“When I was young,”admitted Fondy, “I never really appreciated the gifts people got me.” My response was: “Are you kidding?” Offhand, I couldn’t think of a gift I hadn’t enjoyed receiving. Then, giving it some thought, I realized that what I’d enjoyed was not so much the gift itself but the getting. There was the initial elation of receiving the present, the mounting exhilaration of the post-delivery expressions of gratitude, the escalating excitement of the unwrapping process, and, finally, the typically anti-climactic reveal: “A Best of Classical Hymns album. Uh – wow.” In the end, it wasn’t so much the gift but the thought that someone had taken the time to think of you and pick out those black knee socks or that totally inappropriate Tommy Hilfiger tie you’d never wear in a million years. Actually getting something cool – comic books, food-related items, one of those retractable metal batons for hitting people with – was a bonus that could not be counted upon. Ultimately, the only gifts to really disappoint were the articles of clothing and only because they necessitated my trying them on and then displaying them for my adoring relatives. “Beautiful,”my mother would remark as ten year old me would strut up and down the linoleum kitchen flooring like some amateur child model. “That’s the style now.” If you believed my mother, red sweater vests never went out of fashion. Nor did cream, body-hugging turtlenecks or shapeless zippered jackets.
Coincidentally, I was the recipient of a gift today, compliments of the SaveCarsonBeckett people who swung by the studio to drop off a glorious vase full of Chocoatl assorted chocolates. As promised, I did share with the rest of the writers. The chocolates were wonderfully sweet and creamy yet tinged with the subtly bitter guilt that comes with offing a beloved character. Or it may have been the cardomom; I‘m not sure. Whichever, it was greatly appreciated although, for the briefest of seconds, it did occur to me that they may have been poisoned when I started to feel a little queasy. Paul, however, suspected it may have had more to do with the fact that I’d just polished off 12 truffles right after inhaling my piece of key lime pie. Well, poisoned or not, they were very tasty.
By the way, speaking of bittersweet, I really enjoyed Cornelius Medvei’s “Mr. Thundermug”, an alternately humorous and touching one-hundred page quickie about a talking baboon and his attempts to provide a normal life for his wife and kids. In many ways, the narrative reminded me of Lemony Snicket’s delivery in the Series of Unfortunate Events Series (The Carnivorous Carnival being my favorite) – dry and dark. I set aside ten minutes today and read Ricky Gervais’s “Flanimals”. Brilliant. Also burned through Richard Morgan’s “Altered Carbon” in two days and have now started on Scott Westerfield’s “The Risen Empire”. Brad dropped by the office today enroute to the Arctic and told me he loved John Scalzi’s “Old Man’s War”. That makes both Brad and David Hewlett as Scalzi converts. I’d pick up his other books – The Last Colony, The Android’s Dream, Agent to the Stars and The Ghost Brigades – but can’t find them at my local bookstores. How maddening is that?
Finally, I’m pleased to report that the guys from SciFi did not meet with foul play as previously assumed. We received a call from Mark Stern explaining he and Tony got held up on the sets of Eureka and Tin Man, but would make it a point to drop by next time they’re in town. Looking forward to it.
Mailbag time…
Peter writes: “Have you guys started on planning the back-half of season 4?”
Answer: We’re discussing stories for the back half and I’ve started work on the first half of the mid-season two-parter.
Carolina writes: “Now that new eps of SG-1 and Atlantis are about to air in the US, what do we need to do to have the ratings count?”
Answer: Get the word out that the shows are coming back on April 13th.
Anonymous #1 writes: “I wanted to tell you if you had a choice between a doberman pincher(black/brown hair) or a Cavalier King Charles, both males, which breed would you choose.”
Answer: King Charles Spaniel. Or pug.
Anonymous #2 writes: “Who would you say are the most computer savvy among the cast and crew?”
Answer: Martin Gero who owns and operates his official website where you can purchase Martin Gero-related merchandise like key chains, t-shirts, and official mugs.
Copernicus: “I’ve spent the last couple of days reading the complete collection of Sherlock Holmes stories and I was wondering if you have you read any of them.”
Answer: Yup. I read them all in high school.
Anonymous #3 writes: “If one was to attribute one word to describe a Stargate atlantis season, this is what I would say: season 1 exposition ; season 2 relief, season 3 Jeapordy, now what word would you use to describe season four so far?”
