My Facebook bio reads "I have a Narnia quote for every occasion," and the sentiment rings true. The hope and wonder found inside The Chronicles of Narnia played a huge role in shaping who I am as a writer and as a human. I'm a part of a Facebook group and keep up with some online forums, which means that I can spot clickbait or a fake poster from a mile away.
After Netflix acquired the rights to The Chronicles of Narnia in 2018, I was on the edge of my seat to see who would be involved. So, as you can imagine, when it was finally confirmed that Greta Gerwig (who directed 2019's Little Women, the other story that has heavily influenced my life) would write and direct the next two movies in the Narnia universe, I told *everyone.*
Although the books are no stranger to controversy, I'm confident Greta Gerwig will handle them with grace and tact because she has a knack for bringing stories into the 21st century while still feeling true to their original heart.
Image via Walt Disney Studios
It looks like we could see Narnia in 2026. Via What's On Netflix, filming will reportedly begin this August and will last around seven months. Check back here for more info on filming and the cast!
Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images
While we also don't have word on Greta Gerwig's The Chronicles of Narnia cast yet, after a reunion with actress Brie Larson at the 2024 Golden Globes (the two women starred in 2010's Greenberg together), X users are hoping the Oscar winner will make an appearance! "She need to get in Narnia somehow," one user said when they retweeted a video of the reunion. The reunion in question features Brie hopping like a bunny over to Greta, who squeals as they hug each other. I don't know about you, but that's exactly how I greet my friends IRL.
"When [Brie Larson] gets the Best Supporting Actress nomination for playing the White Witch, wait," one user added.
Saoirse Ronan told The Wrap at the Sundance Film Festival that she's already asked to be in Greta Gerwig's Narnia movies! The actress played the lead in two of Greta's films: Jo March in Little Women and the titular character in Ladybird. When asked whether she's already asked to be in The Chronicles of Narnia, Saoirse responds with a firm "yes." "We have that kind of relationship where I’m like 'So I’ll be in the next one!,'" she says.
However, it looks like we do have an idea of who we *won't* see in the cast. Original Narnia cast member William Moseley (who played Peter Pevensie) recently told Bleeding Cool he doesn't expect to get a call from Greta Gerwig: "I’m not part of that world anymore, which sometimes makes me sad because I love the world of Narnia and becoming a part of it."
"In terms of what I think about Greta Gerwig directing, I think she’s incredible," he continues. "Barbie was an amazing movie, and Little Woman was brilliant. Everything she touches turns gold, so I think Netflix is lucky to have her, and I’m sure she will embrace the challenge. I hope she enjoys it because it’s an incredible world to create, and I can’t wait to see what she produces."
Image via Walt Disney Pictures/Walden Media
The specific Narnia movies the writer and director is making haven't been named, but an interview with TIME says that Greta Gerwig is adapting "the first book" in the series. The only hiccup is that they don't confirm whether they mean the first book chronologically (The Magician's Nephew) or the first book C.S. Lewis published (The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe). I'm thinking it'll be The Magician's Nephew since we've never seen that story onscreen.
“[The films] won’t be counter to how the audience may have imagined those worlds,” Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos tells TIME, “but it will be bigger and bolder than they thought.”
While we don't have official confirmation on which movie Greta Gerwig is adapting, we know she wants it to have even more of an impact than Barbie.
"I want to make it feel like magic," she says. “C.S. Lewis said that the goal of writing fantasy — you know, something from his imagination — he’d say, let’s say you wrote about an enchanted forest. The goal would be that then every time you walk into a forest after you read it, you’d say to yourself, ‘maybe this is an enchanted forest.’ So that’s a tall order, but I guess re-enchantment of the world [is my goal].”
It looks like we can expect to come away from Greta Gerwig's The Chronicles of Narnia movies with even more love for the world, more childlike wonder, and more courage and kindness towards each other — and I am totally here for it.
Image viaChang Ho/Warner Bros. Entertainment
Like the intentional planner she is, Greta Gerwig actually thought about directing a Narnia movie way before her involvement was ever confirmed.
"I’m writing and I’m sort of starting to dream and think about what I’m approaching," she says on The Empire Film Podcast. "I would say the land of Narnia is equally exciting and terrifying. I have nothing really to report on it other than it’s something I was actually talking about before I made Barbie. So, that’s been sort of in my unconscious working its way through. But that has been a pattern. I wrote a draft of Little Women before I made Lady Bird."
Narnia, Little Women, Barbie — Greta Gerwig has a knack for turning our beloved childhood stories into something complex and emotional that resonates with us even more as adults!
