We recently connected with John Kiss and have shared our conversation below.
John, appreciate you joining us today. Before we talk about all of your success, let’s start with a story of failure. Can you open up about a time when you’ve failed?
So far I have faced many failures in my life, some more memorable than others. However, the most memorable moments of failure occurred when I used to work at a bike shop. Back in New York City, where I grew up, I got a job at a bicycle shop when I was 17. The owner and manager would constantly point out my laziness, yelling their heads off at every slight mistake I made. It was aggravating to deal with, but I can’t deny that it affected my work ethic. Because I experienced this, I am more critical of my laziness now and more attentive to the details.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I fell into this path by accident, but I feel as if I have always belonged. I am not as well-read as other Screenwriters, I am not as well-spoken as most actors, and I am not wealthy like most producers. But, I grew up in New York City, surrounded by people with their own Oscar-worthy tragedies. The city’s fast paced life style will make you grow up fast. Although, the amount of movie-like situations you will get into makes it worth it. Even though I am at a slight disadvantage, I feel as if my experience and stories I have retained, will take me much further. Further than if I had everything I need.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I worked many jobs back in New York City, some odd, some normal. However, the one job that changed the course of my future, was when I was a janitor for a big hospital. The company I worked for is run by a well-known union, so the pay and benefits were good. Additionally, the union will pay for your trade school so you can side-step into a better career. I saw this path and did not see it benefitting me in the long run. I rather try at something bigger than myself, before I settle for something built my size. I diverted from this career path, going off to film school to try at this film thing.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of creating a story is that you can figure out a lot about your own life through your characters. I put my characters through the struggles, triumphs, and questions I have faced throughout life, and it helps me gain a better perspective. Because, yes, it is about my experience, but that does not mean the other side does not have a compelling story to tell. This helped me figure out the “why” in a lot of situations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://visuallykiss.myportfolio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visually_john
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tewpo6540
- Other: IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13640040/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_4_nm_4_in_0_q_john%2520kiss
Image Credits
(1st and 5th photo) – Shot by Ariana Sitolini