Robert Gillings is a unique creative force in the entertainment industry, balancing multiple roles as a writer, director, and producer. With a career that spans decades, Gillings approaches his projects with a mastery of storytelling, vision, and strategic finesse that few in Hollywood can match. His latest series, Paper Empire, has captivated the mediawith its layered storyline, complex character arcs, and explorations of technological and societal changes.
Gillings’ ability to balance his many hats as a writer, director, and producer is remarkable. He sees each role as interlinked, describing his process as “wearing the Blue Hat” — a metaphor for taking control and ensuring that all aspects of the project are connected. “Sure, I separate myself when needed,” he explains, “but universally, everything and every job in all facets of creativity are connected.” For him, the lines between roles blur, allowing his direction to feed into his writing and vice versa, a unique interplay that enriches his projects.
Paper Empire is a standout example of how Gillings combines his insights as a writer and director to bring nuanced narratives to life. He drew inspiration for the series from contemporary issues, including the rapid rise of digital technologies, cryptocurrency, and artificial intelligence. “My inspiration comes from my interest, studies, and allowing my wandering mind to be open to new ideas,” he notes. As a “historian, futurist, social critic, supporter of women’s rights, and human equality,” he emphasizes that his background and values shape his storytelling. “Paper Empire’s inspiration comes from the revolutionizing technologies that are changing our way of life,” Gillings adds, highlighting his desire to tell stories that resonate with today’s audiences.
Gillings’ writing style is known for intricate character development, and Paper Empire is no exception. His characters are built with complex motivations and layers that often mirror real-world struggles and dilemmas. He describes his method as taking risks, writing himself and his characters into a “survival corner.” “I’m not afraid or concerned with writing my characters and myself into a survival corner,” he shares. “I feel that if I have nowhere to go, it’s a thrill for the audience that has attached themselves to the character.”
His approach to directing is similarly rooted in his background as a writer, a dynamic he believes enhances each character’s portrayal. “Directing the actors through the storyline, at times performances can bring a certain rhythm that’s not on the page, actually enhancing the character,” he explains. Gillings is not afraid to make spontaneous changes on set, adapting dialogue or adding scenes to enrich the storytelling experience. “Talent is very acceptable when done the proper way by sitting with them and discussing the new direction,” he adds, emphasizing the collaborative spirit he fosters with his cast.
Reflecting on the industry’s shift due to streaming platforms, Gillings recognizes the impact on both his creative process and audience reach. “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.” He appreciates the flexibility streaming offers, allowing him more artistic freedom and the chance to reach a broader, more diverse audience. Filming globally, including in the Middle East, he respects local cultures while crafting narratives that resonate universally. “I understand how to bring mind-bending, gripping content to the global reach of a diverse audience,” he concludes.
With Paper Empire capturing viewers worldwide, Robert Gillings continues to prove that his commitment to bold storytelling and multi-dimensional characters elevates his work, establishing him as a significant voice in entertainment.