Netflix orders its first Egyptian drama, Paranormal. Based on late Ahmed Khaled Tawfik’s best-selling Arabic horror books, the series will be produced by Mohamed Hefzy and Amr Salama. Salama will also serve as the showrunner and director.
Added Salama: “I’m very excited about this 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.”
Tawfik had written more than 200 books and was claimed as the first to write in genres of horror, science fiction, and medical thrillers in Arab culture. He passed away in 2018.
Paranormal is set in the 1960s and will follow Dr. Refaat Ismail, a hematologist who experiences and interacts with supernatural events.
“I’m proud to be working with Netflix on bringing to life the Paranormal series, which I hold dear to my heart,” said Hefzy. “I’m also excited to be cooperating again with longtime 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.”
This is Netflix’s third collaboration with the Middle East for original scripted series, following Jinn and Al Rawabi School for Girls.
Netflix prides itself on diversity in storytelling and creating unique ways to present their content on its popular streaming site.
“We are excited to continue our investment in Middle Eastern productions by adapting the highly acclaimed Paranormal novels into a thrilling new series,” Kelly Luegenbiehl, Netflix’s VP international originals. “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 global audience.”