Several of you were kind enough to bring something to my attention: Yesterday was not Thursday which would make today not Friday. I apparently wrote yesterday’s blog entry under the mistaken assumption that it WAS Thursday. Or did I? Looking back over the evidence, one irrefutable fact jumps out at me: December 5, 2007 was a Wednesday. This therefore leads me to one of two conclusions: either I screwed up or we must entertain the far likelier possibility that I was the unwitting victim of some bizarre time travel experiment.
Well, there was an easy enough way to find out. I still had yesterday’s (Wednesday to some, Thursday to others) memories fresh in my mind. Having already lived through one Thursday, how different would my second Thursday be? As it turned out, not all that much. Events repeated themselves with spine-chilling synchronicity. Just like yesterday’s Thursday, Vancouver was chilly, the WGA was still on strike, and Toyota invented a robot that could play the violin.
And so, given the extra Thursday, I was able to read not one but two books. The first - Mirror, Mirror - was a book I couldn’t initially find when I went looking or it at my local bookstore. “Oh, that’s because you’re looking under fantasy,”a helpful employee informed me, steering me over to the proper section. “We classify it under Chick Lit.” (Ah. Then, ahem, I’ll only take one copy please. And throw in a couple of George R. R. Martins and some of that chewing tobacco!) Writer Gregory Maguire is perhaps best known for Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, a satirical retelling of the Wizard of Oz from the point of view of a misunderstood wicked witch. Other Maguire books in the same vein include Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister, What-the-Dickens: Confessions of a Rogue Tooth-Fairy, and my purchase, Mirror, Mirror, which is a retelling of Snow White set against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance. A terrific premise and very funny at times although I found the book lost a lot of its humor around the half-way mark when the delightfully colorful characters of Primavera and Fra Ludovico disappear and a good chunk of the narrative is dedicated to a confusing quest for some magical apples and the mysterious appearance of a helpful magical stone dog (?). There’s a discernible shift in tone as the story takes on a palpably more tragic air and, while I suppose it is in keeping with the tale Maguire wants to tell, I found it a bit of a letdown after such a wonderfully whimsical start. As it turns out, the character driving the narrative isn’t our lovely protagonist Bianca de Nevada, but none other than Lucretia Borgia (the novel’s version of the wicked step-mother.evil Queen) who while interesting as a historical figure (given the many suspect legends connected to her and her family), doesn’t offer up much past the two-dimensional foil of the original Snow White tale. Still, flashes of brilliant humor throughout and an enjoyable enough read to send me back to the Chick Lit section for more Maguire (and a couple of Iain M. Banks’ - Oh, and a tattoo.)
The second book, Little Fuzzy, at times read like the novelization of a Disney movie (Do you see a pattern here? It was unintentional.). And yet, for all of its cloying cuteness, its arch villains, selfless heroes, and adorable little fuzzies, it does present a very interesting and surprisingly topical issue pitting environmentally-conscious individuals against corporate greed. When a race of seemingly intelligent beings is discovered on a planet being exploited by the chartered Zarathustra Company, a group of scientists strive to prove that the “Little Fuzzies” are sapient beings and, thus, worthy of protection. Opposing them is a star-faring corporation committed to discrediting the scientists, having the new life forms classified as animals (and hunted to extinction for their pelts before the Colonial Government can launch a proper investigation), and safeguarding their interests in a valuable planet. Very light and at times downright silly scifi from the early 1960’s, and yet a sweet and entertaining little story nevertheless.
By the way, even though I’ve already weighed in on Pat Frank’s Alas, Babylon (highly recommended), I had intended, but forgot, to include a little excerpt from the post-apocalyptic novel. My favorite passage in the book - long after the bombs have gone off and our characters have lost contact with the world outside their town, a plane flies by and drops leaflets down on the excited survivors. Randy, our protagonist, reads the message on the leaflet and confides:
“In a sense, it was disappointing. But it was something. It was something you could put your hands on, that you could feel, that had come from the outside. It was proof that the government of the United States still functioned. It was also useful as toilet paper.” (Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank).
I was planning to start reading The Crooked Letter but, since we won’t begin discussion on the Sean Williams book until mid-January, and since I want it fresh in my mind for that discussion, I’ve pushed it a little further down my to-read list. But that’s only because I’m a fast reader! The rest of you start reading if you’re interested in discussing the book and having a shot at winning a copy of Blood Debt: Books of the Cataclysm Two. Also, a reminder, that there are also three official BOTM club selections to get around to for January: The Princess Bride, The Time Traveler’s Wife, and Ghost Story.
Oh, hey, before I wade into the mailbag, I wanted to get an opinion on something. Today, I went to the pantry to grab the Gourmet Chef borscht I purchased last week and was greeted by a somewhat disturbing sight. The pouch containing the soup had ballooned to the point where it looked ready to burst. What gives? I’m no molecular biologist, but I have a feeling this is a bad sign, no?
Today’s blog is dedicated to rachid and all those students (at McGill and elsewhere) in exam Hell.
Looking ahead - Virtual dinner tomorrow, a This Mortal Coil breakdown this weekend, and sometime in the next week: missives from Baron Destructo, big season 5 news for fans of this character, and pics from the upcoming Ark of Truth screening.
Today’s pics: My double-Thursday reading, Gourmet Chef borscht literally bursting with, um, flavor!
Today’s video: Because Rebecca H. requested it - click on the date to watch a little video starring Lulu called “Snow Crazy!”.
Le mailbag:
The Dixon-Stubblefield blog writes: “Any thoughts on one of your actors somewhat competing with the show (Joe F being on Women's Murder Club) by being a guest on another show the same night or is that just so normal no one thinks twice about it? Or do you have to get permission from your regular show if the air times conflict?”
Answer: Joe’s people did clear it with us first. The reason they did so had nothing to do with any potential competing time slots and everything to do with potentially competing production schedules. Once we were assured that there would be no conflict, we gave him our full blessings.
Chevron7 writes: “ Do visual effect heavy episodes tend to come up short? Is that a weird trend for you guys?”
Answer: It’s hard to say exactly why an episode comes up short. If we could, they wouldn’t come up short. Can’t blame the visual effects. Be All My Sins was extremely VFX-heavy but time in with plenty of footage to spare.
Ptarmigan writes: “Do you really keep ALL of the books you've read, or just the cream of the crop?”
Answer: I keep them all so that I can lend my favorites to people who never return them.
Cath writes: “I have no idea how you know I suggested people leave a thank you - “
Answer: Oh that. I just used the Echelon domestic intelligence-gathering network to track your every move. For instance, I know what you had for breakfast this morning, the second-to-last dream you had last night and, yes, best to tidy away that porn.
Anonymous #1 writes: “..you're that guy who takes all viewpoints he disagrees with and feebly attempts to ridicule and belittle them […] It IS all about me. I, for the life of me, can't understand why you would try to put forth otherwise. When it comes to many, many other things in life […] I'm narrow-minded because I feel that the characters are ill served by appearing on what I perceive to be an inferior show? […] we each have our own personal beliefs regarding the show. How about you be the magnanimous one and change yours so that me and my ilk can enjoy the show better? Or is it all about you, too?”
Answer: Yes, yes, yes, but beyond all of your self-aggrandizing blah blah blah and how-dare-you and as-a-fan-I-should-be-able-to-say-whatever-the-hell-I-want-because-when-I-flap-my-lips-noise-comes-out-of-my-mouth yammering is the single fact that reinforces the point I made yesterday: you’re not a fan. I mean, you WERE a fan of SG-1, and that would be all well and good if you were criticizing SG-1. Instead, you’re criticizing a show you don‘t even watch and, from you’ve said, have never watched. Kind of sad, no? Even better (read: sadder) is the fact that your “criticism” is the equivalent of an egocentric child’s demand to “Stopitstopitstopit!”. Out of curiosity, do you frequent the fan communities of many other shows you don’t watch and ask them to put an end to storylines or characters you have no intention of following? Have you ever contacted the manufacturers of products you don’t own and don’t ever plan on purchasing to demand that they discontinue sales of said items? Ever consider contacting the tourist boards of countries you have never and will never visit and take them to task for offering organized tours of the local attractions? These are all terrific little exercises that will surely prove as rewarding and productive your delightfully self-important ramblings on this blog.
Keirberos writes: “Well, that and, did you watch/have you considered watching Tin Man?”
Answer: I didn’t watch it because, ironically enough, we don’t get the SciFi Channel here in Canada. However, I will probably pick it up when it comes out on DVD.
Inpa writes: “You say you do not 'get' fans being annoyed at Beckett surely you must understand their point?”
Answer: Uh, actually I was referring to those fans who criticize a show they don’t watch, not supporters of the Carson Beckett character.
Vv0472 writes: “1) Was there anything that you liked about McGill University? 2) If we now have the Carter-McKay intergalactic bridge, then why not re-locate people from the Pegasus galaxy to the Milky Way galaxy and save them from the Wraith?”
Answers: 1) The many attractive women in my English courses. 2) Because it would take, oh, forever.
Kimberlee writes: “its the "boonie" again. the offer stands. whenever you need a break from all the wild and wackyness of SGA, I would be delighted to take you around here and take you to all the GREAT restaurants. Do you like "soul food"?”
Answer: LOVE soul food.
Rebecca H. writes: “I miss the pictures. Haven't the dogs done anything cute lately?”
Answer: All the time. Check out today’s video.
Charles Schneider writes: “If it doesn't bring any demons back, could you talk about why Mortal Coil was so hard on you?”
Answer: It was a script that required a lot of rethinking, re-ordering, and dialogue massaging to present a complex story in as concise, informative, and entertaining a way as possible. It was hell, but there are some very touching character moments that I thought turned out very nicely.
Stargatemagic writes: “Do you writer-types ever have to stay in for extra time ever/a lot?”
Answer: Since we writer-types also happen to be producer-types, there are occasions when we may have to hang around later to deal with script issues, pre-production concerns, studio or network conference calls, and, rarest of all, potential on-set issues.
Mags writes: “As somebody with multiple pets, how have you introduced them together when adding a new pet to the mix?”
Answer: Choose a neutral territory (like a backyard as opposed to an interior) and introduce them one at a time starting with the least problematic pet first. In our case, it went Maximus, Jelly, and Bubba.
Anonymous #2 writes: “IGN or Dreamwatch (I can't remember which) keeps knocking big points off because Carter is never in the episodes.”
Answer: Well, since Amanda was only contracted for 14 episodes in season 4, her absence in some episodes shouldn’t have come as any big surprise. Furthermore, I did stress at the beginning of the season that her role would be that of a Landry or, yes, even a Weir - more of a support role. Again, this shouldn’t have come as a surprise either.
Anonymous #3 writes: “As if you haven't had enough questions about Teyla's child, I thought I'd add one more. Are there any potential names that the writers are considering for the kid?”
Answer: At the moment, we’re considering several possibilities, among them - Mercutio, Goneril, Tangerine, Flossy, Lil Meow Meow, Jersey Phil, Mohave, Prince, Grobella, and McSheprokett. I’m leaning toward Flossy myself.
AMZ writes: “How do the writers work out who writes what story?”
Answer: Usually, the script goes to whoever came up with the idea. Other times, it’s simply a matter of someone wanting to write a specific script. Still other times, it comes down to who is free to write. Regardless of who came up with the idea, all of the writers take part in the building the actual story and shaping the script.
Lysambre writes: “are you hiding their names because they asked or do they think it's likely they'll be taken more seriously if they leave anonymous comments ?”
Answer: I hide no names. When people leave anonymous comments they do so because they consider it too much of a bother coming up with a blogger ID, although in rare instances it’s more a matter of individuals who lack the courage to be recognized for their opinions. Of course most blogger ID’s are anonymous as well but it’s the consistency of representation that makes them notable and, in my opinion, worthy of respect. For instance, I don’t know all that much about SMB_BOOKS on a personal level, but I do know that she is pro-Weir, had been consistent yet polite in her arguments, and I respect that. Anonymous posters who are impolite (and 99% they are anonymous) or adopt a more confrontational approach are the ones who don’t get much respect - and get slammed.
Maddog1995 writes: “I've just been curious about the replacement of Weir. Had SG-1 been renewed, what sort of direction would her replacement have taken? Would it possibly still have been Carter or maybe someone else we have seen in the past?”
Answer: The latter.
Anonymous #4 writes: “ What are Baron Destructo's plans for the upcoming holiday? Baking cookies? Sending out cards?”
Answer: Like most at this time of year, he’ll be shopping, decorating the League of Aliens and Mutants for Evil moonbase headquarters, and, in possibly targeting both North and South poles with his satellite lasers so as to melt the polar ice caps and flood major cities. You?
Rosebud writes: “Mallozzi said that the decision to remove Higginson had nothing to do with Tapping. Flanigan said the exact opposite. Who's wrong?”
Answer: With all due respect to Joe and what he may or may not have said at these various cons - he wasn’t in the room when we made the decision regarding Weir, and he wasn’t in the room when we made the decision regarding Carter. Any assumptions about the how’s and why’s of the decision are just that - assumptions.
Amy G writes: “In my opinion, the focus of the show is the team: John, Rodney, Ronon and Teyla, and those are the ones that make sense to have as regulars. The base commander, CMO, other scientists and military personal are supporting and it makes sense to have them on a recurring basis.”
Answer: A very interesting opinion that is pretty much in line with my approach to the show.
Ptarmigan writes: “Have you and the gang taken advantage of all of your wonderful snow and gone sledding yet?”
Answer: No. I’ve been inside all day working on my blog.
188 comments:
You attended Mcgill? Are you aware that the fictional character 'James Wilson' of House, MD also attended Mcgill? I believe he wore a sweatshirt in at least one episode...
My useless knowledge knows no bounds.
Hi Joe
Just wanted to say Lulu is a star! She's so funny racing about in the snow. Thanks for sharing that vid with us all. I love the way you answer the anon critics, makes me laugh every time. I look forward to seeing yours and Emilys dinner conversation on Tuesday as I'm off for an Atlantis weekend with my girlfriends in the North of England. And looking forward to TMC on Tuesday night.
Huggles to you and the pups.
Wendy
John Sheppard is my happy place
This just cracked me up. It was posted on a forum I won't name but seems to think they are very important in getting things done to you, PDL and Gary Jones.
Possibly time to forward a copy to MGM chiefs of what JM is writing on the Internet about fans who raise their concerns and get treated like dirt.
He had a few months off the Internet once before if i remember rightly.
I remember that writing to MGM pointing out the stuff PDL and GJ were saying on the audios resulted in them 'retiring' from the post.
Joe will you be trembling in your shoes waiting for the hammer to fall on you from MGM?
