Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 473

January 29, 2013: Pulling the plug! Akemi vs. Siri, round #1! Marolyn vs. Siri in the bonus round!

Yesterday, this from my cousin’s facebook page:

“Just had a sobering conversation with my Dad who just updated his last will & testament. “Paul…I want them to pull the plug if I ever become a vegetarian.” Classic! lol.“

I told Paul that, in all fairness, if I ever became a vegetarian he had the green light to pull the plug on me too.

Along similar lines, Akemi was trying to use Siri, the voice-activated personal assistant app on her iPhone the other night.  She commanded it to bring up her “Line” app, a Japanese version of Skype, with…well…predictable results:

Akemi: Line.

Siri: I don’t understand “I”.

Akemi: Line!

Siri: I don’t know what you mean by “find”.

Akemi: LINE!

Siri: I don’t know what that means.  If you like, I can search the web for “lying”.

Akemi: No.  Line!

Siri: You don’t have any events on your calendar at 9 p.m.  Shall I create it?

Akemi: No.  Line!

Siri: I don’t know what you mean by “nine”.  Okay, I set up your event for today.

Akemi: (anguished cry as she flops back onto the bed).

I shouldn’t laugh.  For some reason and despite my futile attempts to change it, my iPhone has made me someone else from my contact list. Thus, whenever I try to use Siri, the conversation goes something like this:

Me: Time?

Siri: Marolyn, the time is 5:15 p.m.

Me: I’m not Marolyn.

Siri: I don’t know that that means.  If you like, I can search the web for “I’m not Marolyn”.

Me:  No.  I’M not Marolyn.

Siri: I don’t know what you mean by “No I am not Marolyn”   How about a web search for it?

Me: Please, stop calling me Marolyn.

Siri: Sorry, Marolyn, I can’t do that.  You’re not listening to the Music app.

ME: (anguished cry as I flop back onto the couch)

Tagged: iPhone, Siri, technology, vegetarian, vegetarianism, vegetarians

January 28, 2013: The Supermovie of the Week Club reconvenes! Cookie Monster reviews Superhero Movie!

Imagine mash-up of first two Spiderman movies and original X-Men movie but MUCH less hilarious.  Dat pretty much sum up dis tired time-waster.

On to monster’s review…

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Old lady fart.

A lot!

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De End.

Verdikt: On de one hand, movie in focus for much of its 82 minute running time; on de other hand…everyting else.

Rating: 1 parody chocolate chippee cookie made out of Play Doh and hamster pellets.

Tagged: Cookie Monster, Cookie Monster movie reviews, Cookie Monster reviews Superhero Movie, Superhero Movie, superhero movies, superheroes, SuperMovie of the Week Club

January 27, 2013: Hot Chocolate Fest! Blog-hopping with Mandy Hager! Doggy Blues! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! First Contact!

Vancouver is celebrating a month long Hot Chocolate Festival and I am trying my damndest to sample most of the 63 flavors available at the 23 locations around town.  I got off to a late start but I’m making up for lost time.  7 down, (about) 56 to go!  I’ll have a full report for you in about three weeks.

If, while you’re waiting, you too would like to check out the festival, head on over here for all the details: http://www.cityfood.com/events/hotchocolate2013/

Just received word that author Mandy Hager has posted the responses to the 10 Blog Hop questions!  Head on over to her blog to get the scoop on her latest book, The Crossing: 

http://mandyhager.blogspot.co.nz/

Sadly, to today we bid adieu to our dog-nanny, Christine, who heads east for job training for her new career.  The dogs will no doubt miss her, but Akemi and I will miss here even more since we now have to find someone to step into her dependable dog-sitting slippers.  Yep, all we need to do is find someone with experience who we can feel comfortable leaving behind to take care of our dogs – and home – while we’re away.  Or we can put thoughts of a Vegas getaway or another Japan trip on the back back back burner.  I mean, seriously.  Jelly is almost 14!  I think she’s ready for the responsibility of taking care of her siblings.

Continuing our trip down SGA memory lane with…

FIRST CONTACT  (510)

Over time, writer/Exec. Producer Martin Gero became the go-to guy for our Atlantis big event episodes.  And, really, you couldn’t get any bigger than this fifth season midseason two-parter chock full of action, dazzling visual effects, shocking twists, Stargate mythology, and topped off with a visit from none other than Daniel Jackson himself. Honestly, what more could you ask for?

The thing I remember most about the shooting of this episode was the visit by a special needs boy and his family.  They’d won a set visit and, as thrilled as they were be there, they were triply delighted to be meeting and spending time with Dr. Rodney McKay.  And spending time with actor David Hewlett, I’m sure, far exceeded their expectations because he was nothing short of delightful company.  I watched him interact with the kid and his family, making the time to sit and chat with them between the various shots, genuine in his interest and enthusiasm.  And then, later, hurrying over to catch them before they left for the rest of their set tour to arrange a lunch meet-up.  Really nice to see.

