Greta Gerwig has cast Meryl Streep as Aslan in Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, and she knows exactly why she chose her. The director explained her reasoning in a statement that lays out what she wants in a great actor — and what she doesn’t.
The film is based on C.S. Lewis’s novel, the first book in the Narnia series. Netflix is releasing it in movie theaters next February, which is unusual for the streamer. Gerwig’s previous work includes Little Women and Lady Bird.
Streep’s Criteria
Gerwig’s list for Aslan is specific and pointed. She wants an actor who is profound but not pretentious, with gravitas but no morose self-seriousness. She wants someone who can show depth and sadness alongside joy and delight.
She also wants an older actor — someone wiser from experience — who still holds onto the wonder of a child. And she wants someone who is one of the greatest actors to ever do it.
“That list is not a long one,” she said.
The Aslan Question
Aslan is Lewis’s feline stand-in for Jesus. Casting him is a big call, and Gerwig explains why she went for Streep.
Streep fits every box on the list. She has the weight and the warmth. She has the experience and the freshness. And she has the reputation.
What We Know So Far
The film is the first in a planned series of Lewis adaptations. Netflix is rolling out the details slowly, but we have a first look at Aslan from photographer Peter Mountain.
The book was published before The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe, but it comes first in the story’s timeline. Gerwig is making it her entry point, which is a deliberate choice.
Gerwig’s Prior Work
Gerwig’s credits include Little Women and Lady Bird. Her adaptation of Mattel’s products came nearly five years ago, and it reached a wide audience.
Streep’s Career
Streep has appeared in countless films over decades. She remains one of the most respected actors working today.
The Wonder Test
Gerwig’s final requirement is the hardest to pin down. She wants an actor who is older than 70 but still holds the wonder of a child.
That combination is rare. Streep has kept it.
What Comes Next
Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew hits theaters next February. Streep will appear as Aslan, and Gerwig’s vision will be on screen.
The film is the start of a franchise.
The Verdict
Gerwig’s criteria are delightful and practical at once. She wants an actor who can do it all — and she found one.
Streep fits the bill. The statement makes the case for her casting.
Key Facts Box
- Film: Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
- Director: Greta Gerwig
- Actor: Meryl Streep as Aslan
- Release: Movie theaters, next February
- Platform: Netflix
- Book position: First in the Narnia chronology
Order of Adaptation
- The Magician’s Nephew — Gerwig’s film
- The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe — published first
- Remaining books in the series
Gerwig’s statement makes the case for Streep. The film has a strong director and a beloved source text.
The release in theaters is a bold choice for Netflix. Gerwig’s reasoning for Streep is clear — she wanted someone who could carry both weight and wonder at once.
See the video the story is built around at The A.V. Club.
Get the Notebook.
The day's best stories and every fresh verdict, in plain English, in your inbox by seven. One email a day, no more.