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Almost two decades since Ben Barnes first debuted the character of Prince Caspian in the live-action The Chronicles of Narnia film, he is throwing his weight behind a fantasy series for a new generation. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe premiered in 2005, and Barnes joined the franchise in the titular sequel that followed in 2008. C.S. Lewis’ fantasy series never reached full completion in feature film form, but that may change now that Greta Gerwig is behind the wheel. The Westworld actor spoke to Variety about his support for the new venture.
“With classic literature, there’s no end to the ways they can be adapted as long as it’s being fresh and it’s speaking to a new generation. I think that those stories have this one, some fantasy really allows you to tell beautifully allegorical stories about hope and goodness and faith. I think that it’d be really interesting to see her take on that. I’m thrilled that [“Narnia”] is getting retold.”
Gerwig is reportedly adapting The Magician’s Nephew, which incidentally does not follow the path that was laid out in the films before. That book is technically the sixth in the series, but its events predate the story fans know and love. The Magician’s Nephew is a prequel and has already tapped Daniel Craig, Meryl Streep, and Emma Mackey for significant roles. For Barnes’ part, he is also looking ahead.
Ben Barnes Has Lent His Talent to ‘The Institute’
Ben Barnes has a reputation for playing less-than-heroic characters for the past decade, but in his newest project, he is returning to form. The Punisher actor stars in the Stephen King adaptation, The Institute, which is premiering on MGM+. Based on King’s novel of the same name, it follows the eponymous facility where children with special abilities are studied. Barnes plays Tom Jamieson and likens his character to Prince Caspian.
“When I was in my early twenties, I was involved in telling those stories for the next generation,” he said. “So, to get back to playing a man with a real firm grasp on his moral compass, who is fighting to stand up for what’s right. It was something that I was really interested in.”
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.