The film adaptation will receive a wide theatrical release, a rarity for Netflix. But will it be visible in these conditions in France?
The grand film “Narnia” by Greta Gerwig is taking on a new scale.
Originally planned for Thanksgiving 2026, the film has been delayed to aim for a bigger impact. “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew” will finally be released on February 12, 2027, in cinemas, including IMAX (IMAX sneak previews will start on February 10, 2027), before arriving on Netflix for streaming on April 2, 2027. A rare choice from the Red Group, prioritizing a theatrical release before streaming distribution. The film will even have a significant presence in theaters, where Netflix typically opts for limited releases to make an impression (or qualify for the Oscars).
Could this signal a new direction in Netflix’s commercial strategy? It’s too early to say, but if “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew” performs well in cinemas, it could lead the streaming platform to replicate the experience with other blockbusters…
In an interview with Tudum, the director expresses excitement about the simultaneous release: “Working with Netflix to bring this film to life has been extraordinary, and Imax is an incredible partner. I can’t wait for the audience to experience the film in theaters on February 12 and on Netflix on April 2.” Her personal connection to the original material is also highlighted: “I was a child when I read ‘The Magician’s Nephew,’ and I fell in love with the concept of a cosmic lion singing Narnia into existence. It’s a lifelong honor to imagine it myself.”
Imax echoes this strategic delay support: “From the beginning, we’ve been involved in helping Greta Gerwig fully realize her vision in Imax. The 2027 delay creates an opportunity to give Narnia a wider theatrical release, with a real window for exploitation.”
But what about the French release? Currently, there is no specific announcement on this matter. Due to media regulations, it is impossible for Netflix to offer a wide theatrical release followed by online availability just two months later. The regulation requires a delay of over a year between the two. As a result, the platform will have to decide for “Narnia”: either sacrifice a proper cinematic release in France or accept a significant delay for the streaming release.
Adapted from the sixth book in C. S. Lewis’s chronicles, the film is a prequel to “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” The story follows the creation of Narnia through the eyes of Diggory and Polly, two children transported to the mysterious “Wood between the Worlds” via magical rings. Emma Mackey plays Jadis, the future White Witch.
In terms of casting, Gerwig has brought together Carey Mulligan, Daniel Craig, and Meryl Streep.
Combining blockbuster fantasy with an artistic touch, this Gerwig version of Narnia promises to be a significant gamble for Netflix—and could potentially mark a turning point in its cinematic strategy.
