The universe of Narnia returns to the big screen with a teaser that is already generating significant buzz. Greta Gerwig, following the global phenomenon of Barbie, presents the first trailer for The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew, and she does so with a historic surprise for the film industry: the background music is Stairway to Heaven, Led Zeppelin's most iconic track.
The news is significant because the British band has been extremely protective for decades regarding licensing the rights to this song for audiovisual productions. The fact that Robert Plant and Jimmy Page have authorized its use makes this adaptation the first film in history to officially incorporate the track.
A highly anticipated adaptation
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew revisits one of the foundational stories within the literary chronology of The Chronicles of Narnia, originally written by C. S. Lewis. The plot is set many years before the events narrated in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and takes place partially in late 19th-century London before venturing into the magical worlds that gave rise to Narnia.
The project also marks the return of this franchise to theaters after a long absence, and it arrives with the visual and narrative stamp that characterizes Gerwig, who is widely recognized following the overwhelming success of Barbie.
A star-studded cast
For a story as important within the Narnia mythology, the production has assembled a top-tier cast. Daniel Craig brings the enigmatic Uncle Andrew to life, while Carey Mulligan plays Jadis, a character who will later become the feared White Queen of the saga.
Why Led Zeppelin licensed the song
As Greta Gerwig herself explained during a Q&A session, the use of Stairway to Heaven was not originally planned for the project. It was after a personal meeting with the director, in which the spirit and heart of the story were discussed, that Robert Plant and Jimmy Page decided to authorize the song.
According to Gerwig, both musicians turned out to be fans of C. S. Lewis's literary work, which directly influenced their decision to allow, for the first time, one of the most iconic rock songs to be part of a film.
Release date
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew will arrive in theaters on February 12, 2027, in a production by Sony Pictures. Subsequently, the film will land on Netflix on April 2 of that same year, leaving a gap of approximately two months between both releases.
Those who wish to enjoy Gerwig's distinctive visual style in its full magnitude will have their first opportunity to do so in theaters, before its arrival on the streaming platform.
Frequently asked questions
Who is directing The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew?
The film is directed by Greta Gerwig, known for the success of Barbie.
Why is the use of Stairway to Heaven in this film significant?
Because Led Zeppelin has almost never authorized the use of this song in film productions, making The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew the first film to officially include it.
Who are the main actors?
Daniel Craig plays Uncle Andrew and Carey Mulligan plays Jadis, a character who will transform into the White Queen.
When does the film premiere in theaters?
Its theatrical release is scheduled for February 12, 2027.
When will it arrive on Netflix?
The film will arrive on Netflix on April 2, 2027, about two months after its theatrical run.
Where does this story fit in the Narnia chronology?
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew narrates events prior to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, showing the origin of the world of Narnia.
