Stargate Universe - Joseph Mallozzi's Blog: Questions for Louis Ferreria (Col. Everett Young)?

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for June 18, 2010:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update and to view the new photos.)

Finally! Office Pics! Yet Another Guest Blogger Announcement! And the Mailbag!

What a difference an idea makes. I’d been spinning my wheels on my latest story, trying to find that elusive through-line that would tie all its narrative elements together – and then, yesterday, I found it. Or, more appropriately, it was presented to me by fellow Exec. Producer Brad Wright. And, just like that, the pieces of the puzzle finally fell into place. Well, more or less. I’m still missing some corner pieces and portions of the sky on the upper left, but I’m in much better shape. Today, I put together a preliminary beat sheet which I’ve started to flesh out. I aim to have a reading document ready for early next week. Have to say, I am very excited about this episode – probably more excited than I’ve been for an episode since Atlantis season 5′s Remnants...

Okay, looks like the guest bloggers are coming up fast and furious. I’ve collected your questions for Jennifer Spence and will be sending them her way this weekend. Next up...



The lovely Louis Ferreira, SGU’s Colonel Everett Young, is looking forward to hearing from you. If you’ve got questions and comments for Destiny’s commander, start posting!


Mailbag:



Heather writes: “In my favorite episode “Faith” TJ goes to a river where there is a waterfall. Can you tell me the name of that waterfall?”

Answer: I don’t know whether the waterfall has an actual name, but I do know that it’s located in Widgeon Park, where the episode was shot. According to Carl [Binder], who produced the episode, the waterfall required a bit of a trek to get to – and Alaina, pregnant at the time, was a trooper throughout, making the hike there and back without a peep of protest. Also according to Carl, there are plenty of park rangers in the area who could probably point you in the right direction. Or recover your body if you wander off the trail and happen to encounter one of the many bears that frequent the area.

crayonbaby writes: “Peter DeLuise is back?! Directing possibly?”

Answer: Directing definitely. Episode #11: Deliverance...

Stargate Universe - Joseph Mallozzi's Blog: Assorted SGU Tidbits!

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for March 23, 2010:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update and to view the SGU production artwork from 'Life.')

Assorted SGU Tidbits! Feeling (King) Crabby! And Somewhat Pig-Headed!

This morning, I met the positively delightful actress who’ll be playing the role of Ginn in season 2. Loved her in Mad Men. Apparently, she’s already worked in Vancouver (most recently on Supernatural), loves the city, and already has plans to hit some of her favorite food spots. After her wardrobe fitting and a visit to hair and make-up of course.

[Could that actress be Sarah Drew? She guest starred in Mad Men, and filmed Supernatural's 'Swap Meat' in January '10 ... or Julie McNiven who also was in Mad Men and portrayed Anna the Angel in Supernatural?]

At lunch today, Paul [Mullie] pointed out that we have a lot of “horse television” experience on the SGU writing staff. Brad [Wright] got his start on Black Stallion, Remi [Aubuchon] and Linda [McGibney] worked on Wildfire, while Carl [Binder] also worked on Black Stallion in addition to spending a few seasons on the equine-friendly set of Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. So why, may I ask, hasn’t anyone come up with a good horse-based episode yet? Great question that I, being more of a cartoon jungle animal guy, am unable to answer...

A peek at the Art Department Package for SGU’s 9th episode, Life…

Stargate / Sanctuary - SciFi Magazine Feb 2010 - Tapping/Dunne Interview

From the NEW issue of SciFi Magazine for February 2010:

(You may order the magazine at the link above. However, please note the information for the previous issue is still up at the site.)



From TV IN Focus: page 14

SANCTUARY

As the Season 2 continues 'you're going to see a lot of changes in terms of the interpersonal relationships," says executive producer/actress/director Amanda Tapping. We're also going to see Tapping, who's wearing three hats these days, direct an episode called 'Veritas.' [NOTE: Airs this Friday at 10pm on SyFy [US].)

She chose that specific episode because "I was directing and very stressed out. There was very little acting required for that which was good. So it was in some ways easier, but it is very much a Will story. It is a 'who done it' essentially. Magnus is accused of murder and it's Will's job to try to prove her innocent," says Tapping.

"It was me working with Robin and I'm really proud of it. I don't usually toot my own horn very loudly because I can always find fault, but this episode looks really cool. There's some great shots and the performances are wonderful and it's a really interesting, succinct little story. Alan McCullough wrote it and it's a nice little bottle show. It's a really great story."

After that there's an episode she compares to last season's powerful submarine episode, 'Requiem.' "'Next Tuesday' is an episode that's all about Will and Magnus. It's a Damian [Kindler] and Martin [Wood] figure out how to torture Robin and Amanda episode. We end up in the bore well of an abandoned oil rig in a helicopter that's crashed and that's how it starts."

According to Tapping, director Wood "shoots stuff like that as a play. He shoots the scenes in sequence and so from an acting perspective, it's a physical challenge, but also the emotional challenge of doing 12 pages of play every day. As hard as it is, it's also one of the most rewarding. So I think 'Next Tuesday' stands out just as an amazing challenge.

And in December, in 'Penance,' a familiar face will pop up. Michael Shanks, who co-starred with Tapping for 10 years in Stargate SG-1 as Daniel Jackson, will take on the role of character named Jimmy.

****

TV IN FOCUS: PAGE 18

SGU: STARGATE UNIVERSE

"It really is more realistic show. As soon as you abandon things like aliens that look like humans and speak English, you can into darker places and more character-driver stories," says executive producer Brad Wright.

With Universe headed for a big hiatus, there will be a big cliffhanger to keep us warm and cozy until its return in spring.

Episode 9 is called 'Life,' and it's exactly that," says Wright. "It is what life is like on Destiny and it's written by Carl Binder. It is a wonderful character piece that looks in to the lives of lots of our characters. Scott brings them all together, brings the stories together, to portray the shared experience of life aboard Destiny. It's really, really quite moving and touches a lot of the characters on the show. One of my favorite episodes of the first 10. In fact, I love the first 10 episodes (laughs)."

The 10th episode, 'Justice,' offers that big cliffhanger. "Something happens aboard the Destiny that puts Young's leadership in question," he says. "We just saw the final mix on that episode. It's so good ... There's some pretty big events in that episode that makes you go, 'Oh, my God' What the hell are they going to do?' I think where we go with it is also very intriguing. We're also coming to some big episodes in the spring."

Wrights says we'll see some familiar faces in Universe's future. "Richard Dean Anderson will return, Michael Shanks will return, Amanda Tapping returns. We want to remind the audience that this is still Stargate and they're all still part of the Stargate universe. There is an SG=1 out there doing their thing and Jack O'Neill is still in charge of Home World Command even though the series is not on anymore."

