By: Miguel Ernesto Yusty

1899 is a Netflix series in which a group of characters are trapped on a ship crossing the Atlantic from Europe to the United States. During their voyage, they become victims of strange events that lead both the viewer and the characters themselves to question what is real and what is not. The series blends science fiction, horror, and suspense. Its strength lies in its exploration of fundamental and difficult questions. Its success likely stems from this: it constructs a framework of answers, accompanied by a striking aesthetic that allows the viewer to confront their own inner solitude, even when surrounded by others.

The series is the work of the same creative team behind DARK, released by Netflix in 2017. The husband-and-wife team of Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese direct, write, and produce, and possess a special talent for formulas and profound questions woven into science fiction dramas. Their mastery of technique grants them creative freedom, making their projects compelling to audiences and consistently placing them at the top of the ratings, regardless of the complexity of the themes they choose to explore.

In November 2022, while the platform was showcasing 1899, it also featured a documentary detailing the making of the series. When you see the use of 360-degree screens surrounding the set, projecting moving images of oceans and turbulent skies, you understand the visual impact of 1899. It becomes clear that the series successfully combines engaging content with a powerful formal approach. Consequently, it's difficult for viewers to disconnect from the world created by its creators.