Joseph Mallozzi's Blog! (SPOILERS For All SG Shows and Dark Matter)

[Sami_]

Looking ahead to a short week on the production side. Prep on Stargate: Universe’s second season ends as we head into production on the season finale, Gauntlet.

I thought that it said "series finale" for a second there.

[Pharaoh Atem]

I thought that it said "series finale" for a second there.

kinda hard consider syfy hasn't made a decision yet

[Skydiver]

bear in mind also, in the UK and australia, what we in the us call a season, they call a series.

so while we have 'season finale's every year, they have 'series finale' every year

can lead to some confusion

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...ics-and-links/

November 8, 2010

Photos: SGU concept art


Today, we started production on our final episode of the season: Gauntlet. There is one scene still outstanding, however, and it looks like I may be the one to write it – right after I finish my producer’s edit of The Hunt tomorrow. We’ve finally got all the scenes from the new set (where, not so coincidentally, we were shooting today) and, once I’ve seen them in the cut, I’ll have to decide what stays and what goes. Unless, of course, the network wants to run a very special extra three minute long episode.

At some point, I have to shift focus to generating a restaurant list for my upcoming Tokyo trip. Unlike previous years, all my lunches and dinners will not be Michelin star-studded affairs. I’ll be traveling with Ivon, so we’ll play it by ear most lunches. Still, it would be nice to book the odd high-end blow-out. I was thinking heading back to Ishikawa or Sawada or Kanesaka. Anyway, I usually stay at The Peninsula in Ginza but, this time out, I’ll be staying at The Imperial Hotel. And am already regretting it. Apparently, the hotel doesn’t have an email account for guest services. Instead, I’ll have to fax over my restaurant request. I suppose it could be worse. We could be communicating by carrier pigeon. Strike One.

Here are a few production pics for you to guess at/marvel over. What IS that last thing?

And a few links to check out...

The Driscoll Middle School football team pulls off an amazing trick play: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/1..._n_780483.html

Like the above link, this one comes compliments of Carl Binder who scours the internet so I don’t have to. Spot the phony smiles. I scored 15/20: http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbo...urveys/smiles/.

Nutrition Professor loses 27 pounds on the Twinkie and Dorito Diet: http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/08...sor/index.html

A reminder that episode #207, The Greater Good, airs tomorrow night (Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. on SyFy). It’s an episode Joseph Dilworth Jr. calls a game changer: http://popculturezoo.com/archives/7274

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...stopher-moore/

November 9, 2010

Photo: Bloodsucking Fiends – A Love Story, by Christopher Moore


Apologies to those who were waiting for me to wade in with my thoughts on November’s Book of the Month Club pick: Bloodsucking Fiends – A Love Story, by Christopher Moore. For some reason, I thought discussion on the novel wasn’t scheduled to begin until the week of the 15th. Fortunately, while I didn’t get around to reading the right sidebar of this blog which would have reminded me of the correct date, I DID read Bloodsucking Fiends.

And loved it. But I suppose it should come as no surprise. I picked up Moore’s Fool on a lark last month and was utterly delighted by the ribald and riotous retelling of Shakespeare’s King Lear told from point of view of the king’s scurrilous but big-hearted fool. While reading the book on set, I had several crew members walk up and offer me some reading suggestions: “You should check out A Dirty Job” or “You’ve got to read The Gospel According to Biff” or “Once you’re done with that, you really need to pick up The Stupidest Angel“. Yes, yes, and yes. Soon after, I returned to my local bookstore and picked up the aforementioned titles – and more, including Bloodsucking Fiends. Since so many of you commented on Moore’s work, I thought I’d drop the author a quick email and ask him if he’d be interested in coming by for a short (and relatively painless) visit in support of his book. Chistopher Moore was kind enough to oblige and, well, here we are.

Did I mention I loved it? Which, now that I think of it, is a little surprising given the fact that between True Blood, Twilight, and the the myriad of variations thereof, I’m pretty damn vampired out. Lucky for me Bloodsucking Fiends, published back in 1995, offers a refreshingly different take on the subject. For starters, our main players are C. Thomas Flood, a hapless wanna-be writer struggling to adjust to his new life in the big city, and Jody, a neophyte vampire struggling to adjust to her new life as an undead being. The book upends the standard male vampire/lovesick female victim conceit with brilliant results. Jody is the strong heroine who must not only adjust to the challenges of vampirehood, but seek out answers to her supernatural state AND fight to safeguard the life of the mere mortal she loves. Flood is the weak and somewhat overwhelmed love interest, trying to make sense of the bizarre situation AND hold down a job at the local Safeway. It makes for a terrific dynamic, partly because it’s an inspired tack on a weathered chestnut, but mostly because the characters are so damn endearing.

