JOHN RICHMOND
The Interview
How did you discover The Wiki Screenplay Contest and how did you decide to enter this contest among all the others?
I learned about this competition through my peers in a Screenwriting workshop in Scotland. Together, we encouraged and supported each other to achieve the semi-finalist stages. I was honored to win the competition twice within three months—once for a short film and once for a TV pilot. It has been the most rewarding competition I’ve participated in, even before achieving these victories.
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Glasgow, Scotland, UK
I learned about this competition through my peers in a Screenwriting workshop in Scotland. Together, we encouraged and supported each other to achieve the semi-finalist stages. I was honored to win the competition twice within three months—once for a short film and once for a TV pilot. It has been the most rewarding competition I’ve participated in, even before achieving these victories.
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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? What inspires your overall journey into screenwriting?
The inspiration for my TV Pilot, GO6, came from a blend of personal experiences and a deep fascination with human resilience in the face of adversity. I’ve been curious about the existence of Mandela effects, living in a Matrix, AI, and time travel, so I explored these in GO6. I wanted to explore complex characters navigating through extraordinary circumstances, and I felt that the visual and dialog-driven nature of a script would bring this narrative to life more vividly than a short story or novel could. For the short film, an historical war drama set in 1919, choosing film over prose channels the raw intensity and immediate impact of this story, engaging audiences through an audiovisual experience that text alone cannot replicate.
The inspiration for my TV Pilot, GO6, came from a blend of personal experiences and a deep fascination with human resilience in the face of adversity. I’ve been curious about the existence of Mandela effects, living in a Matrix, AI, and time travel, so I explored these in GO6. I wanted to explore complex characters navigating through extraordinary circumstances, and I felt that the visual and dialog-driven nature of a script would bring this narrative to life more vividly than a short story or novel could. For the short film, an historical war drama set in 1919, choosing film over prose channels the raw intensity and immediate impact of this story, engaging audiences through an audiovisual experience that text alone cannot replicate.
How do you decide which stories to tell, and what draws you to these particular themes?
For GO6, the inspiration stemmed from my fascination with exploring the human condition through the lens of futuristic technology. Sci-fi allows me to delve into questions about identity, morality, and survival in worlds shaped by innovation and disruption. I’m drawn to stories that push boundaries, both narratively and emotionally, and GO6 embodies that by blending high-stakes drama with speculative elements that reflect on our present.
With Armed Tiger Delta, I was captivated by the untold histories that highlight resilience and sacrifice. The short film's historical backdrop provided a rich canvas to explore themes of courage and the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. I’m particularly drawn to stories that honor the complexities of the past while offering a fresh perspective, ensuring these narratives resonate with contemporary audiences.
Ultimately, I’m drawn to themes of transformation, whether through technological evolution or historical upheaval, and I aim to tell stories that challenge perceptions and ignite reflection.
What is your typical writing routine? How do you structure your workday to stay productive?
My writing routine is built around consistency and focus. I typically start my day with a dedicated writing session in the morning when my mind is fresh and distraction-free. I set clear, achievable goals for each session, whether it’s completing a scene, outlining a new project, or revising a draft.
To stay productive, I divide my day into focused blocks of time, usually 90-minute intervals, followed by short breaks. This helps maintain my energy and creativity throughout the day. I also use the afternoons for research, brainstorming, or reviewing feedback, which keeps my work balanced between creation and refinement.
To maintain momentum, I end each writing session by jotting down notes for where to pick up the next day. This ensures I hit the ground running and reduces the inertia of starting anew. Regular check-ins on long-term deadlines help me stay aligned with my broader goals while allowing room for inspiration and flexibility.
For me, discipline and a clear structure, combined with a bit of flexibility for creative bursts, are key to staying productive and keeping the work exciting.
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?
