Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s The Magician’s Nephew has been postponed from a Thanksgiving 2026 release to February 12, 2027, in theaters worldwide, followed by Netflix on April 2. Originally planned as a limited IMAX run, the shift now grants a wide theatrical window—nearly 50 days—before streaming, boosting its box office potential amid Netflix’s evolving film strategy.
The film, the sixth Narnia book chronologically but first in timeline, wrapped principal photography in London after a six-month shoot starting August 2025. Gerwig, fresh off Barbie’s billion-dollar triumph, writes and directs this origin tale of Narnia’s creation, featuring Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer uncovering a magical wood via enchanted rings crafted by the nefarious Uncle Andrew. Casting rumors swirl around rising stars, with Gerwig teasing a “grand adventure” faithful to Lewis’s wonder.
Narnia: The Magician's Nephew will release in IMAX and wide globally in theaters on February 12, 2027, and on Netflix on April 2, 2027. Sneak previews only in IMAX will begin on February 10, 2027.
Written for the screen and directed by Greta Gerwig, the origin story for Narnia…
— Netflix (@netflix) May 1, 2026
The delay, announced May 1, 2026, stems from post-production needs for extensive VFX to realize Narnia’s singing dawn and fantastical beasts, plus strategic timing post-Dune and Hunger Games successes. Gerwig expressed excitement: “Working with Netflix… has been extraordinary. I cannot wait for people to see the film in theatres on February 12.” IMAX previews kick off February 10, amplifying spectacle.
Netflix’s move signals confidence in Gerwig’s vision after acquiring Narnia rights in 2015, aiming to reboot the franchise beyond the Walton-era films (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 2005-2010). Industry buzz praises the expanded cinema run, countering streamer skepticism on theatricals. Fans, eager for Gerwig’s feminist-infused take—echoing Little Women—speculate on talking animals like Aslan and Strawberry the horse.
As 2027 looms, this Narnia revival rides high on Gerwig’s pedigree, blending Lewis’s Christian allegory with modern flair. Theatres first ensure epic immersion, setting up sequels in Netflix’s multi-film pact