<![CDATA[Breakdown Besties Podcast]]>A screenwriting classroom experience for aspiring Bollywood screenwriters.
Analysing and studying the screenwriting techniques used on the page to make Bollywood films come alive on the screen.

Welcome to the Breakdown Besties Podcast! We're your hosts, Akshay and Ananya, two Bollywood screenwriters having written shows like Mismatched, Inside Edge, Wedding.con, Rana Naidu, Ishq in the Air, and Grahan, amongst others.

Every Thursday, we breakdown films to examine the screenwriting techniques used to make iconic Bollywood films... well, iconic. We cover logline construction, hero's journey breakdown, scene and dialogue analysis, plot and theme, and other craft devices. Just like you would in a screenwriting classroom.

Once you're done listening to the episode, rewatch the movie, now noting how the techniques used on the page come alive on the screen. And know that you're now one step closer to being a professional-level screenwriter.

Questions? Suggestions? Ideas? Shoot 'em to us at breakdownbesties@gmail.com

In case of a breakdown, your besties are right here for you!

]]>https://linktr.ee/breakdownbestiespodcastRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 08:45:40 GMTSun, 08 Feb 2026 07:27:17 GMT60Breakdown Besties Podcast<p>A screenwriting classroom experience for aspiring Bollywood screenwriters. <br />Analysing and studying the screenwriting techniques used on the page to make Bollywood films come alive on the screen.<br /><br />Welcome to the Breakdown Besties Podcast! We're your hosts, Akshay and Ananya, two Bollywood screenwriters having written shows like Mismatched, Inside Edge, Wedding.con, Rana Naidu, Ishq in the Air, and Grahan, amongst others. <br /><br />Every Thursday, we breakdown films to examine the screenwriting techniques used to make iconic Bollywood films... well, iconic. We cover logline construction, hero's journey breakdown, scene and dialogue analysis, plot and theme, and other craft devices. Just like you would in a screenwriting classroom.<br /><br />Once you're done listening to the episode, rewatch the movie, now noting how the techniques used on the page come alive on the screen. And know that you're now one step closer to being a professional-level screenwriter. <br /><br />Questions? Suggestions? Ideas? Shoot 'em to us at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:breakdownbesties@gmail.com" target="_blank">breakdownbesties@gmail.com</a><br /><br />In case of a breakdown, your besties are right here for you!</p>episodicBreakdown Besties Podcastbreakdownbesties@gmail.comno<![CDATA[E13: Fashion Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Fashion (2008) starring Priyanka Chopro-Jonas! 

This insider, almost voyeuristic view into the behind-the-scenes world of supermodels, written by Madhur Bhandarkar, takes audiences on a journey into a world we otherwise have little access to.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

01:47 Logline breakdown
07:19 Hero's Journey analysis

20:05 Theme analysis

23:57 World building techniques

29:25 Symbolism

32:09 Scene construction techniques

48:41 Character Creation Techniques

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Fashion (2008) again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>256a714a-1d27-401d-b08b-b0ce60889169Thu, 28 May 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Fashion (2008) starring Priyanka Chopro-Jonas!  <br /><br />This insider, almost voyeuristic view into the behind-the-scenes world of supermodels, written by Madhur Bhandarkar, takes audiences on a journey into a world we otherwise have little access to. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>01:47 Logline breakdown<br />07:19 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>20:05 Theme analysis</p><p>23:57 World building techniques</p><p>29:25 Symbolism</p><p>32:09 Scene construction techniques</p><p>48:41 Character Creation Techniques<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Fashion (2008) again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no00:55:0213E13: Fashion Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E12: Paan Singh Tomar Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Paan Singh Tomar (2010) starring Irrfan Khan! 

This poignant biopic about the state of Indian sportsmen and the dacoit crisis in India, written by Sanjay Chauhan and Tigmanshu Dhulia, tells an important tale to audiences right from the heartland.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

02:13 Logline breakdown
10:26 Hero's Journey analysis

30:14 Scene construction techniques

46:35 Genre tropes analysis

51:25 Character Creation Techniques

55:10 Theme analysis

1:00:17 Symbolism

1:01:37 World building techniques

1:04:27 Dialogue analysis



And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Paan Singh Tomar again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

All film clips and stills used belong to the owners. We do not own any copyright of the same. They are only being used transformationally for educational purposes.