****

TV ON DVD - page 22

STARGATE ATLANTIS - FANS CHOICE BLU-RAY DISC B

The latest in a flurry of recent Stargate releases, this Blu-ray disc contains the episodes chosen by fans for this particular release. Fans also helped design and choose the cover art. The featured episodes are the start of the five-year journey (in the form of a feature-length pilot), and the version of series finale, 'Enemy at the Gate.' Never mind the poetic convenience of having the first and last episodes of Atlantis in once place, MGM says that this is the only Stargate Atlantis release for Blu-ray, which means this will be the only to get Atlantis with high-def picture and sound. (MGM Home Entertainment, $29.99)


****

Plus articles on:

James Cameron's 'Avatar'
Peter Jackson's 'The Lovely Bones'
Denzel Washington in 'The Book of Eli'
'Flash Forward'
brief 'V' cast interviews - Joel Gretsch, Morena Baccarin, Scott Wolf, Morris Chestnut, Laura Vandervoort
Mark Strong interview (appearing in Guy Ritchie's 'Sherlock Holmes' and Ridley Scott's 'Robin Hood')
Set visit to 'Legion'
Mark Valley 'Human Target' interview
Eliza Dushku 'Dollhouse' interview
Allesandra Torresani 'Caprica' interview

And beginning on page 64, a two page interview with Sanctuary's Amanda Tapping and Robin Dunne.

Stargate Atlantis / Sanctuary - 2009 Leo Awards - SGA Wins Best Dramatic Series!

Recent updates from Carl Binder's Twitter site include:

Leo awards tonight. Loooooong ceremony. But congrats to Brad and Rob... and Atlantis for winning best series (among several other wins).



~~**~~**

Sanctuary - Ryan Robbins Wins Best Guest Performance for 'Edward'

From the Ryan Robbins Live Journal site:

Leo Awards 2009

I received a text message from Ryan to say that he won a Leo Award for Sanctuary.

~~**~~**

Stargate Atlantis received 16 nominations, Stargate: Continuum 11 nominations and Sanctuary 10 nominations from the 2009 Leo Awards. More updates as they become available.

~~**~~**

EDIT: Update at 2:41am:

At the Province (Vancouver, BC, Canada):

(Please follow the link for the complete article.)

Sci-fi projects roar at Leo Awards

By Glen Schaefer, The Province

May 10, 2009

B.C.'s sci-fi productions were big winners at this weekend's annual Leo Awards for B.C.-made film and television.

Named best TV series was Stargate: Atlantis, which won a total of nine awards for its fifth and final season.

In addition to the prizes handed out Friday and Saturday night at the Bayshore Hotel, Stargate producers Brad Wright and Robert Cooper were earlier named winners of the lifetime achievement award, as was veteran stuntman Jacob Rupp.

As well, the made-for-TV movie Stargate: Continuum, based on the original Stargate: SG-1 TV series, won three prizes in the feature film category.

Also among sci-fi winners was the new TV series Sanctuary, a gothic-themed show starring former Stargate: SG-1 lead Amanda Tapping as an immortal from Victorian England doing battle with modern-day monsters. The show won acting awards for Tapping as well as guest stars Ryan Robbins and Gabrielle Rose. Sanctuary also won the prize for best makeup.

... Lead acting awards went to Michael Shanks of Stargate: Continuum and Babz Chula of the low-budget relationship comedy Mothers&Daughters (currently in theatres -- a refreshing thing to be able to say about any B.C.-made feature)....

~~**~~**

A live journal account backstage at the Leo Awards, complete with photos of Amanda Tapping, Michael Shanks, Christopher Heyerdahl, Ryan Robbins, Dan Payne, Lexa Doig, Damian Kindler and Robin Dunne.

~~**~~**

At the Vancouver Sun (Vancouver, BC, Canada):

(Please follow the link for the complete article.)

Leo roars for Stargate empire

By Peter Birnie
VANCOUVER SUN
May 10, 2009

... On the television side, Stargate Atlantis swept the top honours. In addition to capturing Best Program, the popular series also took Leos for best direction (Robert Cooper for the episode titled Vegas), best screenwriting (Alan McCullough for The Queen) and cinematography (Michael Blundell for Vegas).

“We did pretty good, we’re pretty happy with our showing,” said producer Brad Wright. “Our cast and our crew for Atlantis is among the best I’ve ever had an opportunity to work with. We were too flummoxed to say that on stage last night. We were shocked. We’re used to going to award shows and hearing other shows names being called. I guess last night was our night.”

Not only did Stargate Atlantis also win a slew of the technical awards, presented on Friday evening, but producers Brad Wright and Robert Cooper were honoured with an outstanding achievement award for the entire Stargate franchise.

Vancouver’s film and TV community has enjoyed tremendous benefits from this sci-fi monolith, which started (after the initial movie) with Stargate SG-1, includes two direct-to-DVD movies (Stargate SG-1: The Arc of Truth and Stargate Continuum) and carries on after Stargate Atlantis with the latest offshoot, a TV series titled Stargate Universe, which debuts in the autumn.

The icing on the cake for the Stargate team came in the feature-length category, as Stargate Continuum also captured Leos for Michael Shanks (lead actor) and Brad Wright (screenwriting).

... The Leo Awards were first presented in 1999.

~~**~~**

At Georgia Straight (Vancouver, BC, Canada):

(Please follow the link for the complete article.)

Corner Gas, Stargate, Babz Chula win at B.C.'s Leo Awards

By Craig Takeuchi

B.C.’s celebrities and talent turned out in droves to converge at the Westin Bayshore this weekend for the Leo Awards, a two-day award ceremony for B.C.’s film and television industry.

While technical awards were given out on Friday (May 8) at the Celebration Awards, acting and directing awards were bestowed on Saturday (May 9) at the Gala Awards.

... Gabrielle Rose (Mothers&Daughters) won best guest performance by a female for her appearance on Sanctuary...

Rose’s Mothers&Daughters costar Babz Chula won the best lead performance by a female, and later presented the best director award for feature length drama. The competitors for this award—which included David Wu (Iron Road), Gary Harvey (Playing For Keeps), Martin Wood (Stargate Continuum), and Charles Martin Smith (Stone of Destiny)—drew some of the loudest cheers of the night.

Ultimately, it went to Anne Wheeler for Living Out Loud, about a woman diagnosed with breast cancer (Chula also starred in the film). [Michael Shanks also co-starred in this movie with Gail O'Grady.]

Being Erica star Erin Karpluk presented the best lead in a dramatic series awards. Best male went to Tyler Labine for Reaper (VIFF–goers may have seen his performance in the computer sex comedy Control Alt Delete, which may have a theatrical run later this year) while best female went to Amanda Tapping for Sanctuary.

Michael Shanks won best lead performance by a male in a feature length drama for Stargate Continuum (which had 11 nominations) and Stargate Altantis (16 nominations) won best dramatic series (beating Reaper and Smallville). The Stargate creators Robert C. Cooper and Brad Wright received outstanding achievement awards for their work on the Stargate franchise...

