So I was working on the my blog the other night and the t.v. was on in the background. I believe the station was CITYTV and they were running that Pussycat Dolls reality show – you know, the one my friend refers to as Pussycat Dolls Presents: The Search for the Next Whore. Anyhoo, the show ends and the station announcer comes on to plug the next program – an episode of SG-1 in which the team confronts “the Oree”. Oree? Seriously? I don’t think it’s too much to ask that the station broadcasting the show do enough research to pronounce the name properly. Of course, I’ve heard worse mispronunciations. I remember one audition for the Adria character where an aspirant referred to herself as “the daughter of the Oreo”. Usually, I’m very good at suppressing laughter during auditions (and believe me, it’s no easy feat at times), but in this instance the urge was so great I had to bite my lip and actually look away. Unfortunately, I ended up shifting my gaze to director Andy Mikita who, back to me, was obviously having a hard time himself as evidenced by his heaving shoulders. I looked away yet again and right at Paul who was biting his knuckle so hard he ended up leaving a mark that remained for the better part of a week. Needless to say, the daughter of the Oreo didn’t get the part.
Speaking of television, some quickie comments on the shows I’m still watching –
House: Last week’s episode offered one of the most disgusting moments I’ve ever seen on television – and a lot of hilarity: “We’re going to find out what’s wrong with you, but first we need to know one thing! Have you ever been in a porno?!”
Survivor: This past week‘s episode offered one of the most entertaining challenges to date in the blindfolded whacking puzzle.
The Amazing Race: Since Rob and Amber were eliminated – meh. Who annoys me the least? Hmmm. That’s tough. I guess I’d have to go with Oswald and Danny.
Boston Legal: Loving it. And great to hear the show was picked up for another season.
Friday Night Lights: Terrific episode last week with plenty of surprises and very touching character moments. Who wants to bet they lose the championship?
Earl/The Office/30 Rock: WTF? It’s like they left to go on their Christmas hiatus and never came back.
I went out for sushi today with Irma and Jevon from HiSciFi and did an interview for their SFU radio show. Very nice, very smart interviewers who know both shows and are pretty savvy about anime and scifi literature in general. Some of their recent guests including Cory Doctorow (check out Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom). I returned home to spend some quality time with the dogs – they love to lounge outside on sunny days – and make myself a hot chocolate. Follow the step-by-step method outlined in the pics. You could use hot milk but I prefer water which doesn’t take away from intense flavor of the dark chocolate.
Oh, and before I move on to today’s Q&A, thanks to all the fans weighing in with kind words of support. Much appreciated.
Let’s answer some questions –
Rozey writes: “Do you read anything besides sci-fi? And does Jason Momoa always dress like that?”
Answer: I occasionally read a bit of fantasy and non-fiction. And, yes, Jason Momoa usually dresses like this. Don’t even get me started on his pink Cadillac.
ChevronSeven writes: “I guess it would depend upon what type – whether it be vinegar based (North Carolina – the western part of the state adds tomato sauce) or mustard base (South Carolina). […] We’d love to have you visit.”
Answer: Hey, the next time you guys host a con – I’m there.
Wolfen writes: “I went in specifically to get the “Grape Pocky” I had gotten last time I was there, but today there wasn’t any to be had! *pout* Have you tried it?”
Answer: No, but I have had the chocolate pocky. At Yuji’s on 4th, they usually include a few complimentary sticks when they present you with your bill at meal’s end.
Anonymous #1 writes: “ 1. Are we going to encounter another ancient city ship like Atlantis, Asuras or the one from The Tower episode in the upcoming season 4.
2. What happened to the Asgard Space ships after the destruction of their planet.
3. Any ZPM conquest episodes for season 4, you know like The episode the Brotherhood.
Answer: 1. Possibly. 2. That remains to be seen. 3. Sort of.
Anonymous #2 writes: “I was wondering about the episode the seer; is there any other episode from the past three seasons that is similar or we should refer to to get a hint.”
Answer: No hints on this one yet.
Anonymous #3 writes: “Of the scripts you’ve written, which in your opinion was the bigger disappointment The Tower or Irresponsible?”
Answer: 1) Paul wrote The Tower. 2) Far from being a disappointment, I actually liked The Tower. Granted, it was an atypical episode, but I thought Paul did a great job creating some very entertaining guest characters. 3) Irresponsible.
Anonymous #4 writes: “Can you tell us how many episodes Elizabeth will be in. You have numbers for the others, including Jewel, who’s also recurring. Please give us an indication of how many Torri will get.”
Answer: Jewel and Amanda were contracted for a set number of episode’s at the beginning of the season. For that reason, I can say that Amanda will appear in 14 and Jewel in 8. Torri was not contracted for a set number of episode and so, for that reason, I can’t give a definite number. We’re still coming up for stories for the back half of season four.
Lorr54 writes: “Is there anything left on the cutting room floor that you wish had been in the final product, and what was it?”
Answer: There were some scenes from Ripple Effect and Good to be King that I wish had made the final cut.
Anonymous #5 writes: “When you watch t.v. shows do you find yourself nitpicking the writing and/or the special effects or are you able to actually sit back and enjoy them as a regular viewer?”
Answer: I nitpick everything to death, the writing in particular. Sadly, my career choice makes it very difficult to just sit back, turn off my brain, and enjoy something.
Cindee writes: “It seems that you read many books written by John Scalzi. Did you know that he had his own blog? Check it out. http://www.scalzi.com/whatever
Answer: I have checked out his blog. He’s an equally entertaining blogger who puts in even more time online than I do!
Desiree writes: “Knowing that I am able to get various and sundry interesting packages across the border, I believe I could conceivably get some home-made South Carolina barbeque to you along with hush puppies and maybe even a couple more southern “delicacies”. Interested?”
Answer: Thanks for the offer but I’ll have to pass on the hush puppies because I doubt they’d be at their best after the day(s) spent enroute. You could, however, recommend some great restaurants in the event I’m ever in your neck of the woods – for the South Carolina convention (maybe StarGameCock Con?).
Royal None_such: “Ever run into any poodles up there? I have three, and one is from Vancouver.”
Answer: Run into poodles all the time since Vancouver is a big dog city. My very first dog was a toy poodle.
Lemming86_au writes: “Have you read any of Stephen Baxter’s books? I highly recommend his “Manifold” Series.”
Answer: I’ll check it out. I do have a couple of his books that I’ve been meaning to get around to in time including The Time Ships.
April writes: “I was wondering where do we send these postcards to in order for them to reach her or anyone else?”
Answer: Send them to the production offices. Our crack staff will ensure they end up in the right hands.
MaryB writes: “I was just wondering why you don’t have any female writers?”
Answer: It hasn’t been from lack of trying. In previous years, we’ve invited pitches from new writers, several of them women. For whatever reason however, it didn’t work out.
Arctic Goddess writes: “ 1. Do you prefer to be called Joe or Joseph? 2. If you were invited to Creation’s Vancouver Convention (or any other) would you go? 3. Who is your all time favourite actor/actress? 4. Have you ever tried to get him or her on Atlantis?”
Answer: 1. Joe’s fine. 2. No way. 3. That’s hard to say. I don’t think I have a favorite. I have always enjoyed Forest Whitaker’s work. 4. Haven’t tried to get him on the show as I’m sure he’s far too busy, but I hear he’s a fan.
Anonymous #6 writes: “She says she sees it as the beginning of the end for the series, because about 50 percent of the Atlantis fans don’t actually watch SG1..”
