Greta Gerwig’s Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew trailer reveals rock-inspired fantasy world

Director Greta Gerwig has offered the first look at her upcoming adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s classic fantasy novel, The Magician’s Nephew. While the series is familiar to audiences from previous cinematic outings, this project marks the first time the 1955 origin story has been adapted for the screen. The trailer reveals a distinct aesthetic shift, blending traditional fantasy elements with an unexpected rock ’n’ roll influence.A significant highlight of the trailer is the inclusion of Led Zeppelin’s iconic track, "Stairway to Heaven." According to reports, this marks the first instance of the band licensing the song for a motion picture. Gerwig reportedly met with Robert Plant and Jimmy Page to secure permission, with the musicians agreeing because they reportedly recognized the "heart in the story." The music appears to be a central component of this reimagining, suggesting a tone that distinguishes it from previous entries like The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), Prince Caspian (2008), and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010).The footage also provides a look at the film's visual approach to established characters. Emma Mackey takes on the role of Jadis, who is destined to become the White Witch. First-look imagery depicts a chaotic scene where she appears to be screaming on a historic street as the environment reacts to her arrival, resulting in shattered windows and crumpled vehicles. The film also introduces a new iteration of the central figure, Aslan. The great lion is voiced by Meryl Streep and is presented with a cosmic appearance, featuring red markings and eyes of different colours, which the production team reportedly drew from the aesthetic of David Bowie.Regarding the setting, Gerwig has moved away from the novel’s early 1900s timeline. Instead, the adaptation is firmly rooted in 1955, the year C.S. Lewis originally published the book. Set photographs underscore this period transition, showcasing vintage double-decker buses, classic automobiles, and ephemera such as a variety poster dated August 5, 1955.The Magician’s Nephew occupies a unique place in The Chronicles of Narnia series. Although it was the sixth book published, it functions as a prequel, detailing the creation of Narnia, the origins of the White Witch, and the mystery surrounding the iconic lamppost located in a snowy forest. The narrative centers on two children, Digory and Polly, who come into possession of magical rings that allow them to travel between dimensions.Their journey begins in the "Wood between the Worlds," a hub that connects various realms, and leads them to witness the birth of the magical kingdom itself. This origin story serves as the catalyst for the events that would eventually define the future of the land of Narnia. By focusing on these foundational myths, Gerwig’s film aims to provide viewers with the context behind the world’s most enduring magical landmarks.As anticipation builds for this project, the combination of high-profile casting, a specific period aesthetic, and an unconventional soundtrack positions the film as a notable departure from previous adaptations. Audiences looking for a fresh take on Lewis's literary world will be watching to see how these stylistic choices translate into the final feature film.