Jesse Williams and Adam Bernstein unveil ‘Costiera’: An exciting blend of action and drama

The immersive world of ‘Costiera’

In the vibrant setting of Mipcom, Fremantle will be showcasing the much-anticipated action-drama series “Costiera”. The series stars renowned actor Jesse Williams, known for his roles in “Only Murders in the Building” and “Your Place or Mine”, and is co-directed by the Emmy award-winner Adam Bernstein. Together with Giacomo Martelli, they have crafted a series that promises to captivate viewers with its unique blend of intense action and spontaneous comedy.

An international co-production set for global streaming

“Costiera” is set to make its debut on Prime Video across multiple regions including Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal, as well as English-speaking countries. This ambitious project is co-produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Luca Bernabei’s Lux Vide, a Fremantle company. The collaboration aims to deliver a high-stakes narrative, rich with the cultural essence of its setting, the spectacular coastline of Positano.

The tale of Daniel De Luca

At the heart of “Costiera” is Daniel De Luca, portrayed by Jesse Williams. Daniel is a former U.S. marine of half-Italian descent, who returns to Italy, the land of his childhood. Here, he takes on the role of a fixer in one of the world’s most luxurious hotels situated along the picturesque Amalfi Coast. His mission is not just about managing the troubles of the wealthy guests but also involves searching for Alice, one of the hotel owner’s daughters who mysteriously disappeared a month earlier.

Complexity of the central character

Williams describes Daniel as a man in transition, “caught in limbo in his life.” A career military man, Daniel finds himself discharged and grappling with loss – of family, of purpose. “He’s a leader of teams, organized and efficient, even without thinking about it,” Williams elaborates, shedding light on the duality of Daniel’s strengths and vulnerabilities.

Bernstein further comments on the character’s struggle with structure, noting, “Daniel’s accustomed to the rigid structure of military life, and now he’s navigating an unstructured environment. It’s a challenge that accentuates his impulsive side.”

The ensemble of misfits

Daniel is not alone in his journey. He is supported by a colorful band of friends from his past and present. Bignè, a childhood friend from Naples, brings street-smarts and loyalty, having moved to Positano to restart his life. Jenny, a world traveler who found herself settling in Positano after various failed ventures, and Tancredi, an eccentric Brit from a family of real estate-poor aristocracy with a long history in Positano, round out his core group.

Williams notes, “It’s a band of misfits navigating the cultural clashes between old-world values and new-world methods, often with comedic outcomes.”

Southern Italy’s cultural tapestry

The rich culture of southern Italy plays a significant role in the narrative of “Costiera”. Daniel’s childhood in Naples, described as being among the “scugnizzi” (street urchins), contrasts sharply with the opulence of Positano. Bernstein highlights this contrast: “Positano is a playground for the international jet-set and super wealthy Italians, while Naples, just a ferry ride away, is culturally rich and frenetic.” The series exploits this duality, showcasing both the high-society allure of Positano and the chaotic charm of Naples.

Williams adds, “Daniel’s character reflects this cultural code-switching, balancing his American experiences and military background with his Italian heritage. It’s a dynamic interplay of identities and memories that adds depth to his journey.”

Hotel-centric storytelling

Setting the series in a luxurious hotel offers unique storytelling advantages. The ever-changing roster of guests brings new stimuli, conflicts, and alliances. Williams elaborates, “The hotel setting allows for a constant flow of new characters and scenarios. It’s a space where relationships and loyalties are tested, providing an escape hatch for those caught in crimes.”

The series also delves into Daniel’s evolving relationship with the hotel’s owner, Augusto, and his daughters. Adele, the older sister, reluctantly inherits the management role, while the younger Alice remains a missing enigma, adding layers of familial tension and longing.

Balancing humor and high stakes

Despite its intense premise, “Costiera” seamlessly intertwines moments of comedy with action and drama. Williams explains, “We balance dark and light, blending joyful, spontaneous comedy with high-stakes tension and action. The diverse cast, speaking multiple languages and drawing from various cultural backgrounds, adds humor and richness to the narrative.”

Bernstein agrees, noting that much of the comedy arises from Daniel’s interactions with his close-knit friend group and from cultural misunderstandings. “The international cast brings a vibrant mix of Italian, Spanish, French, and English influences, creating moments of both humor and heartfelt connection.”

A star-studded cast and breathtaking landscapes

The six-episode series boasts an impressive ensemble of Italian and international talent, including Maria Chiara Giannetta, Jordan Alexandra, Antonio Gerardi, Sam Haygarth, and others. The stunning Amalfi coast serves as a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the show’s visual appeal.

Bernabei, the series’ producer, emphasizes the brilliant fusion of Italian charisma and American initiative that defines “Costiera”. “Italian lifestyle, warmth, and breathtaking landscapes turn this action drama into a beautiful postcard, capturing the wonders of our country,” he states.

Captivating viewers worldwide

With its compelling mix of action, drama, and comedy, and the incredible vision of Adam Bernstein, “Costiera” is poised to captivate audiences worldwide. Fremantle’s confidence in the series’ potential is underscored by their extensive global distribution plans.

As the series prepares to launch on Prime Video, fans are eagerly awaiting the blend of intense storytelling and rich cultural context that “Costiera” promises to deliver. Ensure you stay tuned for updates and get ready to dive into the exhilarating world of Daniel De Luca and his misfit entourage.

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For more information and trailers, visit trailers.movieetv.com/search/costiera.