Answer: Surprises.
David writes: “What say you about SGA movie($) in between seasons, any chance of that?”
Answer: None.
Anonymous #4 writes: “You guys have really put Amanda Tapping in a tough position. Everyone now knows that Torri was let go because either you guys or the network wanted to hold Amanda to her contract.”
Answer: In a desire to give voice to our pre-adolescent fanbase (and those possessed of the mental and emotional equivalence) I‘ve gone ahead and posted your comment. What can I say? You have us all figured out. Not only do we force Amanda – and every other actor – to work on the show, but we also do a fair job of imposing our will on hapless writers like Carl and Martin. In fact, I was just in Carl’s office this morning, shocking him with a cattle prod. He whimpered a little but, of course, Carl knows better than to raise his voice in protest lest he TASTE THE BACK OF MY HAND! Seriously though, most will consider you amusingly delusional but I find you refreshingly dim. P.S. Sasquatch has been writing scripts under the nom de plume Alan McCullough.
Ruffles writes: “Since you use several different writers and are writing several episodes at a time, do you have anyone on your staff that looks at character continuity or is that left to the actors?”
Answer: All of the writers participate in breaking every story and providing notes on every outline and various script drafts.
Cattle prods, huh? Is that how you get such great episodes? All this time, I thought you guys were just good! Sadly, people seem to like to speculate where they have little if any knowledge. What assumptions made by fans about you or any of the others working on Stargate would you say bother you the most? Conversely, what is the nicest compliment you’ve received? (Gosh, that was long…)
“Pleased to hear it. Give [Dolby] a big kiss on the nose from me.”
I did. Thought you might be interested in Dolby’s response.
Cheers.
In a desire to give voice to our pre-adolescent fanbase (and those possessed of the mental and emotional equivalence) I’ve gone ahead and posted your comment. What can I say? You have us all figured out. Not only do we force Amanda – and every other actor – to work on the show, but we also do a fair job of imposing our will on hapless writers like Carl and Martin.
Just before leaving for the Arctic, Amanda posted the following message on her site:
“Atlantis is proving to be really fun. The cast and crew have been so wonderful and welcoming. I am very happy there.”
Hmmmm. Apparently she hasn’t gotten the memo notifying her that she’s supposed to be miserable.
Either that or perhaps you need to crack the whip a little harder.
Mary Beth 🙂
PS…When did you want us to remind you about re-posting your poem?
Cattle prods are so passe. They’re totally country. You need to get yourself a nice taser. Compact, sleek, and yet highly effective when you have an unruly actor or staff member. Plus it has the extra benefit of making them completely malleable. It’s hard to talk back when in an electricity induced stupor.
Shipperahoy 🙂
Oh, those SaveBeckckett rascals and their poison chocolates. Good times, good times…
I’m sorry if this has been asked before, as I seemed to remember it but can’t quite place it…anyway, there was a distinct lack of mentions of Carson after Sunday (i.e. in Submersion and Vengeance), was this due to error, editing, or just that it was difficult to add in a reference?
Mr. Mallozzi,
How many pounds of Belgium or Swiss chocolate do we need to bribe you with so that you can give my girlfriend and I a tour of Bridge studios…and the Atlantis set. If you chose to accept this crazy offer where and when would you like us to send it.
Molson
Hey Joe, did you see the write up on Gateworld about the Carson rally? You got a bit of a write up!
“…while the always well-dressed Joseph Mallozzi (executive producer) also came outside to talk with fans and with the press. Since no one is ever permanently dead in sci-fi, Mallozzi — dressed in a black, three-piece suit with “scorpion cufflinks” to play up his role as the “evil producer” — told fans that if they managed to get media coverage on a major U.S. show such as Entertainment Tonight or Access Hollywood, he will write Beckett into at least two episodes in the second half of Season Four.“
They’re determined nuts, you could have placed yourself in a bit of a bind 😉
Mr. Mallozzi–
I just wanted to say, that since someone pointed out your blog to me, I have enjoyed every post. I love hearing the Stargate tidbits, and I think it’s wonderful you take the time to respond to a few questions each day. Not to mention, you always provide me with a good laugh (loved the recent shipping Carter and Sheppard comment). Thanks!
Well this is strange. You’ve answered one of my questions. Perhaps if I recreate the exact same scenario you will answer another one.