Answer: Interesting findings. I’d love to see the research on that.
Anonymous #6 writes: “She said she feels that Sam will be too central in the series…”
Answer: Based on…a gut feeling? Well, her spidey senses seem to be out of whack.
Anthony writes: “Where would one post a question for you to answer?”
Answer: Right here.
Amanda writes: “Do you have any say in what goes up on iTunes?”
Answer: Nope. But then, it wouldn’t make sense to put the back half of season three on iTunes until it has aired in the U.S.
Kate writes: “With your new important status have you ever thrown a qeeney fit, or asked for something totally unreasonable, just because you could?”
Answer: Would you consider Perrier shampoos and mid-conference knee massages unreasonable? No? Then the answer is no.
Giu writes: “I was just wondering something… do you know if we will see Kavan Smith/Major Lorne in season 4? and if we are going to, how often?”
Answer: Yes, we will see Lorne in season 4. As for how often – that remains to be seen.
Anonymous #7 writes: “What is Lifeline about?”
Answer: Oh, well coming off Adrift it’s about…aaah…tricky!
Lisa writes: “I’ve always wanted to work behind-the-scenes on a TV show. Something Science Fiction related would be awesome. What sort of advice would you give to somebody who wanted to get into that line of work?”
Answer: If you’re looking to work on-set, I’d suggest learning a trade and then joining the local union.
Anonymous #8 writes: “Why would you respond to Prior of the Ori in such a dismissive fashion?”
Answer: It wasn’t intended to be dismissive toward Prior_of_the_Ori who has always weighed in with some great questions and comments – more a reflection of my – I mean, the Sarcastic 8 Ball’s feeling about the Hailey character.
Snitexmarex248 writes: “ 1.) Is Amanda Tapping in any of the first four or so episodes of Season 4? 2.)Has the whole city of Atlantis been explored yet? Or just some of it still? If most of it, will we ever see anything that’s been discovered? 3.)What’s your favorite book or movie?”
Answer: 1) She will be in the first few episodes of the season, yes. 2) We have yet to fully explore Atlantis. 3) Favorite book or movie? Hmmm. I’ll have to give this some thought.
Smiley Face06 writes: “Can you tell us the name of the episode that the pictures are from?”
Answer: Lifeline.
Anonymous #9 writes: “I was just watching “Conversion” (again) and was thinking about all the stuff Shep has in his quarters….the skateboard, the Johnny Cash poster, that guitar, the pic with Evel Knievel, et al. Here’s my question…..ummm, when did Shep bring all that stuff back from Earth?”
Answer: It is suggested in Intruder that the members of the expedition are able to travel back to Earth on occasion for some R&R. The items in question would have been brought back to Atlantis with him on a return trip.
Hey,
Just wanted to say thanks for blogging so much and so often 🙂
Down here in oz we are only just seeing ‘lost boys’ from season 2.
Love your work
ps Are you guys planning on maintaining the theme of “team bonding” throughout season 4?
Will we get to see any more of Athosian culture in season 4? The Athosians (Teyla aside of course) haven’t really played a big part in Atlantis since season 1, and I’m curious as to how well they’ve been faring on the mainland.
At the recent convention Rob Cooper mentioned that Teal’c was definitely making it to Atlantis, Daniel wasn’t, and that Jack was still undecided. I want to chime in and say that I would LOVE IT if he actually did stop by. The other day a poster wrote about how RDA’s Atlantis episodes never disappoint, and I agree. He has great chemistry with Amanda Tapping and with Torri Higginson, and with Bob Picardo too. Please bring Jack in for an episode or three. It’d do huge numbers, just like 200 did. Thanks
Holy Crap, fourteen?! How will AT film the two movies and be in that much Atlantis?? Is this going to be like season nine, where Sam, Daniel and Teal’c are wallpaper for the Camateur and Vala?? I’m not likeing the sound of this one bit. Damn this show went downhill fast.
Apart from the ‘daughter of the Oreo’ incident, what other hilaroius things have people done during auditions that you couldn’t contain your laughter?
Hi Joe
I was interested in hearing you say that for one reason or another a female writer has never worked out. I think it’s time you re-visited that. Why? Because the treatment of female characters – and by extension your female viewer has degarded to the level where I – and others – actually find your show offensive (and not in the challenging, make you think way that some shows can). I don’t want to appear like I’m being nasty, I would just like to explain why I think many female fans are switching off. Since Season 2 the primary function of females on the show has been to look pretty and be there for one of the boys, either as a romance or a distraction. Now while I was still enjoying the stories overall I could put up with it but then came Irresistable. Someone on the Stargate production team should have realised that an episode (and presented as comedy) which when boiled down involves a date rape drug was completely and utterly unacceptable. It should not have required a woman writer to strangle that at birth (and the fact that not one man on your team recognised how utterly offesnive this would be is disturbing), but clearly a female perspective is sorely missing. Do you have any idea of the fear that being drugged out of your choices on who you sleep with has for most women? Or of what a real threat it is in the world today? How could any of you ever have thought that would in any way shape or form be funny?
As I say, I don’t want to sound nasty or unkind, but I also don’t think you realise how much of a turn-off Stargate Atlantis is becoming (the cast changes are not helping here either) to the female viewer. Now obviously a lot of people will not agree with me, and that’s fine, I don’t claim to speak for anyone but me, but I really think that you now have a serious problem appealing to female viewers
Hi Joe,
Adorable puppies. Absolutely edible. Keep those pictures coming, please.
I don’t watch this Atlantis show you keep mentioning. What’s it about?
(kidding) 🙂
I do have a question, though. It’s actually related to Stargate this week. No word of a lie.
You mentioned having female writers pitch in recent years. Would you still be open to an agented pitch? Or are you a closed shop at this point?
OMG, Jack on Atlantis again would rock! Return 2 was the best episode ever. “Sounds more like a plan F, as in we are totally F@#%ed!”. Classic and one of a kind!
In response to Anonymous and her claims about SGA’s women…..
*Big Sigh*
Why oh why must some in the fanbase claim to speak for all? And why must one woman claim to speak for all in her gender? It really gets old after a while.
In rebuttal I feel compelled to say that I being a woman do not in any way find the stories for SGA to be offensive to me as a woman. I do not find the women characters on the show to be props for the men or set decoration.
Though, Irresistable was not among my favorites for the season, I did not find it offensive or degrading to women. The idea that what happened to the women (and men I might add) was equal to rape, is just… silly.
Would I love to see women given the opportunity to write? Yes, I would. Do I think perhaps the men writing for SGA better understand the men they write for? Yes.
But, please, please quit making it sound as though all women every where think like you. They don’t.
You did put a disclaimer at the end of your post, but to be honest, it didn’t mean anything since you negated it by making the sweeping generalizations before it.
Oh my, if you want to hear pronunciations mangled, you should listen to the idiots Sky1 have doing their programme announcements. We’ve had McKay pronounced “mac-eye”, we’ve had varying attempts at pronouncing Teal’c and perhaps more annoyingly, we’ve had the repeated assertation for each episode of the back half of Season 3 of Atlantis that this is “a world premiere”. Apparently Sky1 doesn’t recognise that Canada is a part of the world… 😆 Oh and don’t get me started on how half the time the idiot announcer actually gives away the major plot point before the ep airs!! *scowl*
I think I know which disgusting moment you’re thinking of in House – and don’t forget the scene that had men everywhere wincing in sympathetic pain.. 😉 House always gets all the best lines though…. 🙂
Anonymous (there’s a surprise) said…
As I say, I don’t want to sound nasty or unkind, but I also don’t think you realise how much of a turn-off Stargate Atlantis is becoming (the cast changes are not helping here either) to the female viewer. Now obviously a lot of people will not agree with me, and that’s fine, I don’t claim to speak for anyone but me, but I really think that you now have a serious problem appealing to female viewers.
