June 23, 2008: France vs. Germany! Paul vs. Oswald! Wraith vs. Whoever That Is!

 

Our agent contacted us with the good news. A one hour action series had just been greenlit and the production was looking for writers. The timing couldn’t have been better as Paul and I had just finished work on another show and were looking for a steady gig. Of course there was that possibility of landing a job on Stargate but, in all honesty, it was a long shot. This series, on the other hand, looked very promising. Plus, it was going to shoot in our hometown of Montreal which meant we wouldn’t have to pack up and move to the other side of the country.

We went in and met with the showrunner, an affable fellow who was, himself, part of a writing team. Unfortunately, his partner had opted out of the show just as it was going to camera for reasons unknown. I suppose in hindsight that should have been a warning but, at the time, we were just too darn keen to give it a second thought. Sure, the series was a U.S./Canada/France/Belgium/German co-production (I suspect Albania and Swaziland were unable to meet their financial commitments to the project and had to back out), but that only ensured that the quality control would be that much higher what with so many different players weighing in. Still, the showrunner was a great guy and, judging from the pilot script he and his M.I.A. partner had written, it was going to be a fun show.

Except that one of the partners (it may have been either the German or the French) didn’t want fun. They wanted serious action. This we found out after handing in the first draft of our first freelance script. Everything that had been received with much enthusiasm twenty-four hours earlier was suddenly problematic and we were looking at a page one rewrite. But no big deal. We went back to it and had the revised version out within the week. Again, congratulations all around. Until one of the partners (it may have been either the French or the Germans) decided the show needed to have more emphasis on espionage. Less guns, more gadgets and savvy. “No problem,”I told the showrunner, eager to give it another go. To his credit, however, the showrunner held off. It became very clear early that the producing partners had drastically different visions of what they wanted the show to be. Rather than address this minor quibble in the development stage, they had apparently elected to work it out once the show was actually in production.

While the French and Germans slugged it out over creative issues, we were offered the opportunity to do a pass on somebody else’s script. This somebody else was a gruff, opinionated, bear of a man who was often given to dropping cryptic hints about his every-changing mysterious past during story meetings. One day, he was a former member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who still did undercover work for the force. The next, he was an ex-outlaw biker with connections to the C.I.A. He was a self-proclaimed expert on any subject and would happily muscle his way into a conversation to remind everyone of the fact. Now my writing partner, Paul, is an infinitely patient guy (he’d have to be, having worked with me for going on 12 years now), not easily pushed to the breaking point. But if there’s one thing he can’t stand, it’s an arrogant know-it-all who doesn’t know when to shut up. In the many years I’ve known him, I’ve only been witness to three individuals who managed to engender Paul’s loathing. One was our former boss at the student bar we worked at. Another was an actor. A third was this guy. Let’s call him Oswald.

“It just needs a polish, nothing serious,”Oswald assured us after sending me the script. “Give it a pass and get it back to me as soon as you can.”

All well and good until Paul and I read the script. It needed a little more than a polish. It needed a fourth and fifth act that made sense. I emailed Oswald, detailing the plot holes that needed to be addressed. His response: “These kind of notes are really counter-productive at this point.”

And I suppose it would have been equally counter-productive for Paul and I to have accepted staff positions on the production - especially after that Stargate longshot came through. On the one hand, we sincerely did like the showrunner and the series was being filmed in our hometown which made things very convenient for us; but on the other hand the weekly salary we’d been offered was equivalent to the weekly per diem we’d be receiving should we decide to take our chances out west.

We did.

And last I heard, the French and the Germans are still going at it.

Today’s pics: Snaps from work.

June 22, 2008: Lulu and I hit Greek Day

 

I took in the Greek Day festivities with Lulu this evening. Now lest I be accused of playing favorites, there’s a very good reason why I chose Lulu to be my date:

Jelly, as I’ve already made mention, suffers from a hip condition that makes extended walks problematic. She’s good for approximately a half a block before she’ll seek out the shadiest spot and plunk herself down, declaring the outing over in her own incomparable way. As a result, I’m usually carrying her back the rest of the way like a six month old baby, much to the delight of one of my elderly neighbors who thinks it’s just the most adorable thing she‘s ever seen. If I had brought Jelly to Greek Day, there’s no doubt I’d be wandering through the crowd, a souvlaki in one hand, and pug in the other, wishing I had a third hand for a drink. Scratch Jelly for Greek Day.

Maximus, pictured in my banner, is the most outgoing of the gang. He’s never met a lap he hasn’t liked. Unfortunately, he’s also the most out-of-shape of the gang. A three block stroll in the hot sun and he’s panting like a Saharan survivor on his last legs. He’s also an incredibly stubborn dog, often taking great offense at anyone trying to set the pace of his walkies. If you speed up to match him, he’ll slow down. If you slow down, he’ll stop. Stop and he’ll break into a sprint. Want to go left? He’ll want to go right. Want to cross the street? He’d rather turn around and head back the way he came. His contrarian stylings - another source of infinite amusement for my neighbor - can get real frustrating real fast, especially on those longer promenades. And given his chunky physique, there’s always the fear that he may just keel over. Scratch Maximus for Greek Day.

Bubba is undoubtedly the most athletic of the pugs and the perfect candidate for those extended walks. Unfortunately, he’s also the most high-strung of the bunch, easily freaked out by loud noises, loud people, kids, other dogs, anything on wheels, garage entranceways, and, on one memorable occasion, some poor girl dong a cartwheel in the park. Simply put, he’s not wholly comfortable in social settings. Scratch Bubba for Greek Day.

Fondy, my wife, would have been my first choice. She’s sociable, enjoys longs walks, and is a better candidate for splitting an order of those Greek style doughnuts with me. Unfortunately, she was working today. Scratch Fondy for Greek Day.

And so, Lulu and I headed over to Greek Day on West Broadway late this afternoon. She, of course, commanded an enormous amount of attention, stopping to let interested parties pet her, crossing in front of disinterested parties so that they would have no choice but to stop and pay attention to her.

To be honest, this one-day event is fine, but the two week long Greek Festival held in the parking lot of that church in Burnaby blows it out of the water. Sure, the West Broadway event had a bare-chested Spartan and some woman dressed as an elf walking around on stilts, but the Burnaby event has spit-roast lamb. Lamb tops elves any day.

We dropped by Fondy’s shop where we split a pork souvlaki and I had some loukoumades (those Greek mini doughnuts I was talking about). By 8:00 p.m., Lulu was sprawled out on the floor, throwing me the same look my sister and I would give our parents three hours into our visit with Auntie Jeanette. Time to hit the road.

So, here you go. Enjoy the pics of my Greek Day with Lulu.

Looking ahead to this week: finishing up the Remnants rewrite, pulling the trigger on our Winter trip to Hong Kong and Shanghai, watching Machine Girl, announcing next month’s Book of the Month Club selections, and, of course, catching up on all that reading. Another gentle reminder: Book of the Month Club discussions upcoming:

In the Garden of Iden, Kage Baker.
Discussion the week of June 30th, with author Kage Baker.

The Etched City, K.J. Bishop.
Discussion the week of July 7th.

Unwelcome Bodies, Jennifer Pelland.
Discussion the week of July 14th, with author Jennifer Pelland.

 

 

June 21, 2008: Gremlins, Curses, Psychics, BOTMC Winners, and Kung Fu Scotsman!

I realize this may sound a tad crazy, but I actually believe I’m being harassed by gremlins. Last month, it was the water damage in the furnace room. Weeks later, my satellite stops working. The other day, my cell phone dies on me. This morning, I go to turn on the t.v. and am greeted by a loud pop not unlike a balloon bursting. Suddenly, my plasma has been transformed into the world’s most expensive radio. I can hear the broadcast but the screen is dark. I hop in the car to run some errands and - PING! - a little orange light on my dashboard informs me that my right brake light needs servicing.

One, two, maybe even three of these things happening to me within a one-month period I could chalk up to coincidence. But five?! No, the only logical explanation is gremlins. Well, gremlins or some sort of curse.

I’m kind of bummed because there was a masseuse that used to come by the production offices a couple of years ago who, beside offering massages, also offered psychic services. It said so right on her card: Masseuse, Healer, Psychic. If I remember correctly, she also sold Mangosteen juice out of the back of a van. Unfortunately, I threw away her card ages ago thinking “Hey, when the hell am I ever going to need a psychic?”. And now look at me. Okay, granted, a psychic probably wouldn’t be able to help me with the gremlin/curse problem, but she probably could have put me in touch with a good exorcist or carpenter. I understand they all hang in the same circles.

