Following the monumental success of Barbie's theatrical release, director Greta Gerwig is exercising caution with her next endeavor, Netflix's Chronicles of Narnia. Despite the excitement surrounding this epic adaptation, reports indicate minor hiccups in the film's release strategy. Gerwig, known for her meticulous approach, has been reportedly prioritizing the project's creative vision. With Netflix's streaming model potentially limiting the film's theatrical aspirations, Gerwig is yet to decide between artistic expression and platform constraints. 

Gerwig's thoughtful deliberation ensures Chronicles of Narnia meets its full cinematic potential as she seeks to replicate Barbie's triumph. 

Oscar-nominated-but-ditched-bigtime director, Greta Gerwig has been attached to Netflix's Chronicles of Narnia movie since 2020. Regarding the film's release platform, the director has expressed concerns citing the material's scope and grandeur. Gerwig has made friendly requests to Dan Lin, Netflix's new film unit head, emphasizing the importance of a theatrical release. However, “she’s clearly bummed” about the streaming-only offer and not the big screen as reported by Puck.

Netflix, holding rights to all Narnia books, wants to accommodate Gerwig's wishes. However, their business model prioritizes streaming over theatrical releases. The platform's limitations clash with Gerwig's vision for the epic adaptation. As an A-list director, Netflix seeks to meet her needs, but finding a compromise remains challenging. The release strategy for Chronicles of Narnia thus, hangs in the balance. 

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While Gerwig's project faces its own hiccups, Gerwig's Barbie, Margot Robbie too has her project hindered by Netflix’s demands.

Netflix's no-theaters policy is hindering another high-profile project. Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights adaptation, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, has received a $150+ million bid from Netflix. However, Fennell and Robbie are hesitant due to the lack of a theatrical release and marketing campaign. While the project is already battling negative feedback about the lead stars, Netflix's streaming-only model to top it all may cost them the project.

Similar to that of Greta Gerwig's concerns with Chronicles of Narnia, Netflix's refusal to accommodate theatrical releases is a recurring problem. According to the report, Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria reiterated, "Not our model," but experts argue this stance may drive top talent elsewhere. The American streamer's reliance on streaming prioritizes quantity over quality, potentially sacrificing cultural impact and prestige projects, which may soon result in a jarring loss. 

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What are your thoughts about Greta Gerwig's concerns regarding Netflix's policy on Chronicles of Narnia? Let us know in the comments below.