Director Kitao Sakurai Reveals Insights on Street Fighter's Live-Action Adaptation and Casting Choices

Director Kitao Sakurai discusses the creative challenges faced in adapting the iconic video game series Street Fighter into a live-action film. He emphasizes the importance of authentic representation, particularly in casting Indian martial artist Vidyut Jammwal as Dhalsim. Sakurai's commitment to honoring the character's roots and cultural significance is evident as he aims to elevate Dhalsim's portrayal beyond stereotypes. The film, featuring a diverse ensemble cast, is set to be released in theaters on October 16. Discover more about the casting process and the film's vision in this insightful article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 10, 2026, 14:43 IST

Behind the Scenes of Street Fighter's Live-Action Film

Director Kitao Sakurai has shared his thoughts on the creative journey of adapting the beloved video game series Street Fighter into a live-action film. As he strives to create a production that honors the original material, he encountered challenges, particularly regarding the portrayal of certain characters. One of the most contentious figures was Dhalsim, a key character from the 1991 arcade game, whose representation raised concerns among some stakeholders about potential stereotypes.

Sakurai stood his ground, asserting that the film would lack authenticity without the inclusion of the Indian yogi. To alleviate worries about how the character would be depicted, he sought an actor capable of delivering depth, strength, and true cultural representation. This quest led him to Indian martial artist and actor Vidyut Jammwal, whose background was the perfect fit for the role.

Vidyut Jammwal: The Perfect Fit for Dhalsim

The search for the right actor to portray Dhalsim was challenging until Sakurai met Jammwal. Their first video call revealed an instant connection. Sakurai highlighted that Jammwal’s unique history—as a fifth-generation monk proficient in Sanskrit, yoga, and martial arts—was in perfect harmony with the character's essence. For Sakurai, Jammwal didn’t merely act; he truly embodied the character's spirit in a compelling and authentic manner.

On set, Jammwal's impressive physicality made a lasting impact on the crew. Sakurai remarked that the actor's movements seemed almost otherworldly, particularly during fight scenes, which became standout moments for the entire team. By embracing the rich cultural heritage associated with Dhalsim, the production aimed to elevate the character beyond his 1990s portrayal, ensuring a respectful and genuine representation.

The film, marking the third live-action adaptation of the Capcom franchise, features a star-studded cast that includes Noah Centineo, Andrew Koji, Callina Liang, Roman Reigns, David Dastmalchian, Cody Rhodes, Eric André, Andrew Schulz, 50 Cent, and Jason Momoa. It is set to hit theaters on October 16.