Creating believable characters is tough; creating believable characters in a work of humor – particularly one as broad as this – is even tougher, yet Moore does a fine job here, not only with our protagonists but with the supporting players as well. The detectives, the gang at the Safeway, and the Emperor of San Francisco are all imbued with enough quirks and color to make them distinct and memorable, each and every one. And once you’re invested in the characters, you’re automatically invested in their individual stories. Here, again, Moore works his magic, crafting some spirited, poignant, and altogether satisfying journeys for all. Jody and Tommy assert their independence yet learn they needn’t be alone. The Safeway boys graduate from turkey bowling to vampire hunting. The Emperor of San Francisco affirms his magnificence – in the eyes of the reader at least.

Bloodsucking Fiends contains plenty of fun little twists, revelations and surprises including the means by which the threat of the “bad” vampire is dealt with at novel’s end. Even though it was set up, I didn’t see it coming. And yet even though the story draws to a close, it’s clearly not the end for our protagonists, Jody and Tommy, the unlikeliest of couples, who doubtless face one hell of an interesting future together. As the first installment in what I understand is a trilogy, Bloodsucking Fiends: A Love Story manages to provide a comforting conclusion while simultaneously offering the suggestion of wonderful and wonderfully hilarious things to come.

Well, those are my initial thoughts on the book. What did everyone else think? Post away your comments and questions for author Christopher Moore. I’ll be gathering them up and sending them his way this weekend.

Oh, and what did you think of Stargate: Universe’s The Greater Good? It aired tonight on SyFy, y’know.

Of course you do.

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...lenge-mailbag/

November 10, 2010

Photos: SGU ep #220 Gauntlet concept art


Production on episode #220, Gauntlet, the BIG season finale continued today. How BIG a finale? Well, let me put it this way – the booming bass of the thunderous happenings on Stage 5 were reverberating all the way up to the writers’ room ALL AFTERNOON. On a somewhat related note...

What hath wrought such destruction?

Beats the hell out of me, but I can’t wait to find out!

Thanks to everyone who weighed in with their thoughts on last night’s episode, #217, The Greater Good. Carl (“You like me! You reaaaally like me!”) Binder was thrilled to hear so many enjoyed his latest epic.

Fans in Canada have to wait until Friday night to check out The Greater Good, but they also get an extra treat when the entire cast puts in an appearance on Innerspace immediately following the show. So, those of you in Canada, make sure to check out Stargate: Universe this Friday night at 9:00 p.m., then stick around for the SGU fun.

Also, thanks to those who have started weighing in with their thoughts on November’s Book of the Month Club selection, Christopher Moore’s Bloodsucking Fiends: A Love Story. Keep those questions and comments coming!

Thanks to blog regular Arctic Goddess for this interesting link to The Meaning of Dog Barks. Listen to six different barks and guess interpret their meanings. I went 5-1.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/nature/...dog-barks.html

My Snow Monkeys are on the cusp of serious playoff contention and need YOUR help. This weekend, I’m starting Schaub over Matt Ryan, and going with monster RB’s Foster and Gore. My wide receivers are a big question. Which three should I start between: the underachieving Brandon Marshall (playing at home with a new QB), the overachieving Percy Harvin (playing in Chicago with a bum ankle and migraines), Steve Breaston (playing a weak ‘hawks D at home on grass but coming off a weak effort last weekend), or Dez Bryant (who scored two TD’s vs. the Giants last time they met, but is playing their tough D in NY this time out).


Mailbag:

Lewis writes: “Which Stargate scientist do you think is smarter? Carter, McKay, or Rush?”

Answer: We’re talking about three exceptionally intelligent individuals but, if I had to rank them (and there are several variables to consider when doing so, ie. intelligence derived from book learning, intelligence derived from experience, application of knowledge to varied scenarios, etc.) I would rank them:

#1: Samantha Carter

#2: Rodney McKay

#3: Nicholas Rush

Kyle writes: “When Rush and Young went to the other ship, was Young’s bump into the doorway scripted?”

Answer: It wasn’t scripted. However, on the day, writer/Exec. Producer Carl Binder was on set and noticed that the dwarfed size of the alien ship interior wasn’t really playing, so he asked Louis to include that little bump to convey the sense of tighter quarters.

Kassian writes: “Please, please can you tell me something regarding her story arc, because I love Julies charakter Ginn and it´s just heartbreaking what happened to her.”

Answer: What happened to her? If you think you know, think again because this is science fiction, after all. Anything can happen. And will.

Nathan writes: “Those guards should’ve been completely focused. Any thoughts as to why there was no guard with him???”

Answer: Now that you mention it, that IS strange. After all, we did establish the fact that all Lucian Alliance prisoners are only been permitted out of their quarters with an armed escort. What happened to Simeon’s guard? Hope he’s okay. Well, guess we’ll find out next week. I mean

Michelle writes: “Bloodsucking Fiends had me at the first sentence [...] My only quibble was I felt the ending was a bit abrupt. I mean, I know what’s going to happen next, but there seem to be threads hanging, like the scientist and the poor Emperor, what will happen to Ben Sapir and whether Tom will be happy with his “new life”.”

