Netflix’s Chronicles of Narnia adaptation just added another powerhouse to its creative team. Dermot Power, a veteran concept artist with an eye for crafting stunning fantasy and sci-fi worlds, has officially joined Greta Gerwig’s Narnia project. And if his past work is any indication, this could mean we’re in for a visually breathtaking take on Lewis’s beloved world.
For those unfamiliar with his work, Power’s portfolio includes some of the most iconic films of the past few decades. He was a key concept artist on Star Wars: The Force Awakens—a film that, regardless of opinions on its story, delivered some truly stunning world-building. He’s also contributed to the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005).
So, what does his hiring tell us about Narnia?
A New Vision for The Magician’s Nephew
While Netflix hasn’t officially confirmed which book is being adapted first, all signs point to The Magician’s Nephew. And if that’s the case, Power’s expertise could be instrumental in visualizing some of Lewis’s most imaginative settings—the dying world of Charn, the vast emptiness before Narnia’s creation, and the breathtaking beauty of Aslan’s newly sung world.
Unlike previous Narnia films, which focused on the battle-driven narratives of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and Prince Caspian, The Magician’s Nephew is more about exploration, magic, and awe-inspiring environments. Power’s ability to craft grand, immersive worlds—whether it’s Jakku in Star Wars* or the wizarding streets of Diagon Alley—makes him an ideal choice to bring Lewis’s vision to life.
What This Means for Netflix’s Approach
With Power now working alongside production designer James Chinlund (The Batman), it’s clear that Netflix isn’t just treating this as another fantasy adaptation. They’re assembling a team that knows how to build worlds that feel both lived-in and mythical.
Filming is set to begin in 2025, so we’ll have to wait to see how Power’s influence shapes the film. But one thing’s for sure—if The Magician’s Nephew is indeed the first adaptation, then Narnia’s return to the big screen is shaping up to be something truly special.
Jonathon Svendsen’s note:
Honestly what I’m most impressed with when I look at his filmography are some of his creature designs. For example, Power helped create the Torguta Jedi Master Shaak Ti in Attack of the Clones, which indirectly leads to Ahsoka Tano in The Clone Wars. Further, his experience with the Harry Potter franchise shows he’s done more then his share of work in children’s fantasy worlds. Narnia is a creature-heavy franchise and it’s creatures need to look and feel unique from what we’ve seen before and yet in some cases ( fauns, centaurs) it needs to feel right out of our collective consciousness. I have no doubt he’ll be able to deliver.
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