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As previously reported, Netflix recently vowed to continue its theatrical expansion efforts, even after its failed bid to acquire Warner Bros. Pictures. That promise wasn't just lip service; the streamer is now making good on its word. Netflix announced this morning that its new reboot of "The Chronicles of Narnia" will be its first major tentpole film to receive a wide global theatrical release, slated for February 12 next year, before hitting Netflix on April 2. IMAX versions will premiere two days earlier, on February 10.
Prior to this expanded theatrical plan, Netflix had originally scheduled the film for a Thanksgiving release this year, November 26, but has now pushed it to next year.
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Greta Gerwig (pictured right), the acclaimed director of "Barbie" who is helming this film, has reportedly been advocating for a wider theatrical release with Netflix for some time. While Netflix initially only agreed to an exclusive two-to-three-week run in global IMAX theaters, the streamer has now committed to a broader theatrical distribution.
Additionally, Netflix confirmed long-standing rumors that the first installment of the new series will indeed adapt "The Magician's Nephew," the sixth book in C.S. Lewis's original novel series. Though published sixth, "The Magician's Nephew" serves as a prequel, detailing the earliest events in the "Narnia" timeline.
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The currently confirmed cast includes Ciarán Hinds, David McKenna, Carey Mulligan, Susan Wokoma, Beatrice Campbell, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, and Denise Gough.
Actors whose roles have been revealed include Emma Mackey as the White Witch, Daniel Craig as Uncle Andrew, and Meryl Streep lending her voice to Aslan. Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, who composed the score for Gerwig's "Barbie," will return to handle the music.