Of course, far be it for me to make fun of psychics. Someone I know actually swears by them. They even played me a recording from their last visit to demonstrate the clairvoyant’s uncanny abilities. The sessions go something like:

Psychic: I’m seeing the letter L. L as in Larry. Leo. Lawrence. Lex. Lana. Lacey. Laura.

Friend: I have an Aunt Lori.

Psychic: Has she been sick?

Friend: No. She’s as strong as an ox.

Psychic: Tell her to bundle up this Winter. I see possible pneumonia in her future.

Friend: Oh, dear.

Psychic: I’m also seeing a man whose name starts with the letter P. Peter. Paul. Perry. Friend: Pat?

Psychic: Yes, Pat! You shouldn’t trust him.

Friend: He’s my neighbor. He borrowed my trowel last week.

Psychic: You should get it back. Also, he covets your azalea.

Friend: I knew it!

So, are there any bona fide psychics out there who could pinpoint the source of these supernatural afflictions and help rid me of their nefarious machinations. Or, at the very least, take a look at my picture tube?

 

Hey, what’s everybody reading? I hope it’s Kage Baker’s In the Garden of Iden because it is July’s SF Book of the Month Club selection and, in a little over a week, Kage will be dropping by to answer your comments and queries about the book. So finish up and start composing your thoughts for the discussion which begins the week of June 30^th. And if you haven’t started…What are you waiting for?!

Congratulations go out to the randomly selected winners of the previous BOTMC discussions (The Blade Itself/The Android’s Dream/Crawlers): Jens and Ytimynona! I’ve sent you both emails regarding the prize so get back to me!

Today’s pics: Kung Fu Scotsman and such.

June 20, 2008: Comic Con update, dinner at Fuel, and yet another chunky mailbag

No official word on this year’s Comic Con line-up yet, but I hear that there will be both a Stargate: Continuum and Stargate: Atlantis panel. The former should include writer-executive producer Brad Wright, director Martin Wood, and Michael Shanks, Chris Judge, Amanda Tapping, Ben Browder and, if the rumors are true, one Richard Dean Anderson. The latter will be moderated by writer-executive producer Martin Gero and should include Jewel Staite, Bob Picardo, and, in all probability, Joe Flanigan. I, alas, will miss out on this year’s festivities and am, of course, bummed because it means I’ll have to come up with something else to blog about that weekend.

Hey, I headed over to Fuel the other night with Marty G. and his gal Stephanie. We were supposed to be a foursome but the guys were still working on the hardwood flooring and Fondy elected to stay home and watch. Her absence was felt by all - but we persevered and enjoyed yet another incredible meal: fresh prawn, an enormous lobe of foie gras served with sliced cherries and brioche, pasta 3-ways including a revelatory tagliatelle with minced house pork sausage, what in hindsight may well have been scrapple served atop a bed of peas and topped with a grilled scallop (try getting that in Pennsylvania), salmon, sablefish, and the piece de resistance: the stuffed pig’s head and spaetzle!

Hmmm. I knew this would happen. I was motoring along on my Remnants rewrite and then got detoured by Wednesday’s quadruple episode screening. Nothing ruins the rhythm of a rewrite like a day off not writing. Hopefully I’ll be able to recapture the magic this weekend as I want to get this script out to the network before the end of next week. I have a couple of books to get around to (Almost finished Ursula K. LeGuin’s Lathe of Heaven. A great book and a quick read. Highly recommended!), and an opportunity has presented itself that I would be foolish to pass up. More on this in the weeks to come. Hopefully.

Well, still no new phone as I’ve been too busy to shop around. I’ve been making due with my old Motorola that, while not quite serviceable is, I suppose, one step better than two tin cans connected by a piece of string. The phone rings and I can see the caller’s number, but I am unable to hear them if I answer. I am, strangely enough, able to hear them if I call however. So all I have to do if anyone calls is get the number, hang up on them, press re-dial, and voila! I’m in business! Still, at the end of the day, I like the convenience of being able to answer my phone.

Today’s pics: Dinner at Fuel - Stephanie, Marty G., me, and my invisible date.

Mailbag:

Portland writes: “Do you watch your show with everyone else on fridays at 10pm?”

Answer: Nope. Unfortunately, we don’t get SciFi here in Canada.

Warmbeachbrat writes: “Will Dr. Lee be appearing in season 5?”

Answer: He will be putting in an appearance.

Warmbeachbrat writes: “I see you’re reading Orphans of Chaos (as am I)–how are you liking it?”

Answer: Well, I was reading it and was enjoying it but, alas, I only have the online version and I much prefer to have a real book in my hands. I’ve set Orphans of Chaos aside for now but have ordered up a copy. Once it arrives, I’ll resume reading.

Sue writes: “What kinda prepping will go on during hiatus for “prodigal” and when do you start filming the eps?”

Answer: Prodigal has already been prepped. However, our costume and construction departments will be working a week or two during the hiatus to make sure the episode is ready to shoot when we return in mid-July.

1norriski writes: “In Shepard’s video he makes a statement about not knowing if Col Sumner (I know I’m spelling that wrong, sorry) even has a family, then states some of us don’t. At that time in the series I took that statement to imply that Shepard’s character did not have any living family back on earth…”

Answer: Another interpretation could be that, figuratively speaking, he had not family back on Earth because of the fallout he had with his father.

Muddypiddypop writes: “When a script goes t the netwok, is it completed or still a work in progress?”

Answer: It is still very much a work in progress.

ZeroPointBatteries writes: “In rising, the water is being held back by a thin shield against the buildings which seems to have various seperate sections preventing a total failure at one instant, however in First Strike when the city is once again submerged we see the “normal” or “main” shield holding back the water which allows Weir to walk out onto the balcony without a problem.”

Answer: I’ve always operated under the assumption that Atlantis could do both: initiate the shield so that it covers the whole of the city (in a bubble) or, if necessary, adjust the shield to cover only sections of the city as either a bubble or skintight shield.

The Teslan writes: “How are pugs as far as shedding?”

Answer: Fawn pugs shed quite a bit in the Spring.

David writes: “Hey Joe, I’m gonna be in Vancouver around July 25/26 (I think those are the days), any chance you’d say hello if I were to be standing outside the Bridge Studios gates?”

Answer: Hey, David. Would love to come out and say hi but we’ll be off the Thursday and Friday of that week for Comic Con.

Snake writes: “So your shooting schedule does not necessarily coinside with the episodes in numeric order? Aproximately what is the time frame from completed script to shooting and from completed shooting to air date?”

Answer: The shooting order and the air date order don’t always line up as actor availability or production concerns (“When the hell is that set going to be ready?!”) may necessitate our rearranging the production schedule. As for the time frame - about five months from first day of principal photography to when you see it on SciFi.

Ascended Tauri writes: “1. How many times do you (typically) view an episode before it airs?

2. With you on hiatus now, how often does Fondy have off from her work?

3. Will the infamous blue jello be making a triumphant comeback in Season 5?

4. Will the Rodneyana Valosa (dare I hope so) be making an even greater triumphant comeback in Season 5?”

Answer: 1. If you include dailies as one long screening, then I’d say about six times. 2. I may be on holiday, but Fondy is still at work. 3. We’re still in negotiations with blue jello’s agent. Stay tuned. 4. We’ve sent a script out to the Rodneyana Valosa. It has promised to get back to us.

Sector24 writes: “When you look back, is there some storyline and path you wish you wouldn’t have taken?”

Answer: Not really. Some episodes didn’t work as well as others and, sure, there were certain scenes or casting decisions I’d love a second crack at but, at the end of the day, the show did go 10 seasons.

Eugene from Aus writes: “I’ll probably borrow some Harlan Ellison, Arthur C. Clarke
and Isaac Asimov books soon, any suggestions(titles and perhaps other authors)?

Any plans to come down to Australia anytime soon?(or for the first time, a search of the blog seemed fruitless)

Did you know there’s a place in Australia called Richmond?

Have you tried any Australian food recently/are there any Australian style restaurants in your vicinity in Canada?”

Answers: I just recommended John Varley’s The Opiuchi Hotline to Brad.

No plans to visit Australia anytime soon but we will be visiting Shanghai and I hear there’s an excellent Aussie restaurant near our hotel.

O6untouchable writes: “1) In your mind, who takes over from Colonel Chekov after the Korolev is destroyed?