Answer: I knew it was the first installment of a trilogy so I wasn’t that bothered by some of the hanging threads although, now that you mention it, the ending did feel a little abrupt. Also, I probably missed it, but how did Jody figure out that Ben’s killing was altruistic in nature? I mean, I know she was able to glimpse the foreboding dark aura of death in her victims, but how did she know that Ben’s victims possessed the same aura?

John M. Hammer writes: “I think that it has become painfully obvious that Rush needs to be replaced as head of the science team.”

Answer: You’re not the only one…as we’ll learn later this season.

Nate writes: “1.) Concerning the mission, since the Ancients have ascended, is it safe to assume they already know what the structure or message is?”

Answer: I suppose it’s safe to make that assumption.

“2.) The mission sounds like proofing of god or the creation of the universe being done by some form of life, how far off am I?”

Answer: No comment. Answers forthcoming as the pieces of puzzle come together.

“3.) In a blog you posted awhile back you referred to having the ending of the show planned out…assuming the plan is to finish the Destiny’s mission…isn’t that a little to convenient, considering the Destiny has been going for millions of years then all of a sudden a group of humans show up and with in a few years Destiny completes its mission?”

Answer: All I can say is – nope. Offering anymore in the way of a response would give too much away.

Devris writes: “How in the hell Simeon is not kick out of the destiny? What kind of justification are the HomeWorld security have to keep that lunatic onboard?”

Answer: Well, let’s just say Simeon can look forward to a stern talking to next episode.

E writes: “How did you come up with the idea of Destiny’s mission? You as in the writers.”

Answer: Actually, Brad and Robert had the idea for the ultimate mission. We discussed it internally, ran it by our Creative Consultant John Scalzi, then decided on a game plan on how to introduce, develop, and, ultimately, pay it off. Great things to come!

“Are the TJ flashbacks gone for good from “The Hunt”?”

Answer: Alas, yes. In completing my Producer’s Cut 1 of The Hunt, I had to strip away the T.J. flashbacks. Still, they’re self-contained and could be integrated into a future story provided we get that third season pick up. Not using them here will push me to come up with another T.J.-centered episode next year.

Tim Gaffney writes: “The strange thing is that someone asked him a question about why you, Mr. M, hate him.”

Answer: Really? Last I checked, the only things I hate are tabouleh and biting the side of my cheek.

JYS writes: “which restaurant in Vancouver has the best peking duck?”

Answer: Good question. I like Fortune Garden on West Broadway and Imperial Chinese Seafood on Burrard.

Mr. Fartleberry writes: “Are you going to Toronto as part of the SGU delegation at the Geminis?”

Answer: As much I love and respect award shows with an admiration usually reserved for tabouleh, I’ve decided to pass.

DJ writes: “All production related issues aside. If you had the chance to do an episode featuring only one character out of the entire franchise, which would you chose, and why?”

Answer: Oooh, tough question. If I could only choose one to feature, I’d probably go with Vala Mal Doran.

Cuper MacLeod writes: “Would buying the DVD sets have any bearing on a decision for a 3rd season pickup?”

Answer: Purchasing the DVD’s and episode downloads from iTunes may not factor into the network’s decision making process, but they certainly go a long to fueling the studio’s desire to ensure the show gets another season.

babancat writes: “And finally, will we see a return to ‘Weird Food Purchase of the Day’ … perhaps on your upcoming travels?”

Answer: Since I’m headed to Tokyo, you can count on it.

Greg writes: “What benefit does he gain from not telling anyone about the bridge?”

Answer: He could have many reasons for not telling anyone – 1) He fears Young could dictate the pace of the research, potentially prohibiting it outright like he did with the chair, 2) He doesn’t trust the others enough not to screw things up and prefers getting the lay of the land before allowing them access, 3) He wants first shot at Destiny’s secrets in the event he can make use of them to further a personal agenda. To name a few.

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...ching-mailbag/

November 11, 2010

Video: SGU mystery vid


Let’s kick things off with a little mystery clip from the set of Stargate: Universe...

So, what is everyone watching? Beside Stargate: Universe of course. My weekly viewing schedule is made up of -

The Walking Dead: I love the fact that Frank Darabont has taken the source material, the brilliant comic book series by Robert Kirkman, produced a series that has remained true to Kirkman’s original vision, yet built upon it to create a unique and thoroughly enthralling show. Great to hear it’s alright received a second season order.

House: In it’s seventh season, it’s showing no signs of slowing down. Love the character interaction – although, I’m not a fan of the House/Cuddy romance. It’s like imagining your parents together. brrrrrh.

Survivor: I know, I know. As a writer, I should abhor reality television – and yet, I have to admit that this series has always been a guilty pleasure. Not as engaging as previous seasons, but the colorful (read: insane) characters make for entertaining viewing.

The Amazing Race: The show my buddy Carl calls “The fastest hour on television”. I’m not as invested as I was in previous seasons, but it’s always great to see the contestants hit Tokyo.

Top Chef: Apparently, we’re behind in Canada as the winner has already been crowned south of the border, but I’m enjoying Hail to the Chef, even though the product placement can get very tiresome. And I still want to know: DID Alex steal the pea puree?!!

