LOS ANGELES – Greta Gerwig, known for her record-breaking film “Barbie,” has expressed her apprehension about her next project. Gerwig, a screenwriter and director, revealed her intimidating feelings towards adapting C.S. Lewis’ beloved children’s classic, “The Chronicles of Narnia,” for Netflix.
During an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Gerwig shared her reverence for “Narnia” and her love for the story since her childhood. As she embarks on this project, she confesses feeling intimidated as she regards C.S. Lewis as a profound thinker and writer. Gerwig emphasizes the weight of taking on such a well-known and esteemed piece of literature.
Being a non-British person, Gerwig expressed her desire to approach the adaptation with careful respect. Drawing a parallel, she mentions how Americans treating Shakespeare with an extra sense of reverence, acknowledging the importance of honoring foreign works.
Just days after the success of “Barbie,” which grossed an impressive $1.442 billion globally, Gerwig spoke highly of the experience and the honor of receiving the Golden Globes’ inaugural Cinematic and Box Office Achievement award. She expressed her joy in being able to connect with audiences and provide them with a shared experience in movie theaters.
Regarding comedian Jo Koy’s controversial comparison between “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” during the Golden Globes, Gerwig was unphased. She agreed with the comparison, acknowledging that Barbie, with her mass-produced status and emphasis on physical appearance, can be seen as shallow. However, she also highlights the depth of the project as it delves into the complexities of a seemingly superficial character.
Barbie, since its creation in 1959 by Ruth Handler, has held various roles and interpretations. Gerwig appreciates the character’s evolution and sees it as a rich starting point for exploration.
Greta Gerwig’s admiration and trepidation towards “The Chronicles of Narnia” adaptation for Netflix highlight her respect for the source material. Despite the success of “Barbie,” she remains humble and focused on the task at hand, aiming to honor C.S. Lewis’s work with care and diligence.
A noteworthy filmmaker, Gerwig continues to intrigue audiences and contribute to the world of cinema.