Kindly, but respectful, greeting:
Hi Mr. Mallozzi,
Check.
Expression of good wishes:
I hope you’re having fun at your job.
Check.
Question that cannot possibly bring you any disrepute should you choose to answer it:
What do you think of Aaron Sorkin’s writing, be it for The West Wing, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, or any of his earlier projects?
Check.
Wish me luck.
I never realized this before, but you wrote “Descent”! (I guess it’s not news to you lol) It is one of my favorite episodes. Did you add the “shrinkage” joke? That was unexpected, yet hilarious.
Thanks,
Royal
Just read your comments in the scifi wire and must say that sadly, there is nothing that makes a “dragon” sound either cool or plausible in the sg1 universe.
“yet tinged with the subtly bitter guilt that comes with offing a beloved character”
Ahh, but your villain personna should never feel guilt nor remorse. People will suspect a heart beats within your well-tailored vest. Can’t have that now, can we?
A previous question was asked about the possible development of a (hopefully) beloved recurring character for Atlantis vis-a-vis Bratac or Jacob Carter/Selmac. Other than the fan-panned Lucius, any plans for creating such a character?
Nola
Joe, can you please give us hints on Carter’s position in the Atlantis? Will there be a 5 person team like on SG-1, or will she stay on base? And how is her rank going to influence her position and that of Sheppard?
Joe,
I’m curious about Teyla’s original name “Mikala”, what prompt you to change her name?
I give up.
It’s clear you don’t want all of the Atlantis fans to watch. You only want the ones who came over from SG1 fandom.
Well that’s fine. I’ll go and find something else to watch.
Then again, so will a lot of other former SG1 fans I know who are tired of the stale old show and saw Atlantis as a breath of fresh air with its wonderful characters, and its groundbreaking civilian leadership.
Incidentally, if Torri happens to read this, Torri, we love you girl! Elizabeth is the heart and soul of Atlantis. Without you, for many of us, the show is over.
Joe, I hope you have your resume ready. You’re going to need it.
i would be very pleased if you could answer the following four questions for me (my good opinion of you may be affected by your answer to question 1)
1)have you ever tried rum truffle or alpinis? if so whats your opinion?
2)a lot of “shippers” go crazy over imagined/possible/hinted relationships between the main characters. is it possible that any of these relationships may come into play in season 4, say a ronon/teyle one?
3)is teyla the only one with a gift or could we ever meet another character with same circumstances but a strong enough gift that they go dolaly and act all psycotic or wraith like?
4)if there were two chocolate bars left on planet earth and they took refuge in your home would you
a)hand them over to the government
b)let them breed
c)eat them?
I thought I could continue watching SGA without Elizabeth but having heard things from the con, I don’t think I can. Alas SGA was a good show but I don’t think I want to be depressed every time I see Carter in Elizabeth’s office. Or Shep interacting without Elizabeth.
Hey! Great job and I’m eagerly looking forward to season 4. All of your mentions of ‘surprises’ have me on the edge of my seat. When are we going to get some more info on season 4?
You also referenced that the revelation in season 4 is going to be of ‘Gift’ preportions. Can you drop us a hint as to who this revelation will be about? Thanks for answering the fans questions, even the juvenile ones 😉
Hi Joe!!
Wow! I can’t believe some think you actually held a gun to Amanda Tapping’s head in order to get her to cross over to Atlantis. As if any actress would say no to a good job, and the new challenges the move will bring!
Also, I can’t understand why some would dislike AT or Carter because of her coming over to Atlantis, and I say this as someone who likes Carter, but is first and foremost an SGA fan, and was unhappy about the news that Carter was due to cross over initially. (I’ve since got over that. Show’s change, life goes on, go with the flow, etc…) To be so vitriolic towards a fictional character and the actress who portrays her seems a little immature and somewhat concerning!!
How many times does it need to be said that Weir’s character was going anyway? Of course a replacement was needed! This sort of thing happens in the business world all the time. Business is business. Tough decisions are made.
I’m looking forward to the new direction of the show. Let’s be frank, a new direction was needed to draw in more viewers, and if changes are made, which mean I get to see the show I love, even if it is a little different, then I’m happy.
A lot of fans are excited about the changes, or are at least willing to give them a try, and watch with an open mind.
Question:
Do you have a favourite scene from an SGA episode? (Either from the last three seasons, or something we’ve yet to see from season 4?) Something that really stands out as being special?
