Netflix has released the first trailer for its forthcoming original series The Get Down, created by Baz Luhrmann.

The music drama is set in New York during the 1970s and tells the story of a group of teenagers from the South Bronx who are at the centre of the birth of hip hop.

The trailer opens with a narration: “The pale-faced media tells us we’re all going to hell, but maybe we’re just the first ones to light the fire.”

The Get Down's creator, Baz Luhrmann
The Get Down’s creator, Baz Luhrmann (Dennis Van Tine/ABACAPRESS.COM)

Showcasing the talents of an ensemble cast that includes Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Esposito and Star Wars prequels’ Jimmy Smits, the standout scene for devotees of rap will be the part where newcomer Mamoudou Athie is seen as the father of hip hop, Grandmaster Flash.

The young actor bears an uncanny resemblance to the groundbreaking DJ.

The Get Down also features Jaden Smith, son of Will and Jada Pinkett, as Marcus ‘Dizzee’ Kipling, a talented and enigmatic graffiti writer.

Talking about the casting, show creator Baz said: “Recently, Jaden has been seeking diverse and challenging roles, and this is a testament to his passion to grow in the craft.”

He added: “In the short time he has joined our acting family, he has begun developing his The Get Down skill set, even taking lessons from the legendary graffiti artist Lady Pink of ‘Wild Style’ fame, as well as steeping himself in the history and culture of the Bronx.

“We’re all very happy with the casting of Jaden in the role of ‘Dizzee’ Kipling, and with his addition, the Kipling family cast is now complete.”

Mamoudou Athie as Grandmaster Flash in The Get Down
Mamoudou Athie as Grandmaster Flash in The Get Down (Netflix)

Newcomers, including actors Tremaine Brown Jr, Justice Smith, Shameik Moore and Skylan Brooks, play a number of the characters in this Netflix production.

Baz, the 53-year-old director of Moulin Rouge, has been working on the concept of The Get Down for years.

Grandmaster Flash serves as an associate producer and adviser on the drama series.

The 13-episode drama will debut in all Netflix territories this year.