F Word: My favorite of the Ramsay shows if only because he actually comes across as human in this one. This season, he’s pitting restaurants against each other in the quest to find England’s best. I was loving it up until the semi-finals in which one of three restaurants is eliminated before it even has a chance to compete.

Hell’s Kitchen: It’s the same every season but it always amazes me how many chefs are – 1) chain-smokers, 2) social awkward, 3) just out-and-out crazy.

My friends tell me I should be watching The League (and not only because I seem to be living it). With the first two issues of the comic book complete and my Tokyo restaurant list almost done, that’s next on my list of Things to Do.

So, what ARE you watching?

Today’s blog entry is dedicated to the men and women of our armed forces, past and present.


Mailbag:

Alexandria writes: “1 – Do you truly believe that angry SGA/SG1 fans are to blame for the low ratings for SGU? Or have impacted the ratings so significantly to go from over 2 million viewers live at the premiere of season 1 to 0.96 million viewers in the second season?”

Answer: Clearly, you have me confused with someone else. In my recent blog posts, I’ve made pretty clear the reasons I believe the ratings have been impacted (ie. the change to Tuesday nights with its increased competition, increasing use of alternate means of viewing the show, etc.). Angry former fans was not among them.

“2. Was it low ratings that caused the cancellation of SGA?”

Answer: I’m the wrong guy to ask. It wasn’t my decision. Ratings could certainly have been factor even though the show’s numbers were actually picking up in its fifth season. It’s easy to look back and say “Hey, the show was doing a 1.4!” it would never be cancelled today, but I’d argue that if it was airing today – on Tuesday nights with the increase in downloads and DVR use over the past couple of years since it last aired – it wouldn’t be doing a 1.4, and its numbers would most likely be around the same ballpark as SGU’s.

“3. If you believe that those angry fans had such pull to negatively affect SGU, then wouldn’t Atlantis still be on the air?”

Answer: See my response to question 1.

“4. What mostly does the network consider when deciding to renew or cancel a show?”

Answer: Mostly? Ratings. Specifically live+SD and live+3 numbers.

“5. Cost wise, is SGU more expensive to produce than shows like Sanctuary?”

Answer: I’m not sure what you mean by “like Sanctuary” but certainly given the size of the cast and our visual effects budget, it’s safe to say SGU is more expensive to produce than Sanctuary.

@iom666 writes: “I am a little bit upset at the Scifi channel as I believe putting #SGU on a Tuesday night was an attempt to sabotage the show ratings on purpose.”

Answer: I disagree. The move to Tuesday night was an attempt to increase viewership. Tuesday nights have been good nights for other SyFy shows – although, in retrospect, those were summer shows. Also, when the decision was made, I saw the logic in the move – given that more people are home watching t.v. on Tuesday nights, I was hoping that, even if our total audience numbers remained unchanged, we would benefit from less people recording the show for later viewing meaning we would see a bump in those live+SD numbers. Obviously, that wasn’t the case as the live +7 numbers suggest as many and more are recording the show on Tuesday nights.

Michael writes: “3) Who came up with the backseat driving scene with Dr. Perry, Volker, Eli, and Brody in the bridge? It was a rare hilarious scene.”

Answer: The writer of the episode, Carl Binder.

“4) After seeing that abandoned and battler worn Ursini ship, is it safe to assume they and the Blueberry aliens aren’t the best of friends?”

Answer: That remains to be seen. The Ursini may have bigger fish to fry.

Sean D. writes: “If, god forbid, the network doesn’t renew the show, might the producers try to get the show another season via another network?”

Answer: Hopefully such a scenario won’t even enter the equation and, two months from now, we’ll be collaborating with our friends at SyFy on bring you SGU’s third season.

Raynan writes: “Ah, Joe? You still (I told you a few days ago in comments) have your episode numbers wrong, if I’m not mistaken? “The Greater Good” should be #207, if you haven’t revamped the numbering system along the way .”

Answer: Yes, my bad. I’m getting ahead of myself. The Greater Good was, in fact, episode #207.

Andrew writes: “It would be nice if it were taken into account when deciding on an extension of that too, to exist here also still a market that settles back the money for a season – this product is selled world-wide, so look at the fans all over the world!”

Answer: Like dvd and download sales, the show’s performance in overseas markets has a huge impact on the studio’s decision re: the show’s future. Obviously, the more downloads, dvd, and foreign sales, the more the studio will be motivated to ensure the show continue on. So keep watching! Your support is important!

Simon writes: “1) First off, tell Carl on mybehalf that he has been forgiven! Joking, of course. Anyway on to my question, are you guys happy with the Live + 7 numbers more so than the same day?”

Answer: Sure, I suppose they’re informative.

“2) Great news on the movies! Any more developments on that end? Are the new management interested in keeping Stargate alive?”

Answer: Issues still being settled on the studio front. Hopefully more news on the movie front in the coming months.

Oreol writes: “Also, in the worst case scenario, having the ending of the show planned out, would it be possible to publish it on your blog?”

