An Arabic supernatural teenage series on Netflix? Stranger things have happened.
Jinn, Netflix’s first Arabic original series, is set to launch globally in 2019. The six-episode run will follow a group of teenagers whose lives are disrupted by the appearance of a Jinn (supernatural creature in Islamic mythology) in the form of a boy in Petra. Friendships and budding romances are tested as they go up against a greater darkness seeking to destroy the world.
The young adult fantasy series films in Jordan later this year and features Middle Eastern talent. It will be directed by Lebanese filmmaker Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya (Very Big Shot) and penned by Jordanian screenwriter Bassel Ghandour (Theeb).
“This is a great opportunity to portray Arab youth in a very unique way. The level of authenticity Netflix is trying to achieve with this show is definitely what attracted me the most to be part of this project,” said Bou Chaaya.
Ghandour added that the region has “such a rich storytelling culture”. He lauded Netflix for mining such tales.
“It is very common in Middle East that people know someone who has a Jinn story, so it’s nice to take that and turn it into a fun and mysterious teen adventure that everyone can enjoy,” he said.
Erik Barmack, VP of international original series at Netflix, said: “We are extremely excited to bring this story to a global audience, and to celebrate Arab youth and culture. We can’t wait to share more details later this year.”
Jinn will be Netflix’s second project in the region. The first, stand-up comedy special Adel Karam: Live from Beirut, launches on the platform on March 1.
