Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Chronicles of Narnia movie for Netflix is ready to obtain a two-week IMAX theatrical launch. A technique that’s been stated might (or, let’s be trustworthy, most likely gained’t) mark a significant turning level in how the streaming large approaches the large display. Teasing the upcoming launch, which has been contentious with many theater house owners and commentators, IMAX head Wealthy Gelfond previewed the forthcoming film in a recent episode of The Town with Matt Belloni.
To convey you up to the mark, IMAX, which operates its format in cinemas throughout the globe, has carved out a two-week window of exclusivity earlier than Greta Gerwig’s Narnia, forward of its launch on Netflix for Christmas 2026. As Belloni famous, Gerwig’s Netflix deal features a clause requiring the movie to be marketed like a real theatrical launch. And with IMAX locked in for a two-week window, it alerts a uncommon alignment between Netflix’s streaming-first mannequin and the normal movie exhibition world.
“The story, the best way it’s being filmed, the distribution sample, the best way Greta’s leaning into it… Netflix is actually enthusiastic about this launch,” stated Gelfond, who’s actively concerned proper now with advertising and marketing preparations, which includes him being aware about story plans.
Not all theaters are absolutely on board simply but. Belloni identified that Regal CEO Eduardo Acuna has not publicly dedicated to enjoying Narnia, a possible situation, contemplating Narnia could be a Netflix-backed launch, and a few chains have traditionally averted these. However Gelfond downplayed the priority, saying Acuna privately advised him he was open to enjoying the movie, simply hadn’t determined, saying, “As soon as it’s unveiled—what this seems to be like, the way it’s going to be—I believe persons are going to line as much as be a part of it,” Gelfond predicted.
Gelford believes the discharge will probably be an occasion not like Netflix has ever had prior to now with its motion pictures, and that’s partly right down to the grand plans Gerwig has for the film, with Gelford praising the scope and story of the movie, which is predicted to observe The Magician’s Nephew. “Lots of people are speaking about it. It’s going to create an occasion. That’s what IMAX does—it creates occasions. It’s not only one film; as you recognize, it’s a sequence of flicks. I believe IMAX is a perfect option to launch an occasion.”
The IMAX boss additionally added that Netflix is closely leaning into the IMAX launch and claims that the advertising and marketing will probably be far more akin to a conventional theatrical launch, saying, “The Netflix group is happy about it and leaning in.”
Though initially scheduled to get underway with manufacturing in July, most experiences point out that filming will now decide up in September in and round London in the UK.
For our full preview of every little thing we find out about Netflix’s Greta Gerwig film, together with extra on what it’ll cowl, who’s forged thus far, and the timeline of how we acquired thus far, check out our full preview.