Answer: Definitely not. Sorry.

avabird writes: “Joe, how are the dogs and the fam?”

Answer: All good. Maximus (pictured in my banner) is recovering from eye surgery. Mom and sis will be spending Christmas with me in Vancouver.

dasNdanger writes: “Remember all that stuff I nagged about, stuff I wanted? The tension between characters? The conflict? The sacrifices? The questionable decisions? The bad guy coming through? The good guy going south? The consequences of one’s actions? And everything else? Well, the show has truly delivered!”

Answer: Only because you asked nicely.

Stryse writes: “What’s your take on this apparent shift in the way shows are getting made, moving into a more serialized format where viewers kind of do need to tune in week after week to follow along? How do you think the networks need to shift their paradigms to mitigate their risks with new shows of this format, so as to give them a proper chance, but not alienate whatever audience those shows manage to capture before they get cancelled?”

Answer: I prefer serialized shows like The Sopranos, Six Feet Under, and The Wire, but they seem to work better at a home like HBO where the emphasis is less on ratings and more on crafting a series that will, in time, build a loyal following, an audience willing to pay a premium for these shows (either via downloads, subscriptions, or DVD). Nowadays, if you’re not strong out of the gate or begin to lag a little in the first leg, there’s a good chance you won’t get to finish the race. While I agree our show is more serialized than either SG-1 or Atlantis, I think we’re striving – and, hopefully, succeeding – in producing a show that offers a little of both: developing story and character arcs along with standalone stories. As for what the networks need to do to mitigate the risks – I would strongly urge them to look into alternate means of gauging a show’s popularity that incorporate the increasing use of developing technologies by today’s tech-savvy consumers.

Connor P writes: “You said that it would be a shame to cancel SGU early because you have the storyline all mapped out. Does that mean that you have the entire plot sequence mapped out, e.g. if all goes well, SGU will be x seasons long, with the finale coming in y years. Or do you just have the end of the overarching plot line designed, and you can drop it in at the end of whatever season you want, and draw the seasons out as long as you want with subplots in the middle?”

Answer: There are a number of arcs and elements that will figure into the ultimate finale we have planned. Ideally, we’d get five years to tell the entire story in satisfactory fashion but, if it came down to it, we could pay it off over the course of a single season.

Montrealer writes: “Afraid not. IIRC part of contract with Skiffy (AKA SyFy) effectively give them a veto to new production of a show they aired on a new network.”

Answer: Hey, I wasn’t aware you worked in the network’s legal department.

Joan001 writes: “And Vala Mal Doran – as I said before, she is probably the only one who could show up on Destiny and be a solid fit.”

Answer: As much as I love the character (and I really, really do), I couldn’t disagree with you more. Totally different sensibility.

Randomness writes: “Just wanted to point something out as people here obviously are doing a renewal campaign. Letter writing does get the attention of studios/networks.”

Answer: Even more effective than a letter writing campaign is getting friends and family (and their friend and family) to tune in to the show Tuesday nights at 9:00 p.m. on SyFy. THAT DEFINITELY gets the network’s attention.

Elminster writes: “@Joe – What’s Canada’s ratings for SGU? I have a feeling that the number of viewers from Canada, England and Australia would out-perform the USA’s.”

Answer: SGU does very well on Canada’s Space channel averaging about 350 000 viewers per episode, which is all the more impressive when you consider the fact that Canada has roughly one tenth the population of the U.S.

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...ading-mailbag/

November 12, 2010

Photo: Books


Thanks to everyone who took the time to fill me in on their viewing habits. Some wildly varied tastes out there. Keep those t.v. lists coming!

To those who may have missed it (ie. anyone who lives outside of Canada), here’s a link to the Stargate: Universe segment that aired on Canada AM this morning -

The cast of ‘Stargate Universe’ (or check the right sidebar for the link).

Thanks to Craig for the heads up!

Some great reviews of SGU episode #207, The Greater Good.

Here: http://www.tvsquad.com/2010/11/11/st...isode-7-recap/

Here: http://www.tvovermind.com/cable/syfy...07-recap/38272

And here: http://io9.com/5686940/sgus-finally-...e-greater-good

While Robert Carlyle (SGU’s Dr. Nicholas Rush) talks about the episode with Show Patrol’s Curt Wagner here:

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/show...d-in-rush.html

And, if you’re hankering for a (potentially spoilerific) sneak peek at next week’s episode, Malice, take a look over here:

http://www.daemonstv.com/2010/11/12/...sode-8-photos/

In non Stargate-related matters (aka – my life), I’ve almost finalized my Tokyo restaurant list. Unlike previous years when I’ve booked Michelin starred restaurants for both lunch and dinner, I’m only going to go with a few high-end choices requiring reservations and will play the rest by ear. More or less. Even though I won’t book the tables, I have a rundown of places I want to check out, covering the gamut of Japanese cuisine – restaurants specializing in: ramen, soba, sushi, unagi, anago, tempura, yakitori, kushiage, and maybe (when my travel buddy Ivon isn’t looking) even suppon.

