Films Before Figures: The Most Beautiful Perspective

Bring Back the Writers!

There used to be a time where films sold because they were written by legendary writers such as Salim Khan, Javed Akhtar, Mrinal Sen, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, and K Balachandar.

Today, we do not see the writer’s name anywhere. A film can have the greatest of landscapes, the best of actors, and mighty large sets but none of this will have an impact if your story does not work.

We need to invest significantly in writers and return to an era where their importance is truly recognized, so that original content can make a strong comeback.

One of the most critical aspects the Indian film industry lacks is giving credits to the writer.

Unlike writers across Europe and America, the writers here are not given equal importance as directors. This is a major concern as writers are often forced to become directors just to get the recognition they deserve.

We see title cards for actors, producers, and directors, but not for writers. This should change. The whole idea of writer and director should change as in India it is seen as a single profession. It is high time people realize that it is not — just because a person can direct does not mean he/she can write and vice versa.

“Writers are one of the most important factors in the process of making a film, if not the most important. People become directors because there is no money or due recognition in being a writer, which may not be the right reason to become a director.” – Aakash Kaushik (Screenplay writer, Housefull 4, A Flying Jatt, F.A.L.T.U, Thank God)

Another major issue is the payment. Writers should be respected and paid on time for their work. A survey by Ormax and Tulsea found that 63% of Indian screenwriters are dissatisfied with their pay and 53% with the credit they are given for their work.

Unless you have a great story with decisive writing and emotions intact, no matter what else you do, the film won’t click. Even if half the amount invested in the stars and the look of the film is spent on writers, we can witness beautiful and diverse stories on screen.

Filmmakers must realize that focusing on authentic, regional storytelling can create universal resonance. India, with its rich folklore and diverse cultures, offers an untapped reservoir of unique stories that can redefine the cinematic landscape.