Joe,
No idea how to make a blog id and not sure about nickname so I post anonymous.
I was upset when the cast changes were made because there imo was no reason. Still feel disinterested in carter and keller actually makes me wince. Nothing against the actresses. Also I keep asking because it does make a difference to me and if I still watch the show it is because I hope it will get better for me.
I want my cast back in particular Beckett. He is coming back some for season 4 but I want him back fulltime season 5.
What does the magic 8 ball say?
cajun
...I did stress at the beginning of the season that her role would be that of a Landry or, yes, even a Weir ..
See I personally never saw her as a Landry type. To me she seemed much more involved in the show, and also with the team. I think this is why so many Torri fans were upset that she left. While I loved Carter on SG1 I've been having trouble liking her in SGA, and I think that has to do that you've (the writers) have kept her at a Landry type level... Any plans to make her a larger part of the cast because I really hate not liking Carter in SGA?
Are you excited or nervous about TMC tomorrow? To be honest, I am feeling apprehensive, even though Weir returns. I hope I can go to bed, without feeling I just got stabbed or something... I suppose I'd not be going to bed in that case, rather the hospital.
I hope the ratings on TMC totally take over the ratings for S4 to date. I hope that means to some degree the return of Weir had a great impact.
Since you are tossing around ideas of S5 (or did I imagine that), has there been any talk of Weir? Please bring her back Joe, we love Tori & her portrayal of Dr. Weir. We enjoy her interaction and contribution to the team dynamics very much.
Have great night Mr. M.
Your dedication came right in time for my first exam tomorrow. You made my day!
- Van
p.s. McSheprokett is my favorite.
JM said: "Answer: No. I’ve been inside all day..."
*slumps back in chair*
Oh, JOE! You're missing the good stuff! *sighs* Well, I won't loose hope for you and will keep my fingers crossed that you get in some sort of winter silliness this season.
Lulu, at least, has a firm grasp of how fun snow can be! *perks up a bit at the thought of such a good example close by* Yes. There is reason for hope.
BTW, if there are yet more videos of your pups in the snow, I'd love to see them. Thanks for the ones you've posted so far.
/reluctantly leaves thoughts of winter wonderland behind and returns to text book/
rosebud said...
"Also Alipeeps, I was present at the convention, and Joe Flanigan in no uncertain terms uttered the following sentence: "they brought Carter over, with the hopes of higher ratings; that did not happen". There was no way to misinterpret what he said. Just as Mr. Mallozzi, Mr. Flanigan is entitled to his opinion and since this is a free country, able to express it."
I was also present at the convention and can vouch for what Flanigan said. That won't stop some from ignoring his words or trying to squash information to suit their own little "personal agendas". Mallozzi said that the decision to remove Higginson had nothing to do with Tapping. Flanigan said the exact opposite. Who's wrong?
Okay rosebud I've just read what Joe F said and he stated that Carter was brought over to boost ratings.
Where does he say that Carter was brought over to get rid of Weir? You are putting words in his mouth and misinterpreting what he said just to fit in with your own views.
Some Weir fans seem to be intent on stirring up trouble for Joe F with the producers and upsetting Shep fans in the process just because they can't have their own way.
I'm an Atlantis fan but I'm getting heartily sick of some of the more rabid Weir fans hijacking Joe's blog to spout their misrepresentations.
Joe M himself has said numerous times that the decision to remove Weir was done long before they chose Carter as her replacement.
Weir was going no matter whether or not Carter came to Atlantis.
I have been a fan of Atlantis since day 1. I don't always like the cast changes I do miss Carson very much but I don't have the right to try to pressure any of TPTB to change the show just to suit my likes.
If you don't like the show anymore leave. No one is forcing you to watch you still have three seasons that you do like. Why bother to stick around and watch a show you obviously no longer like. It seems pointless to me.
Sure in the past my favourite characters have left shows, I give the new characters a chance but sometimes I just don't like the way the show is heading, I move on to another show full stop.
The show hasn't failed as you had hoped it would without Weir. I think it's very sad that there are fans out there determined that the show fail just to prove a point.
Some of us love the show and don't mind the cast changes, we are still watching.
You don't speak for all of us as I don't speak for any other fans but myself.
Thanks Joe for a wonderful tv series I hope it continues to run for many years to come.
Jules
an Aussie fan.
Still working your way through the Iain M Banks ouevre then? Have you picked up Against a Dark Background yet? That's possibly my favourite of his books...
Hey Joe -
That video of Lulu was adorable! Thanks for sharing.
It seems that Lulu would be such a great thing to come home to on a not so good day. She's so cute and very entertaining!
If it had been a can, I would have thought botulism but I'm not sure if it can happen in a plastic bag. You would think so though and the puffing up of it does mean some sort of gas is being released so I would err on he side of caution and not eat it...
Hi Joe -
How about an update on Fondy's campaign to add another dog to your household? Can we expect to hear the pitterpatter of (more) tiny paws?
"And to the folks now up in arms over people "attacking Weir fans", the vast majority of posts I've seen on here today raising the issue of the behaviour of some Weir fans have taken great pains to specify that they are talking about some, not all, very vocal Weir fans whose behaviour does not reflect well on the group at large."
ITA! If I judged Sheppard fans by the majority of posts I've seen here I'd think they were all nagging, bossy moms! LOL!
Joe, I am so excited about the episode tomorrow!
Lil Meow Meow
As I read that phrase my feline master started on the "I'm starving, feed me now!" meowing. So it would seem that is a vote for the name.
Susan the anonymous tartan turtle
PS Enjoy your two dinners on Friday - whenever that is.
So your Borscht bag has ‘blown’.
As Borscht is made predominantly of vegetable matter and when vegetable matter decomposes and decays it produces methane gas. I would hazard a guess that’s what happened.
If you think back to having eaten it the soup before was it followed by some slight intestinal discomfort? May be accompanied by a certain amount of flatus???
How long have you had it? (The soup not the flatus.)
Are you going to play Borscht roulette? Leave the soup out somewhere warm and wait for the explosion, lovely colour.
I knew that BSc would come in useful one day.
Pauline
PPS or is it PSS or PMT?
That soup looks like it has a fish swimming in it.
Can't wait for tomorrow's episode and the dinner out with Emily!
As an avid reader would you suggest some really good books that are similar to Tom Clancy, James Patterson, and Robert Ludlum books? My father is reading a lot lately but I want him to try out some new genres for Christmas.
It seems as though I am the only one who likes Carter on Atlantis. I actually didn't like her charachter on SG-1 for my own reasons and was not looking forward to her on Atlantis but the shows so far have changed my mind. We haven't seen a lot of her and I hope she stays along the path she's on because it's been really good so far.
Little Fuzzy sounds like it was written by Dr. Seuss. Did it rhyme, as well?
My vote is for McSheprockett!
It makes me laugh how fanon has made it to the producers/writers/tv show staff's attention. *giggle*
Oh wow. Just watched the vid of Lulu playing in the snow! That dog just gets cuter by the day! The little snuffling noises she makes as she charges excitedly around the garden is just too too funny.. and cute! :D
. . . and, yes, best to tidy away that porn.
I'll just be . . . over there. In the corner. Blushing madly.
Cate/sheafrotherdon
I hope the borscht wasn't really hot pink as depicted, either.
Today, I went to the pantry to grab the Gourmet Chef borscht I purchased last week and was greeted by a somewhat disturbing sight. The pouch containing the soup had ballooned to the point where it looked ready to burst. What gives? I’m no molecular biologist, but I have a feeling this is a bad sign, no?
Well, i'm no biologist either, but my mother, however, is a nurse (well was at one point in her life), and luckily she has schooled me in such "food sanitation" issues.
I won't presume you DO NOT know this, but just to reiterate it, the bag has ballooned out due to bacterial growth in the borscht. Like everything living, the bacteria need food to grow and reproduce, in this case, the borscht. And as they consume it, they release waste, many times in the form of gaseous chemicals.
This alone isn't a bad thing, bacteria are in everything, as i'm sure you're aware they're in fact, a key ingredient in several foods, including cheese and yogurt. The bad news, however, is that for there to be enough gaseous waste in the bag of borscht to balloon it out so much, there has been FAR TOO MUCH bacterial growth to consider the food safe to eat.
While some of the bacteria may be harmless in low amounts, when you increase the amount of bacteria 10, 100, or 1000 fold, you are begging for a bad case of food poisoning, or worse an infection and stomach flu. Even more frightening is that the one of the bacteria that often produces that much gaseous waste is the botulism bacteria, something you REALLY don't want to be ingesting.
So if i were you Joe, i'd avoid eating that borscht and cut your losses, we all know how much you hate food poisoning!
Joe,
Thanks for answering my question. I have to say that Lulu is so cute. I have a dog of my own and it is the funniest to watch him freak out when it snows. I won't be able to see "This Mortal Coil" when it airs. I'm going to a Hockey game. My trusty TIVO will be saving me tomorrow.
Now, I heard that the ratings in the U.S. are the only ones that really count. Is that true? How many more people watch Atlantis in Canada than the United States?
Joe, that looks a little like Wraith enzyme in the second photo. I'd be careful if I were you. :)
Wow, it's a good thing you found that borscht when you did! I'd hate to have to clean up that mess.
We had our first snow/sleet of the year today. I counted 16 accident calls on the in the first hour, plus the 4 who walked into the station later to report theirs. Everyone forgets how to drive over the summer, and an inch of snow reminds them, the hard way. We're supposed to get freezing rain tomorrow.
Uh...yeah, I'll go with the others and say you shouldn't eat that "borscht". BUT, don't through it away. You never know when a funkified borscht bag could come in handy. Alien egg, perhaps? Oh yes.
That, or leave it in Martin-"Hey! A Whale!"-Gero's office. It'll be a wonderful after-trip surprise.
All I have to say is that today's blog was a tour de force, Joe. Why don't these anonymousesesisis realize that, the more they try to defend their idiotic viewpoints, the more idiotic they look? All I know is, I've been using this more and more these days.
Oh, and tease much? Big Season 5 news eh? Great! Just what I need to get through this exam season (them McGill guys ain't the only ones!).
Wow! I got a blog dedicated to me! (I too am going through exam hell) In fact, I have an Earth Dynamics one tomorrow morning. And unless a miracle happens, I have a feeling I'll be resitting it in August.
Loved the video!
Joe,
I have to say I was furious when I heard that Carter was coming to Atlantis. But you said wait and see, then decide. So I waited. And damned, if you weren't 100% right. I wasn't a fan of Carter before but I am now. I especially love the dynamic between Carter and Sheppard. I think you (the writers and producers) have come up with the perfect balance of leadership and camaraderie. You came through on your pledge that adding Carter to the mix would not upset the dynamic between the team at all. Thank you for being a man of your word.
OH! I can't beleive i forgot to ask!
Have you guys in the V been spared the horrible weather that Washington state has been getting? Everything ok there where you live? How about David? Everything ok in the Bellingham area?
Please don't ask Cate to tidy away her porn. It gets some of us through the day, and she might do it!
Cate said...
. . . and, yes, best to tidy away that porn.
I'll just be . . . over there. In the corner. Blushing madly.
Cate, you're totally outed!
signed Innocent Rose
yes, best to tidy away that porn.
Oh, Joe. Answer the question, crack us up, AND make us all blush at the same time.
That's...kind of impressive. *G*
Poet - who forgot to login when saying nice things the other day. Sorry. :(
Welcome to the wonderful world of Botulism
Actually, today *is* Friday... in Osaka. And yesterday was Thursday. Psychically, you are already living on Japan Time *g* Looking forward to the new ep muchly!
Hmmm I find it strange you can't get the Sci-fi channel in Vancouver. I lived as a ski bum in Whistler for 4 months on my gap year and we could get Seattle TV and what not this was in 2004 so probably changed by now ho-hum.
Anyway have ever paid a visit to the great slopes of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains?
wow :) I got an answer to a question! cool.
Point, Joe - don't EVER reveal your baby's name until the baby is born. You are just opening yourelf up for ridicule. One of the funniest things that ever happened to my husband and I was when someone asked what we were naming our baby. My husband straight-faced said "Axl" and the entire table (we were eating breakfast at a casino with about 10 of my college friends/spouses) started shoveling food in their mouths reeeally fast. One of my friends started laughing out loud, her husband, who'd asked the question, smacker her on the arm and said "SHHH" and she says "can't you tell they are KIDDING?"
Ok. So probably a pointless story but we still laugh about it at our house. And most people I know try awfully hard to make no comments on baby names for fear of offending the expectant parents :) although McSheprockett.
Since I'm in a wordy mood - can we just lay off the whole "Joe bring back xyz" thing? It's like Christmas, it can be all about the surprise. Joe can tell us when he wants who is going to be in it (not that I don't peek at my gifts...ahem...so I'm not above being spoiled). I'm sure he realizes a few people seem to want Weir back, just as many probably don't and so on.
Lastly, no scifi? How do you LIVE? Does Canada have directTV? I mean do you have other options there? Ouch.
Have a great Friday. Anxiously awaiting Emily's big date (Emily: do you need to borrow an outfit? jewelry? help with your hair?) as well as the episode!
Wam352
hi im in england so i just watched millers crossing on tuesday and it was great seeing stargate command again after the SG1 movies are you planning on keeping the sgc set? and will we see them again in an atlantis episode?
For crying out loud, people. This debate about what Joe Flanigan did or didn't say is getting ridiculous.
I was there. Front and centre. He said:
"Amanda was brought in to replace Torri. They thought it would increase ratings to have her there, but it didn't"
Not word for word, but YES, he did say that Amanda was brought in to replace Torri. He did also say it was a plan to increase ratings.
The man has said it several times now, so stop pretending he doesn't feel that way, and stop acting as though he's not entitled to an opinion if, heaven forbid, it should differ from yours.
Wendyj said...
I'm off for an Atlantis weekend with my girlfriends in the North of England.
Wendyj will you be any where near Liverpool?
I have season 1 of SGA and all SG1.
Get your people to call my people, we'll arrange something.
Pauline
The people who keep accusing fans of trying to get Joe Flanigan into trouble are hilarious. Thanks guys, for making me laugh.
Joe's a 40 year old man who knows how to behave. He's not a child who needs to be protected. If he was worried about what TPTB think of what he's saying, he wouldn't have said it at CONVENTIONS in front of hundreds of people.
Show him a bit of respect and realize that he is allowed to speak his mind.
I was there. He said "Amanda was brought in to replace Torri" and that "it was felt it would increase ratings, but it hasn't". He also said he's loyal to the actors.
What would you rather? He said absolutely nothing about Paul or Torri and just pretended they didn't exist as the other actors do in interviews, or would you rather he actually showed them support?
