Netflix Pivots To Big Screen With First Full Theatrical Rollout For ‘Narnia’

Netflix is making its biggest move yet into cinema, with a full theatrical rollout for Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.

The big-budget film, directed by Barbie filmmaker Greta Gerwig, will debut in cinemas worldwide on February 12, with exclusive IMAX previews from February 10. It will then land on Netflix on April 2, giving the film a roughly seven-week theatrical window – far longer than the streamer has historically allowed.

The decision marks the first time Netflix has committed to a wide, studio-style cinema release across thousands of screens globally. Previously, the company limited theatrical runs to small-scale releases or short promotional windows before shifting titles online.

The move is being welcomed by cinema operators, who have long pushed streaming platforms to adopt longer theatrical windows.

AMC Theatres CEO Adam Aron described the shift as a “massive development,” while Vue Cinemas boss Tim Richards said it could signal a turning point where streaming and cinemas “complement” rather than compete.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos (pictured below) has previously downplayed the importance of theatrical releases, calling them “outmoded” for most audiences.

But the company’s strategy appears to be evolving amid industry pressure and growing recognition that blockbuster films can benefit from cinema exposure before streaming.

Gerwig reportedly played a key role in advocating for a wide theatrical release, with the original plan – a limited IMAX run – facing resistance from theatre chains demanding at least a 45-day exclusivity window.

For the wider industry, the shift could be significant. Cinema attendance remains down roughly one-third from pre-pandemic levels and exhibitors are eager for more major releases to drive foot traffic.

Netflix says no other films are currently slated for similar treatment but a successful Narnia rollout could reshape its distribution model.