Ever wondered what makes a story click across borders? 🎬 Mal Young, chairman of the TV Drama Jury for the Chinese mainland's 2nd Golden Panda Awards, spilled the tea on building narratives that resonate with everyone. From Mumbai to Manila, it's all about tapping into universal themes, authentic characters, and a dash of local flavor.
1. Keep It Real, Keep It Relatable
Mal's Rule #1: authenticity matters. Mal Young warns that viewers can spot a fake from miles away. Whether it's an underdog hero in a Thai series or a tech-savvy protagonist in a Bangalore startup drama, characters need genuine motivations and emotions. Think about your favorite shows – the ones that had you rooting from episode one? That's the power of real feels.
2. Universal Themes for a Global Stage
Love, hope, fear, ambition – these are the building blocks of any great story. When we tap into feelings everyone gets, we break cultural barriers, Mal explains. It's like how a song in Hindi or Tagalog can still move you even if you don't understand every word.
3. Blend Local Flavors With Fresh Twists
Spice up your narrative with regional details – street foods, local tunes, fashion trends – but give them a surprise. Maybe your hero is using a homegrown app to beat all odds. This mix keeps the story grounded and exciting.
4. Pace and Style for Mobile-First Fans
Short scenes, crisp dialogues, drop-everything cliffhangers 📱🔥. Mal highlights the rise of mobile viewing in South Asia and Southeast Asia. Quick cuts and snackable moments help keep attention in our fast-scrolling world.
5. Collaboration Is Key
Great stories often come from diverse teams, says Mal, who teamed up across the pond on hit dramas that won a BAFTA Award and an Emmy Award. Bringing in writers, directors and consultants from different backgrounds sparks fresh ideas and richer worlds.
As streaming platforms boom, the chance to share our own stories on a global stage has never been bigger. Next time you pitch a series or start writing a script, remember Mal Young's top tips: keep it real, tap universal themes, and celebrate local vibes. Who knows? Your next story might just be the next big hit from Colombo to Cebu! 🌟
Reference(s):
Golden Panda Awards juror on what makes a good story for everyone
cgtn.com
