Dr. Ted Baehr’s Open Letter to Netflix on Narnia Adaptation
Dr. Ted Baehr, the founder of MovieGuide, is urging Netflix to stay true to the biblical elements in the upcoming adaptation of “The Magician’s Nephew,” which is the sixth book in C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia” series. In an open letter, he emphasized that the Christian community shouldn’t be overlooked, describing it as a large, value-oriented audience craving narratives that resonate with their beliefs and inspire their spirits. In fact, by 2025, it was noted that 62% of American adults identified as Christians, with 33% feeling particularly connected to their spiritual identity.
According to reports, further adaptations of Narnia are anticipated, with Greta Gerwig, who directed the live-action “Barbie” in 2023, at the helm. Notably, it has been suggested that actress Meryl Streep may portray Aslan, the character Lewis created as a representation of Christ. However, there are concerns about how her potential portrayal could unfold, given her recent remarks regarding the treatment of female actresses in film.
Baehr expressed his belief that many films rich in spiritual themes could alienate faith-based audiences. He noted that he would be willing to support “The Magician’s Nephew” if the adaptation remains faithful to Lewis’ original storytelling, preserves the integrity of Christian themes, and treats the character of Aslan with the respect it deserves while avoiding secular reinterpretation.
He further stated that sticking to these standards could lead to strong endorsements from respected pastors, theologians, and Christian reviewers. Collaborations with faith-based organizations, screenings hosted by churches, and broader media engagement could enhance the film’s reception.
Baehr mentioned, “If directors, screenwriters, and producers take time for thoughtful reflection, it can lead to a deeper understanding of Lewis’s Christian worldview and provide new pathways for outreach.”
In closing, Baehr invited Netflix’s producers to collaborate with him and his team. He believes this partnership could pave the way for new marketing standards for such films, both in the U.S. and internationally.
Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew is scheduled to hit theaters in the U.S. and Canada on November 26, 2026, as part of a two-week IMAX global release across 90 countries. It will then be available for streaming on Netflix starting December 25, 2026.