“I’m slightly in the place of terror because I really do have such reverence for Narnia,” Greta tells BBC Radio 4. “I loved Narnia so much as a child. As an adult, C.S. Lewis is a thinker and a writer. I’m intimidated by doing this. It’s something that feels like a worthy thing to be intimidated by."
"As a non-British person, I feel a particular sense of wanting to do it correctly," she continues. "It’s like when Americans do Shakespeare, there’s a slight feeling of reverence and as if maybe we should treat it with extra care. It is not our countryman.”
Image via Walt Disney Pictures/Walden Media
We don't have any info yet on whether this adaptation will pick up where The Voyage of the Dawn Treader left off, whether it will be a remake of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, or if it will be a totally new story within the Narnia universe (similar to Prime Video's The Rings of Power).
I'm personally anticipating that it will be the first option because I would love to see Greta bring something like The Magician's Nephew (which has never been adapted) to life onscreen.
Image via Disney Enterprises/Walden Media
The Chronicles of Narnia revolves around the fictional land of Narnia, and the children in our world who find it. Time passes differently in Narnia than it does on earth, which means that even though around 50 years pass for the characters, they find themselves in a different decade or century every time they reenter the magical land.
Each book has themes like good vs. evil, family, and identity as the characters face different challenges and adventures. The coolest thing about these books is how open-ended C.S. Lewis wrote them — because your own personal experiences, life lessons, and worldview impact your imagination, you have a different experience every time you read them.
“It’s connected to the folklore and fairy stories of England, but it’s a combination of different traditions,” Greta Gerwig tells TIME. “As a child, you accept the whole thing—that you’re in this land of Narnia, there’s fauns, and then Father Christmas shows up. It doesn’t even occur to you that it’s not schematic. I’m interested in embracing the paradox of the worlds that Lewis created, because that’s what’s so compelling about them.”
Image via Twentieth Century Fox Fim Corporation/Walden Media
Yes! Netflix acquired the rights to The Chronicles of Narnia (which were previously held by Walden Media) in 2018, but there wasn't much news for the next few years. The New Yorker confirmed that Greta is attached to write and direct these Narnia Netflix films in the near future.
Image via Courtesy 20th Century Fox/Walden Media
The final Chronicles of Narnia adaptation for Disney was 2010's The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Even though the film set up a sequel, issues with the rights ended the film series early.
Image via Pierre Vinet/Disney Enterprises, Inc/Walden Media, LLC/IMDb
Are you excited for Greta Gerwig's Chronicles of Narnia movies? Let us know in the comments and follow us on Facebook for more movie news!
Lead image via Chang Ho/Warner Bros. Entertainment
This post has been updated.
If there’s one thing about the weather outside warming up, it’s that it has us itching to wear all white and only white. Because of the “no white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day '' rule that was put into place who knows how long ago by we don't-know-who, the color doesn’t get a lot of love during the winter months, but wearing all white is SUCH a vibe. However, thanks to this rule, all-white ensembles are always reminiscent of long summer days that lead into long summer nights.
In fact, wearing all white is such a striking fashion moment that ‘white parties’ have become a popularized summer event thanks to mentions in the media like Gossip Girl’s acclaimed Hamptons white party, or RHOBH’s Kyle Richards’ annual ivory-only summer soiree. Even if you aren’t a part of New York’s elite or a housewife in Beverly Hills, that doesn’t mean that you can’t partake in this seasonal trend, too.
Flowy dresses, linen sets, eyelet details, and delicate cuts all bring so much versatility to the soft colorway that is white. If you’re feeling inspired to host your own white party this summer, or if you already have a few on your calendar to attend, find our top apparel selects that fit the theme below.
These pants are so effortlessly cool, both literally and figuratively. The wide legs, oversized back pockets, and low waist keep them on-trend, while the breathable linen fabric makes them perfect for hotter temps. Not to mention, they’ll pair easily with just about every top that’s already in your closet.
Want to know how to look super chic with minimal effort? This delicate maxi dress is your answer. The dramatic ankle length of this dress makes it an obvious choice for nighttime white parties, but the playful back cut-out and tie maintain the youthful energy that comes out in all of us during the summer.
If you are as obsessed with tenniscore as we are following the premiere of the Challengers movie, then this mini dress is the white party ‘fit for you! The drop waist and subtle ruffled collar detail make it feel like it could be worn court-side if the party you’re attending happens to have a net and a few extra rackets handy; you’ll be sure to channel your inner Zendaya in this piece.
Caftan dresses are the best for keeping you cool while still making you look majestic af. This one-shoulder shift dress has gorgeous details including monochrome appliques and a scalloped slit that sits beautifully on all body types. Available in a size range of XS to 3XL, it beautifully fuses elegance and comfort for a timeless look that transitions seamlessly from season to season.
