When archivist Dan Turner (Athie) takes a mysterious job restoring a collection of damaged videotapes from 1994, he finds himself reconstructing the work of documentary filmmaker Melody Pendras (Shihabi) and her investigation into a dangerous cult. As Dan is drawn into Melody's story, he becomes convinced he can save her from the terrifying end she met 25 years ago.
Paul Harris Boardman developed the drama, with Rebecca Sonnenshine serving as showrunner. They will executive produce with James Wan, Michael Clear and director Rebecca Thomas. Rob Hackett is set as a co-executive producer, with Marc Sollinger and Daniel Powell as co-producers. Atomic Monster will produce.
"With Archive 81, we're hoping to give the supernatural horror genre a new twist - while keeping a dark, deeply emotional romance as its core," said Sonnenshine. "Alongside the talented Mamoudou Athie and Dina Shihabi, and visionary partners Atomic Monster and Rebecca Thomas, I'm excited to take Netflix viewers on a terrifying and visually thrilling adventure."