2) Now more countries are part of the Atlantis program, does the IOA consist of any representatives other than America, Russia, China, France and Britain? Are there any plans for us to encounter those other nation people?

3) We’ve spotted a few members of the Atlantis’ Security detail who are members of other militaries - a German in Rising, a South African who cropped up a few times in Season 1, etc. However, we haven’t really seen any foreign military characters developed, given lines, or a name for that matter. Are there any plans to throw that sort of thing in, or are you trying to avoid repeating the “Russian team” stuff from SG-1?”

Answers: 1) In my mind - no idea. 2) IOA is made up of the various countries participating in the Atlantis expedition, but their council is made up of the big 7. 3) Eventually, it would be nice to expand our character base to include a variety of nationalities.

Shirt ‘n Tie writes: “How go the thoughts/ideas for Episode 100?”

Answer: Very well. We were in the office today spinning.

Terry writes: “Your stash of books seems to have many ‘classics’ in it. Are these books that you’ve actually read before or are these the ones you feel you should read but just have never had the chance?”

Answer: Some I read ages ago, others I have yet to read.

Terry also writes: “Did you ever read James Tiptree Jr. (aka Alice Sheldon)?”

Answer: Yep. Read Ten Thousand Light Years from Home a couple of weeks ago.

Cathy writes: “will Amanda Tapping be able to be in any episodes in the last part of season 5? If so, how many? If you cannot answer this yet, would you be able to in the near future?”

Answer: Again, it’s all dependent on Amanda’s availability. And we won’t know about that for at least another month.

DasNDanger writes: “ 1. In your mind, do you think Todd ‘tastes’ Sheppard (in his memory) every time they meet? Not suggesting anything perverted here, but more like how we might remember the taste of a yummy meal every time we are reminded of it.

2. This one is REALLY bugging me - when Todd returned to the hive in BAMSR, did he get a chance to feed? I’m thinking his quick change of subject when Sheppard asked if there was anything else that happened while they were unconscious means that yes, he did (I’m also thinking this is why they were stunned, so that he was free to feed without their interference). It would make sense, since he was returning with the humans and had no guarantee that they wouldn’t lock him up and starve him again, but I could be waaaay off.”

Answers: 1) I’m sure Todd has happy memories of the meal they shared. 2) I’m not quite sure what you’re referring to? Are you asking whether Todd fed on our team while they were unconscious? If so, then the answer is no.

Mahoney writes: “More Daniel in season 6 would be great; but, would he get to interact with folks other than just Rodney if that happened? Hopefully maybe?”

Answer: Ideally, yes.

Arctic Goddess writes: “So, to continue this interesting discussion, have you ever eaten bugs as part of a meal?”

Answer: Not intentionally.

Disgruntled writes: “You people will never learn, will you?”

Answer: Nay. Teach us Oh Enlightened One! We are but mere empty vessels waiting to be filled from thine decanter of truthfulness and know-it-allness!

Laura writes: “I have just been told that the 1ep has been leaked on to the net if this is true does TPTB know how it happened ?”

Answer: Hundreds of copies of the premiere were sent out to various media outlets for review so I’m not surprised. 

Pandora writes: “Anything to say on the subject? Comments? Rants or raves?”

Answer: It’s tough to keep a lid on things when you’re sending out so many copies for review.  The best we can do is keep an eye on the sites and, at the very least, take comfort in the fact that it wasn’t an unfinished episode with temp VFX.

June 19, 2008: Gunfire on the set!

I‘m offered a choice: “Do you want plugs or cans?”

I take the cans, fishing the oversized headphones out of the box and horse shoeing them around my neck as the cast and crew prep for the upcoming sequence. Distances are measured, the armorer checks the guns, the camera operators hunker down behind their plastic shields, and everyone else clears the hell out.

“Cover your ears! It’s going to be loud!”warns the 1^st A.D.

As the actors get into position, the crew members and extras who elected to forego both the plugs and the cans cover their ears. The director eyes the monitor, waits… waits… waits… and finally calls: “Action!”

The actors deliver their lines. Someone warns: “Here they come!” And that’s my signal to clap on the headphones. A beat and then - a sustained barrage of gunfire that has the newbies wincing. I can hear the muffled report, a rapidfire report that suddenly dies off. Click. Snap. Click Snap. I glance up and see that both of the P-90‘s have jammed. Click. Snap. Click. Snap. “Okay, we‘ll go again”says the director.

Everyone moves in to prep the next take. Weapons are checked and reloaded, the actors are touched up. The director requests more smoke. He asks: “Are we rolling?”

“We’re ready,”the 1^st A.D. informs him.

“And…Action!”

Dialogue. I snap on the cans. A couple of gunshots. Then. Click. Click. “Cut-cut!”

Third times the charm however. A nice sustained barrage followed by a quick reload and then another sustained barrage. The weapons fall silent. The director calls “Cut!” and we’re moving on.

The cameras are turned around for the B-side hits, a far more complicated sequence that involves the squibbed/moving targets being shot and going down. It’s all smoke and timing that goes swimmingly in the rehearsal. Not so the first take in which the targets overshoot their marks and the camera positions. It’s getting late. We have time for one more take before we shut down for the night. A quick set-up and “Action!”

Gunfire. Squib hits. Targets go down. It goes better than the first take but, alas, the timing is off. Unfortunately, there won’t be anymore shooting on this night. We’ll have to schedule some Close Up hits with the second unit crew and then piece together the sequence from the footage available.

Weeks later, I’m watching the director’s cut and when the sequence comes up. We start on the A side coverage of our heroes locking and loading. Cut to the B side - targets approaching. Back to the A side as our heroes open fire. Back to the B side as approaching targets are hit and go down. Back to the A side as our heroes fire away - reload, continue firing. Punch in for some B side hits of the individual targets getting hit and dropping. Back to the A side and on our heroes as the gunfire dies down. They lower their weapons. B side coverage of the carnage. Fabulous! It’s at times like these I realize we really should be shooting up stunt extras more often.

Mailbag:

Dyginc writes: “Well I am going to go and let the meds get me to sleep…i can barely see this page but I promised myself I would post and great big THANK YOU”

Answer: All the best and wishing you a speedy recovery, dyginc.

Whovian writes: “Poor Carl! I would have done the exact same thing. How can you eat that thing without making a mess?”

Answer: I revealed the secret to eating the egg yolk buns on his second attempt. The trick is to turn the bun upside down and seal the little hole underneath with your mouth before taking a bite. As you bite, angle the bun away from you at about 45 degrees. That way, the half-bite in your hand acts as a vessel from the remaining liquid. So simple.

AV Eddy writes: “What are those big beige things with the holes in picture four?”

Answer: Lotus root. Carl tried it for the first time and really liked it.

Mazeykins writes: “……but what I did find was a Creative Test from the Art Institute of Vancouver to see if you are a right or left-brained person: 

http://www.wherecreativitygoestoschool.com/vancouver/left_right/rb_test.htm”

 

http://www.wherecreativitygoestoschool.com/vancouver/left_right/rb_test.htm”

 

 

Answer: I’m 57% left brain, 43% right brain. That explains a lot. I always just assumed one ear was heavier than the other.

Thornyrose writes: “So the hiatus is much more for the cast than the crew, even though it comes with a reduced work load for you.”

Answer: Our visual effects department and post-production will be working through most of hiatus. Things tend to be much quieter for them early on in the season.

Thornyrose also writes: “Do you consider the show to be running on schedule, behind schedule, or ahead of schedule at this point?”

Answer: We are right on schedule.

Arcitc Goddess writes: “The CBC is highlighting a restaurant in Vancouver called Vij’s. Have you ever eaten there? It has a reputation for being a world class restaurant with crickets on the menu.”

Answer: Vij’s is one of the top five restaurants in Vancouver. It takes no reservations so, if you don’t get there early, you’re waiting. Like Harrison Ford did the last time he was in town. And, sorry to disappoint you but crickets are definitely not on the menu.

Narelle from Aus writes: “If you go to an Italian Restaurant do you expect to see Italians running the show.”

Answer: Not necessarily but ideally, yes.

DasNdanger writes: “Am I the only one who thinks the pork buns look like a plateful of boobies?”

Answer: Yes you are.
Pervert.

Michelle writes: “Joe, if you had to choose just one cuisine to eat every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?”

Answer: Hmmm. That’s tough. I’d probably lean Chinese.

Paul William Tenny writes: “Are we talking guest, recurring, or regular — preference-wise?”

Answer: Strictly preference-wise? The more Daniel, the better.