I know how I feel, and while I've always been a fan, I admire him even more than ever for the way he's sticking up for those two.
He says TPTB don't listen to him when he makes suggestions. I really hope that that changes, because he's an intelligent man who knows a lot more than TPTB, whether they're in Vancouver or at Scifi, how the fans really feel.
Go Joe F! You rock!
When you guys were first discussing the end of season 3/beginning of season 4 did you have any idea of how outraged and ridiculous fans would get about the shaking-up of the cast?
By the way, I, as a student in the Hell known as next week is exam week, wish that yesterday had been any day other than Wednesday. It would have been nice to have double Thursday; I have less classes that day.
Re: The Soup. Double-dog dare ya.
Little Fuzzy? The back of my brain informs me I have read this when I was a teenager, probably in the mid 70s after I absconded with my brother's paperback library. No wonder my memory of it is hazy; I missed a lot of the 70s. Just what I always wanted to be: an object lesson.
Chick Lit? CHICK LIT!? Arghhhhhh!! mumblemumblemumble. I enjoyed Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister, Wicked and Son of a Witch; I have the sneakling suspicion I read Mirror Mirror long ago and far away. I'll have to check the Book Mountain.
Thank you for taking the time to blog, gives me an excuse not to go sledding too.
Chick Lit. I want to do unspeakable acts which will live in infamy when I hear that phrase. CL is ten times worse than Chick Flick; it doesn't even rhyme.
Best to toss the borscht. Sherry already mentioned the possibility of botulinism; and if the bag is properly constructed and sealed, then you have an environment much like that of a can, one that's conducive to the growth of that kind of nasty anaerobic bacterium. Now, I'm not 100% certain about that; but I've had it happen to me with tomato sauce, so... I'm going to guess that it's not methane (unless the borscht is waaaay past its expiration date, and somehow I just don't see you letting that happen) because the vegetable matter shouldn't be degenerating to that extent.
I'm pretty sure that rather than mistaking Wednesday for Thursday, you really did get caught up in a freaky time-travel thing. It happens to me all the time.
I kind of like "Jersey Phil" for Teyla's baby. Especially if it's a girl. o_0
For a complete change of topic, I just found myself on youtube.com! I got to be pretend to be an inmate in a recruiting video for the county sheriff's office, and I found it on youtube! My "big" scene is 35 seconds in--don't blink. I'm in some other scenes, too, but even my mom couldn't spot me. I got to be a court reporter in a later scene, too--without the striped outfit.
Ok. Working on the show. reading books. Going to great eateries. surviving the impossible(for us puny southerners) weather. And posting the blog, of course. About how many hours a day do you manage to sleep? Looking forward to your posts over the weekend. No questions tonight, given tomorrow night's finale. Thanks again for this site.
Were you angry when replying to that Anonymous persons post with the blah blah parts?
Maybe I'm just overly tired but it sounded like you were, you shouldn't let trolls get to you
Conincidently i never knew your blog had so many Anonymous attention seekers critiscising, since i usually just read, make a comment and leave, it was genually surprising
I guess that comes with the job for you, since you are Exec Producer of Stargate in all
Hey, Joe,
I'm another fan who really wasn't sure about Carter coming to SGA. I never watched SG-1, but from what I'd read about Carter's character, I really didn't know if I would like her.
Well, color me wrong. I think she's great in Atlantis. Loved the scene with Woolsey (and Sheppard in the chair) in The Seer. Amanda Tapping has great screen presence, and I've really enjoyed her interactions with the Atlantis cast.
Believe it or not, she's making me want to go back and watch SG-1. I may just have to check out the DVDs ...
Bonsoir Joseph,
C'est dont ben adorable cette p'tite bête là quand ça joue dans la neige ! «Toyota invented a robot that could play the violin»
Wow, j'en veux un pour «le rigodon» des fêtes. lol
Bon souper !
Joe,
Thank you for the kind words. I know there are a lot of Weir fans out there who can and do convey their feelings in a passionate and professional manner. Hopefully, you'll see a lot of them in the next few weeks appearing on this blog.
Now, on to my question. As I prepare for the big event on Friday (TMC, of course), what do you recommend I have at my fingertips for during the show?
1. Kleenex - to handle my tears when I see what you've done to (I mean with) Elizabeth.
2. A good stiff drink to handle all the "WTF-what the hell just happened?" moments.
3. A good pair of comfortable shoes so I can adequately jump for joy when I find out Elizabeth's fate.
Here's to strong ratings for TMC for all the right reasons *cough - bring back Elizabeth - cough*....
Cheers!
SMB_BOOKS
The video of Lulu is adorable. I've always been an fan of larger breeds, but your little Frenchie is stealing my heart.
Your vague hint about who might have come to lead Atlantis if SG-1 had gotten season 11 just makes me mad at SciFi channel all over again.
The speculation over who it might have been is bittersweet. Might we have gotten our stalwart Don Davis back? Perhaps Robert Picardo as weekly comic relief? Or even, imagination running completely wild, the return of RDA?
Yeah, I know probably not, but now we'll never know.
Hi Joe!
Great video of Lulu! Friggin' hilarious to see her dashing about!! :) :) :)
Having just recently seen the Dr. Who ep, Gridlock, my first choice for Teyla's baby name would be Lil Meow Meow, but gotta go with the traditional Athosian name, McSheprokett.
Bad borscht! Bad! Definitely got something funky growing in there. Funky + food = bad. :(
Cajun, so I may properly adjust my TV, er, blog reading, are you saying you're going to post every day that you want "your" PMcG back as a full-time cast member of SGA?
kung pow said,
...ITA! If I judged Sheppard fans by the majority of posts I've seen here I'd think they were all nagging, bossy moms! LOL!...
That wasn't very nice. :( What point, if any, were you trying to make? Especially since the quote you posted was making the point of saying fans are fans and not everyone is a jerk just because they like character YYZ.
When in doubt, throw it out.
Ugh. That borscht looks terrible.
Do. Not. Eat.
joe, joe...pretend to be a timetraveller day is not until SATURDAY! and the first rule is not to TELL anyone that you are. shame on you....
what sort of roses is lulu chasing her beanfairies around?
i remember little fuzzy from a long time ago. isnt there a sequel, too?
i think that you have what is known as borscht of dooooom. eating it would be the doomy part....
Thanks for taking so much time to write on your blog. I'm sure that there are things you would rather be doing sometimes. Love this season of Atlantis so far and I'm really glad that we don't have to wait 3 months to see the second half. I thought Millers Crossing was a really good episode. The ending honestly left me totally stunned. Also thanks for not ruining the upcoming episodes with too detailed of information. I was looking on gateworld the other day and accidentally had BAMSR spoiled in a huge way (assuming what I saw was accurate). Guess I should learn to stay away from there until after an episode airs. Your site is the only one I know of where I can get my stargate fix without ruining an episode for me. As much as I want to know what is going to happen in advance sometimes I love the suprises you guys come up with. I never saw Carson's death coming, or what happened to Weir. I love it when something leaves me just shocked like that. Keep up the good work. Also a technical question here... what software program do you guys edit the show with and do you record from the cameras to tape and capture it later or directly to some kind of hard drive system? Thanks
I feel so special! I'm one of those students to whom this blog is dedicated (even though I don't attend McGill).
When you were still in school, what did you prefer, exams as papers or tests? I'm supposedly working on a paper right now; it's not fun.
Hey Joe!
I want to preface my question by saying that I love the show this season, I love Amanda, I'm thrilled Carter's on the show. I also thought the way Elizabeth was written off was spectacular, even though I miss her.
With all that in mind! I liked Miller's Crossing a lot, but in the scene right at the beginning (featuring Zelenka enduring Rodney's temper tantrums) I really did wonder where Sam was. If Rodney's so desperate he sends it to Jeannie, surely Sam would at least have glanced at the problem? At Zelenka's behest, if not Rodney's. It felt a bit gaping. But well, AT wasn't contracted for the episode, so I get that - but will we see Sam getting her science on at all this season? I love her to pieces, and I miss the Colonel-Doctor.
the single fact that reinforces the point I made yesterday: you’re not a fan.
Wordy McWordson with a side order of word and a cup of icy cold word to go with it. I may be hungry.
It's like someone who goes off on an annual holiday somewhere as a child and twenty years later the place has changed and things have moved on, as it does, but the person hasn't. And next minute they're spending all their vacation time at the town hall waving their old man stick above their head and yelling that change is bad and that those kids better get off their lawn.
And they never seem to get that it's a vacation spot, and that you can just pick up a brochure and go somewhere else, until wandering back from the town hall one night, yelling out to everyone that they hope the town fails and that everyone and everything sucks, they have a stress induced heart attack and alley cats eat them.
It's very sad and heart wrenching. I may cry.
anonymous said:
What would you rather? He [Joe F.] said absolutely nothing about Paul or Torri and just pretended they didn't exist as the other actors do in interviews, or would you rather he actually showed them support?
It wouldn't be that hard to be quite supportive of one's fellow actors (and stay sympathetic with the fans), yet remain supportive of the producers as well, and all the while be discreet about the whole issue. The actor/speaker could say all he or she wanted to in appreciation of those actors who are no longer regulars on the show, and still (appropriately) reply to questions about reasons for/ results of cast changes with a simple statement that the producers would be the best people to field that sort of question.
...the Gourmet Chef borscht I purchased last week and was greeted by a somewhat disturbing sight. The pouch containing the soup had ballooned to the point where it looked ready to burst. What gives? I’m no molecular biologist, but I have a feeling this is a bad sign, no?
Hmm, well I am a molecular/microbiologist and it sounds like a fun culturing experiment rather than food now. Impressive picture.
Dammit Joe! I'm still pissed that Charisma Carpenter was canned! When are you gonna bring back Cordelia?
I don't want to hear any excuses that it was a completely different show, you had nothing to do with it and/or it's all that Whedon's fault! A pox on your house, Mallozzi! A pox!
And now after that crazy rant...
I confess I'm not really wild about Keller (aside: And it has nothing to do with wanting Beckett back. I just find the way she's being written as "innocent" a little lacking in credibility? Although if it's any consolation, my 12 year old son loves her) and I could do less with Ronon's "Huh?" and "Wha?" and "Huh?" again (aside #2: I confess that I'm not wild about the Klingon-esque evolution. Whether that's intentional or not, it's the perception.) but for the most part, my complaints are small and not taking away from my overall enjoyment of this season.
And I may have wept big salty tears of joy over Miller's Crossing. Srsly.
Jenny R, I don't know how ridiculous it is for fans to get all riled up when it affects whether or not they watch a show.
Get enough people angry, and there won't be a show at all. They'll turn off.
So far, in the space of four seasons, three main characters have gone: Ford, Beckett and now Weir. And then there's Heightmeyer. Don't even get me started on how dumb that was.
If that had happened to SG1 by season four, it wouldn't have reached 10 seasons. Look what happened when the cast changes were forced by RDA's decision to leave and Amanda's pregnancy. People tuned out. The antis had a field day. Those are the same antis who've now discovered Atlantis, since Princess Sam Carter is now on it. And some are calling it their "new show". Well, I'm glad some people can treatit like their "new show". For a lot of the "old fans" it's no longer something they can watch happily.
This isn't Survivor. It's not The Amazing Race. People don't expect their favourite characters to be offloaded left right and centre.
Did I like Carter on SG1? Yeah, sure. Until about season five. I put up with the character after that because I loved Jack, and I was there as long as RDA was part of the show. When he was gone, I gave it a go, but you know what? I didn't love it anymore, and I found the other characters... lacking, I guess, without him.
Right now, I love Shep, but I'm not going to make the mistake of watching a show purely for one character when two of the three I was watching for (Beckett, Weir and Shep) are gone. I can just get his movies on DVD and watch him that way. Then there's Woman's Murder Club, a show that I love, and for which having Joe Flanigan involved will be the icing on the cake.
That's not me hating the show or wishing bad things to those involved. It's me being honest and saying without Beckett and in particular Weir, I'm just not interested. If that makes me a bad fan, and an evil person to those of you who's watch the show no matter what was served up and think that anyone who objects to the changes is nasty and stirring up trouble, then I'm a bad fan.
The thing is, I've given it a go. I don't like Carter. I really, really can't stand Keller (Someone please feed her to the wraith, or just put a bullet in her head. Please. For the love of God!), and the pair of them just make me miss Beckett and Weir all the more. I'm watching their eps, but as for the rest, unless it really, really features a lot of Shep and very little Carter and Keller, I'm just not interested.
And that's just the way it is. No malice intended. I'm not a campaigner on any "Save so and so" campaign. I'm just a quiet former fan who doesn't get online much, saying what I think, and I think that what I've seen of season four has been a disappointment after three wonderful seasons of bonding between an amazing cast.
av_eddy, I think the comment about the Shep fans being bossy moms was aimed at a certain faction of those fans that goes from thread to thread on GW and spends a lot of time on this blog policing everything people say and telling them how to behave.
They know who they are. Just wait for them to jump on this entry, and you'll see.
Lulu is so cute... and so full of energy!!! Just like my dog. At 9 and a half, she still thinks she is a puppy and a lap dog... not so fun when there is a 70 pound boxer sitting on your head!!!!
Molly is not the only four legged friend in our house... i also have 14 mice... yes 14!!!! (long story...) 2 fighting fish and 2 dwarf frogs... one of which should have died along time ago but is still around... i call him superfroggy!!!!
Can't wait for "this mortal coil", although i won't get to watch it until tuesday. I get my friend to tape it on the movie channel on mondays. She forgot to tape it last week due to the stress of school and studying. I think that all college/university students are going crazy this time of year. I know that i am... i accidently put one of my female mice in with a male mouse. She wasnt in there for very long, but as my mom says, it doesn't take very long!!!! So i may have more mouse babies around christmas day. that sure will be a"fun" present for my mom :P
Alipeeps, please, for crying out loud, don't try to tell people who were at the Burbank convention what Joe Flanigan did or didn't say. You weren't there, were you? No? I didn't think so.
Let the people who were actually there answer the question about what he said. I was there, and you know what? I heard him say "Amanda was brought over to replace Torri". There you go. Anyone who tells you he didn't say that is lying.
Does it mean that he's saying that Torri was sacked so Amanda could have a job? No. It means that Torri's gone. Amanda's in her position playing the leader of Atlantis.
For crying out loud, stop attacking people for repeating something that he's said in public.
Or maybe my opinion doesn't count to you because I'm not worthy of being a Flanigan fan since I don't spend all goddamned day on the Shep threads.
Hi Joe!
