JONATHAN P. HIGGINS

Where do you live (City, State, or Country)?
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 
 
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?
So the story began with a thought I had around a friend who went missing in 2014 while working for Teach for America. I begin having conversations with my mentor about the ways in which Black people, specifically Black women go missing in the news and how rarely their families and friends are given the same support in trying to find them that white families get. In writing this script, I also wanted to add this conversation to the horror element, specifically being that rarely do we see Black horror stories - and how missing family can be a horror in itself.
 
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?
This version of this script came from a re-write of another script. I initially wrote the script in 2021 during a writing program, only to get notes that the story didn’t feel like it had enough “engines”. After going back in and reading the script with more refined eyes, I begin thinking about what elements were missing, who I wanted the characters to be and what I was really trying to say and Something Unholy was born. In terms of process, yes I outline - but often I just write with the idea of who the characters are and what each of them want. In this case, most of my characters have something they want/need from one another and this is what makes the story so cohesive. I want the reader/viewer to get that out the gate - while understanding that my while my process might take a little longer than others, it will definitely pay off in the end.
 
What is your ultimate ambition as a writer?
My ambition as a writer is to add more queer, Black and non-binary voices to the industry. My hope is that one day I will have enough means/capital and seniority to turn around and say, “I want all queer people on this project. I want all queer and Black people on this project,” both in front and behind the camera. I want to use my privilege and hard work as                        a gateway, table and door for others who often struggle like me to get through it. 
 
Which film or television writers inspire you? Why?
Because of my love of horror,  I will forever be inspired by the folks like James Wan & Jordan Peele. I am also inspired by folks like Akela Cooper and Mike Gauyo who continue to make sure that diverse writers and voices are seen in the industry.
 
What’s your all-time favorite movie or television show?
Definitely the Insidious franchise. The ways in which the tension is built in each film and the idea that you never really know where the scary will find you? Genius. I would go on to say that my favorite television shows include Evil, The Outsider, original and remake of IT and more recently, YellowJackets.
 
What advice do you have for writers hoping to win a contest or place as a finalist as you have?
Keep at it. Find people who can spot you a few dollars too because it can get pricey. But keep taking the chance on yourself to put yourself out there. You never know who and where your work will be celebrated and in this moment, I am so glad that I  continued to take a chance on myself and the hard work I am putting out into the world.
 
What else are you working on that the world needs to know about?
I am currently working on another show that focuses on the history of Black towns that were burnt down due to racism and the spirits that want revenge. It’s gonna be a ride.

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