For years we have been led to believe in the Hollywood/Western method of screenwriting where an argument opens a screenplay and is immediately opposed by a counter-argument to ultimately reach a resolution. Renowned screenwriter Jean-Claude Carriere will elucidate this basic Western mainstream structure for a screenplay. He will go on to cite examples of deviations from the norm in his collaborations with these illustrious filmmakers including with Peter Brook on the epic, The Mahabharata.

Across the world, we have seen the employment of other methods of writing and filmmaking that discard prescription. India has had an exceptional mainstream cinema quite apart from the Hollywood model. Many forms of cultural expression in India, including certain mainstream and independent cinemas, folk stories, classical music, dance, traditional painting et al are based on the idea of improvisation once the basic parameters are clearly grasped. Wong Kar-Wai, one of the most internationally recognised auteurs today, is famous for his dynamic style of filming, improvising with his narratives as he goes along.

Is a ‘complete’ script really that essential? Does the success of other modes of writing and filmmaking signal that the rigid screenplay is outmoded, or at least challenged?

Date 17 July 2006, Monday
Time 4:00pm – 5:30pm
Venue Siri Fort Auditorium 4