Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 380
June 21, 2015
June 21, 2015: Dark Matter links! Comic book recommendations! And the need to de-stress!
Whoa. I seriously need to decompress. I’ve been going at full throttle for almost a year now from the moment Jay called me up to tell me the show was a go. I went from spinning story ideas to breaking them to writing scripts to prepping the show to producing the show to overseeing elements of post-production. With my return to Vancouver, I assumed things would slow down a little. but it’s been quite the opposite. In addition to weighing in on the music and soundscape, I’ve been all over this blog, twitter, and Facebook, trying to get the word out about the show. Not to mention the fact that, not wanting to be caught unprepared if/when the announcement comes, I’ve gone ahead and arced out season 2, come up with the 13 stories (in various stages of detail), and gone ahead and broken our opening two parter.
Back in the day (oh, going back a couple of weeks and far beyond), this little lady used to be my stress-buster:
I’d prop her up onto my chest and, as Akemi would, we’d “gaze lovingly into each others eyes. Fifteen minutes…thirty minutes…forty-five minutes…”. Bubba is more of a momma’s boy and Lulu is a little more aloof so I find myself endlessly perusing senior pug rescues or flagging down owners so that I can stop and say hi to their elderly dogs.
As crazy as it sounds, and despite the fact that Jelly couldn’t really get around the last few years of her life, the house now feels quite empty without her. This can go one of two ways: I sell the house and move OR I keep the house and adopt a few senior pugs (yes, “few” implies more than “a couple”). Much will depend on whether or not the show goes for a second season.
Reading usually relaxes me. And I truly have to make time for the many, MANY books I’ve been meaning to get around to, among the them Alastair Reynolds’ Slow Bullets, John Scalzi’s The End of All Things, “Claire North”‘s Touch, and these…
Started on them and, for you comic book fans, would highly recommend you check out the following:
Descender: http://comicbookroundup.com/comic-books/reviews/image-comics/descender/1
ODYC: http://www.excaliburccg.com/odyc-1-from-image-comics-retells-the-tale-in-psychedelic-fashion/
ALEX + ADA: http://bloody-disgusting.com/news/3329937/comic-book-review-alex-ada-12-high-point-sleeper-hit/
The Disciples: http://www.comicbookresources.com/comic-previews/the-disciples-1-black-mask-2015
Arcadia: http://io9.com/its-the-matrix-vs-the-apocalypse-in-this-arcadia-1-co-1696811184
Hey, all! Remember to post your questions for Dark Matter Executive Producer Jay Firestone! He’ll be dropping by this blog for a Q&A soon!
Your daily dose of Dark Matter links:
http://noeentertainment.com/2015/06/dark-matter-review/
“Most people have a “5 star” rating, I however like a more authentic grading scale. I like when things are so good that I involuntarily thrust my clenched fist into the air in excitement. A.k.a a “hype-fist”. So I give this show, a 5 out of 5 on the Hype Fist Meter.”
“One of the great draws of science fiction is simply the visual bliss it can bring to one’s mind and life, and in both Dark Matter and Killjoys, the art of camerawork, VFX, set-design, and costuming are all top notch. These shows are why HD TV and Tumblr were invented.”
http://talknerdywithus.com/2015/06/21/nature-versus-nurture-the-emerging-personas-of-dark-matter/
“As the second half of SyFy Channel’s pilot episode of Dark Matter is completed, I’m left pondering one of the deeper questions in life: how much of our personality is based on our life experiences, and how much is ingrained in our very makeup?”
http://www.syfy.com/blog/dark-matter-origins
“Dark Matter has some serious science fiction auspices behind it, you could even say that Dark Matter has been a show years in the making. Creators Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie worked together on Stargate SG-1, Atlantis and SGU before bringing the team back together for one more ride to create a gorgeous, epic comic-book. Wait, what?! That’s right Dark Matter began its illustrious voyage to the small screen as a comic book mini series that debuted back in 2012. If you’re looking for full-on submersion in the Dark Matter canon look no further.”
http://io9.com/dark-matter-wonders-how-much-an-unremembered-past-reall-1712951352
“So, is it better to find out who you were and be disappointed or to know nothing? And among the five who discovered a criminal past, whose reaction is the right one? One’s denial? Two’s determination to not let a file dictate her identity? Three’s shrug and good humor ? Four’s conscious choice to ignore it all? Six’s simple happiness at being able to fly?”
http://www.scifivision.com/interviews/2909-exclusive-joseph-mallozzi-on-creating-dark-matter
“I was inspired by the types of shows and the types of stuff I read, like I said a cable show in terms of the structure and the pacing, and then kind of a narrative style. I worked on Stargate for many years, so there’s that. Then I’m a big fan of sort of the Japanese influences, and anime, and comic books, and I think you’ll find all those elements in Dark Matter.”
