The highly anticipated Street Fighter movie, slated for release on October 16, 2026, has already generated excitement despite not showing any footage. The film brings together a talented ensemble directed by Kitao Sakurai, aiming to capture the essence of Capcom’s iconic fighting game. Among the stars, Jason Momoa has stepped forward to portray Blanka, the electrifying Brazilian powerhouse, fueling fan anticipation through his enthusiasm and confidence.
The Legendary Character and the Cast Lineup
Blanka originally debuted in Street Fighter II in 1991 as a green-skinned fighter known for his unique ability to curl into a ball and launch himself at opponents while delivering a powerful electric shock. This memorable character is now being brought to life by Momoa, whose previous roles include Aquaman and the upcoming Lobo. The movie’s cast also features Andrew Koji as Ryu, Noah Centineo as Ken, WWE stars Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes as Akuma and Guile, 50 Cent as Balrog, and Callina Liang as Chun-Li, creating a diverse and dynamic team of fighters for the big screen adaptation.
Momoa’s Passion and Vision for Blanka
During promotion of the upcoming film Chief of War, Momoa expressed his strong belief that he is the perfect match for Blanka’s character. Emphasizing both practical effects and CGI, he intends to bring the electrifying fighter’s energy to life authentically. Momoa revealed a personal connection to the game, sharing that he and his son have enjoyed playing Street Fighter together, making the role even more meaningful to him.
“There’s no one better to play Blanka, so that’s why I’m doing it. We’ll do what the audience would like to see — practical, CG — we’re gonna do our best. The cast is insane. My son and I play it; it’s the only game I played.” – Jason Momoa
Bringing Video Game Action to the Big Screen
The excitement surrounding Momoa’s casting reflects the growing trend of successful video game adaptations, with recent hits like Sonic the Hedgehog, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, The Last of Us, and Fallout proving audiences appetite for faithful and thrilling interpretations. Fans eagerly await how the new Street Fighter film will blend action, special effects, and character-driven storytelling to honor the legacy of its beloved source material.
The Future of Street Fighter on Film
With its release date approaching, the upcoming Street Fighter movie offers a fresh opportunity to introduce the classic fighters to a wider audience through contemporary filmmaking techniques. Jason Momoa’s commitment to embodying Blanka suggests the project aims to satisfy longtime fans while also capturing new viewers with its intense and imaginative portrayal of the Capcom universe.
