Netflixhas taken the concept of theArchive 81podcast series and adjusted it to fit within a narrative structure for all to enjoy and witness horrifically. A new trailer for the upcoming horror-based series has finally arrived, which showcases an unsettling narrative that is bound to create nightmares in the mind of those brave enough to explore it.
Netflix’sArchive 81will follow protagonist Dan Turner, played by Mamoudou Athie, who takes a questionable job restoring a collection of fire-damaged videotapes from 1994. It seems like a decent undertaking for a man of his artistic talents, but the catch is the first indication that something is a bit off. Because of the condition of the tapes, Turner must complete his work in their remote research facility. But, as he begins, he finds that he is reassembling a documentary film by Melody Pendras, played by Dina Shihabi, that centers around her investigation into a problematic cult, which is where the story’s overall bloodcurdling tone comes entirely into play. Dan believes he can save her, but what secrets lie within the shadows waiting to strike at any moment?
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TheArchive 81trailer provides audiences with a look into the haunting mysteries that linger beneath the surface and the darkness embroiled within the things Turner is tragically left to discover. The eight-episode series will shift between two split timelines, focusing on Dan Turner and his hair-raising finds. The other centers around Melody Pendras and thedangers that lurk devilishlyaround her. The two will inevitably build a connection across time as Turner sinks further into the truth behind what happened to Melody Pendras. Each episode will run about an hour-long and seems to be embracing the thriller engrained within its DNA. Videotapes always seem to be a bad omen, yet audiences are again in another narrative that reminds them just how ominous they are.
“There’s something in this place that calls to you,” stated one of the characters early within the trailer, indicating that a presence in the Visser apartment is building camps within the vacancy of their minds. It’s unclear what evil lurks within the shadows, but audiences seem to be in for a genuinely horrific ride. The trailer lays downthe breadcrumbs of anticipation, begging those with courage to enter to see what awaits them. How Dan will save Melody Pendras from a fate she suffered 25 years ago is a complicated riddle, but one that audiences will have plenty of time to decipher.
Archive 81comes from Rebecca Sonnenshine, who wrote and executive produced the series. In a statement to Netflix, she discussed her appreciation for mystery box stylistic shows that lead the audience down a strange and unfamiliar path. This process inspired her with the approach taken to bring what Powell and Sollinger had created to life. Sonnanstine also noted that theseries would be character-driven, evident from the trailer, which focuses intensely on the two protagonists. The fear blanketing the atmosphere is present within every moment once the trailer finds its momentum, but providing a deep look into both characters will allow the audiences to hunger for the truth surrounding Melody Pendras’s story equally to Dan’s.
In addition to performances from Athie and Shihabi, the series will star Martin Donovan, Matt McGorry, Julia Chan, Evan Jonigkeit, and Ariana Neal. The trailer paints a pretty chilling picture, but will the series be able tomaintain the intimidating atmospherethroughout its eight episodes? Luckily, audiences only have to wait a week to discover the answer for themselves.
Archive 81will arrive on Netflix July 15, 2025
