Unveiling the Mastermind: Discover How Producing Director Nikhil Paniz Challenges Systematic Issues in Missing Person Cases

Summary

Found sets itself apart with its strong procedural backbone and the twist of Mark-Paul Gosselaar's character, Sir, which elevates the show.

The show's objective is to portray relatable narratives of broken individuals who harness their trauma to bring about positive change in the world, while also delving into the darker aspects that exist within all of us.

Found challenges the conventional approach to missing-person cases, shedding light on the marginalized segments of society that often go unnoticed, and advocating for improved distribution of resources and heightened awareness.

The crime drama series, Found, premiered on NBC on October 3rd and can currently be streamed on Peacock. It follows the story of Gabi Mosely, a former kidnapping victim who escaped her captor and is now a public relations specialist. Determined to help solve missing-person cases ignored by law enforcement and media, Gabi works alongside her crisis management team. Found is directed by Nikhil Paniz, who has previously worked on projects such as Avengers: Endgame and Avengers: Infinity War. The ensemble cast includes Shanola Hampton as Gabi, alongside Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Kelli Williams, Brett Dalton, Gabrielle Walsh, Arlen Escarpeta, and Karan Oberoi.

Nikhil Paniz Talks Found

Our website: I'm such a big fan of Found already. What sticks out to you about the series, and how do you feel it differentiates itself from other procedurals?

Nikhil Paniz believes that Found will stand out due to the unique twist of Mark-Paul Gosselaar. It combines a solid procedural foundation, familiar to television viewers, with the addition of Sir, which elevates it above other shows. The internal struggle faced by the lead character, being both a protagonist and antagonist, is also a rare element in network procedurals. This is where Found sets itself apart from others.

Considering your work on Avengers, do you perceive any similarities between that project and Found?

Nikhil Paniz: Yes and no. The idea of creating drama is present in various shows like Avengers, All American, Found, and CSI. It's an underlying theme that doesn't need to be explicitly mentioned. However, the Avengers' action, suspense, and dynamic nature have influenced the tone of Found. This can be seen through the character of Karan Oberoi chasing and capturing his targets, or the unique way Margaret uses her special abilities. Each character in Found has a touch of superhero in them, so it was important for us to showcase that on screen. Marvel has definitely played a role in that.

Shooting a pilot involves a lot of considerations as it aims to engage viewers and make them want to come back for more each week. In terms of tone, what message did you and the team intend to convey in these initial episodes?

Nikhil Paniz: It was crucial for Nkechi Okoro Carroll, the creator, executive producer, and driving force behind the show, that we depict relatable and authentic stories. Our characters may possess remarkable qualities like superheroes, but they are all flawed. They have experienced hardship in their pasts, and we showcase how they harness that trauma to improve their lives.

Creating an aspirational show that instills hope was paramount to us. We wanted to convey the message that one cannot escape their darker side and that it is important to confront one's true self, even if it doesn't align with their desired identity. The pilot episode resonates with the current state of the world, emphasizing the presence of fractured individuals striving to do what is right amidst the existence of darker elements. We believe we accomplished something exceptional by portraying these themes in one compact TV series.

The show explores important issues surrounding the lack of attention given to missing black children. It challenges societal norms and sheds light on the unequal allocation of resources in missing person cases. This show aims to reveal the truth and raise awareness about the challenges faced by those who go missing in our country.

Despite Gabi's tough exterior resulting from her challenging experiences, she is determinedly endeavoring to shield others from similar fates. Could you shed some light on the true expectations the directors held for Shanola Hampton as she assumed this character?

Nikhil Paniz: Having directed three of the episodes, I can personally attest to the fact that portraying Gabi required us to showcase her strength, resilience, ability to heal, and capacity to overcome trauma. Additionally, we wanted to highlight her vulnerability and her struggle for control, all while conveying whether or not she was seeking redemption. It was a challenging task for Shanola to embody such a complex tone every single day.

As I mentioned earlier, the show also follows a formulaic procedural structure, which meant that many scenes couldn't involve a broken hero or a conflicted victim. Our goal was to keep the story moving forward. Striking the right balance was a difficult decision, but Shanola managed to accomplish it with grace and a strong presence. If you've enjoyed what you've seen so far, just wait for what's to come.

What was most enjoyable about portraying the team dynamic and witnessing it onscreen?

Nikhil Paniz: Honestly, credit must be given to Nkechi Okoro Carroll for her incredible storytelling and ability to bring this diverse group of individuals together. Each member of the team has such compelling backgrounds that could easily fill an entire season. It's fascinating to see their histories gradually unfold before the audience's eyes and witness their true identities being revealed. This process is exhilarating and exemplifies the unity of these flawed characters as they strive for good. The team dynamic is a significant aspect that we deliberately emphasized in the pilot. It is crucial to showcase that she doesn't work alone; she cannot accomplish it on her own.

Having been a fan of Brett Dalton's portrayal in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., I was excited to see him take on a contrasting role in Found. How was the experience of collaborating with him on this project?

Nikhil Paniz: Firstly, Brett is an incredibly skilled classical actor. His talent is truly a blessing for any director, producer, or writer. You can provide him with any instruction or situation, and he will thoroughly analyze and embody it within his character. His character serves as a bridge between law enforcement and Gabi's PR firm, residing in a sort of purgatory-like space.

He is unable to make a definitive choice between the two options, leading him to remain undecided and emotionally attached to Gabi. It is a complicated situation for someone trying to appear helpful. Brett Dalton effectively portrays Gabi's struggle with law enforcement and her reliance on their resources. On the other hand, it showcases how much she can contribute to law enforcement and their desire for her to be less disruptive. Brett Dalton finds himself caught in the middle. What other aspects do you appreciate about Gabi and Mark's relationship?

Nikhil Paniz: Additionally, there is an underlying, unspoken sexual tension present. It is evident that there is a simmering relationship beneath the surface, which we are provided hints and glimpses of. However, what I find particularly enjoyable is the opportunity to incorporate this dynamic while the characters engage in dialogue unrelated to it. This infusion of elements creates a captivating and entertaining television experience.

Throughout your career, you have ventured into various departments, ranging from cinematography to directing. Is there a specific role that you find the most gratifying?

Nikhil Paniz: Frankly speaking, I feel very comfortable in my role as a producer and director. I enjoy sitting behind the scenes, observing everything that happens. It gives me great satisfaction to witness a whole season of television rather than just one episode, and to understand how all the pieces come together as one cohesive unit. It's fascinating to see how resources can be effectively allocated and how drama can be effectively created, whether it's through a slow buildup or with a big impact. These aspects are unique to being a part of a producing team for a television series. But being a producer and director? Are you kidding me? That's absolutely the sweet spot.

About Found

Every year in the U.S., over 600,000 individuals are reported missing, with a significant portion being people of color who often go unnoticed by the nation. To address this overlooked issue, a public relations expert, who was once forgotten herself, now leads a crisis management team dedicated to ensuring that no missing person remains neglected. However, unbeknownst to anyone, this everyday hero harbors a bone-chilling secret of her own.

Found airs Tuesdays at 10pm ET on NBC and is available to stream the next day on Peacock.

Source: Our website Plus