Friday Night Lights alum Daniella Alonso steps into Jill Wagner’s boots as Traveler’s rep Katana Labrea (photo courtesy MGM Television)

Art Department design for Lost Tribe exo-suit.

And, the finished product (photo courtesy MGM Television)

Under all that (faux) armor = Stunts Coordinator James “Bam Bam” Bamford (photo courtesy MGM Television)

Todd adjusts his bluetooth (photo courtesy MGM Television)

Every season, we we would measure to see how much taller our guest star Asgard had grown.  Another two inches! (photo courtesy MGM Television)

David Hewlett and Michael Shanks = BFF!

Writer/Exe. Producer Martin Gero directs the Rodney/Daniel scenes.  JacKay?

Resident film reviewer Cookie Monster drops by tomorrow as our Supermovie of the Week Club reconvenes to discuss Superhero Movie. Don’t forget to watch!

No.  On second thought – don’t bother.

Tagged: Atlantis, Days of Stargate Atlantis Past, First Contact, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Mandy Hager, science fiction, scifi television, SF, SF television, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis, The Crossing, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival

January 26, 2013: Conversations with Akemi!

The other day, I was having a hypothetical conversation with Akemi (Don’t read too much into this – although I’m sure you will).  I asked her: In the event she was getting married (See!  I knew it!), where would she like the ceremony to take place?  ”Anywhere,”I prodded.  ”Anywhere in the world.”

She considered, cocking her head and puffing out her cheeks, the telltale signs she is thinking.  ”Not Hawaii…”she started.

“Why not?”I asked.

“Because, in the pictures, everybody always looks like this – ” Scrunching up her face, flinching as if in expectation of some phantom blow.

It took me a couple of seconds to get it.  ”Oh.  Too sunny.”

“Too sunny,”she repeated.

“Where then?  Vegas?”  Beat.  ”Montreal?”  This won won me a disapproving look.  ”Where?’

A few more seconds of thoughtful consideration and then she had her answer: “Shittyhole.”.

“Shittyhole?”I asked, wondering if this was her roundabout way of saying “It doesn’t matter where.  I’d just be happy getting married.”

“Shittyhole,”she repeated.  Then, emphatically: “Shitty-hole!”

“Shitty-hole!”I said, just to be sure.

“Shitty howl!”

And then it finally dawned on me: “Oh!  CITY HALL!”

“Yes.”  She mimicked me with exaggerated enunciation: “Seetee Hooowl!”

City Hall?  I was expecting an Osaka tea ceremony or a castle to-do in Europe, maybe even a theme-wedding in Vegas.  But City Hall?  What a hopeless romantic!

Mailbag:

msstargate writes: “My question for the Mailbag…with the economy finally picking up, any chance we see the long awaited SG1/Atlantis movie or movies?”

Answer: Economy aside, I’m sorry to say that the chances of seeing either of those movies is beyond remote.  The sets are long gone and the actors have moved on.  From the studio point of view, it wouldn’t make sense to spend the money to rebuilt all the sets for a one-off movie.  And given the demise of dvd (once a terrific source of revenue particularly with regard to Stargate), it makes even less financial sense to do the movies.  Instead of a “one and done” movie, a new t.v. series that would allow the production to amortize the costs of the expensive sets over several seasons would make more sense.  A new series would also leave the door open to appearances by former Stargate alums as well.  It’s simply a question of if and when MGM wants to breathe life back into its most successful television franchise.

Sue Jackson writes: “Question for mailbag: How are your doggies? How is Jelly, Lulu, and Bubba? Love seeing their pretty faces on your blog!”

Answer: Oh, they’re fine.  Jelly still having trouble getting around but she remains in high spirits.  Bubba is getting pudgy.  And Lulu is her usual mischievous self.

Jelly resting. She does a lot of that.

The ladies lounging.

Bubba asks: “Hunh?”

DP writes: “How are your projects coming along?”

Answer: They seem to be coming along swimmingly…but you never know.  The horror script is out there making the rounds.  Yesterday, Paul and I received notes on the first draft of that urban fantasy series we’re developing.  We also delivered the first draft of that SF pilot.

Bailey writes: “Mailbag Question: In your experience, was there differing levels of network involvement with the three Stargate shows? What exactly do they do?”

Answer: Network involvement was fairly consistent in the 11 years I was with the franchise.  SyFy weighed in on the various scripts and cuts.

kabra writes: “How is your sister doing?”

Answer: She and her new boy, Fernando, are doing great.

Jeff W writes: “Any preference between Campagnolo and Campagnolo Roma? And what are your favourites?”

Answer: Love ‘em both.

“And can you pass along anything more about the Dark Matter TV series?”

Answer: TV series?  Wouldn’t that be great?