]]>43809382-5168-4d75-ba88-f0c124eb66bcThu, 21 May 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Paan Singh Tomar (2010) starring Irrfan Khan!  <br /><br />This poignant biopic about the state of Indian sportsmen and the dacoit crisis in India, written by Sanjay Chauhan and Tigmanshu Dhulia, tells an important tale to audiences right from the heartland. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>02:13 Logline breakdown<br />10:26 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>30:14 Scene construction techniques</p><p>46:35 Genre tropes analysis</p><p>51:25 Character Creation Techniques</p><p>55:10 Theme analysis</p><p>1:00:17 Symbolism</p><p>1:01:37 World building techniques</p><p>1:04:27 Dialogue analysis</p><p><br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Paan Singh Tomar again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!<br /><br />All film clips and stills used belong to the owners. We do not own any copyright of the same. They are only being used transformationally for educational purposes.</p>no01:07:2412E12: Paan Singh Tomar Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E11: English Vinglish Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film English Vinglish starring Sridevi! 

This heartwarming dramedy which marked Sridevi’s comeback made going to the cinema an absolute treat for filmgoers in India! Written by Gauri Shinde, this film highlighted important themes of love and respect within the Indian middle class.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

01:38 Logline breakdown
06:19 Hero's Journey analysis

18:18 Character Creation Techniques

27:42 Genre tropes analysis

31:10 Scene construction techniques

47:44 Dialogue analysis

54:21 World building techniques

57:47 Theme analysis

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch English Vinglish again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>f4a44684-4bf7-4355-befb-09139b9ebcdfThu, 14 May 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film English Vinglish starring Sridevi!  <br /><br />This heartwarming dramedy which marked Sridevi’s comeback made going to the cinema an absolute treat for filmgoers in India! Written by Gauri Shinde, this film highlighted important themes of love and respect within the Indian middle class. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>01:38 Logline breakdown<br />06:19 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>18:18 Character Creation Techniques</p><p>27:42 Genre tropes analysis</p><p>31:10 Scene construction techniques</p><p>47:44 Dialogue analysis</p><p>54:21 World building techniques</p><p>57:47 Theme analysis<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch English Vinglish again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:04:0311E11: English Vinglish Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E10: Paa Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Paa (2009)

This heartwarming father-son dramedy starring none other than Abhishek Bachchan and Ambitabh Bachchan as father and son respectively, written by R. Balki and assisted by Rishi Veermani, touched the hearts and souls of Indian audiences with moments of pure love and comedy.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

01:41 Logline breakdown
08:39 Hero's Journey analysis

32:08 Scene construction techniques

45:21 Character creation techniques
50:54 Dialogue analysis

56:08 World building

57:24 Plotting

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Paa (2009) again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>c74d5a52-efe7-4ce0-b288-21b80907a081Thu, 07 May 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Paa (2009) <br /><br />This heartwarming father-son dramedy starring none other than Abhishek Bachchan and Ambitabh Bachchan as father and son respectively, written by R. Balki and assisted by Rishi Veermani, touched the hearts and souls of Indian audiences with moments of pure love and comedy. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>01:41 Logline breakdown<br />08:39 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>32:08 Scene construction techniques</p><p>45:21 Character creation techniques<br />50:54 Dialogue analysis</p><p>56:08 World building</p><p>57:24 Plotting<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Paa (2009) again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!<br /></p>no01:00:3210E10: Paa Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E09: Guru Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Guru (2007)

This unofficial biopic of Dhirubhai Ambani film starring none other than Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwariya Rai, written by Mani Ratnam and Vijay Krishna Acharya, wowedIndian audiences with dramatic storytelling, swoon-worthy love stories, and a voyeuristic lens into the behind-the-scenes of business.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

03:51 Logline breakdown
09:10 Hero's Journey analysis

25:05 Character creation techniques

35:59 World building

40:21 Genre trope analysis

46:30 Scene construction techniques

58:55 Dialogue analysis

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Guru again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>4f8d197c-fec9-467d-9d82-eca264656eebThu, 30 Apr 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Guru (2007) <br /><br />This unofficial biopic of Dhirubhai Ambani film starring none other than Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwariya Rai, written by Mani Ratnam and Vijay Krishna Acharya, wowedIndian audiences with dramatic storytelling, swoon-worthy love stories, and a voyeuristic lens into the behind-the-scenes of business. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>03:51 Logline breakdown<br />09:10 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>25:05 Character creation techniques</p><p>35:59 World building</p><p>40:21 Genre trope analysis</p><p>46:30 Scene construction techniques</p><p>58:55 Dialogue analysis<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Guru again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:01:589E09: Guru Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E08: Johnny Gaddar Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Johnny Gaddar (2007)

This genre-defining neo-noir caper film starring Neil Nitin Mukesh, written by Sriram Raghavan, Pooja Ladha Surti, Vinay Chaudhary, and Atul Taishete changed how Indian audiences consume caper crime films.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