Oddly enough, now that I’m older, I enjoy giving gifts more than receiving them. I was even more pleased that my brother enjoyed his birthday present of a couple of manga (One Piece and Trigun, couldn’t find any early FMA) than I was when I got my Christmas present of a Nintendo DS! I don’t recall you saying you liked any of those anime, have you seen them? I love FMA, but have never been terribly excited by any other.
Hey Joe,
In Sateda Sheppard made known how much his team means to him, and he’s shown how much they mean to him several times since then. In season 4, will we get to see how much Sheppard means to them?
Thank you for taking the time to go through all our questions!
Jess
You probably won’t want to answer this one, since it might put you on the spot. But several SGA castmembers have referred to Jason Momoa as “Maramduke,” given his good nature and physical stature.
What dog breed would you say best describes your cast? (We hereby absolve you of any implication that the response would be insulting.)
Hiya Joe,
Sorry if I am repeating this question again but it didnt get answered so thought I would ask it again. In relation to season 4:
1) Will we see any more Wraith like Michael who got infected by the retrovirus?
2) Will we see any more people who used the Wraith enzyme like Ford did?
3) Will we see anymore people with the Wraith gene like Teyla?
4) Will we see anymore Runners like Ronan?
Also, in relation to the movies, if they do good and more are made, would we see story lines that were going to be done on the show but never found their place being in them? Like a third Aschen story?
Thanks Joe and take care!
Whatdaya’ mean red sweater vests aren’t in style anymore?! You’re delusional ;D.
I’m so jealous of you and my best friend because ya’ll can read so darn fast! Everyday, she seems to have three books (literally…no pun intended. well, maybe a little) under her arm. It takes me at least a week to finish only three hundred pages. *sigh*
If you could only pick one book that I just had to read, what would you suggest?
Glad to hear that the Scifi people haven’t fallen down a well or anything terrible. There would be so much paperwork…
(btw, You Rock! *energy energy energy*) ;D
Have a Fantastic day!
Hi Joe
Seeing how powerful you are.. could you send us down some rain and warm temperatures? You can keep Sasquatch though..
Any sightings ?
Dori
I have two questions if that’s alright. 1) Are we ever going to see a Goa’uld mothership in Atlantis? And 2) might we learn in season 4 how drones are created/built?
Hi Joe,
I have been watching the season 2 DVDs and am a little puzzled. I had always assumed that the DVD commentary should be about the episode I’m watching.
I was watching Intruder – I love the McKay/Sheppard interaction in this – so I was hoping for some insight into the actors’ thoughts and problems while making the episode – like the commentaries for season 1.
Was I wrong to expect something like this?
What we got was a commentary by the director (Peter DeLuise) and an actor from SG1 (Gary Jones – I’ve no idea who he is) who admitted that he’d never watched Intruder; and they spent practically the whole time talking about an SG1 episode – about which I had absolutely NO interest.
Please could you pass a message on to whoever arranges for the commentares, that we’d really rather hear about the episode we’re watching.
Thank you
Leanne
Mr. Mallozzi, sir, how do you feel about the coffee/chocolate combination? Heavenly union, yes?
Joe,
Do you actually care that a lot of people are saying they won’t watch SGA when you get rid of Elizabeth, or do you really want to dump Torri that much?
The news about SG1 pictures on Elizabeth’s desk, which came out on the weekend is the final nail in the coffin for me. It’s actually made some of the ridiculously optimistic people realise that things aren’t going to be just bad for Torri/Elizabeth, they’re doing to be disastrous.
I’m sure you won’t unscreen this, because OMG! I mentioned Sam’s photos being on Elizabeth’s desk.
The best thing that came out of the Vancouver con is that those of us who knew all along that Torri didn’t want to go are now having others see that too.
Personally, I hope she gets a huge job on a big show. A CSI or Law and Order, or maybe Brothers and Sisters. If you can’t see how incredible and talented she is, I’m sure someone else will. I’ll watch whichever show employs her next, and I’ll choose to forget the last three years of SGA ever happened.
As for Carter. Pfft! Like we need more of her after ten years. Give it a rest already. I was a huge fan of Sam for many years. Right now, I can’t stand the sight of the character, because she’s in and my favorite character is out. I will NOT be watching SGA with her in the credits instead of Torri, or with her in 14 episodes and Torri in four (yes, I said four. Just admit it, you know it’s true)
Isn’t kind of late to draw in new viewers, people its the 4th season, not the secoond one. They have all the viewers they will get, now how many go and how many come because of SGA, I guess we will see.