T. Dixon writes: “How is Akemi feeling after her cold and did you catch it? Can you tell us any dates for completed projects you’re working on?”

Answer: She is feeling much better.  And, no, I managed to avoid coming down with it myself.  As for dates – we’re a ways away.  The miniseries should be airing sometime…uh, in the near future.

lrgoodwin2 writes: “Have you ever considered doing a SItcom? I have a pitch, the best part is that most of it really happened. You couldn’t write it if you wanted too. Funny how true life is always stranger to fiction. Let me know if your interested.”

Answer: Thanks for thinking of me, but my plate is full with the two pilots I’m developing (and another one on deck).

dasndanger writes: “Just finished the last Pendergast book, and yes, Joe – what did take you so long?!  I’m guessing it probably has something to do with you being so judgmental about tall, pallid characters all dressed in black.”

Answer: Actually, it had everything to do with me being judgmental about a book series that sounded like a Victorian-era steampunk detective series.  I mean, come on.  The protagonist is an albino named Aloysius Pendergast!

dasdanger also writes: “1. What type of car do I want to own someday?”

Answer: The Batmobile from the 1960′s Batman series – or a facsimile.

2. Why don’t I own one now?

Answer: It just sold for $4.2 million.  Damn, if someone had given me the heads up, I could’ve bid!

3. Name two tv shows that I watch, but could easily drop.

Answer: The Amazing Race and Master Chef.

4. Why could I drop said shows? Is it due to:

A. No long-locked albinos?
B. Tiresome relationship clutter?
C. Characters whose charm isn’t charming to me?
D. All of the above.

Answer: D = 1. Lost interest, 2. I find one of the judges really annoying.

5. Is #4 a trick question?

Answer: I’m going to say no because I answered it.

6. Who would I rather be stranded with on a deserted island – DS Hathaway or Todd the Wraith?

Answer: I’ll go with DS based on the fact that I don’t know who he is but he sounds like a gentleman.

7. Is #6 a trick question?

Answer: Depends.  Who’s DS Hathaway?

8. Which statement is correct: a show should be draining instead of entertaining, or a show should be entertaining instead of draining?

Answer: A show should always be entertaining whether it’s draining or not.

9. What is my favorite sport: Rugby, or Ribbing Mallozzi?

Answer: I’m calling this one a tie.

10. Is #9 a trick question?

Answer: Nope.

11. What is my theory regarding Mallozzi’s delay in reading the Pendergast series? Amirite?

Answer: See above.

12. Essay question: Explain in a 100 words or less why I have switched from comic books to a more pulpy fare. Double bonus points if you can explain in 10 words or less. Triple bonus points if you use the word ‘boobs’ in your answer.

Answer: Superhero ennui.  And those pulp titles offer a better quality of boobs.

Elminster writes: “Ya, I’ve been watching a new show. It’s called Transporter: The Series. You may have heard about it.”

Answer: Nope.  No.  Doesn’t ring a bell.  Are you sure you don’t mean Transformers?

Sabrina writes: “Thinking of Maximus today.”

Answer: Thanks, Sabrina.  We miss our handsome boy.

Michelle writes: “Joe, I assume you’re following the hullaballoo about the BC film incentives? Never saw so many actors tweet such passion about something non-hockey-related, and I even know your provincial premiere is Christy Clark. While she argues competing with Ontario is a race to the bottom, others argue BC has a big net gain financially from the larger film subsidies. Given you didn’t love your time in Toronto, are you on the side of the industry?”

Answer: I am most definitely on the side of the industry.  The government’s argument against the tax incentives don’t make sense.  They claim that it’s a “race to the bottom”, that the province will lose money by matching the incentives in place in Ontario and Quebec – but this is based on the glaringly incorrect assumption that the same amount of productions set up shop in both provinces.  The reality is that given the choice (and it ALWAYS starts with a choice) productions will go wherever they’ll get a bigger bang for their buck, a place that will allow them to put more of their budget onscreen.

This link offers a great analysis of the situation (http://www.scribd.com/doc/121494475/Kurt-Bruun-BC-Film-Incentive-Analysis) and a great explanation of how it works.  Kurt Bruun sums it up this way:

“BC was standing around one day thinking about how it loved apple pie (yes, I’m using a pie analogy for money).

“MMM….I love apple pie,” said BC.

“What’s that?” said BC’s next door neighbor “You like apple pie?” 

“Heck no,” replied BC “I said I looove apple pie!” 

“Well,” said the neighbor “You can have this apple pie I have right here for free.It’s a delicious apple pie!” 

“Free apple pie? What’s the catch?” asked BC 

“Well, you can have this here beautiful apple pie but once I give it to you, do you mind if I have a small slice of it back….say, 7.9%?” 

“Deal!!” exclaimed BC. And BC took the pie, sliced off 7.9% and gave it to the generous neighbor.