~~**~~**

Courtesy of Debgirl's Twitter Site:

http://twitpic.com/4yqx6 - Stargate Continuum & Stargate Atlantis swept the Leo Awards! Brad [Wright] & Amanda [Tapping] were all smiles.

Stargate Universe - Joseph Mallozzi's Blog Update - Icarus Base Photos!

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for May 3 '09:

(Please follow the link to view ALL the NEW behind-the-scenes photos of the SGU Icaraus Base in their original format.)

May 3, 2009: Transforming Stage 5 From Stargate Command to Icarus Base



Follow Carl down the new-look corridor on Stage 5. Hang a left, up the stairs, and you’re in the control room.

Back in early February, Carl [Binder] and I wandered down to Stage 5 to check out the work in progress. After 11+ years as Stargate Command - gate room, control room, briefing room, and General’s office - it was finally undergoing a complete transformation. The control room and gate room, once separated by fictional wall, glass, and sliding blast doors, was now an open expanse, a metal walkway running from the nerve center directly through the gate. The surrounding corridors and control room had been given a new paint treatment, with touches of protruding rock suggestive of a rough and recent off-world construction. The upstairs briefing room had been emptied of its SGC trappings. Gone was that old table that served us well for countless years, chipped and scratched in so many places that directors were forced to choose their camera angles judiciously. The vast window that once looked down on the gate had been walled up. In a few short days, it would be a dining area. And, a month after that, the headquarters of Homeworld Command.

I was admittedly wistful. After all, I’d written for those standing sets for seven great years and, suddenly, they were gone. But eventually, as the new sets took shape, that initial melancholy gave way to excitement at the prospect of the upcoming Stargate: Universe series and the third SG-1 movie. Over the course of the next few weeks, the sets were finished and, as impressive as they were on those casual strolls, they were ten times more impressive once properly lit and engaged. And then ten times more impressive than that when we first saw them in dailies.

For now, I leave you with pics of the early stages of construction, Stargate Extreme Home Makeover - Phase 1.…



The bay window view down to the gate room is re-imagined.

Stargate: Universe - Joseph Mallozzi's Blog - Production Updates Apr 23 '09

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for April 23, 2009:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update.)



April 23, 2009: It’s Like That Episode Of SG-1 Where The Team Has To Introduce A Foreign Element Into the Sun Of Another Planet In Order To Save The World’s Inhabitants Except That Instead Of “The Team” It’s “Me” And Instead of “Introducing A Foreign Element Into A Sun” It’s “Making This Entry” And Instead Of “Save The World’s Inhabitants” It’s “Entertain The Readers Of This Blog”. Oh, And A Production Update.

... Will Waring is directing Brian J. Smith (Lt. Scott) and Justin Louis (Col. Young) over on Stage 2 (set codename: Hoth).

Director Andy Mikita is over on Stage 4 taking a wandering camera tour of the Destiny set.

Robert Cooper is working on his producer’s cut of Earth and is awaiting notes on his brilliant script for Time as his prep week approaches.

Brad Wright shifts gears after putting out both Darkness and Light, looking to hammer down the story for episode 13.

My writing partner Paul [Mullie] continues work on Divided. According to him, there’s a lot of story and he fears the script may go long. Which would be par for the course.

Carl Binder will be assuming revision duties on Faith, episode 12.

Oh, and I found the time to do another pass on that Atlantis movie script. I wanted to have another go at the Beckett-Teyla scene but was sidetracked by a new script, an impromptu writer’s meeting, lunch (priorities, yes?), and an all new, all tight producer’s cut of Air I and II. That Destiny is a mighty cool-looking ship.

Finally, a reminder to Producer John G. Lenic, who has been with the franchise since The Children of the Gods pilot, will be taking your questions, so if you want to ask him anything about his 10 years on SG-1, 5 years on Atlantis, 2 SG-1 movies, or his time on Universe, start posting…

Stargate: Universe - Joseph Mallozzi's Blog Update Apr 21 '09

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for April 21, 2009:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update.)



April 21, 2009: Advice and Observation Cookies, In Life We Are All Winners (Although Some Of Us Are Clearly Bigger Winners Than Others), More Scripts On Deck, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots on Hoth.


... Hey, I read the first draft of Time yesterday (Rob apparently wrote it during his free time driving to and from work every day) and it is brilliant. Now “brilliant” is a word I tend to reserve for works of supreme magnificence like Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” or my Aunt Fannie’s Russian Teacakes, but it applies here to a script that is, without a doubt, the very best of its kind. It’s delightfully intricate and thoroughly engaging, full of surprising twists and heart-rending character moments.

And speaking of character moments - today, I read Brad’s finished version of Darkness and Light. This one has got me very excited as well, particularly for the remained climactic sequence.

After lunch, Carl, Paul, Lawren, and I headed over to the set in Stage 2 or what I’m referring to as Hoth. Brian and Justin regaled us with their interpretation of Rock ’Em Sock ’Em Robots after which we chatted until the airborne particulates threatened to choke off my airway, forcing me back out - but not before marveling over Brian’s commitment to learning everything he can about the production process. Not only does he hang around set to watch them shoot scenes he isn’t even in but, the other day, he actually accompanied Carl and co. on a location survey! Not only does this kid have a terrific attitude - polite, humble, hardworking - but he’s a fantastic actor as well. Since nobody’s perfect, I fully expect to eventually find out he’s a robot or an alien doing an all-too-good impersonation of a human life form - but hopefully that won’t happen until the end of season one at the earliest.

Stargate: Universe / Stargate Atlantis - John Scalzi and Questions for Actor Mike Dopud?

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for January 14, 2009:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update. NEW photos at the site, including a photo of the "Stage 4" sign where the Destiny will be docked.)



John Scalzi


January 14, 2009: Scalzi and Stargate, Together At Last

Back in 2006, I read a novel that totally blew me away and single-handedly revived my passion for literary SF: Old Man’s War by author John Scalzi. It was smart, humorous, and unbelievably entertaining. So entertaining, in fact, that I ended up recommending it to anyone and everyone - friends, fans, and family alike. And their responses were equally enthusiastic. I picked up the second and third book in the series, The Ghost Brigades and The Last Colony, and enjoyed them so much that I made another Scalzi novel, The Android’s Dream, a Book of the Month Club selection on this very blog (for this stragglers who’d yet to discover the man). And today, it gives me great pleasure to (finally) welcome John Scalzi to the Stargate: Universe production as its new Creative Consultant.



Brad Wright and John Scalzi

Now what, you may ask, does a Creative Consultant do? Well, allow me to inform, clarify, and put some rumors to rest…

1. Does a Creative Consultant provide commentary on scripts in development?

Yes, the Creative Consultant reads outlines and scripts, helping to creatively shape a future episode by providing insightful input along the lines of “The color of alien plant life is dependent upon things like atmospheric chemistry, and the proximity and brightness of the star the planet happens to be orbiting!” or “Uh, James can’t be the one who saves Young. You killed her off back in episode three.”

