Netflix orders original adventure series Marco Polo with Kon Tiki filmmakers at the helm

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Netflix is making another bid on original content with their latest venture, Marco Polo, a nine-episode original series based on the exploits of the famed world traveler. It’s the first action/adventure show from Netflix, the streaming service that has produced some really kick ass original series’ thus far, including Lilyhammer, Orange is the New Black, House of Cards, Hemlock Grove, and Arrested Development. The series will be directed by KON-TIKI helmers Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg (If you haven’t seen KON-TIKI, I implore you to check it out), which is a dream team for an adventure series (and also the same folks Jerry Bruckheimer locked in for the fifth PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN film). Check out the full press release below.

The epic adventures of Marco Polo, a kinetic tale of high politics, masterful manipulation and deadly warfare among clashing empires, will premiere exclusively for Netflix members to watch instantly in all Netflix territories in late 2014.

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 and comes from directors Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg (Kon-Tiki, Max Manus: Man of War), executive producer and director Dan Minahan (Game of Thrones, True Blood) and executive producer and creator John Fusco (Young Guns, Hidalgo).

Produced by The Weinstein Company (TWC), the nine chapter chronicle will begin shooting soon at the new Pinewood Studios, Malaysia, featuring a global cast.

“John Fusco and his team have created a timeless tale of power, adventure, betrayal and lust that combines deft storytelling and cinematic ambition,” said 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.”

Commented TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein: “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.”

Netflix has yet to let me down on their original content, so I’m very optimistic here. Although adventure-themed shows can be iffy, the Marco Polo angle sounds fun and with the KON-TIKI team directing I expect some really cool visual treats. We’ll see.

Marco Polo will debut in late 2014.