This arrangement went on for years with the neighbor always bringing BC the apple pies and BC slicing off the 7.9% to enjoy over 90% of it.One day the neighbor came up to BC and said “Hey buddy, times are tough and I’m wondering if there’s any chance you could slice me off another couple of percent off that pie. You can still have the pie but maybe just make my slice a little closer to 10% than the usual 7.9% we’ve been doing for years.” 

“You know I sure do love your apple pies, neighbor but…up yours!” said BC. “I want to only give you back 7.9% still.” 

And the neighbor walked away with the whole pie.”

It’s not, as many think, a case of productions taking money out of the taxpayer’s pockets.  Unlike BC residents who must pay taxes here, a production will pay taxes wherever it chooses to set up shop.  By coming here to shoot a film or television series, it is helping to fill the government coffers, both directly (in the taxes it pays as a business entity) and indirectly (by employing hundreds of BC residents who, in turn, pay taxes as well).  By driving productions away to far more attractive shooting locales, it’s the BC government that is taking money out of its own pocket.

gforce writes: “In “The Shrine”, was it Lynn Canyon where the outdoor shots were done (I think there was one near a waterfall)? The area sure looked familiar.”

Answer: Don’t recall.  More than likely – yes.

“Have you listened/watched any of the J-Pop group “World Order”? These guys are amazing!”

Answer: Yes, absolutely love them.  This is one of my favorite World Order videos -

 

“Are we to take it from your recent remarks that there is some positive movement on the “Dark Matter” front? You don’t have to say anything! Just wink with your left eye for no, and your right eye for yes.”

Answer: Things are looking cautiously optimistic on the Dark Matter front.

dasndanger writes: “I do have a serious question from a couple weeks back – what is it that didn’t work for you with the mysteries? Please be as specific as possible…in a hundred words or less.”

Answer: I was looking for an engaging mystery with interesting characters.  At best, I’d get one out of two.  Usually, it was 0 for 2.  Also, coincidence or contrived plot points are a deal-breaker.  I read one highly recommended book that concluded with the revelation that there were actually two murderers – who just happened to commit their crimes at the same house on the same night.  The Preston/Child books, on the other hand, offer both engaging mysteries (in Relic and Reliquary) as well as engaging characters (loved Pendergast, Margo, and D’Agosta), in addition to some genuinely surprising twists – but I wouldn’t classify them as mysteries.

January 25, 2013: Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! Tracker!

So, what’ve you all been up to?  Besides reading this blog of course.  Watching anything good?  Reading anything great?  Do tell.

I’m watching some t.v.  I know, I know, I really should watch more but I’m a busy guy!  I’ve got scripts to write, books to read, and dogs to walk.  I have, of course, been watching Top Chef Seattle.  Also the final seasons of both The Office (which took a bizarrely downbeat turn in its last episode) and 30 Rock (funniest comedy on television).  I’ve recorded The Following (having heard good things about the pilot script).  Other than that, I’m checking out Louie, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s 7th season (Fat Mac!) and looking forward to Breaking Bad’s final episodes.  Is there something I’m missing?

Excitement on the book front as I’ve discovered two series I’m quite enjoying.  It’s rare enough to find one but two!  I’m about to start on the fourth book of George McDonald Fraser’s Flashman series, and my third Preston/Child Pendergast novel (I know, I know.  What took me so long?).  Am also loving Hickman’s run on both Avengers titles.  Thoughts?

Spoke to my former cohorts Carl Binder, Robert Cooper, and Martin Gero today (my writing partner Paul doesn’t count because we happen to be on the same conference call).  Lots of exciting things brewing with them.  Stay tuned!

Continuing our trip down SGA memory lane with…

TRACKER (509)

Pitching for an established series can be a daunting task at the best of times, but imagine trying to pitch to a mythologically complex production that already has some 300 stories under its belt?  This was the uphill battle that faced every freelancer interested in writing for Stargate.  It seemed that whenever someone pitched to us, it would invariably be an idea that we had done, had considered doing and discounted, or were in process of doing.  Under those circumstances, it’s hard to imagine a scenario whereby any outsider could land a story. But while the odds were always stacked against them, a few prevailed – due in large part to Executive Producers Robert Cooper and Brad Wright ability to seize on even the most insubstantial of notions and spin them into a workable episode.

I don’t think I can remember a time that someone came in and landed a contract based on an idea they pitched.  More often than not, they would pitch an idea which would give Brad or Robert another idea that would be spun into something workable – BUT because that initial idea gave them the actual idea they used, the freelancer would be given credit for inspiring the whole process.  In the case of Tracker, it was one step even further removed in that that the episode was based on an idea that wasn’t even borne out of the original idea pitched.  What happened was that during the pitch, Robert Cooper seized on the word “tracker” to spin out a completely different story about a fellow runner. Only problem was no one had said the word “tracker”.  Rob had misheard “track her” and taken it from there.

