Netflix’s upcoming adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia, directed by Barbie director Greta Gerwig, has ignited controversy over its reported decision to cast Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan, the iconic lion who serves as a Christ-like figure in C.S. Lewis’ beloved fantasy series. This creative choice has sparked backlash among fans and critics alike, many of whom view the gender-swapping of such a pivotal character as disrespectful to the source material and its deeply rooted Christian themes.
Aslan is not merely a character in The Chronicles of Narnia. He is the spiritual and narrative cornerstone of Lewis’ allegorical world, symbolizing Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and redemption. Traditionally portrayed as male, Aslan’s gender is integral to the story’s Christian subtext. Reports suggest that Gerwig, known for her feminist approach in films like Barbie, is considering Streep for the role, reimagining Aslan as female. This decision has been met with widespread criticism, with many accusing Netflix and Gerwig of undermining the essence of Lewis’ work.
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Fans of Lewis have labeled the move as “blasphemous” with others accusing Netflix of pandering to modern ideological trends, something all too familiar. For many, this isn’t just about gender-swapping; it’s about preserving the spiritual heart of Narnia. Aslan’s portrayal carries profound theological significance, and altering this aspect risks alienating Christian audiences who have long cherished Lewis’ vision.
This controversy reflects broader frustrations with Hollywood’s trend of reimagining established characters to fit contemporary narratives. Similar backlash has occurred with other adaptations, including Disney’s live-action Snow White and Amazon’s Lord of the Rings series. Critics argue that these changes often feel more like virtue signaling than genuine artistic innovation, leaving audiences yearning for faithful adaptations that honor the original stories.
The decision to gender-swap Aslan could have significant repercussions for Netflix. The streaming giant has already faced criticism for its handling of other adaptations, and this latest move may further alienate its subscriber base—particularly among Christian viewers who see this as a betrayal of Lewis’ legacy. With a reported $300 million budget for the project, Netflix risks turning a beloved franchise into a polarizing spectacle.
When it comes to feminists in Hollywood, the trajectory is usually the same. Kathleen Kennedy caused significant damage to Star Wars and Indiana Jones during her tenure, decisions that have sparked debate among fans of the original franchises. Similarly, Amazon’s Jen Salke injected identity politics into The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, introducing new elements and characters that wildly diverged from Tolkien’s original work.
Some critics question why filmmakers like Greta Gerwig, who regularly take liberties with source material, would invest years in adapting beloved stories just to subvert the core identity of the material. The answer is she is deliberately provoking fans of the original stories. It’s obviously anti-Christian.
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Scheduled for release in late 2026, Gerwig’s adaptation will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny, not limited to the fact that altering Aslan’s portrayal could strip Narnia of its spiritual depth and timeless appeal. Whether this gamble pays off or backfires remains to be seen. In reimagining Aslan—a character central to Lewis’ allegory—Netflix and Greta Gerwig are treading on delicate ground. The decision has sparked a cultural debate about creativity versus fidelity to source material, leaving very little doubt about how this film is poised to dihonor and distort the soul of Narnia, and betray the intentions of the creator, C.S. Lewis.
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