We had our second read-through today. Jason was feeling under the weather and unable to attend, so I had my sights set on playing the part of Ronon. Unfortunately, I was called out of the room just as everybody was settling and, by the time I returned, director Martin Wood had stolen the role. All in all, I thought he did an alright job but lacked some of the rough passion and underlying pathos I would have undoubtedly brought to the role. Best impromptu line during the read came from Jewel who, in response to David Hewlett’s “You’re not a real doctor”taunt, countered: “I’m a mechanic, not a doctor.”
Paul and I received personalized gifts from the gang at SciFi today – a box of chocolates from Chocoatl for me and a bottle of ten year old scotch for him (which is perfect timing since Paul just polished off his third bottle of “office scotch“ just last week). The gifts arrived just as we were heading into our notes call on Missing. While Paul and Carl discussed the script with Nora, Claire, and Debra, I quietly retreated to my little chocolate nirvana. Truly, they are the best chocolates in Vancouver.
And speaking of chocolates, our casting director, Sean Cossey, swung by the offices yesterday to chat about our plans for season four – and happened to bring along a box of Godiva blacks. Great meeting and chocolates which are pictured above. I would have snapped a pic of the Chocoatl chocolates but, alas, they were pretty much cleaned out by the time the notes call ended.
On the lunch menu today: a bit of everything. Tortellini in a tomato herb sauce, spicy Italian sausage, grilled eggplant, cucumber and cherry tomato salad, baked garlic, and Anthea’s tiramisu for dessert. Compare this to Martin Gero’s healthy, home-delivery lunch – what I believe was boiled chicken and broccoli – and you can understand our contrasting dispositions (also pictured above).
By the way, I finished Robert Charles Wilson’s Spin the other day and would definitely put it on my recommended list. A beautifully written novel. I started another book soon after but, try as I might, after 100+ pages, I found it so unengaging that I had to set it aside. So I started another book, Michael Marshall Smith’s Only Forward, and this one I am truly loving. Speaking of loving – David loved John Scalzi’s Old Man’s War which I lent him last month, and is about to start on Connie Willis’s To Say Nothing of the Dog.
Finally, got my own Bridge Studio pace card today (thanks Lawren). So, seriously, what do you think? Does the green of the body suit bring out the opaque or my fishbowl helmet?
Mailbag –
John Treman writes: “Will Vala be used to the exclusion of everyone else in the movies? I’ve really grown tired of seeing her front and center so much these last two years. No one else even has any story or part in the show.”
Answer: You’re right. With the exception Morpheus, Pegasus Project, Insiders, Uninvited, 200, Counterstrike, Company of Thieves, Quest I and II, Line in the Sand, Road Not Taken, The Shroud, Bad Guys, Bounty, and significant chunks of Flesh and Blood, season 10 was all about Vala. Expect more of the same in the movies.
Vaberella writes: “1)Are we going to find out more on Wraith children? 2) Is it possible that Teyla’s dad was macking a Wraith Queen?”
Answer: 1) We may. 2) Unlikely.
Anne writes: “Is creative control mostly left to the show’s production staff?”
Answer: Yes.
Prior_of_the_Ori: “I was wondering whether the creatures of Micheal in Vengeance will make an appearance in season 4? Also, will we find out the ‘Plan’ the Asurans had in ‘dealing with the Wraith’ that was mentioned when the Atlantis Expedition first encountered them? Or any possible Wraith and Asuran encounters happening?”
French 8 Ball says: C’est possible.
Night Spring writes: “Hi! First, you attributed a question to me that was posted by someone else. Second, I’ve been wondering about the different uniforms on Atlantis. Who decides when to change them, and is there any rhyme or reason to the changes?”
Answer: First – sorry about that. Second – they are simply streamlined versions of the existing uniforms.
The OldOne writes: “As to the ‘”Annie”.. Since I am male and over 65 (not the demographic most TV shows look for .. sorry) Annie is not my first name. Since you like super heroes/villains I will give you a clue.. My first name is the same as the last name of the alter ego of one of them.”
Answer: Actually, the “Annie” was in reference to who was sending the coded message in A Christmas Story. As for your name, I’m guessing: Wayne.
Foolishpleasure writes: “If SG1 had been renewed, what would have happened to Carter? […]Would Weir still be a reg on SGA, or would she have been dumped no matter what?”
Answer: Re: Carter – not sure. Re: Weir – we would have made the same decision.
Anonymous #1 writes: “In Damien Kindler’s interview at GateWorld he was reluctant to offer his opinion on Unending. Is there something to be worried about in it, and more importantly, what is you opinion on SG-1’s last episode?”