Still, at the end of the day, if that freelancer hadn’t come in to pitch, it’s safe to say that Tracker (or, at the very least, the episode as we know it) would have never been made.  So kudos to all – especially Executive Producer Carl Binder who ended up writing one of the most entertaining scripts of the show’s final season.

Speaking of Carl: Little known fact about this episode: Exec. Producer Carl Binder was originally cast in the role of the virile and ruggedly handsome Kiryk but had to bow out after sustaining a groin injury while racing for the lunch truck.  As a result, we had to go with our second choice, the equally great Mike Dopud.  Here are some shots of Carl from that initial costume fitting…

Yikes! Imagine running into this guy in a dark alley.

Beefcake! Beeefcaaaake!!!

Uh, okay, but where are we going to find a stone oven?

Hey, lookit what was lying around the shop!

Jenni-Ryk out and about (photo @MGM Television)

Stabby stabby

Director Will Waring gives the troops their marching orders. (photo @MGM Television)

Build your kids a backyard playground. Here’s how!

Tagged: Atlantis, Days of Stargate Atlantis Past, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis, Tracker

January 24, 2013: Quinto Quarto

Last night, Campagnolo Roma hosted another one of its famed Quinto Quarto dinners, an offal-themed culinary extravaganza inspired by the Roman “fifth quarter” feasts of yore.  I was flying sort of solo as Akemi had bowed out on account of the far-too-late-for-her 8:30 p.m. seating. That and the emphasis on liver.

Like I said, I was flying “sort of solo” because, even though I didn’t have a date, I had plenty of company in the form of some adventurous friends.  There was Robert of course, a mainstay at these events (in fact, we met at one of Roma’s Whole Hog dinners) who was, in turn, joined by his buddy, Dave.  Longtime dining companions Jodi and Steve also put in a surprise appearance.  And, since the meal was family style (meaning you’re sharing a table with strangers), we ended up making some new friends as well: Barbara (whose husband used to work in the local t.v. industry and was also flying solo), Rosita (an accountant with a taste for adventure) and Su (who runs a catering company).

Now, the last Quinto Quarto dinner I attended was full of surprises (most of them good) so I wasn’t expecting this one to beat it.  But, damn, if the gang at Roma didn’t surprise me yet again.  The meal broke down as follows:

Beef tendon, honeycomb ripe, tongue.

That’s the way it was listed in the menu.  Rather uninspired, I thought. And I was thoroughly prepared to be underwhelmed given how much I loved the appetizers (spleen sliders!) from the last Quinto Quarto dinner – and how much I don’t like tripe.  But this dish turned out to be one of the highlights of the night, an outstanding combination of textures and flavors.  The addition of parsley and mint brought it to a whole other level.

Cavatelli all’anatra with duck gizzard sugo and crispy sage and chicken skin.

Speaking of outstanding – I could have eaten a double portion of this and the appetizer and gone home singing the praises of “My best meal in recent memory!”.  The pasta was perfectly al dente (can’t tell you how important that is).

Sauteed calves liver, sauteed onions, aceto tradizionale.

Okay, let me start off by saying that this was, without a doubt, the best calves liver I’ve ever eaten – sweet, tender, but intense.  No second helpings for me.  Growing up, this was one of my father’s favorite meals, and mom would prepare them the same why: fried with onions.  It took me back.

Roasted brussels sprouts with cured pork.

This is the only way to eat brussels sprouts = with bacon!

Pork kidneys, mustard greens, and extra virgin olive oil.

Hmmm.  This one didn’t do it for me.  The salad was interesting, the mustard greens possessed of a nice little kick, but those kidneys were akin to oversauced mushrooms.  Not my thing.

Sweet black pudding, pannetone, marsala zabaglione.

As much as I applaud the courage and creativity that goes into an offal-inspired dessert, I can’t really say I’ve ever had one that made me say: “Wow!  They’ve got to put this on the regular menu!”.  Not the black pudding and chocolate ice cream I once had at Refuel with Marty G. and Jewel.  Not the ricotta and pig brain cream in the cassata siciliana served at the last Quinto Quarto dinner.  And, to be truthful, not this sweet black pudding with pannetone and marsala zabaglione. Nevertheless, it WAS good.  The hazelnut black pudding and chocolate cake was reminiscent of fruit cake – but in a good way.

Overall, I quite enjoyed the meal and, based on those first two dishes (appetizer and pasta) have to give the edge to last night’s Quinto Quarto dinner over the previous one I attended.  Can’t wait for the next one!

Jodi and Steve surprised me by joining me – and genuinely enjoying the dinner.  Didn’t realize they were such culinary daredevils.

David and Robert enjoyed the meal as well – but weren’t quite as enamored of the liver.

