JOE LEONE
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Queen Creek, Arizona (USA) Your script stood out among hundreds of others. What was the inspiration for your story and why did you write a script instead of a short story or a novel? The inspiration for THE IMPOSTERS - https://filmfreeway.com/THEIMPOSTERS969 comes from my own youth in the early-to-mid 80s when, admittedly, I dabbled in making fake IDs for friends. While I’m not particularly proud of it in hindsight, I have to admit they were surprisingly effective given the limited technology of the time. Drawing from that experience, I imagined a scenario where a group of teens comes up with the harebrained idea to head to Las Vegas armed with some dubious fake IDs. Naturally, things don't go according to plan. That real-life mischief served as the spark for this story. I chose to write this as a script because I believe the story's impact is best realized through the power of a visual medium. 
How long did it take you to write your script...and what is your writing process? Do you outline...use index cards...white board...or just start with FADE IN?
Yes, I outline my stories by breaking them down into specific acts and beats. I’ve found that a five- to ten-page outline, typically structured in concise bullet points, works best for me. I also include key dialogue or scene descriptions that I feel are essential to the story. This approach helps me stay organized and ensures the narrative flows smoothly. That’s the general writing process. What is your ultimate ambition as a writer? I’m eager to further grow in a Producer and Story Development role. While I love creating my own stories, I find tremendous joy in discovering talent and helping to shape marketable concepts. This passion aligns with my extensive experience in corporate recruiting, where I’ve spent years connecting employers with the right candidates. The synergy of fostering creative and professional partnerships is genuinely exhilarating. Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice? I submitted a five-page 'proof of concept' trailer script while continuing to develop the full feature script, which is progressing well. Submitting the initial concept allowed me to gauge if I’m on the right track and to gather valuable feedback. I believe no one has all the answers when it comes to storytelling - constructive feedback during the early stages is invaluable in refining the narrative and avoiding potential pitfalls in later acts. What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why? Favorite Film – Raiders of The Lost Ark. I have a number of favorite television shows, so it's tough to narrow it down to just one series. What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have? Winning or placing high in a competition is gratifying, but at the end of the day, it's just an opinion—no different from overly negative criticism. However, feedback is feedback, and there's always something valuable to learn or grow from, whether the experience is positive or negative. |
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What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
THE PACIFIC ALLIANCE https://filmfreeway.com/THEPACIFICALLIANCE Action/Political Thriller Feature Film LOGLINE: In a fractured near-future, four U.S. states secede from the Union to form The Pacific Alliance, an unprecedented coalition with Pacific nations that challenges American sovereignty and global stability. As the world teeters on the brink of war, a conflicted diplomat must navigate betrayal, espionage, and divided loyalties to prevent humanity’s descent into chaos. TAGLINE: “In a world divided, the fight for unity begins within.” |