Answer: I don’t think there’s anything to be particular “worried” about. As for my opinion – I liked it a lot.
Iamza writes: “Any chance that the next few seasons of SGA could have more than just the twenty episodes apiece?”
Answer: Nope. That’s SciFi’s call.
MaryBeth writes: “You’ve pretty much confirmed that Torri is without a contract for season four. So why doesn’t someone with the guts to make a decision do something about that?”
Answer: Uh, we did make a decision. You simply disagree with it.
Anonymous #2 writes: “Rob Cooper is coming to the Vancouver Creation Con in a couple weeks. Any chance you’ll stop by as well?”
Answer: No. The other writers and I are very busy with the show and couldn‘t possibly find the time to attend. Also, we weren’t invited.
Anonymous #2 also writes: “Will he be able to spill the beans on RDA being in the movies?”
Answer: If he has any information to relay, I’m sure he will.
Ryu Gaia writes: “Got bored and finished the lyrics for Paul. What do you think?”
Magic 8 Ball says: C’est magnifique!
Anonymous #3 writes: “She knows that sex sells, and she has no problem using that to her advantage.”
Answer: Actually, question: Seriously, what planet are you from?
“Answer: You’re right. With the exception Morpheus, Pegasus Project, Insiders, Uninvited, 200, Counterstrike, Company of Thieves, Quest I and II, Line in the Sand, Road Not Taken, The Shroud, Bad Guys, Bounty, and significant chunks of Flesh and Blood, season 10 was all about Vala. Expect more of the same in the movies.”
Get real. Vala had a bigger role than every other character in Flesh and Blood, Morpheus, Memento Mori, Company of Thieves, Bounty, Bad Guys, Family Ties, Dominion, and probably Unending as well. She’s the only character the writers have bothered to even try tying to the Ori storyline. It’s ridiculous.
Ooh, what did the story masters at Scifi say about Missing? Needs more of a ticking clock? Not enough explosions? How about an alien chick with huge knockers and her own space ship? That seems to be the way Atlantis is going lately?
Joe, we all know Vala wasn’t featured in every single episode, but she was featured a LOT more than any other character. Plus, just about every episode had character development moments for Vala that we didn’t see for any other characters. Even Bounty, which seemed like it should be the one and only Mitchell episode this year, was more about Vala. We should just title Season 10 the “Season of Vala.”
So we if should expect more of the same in the movies then I know I will be very disappointed.
Joe,
Two questions
1) In your opinion, How does Unending compare to the other Potential SG-1 series finales, “Revelations,” “Full Circle,” “Lost City,” and “Moebius?” For example, I think that Full Circle was more action packed than the other potential finales, Lost City being a close #2.
2) I’m curious, With the exception of “Children of the Gods,” “Rising,” “Jolinar’s Memories,” and “The Devil You Know,” What was the most Expensive Single episode of SG-1 & SGA (I expect an answer from each series)? And what was the most expensive episode of SG-1 & SGA (again an answer from each series), visual effects-wise?
And don’t be afraid to give us an idea of the dollar amount for the episodes stated.
One more thing, Joe, your the man, your listed as one of my Heroes on the MySpace page.
MaryBeth writes: “You’ve pretty much confirmed that Torri is without a contract for season four. So why doesn’t someone with the guts to make a decision do something about that?”
Answer: Uh, we did make a decision. You simply disagree with it.
So do many, many others.
We’ve all heard the comments about Torri being in four episodes. Presumably that’s in the first half of the season, since you’ve said you haven’t looked at the second half. I can only hope she’s in more in the second half of the season, but the way she’s been treated to this point doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. Work hard, say nothing but positive things, get nominated for awards — how do TPTB reward you? Shaft you. Great.
This is it for me. You can do what you want with your show, as you obviously will without taking fan opinion into account, but I for one won’t be watching. You should probably realise that in the long term, fan opinion is important. If we wanted to watch a show where people are getting dumped all the time, we’d be watching survivor, not Stargate.
It’s especially hypocritical when one of your arguments to people questioning the inclusion of Sam is that Amanda has a right to work to support her family, yet two other actors of exceptional talent obviously don’t warrant the right to support themselves.
There is nothing wrong with Paul or Torri’s performances. There was nothing wrong with their characters. These losses will be detrimental to this show, and you will see that, hopefully before it’s too late.
SGA is becoming SG1. Many people stopped watching SG1 and saw SGA as something of a breath of fresh air. It’s going to end up a stale SG1 clone.
As much as I love the work of David Hewlett and Joe Flanigan, I’m not going to boycott in support of Paul and Torri. Get ready for plenty of others to do the same.
