To those of you (and I know that there are a few) awaiting that announcement regarding Atlantis’s 5th season – I’ve received definite word that absolutely, positively, fer-real, the big press release is coming out this Monday. We’re just awaiting word on one final piece of the puzzle…
Here at the nominees for late March-early April’s book of the month club selections in the categories of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Vote for the titles you’d like to read/discuss. The polls will remain open until midnight Sunday. The winners will be announced in Monday’s blog entry.
The Fantasy Nominees:
Jeffrey Ford’s The Empire of Ice Cream
(From Booklist: “A book that opens with a story about creatures who live their entire existences in sand castles, from when youthful builders abandon them to when the tide destroys them, demands readers possessing a healthy sense of wonder and the willingness to embrace the bizarre and fantastic. The title story beautifully twists the experience and senses of a synesthetic musician to answer the question, what would happen if synesthetic experiences took on physical forms? “The Weight of Words” takes the phrase seriously to explore the sinister potential of print. “Boatman’s Holiday” depicts what Charon, the boatman of Hades, does on vacation. Giants and unidentifiable alien creatures, fairy tales, the intertwining of wonder and terror, and fantastic views of both the strange and the ordinary all appear in this marvelous collection, with Ford’s comments on his inspiration and motivations appended to each story.”)
VS.
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind: The King-Killer Chronicle, Day 1
(From Publishers Weekly: “The originality of Rothfuss’s outstanding debut fantasy, the first of a trilogy, lies less in its unnamed imaginary world than in its precise execution. Kvothe (“pronounced nearly the same as ‘Quothe’ “), the hero and villain of a thousand tales who’s presumed dead, lives as the simple proprietor of the Waystone Inn under an assumed name. Prompted by a biographer called Chronicler who realizes his true identity, Kvothe starts to tell his life story. From his upbringing as an actor in his family’s traveling troupe of magicians, jugglers and jesters, the Edema Ruh, to feral child on the streets of the vast port city of Tarbean, then his education at “the University,” Kvothe is driven by twin imperatives—his desire to learn the higher magic of naming and his need to discover as much as possible about the Chandrian, the demons of legend who murdered his family.”)
The Science Fiction Nominees:
Gregory Benford’s Timescape
(From Amazon.com: “It’s 1998, and a physicist in Cambridge, England, attempts to send a message backward in time. Earth is falling apart, and a government faction supports the project in hopes of diverting or avoiding the environmental disasters beginning to tear at the edges of civilization. It’s 1962, and a physicist in California struggles with his new life on the West Coast, office politics, and the irregularities of data that plague his experiments. The story’s perspective toggles between time lines, physicists, and their communities. Timescape presents the subculture and world of scientists in microcosm: the lab, the loves, the grappling for grants, the pressures from university and government, the rewards and trials of relationships with spouses, the pressures of the scientific race, and the thrill of discovery. ”
VS.
Neal Stephenson’s The Diamond Age: Or, A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer
(From Amazon.com: “John Percival Hackworth is a nanotech engineer on the rise when he steals a copy of “A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer” for his daughter Fiona. The primer is actually a super computer built with nanotechnology that was designed to educate Lord Finkle-McGraw’s daughter and to teach her how to think for herself in the stifling neo-Victorian society. But Hackworth loses the primer before he can give it to Fiona, and now the “book” has fallen into the hands of young Nell, an underprivileged girl whose life is about to change.”)
The Horror Nominees:
Joe Hill’s Heart-Shaped Box
(From Publisher’s Weekly: “Middle-aged rock star Judas Coyne collects morbid curios for fun, so doesn’t think twice about buying a suit advertised at an online auction site as haunted by its dead owner’s ghost. Only after it arrives does Judas discover that the suit belonged to Craddock McDermott, the stepfather of one of Coyne’s discarded groupies, and that the old man’s ghost is a malignant spirit determined to kill Judas in revenge for his stepdaughter’s suicide. Judas isn’t quite the cad or Craddock the avenging angel this scenario makes them at first, but their true motivations reveal themselves only gradually in a fast-paced plot that crackles with expertly planted surprises and revelations.”)
VS.
F. Paul Wilson’s The Keep
(From Amazon.com: “Thus reads the message received from a Nazi commander stationed in a small castle high in the remote Transylvanian Alps. And when an elite SS extermination squad is dispatched to solve the problem, the men find a something that’s both powerful and terrifying. Invisible and silent, the enemy selects one victim per night, leaving the bloodless and mutilated corpses behind to terrify its future victims. Panicked, the Nazis bring in a local expert on folklore–who just happens to be Jewish–to shed some light on the mysterious happenings. And unbeknownst to anyone, there is another visitor on his way–a man who awoke from a nightmare and immediately set out to meet his destiny.The battle has begun: On one side, the ultimate evil created by man, and on the other….the unthinkable, unstoppable, unknowing terror that man has inevitably awakened.”)
Well, I’m off to Fuel with Marty G. tonight. Breakdown and pics tomorrow.
Today’s video: Snow Bunny II: The Quickening. Scroll down to check it out or click the following link –
http://s230.photobucket.com/albums/ee164/BaronDestructo/?action=view¤t=SnowLulu2.flv
Today’s mailbag:
K8T writes: “Does Fondy have fashionable outfits for a 10week old female Norwegian Buhound?”
Answer: I’m sure she does. And maybe a hat to go with it.
Cindee writes: “I just bought a copy of Elizabeth Moon’s “Command Decision”. Have you ever read it?”
Answer: I haven’t, but her Speed of Dark is one of my favorite books.
Kath in Baltimore writes: “Also, I couldn’t help noticing the gaps in the fence are kind of wide. Has Lulu every tried to or successfully escaped?”
Answer: When we first got her, I let her out front. She casually slipped through the bars and started grazing on the other side of the fence. Thankfully, she’s now too hippy to squeeze through.
Prior of the Ori writes: “McKay said that the planet was where they first developed Drone technology, does this mean they never had it back in the Milky Way?”
Answer: No, that was an oversight. The drone technology was developed in the Milky Way, but the mini-drone version was perfected in Pegasus.
Matt S. writes: “Do you feel the Wraith are a success in how they’ve been written and developed, and do you feel they are as effectively entrenched as an enemy with a backstory and impact as the Goa’uld were by this same point in that series?”
Answer: I think that what makes a villain great is their depth as characters – not merely as foils for our protagonists, but as interesting personalities. If you do a season by season comparison with SG-1, the goa’uld definitely had the advantage in this respect because a) they were human in appearance and b) were far more colorful. The goa’uld were fun villains because it was easy to differentiate them as individuals with differing, occasionally conflicting agendas. In the case of the wraith, I think it wasn’t until the show’s third and fourth season that they really began to take on some of these same characteristics, conveyed through backstory elements like the ongoing wars between the various factions, our unlikely alliance with them, and the introduction of Todd. I also think that Michael, in many ways, helped to bridge the gap between functional adversary and villain-you-love-to-hate.
Fran writes: “Are there any good schnitzel places in Vancouver?”
Answer: Hell, yes. Go to The Budapest on Main (corner of 16th) and order the Transylvania Platter for 3 (which will get you three types of schnitzel).
Hannah writes: “How often do you writers find yourselves being surprised by your characters?”
Answer: Our characters are always growing – either on the page or through the performances of our actors – so, yes, they are fully capable of surprising us.
DJ writes: “What color are Joe Flanigan’s eyes?”
Answer: Believe it or not, I haven’t noticed.
Greyias and I have been discussing Carson’s return. We know Michael has something to do with it. but we’ve been uncertain how, and more importantly when, Michael could possibly have gotten hold of Carson. After all, in “The Tao of Rodney,” Rodney communicates telepathically with Carson; he’d notice if a substitution had already been made. Carson is doing surgery until virtually the moment of his demise/departure, so again, substitution seems unlikely.
We’ve finally worked it out, however. Prepare to be amazed!
Here’s what happened: in the milliseconds after the blast, Carson’s panicked mind reached out to an emergency medical transporter that we never knew before existed; hey, not knowing what he was doing didn’t stop Carson from loosing a drone at John in “Rising.” So the emergency medical transporter beamed Carson to an unoccupied–nay, unexplored–portion of the city, where he was deposited, at worst slightly singed. Meanwhile, the bombed-out corridor is such a mess no attempt was made to identify remains; everyone in Atlantis knows who had been there, after all, so no one is looking for Carson. But why doesn’t Carson just contact someone, and how could he get off Atlantis without being noticed?