That story about the fizzle-in-the-middle book reminds me of a deadly dull RSC production I attended of Hamlet, where after Polonius died all the fun went out of the play, as he was the only one not behaving like a department store dummy in costume. Actually, I think I've seen department store dummies give more emotionally resonant performances.
It was the first time I'd ever walked out of a play in my life, but I was worried I was going to either crawl up on stage and start doing some stabbing myself, or fall asleep and tip over the balcony.
ANYWAY, friend of Cate's here, stopping by to say that season 4 really truly does rock so very much and I love the extra depth and backstory you guys are giving the characters. I've stayed spoiler-free, so the various story twists have been pretty breathtaking. You guys are writing some great stuff and Joe, David, and the rest of the gang are turning in some great perfomances.
Keep up the good work!
McGill is overrated. I'm sure they have a tradition of sacrificing their alumni's firstborns to the institution ;)
(But McGill does produce interesting people; some of my crazier friends, yourself, and -ahem- James Wilson? Yeah, yeah, fictional character... Still...)
Should be getting back to the studying, 'cause even though Université de Montréal is not the best university in Canada, I still have to study. Life is unfair.
Thanks for the video. Lulu is adorkable.
I'd deep six the borscht. It's probably fermented.
Cheers,
RebeccaH
Joe-
I know that you have a distaste for people who knock a show without seeing it, so lemme tell you right up front that I HAVE been watching this season, despite my distaste for the cast change and I gotta say, while I thought that every episode for the most part of season 3 was pure gold, including those that you thought were clunkers like 'Irresponsible' and 'Irresistible' I must say that with the exception of 'Adrift' and 'Lifeline', most if not all of the episodes have left me with a ho-hum attitude. 'The Seer' had its moments but like it has been pointed out in the past, it was a rehash of the SG1 season 6 episode 'Prophesy' with Jonas and I quite enjoyed last weeks 'Miller's Crossing' although it brought out a horrible and dark side of John- which begs the question does the line in the poem ‘One’s disappearance leads to another’s dark turn’ refer to that?
But I digress.... I’ve remained relatively spoiler free for tomorrow’s episode ‘This Mortal Coil’ and I gotta ask, with the sucky ratings this year (0.9 being the absolute worst that I have seen on the reports from Gateworld) if the ratings suddenly spike will you at least acknowledge that it is due in part to the long anticipated return of the beloved character Elizabeth Weir?
And another, less related question; the character of Zelenka, is he in anyway based in part off Ricky Ricardo from ‘I Love Lucy’? because as my mum pointed out, Ricky is the only other character that she knows of that broke out into another language when he was angry or frustrated and we’ve all seen Zelenka do the same thing.
And on the rating’s front; if the ratings do spike from a 0.9/1 to higher, will you at least consider during one of your spinning sessions to bring back Elizabeth? I for one, as one fan among many would appreciate it so much. It’s not very often in a military centric show that you get a good leading female who is both leader and woman- and I know that I’ll probably get some flack for it but you left the whole ‘Mike’ scenario hanging in the air. I do recall you saying that we might see him again (though I hoped to the stars that we wouldn’t because I’m a total and utter Sheppard/Weir shipper) the point is that you left so much hanging. She has potential love interests in Atlantis (Shep being one of them now that Teyla is out of that little triangle) and she has a family on Earth and the potential for her conflicts with the IOA could have been TV gold......
But I digress again. The point is that you guys created a wonderful character portrayed by one of the best actresses on science fiction TV who happens to be from my hometown and I gotta wonder why you ‘had’ to get rid of her for season 4. I mean you’ve alienated a BUNCH of fans and the ratings are proof. Even if you add in the plus 3 numbers it only gets you to last years numbers WITHOUT those numbers. So that means that last years ratings were actually higher because the TiVo numbers weren’t counted....
*sigh*
But I’m rambling. Sorry. All I wanted to say is that as a viewer of Atlantis I am thoroughly disappointed with season 4 especially coming off the heels of what I consider to be an absolutely breath-taking, awe-inspiring totally-wow kinda season three. You guys had gold back then with the characters of John, Rodney, Teyla, Ronan, Beckett and Elizabeth and now you have a pale imitation. Hopefully the ratings will spike and show you and the other producers/writers that you were wrong for getting rid of her.
Best Regards, I hope that the ratings spike for tomorrows episode. And I also hope that a) the plot isn’t a rehash from SG1 and b) you guys didn’t close a door permanently (which is a moot point considering you’re brining back Carson, showing that in Scifi no one truly dies so long as the writers deem it to be so).
Sincerely, Anjirika
(Oh, and I know that you and other people have bones to pick with people who don’t put an actual name so I’m putting mine as I have always done).
PS. I do hope that you get the chance to enjoy the snow that you guys seem to be having out there in BC. ‘Tis the season and all that ^_^
Please tell me you didn't eat that soup!
Hi Joe:
It’s been hard reading your blog this week since I tend to take things personally even when I know I shouldn’t. Yes, I’m a fan of Elizabeth Weir; yes, I want her back in season 5; yes I’m happy the show was renewed even if she doesn’t come back. For those who feel like the Weir fans don’t deserve any respect, well, nothing I say will change your mind. But speaking just for myself, I’m proud to be a fan of the character of Elizabeth Weir and her portrayer, Torri Higginson.
As for why I don’t just move on because my favorite is no longer there, well, it’s a bit more complicated with this show. First of all, I always give something a chance. For example, I actually liked the last two seasons of the X-Files, just on a different level than the previous seasons. What makes Atlantis different is this – it fell into my category of special shows. There are very few in that group (Firefly was the last addition before Atlantis). These are the shows I treasure above all others. So I’m just very disappointed not so much at the direction Atlantis has taken, but at the loss of Elizabeth when I believe she is still a viable member of the Atlantis team. That right there may be the crux of the matter for me. What I loved about Atlantis is it was about the expedition, not just one team.
Joe, I appreciate that you’re willing to let us air our opinions here on your blog. And just for you, even though I’ve always signed my posts, I made up a blogger account. It was a lot of work…
rosebud said: "Also Alipeeps, I was present at the convention, and Joe Flanigan in no uncertain terms uttered the following sentence: "they brought Carter over, with the hopes of higher ratings; that did not happen".
how do we know amanda's presence hasn't helped the show? how do we know amanda being supporting only has kept the ratings from being higher? how do we know if some sg1 fans came over just to see sam and when they saw she was barely in it, quit watching? how do we know, if going by atlantis' syndicated ratings, sam's inclusion in the show IS making a difference for season 4?
see, i could make any assumptions i want to fit an agenda, but that doesn't make it true.
sally :)
I'm sorry if I offend some people out there and I agree that Torri is a good actor. If I were one of the writers or producers I would bring back the character/actress of Dr. Weir from The Lost City 1&2 and turn her into a member of the IOA.
Two Thursday's, that's great. It happens to me on occasion too. Do you ever feel like your stuck in an infinity loop?
I know you mentioned you had not seen Tin Man (which was great), but have you seen the new Futurama material. What do you think of Futurama in general? Do you enjoy the inside-science jokes and faster-than-light comedy beats? It took me a little while to catch up with the pace of the show.
Oh, P.S. You have no memory of the time travel experiment?
Righto, check that off the list.
Buwahahahaha.
Joe,
Another of those Brits here who just saw Millers Crossing this week. I loved it so, just like the rest of the season so far. Thanks for that (to you and all the writerish PTB that make things happen so well).
Also, I'm very fond of 'Lil Meow Meow' as a baby name - clearly the way to go. Or maybe 'Buttons'? McSheprokett is also a hit.
Mia
P.S. You made Cate all aglow with embarrassment, which is kind of awesome. We'll all be over in that corner with her. :D
That's so awesome that you went to McGill. How did you survive the exam season? I'm finding lots of chocolate helps. I'm especially nervous for econ, although both my parents are economists. But I'm adopted. And it's in the gym. I hate exams in the gym. I think you know what I'm talking about...
Oh, and I love this season, all of it. And Cate's porn. Please don't tell her to get rid of it!
Awwww, Lulu is such a cutie! Gods, I miss snow somethin' fierce! *sobs bitterly*
Wow, haven't seen the Fuzzy books in ages! I never did get around to reading them myself, but I can't remember why ...
I got about halfway through Mirror, Mirror and never did manage to pick it back up again. Everything about Maguire's writing that irritated me a little in Wicked bugged me a hundredfold more in Mirror, Mirror -- too meandering, too outlandish (and when one loves fantasy as I do, that's saying something), and too poetic (I appreciate poetic, but only when I still understand what the author is getting at ...). I have a love-hate relationship with Wicked: I love the premise and some of the excecution, but he never did seem to make up his mind which version of Oz (book or MGM movie) he was going with, and just arbitrarily rewrote some details so that it didn't match either version. There were also a lot of loose ends that still weren't resolved in the sequel (which had loose ends of its own). But since you seemed to enjoy Mirror, Mirror at least marginally more that I did, you might like Wicked and Son of a Witch better too. *shrug*
Hey, have you heard from David H recently? He hasn't twittered since last Friday, and the storm's made me anxious ....
Annonymous said:
I was there. He said "Amanda was brought in to replace Torri" and that "it was felt it would increase ratings, but it hasn't". He also said he's loyal to the actors.
You know, the Enlgish language is a funny thing. Bringing Amanda in to "replace" Torri could simply refer to the fact that they were using her to fill that particular gap in the show left by the decision to write Torri out, not that they took Torri out to specifically to bring Amanda in. I'll leave it to Joe to say whether or not Amanda was brought in to boost the ratings, but there's nothing in what Joe said, as you quoted it, to specifically suggest that Torri was dumped for Amanda, only that Amanda filled the hole in the cast made when they took Torri out, which is exactly what the character did on the show. And really, I should think *anything* the writers do would be done with ratings in mind, from the standpoint of wanting to tell a good story, which in turn will hopefully lead to good ratings.
I know a lot of people are up in arms about the decision, but I personally prefer Sam to Elizabeth, and using the ratings to "prove" that Weir is better. (Really, is it a popularity contest anyway? If you can't have Weir anymore no matter what, why *not* have Sam, if you liked her on SG-1? Why not enjoy both characters where & whenever possible?) Ratings have seldom reflected quality in my book -- particularly when "reality" TV gets insanely high ratings over what I consider to be quality progamming. I'd just as soon as stay far away from what's "popular" then, thanks.
Love the slight Doppler effect as Lulu sprints past the camera.
I've said it before, but it bears repeating: this season really is excellent, Joe. Thanks for all the hard work.
Re no SciFi in Vancouver. S4 is shown on the Movie Ch. The Space Ch. has yet to show all of S3.
Oh, and ... dude. Don't eat the borscht.
Weir and Beckett,
Season four has been great so far.
Wish you were here. It doesn't seem quite right, somehow, you not being here.
Love,
semisweet
P.S. Hope to see you both real soon!
Obviously, your borscht is evil and bent on world domination. You may need an army or, at the very least, minions to defeat it.
As for Teyla's baby, I say Tangerine for a girl and Jersey Phil for a boy. McSheprokett is no good. You can't yell that from the front porch when the street lights come on.
the Gourmet Chef borscht you bought is in fact the pink slime stuff from the ghostbusters movie. it was the stuff that oozed from the street and made the statue of liberty walk. its probably not soup at all but slime..
Regarding Joe F:
"He says TPTB don't listen to him when he makes suggestions. I really hope that that changes, because he's an intelligent man who knows a lot more than TPTB, whether they're in Vancouver or at Scifi, how the fans really feel."
Actually, I think Joe M has a better idea how the fans feel. He certainly gets a larger cross-section than Joe F, who mostly just gets the fans that are willing to part with money to see him.
suse
1. You weren't timetravelling - you just temporarily relocated to the other side of the dateline - say, New Zealand :p
It was my Thursday all day too!
2. I guess I am a molecular biologist (but not a microbiologist) and I'd definitely say unless you want to repeat that food poisoning-related weight loss to gently place that bag far far away from you (I quite like PG's suggestion of Martin G's desk *evil*).
I would give you all the Monopoly money in my house if Sheppard called the Teyla baby 'Lil Meow Meow,' even once.
Hmmm, that borscht is oddly remeniscent of a jar of home-made salsa that spent a year in a dorm room down the hall from mine. By May the salsa hand "grown" out of the confines of its jar and eaten away a sizable portion of the finish from the computer desk it was resting on.
As for baby names, I would definitely have to vote for Lil Meow Meow. Tangerine would be a decent middle name though.
So with James gone in Survivor who is your new pick for winner?
I have a Canadian exchange student named Werner Kopp from burnaby(he grew up there but now lives in Invermere) who told me about the double-double things.
And we both like House(right?) so I included that too.
Oh and by the way, the Joe Mallozzi standing at the board was an homage to the start of Miller's Crossing.
So double-double or triple-triple?
How is the Joe Flanigan remake movie that he announced(@ comicon) he was looking at coming along?
Stargate: Atlantis is awesome man!
LogicSequence ,Joe might have known that but,you probably saved a few of us from food poisoning. Thanks
Was this your first foray into Maguire, or have you read any of his other works? I read Stepsister a few years ago and loved it but I've never been able to get into any of his other works. I've started several and always lost interest 50 pages in. I still can't say for sure why Stepsister grabbed me and the others didn't.
I just finished reading Prom Nights from Hell, a collection of five short stories written by popular authors of young adult literature. Not really up your alley and only one of the stories was any good, but I'm a YA librarian so I read them all anyway.
(I'm typing this all one-handed, by the way, because that accident on Tuesday night? I actually sprained my wrist. Fun...not really. The vicodin the ER gave me is fun, though!)
Looking forward to tomorrow night and SGA!
I would also like to know the name of your thesis you mentioned a while back because It will take forever to find?
Roxanne, I love your XFiles analogy.
I give shows a chance when characters change too. I LOVED the final season of XF. I think Robert Patrick and Annabeth Gish were a brilliant breath of fresh air.
Just as I gave them a chance and grew to love them, I've given the cast changes on SGA a chance and have found I just can't stomach them.
I'm a Shep and Beckett fan first and foremost. I'm sick of the Shep and Rodney show and I certainly don't want to see the Sam and Rodney show.
The loss of Beckett left me gutted. Add to that the other major civilian character Elizabeth being dumped, and I was very close to calling it quits. But it wasn't until I saw episodes with Carter saying when I was in SG1, we did this... and that godawful Keller crying like a baby in Missing that I decided enough was enough.
I think that cast changes, if the right people are chosen and the right characters are created can be good.
In the case of Atlantis, though, I think the wrong people were sacked, the wrong person was brought in in Amanda (We've had ten years of Carter. Give it a rest already!) and a really annoying character was brought in in the form of Keller.
