While I’m not exactly blazing through this script, I am advancing at a fairly steady five-page-a-day pace. Still, this one has been atypical in its progression. Usually, it takes me a while to get going but once I’m past those first three acts, the last two go very quickly. In this case, however, it’s been just the opposite: fairly smooth sailing from the get-go with nary a hiccup until I hit the fourth act, at which point things slowed to a crawl. Unlike most episodes which have an A main storyline and B secondary storyline, this one is a triple A and it’s been a bit of a challenge balancing the three. First, there’s Sheppard and his mainland troubles. Then, there’s McKay and his Zelenka-assisted investigation of the mystery find. And, finally, there’s Woolsey and his good news/bad news/bizarre news day. The way it’s looking, this initial draft is going to clock in at a healthy 60+ pages which I’ll, of course, edit down to a much more reasonable 56-58 before putting it out. Given the type of script it is, I’m expecting significant notes and a potentially heavy rewrite – which, in this case, isn’t a problem because I’ll have all of the hiatus to work on it. The important thing is that I put out a first draft that will give the office a fair approximation of how the production schedule will break down. Most of the beats are sound so I don’t expect much scene-shifting. The only one that worries me is what I’ll be doing to Sheppard at the end of the third act. I suspect more than one person in the room will say something to the effect of: “Are you nuts?!” . Should make for an interesting debate.
Between the long stretches spent seated at my desk staring blankly at my laptop screen, I did find the time to –
Help spin Carl’s story for episode 17 (or maybe 18?). A nice callback to some SG-1 tech, the return of that guest star will have the boards abuzz, and Carl searches for an appropriately grisly punishment.
Help spin Alan’s story for episode 18 (or maybe 17?). A mysterious arrival, a difficult dilemma, and the continuation of a storyline introduced in The Queen.
Read Rob’s outline for episode 19, CSI: Atlantis. All sorts of greatness.
Discuss a potential game plan for episode 20 and beyond.
Say hi to Paul McGillion who was in shooting his scenes for Outsiders.
Say hi to the incredibly genial Alan Blumenfeld who is guest-starring in Inquisition.
Chat with Tobias Slezak, also guesting in Inquisition.
Participate in the Prodigal notes call (the network loved it).
Today’s blog entry is dedicated to birthday boy Nathaneal (Hey, Mercie, I know he’s your brother but are you sure you’re spelling his name correctly?), belated birthday “individual” Archersangel, and all of you who have taken the time to post your thoughts on the whole media vs. literature debate. Some very well thought-out and well-presented arguments. Once I take a breather from this script, I’d love to join you in this discussion.
Today’s pics: In and around the production offices.
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