A major fantasy franchise is preparing for a new beginning. On October 13, Netflix released the first trailer for Narnia: The Magician's Nephew, directed by Greta Gerwig, whose previous films include Barbie and Little Women. The movie adapts C. S. Lewis's story about the origins of Narnia, making it an entry point for audiences who may not know the earlier books or films.
The production features newcomers David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell alongside an ensemble including Emma Mackey, Carey Mulligan, Daniel Craig and Meryl Streep. The first look emphasizes the creation of a fantastical world rather than a retelling of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Gerwig has described the original novel's image of a world being created through song as a major inspiration.
Unlike many Netflix productions, this movie is receiving a significant theatrical rollout. In the United States, the announced theater date is February 12, 2027, followed by a Netflix premiere on April 2. That strategy suggests the studio sees the film as a large-screen event as well as a streaming title. Fans can now compare the first trailer with their memories of the books while waiting to see how the finished film approaches Narnia's creation story.