There’s that royal “we” again. Despite your final assertation, using phrases like “the female viewer” suggests that you are purporting to represent some kind of larger group/trend/opinion. But you know what they say about opinions… 😉 As an aforementioned “female viewer”, I like the show just fine thanks and was able to enjoy Irresistible for the lighthearted comedy ep it was intended to be.
Joe,
This is a very out there question that should be regarded with a vivid imagination. Lets say the world of Stargate really existed and you’ve been offered a position on Atlantis….knowing what you know what would it be?
On a more serious note you haven’t responded on the invitation I set out for you and Ms. Fondy for the Presidents cup, if you’re not interested let me know so I can invite my professors. Yes my friend if you want to go far in life one has to be smart and very diplomatic (not brown nose) if you catch my drift.
Concerning the Concordia seminar, I let them know yesterday, finally, and they will make a decision after the end of exams ( end of April). If things look good I think they will contact you directly some how and then if you wish send me an email to let me know since I was the one that had the idea on the first place. Nothing pisses me off more when the university officials like the idea but don’t include me in the organization process. Anyways, this is probably the last time I will bother you with such matters.
thanks
Your montreal fan
No question, just wanted to say thanks for all the tidbits you put in your blog, and that I enjoy your sense of humor. Or “humour” as they say up your way.
Female viewer here, who totally missed the “date rape drug” aspect of “Irresistable” until it was pointed out. It’s true there are some nasty undertones there, but it didn’t necessarily happen because there were no women on the writing staff.
Also, I find Elizabeth’s character boring. I’ve said it before, and I promise I won’t say it again, but she just doesn’t have much exciting to do as leader of Atlantis, which isn’t necessarily the fault of the writers, and definitely isn’t Torri’s fault. Administrators don’t make very exciting television.
I love the fact that Teyla looks like she does but can terrify the guys with a lift of her eyebrow–because they know. She needs more to do, yes, but she’s clearly not a bimbo.
I don’t care whether a show has all male characters or all female characters, as long as they are good characters and interesting to watch.
I’m not knocking anything Anonymous had to say, but I just want to point out that it’s not necessarily a female/male thing. This female viewer has no serious complaints and is waiting anxiously for April 13th and the return of new episodes!
LOL at the Oreo.
I have nothing to ask since I care about Elizabeth and you won’t answer those questions.
bye.
Dearest Joey,
1. When are you going to make a cameo appearance in an episode?
2. What do you mean by “whumping” in shep whumping? Do mean he gets his fanny kicked like in Common Ground or he does the ass kicking like in The Eye.
3. Will reunion be another Sateda or Runner, where Ronon will be the main protagonist?
thanks
I promise if you answer these questions I won’t ask stupid questions again
Don corleon
Joe,
I was wondering what is the budget of Atlantis, roughly speaking.
gracias
pedro
Mr. Mallozzi,
Ever think of doing a philosophical episode, one that might excite our brain more than our adrenal glands.
cheers mate..
rockfeller
Thanks so much for blogging! Between you and David and David it’s great to get to read about some of the stuff that goes on during filming. I’m eagerly looking forward to season four.
And on the subject of the lack of female writers, how would someone even begin if they were interested in writing for the show? I apologize if you get deluged with query letters and scripts and such, but what would be the best way to submit something for consideration? If you’d rather not post an answer and would rather do so privately, please feel free to use my email address.
Thanks again for blogging and sharing all those pictures!
Joe,
To be honest with you my friend, my favorite season of Stargate Atlantis is the first. I think you guys should go back to basics, bring the charm and giddyness of the undiscovered back. You know sort of Indiana Jones style but in the pegasus galaxy. Also, the episode The condemned deserves a follow up. Anyways, you’re the boss but I’m the consumer. In our society the consumer is King.
take it easy
One fan out of a few million
I;ve been reading your blog for a hwile now and just wanted to say thanks for keeping us updated in a stargate-less time period! A quick two questions…
1) Kavan once said that Lorne’s first name was going to be Evan, when will it we see that (if it’s true)
2) Chuck the gate technician, now that he’s got a first name will be be getting a last name? After all it’s usually the other way round!
Thanks again!
Since Shep DOES have a skateboard in his room, will we ever get to see him on the board around Atlantis? Or is that totally against the rules?
You said: “Sadly, my career choice makes it very difficult to just sit back, turn off my brain, and enjoy something.”
I’m very glad you decided to be a writer, as I’ve spent many-an-hour watching and enjoying Stargate. 🙂
What other career choices were you thinking about before deciding to become a writer? Or did you always want to be one?
Anonymous, on the comment about the female writers — brilliant! You’ve summed up my feelings exactly. Though I don’t think it necessarily takes a female writer, just a male writer who actually THINKS about things from a female perspective instead of going at everything as though it’s like “OMG! How hot is this! Nerdy guy, just like me, and all the chicks dig him!”
Please. That’s just offensive. It may have been put out there as comedy, but it has deeper ramifications.
Another example of how ‘out of touch’ you are with a lot of the female fans? Downgrading or getting rid of Torri. She is the one who’s most like the audience. We’re not tall, blonde glamour girls like Amanda, we’re not passable as ‘hot alien chicks’ like Rachel.
We’re a lot more like Torri. She’s beautiful. She’s absolutely stunning, anyone who’s ever met her can tell you that. But she’s beautiful in a way that’s not intimidating to women. With her gone — what is there for women to relate to? An all-too-perfect Carter and a hot alien chick. No thanks.
Anonymous said:
“Hi Joe
I was interested in hearing you say that for one reason or another a female writer has never worked out. I think it’s time you re-visited that. Why? Because the treatment of female characters – and by extension your female viewer has degarded to the level where I – and others – actually find your show offensive (and not in the challenging, make you think way that some shows can). I don’t want to appear like I’m being nasty, I would just like to explain why I think many female fans are switching off.”
(just quoting part of the post)
Well, I’m sure you can find viewers all over the world who find a certain issue offensive. But I don’t think you can talk about “many” as if it was the majority. Unless you have conducted a global research and taken into account a huge number of viewers worldwide.
We can only talk for ourselves and maybe a bunch of fans/viewers who we might know either online or in real life. In any case, that it’s a tiny number that doesn’t represent even a 0.0000000000001% of the total audience.
But since you gave your opinion and the opinion of those few people you know in either fandom or real life, I’ll do the same.
I’m a 36-years-old woman. I’ve watched all the Atlantis episodes aired so far. Personally, I’m not fond of any Stargate episode written by a woman so far. All my fave episodes in the franchise have always been written by male writers. So having or not a female writer isn’t an issue for me.
I don’t have any problem with Irresistible. In fact I quite liked it. I found it very funny and don’t find it offensive at all. I was extremely surprised when I found those comments about date rape online. I’ve watched the episode lots of times since then and I still don’t get it. I just watch it for what I think it is: a funny episode with nice character moments.
