Netflix Reveals Third Middle Eastern Original

The newest Arabic series from Netflix is Paranormal, based on the best-selling books by the late author Ahmed Khaled Tawfik that have sold more than 15 million copies.

Set in the 1960s, the series depicts the adventures of Dr. Refaat Ismail, a single hematologist who finds himself faced with an array of supernatural events. This marks Netflix’s first foray into Egyptian drama.

Paranormal will be produced by Mohamed Hefzy and Amr Salama, who is also the showrunner and the director.

Kelly Luegenbiehl, VP of international originals at Netflix, said: “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.”

Hefzy commented, “I’m proud to be working with Netflix on bringing to life the Paranormal series, which I hold dear to my heart. 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.”

Salama added: “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. I can’t wait to introduce these exciting stories to the Netflix public in 190 countries around the world.”