Private Project

OORAH

Nestled within the mountains lies a secluded small town that lacks cell phone reception. It serves as a haven for veterans and their families, spanning from World War II to present-day conflicts. Life in this town is usually quiet, but that tranquility is often shattered when unexpected events unfold. Amidst the peaceful setting, the residents have developed their own unique sense of justice.

One of the prominent characters is Rudduck, who is on the cusp of returning home after completing his fifth tour of duty. Exhausted, he finds respite in the back seat of his 1972 Chevy Chevelle, a powerful muscle car, parked just outside the county line. As he wakes up, disoriented and muttering to himself, he stumbles onto the empty two-lane highway. Playfully, he hops over the median strip, challenging himself to cross over into the county. In the distance, a car approaches, honking at Rudduck as it passes by. Unexpectedly, the car abruptly halts and reverses, stopping right next to Rudduck. It's Brady, a familiar face and close acquaintance of Rudduck's. They engage in a brief but meaningful conversation.

Brady recognizes that Rudduck has returned and offers him a lift, sensing that something may be amiss. However, Rudduck declines, assuring Brady that he is fine. Though his appearance suggests otherwise, Rudduck explains that his car is out of gas and requests Brady to fetch Brendan, another resident of the town, to bring some fuel. With a nod of understanding, Brady departs, leaving Rudduck alone to reflect on his current situation. As Brady's car recedes into the distance, Rudduck's gaze shifts from the moving vehicle to the county line, contemplating his next move. With a hint of uncertainty, he utters, "We'll see... We'll see."

This made-for-TV drama sets the stage for a compelling story within a close-knit community of veterans and their families. The lack of modern communication technology adds an air of isolation and intrigue to the town. The encounter between Rudduck and Brady hints at the complexities of their lives and the challenges they face upon returning from war. The town's unique brand of justice suggests a rich tapestry of personal experiences and shared values that shape their interactions.

As the drama unfolds, viewers will witness the struggles, triumphs, and deep emotions experienced by the characters. The setting amplifies the sense of tension and secrecy, while the characters grapple with their past and present circumstances. Through their journeys, the drama explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the quest for inner peace. It delves into the psychological and emotional struggles that veterans often face upon returning home, shedding light on their unique perspectives and the challenges they encounter as they seek to reintegrate into society.

With its captivating storyline and layered characters, this made-for-TV drama promises to immerse viewers in a world where personal battles merge with the pursuit of justice. It invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of war, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of community bonds.

  • Tom Ardavany
    Writer
    Blood Initiate
  • Project Type:
    Television Script
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Number of Pages:
    47
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • First-time Screenwriter:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Writer Biography - Tom Ardavany

Get ready to meet Thomas Ardavany, a writer hailing from the sunny beaches of San Diego, California. As the son of a Navy man, Thomas grew up constantly on the move, adapting to new locations and making friends along the way. Little did he know that these experiences would shape his future as a playwright and screenwriter.

From a young age, Thomas idolized literary giants like Chekhov, Pinter, and Shakespeare, drawing inspiration from their masterful storytelling. As he delved deeper into the world of writing, he discovered a new set of idols in the likes of William Goldman, Billy Wilder, and the dynamic duo, Ethan and Joel Coen. Their innovative and boundary-pushing work motivated Thomas to take risks and challenge the norms of storytelling.

Eager to learn the craft of writing, Thomas headed to the bustling city of New York, enrolling in NYU night school and immersing himself in numerous writing groups and workshops. It was here that he honed his skills, mastering the rules of writing so that he could later break them in the most creative and impactful ways.

With a well-rounded understanding of the creative process, Thomas took the reins and began producing the plays he wrote, showcasing his independent spirit and determination to bring his stories to life. Along the way, he ventured into independent filmmaking, tackling important social justice issues such as discrimination, immigration, bullying, poverty, and the heartbreak of war. Through his thought-provoking films like "Pizza Man," "An Immigrant's Affair," "Crossing," "Bullied to the Brink," and "Blood Initiate," Thomas garnered recognition and acclaim at various film festivals.

Not content with keeping his knowledge and expertise to himself, Thomas began sharing his insights with other aspiring writers, actors, and directors. He opened a studio in Los Angeles, where he developed "The Ardavany Approach to On-Camera Mastery," a transformative method that has helped countless individuals in their creative pursuits for over 20 years.

These days, Thomas has expanded his creative endeavors to include running his own produced half-hour sitcom called "Betty B's Spa," a hilarious and popular show that has captured the hearts of audiences around town. In addition to this, he continues to sell his screenplays, provides script doctoring services, and offers character development coaching to those seeking to enhance their storytelling skills. He even dabbles in directing and occasionally lands acting gigs, showcasing his versatile talents.

Thomas Ardavany now calls Palm Spring home, where he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and make an impact in the entertainment industry. With his infectious energy, unwavering dedication, and vast array of creative skills, he is a true force to be reckoned with. Get ready to be captivated by his unique and compelling storytelling as he takes you on a journey like no other.

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Writer Statement

This made-for-TV series is a heartfelt tribute to the countless veterans who have made tremendous sacrifices to preserve our freedom. The concept of creating a fictional community hidden away, consisting entirely of active and retired veterans and their families, serves as a powerful way to highlight the best aspects of American culture. At the core of these characters lies a selfless dedication to service, which is beautifully juxtaposed with their lively and fearless personalities. This combination of traits creates a captivating and enjoyable cast of individuals who approach civic problems head-on with a directness that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Writing for these characters must be a rewarding experience, as they embody the admirable qualities of resilience, courage, and compassion that are often associated with those who serve in the military. Their selflessness and determination to protect the values they hold dear adds depth and authenticity to their portrayal, allowing viewers to connect with them on a profound level.

By showcasing the gregarious and fearless nature of these characters, the series not only entertains but also sheds light on the indomitable spirit that is prevalent among veterans. Their unwavering commitment to their community and their willingness to confront challenges head-on resonates with audiences, inspiring a sense of admiration and fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans.

Through the lens of this fictional community, the series offers a unique perspective on American culture, emphasizing the importance of selfless sacrifice and the strength of character that arises from such experiences. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that exists within the veteran community, and the profound impact they have on society.

In summary, this made-for-TV series not only pays homage to the sacrifices of veterans but also celebrates the very best of American culture. The characters, comprised entirely of active and retired veterans and their families, embody selfless sacrifice, fearlessness, and a gregarious spirit. Their direct approach to addressing civic problems showcases their tough, yet loving nature. Writing for these characters must be satisfying, as they represent the ideals of resilience and dedication that are synonymous with the veteran experience. By portraying their stories on screen, the series offers viewers an opportunity to connect with and appreciate the profound impact that veterans have on our lives.