I for one don’t plan on watching SGA when it returns on sci-fi, already seen it and I’m not happy. As for s4 maybe by the time sci-fi shows it NEXT YEAR, I will be over it. 🙁
Hi Joe,
Now that we know there is some Shep whumping coming in season 4, will we also get some Sam whumping and Teyla whumping as well in season 4?!
I wanted to let you know that I appreciate how you spend time out of your day to answer so many questions from fans. Even the questions you’ve already answered several times and the insulting ones.
I read portions of your blog to my husband last night. He really enjoyed it, though I think the blog about your wife and her attempts at trying to kill you off made him a bit nervous. ;p
Your blog inspired me to take pictures of a meal I had at a party this past weekend and posted them to my blog. Although I went one step further and took some video as well. 😀
Sasquatch has been writing scripts under the nom de plume Alan McCullough.
Sasquatch? Tell me it’s not true!? I just knew that Alan McCullough was really Ogo Pogo! I’m so disappointed…
Anonymous said…
I thought I could continue watching SGA without Elizabeth but having heard things from the con, I don’t think I can. Alas SGA was a good show but I don’t think I want to be depressed every time I see Carter in Elizabeth’s office. Or Shep interacting without Elizabeth.
You won’t watch the show if it means seeing Shep interacting without Elizabeth? What did you do during the previous 3 seasons then? Or did you only watch The Real World and boycott everything else?
The nature of the role of Atlantis’ base commander means that that person is not for the most part going off world on missions with the team and therefore isn’t around when Sheppard does a lot of his “interacting”.
I can understand having a favourite character… but storming off in a huff because the other characters “interact” without your favourite seems.. how can I put this?… something of a narrow view to take…
Question for ya Joe.. you seem to be quite the adventurer when it comes to food – what is the most unusual/adventurous thing you have ever eaten? My husband is one of those folks who’s attitude is, “the wierder, the better” and has eaten everything from snails to frogs legs to whole baby octupus, haggis, horsemeat, steak tartare etc etc…
Dear Anonymous:
Just because Mr. Mallozzi dresses like a city slicker does not mean he isn’t country at heart. He keeps animals in his house and hasn’t gone vegetarian like those other show business people.
A good old fashioned country cattle prod will do the job for him just fine, thank you very much.
Love,
NoDakgirl
Dear Mr. Mallozzi,
Thanks for answering my question regarding the dog choice for my girlfriend. My first choice was a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as well. Just out of curiosity how much would a couple of Pugs(one male and one female) cost to buy from a genuine breeder?
Thanks man
A question regarding season 4, when do you think it will be out on canadian tv since it usually precedes the U.S… thanks again
Hi Mr. Mallozzi,
Just wondering if we were going to meet any ascended beings, a la morgan le fey (I know that was technically an SG-1 episode, but it took place on atlantis) in atlantis this year? Thanks for the blog, it keeps me hungry at work.
Thanks for taking time to answer questions.
Are you any closer to casting someone for Larrin in Travellers? Would Camryn Manheim be a fit for it?
Will Sheppard face any repercussions for disobeying Landry in The Return Pt 2?
It might be my retiring English nature, but I’ve never seen so much fuss over a character change! Trust your writers, folks, I think they’ve done a terrific job so far and the back-end of Season 3 gives me no reason to think that’s going to stop.
*ahem*
So Joe, my fairly odd but delightful local butcher offered me squirrel last time I wandered in. Yea or nay? Are you a regular somewhere that offers you the behind-the-counter goods?
I’m not sure what is more immature, to not agree with someone and express that or someone not being able to accept that someone doesn’t agree with you. I think the latter. So those who disagree don’t matter and their opinion is less important? Why do we have to be put down constantly by some other fans and the executive producer of the show. It still surprises me every time… and I don’t think it’s fair. One would think TPTB would be glad the character they created caught on with the audience so much. Especially as the writer, I think you should be able to handle criticism for what you’ve done. Did you expect that Torri/Elizabeth fans would accept this peacefully? If the roles would be reversed and it was Elizabeth who would be replacing Carter, the Tapping fans would not be one bit pleased either, they’d react the same, if not in even more aggressive manner.