Here’s the fiendishly brilliant part: when he had Carson prisoner in “Misbegotten,” Michael implanted certain suggestions in Carson’s mind that only came to bear later. Those suggestions would ultimately summon Carson to him, to help in his mad genetic experiments. But first, one of these suggestions caused Carson to pocket one of the Sodan personal cloaks while he was at the SGC during “The Return.” He came back to Atlantis with his own ticket off the station, which he didn’t even realize. Now, believed dead and under Michael’s spell, Carson produces the cloak, which he has kept with him all this time, hidden even from himself, and uses it to leave with a team going through the Gate. Once the team has left the Gate area, Carson dials the address for rendezvous with Michael.
We realize that you cannot yet acknowledge the correctness of our surmises, because you don’t want to ruin the surprise for everyone else. That’s okay; we’ll wait for the episodes to air, and then you can praise our deductive reasoning. Or is that inductive? I get those two confused.
Ack! We have to wait until Monday for the season 5 cast announcement? Ack!!! Sci-Fi is trying to kill us with anticipation, aren’t they?
I have a question that I don’t believe has been asked about the painting in Harmony. Did the actors pose in any way for it? I’m just wondering if someone at least took Polaroids to give the artist something to work with. I can only imagine what the shots would have looked like. And yeah, that a none too subtle hint that I’d love to see them on your blog if you and the actors were willing to share. 😉
The Name of the Wind,The Diamond Age and The Keep.
I know wolfenm will get this, but I don’t know how many others will:
Is Sci-Fi by any chance related to DAZ and their infamous “soon”?
Hey, Joe.
I was just watching your video and I wondered how big Lulu is going to get. She’s already as big as the pugs, is she going to dwarf them?
Thanks! 😀
Ack! Monday?! But that’s like…way in the future! I want it nooooow!
I guess things are just not going very well, what with the Gateworld forums dead right now. DEAD.
Is there a chance that we can get the news before Monday?
Oooo, The Keep. Awesome book, execrable movie (even though it did have Scott Glen and Jurgen Prochnow).
Hi Joe!
I´ve realized that in TMC you created a very interesting plot with the good replicator Weir, and I was wondering:
We will have the chance to see her in the season 5??
I´m curious because I think that she would have a lot to do in the Atlantis expedition.
Bye, and thanks for the blog, we really enjoy it.
I had always figured that McKay was completely oblivious to his social shortcomings. You guys made a point of showing (during ‘Quarantine’) that he’s figured out that as a person, he needs a bit of work before he can mesh with someone else (Katie). The next episode, it was drilled in again with Harmony and her simillar attitude being pointed out to McKay. Was that a goal this season? To make him a tad more human? And, will we see more of it and maybe see a change in him?
No! It’s 2:51 am over here (Germany) and my birthday is now almost 3 hours old. You really had to make the announcement for THE announcement? I give in and move over to World of Warcraft and kill some orcs now…
P.S. The snow bunnies are the cutest I’ve ever seen.
Empire of Ice Cream
Timescape
Heart Shaped Box
I’m so confused. Yesterday’s post was so late, tonight’s so early.
Yeah, listen to me complain about someone who so generously entertains us! Without commercials (unless these plugs for pugs are really subliminal commercials? I admit you’re making me want a dog…hmmm).
Anyway, I don’t usually vote on the BOTM but BOTH the sci-fi categories look REALLY good to me. And with Atlantis’ season nearly over, I’ll have to find something to do besides read your blog in my spare time. Not that I won’t be reading your blog during the hiatus! Of course I will! Just to find out what the rest of the commenting public is up to!
Oh, now I ended a sentence with a preposition. I better quit while I’m ahead. So, officially voting here for BOTH the sci fi and none of the others 😉
wams352
I recently read Heart-Shaped Box. Creepy as hell. Surely not King or Straub, but I promise this book will give someone nightmares. Some of the imagery has stuck with me … but I won’t share, not yet.
I just finished The Tales of the Otori series, four books by Lian Hearn. Fantasy set in Old Japan, beautiful story-telling. Not that I’m suggesting them for the BOTM, but if anyone is interested, give them a try.
Joe!!
Okay so, it was quite hot here today. And I’ve been sick. Totally random, I know. But, it happens.
I was wondering, what did you think of the movie “Titanic”?
Did the actors pose for the portrait (i.e. a photo) or did the artist simply create it with no visual aid?
Have you read the Time Odyssey series by Stephen Baxter and Arthur C. Clarke?
Haha, just read the post that is 2 above from mine and we both have the same question…
Does Fondy read your blog while she is away?
Hey Joe
I recently purchased the complete 7 seasons of Star Trek: Voyager and have been watching an episode a day. However, in the special features, there is a segment where a man named André Bormanis, who was hired as a writer and scientific consultant, explains some of the science aspects of Voyager. This made me think: does/did SG:A/SG-1 have/had a scientific consultant? If so, who was/is it and have they written any scripts for Stargate? If not, why not?
Also, I have my BOTM nominations (very excited):
Fantasy – The Name of the Wind
Sci-Fi – Timescape
Horror – The Keep
Thanks again Joe!
I can’t believe that the news for today is that we have to wait until Monday for news! Bah! Meh!
I hope that the dogs get into your fridge and steal your dinner. 🙂
“Our characters are always growing – either on the page or through the performances of our actors – so, yes, they are fully capable of surprising us.”
Can you give us an example?
On January 30, 2008 at 4:48 pm Aelfgyfu Said:
Uh uh. I happen to have it on very good authority *cough* that Beckett was beamed away by an Asgard bean (Thor didn’t die – his clone did) and Beckett’s been Thor’s love slave and kitchen help since his ‘death.’ *cough*
Well I get back less then one week and have a ton of reading to do. :-). I’m still waiting for the Dakara type link to show up in Pegasus. I mean if they started life in the Milky way that way wouldn’t they have started life off in Pegasus the same way? Just curious. Btw, Lulu looks absolutely adorable I can’t believe how much she has grown in my five month absense. Have a good one!!
[b]MONDAY?!?!?![/b] That’s like, [u]FOREVER AND EVER[/u] away.
Do you [i]enjoy[/i] torturing us?!?!
Joe’s eyes are hazel! (Flanigan that is… it’s hard not to notice)
Please, for the love of God, bring Torri back. Or at least offer her something decent.
If she says no, I’ll understand, but I think she at least deserve the option, because the character and actress are too good to just throw away.
When I say something decent, I mean more than the ridiculous four episodes she had in season four. 14 would be more like it.
maggiemayday said:
I just finished The Tales of the Otori series, four books by Lian Hearn. Fantasy set in Old Japan, beautiful story-telling. Not that I’m suggesting them for the BOTM, but if anyone is interested, give them a try.
I’m really glad you posted about those. A couple of years ago I watched the classic Kwaidan, with its quartet of ghost stories from Japanese folklore, and I’ve been craving more along those lines (not necessarily ghosts, just some kind of fantasy related to Old Japan). I’ll *definitely* check out Hearn’s books.
DJ writes: “What color are Joe Flanigan’s eyes?”
Answer: Believe it or not, I haven’t noticed.
You mean given the chance you don’t trail after Mr Flanigan gazing into his eyes? I’m sure the studio lawyers are well pleased with your decision. By the way do you happen to know what his credit card number is? I only ask as a dedicated fan. And as someone in need of new shoes.
As for Carson’s return my theory is that when the tumour exploded he was hurled through a window and has spent the last year dog paddling around Atlantis mournfally calling for help. Am I right? Only time will tell. Time, and actually watching the show.
name of the wind and diamond age.
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind: The King-Killer Chronicle, Day 1 (I’m choosing this one because it’s similar to Orson Scott Card’s, The Worthing Saga. Have you read that by any chance? Any thoughts?)
Gregory Benford’s Timescape (Both sound great, though!)
F. Paul Wilson’s The Keep (I just can’t read about haunted suits.)
Hi Joe!
Love the Lulu snow vids! 🙂 Such a cutie!