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 20, 2015
June 20, 2015: The Jay Firestone Q&A! The Dark Matter Boys’ Choir! Dark Matter links!
Jay Firestone, Dark Matter Executive Producer and President of Prodigy Pictures
Well, as promised in a recent blog entry, I’d like to give you all a chance to get to know our extended Dark Matter family by bringing back the guest Q&A’s I used to do on Stargate. For those not in the know, it works like this: I announce our blog guest after which you’ll have a few days to upload your questions to this blog’s comment section. Days, maybe weeks later, our guest will drop by tho answer those questions in a dedicated blog entry! I thought it only appropriate that we kick things off with a key architect of the production: Dark Matter Executive Producer and President of Prodigy Pictures Jay Firestone.
As I’ve mentioned previously, you wouldn’t be watching this show if it wasn’t for Jay. He put together the deal that got the show ordered, then assembled the prep, production, and post infrastructure that got this show made, and then was heavily involved in all aspects of said production, from casting through scripts to final edits.
If you’ve got questions for Jay – which I’m sure you do! – post them in the comment section. I’ll be gathering them up and sending them his way Wednesday, so don’t delay!
Ladies and gentlemen, I proudly present… The Dark Matter Boys’ Choir:
*
Season 3 musical episode here we come!
Some interesting Dark Matter-related links:
http://www.threeifbyspace.net/2015/06/dark-matter-episode-2-review-its-bubba-time/
“Dark Matter is a character-driven show that’s well-written and full of great dialogue. Only two hours in and I already feel like I know these people even though they don’t quite know themselves yet. ”
http://geekswithwives.com/syfy-has-found-dark-matter-pilot-review-spoilers/
“This series has started with action, drama, humor and spaceships and I don’t mind saying that’s right up my street. ”
http://sidelinebuzz.com/dark-matter-is-a-surprising-catch-for-summer-television/
“The last theme of “Dark Matter” is being immersed in the mystery of the characters situations as we know only as much as they do. Finding out the facts and being on the same page as them gives us a more enriched understanding of the story. Because the audience has to constantly guess what will happen next, (as if they are a member of the group themselves), the viewer is going to keep on coming back to know more. Especially since each character has a complex past, which in light of it has to create a present persona. This style stages an interesting mystery for audience members to try and piece together week by week.”
“Dark Matter‘s second episode amped up the action from last week, as the crew found themselves in conflict with the Ferrous Corporation on the ground and in the sky.”
http://www.tv-eh.com/2015/06/20/review-dark-matter-takes-mysterious-intriguing-next-steps/
“Because I’ve been covering television for years, I have a bit of a suspicious streak when it comes to storylines. I’m always looking for the red herring, the twist, the other shoe to drop. Because of that, watching Episode 2 of Dark Matter turned into an exercise in conspiracy theories and experiments.”
http://www.denofgeek.us/tv/dark-matter/247130/dark-matter-episode-2-review
“What makes Dark Matter unique and potentially great is its innovative exploration of human nature and the concept of being “born bad.”
Dark Matter episode #102 aired last night in North America and Australia. What’d you all think? I’ll be rolling out the behind-the-scenes pics, vids, and tidbits in the coming days – once most of the rest of the world has caught up – but would love to hear your thoughts and theories!
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v., SyFyFridays
June 19, 2015
June 19, 2015: Dark Matter Episode 2 airs tonight! 10 p.m. EST and PST! 9 p.m. CST! 7 p.m PST!
Was the crew's memory loss really an accident? Find out tonight at 10/9c on #DarkMatter.
https://t.co/90kVguvikq
— Syfy (@SyfyTV) June 19, 2015
Dark Matter’s second episode airs tonight on SyFy and Space Channel at
10:00 p.m. EST/7:00 PST
And 10:00 PST
I’ll be live tweeting through both broadcasts. Who’ll be joining me?
In preparation for tonight’s big event, I’ve been dropping a few sneak peek screen caps on twitter…
The fallout.
The Android and FIVE bond.
Who’s the baddest?
Don’t mess with TWO.
Panic on the bridge.
Trouble comin’ at ya!
So, who is the baddest crew member?
***
I want you to rank them, #1-#7, from “super badass” to “cause for concern”.