I see there are many demanding whumping but they’re not Elizabeth fans, we don’t want it. Thank you. We want Elizabeth to be healthy, not hurt and very much present in Atlantis as the leader.
Hey Joe,
Is the new series called “stargate universe” because it takes place in a new or parallel universe? (I heard that the ninth chevron take to parallel universe or dimension…)
Hi
I just started reading your blog last week. Thanks for taking the time to reply to questions and keeping us updated about your meals out.
I loved season 1, 2 and 3 of Atlantis (and all of SG1). Although I preferred watching season 1 the second time through after I had seen season 2. I guess this is because in season 1 of a show you have to do a lot of the character building stories. I always find I don’t care much about the characters until I have got to know them a bit, and then I want to know more….. so you cant really win! Hopefully we will learn more about all of the characters in season 4, after all character development is what keeps them interesting! Also there is the jeopardy of knowing that any of them could die at any time! (like Battlestar Galactica but not quite as extreme!)
I can’t wait for season 4, I know there will be a lot of changes, but you guys did a great job with the last 3 seasons, so I don’t see why this should be any different. I don’t think there is any point speculating on “how bad” the changes will be until we see it…. And then we can make up our minds.
I suppose in a way I am slightly bias. I thought Weir was one of the least developed characters and it always seemed that she didn’t have much to do in a lot of the episodes. I just found her irritating (although she got much better in the latter half of season 3). Just my personal view, and I know a lot of people will disagree (I suppose realistically you cant like every one (in real life also). I liked Carson, and was sad when he died, but I trust that the writers/producers know what they are doing and that the show will be better for it (although exploding tumors!?!).
So, what I was trying to say – in a very long winded way – is I LOVE YOUR SHOW! And I know whatever you do in season four will be great if the last 3 seasons are anything to go by!
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!
Kate
Maja said…
I’m not sure what is more immature, to not agree with someone and express that or someone not being able to accept that someone doesn’t agree with you. I think the latter. So those who disagree don’t matter and their opinion is less important? Why do we have to be put down constantly by some other fans and the executive producer of the show.
Obviously I can’t speak for everyone, but as presumably one of the “some other fans” you are tarring with your nice big brush, what I find immature is people posting aggressive, insulting, downright *rude* comments on someone’s personal blog. I don’t care if the blog belongs to Joe Mallozzi, to some random bloke on the street or to the Queen of England. It’s rude. It’s inappropriate.
Disagree all you want, post your comments and ask your questions, but do it politely and with at least a modicum of decorum. If people keep publicly throwing their toys out of the pram and posting spiteful messages on here then I’m afraid, in my opinion, all they really achieve is to tarnish both themselves *and* their cause with such behaviour.
Thankfully, Joe seems to have much thicker skin than I and appears to find all this highly amusing. Good for him. I wouldn’t be half so charitable.
Joe,
Fans of which Atlantis Character will be the most happy in season 4. The choices are: Ronon, Teyla, McKay, Sheppard, Lorne and Zelenka.
Thanks
Your Moroccan fan
Joe,
First off, i love your pug picture. As a former pug owner, its always fun to see them around. Have you ever thought of letting them make a cameo on the SGA set?
On a slightly sadder note, I was un-aware that Torri would be leaving the show. She’s a great actress, and i’ve loved her work so far on SGA, but I am glad to see the writers aren’t afraid to change up the cast every now and then.
However she leaves i hope its in a way that may see her return, atleast in an episode here or there.
Weather or not you answer these i think its great you take the time to actually read threw the majority of these posts, let alone respond to some of them.
Hi,
Just a quick question that has been asked before I assume. But yet I do ask… There are many fanfic stories about SGC and SGA, so you ever read them?
Personally I can’t wait to see Season 4 of SGA and hope that the character transfer from Dr. Weir to Carter is good (and not permanent…)
Thanks.
Cattle prods? Guns? Oh my! Things are more desperate at Bridge than I’d suspected!
I’d like to say that you are one tough fella. Personally, if it were me, I’d not unscreen such rude and hateful comments on my blog, but that fact that you have makes me adore your nefarious self even more. The scorpion cufflinks sound like a wicked touch.
I know I’ve said this before here, but I cannot wait for the ‘surprising’ and ‘revelatory’ season 4. And I’d hope that you’d never go back on any changes planned for the show. I’m happy to read what’s planned so far, little as that is.