02:34 Logline breakdown
08: 20 Hero's Journey analysis

27:10 World Building

33:49 Scene construction

49:05 Genre trope analysis

51:36 Plotting

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Johnny Gaddar again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>f8d47f4e-6ab8-4ba0-83db-106a0f1d2044Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Johnny Gaddar (2007) <br /><br />This genre-defining neo-noir caper film starring Neil Nitin Mukesh, written by Sriram Raghavan, Pooja Ladha Surti, Vinay Chaudhary, and Atul Taishete changed how Indian audiences consume caper crime films. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>02:34 Logline breakdown<br />08: 20 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>27:10 World Building</p><p>33:49 Scene construction</p><p>49:05 Genre trope analysis</p><p>51:36 Plotting<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Johnny Gaddar again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no00:57:158E08: Johnny Gaddar Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E07: Chak De! India Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Chak De! India (2007)

This 2007 genre-defining sports drama starring none other than our favourite Shah Rukh Khan, written by Jaideep Sahni, changed how Indian audiences consume horror films.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

03:28 Logline breakdown
11: 38 Hero's Journey analysis

30:08 Symbolism

34:23 Scene construction

52:52 Genre trope analysis

56:20 Character creation

1:00:33 Dialogue analysis

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Chak De! India again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>5aa8796e-c083-49f8-9952-0c61000fbb73Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Chak De! India (2007) <br /><br />This 2007 genre-defining sports drama starring none other than our favourite Shah Rukh Khan, written by Jaideep Sahni, changed how Indian audiences consume horror films. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>03:28 Logline breakdown<br />11: 38 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>30:08 Symbolism</p><p>34:23 Scene construction</p><p>52:52 Genre trope analysis</p><p>56:20 Character creation</p><p>1:00:33 Dialogue analysis<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Chak De! India again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:04:577E07: Chak De! India Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E06: Bhool Bhulaiyaa Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Bhool Bhulaiyaa!

This 2012 genre-defining horror starring Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, written by Madhu Muttam, Neeraj Vora, and Manisha Korde changed how Indian audiences consume horror films.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

04:26 Logline breakdown
07: 45 Hero's Journey analysis

30:34 Genre tropes analysis

34:51 Theme analysis

42:57 Scene construction techniques

52:04 World building techniques

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>41a3288b-d83c-43f1-ba69-d375a018a9abThu, 09 Apr 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Bhool Bhulaiyaa! <br /><br />This 2012 genre-defining horror starring Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, written by Madhu Muttam, Neeraj Vora, and Manisha Korde changed how Indian audiences consume horror films. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>04:26 Logline breakdown<br />07: 45 Hero's Journey analysis</p><p>30:34 Genre tropes analysis</p><p>34:51 Theme analysis</p><p>42:57 Scene construction techniques</p><p>52:04 World building techniques<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no00:56:21E06: Bhool Bhulaiyaa Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E05: Kahaani Screenwriting Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Kahaani!

This 2012 genre-defining thriller starring Vidya Balan, written by Sujoy Ghosh, Advaita Kala, Suresh Nair, Ritesh Shah, Sutapa Sikdar, and Nikhil Vyas, set the stage for thrillers to take Bollywood by a storm.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

01:15 Logline
08: 01 Hero's Journey

22:03 Scene construction techniques

40:28 Character creation techniques

47:18 Dialogue analysis

51:04 World Building techniques

55:16 Plotting techniques

59:31 Tone

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Kahaani again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>d3591136-be7c-43a4-bf22-085dd33265baThu, 02 Apr 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Kahaani! <br /><br />This 2012 genre-defining thriller starring Vidya Balan, written by Sujoy Ghosh, Advaita Kala, Suresh Nair, Ritesh Shah, Sutapa Sikdar, and Nikhil Vyas, set the stage for thrillers to take Bollywood by a storm. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>01:15 Logline<br />08: 01 Hero's Journey</p><p>22:03 Scene construction techniques</p><p>40:28 Character creation techniques</p><p>47:18 Dialogue analysis</p><p>51:04 World Building techniques</p><p>55:16 Plotting techniques</p><p>59:31 Tone<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Kahaani again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:02:165E05: Kahaani Screenwriting Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E04: Badmaash Company Screenwriting Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Badmaash Company!

Written by Parmeet Sethi, this young white collar crime caper film had us all amazed by the characters’ wits and warmed by their relationships!

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

00:00  Introduction
03:24  Logline breakdown
08:20  Hero’s Journey breakdown

34:23  Character creation techniques

43:54   World building techniques

49:56   Theme analysis


And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Badmaash Company again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring screenplay and entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>28c345a3-2cc5-4914-a42b-afe4623cd2b3Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Badmaash Company! <br /><br />Written by Parmeet Sethi, this young white collar crime caper film had us all amazed by the characters’ wits and warmed by their relationships!<br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br /></p><p>00:00  Introduction<br />03:24  Logline breakdown<br />08:20  Hero’s Journey breakdown</p><p>34:23  Character creation techniques</p><p>43:54   World building techniques</p><p>49:56   Theme analysis</p><p><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Badmaash Company again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring screenplay and entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no00:56:284E04: Badmaash Company Screenwriting Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E03: Koi... Mil Gaya Screenwriting Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Koi Mil Gaya!