GO6 took me about three years to complete. My writing process is a blend of structured planning and spontaneous creativity. I start with a detailed outline, breaking down the story into acts and key scenes. Receiving and working on feedback from my peers is an integral part of the writing process for me. Armed Tiger Delta took several years, but I have finished it in the past six months.
How do you handle writer's block or moments of doubt (we all have them) during your creative process?
Moments of doubt are tricky, but I remind myself that they’re often a sign I’m pushing my work to a higher standard. Sharing drafts with trusted peers or collaborators helps me gain perspective and reaffirm the story's strengths.
What tools or software do you find essential to your workflow as a screenwriter?
Final Draft.
Read John's full professional resume here.
For GO6, the inspiration stemmed from my fascination with exploring the human condition through the lens of futuristic technology. Sci-fi allows me to delve into questions about identity, morality, and survival in worlds shaped by innovation and disruption. I’m drawn to stories that push boundaries, both narratively and emotionally, and GO6 embodies that by blending high-stakes drama with speculative elements that reflect on our present.
With Armed Tiger Delta, I was captivated by the untold histories that highlight resilience and sacrifice. The short film's historical backdrop provided a rich canvas to explore themes of courage and the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. I’m particularly drawn to stories that honor the complexities of the past while offering a fresh perspective, ensuring these narratives resonate with contemporary audiences.
Ultimately, I’m drawn to themes of transformation, whether through technological evolution or historical upheaval, and I aim to tell stories that challenge perceptions and ignite reflection.
What is your typical writing routine? How do you structure your workday to stay productive?
My writing routine is built around consistency and focus. I typically start my day with a dedicated writing session in the morning when my mind is fresh and distraction-free. I set clear, achievable goals for each session, whether it’s completing a scene, outlining a new project, or revising a draft.
To stay productive, I divide my day into focused blocks of time, usually 90-minute intervals, followed by short breaks. This helps maintain my energy and creativity throughout the day. I also use the afternoons for research, brainstorming, or reviewing feedback, which keeps my work balanced between creation and refinement.
To maintain momentum, I end each writing session by jotting down notes for where to pick up the next day. This ensures I hit the ground running and reduces the inertia of starting anew. Regular check-ins on long-term deadlines help me stay aligned with my broader goals while allowing room for inspiration and flexibility.
For me, discipline and a clear structure, combined with a bit of flexibility for creative bursts, are key to staying productive and keeping the work exciting.
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?
GO6 took me about three years to complete. My writing process is a blend of structured planning and spontaneous creativity. I start with a detailed outline, breaking down the story into acts and key scenes. Receiving and working on feedback from my peers is an integral part of the writing process for me. Armed Tiger Delta took several years, but I have finished it in the past six months.
How do you handle writer's block or moments of doubt (we all have them) during your creative process?
Moments of doubt are tricky, but I remind myself that they’re often a sign I’m pushing my work to a higher standard. Sharing drafts with trusted peers or collaborators helps me gain perspective and reaffirm the story's strengths.
What tools or software do you find essential to your workflow as a screenwriter?
Final Draft.
Read John's full professional resume here.
How do you approach competition entries, and what have you learned from participating in these contests? Which contests have you entered...and how has your work been received overall? Have those contests been helpful to you in your writing?
Competitions vary greatly. I can win one competition and place as a quarter finalist with the same script with another. However, every competition has been helpful as I want to end up with the best scripts possible.
Can you share a specific challenge you've faced in your screenwriting and how you overcame it?
One significant challenge I faced in screenwriting was during the development of my sci-fi TV pilot, GO6. The story deals with intricate futuristic concepts and layered character arcs, and I struggled to strike the right balance between world-building and pacing. There was a point where the exposition became too heavy, bogging down the narrative flow.
To overcome this, I took a step back and focused on the emotional core of the story—what drives the characters and their relationships. I realized that grounding the narrative in relatable human conflicts would naturally make the futuristic elements more accessible. I also sought feedback from peers and mentors who helped me identify where the exposition could be streamlined or implied through action rather than dialogue.
