The trailer for "First Copy," a new Hindi original series, has just dropped on Amazon MX Player, offering a glimpse into Mumbai's 1990s video piracy world. This series marks the OTT acting debut of Munawar Faruqui, the winner of Bigg Boss 17, who steps into the role of Arif, a charismatic young man who becomes a mastermind in the piracy scene. Alongside Faruqui, the series features a star-studded cast including Ashi Singh, Gulshan Grover, Krystle D'Souza, Saqib Ayub, Meiyang Chang, Inam Ul Haq, and Raza Murad. "First Copy" is set to begin streaming for free on June 20 on Amazon MX Player.
The trailer presents a layered, emotionally charged narrative, capturing the essence of a time when Mumbai's love for cinema was at its peak. Arif, played by Munawar Faruqui, is portrayed as a spirited individual whose charm and street-smart instincts lead him into a world where film dreams are copied, consumed, and capitalized. As Arif's ambitions grow, the series delves into the emotional costs associated with his choices. "First Copy" aims to reflect real issues of accessibility, nostalgia, and the value of original creation within its cultural landscape.
The series is directed and penned by Farhan P Zamma and produced by Salt Media and RVCJ productions, promising slick storytelling with witty dialogue and a sharp screenplay. The series cheekily proclaims the tagline: “Naam First Copy hai, par yeh show 100% original hai,” capturing the irony of how pirated content once inspired creativity.
According to a 2006 MPAA report, the global film industry lost a staggering $2.5 billion by 2005 due to piracy. "First Copy" dives headfirst into this chaotic underbelly of Mumbai's piracy scene. The series is set against a cultural landscape that reflects real issues of accessibility, nostalgia, and the value of original creation. In an age where digital consumption is reshaping entertainment, the series offers a reflection on why supporting legal, creator-first content matters more than ever.
Amogh Dusad, Director and Head of Content at Amazon MX Player, describes "First Copy" as a powerful underdog story about a dreamer chasing ambition and identity amidst the chaos of the '90s film world. He emphasizes that the show brings a fresh and honest voice to an era when stories were not just entertainment but also a source of escape, connection, and hope.
Munawar Faruqui shared that playing Arif was an interesting challenge, as the character is full of life, has flaws, and harbors big dreams.