The Narnia saga, which saw an uneven cinematic run with a trilogy of films from 2005 to 2010, is being reawakened by Netflix with significant ambition. The streaming giant has entrusted the directorial reins to Greta Gerwig, whose recent success with Barbie has cemented her status as a formidable creative force. According to EcranLarge.com, Gerwig's commitment to the project extends beyond streaming, as she reportedly pushed for and secured a theatrical release for her Narnia adaptation, a significant move for a Netflix production.
The newly revealed poster for Le Monde de Narnia : Le Neveu du Magicien (known in English as The Magician's Nephew) is a spectacle of wonder. It features the majestic profile of Aslan, the great lion, silhouetted against a breathtaking starry sky. Streaking across this celestial canvas is the distinct shape of a winged horse, carrying the young protagonists, Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, on its back. The image evokes a sense of awe and adventure, signaling the fantastical journey awaiting audiences.
For readers of C.S. Lewis's original novels, the winged steed is instantly recognizable as Fledge (originally named Strawberry, or Fraise in French), a pivotal character from the Narnian bestiary. Beginning life as an ordinary London cab horse, Fledge is accidentally transported to Narnia alongside the children and Uncle Andrew. It is there that Aslan bestows upon him a pair of wings, renames him, and designates him as a royal protector, forever changing his destiny.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast to bring this magical world to life. David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell are set to portray the young adventurers Digory and Polly, respectively. Daniel Craig takes on the role of the eccentric Uncle Andrew Ketterley, while Carey Mulligan plays Mabel Kirke. Ciarán Hinds is also part of the cast, with Emma Mackey stepping into the formidable shoes of the White Witch. Adding legendary gravitas, Meryl Streep will lend her voice to Aslan, the iconic lion.
While American audiences can anticipate seeing The Magician's Nephew in cinemas starting February 12, 2027, before its streaming debut on Netflix on April 2, 2027, the situation for French viewers remains uncertain. Strict French media chronology laws could complicate negotiations for a theatrical release in the country. Fans are eagerly hoping Netflix can reach a compromise with French cinemas, ensuring that Gerwig's ambitious Narnia film receives the big-screen experience it deserves, rather than being confined solely to the streaming platform.