I vote for The Keep and Timescape for the next BotM selections.
Darn! Gotta wait five more days for the announcement – whatever it is! Guess I’ll make it. 😐
Did you see this week’s episode of House? If it’s not spoilerish to say this, it was their Christmas episode!!! Great ep, but it felt very weird seeing it first run a month after the holidays. What do you think? And does 13 have a real name that we know of?
Hope your dinner with Martin G. was great! I’m learning to love Harmony – watched it again today. 🙂
Take care!
eddy
Well, I think I’ll probably read both of the sci-fi BOTM options, but for official purposes I think I’ll give my vote to Timescape.
And I’m abstaining on voting for the other categories.
-Emily
After reading Kate Hewlett’s comments on SciFi, I realized that we’d never heard any of our StarGate characters break into laughter (or the giggles she talks about. Would love to see those bloopers!) I’ve found that in the most terrifying, highest stress situations, humor – usually the blackest of black humor – has helped me survive and present a sane facade. Seems to me our guys need some silliness to survive the disasters.
Thanks for the blog, the little movies, the excellent writing, and great shows.
[strong]Anne wrote:[/strong]
[blockquote][em]
At the request of my adoring worshiper Patricia , I am again including instructions for HTML coding [/em][/blockquote]
Thank you Anne Teldy! You are so sweet! Did I do it right???
Best Regards,
Patricia
Nope,[strong]I did not do it right… ah nuts![/strong]
Ok what did I do wrong? I typed it just like you said… Is it the fact I did it in word and copied and pasted it?
Patricia
Hey DJ!!
Leave it to us thunkers to know Joe F’s eyes are hazel, with beautiful green sparkles. 🙂
eddy
Joe-
Man, what a party foul for me, I’ll be in Albuquerque Monday and am flying back Tuesday. I’ll miss all the action and fun and/or outrage, depending on what this release is all about. Doh!!!!
Fantasy = The Empire of Ice Cream
Horror = The Keep
Also, what is your opinion of the Stargate Novels, the ones from UK? Are they well written? Worth the effort to get ahold of them?
And thank you so much for this blog! I found it last month and have been avidly checking it every other day. It is awesome.
One more try…
If this does not work I give up….
Patricia
okay it did not work… UNCLE!!!!
I must be stupid!!! Sorry, I still don’t get it.
*cries and sighs*
Patricia
A friend and I are thinking about doing a bit of work over at Vancouver for 6 months to a year sometime in the next few years. What’s the average summer and winter temperatures up there? Being from Australia we’re obviously used to hot conditions but I know Canada is cold….wondering if I would die or just be able to bear it.
“DJ writes: “What color are Joe Flanigan’s eyes?””
They are Hazel
Did you listen to Torri’s interview?
Here’s a link to it
http://www.dtrn.co.uk/
I am not sure if I want her back now considering how you and the rest of The Powers That Be treated her. I hope if you do bring her back you have her be good and give her a happy ending. What I loved about the character was her warmth and strength.
I know there will be those who roll their eyes when they read this I loved Weir’s speeches. Sam never reached me like Weir did correct that Torri’s Weir who I like a tremendous amount more than Jessica’s Weir who was very cold and closed off IMHO.
I am still kinda new to the franchise just discovered it in late 2006 but when I was watching the DVDs earlier I see why you guys wrote out Ford and I love Ronon much better character but they are very different characters thus making the move a creative one not a political one can’t say the same for this move Sam was in the beginning being written the same as Weir which makes the move seem more political than creative. Now in the second half so far Sam is being written in character but she still hasn’t gelled with the rest of the characters she doesn’t fit Weir did with out effort. Now you say the scene in Life Line or Adrift was supposed to be same as the one in Rising well I just don’t understand why did Sam have to be in a similar scene why couldn’t you guys come up with different scene for Sam again political not creative.
I know you are going to spin now because that’s what you do on this subject say Weir wasn’t written out for Sam to come in well that maybe but the issues are connected and it is not a pretty picture on you and the rest of TPTB. You can and have hidden behind the it’s a business I always find that kind of a cop out just because others are cold doesn’t mean you should be too.
I do think you are nice person and I find you very funny both in your writings and your blog but in this issue I think you behaved badly. I don’t care if other producers do it too in the industry it was mean the way it was done. There is no reason to be that way.
I am sorry if I offended you I hope you don’t hate me now. I appreciate your time and your openness to us fans not many writers & producers do this interact with us lowly fans.
Is there any way in season 5 you could give Ronon & Teyla a kiss maybe in a AU ep? You did write Ripple Effect it could happen in an AU with out it affecting canon. Pretty Please with sugar on top?
Hi Joe:
Just a few thoughts concerning the last two episodes. I was really looking forward to Harmony (surprise!) and it did not disappoint me. I really enjoyed the interactions between McKay, Shep and Harmony. It left me smiling. Quarantine? Not so much. My problem with this episode is quite simple. Out of the 50 million relationships that could have been explored, I got the trifecta of dull. (I left out Sam/Radek just because I don’t think that was intended to be shippy.) I don’t see Ronon and Keller as friends yet, let alone anything more. Rodney and Katie bore me, but although I almost cheered when they broke up, I found myself with a little more respect for Katie. At least the Shep and Teyla part came across as friends more than anything which I was glad to see since I don’t care for them as a couple either.
Bottom line? I’d rather see friendship moments among all the characters (main and secondary) and leave the rest up to our imaginations. I’ll admit, I can “ship” with the best of them and although I have my favorite, there are many more I enjoy as well. Maybe I would feel differently if I liked any of the couples being pushed this season. On the other hand, it’s just too much fun changing the players around each week! Which reminds me, will Carson and Teyla share any scenes later this season?
And finally, I’m glad to hear plans are in the works for Torri/Elizabeth. I can’t wait to see her with John. And Rodney. And Ronon. And Teyla. And Lorne…
Dude, I read you everyday. Great Blog! but I gotta say as far as Joe’s eyes go… I don’t believe it! They are just too great.
Vote for Diamond Age… It’s one of the best books ever.
Yeah..I know…these are from a few days ago…but I have been off doing other things and just caught up with your blog.
[em][strong]Rachel Said:[/strong] “Hey, how come all the wraith have really boring monosylabic names like Bob and Steve and Todd? Why not something a little more exotic, like Sven or Fransisco?”[/em]
Um…Michael is two syllables! ;-P
[em][strong]narellefromaus Said:[/strong] “Have you ever watched the British show Top Gear? If not, can’t recommend it highly enough for somebody who likes cars and has a great sense of humour.”[/em]
My husband loves that show…even I like it!(normally I have NO interest in cars…but good show)
[em][strong]Thornyrose Said:[/strong] “I know this has been asked before but since Letters from Pegasus aired on Sci Fi this afternoon, I thought I’d ask it again. During the Wraith culling, some sort of energy beam strikes the planet. Sheppard went to investigate, but we were never told what it was. Will this be addressed some time in the future?”[/em]
I’ve been wondering abou that mysterious energy beam to! Wazzup with it?
I totally messed up the html on the last post so here it is again…hopefully? corrected..lol:
Yeah..I know…these are from a few days ago…but I have been off doing other things and just caught up with your blog.
Rachel Said: “Hey, how come all the wraith have really boring monosylabic names like Bob and Steve and Todd? Why not something a little more exotic, like Sven or Fransisco?”
Um…Michael is two syllables! ;-P
narellefromaus Said: “Have you ever watched the British show Top Gear? If not, can’t recommend it highly enough for somebody who likes cars and has a great sense of humour.”
My husband loves that show…even I like it!(normally I have NO interest in cars…but good show)
Thornyrose Said: “I know this has been asked before but since Letters from Pegasus aired on Sci Fi this afternoon, I thought I’d ask it again. During the Wraith culling, some sort of energy beam strikes the planet. Sheppard went to investigate, but we were never told what it was. Will this be addressed some time in the future?”
I’ve been wondering abou that mysterious energy beam to! Wazzup with it?
There’s a lot of talk on GW about you planning to bring in another female character next season.
Please, please, please say it’s not Larrin. I’d have to throw up if you did, and I really, really don’t wnat to do that.
She’s just a waste of space, badly acted and has zero chemistry with Shep. She makes him look like a complete and utter tool. And like he’s not thinking with his brain, if you know what I mean.
