Netflix releases 1st look images for ‘Paranormal’; first Arabic Original from Egypt

CAIRO – 8 August 2020: Netflix released the first look images for the highly anticipated series “Paranormal” the first Netflix Arabic Original from Egypt. 

The first look images of the series -which wrapped up lately after a halt due to Corona pandemic- show Dr. Refaat Ismail (Ahmed Amin) in his forties, where he undergoes a series of paranormal incidents.

They also display Maggie Mckillop (Razane Jammal) a Scottish scientist and Dr. Refaat’s previous colleague, to whom he never confessed his love. 

The series tackles Dr. Refaat, a cynical Hematologist with a dark sense of humor, who goes through a “journey of doubt” as his world is turned upside down after his lifelong scientific convictions are questioned.

 

The plot commences in 1969, as Refaat Ismail enters his 40s, and begins to experience a series of paranormal activities.

 Throughout the season, Refaat is accompanied by his university colleague, Maggie, as they enter the paranormal world and try to save their loved ones from the immense danger that surrounds them.

The story is based on the best selling thriller novel series with the same name “Paranormal” by late Ahmed Khaled Tawfik, that sold more than 15 million copies.

 The series is produced by Mohamed Hefzy and Amr Salama, who is also the creator and the director.

Staying true to the books, Paranormal, which is slated for Fall 2020 is filmed in Egypt, reflecting Netflix’s commitment to creating authentic Egyptian content for global audiences to enjoy

Starring: Ahmed Amin, Razane Jammal and Aya Samaha

Created by: Amr Salama

Directors: Amr Salama & Majid Alansari 

Executive Producers: Amr Salama and Mohamed Hefzy 

Writers: Head Writer: Amr Salama/ Staff Writers: Mahmoud Ezzat/ Dina Maher/Omar Khaled

Director of Photography:  Ahmed Beshary (Shiko)

Production Designer: Ali Hossam

Costume Designer: Dina Nadeem

Stunt Coordinator: Andrew Mckenzie

SFX: Islam Alex, and Donia Sedky

Editors: Ahmed Hafez

VFX: AROMA

Music by: Khaled Kamar

Egyptian director Amr Salama finished shooting "Paranormal". 

Set in the 1960s, the series, packed with mystery and suspense, depicts the adventures of the leading character,Dr. Refaat Ismail, a single hematologist who finds himself faced with a series of supernatural events.

"We are excited to continue our investment in Middle Eastern productions by adapting the highly acclaimed 'Paranormal' novels into a thrilling new series.

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," Kelly Luegenbiehl, VP of International Originals at Netflix previously said.

This third Middle Eastern Netflix original show reflects the company's commitment to exploring more stories and talents in the region.

This will give filmmakers and audiences in the Middle East presence on a global platform to both tell and enjoy a variety of exciting new stories. 

Show producer, Mohamed Hefzy, previously commented, "I’m proud to be working with Netflix on bringing '’Paranormal'’, which I hold dear to my heart, to life.

"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 that lives up to the promises and ambitions of Egyptian and Arabic drama," Hefzy continued.

"I’m very excited about this project. It has always been my dream to make Ahmed Khaled Tawfik's 'Paranormal’ into a series. I’m proud to present the books in a new light while still keeping its essence. I can't wait to introduce these exciting stories to Netflix's audience in 190 countries around the world," said producer and director Amr Salama.

Famed Egyptian actor Ahmed Amin plays the lead role in Netflix's first Egyptian series, Refaat Ismail character.

Salama said, "Amin brings a level of authenticity and a powerful on-screen presence that we felt was the ultimate fit for the portrayal of Dr. Refaat Ismail. With such a strong local cast paired with striking special effects, we can’t wait to get production underway next month."

Filmed in Egypt, "Paranormal" is the third Middle Eastern Netflix original show after "Jinn", which features a cast of emerging Jordanian talents and was released on June 13, 2019; and "Al-Rawabi School for Girls".