If your white party doubles as a pool party, then showing up in an ivory one-piece is a must. The full coverage bum will keep you feeling secure, while the lace-up back invites an element of edginess to this modern take on a classic bathing suit.
If I were to go to a white party this summer (read: someone please invite me to your white party this summer), then I’d wear this matching set. I love that it comes off as fashionable thanks to the on-trend sheer element and flattering fabric composition while feeling as comfortable as pajamas.
This high-low dress is simply stunning. With a square neck, romantic floral design, and puff sleeves, the Margaret dress is playful yet sophisticated and can be dressed down for lunchtime get-togethers, or styled more formally for evening events.
Once the party is over and you’re ready to slip into something a bit more comfortable, this milky white set made from 100% mulberry silk will make you feel beyond luxe. The quintessential, timeless silhouette is sure to turn heads, so much so that if you throw this set on while your guests are still present, they’ll get the subtle hint that it’s time for them to go home; only after they ask where your set is from.
Look and feel posh in a pair of tailored shorts if a dress just isn’t your thing. Abercrombie’s pleated highrise shorts bring an element of functionality to white party dressing. These shorts feature front and back pockets for your trinkets, belt loops that provide the opportunity for accessorizing, and a partially elasticated waistband offers extra comfort.
This jumpsuit is giving stylish mechanic, and we’re totally here for it. The all-white colorway offers an elevated, yet essential appeal to this all-in-one outfit. To make it feel a bit more feminine, pop the collar, roll up the pant legs, add some kitten heels, and as many accessories as you can handle.
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Header image via Praerie
I'm no stranger to romance and smut books — thanks to my sister's secret stash — but I've finally given in to the "romantasy" genre that's floated around BookTok lately. And yet again, my sister is at the center of my newfound reading interest, gifting me (voluntarily this time) Fourth Wingand Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros. I know I may be a little late to the party, but these books are dominating my reading interests this summer. It's like I just can't get enough of all the romance, fantasy, challenges, and spicy scenes!
If this sounds like you, here are the top 6 romantasy books to jump start your journey into the genre. Just be sure to sit in front of a fan while reading some of them, though — they can get pretty hot and spicy! 🥵
*Sigh* Where do I start? This book squeezed my heart and cradled it at the same time. It also stoked an inner fire that felt eerily similar to a couple of scenes in the book that I've bookmarked 👀.
Meeting Violet Sorrengail was like peeling back the layers of thoughts I had about myself as a child. She initially thinks she's too fragile to be a gifted dragon rider like her siblings Brennan and Mira, but her mother — General Sorrengail — isn't easily swayed. So, off Violet goes to train or die trying.
From enemies who are more than willing to kill her at a heartbeat to developing a deep bond with two dragons — something that's unheard of — Violet finds herself realizing she's more powerful than she's given herself credit for.
I'm still trying to make sense of the way Iron Flame took my emotions on the wildest ride. Although I'm still recovering and yearning for more, I have to commend Rebecca Yarros for giving us two of the best Romantasy books of our time.
When we catch up with Violet Sorrengail again, she's managed to enter her second year at Basgiath War College without dying. Although she's a lot more resilient than she gives herself credit for, she knows there's still so much to learn.
The lessons she's learning are harsher and it seems like she's still being targeted for several reasons. As she tries hard to navigate the things she needs to learn in order to survive, she begins realizing there's an internal threat that's far greater than anyone could've imagined.
It'll take all of her allies, her dragons, and her greatest love to eliminate this threat. The problem is that nothing will ever be the same once it's all said and done.
If you're looking for a romantasy book that's a little less spicy, Deep Is The Fen is a great read!
It centers around Merry's reluctant interactions with the magic she's been trying so hard to stay away from. When she finds out that her best friend Teddy is joining the Toadmen, she makes it her personal mission to stop him. What she doesn't think anyone knows is her ability to see the swirling magic that surrounds all life forms.
It's this same second sight that comes in handy as she joins forces with her sworn enemy Caraway Boswell. Together, they attend the famed Toad ritual in Deeping Fen and it's only until it's too late that Merry realizes the Toadmen are more sinister than she thought.
And they've been waiting for her.
If you have a taste for more magic, you'll love reading The Midnight Bargain.
Unlike our heroine in Deep Is The Fen, Beatrice Clayborn embraces that she's able to use magic, but she has keep it hidden lest she be confined by a 'marital collar.' If you just shuddered, I'm here to tell you it's as bad as it sounds.
Our dear Beatrice wants to become a Magus, but her family is more concerned with making sure she's prepared to secure an amazing marriage. In other words, women aren't supposed to be able to wield magic as powerfully as men. There's also the fact that her family isn't exactly wealthy so her getting married would truly help them.
