The magic of Narnia returns to the big screen with a new look. Netflix has released the first trailer for Narnia: The Magician's Nephew, the adaptation directed by Greta Gerwig that explores the origins of the fantasy universe created by C. S. Lewis. However, the first images have quickly generated mixed reactions among those who celebrate the filmmaker's visual bet and those who question the chosen direction to revive one of the most popular sagas of fantasy literature.
The preview stands out for its spectacularity, a different setting from previous films, and an unexpected musical choice: 'Stairway to Heaven' by Led Zeppelin. Added to these elements is the representation of Aslan, the emblematic lion of Narnia, and the choice of Meryl Streep to voice him. Two decisions that have contributed to placing the new production at the center of conversation before its premiere.
Led Zeppelin and an aesthetic that breaks with previous Narnia films
One of the most commented aspects of the trailer is the use of Stairway to Heaven, one of Led Zeppelin's most recognizable songs. Its presence accompanies a succession of images that moves away from the medieval and adventurous fantasy of the films released in the 2000s to opt for a more psychedelic and cosmic visual proposal.
The preview shows the transition from mid-20th century London to an extraordinary universe, with luminous landscapes, large-scale settings, and a recreation of Narnia that gives special prominence to wonder and visual effects. The appearance of Aslan, represented with an image that evokes a cosmic nebula, is one of the most striking moments.
This reinterpretation has sparked opposing opinions. While some viewers applaud Greta Gerwig for bringing her own visual identity to the saga, others are wary that the aesthetic display strays from the atmosphere of C. S. Lewis's books. The comparison with previous adaptations is inevitable, although the trailer only allows us to know a part of the proposal and does not yet offer a complete vision of the film.
Meryl Streep as Aslan: another decision that generates debate
The choice of Meryl Streep to voice Aslan is another of the issues that has attracted the most attention. The lion is one of Narnia's fundamental characters and is often interpreted as a representation of Jesus Christ, so its treatment has special relevance for readers who highlight the religious dimension of the original work.
Streep's participation has drawn criticism from some conservative Christian sectors, who question the decision due to its relationship with the character's symbolism. Other followers, however, believe that the decisive factor will be the interpretation and the way the film preserves Aslan's essence, regardless of who voices him.
The debate thus extends beyond a casting issue: it confronts different expectations about how to adapt a work that combines fantasy, adventure, and religious references. The film will have to demonstrate whether this new approach manages to connect with the public without losing the elements that have made Narnia a recognizable universe for several generations.
What is Narnia: The Magician's Nephew about?
The film adapts C. S. Lewis's novel published in 1955 and delves into the origins of the world of Narnia. The story follows Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, two children who discover magical rings created by Andrew Ketterley, Digory's uncle, played by Daniel Craig.
By using them, both arrive at the Wood Between the Worlds, a mysterious place where ponds function as portals to different universes. Their adventure leads them to the birth of Narnia and to encounters with characters who will be decisive for the future of this fantastic world.
The cast is led by David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell as the two protagonists, with Emma Mackey in the role of Jadis, the future White Witch, and Daniel Craig as the magician Andrew. Carey Mulligan and other performers complete the cast of a production with which Gerwig tackles one of the most important stories in Lewis's literary mythology.
When will it be released?
Netflix has reserved a theatrical release for the film before its arrival on the platform. Narnia: The Magician's Nephew will arrive in theaters on February 12, 2027, with IMAX screenings planned from the 10th. Subsequently, it will be added to the Netflix catalog on April 2.
The strategy reflects the platform's ambition to turn the adaptation into a major cinematic event. For now, the first trailer has already made it clear that Greta Gerwig does not intend to simply reproduce the image of previous films. The unknown is whether her reinterpretation will manage to convince both those looking for a new way to discover Narnia and followers who hope to reconnect with the magic of the original books.