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v., science fiction, Science Fiction Television, scifi, scifi television, SF television
June 18, 2015
June 18, 2015: Dark Matter Episode #102 previews! Reviews, interviews, links! Dark Matter and more!
Dark Matter’s second episode airs tomorrow night at 10 p.m. on SyFy!
And 10 p.m. EST and 7: 00 PST (repeated again at 10 p.m. PST) on Space Channel in Canada.
Here’s a sneak peek at the Dark Matter episode #102 photo gallery:
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: (l-r) Melissa O’Neil as Two, Mark Bendavid as One — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: Jodelle Ferland as Five — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: Anthony Lemke as Three — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: Anthony Lemke as Three — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: Alex Mallari Jr. as Four — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
The TVJunkies.com preview episode #102:
http://www.thetvjunkies.com/dark-matter-preview-attack-of-the-multi-corp/
Melissa O’Neil (TWO) talks strong female characters:
http://www.tv-eh.com/2015/06/18/strong-female-characters-continue-their-evolution-on-dark-matter/
Alex Mallari Jr. (FOUR) interview:
I Talk Nerdy:
http://talknerdywithus.com/2015/06/17/interview-with-joe-mallozzi/
Episode #101 reviews:
http://noobist.com/uncategorized/dark-matter-episode-one-review-recap/
http://spotlightmonster.blogspot.ca
http://television.thedigitalfix.com/content/id/2347/dark-matter-series-premier-101.html
Series preview from TV Goodness:
http://www.tvgoodness.com/2015/06/12/dark-matter-series-premiere-preview-interview/
Talking Dark Matter with TV Rage:
http://www.tvrage.com/news/11537/joseph-mallozzi-talks-about-new-sci-fi-series-dark-matter
And some interesting no less interesting non Dark Matter-related links:
Author, editor, scifi enthusiast, and occasional guest of this blog, Lou Anders, is poised to release the second book in his YA fantasy series Thrones and Bones. Nightborn, the follow-up to Firstborn, hits the shelves July 14th. More info here. And wallpapers! http://exlibriskate.com/book-blast-nightborn-by-lou-anders/
The Guardian serves up a Best Recent Science Fiction Novels Review Roundup. Leading the list – none other than another friend of this blog, Alastair Reynolds, and his novel Poseidon’s Wake:
Another friend of this blog, author Paul Cornell, has a new creator-owned comic book coming out in August:
http://www.paulcornell.com/2015/05/this-damned-band/
Hey, speaking of friends of this blog – what is author (and former Stargate: Universe Creative Consultant) John Scalzi been to? Well, there’s this:
http://torforgeblog.com/2015/06/09/new-ebook-novella-the-life-of-the-mind-by-john-scalzi/
http://torforgeblog.com/2015/06/16/new-ebook-novella-this-hollow-union-by-john-scalzi/
Post your questions if you got ’em. In preparation for tomorrow’s new episode of Dark Matter, I’ll be doing a mailbag!
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 17, 2015
June 17, 2015: Concluding our discussion of Dark Matter episode #101!
With episode #102 on deck (This Friday at 10 p.m. on SyFy and Space Channel), let’s finish up our overview of the Dark Matter pilot, episode #101… 1) That pendant you’re wearing…
So, the miners have a pendant exactly like the one ONE found in his room. They’re waiting for a shipment of arms – just like the one’s our crew is carrying after discovering a bunch of weapons in their cargo hold. Coincidence? To quote my girlfriend, Akemi: “Myyybe!” Or mybe not. Guess time will tell…
Above: the actual view out the entranceway. We smoked the hell out of it, had VFX paint out the utility pole, and generally blew out the shot so that we could tie it into the look out the back of the marauder – which was actually sitting on one of our standing sets.
Blow out!
On the day – pumping the atmosphere. The boys hang out with their big guns.
2) Okay, I’ll admit…that part sounded bad.
Blow out! But notice the outline of the quarry in the BG.
One of my favorite deliveries of a line in the pilot comes compliments of Marc Bendavid (ONE): “Okay, I’ll admit…that part sounded bad.” It not only shows off some nice comic timing, but does a nice job of hinting at his character: that endearing earnest awkwardness.
Hey, check out the shuttle!
Shooting through the front windows proved a real pain in the butt.
All the pretty lights.