Anais33 a ecrit: “Selon vous quel sont les qualités qui caractérise une bonne science fiction?”

Reponse: Comme n’importe quel travail de fiction = les caractères intéressants.

Translation: They key to good science fiction, like any work of fiction, is interesting characters.

Marla writes: “Sounds like you’re pretty much done with Remnats - does that mean the Shep scene you’ve been fighting over with your fellow writers is still in the script?”

Answer: So far. We’ll see what the network has to say.

Kim writes: “I had my pug for 11 years. She passed away this past Saturday.”

Answer: Kim, sorry to hear about your pug. And, yes, you’re right. Pugs have a number of health issues - breathing problems, eye problems, joint problems to name but a few. I apply a topical gel to my pugs’ eyes morning and night, mix glucosamine and chondroitin in their meals, and give Jelly Metacam for her hips every second day. I also carry Jelly up and down the stairs whenever she doesn’t feel like climbing (which is always). Before making a decision, I’d strongly advise anyone to do some research on the particular breed they’re considering.

Linzi writes: “Jst wanted to post to thank you for meeting Cheeky and me last week. I had a wonderful time, and after witnessing the professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm all involved with SGA have for the show, I love the SGA even more than before…is that even possible?”

Answer: I don’t think so. And it was a pleasure meeting you both.

Fran writes: “While SGA is in Production I often wondered if the actors and actresses on the show are allowed to do Guest Roles on other shows? and Can the Writers on SGA write for other shows or are they not allowed to do so?”

Answer: The main cast is usually too busy to work elsewhere. Actors who play recurring roles (ie. David Nykl) have more free time and do put in guest appearances in other shows. As for the writers - we are exclusive to Stargate during production.

Masterchief writes: “Joe you said Outsiders is episode 14, is this correct?”

Answer: I’m referring to the shooting schedule.

Wraithfodder writes: “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Please say it’s NOT true. I watch the Scifi ad which goes “A prophet is born.” Puh-lease tell us that Teyla’s baby is not going to be some Miracle-Gro kid.”

Answer: It’s not true.

Tammy writes: “By the way, are there certain blogs you check out every day like we follow yours?”

Answer: Yep. They’re listed under my blogroll in the sidebar.

June 18, 2008: Black Belt Pope to Take On All Comers!

Went into the office today and found a huge shipment from Amazon.com awaiting me. The veritable treasure trove of titles included Tobias S. Bucknell’s Ragamuffin, Jeff Carlson’s The Plague Year, Karen Jay Fowler’s Sarah Canary, Ken MacLeod’s Newton’s Wake, about a half-dozen books by Jeffrey Ford, and numerous others. I selected a few from the shipment and a few from my standing library to form my back-up Summer hiatus reading pile. Anybody out there familiar with any of the titles?

I settled in and worked on Remnants, rewriting the last McKay-Zelenka scene. At about 10:00 a.m., everyone else got in and we retired to the writers’ room for a quadruple feature: Broken Ties (Day 2 Mix - only two notes: 1. Pre-lap the tavern walla in the Ext. Village - Night establisher and, 2. Put the walla back in the Sheppard-Woolsey scene), Ghost in the Machine (Day 1 Mix - Overall a pretty good mix. A few ADR requests, a desire for a less instrumental CLANG off the top), and the mid-season two-parter First Contact and The Lost Tribe (Marty G.’s producer’s cut - Great! Can’t say enough good things about the Daniel-Rodney dynamic, loved the heist sequence, and couldn’t help but think that a certain scene is sure to have all those Todd-Woolsey shippers out there falling all over themselves).

Today’s entry is dedicated to high school grad Steph and Narelle’s hubby. Narelle, please tell him best wishes, love Joan.

Today’s pics: My dinner with Carl at Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant in Richmond, and my back-up book pile.

Today’s video: Carl makes a mess.   I can’t take him anywhere!  Photobucket is down so, hopefully, google will allow the video to play.  Eventually.

Mailbag:

Thornyrose writes: “Were both parts of the mid season two parter filmed before the break, or does filming resume with the second half?”

Answer: We finished shooting episode 14 (Outsiders) and prepping episode 15 (Prodigal) before heading off on hiatus.

David writes: “In reference to yesterday’s picture of your phone, where could one get that skin? Or is specially made just for you?”

Answer: They were part of a special giveaway at last year’s San Diego Comic Con. Contact the gang at the official MGM site to find out if they were a one-time-only deal.

Wraithfodder writes: “Joe, have you ever looked at the ‘automatically generated’ possibly related posts on your blog?”

Answer: Uh, yeah. I looked into disabling the feature but I believe that doing so would also disable a feature I actually want. For the time being, please consider them “Impossibly Unrelated Links”.

AMZ writes: “…do the actors who get speaking parts on Stargate:Atlantis have to be SAG members?”

Answer: Some of our local actors are not SAG.

Eri writes: “How does one get an idea turned into an actul episode when they don’t write for the show?”

Answer: Have an agent query the show (and here, I refer to shows in general) to find out whether or not the production is looking for freelance pitches.

McWraith writes: “Do you know if any of the crew write blogs?”

Answer: I don’t, but I know that both Davids do occasionally blog.

Nika writes: “Do they recognize the camera or just ignore you now?”

Answer: Like most everyone I know, they just ignore me.

Arctic Goddess writes: “What does a best boy and a key grip do?”

Answer: A best boy (who, incidentally, does not necessarily have to be a boy) makes sure the daily operations of his/her department (lighting or grips) runs smoothly, covering everything from equipment delivery to scheduling. A key grip deals with set logistics, overseeing the moving of various equipment and scenery and the set up cranes and dolly tracks.

Shawna writes: “Really? What’s the significance of that particular spot that would make actors want it?”

Answer: It stands out.

Portlandbound writes: “Do you think this is the best season overall your team has done? Is there times you could do something but can’t because of money? What’s the craziest thing an actor has done for the show to this date?”

Answers: It’s too early to tell how this season measures up against the preceding one. AT present, we only have one completed episode. If I had unlimited cash, I’d spend it on creating some truly wild alien landscapes. The craziest thing an actor has done for the show to date? Well, Chris Judge did work shirtless in the snow for an entire afternoon when he was shooting an episode of SG-1 (I believe it was Threshold). I suppose someone should have checked the weather forecast the day before.

Sander writes: “Did you adopt your pups or buy them from a breeder, and which breed do you personally think would make a good apartment dog? Do they bark alot?”

Answer: I think that pugs make pretty good apartment dogs in that the don’t require as much exercise as other breeds. However, they are EXTREMELY affectionate and do require a lot of attention so only consider a pug if you’re willing to make the time or them. They’re not excessive barkers, but my gang will bark up a storm if they hear a suspicious noise like someone knocking at the door or a dinner guest sneezing.

Lt.Col.Errandboy writes: “Noooo!! Don’t cancel September!! […] Cancel October if you must.”

Answer: No can do. My birthday is in October. Sorry.

MysterMadchen writes: “ When did you realize that you loved writing and wanted it as a career? What got you in the door? What was the first thing you had published, not in a school paper or student book, but actually sold? I’m sure you get this sort of question a lot and understand if you have no desire but since you are a writer and like to read would you be willing to read my rough draft?”

Answers: I’ve been writing since I was a kid, penning short stories as far back as second grade. I made my first professional sale to an animation studio for a show called The Busy World of Richard Scarry. My very first produced script = Patrick Pig Learns to Talk. As for reading your rough draft - I’m sorry, but I my plate is pretty full. Now that hiatus is here, I’ll be enjoying some desperately needed downtime.

Annie from Freemantle writes: “God do your pugkids get any cuter?? How many chewtoys do they own anyway???”

Answer: No enough. Lulu has been going through them very quickly of late.

Anais33 a ecrit: “Serait t’il possible d’avoir une interview du grand Joseph pour mon blog? Quand et comment?”

Answer: Il serait plus facile si je répondais à vos questions ici sur mon blog.

Translation: Rather than doing Q&A on fan blogs, it would be easier for me to simply field any questions here.

Irmo writes: “You know what sport needs changing? Needs to be more exciting? Golf.”

Answer: Make it formal wear only (tuxes), actual quicksand in the sand trap, add more alligators. Also, make the hole bigger.

Lady Dulcinea writes: “Scrapple is typically made of hog offal, such as the head, heart, liver, and other scraps, which are boiled with any bones attached (often the entire head), to make a broth. Once cooked, bones and fat are discarded, the meat is reserved, and (dry) cornmeal is boiled in the broth to make a mush. The meat, finely minced, is returned, and seasonings, typically sage, thyme, savory, and others are added. The mush is cast into loaves and allowed to cool thoroughly until gelled.”

