The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) and the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) tonight announced the winners of the 2018 Writers Guild Awards for outstanding achievement in writing for film, television, new media, videogames, news, radio/audio, promotional, and graphic animation categories at concurrent ceremonies at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles and the Edison Ballroom in New York City.
FILM WINNERS
ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
Get Out, Written by Jordan Peele; Universal Pictures
ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
Call Me by Your Name, Screenplay by James Ivory; Based on the Novel by André Aciman; Sony Pictures Classics
DOCUMENTARY SCREENPLAY
Jane, Written by Brett Morgen; National Geographic
TELEVISION AND NEW MEDIA WINNERS
DRAMA SERIES
The Handmaid’s Tale, Written by Ilene Chaiken, Nina Fiore, Dorothy Fortenberry, Leila Gerstein, John Herrera, Lynn Renee Maxcy, Bruce Miller, Kira Snyder, Wendy Straker Hauser, Eric Tuchman; Hulu
COMEDY SERIES
Veep, Written by Gabrielle Allan, Rachel Axler, Ted Cohen, Jennifer Crittenden, Alex Gregory, Steve Hely, Peter Huyck, Erik Kenward, Billy Kimball, David Mandel, Ian Maxtone-Graham, Dan Mintz, Lew Morton, Georgia Pritchett, Will Smith; HBO
NEW SERIES
The Handmaid’s Tale, Written by Ilene Chaiken, Nina Fiore, Dorothy Fortenberry, Leila Gerstein, John Herrera, Lynn Renee Maxcy, Bruce Miller, Kira Snyder, Wendy Straker Hauser, Eric Tuchman; Hulu
ORIGINAL LONG FORM
Flint, Written by Barbara Stepansky; Lifetime
ADAPTED LONG FORM
Big Little Lies, Teleplay by David E. Kelley, Based on the Novel by Liane Moriarty; HBO
ADAPTED SHORT FORM NEW MEDIA
“Starboy” (Zac & Mia), Teleplay by Allen Clary and Andrew Rothschild, Based on the novel Zac & Mia by A.J. Betts; go90.com
ANIMATION
“Time’s Arrow” (BoJack Horseman), Written by Kate Purdy; Netflix
EPISODIC DRAMA
“Chicanery” (Better Call Saul), Written by Gordon Smith; AMC
EPISODIC COMEDY
“Rosario’s Quinceanera” (Will & Grace), Written by Tracy Poust & Jon Kinnally; NBC
COMEDY/VARIETY TALK SERIES
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Writers: Tim Carvell, Josh Gondelman, Dan Gurewitch, Geoff Haggerty, Jeff Maurer, John Oliver, Scott Sherman, Will Tracy, Jill Twiss, Juli Weiner, Ben Silva, Seena Vali; HBO
COMEDY/VARIETY SKETCH SERIES
Saturday Night Live, Head Writers: Chris Kelly, Sarah Schneider, Bryan Tucker, Writers: James Anderson, Kristen Bartlett, Jeremy Beiler, Neal Brennan, Zack Bornstein, Joanna Bradley, Megan Callahan, Michael Che, Anna Drezen, Fran Gillespie, Sudi Green, Steve Higgins, Colin Jost, Erik Kenward, Rob Klein, Nick Kocher, Michael Koman, Dave McCary, Brian McElhaney, Dennis McNicholas, Drew Michael, Lorne Michaels, Josh Patten, Katie Rich, Pete Schultz, Streeter Seidell, Will Stephen, Kent Sublette, Julio Torres; NBC Universal
COMEDY/VARIETY SPECIALS
39th Annual Kennedy Center Honors, Written by Dave Boone; CBS
QUIZ AND AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Hollywood Game Night, Head Writer: Grant Taylor; Writers: Michael Agbabian, Alex Chauvin, Ann Slichter, Dwight D. Smith; NBC
DAYTIME DRAMA
