By: Chris Gallagher
In Hollywood, versatility is a prized skill; few embody it as wholly as Robert Gillings. As a creator, writer, director, and producer, Gillings brings a cohesive vision to his projects—evident in every scene of his ambitious series, Paper Empire. In a world dominated by formulaic narratives, Gillings is celebrated for his originality and willingness to explore complex global themes such as power, morality, equality, and evolutionary technology.
For Gillings, juggling multiple roles on set is second nature. “I wear the Blue Hat,” he says, describing his approach to managing various creative responsibilities. “I chair the control, ensuring that all aspects are considered. Sure, I separate myself when needed, but universally, everything and every job in all facets of creativity are connected.” This unified approach enables him to maintain each project’s integrity and ensure his vision remains clear throughout production.
Gillings’ work on Paper Empire reflects his deep interest in modern technology and its transformative societal role. “My inspiration comes from my interests, studies, and allowing my wandering mind to be open to new ideas,” he explains. A self-described “historian, futurist, and social critic,” Gillings brings a unique perspective to the series, incorporating themes that reflect his views on emerging technologies like smart coins, programmable cryptocurrency, and self-programmable AI. “The universe is endless—not just expanding,” he asserts. “Paper Empire’s inspiration comes from the revolutionary technologies that are changing our way of life,” he adds, emphasizing his drive to bring relevant and provocative content to his audience.
His dedication to character development is a hallmark of his writing. Each character in Paper Empire is crafted with layered motivations that invite viewers to explore the storyline on a deeper level. “I’m not afraid or concerned about writing my characters—and myself—into a survival corner,” he admits. For Gillings, these moments of narrative tension offer audiences a thrilling and emotionally engaging experience.
As a director, Gillings values collaboration, particularly with his esteemed cast, which includes Academy, Emmy, and Grammy nominees and winners. Working with such a talented ensemble, he says, is “like driving a Rolls-Royce.” Gillings allows his actors to explore their roles while providing essential context to guide their performances. “I give them the background of their character—where they are, how they got here, and where they want to go,” he shares, underscoring his respect for the actors’ contributions to the series’ depth.
In recent years, Gillings has observed significant shifts in the entertainment landscape, largely due to the rise of streaming services. He acknowledges that these changes have given creators like himself greater flexibility in storytelling. “It’s an evolution,” he says. “With service apps now on TVs, laptops, and phones, the TV consumption of ‘supply and on-demand’ has paved the way to global binge-watching.” This shift allows him to break free from traditional primetime constraints, offering his stories to a worldwide audience and ensuring that Paper Empire finds its Hotspot among viewers.
Beyond Paper Empire, Gillings reflects on his overarching philosophy as a creator. “I write because my perception is my reality,” he says, advising aspiring filmmakers to embrace their authenticity. For him, staying true to one’s voice is essential, especially in an industry where compromise is common. He encourages creatives to maintain their unique perspective, reminding them, “Don’t be overly concerned; maintain your latitude within your personal touch.”
From his early days in the industry to the highly anticipated release of Paper Empire, Robert Gillings has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to storytelling, innovation, and authenticity. As he continues to craft stories that push boundaries, audiences can expect his work to remain as engaging and thought-provoking as ever.
Published by Elle G.