As I’ve said, I’ve watched all the Atlantis episodes. I’ve never found anything offensive.
This midle-aged female fan is certainly extremely happy with Atlantis so far.
And I know several women who are in their 30s-40s and think the same as I do (not claiming majority here. Just that I know others that think the same as I do).
Joe, do you ever get sick of people preaching at you in blog? Do you have a giggle at the fact that some people seem to think that they know how you should do your job and run your show?
“OMG, Jack on Atlantis again would rock! Return 2 was the best episode ever. “Sounds more like a plan F, as in we are totally F@#%ed!”. Classic and one of a kind!”
Sorry, but as someone who watches only Atlantis and doesn’t care at all for SG-1, I found The Return part I a 1000000% better than The Return part II.
The Return I was about the Atlantis characters and how they dealt with leaving the city and living back on Earth. Excellent episode.
The Return II had too much time dedicated to non-Atlantis characters. I’m not saying it was bad. It was OK, but every time I watch that episode, I keep thinking “enough of O’Neill and Woolsey. I watch Atlantis for the Atlantis characters, not to see characters from other show I don’t care about”.
The Return I is one of my fave episodes. The Return II will never be a fave of mine. Too much focus on O’Neill and Woolsey. A couple of scenes with those two would have been more than enough. 4 or 5 minutes at most in the whole episode.
Jack might make an appearance in Atlantis? Hurrah! *grins like only an oober-fan knows how* Jack’s my favorite SG-1 character–I LOVE how RDA portrayed him. He’s so funny…
Also, I agree that your dogs are adorable (which is who? Not that I’d be able to tell the light-colored ones apart..) Finally, a PINK Cadillac? Like, seriously? I just can’t picture Jason Momoa driving a PINK Cadillac.
im gonna try asking a BOSTON LEGAL question and see if a get an answer (note boston legal in caps in a pathetic attempt to grab your attention)
do you think the storyline with brad and denise is good or would it have created more interesting storylines if jeffrey had been the father (what with the regret over neglecting his daughter from previouse relationship an all)
do you think it would be funny if it turned out denny did have mad cow disease and had been right all along.
BOOK RECOMMENDATION:mordants need series by stephen donaldson. not sci fi but good fantasy with intriging characters 🙂
Just began reading your blog (read all of March last night — wow, you sure do love your food!), and maybe I finally have the right person to ask. Why on earth are there no bloopers on the DVDs? For such a wisecracking group (at least, with Hewlett), I’d think the bloopers would be very fun to watch. Any idea why we haven’t seen any?
I’m just curious about ratings… I’ve worked in radio, and we only have to bite our nails like four times a year over whether we suck or not (although it does seem like all the time)… how does TV differ? Are ratings something you get weekly? What do all of the numbers mean? And, by the way, do the gates have a target demo? And does the network look at target demos? Or do they just look at the more general set of numbers?
I’m sure I could look this up… but it’s sooo much easier to just ask someone a question!
A pink Cadillac?? I can’t even begin to imagine that…any chance you can get a picture??
But then again I wouldn’t have imagined a chicken on his wallet chain either…I do hope he’ll be at the convention in Burbank this year…he seems to be the most eccentric of the bunch.
Is there a good scifi book or series that is post apocalyptic that you could recommend?
For some reason, I can only pick good fantasy series for myself and not very entertaining scifi books (except for Star Wars novels).
Oh, it’s interesting that you mention Ripple Effect as an ep with missing scenes… Were any of these between Sam and Janet by any chance? What were the scenes?
Anyway, my main question isn’t really related to anything. Have you seen any of director Peter Jackson’s early work?
Nope. But then, it wouldn’t make sense to put the back half of season three on iTunes until it has aired in the U.S.
Yes it would! -nods vigorously- One day, they should throw us a bone and air a season in the states first. Or, at least release the dvds earlier. With bloopers. Lots of bloopers. And those On-the-set-with-so-and-so while they walk around with their cameras being all cool like. You should totally do one of those for the S3 dvd ;D.
I was talking with a fellow Stargate fan about this idea she had, but wouldn’t it be awesome if someone released a Stargate waffle maker? I would buy one in a heartbeat.
And for some odd reason, a pink Cadillac doesn’t surprise me at all *ha ha*. Did he give it a name? (Against my mother’s wishes, I named her car ‘Wilber’. She scowls at me a lot because of it, but when she’s not around, it’s ‘Wilber this’ and ‘Wilber that’).
Sending some sunny rays and a basket of shiny energy and enthusiasm your way! *cute dogs, btw*
At least it was in an audition that you had an aspirant mispronounce your Ori. I had to put pronunciation page into every “Hercules” script, including how to pronounce Hercules because a day player mispronounced the name — although how you can mispronounce the name of the title character, whose name is the name of the show you’re working on boggles the mind. That got looped but the guard calling “Xena” Xener is still in there. Sticks out like a sore thumb to me, but maybe the general public miss it.
You asked in a previous post about the Bujold’s Vorkosigan books. Start with Shards of Honor and Barrayar. I have had some trouble finding the series in hardcopy at a bookstore, but managed to get e-books of most of them and I’m sure they can be ordered online as well.
Some of the books have been put together into omnibus form so you can two or three of them at one shot.
The other titles are:
The Warrior’s apprentice
The Vor Game
Cetaganda
Ethan of Athos
Labyrinth in Borders of Infinity
Brothers In Arms
Borders of Infinity
Mirror Dance
Memory
Komarr
A Civil Campaign
Winterfair Gifts
Diplomatic Immunity
You do want to read them in order. Bujold does great things with character growth and world-building. She has an awesome ability to present chracters that are fully flesh, neither completely evil nor completely good.
craig_macd asked about the Athosians. I’ve been wondering myself if we have seen the last of them, since they were (I guess) left behind after the events in First Strike?
Return II for the win.
Return II > Return I
Jack O’neill > all
More Jack O’neill = Happy Fans
Pink cadillac, designs own jewelry, and dresses to his own drummer — sounds to me like Jason is quite the unique individual. Could use a lot more men like that in the world.
Answer: Thanks for the offer but I’ll have to pass on the hush puppies because I doubt they’d be at their best after the day(s) spent enroute. You could, however, recommend some great restaurants in the event I’m ever in your neck of the woods – for the South Carolina convention (maybe StarGameCock Con?)
Please tell me that you mean StarGateCook Con and the above was an unfortunate typo? Maybe a Freudian slip???
Joe,
Who did you like writing for more, Lucious or Felger?
I can’t believe I’m doing this, but Joe, I’m about to defend you and your kind against all this misguided feminist crap that is the “Oh but a woman would right it better” bullshit.
The bottom line is that every production should have the best writers available to it (where are Morgan and Wong from XF, btw? Have the disappeared off the face of the earth? They would be a wonderful addition to your writing team)
Gender should not come into the equation. It reminds me of a ridiculous ploy by the Labor party in Australia to boost votes from women by saying “oh we want to have 50 percent female representation in parliament within …” –however many years it was. I can’t remember now. That, to my mind is like saying “It doesn’t matter whether that candidate is the best person for the job, it just matters what their gender is.” It’s a blatant case of reverse discrimination, and this “Only a woman can write for a woman” business is exactly the same thing. In most cases, Carl Binder, for example, is perfectly capable of writing for women. Much better than most. Anyone who has a history that includes writing for Dr Quinn, whether you liked the show or not, has to be passable at writing for women.
