GALERIJ

Synopsis

An art authenticator works to collect twelve 17th century Dutch Brohm family portraits -- the Galerij -- then has doubts when an art expert warns the gallery paintings will unleash the Brohms into present day society, resuming control over and castrating European trade.

Given the opportunity to control the seventeenth century European trade markets/routes, Dutch family head Wouter Brohm makes a deal with the greater, dark power of a "man" named Diehl that enables Brohm's four sons' households immortality through family portraits signed in blood.

Four hundred years later, the Brohm families are dead at the hands of their servants, but their Portraits begin to reemerge in the twenty-first century.

It's up to art authenticator Olivia, and art expert Evan, relative of the Portraits' artist, to stop the art world's push to regroup the twelve Brohm blood portraits -- the Galerij -- for exhibition, a gathering that could also reliven the Brohm family to resume their stranglehold on the world's economies.

Think: Faustian characters in Girl with A Pearl Earring and The Thomas Crown Affair settings with an updated twist on the Dorian Gray concept.

A mini-bible is available for the first season, plus notes for four seasons.

*Evaluation:

GALERIJ Pilot: "pilot offers what seems to be a fairly authentic look at a world that hasn’t been explored much on TV. ...has the makings of an excellent series premise, especially when tied into the bizarre and intriguing Faustian bargain... script wisely employs plenty of jargon and authentic terminology/methodology in the characters’ dialogue and work...that creates a world that feels flawlessly realistic. On a character level, there are interesting dynamics established, particularly with regard to access—which in this world translates roughly to power. Who’s allowed to see certain paintings, or meet their owners, often defines their place in the hierarchy of this world...something hinted at when Warren tries to withhold information from [Olivia] on the basis of her title ...script captures the scope of the story it wants to tell nicely, with little links between characters revealing themselves effectively...creating almost a tapestry effect."

BlackList on GALERIJ Mini-Bible: "mythology laid out in this bible is fascinating stuff... great backstory... could be something pretty impressive here"