot of speculation. His background in comedy has some people wondering if he might embrace the exaggerated, almost surreal qualities of the games, while still keeping the story grounded in action.
Capcom is directly involved in the film’s development, working closely with producers to preserve the authenticity of the characters and the tone. The movie is being shot with IMAX cameras in Australia, promising a visually large-scale experience for audiences. The project initially had Danny and Michael Philippou attached as directors, but they stepped away due to scheduling conflicts. Sakurai took over in early 2025, and since then the production has been moving forward steadily.
Whether this becomes the definitive Street Fighter adaptation or simply another entry in the franchise’s long history on screen, it is already one of the most anticipated video game movies in years.
Related FAQs
Q: Who is directing the new Street Fighter movie?
A: The film is directed by Kitao Sakurai, known for his work on the comedy film Bad Trip.
Q: What is the release date for the Street Fighter movie?
A: The movie is scheduled to release in theaters on October 16, 2026.
Q: Who is in the cast of the new Street Fighter movie?
A: The cast includes Andrew Koji as Ryu, Noah Centineo as Ken Masters, Callina Liang as Chun-Li, Jason Momoa as Blanka, Roman Reigns as Akuma, and David Dastmalchian as M. Bison.
Q: What is the plot of the new Street Fighter film?
A: The film is set in 1993 and follows estranged friends Ryu and Ken as they are brought back together for the World Warrior Tournament, where they discover a conspiracy.