Rosita and Su = new foodie friends.

Barbara.  Since everyone else but the two of us were paired off, that made her my date for the evening!

Special thanks to the gang at Roma – especially the two individuals who created the menu and cooked the food: Chef Nathan and Chef Ted…

Chef Nathan and Chef Ted

Thanks, guys!

Tagged: Campagnolo Roma, Quinto Quarto

January 25, 2013: Quinto Quarto

Last night, Campagnolo Roma hosted another one of its famed Quinto Quarto dinners, an offal-themed culinary extravaganza inspired by the Roman “fifth quarter” feasts of yore.  I was flying sort of solo as Akemi had bowed out on account of the far-too-late-for-her 8:30 p.m. seating. That and the emphasis on liver.

Like I said, I was flying “sort of solo” because, even though I didn’t have a date, I had plenty of company in the form of some adventurous friends.  There was Robert of course, a mainstay at these events (in fact, we met at one of Roma’s Whole Hog dinners) who was, in turn, joined by his buddy, Dave.  Longtime dining companions Jodi and Steve also put in a surprise appearance.  And, since the meal was family style (meaning you’re sharing a table with strangers), we ended up making some new friends as well: Barbara (whose husband used to work in the local t.v. industry and was also flying solo), Rosita (an accountant with a taste for adventure) and Su (who runs a catering company).

Now, the last Quinto Quarto dinner I attended was full of surprises (most of them good) so I wasn’t expecting this one to beat it.  But, damn, if the gang at Roma didn’t surprise me yet again.  The meal broke down as follows:

Beef tendon, honeycomb ripe, tongue.

That’s the way it was listed in the menu.  Rather uninspired, I thought. And I was thoroughly prepared to be underwhelmed given how much I loved the appetizers (spleen sliders!) from the last Quinto Quarto dinner – and how much I don’t like tripe.  But this dish turned out to be one of the highlights of the night, an outstanding combination of textures and flavors.  The addition of parsley and mint brought it to a whole other level.

Cavatelli all’anatra with duck gizzard sugo and crispy sage and chicken skin.

Speaking of outstanding – I could have eaten a double portion of this and the appetizer and gone home singing the praises of “My best meal in recent memory!”.  The pasta was perfectly al dente (can’t tell you how important that is).

Sauteed calves liver, sauteed onions, aceto tradizionale.

Okay, let me start off by saying that this was, without a doubt, the best calves liver I’ve ever eaten – sweet, tender, but intense.  No second helpings for me.  Growing up, this was one of my father’s favorite meals, and mom would prepare them the same why: fried with onions.  It took me back.

Roasted brussels sprouts with cured pork.

This is the only way to eat brussels sprouts = with bacon!

Pork kidneys, mustard greens, and extra virgin olive oil.

Hmmm.  This one didn’t do it for me.  The salad was interesting, the mustard greens possessed of a nice little kick, but those kidneys were akin to oversauced mushrooms.  Not my thing.

Sweet black pudding, pannetone, marsala zabaglione.

As much as I applaud the courage and creativity that goes into an offal-inspired dessert, I can’t really say I’ve ever had one that made me say: “Wow!  They’ve got to put this on the regular menu!”.  Not the black pudding and chocolate ice cream I once had at Refuel with Marty G. and Jewel.  Not the ricotta and pig brain cream in the cassata siciliana served at the last Quinto Quarto dinner.  And, to be truthful, not this sweet black pudding with pannetone and marsala zabaglione. Nevertheless, it WAS good.  The hazelnut black pudding and chocolate cake was reminiscent of fruit cake – but in a good way.

Overall, I quite enjoyed the meal and, based on those first two dishes (appetizer and pasta) have to give the edge to last night’s Quinto Quarto dinner over the previous one I attended.  Can’t wait for the next one!

Jodi and Steve surprised me by joining me – and genuinely enjoying the dinner.  Didn’t realize they were such culinary daredevils.

David and Robert enjoyed the meal as well – but weren’t quite as enamored of the liver.

Rosita and Su = new foodie friends.

Barbara.  Since everyone else but the two of us were paired off, that made her my date for the evening!

Special thanks to the gang at Roma – especially the two individuals who created the menu and cooked the food: Chef Nathan and Chef Ted…

Chef Nathan and Chef Ted

Thanks, guys!

Tagged: Campagnolo Roma, Quinto Quarto

January 23, 2012: Blog Hopping Dark Matter!

A few weeks ago, I was invited to take part in The Next Big Thing blog hop.  And what, pray tell, is a “The Next Big Thing blog hop”?  Well, it involves me answering a set of ten questions on a recent or upcoming release on this blog, and then forwarding the same questions to other writers of my choice so that they can do the same – and keep the process going until, presumably, every living writer with an internet presence has participated.

