James R | On 14, Jan 2014

Photo: Kon-Tiki, directed by Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg, who will helm Netflix’s new series

A Netflix Original series based on the escapades of Marco Polo is set to premiere this year on the Internet TV service.

The directors of the excellent historical seafaring adventure Kon-Tiki, Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg, have been hired to helm the series, which will follow Marco Polo’s travels in a kinetic tale of high politics, masterful manipulation and deadly warfare among clashing empires.

The famed explorer’s journey takes him to the center of a brutal war in 13th century China, a world replete with astonishing martial arts, sexual intrigue, political skullduggery and spectacular battles. Just the kind of thing that would interest executive producer and director Dan Minahan (Game of Thrones, True Blood) and executive producer and creator John Fusco (Young Guns, Hidalgo).

The series will be produced by The Weinstein Company (TWC) and span nine chapters.

Shoooting begins soon at the new Pinewood Studios, Malaysia, featuring a global cast and will premiere exclusively for Netflix members to watch instantly in all Netflix territories in late 2014.

“John Fusco and his team have created a timeless tale of power, adventure, betrayal and lust that combines deft storytelling and cinematic ambition,” says Ted Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer. “It is a fantastic addition to our slate of original series, both because of its quality and because it is the kind of gripping action-adventure that Netflix members love.”

TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein adds: “With the glowing success of series like House of Cards and Orange is the New Black, it’s clear that Netflix is breaking tremendous ground in the realm of streaming original content. We could not be more excited to partner with them on this project, along with the creative tour de force of John Fusco and his talented team.”

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