The console
The wheel
Green screen out the front
As I said, our actual shuttle (the Phantom Class Marauder) was located on one of our standing sets. It was gimbaled to allow us to gently rock it during flight sequences. On the first go, the guys went a little overboard. It looked downright turbulent. I blame Akemi’s bourbon cookies. 3) I just carved out their and left them for my mother to find. The bitch! (beat) I hope they’re bringing back some real food. I’m starving!
Just two women sitting around the bridge of a spaceship, not talking about guys.
Whenever I would ask first-time viewers which character they were drawn to most after watching the pilot, opinion varied – but the majority answered FIVE (played by Jodelle Ferland). She is compulsively watchable – and all sorts of intriguing. 4) The least we can do is nothing which, for the record, is what I’m suggesting we do.
Probably my favorite scene in the pilot. The debate offers flashes of insight into to all of our characters. My favorite subtle character moment comes when TWO (Melissa O’Neil) makes the decision for the group. Early on in the episode, she assumes the command position – and everyone else falls into line. Here, after a lengthy debate, the crew votes: 2 in favor of keeping the weapons; 3 in favor of giving them to the miners. She casts the deciding vote. Or does she? Upon closer scrutiny, you realize that she did no such thing. She doesn’t side with either, choosing instead her own 50/50 compromise – and, again, everyone falls into line. Don’t mess with #2Boss!
P.S. THREE’s “Clean up your tray, pretty boy!” was a terrific Anthony Lemke ad-lib. We get a lot of those. And, occasionally, they even find their way into an episode!
5) Make sure to lift with the back; takes pressure off the knees.
While re-watching the director’s cut of this scene, I immediately flagged the aforementioned line: “Make sure to lift with the back, takes pressure off the knees.” Wait a minute! That doesn’t make sense! And then realized: Of course. It’s not supposed to make sense. This was one of those rare occasions that I actually forgot the line I wrote and came back at it with fresh ears – and laughed. Yes. I actually laughed at my own joke.
6) The big reveal!
Dark Matter was inspired by many sources – comic books, novels, t.v. shows, and movies – but one of the bigger influences was a show called The Shield that had what was, in my opinion, one of the greatest punch-to-the-gut endings of a pilot…ever! It painted its “heroes” in the poorest light possible, then spent the rest of the series attempting to rehabilitate them in the eyes of the viewers. I’ve always been drawn to stories of redemption, whether it be Kurt Busiek’s Thunderbolts, Terry Nation’s Blake’s 7, or E.M. Nathanson’s The Dirty Dozen. Growing up, I always rooted for the bad guys. So, I suppose it’s only appropriate the “heroes” of Dark Matter are bad guys, the worst of the worst. When I was developing the series, I worked towards four HUGE WTF?! moments I knew I wanted to hit early. The first comes at the end of episode #101 with the reveal of their identities. The next two come over the course of this first season (I’ll flag them in time). And the last…well, the last comes in that final sequence that caps of season 1. It’s gonna blow your mind!
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v. 
June 16, 2015
June 16, 2015: Behind the scenes on Dark Matter episode #101!
One more contingent of fans joins our extended family with the premiere of Dark Matter in France. Brazil and Latin America are next: June 24th! So, my mother watched the premiere – which is a huge deal as she prefers to limit herself to, as she puts it: “Shows that finish nice.” Murder She Wrote and the occasional Columbo is more her speed. Still, according to sis, she did seem to genuinely enjoy Dark Matter – although she was on the edge of her seat throughout. When I asked mom about the show, she told me that FIVE was her favorite character – although she is saddened by her working theory that she is a kidnapping victim whose family was murdered by the rest of the crew. She likes the “nice guy” who, she predicts, is going to “fall in love with the girl”. She didn’t like “the guy, he was so vicious”. Can’t wait to hear her reaction to episode #102. Maybe I should have my sis record her reactions so that I can post her review online.
Scene from Dark Matter episode #102
Speaking of episode #102, last night, I re-screened it with a friend visiting from Japan. Boy oh boy, do things ramp up in a big way. Some of the pieces of the puzzle start falling into place and… Well, Akemi – who has seen all 13 episodes because she knows one of the Exec Producers – said it best: “I feel sorry for everybody who has to wait a week for each episode!”. But episode #102 WILL be worth the wait! So, yesterday, I took us through the first third of our first episode. We talked about the stasis pods, the corridor, the bridge, the opening titles, our cast, and stunts – all with the help of behind the scenes pics and videos. Today, we continue our discussion of our pilot episode starting with… 1) Looking around.
