Fans are so excited for the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie and are waiting to see how this new Hyrule will look on screen. A big piece of the puzzle has fallen into place with the casting of Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. At 16 (and possibly 17 when filming starts) Ainsworth’s age gives a big clue as to which Zelda story the movie could be based on. In many of the popular games Link is 16 or 17.
This narrows down the Zelda games the movie could be based on. Link’s age changes throughout the series but he’s often 16 or 17 in many of the main games. This includes the darker and more serious games like Zelda II: The Adventure of Link and Twilight Princess where Link faces tough enemies and complex challenges that suit an older hero. Link’s Awakening and Skyward Sword are also good fits, as they’re personal and reflective stories that show Link about to become an adult.
Possible Journeys: From Old Adventures to Known Characters
In addition to these direct matches there are other options to consider. The “Toon Link” versions of the character from games like The Wind Waker, Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks are younger. But Ainsworth can still make those fun and lighthearted adventures work with a slightly older take. This would allow for sailing or train journeys and a unique look and feel for the movies.
The casting also allows people to come up with new and creative ways to tell old stories. If the movie starts with a “Young Link” then Ocarina of Time is a great choice. It has a big time jump to an adult Link which would allow Ainsworth to play the older version of the hero. Even though Link has been asleep for over 100 years in the Breath of the Wild series Ainsworth can still play that version of him. He can focus on Link’s younger looks and his journey of waking up in a world that’s changed a lot.
Why a Teen Hero Matters
Casting a teenage Link shows the filmmakers are focusing on issues that are relevant to teenagers; finding themselves, taking on new responsibilities and dealing with a lot of stress. A hero who is still learning and becoming what he’s meant to be makes his challenges and successes even more impactful. This will definitely affect the tone, difficulty and feel of the movie as we see a young hero go on a big adventure to save Hyrule. As production gets underway Ainsworth’s age is a big clue to what’s to come for the The Legend of Zelda movie.
