National Award-winning writer, director, and producer Sooraj Barjatya recently shared his thoughts on the evolving role of scriptwriters in the film industry. Barjatya's insights reveal a growing concern about how marketing pressures can compromise the integrity of storytelling. His observations offer a critical perspective on the challenges writers face as they strive to balance artistic vision with commercial demands.
Barjatya acknowledges the significant value placed on writing in today’s cinema. “In today’s time, there is huge value of writing, even every actor asks for a script first,” he notes. This recognition reflects the pivotal role that scripts play in shaping films. However, Barjatya highlights a troubling trend: the increasing interference from various stakeholders. “Unfortunately, everyone is a writer and writing a script,” he remarks. Actors, directors, and even cinematographers often provide input that can alter the script, leading to a dilution of the original narrative vision.
This collaborative approach, while important for creating a cohesive film, sometimes compromises the essence of the writer’s work. “The basic core of a writer or writing is getting lost somewhere,” Barjatya explains. When multiple voices contribute to a script, it can result in a final product that lacks the clarity and impact of the writer’s original vision.
One of Barjatya’s main concerns is the introduction of marketing gimmicks into scripts. He argues that commercial elements, such as item numbers or promotional songs, can disrupt the narrative flow. “If you write a good script and some random item number is pushed in it, then the whole script will lose its balance and essence,” he asserts. According to Barjatya, these additions often feel out of place and detract from the story’s authenticity, as they are included more for marketing purposes than for their narrative value.
This issue underscores the tension between creative storytelling and commercial pressures. Barjatya’s remarks highlight how the inclusion of marketing elements can undermine the coherence of a well-crafted script, leading to a disjointed and less effective film.
Despite these challenges, Barjatya recognizes the importance of achieving commercial success. “It is crucial for writers to achieve commercial success, as it ensures their work reaches a broader audience,” he observes. In the competitive world of cinema, a film’s financial performance can significantly impact its visibility and longevity. Therefore, achieving commercial success is essential for writers who wish to have their work seen and appreciated by a wider audience.
However, Barjatya advises that this commercial imperative should not come at the expense of the script’s narrative foundation. “Within the first 10 minutes of a film, the audience needs to grasp the story due to their short attention spans. Use this as your foundational template and then build additional layers onto it,” he suggests. This approach emphasizes the need for a strong, engaging start that captures the audience’s attention and maintains their interest throughout the film.