With the cast in Toronto for food and fun, today was a production holiday. I celebrated by doing a little shopping and, again, adding to my burgeoning to-read pile:

Clockwise from left to right starting from the top:

First King of Shannara by Terry Brooks: I vary my reading and, occasionally, like to dabble in high fantasy. To be honest, I don’t know much about this book but picked it up on the recommendation of Robert Cooper’s wife who, apparently, is a bit of a fantasy junkie.

Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind: Another heavy-hitter of the fantasy genre and another author I’ve been looking to check out. In the case of both Goodkind and Brooks, I’ll start with the first book in a series and see where it takes me. In the case of some past fantasy authors (ie. Joe Abercrombie and George R. R. Martin), this particular strategy has taken me quite far.

The Attraction by Douglas Clegg: I’m a sucker for good horror novels and this one, about a group of young travelers who run afoul of a horrific roadside attraction, sounds like good, creepy fun.

Plan for Chaos by John Wyndham: A never-before published novel from the man who gave us The Midwich Cuckoos, Chocky, and The Day of the Triffiids.

Apartment 16 by Adam Nevill: In describing the novel in a recent SFSignal MindMeld discussion of horror novels (http://www.sfsignal.com/archives/201...-a-great-film/), writer/film critic Gemma Files writes it ”centres around the perception-altering works of long-dead and -forgotten painter Felix Hessen, who Nevill describes as being a cross between Francis Bacon and Wyndham Lewis. Of course, these visions are never actually *seen* at all, only described, in much the same way Nevill uses a classic M.R. Jamesian web of suggestion to project horror far beyond the human capacity to properly process; something mammoth, Lovecraftianly alien, glimpsed only partially, through either a tiny aperture or a variety of filters.” Intriguing.

Black Butterflies by John Shirley: The one thing I enjoy even more than a good horror novel is a good collection of horror fiction. John Shirley, one of the masters of the genre, offers up 16 works of macabre short fiction.

Transition by Iain M. Banks: The latest from one of my favorite SF authors – although, to be honest, I’m not going to be getting around to this one until I finally make time for Matter.

So, what are you all reading?

If you answered Bloodsucking Fiends: A Love Story, November’s book of the month club selection, then weigh in with your comments and questions for author Christopher Moore. You have until the weekend.


Mailbag:

conniepoint writes: “One quick question, will we ever see a Peter Kelamis/Brody centric episode? Or at least get more information about him? He’s my favorite character and I’d love to see more of him. I’ll beg if that’ll help.”

Answer: No need to beg. While we won’t be seeing a Brody-centric episode any time soon, there’s plenty of Brody to come in upcoming episodes.

Gary writes: “In retrospect do you think it was a mistake to spend so much time developing the characters in season 1, perhaps at the expense of action and plot which seem to have a more immediate payoff?”

Answer: If you’re asking whether I think we should have sacrificed character development in favor of action in season 1, my answer would be no. It’s the groundwork we laid in that first season that makes these season 2 developments that much more effective and stirring.

Xyla writes: “I notice you keep answering people that the best way to get the network’s attention is to watch SGU live. But more and more people are wising up the the fact that only a handful of viewers (the people with neilson boxes) actually get counted. Wouldn’t it be more productive to say something like “Everyone with a neilson box, make sure you watch it live. Everyone else, watch it through another system that is counted”.”

Answer: My professional standing prohibits me from suggesting you track down someone with nielsen box, invite yourself over to their place, and make them watch SGU under threat of karaoke or other equally ghastly punishment, but I can advise viewers to get the word out and tune in live in the hopes that their enthusiasm (and timely viewing) will prove catchy. And, yes, it wouldn’t hurt to download the episodes as well now that you mention it.

MNP writes: “In regards to publishing the ending on this blog:

Now that is interesting. Definitely not. Why would that be? I’m not saying it to demand an ending or anything, I’m just curious. Is it a rights issue? Would the group want to save it for a novelization or something?”

Answer: Ideally, we’ll be able to finish telling the story we started back in Air I, II and III on a timeline that will please the network, studio, fans, and the production. In the event of a worse case scenario, it will be up to the studio and the show’s creators to decide how to proceed. I doubt very much one of those options will be: Joe posts the ending on his blog.

Oreol writes: “Are you, guys, planning to deliver the ending in a movie, a book, perhaps something else?”

Answer: Actually, the plan is deliver the ending at the conclusion of season 5.

Sean D. writes: “Any chances of having interdimensional stories in SGU?”

Answer: Not this season.

@iom666 writes: “One might have thought that Canadians would have downloaded the episode from Tuesday and not watch it at all on Friday’s night, and on the contrary, it’s not that happening!”

Answer: I know. Given the population of Canada, the numbers SGU does on Space would extrapolate to the equivalent of approximately 3 million viewers on SyFy.

Philly writes: “The real risk these days is making a show that goes so long-haul you put people off, and so simple that you don’t engage them.

What ideas and thoughts did you guys and girls throw out to avoid these pitfalls when crafting SGU?”