As far as I’m concerned, SGA ended before Sunday went to air.
MaryBeth writes: “You’ve pretty much confirmed that Torri is without a contract for season four. So why doesn’t someone with the guts to make a decision do something about that?”
Answer: Uh, we did make a decision. You simply disagree with it.
I doubt we’re the only ones who feel that way. I was at conventions in the US in October and November. It was interesting to get some of the comments from the actors.
Joe Flanigan’s “stick it to the man” and “will you watch me in my next show” stands out.
So does Jason Momoa’s comment when asked about whether there’d be anything between Ronon and Teyla. He said, not once but twice, “No thanks. I want to get me some Weir”
Then there’s the report of Joe in the UK talking about how Torri’s sexy and she’s such a great girl, and David Nykl being asked what he wanted Zelenka to do in season four… his response? “Elizabeth”.
You guys are so out of touch with the audience on the decisions about Paul and Torri that it’s not funny. Go check out the scifi magazines and see the letters. People are pissed off. They will stop watching. You’re marginalising your audience even further than it’s already been marginalised by the Kirking and the loss of Ford.
If you could give a legitimate reason for why you wanted to get rid of these two characters, maybe people wouldn’t be so irate about their loss, but you can’t. There is no rational reason. Apart from the fact that you wanted to make room in the cast for Jewel and Amanda. You can say what you want about when decisions were made, but people aren’t automatically going to take it as gospel just because you say it.
I regret spending three years of money, time and thought on this show. I can’t wait to see the next things that Paul and Torri are in. I won’t watch SGA, but I’d watch the crappiest of crap shows on television if it meant supporting two actors who I feel have been unfairly screwed over by tptb at Atlantis.
Foolishpleasure writes: “If SG1 had been renewed, what would have happened to Carter? […]Would Weir still be a reg on SGA, or would she have been dumped no matter what?”
Answer: Re: Carter – not sure. Re: Weir – we would have made the same decision.
Joe…
It’s heartening to know that the decisions regarding Carter and Weir were made completely independently of each other.
While people will undoubtedly continue to blame Sam for taking Weir’s place (if indeed I am reading my tea leaves correctly), as a Carter fan I appreciate your willingness to state categorically that whatever the reasons were behind whatever decisions were made regarding Weir, they weren’t made to make way for Sam.
And now for a question. Do you have anymore names of episodes to leak to the fans? We’re enjoying trying to figure out what each could possibly mean.
Thank you,
Mary Beth 🙂
I just spent an enjoyable evening watching several episodes of SGA season 2 and eating the best flan in the world, which is made by a friend of mine from Colombia. If you could mail flan, I’d send you some. She doesn’t even have a recipe, although we’ve agreed that the next time she makes it I’m going to watch and take notes.
Peter Deluise and Gary Jones are hilarious on the commentaries! Sometimes they even mention the episode.
I look forward to checking for your latest mailbag comments each evening. My husband says you are clearly a fellow member of The Brotherhood of the Brown Spoon, which has absolutely nothing to do with chocolate. He has one of those Sarcastic Magic 8 Balls, too.
marybeth writes: It’s especially hypocritical when one of your arguments to people questioning the inclusion of Sam is that Amanda has a right to work to support her family, yet two other actors of exceptional talent obviously don’t warrant the right to support themselves.
marybeth,
What hypocrisy?
Joe did not throw that out as a reason why she was brought on board (and he has given several real reasons why she’d be an asset to SGA) nor did he suggest it was a measuring stick for deciding who should be allowed to work on the show and who shouldn’t…or, as someone else argued awhile back, that perhaps Joe was discriminating against actors/actresses who were unmarried and without children.
That specific quote was in response to the fact that a small group of people at a convention booed at David Hewlett regarding Amanda coming to SGA: “Well, David Hewlett may have been surprised when a certain group of fans booed an actress for doing nothing more than accepting a job to help support her family, but me – not so much. What can I say? Congratulations to all those who embarrassed themselves and the performers who made the long trek to spend time with you all. Classy.”
Context is everything…donchathink?
Ciao…
Mary Beth 😉
Now that rya gaia finished Atlantis lyrics, any chance we can hear you or paul singing again?
I’d like to say too that I really enjoy reading your blog and thank you for the time you take out of your day to write about your day and answer us pesky fans 🙂 It really helps make my day too.
On another note, where can I get one of those sarcastic 8 balls?
Is it true that if we relentlessly blame Weir’s recurring character demotion on Carter’s inclusion it will somehow make Weir a recurring character again?
Plus, how about posting some pictures of the new Atlantis uniforms.
