Greta Gerwig's adaptation of the beloved literary series "The Chronicles of Narnia" is set to hit IMAX theaters this upcoming Thanksgiving, marking a noteworthy shift for Netflix. Scheduled for release on November 26, 2026, the film will enjoy a two-week exclusive run at around 1,000 IMAX locations worldwide before it becomes available on Netflix on Christmas Day, December 25, 2026.
This ambitious project has been anticipated ever since Gerwig, who recently directed the $1.4 billion blockbuster "Barbie," signed on to create the first adaptations from C.S. Lewis' iconic seven-book series. According to Puck News, this release strategy is unprecedented for Netflix, which typically opts for limited theatrical showings primarily aimed at garnering Oscar nominations.
Gerwig is eager to showcase the fantastical world of Narnia on the big screen, believing it deserves the grandeur of IMAX. The deal for this IMAX release implies not only confidence from Netflix executives but also Gerwig's considerable clout as she navigates the cinematic world post-Barbie.
The film is not only set to gather substantial audiences but also emphasizes Netflix's potential shift toward more significant theatrical partnerships. Commentators note the significance of marketing Narnia as "Netflix/IMAX," promising to treat the movie akin to major blockbuster releases.
While the initial IMAX run is assured, there remains speculation about its extension based on audience interest, echoing remarks made by Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos. Reports suggest there’s even "a chance" for screenings outside IMAX theaters, making the film more accessible to varied audiences.
This theatrical-first strategy departs from Netflix's traditional approach, revisiting the model seen briefly with Rian Johnson’s "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery" and the earlier IMAX collaboration with "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny" back in 2016. It remains to be seen whether this trend will encourage other directors to pursue similar arrangements for their artistic endeavors on Netflix. Gerwig’s visions are lofty, and the backing for this ambitious endeavor indicates Netflix's growing recognition of the importance of theatrical releases for substantial films.
Reports from Puck have captured Gerwig's insistence on honoring the source material, signaling her desire for the film to be seen not merely as another Netflix production but as a significant adaptation worthy of the big-screen experience. Producer Amy Pascal emphasizes this by stating the adaptation will offer "a very new take" on the classic stories treasured by many.
If speculation holds water, Gerwig might be working on adapting "The Magician's Nephew," heralded as one of the prequels to Lewis' series. Jason Issacs hinted excitement around this adaptation, recalling the gravitas imbued within Narnia's narrative.
All indications suggest Netflix's substantial investment and commitment to "The Chronicles of Narnia" will pay off, aligning with its vision to establish this series as a significant film franchise. With Gerwig's previous successes combined with the enchanting tales from C.S. Lewis, there’s great anticipation for how she will capture this magical world visually and narratively.
Overall, the upcoming IMAX release of Gerwig's Narnia adaptation signals not only fresh opportunities for Netflix but also raises the bar for fantasy cinema. The fusion of streaming and large-format theatrical experiences could redefine expectations across the film industry. Fans worldwide eagerly await how this ambitious project will come to life on both the big screen and their personal screens come the holiday season of 2026.