After years of anticipation and development, Greta Gerwig’s bold new vision of C.S. Lewis’s beloved The Chronicles of Narnia series is set to enchant audiences worldwide in 2026. Netflix, in partnership with IMAX for a grand theatrical debut, will bring the first film in this ambitious reboot to screens this year—first in select IMAX theaters on November 26, 2026 (Thanksgiving in the US), followed by its streaming premiere on Christmas Day, December 25, 2026. Directed and written by the Oscar-nominated filmmaker behind Barbie and Little Women, this adaptation promises a fresh, immersive return to the magical realm that has captivated generations, blending timeless wonder with Gerwig’s signature emotional depth and visual flair.
The project marks Netflix’s most significant foray into high-fantasy epics since securing the rights to adapt all seven books in Lewis’s series. Gerwig’s involvement was announced in 2023 following the massive success of Barbie, and she has steered the production toward a theatrical-first approach, insisting on an exclusive IMAX run to honor the grandeur of Lewis’s world. The film is positioned as the opening chapter of a potential multi-film saga, produced by Gerwig alongside Mark Gordon, Amy Pascal, and Vincent Sieber-Smith, with executive producers including Douglas Gresham (C.S. Lewis’s stepson) and representatives from the C.S. Lewis Estate.
Titled Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew (or simply Narnia in some announcements), the story adapts the sixth published but chronologically first book in the series—the prequel that reveals the origins of the enchanted land. Set in late 19th-century England, it follows two curious children, Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, who stumble into a series of extraordinary adventures through magical rings created by Digory’s eccentric uncle, a magician experimenting with otherworldly powers. Their journey transports them to mysterious realms, including the dying world of Charn, where they awaken the formidable Jadis (the future White Witch), and ultimately to the creation of Narnia itself.
Aslan, the majestic lion and embodiment of divine goodness, plays a pivotal role in breathing life into the new world, accompanied by talking animals, mythical creatures, and the dawn of Narnia’s history. The narrative explores themes of creation, temptation, courage, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil—core elements that define the entire series. Gerwig’s take is expected to emphasize character-driven storytelling, emotional resonance, and a sense of awe, drawing on her proven ability to infuse classic tales with modern sensitivity while preserving Lewis’s allegorical depth and Christian undertones.
The cast brings star power and fresh talent to these iconic roles. Emma Mackey (Sex Education, Barbie) stars as Jadis, the White Witch, offering a nuanced, chilling interpretation that promises a “different vibe” from previous portrayals. Young actors David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell lead as Digory and Polly, respectively, capturing the innocence and wonder of discovery. Rumors and reports have swirled around additional names, including potential involvement from heavyweights like Meryl Streep (possibly as Aslan), Daniel Craig, and Carey Mulligan, though official confirmations remain focused on the core ensemble. The production has emphasized diverse, heartfelt casting to bring new life to the talking beasts and mythical inhabitants.
Visually, the film is poised to be a spectacle. Filming wrapped key phases in late 2025, with locations in the UK (including London and Manchester) providing authentic backdrops for both Edwardian England and fantastical realms. Expect groundbreaking effects to realize Narnia’s lush forests, majestic lions, mythical beings, and epic creation sequences. Gerwig’s collaboration with composer Mark Ronson (from Barbie) suggests a memorable, emotionally layered score that blends orchestral grandeur with contemporary touches.
As the first live-action Narnia film in over 15 years—following Disney/Walden Media’s trilogy from 2005–2010—this adaptation arrives at a moment when audiences crave immersive fantasy worlds. Gerwig’s track record of reimagining beloved stories with intelligence, heart, and visual innovation has fans buzzing about how she will honor Lewis’s themes of faith, redemption, and moral choice while appealing to new generations. The dual release strategy—IMAX for big-screen immersion, then Netflix for holiday viewing—positions it as a family-friendly event perfect for winter gatherings.
With production details emerging and excitement building, Narnia stands as one of 2026’s most anticipated releases. Whether you’re rediscovering the series or stepping into Narnia for the first time, Gerwig’s version promises to transport viewers to a land where ordinary children become extraordinary heroes, ancient prophecies unfold, and the battle between light and darkness shapes an entire realm. Mark your calendars for November 26 in theaters and December 25 on Netflix—this Christmas, the wardrobe opens once more.
