Writing Villains Who Believe They’re Right (And Sometimes Are)
One of the fastest ways to weaken a story is to create a villain who exists only to be hated. The mustache-twirling antagonist who hurts people simply because they are “evil” m
The Craft of Screenwriting: Four-Act Structure (Why Act Two Is Really Two Acts)
The Craft of Screenwriting Series Few concepts in screenwriting are discussed more often—and misunderstood more frequently—than three-act structure. Writers hear the phrase so
The Craft of Writing : The Midpoint Problem- Why Most Stories Lose Momentum
Most stories do not fail at the beginning. Writers usually know how to start strong because beginnings are exciting. They understand the importance of a compelling opening image, a
John Risner
John Morgan Risner is a screenwriter, novelist, and story analyst, and the founder of Screen Writer Ink. With over a decade of experience teaching screenwriting and filmmaking at the university level, he has helped writers develop stronger stories through a focus on character, structure, and cinematic storytelling. His work spans multiple genres, including thriller, horror, and mystery, with an emphasis on character-driven narratives. He is also a film historian with a deep knowledge of classic and modern cinema, including the James Bond films and novels. Through Screen Writer Ink, he provides writers with practical, experience-based insight into the craft of storytelling—helping them move beyond theory and write with clarity, purpose, and control.