General Hospital, Head Writers: Shelly Altman, Jean Passanante; Writers: Anna Theresa Cascio, Suzanne Flynn, Charlotte Gibson, Lucky Gold, Kate Hall, Elizabeth Korte, Daniel James O’Connor, Dave Rupel, Katherine Schock, Scott Sickles, Christopher Van Etten, Christopher Whitesell; ABC
CHILDREN’S EPISODIC AND SPECIALS
“An American Girl Story – Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance” (American Girl), Written by May Chan; Amazon
DOCUMENTARY SCRIPT – CURRENT EVENTS
“Confronting ISIS” (Frontline), Written by Martin Smith; PBS
DOCUMENTARY SCRIPT – OTHER THAN CURRENT EVENTS
“The Great War, Part II” (American Experience), Written by Stephen Ives; PBS
NEWS SCRIPT – REGULARLY SCHEDULED, BULLETIN, OR BREAKING REPORT
“White Helmets” (60 Minutes), Written by Scott Pelley, Nicole Young, Katie Kerbstat; CBS News
NEWS SCRIPT – ANALYSIS, FEATURE, OR COMMENTARY
“Chief of Chobani” (60 Minutes), Written by Steve Kroft, Oriana Zill de Granados; CBS News
DIGITAL NEWS
“The Super Predators,” Written by Melissa Jeltsen, Dana Liebelson; Huffingtonpost.com
RADIO/AUDIO WINNERS
RADIO/AUDIO DOCUMENTARY
“CBS Radio 90th Anniversary,” Written by Dianne E. James, Gail Lee; CBS News Radio
RADIO/AUDIO NEWS SCRIPT – REGULARLY SCHEDULED, BULLETIN, OR BREAKING REPORT
“World News This Week: June 9, 2017,” Written by Tara Gimbel Tanis; ABC News Radio
RADIO/AUDIO NEWS SCRIPT – ANALYSIS, FEATURE, OR COMMENTARY
“Dishin’ Digital on WCBS-AM,” Written by Robert Hawley; WCBS
PROMOTIONAL WINNERS
ON-AIR PROMOTION (RADIO OR TELEVISION)
“CBS Comedy,” Written by Dan Greenberger; CBS Television
VIDEOGAME WINNER
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN VIDEOGAME WRITING
Horizon Zero Dawn, Narrative Director John Gonzalez; Lead Writer Benjamin McCaw; Writing by Ben Schroder, Anne Toole; Additional Writing by Dee Warrick, Meg Jayanth; Guerrilla Games
Emmy and Grammy-winning actor-writer-comedian Patton Oswalt (Happy!, A.P. Bio, Annihilation) hosted the WGAW’s West Coast ceremony. Presenters who appeared in Los Angeles included: Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Glenn Close (Damages, Albert Nobbs); Golden Globe-nominated actress Alison Brie (GLOW, The Post, The Disaster Artist); Emmy-nominated Better Call Saul star, The Post co-star, and Emmy-winning writer Bob Odenkirk; Oscar-nominated Lady Bird screenwriter-director Greta Gerwig; Oscar, Get Out co-star Bradley Whitford; Emmy, and Golden Globe-nominated actress and Speechless co-star Minnie Driver; Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Jane Lynch (Hollywood Game Night, Manhunt: Unabomber, Criminal Minds, Glee); Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Sir Patrick Stewart (Logan, Blunt Talk); Emmy-nominated actress and Emmy-winning writer Wanda Sykes (black-ish); Brooklyn Nine-Nine co-star Terry Crews; SAG Awards-nominated Brooklyn Nine-Nine co-star and WGA-nominated Parks and Recreationwriter Chelsea Peretti; The Jim Jefferies Show star Jim Jefferies; LA to Vegas star and Golden Globe-winning actor Dylan McDermott; Emmy-winning comedian-actress-writer Sarah Silverman (Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles, Bob’s Burgers); Emmy-winning comedian-actress Kathy Griffin (Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List); Ivory Aquino (When We Rise); Rob Riggle (Angie Tribeca, Modern Family, SNL); producers Doug Wick & Lucy Fisher (Divergent, The Great Gatsby); and a live performance by Puddles Pity Party.