Disgusting, bad, cliche of a woman.
Oh, and Larrin may be every man’s fantasy, but she’d soon piss off the female viewers. At least most of them, anyway.
Patricia:
Instead of using the square brackets, you should use and
Hope Fuel is as good as ever tonight (I always enjoy hearing about what you have there).
My BOTM votes are…
Fantasy – Ford’s “The Empire of Ice Cream”
Sci fi – Stephenson’s “The Diamond Age: Or, A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer”
Horror – Wilson’s “The Keep”
Just wondering Joe, have you ever read any of Margaret Atwood’s books?
Well, it bolded it but didn’t show the marks “”
Let’s see if it shows doing it this way: > and <
The “greater than” and “less than” marks above the comma and period on the keyboard.
RachelCooperLPN writes: “Though you have adamently (sp?) said that you are not going to attend the Creation con in Vancouver, is there a chance that you will make an appearance at a picnic some of the fans are having outside the studio?”
Joe’s Answer: If I’m free, I’ll certainly stop by to say hello.
Wow! That’s reason enough to go to the Con in April by itself Joe!!!
wolfenm Said: Yeah, but he’s Luke too, especially in this ep! Of course Sheppard is Han, Ronon is Chewie, and Teyla is Leia.
I agree, McKay is very much Luke in the first original Star Wars movie (which is really the 4th in order of the Star Wars world’s timeline). Both of them whiney, immature and argumentative! Is it too much to hope that maybe McKay will grow up and mature a bit, like Luke did in the following movies? But, would he be as much fun if he did? He has to keep some of his imperfections, even if he does mature some…they make him so “him”! (and funny!!!)
Kimber
I was extremely surprised to find out that John is from a rich family. He seems like a middle class army/airforce brat. Will we find out why he and his dad had a falling out? And, has he talked at all with his mom in all that time? I can’t imagine not talking to my sons for years….no matter what! And I HATE his brother…what an arse! He’s so stuck up and patronising in that scene. (I guess the actor did a very good job as I just wanted to smack him!!!)
Kimberly
Randonimity Said:
A friend and I are thinking about doing a bit of work over at Vancouver for 6 months to a year sometime in the next few years. What’s the average summer and winter temperatures up there? Being from Australia we’re obviously used to hot conditions but I know Canada is cold….wondering if I would die or just be able to bear it.
Check here:
http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/aboutvan.htm
The Name of the Wind, Timescape (since I’m already reading it :), and The Keep
Joe,
I just saw MGM’s video for Ark of Truth. All I can say is “WOW!”.
You really weren’t being mean enough when you mocked Ben Browder’s hair on your blog. That boy looks like a fool. He must be going for the Tom Cruise ridiculous image….or something. I was waiting for him to give his sharpest military salute and proclaim, “To LRH!”
Honestly, though, if that’s how he’s going to look don’t ever bring him back to Stargate. In fact, just don’t reuse him at all. Get Richard Dean Anderson to come back and play Jack. Yeah.
Testing…
Patricia
It doesn’t work… !
Like the sound of both the Sci Fi. If I had to choose I think Timescape.
Can’t do horror, I already have enough trouble sleeping.
I’m re-reading Lord of the Rings so my Fantasy quota is already full. Much easier to read after seeing the movies a few times – you just skip right over the 14 page descriptions of each of the characters. Speeds it up remarkably.
My business partner is heading to Hong Kong so he is going to check out the ebook for me (can’t get them in Aus). I don’t like reading off electronic devices but will save a lot of room in my handbag/suitcase/beachbag. Anyone tested it in bright daylight? It will help me participate in BOTM a lot more too if I can carry it with me all the time. I miss reading.
Joe, how do you select the BOTM nominees? And is there a way that you search for the new books?
Lulu is the cutest. And I like the way you think of her feelings by referring to her as “hippy”.
Patricia – hang in there. I was writing my code in dreamweaver but it didn’t translate. So now I just don’t bother 🙂
Lulu makes a wonderful impression of the snow bunny, ever though of having her in an SGA episode ? 🙂
My other question : all in all how much does it cost to make one full season of SGA ? (including all salaries, visual effect, shootings…)
I think you should turn Larrin into a nun (or the Pegasus equivalent). Then everybody will love her so very much. Actually I think if there was a little more backstory or context for her behavior and actions she might come across a bit better for all of us bimbo-bashers.
I vote for The Name of the Wind, Timescape and Heart-Shaped Box. How can you not love the idea of a haunted suit.
Patricia,
No offense but you do have a problem with reading peoples’ posts properly.
Anne told you to use < instead of [
That’s why your posts didn’t work out.
Read her help post again.
cat4444 said …
I know wolfenm will get this, but I don’t know how many others will:
Is Sci-Fi by any chance related to DAZ and their infamous “soon”?
*blinks* Um, do you mean DAZ Studio? Actually, I don’t use DAZ — I did a while back, to create poses for references in my drawings, but not for very long, and I only dl’ed a handful of the freebie packs. And I never posted any of the few images I actually did *in* it, only the ones *based* on them. So basically, if they have an “infamous ‘soon'”, I wouldn’t know anything about it! LOL
Do I know you from devianART? People have mistaken me for someone from Renderosity before — I do have an account there, but I’ve never used it …
Or are we talking a different DAZ and I’m missing the reference? *scratches head*
Darn it, did it again, forgot to close a tag. *sigh* Sorry, Joe!
You know, Pink Raygun is on WordPress too, and they have a thing that gives you 15 minutes to edit a post after you hit submit. I wonder how they got that, and if it’s something easy to install ….
Oh, Lulu looks like she’s having so much fun! makes me want to play in the snow. I wouldn’t be that cute, though. 🙂
Lurker here. Love the videos of Lulu. Before the snowstorm hit, I was about to ask for more pup pictures. Instead, I’ll ask for pictures of some of your kitchen creations. Or a side-by-side. Your creations vs. Fuel. 🙂
Dovil said…
As for Carson’s return my theory is that when the tumour exploded he was hurled through a window and has spent the last year dog paddling around Atlantis mournfally calling for help. Am I right? Only time will tell. Time, and actually watching the show.
Well.. a coupla months dog paddling around Atlantis, then a few panicked minutes frantically paddling for his life as the city took off and then the rest of the year dog paddling around an empty planet… where Michael, feeling a bit stroppy and looking to kick some Atlantean behind, finds him! Aha! Yes, I see where you’re going with this now… yes, that could work…
My votes for Mar/Apr BOTM:
Timescape
Empire of Ice Cream
Heart Shaped Box
Hope Fuel’s food was every bit as spectacular as usual.
hmmmm, waiting until monday to hear the news… hey, joe, still got that time machine kicking around???? care to loan it out???
Lulu still is the cutest thing in the world… the little snow bunny… makes me want another dog, but my mom would flip her lid at another dog!!!
So, uh, how many people are there in the BOTM reading club now? It seems to be expanding exponentially with every passing month… 🙂
Stormy Said:
The Name of the Wind,The Diamond Age and The Keep.
I second that nomination!
BTW I can’t recommend James Clemens highly enough! Shadowfall is an excellent book, even if the author does seem to be obsessed quite literally with “shite”
A thoroughly enjoyable read, I’m now awaiting my son loaning me the second in the series “Hinterland”
Hey Joe, books seem all great but id have to vote for, The Empire of Ice Cream, Timescape, The Keep.
The Empire of Ice Cream seems really interesting so i’m going to read that anyway.
Kimberley, glad there’s another Top Gear’r out there! It’s not a rev head show, it just makes you laugh.
The Bugatti challenges, their trip through America’s South and…. (preparing myself for my deepest voice possible)…the Stig 🙂
DJ writes: “What color are Joe Flanigan’s eyes?”
Answer: Believe it or not, I haven’t noticed.
I’d be a bit worried if Joe could give us an accurate description LOL…
I think they’re kinda like a beige… well?? Hard to tell. O_o
(just a note that I’m abstaining from voting due to time constraints in March, but I plan on reading Timescape when normality returns)
Hi , it’s the last day so …
HAPPY NEW YEAR\BONNE ANNEE
Je vous souhaite plein de restaurants ! une bonne santé à vous et votre entourage, des bonnes idées, des chiens à n’en plus finir… hum des bonnes choses !
