Netflix's Narnia Chronicles to Premiere in IMAX Before Streaming Release
17 January 2025

Netflix's Narnia Chronicles to Premiere in IMAX Before Streaming Release

Netflix is breaking new ground with its highly anticipated adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia, announcing plans for an IMAX theatrical release ahead of its streaming debut. The streaming giant has allocated approximately $200 million for this ambitious project, marking a significant shift in its traditional distribution strategy.

Greta Gerwig Takes the Helm

Fresh from her success with Barbie in summer 2023, acclaimed director Greta Gerwig is set to bring C.S. Lewis's beloved fantasy series to life. This adaptation represents the first new Narnia film to reach screens since 2010, generating considerable excitement among fans of the classic literary series.


Strategic Release Timeline

The film's premiere is strategically planned for maximum impact during the 2026 holiday season. IMAX theaters will begin showing the film on November 26, 2026 (Thanksgiving Day), while Netflix subscribers can stream it starting December 25, 2026 (Christmas Day). This release schedule notably aligns with the Christian allegorical themes present in C.S. Lewis's original works, particularly the Christ-like symbolism of the character Aslan.

IMAX Exhibition Details

The theatrical run will initially span two weeks across approximately 1,000 IMAX venues worldwide. Plans for a potential third-week extension and expansion to conventional theaters will depend on audience reception. Netflix has committed to shooting the film using both IMAX and standard cameras to ensure optimal viewing quality across all platforms.


Production and Marketing Strategy

Production is scheduled to commence in July 2025. Netflix plans to market the film under a unique "Netflix/IMAX" branding partnership, representing a pioneering collaboration between the streaming service and the premium theater format. This decision came largely at Gerwig's insistence that the film's expansive cinematic scope demands the grand canvas of theatrical exhibition.


Project Details

While official confirmation is pending, sources suggest that The Magician's Nephew will serve as the first installment in this new adaptation series. The availability of IMAX screenings in various international markets, including Turkey, remains to be announced.

This unprecedented distribution approach reflects Netflix's evolution in content strategy, blending traditional theatrical exhibition with its streaming platform roots. The dual-release format aims to maximize the film's reach while preserving the theatrical experience for audiences who prefer to see epic fantasy narratives on the big screen.