Renowned filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane, fresh off the success of his latest OTT series ‘Jubilee,’ graced the FICCI Frames 2024 event with his presence and engaged in a compelling discourse about the symbiotic relationship between directors and the writing process. Known for his penchant for storytelling, Motwane’s insights at the Mumbai film industry trade show sparked conversation around a perennial query within the cinematic world: Should a director also be a writer?
Pic courtesy/ IMDb
“It’s not just about sitting on the director’s chair and calling the shots,” Motwane stated, “a director has to imbibe the essence of the film, to ‘bleed’ for it, so to speak. This comes only from a deep investment in the writing process.” His words resonated with attendees comprising industry insiders and enthusiasts alike.
Motwane elucidated on the modern transformations sweeping the movie landscape, pointing out that the art of film has become ever more dynamic. Scriptwriting is no longer seen as a distinct entity but as an integral part of the director’s vision.
“I believe a director invariably needs to be entrenched in the genesis of the story—the writing,” Motwane asserted. “A hint of objectivity can be beneficial when you’re knee-deep in the material. It enables you to steer the story’s direction more adeptly.” His advocacy for a director’s hands-on approach to writing underlined a desire for authenticity and ownership of the narrative.
The director’s perspective is that by participating in the scriptwriting phase, one takes ownership of the story, ensuring that the film reflected the director’s personal touch and dedication. This enmeshment in the creative process, as per Motwane, ensures that a director is not just a passive observer but a key player in shaping the filmic text.
In his closing remarks on the topic, Motwane opted for an analogy: “A director’s contribution to writing is indispensable. Whether you’re overseeing from above or firmly in the driver’s seat, your involvement signifies putting some skin in the game.”
In a lighter vein, the filmmaker, when questioned about an alternate career within the filmmaking industry had he not been a director, shared a glimpse of his passion beyond direction. “I’ve always been captivated by photography. There was a crossroad in my career when I had to choose between being a cinematographer and a director,” he reminisced. However, with the wisdom of hindsight, Motwane professed that if faced with the decision today, he would select the craft of editing.
Throughout the session, Motwane was candid, drawing from his rich experiences to emphasize the director’s need for a profound and personal engagement with every aspect of filmmaking. His address at FICCI Frames 2024 was not just a reflection on his practices but also a guidepost for emerging directors in the ever-evolving tapestry of cinema.
Through an intimate understanding of the characters, plot, and thematic elements, Motwane outlined a model where directors play a pivotal role in the storytelling process, right from penning the first draft to the final cut.
Ultimately, Motwane’s dialogue at FICCI Frames 2024 underscored an essential truth of the cinematic arts: To envision a film truly reflective of a director’s inner voice, one must also be willing to traverse the creative odyssey of writing.
This account of Vikramaditya Motwane’s noteworthy remarks has been obtained from a syndicated feed provided by agencies. While the information is considered reliable, Mid-day does not assume any liability for its accuracy and completeness, and reserves the right to modify or omit content at its discretion.
