Every series you binge, every film you watch, and every episode you enjoy, one thing remains constant: the writing. It’s the writing that truly strikes a chord, turning the most ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. The creators behind these stories breathe life into characters, making them resonate with audiences far and wide. 2024 saw many such talented wordsmiths, whose impact on the world of storytelling was profound. Here’s a look at four writers who made their mark this year:
Sneha Desai (Laapataa Ladies)
Laapataa Ladies stands out as a film that balances a strong social message with engaging storytelling. The film never feels preachy, thanks to the expert writing of Sneha Desai.
Her sharp screenplay and thoughtful dialogues ensured that each scene felt meaningful and each character was relatable. Desai's ability to inject nuance into the story kept the film grounded, making it an instant success both critically and commercially. Her writing proved that when done right, a strong message can be delivered with sincerity, without alienating the audience. The film's success at the box office further affirmed that good storytelling can always find its audience.
Moni Singh (Pocket FM’s Devil Se Shaadi)
Not all impactful storytelling happens on the big screen. The audio world has witnessed a surge in popularity, with platforms like Pocket FM leading the charge. Moni Singh is one of the standout writers in this space, with her creation Devil Se Shaadi becoming a massive hit. With her unique blend of suspense, drama, and fresh storytelling, Singh brings originality and authenticity to her work.
Hailing from a small town in Bihar, Moni has carved out a name for herself in the audio entertainment world. Through her writing, she has not only gained recognition but also helped empower herself financially, building a loyal fanbase along the way. Devil Se Shaadi is just one example of her impressive ability to keep listeners on the edge of their seats.
Nag Ashwin (Kalki 2898 AD)
One of the most ambitious films of 2024, Kalki 2898 AD, was a testament to Nag Ashwin’s visionary storytelling. As both the writer and director, Ashwin created a film that stood up to any international production, with its impressive scope and scale.
But it wasn't just the visuals and spectacle that made the film stand out. The strength of the script was evident in the way it gave each character, from Amitabh Bachchan to Prabhas, a nuanced and organic arc that tied seamlessly into the grand narrative. Ashwin proved that Indian cinema is capable of global storytelling without losing its local essence. The movie’s success reaffirmed that powerful writing is key, even in large-scale cinematic ventures.
Abhishek Chaubey (Killer Soup)
Abhishek Chaubey is known for his mastery of dark comedy and layered narratives, and his web series Killer Soup was another example of his craft. Starring Manoj Bajpayee and Konkana Sen Sharma, this 8-episode series weaved humor with unexpected twists, keeping viewers on their toes.
Chaubey’s signature style, which balances sharp wit with a sense of melancholy, shone through once again. The series is filled with unpredictable moments, making the ending all the more impactful. With Killer Soup, Chaubey proved that he is a writer who excels in creating complex characters and unpredictable narratives that continue to captivate audiences.
2024 was a year defined by powerful stories and even more powerful writing. Whether through films, audio series, or web shows, the storytelling across platforms left a lasting impression. As we step into 2025, we can only hope that these talented writers and many more continue to captivate us with their stories, reminding us that at the heart of every great piece of content lies great writing.