Still, Beatrice decides to keep pursuing a desire to become a Magus though her plans are almost ruined when another sorceress steals the one thing that'll secure her position. Desperate to have it in her possession again, Beatrice does a bit of conjuring that leads her to a crossroads.
Will she choose her dreams over her family's future or will she give up everything — magic, who she is at her core, and her goals — to save them?
I highly recommend that you read The Foxglove King before starting this book, but it's on the list because it's my favorite out of the series!
The Hemlock Queen picks up after the twisted king August has died, but his influence is still felt among the royal court. They're not exactly thrilled that Prince Bastian and the trusted Lore are trying to change what they've become used to, creating a lot more unruliness than they were anticipating. It's in the midst of this that Lore can sense a coldheartedness growing in Prince Bastian that wasn't there before.
As time passes, something begins beckoning to Lore to pay more attention to things around her. It wants her to find the truth about herself and what's in front of her.
She'll have to race against the time to find the answers before she loses Bastian and everything else she loves.
Lark has spent years hiding from her overly domineering father and hasn't found a place to call home yet. The thing that's kept her safe is her ability to cause anyone to feel fear in her presence which has come in handy. With no other options, she decides to seek refuge among the trolls in Cagmar.
She's quickly accepted into their society because they realize she's not like most humans that are in Cagmar. The only rule she has to follow is to never kill a troll even though the most powerful one utterly despises her for being human.
She'll have to learn how to survive in a brand new way while figuring out things about herself, her past, and the family she grew up in.
What's your favorite romantasy book? Let us know in the comments, and check out our storefront for more fab reads!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead images via Amazon
A 5K is a 3.12 mile race, and it's one of the most popular distances around the world for hobby joggers and elite athletes alike. Unlike a half marathon or full marathon, the 5K leaves you feeling tired, but able to actually walk afterwards — and with the same sense of accomplishment. Some seasoned runners may look down on the 5K, but I'm here to tell you that it's no small feat. In fact, in my 14 years of competitive running, the 5K was my main focus for 12 years.
If you're looking to run your first 5K and have no background in cardio or endurance sports, a simple google search for “beginner 5k workouts” will lead you to dozens of workout plans. While I have coached true beginners, my coaching specialty is with more intermedia runners, or runners trying to run their fastest 5K. You don't have to be a standout athlete or elite runner to set goals, and there are some simple steps everyone can take to get faster. Heres how to train for a 5K race, the Paxton way.
Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS
The first step to bettering your 5K is to pick a race and sign up for it — most cities have a few 5K to choose from each weekend, so there should be plenty to choose from. Having a race on the calendar ensures you won’t skip out on your training. I recommend giving yourself 8-10 weeks to properly train.
The best 5K training plans, in my opinion, include 4-5 days of running a week. Every week should include:
You should never run hard or fast two days in a row — easy jogging and rest between speed workouts are both essential for rebuilding muscles damaged with hard workouts. Here's how each of the three main training workouts should go.
Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS
Every speed workout should begin with a 5-10 minute jogging warm up and a 5-10 minute jog/walk cooldown. This will help ensure you do not pull or strain any muscles.
The actual "speed" part of speed workouts can go one of two ways:
Easy jogs should be kept at a conversational pace, so this would be a good time to grab your girlfriend or hop on the phone if you want some company. The best jogs should be about 2-3 miles in length, or 20-35 minutes in duration.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/PEXELS
Long runs are arguably the most important workout of the week, and anyone trying to better their 5K time should make sure to include them in their training plan. Like the name suggests, a long run should be your longest run of the week. Your longest run can be anywhere from three miles at the beginning of the plan to 12 miles if you're an experienced and seasoned vet. I recommend starting with 3 miles at the beginning of your 8-10 week plan and working your way up to 5-8 miles by the end. You should do this by adding one half to a full mile each week. Although it may sound silly to run 8 miles in order to run a 3.1 mile race, this will help build your endurance more than any of your other weekly runs. Having endurance will make the race seem easier, and I can guarantee you'll pass people left and right in your final mile.
Note: You should also have at least 10 days between your longest long run and your 5k race so that you can feel as fresh as possible on race day.
Photo by Blue Bird/PEXELS
The most important thing to remember on race day is to not go out too fast. If you sprint the first mile, the rest of the race will be miserable. Race day adrenaline will make you jittery and willing to sprint at the start, but working on controlling that will ensure a better race experience. Try to make your second and third mile faster than your first and give it all in the last .1 mile. After you’re done, soak in the race day atmosphere and grab a free banana! Don’t forget that the post race pain is temporary and remember not to sign up for another race while on an endorphin high!
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