Movies

Greta Gerwig’s ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ Casting Sparks Backlash

BBG News

The latest speculation about Greta Gerwig’s progressive adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia has sparked a heated discussion on social media platforms.

It’s said that Meryl Streep may be discussing her role as the voice actor for Aslan in Netflix’s forthcoming version of The Magician’s Nephew, which is the initial book in C.S. Lewis’ cherished fantasy collection, when it comes to the chronological order.

The news has sparked excitement among fans, who are expressing their disapproval of what appears to be a reinterpretation of the famous lion symbol as a female character, often associated historically with a masculine, Christ-like figure.

79-year-old Meryl Streep is the newest high-profile figure associated with the project, set to collaborate alongside Daniel Craig, who is reportedly in negotiations for the role of Uncle Andrew, and pop sensation Charli XCX, whose casting as Jadis, the White Witch, has been hinted at by Deadline.

But it’s Streep’s potential casting that has sparked the most backlash.

One fan put it bluntly: ‘I love Meryl Streep, but why are they gender-swapping Aslan?’

Another quipped, ‘Who’s playing the Ice Queen, Brad Pitt?’ 

others found it unusual that a male lion could have a feminine voice, as one user pointed out, ‘Why should a male lion (with a mane) sound like a female?’

Critics accused Hollywood of having a particular motive, since Aslan is often seen as symbolizing Christ.

‘Hollywood hates Christ. I’m tired of it,’ one person fumed. 

Another took it further, posing, ‘What if we made the embodiment of Christ female and gay?’

The movie has attracted criticism due to speculations that Gerwig’s version might present a modern, socially aware interpretation of the original story.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but exclaim that in the magical realm of Narnia, Aslan appears to be none other than our beloved Jesus Christ Himself. It seems the creators are now bringing this biblical connection to life – and it’s about time! A hearty chuckle escapes me as I type this.

Some fans remain wary of Gerwig’s involvement, given her history of reimagining beloved works.

One individual expressed regret, ‘Oh dear… Why does it seem challenging for Gerwig to direct a clearly Christian film?’ They felt that in ‘Little Women’, she removed any religious aspects from the production.

A different individual commented, ‘It seems they are hiring Greta Gerwig to reimagine another cherished character yet again? Sigh. Instead of merely transforming Barbie into a feminist critic, this time they’re changing the representation of Jesus from male to female. I suppose it fits their pattern. I’m confident it will all go smoothly for them.’

In the year 2018, Netflix unveiled their intentions to create a new collection of movies and TV shows inspired by C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia.

2020 marked the year when Gerwig formally became part of the project. She put her signature on the agreement, committing to both write and direct the initial installment.

Previously announced, the movie will have an exclusive two-week worldwide screening at IMAX theaters during Thanksgiving 2026, followed by its release on a popular streaming platform.

Previously, Disney made an effort to create a successful film franchise based on The Chronicles of Narnia, debuting with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in 2005 and following up with two sequels. However, as ticket sales dropped, they eventually decided to stop producing films from this series.

After achieving tremendous success with Barbie and Little Women, Greta Gerwig is renowned for adding her unique touch to classic literature. However, it’s yet to be determined if her interpretation of Narnia will captivate loyal followers.

Currently, Meryl Streep has been garnering attention with her performance in “Only Murders in the Building,” however, it’s been some time since she last appeared in a major film role, which was for “Don’t Look Up” back in 2021.

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2025-04-04 01:06

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