1899 on Netflix: Here’s the full scoop on the new show

A few years ago, the German sci-fi series Dark took viewers by storm, captivating audiences worldwide with its abundance of twists and turns. Now Dark creators Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar are back with a new dark mystery show called 1899.

Premiering next Thursday, November 17, 1899, promises a unique and spell-binding experience that will hook viewers just like its predecessor. Netflix has been teasing this new series for a while now, and fans are eager to see what Friese and Odar have in store for their latest journey.

If you’re curious to learn more about the show and when you can start watching it, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about 1899 on Netflix.

What is 1899 on Netflix about?

The creators of Dark are bringing us another “mystery box” show comprised of dark secrets and riddles connecting a group of diverse passengers aboard a steamship traveling from Europe to New York.

Here is the official synopsis, courtesy of Netflix:

"The eight episodes follow mysterious events during the voyage of an immigrant ship from Europe to New York. The passengers, all of different backgrounds, are united by their hopes for a new century and their future abroad. When they discover a second ship adrift on the open sea that had gone missing for months, their journey takes an unexpected turn. What they find on board will turn their passage to the promised land into a nightmare-like riddle, connecting each of the passenger’s pasts through a web of secrets."

1899 on Netflix cast

As a multi-language series, 1899 boasts a diverse cast of characters. It makes sense since the plot revolves around a group of migrants sailing toward America on a steamship.

Into the Badlands actress, Emily Beecham stars as Maura Franklin, one of the show’s female leads. She’s joined by Aneurin Barnard, of The Goldfinch and Dunkirk fame, and German actor Andreas Pietschmann, who also appeared in Dark.

Here’s the main cast list:

• Emily Beecham as Maura Franklin
• Aneurin Barnard
• Andreas Pietschmann as Eyk Larsen
• Miguel Bernardeau as Ángel
• Maciej Musiał as Olek
• Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen as Krester
• Clara Rosager as Tove
• Yann Gael as Jérôme
• Mathilde Ollivier as Clémence
• José Pimentão as Ramiro
• Isabella Wei as Ling Yi
• Jonas Bloquet as Lucien

How many episodes are in 1899 on Netflix?

There are only eight episodes in the first season of 1899, but every episode is almost a full hour in length or more.

Is 1899 on Netflix based on a book? Is 1899 based on a true story?

No, 1899 is not based on a book. An original story from the writers inspired the show from Dark creators Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar.1899 does not appear to be based on a true story.

1899 release date and time

1899 will be released on Thursday, November 17, at 12:00 a.m. PT/3:00 a.m. ET. For those who live outside of the United States, I suggest consulting our helpful time zone guide to learn when the series will be released where you live.

Add 1899 to your Netflix watchlist.

Where was 1899 on Netflix filmed?

Even though 1899 looks like it was shot on location, it was filmed entirely on a high-tech stage.

While chatting with Deadline, creators Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar detailed the incredible state-of-the-art virtual production facility they used to create the show. The stage is called “Volume” and features more than 4,500 square feet of shooting space. Surrounded by an LED backdrop using the Unreal Engine, the location can simulate realistic, moving backgrounds that create the appearance of shooting outside.

Using the Volume reduces post-production time because you don’t need a green screen and things can be “processed in-camera.” It’s similar to the technology used by Disney’s The Mandalorian.

If you want to learn more about Volume and its usage in creating the show, you can check out this behind-the-scenes featurette released earlier this year as part of Geeked Week.

How to watch 1899

You will need a Netflix account to watch 1899, as the show will not be available to stream or purchase anywhere else. Sign up for a subscription here if you don’t have one already.

Will there be an 1899 season 2?

There has not been any confirmation that the show will get a second season yet. However, when the creators spoke to Deadline previously, they said they envisioned 1899 as a “multi-season show.” But it will depend on viewership numbers and whether Netflix sees a future for the series. We should find out within a few months of the show’s premiere date.

1899 trailer

With more than 7.7 million views, it’s clear that people are very excited to see what the Dark creators have in store for their new series. Check out the official trailer for 1899 below.