Only a woman can write for a woman. Let’s expand on that. Only a criminal can write for a criminal. Only a father can write for a father. Only someone who’s dying can write for a cancer patient. Only a pug can write for a pug (Oooh! Wouldn’t milo and otis have been interesting…)
And as for blaming the person credited for the story for the entire mess, then you can’t blame that one person. There are many people involved with story development. Not just the person whose name is in the opening credits. (and yes, Lily, I’m exactly the same age as you, and I thought Irresistible was a mess. At the very least. An insult is probably a more accurate description of the way I feel. By the way, the latest definition of middle aged is 45-59. Feel free to call yourself middle aged, but I’m most certainly not middle aged. What is this, the 1950s?)
Joe Flanigan can accurately tell you how story idea and story realisation don’t always add up. I believe he’s said several times that he was disappointed with the way Epiphany turned out. It wasn’t the vision he had for the episode, and it was widely criticised by a lot of fans, as was he for having a credit as someone who was part of the writing process.
Blah! I’m sick to death of this “YOU NEED FEMALE WRITERS!” business. Do you need good writers? Yes. Would it be a wonderful thing if some of them were female? Absolutely! Would it be preferable to have a woman in the lineup just because she’s a woman and not because she’s the best possible candidate? NO!
Joe, maybe you or one of the other guys needs to write an episode under an alias. Call yourself Josephine or something. Or Carl can be Carla. See how the fans respond. If they sing your praises because OMG It’s a woman! when they criticise your other work, you know they’re full of it.
I’ll criticise your casting decisions (letting Torri go is shortsighted, irrational and NOT in my opinion, in the best interests of the show. Brad Wright or whoever made the decision needs wouldn’t know a REAL woman if one jumped up and bit him on the butt!)
I’ll criticise the writing that I feel needs to be criticised.
BUT! This “a woman would do it better” business really gets on my nerves. I for one would much rather be given a job based on my ability, instead of having people sing my praises because of my gender.
By the way, there is a question attached to all of this: for Torri fans, there’s been a rumour that she’ll be in four episodes. I’m presuming (since you’ve said that you haven’t looked at the second half of the season) that you mean four in the first ten. Is there a chance that she’ll have a better percentage in the second half? I know you’ve said you haven’t looked at it, but surely you get to a point where you have to make sure an actor is available to you.
Please give her as many eps as possible. Her fans will thank you, as will the ratings!
Anonymous said:
“Another example of how ‘out of touch’ you are with a lot of the female fans? Downgrading or getting rid of Torri. She is the one who’s most like the audience. We’re not tall, blonde glamour girls like Amanda, we’re not passable as ‘hot alien chicks’ like Rachel.”
In your opinion, which is perfectly valid. But, please, do not generalize.
In my opinion, which is as valid as yours, both Elizabeth and Teyla are great and strong characters, and none of them is better than the other. Once again, I’m a woman in her late 30s, and I’ve never seen Teyla as a “hot alien chick”. I see her as a leader of her people and a warrior.
My top fave character is John, but I love all the others on an equal basis. John/Joe Flanigan is my number one. Rodney, Elizabeth, Teyla, Ronon and Carson come in a very close second place. And I love the actors that play all these characters as well.
I don’t get such animosity from fans of a certain character against another character.
I love them all.
hi joe.
how are you today.
i was wondering with all the hype.
is weir gonna be taken out or is her show status just been demoted.
cos i cant take all the negitive speculation.
joshua.
Hey joe,
Do you have any say in how tv stations run stargate.
cos if do please speed up stargate atlantis in australia because we always see episodes like 2 years after the u.s does and i’m kinda sick of it.
Have you ever been to Iowa? Can you please ask Jason how he liked growing up here, and tell him his Iowa fans wish he’d come back for a visit?
Wow…Oree, Oreo, it’s amazing what announcers can say – Like Teal See.
Is there anything that inspired you to become a writer, specifically for television? Have you ever thought about writing a book?
Also, is there a chance we’ll ever be able to see those scenes from Ripple Effect and Its Good to be king?
Anonymous, said:
“Another example of how ‘out of touch’ you are with a lot of the female fans? Downgrading or getting rid of Torri. She is the one who’s most like the audience. We’re not tall, blonde glamour girls like Amanda, we’re not passable as ‘hot alien chicks’ like Rachel.
We’re a lot more like Torri. She’s beautiful. She’s absolutely stunning, anyone who’s ever met her can tell you that. But she’s beautiful in a way that’s not intimidating to women. With her gone — what is there for women to relate to? An all-too-perfect Carter and a hot alien chick. No thanks. “
Torri is the one who’s most like the audience? Really? Are there hundreds of thousands of Torri lookalikes walking around out there? Can’t say I’ve seen any. Have conducted a poll about this then?
‘We’re a lot like Torri’? Not the all encompassing royal ‘We’ again! Groan…
I’m not physically like MS Higginson, thank you very much. Personally, I’m a blonde and believe I have a pretty decent brain and identify with characters like Carter far more the Weir, not Torri by the way, because I don’t know Torri personally, but I am familiar with Weir. I presume you’re talking purely about physical appearances here though, right?
I don’t find people who look like AT or RL intimidating in any way, so, nope, sorry, don’t see your point. Looks are irrelevent to a good character in my opinion. Weir doesn’t appeal that much to me, though I don’t dislike her, I just find her uncharismatic and bland in personality, but not looks. I can’t say she’s a character I identify with personally, but I’m glad you can speak for so many viewers.
As for saying Rachel can pass as a ‘hot alien chick’? Wow, that’s nice. Rachel is very pretty, certainly, but again, what does this have to do with anything?
Are you suggesting that the character of Weir has been reduced to recurring because the actress who plays her is too ‘ordinary and everyman’ physically? That a decision would be made on that aspect alone?
I don’t believe for one minute that’s true. If you’re saying that’s the case, why would Torri have been cast for the role in the first place?
I understand some are trying to find reasons why the character they idolise has been reduced in screentime, but to suggest it’s merely because of physical looks is very insulting to the producers of the show, and extremely insulting to Torri too, in my opinion.
I don’t believe Joe and his team are out of touch with their audience at all. Online famdom is very small in terms of the viewing audience, but I’d love to know where you get your statistics from.
Again, it’s so nice that someone can speak for the female audience…
As a rape victim, I did find Irresistable offensive as I also find the comment that “The idea that what happened to the women (and men I might add) was equal to rape, is just… silly.” equally offensive.
Lucius took a drug that affected the free-will of everyone around him which made them willing to have sex with him when they would have otherwise said no. In law, knowingly alering someone’s ability to consent in order to have sex with them is rape.
While I am very certain that there were many in the audience who were able to enjoy Irresistable as ‘light entertainment’, please do not belittle the opinion of those who did see the connection and did find the idea of being invited to laugh at said rape victims as being offensive.
I still watch SGA and I still enjoy it but Irresistable is the worst episode ever of Stargate in my opinion.
Apologies, Joe, for the rebuttal – I don’t mean to turn your blog comments into a debating arena – but I’m sure you’re aware that Irresistable is an emotive topic.
OMG! You answered my question! Thank you so much!
I do think it is a shame that you don’t have any female writers – or directors for that matter(?) – and the reason I asked was because most of my favourite Stargate fanfic authors are women.
Now I know 98% of fanfiction is – well, let’s be honest – awful and I know you’re probably not allowed to read it even if you were at all tempted to, but there are some gems out there…seldear, Strix varia, Rachel500, Annerb, denise – not to mention the female authors of the Stargate books. All of them write the characters wonderfully and write great sci-fi stories.
