Apple TV+ shows off the audio and minimal abstract visuals from the upcoming series ‘Calls’ before March 19 debut

Some series stand out for various reasons. Calls, a new show coming to Apple TV+ in the near future, may find its own niche — and may be another show that gets people talking about Apple’s video streaming service.

Calls is based on a show of the same name from France. And the setup is pretty wild. Each episode is only 12 minutes in length, and they are all based on phone conversations. Each story is told with “minimal abstract visuals”, as well as the audio from the calls. Apple bills it as a “groundbreaking immersive television experience”, which relies on the audio and abstract visuals to tell the story.

The series has brought on some talented actors for the voices, too. Pedro Pascal (The Mandalorian), Nick Jonas (Jumanji), Lily Collins (Stuck in LoveEmily in Paris), Mark Duplass (The Morning Show), and others are all set to star in the short episodes. The pitch is an interesting one, to be sure, but seeing it in action is something else. Even in brief with this official trailer, which you can watch below.

And here’s the official synopsis from Apple today:

Based on the buzzy French series of the same name, Calls is a groundbreaking immersive television experience that masterfully uses only audio and minimal abstract visuals to tell bone-chilling snackable stories. Launching in a binge model worldwide, all nine 12-minute episodes are told through a series of phone calls that use sharp writing, compelling voice talent and graphics to aid in transcribing the darkly dramatic conversations onto the screen. These relatable scenarios transport the audience into familiar situations that quickly become surreal with thrilling and frightening moments. Featuring Lily Collins, Rosario Dawson, Mark Duplass & more, Calls proves that the real terror lies in one’s interpretation of what they cannot see on the screen and the unsettling places one’s imagination can take them.

Calls is set to start streaming on Apple TV+ beginning Friday, March 19, 2021. The experimental series is being directed by Fede Álvarez (Don’t Breathe).

Do you plan on checking it out?