In a spectacular display of star power and influential cinema, the London screening of Amazon’s newest crime series, ‘Poacher,’ drew in a constellation of celebrities, filmmakers, activists, and media to its exclusive reveal. The event turned into a striking success with audience members lauding the show for its compelling narrative and robust storytelling. Richie Mehta, an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker whose mastery of the craft is evident, has helmed the show as its writer, creator, and director. ‘Poacher’ is a high-intensity series produced by the remarkable forces of QC Entertainment and brings together a talented cast including Nimisha Sajayan, Roshan Mathew, and Dibyendu Bhattacharya.
The crime drama provides a fictional yet deeply authentic portrayal reflecting the daring missions of Indian Forest Service officers, NGO workers, police constables, and kind-hearted individuals. These are the unsung heroes who put their lives on the line to apprehend one of India’s most notorious elephant ivory poaching syndicates.
Richie Mehta, alongside Manish Menghani of Prime Video India, Executive Producer Alia Bhatt, and QC Entertainment’s Raymond Mansfield and Sean McKittrick, graced London for the series’ publicity ahead of its global premiere on Prime Video. Esteemed figures like Freida Pinto, Gurinder Chadha, and Soni Razdan were present among others, showing support and expressing their anticipation. Following the preview, there was a dynamic session with the ‘Poacher’ team, including input from Lionel Hachemin, IFAW UK’s Wildlife Crime Program Manager. The discussion delved into the intricate process of series creation, with a deep dive into the meticulous research Richie Mehta invested and how he fused facts with narrative creativity to capture the gravity of wildlife poaching.
Richie Mehta commented on the profound impact that a 2015 video from the Wildlife Trust of India had on him, showcasing the biggest ivory poaching raid in the nation’s history. It spurred his commitment to developing ‘Poacher,’ ensuring that the storyline honors the wildlife crime fighters’ selfless acts and raises public awareness within an engaging format.
Manish Menghani expressed his confidence that this gripping and captivating series, as an essential and timely topic, will have viewers on the edge of their seats when all eight episodes release globally on February 23 on Prime Video.
Executive Producer Alia Bhatt shared her and her sister Shaheen’s, who is also her partner at Eternal Sunshine Productions, profound connection with ‘Poacher.’ They felt compelled to contribute to this powerful tale that they believe will permeate the consciousness of audiences, particularly those who are the future stewards of our planet. Stating that entertainment has the influence to shape minds, Bhatt stressed the importance of using one’s voice for spreading awareness on pivotal issues.
The committed producers, Raymond Mansfield and Sean McKittrick of QC Entertainment, emphasized that ‘Poacher’ isn’t just entertainment—it’s a medium with purpose, addressing the dire issue of environmental crime. When asked for three compelling reasons to watch the series, they highlighted its exciting, meaningful, and memorable nature.
After a glowing response to the series trailer earlier, along with the preview screenings at Sundance and now in London, enthusiasm is at its peak for ‘Poacher.’ The global audience eagerly anticipates its release, setting the stage for an exceptional addition to the world of conservation-focused cinema.
