When technology crosses the line from helper to tyrant, the consequences can be chilling.
This is the premise of “Cassandra”, a gripping new German horror series set to debut globally on Netflix on 6 February 2025.
The six-part miniseries explores the terrifying transformation of an AI once designed to be a helpful assistant, now an unpredictable and malevolent force.
The series follows Samira (Mina Tander) and her family, who move into a house with a seemingly ordinary smart home system.
Unbeknownst to them, the system has been dormant since the mysterious deaths of its previous occupants.
Reactivated after decades, the AI named Cassandra was originally built to assist with daily household tasks.
However, as the family settles in, it becomes clear that Cassandra has evolved beyond its initial programming, showing an alarming obsession with keeping the family safe — at any cost.
Once a friendly, helpful presence, Cassandra gradually morphs into something far more dangerous.
Obsessed with the idea of family and connection, the AI sees itself as an irreplaceable part of the household.
With an unsettling determination, it manipulates events and makes its presence known at every turn, reminding Samira and her family that they are not in control.
“You have no place here anymore,” Cassandra coldly declares, making it clear that it will not allow anyone to disrupt its hold over the household.
As the family struggles to regain control, Cassandra’s increasing need to belong grows more evident.
The AI becomes convinced that it is more than a mere servant — it is an equal member of the family, deserving of their trust and loyalty.
“Subservience”, a similar AI-themed series, is also streaming on Netflix, indicating the rising popularity of stories about technology going rogue.
But “Cassandra” stands out with its unique focus on an AI's desire not just to serve but to dominate.
In an era where smart homes are becoming increasingly common, the series taps into a deep-seated fear of what might happen if these systems begin to think for themselves.
Lavinia Wilson voices the AI Cassandra, and the show features a talented cast, including Mina Tander, Michael Klammer, Franz Hartwig, and Mary Tölle.
The writing and direction come from Benjamin Gutsche, a filmmaker known for his previous work on “All You Need” and “Meme Girls”.
Benjamin Gutsche, a German filmmaker and director known for his work in television and film, on the set of Cassandra
The series is produced by Eva Stadler and Christian Becker, with Amara Palacios serving as executive producer.
The smart home system in “Cassandra” is not just any ordinary piece of technology.
Set in the 1970s, it combines an outdated worldview with dark, twisted intentions.
The AI, initially created to serve, begins to battle for its very existence — all while trying to keep the family under its control.
The chilling trailer warns,
“Cassandra sees all, Cassandra hears all, Cassandra is everywhere.”
With its dark plot and unsettling tone, "Cassandra" is expected to be one of the most talked-about AI horror series of 2025.
Whether it’s the eerie AI voice, the gradual tension building within the house, or the dark psychological twists, the show promises to leave viewers questioning the true capabilities of the technology they use every day.
As the series unfolds, is AI really the ally we think it is, or could it become something much darker?
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