Netflix is poised to breathe new life into C.S. Lewis’s beloved fantasy series with The Official Chronicles of Narnia, set to premiere this Christmas. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the acclaimed filmmaker behind Lady Bird, Little Women, and Barbie, this adaptation promises a fresh and audacious take on the iconic world of Narnia. At the heart of this reimagining is Anya Taylor-Joy, whose casting in a pivotal role has sparked widespread excitement among fans and critics alike. With filming already underway and a star-studded cast, the project is shaping up to be a landmark moment for both Netflix and the fantasy genre.

The film, reportedly an adaptation of The Magician’s Nephew, the prequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, dives into the origin story of Narnia itself. This narrative choice sets it apart from previous adaptations, which began with the more familiar tale of the Pevensie siblings. The Magician’s Nephew follows young Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer as they stumble into otherworldly adventures through magical rings, unwittingly unleashing the White Witch and witnessing the creation of Narnia. Gerwig’s decision to start with this chronologically earlier story signals her intent to explore the deeper mythos of Lewis’s universe, blending its Christian allegory with a modern cinematic sensibility.

Anya Taylor-Joy, known for her mesmerizing performances in The Queen’s Gambit and Furiosa, is a perfect fit for Gerwig’s vision. While Netflix has yet to confirm her exact role, speculation points to her portraying Jadis, the White Witch, a character previously brought to life by Tilda Swinton in Disney’s 2005 adaptation. Taylor-Joy’s ability to embody complex, enigmatic figures makes her an ideal choice for the icy, formidable villain whose actions ripple across the Narnian saga. Her casting follows reports that other high-profile actors, including Meryl Streep, Daniel Craig, and Carey Mulligan, are in negotiations, with Streep rumored to voice Aslan, the lion and Christ-like guardian of Narnia. This powerhouse ensemble underscores Netflix’s ambition to elevate the franchise to new heights.

Gerwig’s involvement is a major draw. Her track record of crafting emotionally resonant, visually inventive films has earned her the trust of audiences and critics. In a 2024 interview with Time, she spoke of her reverence for Lewis’s work, noting the “paradox of the worlds” that blend British folklore, Greek mythology, and Christian theology. “As a child, you accept the whole thing—fauns, Father Christmas, talking lions,” she said. “I’m interested in embracing that paradox.” Gerwig’s approach promises to honor the source material while infusing it with a contemporary edge, with producer Amy Pascal hinting at a “rock and roll” vibe that has intrigued and puzzled fans. This bold reinterpretation, combined with a reported budget exceeding $200 million, positions the film as a visual and narrative spectacle.

Filming began in August 2025 at London’s Shepperton Studios and various locations, including Bank Station and The Royal Exchange. Set photos reveal a 1950s backdrop, a creative departure from the book’s late 19th-century setting, suggesting Gerwig’s intent to reframe the story for a modern audience. The production, shot on 35mm film under cinematographer Seamus McGarvey, aims for a tactile, immersive aesthetic. Netflix’s decision to grant the film a four-week IMAX theatrical run starting Thanksgiving 2026, before its Christmas streaming debut, marks a rare move for the platform, which typically prioritizes streaming releases. This strategy reflects Gerwig’s push for a cinematic experience, leveraging her Barbie success to secure a global theatrical rollout across 1,000 IMAX screens.

The anticipation for The Official Chronicles of Narnia is palpable, fueled by Gerwig’s visionary storytelling and Taylor-Joy’s magnetic presence. Yet, the project has sparked debate, particularly over rumored casting choices like Streep as Aslan, which some fans argue deviates from Lewis’s Christian symbolism. Despite these controversies, Netflix’s commitment to a multi-film franchise, with Gerwig helming at least two, signals confidence in the project’s potential to redefine Narnia for a new generation. As the Christmas premiere approaches, all eyes are on whether this bold reimagining will capture the magic and wonder of Lewis’s world while forging a new path.