JON WARE
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 PictureJON WARE
Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Elkton, MD

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?
My inspiration for this story was a desire to explore and bring attention to the idea that spirit guides or guardian angels may be present in our lives, often working quietly behind the scenes during moments of struggle, uncertainty, or personal growth. I wanted to tell a story that encourages audiences to reflect on the possibility that there are unseen forces offering guidance, protection, and hope.
I chose to write a screenplay rather than a short story or novel because my vision for the story was inherently visual and emotional. I imagined the characters, settings, and key moments unfolding on screen, where expressions, cinematography, music, and performance could work together to create a powerful experience for the audience. While a novel or short story can explore thoughts and descriptions in great detail, a screenplay allowed me to focus on visual storytelling and create a blueprint for a film. Ultimately, my goal has always been to bring this story to life as a motion picture.
Writing it as a screenplay was the most direct path toward that objective, enabling me to develop a narrative specifically designed for the collaborative and immersive nature of filmmaking.

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?
It took me 6 months to write the Hard Music script, with an additional two years to incorporate notes. I wrote an outline first, then moved everything into Fade In.

What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
My ultimate ambition as a filmmaker is to write and direct a narrative drama feature film. I am drawn to the drama genre because it allows for a deep exploration of the human experience; our relationships, struggles, choices, and personal growth. I believe some of the most impactful stories are those that connect with audiences on an emotional level and encourage reflection long after the credits roll.
While I enjoy documentary filmmaking and appreciate its ability to capture real-life stories, my passion for narrative drama comes from the opportunity to create original characters and situations that can illuminate universal truths. Through dramatic storytelling, I can combine visual artistry, performance, music, and cinematography to craft a complete emotional journey for the audience. Each project I undertake, whether a short film, documentary, or screenplay, helps me develop the skills and experience necessary to achieve that goal. My long-term vision is to create feature-length films that are both entertaining and meaningful; stories that resonate with audiences, spark conversation, and leave a lasting impression.
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Was your entry at The Wiki Screenplay Contest a full script or “the first ten pages”? Why did you make that choice?
I submitted the complete script because I wanted readers to experience the story in its entirety and evaluate its full emotional and narrative impact. While excerpts can showcase specific scenes or dialogue, the complete screenplay provides a better understanding of the character arcs, thematic development, pacing, and overall storytelling. I felt that presenting the full script would offer the most accurate representation of the story I set out to tell.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show...and why?
My favorite film is Rules of Engagement. I appreciate how it explores the idea that different individuals, institutions, and segments of society often operate according to different sets of rules, motivations, and expectations; many of which are not immediately visible. The film raises thought-provoking questions about truth, perception, accountability, and the complexities of moral decision-making in high-
pressure situations. I also admire the film's strong performances, compelling storytelling, and its ability to present multiple perspectives without offering easy answers. In addition, the score by Mark Isham adds tremendous emotional depth and tension, enhancing the film's impact and making it an even more memorable cinematic experience.

What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
It is always valuable to receive feedback on your script from experienced writers, particularly those who work within the same genre. They can offer insights into story structure, character development, pacing, dialogue, and audience expectations that may not be immediately apparent to the writer. Constructive feedback helps identify strengths, uncover weaknesses, and refine the script into a stronger and more
compelling story. Fresh perspectives are an essential part of the creative process and can often elevate a screenplay to a level that would be difficult to achieve in isolation.

What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
I am currently in the pre-production phase of my screenplay, Hard Music. At the same time, I am collaborating with an orchestral composer to identify and develop music cues that will help shape the film’s emotional tone and support the storys narrative arc. My goal is to see Hard Music produced as a high-quality short film that can attract the attention of producers, distributors, and streaming platforms. I hope the project will serve as a proof of concept for a larger story and ultimately lead to opportunities for adaptation into a feature-length film with broader distribution. Through this process, I aim to build momentum for future narrative drama projects while bringing a compelling and meaningful story to audiences.