Los Angeles-based production company QC Entertainment is making its first foray into the Indian market with the Prime Video series 'Poacher,' created by Richie Mehta, the mastermind behind the critically acclaimed series 'Delhi Crime.' QC Entertainment, known for backing successful films like 'Get Out' and 'BlacKkKlansman,' is now venturing into television with this gripping drama.
'Poacher' is based on true events and uncovers the largest ivory poaching ring in Indian history. The series made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival in 2023 and is set to premiere worldwide on Prime Video on February 23. The story revolves around the events that unfolded in the dense forests of Kerala and bustling city of Delhi, shedding light on the dark world of illegal wildlife trade.
The collaboration between Mehta and QC Entertainment came about after Mehta's agents at Gersh introduced him to producers who not only had the necessary funding but also demonstrated a hands-on, transparent, and collaborative approach to filmmaking. That's when 'Delhi Crime,' the internationally acclaimed series that went on to win an International Emmy Award, caught QC Entertainment's attention. The team was immediately drawn to the fast-paced, crime drama with its significant themes and wanted to meet Mehta.
When Mehta shared his concept for 'Poacher' with QC, the company, which usually gets involved at the concept stage, decided to come on board. The creators made a conscious decision to keep the series in the original languages of Malayalam, Hindi, and English, rather than opting for a solely Hindi or English production. This allowed them to honor the authenticity and cultural nuances of the story. QC Entertainment's partners, Sean McKittrick, Raymond Mansfield, and Edward H. Hamm Jr., articulated their commitment to staying true to the events depicted in the show, a sentiment that resonated with Mehta.
The production of 'Poacher' was a collaborative effort where QC Entertainment's McKittrick and Mansfield were personally involved. They teamed up with seasoned producer Alan McAlex of Suitable Pictures to ensure a seamless and authentic portrayal of the story's setting. With most of the action taking place in the southern Indian state of Kerala, known for its communist government, high literacy rates, and progressive stance on women's rights, the series showcases the region's unique cultural landscape.
QC Entertainment prides itself on its hands-on approach to filmmaking. The company firmly believes in empowering the places they work in, creating employment opportunities, and bringing the authenticity of the locations to life through the collaboration with local talent. Their philosophy revolves around developing original content with mass appeal, all the while preserving the voice and vision of underserved filmmakers and marginalized communities.
As for the future of 'Poacher,' McKittrick and Mansfield have confirmed that a Season 2 is actively in development, although they did not disclose which endangered species will be the subject of the next installment. Additionally, QC Entertainment has an upcoming documentary about Vice Media in production, as well as plans for a series adaptation of the Chuck Wendig novel 'Wanderers.'
The company aims to merge their television projects with their film slate and treat each series like an independent film, maintaining a filmmaker-focused approach. With this strategy, QC Entertainment is poised to expand its presence in the television industry while continuing to support unique and authentic storytelling.
'Poacher' is set to captivate audiences worldwide with its engaging narrative and thought-provoking exploration of the illegal wildlife trade. With its powerful storytelling and commitment to authenticity, the series promises to make a lasting impact.
