Meryl Streep as Aslan? The purists are up in arms.

Director Greta Gerwig’s Narnia movie, The Magician’s Nephew is coming out early in 2027. This is one I want to see in theatres rather than wait for it to stream on the small screen.

The Narnia book series, if you don’t already know, is C.S. Lewis’ fantasy re-imagining of the Biblical story. The seven novels, aimed primarily at children, tell different aspects of the Christian message in allegorical form.

Central to the story is the great Lion, Aslan, who is a Christ figure. Which is why the casting Meryl Streep in this role has a few people upset. It seems wrong to some to cast a woman in a male role.

I won’t link to any of the online criticisms. They are easy to find. Some criticize the casting. Others are concerned that Gerwig will edit out the theological message that impelled the creation of the books.

I don’t see a theological problem with Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan, though maybe I am in the minority. Yes, I understand the problems of a feminine voice for a character who represents the Son of God. At the same time though, this is allegorical fiction. It shouldn’t be taken too literally. (My first choice would probably have been James Earl Jones – but he is dead.)

After all, we have a talking lion (and other talking animals), giants, witches and other strange creatures. The world of Narnia does not conform to our preconceptions. And some of the things Lewis threw in I suspect he later wished he hadn’t. (The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe didn’t need a visit from Santa Claus; he didn’t belong in that world)

Asking questions about what the movie will be like seems legitimate. Trashing the film when there isn’t even a trailer available is perhaps going a little far.

It could be the worst movie ever made, though given Gerwig’s track record that is unlikely. Will it follow the book as closely as the three Narnia movies made about 20 years ago? I have no idea.

As a fan, I hope she sticks to Lewis’ vision. The IMDB listing for the film gives the writing credits to Gerwig and C.S. Lewis, which should be a good sign. I know she has changed the setting for the London back story to the 1950s – but that shouldn’t matter. the story is, after all, timeless.

In recent years it seems there has been an increased tendency to automatically reject anything that doesn’t fit preconceived notions. Politicians are risk-averse. Musicians and writers don’t take artistic chances. No wonder AI can fool us into thinking it is creative.

There is a possibility I will hate the movie when it comes out. There is also a possibility I may love it. Mostly likely I will have mixed feelings, wishing for a more faithful adaptation of the original. I’m old and stuck in my ways.

The film doesn’t hit the theatres until February. I plan to see it opening weekend. If I remember, I’ll post my first imopressions here.

Are you planning on going?