To uberamandafan
I’d love to know if you were one of the ones carrying on when Amanda revealed at that convention in London that she didn’t have a contract but the rest of the cast, including Claudia Black did, because if so, then you of all people should understand.
If you’re one of these SG1 fans who’ve never watched SGA and are tuning in only to see Amanda, have fun with it. I hope you don’t get too bored watching the first three seasons without her to catch up… if you even care that much about the show to do that…
If I see one more Sam fan having a bitch at the Weir fans, I’m going to throw something at my computer.
Remember when she was without a contract? Remember how you all rallied around her?
Let others do the same for the actress they support. whether we get somewhere or not, at least this wonderful actress knows we support her.
I’m so sick of all these people who’ve never shown any interest in the show who are suddenly jumping on the bandwagon just because Amanda’s in.
I wish it was SGA that had been cancelled instead of SG1. At least then it wouldn’t be messed with by TPTB in the hope of keeping SG1 alive.
I suppose what you’ve said regarding the comments about Weir means that there’s nothing the fans can do to get her back on the show? Would that be correct?
Can you at least come clean about why it was deemed necessary to demote her? Or get rid of her (Which I’m sure is the long term plan, since it’s pretty much common knowledge that Torri’s moved back to LA now.)
I have to tell you, as someone who’s worked in the industry probably at least as long as have (16 years) I’m stunned that you’re willing to risk losing that many viewers when you add up the Weir and Beckett fans. Especially for a show that only just escaped cancellation. It sounds like suicide.
What you should be doing is trying to bring in new people while keeping the existing fans happy.
Including Amanda is fine. I have nothing against her. But to get rid of two popular characters with such large fan bases as Beckett and Weir? Two actors whose fans are so overwhelmingly loyal to them to the point where they’ll actually stop watching? Sheer stupidity.
Anyone with half a brain and a little bit of experience in the industry knows that you don’t win the loyalty of fans and boost ratings by pissing them off.
I’d love to say that I see a big future for this show, but sadly I don’t. You live and die by the ratings. I know that, you know that. There are so many furious fans out there right now, that you’ll have to win over a hell of a lot to make up for them. I don’t think there are enough Amanda fans who are interested in SGA to do that.
Awww…poor Martin Gero. Maybe you should’ve, you know, shared some of your delicious meal with him? 😉
Question: will there be more exploration of the city in the stories you guys have already come up with?
I looked for this and didn’t see it, but apologize if it has already been asked/answered. I’ve read that Joe Flanigan has expressed interest in directing an episode. Is that a possibility for S4?
How nice the magic 8 ball speaks French too.
Your picture is stunning. That shade of green works well with the fishbowl helmet. 🙂
If the first movie will be succesfull at August, is there any chance that you make a third movie around October-November in 2007?
Hi Joe,
I accept the change that will happen to Weir in S4 (because let’s be realistic I don’t have the choice), it will be difficult for me to watch episodes without her even if I’m also a Carter fan since many years. I’ll wait and see !
(and I feel really bad about some of the comments that people dare to send you on that subject)
So my only question will be :
If there is a season 5, do you think Weir will be a regular again ?
Merci.
HI JOE,
Will you bring the ancient warship Tria in season 4. Are u certain that leaving leaving Weir out is a good idea for the long term survival of the show?
thanxs
RE: Marybeth+anonymous #4
I’m sorry, guys, but can’t we just move on from this Torri/Paul leaving thing? I think Joe knows by now how some people feel about the cast changes, and there’s no need to keep rubbing it in. Your keeping on complaining about it is not going to make any difference whatsoever. If you won’t watch the show anymore, that’s fine, but don’t spoil it for the rest of us who ARE excited about the new season.
Don’t get me wrong, I’d rather not have the cast changes either, but there are so many things to like about this show, I’m not giving up on it that easily. Frankly, it’s disappointing to me that apparently many other ‘fans’ aren’t as loyal. *shakes head*
Joe, looking forward to the new season!
Hello mr. mallozi,
I was very appericate of what you’re working on Stargate Atlantis to make the way how awesome this show is. I would like to express my voice on the future of Stargate Atlantis dvds set, I was really disappointed on behind the scenes in special features wasn’t fully closed captioned cause of my deafness If there is possily that in future which there would be nice to have closed captioned in special features such as behind the scenes, etc? However, I’m very excited by looking foward to the season 4 in Stargate Atlantis with twists and full of surprises for us the fans who loves this show.