And MajorSal, come on. Point-9. How can you think that that's something to be proud of? Do you think Amanda's proud of those figures? I bet she's not after the ratings highs of SG1.
I truly feel that the ratings would be higher and the audience would be happier if Beckett and Weir were still there, Keller was Beckett's assistant, and Carter was there in a recurring role, by which I mean eight or so episodes.
What's happened with things as they are is that many, many Beckett and Weir fans feel they've been ignored as fans and their characters of choice have been unfairly dumped, and they've decided to let their remotes do the talking and just turn off.
I was willing to give season four a chance. I watched up to Missing. That was the final straw for me, until more episodes with Paul and Torri come up.
2) If we now have the Carter-McKay intergalactic bridge, then why not re-locate people from the Pegasus galaxy to the Milky Way galaxy and save them from the Wraith?
Answers: 2) Because it would take, oh, forever.
LOL. And even if it were possible, there's the fact that there are still enemies in the Milky Way galaxy. They'd just be taking them away from one enemy and leading them to another.
Wow,
If we could harness Lulu's enthusiasm as an alternative energy source, global warming would be a non-issue.
Also, really like Carter, love Season 4, and highly anticipate Season 5!
Hey Joe,
Guess what!?
Its my sweet sixtenth birthday tomorrow, on saturday the 8th, which if i understand correctly is two days away for you. It's also my little sisters 3rd birthday!
And im working that day too....sigh....oh well.
I just wanted to say happy birthday to my little sister!.
(happy birthday for me?)
Josephine said... "And MajorSal, come on. Point-9. How can you think that that's something to be proud of? Do you think Amanda's proud of those figures? I bet she's not after the ratings highs of SG1."
you missed the point. it's when ppl or actors make assumptions, without all the facts. the point is, ANYONE can make assumptions and say, 'see, here's my evidence!' well, i see a lot of it taking place, and i also see a lot of balloons taking flight with all their hot air.
sally :)
Anonymous said...
Get enough people angry, and there won't be a show at all. They'll turn off.
So far, in the space of four seasons, three main characters have gone: Ford, Beckett and now Weir. And then there's Heightmeyer. Don't even get me started on how dumb that was.
If that had happened to SG1 by season four, it wouldn't have reached 10 seasons. Look what happened when the cast changes were forced by RDA's decision to leave and Amanda's pregnancy. People tuned out. The antis had a field day. Those are the same antis who've now discovered Atlantis, since Princess Sam Carter is now on it. And some are calling it their "new show". Well, I'm glad some people can treatit like their "new show". For a lot of the "old fans" it's no longer something they can watch happily.
This isn't Survivor. It's not The Amazing Race. People don't expect their favourite characters to be offloaded left right and centre.
Did I like Carter on SG1? Yeah, sure. Until about season five. I put up with the character after that because I loved Jack, and I was there as long as RDA was part of the show. When he was gone, I gave it a go, but you know what? I didn't love it anymore, and I found the other characters... lacking, I guess, without him.
Right now, I love Shep, but I'm not going to make the mistake of watching a show purely for one character when two of the three I was watching for (Beckett, Weir and Shep) are gone. I can just get his movies on DVD and watch him that way. Then there's Woman's Murder Club, a show that I love, and for which having Joe Flanigan involved will be the icing on the cake.
That's not me hating the show or wishing bad things to those involved. It's me being honest and saying without Beckett and in particular Weir, I'm just not interested. If that makes me a bad fan, and an evil person to those of you who's watch the show no matter what was served up and think that anyone who objects to the changes is nasty and stirring up trouble, then I'm a bad fan.
The thing is, I've given it a go. I don't like Carter. I really, really can't stand Keller (Someone please feed her to the wraith, or just put a bullet in her head. Please. For the love of God!), and the pair of them just make me miss Beckett and Weir all the more. I'm watching their eps, but as for the rest, unless it really, really features a lot of Shep and very little Carter and Keller, I'm just not interested.
And that's just the way it is. No malice intended. I'm not a campaigner on any "Save so and so" campaign. I'm just a quiet former fan who doesn't get online much, saying what I think, and I think that what I've seen of season four has been a disappointment after three wonderful seasons of bonding between an amazing cast/
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
That is EXACTLY how I feel about this whole darn situation.
(((((ANONYMOUS)))))))
Yes, I'm an anonymoushugger.
I had to laugh at that last question. What snow? This is Vancouver. All that we're left with is puddles and foggy water.
OK, you "fans" of Weir and Beckett... lets just say you get your wish.
Do you think it would work just magically popping these characters back into the show? "Oops, we have all been trapped in an alternate reality since we met the replicators the first time!" or "Oh, no! We triggered a temporal inversion that returned us to the point just before Beckett dies, and we just so happen to remember whats going to hapen next!"
Kinda contrived. Remember people, you are sooking about the writers taking away your characters. It is the writers who will have to plausibly write them back in if the need arises, so don't tick them off.
I can honestly say I like Weir and Beckett, I'll even say I'm a fan. But I don't think its fair to call yourself a fan of a character only, because without the show, that character would ever have existed, and never will again. It'd be like being a fan of the UMD format, but not of the PSP...
So, a question or two for you Joe, just to attempt to explain to the... anti-fans the truth (as I perceive it anyways.. hope I'm right :p )...
Do you have a mad, evil, devious or malicious plot against the characters Doctor Elizabeth Weir and/or Doctor Carson Beckett?
If the anti-fans bribe the higher-ups to force you to bring the characters back, how hard would it be to realistically bring things back to how things were?
:sigh:
I think Teyla's baby should be called "Shark-jumper". That's if he or she sticks around.
I know the actress was pregnant in real life, but introducing a baby into a scifi show like this would be the kiss of death. I can see it now. Shep and Ronon are fighting off some deadly aliens, while Teyla stops to breastfeed the sproglet.
Just what we don't want.
Joe -
Long time reader, first time commenter/questioner here.
Have the writers/producers ever discussed just how much of the city the Atlantis Expedition actually uses? I seem to recall hearing at one point that it was "about the size of Manhattan" - I could be making that up though - but if that's the case it strikes me that even a sizable contingent wouldn't need more than, say, the Ancient Empire State Building Equivalent (tm).
Just an odd thing that's been kicking around in my head.
Dig the blog, man, thanks.
JLK
Hi Joe,
I must say that replacing Dr Weir with Sam Carter was the reason I stopped watching the show. Dr Heightmeyer was the last nail to this coffin for me. "This Mortal Coil" will be the first episode I'm going to watch since Doppelganger (and I missed Reunion).
Changing the subject: could you please ask Ben Browder or Amanda Tapping, or Martin Woods, or Ivon Bortok to tell the story/background of "Bruno"?
Wow .. a borscht baloon. Don't let the dogs get their teeth into that one!
Thanks to your enthusiasm for reading, I've decided to buy "Ghost Story" from Amazon. $0.40c + $13 shipping to Australia LOL. Hey it was cheaper than ebay Australia!
I've let you inspire me to read again. Last novel I couldn't put down: "Tommyknocker". Yep, ages ago.
Can you pass a message to Joe F for me? Ask him not to touch the prop rocks when he's taking shelter behind them... he keeps moving them, showing the viewer that they're some kind of foam ..Yep I notice these things. (If you see your vid 'light 'er up, you see him moving his rock).
Josephine said "is that many, many Beckett and Weir fans feel they've been ignored as fans and their characters of choice have been unfairly dumped, and they've decided to let their remotes do the talking and just turn off."
What a crock!! I miss Weir and Beckett but that's not enough to turn me away from SGA. I'll get to see them again and I still love Shep, Ronan, Teyla and Rodney. You'd be a bit of a sook if you turned away from SGA because of the loss of Beckett and Weir!
Oy, that last entry from me wasn't entirely intelligible, was it? XD
When I said "I know a lot of people are up in arms about the decision, but I personally prefer Sam to Elizabeth, and using the ratings to "prove" that Weir is better." I *meant* "I know a lot of people are up in arms about the decision, but I personally prefer Sam to Elizabeth, and using the ratings to "prove" that Weir is better isn't really proof anyway."
And Majorsol's post actually proved my point there, intentional or no. ;) Unless someone polls every person in the viewership and asks them why they do or don't watch, there is nothing one can do but make assumptions.
Hi Joe!
I'm a big fan of SGA and heard from a friend about your blog, so I've just started reading some blogs. Thank you so much for giving so much information about SGA, god knows how impossibly busy you must be otherwise.
I loved the video of Lulu in the snow. So cute. Since I'm not all to sure if you might have stated this or what not, was that the first time that Lulu had seen/experienced snow? Seems heartwarming that she was having such fun out there.
I'm still jumping around your blog and reading random entries, but in relation to all the candy/chocolate you receive, is most of it gourmet or do you have no preference? Or what is your favorite brand, if you have one.
Hope you get to go out and have fun in the snow! That would be so much fun to play in.
Answer: I keep them all so that I can lend my favorites to people who never return them.
I lost a personally autographed copy of Terry Pratchett's Reaper Man that way. loaned it to a boyfriend never got it back, haven't let a man anywhere near my books since!
Yeah LULU in the snow! More please I love to see her in action anytime you want to part with her she has a home in CA!
Just wanted to say that I loved the Lulu vid! What a wacky dog! LOL! Thanks for sharing it with us.
Jenn
Yay LULU!
HI Joe, wanted to request more lulu coverage she's adorable if you ever need a babysitter feel free to call.
just popped back to say thanks for showing Lulu in the snow, it really cheered me up and made me smile. She's getting quite a fan club isn't she? Any chance she might have a guest spot in season 5 or at least an honourable mention?
Couple of points:
1) Those saying a 0.9 rating is bad should look at the numbers not the decimal, and then compare it to other Sci-Fi shows. It's doing pretty damn well from where I'm sitting!
2) Jersey Phil would get my vote
3) How do you feel about people constantly confusing Shakespearean legends with Atlantis characters? Would I be right in saying Weir transforms into Titania and her and Oberoth - as Oberon, if you are to believe most people who've seen the episode - float off into the distant sunset?
In a similar vein, that would make Sheppard Lady Macbeth after his comments at the end of Miller's Crossing...
4) Keep the borscht, and give it to a young nephew as a science experiment for Christmas - he'll love you even more if it explodes.
For some reason I have unconsciously assumed Teyla's child will be a boy... And I thought "Goneril" would be a great name.
I'm sure you've been hearing this a lot lately, but I wanted to thank you for the absolutely wonderful season of sga. It is my absolutely favourite show and it has been a ridiculously good season (well, I say that about all the seasons.) One of the best parts about living in Vancouver is stumbling onto former filming locations and feeling that I'm on an alien world - even when I'm running to catch the bus!
Finally a book that I have read!
I have also read Mirror Mirror and agree that while the start seemed promising, the narrative didn't have an enlightening or ironic message or twist (at least, not one that I really recognized.)
Have you read Confessions of An Ugly Stepsister? I recommend it! I found the style of narrative tricky to get into - but found the story to be endearing and charming!
Wicked is a good read too, of course!
Thanks for blogging :)
I thought since the first half of season 4 is almost done, I would share a comment on each episode so far. (I'm so generous!) ;) :)
Adrift: A better season premier than No Man's Land but not as good as The Siege, Pt. 2 (Rising doesn't count to me.) Some good tension moments and great special effects, but I thought the way everything kept happening one after the other became too much and took away the sense of danger from each problem because there were TOO many.
Rank: 7
Lifeline: Good to see some continuity from Tao of Rodney with the hyperspace PJ (Never heard of again though, so far) although I am still on the fence if the Weir/nanite/Replicator story thread will be good one or not. McKay was annoying to me near the end and that has not happened since Trinity. Carter and Lee scenes were boring to me and took away from the main story. They could have been shorter and still achieved their purpose.
Rank: 5
Reunion: I really liked this story for Ronon, the way the team still played a big part in it (unlike some later episodes,) and yet it still gave us a hint of the Wraith/Replicator war that didn't seem like it was shoe-horned into the episode. I thought Mark Dacascos did a great job as Tyre along with the other Satedans and I'm glad that Tyre may appear again.
Rank: 4
Doppelganger: The best episode so far even though I thought it would be a re-hash of Cold Lazarus. I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't and had some great moments in it except for Dr. Heightmayer dying because I liked the character, but I understand the reasoning. The acting by all was great and it was an episode that I was so into that the 43 minutes went by very fast. (I saw it early thanks to iTunes!) I normally like episodes that further along the main storyline of the season, but this one was so good that it didn't matter to me that it was a stand-alone.
Rank: 1
Travelers: This episode is the one in the first-half that I was looking forward to the most and unfortunately the one I was most disappointed in. I thought the episode felt uneven with the writing, directing, and some of the acting being the biggest reasons and only the SFX and VFX being good throughout with a few good comments along the way. Not enough team moments like in the Ronon-heavy Reunion (even though I really like the Sheppard character) and except for the revelation scene of Sheppard's SOS message and the cafeteria scene at the end, the ones that were there seemed forced and really unecessary. Good premise that had some questionable dialogue and some not well conceived scenes/plot points (i.e. Larrin using a LSD?) in my opinion. I disliked the Larrin character, but I'm not sure if it was due to the way she was written or Jill Wagner's portrayal of her. I could definitely see her lack of acting experience in the "emotional" scenes although she is beautiful and was OK in the action parts. Maybe an older, more experienced actress would have been better in this role, but that wouldn't have appealed as much to the sponsor's target demographic. I wouldn't have minded it so much if this was a one-episode character, but this is supposed to be a recurring character that I hope I will dislike less in BAMSR. For an "introductory" episode for the Travelers, there was too much emphasis on the action portion and not enough on the new race themselves in my opinion. Underground was a much better episode in the way it introduced the Genii and yet still had some action parts to it.
Rank: 9
Tabula Rasa: An unconventionally put together episode that worked pretty well to me. I liked seeing everyone except Teyla and Ronon being brought down to their core personalities due to lack of memory. It showed the growth of both characters and that both of them are much more than the token Pegasus alien guides. Minor problem with only McKay and Sheppard thinking ahead enough to leave themselves clues with the level of intelligence of people on Atlantis.
Rank: 2
Missing: For an episode focusing a lot on one character, Missing worked better for me than Travelers did probably due to the inclusion of Keller although I thought her fear at the beginning was a little overplayed. I thought she was much better towards the end of the episode and the growth of her character seemed to be a little too much for one episode due to the way she was written/portayed to start the story. Teyla finally gets a meaty storyline with the disappearance of the Athosians and the way she had to fight the Bola-Kai to save herself and Keller. I also thought the inclusion of more people in the episode was more realistic than how few people (even just extras) were in Travelers especially since Larrin says their ships are over-crowded.