In addition, the WGAW presented several honorary awards during its West Coast ceremony: Emmy-winning Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story star Glenn Close presented the WGAW’s Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement to Emmy-winning writer-producer Alison Cross (Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story, Roe vs. Wade, S.W.A.T.); Doug Wick & Lucy Fisher presented the WGAW’s Laurel Award for Screenwriting Achievement to Writers Guild and Academy Award-winning screenwriter-director-producer James L. Brooks (Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News, As Good As It Gets); When We Rise co-star Ivory Aquino presented the WGAW’s Valentine Davies Award to Writers Guild and Academy Award-winning screenwriter and LGBTQ rights activist Dustin Lance Black (Milk, When We Rise) for his social activism which has positively impacted the LGBTQ community; Washington Post Executive Editor Martin “Marty” Baron presented the WGAW’s Paul Selvin Award to The Post screenwriters Liz Hannah and Josh Singer, whose Post screenplay embodies the spirit of constitutional and civil rights and liberties, including the First Amendment and freedom of the press.
Attendees at the WGAW’s show included: The Big Sick co-screenwriter/star Kumail Nanjiani and co-screenwriter Emily V. Gordon; Big Little Lies creator David E. Kelley and actress Michelle Pfeiffer (The Wizard of Lies, mother!); TV host Jimmy Kimmel (Jimmy Kimmel Live, 90th Academy Awards); Oscar-nominated Get Out screenwriter/director Jordan Peele; Oscar-nominated The Shape of Water co-screenwriter/directorGuillermo del Toro & co-screenwriter Vanessa Taylor; Get Out co-star Catherine Keener; Molly’s Game screenwriter Aaron Sorkin; Good Behavior co-star Joey Kern; The Honorable Adam Schiff; L.A. City Councilman Paul Koretz; The OA co-creator/star Brit Marling; Call Me by Your Name screenwriter James Ivory; Nathan For You co-creator/star Nathan Fielder; and Portlandia writer-star Carrie Brownstein. In addition, the Guild commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Hollywood Blacklist, honoring Blacklist survivors Marsha Hunt and Norma Barzman who were in attendance.
The WGAE’s East Coast Ceremony was hosted by writer and comic Amber Ruffin (Late Night with Seth Meyers). Presenters who appeared in New York City included Golden Globe-winner Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel); Emmy Award-winner Ann Dowd (The Handmaid’s Tale); SAG Award-winner Anna Chlumsky (Veep); Academy Award-nominee Lucas Hedges (Lady Bird); two-time Emmy Award-winner Jane Pauley (CBS News Sunday Morning); Writers Guild Award-nominee Anthony Atamanuik (The President Show); late night host Robin Thede (The Rundown with Robin Thede); actress-writer Julie Klausner (Difficult People); late night host Jordan Klepper (The Opposition with Jordan Klepper); and correspondent-writer Laura Grey (The Opposition with Jordan Klepper).
The WGAE presented three honorary awards at the East Coast ceremony. It was a reunion for Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock alums as Tracy Morgan and Rachel Dratch presented Tina Fey and Robert Carlock with the Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence and Mentorship. Ken Burns presented the Ian McLellan Hunter Award for Career Achievement to his long-time collaborator Geoffrey C. Ward (The Vietnam War, The Roosevelts, The Civil War). Courtney Simon (As the World Turns) presented the Richard B. Jablow Award for Devoted Service to the Guild to Hamilton Nolan (Splinter News / Gizmodo Media Group).
Attendees at the WGAE’s show included the Guild’s President and House of Cards creator Beau Willimon; Call Me By Your Name author André Aciman; The Disaster Artist co-screenwriter Michael H. Weber; The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks writer-director George C. Wolfe; late night host Seth Meyers; Feud: Bette and Joan writer-producer Michael Zam; The Deuce writer-producer George Pelecanos; Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt actress Ellie Kemper; The President Show actor and executive producer Adam Pally; The Americans creators Joe Weisberg and Joel Fields; Law & Order: Special Victims Unit creator Warren Leight; Ozcreator Tom Fontana; Dirty Dancing screenwriter Eleanor Bergstein; Doonesbury creator Garry Trudeau; acclaimed actor Lawrence Arancio; SAG-AFTRA’s Senior Advisor John McGuire; Teamsters Local 817 President Tommy J. O’Donnell; IATSE International President Matthew Loeb; Writers Guild Initiative President Michael Weller; and former WGAE Presidents Chris Albers and Michael Winship.