Voila, bon bah Charly m’attend pour sa promenade !
have a great day !
Book choices for me are Name of the Wind and Diamond Age. I avoid horror so no vote for that.
Hi Joe
Enjoyed Harmony this week, that girl is a great little actress up against a full force David Hewlett !
The idea of the drones was very good, and made perfect sense to me, hope we can see some more of those little bullets down the line.
Lulu seems very happy in the snow, isnt this unusual for a dog? or is the puppy in her too much, the others dont seem so inclined.
Have to say that I rewatch both series on DVD regularly and espcially enjoy the commentaries, so please dont stop doing them (let tptb know!).
Every time I see Stargate now and the theme tune starts up I have you, Paul Mullie and Peter DeLouise singing “Stargate its a great big world…..” going through my head. Always makes me smile.
Any words for the Atlantis theme? 🙂
Good news about the official Season 5 announcement, congrats, and phew!
Until when are the scripts for 5th season finished and when will you start to shoot it?
Hi Joe!
I´ve been busy the last months, so, I´ve just noticed the new design of the blog, I like it!
Now that the news about season 5 are near, I see a lot of posts about the cast of the next season.
So, I just want to say that I love the plot you have developed for Weir in the season 4.
Now, she could be a more dynamic chareater, and she could do more things. I mean:
the change was for make the character more interesting, wasn´t it?
And now that she has a complex history, I was wondering:
We could see her in more than 4 episodes??
Thanks for your time!
Thats great news about Season 5! thank you.
Is the big news that Sanctuary has a 13-episode order from SciFi, and that, according to the press (Reuters) Tapping is startring?
To quote: “The cast from the Web series will remain intact.
The series is slated to begin production in March. By most estimates, the writers’ strike will be over by then, but that is not a factor for the show, whose production is strike-proof because it’s based in Canada. Sci Fi’s “Stargate Atlantis” is in a similar position and will begin filming its fifth season in a couple of weeks. Tapping, who co-starred on that series last season, will return for several episodes.”
Does this mean another season of Carter just conspicuously absent? And can you define ‘several’?
So, I’ve still got a few days to hope that Carter doesn’t come back for season five….
Monday? Oh, my, the wild speculations in the meantime…thanks again for confirming the plan is to bring Torri back next season. Any chance Weir might be figuring prominently in the mid-season two-parter? It’d be great to see her in as many episodes as possible.
Take care.
i am not entirely sure what i think for the fantasy and horror choices for the BOTM. i do have a choice for the other: Neal Stephenson’s The Diamond Age: Or, A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer. it sounds like fun
There are a lot of different opinions as to Carson’s story of “survival” or will it be a rebirth. My theory is that he was very interested in ascension and moments before the explosion his spirit was released and he ascended. it would kinda explain the bright light prior to the explosion and it would be a suggestion as to how Rodney was able to speak with him after it happened. so when he comes back it will be much like when Daniel returned to human form. Just a theory. I can’t wait to see how the real writers make it happen.
Monday, hmm? They do realize that fans aren’t exactly a patient bunch? *chuckles*
Lulu is adorable as usual… 🙂
Just out of curiosity, what’s your process for selecting the nominees for the BOTM?
I have been sitting on the sidelines as various fans rail against Atlantis management for removing characters from the show, and I finally need to write something.
There is no way that Mallozzi and the rest of Atlantis manaagement can ever reveal their decisions on the hiring and firing of people, without opening themselves up to lawsuits.
I remember the fan outrage when the actor, Glen Quinn, was released from the show, Angel. Fans were outraged. The character, Doyle, was wonderful. Management said nothing about the decision. Four years later, the actor was dead from a heroin overdose and fans learned then that he had been struggling with addiction for years.
What’s my point? Fans will never know the reason for an actor to leave a show. Management can’t say anything.
To put a personal spin on this, a friend of mine was fired from a large corporation. She was a great person, fun to be with, and I worked for the same company. I was very upset that she had been fired and I went to talk to my manager. I was given some great advice. “You have to trust management’s decision, or you need to leave the company. We can’t tell you why she was fired, but it had to be done. If you can’t live with that, then this isn’t the right company for you to work for.”
I think it’s great that fans love certain characters and are willing to spend their precious personal life to fight for an actor’s role on a show, but eventually, the decision is with the management of the show, not the fans. Ultimately, fans have to either accept the decision, or find another show to watch.
I’ve heard rumors that one of the main cast members won’t be back next season. In the event that that isn’t confirmed or denied in the upcoming press release, can I ask if it’s true? If so, is it one of Sheppard’s team not returning?
(Hmm. It’s a little weird to have a place to go and ask these things without just waiting to see what happens. I mean, obviously you might not answer and I’ll have to wait and see anyway, but still…my fandom experience is wobbling a bit, here. *reflects*)
Hey, just wanted to say thanks for putting up those pics of the painting a few days ago. That’s totally my desktop wallpaper now. I am curious, though, how this painting came about? Was there basically a photo session and then once a photo was chosen someone made a painting of it? And how much fun did the actors have posing for it?
Regarding bolding words, you can use and instead of the ‘strong’. Lots less to type 😉 Just remove the spaces between the carats and the inside stuff (b and /b. ANd use < symbols, not [
Wow, Lulu’s a regular steeplechase Thoroughbred isn’t she? She certainly seems to revel in jumping the hedges. 🙂
Okay, first order of business:
Sci-Fi: I vote for Greg Benford’s Timescape.
He’s a phenomenal writer and I’m a longtime fan.
Horror: I don’t read horror, so I abstain from that category.
Fantasy: Jeffrey Ford’s The Empire of Ice Cream.
The preview sounds intriguing.
Next, Tuesday, 5 Jan., is Joe F’s BIRTHDAY!! Let’s all remember to send him Best Wishes. Y’all can warm up by sending ME best wishes as my b-day is Monday 4 Jan.!
Happily awaiting Outcast and the return of Gateworld’s Forums… in a cold, cold, br-r-r New Jersey.
Good job on the Beckett theory Aelfgyfu, sounds plausible, we’ll just have to wait and see, won’t we?
Carol Z
“Using power, using power, using power…” Dr. Rodney McKay, “The Rising”
CORRECTION…
I MEANT, 5 Feb is Joe F’s Birthday. And MY b-day is Feb 4. I seem to be lingering in the wrong month, at least in my mind…
<a href=”http://faq.wordpress.com/2006/11/09/why-not-to-use-word/”
For Patricia,
I’m trying to help you, but I am having difficulties with my coding today.
Wordpress has a FAQ page about why you should NOT use MSWord or any other word processing program on this blog.
Here is the URL:
<a href=”http://faq.wordpress.com/2006/11/09/why-not-to-use
Carol Z
Okay, I give up… the link doesn’t work…
LAST TIME…
http://faq.wordpress.com/2006/11/09/why-not-to-use-word/
Hi Joe!
Timescape & The Name of the Wind have my votes-I’m a wimp when it comes to horror so no vote there. I saw on Scifi.com Sanctuary got picked as TV series and is slated to start filming in March. As pleased as I am for Amanda, Martin & crew for their success with that, I’m wondering if this is going to affect Sam’s being in charge of Atlantis. Fingers crossed that it won’t, but I’ll try to wait ’til Season Five airs to find. Yes, I actually try to avoid major spoilers, weirdo that I am.
Have a nice day!
PS Lulu is a major cutie!!
Hey Joe,
I just read about Sanctuary being picked up by SCI FI and filming for Sanctuary begins nearly the same time as Atlantis does. Where does this leave Carter/Amanda for next season? The article stated she would be in several episodes, which can be anywhere from 4 eps to 14 eps give or take. I assume we will likely have to wait till Monday? That’s cool, I have “Outcast” to enjoy in the meantime. 🙂
Best,
Squall78
Well, I lose my bet, and I’m buying the egg sandwiches and OJ today.
Thanks for the answers, all those who chimed in!
I thought hazel, my co-worker said brown, but the bet was actually whether Joe M would know or not. Coworker nailed it – “Most guys don’t notice that kind of stuff.”
Well, I’m definitely looking forward to Monday when I can read the announcement for season 5. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the entire main cast of season 4 is coming back.