Answer: As I said in yesterday’s mailbag, we strive to strike a fair balance between arc-driven plots and standalone stories. The aim is to reward fans of the show but, at the same time, not make the show inaccessible to first time viewers. It’s a tricky line to walk but, so far, I think we’ve been successful.

dasNdanger writes: “@ Narelle – Dare I ask – how big are your orb webs?”

Answer: Das, I needn’t remind you that kids occasionally read this comment section.

Fred Kiesche writes: “But mostly…reading. About 90 books YTD. Last year was over 200. Next year? Probably somewhere in between.”

Answer: Damn! You reader faster than I do!

nate writes: “Since you watch Top Chef…what do you think of Top Chef: Just Desserts?”

Answer: Haven’t seen it. I don’t think it’s aired in Canada yet. Marty G. loves it though.

snakey writes: “With that said, then wouldn’t you need to know at the beginning of the producing season if that was going to be the last season or not instead of in December when you are nearly done with said season? Does this mean you already know that there will be a season 3 and not telling?”

Answer: Nope, still no word on season 3. I’m hoping we’ll know in mid-December, but wouldn’t be surprised if we had to wait until mid-January to find out.

Bailey writes: “Considering how well SGU is doing in Canada compared to the US, and the fact that most of the writers/production folk are Candadian, do you think that SGU is a show that appeals more to Canadian sensibilities than US-American?”

Answer: I don’t think so. I believe North Americans in general share like sensibilities. Still, I’m not sure what to make of the difference in the ratings. Historically, the numbers have always been very similar (comparatively speaking).

Jon writes: “After watching The Greater Good I couldn’t help wondering, how you planned the episode to play out back in the day, when it was written for the first season?”

Answer: Back then, it was just this basic notion: Rush and Young are in the damaged shuttle when its engine engage and its set adrift, away from Destiny. With (at this point) no way of controlling the ship and the jump clock ticking down, Eli leads the rescue op by sending one of the service robots after the shuttle on a repair mission while, aboard the shuttle, Rush and Young spend quality time together.

Jonathan writes: “Will we be seeing a return of Col. David Telford?”

Answer: Boy, I sure hope so. I’m a huge fan of Lou Diamond Phillips.

Major D. Davis writes: “In terms of finales.. which one do you think is better (and tells a bigger story).. Gauntlet or Incursion.. you gotta give me a tease here.. Gauntlet sounds EPIC!”

Answer: Gauntlet is definitely more epic…and gut-wretching a cliffhanger.

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...tever-contest/

November 13, 2010

Photos: Dinner, Akemi, Bubba


Announcing this blog’s very first “I Make The Best Whatever” contest!

1. How To Participate

No purchase necessary. Just post the name of your dish with a short description and an accompanying photo. 8 recipes will be chosen for the showdown. The 8 finalists will then be asked to post the accompanying recipe. Each week will see two recipes battle head to head. Winners (chosen by me and any blog regulars who care to take the time to prepare and taste test the candidates) will advance to the next round of 4. The round of 4 will see another two head to head battles. Winners will be chosen by a panel of hungry judges. The remaining two contestants will face off in a Grand Finale that will be judged by three uber-foodies.

2. Contest Period.

Start posting your recipe names and descriptions now. I’d like to finalize the Elite Eight before I head off to Tokyo (December 6, 2010).

3. Contest Restrictions.

If you can actually make something tasty, you’re free to enter. The contest is open to all residents of the Milky Way galaxy except employees and retirees of J. Mallozzi Ltd. and its affiliates, franchisees, agents, associates, dealers, representatives, advertising and promotional agencies.

4. Prize.

No idea yet. But it’s going to be awesome.

5. Rules.

For a copy of contest rules, feel free to print up this blog entry.

Remember, the name of the throwdown is the “I Make the Best Whatever” contest so pick the best of your very best.

Since we’re on the subject, I thought I’d share some of my recent culinary creations (attempts)…

Last night, I made six-hour-slow-roasted-fall-off-the-bone-short-ribs...

Turns out Akemi is quite the cook. The other day, she made gyoza...

The week before that, Akemi also made the most magnificent miso soup I’ve ever had using white miso, sweet potato, sweet onions, green onions, and tofu...

And, sticking with the seafood theme, days before that it was...

By the way, thanks to everyone who has weighed in with their recommendations and – er, what’s the opposite of recommendations…condemnations? – of my recent book purchases.

And you’ve got two more days to post your questions and comments for author Christopher Moore!

[Jumper_One]

http://josephmallozzi.wordpress.com/...d-the-mailbag/

November 14, 2010

Photos: Puerco Pibil, chocolate and black raspberry cheesecake, brined pork tenderloin with pourgouri pilafi and porcupine ball, plum kam kifli


The “I Make the Best Whatever” contest is off to a great start. Check out yesterday’s blog for full contest details but, in short, I’m asking blog readers to send in a description of THE dish they’re known for - be it rack of lamb, walnut cream cake, or those bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with almonds – along with an accompanying photo. I’ll choose eight dishes from the field of entries and then have them go head to head for the title of “I Make the Best Whatever” Kind and/or Queen (along with some awesome prize to be revealed later at a later date). Anyway, some very intriguing dishes to choose from already. Among them:

DasNDanger’s Puerco Pibil...

