It’s time to talk about the magic of storytelling. At the Writers Guild Awards last night, the competition was fierce. The Holdovers emerged victorious, clinching the award for Best Original Screenplay, while Succession continued its win-win-win, securing the Best Drama Series award. Meanwhile, our beloved One Piece won for the live-action episode “Romance Dawn” written by Matt Owens and Steven Maeda for Netflix. What surprises is the category: Best Childres’s Episodic, Long Form and Specials. Are the trials and adventures of The Straw Hats really for the little littles? Guess so.
The 2024 Writers Guild Awards were a night where the invisible heroes behind our favorite shows got to shine. From literally gut-busting comedies (Beef) to heart-wrenching dramas (The Last of Us), let’s get into a few of the RIOTUS tales that made us giggle, weepy, and binge-watch this past season.
The Bear is still a beast
FX’s The Bear has clawed its way to the top, securing the award for comedy series. The show’s writing team, including Karen Joseph Adcock, Joanna Calo, and others, have crafted a narrative that moves us, amuses us, and gives us the escapism we need without sacrificing the drama.
Cord Jefferson’s American Fiction is the Truth
Cord Jefferson’s adaptation of American Fiction, from Percival Everett’s novel Erasure, won big—showcasing his exceptional storytelling. About an hour before I watched American Fiction, fellow rioter Julian messaged me and said, “Sherin, this American Fiction [movie] is relatable from the jump.” He was right, as always. Read our review on why American Fiction is the truth.
Poker Face Deals a Winning Hand
Peacock’s Poker Face has been recognized for its episodic comedy, thanks to the brilliant writing of Nora Zuckerman & Lilla Zuckerman. The show’s sharp wit and engaging plot have clearly shocked us in the best possible way ‘no lies detected.‘ When we previewed season one, I said, “Natasha Lyonne plays quirky like nobody else. Poker Face gives her a psychic gift and takes her on a cross-country ride where murder happens at each stop… I want you to watch.”
Beef Serves Up a Spicy Win for Limited Series
Netflix’s Beef took the award for limited series. You can’t argue with the compelling work done by writers like Joanna Calo (a winner for The Bear too), Bathsheba Doran, and their team. The series has undoubtedly carved out a space for itself: “BEEF is deliciously low and yet reflective of the parts of ourselves we hide. That is what makes it such a perverse reason to exhale. So, watch it because BEEF goes boom.”
The Last of Us Captures New Series Category
HBO’s The Last of Us, penned by Neil Druckmann, Halley Gross, Craig Mazin, and Bo Shim, has been honored as the best new series. The adaptation of the popular video game has resonated with both fans and critics alike, thanks to its ‘don’t-blink’ narrative. When Julian previewed the series, he said: “The Last of Us is more than just another end-of-the-world show; it focuses on the need for human connection even when the world doesn’t seem like a place where that can happen. “
—
The Writers Guild Awards 2024 have once again highlighted the incredible talent within the industry. Congratulations to all the winners! Here’s to another year of unforgettable stories that keep us glued to the screen. Stay tuned with RIOT-US for more updates on your favorite shows and films!
RIOTUS 