A familiar figure, a new voice: Meryl Streep’s Aslan stirs gender debate over Gerwig’s ‘Narnia’
The public hasn’t viewed a single frame yet from director Greta Gerwig’s movie adaptation from the classic children’s book series, “The Chronicles of Narnia,” but a casting decision is already generating outrage from many conservative Christian commentators.
A familiar figure, the venerable Meryl Streep, is set to provide the voice for Aslan, the lion character from C.S. Lewis' "The Chronicles of Narnia" series, in director Greta Gerwig's upcoming film adaptation. This casting decision has sparked controversy among conservative Christian commentators who perceive it as an affront to their faith.
Aslan, a significant literary representation of Jesus Christ in the seven Narnia books, is typically depicted as male in the original novels. Gerwig's adaptation, however, shifts the timeline to the 1950s, which may influence how Aslan is portrayed. While Gerwig has not directly addressed the gender issue, she sought an actor who could convey depth, pathos, joy, and wonder.
The film is set for theatrical release in February. Critics, including Ted Baehr, founder of Movieguide, argue that the casting of a woman as Aslan undermines Christian doctrine. Baehr contends that the Gospel cannot be treated like other myths or allegories, making the casting decision problematic. However, some Lewis scholars and enthusiasts remain undecided, emphasizing the need to reserve judgment until the film is released.
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