The OA(not to be confused withThe O.C.) is a new mysterious hourlong series coming to Netflix this week, and if it seems like it’s coming out of left field, that’s because it kind of is. Though the project wasannounced last year, the first trailer debuted today when the eight episodes are scheduled to bow on the platform this Friday. But the footage itself offers a mystery and a performance byBrit Marlingthat’ll surely intrigue fans of this indie darling.
The show centers around Prairie Johnson (Marling), a blind girl who went missing for years. Now in her 20s, she returns to her small-town home with her sight fully restored. While some members of the community call it a miracle, her presence is considered baffling and even dangerous to others. Adding to the puzzle is her refusal to tell her parents and the FBI anything about what happened to her for seven years.
Watch the trailer, which debuted onThe OA’s social media platforms, below.
The official Instagram accountoffers more cryptic clues: each photo is part of a larger image, while one in particular features the message, “This is a dream, but you’re wide awake.”
Zal Batmanglij, who directed Marling inThe EastandSound of My Voice, helms all episodes.Emory Cohen(Brooklyn),Scott Wilson(The Walking Dead),Phyllis Smith(The Office),Jason Isaacs(Fury),Alice Krige(Star Trek: First Contact),Patrick Gibson(The Tudors),Brendan Meyer(The Guest), and newcomersIan AlexanderandBrandon Pereahelp round out the cast.
The OAseems very indicative of the future of streaming. On Netflix alone, we’ve seen more and more indie releases — likeSing Street,Other People, andYoga Hosers— getting distribution. Meanwhile, the platform is keen on increasing its among of original offerings, and releasing films and TV series, likeThe OA, is slowly creating an art house niche in the streaming space.
