Netflix has acquired the rights to adapt the classic fantasy novels by C.S. Lewis, starting with a fresh take on the live-action film franchise. The inaugural installment will be “The Magician’s Nephew”, a prequel novel published in 1956 that explores the origins of the White Witch, Professor Digory Kirk, and the creation of Narnia. This novel takes place thousands of years before the events of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”, making it the perfect starting point for the franchise.
The Magician’s Nephew is often overlooked, but it has the potential to generate a greater impact when adapted into a film. The story delves into complex themes such as original sin, temptation, redemption, and natural law, showcasing Lewis’ mastery of storytelling. The novel introduces readers to Digory and Polly, two intriguing characters who go on a journey through the magical world of Narnia, going the multiversal doorway, The Wood Between the Worlds, which reveals that Narnia is not the only parallel universe they can visit. This adds a new layer of depth to the story, offering a fresh perspective on the world of Narnia.
A Still From The Magician’s Nephew. (Photo: The Magician’s Nephew.)
Director Greta Gerwig would do well to start with “The Magician’s Nephew” to differentiate the franchise from previous adaptations. The film would breathe new life into the series, appealing to both returning fans and new viewers alike, thereby expanding Netflix’s audience. The novel sets up several plotlines that will be resolved in later installments, making it a crucial part of the overall narrative. Additionally, the novel’s connection to Tash, the demon-god, could make the franchise more cohesive by linking the first installment to the last.
C.S. Lewis himself preferred the chronological order of the books, and HarperCollins has inserted a disclaimer in recent copies of “The Magician’s Nephew” to reflect this. Given the prospect of bingeing the entire series through “The Last Battle”, starting with “The Magician’s Nephew” makes sense for Netflix. “The Magician’s Nephew” is the perfect starting point for the franchise, offering a fresh and exciting take on the world of Narnia. Its intricate characters, concepts, and storytelling will make it a must-watch series for fans of fantasy and adventure.