Written by Rakesh Roshan, Honey Irani, Robin Bhatt, Sachin Bhowmick, and Javed Siddhiqui,  and starring Hritik Roshan, Rekha, and Preity Zinta, this heartwarming dramedy with a friendly furry from another planet was a delight for children and adults alike!

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

00:00  Introduction
09:22  Logline breakdown
14:21  Hero’s Journey breakdown

35:01  Character creation techniques

43:15   Scene construction techniques

54:51   Dialogue analysis


And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Koi Mil Gaya again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>42dfed10-fec2-4cdc-8a94-83c4447fbbf1Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Koi Mil Gaya! <br /><br />Written by Rakesh Roshan, Honey Irani, Robin Bhatt, Sachin Bhowmick, and Javed Siddhiqui,  and starring Hritik Roshan, Rekha, and Preity Zinta, this heartwarming dramedy with a friendly furry from another planet was a delight for children and adults alike! <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br /></p><p>00:00  Introduction<br />09:22  Logline breakdown<br />14:21  Hero’s Journey breakdown</p><p>35:01  Character creation techniques</p><p>43:15   Scene construction techniques</p><p>54:51   Dialogue analysis</p><p><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Koi Mil Gaya again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:02:583E03: Koi... Mil Gaya Screenwriting Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E02: Munnabhai M.B.B.S. Screenwriting Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Munnabhai MBBS!

Written by Raju Hirani, this family-friendly comedy, starring Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, and Boman Irani, is an evergreen Bollywood film that elicits laughs even today as we go on the gunda-with-a-heart-of-gold’s ride to become a doctor.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

4:34 Synopsis recap

5:33 Logline breakdown

11:10 Hero's Journey breakdown

34:45 Scene techniques

46:32 Dialogue analysis

55:40 Plotting techniques

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend watching Munnabhai MBBS again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>522061e3-f731-407a-b2e3-dfba55b4dcdeThu, 12 Mar 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Munnabhai MBBS! <br /><br />Written by Raju Hirani, this family-friendly comedy, starring Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, and Boman Irani, is an evergreen Bollywood film that elicits laughs even today as we go on the gunda-with-a-heart-of-gold’s ride to become a doctor. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br /></p><p>4:34 Synopsis recap</p><p>5:33 Logline breakdown</p><p>11:10 Hero's Journey breakdown</p><p>34:45 Scene techniques</p><p>46:32 Dialogue analysis</p><p>55:40 Plotting techniques<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend watching Munnabhai MBBS again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no01:01:052E02: Munnabhai M.B.B.S. Screenwriting Breakdownfull<![CDATA[E01: Band Baaja Baaraat Screenwriting Breakdown]]>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Band Baaja Baaraat!

Yashraj Films’ genre-defining romcom starring Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma, written by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Habib Faisal, and Maneesh Sharma, set the stage for new-age, young romcoms to take Bollywood by a storm.

In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen.

Here’s what we cover:

0:00 Introduction

1:26 Hero's Journey

14:57 Character creation techniques

25:58 World building techniques

30:27 Scene building techniques

41:37 Genre trope analysis

49:04 Dialogue analysis

And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Band Baaja Baaraat again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life.

So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career.

And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you!

Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!

]]>80d5e10f-a08b-48c4-a9b8-dac838508771Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:30:00 GMT<p>Welcome to the screenwriting breakdown and analysis of Bollywood film Band Baaja Baaraat! <br /><br />Yashraj Films’ genre-defining romcom starring Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma, written by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Habib Faisal, and Maneesh Sharma, set the stage for new-age, young romcoms to take Bollywood by a storm. <br /><br />In this episode of the Breakdown Besties, your film-school level screenwriting class experience, we analyze the techniques used in the script, to make the film come alive on the screen. <br /><br />Here’s what we cover:<br /><br />0:00 Introduction</p><p>1:26 Hero's Journey</p><p>14:57 Character creation techniques</p><p>25:58 World building techniques</p><p>30:27 Scene building techniques</p><p>41:37 Genre trope analysis</p><p>49:04 Dialogue analysis<br /><br />And after you’re done watching the episode, we recommend you watch Band Baaja Baaraat again, now with all the awareness of the techniques, and see how they’re executed to bring entertainment to life. <br /><br />So whether you’re in the heart of Bollywood in Mumbai, refining your craft for your next gig, or making your way here from near and far – we’re sure the Breakdown Besties Podcast will further the course of your screenwriting craft and career. <br /><br />And if there’s any movie or TV episode you’d like us to break down, or you have any questions, – drop them down in the comments. Your besties are here for you! <br /><br />Hit subscribe and we’ll see you next week on another episode of Breakdown Besties!</p>no00:53:131E01: Band Baaja Baaraat Screenwriting Breakdownfull