Netflix has unveiled the inaugural trailer for “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew,” the latest cinematic endeavor from director Greta Gerwig, known for her work on “Barbie” and “Little Women.” This highly anticipated fantasy film, serving as a prequel to C.S. Lewis’ beloved Chronicles of Narnia series, is set a millennium prior to the events of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” The trailer provides audiences with their first look at the enchanting origins of Lewis’ fantastical universe, including the creation of the famed wardrobe, promising a spectacle of light, dark magic, and infinite worlds.
Netflix's 'Narnia: The Magician's Nephew' Trailer Reveals a World of Wonder
The newly released trailer from Netflix for "Narnia: The Magician's Nephew" introduces viewers to protagonists Digory Kirke, portrayed by David McKenna, and Polly Plummer, played by Beatrice Campbell. These young adventurers are seen journeying through extraordinary realms, guided by the enigmatic figure of Andrew Ketterley, brought to life by Daniel Craig. Gerwig herself has expressed her vision for the film, aiming for a "rock opera" aesthetic that is both grand and immersive. She elaborated to Empire that Narnia, in its essence, is a world conceived through music, sung into existence by Aslan. This musical foundation is palpable in the trailer, which is notably set to Led Zeppelin's iconic track "Stairway to Heaven."
This adaptation marks the first live-action film rendition of "The Magician’s Nephew," although other books in the seven-part Narnia saga, such as "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," "Prince Caspian," and "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," have seen multiple live-action interpretations. Netflix secured the rights to C.S. Lewis’ literary works in 2018. The film boasts a star-studded ensemble cast, featuring Emma Mackey, Carey Mulligan, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Daniel Craig, Ciarán Hinds, Denise Gough, Susan Wokoma, and Meryl Streep, alongside emerging talents David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell. Initially slated for a 2026 release, Netflix announced in May that the film's premiere would be postponed. "Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew" is now set to debut globally in IMAX theaters on February 12, 2027, with early IMAX screenings commencing on February 10, 2027. It will then be available for streaming on Netflix starting April 2, 2027.
The upcoming Netflix adaptation of "The Magician's Nephew" by Greta Gerwig promises a fresh and captivating cinematic journey into the fantastical world of Narnia. Gerwig’s innovative vision, blending a "rock opera" aesthetic with the magical genesis of Narnia, offers an exciting new perspective on C.S. Lewis's timeless tale. The trailer's choice of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" underscores this ambitious musical approach, suggesting a vibrant and immersive experience for audiences. This film, being the first live-action version of this particular prequel, holds the potential to introduce a new generation to the wonders of Narnia while delighting long-time fans with its unique artistic direction and stellar cast.