2. Does a Creative Consultant write scripts?

It’s theoretically possible, yes. If he’s got the time, a good idea, and the inclination - why the hell not? So long as it’s understood that I’ve already called dibs on any potential future storylines involving smart-aleck robots, telepathic dogs (the beauty is that, from a visual effects standpoint, their lips never have to move), or ending with the audience realization that the episode they just watched was actually a story being read to Jelly (the ship’s telepathic canine mascot) by Anne D. Roid (the Destiny’s sassy robot caretaker).

3. If a Creative Consultant has a problem with the script, is he/she allowed to physically punish the writer?

Alas, gone are the days when studio executives could march into the production offices unannounced and kick a writer for such transgressions as contrived plotting, wooden dialogue, or liberal use of the Canadian spelling of color (“colour“). Today, as unfair as it sounds, you must have a pretty good reason to kick a writer. A weak third act break or the shoddy job he did waxing your car just won‘t cut it anymore. State labor laws and the inroads made by the WGA in recent years have all but eliminated the physical abuse of writers, except under the following circumstances:

Writer misses a script deadline = A warning for the first offense and pinky twist for the second offense (note: while the bestowing of extreme discomfort or the eliciting of plaintive cries and tears is permissible, fractures and dislocation are not. Note: Sprains are a bit of grey area open to debate.).

Writer’s script is short = Unlike a long script which can be sent back for editing, any work the writer does to a short script will amount to either the padding out of existing material or the addition of superfluous scenes. On such occasions, it is permissible for the producer to administer one paper cut to any area of the writer’s body (excluding the eye and genital area. Note: This particular clause being an annoying antiquated holdover from the old Geneva Convention.) for every page the writer is short (assuming the average page count).

Writer fails to bring back everyone’s lunch order in a timely manner = Another area open to debate: What constitutes “a timely manner”? Well, a recent agreement between the WGA and the AMPTP defines “a timely manner” as: “An interval of time up to general grumbling but not to exceed the moment at which a producer must trek to the kitchen in search of a handful of nuts to tide him over”. In this instant, it IS permissible to strike the writer BUT ONLY WITH AN OPEN FIST (closed-fist strikes are reserved for actual screw-ups with the lunch orders - ie. A failure to ensure there is, in fact, mayo on your burger.).

Writer produces a script that necessitates a full rewrite on the part of the producer = Punishable by one kick, a head butt, or two swirlies to take place at a mutually agreed upon toilet. (On the bright side, should the rewrite succeed, the fact that the writer’s name remains on the finished product will undoubtedly win him/her the accolades of many a fan who simply don’t know any better.).



Writer/Producer Carl Binder and Art Director/Production Designer James Robbins

4. Does the Creative Consultant get an office and a parking space?

Since Creative Consultants tend to be involved in a more infrequent manner, contributing whenever a script or outline is delivered as opposed to being a part of a production’s day-to-day operations, they are generally not afforded the luxury of their own office. Nor are they given their own parking space although, on occasions they do visit the offices, their on-screen credit ensures they must submit to only the most minimal of cavity searches prior to gaining admittance to the lot.

5. How much does a Creative Consultant get paid?

Numerous factors come into play here: background, experience, size of the production, workload. These factors are carefully weighed and, after some discussion, both the production and Creative Consultant agree on a reasonable rate - to be paid in World of Warcraft currency (note: John, please check the fine print in your contract).

Hope that answers some of your questions.

Anyway, John came by the production offices yesterday. We sat all sat around and discussed the show and the Air three-parter, took a stroll down to Stages 4 and 5 to tour the in-progress Universe sets, discussed John’s involvement in the production and, finally, moved on to the most important part of his visit: Dinner at Fuel.

... Finally - I was walking by the kitchen yesterday and ran into actor Mike Dopud who played Colonel Chernovshev in SG-1’s Full Alert, Odai Ventrell in SG-1’s Bounty, and Kiryk in Atlantis’s Tracker (see last season, editor). He was in the office, awaiting a copy of Tracker, so I seized the opportunity to invite him to do a fan Q&A on this blog (ie. “Hey, Mike, I’m not sure if you’re aware but the terms of your contract require you to do an online question and answer session on a blog of the producer’s choosing…”). Anyway, Mike contacted me this morning to tell me he’d be happy to swing by. So, if you’ve got questions for this former pro athlete turned stuntman turned talented actor, start posting.

~~**~~**

Stargate: Universe, starring Robert Carlyle, is set to premiere this summer on the SciFi Channel (US).

Joseph Mallozzi's blog

GateWorld's Stargate: Universe section

John Scalzi:

Web site

Blog

Books (at Amazon.com)

John Scalzi Books

Stargate - Brad Wright Answers Your Questions

At Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for January 2, 2009:

(Please follow the link for the complete LENGTHY blog update. Photos of Brad, Paul Mullie, Martin Wood and Carl Binder [and more] at the site.)



January 2, 2009: Brad Wright Answers Your Questions

Today, rather than regale you with an elaborate account of how my mother made me apply her hairdryer to the sliding back door in an effort to melt the ice that had frozen it shut so that she could clear the kitchen of hot pepper fumes and oil, I'm turning this entry over
to Brad Wright and his long-awaited Q&A session.

Now those of you who only come here for my hilarious responses to email spam and cute doggy pics could be excused for not knowing that Brad Wright co-created Stargate: SG-1, Stargate: Atlantis, and the upcoming Stargate: Universe, has acted as an Executive Producer and Showrunner on all three, written a mind-staggering number of episodes for the Stargate franchise (many of them significant and uncredited rewrites) and, perhaps most importantly, has through his generosity and infinite patience, shepherded countless eager up-and-comers through the challenging, sometimes tricky, occasionally baffling world of television production (myself among them). His writing/producing credits have included work on The Black Stallion, Neon Rider, The Outer Limits, and, of course, the following Q&A…

... Laura writes: "When you first pitched Stargate, did you every dream that it would last for 10 seasons, still continue on in movie format, and create 2 spin off series? Or, what were you initial expectations of the SG-1?"

BW: I knew we would be making 44 episodes, which was as much as I dared imagine at the time. 10 years? No. In fact, if you'd told me it would have gone that long, I would have told you I wouldn't still be here. But it's still fun, so I am.

... Jeff B. writes: "While I'm sure you're terribly busy with all things SGU at the moment, could you please give us an update as to where exactly things are with regard to the third Stargate movie?"

BW: We're making a movie. Carl Binder and I are co-writing the script. Martin [Wood] will direct. If you have a good title, let me know.

... "My question to you is, how committed are you to the movie making of SGA? If committed, how many movies are we talking if each does well, infinite?"