By breaking the story down into smaller, digestible beats and ensuring that every scene advanced both the plot and the characters' journeys, I was able to refine the script. This experience taught me the importance of clarity and prioritizing the emotional stakes, even in high-concept stories. It’s a lesson I carry into all my projects.
If you are balancing your “writing time” with a “day job”...how are you managing that?
It’s a juggling act, but it’s getting easier now I am starting winning competitions and getting recommends from script analysis sites.
Where do you see yourself in five years as a screenwriter?
Not juggling anymore and working with amazing screen writers on GO6.
Competitions vary greatly. I can win one competition and place as a quarter finalist with the same script with another. However, every competition has been helpful as I want to end up with the best scripts possible.
Can you share a specific challenge you've faced in your screenwriting and how you overcame it?
One significant challenge I faced in screenwriting was during the development of my sci-fi TV pilot, GO6. The story deals with intricate futuristic concepts and layered character arcs, and I struggled to strike the right balance between world-building and pacing. There was a point where the exposition became too heavy, bogging down the narrative flow.
To overcome this, I took a step back and focused on the emotional core of the story—what drives the characters and their relationships. I realized that grounding the narrative in relatable human conflicts would naturally make the futuristic elements more accessible. I also sought feedback from peers and mentors who helped me identify where the exposition could be streamlined or implied through action rather than dialogue.
By breaking the story down into smaller, digestible beats and ensuring that every scene advanced both the plot and the characters' journeys, I was able to refine the script. This experience taught me the importance of clarity and prioritizing the emotional stakes, even in high-concept stories. It’s a lesson I carry into all my projects.
If you are balancing your “writing time” with a “day job”...how are you managing that?
It’s a juggling act, but it’s getting easier now I am starting winning competitions and getting recommends from script analysis sites.
Where do you see yourself in five years as a screenwriter?
Not juggling anymore and working with amazing screen writers on GO6.
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
My ultimate ambition as a writer is to create stories that resonate deeply with audiences, leaving a lasting emotional and intellectual impact. I aim to craft narratives that challenge perspectives, ignite meaningful conversations, and explore the complexities of the human experience across diverse genres and mediums.
In the long term, I aspire to establish myself as a versatile storyteller, contributing to projects that push creative boundaries while remaining deeply authentic. Whether through thought-provoking TV series, impactful films, or other forms of storytelling, my goal is to build a body of work that inspires and connects people across cultures and generations.
Ultimately, I hope my stories not only entertain but also empower and provoke reflection—serving as a testament to the power of storytelling to shape and enrich our understanding of the world.
The film and television industry is constantly evolving. How do you see the role of screenwriters changing, especially with the rise of streaming platforms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence? Have you used A.I. in your writing; if so, how have you used it?
The film and television industry is evolving rapidly, with streaming platforms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence reshaping how stories are created and consumed. I see screenwriters taking on even more dynamic roles, not just as storytellers but as collaborators with technology to push creative boundaries. The rise of AI offers exciting opportunities to enhance the writing process, from generating ideas to refining scripts, though it’s ultimately the human touch that brings depth and nuance to storytelling.
Given that my TV pilot centers on an AI satellite, I’m particularly intrigued by the potential of AI in creative work. I’ve experimented with AI scriptwriting tools, and while they’ve been helpful for brainstorming or overcoming minor roadblocks, I treat them as supplementary rather than definitive. They’re useful for sparking ideas, but it’s crucial to maintain creative control and ensure the story retains its authenticity and emotional impact.
I believe the key is to embrace these technologies as tools that enhance our work rather than replace the human imagination at the heart of every great story.
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Any writer that stops me from playing games on my phone while I’m watching their shows.
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
My favorite TV show is Quantum Leap. When I first saw Dr. Sam Becket step into the Quantum Leap accelerator and vanish I was hooked on Sci-Fi. Its influence in GO6 can be seen as it also explores similar themes of time travel and moral quests.