If you’re still thinking up stories for the back of S4, why not invite some of them to pitch?
Mary.
Since understandably, you don’t know how many episodes Elizabeth will be in since you haven’t finished hashing out the back part of season 4 yet, can you tell us how many episodes she’s in in the first half of season 4?
You’ve stated Torri doesn’t have a contracted set number of episodes. Can you tell us how many episodes she’s in for the scripts, which have been written.
Also is there a chance we can get you to change your mind about her recurring Status?
Seeing your comment about favorite bits or scenes that ended up on the cutting room floor reminded me of a question I have wanted to ask for sometime. When listening to the commentaries on the dvds, one often hears comments about scenes from the ‘director’s cut’ that didn’t make it to the air. My question is if there are any legal or financial restrictions that would ever prevent some future re-release of the various seasons using the director’s cuts instead. Either future dvd releases or maybe re-releases to iTunes. I know I would be strongly interested in buying a second version of many of the episodes if an extended version were available. Has this sort of option ever been discussed by TPTB? Thanks for your consideration.
Hiya Joe,
No question this time but wanted to say that I didnt mind the response from the sarcastic 8 ball, don’t know why but I felt compelled to ask it anyway heh. So I hope you didnt mind it. Will ask a question another time as today it looks like the blog is busy. Keep up the good work!
Take care and have a good time Joe!
I just wanted to second the request for bloopers on the DVD. Please. That would be awesome.
hey,
Big Aussie Stargate fan from day 1, and thanks for the persistence in answering many questions for the fans.
Seeing that you mentioned House in your blog im wondering if you watched Hugh Laurie and Rowan Atkinsons work in the great comedy, Blackadder? If youre a fan of the british sense of humour its well worth checking out, i still get kicks out of it after all these years.
Cheers
I’ve just re-watched Irresponsible to see what was disappointing about it. Well, I actuallly like it. So if you feel bad because it didn’t exactly turned out exactly how you intended, I hope you’ll feel a little better knowing that it’s still a great episode.
Stargate Atlantis rocks. I love it and I can’t wait for season 4.
BTW female fan here, been a fan of the Stargate franchise for over ten years, and do not feel the least bit threatened by the treatment of female characters, to answer anonymous poster above. Irresistible was not offensive, it was fun. I love it.
Y’know, I’ve never heard of anyone here in Boston talk about “Boston Legal” before. Strange, they were all over the one scene that was shot in boston for “National Treasure”.
I went to this show kitchen last night with my da, and we got to play around with all sorts of cool kitchen utensils. There’s this new fry pan that has special non-stick surfaces that not even the juice from searing will stick to – he wanted one but they were priced well over $150. We also got to use a completely cast-iron stove that was lots of fun, but temp. regulation was hard.
Have you ever tried Green & Blacks chocolate? It’s the best I’ve tasted and you can get it with butterscotch or ginger and a whole load of other flavours but if you just like normal dark chocolate they do 70% and 85%. I can only go up to 70% thought (lightweight).
You’re a sly one Mr. Mallozzi. That picture of the guys and Lizzie in the jumper has sure turned things around. The speculation in certain quarters is rampant and amusing in the extreme. Did you really stage this scene, then photograph it and post it on your blog just to annoy/excite the shipper groups? If so, well done sir. And only a day early for April Fool’s Day.
Anonymous said…
2. What do you mean by “whumping” in shep whumping? Do mean he gets his fanny kicked like in Common Ground or he does the ass kicking like in The Eye.
Shep whumping means Shep getting his fanny kicked, as you so delightfully put it, like in Common Ground.
Vikitty said…
Since Shep DOES have a skateboard in his room, will we ever get to see him on the board around Atlantis? Or is that totally against the rules?
I asked Joe Flanigan at London Expo if we would ever get to see Sheppard skateboarding on Atlantis and he said he keeps pitching the idea of Sheppard skating – or surfing! – and keeps getting turned down! Is this true, Joe? I personally know of several fans who would be more than happy to see an episode with Sheppard skateboarding – or surfing! 🙂 – even if just briefly!
Hmmmm… how much chocolate would it take to get a skateboarding moment added to your current script? 😉
Congrats – Window of Opportunity was voted the fans’ favourite SG-1 episode in Sky One’s top ten “best ever weekend” in the UK. Funny episode!
Lost City (pt.2) was second and Lost City (pt.1) third.
Was Window one of your first episodes?
Guys,
Window of Opportunity came in short. Brad Wright is the guy who came up with the fun montage of O’neill riding the bike and the kiss, etc and additional scenes you all love. It’s an episode full of ad-libs.
Hey Joe!
Just adding my congrats for Window of Opportunity being voted the fan favourite all time SG1 episode on Sky One.
I voted for it myself as it’s my favourite episode, so I’m pleased it took the number one spot. My family all adore that episode, even dearest hubby, who isn’t a big scifi fan, though he is made to sit through the shows, whether he likes it or not!
Question:
I really enjoyed seeing the pictures of the sets from Travelers you recently posted here. Thank you for that!
Who comes up with the ideas for what everything will look like? Do you, or Paul, as writers, have an image of, for example, what the Travelers ship would look like in your heads, and you pass on what you envisage to the artists/set designers, or do they pitch ideas to you and you decide which you will go with?
Thanks!!
Dear Joe,
I was wondering if you’ll be continuing showing the progression of Sheppard’s and Teyla’s relationship as you have been from season 3 into season 4?
Will we ever learn if Teyla or Ronon have any long-lost relatives to redscover in season 4?
Will we see Jeannie McKay in season 4?
I know you probably can’t answer these questions, but I had to give it a try.
Joe said, “You could, however, recommend some great restaurants in the event I’m ever in your neck of the woods – for the South Carolina convention (maybe StarGameCock Con?)”
teacherspet replied, “Please tell me that you mean StarGateCook Con and the above was an unfortunate typo? Maybe a Freudian slip???”
No Freudian slip. The Gamecock is the mascot for the University of South Carolina. It is derived from the nickname of the famous SC Revolutionary War hero, Thomas Sumter. One British general said about Sumter, “He fights like a gamecock.” It refers to how Sumter and his guerilla fighters were such tenacious and effective fighters. And that’s where he got his nickname. By the way, a gamecock is a male bird (like a rooster) that was bred and used for fighting. People used to go to cockfights and bet on which cock would win (usually the one that was still alive in the end). Imagine my surprise when I first came to SC (a very conservative state) and finding young men and women parading around in apparel with the word “COCKS” emblazoned on it. But you get used to it.
As for places to get good BBQ in South Carolina, I would suggest Sweatman’s near Eutawville (which is between Orangeburg and Charleston). It’s only open on Friday’s and Saturday’s and is very much off the beaten path, but is regarded by many as the best restaurant for SC mustard-style BBQ.
Nearer to Columbia, you could try the ubiquitous Maurice’s. He has several chain restaurants in and around Columbia. Although I would say that his BBQ is definitely not the best in the state and his socio-political views (which are clearly on display in all of his restaurants) are archaic. Reading the literature available at the restaurant is an experience unto itself. I’ve also heard a lot of good things about Shealy’s BBQ and Hudson’s BBQ.
I prefer Memphis-style myself, but NC and SC are good as well. For NC BBQ, I’ve been told that Lexington #1 in Lexington, NC has good NC-style BBQ. But I’m sure Ben Browder would be able to give you some more-informed recommendations.
