Filming has begun in the UK on the eagerly awaited Greta Gerwig Narnia movie adaptation, bringing a fresh perspective to C.S. Lewis’s beloved world with a remarkable cast. This new project explores the origin story of Narnia through the lens of the sixth book in the series, aiming to reboot the franchise for a modern audience.
Production Starts in the UK with Theatrical and Streaming Plans
Principal photography for Greta Gerwig’s Narnia movie began in August 2025, mainly at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, with additional scenes shot on location in London. The film is produced by Amy Pascal and Mark Gordon and backed by Netflix, which will handle distribution. The movie is scheduled to have a limited IMAX theatrical release in November 2026, ahead of its streaming premiere on Netflix during Christmas 2026.
Focus on The Magician’s Nephew as the Source Material
Unlike previous live-action adaptations of The Chronicles of Narnia, this film centers on The Magician’s Nephew, both the sixth book published and the first in chronological order of the series. This choice allows the movie to delve into the beginnings of the magical land known as Narnia. Reports and leaked set photos have confirmed the adaptation, showing child actors cast as Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, the story’s two young protagonists.
Details About the Cast and Their Roles
Following the success of Gerwig’s Barbie film, the director has assembled an impressive group of actors for the Narnia reboot. Emma Mackey, known for Sex Education, is confirmed to portray Jadis, the White Witch and primary antagonist. Daniel Craig is predicted to play Uncle Andrew Ketterley, a character connected to the magical events of the story. Additionally, Meryl Streep is reported to lend her voice to Aslan, the legendary lion of Narnia. Carey Mulligan has also been in talks to join the cast, though her role has not yet been confirmed.
The Plot and Narrative Direction of the Film
The storyline will follow Digory and Polly, two children who inadvertently travel to a magical forest where they encounter talking animals and confront the malevolent Jadis. This narrative presents the origin of Narnia itself, something not previously explored in earlier movie adaptations. By starting with the creation of Narnia, the film hopes to offer a new emotional depth and broaden the franchise’s appeal beyond its existing fan base.
This approach marks a shift from past adaptations, which followed the books in their order of publication rather than chronology. Spotlighting the birth of the magical realm may provide fresh storytelling opportunities and reintroduce Narnia to a generation of viewers unfamiliar with Lewis’s works.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As filming progresses, expectations around Greta Gerwig’s Narnia adaptation remain high, fueled by the star-studded lineup and the novel focus on The Magician’s Nephew. The film’s blend of fantasy adventure and origin story sets it apart, making it a potential pivotal moment for the franchise.
Audiences will be anticipating how Gerwig balances the fantastical elements with character-driven storytelling, especially with beloved characters like Jadis and Aslan receiving new portrayals. The limited theatrical release in IMAX followed by Netflix streaming suggests an intention to reach both traditional cinema-goers and the digital audience alike, expanding accessibility.
“Cameras are finally rolling in the UK on the highly anticipated Narnia movie from director Greta Gerwig.” —Screen Daily
“Emma Mackey will play Jadis, aka the White Witch, one of the primary antagonists of the overarching saga.” —What’s On Netflix
“Daniel Craig and Meryl Streep are also expected to star in the movie, which will reportedly explore the origin story of the mystical land of Narnia.” —The Hollywood Reporter
“Amy Pascal and Mark Gordon are serving as producers on the Gerwig-directed movie.” —Variety