Those pace cards look too funny. I love them. Are you the only show on the lot that has them in such silly designs, and if yes, for how long now? Also, who decided how they should look? Were you personally asked what “photo” you wanted to have on your versions, or did somebody else with insider knowledge and slightly cruel humor decide that for you (like the Lawren person you mentioned)?
Not all of us are upset that Weir is being demoted to recurring in season 4. Some of us are quite happy. Some of us are also pleased Carter is coming over to SGA. I certainly wouldn’t say Weir is one of the most popular characters from what I’ve seen in Atlantis reviews online, in scifi magazines or in fan polls.
My question:
You’ve mentioned that the cast and prodcution team are doing read through’s of the script, and that this is something you’ve not done previously. I was wondering who’s idea was it to do that, and what is the idea behind doing it? It sounds very interesting!!
Hey Joe, I was thrilled about the mention of McKay whumping but…can you assure us, McKay´s fans, that this whumping doesn´t mean only simple humiliation like “arrow in the ass” or whole McKay/Carter/Mitchell meeting in Pegasus Project? Will we see some real concern or friendship from e.g. Sheppard? Thanks
Joe, I don’t know if you can answer this question without offending someone, but I know its something I’ve thought about often over the past several months.
SciFi channel believed that the future of the network hinged on Battlestar Galactica, promoting it like it was the be-all end-all of SciFi. And dumped SG1 so maliciously that they probably had a chuckle delivering the news so close to the “200” party. Now that the show (BSG) has practically self-destructed due to its total lack of direction and “moral of the week” storylines, do you feel somewhat pleased that SciFi’s lack of respect for SG1 turned out to bite them (SciFi) on the ass? I certainly do.
Okay. Carson and Elizabeth are my favorite characters on the show. I hate that the situation, but I found the episodes to be really compelling and enjoyed the one new member who has made an appearance. Hopefully all will settle, soon.
Joe, you had mentioned that you were hoping to get to read Jason’s part, since he was home sick. In all seriousness, do you guys ever get to play parts during the read-throughs? Or is that just the far-off dream of a writer? And, if so (in not so serious manner), who would you deliberately take to a health department violation restaurant so you could get the chance to grab their part?
So season 4 of Atlantis will be all about Sheps team – and Carter. Any chance of a title change to Atlantis: Sheps Team?
If you think Elizabeth Weir is like Hammond, you need to get your eyes checked! She’s the hottest thing on Atlantis!
1) What jenny said.
2) I seem to be in the minority, but I really like all the stories about Vala. Not that it makes the slightest bit of difference either way, but I’m hoping Vala does show up in the movies.
3) Am I correct in understanding the SG-1 movies will be aired on TV rather than in the cinemas (unlike, for example, the X-Files movie)?
Finally, got my own Bridge Studio pace card today (thanks Lawren). So, seriously, what do you think? Does the green of the body suit bring out the opaque or my fishbowl helmet?
The green definitely works to complement your helmet! The red is a little jarring, though. I think it would coordinate better with a little bit of green metallic thread running through it. Not so much as to make it plaid, but just add a hint of the green.
One question – does this fit over your Evil Writer uniform, or do you have to change once you enter a controlled environment?
Anonymous said…
To uberamandafan
I’d love to know if you were one of the ones carrying on when Amanda revealed at that convention in London that she didn’t have a contract but the rest of the cast, including Claudia Black did, because if so, then you of all people should understand.
I’d be happy to tell you. When we got tidbits here and there regarding what was going on with Season 9 of SG-1, I was among the many in fandom who were “having kittens” over it. I hated the notion of what I perceived as Carter being shoved to the side for the new and improved SG-1 and I let my displeasure be known.
ie., I absolutely understand the frustration of Weir fans in this regard. That being said however, I learned a few things from that experience.
1. Yelling at Joe doesn’t fix anything. He took it like a pro and it was moderately therapeutic on my end of the keyboard…but in the end, decisions that had already been made were a long since done deal and weren’t going to change just because I wasn’t a happy camper.
2. We don’t always know the whole story (and in fact rarely do) and we look foolish when we try and postulate “what’s really happening” when usually we don’t have a clue. As much fun as it is coming up with conspiracy theories, usually they don’t amount to a hill of beans.
3. Blaming characters and actors for something beyond their control lessens your (the general “your”) credibility. What’s happening on SGA is no more Amanda/Carter’s “fault” than what happened on SG-1 was Claudia/Vala’s.
Anonymous said…
If you’re one of these SG1 fans who’ve never watched SGA and are tuning in only to see Amanda, have fun with it. I hope you don’t get too bored watching the first three seasons without her to catch up… if you even care that much about the show to do that…
Nope…sorry to disappoint…but I’m one of these SG-1 fans who’s watched SGA from almost the beginning and is completely up-to-date through the end of Season 3. And while I’ll admit to having been bored with SGA off and on, I can’t say that I’ve endured a constant stream of pococurantism.
