Emma Mackey's Jadis revealed in Netflix Narnia film

First-look images have been released showing actress Emma Mackey as the villain Jadis in Netflix's upcoming film 'Narnia: The Magician's Nephew.' The movie, written and directed by Greta Gerwig, is a prequel to the Chronicles of Narnia series and will debut in 2027.

Mackey, who previously worked with Gerwig on 'Barbie,' described her character to Empire magazine as a "larger-than-life creature." She cited a line from the script where Jadis is described as "all chaos and bad plans." She's this larger-than-life creature who appears in Digory and Polly's world and takes them by surprise, Mackey said.

The Villain's Look

The released images depict Jadis in a striking metallic, armour-like minidress with jet-black short hair. Mackey commented on the costume's dual nature. It was very shiny and exciting, but also comfortable and ready for war, she stated. She elaborated that the look needed to convey both fun and menace from the perspective of the child characters. We had to have that duality of fun, which is what the kids are seeing, [a] shiny, exciting person, but also, 'Wow, you're a little bit scary, and I don’t really know what foot to dance on with you.'

Story and Cast Details

Based on C.S. Lewis's 1955 novel, the film serves as a prequel to 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.' It follows young Digory Kirke and his neighbour Polly Plummer, played by David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell, as they discover they can travel between different worlds. Their adventures lead them to encounter Jadis, a younger version of the White Witch character famously portrayed by Tilda Swinton in the earlier film trilogy.

The supporting cast features several major stars. Daniel Craig plays Digory's uncle, Andrew Ketterley. Carey Mulligan is cast as Digory's mother, Mabel. Meryl Streep will voice the lion Aslan. The ensemble is rounded out by Ciarán Hinds, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Denise Gough, and Susan Wokoma.

Release Schedule

The film has confirmed its release strategy. It will first premiere in cinemas, including IMAX screens, on February 12, 2027. Following its theatrical run, it will become available for streaming on Netflix starting April 2, 2027. This information was reported by Digital Spy.

Gerwig's project marks a new cinematic take on the beloved fantasy series. The first-look images offer an early glimpse at the film's visual style and Mackey's interpretation of the iconic villain.