Daily Debate: Would You Prefer to See Relatively Unknown Actors Over Big-Name Stars as the Leads in the Zelda Movie?

Whenever the prospect of a live-action Legend of Zelda movie is brought up, one of the first discussions will likely revolve around who could portray its iconic characters. Throughout the past 20 years, I’ve seen countless fan-castings, from on-the-nose suggestions such as Orlando Bloom as Link to some of the more recent proposals. Seriously, who first suggested John Cena as Tingle? That’s the very definition of inspired casting.

Understandably, these fan-castings are largely comprised of big-name actors from the era in which that list was made. Now that a Zelda movie is finally in development, though, I’ve found myself re-examining the nature of these suggestions. Should the film follow in The Super Mario Bros. Movie’s footsteps and focus on gathering an ensemble of A-and-B-list celebrities, or would you rather see this project serve as a springboard for relatively unknown performers?

Of course, from a purely creative perspective, hiring the best actors for each role – regardless of status – should be priority No. 1. However, given that filmmaking – especially on this scale – is also a business, I fully expect the film to feature some recognizable talent. If nothing else, then having someone like John Cena in the movie – even as a supporting character – will give the film an air of legitimacy in the eyes of many general, non-video-game-playing moviegoers.

Again, as a fan, what I really care about is seeing the most fitting and talented actor in the role. All other things being equal, though, I would personally prefer to see this movie take after The Lord of the Rings and the original Star Wars – give Link and Zelda’s roles to the relative newcomers, but sprinkle a few famous faces throughout the movie.

What approach would you like to see the Zelda movie take in terms of casting? Again, put two actors side-by-side; they’re equally perfect for the role, but one is significantly more famous than the other. Who gets the part? Does it largely depend on the actor or role in question? Do crowded ensembles of well-known talent tend to have any effect on your immersion, however minor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!