Answer: Hmmm. This sounds a lot like something I ate at Fuel last night.

Sector24 writes: “…tonight I was watching SG-1 Season 6’s “Descent” on DVD, and I was wondering about the scene with Carter and O’Neill, trapped in the corridor when it flooded. So, since you and Paul wrote it, can you tell me, were the sets waterproof and can they be used after the water filling. Or maybe it was filmed in a pool, decorated as a Goa’uld ship’s corridors?”

Answer: The latter. We built a set and submerged it at Vancouver’s Olympic pool. So, in those scenes in which the water levels are rising - the portion of corridor is actually be lowered into the pool.

Nanook660 writes: “What is the hardest part about what you do? and How do you unwind after a hard day at the office?”

Answer: The hardest part of the job? Writing. I don’t think there’s a writer on any show who will tell you otherwise. As for how I unwind at the end of a work day = I write up my blog entry, go out for dinner, watch some t.v. with my wife and dogs, then read in bed.

Cheeky Lil Devil writes: “ I promised Brigitte I wouldn’t post some of the pics, but a couple of the Wraith queen’s chair has already been posted on the LA Times site, so would it be ok if I just posted the couple we have of those and none of the others, obviously until the eps air?”

Answer: Hey, Cheeky. It was a pleasure meeting you and Linz. Sure. Go ahead and post the chair pics. If you like, send me any pics you’d like to post (moorsyum@yahoo.com) and I’ll tell you if they’re too spoilery or not.

Eglaviel writes: “Oh and if there is a Season 6 *fingers crossed* of SGA…what are the chances of us seeing Daniel Jackson again on the show?”

Answer: If we do get a sixth season pick-up, he’s at the top of our list.

Scifan writes: “I’m not sure if you can answer this or not because of spoiler reasons, but I just saw an extended version of the SGA promo trailer. After they show Teyla giving birth, Scifi has a caption saying, “A prophet is born.” Is this one of Scifi’s bad publicity stunts or is there some truth to that?”

Answer: Are you sure it was Stargate: Atlantis? Doesn’t sound like Stargate: Atlantis.

June 17, 2008: Month of September Cancelled Due to Lack of Interest

So I was watching Euro Cup today and it got me to thinking. One of the biggest complaints I hear about soccer (occasionally a.k.a. football) is that it’s too slow-paced. Not enough points. The final scores are always Two-Nil or One-Nil or the dreaded Nil-Nil. Three goals are considered an offensive explosion. Well, I came up with a way to make soccer a little more exciting, and all it would require would be a slight adjustment to the way the game is played. Presently, the goal keeper is the only one who is allowed to use his hands to catch, trap, and throw the ball. I would like to suggest that, instead, EVERY player on the field be allowed to use their hands EXCEPT for the goal keeper. Think about it. You could transform the game into a goal-scoring bonanza overnight! Now I understand how purists might object to this relatively minor modification of long-established soccer convention, but I firmly believe that average fan would be on board. Think of the fun of watching goal keepers having to resort to headers or the bicycle kick to fend off potential scoring strikes! It would offer sports entertainment the likes of which we haven’t seen since the untimely demise of the XFL.

And, while I’m at it, here are a few more ideas to help improve the game:

1. Pack the ball with fireworks that go off every time someone scores. Presently, the players are so reserved, you would never know they got a goal.

2. In addition to the yellow warning card and red explusion card, include a blue payback card that allows an injured player to deliver a retaliatory kick to his opponent’s shins.

3. In a salute to 20^th century technology, incorporate an official game clock that tracks extra time rather than relying on some guy and his Casio.

4. Players are not permitted to shield their private areas during a free kick.

5. Immediately after a penalty kick is made, the goalie races the player who made the kick to the other end of the field. If he beats him there, then the goal is disallowed.

Thanks to everybody who has weighed in with an opinion on the whole BlackBerry vs. iPhone debate. I’m still thinking about it. It’ll either be the BlackBerry, the iPhone or, preferably if I can wait long enough for the technology to come out, a neural link.

Also, thank you to everyone who offered up suggestions on how to salvage my phone on the heels of its watery interlude. I took the best of the ideas offered and incorporated them into one fantastic plan of action that involved dismantling the phone, steaming the individual pieces in rice, then rolling the rice to form an enormous sushi cone, wrapping it in plastic, and putting it in the freezer overnight. I am hopeful that this has solved the problem and that my cell phone will once again be operational once I’ve removed the seaweed from its various components and figured out how to reassume the damn thing.

 

Today’s entry is dedicated to happy couple fishbaum and Dajaje.

Today’s pics: The dogs working on their respective tans.

Mailbag:

Mackenzie’s Momma writes: “What is the one thing you are looking forward to about this hiatus(now that its officially started)?”

Answer: I look forward to taking my mind off of work and just relaxing.

Girly_curly_3 writes: “I’m really looking forward to the start of S5 and am very sad to hear you won’t be making it to Comic Con. Do you know of any of the cast members plans to attend or not?”

Answer: They have yet to confirm the line-up, but I believe David, Rachel, Bob, and Joe are safe bets.

Erin writes: “BTW, what do u do with all the books you buy? Large personal library? friends? goodwill? ebay? give to your local library? Family?”

Answer: a) Large personal library.

Narelle from Aus writes: “How’s the holiday planning going?”

Answer: We’re making plans to visit Hong Kong and Shanghai later this year.

Majorsal writes: “I was amazed by the difference in opinion between focus groups and online fandom.” was the difference of more negative or positive opinions between the two?”

Answer: It wasn’t so much a difference between the number of positive or negative opinions as it was the different things that interested each group.

Rose writes: “Are all the extras hired in or does the director, in a pinch, call into the office to find out if someone who works there fits the costume of “villager #6″?”

Answer: All of the extras are hired during prep week, well before the episode goes to camera.

MELorne-Super-Fan writes: “I wonder if I could use one of the few pictures of Mr. Kavan Smith you did capture on the set of S&R in February or March, to create a Vector of him.”

Answer: Sure thing. Knock yourself out.

Erin writes: “1. So a lot of places I’ve been to have said Jason Momoa’s eyes are green. Is that really true??

2. I was wondering, back in season two when they pretended to blow themselves up and they “have a new adresss” how was that supposed to work? Were any allies supposed to dial some other planet to contact them, even though there wouldn’t exactly be anyone there? I don’t think I’ve missed something, but I sometimes tend to.

3. And are you a music fan?”

Answer: 1. No idea. 2. In the case of Atlantis’s allies, they would meet and/or communicate through a secondary planet. 3. Not so much.

Shannon writes: “Is it a contract thing that Michael Shanks gets his name added to the end (noticed it in Ark of Truth)?”

Answer: Like David’s similar credit at the end of the Stargate: Atlantis opening, this is a placement that the actors have negotiated.

Morjana writes: “ Have you seen this?

http://www.cepro.com/article/the_stargate_home_theater_by_visual_concepts/#When:21:57:00Z

 

Stargate Atlantis Home Theater!”

Answer: Love it!

Wraith Cake writes: “I am very careful with statistics. They can give you surprising insights or completely incorrect information—for instance, how much control do you have on how these focus groups “screen” potential volunteers—know what I mean?”

Answer: Exactly. The results of any focus group testing should be taken with a grain of salt as well.

DasNdanger writes: “ So I sought out people of like mind who wanted to rant/rave/analyze/gush about the same things that were of interest to me. Doing so has introduced me to new ideas and opinions and possibilities I would never have thought of on my own. I love the mental exercise of it all, even if there’s no real value in it.”

Answer: But I disagree. There is great value in expressing yourself through the written word, and perhaps even greater value in the friendships you’ve undoubtedly made online.

Belcouchi writes: “As you might have figured out sir I’m a student at mcgill and also co-own a wholesale business of cellular telephones in Montreal: http://www.laviecell.com “

Answer: Hey, Belcouchi, thanks for the offer.

Jade writes: “When you watch other shows, do you find yourself critiquing the writing or are you able to turn that off?”

Answer: I can’t watch a show or movie without critiquing the writing. It drives Fondy crazy.

Porlandbound writes: “Which charater would you like to read if their is a strike?”

Answer: Oh, all of them.

BlueJay writes: “…ever seen Footrot Flats or read the comics?”

Answer: I haven’t.