Rank: 8
The Seer: I didn't expect too much from this episode, but I really enjoyed the way it ended up. I loved the foreshadowing that has never been used before on SGA that I recall and it was an episode that really made me think how one's actions could effect many others. I also liked how the Atlantis team cannot just sit back anymore and let the Wraith and Replicators fight it out among themselves because of the tactic of removing the Wraith's food source by the Replicators.
Rank: 3
Miller's Crossing: I expected another light-hearted episode with some angst for McKay (ala M&MM) but didn't know about the kidnapping until a week or so before the episode aired and did not see the big moral question coming until the Wraith collapsed. Not a pleasant thought for Sheppard and I still don't know if I agreed with it, but it definitely made me think a lot for a few days after it aired.
Rank: 6
Joe
1) Love the video of Lulu. My parents have a Springer Spaniel, Bonnie, who goes insane when she sees 1 snowflake.
2) Step away from the Borscht, only approach if wearing one of the blue Hazmat suits.
3) Have you ever read any books by Jasper Fforde. Weird and wonderful books about the Nursery Crime Unit and also (appropriately) a character called Thursday Next.
4) Still loving Season 4. Yes, to all those commenting things have changed re Ford, Beckett, Keller, Weir and Carter. But that's life. SG1 survived some major character changes over the seasons and kept going for 10 years. Okay, some things might not be working out quite the way they should be but time, patience and character development will hopefully iron out the wrinkles. And remember, this is the Stargate universe, what with ascension, alternate universes, alternate timelines, clones, replicators, and whatever else the writers come up with in their warped minds - does anyone every really die? So if you're determined to hate SGA because your favourite character has gone then don't watch. If you're prepared to see where things are going (even, shock horror, without your fave) then good for you.
Meils
PS Got last ever DVD for SG1 (sniff, sobs mournfully), have to wait till January for next SGA S3 DVD and rest of S4 (huge sulk).
PPS My sister-in-law, Oksana, is from Belarus and makes excellent borscht
While you may be rooting for "Flossy" as the name for Teyla's child, I am hoping you guys go for "Lil Meow Meow."
It's so very Flinstonian with a Thundercats twist.
Hiya Joe, bit of a strange request, I am creating an indoor soccer team and I was wondering if you could use your expertise to come up with any ideas for a team name?
If not, are you able to jet down to Australia every week? We are also looking for a striker.
I always love when people choose to interpret something said in the way they want to interpret it.
In absolute terms, Carter is replacing Weir as Atlantis expedition leader. So even if Joe F actually said Carter replaced Weir (which I don't think anyone has actually said he did) then in absolute terms he's correct.
People can choose to interpret this as Carter was brought into replace Weir (decisions were linked) or Carter was brought into replace Weir (decisions were made separately with the decision not to go with Weir prompting the need to find a replacement as stated by Joe M previously).
If Joe F actually uttered those exact words.
If he said 'Carter was brought in to boost ratings and it hasn't worked'...well, no doubt a logical assumption a fan or anyone can make who wasn't in the room with the people who made the decision is that some of the decision on Carter was because it was hoped it would draw SG1 fans who hadn't previously watched SGA.
Has the character boosted ratings? Well, it's hard to say. Possibly the viewers who have left because they didn't agree with the creative decisions on Weir and Beckett, have been replaced to some degree by Sam fans and SG1 viewers (and hence ratings boosted from what they would be if the production team had gone with a known but non-SG1 character) but its impossible to quantify. It's also impossible to say whether Weir remaining would have increased or decreased ratings. In absolute terms, bringing Carter over hasn't boosted ratings over their previous levels but that is unlikely to be entirely down to the character and potentially there are a large number of factors involved including the time-slot.
In all honesty, I'm enjoying S4. I think its been much better written and much more consistent in its characterisation throughout this first half than S2 or S3. Its clear the chemistry is still being worked out after the changes but its coming together. I say keep up the good work.
*anonymous and proud*
You have one mad dog there.
Love the pictures of Lulu frapping. My puppy does this all the time too. You can tell the other dogs were content to let her discover the wonders of the white stuff for them. :)
All I'm seeing from these long rambling posts by Weir fans is that the show's ratings are purely the result of the absence of Weir. Fans have left in their droves because the character of Weir is no longer in the show. Well if that's the case how do you explain the ratings for Adrift, a season opener and Lifeline where Weir was highy featured. Why weren't the ratings much better if the mere presence of Weir boosts the ratings. Weir fans beg for her to return and in the same breath bash other charactors and season four in general. But anything with Weir in it is amazing of course. I'm assuming that the remainder of season four will be terrible because of the lack of Weir. if the stories were exactly the same and they featured Weir would you all be moaning about how bad season four is.
Weir was a medicore character at best with really no where to go and she was being forced into episodes during season three. Tptb made a creative decision to bring about some changes and give the leader a more recurring role by someone who is in effect a lot more qualified to do the job. Carter is doing a pretty good job so far and there is no where for Weir in the present incarnation. The show has gotten better and better this season and if Weir fans decide that nothing without Weir is going to please them then why hang around at all.
To all the people who are claiming to know what was on Joe Flanigan's mind when he said what he said at recent cons:
How many times have you watched a show with a friend and both of you had a completely different take on a certain scene? You both watched exactly the same, listened to the same dialog and everything. And one of you thought character X was being mean to character Y, and the other thought character X was so supporting and caring and not mean at all?
People can watch something, listen to the exact same words, and assign to them a completely different meaning.
My point is that, in my opinion, even those who were there at con XXZ can't claim to know what JF meant or didn't mean when he said whatever he said. Unless you have access to Mr. Flanigan's brain or go and ask him to talk further about this. Even if he said "Amanda was brought to replace Torri", this can be interpreted in different ways. As others have said, he could mean to say just that her character was replacing Torri's character in the sense that Elizabeth used to be the expedition leader and now Sam is. And, unless you ask JF about what he actually meant when he said that, you can't say whether this interpretation is more or less correct than others' interpretations.
Another point is that why the heck has to be everything so mutually exclusive? He said in different interviews that he miss Torri and Paul, but he also said that Amanda is such a nice person and it's great to work with her. He has also said that he was concerned about the changes before s4 started but now looking back he thought the producers and writers had handled the transition very nicely. So I ask again, why has to be everything so mutually exclusive for some fans? Missing Torri and Paul does NOT automatically mean not liking how the changes were handled or not liking the new season.
Joe,
Will Dr. Fraiser appear in Continuum?
I just thought I'd counter all the nay-sayers and tell you how much I adore season 4! It has three of my all time favourite episodes so far (Doppelganger, Tabula Rasa and Miller's Crossing) and we're barely halfway in yet! All the McShep moments, the Ronon backstory, the Teyla!baby... I am overcome with squee.
While I still miss Beckett so much it hurts, I also like Keller very much. She gives the ordinary people in Atlantis a voice, the ones who aren't big damn heroes but still manage to struggle on anyway.
Weir was always sort of a 'meh'-character for me, I didn't hate her but I didn't find her very interesting either. Bringing Sam to Atlantis made me very very happy. Love her!
Keep up the good work!
(Also, Cate's porn should not be tidied away... it's very good porn.)
What Pauline said, re: the borscht. The primary ingredient is cabbage. So I'd imagine you're either on your way to really tangy red sauerkraut, or an unintentional kitchen remodel.
Tattoo eh? Next time you're on the East Coast, get in touch. My treat! I've been contemplating having "the gate" tattooed on the back of my neck for some time. You could be there for the fun!
I was wondering how long you're going to entertain the constant barrage of Weir/Beckett arguments? 2 Seasons? 3 Seasons? I've been reading your blog for about a year, and I see the same questions/arguments repeated and repeated. At what point do you just run screaming out into the snow, fork a flailing, wearing nothing but your madness and a crazed grin?
Yay! A blog dedicated to students. Although I appreciate the mention, what I would really appreciate is if you built a giant snow making machine and let it loose in Southern Ontario. But not until monday morning, say around 5am? That work for you? Ok thanks
Guess I'm the only one who likes Goneril as a baby's name, but probably not good karma.... she got what was coming to her!
Totally off topic... but I actually liked Irresponisble... does this make me a crazy person?
Lulu is just adorable! Living in England for the year, I won't be getting the 10 foot snow drifts I'm used to, so it's much fun to see someone getting to run through the snow like that.
Have you read Maguire's other works, then? Mirror Mirror is one I haven't gotten to, yet, but if you've read Wicked and haven't read it's sequel, Son of a Witch, I highly recommend it. What store has it classified under chick lit, though? I originally thought it'd be under fantasy as well, but at Barnes and Noble it's just under fiction. Not quite as embarrassing for those men wishing to read his work.
As Baron will be decorating, I don't suppose he'll let us see some pictures of the final product? I mean, it being a secret moonbase and all, I must admit I'm still curious...And concerning you, Joe, do you have any special traditions you share with Fondy, family, or the other producers and friends?
"big season 5 news for fans of this character"
Ah, evil Joe, teasing us poor fans like that ^_^
When I read that, I thought that the big news would certainly be about one of the missing SGA characters returning on some capacity (probably on a recurring basis).
Then I've read some speculation on line that the "big news" could mean a character from SG-1 guest starring. The thought that this could be considered "big" s5 news never crossed my mind, but I can see how that would be big for fans of that character...
So... I know you won't say who that character is yet, but could at least confirm today if the big season 5 news refers to a character from SG-1 or to a non SG-1 character?
Lulu is sooo cute! And so full of energy too - could she send some of that my way, please?!
Today I am looking out the back door whilst typing on the computer (which is situated so that I can see the garden and watch the female blackbird - who is brown not black - come to the back door for food when she feels like it - I am sooo her servant!) and there, in the sky, is a lovely vivid rainbow!
And there was one in the same place on Wednesday as well. Nothing like a rainbow (and feuding blackbirds - the female I mentioned does like the 'charge' at territorial invaders, who have to move fast if they don't want to get clawed - it's kinda funny to watch!) to cheer me up.
Hope you have a good day. Any chance of more Lulu and the pugs pics/vids? And any chance of Lulu making an appearence on Atlantis? Though I suspect she'd steal whatever scene she was in, so maybe it's as well if she doesn't!!
I hope you didn't eat that boršč/borschtsch.. Cause it doesn't look good.
Congratulaions to Emily!! =)
Have you ever read anything by Russian, German, etc.. authors??
Have a nice day!
Iv
Now that the season is progressing and Teyla is beginning to show, can we look forward to any team-as-protective-'big brothers' moments or McKay faux pas? I'm imagining, specifically, comments about her weight gain and/or potential food intake increase, but pretty much any other instances of McKay being clueless and potentially insulting re: Teyla's condition. I can't see Teyla taking kindly to her team coddling her or Rodney making comments about her baby bump!
Joe,
Thanks for letting fans share thoughts about Atlantis on your blog. I hesitate to post because 1) I've never posted a comment about a character before and 2) there seems to be quite a lot of tension about tonight's episode and I don't really know how I feel about throwing my hat in the ring, but I do feel strongly about Elizabeth's character. Surprisingly, I'm not a member of any Stargate online community so I didn't know fans were so divided.
I should clarify that that I'm not so much a fan of Weir as I am not a fan of "Characters Being Killed Off For No Reason." In three and a half seasons of SGA we've had the scientist from season one who got blowed up on the satellite (I could be the only one who liked him), Ford, Beckett, and now Weir. Beckett and Weir were the biggest surprises to me and the biggest losses. I'll be honest, I really don't know what direction the show is taking now. If there were a clear path as to the direction of Atlantis I'd feel more comfortable. As it is, it's a civilian operation with a military leader which makes no sense to me. After everything Atlantis and the crew has been through, I could very well see the IOA militarizing the expedition, but that hasn't been done. Carter is a military commander making (in the episodes she's been in) the same decisions Weir would have made. She's not in uniform ever, so, what is her role? I'm a big fan of Amanda Tapping and a fan of Samantha Carter, but the character of Carter is being compromised on Atlantis. She's not a scientist anymore, and she's not a military commander, so what is she?
Specifically to Weir, yes, I do miss her character and would like to see her back as a regular on the show. I think the dynamic of a civilian leader heading a team of military personnel was interesting. I think the character was interesting in that she was stuck between pleasing civilian leaders and trusting the ranking military leaders on Atlantis. I suppose I disagree with your view that an expedition leader should be a recurring character if only because this isn't Cheyenne Mountain, it's another galaxy. I see the expedition leader as integral to the operations of Atlantis, even more so than Hammond, O'Neill, and Landry were to the operations of the SGC. Since you're the producer though, obviously I will defer.
Regardless of whether Weir is coming back or not, I won't stop watching until the show starts to bore me. I will say it's getting there though. As much as I like Sheppard and McKay, I'm not terribly interested in the John and Rodney Hour. I enjoyed the ensemble nature of the show, and the further it gets away from that, the less interested I become. I really enjoyed the first three seasons of Atlantis, but the fourth is still up in the air for me.
Salut Joseph =)
Me revoila=D, je vous est manquer? non je ne panse pas, je ne manque jamais a personne^^
Vous avez etez désorienté de ne pas me voire sur votre blog hier, c'est pour sa que vous vous êtes trompé de jours^^.
Mais j'avais vraiment beaucoup de devoir...donc les cours avant tout.
Quesque c'est cette drole de chose rouge en photo? étrange.
Lol la video, Lulu a l'aire de bien s'amuser, je suis sur qu'aprés cette petit sorti sa etais => direction panier pour un gros dodo^^!
Je vousdrais bien vous voir parler francais un jour sur une video.
Toyota va faire ded robot qui joue du violon? quel intérêt? Il faudrais mieu en faire qui fasse la vaiselle, la lessive, qui lave le sol^^!
Demain vous pourez dédier votre blog a tout les fan francais de stargate? Car les temp son dure en ce moment pour nous.
Aller, énorme Kisou Kisou, je vous aime fort, vous m'avez manquer, Merci , a demain.
Hey there.
Speaking as Beckett and Weir fan, I really hope you bring those two back if not full time at least part time in Season 5.
I am in no way anti Carter and anti keller. I may be biased because I am a Jewel Staite fan from her Firefly work.
Is there any discussion to bring Weir back at least part time in season 5? If there isn't, is there anyway to encourage(in a respectful manner of course) the discussion?
LOL! I love Lulu in that vid. She's all, 'somebody chase me! Come on, you lazy pugs!' Heh! My boy, Buck was introduced to his first snow Wednesday and did some similar running about as Lulu.
Don't eat that borsch!
I've been reading your blog for a while but this is the first time I have been motivated to comment. Food poisoning incident #3 is not worth it, buy a new bag o'borsch.
