If you’re a Jinn fan, you’ll be happy to know Netflix is gearing up for another Arab series, which also taps into the supernatural. The shooting of Paranormal, an adaptation of the horror book series of novels of the same name by the late popular Egyptian science fiction author Ahmed Khaled Tawfik, started on November 17 in Cairo, and scenes will also be shot in different locations between Giza and Fayoum. While the release date has yet to be announced, there’s already lot of excitement about the televised edition of the series that sold over 15 million copies worldwide.
To get regional viewers even more enthusiastic, Netflix's first foray into Egyptian drama has an all-Arab cast. Lebanese actress Razane Jammal (Magy) and Egyptian actors Aya Samaha (Huwaida) and Samaa Ibrahim (Ra’efa) join Egyptian comedian Ahmed Amin, who plays the lead role of Dr. Refaat Ismail. Plus, Paranormal is being directed by Amr Salama, who is best known for his critically-acclaimed film Sheikh Jackson as well as Tayea. He is collaborating with Emirati director Majid Al Ansari (Zinzana), while renowned Egyptian producer Mohamed Hefzy is also on board as the producer.
“I’m proud to be working with Netflix on bringing to life the Paranormal series, which I hold dear to my heart,” Hefzy said in a statement. “I’m also excited to be cooperating again with long-time collaborator and friend, director Amr Salama. Together with Netflix, we aim to present a show of international quality and that lives up to the promises and ambitions of Egyptian and Arabic drama.”
Netflix’s Kelly Luegenbiehl, the VP of International Originals, has also commented on the streaming entertainment service’s newest regional endeavour. "We are so excited to be investing in more Middle Eastern productions by adapting the highly acclaimed Paranormal series of novels into an exciting show. We're also pleased to collaborate with prominent producer Mohamed Hefzy and director Amr Salama whose creative vision we look forward to bringing to our international audience," she said.
The Plot
Set in1960s Egypt, Paranormal sees Dr. Refaat Ismail, a hematologist, uncovering a series of supernatural events behind his eerie cases. Mystery and suspense-filled adventures enfold as he attempts to unravel the obscurities behind each unique and unusual case.