Stargatelvr writes: “Do you plan on reading “The Host” by Stephenie Meyer or and of the Twilight Series?”

Answer: Not familiar with either.

Sorka writes: “Have you ever had Porkroll or Scrapple?”

Answer: I’m not sure. Scrapple sounds very familiar. Was he a Jaffa?

Dovil writes: “1. Will any of the team be struck by a debilitating foot fungal infection that will test their fortitude to their very limits?
2. Will Sheppard get a date to the prom?
3. Will the Wraith and the Replicators merge to form the Wraithlicators and robot dance and life suck their way to victory?”

Answer: 1) We did this back in season four. It was cut for time. 2) Nope. He’ll have to take his cousin. 3) Sure. We’ll be looking for a dance choreographer. You busy?

David writes: “I finished grade 9 today!!!! Please wish me luck on my exams next week though!”

Answer: Good luck!

June 16, 2008: New Crabgrass and Vaseline Diet Yields Quick Results!

For some mysterious reason, my cell phone has stopped working. Despite various attempts to turn the damn thing on, it remains unresponsive. Dark. Dead. For the life of me, I can’t figure out what happened. I didn’t drop it, knock it against something, or otherwise damage it in anyway. It never left my possession so I can’t very well blame someone else for screwing with it. Outside of accidentally dropping it in a water-filled yogurt container last night, I don’t recall anything unusual happening to it.

Now I know what you’re thinking and, normally, inadvertently submerging an electronic device would be cause for alarm. But, fortunately, mine was a Stargate: Atlantis cell phone (see pic for proof). The city of Atlantis was submerged for thousands of years; my phone a mere five seconds or so. Logic dictates that couldn’t be it.

I don’t know. Maybe the battery ran out. Well, I suppose it’ll forever remain one of life’s little mysteries like Stonehenge, the true identity of Jack the Ripper, and why is Aston Kutcher famous?

This does present me with an opportunity to pick up a new phone. But the question is: What kind? Fondy loves her BlackBerry and has been pushing me to pick one up for months. Marty G., on the other hand, swears by his iPhone. These are the pros and cons of each so far as I can tell:

BLACKBERRY

Pros: Tactile keyboard allows for easier emailing, about the only thing I’ll do with the damn thing besides talk to people.

Cons: My wife’s BlackBerry occasionally drops reception - but is it the phone or the service provider that’s at fault?

IPHONE

Pros: ?

Cons: Wouldn’t you get fingerprints all over the touch screen? Not available in Canada until July 11^th.

Any opinions?

Well, my cell phone may not be working but my satellite is back up and running. All it took was the attaching of a disconnected cable, the flick of a switch, and the payment of the $75 service fee, and I was up and running. Reruns of Gossip Girl, here I come!

Today’s entry is dedicated to kilted assassin’s freshly married sister, Neko who completed her medical exams, an under the weather Alipeeps, happy early birthday to flingsglass, and Nika whose manuscript has been picked up by a publisher.

Today’s mailbag:

Tricia Anne writes: “…what are your favourite animated films of all time? I’m curious now.”

Answer: Grave of the Fireflies, Spirited Away, Ratatouille, The Incredibles, Monsters Inc., Iron Giant, Aachi & Ssipak.

Cathie writes: “Seen any good movies worth mentioning lately?”

Answer: Yep. Ratatouille. The best movie I’ve seen this year.

Portlandbound writes: “You don’t have much of a show if Joe, Jason, and David go on strike seeing how they are 3 of the main actor’s. I hope they don’t strike but is their a plan?”

Answer: You bet. In the event there is a strike, finished episodes will be replaced by footage of the writers reading/acting out their scripts. It’ll be awesome!

Thornyrose writes: “I didn’t expect the pictured book pile to last a month, but are you really going through them so fast that you need more by Wednesday?”

Answer: I certainly won’t finish the entire pile by Wednesday but, since I’ll be in the office anyway, it wouldn’t hurt to pick up some book while I’m there.

Erin writes: “I saw your pix of your stack of books to be read and my eyes saw only one there - “Inherit the Stars”. The mystery that is the beginning of that series is still so remembered in my head, that just thinking about it is making me want to scrounge through my boxes of books in my study.”

Answer: I’m reading it now. Great book. Which is the second in the series?

Paul William Tenny writes: “If I’m not mistaken, extras can’t actually say anything or they’ll have to be paid more — scripted or not. Muttering is a very apt description.”

Answer: True. As someone pointed out, the actual background conversation (a.k.a. “walla”) is supplied in post. As Paul said, it usually amounts to nothing more than indistinguishable muttering. However, there have been instances when the performers, clearly bitten by the acting bug, have offered up truly memorable lines - that we inevitably remove after the day one mix. “This has never happened before!”was one ill-advised gem delivered by someone in a crowd of villagers who had just seen Sheppard disable a wraith tracking device. Really? Never seen one of those disabled by machinegun fire? Good to know.

Wraith Cake writes: “ 1/ do you read comics/graphic novels? 2/ How much of what you write do you visualize? (I am a visual person and enjoy how Moore, for instance, will have frame after frame in his narratives with no written text 3/ How much/often do you need to collaborate with the artistic directors to flesh out a scene? 4/ Finally, when you write a story, how does it take place in your head: Do you focus on the dialogue most, the body language of the characters most or the setting the most? Or, regardless of how you intend the story, does it become an altogether different beast by the time we see it?”

Answers: 1. On occasion I do read comics/graphic novels. I’m very interested to see how my favorite graphic novel, Watchmen, turns out when it hits the big screen. 2. I visualize everything I write, from the big action sequences to a character’s small business while delivering dialogue. Of course the way I visualize a scene is just a guide and, more often than not, the final product is very different from the way I’d initially envisioned it. 3) Our directors are infinitely capable and don’t require direction from me. Occasionally, for trickier sequences, we may discuss how we want something to play out. 4) It really depends on the scene but usually, the writer‘s primary focus is on the dialogue.

Airelle writes: “ Did you read Ghost Brigade by Scalzi, if you did, is it worth getting?”

Answer: I did and, yes, it is worth it.

DasNdanger writes: “However, Ellia proved that - in the right environment - a Wraith can be different.”

Answer: Yes. This and several other instances suggest that the wraith’s arguably “evil” disposition is not genetic but shaped by their upbringing and their environment. Check out The Queen for an interesting lesson on wraith politics and diplomacy.

David writes: “ Do you tell Fondy about the script your writing? Is she a fan of Stargate, or just not interested?”

Answer: I think I answered this question. Fondy prefers Grey’s Anatomy.

LiquidSky writes: “What is a ‘bottle show’?”

Answer: A bottle show is an episode that only makes use of our standing sets. Quarantine is a good example. SG-1’s Message in a Bottle is another.

Anais33 a ecrit: “1) Que font les acteurs sur le tournage quand ils ont une pause entre deux scénes? 2)Quand avez vous l’intention de faire un voyage en Europe? 3)Connaissez vous, des bonbon qui se nome “Les bétise de Cambrai” ?”

Reponses: 1) Ils retournent à leurs remorques. 2) Je ne sais pas. 3) Non. Sont-ils bons?

Translation: 1) Between scenes, the actors go back to their trailers. 2) I have no idea when I’ll be traveling to Europe. 3) I’m not familiar with “Les bétise de Cambrai” candies. Are they any good?

Jose Sanders writes: “ Now I was wondering, would it be all right for me to print out one of your pics to have it signed?”

Answer: By all means.

Sector24 writes: “Can you tell us if you are going to be involved, and if and when Atlantis ends, would you jump to Universe, or you’ll be done with Stargate?”

Answer: At this point - no idea.

TBA writes: “Since you’re an anime fan, have you ever seen Death Note?”

Answer: Just watched the first episode this morning. An interesting start.

Sprinkles writes: “Just wondering if you ever read any more Terry Pratchett novels beyond ‘the Colour of Magic’?”

Answer: Yep. I’ve read about a half dozen. Last month, it was Small Gods.

DasNdanger also writes: “ My opinion about it is this - true, you can’t please all the fans, and only a very small percentage participate in on-line discussions. However, I think it’s fairly safe to use the internet input as a reflection of how the fanbase as a whole is reacting - taking the ‘pulse’ of the fans, as it were.”

