Greta Gerwig links Narnia and Stairway to Heaven for trailer
Led Zeppelin, a band known for their fiercely protective stance over their iconic music, recently made a remarkable concession, granting Greta Gerwig the keys to one of their timeless classics. The legendary track “Stairway to Heaven,” which the band had historically refused to license for films, now soundtracks the trailer for Gerwig’s upcoming cinematic adaptation, Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.
This licensing move marks a significant moment for the band, demonstrating a willingness to let their music transcend typical commercial boundaries. The history of “Stairway to Heaven” is steeped in resistance; it was famously kept offscreen for years, even inspiring running gags like the one in Wayne’s World. Yet, this time, the music has found a powerful new home, aligning perfectly with the narrative of the film.
The connection between the song and the film’s themes proved compelling. When Gerwig showcased the trailer to members of the band, including singer Robert Plant and guitarist Jimmy Page, the artists were deeply moved by the vision. They agreed to allow the use of the track, recognizing its deep spiritual resonance. Gerwig herself embraced this connection, describing the song as the very “story of the movie,” pointing to its exploration of a profound “spiritual quest.”
This collaboration highlights how the music can weave itself into epic storytelling. While the band has previously licensed other tracks—such as “Immigrant Song” for School of Rock and tunes from Led Zeppelin III for Almost Famous—this decision to feature “Stairway to Heaven” felt particularly meaningful.
The film Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew itself is a journey into the origin story of the Chronicles of Narnia universe, following young Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer as they travel between worlds to create Narnia. The narrative features a talented ensemble cast, including Daniel Craig as Digory, Meryl Streep as Aslan, and Emma Mackey as the future White Witch.
Adding to the cinematic magic, the film is set to feature a score crafted by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, who also collaborated with Gerwig on Barbie.
The journey into Narnia is set to begin on February 12, 2027, opening in theaters worldwide with IMAX previews starting February 10, before arriving on Netflix on April 2. It is a reminder that even the most selective artists can, with the right vision, unlock the power of their legacy to touch audiences across different mediums.
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