What does it mean when something is shot in second unit? I was watching a commentary that said something about that, and I was wondering what it was exactly.
Looking forward to the S5 announcement. So here’s a serious episode title question: We’ve had The Defiant One, Duet and Trio (soon). Will we see a Quartet or The Fantastic “Four” coming up next?
“On January 31, 2008 at 6:52 am Carol Z Said:
CORRECTION…
I MEANT, 5 Feb is Joe F’s Birthday. And MY b-day is Feb 4. I seem to be lingering in the wrong month, at least in my mind…”
Joe F’s birthday is in actual fact January 5th, as you originally stated. MINE is February 5th! How could you get us two confused? Lol 😉
Joe, I’m very pleased to read that you have no idea what colour Joe F’s eyes are. Because if you did know, I’d be worried! Most men just have no idea about that sort of thing in my experience…well, my husband doesn’t, anyway. Saying that, he’s clueless about most things…
I saw that Sanctuary has been picked up for 13 episodes by SciFi. The article said Amanda would be in ‘several’ episodes of SGA. Now, I’m no genius, obviously, but ‘several’ doesn’t sound like many, which is pretty disappointing for me seeing as how I’d just got used to Carter and was really enjoying her on the show. If this is indeed the case, and Amanda is only to be in a few episodes, how will Carter’s absence be explained? Will she be written out of the show? Or just not seen much? Will she still be leader of the expedition?
I wish Amanda every success with Sanctuary, but I am concerned for SGA now and what this all means for the show I love.
Actually, Joe Flanigan’s birthday was January 5, same as Paul McGillion. Not that I track such things. 😛
The name of the wind,timescape
The creators of Lost were always criticized early on for winging it, for not having a clear vision for the show and sorta just going with whatever they felt like. That talk has calmed now that they’ve set an endpoint for the show, and outlined in their minds what they want to do.
As a writing team, along with the producers and any others involved – is there a clear vision for the story line that Atlantis is hoped to follow? (assuming it gets its chance to last). Or does the “will we be renewed or not” nature of things make it difficult or make the writing staff unwilling to map out a vision for future seasons that may never be fulfilled?
I, too, am surprised that Sheppard comes from a wealthy background. The character impressed me as perhaps coming from a childhood in foster care, shuffled from family to family and never really forming attachments to other people. That’s why he’s so grateful to his Atlantis “family.” And although I don’t expect guys to pay close attention to other guy’s eyes as a general rule, can’t see as how you can miss one of your lead actor’s more favorable attributes. I would have thought that as someone responsible for the look of the show, you would be highly aware of each of the actors and actresses physical characteristics, not to mention their abilities.
I, too, am surprised that Sheppard comes from a wealthy background. The character impressed me as perhaps coming from a childhood in foster care, shuffled from family to family and never really forming attachments to other people. That’s why he’s so grateful to his Atlantis “family.” And although I don’t expect guys to pay close attention to other guy’s eyes as a general rule, can’t see as how you can miss one of your lead actor’s more favorable attributes. I would have thought that as someone responsible for the look of the show, you would be highly aware of each of the actors and actresses physical characteristics, not to mention their abilities.
Hi again!
WayBeyondSoccerMom, thanks for your great comment about TPTB and employees and firings and general employment stuff. I’ve been thinking the same thing for months, but didn’t know how to write it as succinctly and effectively as you did.
I decided to use that PuddleJumper I acquired during Joe’s recent kidnapping and took it to Joe’s house, snuck in (fed the dogs snackies so they wouldn’t kill me…or lead me to the jewelry) and borrowed Joe’s time machine.
I went ahead to Monday and darn, if that’s not interesting news! I couldn’t believe it! Wow!
Then I returned everything in its proper place, including the hair across the time machine’s ignition switch (very clever, Joe!) and got back here just in time to learn Sanctuary is returning! WooHoo! I look forward to however many eps Amanda can be in SGA S5 and won’t demand more. She’s gotta have a life too, eh?
Take care!
eddy
How come the wraith were so hard to kill in the first season of Atlantis but now a few bullets kill them?
Hi there Joe!
I really like the character Jeanie Miller. Kate Hewlett is awesome like her brother and I was wondering if she will be appearing again in Season 5?
Please say yes.
Fran
Oh, ah, another post, sorry 😉
NBCUniversal said in a press release: “In addition to her producing and starring turns on Sanctuary, Amanda Tapping will also make guest appearances on several episodes of SCI FI Channel’s Stargate Atlantis during its 5th season.”
So guest star means no longer a regular on the series, correct?
Way back sometime, you mentioned if there was a Season 5, chances were we’d see Kolya back again. Is that still a possibility? I think Sheppard needed a bit more revenge satisfaction than what he got!
Loren Said:
I was wondering, what did you think of the movie “Titanic”?
Heh, really? I won tickets to the movie in a radio contest, being one of the few women in Utah who hadn’t seen it after it had been in theaters for several weeks.
I nearly slaughtered a co-worker who played the soundtrack of Titanic on her PC on repeat for eight hours straight. I brought in punk and Dr. Demento as revenge. That’s not the reason they let me go, but it had to have made an impression. That, and I wouldn’t let them call me a “girl”.
My favorite tear-jerker is Lady Jane with Helena Bonham Carter, Cary Elwes and Patrick Stewart.
So, did I mess up the tags? Oh for a preview function!
I have yet to participate in the book discussions but have been wanting to jump into the fray. Please pick “The Empire of Ice Cream”!! It sounds very cool. I will definately read it. Also the other fantasy book is the beginning of a trilogy. Help I am already in the middle of 4 different multi-book series! I don’t think I should start another. hehe
to “A” Joe already said that the new female character was the female gate tech (standing near chucknician) that had speaking lines in Quarantine.
Right?? I’d be humiliated if I’m wrong. And I think that he even gave out her name…
kdvb1 wrote:
Actually, in the DVD Michael watches the line is
‘Mike’ is only one syllable. 😀
kdvb1 wrote:
einzmehr wrote:
I always thought he was from money. His attitude seems, to me at least, to be one of “I don’t have to be here” — as opposed to “I don’t need this crap” — as if he had some kind of cushion to fall back on.
I also assumed his mother died when he was very young and that his father wasn’t very affectionate or demonstrative. I think that’s why he was so awkward hugging Teyla and Elizabeth: he usually only touches women he’s making out with.
Anne Teldy
First off – Congratulations to Amanda and everyone else involved in “Sanctuary”. I’m really looking forward to seeing it on T.V.
Thanks, Joe, for letting us know that SciFi will be putting out a press release on Monday. I’m curious how (because of “Sanctuary”) Amanda/Sam is going to be incorporated into “Atlantis” now. One of the articles that I read said that Amanda would only be doing several ‘guest appearances’. If that’s true, I will really miss Sam. I know that you may not be able to say much yet, but anything that you could say right now would be extremely appreciated.
Also, Can you tell us if Daniel is confirmed for “Atlantis” yet since SciFi wouldn’t be putting that in their press release?
Thanks,
danielfanforever
I know I am not a regular book clubber but Timescape sounds interesting to me..
wams352 wrote:
In the Jan 20th mailbag, Mr. M. wrote:
In the Jan 21st post, Mr. M. wrote:
In the Jan 21st mailbag, Mr. M. wrote:
I’m not so sure from the given quotes that the new female character he was referring to was, in fact, the gate tech. If it’s true Amanda Tapping will just be making guest appearances, it’s possible that they will go with their original plan of giving her her own ship which will visit Atlantis on and off. If they do that, they’ll have to bring in a new expedition leader.
Anne Teldy
While I am very happy for the whole Sanctuary team, I am saddened by the prospect of Atlantis losing Martin Wood as a director in Season 5. I always felt an extra thrill of anticipation whenever MW was listed as the episode’s director. It meant not only excellent storytelling and superb visuals, but a great DVD commentary to look forward to.
I have been rewatching season 1 of atlantis recently and was a little puzzled by something in Letters from Pegasis. I am hoping maybe you could answer.
Through out the episode Ford is video taping everyone and reminding them about the security clearences. In Radek’s session he obiously is descibing the rising of Atlantis from under the ocean. Ford then asks him about the security thing. Getting to my point… If there was such an issue with security clearence and what was allowed to be said, why was there a naqueda generator visible in the background during Radek’s session?
