The highly anticipated action-drama series Paper Empire made a striking international debut at the inaugural MIP London event, captivating audiences with its gripping pilot episode, with an entire season already shot and for sale to the highest bidder at the market. The exclusive screening occurred at 6 p.m. at the IET London on Savoy Place, drawing a star-studded crowd, including creator, writer, and director Robert Gillings, lead actor Robert Davi, and cast members Carol Alt and Charlotte Coles.
Diving deep into the murky world of cryptocurrency fraud, Paper Empire follows financial mastermind Laurence Fintch, played by Robert Davi. Fintch devises an intricate Ponzi scheme, fabricating the loss of billions while covertly funneling the funds into a cryptographic system he calls “Digital Limbo.” His actions send shockwaves through global financial markets, attracting the scrutiny of international authorities and dangerous criminal organizations.
Boasting an ensemble cast featuring Wesley Snipes, Steve Guttenberg, Cuba Gooding Jr., Denise Richards, Kelsey Grammer, Anne Archer, AnnaLynne McCord, and Richard Grieco, Paper Empire brings high-stakes drama to the small screen. The series is a collaborative production by Robert Gillings Productions, Tadross Media Group, and Inner Circle Films. In a historic move, Paper Empire became the first American TV series to film in Saudi Arabia, with an entire episode shot in the breathtaking ancient city of AlUla.
Photo Courtesy: Eamonn M. McCormack / Getty Images for MIP London
The pilot screening enthralled audiences, sparking an extended Q&A session moderated by Mansha Daswani, Editor-in-Chief of World Screen. Robert Gillings, Robert Davi, Carol Alt, and Charlotte Coles fielded enthusiastic questions from attendees eager to uncover how the story unfolds beyond the pilot’s dramatic cliffhanger. The overwhelming engagement underscored the palpable excitement surrounding the show’s future.
Adding to the evening’s prestige, many high-profile figures from the entertainment industry attended the premiere. Among them were Heartstopper star Bradley Riches, international model and Brunch with Amel host Amel Rachedi, actress and model Margo Dumas, influencer Borbala Kreutz, renowned chef and TV personality Chris Baber, and broadcaster, mental health advocate, and singer-songwriter Matt Johnson, founder of The Check-in initiative. Acclaimed actresses Judith Shekoni (Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, Heroes Reborn) and Victoria Ekanoye (Coronation Street, The Royals) further elevated the event’s prestige, cementing its status as an unforgettable celebration of storytelling and innovation.
Photo Courtesy: Eamonn M. McCormack / Getty Images for MIP London
Lucy Smith, the esteemed director of both MIP London and MIPCOM CANNES, underscored the profound significance of the premiere, emphasizing how Paper Empire perfectly aligns with MIP London’s mission to spotlight ambitious, innovative, and timely independent productions. She highlighted that the series is a shining example of the kind of storytelling that captivates audiences with its gripping narrative, high production values, and thought-provoking themes.
With a compelling storyline that delves deep into intricate power dynamics, financial intrigue, and moral dilemmas, Paper Empire keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Its distinguished cast, featuring renowned talent, brings the characters to life with remarkable depth and authenticity, further cementing its status as a standout in contemporary television.
As anticipation for the series continues to build, Paper Empire has already made a lasting impression on industry professionals and audiences alike, marking its place as a must-watch show poised to make a significant impact. Smith expressed her enthusiasm for the series’ future, stating that she looks forward to seeing it reach wider audiences and grace television screens worldwide shortly.
Published by Mark V.