BW: There are so many deals that have to be in place each time, it's impossible to predict. It also depends on the success of the first one. MGM was talking about more SG-1 movies as soon as the first did well.

... FargateOne writes: "1. TV is a business. Do a space show costs a lot more than vampires, paranormal or angels stories. Is it correct to say that MGM wanted to invest money in only one space show and finally, planets were aligned to put money in SGU since Farscape ended, Star Trek ended, Firefly ended, Battlestar Galactica ended etc.? 2.This one is more a wish than a question (maybe too early to ask) but, do you have plans for Claudia Black or Ben Browder in Stargate Universe?"

BW: Yes, to the first question and no to the second.

... Platschu writes: ... "6. Can we expect new shooting locations in Universe? Or will there be more CGI created world or maybe digital sets?"

BW: Yes, and yes. We're scouting in the desert of New Mexico as I write this sentence.

... TheTrueMole writes: "Are you going to bother to produce a full length opening sequence and have SciFi cut it down later, or just stick to a 3 second title screen from the get-go?"

BW: We are planning a third option.

... Aboleyn24 writes: "The Shrine will always be one of my all time favorite episodes. For me the best scenes in SGA are the small character driven ones. That is why I love Sunday as well. The scenes between Sheppard and Rodney stand out above all else, especially the pier scene, a perfect balance of heart and humor."

BW: The pier scene was why I wanted to write the episode.

... Libkat writes: "Rumors persist that you aren't a big fan of Vala as a character. Will Claudia Black continue to have a place in the SG1 movie universe? I adore the way Vala kept the snarky side of Daniel Jackson alive after RDA left the show and CB and MS have terrific chemistry."

BW: I thought Claudia was terrific in Continuum, but Vala won't be returning in the third movie.

... Enzo Aquarius writes: "A totally out-of-the-blue question, has there been thoughts of including SG-1 characters in the pilot for Continuum? Such as how Richard Dean Anderson and Michael Shanks were in Atlantis' pilot?"

BW: Mmmmaybe.

Stargate: Universe - Joseph Mallozzi: Spinning Stargate: Universe!

At Joseph Mallozzi’s blog:

(Please follow all the links for the complete blog posts.)



Spinning Stargate: Universe - Day One

… We were all back in the office today, spinning stories for season one of Stargate: Universe. In attendance: creators Brad Wright and Robert Cooper, Carl Binder, Martin Gero, Alan McCullough, Paul Mullie, and myself. The first order of business was, of course, catching each other up on what we’ve been up to since last we met. I can’t help but think that if everyone on staff blogged as well, we’d be able to access all of this information before going into the office and could thereby dispense with the niceties of social interaction and get right to work. Easier said than done however. Paul’s Commodore 64 is not internet-capable and don’t get me started on Carl’s IBM Selectric, the Queen of electric typewriters.

Our second order of business was providing notes for episode #1. Brad and Rob did a terrific job of kicking things off in thrilling fashion. The script is fast-paced and fun; its characters unique and engaging. My favorite: Dr. David Rush. Oh, he’s going to be a handful. Originally planned as a two-parter, Brad and Robert quickly discovered that there was simply too much story for such a tight frame, so the series opener is now looking like a three-parter.

In addition to that first script, Brad and Rob provided us with a beat sheet and springboards for several more stories. Brad has laid claim to #4, a story that is right up his alley. Speaking of perfect pairings, I couldn’t think of anyone better than Carl Binder to write #5. Rob is eyeing #6 which offers a most intriguingly SF door in, while #7 and #8 have yet to be claimed.

As I mentioned in a previous entry, Stargate: Universe is a series that draws on established mythology yet blazes a bold, new path for the franchise. It’s definitely more character-centered and intimate in its exploration of the interpersonal dynamics that will drive a lot of the shipboard developments (and, no, I’m not talking about romance). The premise of this ship hurtling through uncharted territories offers up unbounded story possibilities, yet also forces us to adopt a very different approach toward alien encounters and planetary investigation. Twin themes mentioned over the course of today’s conversations: survival and sacrifice.

Prep-production is progressing nicely. Rob showed me about eight different designs for the Destiny. According to him, they’re getting close. No casting news to convey but some interesting names are being bandied about. The search continues. Finally, another element I’m loving is the SGU version of the SG-1/Atlantis MALP (Mobile Analytic Laboratory Probe). Very cool.

Tomorrow, we discuss Brad’s first story following the big three-part opener, establish some of the big picture storylines and arcs we’d like to pursue over the course of the show’s first 20 episodes, and then start breaking Carl’s story ...


Spinning Stargate: Universe Day Two

... Back in the office today. Brad and Rob were in a meeting this morning so Paul and I ended up discussing the outline for the SGA movie. He’ll be making a few changes to the structure and then, hopefully, put it out before week‘s end. Once the meeting wrapped, we convened in the writers’ room and talked big picture notions for the series, the big bang, our expanding universe, and the interesting repercussions of FTL travel on both contact parties involved in an instantaneous means of communication. Oh, and the post-production schedule is out. It looks like February 4th will be the first day of principal photography ...


Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #3

... Back at it today, spinning Stargate: Universe. With a first draft of episode #1 in hand and episodes #2-4 mapped out, we turned our attention to episode #5, Carl’s baby. After much heated debate on the motivating factors that “complicate things for our gang“, we ended up breaking the story in a little less than two hours …

We ended the day with a general discussion of SGU: some future storylines, a couple of surprises, yes there will be a mid-season two-parter, and the types of individuals who will make up the Destiny’s extended crew ...


Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #4

... With five stories in place, we turned our attention to episode #6 today, beating out Marty G.’s very first SGU script. This one involved a long, loooooong discussion on the workings of a certain technology which forms the impetus to another terrific character-driven story. Next week, we have stories to break for Rob, Alan, Paul, and myself after which we head off for two weeks of fun in the sun (or rising sun in my case). Then, we’re back in the office for one more week of discussion on the (hopefully) completed outline ...


Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #5

... Well, back in the office today. While Brad and Robert worked on revisions to the first script, the rest of us kept busy in our respective offices surfing the internet, phoning home, and making final preparations for our trip to Tokyo. At a little after 11:00, we convened in the writers’ room and started spinning Alan’s story. We broke for lunch, then resumed the discussion on shipboard justice and the ever-developing interrelations among the crew. Factions, fractions, and surprising revelations. By the time we called it a day, we had beaten out Alan’s story ...


Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #6

... Went into the office today and did the Whispers commentary with director Will Waring, after which the writers gathered to discuss one of Rob’s story ideas. It’s a great premise that, when I read it, left me wondering “How the hell is this going to work?” and, after much back and forth, we eventually came up with the logic construct to make it work (see Brad‘s whiteboard diagram for the explanation [photo at the site]) ...

Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #7

... Back on the office today for another day of SGU spinning. We skipped episode 9 (While I like the general premise and think it could be a lot of fun and, really, at the end of the day who doesn’t like fun?, I feel that, unlike the other stories we’ve discussed so far, this one is far more nebulous. Fearing we might well spend our final three days trying to spin a story out of this kernel of an idea, I suggested we move on to #10 and #11 which, at the very least, are somewhat more substantial in comparison) and moved on to the two-parter. I hesitate to call it a two-parter because, the way these episodes have developed so far, there are a threads that run through all the stories, in essence making this season one big 20-parter. Now given that some of you have started comparing SGU to existing shows on the basis of what little information has been released thus far, I thought it might be a good idea to help paint a clearer picture of the show. And so, to those of you looking for standing comparisons, I’d say more Lost than Battlestar, more Dr. Who than Heroes, more The Office than My Name Is Earl ...

Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #8

... Today was our final day of spinning on Stargate: Universe and we finished in impressive fashion, breaking not one but TWO stories. The first, episode #10 is mine (Carl is especially excited about this one) while #11 falls to Paul. Ticking clocks, twists and turns, alliances, betrayals, and a surprise guest! And, just like that, we have our first 10 stories in play. Now, all that remains to be done is to write the outlines, design and build the sets, design and create the costumes, design and produce the props, nail down the crew, cast the roles of Young, Rush, Scott, Eli, Tamara, Chloe, Stasiak, Wray, and Brody (among others), and everything else that needs to be done before we start shooting in early February. I have a feeling our visual effects department is going to have a blast with this show!


Easing Back into a Routine

... Well, back to work, but not back to the office. We were supposed to reconvene next week but, as expected, Brad and Robert are up to their eyeballs in scriptwriting and series prep so, instead, we’ll be flying solo, working on our own outlines and scripts. Rob showed me the stack of ship designs they were mulling over last time I was in and I suspect that he and Brad have probably narrowed their choice down by now.

So far, Martin, Carl, and Alan have put out outlines (and I’ve already provided notes on all three), and Rob and Brad have put out the first draft of the opening three-parter, Air, which puts me tied for last place with Paul (who, I’m assuming, is just about finished his pass on our outline for the SGA movie). Priority #1 now for me is hammering out an outline for the first part of the SGU mid-season two-parter. From what I understand, casting is still ongoing but I expect we’ll be hearing word on some decisions soon…soon ...

Stargate Atlantis / SG1 - Stargate Planet: Carl Binder Interview

At Stargate Planet:

GERMAN

ENGLISH



Interview with Carl Binder

Carl Binder about his role as scriptwriter at Stargate SG-1 and Stargate: Atlantis

Autor: S.Schwager


Carl Binder was born in Windsor, ON; Canada and he was a writer on Stargate SG-1 as well as on Stargate Atlantis. He also executive produced several Stargate Atlantis episodes and creatively advised for Stargate SG-1 episodes. We're grateful that he took some time off his busy schedule to answer a few career related questions for our German website visitors.


A brief excerpt:

S-P.de: What's your favourite Stargate episode and why?

CB: Of the Atlantis episodes I didn't write, I really love McKay and Mrs. Miller, as well as Remnants and Be All My Sins Remember'd. Of the episodes I did write, it's hard to single out one, so I'll pick a favorite from each season that I've been on staff:

Season 2 - Michael, Season 3 - Phantoms, Season 4 - Missing, Season 5 - The Prodigal.

Stargate: Universe - Spinning Stargate: Universe - Day One

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for November 11, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update. Photos of the SGU staff at the stie.)



November 11, 2008: Spinning Stargate: Universe - Day One


We were all back in the office today, spinning stories for season one of Stargate: Universe. In attendance: creators Brad Wright and Robert Cooper, Carl Binder, Martin Gero, Alan McCullough, Paul Mullie, and myself. The first order of business was, of course, catching each other up on what we've been up to since last we met. I can't help but think that if everyone on staff blogged as well, we'd be able to access all of this information before going into the office and could thereby dispense with the niceties of social interaction and get right to work. Easier said than done however. Paul's Commodore 64 is not internet-capable and don't get me started on Carl's IBM Selectric, the Queen of electric typewriters.

Our second order of business was providing notes for episode #1. Brad and Rob did a terrific job of kicking things off in thrilling fashion. The script is fast-paced and fun; its characters unique and engaging. My favorite: Dr. David Rush. Oh, he's going to be a handful. Originally planned as a two-parter, Brad and Robert quickly discovered that there was simply too much story for such a tight frame, so the series opener is now looking like a three-parter.

In addition to that first script, Brad and Rob provided us with a beat sheet and springboards for several more stories. Brad has laid claim to #4, a story that is right up his alley. Speaking of perfect pairings, I couldn't think of anyone better than Carl Binder to write #5. Rob is eyeing #6 which offers a most intriguingly SF door in, while #7 and #8 have yet to be claimed.

As I mentioned in a previous entry, Stargate: Universe is a series that draws on established mythology yet blazes a bold, new path for the franchise. It's definitely more character-centered and intimate in
its exploration of the interpersonal dynamics that will drive a lot of the shipboard developments (and, no, I'm not talking about romance). The premise of this ship hurtling through uncharted territories offers up unbounded story possibilities, yet also forces us to adopt a very different approach toward alien encounters and planetary investigation. Twin themes mentioned over the course of today's conversations: survival and sacrifice.

Prep-production is progressing nicely. Rob showed me about eight different designs for the Destiny. According to him, they're getting close. No casting news to convey but some interesting names are being bandied about. The search continues. Finally, another element I'm loving is the SGU version of the SG-1/Atlantis MALP (Mobile Analytic Laboratory Probe). Very cool.

Tomorrow, we discuss Brad's first story following the big three-part opener, establish some of the big picture storylines and arcs we'd like to pursue over the course of the show's first 20 episodes, and then start breaking Carl's story...

Stargate Atlantis - NEW Behind the Scenes Photos & Notes from 'The Prodigal'

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for November 8, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update and to view the new behind-the-scenes photos from the production of Stargate Atlantis' 'The Prodigal,' in their original format.)



Carl Binder

November 8, 2008: Doggy Delight and Some Prodigal Notes

**snippage**

Hey, I’m pleased to see many of you enjoyed The Prodigal. Carl Binder - the Sultan of Scripts, the Duke of Dialogue, the Baron of Bottle Shows - works his magic once again, weaving a tale fraught with action, suspense, humor, and a spectacular climactic visual effects sequence that made co-show runner Paul Mullie, as my father was fond of saying “bats in the belfry”. A few of notes of interest concerning this episode:

1. When first outlined, this story was a cross between Carl’s earlier Red Shirt Diaries pitch and the finished product you saw. In this early version, we follow a team of unsung characters as they mount a resistance to Michael and ultimately help our team save the city. However, after some discussion, it was decided that the significance of the story demanded that our team be front and center.