What advice do you have for aspiring screenwriters?
My advice for writers aiming to win a contest is to focus on authenticity and originality. Write the story that only you can tell, and don’t shy away from taking creative risks. Polish your script thoroughly; ensure it’s well-structured, with clear character arcs and engaging dialogue. Seek feedback from trusted peers and be open to revisions.
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? (links to your projects?)
I am working on two other Sci-Fi TV pilots that have been scoring high in other competitions. One of them is Deoxy that is inspired by shows like “Fringe” and “The X-Files.” The series follows two FBI agents, Taylor and Forbes, as they navigate a world transformed by organic mutagens that grant humans extraordinary abilities. Amidst environmental destruction and conflict, these agents find themselves in a race against time to understand the origins and consequences of these mutations.
Where can the world find you online? (Social media links, etc.)
JohnRichmondWriter.com
IMDB
Professional resume
Video resume
My ultimate ambition as a writer is to create stories that resonate deeply with audiences, leaving a lasting emotional and intellectual impact. I aim to craft narratives that challenge perspectives, ignite meaningful conversations, and explore the complexities of the human experience across diverse genres and mediums.
In the long term, I aspire to establish myself as a versatile storyteller, contributing to projects that push creative boundaries while remaining deeply authentic. Whether through thought-provoking TV series, impactful films, or other forms of storytelling, my goal is to build a body of work that inspires and connects people across cultures and generations.
Ultimately, I hope my stories not only entertain but also empower and provoke reflection—serving as a testament to the power of storytelling to shape and enrich our understanding of the world.
The film and television industry is constantly evolving. How do you see the role of screenwriters changing, especially with the rise of streaming platforms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence? Have you used A.I. in your writing; if so, how have you used it?
The film and television industry is evolving rapidly, with streaming platforms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence reshaping how stories are created and consumed. I see screenwriters taking on even more dynamic roles, not just as storytellers but as collaborators with technology to push creative boundaries. The rise of AI offers exciting opportunities to enhance the writing process, from generating ideas to refining scripts, though it’s ultimately the human touch that brings depth and nuance to storytelling.
Given that my TV pilot centers on an AI satellite, I’m particularly intrigued by the potential of AI in creative work. I’ve experimented with AI scriptwriting tools, and while they’ve been helpful for brainstorming or overcoming minor roadblocks, I treat them as supplementary rather than definitive. They’re useful for sparking ideas, but it’s crucial to maintain creative control and ensure the story retains its authenticity and emotional impact.
I believe the key is to embrace these technologies as tools that enhance our work rather than replace the human imagination at the heart of every great story.
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Any writer that stops me from playing games on my phone while I’m watching their shows.
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
My favorite TV show is Quantum Leap. When I first saw Dr. Sam Becket step into the Quantum Leap accelerator and vanish I was hooked on Sci-Fi. Its influence in GO6 can be seen as it also explores similar themes of time travel and moral quests.
What advice do you have for aspiring screenwriters?
My advice for writers aiming to win a contest is to focus on authenticity and originality. Write the story that only you can tell, and don’t shy away from taking creative risks. Polish your script thoroughly; ensure it’s well-structured, with clear character arcs and engaging dialogue. Seek feedback from trusted peers and be open to revisions.
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about? (links to your projects?)
I am working on two other Sci-Fi TV pilots that have been scoring high in other competitions. One of them is Deoxy that is inspired by shows like “Fringe” and “The X-Files.” The series follows two FBI agents, Taylor and Forbes, as they navigate a world transformed by organic mutagens that grant humans extraordinary abilities. Amidst environmental destruction and conflict, these agents find themselves in a race against time to understand the origins and consequences of these mutations.
Where can the world find you online? (Social media links, etc.)
JohnRichmondWriter.com
IMDB
Professional resume
Video resume
