An update for Greta Gerwig’s Narnia movie confirms which book is being adapted as an Oscar-nominated star joins the cast. Netflix’s Narnia movie has been in development as early as 2018, with the Barbie director being brought on board in 2020. Now, Greta Gerwig’s Narnia movie is currently deep into the casting stage, with its star-studded ensemble already including Daniel Craig, Emma Mackey as Jadis the White Witch, and Meryl Streep as the voice of the talking lion Aslan.
Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter, Carey Mulligan has been cast in Gerwig’s Narnia movie as Digory’s mother. This confirms that the movie is adapting the sixth novel in the Narnia series, The Magician’s Nephew. Mulligan is currently in negotiations for the role, so it doesn’t appear to be a done deal quite yet.
What This Means For Greta Gerwig’s Narnia Movie
Everything That Was Revealed
Published in 1955, The Magician’s Nephew serves as a prequel to the Narnia series, revealing the origins of the magical world, including how Aslan brought it into existence and how evil first entered into it. Taking place in the year 1900, the story follows a 12-year-old Digory Kirke and his friend Polly Plummer as they explore various worlds using magical rings crafted by Digory’s uncle. In the crumbling world of Charn, they accidentally awaken Queen Jadis, who later becomes the White Witch, and one of the worlds they reach is the newly forming Narnia.
Mulligan will play the role of Digory’s sick mother, Mabel. With Gerwig’s Narnia movie adapting The Magician’s Nephew, it has also been revealed that Daniel Craig is reportedly playing Digory’s uncle, Andrew. With several major stars attached, the movie will now shift its focus to searching for its younger lead actors to play Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer.
Our Take On Greta Gerwig’s Narnia Movie Update
Why They’re Smart Moves
Adapting The Magician’s Nephew is a smart move that will set Greta Gerwig’s Narnia apart. The previous Narnia movies have already adapted the first three books in the series – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Prince Caspian, and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. By adapting The Magician’s Nephew, which hasn’t been brought to the screen before, Gerwig’s film won’t risk feeling like a rehash and will offer audiences something new.
Casting Carey Mulligan is also a smart move for Gerwig’s Narnia movie. It’s difficult to go wrong with a three-time Oscar nominee, having been recognized for Maestro, Promising Young Woman, and An Education. Mulligan’s casting continues to hint at Gerwig’s intention to ground the fantasy in heartfelt drama. The Oscar nominee’s nuanced performance could elevate Mabel’s tragic arc, making the Narnia prequel story all the more resonant and compelling for audiences.
Gerwig’s Narnia movie will have a two-week IMAX release in late 2026.
Source: THR
The Chronicles of Narnia
- Created by
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C.S. Lewis
- First Film
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- Latest Film
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
- First TV Show
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The Chronicles of Narnia
- First Episode Air Date
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November 13, 1988
Summary
The Chronicles of Narnia is a fantasy franchise based on the seven-book series written by C.S. Lewis between 1950 and 1956. The series is set in the magical world of Narnia, where children from our world are transported to fulfill prophecies, battle evil forces, and restore peace under the guidance of Aslan, a mystical lion. The franchise has seen multiple adaptations, including a BBC television series in the late 1980s, three major Hollywood films between 2005 and 2010, and an upcoming reboot by Netflix, which has generated significant anticipation. The franchise is beloved for its rich allegorical storytelling, blending Christian themes with epic fantasy elements.
