As Netflix builds its international reach, the streaming service is also amping up its global content library. The company announced Wednesday that its first German production is coming in 2017. The series, Dark, is described as “a family saga with a supernatural twist.”
Directed by Baran bo Odar, the critically acclaimed filmmaker behind Who Am I — No System Is Safe, Dark is set in a German town in present day. The storyline focuses on four families after two young children disappear, uncovering “double lives and fractured relationships.” The plot’s supernatural twist will connect the story to the same place, yet decades before, in 1986.
“Dark is an incredible German story that will appeal to a global audience,” said Erik Barmack, Netflix’s vice president of international originals, in a press release. “Bo and [writer Jantje Friese] are creative talents that have developed great projects in both Berlin and Hollywood, and we are thrilled to be working with them on our first original series entirely authored, shot and produced in Germany.”
So far, 10 hourlong episodes are planned. The series is set to star Tom Schilling and Elyas M’Barke, and additional local actors will be cast in the coming months. “As Dark will be an ensemble mystery series, I especially look forward to discovering and working with new German talent,” said Odar.
The director also noted his enthusiasm for the high-profile streaming service. “We’re very excited to shoot the first Netflix original series, made in Germany. To be part of the family that brought amazing shows like House of Cards and Bloodline to its audience is a huge honor,” said Odar.
Production is set to begin in 2016, prior to the series premiere in 2017. Dark will be available on the streaming service worldwide.
