It was back in 2018 when Netflix grabbed hold of the rights to C.S. Lewis’s much-loved fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia. Since then, whispers have circled the franchise, with Netflix hinting it could take shape as both movies and series. While it may seem an unexpected choice at first glance for Greta Gerwig to take the reins of the project, her long-standing love for portal fantasy novels does make a strong case for her bringing some fresh magic to the streaming giant. 

Netflix, however, wants to take a different route than a typical streaming release, which might finally give Gerwig the satisfaction she has been hoping for after feeling a bit let down by the previous arrangements.

Greta Gerwig, who directed last year’s biggest box-office smash, was reportedly less than thrilled with Netflix’s initial plans to skip a theatrical release for the upcoming The Chronicles of Narnia film. After a series of friendly but pointed conversations, it seems the streaming giant may finally be willing to bend its streaming-first policy for the project. Recently, journalist Matthew Belloni shared on X that Netflix is in talks to roll out the Narnia remake on 2,000 IMAX screens worldwide, “potentially before it hits Netflix”. 

This potential theatrical run could open new doors for The Chronicles of Narnia, giving the film more room to shine on the big screen. And, with a streaming release also in the cards, Gerwig’s version of the tale has the freedom to be more daring- a chance it would be a shame for her not to seize. However, Netflix’s streaming model was not the only thing nagging the Barbie director about this colossal undertaking.

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Gerwig has admitted to having “nightmares” about the Narnia reboot, likely due to the sheer scale and grandeur of the project.

Back in February, Greta Gerwig revealed that she had penned the first draft of her Narnia movie script even before Barbie, meaning she has had her sights on this project since at least 2022. She shared being captivated by the folklore and layered worlds of Narnia and was eager to bring C.S. Lewis's tales to the big screen. However, just as the project was officially announced, she confessed to feeling a sudden chill. 

Gerwig, though, was quick to put any doubts to rest, explaining that no one should worry about her getting cold feet. As she put it, "When I’m scared, it’s always a good sign.” The 41-year-old filmmaker added with a grin, “I’m terrified of it. It’s extraordinary.” Yet the big question remains now- how long will Narnia hold the stage in theaters before it makes its way to streaming?  

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