Production credits for the WGAW’s show included: Executive Producer Hugh Fink; Producers Tara Power and Joselyn Allen; Co-Producer Kelly Brock; Director Nick Murray; Head Writer Joe O’Brien; Writers Hugh Fink, Danielle Koenig, Ed Lee, Janine Brito, Mike Drucker, Gerry Duggan, Matt Oswalt; Creative Consultant Shelly Goldstein; Line Producer Shannon Walden; and Production Designer Chris Giammalvo.
Production credits for the WGAE’s show included: Co-Executive Producers Bonnie Datt and Shannon Walker; Head Writer Ann B. Cohen; Writers Ashley Nicole Black, David Steven Cohen, Timothy Cooper, Bonnie Datt, Tarik Davis, Alex English, Ziwe Fumudoh, Jenny Hagel, Don Hooper, Shantira Jackson, Dewayne Perkins, Dan Perlman, Amber Ruffin, Bill Scheft, Craig Shemin and Shannon Walker; Line Producer LBI Audio, Video & Scenic Solutions; and Clips/Tribute Reels Craig Shemin.
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Rating: (4/5)
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a visually ambitious sci-fi film featuring an ensemble of Indian cinema legends, including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The film is set in a dystopian future with a storyline that weaves mythology and science fiction, creating a unique cinematic experience for viewers.
The film’s narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where technology and ancient themes intersect. It begins with an immersive setup that introduces us to Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, who grapples with complex moral and existential questions in a world marked by political and ethical turmoil. Although the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially as it establishes the mythological underpinnings, the intensity and scope build significantly as the story progresses.
One of the most captivating aspects is the stunning visual effects. The production team, with a budget reportedly over 400 crore INR, utilized advanced CGI to craft expansive landscapes, dramatic space battles, and futuristic cityscapes that resemble scenes from Hollywood sci-fi giants. The action sequences, particularly those featuring Bachchan, stand out with their thrilling choreography and careful dramatic build-up. These sequences balance between traditional Indian cinema stylings and Hollywood’s polished sci-fi tropes.
While Kalki 2898 AD relies heavily on genre conventions, it manages to bring a fresh twist by blending mythological symbolism with modern sci-fi elements. However, some may find the film’s narrative occasionally predictable, and the focus on visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. Yet, the powerhouse performances from the lead cast, particularly Bachchan and Padukone, provide the emotional depth needed to keep audiences engaged.
In summary, Kalki 2898 AD is an impressive venture into the sci-fi genre for Indian cinema, successfully balancing myth with high-tech fantasy. While not without flaws, it’s an enjoyable and bold cinematic experience that’s worth a watch for fans of both Indian mythology and science fiction.
Gladiator 2 builds on the legacy of its predecessor, delivering a captivating story that honors the original while forging a compelling new path. The cast shines in their roles, with Paul Mescal delivering a powerhouse performance as Lucius, the now-grown son of Maximus. Mescal captures a blend of vulnerability and strength, embodying a character driven by both honor and revenge. Alongside him, Denzel Washington commands the screen, adding gravitas and depth to a key supporting role
The screenplay is a triumph, keeping the audience engaged at every turn. While the overarching story gives you a sense of where it’s headed, the journey remains unpredictable, and packed with twists. The film balances themes of legacy, vengeance, and redemption, weaving them seamlessly into the narrative.
Action sequences, particularly the gladiatorial combat, are visually pleasing. The fights are brutal and visceral, with just enough gore to feel authentic without veering into excess. Visually, Gladiator 2 is stunning. The production design, cinematography, and score come together to create a visceral and immersive experience.
As a follow-up to a beloved classic, Gladiator 2 meets expectations, proving to be both a thrilling spectacle and a worthy successor. It’s a 9/10—a tale of honor and legacy.
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