Amanda Ball, who kindly extended the invitation to yours truly, talked about her upcoming release on her blog last week, here: http://livingforcreativity.wordpress.com/2013/01/16/the-next-big-thing-blog-hop/

I, in turn, extended the invitation to a few more writers:

As it turned out, author Ari Marmell knew all about the blog hop – because he’d already participated several months ago.  Get the scoop on the latest installment in his Widdershins series here:

http://mouseferatu.com/index.php/news/november-28-2012-the-next-big-thing/

Author Dave Gross was also on my invite list but, like Ari, he was well ahead of the game.  You can find out more about his next book in The Pathfinder Tales series here:

Dave Gross: The Next Big Thing

Author Mandy Hager has yet to participate in the blog hop (Success!). She’ll be talking about her latest release, The Crossing, over on her blog next week: Mandy Hager – Writer.  I will, of course, provide a link once the Q&A is up.

And, finally, the ever-entertaining Sam Sykes will be discussing his work here: Sam Sykes » Blog.

So, my turn.

Even though I was only forwarded ten questions, there were actually eleven I had to answer – the 11th (or, more appropriately, first) being: Which work do I choose to discuss?  I ultimately decided to go with Dark Matter, my comic book series.  Why?  Well, for starters, the trade paperback collecting the first arc came out in October.  Also, although I’ve written several “things” since, none are yet available for public consumption (I don’t believe there’s an airdate for the Delete miniseries while two of the pilots I wrote won’t be going to camera until the spring).  Finally, there’s a good chance I’ll have even more to say about Dark Matter in the near future.  And let’s leave it at that for now.

On to the questions…

1: What is the working title of your book?

Dark Matter.

2: Where did the idea come from?

The idea had been brewing for quite some time – some five years!  I developed the series while working on Stargate.  The plan was to set it up as a series whenever Stargate ended.  The only problem was (and, believe me, it was a classy problem) Stargate was in no hurry to end. Thus, I had a lot of time to really flesh out the characters, their respective backstories, and the series as a whole.

3: What genre does your book come under?

Science fiction.  Space Opera in the truest sense of the term.

4: Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

Movie?  You mean t.v. rendition, no?  Well, hard to say.  Don’t want to tip my hand just yet.

5: What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

The crew of a derelict ship awakens from stasis with no memories of who they are or how they got onboard.

6: Is your book self-published, published by an independent publisher, or represented by an agency?

The comic book series was published by Dark Horse Comics.

7: How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

The series and pilot were five years in the making – but it took me about a month to write the first script.

8: What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

Certainly Stargate.  A few of the space-based anime series like Cowboy Bebop and Trigun.  Maybe a touch of Breaking Bad (actually, reverse Breaking Bad).

9: Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I drew my inspiration from a variety of sources: The Dirty Dozen, The Seven Samurai, The Shield, The Thunderbolts, Cowboy Bebop, Trigun.

10: What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?

Well, the plan has always been to produce a television series based on the concept.  Want a sneak peek at the first few episodes?  Pick up the trade paperback: Dark Matter Volume 1: Rebirth TPB :: Profile :: Dark Horse Comics

Tagged: Ari Marmell, blog hop, Comic Books, Comics, Dark Matter, Dave Gross, Mandy Hager, Sam Sykes, science fiction, scifi television, SF, SF television

January 22, 2013: Days of Stargate Atlantis Past continues with The Queen!

So tired and so annoyed of so many things.  Just a couple of seconds ago, Akemi walked by me and asked: “Are you stressed?”  I asked her how she could tell.  Her response: “Your face is all red.”  Really?  This burgeoning angst has apparently worked its way into my subconscious as well.  I woke up at 4:30 a.m. this morning and lay awake in bed for about an hour and half before falling back asleep.  I dreamt that I was in the process of cleaning out the house when I discovered a forgotten section of my basement.  I say forgotten because, the moment I stepped inside, I remembered the area – and the fact that I’d entertained guests in its environs approximately five years earlier. Which, in turn, reminded me of something else.  And I walked over to the refrigerator opened it up and discovered, yep, all the packed-up leftovers from said party.  Five year old leftovers!  What does it mean?!!!  What is my subconscious trying to tell me?!

Continuing our trip down Stargate: Atlantis memory lane with…

THE QUEEN (508)

Another great thing about working on Stargate was that the show allowed us immense creative freedom.  Variety was the key when it came to the stories – and that, I’m certain, was one of the keys to the franchise’s longevity.  As I mentioned in my Whispers post, we dabbled in a variety of genres: comedy, horror, fantasy, westerns.  We offered a nice mix of standalone episodes (the perfect jumping-on point for first time viewers) and arc-driven stories (rewarding longtime viewers as well).  Some episodes would be huge, VFX-laden spectacles while others would be smaller, character-focused tales.  We could go anywhere (Earth, space, off-world, the past, the future) and feature anyone because we had an infinitely capable cast, every one of them capable of stepping up to carry an episode.  In Broken Ties, it was Jason Momoa delivering a performance for the ages.  In The Shrine, it was David Hewlett in one of his most memorable performances to date.  And, in The Queen, it was Rachel Luttrell’s turn, undergoing a stunning transformation – not to mention hours of prosthetics and make-up – to impress us all were her own tour-de-force.