I agree with your assessment of Mirror, Mirror. I felt it lost steam halfway through as well, and the depictions of the stone dog-dwarves was just too weird for me to wrap my head around.
Oh my gosh, that is the cutest video ever! Lulu! Running to and fro as fast as her little legs will carry her! Into the darkness and back out again!
Thanks for the giggles. :-)
Just a quick drop by to say a delayed "Congratulations" to Emily and I hope the two of you have a lovely dinner.
Loved the video of Lulu. Makes me miss the dogs we had when I was growing up. They all acted like that each winter. Even the outdoor ones. Our cats act very much the same with the first snow fall (racing around the house and enclosed porch as they aren't allowed outside) but it isn't nearly as cute as the dogs.
Will terrible conflict arise between what is right and what is desired for one or more of the Atlantis team members?
Bringing Amanda in to "replace" Torri could simply refer to the fact that they were using her to fill that particular gap in the show left by the decision to write Torri out, not that they took Torri out to specifically to bring Amanda in.
Oh GOD. Thank you, Wolfenm! Listening Comprehension and Logic 101, people! The writers had decided to write out the Weir character and now they had a hole. Then SG-1 was canceled and Amanda became available. So Amanda was hired to fill in the hole vacated by the loss of Weir. Does that make sense? How does this translate to Joe F. stating that Torri was fired because they were bringing Amanda onto the show? Joe M. keeps reiterating AD NAUSEAM (and not his fault, either!) that Torri was not fired for Amanda, and nothing Joe F. said anywhere makes me think differently.
For the record, I thought Weir was incredibly boring. The Real World was okay but not something I could watch a second time, and I couldn't even finish the one where she and Shep get taken over by aliens because I just couldn't buy the idea that she was capable of doing anything even remotely interesting. I loved Carson, but agree that his death was a much-needed dramatic punch in the gut. It added turmoil and a sense of doom without actually killing off one of the main team. And let's put it this way: killing Weir would not have had the same traumatic effect as killing Beckett, and that's why I think the decision was made to kill him.
I like learning about the new characters (Keller and Carter) on Atlantis and think that this is a nice reboot, similar to the "soft reset" from the beginning of the season. Beckett wasn't a gung-ho adventurer at the start either, and I get the feeling that John respects Sam immensely, because he understands the chain of command better as she's also military. They'll be no silly head-butting like the kind we saw in Hot Zone.
But none of this was Torri Higginson's fault. Like Ford, the writers just weren't clicking with her character and giving her good stories. I don't know if anyone can argue that Ronon Dex brought a really cool dimension to the main team that wasn't there before and likewise, the fact that Sam is military and a scientist and yet is still very much the newbie brings a sorely needed layer to the story. Did Beckett need to go? I wish he hadn't died, but he did. And it was horrible and great drama, and that's what they were going for. I think Keller will grow into her own because she (the character and the actress) also knows whose shoes she has to fill. She's doing an admirable job so far, imo.
Hi Mr. M!
A few comments and questions, and as always, a big thank you for your consistent blogging which is such a pleasure to read.
Comment the first: Your bookstore actually has a "chick lit" section? I'm no feminist, but even so, how offensive is that???
Question the first: A coworker who recently took a business trip to Montreal was telling us about a restaurant she went to there called "Noir". Have you ever been and if so, what were your thoughts?
Comment the second: I too miss the daily photos and videos. I know you already devote a lot of your time to this blog so it's selfish to request more, but nonetheless...carry your camcorder with you! :)
Question the second: will it be revealed why Teyla did not accompany Ronon, John, and Rodney to Earth in MC?
Comment the third: I quite enjoyed Miller's Crossing, though I was hoping for more "Ronon's impressions of Earth". I know it's not his first trip (cf Sunday) but it is the first time we've seen him there. Maybe in future trips? Together with the wraith/human/retrovirus thing in S2 we're seeing a lot of morally questionable behaviour out of our heroes, which is I think a strength of the show.
Question the third: Isn't the NID's very existence supposed to be somewhat classified? If so, why would they be wearing jackets with "NID" in big letters on them? I suppose those not in the know wouldn't understand what it meant, but wouldn't the Vancouver PD have to know?
Comment the fourth: McKay getting tasered, though not in Vancouver, in an episode that takes place partially there. How a propos.
Comment the fifth: You continue to rack up the word points for consistent excellent vocabulary usage. Kudos!
Looking forward to more Baron Destructo and of course, more tidbits about the show. :)
SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! Can't wait to see the pics you post from the AOT screening (especially of Michael, Amanda, and Chris). Of course I also want to see lots of pics of you too Joe. (g)
So big news for season 5 for fans of that character? Beckett's return maybe? Daniel's script/scripts for season 5 confirmed? Weir in season 5? All of the above? I know *sigh* I'll just have to wait and see. Unfortunately, patience is NOT one of my virtues.
I wonder how Joe Flanigan would like it if other actors mention at a convention how the ratings for SGA have dropped significantly over the first three seasons with him at the helm as the male lead actor of SGA? And now the drop between season 3 and season 4 is the smallest drop over the last four seasons (and in fact season 4 premiere actually got more viewers when considering DVR than the premiere of season 3). You can put any twist you want on the ratings. You can even say that the ratings would have been much lower had not the cast changes been made.
But all we really do know is that the ratings are good enough to get a season 5. They have been steady so far, and SGA has done well enough to get a fifth season. I'm thankful for that.
I don't intend this question to come across as if I'm not happy with the renewal of Atlantis because I really am but I'm wondering if you think that the decision to renew it has anything to do with the network wanting it to get to 100 episodes for syndication purposes?
"But none of this was Torri Higginson's fault. Like Ford, the writers just weren't clicking with her character and giving her good stories."
Yes, it's the fault of the writers. Characters are only as interesting as the stories written for them. The writers failed miserably.
Okay, another Teyla's baby comment:
I'm really hoping (please!) that Teyla just has a regular, ordinary, normal, non-wraithy, non-super-genius, standard issue baby. The name Lil Meow Meow is fine, but please no fur, whiskers, tail, or other weirdness. If it's gifted and skips the third grade, that's cool... just please nothing that will overpower the SGA plots.
Best,
Daen
Wow! Lots of posts about Weir being on the show, not being on the show, and I'm not going to comment, because it's all the same stuff over and over again from all sides, and I think it's getting boring now. What will be, will be.
So, I'm going to say this: I'm REALLY looking forward to TMC - it's sounds intriguing.
Lulu is totally adorable and completely barmy, just like my puppy Lucy. She runs around like a headless chicken just like Lulu does in the vid. What a sweetie little Lulu is!
I'm also wishing I had some snow here. It looks so...festive!
I'm looking forward to reading about the virtual dinner and the break down of TMC too. From a fan's perspective, it's really satisfying to understand the writer's thought process, so I'm very grateful you will take the time to do that. Thanks! Looks like it'll be an exciting weekend! :)
Joe:
Since you introduced the SG1 audience to Sara/Osiris in the "Curse", your favorite Daniel episode that you wrote, I was curious why we never saw Sara again after "Chimera"? I would have loved to have seen a follow-up episode to see how Sara and Daniel dealt with Osiris being removed, especially since Daniel wasn't able to save Shar'e.
Were you happy with the ending of Sara's storyline in "Chimera" or did you plan on the character coming back one day and that never materialized?
«I love Joseph Mallozzi said...
Me revoila=D, je vous est manquer? non je ne panse pas, je ne manque jamais a personne^^»
Ben si ça peut te faire du bien, moi tu m'as manqué !:)
Hi Joe!
I just discovered Stargate Atlantis about two months ago and I've only seen the first half of Season One so far. I'm taking it slow because I don't want it to ever end. I think the show is just awesome and I think I discovered it at just the right time in my life. :D
By the way, have you read "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho? If you have, could you share your thoughts on the book?
Yes, it's the fault of the writers. Characters are only as interesting as the stories written for them. The writers failed miserably.
Are you really saying the actor bears no responsibility for making a character interesting, eg by how they speak or move or engage the other actors in a scene? Wow, if that were true, casting directors could just pick names from a phone book!
I think when a character doesn't work, it reflects a downward spiral of creativity. The writer and/or actor don't give each other what they need, so the writers lose the inspiration to write for that character, the actor gets ever more frustrated, and something has to give. Putting it all on the writers is ridiculous.
You know, I was going to ask a follow up question to the one I asked yesterday, but I decided it's a moot point. It would have been some what if type question about Carter going to Atlantis and who would take her place on SG-1. Then I realized, perhaps I'm thinking about this stuff a little too much. What do you think? By the way, how do find the time to read all these comments and a couple of books, write several scripts, watch a season of Alias (or whatever show you may be watching)and also go out for a gourmet meal all in one day? Were you blessed with some sort of time condensing abilities or are there really two of you doing the work of one?
Hi Joe,
I must say that replacing Dr Weir with Sam Carter was the reason I stopped watching the show. Dr Heightmeyer was the last nail to this coffin for me. "This Mortal Coil" will be the first episode I'm going to watch since Doppelganger (and I missed Reunion).
I am so glad you said this because it indicates that you know exactly how I felt when I stopped watching SG-1 because of Vala and Mitchell. Whew - glad we cleared that up.
Joe,
George R. R. Martin's Game of Throne series is awesome! Can't wait for Atlantis this evening.
The Atlantis set looks huge!! How big is it really?
P.S. That plastic bag looks like a bag of blood!
Lulu is awesome. I'm still confused as to how she turned around so fast in the darkness of those bushes.
I, like most fans, miss Weir and Becket. But them being gone now makes watching the older episodes even more meaningful. Similairly to seeing Martouf or Janet Frasair on SG1 reruns. What is it with guys killing off the doctors in the stargate program? ;)
Also, I have to second the opinion that you need more pix/videos on your blog. Not that you need another reason to spend time on the blog, but it's always a high point of my day seeing the pups (especially loco Lulu).
jillian said
"As an avid reader would you suggest some really good books that are similar to Tom Clancy, James Patterson, and Robert Ludlum books? My father is reading a lot lately but I want him to try out some new genres for Christmas."
Just in case Joes' tastes are only in the fantasy/sci-fi area.....Vince Flynn has a great series of books that most any Tom Clancy fan should enjoy. All are good but Like Clancy, one builds from the other so start with TERM LIMITS.
"and Toyota invented a robot that could play the violin."
Saw video of it on YouTube, it could use a little work. For the record, self playing violins have successfully been around for a hundred years in the form of the Mills Violano-Virtuoso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mills_Novelty_Company) and the Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_MO8Pw0yys
For now I think that robot needs a little practice before he replaces the the Violina!
Ranger One said...
...but not as good as The Siege, Pt. 2
Brain malfunction. That should be The Siege, Pt. 3.
My, that is an impressively billowing bag of bacterial borscht. You should take it to some science lab-type place and find out just how evil it is. I suspect Baron Destructo would want to know. A thimble full of botulism bacteria can kill thousands of people. Or keep one aging Hollywood actress's face smooth for approximately six months. Take your pick.
Speaking of actresses, I'm surprised at how much I enjoy seeing Carter in Atlantis. I thought she was going to be this brainiac who comes up with all the answers, conveniently saving the day (sort of like Asgard beaming technology but with nice hair). Anyway, I really, REALLY like what you've done with Carter, making her uncertain at times and able to take a strong stand at others. I also appreciate the warmth Amanda brings to her role. Her longer hair is much nicer than the ratty, messy style she wore the last few seasons of SG-1. (I'm allowed to be as shallow as I am deep, so I had to mention the hair.)
"I think when a character doesn't work, it reflects a downward spiral of creativity. The writer and/or actor don't give each other what they need, so the writers lose the inspiration to write for that character, the actor gets ever more frustrated, and something has to give. Putting it all on the writers is ridiculous."
Agreed! Ms. Higginson certainly didn't add anything to Dr. Weir in episodes like The Defiant One, Instinct, The Tower, Irresponsible, Phantoms, The Ark, and Vengeance.
Wait, Dr. Weir either wasn't in those episodes or was barely present because the writers didn't do anything with her. Never mind.
It's not a good sign when the lead female of a show, second in the credits, "doesn't work" and is wallpapered as a result. Getting rid of her may appease fans who never liked her character but it concerns those who see such a move as the ultimate in creative failure.
*waves*
I can't remember if you said post, but don't post between 5 - 6, because you were chatting with Emily, so I think that's your time, not mine. ;) So, since I have no clue what time it is over there, or heck even what time it is here, i'm going to post this. If you're chatting, please excuse my rudeness, but i'm not sure i'll be awake later..... *brain is dying*
"Anonymous who is on a mission has said...For crying out loud, people. This debate about what Joe Flanigan did or didn't say is getting ridiculous.
I was there. Front and centre. He said:
"Amanda was brought in to replace Torri. They thought it would increase ratings to have her there, but it didn't"
Not word for word, but YES, he did say that Amanda was brought in to replace Torri. He did also say it was a plan to increase ratings.
The man has said it several times now, so stop pretending he doesn't feel that way, and stop acting as though he's not entitled to an opinion if, heaven forbid, it should differ from yours.
Anon, if it's ridiculous then i'm sorry, but why then bring it up in the first place? I wasn't there, so can't comment on the context, the inflection, the accuracy of what was/wasn't said. So speaking objectively. If I heard someone say that, then to me it would mean that Torri was leaving and they needed a replacement. Amanda/Carter has lots of fans so after Torri/Weir left they REPLACED her with Amanda/Sam and by that measure it's believed that given her loyal following from SG1 fans she would bring in that audience. Is that so hard to comprehend that, that was what was being said, and not your particular spin on things? See we all interpret things differently. And it all depends on our own perspective, doesn't it?
And to the other anon that thinks Shep fans are like bossy mom's? So? I'm neither bossy or a mom, i'm opinionated and cheeky. Bossy? Nah, what's the fun in telling someone what to do when all you have to do is post your point of view, and being right all the time, (like I am), they automatically see how wrong they are and want to amend the errors of their ways. ;)It may take some time, but you'll all come round to my way of thinking, especially in relation to Shirtless Shep. Let's face it, you know it and you love it. So, if that's being bossy, then I'll hold my hand up and say, yep that's me. :D
Anyway onto more pleasant things. Mr M, i'd just like to take this moment to put some people on your blog straight. For the record, I know for a fact that Linzi secretly ships for Todd and Shep, I know this because i've had conversations with her about this and I distinctly remember her saying that the Wraith was brought in for the chemistry between him and Shep, and their scenes together are just magical. And that she loves the CG wraith. Now I ask you, would any sane individual love a monster like the wraith. Ergo, that suggests to me that the wraith were brought in specifically to entice the Todd/Shepp slashers/shippers. i'm sure you'll concur on this issue. ;)
*looks at her long-winded post*
Oh well, Linzi was right one thing. ;)
Sorry, i've been up since 4AM travelling to London and back in the same day! And my brain has decided to go off into it's own little world. :D
*hugs*
Ooh and I love the vid of Lulu. So Mr M now that you're doing your stuff on the writing front, how's the whole season of shirtless Shep coming along? I'm sure that'll increase your ratings. Don't roll your eyes, Mr M, you know it's true. ;)
Hi Joe,
Long time reader, first time commenter.
