Netflix Unveils its First Arab Original Series

Jinn is the youth-culture focused drama to watch

The entertainment giant announced its first production in the region—and we can’t wait to binge watch. The series, titled Jinn, is set in the ancient city of Petra and will follow the story of a group of teenagers who encounter a dark mystical figure (in the form of a boy) that’s set to destroy the world.

 

The production begins in Jordan over the coming months, and we’re happy to hear that the six-part supernatural drama will feature regional talent—both cast and crew (the team behind the project includes rising Lebanese director Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya, who was behind the acclaimed comedy Very Big Shot).

 

On casting Arab talent, Bou Chaaya said in a statement, “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”.

 

Co-writer of the Oscar-nominated Jordanian drama Theeb, Bassel Ghandour has also signed up to pen the series, adding: “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”.

 

The series is expected to be released in 2019.

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