Is it 2019 yet? Because we can’t wait for Netflix’s first original Arabic series “Jinn” to be released. Production began this week in Jordan and will be available on Netflix next year across the globe.
The exciting show is centered around a group of Arab teens who unknowingly invite a supernatural force into their lives. Erik Barmack, Netflix’s VP of international original series, said in a statement, “We aim to create a fantastical show about young people in the Middle East in Arabic that’s real, authentic and action-packed. This Netflix show will be full of intrigue, adventure and amazing storytelling from Jordan and for our audiences around the world.”
Jinn is one of the first of its kind to surface from the Middle East since Netflix’s only Middle Eastern content is that of Lebanese comedian and actor, Adel Karam’s standup comedy special titled, Adel Karam: Live From Beirut, which was released onto the streaming platform in March 2018. Netflix are hoping to increase local content from the Middle East as the lack of it has hindered its growth in the region.
Director Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya
The new show is the breakthrough creation of a team of Middle Eastern creatives. It is produced by Kabreet Productions, to be directed by Lebanese director Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya, and Elan and Rajeev Dassani, who are the creators of Scandal, will serve as executive producers. Jordanian screenwriter, Bassel Ghandour, will also be partnering with the producers.
Jinn will feature a refreshing cast of new-to-the-scene Middle Eastern actors, Hamza Abu Eqab, Sultan Alkhalil, Aysha Shahalthough, Yaser Al Hadi, Ban Halaweh, and Salma Malhas.
Screenwriter Bassel Ghandour
“We are really excited about this. 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. On a broader note, I love that Netflix is investing a lot in the region, it’s a real turning point. We have such a rich storytelling culture, and we’ll finally be able to enjoy Arabic content with Netflix quality,” said Bassel Ghandour, who is behind the Oscar-nominated Theeb.