I have been frustrated by the direction the show went in a few times as well as with what I perceive as an imbalanced focus on a couple characters while the others are just kinda “there.”
I’m hoping that a character with Carter’s rich background and experience can be used to bring some of the more secondary characters to the fore.
And for the record…I like Liz and it would have been nice if Carter and Weir could have interacted again; but it’s seems clear to me that this wasn’t meant to be because regardless of whether or not Carter went to Atlantis, the decisions surrounding Weir were a fait accompli.
I hope that clarifies my thoughts for ya.
Mary Beth 🙂
Forget all this talk about Shep/Teyla and Shep/Weir. We all know that the new pairing will be Shep/Carter! Now that I can’t wait to see!
Joe,
Any chance you could give Joel Goldsmith some time off to write a little “Live Earth Overture” for Al Gore’s upcoming “Live Earth” mega event?
Little tree hugger me would appreciate it 🙂
Oh, also: am I assuming correctly that Joel will be doing the scores for the SG-1 movies? If not, I’ll start my boycott campaign now… 😉
Hi Joe I hope you had a chance to find some Droste chocolates. Just saw that London Drug in Vancouver has some?!
For your book collection and enjoyment check out “curse of the Chalion” by Lois McMaster Bujold. There are 2 more after.
Now that Carson is gone will there be moments where the rest of the crew mention his loss? I love Jewel and was pleased to see how unsure she was taking charge but how capable she was when she needed to be. Will there be an episode where we learn more about her? Thanks!
Count me in with the group of AT/Sam fans who wigged out about the idea of her not having a contract for S10.
Funny enough, I don’t remember many fans (who had the guts to post their names) ever bashing the other actors though. In fact, I remember people making a conscientious effort to separate the characters from the actors. Interesting.
I’m also among the group who’s watched Atlantis since the beginning. I’ve enjoyed the dynamic of the Atlantis team – due mostly to the fact that the Atlantis cast has been so close.
While I’ve also been bored by a few of the story arcs over the past three years, I’ve watched every episode of the series. And I’m very, very sad to see Torri and Paul go. I just don’t think it all had to go down like that, but obviously the people in charge did. I’m even a card carrying “lemming”.
Anyway, I just don’t get the point of generalizing and lumping all AT fans into one group, as if we have no other investment in Atlantis beyond AT. It’s deliberately short-sighted and an incredibly weak argument, in a desperate attempt to discredit/dismiss those of us who aren’t as pissed as the rest of you. But please, continue to misrepresent us all if you feel it’ll make your case stronger.
Poor Gero! However I would eat his before I’d eat that thing that looks like an omelette gone wrong!
Joe:
Your pace card looks great:) Kudos to the designer.
I like Torri Higginson alot, I think she is a doll and had a blast with her at a creation con.
Weir has never kicked in for me as a character. I couldn’t develop interest in her situations or her presentation on screen. Not Torri’s fault, sometimes that happens. Michael Weatherly’s character of Logan on Dark Angel fell flat for me, but his character of Tony DeNozio on NCIS is perfection.
Amanda Tapping is a gracious and kind person who is always fun to see at conventions. I liked Carter immediately when she first appeared on SG1. I continued to like her even though I had major issues with some of the directions the character was taken in. In seasons 9 and 10 Carter has been a total delight to watch again.
If the Carter of Seasons 9 and 10 goes to Atlantis then I consider that a major boost for the show. If the Weir I have never been able to find an interest in or a connection point goes, then I won’t mourn her loss. For me, as much as I think highly of Torri and know she is talented, the character of Weir just didn’t mesh for me and always felt out of sync and out of place(except when she was at the SGC or interacting with Jack or Daniel in some capacity). It’s kinda like Jonas Quinn to me. I think Corin Nemec is a terrific actor, but Jonas Quinn just didn’t mesh.
What I do hope is that Scifi/MGM whomever realises that Torri Higginson is a talented actress and finds another project for her to come to. That they leave the door open to have this wonderful talented lady available to them.
Marla
Joe, bless you! For several weeks now I’ve been reading comments, questions, insults and demands regarding the departure of Torri and Paul from Atlantis and the addition of Jewel and Amanda — and that’s just the ones you’ve approved for posting. I can only imagine how many more you’re getting from the really irate/borderline psychotic fans of the show. Some of those folks have sauntered over to my blog, since they know you drop by to read and post from time to time, and I’ve been getting some of your…I guess “hate mail” would be the correct term. Not sure why, since I don’t work on the show, but my assistant is starting to get a little fed up with deleting emails and blog comments from the same folks who’ve been blasting and insulting you and you’re show.
