New Hope Native Takes on the World of Film as an International Screenwriter
New Hope, a small town with a big heart, has birthed a remarkable talent in the realm of screenwriting. Jason Rogers, a creative soul, transformed his youthful dreams into reality, becoming an international screenwriter whose work is celebrated across the globe.
From Local Roots to Global Recognition
As a young boy, Jason fondly recalls hanging out with friends at the New Princess Theater, which, at the time, was a cozy coffee shop run by a dedicated Grateful Dead fan. This spot was more than just a place to grab a brew; it was a hub for indie art films and an annual Halloween screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”. “It was the first time I ever came across a creative community,” Jason reminisces. “I was always told I was creative, and people liked to read what I wrote. So it was something I kind of wanted to do – either be an artist or be some kind of writer.”
A Journey of Discovery
Growing up in this charming community, Jason’s love for storytelling blossomed. The performances at Mississippi University for Women and enlightening plays by Thomas Beck and Eugene Ionesco, which his insightful teachers introduced him to, stoked the flames of his creativity. It was during weekends spent watching double features in Columbus and Starkville that he began to envision how he could write stories that were uniquely his own.
By the tender age of 15, Rogers sold his first screenplay to a small horror production company in Texas, although he was too young to sign the contract himself. This moment was significant for him. “When I looked at it I said, ‘OK, this group around me isn’t really interested, but there has to be a group somewhere who is interested.’” It was a game-changer, as it opened his eyes to the vast world of possibilities.
Taking the Leap: Moving Abroad
After earning his degree in English Literature from Mississippi State University, Jason took a bold step. He always dreamt of living in a foreign country, and with the support of his dad, who encouraged him to chase that dream before it was too late, he packed his bags for South Korea. There, he taught English for 14 years while immersing himself in a new culture that mirrored his hometown in many ways.
While living abroad, Jason began writing screenplays under various pen names and forged connections with filmmakers from places as diverse as India, Chile, Hong Kong, and Wales. “It was exciting because it was a challenge,” he shares. “It wasn’t just writing the same old thing over and over again – it was very avant-garde, very surrealistic.”
Returning Home with New Insights
Upon returning to the United States, Jason faced a new chapter in his writing career. He found the American film industry leaned more toward mainstream content, which pushed him to find his footing once again. He began writing films that resonate with audiences, aiming to sprinkle a bit of joy and comfort into their lives. “When I was writing in Korea, I wanted to open peoples’ minds to what was out there,” he says. “But now, I’m all about providing entertainment and some comfort in a stressful life.”
His Latest Work: “Take Me To Banaue”
His latest romantic comedy, “Take Me To Banaue”, captures the humor in navigating an intercultural relationship, drawing from Jason’s own life. Currently residing in Salt Lake City with his wife, Mi, Jason also teaches English to students with juvenile criminal records, showing his commitment to giving back.
A Reflective Journey
Jason reflects on his upbringing in New Hope with gratitude. “These days, I’ve done a lot of soul searching about how my upbringing and childhood really made me who I am. I know it’s really pushed me to want to see the world and create more.” His story serves as an inspiration, proving that the seeds of creativity, once nurtured, can blossom into international adventures.
As Jason continues on his path as a screenwriter, we can’t help but imagine where his dream will lead him next—proving that sometimes, all it takes is a spark from your roots to light up the entire world.