This has been bugging me since i rewatched the episode 3 or 4 times in the past week.
In “Harmony”, McKay mentioned other Ancient technology being used inside the castle yet I did not see any in the castle, was this a scene edited out for time and if yes, will we be getting it on a DVD release?
Thanks,
wolfenm said:
Or are we talking a different DAZ and I’m missing the reference? *scratches head*
Okay, unless there are two people running around using the name “wolfenm”, I really thought you would get it. I was referring to DAZ 3D itself and the running joke about announcing a product would be available “soon” but it not appearing for umpteen months – thus the “infamous soon”.
waybeyongsoccormom, I think you’re out of line with your Glenn Quinn comment.
It’s like casting some sort of dark shadow over why Paul and Torri are gone.
Just because one person is dumped from one show for being a drug addict doesn’t mean that other PTB on other shows don’t just dump people for the sake of shaking things up or bringing in other actors.
I can’t find Gateworld. This is a conversation I had with a fellow fan through our local intranet:
22:19 Dee : Col > Gateworld is completely down. People on Joe’s blog are very unhappy. There is an alternate site: http://www.gateworldalphasite.com
22:19 Dee : Col > Welcome to the Alpha Site!
You’ve discovered GateWorld’s brand new Alpha Site, an outpost of hope in case disaster strikes and our main site, GateWorld.net, is unreachable. Most of the time this site will sit here quietly, keeping an eye out in case things go south. You’ll find the latest Stargate news and information at GateWorld.net. But if you are unable to reach the site (and you know it’s not your computer or ISP’s fault), come to GateWorld’s Alpha Site!
This site resides on a different server with a different Web host, so the only reason that both it and GateWorld.net would be unreachable at the same time is that a massive alien plow has destroyed the Earth to make room for an intergalactic super-highway. Or your modem is unplugged.
22:20 Dee : Col > So why am I telling you this?
22:20 Col > indeed… Why, Y o! Why??
22:21 Dee : Col > I’m telling you this because gateworldalphasite is also off the internet. This is a cache…
22:22 Dee : Col > Got your towel?
22:22 Col > huh?
22:22 Dee : Col > so the only reason that both it and GateWorld.net would be unreachable at the same time is that a massive alien plow has destroyed the Earth to make room for an intergalactic super-highway…
22:23 Col > Ah… you feel the uncontrollable urge to go hitchiking?
22:24 Dee : Col > I’m worried about the intergalactic plow.
22:24 Col > ‘s ok – it hits in England
22:25 Dee : Col > Oh, what a friggin relief.
Okay troops, you can relax, Gateworld is back. Hopefully for good?
wheel Said:
How come the wraith were so hard to kill in the first season of Atlantis but now a few bullets kill them?
My guess would be that the Wraith were freshly revived initially and in good physical condition after their hibernation. However, with the lack of “food” supplies and the fighting among the various Hives, they have become somewhat worse for wear and, therefore, are easier to kill because they no longer have the stamina to survive multiple gunshots that they had to begin with.
Will Season 5 bring forth an even darker enemy than we have yet seen?
Anne Teldy:
I think Joe mentioned at some point that Alison Porter is not the new gate tech, but another new female character.
Jean
In fact, in the Jan 22 mailbag, he indicates that the gate tech is Amelia Banks.
Jean
Hi Joe
I WAS so excited to recive this lovely e-mail (quoted below) in my reject box and was thinking of a way to respond but I can’t think of anything as funny as you I was wondering if you’d be able to compose a response for me?? If not that’s ok but a few pointers on what I should include would be helpful too.
Thanks
Penny
Here is the e-mail from a Johnson Robert:
My name is Johnson Robert, A staff of UTB BANK PLC. I head the Banks Treasury & Financial Services Department. I am contacting you because i feel and believe that you could help in transferring and accommodating such amount of money that I want to transfer as fast as possible as the case may be. This is to tell you the level of urgency needed.Due to the urgency of this transfer, i want to believe you can assist by getting back to me. The fund in question is gotten from over invoiced contract amount which is ready to be transferred immediately. Its $10.5million Dollars.I am ready to share 50/50 with you, all i need from you is maximum cooperation,trust and confidence. Upon your response I will tell you what to do and it will only take a few working weeks to get the fund transferred.I will provide you my contact details as we proceed.You can contact me with my email address: johnson_rb@hotmail.com Regards, JOHNSON ROBERT
I know that there is a lot of speculation regarding the “big announcement”, but if it’s true that Amanda will not be returning as a regular cast member, may I simply state a preference as to what you’ll do with her character if she is to appear in just a few eps — I think it would be great if she were to become the new base commander of the SGC.
I know that this is probably unlikely to happen since she was only just made a full Colonel, and the SGC is usually run by at the very least a Brig Gen (like Jack), but I think it would be a great idea if you could somehow make this happen. IMO, Sam is more than qualified for the job, regardless of her rank.
At the very least, please don’t kill off her character or turn her over to the dark side.
And, just one more request — I’d be so grateful if you could wrap up the 11-year Sam/Jack ship story arc (with a happy Sam/Jack ending, of course :-)), especially if s5 will be the final season with any significant appearances by Sam. Just a quick confirmation that they’re incontrovertibly together, without having to impose too much on the rest of the storyline of an ep, would be deeply appreciated. I hope you agree that 11 years is a long enough wait for the Sam/Jack shippers
Love your blog. Thanks so much for listening 🙂
My book club vote goes to “The Keep”. The movie was pretty bad (despite having Jürgen Prochnow in the cast), but I could definitely see the potential that the book it was based on has. I’ve meant to read it, but just never gotten around to it and this will give me the push to do so.
I am very glad to see that “Sanctuary” is going places, though I will miss being able to buy HD downloads. I’m ecstatic for Amanda Tapping and Martin Wood, but I will miss having Sam around on a regular basis and Martin Wood’s directing will be sorely missed as well.
Just one thing, Joe. If you guys decide to stop using the Sam Carter character permanently after season five, please, for heaven’s sake, don’t kill her off. And if you do see the need to kill her off, please make her death a heroic one. She deserves that. I’m not trying to be mean or obnoxious here, but you guys do have quite the track record for killing characters.
With regards to the Sanctuary pick-up, aside from Amanda and her role, how will this effect production of Atlantis’ fifth season? Presumably, this is why Martin Wood is not directing the premiere or any of the first three episodes, for that matter. Will he be directing any of season five’s episodes? Please say he’s coming back in some capacity!
Fresh snow and puppies…I am SOOOO jealous.
At least it SOUNDS cold in San Antonio…wind whistling through high-power lines behind our house. *sigh*
Gilder
Hi Joe, if you’re still fending for yourself in the kitchen try this tasty sandwich: fresh mozarella, pepperoni and tomato slice on foccacia bread spread with olive tapinade, mayo and honey mustard. It’s easy assemble, no cooking required. It would rock with grilled chicken, too. Make sure the bread is soft and the mozarella is the good stuff.
Jean wrote:
Thank you so much! I knew he’d given the gate tech’s name, but my Swiss Cheese Memory just couldn’t come up with it and I wasn’t able to find it myself.
Thanks again for saving what’s left of my sanity!
Anne Teldy
And another thing… Atlantis hasn’t had too much luck with female leaders, have they? First Wier, now Carter? I sure hope you don’t bring in another female character as top dog. As a big fan of Caldwell, why not have him take the spot? Or even Ellis? Would make for fireworks, for sure. I like the female characters you have already, just give them more to do and don’t dilute their roles any more.
Hey, Mr. M
Will my namesake be eaten by space cows in “Broken Ties” or are you going to torture me by making me wait for it?
Does my namesake’s death have anything to do with the hint “A corpse is discovered and John plays detective”? (You’re not going to answer this even if I’m right, are you?)
Anne Teldy
Hi Joe,
I’ve seen the new The Ark of Truth promo vid clip at MGM’s site earlier today and must say I’m really pissed at MGM for totally ignoring Claudia Black AGAIN! Was it that hard to get her to say something about the movie? Why is MGM doing this? What’s the point?
Hi Joe,
je me demande pourqoui vous n’écririez pas un livre…pour changer?
