Filming has begun on The Magician’s Nephew, Greta Gerwig’s much-anticipated take on the Chronicles of Narnia. The film, which will launch Netflix’s big-screen Narnia franchise, is set to hit theatres in 2026—more than six years after the streamer first revealed plans to adapt C.S. Lewis’s classic novels back in October 2018.
This past weekend, production was spotted in central London, with crews transforming the streets around Bank Station and The Royal Exchange into a detailed snapshot of post-war Britain in the 1950s. Extras in period attire filled the sets, while Gerwig herself was seen directing scenes. Photos from the shoot quickly made the rounds online, giving fans a glimpse at the film’s vintage atmosphere.
In a significant shift from Lewis’s original story—which unfolds in the late Victorian era—the movie is set in 1955. Props such as a flower stall featured signage confirming the updated timeline. Industry watchers note that this change could influence the chronology of later adaptations. If the same adjustment is made to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, traditionally set during World War II, its events could be pushed into the early 21st century.
Filming has begun on Netflix’s Narnia movie from director Greta Gerwig.
An area in London was converted into 1950s.
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The Magician’s Nephew explores the creation of Narnia, centering on Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, two children whose adventures inadvertently unleash the White Witch upon London. Emma Mackey is confirmed to play the villain, while unverified reports link Daniel Craig to the role of Uncle Andrew and Meryl Streep to the voice of Aslan. Carey Mulligan is also rumored to be joining the cast, though Netflix has yet to make official announcements.
With Gerwig steering the project and a bold new historical setting, the film aims to reintroduce Narnia’s origins to a new generation—potentially altering how the beloved fantasy saga will unfold on screen.
