The actor has roped in Alexander Dinelaris, the Academy Award-winning screenwriter of Birdman, to conduct a workshop to mark the milestone
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 23, 2019)

 After working as an actor in films for nearly two decades, Boman Irani has now turned producer and has roped in the Oscar-winning writer of the 2014 American black comedy Birdman, Alexander Dinelaris for a day-long screenwriting workshop that will be attended by several writers, directors and students of cinema to mark the occasion. Boman has also written the script and will be directing the film.

“Turning producer was not on my mind but once I finished the script, I wanted to do the best I could for it so decided to produce and direct it myself,” informed Boman who met Alexander in New York. “He took me to a club where writers and directors hang out. I met several wonderful people there and Alexander has been a friend since.”

One day in 2014, Alexander surprised him with the news that he had been nominated for the Golden Globes for Best Screenplay. He won the coveted award. The joy wasn’t over yet. He was now in the running for the Oscars. Birdman bagged the Best Original Screenplay for Alexander who shared the award with Alejandro Iñárritu, Nicolás Giacobone and Armando Bo, and for Best Picture, Best Director and Best Cinematography at the 87th Academy Film Awards. “I was watching the ceremony live, cheering for my dear friend,” reminisced Boman, admitting that Alexander is familiar with his script and will give it a proper read soon.

Boman acknowledged that it’s usual to announce a production with a party but he considers organising a workshop with screenwriters far more progressive and constructive. “Amitabh Bachchan will flag off the function, post which Alex will conduct the workshop focusing on the importance of screenwriting in the business today. He will analyse scenes from Birdman. I hope it will be a happy day for the writers,” he signed off.


Birdman writing team: Nicolás Giacobone, Alejandro Iñárritu, Alexander Dinelaris and Armando Bo;