A familiar figure, a new voice: Meryl Streep’s Aslan stirs gender debate over Gerwig’s ‘Narnia’

The film adaptation of "The Chronicles of Narnia" by director Greta Gerwig is stirring controversy among conservative Christian commentators. Meryl Streep, an Oscar-winning actress, is set to voice the character of Aslan, the lion, in the upcoming movie. Aslan is a significant figure in the seven Narnia books by British Christian author C.S. Lewis, often considered a representation of Jesus Christ.

The casting decision has sparked outrage due to Aslan being depicted as a male lion in the original books, which depict the lion as having a majestic mane. Gerwig is set to reimagine the character by moving "The Magician’s Nephew" from the 1900s to the 1950s. While Streep's casting does not necessarily mean Aslan will be portrayed as female, it has prompted conservative Christian critics to view it as an attack on their faith.

They argue that God and Jesus are male, as stated in the Bible and ancient creeds, and suggest the casting decision is part of a broader strategy to undermine Christian symbols.

Some Lewis scholars and fans are taking a wait-and-see approach, while others remain disturbed by conservative Christians' vehement opposition to the casting decision. Greta Gerwig, known for her feminist approach in films like "Barbie" and "Little Women," sought an actor with a "profound but not pretentious" voice for Aslan. She described the ideal candidate as someone with gravitas, depth, joy, and a childlike wonder, ideally older than 70.

Gerwig expressed her admiration for Meryl Streep's acting abilities and hoped she could bring her unique qualities to the role of Aslan.