2. After much back and forth, it was decided that this episode would mark Atlantis’s final confrontation with Michael. His ultimate power play was undermined in Kindred I and II (last season) and he’s been on the run ever since. His forces compromised, his resources dwindling, he stages one last desperate gamble to turn the tables and regain the upper hand.



Artwork for the circular stairs

3. It can be argued (as Michael so succinctly does in this episode) that Michael has every right to be angry and seek revenge on Atlantis for having created him in the first place - but it shouldn’t be forgotten that, originally, Michael was a wraith and, thus, their enemy. Sure, from a big picture standpoint you can draw parallels between their feeding on humans and our feeding on animals but, when it comes right down to it, if some thing is about to devour you or your loved ones, you will fight back - and you’ll do everything within your power to ensure they never threaten them again. Which brings us to…



4. Teyla’s delivering the coup de grace at episode’s end. Now some have complained that this was pretty ruthless of her and my response to that would be - yep, it was. But why so surprised? We’ve seen this side of Teyla before, most notably in Missing where her warrior side took over in cruel yet effective fashion. Add to that the fact that she now has a child to protect, a son who has been threatened Michael on two separate occasions. Rather than risk a third attempt, she ended the threat.

5. I was down on set talking to actress Sharon Taylor while this episode was being written, and she mentioned that she was a kickboxing instructor. Intrigued, I mentioned it to Carl who happily incorporated these ass-kicking abilities into the second draft of the script. Sharon’s performance garnered accolades from all around, but especially from stunt coordinator James Bamford and fellow actor Jason Momoa.



6. Running gag #1: Whenever we screened this episode in the writers’ room and we got to the scene where Michael gets on the P.A. and promises to turn off the self-destruct and save the city in exchange for her son, one of us would pipe up: “Teyla, it’s Chuck! Give him the baby!”

7. Running gag #2: Whenever Michael would drop off the ledge and plummet down into the darkness, we would imagine Chuck stepping out onto one of the lower balconies for a smoke - only to get creamed by Michael who, fall broken, would hop up none the worse for wear and make good his escape.

8. While they were shooting the climactic tower fight sequence, there was one take in which Connor [Trinneer] flipped the Sheppard stunt actor who was supposed to roll and save himself by grabbing hold of a part of the structure - only the stuntman missed and went right over, landing amidst the safety mats below. Connor immediately threw his arms up in triumph and shouted: “I WIN!!!”, much to the crew’s delight.

It’s episodes like this that really make me sad the show has ended. Only six original episodes left. As my father was fond of saying: “Wouldn’t that jar your preserves.”

Stargate Atlantis - NEW Behind The Scenes Photos - 'Enemy at the Gate'

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for November 5, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update and to view the NEW photos from Stargate Atlantis season five production in their original format.)

November 5, 2008: Your Emails in My Spam Folder

... Hey, I came across some pics from the last days of production. Check `em out.





Sharon Taylor as Technician Amelia Banks



Director Andy Mikita, Joe Flanigan (John Sheppard), Robert Picardo (Richard Woolsey), Kavan Smith (Evan Lorne)



Kavan, Joe and Robert



'Enemy at the Gate' 100th episode artwork



Writer/Producer/Director Martin Gero with his Stargate Atlantis 100 episodes T-Shirt





Gary Jones (CMSGT Walter Harriman)



Producers/Writers Carl Binder and Alan McCullough

Stargate Atlantis - MGM Stargate: Behind the Scenes: Tracker

At MGM Stargate:

(Please follow the link for the complete article.)



Dr. Jennifer Keller (Jewel Staite) and Kyrik (Mike Dupod)

Behind the Scenes: Tracker

September 26, 2008 (Episodes)

Writer and producer Carl Binder gives fans an insight into how ‘Tracker’ came to the screen.


It’s been over a year since Dr. Jennifer Keller joined the personnel of Atlantis, and in that time she’s had quite a ride. So much has happened to the young Dr., in fact, that she’s almost a different person – and that was exactly what writer Carl Binder wanted to explore with ‘Tracker’.

“I’d always been wanting to do a follow up episode to ‘Missing’, like a year later,” he explains. “I was trying to come up with a story in which I could once again throw Keller into some sort of difficult situation, facing adversity, so I could show how being a part of Atlantis for a year has changed her. She’s no longer the fish out of water, but somebody who can roll with it and face it. So I really wanted to show how she had changed. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to do that. Obviously, she’s afraid, but she’s also taking charge of the situation. One, she’s trying to escape, and two, she’s trying to deal with this guy, and show some strength in the middle of this adversity...”

Stargate Atlantis - NEW Behind the Scenes Photos from 'Whispers' - Plus, Gary Jones Guest Stars in 'Enemy at the Gate'

At Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for August 31, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update, and to view the NEW behind the scenes photos from Stargate Atlantis' 'Whispers,' plus a new food weird food purchase video.)

August 31, 2008: The Blue Screen of Death, A Horrific Crime and the Likely Suspects, The Weird Food Purchase of the Day - Guest Edition

I would seem my laptop is not long for this world. Twice, yesterday, I fell victim to the blue screen of death. One second, I'm copy and pasting the day's blog entry into the wordpress window and, the next, my computer is rebooting. I ended up spending most of last night watching Mad Men while I backed up two year's worth of blog entries, scripts, pics, videos, and contacts. It was while I was going through
my photo archive that I discovered a whack o' Whispers snaps I was holding back on, some of which I've posted today, plenty more of which I'll be posting in the days ahead.

**snippage**

And another reminder that if you read The Church of Dead Girls and have a question for author Stephen Dobyns, let's seem 'em. Allie, this means you!

Today's video: The return of The Weird Food Purchase of the Day. In this installment, guest eater Carl Binder samples ox-tail.

Mailbag catch-up:

GrapesofWraith writes: "A quick question - do the stairs at the end of the video lead up to the production offices, or are they in a different building?"

Answer: Yes, they do. The stairs let out onto a corridor. Take a left, and it will take you down past accounting to the art department. Take a right and you'll hit a door (see the production offices walk-thru vid).

Anais33 a ecrit: "Pourquoi ne jamais répondre a mes questions? Vous n m'aimez pas?"

Reponse: Si vous avez envoyer votre question, j'ai pu l'avoir manqué. Si vous avez une question, Il est plus facile pour moi à repondre a vos questions ici.
Translation: If you're looking to get a question answered, post them here instead of sending me an email.

Ben writes: "And also where do we sit in terms of getting another SG1 movie?"

Answer: If all goes as planned, we should be filming both the SGA movie and the third SG-1 around the same time next year.

PG15 writes: "Good to know we'll get to see the SGC one last time before the Atlantis series…*sniff*…finishes. Does that mean we'll see Walter too?"

Answer: Yes, Walter will put in an appearance before the series ends.

