São Paulo – Netflix announced its third original Arab series. Called “Paranormal” (Ma Wara’a Al Tabiei, in Arabic), it will be based on the books by Egyptian author Ahmed Khaled Towfik and set in the 1960s.
The first drama produced in Egypt by the service will tell a story packed with mystery and suspense. The series leading character is Dr. Refaat Ismail, a hematologist who finds himself faced with a series of supernatural events. (Pictured above, an illustration of the character.)
The series is being produced by the Cairo International Film Festival president Mohammed Hefzy and Amr Salama, who is also the showrunner and the director.
Ahmed Khaled Towfik is known as a pioneer sci-fi, horror and suspense author in the region. He published over 200 books that sold more than 15 million copies and passed away at age 55 in 2018.
Director and showrunner Amr Salama said he was very excited about the project. “It was my dream to adapt ‘Paranormal’ of the late author Ahmed Khaled Tawfik and turn it into a drama since I ever wanted to be a filmmaker. I’m proud to present the books in a new light while still keeping the essence of Paranormal. I can’t wait to introduce these exciting stories to the Netflix public in 190 countries around the world,” said Salama.
According to a release, this third Middle Eastern Netflix original show reflects the company’s commitment to exploring more stories and talents in the region, presenting Arabic content on a global platform.
“Paranormal” is expected to be filmed in Egypt. The first Netflix original production is “Jinn,” a teen drama set in Jordan, to be released on June 13. Its second Arab original series is Al Rawabi School for Girls, also from Jordan, was announced last April, and still does not have a release date.
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