Is there any chance that you will release new OST albums?
Cattleprods…Where can I pick one up? Too bad Mr. Stern didn’t have a chance to come…wonder if that’s a sign of how scifi feels about the show now…
Anyways, are there any FRIEND/TEAM relationships (I don’t want to start any shipper conflicts!) that you would like to expand on this year (like Rodney/Ronan, etc – or I should say Fatman and Ronan,loved that line!)?
He whimpered a little but, of course, Carl knows better than to raise his voice in protest lest he TASTE THE BACK OF MY HAND!
LOL! See, this is the reason I read this blog.
I actually went to Chocoatl yesterday. I tried several of the chocolates, and while they were certainly very good, I have to admit to being slightly disappointed after the rave reviews I’ve read. But it’s entirely possible that I simply don’t have a distinguishing enough palate to properly appreciate them. I did, however, try the Venezualian milk chocolate hot chocolate, which was so good I decided to go back and get something else with a little more kick. Alas, I overstepped my own bounds a little in getting one with chili pepper in it, which I found overpowered the chocolate. I could not even finish it. But being a huge fan of hot chocolate, I do plan to try every variety they have eventually.
I’ll have to echo Peter’s comment above about the lack of mention of Carson between “Sunday” and “First Strike”. This was especially noticible in “Vengeance”, when Michael repeatedly referred to the experiments “your people” performed, each time clearly meaning “Dr. Beckett”. Sure, it wasn’t his shining moment, but I felt at least it should have been acknowledged.
I’ll have to echo Peter’s comment above about the lack of mention of Carson between “Sunday” and “First Strike”.
And I will echo Shawna’s echo of Peter’s comment. The characters were practically tripping over themselves to keep from uttering Carson’s name. It was extremely noticeable and extremely odd.
And I will echo Shawna’s echo of Peter’s comment. The characters were practically tripping over themselves to keep from uttering Carson’s name. It was extremely noticeable and extremely odd.
Actually, I didn’t think it was odd. When my dad passed away, I couldn’t say his name, nor did I want it uttered around me. It was sort of my defense so I could get through my finals and other work—he died a month before my finals. Any thing that triggered a thought, i.e. his name, a joke that I recognized of his…would cause me to break down.
I figured that’s how the SGA needed to focus. By sort of putting it to the backburner so they can finish their obligations. Further more, when it comes to Teyla and Ronon and definitely John—I would expect them to be sort of “we need to move on”. Figuring they have dealt with a lot of loss and that’s how they “get through it”.
So I didn’t find it odd. I found it, understandable, but since I come from that mentality, I projected that onto the characters and related to them.
To Allipeeps, I think someone who calls the fans lemmings among other things should be able to handle a bit of criticism here and there, especially when it comes to ridiculous casting decisions.
And yes, getting rid of Torri and Paul is ridiculous. As many people have said here before YOU DO NOT INCREASE YOUR RATINGS BY PISSING OFF FANS!
If they wanted to bring in new fans, fine, bring in Carter.But don’t also dump Carson and Elizabeth. Anyone with half a brain knows that losing the fans of two characters and gaining the fans of one isn’t going to give you higher ratings. The best they can hope for is to break even.
It’s not rocket science, just common sense, which someone who makes the casting decisions at SGA seems to be sadly lacking
Dear Joe,
What pisses you off the most in Stargate Atlantis so far? On the flipside what do are you most proud of concerning the show?
Thanks,
Your Montreal fan
alipeeps said: snip, snip “If people keep publicly throwing their toys out of the pram and posting spiteful messages on here then I’m afraid, in my opinion, all they really achieve is to tarnish both themselves *and* their cause with such behaviour.”
I feel it essential to point out that no one “posts” publicly on this blog. Mr. Mallozzi, and Mr. Mallozzi alone, decides what posts become public for all to see therefore he has the power to eliminate the “spiteful messages” on his own blog. He seems to relish the mud-slinging matches ergo the “spiteful” and immature and insulting messages see the light of day, and they ar enot all from fans. Albeit I am sure it is not the extent of the nastiness however the messages that are posted (nasty, nice and in-between)only see the light of day for one reason . . . you figure it out.