Answer: True. I don’t think anyone should dismiss the response of online fans. But what you read on the forums must be taken with a grain of salt. As someone in that article pointed out, unhappy fans are far, far more likely to take the time to express their feelings that fans who are pleased with a show’s creative direction. Also, the opinion of fans with diverse opinions (both positive and negative) holds a lot more weight than, say, the opinions of the same dozen fans over on Gateworld who complain about anything and everything. Another interesting point is that, while online fandom is generally weighted toward the vocal minority, focus group testing seeks out a more balanced opinion. And, while I am personally not a fan of this approach, I was amazed by the difference in opinion between focus groups and online fandom.

Enzo Aquarius writes: “How have the ‘intuitive’ blog titles been affecting your views?”

Answer: They’ve actually hurt traffic a little. But they’re kind of fun so I’m sticking with ‘em.

June 15, 2008: Court Rules Entrance Exams Discriminate Against the Stupid and Lazy

“There’s a spot,”I informed Fondy as we rolled into the parking lot. I pointed. “Right there.”

“That’s the difference between you and me,”she said as we rolled by the empty space. “I’m more of an optimist. Instead of settling for a spot, I’m willing to take a chance and find something closer.”

We spent the next ten minutes creeping through the lot, stopping for foot traffic, winding our way around double-parked cars and people unloading their groceries, until, finally, we found a spot. Clear on the other side of the Costco parking lot.

“If we had parked where I’d suggested, we’d be shopping by now,”I couldn’t help but point out.

She put the car in park. “This spot is closer.”

“No it isn’t. It’s closer to the building, but we have to walk all the way around to get to the entrance. Plus, the time we spent looking for parking - “

“I prefer this spot.”

I hopped out of the car and swung around to meet her. “Really? You prefer this one? The one that’s further away.”

She threw me a look that suggested I might want to reconsider pursuing the subject. “Just go get a cart.”

So I did. I got the cart, dropped the topic, and wasted two hours of my life at Costco and Home Depot lugging top soil, a lawn chair, a seven drawer organizer cart, cucumbers, and enough toilet paper to last us through the next two apocalypses. Fortunately, I brought along a book (John Wyndham’s Chocky. So far, so brilliant. I’m a huge fan of Wyndham’s prose style.) and, while Fondy studied the lavender plants and office equipment, I stood guard by the cart, reading. I’m pleased to report I made it two-thirds of the way through the book without incident (the suspicious elderly woman who eyed our cherry tomatoes notwithstanding).

Tonight, I think we’ll follow yesterday’s lead and watch a movie. After last night’s screening, I’m inclined to agree with Carl. The wrong movie won the Oscar for best picture. Ratatouille was robbed!

With the satellite down (A repairman will be coming by anytime between 9:00 a.m. tomorrow and the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Olympics, so we have to make sure someone is home.), I’ve been dipping back into my vast anime storehouse. Lately, I’ve been watching a series called Hell Girl in which impressionable young kids summon up demonic forces via internet to wreak vengeance on bullies, cheats, and veterinarians who diss their dogs. The twist, of course, is that by cursing others, they are also banishing their own souls to Hell. Yet this decided con is often glossed over as the involved parties reason “But that’s a long way off.”. The interesting thing about the series, besides its bizarre premise, is its unapologetic treatment of countless doomed innocents. Often, it’s high school students who should know better than to consign their souls to everlasting torment over toughing it out through their senior year, but sometimes its misunderstood adults who are banished as a result of some oversight. In the episode I watched yesterday, some poor slob gets sent to Hell because a girl assumed he was responsible for her father’s death. Turns out he wasn’t but “Oh well. Take it up with Connie in Human Resources once you actually reach the underworld. And say hi to Ty Cobb for me. Sucker.”

Today’s blog is dedicated to the generous Paloosa and her CD shipment.

Today’s video: Wraith chat with Aaron and Tyler. Click on the link:

http://s230.photobucket.com/albums/ee164/BaronDestructo/?action=view¤t=Wraithonthelot.flv

 

Mailbag:

Mackenzie’s Momma writes: “Why do the Milky Way planets get designated with “P” and Pegasus Galaxy planets get designated with “M” designations?”

Answer: It’s a simple way of differentiating between planet’s in either galaxy, P for Pegasus and M for Milky Way. No. Wait.

Annie from Freemantle writes: “Do you feel confident that this season is going to clinch a spot for a season 6?”

Answer: I’m very proud of the season 5 episodes completed to date but, at the end of the day, a sixth season pick-up will depend on much more than the quality of the show. Other variables that will be taken into account include ratings, production feasibility, and bottom line economics.

Thornyrose writes: “ Do you have a secondary pile waiting in case you finish the main pile off early? […] Besides your books, do you have any plans for going to the movies, the theatre proper, or watching dvds? If so, which ones?”

Answer: Only my two days into hiatus and I suspect I may have underestimated by reading capacity. I’ll pick up some more titles on Wednesday since I’ll be dropping by the offices anyway to watch the Ghost in the Machine day one mix and the Broken Ties final mix, and begin discussions on Project Twilight.

Rose writes: “Just wondering - how business-free is your hiatus? Do you get frequent calls from sycophants and minions asking where the tape is or are you able to relax?”

Answer: Well, I will be working on that script rewrite. And directors’ cuts and mixes will inevitably find their way to my home. So, in answer to your questions - no, this hiatus will not be Stargate-free.

Bugguy writes: “They had bacon ice cream on Top Chef and most of the recipients loved it. Any chance we will see you giving this a go on your ice cream Friday?”

Answer: Where have you been, sir? Re: the bacon ice cream. I’m intrigued enough that I may just give it a go this Summer.

Gate Geek writes: “Have you ever done or know anyone who has done the Grouse Grind?”

Answer: The Grouse Grind, for those not in the know, is a 1.8 mile ascent up Grouse Mountain here in Vancouver. Quite frankly, it’s not my thing. That said, I once climbed not one but two stairwells to reach Szechuan Chongqing Seafood Restaurant on West Broadway. Close enough.

JoanielovesChachi writes: “Will Mitch Pilleggi be in Season 5?”

Answer: Yep. Watch for Mitch in the season premiere and mid-season two-parter.

Enzo Aquarius writes: “What is that dish in the first picture?”

Answer: Tea-smoked duck from Northern Delicacy in Richmond.

Enzo Aquarius also writes: “Judging by the cut McKay “I said good day, sir” line, I surmise this was a scene where McKay talks back to somebody? […] Heck, if it was between Zelenka and McKay, I would’ve made McKay say it then.”

Answer: It was. And it was meant to be sarcastic.

David writes: “Do you usually get “special treatment” or privilages due to your job?”

Answer: I get to okay the 100^th Anniversary cake. Other than that, not really.

Leila writes: “Why can’t the puddle jumpers go through the Gate cloaked?”

Answer: The physics of the cloak won’t allow it to re-molecularize once it exits the gate.

LibKat writes: “In one of the season 10 commentaries you mention that you are a ’shipper and list Jack/Sam, Daniel/Vala and Mitchell/Landry. Did you mean Mitchell/Lam or is there a hidden slasher somewhere?”

Answer: Did you see SG-1’s Uninvited? Those two carried on like an old married couple!

Boston writes: “Have you ever gotten a note on one of your scripts from a fellow writer that you’ve simply ignored or strongly disagreed with?”

Answer: There have been times when I’ve disagreed with a note and have argued the point or tried to address the point in a way that would prove satisfactory to both parties. This is usually easier to do when it’s just a single voice in the room and you have other writers backing you up. When it’s a consensus note, that’s a lot harder to do.

DisplacedDanny writes: “1) If the Ancients created ring platforms, why have we not seen any Pegasus?

2) En terme de ville, est-ce que Montréal te manque?”

Answer: 1) That’s a good question and one that has engendered much discussion in the writer’s room. Ideally, we’d love to address it in an Ancient-focused episode. Maybe in season six. 2) Des fois.

Caitlyanna writes: “I’m just starting to get into Science Fiction novels, but what do you think would be a good one to really get me into the genre?”

Answer: I’d check out either The Android’s Dream, Old Man’s War, or Ender’s Game.

Luis811 writes: “When the main actors are reading their lines while filming the extras you see in the background are also engaed in conversation are they actually reading lines from script or are they just mumbling.”

Answer: Their lines are scripted. What they’re muttering is anyone’s guess. I suspect they’re usually discussing that week’s episode of Lost.

Platschu writes: “1. What will happen, if the SAG strike begins in July? Can you finish season 5 as you planned?

2. The new hostile race will return in the second half or will they be only in the mid season two parter?

3. Which TV actor or actress would you like to see as the leading star in Universe? Are there any plans to call somebody for Universe or will you choose from those, who goes to the casting?