I doubt there will ever be a convention in SC, but it is a lovely place to vacation. Charleston is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has amazing restaurants for those who love BBQ, seafood, and just good old southern fare.
Joe-
While I disagree wholeheartedly with offing Carson, I have to stand up for you on this nonsense of needing women writers. I am a young, “Mary Tyler Moore” wannabe and am all about breaking the glass ceiling, especially in entertainment and sports, but come on you guys. A good writer is a good writer, period. People who say only women can write for women are sexist themselves.
‘There were some scenes from Ripple Effect and Good to be King that I wish had made the final cut.’
Oh! Are the scenes cut from Ripple Effect the; black Daniel/Mitchell moral dellema scene and the desert Daniel metioning Sha’re scene? Will they be on the DVD?
First off, that chocolate looks really really good. I think I need to fetch me some of that.
Second, thanks for the reccomendations re: books, I’m hearing a lot about Scalzi these days, and I’d not heard of Kim Stanley Robinson, so I’ll definately have to check them out later this summer when I’ve got my reading time scheduled.
Third, okay, even *I* know how to pronounce Orii(Ori? spelling’s a bit off, perhaps) and I haven’t really had a chance to keep up on SG-1 lately. (with school, it’s been hard enough to keep on top of Atlantis). You’d think that if you’re auditioning for a part you’d do your research, no? But perhaps I’m just too thorough a person.
Fourth, I think you’re fantastic. 🙂 It’s really awesome of you to keep everyone updated and answer questions and share your foodieness. (Oh, Gods, how I do love the food talk.)
Unfortunately my tea is gone and I need to replenish before my caffiene high wears off, and so I end this.
Thanks,
Ayla McKay, Nova Scotia
Why is it that in Sunday, we see Major Lourne sporting the dress blues of a Lt. Col?!??! Eh,
You mentioned auditions here. I’ve been curious about Vancouver casting for some time since many of the shows I watch have or are filming there. When you’re looking for an important secondary character, what is the process you and the casting directors for SG-1 and SGA use? Do you hold open auditions, do you typically have a set actor in mind as you create the character, do actors contact you about getting a role…or does it just depend on the episode and surrounding circumstances?
*lol* Your story about the “Oreo”-daughter was just great! I will never see the Ori the same way again…*grin*
Uh, and today I saw a book at my neighbour with the title: “The History of the Remarkable Life of John Sheppard” (by Daniel Defoe)…*rofl* I couldn’t stop laughing (and everybody was looking at me quite strange) and now I wonder whether the name “John Sheppard” in SGA has a deeper meaning or was it just a random name the writers came up with? 😉
I was reading an article on Connor Trinneer and it mentioned he was the 6th actor from a Star Trek series to guest on a Stargate series. I can only think of 5 actors: Connor, Jolene Blalock, John Billingsley, Colm Meaney, and Robert Picardo. Who am I missing?
Thanks!
I’m a big fan of Carl Binder’s work — have been way before he came aboard SG – but for the ‘anonymous’ who ranted against female writers and used Carl Binder and Dr. Quinn as an example… you, no doubt, recall that Dr. Quinn had a female creator and a female showrunner? And yes, Dr. Quinn did show a different perspective having a female showrunner… for the time period. For example, under the guidance of BETH SULLIVAN, Dr. Quinn was the first series I knew that ever let a man mourn the death of his wife for at least TWO WHOLE SEASONS… and I’m a great lover of westerns and cop shows and science fiction and all shows sporting male-male bonding etc — all heavily male or completely male written. Every other show had men getting over the death the next week and out with the babe of the week. And yet, I looked at my father, for example, who mourned the death of my mom for decades… so guess whose perspective I considered more real?
And that is what people are talking about when they mention having a female on the writing staff… not that females can write females better or that they write better scripts, but bringing a female perspective INTO THE WRITERS’ ROOM. Curiously though, in Hollywood, at least, there is an ingrain prejudice against women writing male characters in predominantly male series — women being accused of writing ‘too soft’ — where nobody takes up that battlecry, just the battlecry that you don’t need women to write women because men can… how about you don’t need men to write men because women can?
Joe, if you are looking for women writers suitable for the show, and just can’t find them, then I commend you for trying. But I wonder if the very reason you are finding all those women unsuitable (and there are, at least, some American writers that are women and write SciFi and cops and westerns), is the very thing that the show is lacking some perspective in… and why there is disgruntlement on the subject.
You’ve recommended John Scalzi’s books–do they need to be read in any particular sequence? GeekBoy would like to know. He finished The Demolished Man Friday and gives it a thumbs-up.
Anonymous said…
Hi Joe
I was interested in hearing you say that for one reason or another a female writer has never worked out. I think it’s time you re-visited that. Why? Because the treatment of female characters – and by extension your female viewer has degarded to the level where I – and others – actually find your show offensive (and not in the challenging, make you think way that some shows can).
I don’t want to appear like I’m being nasty, I would just like to explain why I think many female fans are switching off. Since Season 2 the primary function of females on the show has been to look pretty and be there for one of the boys, either as a romance or a distraction. Now while I was still enjoying the stories overall I could put up with it but then came Irresistable. Someone on the Stargate production team should have realised that an episode (and presented as comedy) which when boiled down involves a date rape drug was completely and utterly unacceptable. It should not have required a woman writer to strangle that at birth (and the fact that not one man on your team recognised how utterly offesnive this would be is disturbing), but clearly a female perspective is sorely missing. Do you have any idea of the fear that being drugged out of your choices on who you sleep with has for most women? Or of what a real threat it is in the world today? How could any of you ever have thought that would in any way shape or form be funny?
As I say, I don’t want to sound nasty or unkind, but I also don’t think you realise how much of a turn-off Stargate Atlantis is becoming (the cast changes are not helping here either) to the female viewer. Now obviously a lot of people will not agree with me, and that’s fine, I don’t claim to speak for anyone but me, but I really think that you now have a serious problem appealing to female viewers.
I think i’m qualified to blast your presumptions out of the water. *checks ample cleavage* Yep i’m qualified.
Firstly, where the heck do you get off saying that women are offended by SGA? Have you done a poll? A survey? Got a petition? Been to cons asking the shed load of women who attend the conventions to see if they are offended by the show? No, I didn’t think so. So it begs the question, what reality are you living in? You say you don’t want to appear nasty? *sniggers* so you were going for what when you posted? Honey, if you find the show offensive, don’t watch. It’s really not that difficult. You say that you can’t speak for others, yet your post certainly suggests that you are speaking on behalf of women. Just do me a favour next time you post, (and i’m sure you will) make sure you have the facts to backup any argument you put forward about the female population who are apparently turning off SGA because we find it offensive. It’s clear you were offended by material in an epidsode. I’m sorry if it struck a raw nerve with you, and you’re absolutely right in the fact that the writers don’t have a clue about problems in the real world. I mean it’s not like they have wives, or mothers, or daughters or female friends or anything like that… SO you’re probably right they don’t know what the ‘real world’ is like. 😉 But by reading your post, I think you forget what real world you’re living in. SGA is made for entertainment, if you don’t like it then you have a choice, and it’s called the ‘off’ button.
