Masi Oka Eyed for Tingle Role in Rumored Zelda Film

The creator of the eccentric Zelda character Tingle, Takaya Imamura, has revealed his top choice to portray the character in the upcoming live-action Zelda movie. Forget Jason Momoa or Jack Black – Imamura's pick is a surprising but potentially perfect fit.

Imamura's Dream Tingle: Masi Oka

In a recent interview with VGC, Imamura stated his desire to see Masi Oka, famed for his role as Hiro Nakamura in Heroes, take on the role of Tingle. He specifically cited Oka's enthusiastic "yatta!" exclamation from the series, noting its similarity to Tingle's signature poses.

Oka's versatility, demonstrated in films like Bullet Train and The Meg, and his comedic timing, showcased in Hawaii Five-O, align well with Tingle's unique personality. This makes Oka a strong contender for capturing Tingle's boundless energy and quirky charm.

Will Director Wes Ball Listen?

Whether director Wes Ball will heed Imamura's suggestion remains uncertain. However, Ball's description of the film as a "live-action Miyazaki" movie suggests a potential openness to Tingle's whimsical nature, aligning with the often fantastical elements of Studio Ghibli films.

The Legend of Zelda Movie: A High-Stakes Production

Announced in November 2023, the live-action Zelda movie is a collaborative effort between director Wes Ball, producer Shigeru Miyamoto, and producer Avi Arad. Ball's commitment to creating a "serious" adaptation of the beloved franchise adds intrigue to the casting speculation.

The casting of Tingle remains a mystery, but Masi Oka's name is certainly now in the running, thanks to the endorsement of the character's creator.