Hey Joe,
Over at the Scifi channel forums Jim Butcher, the guy behind The Dresden Files, made the following post:
“It’s a common misconception that the production crew of SG1 WANTED to keep on making the show. They didn’t. The show’s been going for ten freaking years. It doesn’t matter how great a crew you have to work with, after that much time you start to develop problems and issues, and people start to want to try new things and get other projects on their resumes. SG1 had one of the better runs of any show on TV, much less within the genre. They’re ready to do new things. It’s pretty much as simple as that.
What, you think SciFi /wanted/ to cancel the longest-running genre program on TV? A proven success, whose personnel and audience were reliable and firmly in place? Not even. TV execs love the shows they can rely upon.
It was SG1’s time. Life is like that.”
Is what he says true? Did you guys want to stop making SG-1? Were you just sick of it? Or is this guy full of shit?
Aaron
Ummm alipeeps we must be watching different shows because the people that Elizabeth interacts the most are with Shep and Mckay. Also I have no idea what the rest of your post was about because it makes no sense to me. I wasn’t saying that OMG Sheppard should only interact with Elizabeth because that would be hilarious but you know I also love Ronon/Sheppard and Sheppard/Lorne interaction.
All this angst is not good for people.
Can you once and for all give a good reason why you want to get rid of Elizabeth? I mean, really, you don’t just dump a character and then not explain why.
We know that you got rid of Carson as a ratings ploy. What’s the story with Elizabeth?
Do some of you have trouble writing for her (I don’t know why I’m asking that, that much is clear) or do you have an issue with Torri? (this would be just the most unbelievable thing ever. Anyone who’s ever met her has nothing but praise for her)
I’m one of the many who won’t be watching past season three.
My favourite character, who I feel is the strongest female character in scifi at the moment, is being dumped for reasons that are beyond the comprehension of her fans.
Actually, to clarify, when you say recurring, what does that mean? Do you mean that she’ll be in a few episodes and then be gone? will she be a major part of season four and be back in season five?
If you could answer those questions, you’d save the fans a lot of angst and yourselves a lot of the agro you’re attracting.
Grace said…
To Allipeeps, I think someone who calls the fans lemmings among other things should be able to handle a bit of criticism here and there, especially when it comes to ridiculous casting decisions.
D’you really think that comments like, “Joe, I hope you have your resume ready. You’re going to need it.” (made by your good self, I think?) can be considered “a bit of criticism”? According to the dictionary, criticism, in this context is “the act of passing judgment as to the merits of anything”. Telling someone to get their resume ready reads to me more like a threat. Not one you have any hope of following through on, obviously but still… there is a vast difference between expressing your discontent and name-calling and insults.
Anonymous said…
I feel it essential to point out that no one “posts” publicly on this blog. Mr. Mallozzi, and Mr. Mallozzi alone, decides what posts become public for all to see therefore he has the power to eliminate the “spiteful messages” on his own blog. He seems to relish the mud-slinging matches ergo the “spiteful” and immature and insulting messages see the light of day, and they are not all from fans.
True, he chooses what posts to approve – and if he wanted to, he could only approve positive, happy posts and make it appear that everybody loves his every decision. I personally like that he addresses both positive *and* negative points and, as I said, has enough of a sense of humour about the spite that he is happy to post the nasty comments too… I suspect he feels like myself, that all those spiteful posters are really achieving is to make themselves look foolish. Am not sure I understand your last comment above – who other than fans are posting spiteful comments? Are you suggesting that some comments are “fake”? That Joe is posting nastiness to his own blog? Is this some grand conspiracy theory that I should be aware of?
Anonymous said…
Ummm alipeeps we must be watching different shows because the people that Elizabeth interacts the most are with Shep and Mckay. Also I have no idea what the rest of your post was about because it makes no sense to me. I wasn’t saying that OMG Sheppard should only interact with Elizabeth because that would be hilarious but you know I also love Ronon/Sheppard and Sheppard/Lorne interaction.
I was being slightly sarcastic because, intentionally or not, that was what your post stating you didn’t want to see “Shep interacting without Elizabeth” (I assume you are Maja and that is the post we’re talking about?) did say.
For the record, I have my concerns about the cast changes too and I would much rather not have e.g. Carter in Atlantis… but I’m also aware that I am not privy to the plans the producers and writers have for the show and the characters and I am willing to watch the show before I condemn it. My interest in the show is also not so solely focused on one character that their absence is enough to make me abandon my interest altogether.