Amid 'Aslan' Controversy, Hollywood Veteran Warns Netflix Not to 'Destroy' C.S. Lewis' 'The Chronicles of Narnia'
"The Christian community is not a niche. It is a vast, values-driven audience that is hungry for stories that reflect their worldview, honor their convictions, and stir their souls..." -Dr. Ted Baehr, Movieguide
[Faithwire.com] A film industry veteran is on a mission to stop Netflix from "destroying" C.S. Lewis' "The Chronicles of Narnia," a powerful and beloved Christian allegory book series. (Image: Pixabay)
Dr. Ted Baehr, founder of Movieguide, told CBN News he hopes to convince Netflix to "adhere to Lewis' Biblical allegories" and not veer off into other interpretations or antics when they release "The Magician's Nephew," a film adaptation of the sixth novel in Lewis' Narnia series.
Baehr has prepared an open letter he hopes will convince executives and director Greta Gerwig of "Barbie" fame to portray characters and themes in the upcoming Narnia film accurately.
Outlets like Deadline reported earlier this year that actress Meryl Streep was in talks to portray Aslan the Great Lion, a character Lewis created to represent Jesus. The allegation that Streep, a female, was up for the role immediately sparked outrage and consternation.
Gerwig had previously pledged the movie would be "rooted in faith," but little is known about what the final product will look like.
With uncertainty abounding, Baehr is taking a stand with his open letter to the producers of the "Narnia" movies—and he's encouraging others to do the same.
"The Christian community is not a niche," he wrote, in part. "It is a vast, values-driven audience that is hungry for stories that reflect their worldview, honor their convictions, and stir their souls. With over 62% of American adults identifying as Christian in 2025, and 33% attending religious services monthly, this is not just a spiritual demographic—it's a formidable market segment."
Baehr went on to warn that too many films end up alienating the faith-based audience. He told Netflix that he will personally promote "The Magician's Nephew" if the movie meets important benchmarks.
Among other sentiments, Baehr asked that Christian themes from the books remain in place and aren't distorted, that there is "moral integrity" in the story—and for a "respectful portrayal of Aslan."... Subscribe for free to Breaking Christian News here
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