18
May 2025
12:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Avid Learning’s Museum Lens: Curating Collaborations, Conversations, and Cultural Futures
Online
What makes a story feel unmistakably of its time? How do writers capture the pulse of the present? Whether in film, television, or digital media, crafting contemporary stories requires more than just a good plot—it demands research, empathy, and an acute awareness of the world around us.
Led by acclaimed Writer and Filmmaker Vasant Nath—co-writer and co-director of the recent hit OTT series Ziddi Girls—this immersive workshop will take you behind the scenes of storytelling that feels real and relevant. Drawing from his projects, Vasant will unpack the creative process of bringing contemporary stories to life. Through an interactive three-step process of research-write-review, this workshop is designed to equip writers, filmmakers, and creative professionals with the tools to bring impactful stories from idea to screenplay to screen.
Join us and learn to design stories that speak to today’s audiences with honesty and depth.
Avid Learning workshops are now ISO 29993:2017 certified — an international standard for non-formal education and training services.
Highlights:
· Learn how to build an authentic foundation for your story through immersive research, field visits, and observational storytelling.
· Discover how to distill key insights from research, identify recurring themes, and translate them into dramatic elements.
· Explore techniques to ensure your story’s resolution feels organic and emotionally truthful to your initial inspiration.
· Understand how fresh perspectives, diverse voices, and constructive feedback can enhance authenticity and deepen emotional impact.
· Gain insight into how writing translates into direction and realization, and what it takes to see a contemporary narrative through to completion.
· Receive certification of participation for the workshop.
Vasant Nath is a Mumbai-based writer and director. He has co-written Netflix’s Sacred Games, India’s first original series. He began his career assisting Deepa Mehta on her Oscar-nominated film Water. His short films, including Shanu Taxi, Sukrit’s Sundays, and Sebastian and Rose, have screened at over 20 international festivals, winning multiple awards. His feature script Sebastian Wants to Remember was the first Indian project to receive EU Media Development funding. Vasant recently worked as head writer and co-director (alongside Shonali Bose) on Amazon Prime Video’s Ziddi Girls, a YA drama set in Delhi University. He also served as a Consulting Producer on Viacom18’s Khalbali Records and is developing a medical drama with the creators of Casualty. Vasant studied Literature at Delhi University and Sociology & Politics at Cambridge.
Read moreCore Components of Screenwriting
Screenwriting is a unique blend of art and craft, essential for creating compelling narratives in films, television productions, and over-the-top (OTT) platforms. At its core, screenwriting involves various components that work together to bring a story to life on screen.
One of the fundamental elements of a screenplay is the 'Fade In', which marks the beginning of the script and sets the tone for the story. Following this, 'Scene Headings' provide crucial context by briefly describing where each scene takes place, establishing both location and time. Within each scene, 'Action Lines' play a vital role as they explain what is happening visually. They guide readers through the unfolding events and help visualize action sequences or character movements. The 'Speaking Character' indicates who delivers lines at any given moment, ensuring clarity in dialogue delivery. The 'Dialogue' itself represents what characters say; 'Parentheticals' is used to convey how a line should be delivered or to provide additional context for actors. Each element serves a purpose in weaving together an engaging narrative that resonates with audiences across different media formats.
Shifts in Screenwriting with OTTs
The rise of OTT and streaming platforms has significantly transformed the landscape for screenwriters, granting them unprecedented control over their creative output. Unlike traditional media, which often imposes strict guidelines and limitations, these platforms encourage originality and experimentation. This shift empowers writers to explore diverse narratives and allows them to negotiate better financial terms for their work.
One of the most notable benefits of this evolution is the increased inclusivity and diversity in content creation. Writers from various backgrounds can now bring unique cultural perspectives to their stories, enriching the viewing experience for audiences worldwide. Regional artists are gaining access to more opportunities than ever before, showcasing their talents on a global stage. This democratisation of content creation fosters an environment where different languages, moods, and cultural nuances can thrive.
As a result, screenwriters are not only able to express themselves more freely but are also encouraged to push boundaries in storytelling. The collaboration between regional artists and streaming platforms opens doors for innovative narratives that reflect a broader spectrum of human experiences. In this new era of entertainment, creativity knows no bounds, allowing writers to connect with audiences in meaningful ways while celebrating cultural diversity.
Iconic Screenwriting Examples
In screenwriting, numerous projects stand out for their storytelling and masterful execution of the craft. For instance "Get Out," a screenplay by Jordan Peele, won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay in 2017. This film deftly combines horror with social commentary, showcasing Peele's unique voice and perspective. Another exemplary screenplay is "The Departed," penned by William Monahan. This gripping crime drama highlights complex characters and intricate plotting, making it a must-read for aspiring screenwriters. Similarly, "The Dark Knight," co-written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan, redefined the superhero genre with its layered narrative and moral dilemmas. In animated films, "Inside Out" is a brilliant example of creativity and emotional depth, a screenplay by Pete Docter, Meg LeFauve, and Josh Cooley.
Famous Indian screenwriters like Javed Akhtar have made significant contributions to cinema with their poetic narratives. Juhi Chaturvedi has garnered acclaim for her fresh storytelling approach in films like "Vicky Donor." Anurag Kashyap is known for his gritty realism and compelling plots that resonate deeply with audiences. In the OTT space, writers such as Chandan Kumar, Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, and Mirat Trivedi push boundaries with innovative storytelling that captivates viewers across platforms. These screenwriters exemplify how diverse voices shape contemporary narratives in film and digital media.