Seriously, dude, you’ve got the patience and tolerance of a saint, and if we ever meet, I’m going to give you a great big hug, to show my support and my compassion for how well you’ve managed to handle all this…crap.
KJC
Long time reader, first time poster. A question, if I could…
Given that there is at least some overlap between the abilities of Carter/McKay/Zelenka, just how ‘fun’ has it been to work them all into stories together? I know this was done to some extent in ‘McKay and Mrs. Miller’. The Carter/McKay and McKay/Zelenka dynamics have always been fun so I’m sure it’ll be interesting.
On Sam Carter joining Atlantis, I’m excited about it. My wife and I have always enjoyed the character, and we named our daughter ‘Samantha’ because Carter is such a great role model. Thanks for making such great shows!
Joe,
Could you possibly shed some light on why Agent Barrett was in Dominion at all? It was only for one scene and he didn’t have more than one sentence to say. It seems like a waste to only use him so sparsely. Was he supposed to have more and then cut down?
Anonymous said…
So season 4 of Atlantis will be all about Sheps team – and Carter. Any chance of a title change to Atlantis: Sheps Team?
Uh… in case you haven’t been watching, this show has ALWAYS been about Shep and his team- in Atlantis. Joe Flanigan is the STAR of this show, and it would be boring in the extreme were it otherwize. I and a LOT of other fans are extremely excited about more team focus for S4, that’s where the action is. And seeing John and Teyla together more often is always a good thing!
I’m also heartily sick of all the Weir veneration and Sam bashing. Why should a show hinge on one supporting actress? I for one don’t think it does.
There are not as many Weir fans as some here may suppose, in fact I think I can safely say, the majority of the audience won’t know that she’s gone. I know I won’t. If her departure lowers the ratings by even one tenth of a percent I’ll eat my hat. I predict that ratings for S4 will be better than ever.
Sam as a character has much more depth and purpose than Weir ever did. Put that with the complexity, alien mystery and beauty of a character like Teyla, and you have a winning combination for of female characters on SGA.
You all are awesome Joe! Keep up the great work.
I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and I just can’t believe the nonsense going on. I’ll hold my hands up right now and say I’m a massive Beckett fan and that after his axing I won’t be watching any more (though out of fairness I did try the rest of season 3 – didn’t like it so won’t be back next season) but the unbelievable carry on of the more extreme elements of both groups (Pro Weir/Beckett and the Pro Sam – I know there are other variations but I’ll be here all day if I mention them all) is utterly revolting. I think the decisions you have made are wrong and will harm Stargate, but not for a minute do I think that you merit this response. It is a television show for pity sake! If people don’t like the direction the show is in don’t watch, and leave those who do like the direction the show is going in to watch in peace. Ratings will in the end determine which group was in the majority. I wish there was a magic wand to make Beckett reappear but their isn’t, he’s gone. I’ll watch something else. It’s that simple.
Why the frell some people are thinking that after NINE YEARS any characters needs further development? Season 10 is the FIRST and unfortunately THE LAST full season for Vala’s character and it was very logical to develop her the most. Only idiots are not able to understand and accept it.
“So I started another book, Michael Marshall Smith’s Only Forward, and this one I am truly loving.”
I’m a big Michael Marshall Smith fan and am hopelessly in love with his novel One of Us make sure you put that on your reading list too.
And a question if I may. Do you go into writing the season with a clear idea of where you want to be come the season finale? Or is it a more organic process allowing the stories to develop and seeing where they take you?
Thanks for your time and patience.
Every time I visit your blog, I get hungry! *laughs* What city has the best cuisine? New York, New Orleans, San Francisco, Paris?
An SGA question! I don’t know if this has already been asked, so here goes: will we be seeing Caldwell again in S-4?
Thanks!
Hey Joe, do you think you can tell us what is chain of command in Sheppard´s team? As I understand, in Atlantis, is it Weir-Sheppard-McKay, so in Sheppard´s team should be McKay 2IC, right?
I wasn’t going to do this and join the fray but I am livid by the mistreatment of these actors.
People may come in as anon or any other bloody name they want, and sit there and insert character names, when the insults are clearly towards the actresses themselves.
These people first need to grow up and secondly need to get a clue and chill out. These people are not deserving of any sort of hatred that seems to permeate from you over decisions made by powers above their own.