Pour le livre je pense que Timescape est le meilleur…Sinon vous auriez pas une bonne adresse de resto français car je suis à Vancouver jusqu’à juin et la nourriture française me manque…
Take care
Empire of Ice Cream and Timescape get my vote anyway. Stuck with the horror though, as I have read Heart Shaped Box… don’t want to disclose my opinion just yet, but it was a little anticlimactic.
But yes, I’d say give it a shot; purely because it’s that little bit off the wall.
Mary
Hey, Farscape Fan, I agree. I mean, if they really wanted people to buy this thing they’d keep Browder’s face as far from it as possible. But there he is, sneering his way through it again. Don’t ask me who’s in charge of publicity, but whomever it is, they need to go. Total turn off.
I’m very happy for Amanda/Martin/Sanctuary! I look forward to seeing it on TV, I’ve looked at a few of the webisodes, pretty good. However, if Amanda is reducing to “guest appearances”, I will expect to see her removed from the SGA main opening credits. I wouldn’t mind if Carter stayed in command of Atlantis and season 5 character resembled more like Hammond/Landry’s- brief appearances, with the main focus on team stories.
This new info makes me look forward all the more to Trio, which I now guess will be Carter’s last hurrah as an active main Atlantis character.
BOOK votes: Timescape & The Keep. I’m abstaining from the fantasy vote for now as the ex-husband just dumped two series by LE Modesilt Jr on me that look suspiciously fantasy-ish; I’ll give them a shot for a month first. The problem I’m having with the Spellsong Cycle is that Alan Dean Foster already did a Spellsinger series years ago, I loved it, he did it well. Not sure I can stomach someone else’s idea rehash especially one from a master writer as Foster- over the years I’ve read just about everything he’s written starting from the Star Trek novelizations when I was a kid, and he did not disappoint. Great stuff.
DD
Congrats to the folks at Sanctuary for the pick up from Sci-Fi, but I am bummed that we’ll be seeing less Carter on Atlantis. Can you give us an inkling as to the number of episodes we’ll see Amanda in?
And did you see this coming or did this throw a real wrench into your plans for season 5?
PS someone asked about the Stargate novels- I vote thumbs up on those, most of them have been well worth the read, the authors have not only thought of some pretty amazing stories but they have also captured the characterizations of our Stargate people really well. I just read the SGA one Blood Ties, I was thrilled that its an Atlantis team/Jackson story with plenty of Sheppard to spare. DD
hi, joe,
with news that the scifi channel has picked up ‘sanctuary’ for 13 eps, and declaring that sam would be in several episodes or quest appearances in ‘atlantis’; i’m hoping that you’ll be able to tell the fans exactly how many eps sam will be in in s5. and if it’s not too much spoiling, will sam still be commander of the base?
i’m super happy 😀 that amanda’s got ‘sanctuary’, but i’m torn because i was hoping to see *more* of sam in s5 and not less (((sam))). but i just don’t see how amanda could do all that work and not drop from exhaustion.
so i’m hoping in the *very near* future you’ll be able to say a- how many eps sam will be in, and b- will she still be commander of atlantis?
sally 🙂
(edited after reading other posts: FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, DON’T KILL SAM OFF!!!!!!!!!!! *hyperventilates*)
Will you or any of the Stargate gang be in attendance at the 2008 San Diego Comic Con?
You said, “In the case of the wraith, I think it wasn’t until the show’s third and fourth season that they really began to take on some of these same characteristics, conveyed through backstory elements like the ongoing wars between the various factions, our unlikely alliance with them, and the introduction of Todd. I also think that Michael, in many ways, helped to bridge the gap between functional adversary and villain-you-love-to-hate.”
In my opinion, Todd and – to some extent, Michael – have done the opposite. They have made the Wraith an adversary we love-to-LOVE. Heck, now I’m rooting for them to win, instead of the other way round! (Now the Genii – those guys we love to hate – do with them as you will.) The Wraith have taken a huge step up in my eyes over the last two seasons, and I think viewers are now more sympathetic to their situation.
My only hope is that the show continues to develop Todd – and perhaps other Wraith – in like manner, because the complexity of their situation – especially when they are in a shaky alliance with humans – is what has me watching this show.
das
Joe,
so when you were deciding about who was to replace Weir…did you guys honestly think of creating a new character???
Also, there hasn’t been much in the way of the Genii this season except for Harmony, will they appear again in Season 4??
Hi Joe, Hope you had a lovely dinner at Fuel! As you always seem to do! If I go to Vancouver I will be sure to eat there!
My vote goes to Timescape & The keep!
Congratulations to all those who work on Sanctuary! For getting the go ahead for 13 epi’s See thirteen is a lucky number! Its also the day of of my birthday in feb!
Take Care & happiness always!
Cathie
This article (http://www.zap2it.com/tv/news/zap-sanctuaryfull13episodeorder,0,6254031.story) states that Amanda Tapping “will make appearances on its spinoff, “Stargate: Atlantis” during its fifth season.” Can you clarify on what exactly “will make appearances” means (i.e. “guest star” or “series regular”)?
Do you read webcomics?
Sad that some wonderful people I have grown to appreciate won’t be involved in season 5. But nice that they have a chance to do new things too. Do you feel a little bittersweet? I do and I have to say suddenly, season 5 seems not so bright
Can you dedicate a blog to my puppy Spaz who went in to be fixed today and has to stay the night? I’m sure she’d be thrilled. 😀
Anne Teldy said:
Thank you so much! I knew he’d given the gate tech’s name, but my Swiss Cheese Memory just couldn’t come up with it and I wasn’t able to find it myself.
Aha, another fan of Quantum Leap – or not? I loved it back then; now, after having rented a few early episodes, it doesn’t seem quite as much fun as it had. Tech stuff has advanced so much….
quantum leap rocks!!!!!
BOTM noms:
Paul Wilson’s, The Keep
Neal Stephenson’s The Diamond Age: Or, A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind: The King-Killer Chronicle, Day 1
Hello Mr. Mallozzi
I do not know whether you have read or answered it before but I´d like to know somthing about the Wraith.
Those little beadshaped openings in their cheeks. Does that have a function?
I have been figuring whether they could be meant for catching up pheromones or something. I would be very happy to know what the function of these beadshaped openings are.
And the last question. Who is the actor that played the Wraith with that hair which looked like he put his finger into a lightsocket somewhere ( ahahah!) in Reunion, and Spoils of war? If you see him again, will say Hi for me? I like him :-)…
Thanks for the fantastic Stargate Atlantis show! I absolutely love it! And thank you in advance if you decide to reply…
“On February 7, 2008 at 6:45 am MarianneUK Said:
Dear Joe
On behalf of myself and a number of so-far dedicated UK based SGA fans, we have to ask you – have you all gone mad? Richard Woolsey to lead Atlantis? The character [not the actor] is one of the most dull and irritating you have created, certainly not inspiring at all, in fact the kind of stick-in-the-mud administrative dullard who can kill any kind of creative project. We wonder if you are trying to scupper your own show! Why not have someone charismatic, interesting and articulate in charge of this pioneering outpost? [Oh sorry, of course, you got rid of Weir.] We shake our heads in disbelief.”
And I shake my head in disbelief at the tone of your post… and find myself being embarrassed at being a fellow UK SGA fan… and have to ask if it’s not you who are mad in thinking posting in this way is actually the way to express your unhappiness at casting changes, or indeed to hope someone at Bridge will listen to your pleas and actually want to try to accomodate your desires? IE, bring back Weir and get rid of Woolsey.
Because, I have to say, I read your post and laughed at first and then shook my head, because I couldn’t take your post seriously. I then thought how detrimental your post is to the many Weir fans who post so nicely and intelligently here, expressing their upset and concerns so politely and without insulting or belittling anyone. SMB Books and MarielAbbot come to mind here.
Of course Joe and his fellow Executive Producers want the show to fail! They’ve purposely gotten rid of the universally adored and admired Weir and brought in Woolsey now to get the show cancelled! Didn’t you know? Joe and his colleagues want everyone to lose their jobs…
I get you don’t like Woolsey and think Weir should be leader of Atlantis, and you’re entitled to your view, and I personally respect that, but from where I’m sitting you’re doing nothing to help your cause and are blighting others who are trying to get their point across politely and eloquently.