Thank you for the LuLu post, I haven't laughed that hard in a couple of days... well there was the Leeroy Jenkins viral video someone showed me but... I digress.
I wanted to say, I appreciate how you handle the comments, you allow everyone their opinion, and even though it's your blog, you tend to give people the space to have their opinion no matter how right or wrong they may be.
I also find the tidbits of behind-the-scenes info fascinating, and an addition to my enjoyment of SGA.
I had an idea for your 1,000,000 visitor, A walk-on role.. Maybe a wriggling arm sticking out of a Wraith Cocoon? Or would that be more of a 1,000,000,000 visitor prize?
Thanks a bunch, from a fan in that US city to the south of you (you know the one with the SciFi museum.
Joel413
P.S. I had two spoons on my desk at work, I loaded your blog to read while enjoying my fantasic lunch of a microwaved grilled panini sandwich, string cheese and yogurt... and now I can't find them. What did you do with them?!
We've seen many a Replicator mind-probe a human to gather intelligence, cause hallucinations, etc. Would they ever try to do that with a Wraith?
Yes, I realize that the Replicators are programmed to kill the Wraith, not capture, but as they seem to be thinking outside the box, it seems this might be an avenue they might take. And since Wraith are at least partially originally human, then presumably they could also start taking the form of Wraith as they've learned to do with humans? Both would seem to be effective tactics to further the war.
I'm happy with the season so far, and as I never really liked Weir all that much, I can't say I miss her. I didn't hate the character, but felt no special attachment, so no complaints from this bit of the ever snowier Midwest.
Love Lulu in the snow.
Oh you read "Mirror Mirror"? I love Gregory Maguire! Have you read "Wicked" then? If so what did you think of it? I love it - its very political and angsty with really good strong female characters! The sequel "Son of a Witch" is also one of my favourites of his-if you haven't read either you should definatley pick them up!
Ronon brought a really great ... whatever to the show? Seriously? All I ever see him do is grunt and mumble.
Give me Ford over Ronon any day. Give me Beckett over Keller. Give me Weir over Carter.
This thing about something happening with a character in season five? It's Beckett. That was already said by fans at the Burbank convention.
That's great for his fans. I love that they'll be happy, because contrary to popular believe, Weir fans are actually reasonable. I would however love to see Torri given the same opportunity. Whether she want to do it or not is up to her, but I'd love her to at least be given the option of being a part of season five. She deserves it. Her fans deserve it. Season four hasn't been the raging success you seemed to think it would be without Beckett and Weir. Maybe you should have thought about that before dumping them in favor of the newcomers.
If you'd used all four of them, even if Beckett and Weir were cut to recurring, say 10-14 episodes each, so they could all be accommodated, it would have been a much better rated first half of the season. I'm convinced of that.
wolfenm said... And Majorsol's post actually proved my point there, intentional or no. ;) Unless someone polls every person in the viewership and asks them why they do or don't watch, there is nothing one can do but make assumptions.
it *was* meant to be intentional; my 'assumptions' were full of hot air. :p
sally ;)
What can you tell us about the Live+Same Day ratings for Miller's Crossing? Did they remain stable, go down or up with respect to The Seer?
It's a little late for the sheafrotherdon list of thank you's, but I'm adding mine.
Thank you so very much to you and all the crew who make the show that brings a smile to my face every single episode. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
"sunshine said...
Hi Joe,
I must say that replacing Dr Weir with Sam Carter was the reason I stopped watching the show. Dr Heightmeyer was the last nail to this coffin for me. "This Mortal Coil" will be the first episode I'm going to watch since Doppelganger (and I missed Reunion).
I am so glad you said this because it indicates that you know exactly how I felt when I stopped watching SG-1 because of Vala and Mitchell. Whew - glad we cleared that up."
Actually there is a HUGE difference here and you're extremely unfair. Vala and Mitchell DIDN'T REPLACED ANYBODY. They were the new characters introduced to the show, but not as a replacement for ANY of the characters. It was RDA's decision to leave the show and Amanda was only absent for 5 episodes due to the maternity leave. So please have a courage to be fair and be able to see the difference. Torri Higginson was simply kicked out of the show for completely NO reasons. The same with Paul McGillion, the same with actress who played Dr Heightmeyer. The same with Ford. So SHUT UP.
This thing about something happening with a character in season five? It's Beckett. That was already said by fans at the Burbank convention.
As happy as that would make me, I wouldn't make that assumption. Joe F. himself said he's not in-the-loop on these types of decisions ahead of time. It was just his view of the situation, not an official statement.
Shakespearean confusion, that's just what the show needs - "exit baby Goneril through the gate, pursued by Lady McShep and three bossy moms."
Lmao, Lulu is having her own fantastic adventure! She's dodging wraith darts in her imagination, leaping from their weapons fire, running desperately for cover in the hedge and then legging it from the wraith swarming in there! She must watch Atlantis while you're out at work.
She's an adorable dog, i have plans to own a miniature bull terrier (love their brutish snouts!), but i might have to look into finding a Lulu too! Everytime she shot into the far hedge and then came out a few seconds later from a different location, i got the feeling it was a different dog. You don't have some kind of replicator-device in your hedge do you?
I'd shied from commenting for a while, because i'm ashamed that i failed to provide the photos i said i would email to you... I might yet get around to it, but i figured holding back on commenting for that reason was a bit stupid, so to hell with it, comment i shall. I know. I live on the edge.
Your blog is providing me the most welcome entertainment every evening, and your patience and wit in the face of all the (often very rude) naysayers is admirable. I'm also astounded at how much you manage to pack into your days, and i think i'm going to start enjoying adventurous food vicariously through you. Because i love the idea of it, right up until it goes in my mouth, at which point i wish i'd listening to my stomach and stuck with steak and mash.
Enjoy your virtual dinner at Fuel with yon 750,000th blog visitor!
Wow. I've never read many of the blog comments before. While I knew some of the characters had huge fan bases, I had no idea the fans were so heated in their arguments. My 2 cents on all the cast changes...
I miss Ford but would rather not see his character back if he's still hyped up on wraith enzyme. That was getting a little old. I really liked happy, innocent Ford and I think it'd be cool to have a future plot where he returns (enzyme free) and everyone (and Ford himself) has to deal with having him back but having him be a different man he was than he left. Possibly also showing his subsequent return to earth. I know it's probably too internal to make a good visual, but, it'd be nice if you could manage something. :)
I was happy to see Beckett leave the show because his character was getting very tiresome with the wringing of the hands. I loved the questionable morality plots during Beckett's wraith experimentation period, but then Beckett got v. repetitive and annoying and it was a relief to have him leave.
I was indifferent to Weir leaving the show.
As far as the additions. LOVE Ronon. But I'm not feeling the love for Keller or Carter yet. Loved Carter on SG-1. Loved Jewel in Firefly. But so far on SGA I mostly feel bored when they're on screen. And occasionally annoyed at Keller for her wimpiness -- even when she's straightening her spine there's a lack of confidence that makes me want to slap her. Please fix her soon. I'm still waiting for both characters to settle in, and hope/expect to attach to them more by the end of the season. The Teyla/Keller ep gave me hope that Keller will develop into someone I enjoy spending time with.
As always, I adore the core team. I think the four of them are a great mix right now and can't wait to find out how the boys handle Teyla's pregnancy.
I'll be watching both MC and TMC tonight as I missed MC last week and I'm really, really looking forward to it. I've tried to skip the spoilers for MC but some have been unavoidable. I'm thinking the shirtless shep comments in your blog might be episode related. Either way they got me thinking about a scene that I'd love to see....the marines (with Lorne) digging something on a hot dirty planet, shirts off. :D And don't forget some great forearm shots.
Anyway, love the show. Can't wait to see what happens the rest of the year. Thank you!
Hello Joe -
I've only left a few comments on your blog so far, and I can't remember if I've left this one, although I've thought it plenty:
One of the things I love about your blog is that you say what you think in response to people you feel are rude or misguided. I spend a lot of time online biting my figurative tongue and not saying what I think in response to attitudes like that, so I'm kind of living vicariously through you. :P
I mean, I love reading your blog just in general, but that's kind of like...icing, sort of. I appreciate it. Even when I don't agree with you, I appreciate it.
Also, I wanted to say that while it's always a little heartbreaking as a fan to lose characters I love, the stories during which the characters were lost have been compelling and interesting. I don't feel as though Grodin & Ford in seasons 1 & 2, and then Beckett and Weir last season were tossed out because someone got up one morning, decided a character should die, and played 'eeny meeny miney moe' to choose who to axe. I also don't feel that the show didn't love those characters as much as I did. If that makes sense. The stories did them justice. I really love that.
I also love the way that Ronon, Keller and Carter were integrated into the show, and that they aren't at all carbon copies of those who came before them.
SGA is a wonderful show. It's the show that drew me to the Stargate universe - I caught the end of season 1, and decided that I should check out at least some of SG-1 to catch up on the universe and the concepts. That led to a brief engagement with Netflix which turned into buying and devouring six seasons of SG-1 over the course of a summer. Possibly insane, but totally worth it! :P And SGA keeps getting better; this season has been absolutely fantastic so far.
That went a bit longer and gushier than I had planned, but, yes. Anyhow.
Thanks,
a.l.
To all the gripers: do you think Joe is going to read your doomsday prophecies about ratings and fan reactions and think "Crap, you guys are like frickin' Nostradamus! Tell me how to make it right!" ?
You people are thinking of the Carter issues too much in terms of the real world and not enough in terms of the fictional world of SGA. If something tragic happened to Weir, as it did, she would need a replacement. Easily the most qualified person to replace her at SGC is Carter, who is uniquely qualified to head a military/scientific expedition. Her extensive offworld travel and wealth of experience mean that she can recognise and deal with situations that someone less experienced might not understand (Doppleganger was a great example!) In fact, it would be sort of crazy if the SGC had put someone else in while Carter was available.
What I admire about SGA is that you guys are willing to kill or write out fairly central characters. This makes the show a lot more gritty and realistic than most other Sci Fi. It would be patently ridiculous if everyone from the original expedition team survived. Just because one aspect of your show is almost inherently outlandish (wormhole travel!) doesn't mean everything else shouldn't be as realistic as possible.
Just one question for you, Joe. Are we going to see a little more exploration of the Teyla/Ronon dynamic? I don't mean in terms of the ship, but in terms of how they relate to each other as the only Pegasus natives in Atlantis.
Love the blog!
My apologies if this has been asked repeatedly. I searched this page and didn't find it and haven't heard information on this question elsewhere, so I thought I'd come to the source:
It was reported that Torri Higginson would be in four episodes this season. With tonight's episode, that makes three. As far as I know, she isn't mentioned as appearing in any other episodes (not on cast lists at the moment). Is there another episode in the back half of the season that she will appear in? I'd be grateful if you could clarify this.
-anonymouse.
Just watched TMC and I'm horrified at how poorly you treated poor Weir. Killed off screen and mentioned in passing by a new, and much disliked wimp (Keller). RepliWeir gets few scenes and then sacrifices herself. Good grief, you sure hate this character!
Excuse me while I change channels, as I can't stand what you've done to two good characters lately. Sheesh, death off-screen and exploding tumors. No, it isn't the characters who need replacing, its the writers.
Hello. I just found this blog and I wanted to say "Thanks!" to Joe M. for it. I look forward to coming back very, very often.
I have only seen a few episodes of season four since we don't get Sci-Fi Channel and have liked some stuff and hated other parts, but I am witholding judgement until I see more. I do hope they bring back Beckett sometime and do it well. I was honestly relieved when Weir left the show. I always found myself incredibly frustrated by her character or lack thereof.
And I read some comments that expressed a dislike of all the Shepherd and Mckay screen time. McKay is my favorite character on SGA and so I am very happy to here that we get to see a lot of him. The writers have given the core team a great dynamic and I hope that you continue to develop that team and friendship bond throughout the rest of season four and, amazingly, season five.
Thanks again, Joe!
Now I must go find someone who has recorded "Miller's Crossing"! What dark side?!?
JM said: It was a script that required a lot of rethinking, re-ordering, and dialogue massaging to present a complex story in as concise, informative, and entertaining a way as possible. It was hell, but there are some very touching character moments that I thought turned out very nicely.
I wanted to post this at the end of today's blog update, because I know it's a lot of time (and sometimes work) to read through all the comments you receive, but since it technically pertains to this blog, I'll post it here.
I just wanted to say that, having just watched the episode (twice! I really do love the Sci-Fi Channel), I think that all your "rethinking, re-ordering, and dialogue massaging" worked out wonderfully.
I know that you aren't the only one who had a hand in it, and if I had the email addresses of the other people to praise, I'd send them all an email thanking them for the wonderful work they do to produce this show that I love at the same high quality week after week.
I thought it was fascinating that I could tell that there was something wrong from the moment Lorne talked to Sheppard, primarily because we don't actually get to see him very often (all things considered) and we still knew that there was something not quite right.
I think the mark of a great show is that the audience and fans forget that the supporting actors aren't just always there in the background like their characters are supposed to be. That it makes sense when they're not there just as much as it makes sense when they are.
The meet and greet between the two teams was awesome, and I loved the really touching (read: heart-rending) conversations that Rodney had with both Radek and John. The acting talent on that set is simply incredible.
To sum up a rather long-winded comment, I just wanted to say thank you, again, for all the hard work that everyone puts into these episodes, and for keeping a blog so that we might be able to tell you how much we, your fanbase, truly appreciate it. 'Cause we do, even if you don't hear it often enough.
I give "This Mortal Coil" four thumbs-up. You guys outdid yourselves. Excellent eppy!
Alright...er, back to business...the replicators downloaded new information from the original team and uploaded it into the clones. Were the replicator's aware that Teyla was pregnant? If so, were they able to clone the baby? If not, why didn't the cloned Teyla pull the real McCoy aside and ask her if she was still carrying?
Alright, so that's it. Thank you for taking the time to read my questions; and once again, if I hadn't made it clear then I ought to now. "This Mortal Coil" was an outstanding episode. SGA has one talented group of writers at their helm. And I loved seeing Dr. Zelenka and Major Lorne again.
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