Nor does JM need to be continously harassed on the same front. I see mainly people coming in the defense of Carter/AT who rightfully deserves it, but also RL/Teyla is in need of some defense. These two women are not the problem and never have been.
I have read statements of, ‘Oh there was never animosity between Carter and Weir fans, until JM/TPTB started it.’ Give me a bloody break. A decision made by TPTB, caused some of the Weir fans to become livid and lash out. They run on a tangent on nothing blaming the actors/characters what they seem to deem the ‘death of Weir’.
Get over it!
———————————-
On a lighter note, thanks for answering my question. I figured Teyla’s dad had better taste. 😀 It was a long shot.
Since I haven’t heard any questions on Keller and I happen to really like this character. Can you let us know which eps to look for her in? Of course, if you’ve written them. Jewel is a great bonus.
Again, as always…I’m looking forward to S4, and of course more great writing–not to mention the Teyla eps. Also, I’m waiting in anticipation for S4. I don’t know if my health can wait until October from all this excitement.
Keep up the great work JM.
Hey Joe, do you think you can tell us what is chain of command in Sheppard´s team? As I understand, in Atlantis, is it Weir-Sheppard-McKay, so in Sheppard´s team should be McKay 2IC, right?
I could be wrong but I figured Teyla was second in command. McKay can’t really rally a group of military men to follow him. And if you watch The Tower, she’s clearly in command when John’s not around.
As for Atlantis, I definitely agree with that set up with Weir-John-Mckay, but from eps like Intruder and No Man’s Land–Teyla seems to take up command if those three aren’t around.
But I could be wrong, just an impression.
Sanssong said…
“Uh… in case you haven’t been watching, this show has ALWAYS been about Shep and his team- in Atlantis. Joe Flanigan is the STAR of this show, and it would be boring in the extreme were it otherwize. I and a LOT of other fans are extremely excited about more team focus for S4, that’s where the action is. And seeing John and Teyla together more often is always a good thing!
I’m also heartily sick of all the Weir veneration and Sam bashing. Why should a show hinge on one supporting actress? I for one don’t think it does. “
You know I think Sanssong and Vabarella would be looking at things differently if it was their beloved Teyla who was getting the axe or who was reduced to recurring. All one needs to do is head on over to Gateworld to see just how much they have bashed Weir AND Torri. Kinda like the pot calling the kettle black.
So, seriously, what do you think? Does the green of the body suit bring out the opaque or my fishbowl helmet?
Delightfully so, though it’s the hot pink cloak that does it for me…
Must also add an official “Awwwhe’ssoocuteandadorkable” response to the blog about Maximus the other day.
Plus a quick question…I may possibly have too much time on my hands but sometimes I like to watch an episode in another language (even though I can’t speak any other languages) and was wondering about the casting of the dubbing actors, does anyone from production have to check that they’ve stuck to the script and such?
Hope you have a great weekend 🙂
anon–You know I think Sanssong and Vabarella would be looking at things differently if it was their beloved Teyla who was getting the axe or who was reduced to recurring. All one needs to do is head on over to Gateworld to see just how much they have bashed Weir AND Torri. Kinda like the pot calling the kettle black.
First off it’s Vaberella. There are two e’s.
Secondly, I won’t bother to waste the time to really dignify your statement with my usually thought out answer. I’ve made my self abundantly clear on these issues.
And if you’re interested JM, you can search my name out on GW and check out my posts on Weir, you can also go to Sony boards and Scifi Forums, where I haunt under the same name. I find skins to be useless and a waste of time, plus I like my name too bloody much. 😀
————————-
This is my last comment on this non-sense. I don’t want to join the league of the “anon”s or other whingers/lemmings.
Wow, we scifi fans are opinionated, aren’t we? Well, I think your blog is cool(ow, that dates me). I love some of your more sarcastic yet accurate comments!
In my profession, trust and faith, play a large role. I think that is true in any creative endeavor and in my opinion Stargate ranks very high in the creative category. You(writers, directors, actors,etc.) has awed, intrigued, and inspired us for 10 years and I’ll go out on a limb here, and predict it’s future is in good hands! Storylines evolve and naturally actors must change. Why this process angers some so vehemently baffles me. Point being, I treasure the journey that the Gate has allowed me to experience and look forward to all the NEW adventures that await us! Thank you!!
Hey Joe!
You’ve said that you can’t give fans the definitive number of Atlantis episodes with Weir next season because you haven’t planned out the whole season yet. That’s certainly fair. However, it sounds like you have planned out the first ten episodes. Can you please tell us how many of those episodes will have Weir in them? 🙂
Hi … You have eat at “bistrot bistrot”, I work there …woaw !!!