Narnia’s Upcoming Netflix Adaptation: Unpacking Facts And Rumors

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Approximately 15 years have passed since viewers last visited the enchanting realm of Narnia on the silver screen. However, Netflix is now gearing up for an exciting and daring revival of C.S. Lewis’ cherished universe – one that aims to respectfully preserve while also boldly reimagine these timeless tales for a modern audience.

A New Era For Narnia Begins

2018 saw Netflix acquire the rights to The Chronicles of Narnia, making it the first time that one organization has controlled all seven books in this beloved series.

It’s said that the streaming service nearly parted with $250 million for the rights to the franchise, planning to create movies and shows within the extensive fantasy tale.

After years of buzz and halted endeavors, this adaptation is now picking up speed – and at the forefront is none other than Oscar-nominated director Greta Gerwig (known for films like “Lady Bird,” “Little Women,” and “Barbie”). Her involvement has certainly sparked anticipation and intrigue.

Past Attempts And Present Plans

Before Netflix entered the scene, the Narnia franchise experienced a rocky cinematic journey.

After the tremendous successes of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” in 2005 and “Prince Caspian” in 2008, the third movie, “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,” garnered a slightly lower sum of approximately $407 million worldwide in 2010.

It wasn’t possible to carry out plans for adapting either “The Silver Chair” or “The Magician’s Nephew”, as Walden Media had lost the rights, followed by the Sony-led remake falling through due to management shifts and disagreements on artistic direction.

That all changed in 2018 when Netflix acquired the full franchise.

Currently, it seems like the streamer is going all out – not limiting themselves to a solitary tale, but rather constructing what was once referred to as a “Narnia multiverse” in some initial publicity materials.

What’s Confirmed: Cast, Crew, And Release

Gerwig is set to direct the initial two films, with the debut one scheduled for a grand cinematic premiere in IMAX theaters on Thanksgiving Day 2026 (November 26). Subsequently, this film will be streamed on Netflix starting Christmas Day 2026.

The franchise will be overseen by Matthew Aldrich, best known for writing Pixar’s Coco.

The filming is planned to kick off in July 2025, lasting until December, at Shepperton Studios located in the United Kingdom.

Two principal actors have been formally announced as part of the Netflix-produced rendition of The Chronicles of Narnia.

  • Emma Mackey will portray Jadis, the White Witch. Mackey, who gained prominence through her roles in Sex Education and Barbie
  • Carey Mulligan is confirmed to play Mabel Kirke, the mother of Digory Kirke. Mulligan, known for Promising Young Woman and An Education

Rumored Cast

Other performers are rumored to be involved with the production, but neither Netflix nor the production crew has verified their potential roles yet.

  • Charli XCX, Mikey Madison, and Margaret Qualley were previously linked to the role of Jadis, the White Witch, prior to Emma Mackey’s casting. According to reports, Qualley even screen-tested for the part. None of these casting discussions moved forward publicly after Mackey’s official attachment to the role.
  • Saoirse Ronan, a frequent collaborator of Greta Gerwig, has hinted at possible involvement in the series. Though her role has not been identified, her long-standing creative relationship with Gerwig has fueled speculation that she will appear in some capacity.
  • Meryl Streep is said to be in talks to voice Aslan, the great lion and spiritual heart of the Narnia universe. This remains speculative, but would represent a major casting decision if confirmed.
  • Daniel Craig has been associated with the role of Uncle Andrew, the eccentric and morally ambiguous magician who plays a central part in The Magician’s Nephew.
  • According to Research by NarniaWeb a casting call in early 2025 sought child actors aged 10–11, widely believed to be for Digory and Polly – key characters in The Magician’s Nephew.

Rumors: What Fans Are Speculating

Which Book will be adapted?

It’s been hinted that Netflix’s upcoming film might be based on “The Magician’s Nephew,” a book which serves as a prequel to “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” This assumption is strengthened by the appearance of characters Digory and Polly in casting calls, as well as comments from actor Jason Isaacs (who had previously tried out for the role of Aslan).

Additionally, there’s speculation that Netflix, along with Gerwig, plan to create adaptations of all seven books, blending them together to form a cohesive storyline.

In simpler terms, Scott Stuber (former Netflix Film Chief) hinted at plans for a more expansive series, suggesting they were brainstorming ways to create a cohesive narrative that transcends traditional timelines and might even incorporate new content. This broad approach, often referred to as an “universe” in early press releases, implies a potentially interconnected storyline.

Story Direction

Drawing heavily on the cherished works by C.S. Lewis, initial comments from producer Amy Pascal hint at a significantly fresh take on the storyline.

In a playful manner, Pascal suggested that the upcoming movie would delve deeply into the world of rock music, indicating a shift in theme and style compared to previous adaptations.

Although Gerwig has frequently shown admiration for Lewis’ work, her body of films indicates that she is not afraid to approach his works with a modern perspective.

What would you like to see in the new adaptation? New characters or a faithful adaption?

Tell us in the commens!

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2025-07-02 00:10