After seven years of development and countless rumors, The Chronicles of Narnia is finally returning — this time under the creative vision of Greta Gerwig, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Barbie, Lady Bird, and Little Women.
Titled “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew,” the movie will be the first in Netflix’s multi-film universe inspired by C.S. Lewis’s beloved novels. With production now underway in London and Shepperton Studios, fans can expect a fresh, cinematic reimagining of the origins of Narnia — one that blends Gerwig’s signature emotional depth with the grandeur of classic fantasy storytelling.
“Greta Gerwig’s Narnia will feel both nostalgic and entirely new,” says film historian Dr. Alan Murray. “It’s a return to the roots of Lewis’s mythology, but through a lens that feels distinctly modern, magical, and human.”
Overview – Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew |
| Director | Greta Gerwig (Barbie, Little Women) |
| Writers | Greta Gerwig & Amy Pascal |
| Genre | Fantasy / Adventure |
| Filming Start | August 2025 |
| Filming Locations | London, Bradford, Manchester, Shepperton Studios |
| Planned Wrap | January 2026 |
| Estimated Budget | $200+ million |
| Cinematography | Seamus McGarvey (Atonement, Avengers) |
| Music | Mark Ronson |
| Producers | Amy Pascal, Mark Gordon, Douglas Gresham, Vincent Sieber |
| Expected Release | Christmas 2026 (Theatrical + Netflix) |
A Modern Beginning for a Timeless World
While previous adaptations began with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Netflix is taking a bold step by starting the saga with The Magician’s Nephew.
This story explores the creation of Narnia, introducing Aslan, the White Witch (Jadis), and the origins of the mystical wardrobe that would later transport generations of readers and viewers into Lewis’s fantasy world.
Set in a newly updated 1955 backdrop (instead of the Victorian era), Gerwig’s adaptation promises a grounded yet imaginative retelling of Narnia’s genesis — weaving together mythology, morality, and the enduring battle between light and darkness.
Producer Amy Pascal teased that the new version will be “a reinvention that captures the spirit of rock and roll,” suggesting an energetic, emotionally charged tone that redefines fantasy storytelling for today’s audiences.
The Stellar Cast of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
Netflix’s Narnia reboot boasts one of the most high-profile casts in recent memory — a mix of Oscar winners, breakout stars, and promising newcomers.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Daniel Craig (Knives Out, James Bond) | Uncle Andrew Ketterley |
| Emma Mackey (Sex Education, Barbie) | Jadis, the White Witch |
| Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady, The Post) | Voice of Aslan |
| Carey Mulligan (Promising Young Woman) | Mabel Kirke, Digory’s Mother |
| David McKenna | Digory Kirke |
| Beatrice Campbell | Polly Plummer |
| Denise Gough (Andor) | Supporting role (teacher figure) |
| Tom Bonington (Hijack) | Mr. Potts |
| Ava Jager | Violet Plummer |
| Mark James, Vincent Kelly, Molly Harding, David Stoller | Supporting Roles |
Casting was overseen by Nina Gold and Francine Maisler, both known for acclaimed projects like The Crown and Barbie.
“Greta’s casting decisions are always layered — she chooses actors who embody both innocence and intelligence,” says casting expert Lydia Cho. “Expect emotional authenticity and textured performances throughout.”
Behind the Camera: A Dream Team of Talent
Gerwig isn’t alone in her quest to rebuild Narnia. The film’s visual and musical teams include some of the industry’s most respected artists:
- Seamus McGarvey, the Oscar-nominated cinematographer behind Atonement and Anna Karenina, brings sweeping visuals and intimate human focus.
- Mark Ronson, who collaborated with Gerwig on Barbie, will compose the film’s score — blending orchestral themes with modern undertones.
- John Sorapure serves as Second Unit Director, handling large-scale action sequences and establishing shots.
This collaboration ensures that The Magician’s Nephew will deliver both spectacle and soul — a cinematic experience that honors the grandeur of The Lord of the Rings while staying true to Lewis’s faith-infused storytelling.
Production Timeline & Filming Locations
Filming officially began in August 2025, primarily in London, with several major sequences shot near Bank Station, the Royal Exchange, and the Tower of London. Additional shoots have taken place in Bradford and Manchester, while interior scenes are being filmed at Shepperton Studios, Netflix’s hub for large-scale fantasy productions.
| Production Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | Jan–July 2025 |
| Filming Begins | August 2025 |
| On-Location Shoots | Aug–Oct 2025 |
| Studio Filming | Oct 2025–Jan 2026 |
| Post-Production | Feb–Nov 2026 |
| Release Window | Christmas 2026 |
Cinematographer Seamus McGarvey told FilmCraft Magazine: “Gerwig’s approach to Narnia is poetic. She’s creating something visually spectacular yet deeply emotional — every frame feels like a painting.”
Netflix’s $200 Million Gamble on Narnia
Netflix’s vision for Narnia extends far beyond a single movie. With full rights to all seven books, the streamer is positioning The Magician’s Nephew as the foundation of an interconnected Narnia Cinematic Universe — one that will include sequels, spin-off series, and potentially animated projects.
Industry insiders report that the film’s budget exceeds $200 million, marking it as one of Netflix’s largest-ever fantasy investments. The movie will also receive a limited IMAX theatrical release during Thanksgiving 2026 before streaming worldwide on Netflix in December.
“This isn’t just a reboot — it’s Netflix’s answer to Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings,” said film analyst Eleanor Ridgeway. “Greta Gerwig is crafting something epic, emotional, and culturally significant.”
Key Differences from Previous Adaptations
| Aspect | Disney’s Narnia (2005–2010) | Netflix’s Narnia (2026–) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Point | The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe | The Magician’s Nephew |
| Era Setting | WWII England | 1955 Modernized Setting |
| Tone | Classic, spiritual fantasy | Modern, psychological realism |
| Focus | Heroic children’s journey | Origins and myth-building |
| Filmmaking Style | Family-friendly adventure | Mature, cinematic storytelling |
Why The Magician’s Nephew Matters?
Choosing The Magician’s Nephew as the starting point allows Netflix to explore Narnia’s creation myth — an origin story filled with awe, tragedy, and transformation. It’s a bold, creative decision that lays the groundwork for a connected saga spanning generations.
Gerwig’s approach will reportedly balance theological depth and universal wonder, making the story accessible to both longtime fans and new audiences. The themes of temptation, creation, and redemption echo more strongly than ever in today’s cinematic landscape.
FAQs
The movie is expected to debut globally on Netflix in December 2026, following a Thanksgiving IMAX theatrical release.
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Greta Gerwig (Barbie, Lady Bird) is directing the first two Narnia films.
Netflix is starting with The Magician’s Nephew, a prequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, focusing on Narnia’s creation.
Emma Mackey has been confirmed as Jadis, the White Witch — a younger, more complex interpretation of the character.
Yes. Netflix plans a limited IMAX theatrical run before streaming it worldwide in late 2026.