Queen’s Pendant

Todd’s hidden knife

Wraith Commander’s sword

Chris Heyerdahl and Director Brenton Spencer discuss the script.  ”You don’t really expect me to say that, do you?”(Photo @MGM Television)

Wraith Queens = BFF! (Photo @MGM Television)

Today’s blog entry is dedicated to gforce.  And his mom!

Tagged: Atlantis, science fiction, Science Fiction Television, scifi, scifi television, SF, SF television, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis, The Queen

January 21, 2013: The Supermovie of the Week Club reconvenes! Cookie Monster reviews Underdog!

Bad!  Bad doggy movie.  It lie down and play dead for almost one hour and twenty two minutes!. Me know, me know.  ”Come on, Monster.  It be a kidz movie!  Turn off your brain and just settle for dis crap entertainment.  Your expectashuns should be lower.”  But monster ask “Why?”.  Sky High be a kidz movie and, while it not a perfekt film, it have heart and someting Underdog lack: effort.  Granted, dis movie not Shark Boy and Lava Girl bad but it pretty listless, paint by numbers fare.  It all feel sooooo tired.

Movie begin wit our hero, a beagle, flunking out of police dog skool. Apparently, when dat happen, dey just release de dogs to run loose in de streets.  Beagle get captured by goofy goon who bring him back to sekret lab where little evil scientist plan to experiment on him.  Of course, evil scientists be as unlucky as dey be smart and experiment go awry.  Beagle trashes lab and gets superjuice spilled on him.  He make good his escape by blasting thru door!

Tyrion be a long way from King’s Landing.

Outside and on de run, he hit by car driven by doofus security guard. Doofus adopt beagle, call him Shoeshine (?), and bring him back home to whiny son.

A boy and his superdog.

Boy doesn’t want dog.  But, of course, in true cinema cliche fashion, he come around.  Espeshully when he realize dog have superpowers.  And can talk!   Now monster not sure why, but it seem like boy de only one who can understand dog.  Mebbe.  Dere be scenes where he be out and about, chatting away wit dog, while passersby pay no attention.  But den dere be a scene like one where beagle see hot dog cart and yell “Hot dogs be made out of real dogs!” and people eating hot dogs spit dem back out.  So, which it be?

Beagle become unlikely superhero.  He combat crime wit his superhearing, supersmell, superstrength, superspeed, and superflying ability.   He become a media sensation!  Personally, me tink just de fakt dat he can fly be good enuf to get him on Oprah.

It a bird!  It a plane!  Nope.  It a flying dog!

Like Clark Kent, he try to maintain a dual identity as both Shoeshine and Underdog!  Not sure why.  What?  Are de other dogs going to rat him out?  How?  No one can understand dem!!!

He fall in love wit King Charles Spaniel named Polly (or maybe Molly). In cute tip of hat to Superman movie, he pick her up and fly her around like Supes taking Lois for a ride.  Sadly, dese types of moments few and far between.

Doggy love!

Tings looking pretty sweet for Underdog.  UNTIL he be captured by evil scientist who steal back his powers and give dem to tree German Shepherds.  Wit help of his accomplices, scientist kidnap mayor and take city hall where he plan to explode a bomb dat will turn everyone in de area into his slave.  Oh, yeah.  He built one of dose.  Interesting, no?  No?  Not even a little?

Even tho he no longer superdog, beagle charge into city hall and take on German Shepherds.  He get conveniently knocked into scientist and get superjuice spilled on him.  Again.  Monster can imagine direktor: “Okay, it’s almost lunch.  Let’s wrap dis movie up!”

Back to his old super self, Underdog beat up on goon and scientist, den talk German Shepherds into helping him.  He find bomb and dig hole to center of de Earth where it blow up.

Boy rush over and pick him up.  He all limp like de Count after Grover’s Pimps Up Ho’s Down party.  Cue sad music.  But den Underdog wake up!  He be alive!  Hurray!

And, for some reason, doofus security guard dad becomes a hero – me guess becuz everyone in a giving mood.

Movie end wit outtakes!  But, sadly, even outtakes are lame – staged bits of phony aktor dog screwing up.  Not one accidental onset poop!

Verdikt: Our kidz deserve better.

Rating: 2.5 chocolate chippee cookies.

Tagged: Cookie Monster, Cookie Monster film reviews, Cookie Monster movie reviews, Cookie Monster reviews Underdog, superhero movies, superheroes, Underdog