Jeff W’s Chocolate and Black Raspberry Cheesecake...

Alexander of Houston’s formidable-looking Brined Pork Tenderloin with Pourgouri Pilafi and Porcupine Ball...

Mark’s grandmother’s Plum Jam Kifli...

Keep those pics and dish descriptions coming. You have until…well, let’s say the end of November – which fast approacheth!

Speaking of fast approachething – this upcoming week marks the final few days of production on Stargate: Universe’s second season. It seems like only yesterday I was crying myself to sleep, agonizing over the script to episode #203, Awakening and suddenly, it’s ten months later and I’m crying myself to sleep, agonizing over what I’m going to wear to this weekend’s season 2 wrap party. Wow! That was quick! Hopefully, we’ll hear word on the fate of the show before I’m Tokyo-bound in early December – but I won’t hold my breath.

Damn. Looks like my Snow Monkeys are about to go down in defeat in week 10 of Stargate NFL Fantasy Football play. The blame for this week’s loss falls on the shoulders of three consistent underperformers: Dolphin wide receiver Brandon Marshall, KC Tight End Tony Moeaki, and the Baltimore Ravens D. Thanks for nothing, all. I’m dumping the Ravens D and benching Marshall until further notice. Would love replace Moeaki, but it’s mighty slim pickin’s on the waiver wire.


Mailbag:

DP writes: “Do I have to decide between pumpkin bread and blackberry cobbler or can I do both?”

Answer: Feel free to submit both, but make sure to include a photo of each for the official selection process.

DP writes: “Will you be making all the recipes, Joe, or do we need to mail them to you? [...] Will you sample to pick the top 8 or go with what your experience says will turn out well?”

Answer: I’ll be making all the recipes and judging the finished products when the time comes.

kabra writes: “Contest sounds cool, can we enter more than once? Are there any specific categories???”

Answer: Let’s say a maximum of five dishes per person. All entries should fall under the “delicious” category.

Alexander of Houston writes: “Your Braised Short Ribs sound pretty good. Do you deglaze and use the fond? I heard second hand that in Europe, specifically in Italy, some CIA students were turned sideways when their host chef threw out the fond after he seared some meat. I hate to say this, but what did you do (ie add) to your polenta?”

Answer: Yes, I use the fond and that’s not polenta. It’s a polenta substitute = sweet potato mash.

Nadine Ramsden writes: “Speaking of recipes, any chance you could post Akemi’s recipe for the miso soup?”

Answer: Plenty of requests for this one. I promise to post later this week.

KEK writes: “You’ve said before that you’re not to keen on ascended being as they seem to stray into the realms of fantasy rather than sci-fi at times, with this in mind can we assume that Destiny’s mission and the resolution will be purely scientific/natural in nature, and never supernatural?”

Answer: Not necessarily. There are plenty of other equally opinionated writer/producers on staff.

Oreol writes: “Syfy is selling SGU props like the kino and the remote. Why? It sounds terrible for Season Three. Should we go in panic mode?”

Answer: Nope.

Hunab.cu writes: “The question I want to ask is whether is there any chance to get any schematics of Destiny?”

Answer: I’ll see what I can dig up.

adam writes: “Hey Joe, quick question, is there any news of a Stargate Universe Season 1 Soundtrack?”

Answer: Sorry, haven’t heard anything.

Brian C writes: “What is the total elapsed time from leaving the naquada planet to the last episode of SGU?”

Answer: I’d say about a year.

Greg writes: “what happens when they complete Destiny’s mission? Show ends?”

Answer: Yep.

[KEK]

KEK writes: “You’ve said before that you’re not to keen on ascended being as they seem to stray into the realms of fantasy rather than sci-fi at times, with this in mind can we assume that Destiny’s mission and the resolution will be purely scientific/natural in nature, and never supernatural?”

Answer: Not necessarily. There are plenty of other equally opinionated writer/producers on staff.

Terrible news.

[The Mighty 6 platoon]

Terrible news.

I'm sure the rest of us will get over the fact that all the writers aren’t mindless drones that all think the same way.

[Sami_]

I'd rather a supernatural ending, at least it gives some closure, it would be stupid to assume an infinite number of older races and quite dull.

[KEK]

I'd rather a supernatural ending, at least it gives some closure, it would be stupid to assume an infinite number of older races and quite dull.

And there's no other, clever alternative to that? If we're going to be served nothing but BSG/Lost finale style tripe then I'd rather not see it at all. At least then the integrity of the mythology would remain intact.

[thekillman]

depends on what you consider supernatural. a recent study (scientific, and no scientist so far can find a problem with it), suggest we have precognitive powers. we can, essentially, see into the future. although this "power " is more discrete than actually seeing visions.


supernatural ? perhaps. does't anything ascension-related already feel like, well, the supernatural ? especially the weather control?