NIMBUS writes: "I'm wondering why the Destiny crew won't be able to land on the new planet and use its Stargate to send a rescue team to a previously visited planet?"

Answer: I can't wait to find out the answer myself.

Stargate Atlantis - MGM Studios: SciFi Channel Greenlights 2-HR Film

From MGM Studios:

SCI FI CHANNEL GREENLIGHTS 2-HOUR FILM FROM MGM BASED ON POPULAR `STARGATE ATLANTIS' SERIES


New York, NY – August 21, 2008 – Building upon the successful Stargate franchise, SCI FI Channel today announced it has greenlit a two-hour movie based on the hit science fiction adventure series Stargate Atlantis. SCI FI will have the exclusive worldwide television premiere of the yet to be titled Stargate Atlantis film, which will then be released on DVD by MGM. The movie will be written by Stargate Atlantis' executive producers Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, who also serve as series showrunners. The movie is set to follow the fifth and final season of Stargate Atlantis, as it draws to its thrilling conclusion in January 2009.

"We're excited to tell Atlantis stories on a bigger canvas. The successes of the two original Stargate DTV movies The Ark of Truth and Continuum have shown us the opportunities that the movie format offers. We have plans for both SG-1 and Atlantis to remain vital as we expand the franchise, " said Brad Wright and Robert C. Cooper, co-creators of Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis and who both currently serve as executive producers on Atlantis.

"We share in the producers' enthusiasm to move forward in this direction and we look forward to a strong and continued relationship on Stargate Atlantis in this new format," said Thomas Vitale, Senior Vice President Programming & Original Movies.

Stargate Atlantis follows the adventures of an intrepid team of military and civilian explorers who travel the distant Pegasus galaxy by means of a Stargate, a portal created long ago by a highly advanced alien civilization called the Ancients. In their never-ending quest to seek out other technologies left behind by the Ancients, the Atlantis team encounters alien cultures – some friend, some foe.

The series will reach a milestone with the 100th episode airing in January 2009. Atlantis is executive produced by Brad Wright, Robert C. Cooper, Joseph Mallozzi, Paul Mullie, Carl Binder, and Martin Gero. Mallozzi and Mullie share the reins as showrunners.

Stargate Atlantis - 'Ghost in the Machine' - Alex Levine's Blog Update Aug 15 '08

From Alex Levine's SciFi.com blog update for August 15, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update.)



Alex Levine, Stargate Atlantis Script Coordinator, photo courtesy of Joe Mallozzi's blog

August 15, 2008

Ghost Stories and Fireside Chats

Carl Binder is the king of many things, among them: ghost stories, bawdy humor, and fireside chats. You see, Carl is an incredibly nice guy (unless you're a hotel security guard), and when he has big problems with a script, he prefers to let you know one-on-one instead of waiting until other writers are around to witness the carnage. I've experienced this myself. First, you hear the gentle footsteps, and
moments later he appears at your door, script in hand, an expression on his face that says, without even a word uttered, "I hate to disappoint you, but..." And then he sits down and explains, directly but not unkindly, how your script is structurally problematic and how all the voices are off. The problem is, he's right 99% of the time, and you'd be a fool not to strongly consider every one of his notes.
Many times I've walked down the hall to see Carl engaged in one of his fireside chats with a junior writer. The look on their face a mixture of discomfort and politeness, sort of like meeting the president when you're really constipated. I guess Carl adopted the fireside chat format after listening to FDR on the radio in the 30's...



Carl Binder - photo courtesy of Joseph Mallozzi's blog

Stargate Atlantis - NEW Behind The Scenes Photos - 'Brain Storm'

From Joseph Mallozzi's blog update for August 12, 2008:

(Please follow the link for the complete blog update. NEW Stargate Atlantis season five production photos from 'Brain Storm' at the site [in their original format]. Plus two Joe experimentation videos! Woo-hoo!)



Dave Foley

August 12, 2008: Another Yawn Study, Production Update, Let's Talk Cordelia's Honor, Mailbag, and The Weird Food Purchase of the Day

**snippage**

In a little over a month from now, we'll be wrapping our sets for yet another season, preparing for next year, and scattering to the four winds for some much-needed R&R. Before that happens, of course, we have some episodes that need finishing. I am anxiously awaiting a director's cut of Remnants, Marty G. [Gero] is directing his last day on Brain Storm (at the airport shooting the Learjet sequences), Infection has started shooting (infirmary scenes in Stage 6 to start the day, then a move over to the hive ship set in the FX stage), Carl [Binder] is casting Identity, and Paul [Mullie] has reached the fourth act of the still untitled Episode #20.



Jewel Staite (Dr. Jennifer Keller) and David Hewlett (Dr. Rodney McKay) in the center of the audience


**snippage**

Okay, you have one more day to get your questions in for Lois McMaster Bujold. Start posting!

Well, I'm off to Fuel tonight. The corn soup is back!

Tune in tomorrow when special guest blogger and Stargate Director of Photography Jim Menard drops in and answers your questions.



Today's pics: Brain Storm!

Today's videos: A follow-up yawn study and Today's Weird Food Purchase of the Day (Spicy Peanut Butter!) in which I am joined by my eager young assistant.



'Brain Storm' Writer/Director Martin Gero

Mailbag:

**snippage**

Itjustme writes: "If Atlantis were to run through without the long hiatus that it normal takes, does this mean that the season 5 DVD set might come out sooner as well?"

Answer: Probably.

**snippage**



Special Features Producer Ivon Bartok

Stargate Atlantis - GateWorld: Carl Binder Audio Interview

At GateWorld:



Scribe of the Soul

GateWorld talks with Carl Binder

A veteran writer of more than 20 years, Carl Binder admits he has never been more happy than he is now working on Stargate Atlantis. Season Five brings new challenges to the production team as Atlantis becomes a seasoned series with nearly 100 hours of entertainment committed to film.

In our latest interview with the writer, Carl tells GateWorld about "hitting the ground running" fresh from the Writers Guild of America strike, which ended a month after production on Season Five began. We discuss his favorite episodes coming down the pike, including one he has been toying with, the absence of Weir and Carter as regular cast members, and the introduction of Woolsey as a regular.

GateWorld's interview with Carl runs almost 25 minutes. Listen online at your leisure, download it to your MP3 player, or subscribe to the iTunes podcast. The full interview is also transcribed [at the link above]!


A brief excerpt:

GW: What's the idea behind "Ghost In The Machine"? Where did this come from?

CB: Ever since "Be All My Sins Remember'd", when I saw and read the script, I was like "We have to ... we can't leave this hanging." We've got to figure this out. So it's finding out what happened to Weir, and where we go from here. Originally, it involved bringing Torri [Higginson] back, but then she declined. So we had to step back and figure out a new way to tell the story, which -- I don't know who came up with the idea -- but it was a great way to do it. So I'm really happy about that.