4. Are you satisfied with season 5? If you have to give points to the episodes, than how much will you give? Which is the best?

5. Do you plan a bigger advertisement campaign for season 5 on TV channels / newpapers / electronic media? There is less than a month, but I could see only some short article about the season on scifi.com. When will we get a longer promo or pictures about the team?

6. An 1,2-1,4 average rating would be enough for SciFi to order season 5? “

Answers: 1) Without Joe, David, and Jason? 2) TBD 3) I have no preference. 4) So far - yes, very much so. 5) I have nothing to do with the show’s official promotion. It is up to MGM and SciFi how they wish to promote the series. 6) As I stated above, there are a number of factors that will figure into the decision.

Sarcasmo writes: “How is it a criticism of an episode when I’m not even talking about that?”

Answer: Sure you are. This is all about the Whispers casting and how, in your less-than-humble opinion, it was all about hiring a bunch of hot women (apparently confirmed, in your myopic view, by an off-hand quip made before the script was even written). I find it kind of ironic that you’re passing judgment on these four women based solely on appearances. You’ll be infinitely disappointed once the episode airs and they prove to be infinitely capable. But, like I said in my previous response, I’m sure that, by that time, you’ll have moved on to find something else to complain about, oh Cranky One.

Crazymom writes: “Have you ever had a guest actor on the show who turned out to be far worse than you expected? (not asking for names). Or just a huge pain and not worth their talent?”

Answer: Over the course of my nine years on Stargate, there have been actors we have hired who have disappointed both in front of and behind the camera. I’m sure it’s no different than any other show.

Shiny writes: “Seriously, how naughty is Martin’s YPF movie on a scale where Enchanted is a 1 and Shortbus is a 10? Is it just the title that folks are objecting too?”

Answer: I’d say YPF is a 6 on the Naughty Scale. Yes, the government had a knee-jerk reaction to the title and now they’re looking awfully foolish. Sarcasmo, take note.

Gina writes: “If SAG goes on strike you wont be affected in Canada will you?”

Answer: We certainly will.

June 14, 2008: Archdiocese Spearheads Campaign for Itinerant Hamsters

 

Last night, I went from the living room couch to a mattress on the floor of my home theater which was the equivalent to being upgraded from a room in a Motel 6 to a room in a Motel 6 with a black-out screen. A little more comfortable, yes, and I did get to sleep in past sunrise. The dogs seemed to prefer the new sleeping arrangement as it allowed them to saunter across my stomach and face at all hours of the night without the hassles of having to jump or scramble onto something first.

Since I did get a good night’s sleep, I had plenty of energy for sitting out on the front steps all afternoon. I rewrote the tease of Remnants (adding Dr. Kiang as per Martin’s suggestion and replacing the tree limb after Rob warned me it wouldn’t work) and made some changes to the first act (I addressed Paul’s note by including an early time-cut, lost McKay’s “I said good day, sir.” because Martin didn’t like it, included Zelenka in the control room scene as per everyone’s request, and changed the final beat to avoid repeating a visual from Broken Ties). I also did some reading..  I’m halfway through John Varley’s The Opiuichi Hotline, an incredibly enjoyable SF novel. If the second half of the book is as strong as the first, it’ll be making my SF Top 10 along the likes of Old Man’s War, Consider Phlebas, and Ender’s Game. Hopefully the rest of my Summer reading list proves equally brilliant and engrossing.

As promised, I’m dedicating this blog entry to my long-neglected mailbag. Alas, I wasn’t able to get through all of the questions and comments I wanted to address, so I’ll see if I can pick up where I left off in tomorrow’s entry.

I’m also woefully behind in my dedications so today’s entry is dedicated to: 1) All of the fans who traveled to DFW to see our favorite Scotsman only to have the con canceled, 2) Narelle’s dinged car.

Cheeky Lil Devil writes: “Contrary to popular belief Mr M is just a big softie as the picture below proves.”

Answer: As opposed to the picture taken right after it that shows me lifting both of your wallets.

Prospero writes: “Can you tell us anything about what Project Twilight is??”

Answer: Nope. It’s Top Secret.

Belouchi writes: “1. When do you think (the earliest possible) we will know of the sixth season pick up.
2. Any new earth ships in the near future?
3. So far Remnants, the eppy you are writing, can be classified under what type of episode? For example: Sateda=action packed, BAMSR=Best special effects, First Strike=Suspenseful, Doppleganger=unique and frightful…..”

Answers: 1. Some time between mid-September and mid- November. 2. Nope. 3. Suspenseful, character-driven.

Marion writes: “Also, how come everytime you come on set I’m busy shushing down the extras or on radio dealing with an emergency ?!”

Answer: Next time I swing by, do introduce yourself.

LibKat writes: “Was Ba’al’s knife of “great sentimental value” because it was one he used on O’Neill in Abyss?”

Answer: It was simply Baal’s weak attempt to save his weapon.

AMZ writes: “From what I can tell visual effects companies and people are often closely connected, but I’m wondering if you have any idea how far this extends? See, I was watching a recent episode of Doctor Who, and the visual effects of a giant library complex looked incredibly similar to the city in Stargate: Atlantis.”

Answer: I believe it’s just coincidental. We have an in-house visual effects department and also make use of local vendors. Dr. Who is shot in the U.K. and I suspect they use local vendors (or an in-house department) as well.

Mrs.B108 writes: “Do Sheppard and Teyla have any personal obstacles between them this year?”

Answer: A certain issue will be addressed in Broken Ties.

Maren Sievert writes: “My question was, whether you’re supporting Italy during the soccer’s european Championship and if so what do think of theirgames so far.”

Answer: I, of course, support Italy in in both European Championship and World Cup play. So far, not so good.

Jenny Robin writes: “…still awaiting tasty tasty ice cream recipes.”

Answer: Baron Destructo and Cookie Monster will be swinging by in the coming days to offer up their favorite ice cream recipes.

Tango writes: “What is a “beat”?”

Answer: A beat is a step or dramatic development in a given script or story. When we break an episode, we divide the story into a teaser and five acts, then come up with scenes (on average 4-5) for each act. Each scene can have anywhere from one to “numerous” beats ranging from “McKay discovers something” to “McKay discovers something”, “Sheppard comes in to check on his progress and gets the update”, “Sheppard decides to launch the attack”.

Dovil writes: “The fact that you’ve decided not to go with that means that I’m going to flounce off right this second to start up a new thread at Gateworld entitled: ‘Death of Urinal Cake: Are the Writers Mad?!’.”

Answer: Fear not. If we get a sixth season pick-up, Urinal Cake will be back in the mix - along with Hexed, The “Replacements episode, and the episode in which Atlantis is stricken with a uncontrollable fever…Dance Fever!

My Name Is Scott writes: “A recent Gateworld news tidbit spoke of Stargate Universe, and how it may or may not trigger the end of Stargate Atlantis. If the problem is stretching out the writing staff, couldn’t new writers be brought on board instead of doubling the work load for the exiting writers?”

Answer: If both shows received a greenlight for next year, then we certainly would have to hire new writers.

Sarcasmo writes: ““Whispers” is a bunch of hot chicks with Paul McGillion and Joe Flanigan. Which originally I heard, when they first started the season, they’re like, “Oh, yeah! It’s going to be a great episode. It’s you, Joe Flanigan, and all these hot chicks!”Man, I love being right.”

Answer: Up until the episode airs of course at which point you’ll be wrong but, by that point, I’m sure you’ll have moved on to criticize other episodes you have yet to watch.

Leesa writes: “As a writer/executive producer, which do you prefer? I guess in an ideal world you’d like all the episodes to come in on time, but in this less than perfect world do you prefer longer or shorter?”

Answer: Most episodes run long and are edited down to time. Any sane writer-producer will tell you they prefer an episode run long rather than short. In the case of the former, it’s simply a matter of tightening up the episode or, at worst, losing some beats. In the case of the latter, you’re more often than not padding.

SkyPig writes: “Do Connor Trineer and other Wraith actors have to ADR all of their dialogue?”

Answer: Yes, those teeth can be a problem. Occasionally, we have actors come in for ADR. We also treat the wraith voices for added unearthliness.

Slian Martreb writes: “Now. If the nanites allow someone who has passed through the ‘gate to understand the spoken and written word of another culture/world/etc, then why do Daniel and Elizabeth have such a hard time doing translations?”

Answer: Again, this is my unofficial theory, but the nanites allow one to understand another’s language and be understood in turn, but this only applies to most verbal communication.