Jinn

Director: Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya and Amin Matalqa
Cast: Salma Malhas, Hamzeh Okab, Sultan Alkhail, Aysha Shahaltough, Yasser Al Hadi
Number of Episodes: 5
Run Time: Approximately 26–46 minutes per episode
Genre: Supernatural Drama, Teen Thriller
Language: Arabic

Jinn is Netflix’s first Arabic-language original series, blending teen drama with supernatural elements. Set against the stunning backdrop of Jordan’s Petra and Amman, the story follows a group of high school students who unwittingly summon a jinn (a supernatural spirit) during a school trip. Chaos ensues as friendships are tested, secrets come to light, and a sinister battle between good and evil emerges. With themes of love, betrayal, and cultural tension, Jinn strives to bridge traditional folklore with modern storytelling.

While Jinn takes a bold step in spotlighting Middle Eastern culture on a global platform, the series struggles to find its footing. The concept of intertwining Jordanian folklore with a high school drama is intriguing, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The narrative often feels rushed, leaving key plotlines underdeveloped.

The young cast delivers earnest performances, with Salma Malhas standing out as Mira, a complex protagonist grappling with both supernatural and personal conflicts. However, some of the dialogue feels stilted, likely due to a mix of cultural nuances and translation challenges.

Visually, the series shines, showcasing Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes and weaving them into the mystique of the story. The cinematography captures both the beauty and eeriness of Petra, amplifying the show’s supernatural themes.

Unfortunately, Jinn faced controversy upon its release, with critics accusing it of portraying untraditional values. Despite the backlash, the show remains an important cultural milestone for Middle Eastern representation on Netflix.

3/5 Stars

Jinn is a visually striking, culturally significant series that offers a fresh perspective on supernatural drama. However, uneven storytelling and pacing issues hinder its full potential. Fans of folklore-based narratives and teen dramas may find it worth a watch, but it falls short of being a must-see.