Former Marvel TV executive Karim Zreik throws himself into his newest projects, including his latest Marvel release, Helstrom. The new Hulu series focuses on two siblings with unique powers, combating the threat of the underworld.
When talking about Marvel movies and shows, many think first of The Avengers franchise and similar. But the MCU has its darker, grittier tales too. This is where Zreik flourishes. For example, he worked on such productions as Jessica Jones and Legion, showing the world a darker, more mysterious side to saving the world.
Next, Zriek will take on a new position at Lord Miller production company. There, the Lebanese television producer will have new opportunities and more creative license to develop Sony’s Universe of Marvel Characters.
Karim Zreik finds his niche in superhero-ism
Originating as an SVP of Original Programing at Marvel Television, Karim Zreik became co-executive producer for the company in 2015. In that capacity, he oversaw the first seasons of Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist, and the second season of Daredevil.
What these shows have in common: an unconventional take on superheroes. Whether a vagabond from Harlem or a mysterious plane crash survivor, Zreik makes his heroes without capes and with a lot of grit and secrecy. While facing the supernatural, they also face the realities and struggles of life. Zriek does not shy away from these themes of trauma, loss, and more.
In June 2020, Zreik left Marvel Studios to take on a new position as executive producer of several series under Lord Miller production company. This development is part of Sony’s five-year plan to produce more live-action and animated content for viewers.
“We love partnering with people who think outside the box and Karim’s innovation and creative relationships have brought hundreds of viewing hours to audiences around the world,” his Sony partners Phil Lord and Chris Miller comment.
In accepting his new position, Zriek says, “Lord Miller is constantly pushing creative boundaries and has consistently proven that the best work comes from stepping beyond our comfort zones. It’s that passion for creative innovation and commitment to collaboration that makes this such an exciting opportunity.”
Character-driven from day one
Before Zreik started at Marvel TV, he spent ten years as co-host of Jon Turteltaub’s Junction Entertainment banner. This production company contracted deals with ABC Studios and CBS Paramount Network Television.
His work there also carries his theme of darkness, mystery, and underground secrets. For example, his successes include CBS’s Jericho and Harper’s Island, and the National Treasure franchise.
After that auspicious beginning, his creative output caught the attention of Marvel and Disney. There, he spent about 5 years producing some of Stan Lee’s best. Now, he will take the skills he has honed to Sony.
“I’m so grateful for the years I’ve spent at Walt Disney Company,” Zriek says “The experience and knowledge I’ve gained is truly invaluable and has been key in preparing me for this exciting new chapter.”
Karim Zreik introduces a new kind of superhero
Taking a departure from the classic superhero idealism of Marvel’s Avengers, Zreik’s new television series Helstrom introduces a more demonic look to saving humanity. Rooted in Satanic horror, the show follows Daimon and Ana (short for Satana) Helstrom as they venture to combat the evilest sides of human kind and save their family legacy.
For now, it remains unclear how this darker approach to good and evil will be received by the Marvel fan-base. However, the premier stands as good-news for action-lovers in the midst of pandemic-delayed filming across Hollywood.
TV Guide’s show critic Sadie Gennis comments that its “compelling mythology and morally complicated characters, is just the type of spooky adventure I was craving this fall.”
Watch Helstrom on Hulu here.