Lily said…
“Well, I’m sure you can find viewers all over the world who find a certain issue offensive. But I don’t think you can talk about “many” as if it was the majority. Unless you have conducted a global research and taken into account a huge number of viewers worldwide.”
my one big issue with something that happened in stargate (sg1) was when pete ran a background check on sam, then proceeded to follow her to a stakeout and interfered in it. *whatever* pete’s reasons were for that, it was the fact that no one, especially sam, were bothered or offended by this. the whole event ended with pete getting clearance to be told about the stargate program.
i didn’t care enough about pete to care if his feelings/pride were hurt in not being told what sam was really doing, but my sensibilities ‘were’ kicked in the gut seeing sam allowing herself to be treated like this. he was very disrespectful (in my opinion), period.
the topic of this discussion is whether a female writer would make a difference? in this pete/chimera case… i don’t know.
sally 🙂
Hey Joe,
I have a chocolat question for you. This afternoon a young boy came to my door selling chocolates for a school fundraiser. normally i just buy from my neighbor kids, but there was something about this assortment that stuck out to me, it wasn’t candy from a store (like kit-kats,snickers, etc). These where lamontagne chocolate, and i noticed that they were made in Canada. so i bought a box and before i try it i wanted to get your opinion. and if you haven’t tried them, maybe i’ll see if i can send a box to you and the staff. Thanks
have a great day!
Fascinating set of topics being discussed in your comments today Joe.
I’ll add my two pesos on the topic of writing women and women writers, with the full understanding that this may come across as slightly presumptuous; but I am hopeful that it’ll be received in the sincere and respectful spirit in which it’s intended.
I think people ask about or request that you all add women writers because of the perception by some that women tend to be written as cliches…as if male writers are trying to write the women in such a way to highlight aspects of their femininity…which unfortunately can make said characters look weak or wishy-washy.
What’s worse, women characters tend to be dressed up to look particularly sexy, adding to the perception that this is who they are…all fluff and no substance.
One of my biggest gripes about SG-1 was how poorly I felt Vala was developed; the writers generally tending to go with the flirty, sexy aspects of her personality and ignoring for the most part the meaty, angsty and rich depths of her past as a Goa’uld. What a missed opportunity IMHO.
While I don’t think it’s a given that women write women better than men, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to have a woman writer on staff or at least one to point out problem areas in scripts before they’re filmed.
My request…if I’m allowed to make one here…is that you (the universal “you”) ignore the fact that the characters are women.
Don’t see Teyla or Weir or Carter or Vala as females. See them as the rich characters they are or potentially could be. You’ve got a crew of incredibly talented actresses there. Give them something substantive to work with and let them insert their own natural femininity.
See? I said that would sound a bit presumptuous…and I swear that’s not my intention here…but I see so much potential in these actors and characters that it frustrates me when I feel like they’re reduced to the lowest common denominator in terms of their character development.
Respectfully,
Mary Beth 🙂
Hi Joe,
Great pics of the pugs, they are sweeties and I bet they get into lots of mischief :o) Anything you can share about the trouble they get into? And talking of animals, how do you feel about cats?
Joe, I don’t know if this has been asked yet. will we learn why an Ancient looking cit was on Athos in rising?
This may be late but I do have to weigh-in as a female viewer:
If we apply the same supposed date rape principle from “Irresponsible”, where is the public out-cry for what happened to Daniel in “Hathor?” His rape wasn’t even something a viewer had to nit-pick to see.
Doesn’t he count?
If we look hard enough, we can find something offensive to everyone in any given episode. I have food allergies but I don’t get pissed-off when the writers make light of this serious medical condition. There’s absolutely nothing funny about anaphylaxis. It kills.
But I remember that this is Stargate: not a documentary, not an after-school special, not a public-service announcement. If I want gritty, real-life drama, I’ll watch fX. When I want escapist drama that makes me feel happy, I’ll watch SG-1 & Atlantis.
Re: the Star Trek question: Marina Sirtis was also a guest on Stargate SG-1!
Torri was not contracted for a set number of episode and so, for that reason, I can’t give a definite number.
That seems like a pretty clear indication that she’s not leaving because she gets killed off. If she got killed in the beginning of season 4, you could hardly not know if she’d be in the back half. I hope those afraid for Weir’s fate take note.
So, you’ve read Harry Potter? Two questions: Who’s your favorite character(s)? Snape: good or evil?
Personally, my favorites are Snape (who’s a total hero, btw) and Lupin. Who could be seen, with a bit of imagination, as the McKay and Carson (my favorite SGA characters) of HP (snarky guy and big-brotherly, caring guy). Coincidence? Probably not.
Will RDA be billed above the title as he was previously?
Hey Anonymous,
Might it interest you to know that other rape victims don’t feel the same way about Irresistable? *waves* Over here! Your impression that you speak for many is a misconception. Irresistable was a funny episode about a person who controlled everyone. Not just the women. And yes, he could have made them sleep with him against their will, but then again, think of people with telekenetic powers. You’re not speaking out against episodes with them. What about the SG-1 season one episode “Hathor”? You’re not speaking out for men’s rights, too? It doesn’t just happen to women.
Seriously, if you don’t like the show, don’t watch it. And don’t generalize – my sisters and I and my many female SG-fan friends are still loyal. We support you and the writing team, Mr. Mallozzi!
Irresistible wasn’t the only episode last year hinting at rape, Conversion was just as bad as most rapes are committed by a male the woman considers a good friend or co-worker. Sheppard forcing himself on Teyla was disgusting in my book, and any romance between them possibly happening in the future would do more than turn my stomach, I would turn the show off as well. Please don’t go in that direction.
Rene Auberjonois also guest starred in SG1
Actually there were at least some women who were very upset with Hathor, feeling that ‘rape’ was handled very cavalierly in that episode… that rape was rape whether a man or a woman, but felt that the writers thought it was okay as long as it was a beautiful woman, a man wouldn’t really be say ing no.
And for those who don’t think that there was an outcry at the time, (not saying everyone felt that way), then perhaps consider first, a member of the SG production team wasn’t online to complain to, and two, the internet and stargate on it wasn’t as widespread as it is today.
But don’t think that the same arguments weren’t raised with Hathor as with Irresponsible. They were, they were just perhaps not heard as loudly back then.
There are people who feel that rape is handled much too cavalierly by Stargate. And the writers are not seeing the issues clearly (or that these are even issues) because they see themselves as writing entertainment and not social commentary. (Hence, one reason why some people think the SG writing team would benefit from a female perspective in their writing room — hoping that maybe one or two males on the current writing team might be seeing Hathor as a misstep)
And I’d ask, if what happened to Daniel (being that he said no to yes, even a beautiful woman) or to the women whose choice was taken away from them by Lucius, happened to someone you cared for, how acceptable would you find it? Because that’s what it boils down to… how entertaining would you find being drugged for sex… man or woman, in your food/drink or by inhalation.
As for those people who suggest that people just turn off what they find offensive, I couldn’t agree with you more. Problem is, the episodes in questions didn’t come labelled with the warning: tonight’s entertainment isn’t what you are normally used to but is veering off into rape handled in a manner you might find offensive.
If it had, then maybe some people wouldn’t have looked at it. Or at least they would have been warned and not have felt betrayed by people they trusted to bring them entertainment not disturbance.
StarTrek to Stargate: And Dwight Schultz also.
Hey this is a question that I has been bothering me for sometime. I just didn’t know how to go about getting it answered.
Do the Ori know about the Pegasus galaxy, or are the ancients protecting them like they were protecting the Milkyway?