“No, show me,”says Director T.J. Scott
Again the crew splits up, this time do a little looking around while the Android (hopefully) works at bringing the ship’s systems online. BUT, as before, there are suggestions that not is as it seems with these characters…especially the kid, FIVE, who displays some impressive knowledge about the human physiology.
Jodelle Ferland (FIVE). Camera loves her!
What’s the deal with the creepy kid? Is she psychic or something? An Android? Half lizard person?
Slashfic fodder?
While the bromance between ONE and THREE continues to develop, FOUR makes an interesting discovery: a puzzle box hidden away in a secret compartment in one of the lockers. Like his way with the swords, he seems to have an uncanny instinct for tapping those subconscious echoes. Is it muscle memory, or something more? Meanwhile, TWO has the Android run her through the bridge operations, eschewing the convenience of the neural link in favor of manual demonstration. “No, show me,”she repeats. Then, later, when the ship is under attack and she needs the Android to take immediate evasive action, the Android responds: “Would you like me to show you?” I’m sorry. Was that attitude? 2) The missile chase and Zero-G. Love this sequence, from the reveal of the missiles sweeping down on our ship to the elevator drop that triggers the zero-G scene.
You can say what you like about our show but the visual effects are top-notch – end of discussion. Other aspects of the show are fair game to subjective critique, but not our VFX. They are great – as good or better than any other show out there, something we’ll prove time and again over the course of this first season.
The magical John Stead.
The Zero-G sequence was our very first second unit Saturday shoot. Stunt coordinator John Stead directed the action.
P.S. Love our jump to FTL which was designed to be unlike anything we’d seen before.
3) In the infirmary
Zoie Palmer (the Android) enjoying some downtime.
Back to the infirmary to get poor FIVE’s noggin checked after her nasty fall. Note the two characters standing over her, concerned, when she wakes up: SIX and TWO. Again, it would seem that certain crew members display immediate, almost instinctive, connections with others.
Roger Cross (SIX) and Jodelle Ferland (FIVE). Fast friends.
The Android, meanwhile, has some good news. She was able to unearth the ship’s original destination. Finally, some answers! 4) The mysteries deepen. Love the in-FTL shot that kicks off this sequence. We moved away from the more traditional “flying through a tunnel” visual of FTL or hyperspace travel in favor of a more ominous sweep through a “dark and stormy” environs towards a discernible horizon.
Meanwhile… Questions, questions, and more questions.
Stunt Coordinator John Stead directs Marc Bendavid’s (ONE) discovery of the pendant.
ONE finds the pendant. FOUR tries to solve the puzzle box. And FIVE, again, displays some puzzling knowledge concerning a big metal door… coincidentally as a snooping THREE discovers a big metal door in the bowels of the ship. His attempts to open it prove, uh, fruitless however. But we don’t need him to open it to find out what’s inside because FIVE already has the answer: “Secrets.” Wait! She IS psychic! Or an Android! Or half-lizard! Or maybe even a child magician! Or is she? 5) Turning in. More or less. While everyone else turns in for the night, TWO kicks back on the bridge in one of director T.J. Scott’s most memorable shots. When he first pitched it, we were dubious – but it worked. Worked beautifully. 6) Rise and shine. TWO drops by ONE’s quarters to give him the heads up – and screw with him a little. She’s tough, but also has a playful side.
This kinda reminds me of…
THIS on another show. Same writer.
7) The Phantom Class Marauder
Part of the crew heads down to the planet. TWO elects to stay behind since she’s the only one who can operate ship’s systems in the Android’s absence. Our shuttle actually sits on another stage on another location, so tying in the walk-in was tricky – and done with a cyc (What appears to be the corridor set is actually a faux backdrop).
It was also incredibly challenging to shoot in. Episodes later, we made an adjustment that allowed us to remove the front section for easier camera access.
The marauder makes its way down to the planet’s surface, kicking up dust and dirt as it settles down for a landing. It’s a damn impressive sequence.
8) Meeting the miners We meet the inhabitants of an independent mining colony who have fallen afoul of one of the big multi-planetaries, Ferrous Corp.
We shot these sequences in a couple of warehouse locations in Hamilton. It was the middle of winter and, amazingly, was actually colder INSIDE the warehouses than outside. At one point, during a delay while we were scouting the building, we actually went outdoors to wait because it was warmer. A downright balmy -5 degrees celsius.
Keeping warm during downtime.
The miners warn us away because their world is about to become a battle zone. The “Raza” are on their way, a race of legendary half-lizard creatures rumored to have skin that burns to the touch! They sound damn scary. Over the course of their chat, ONE notices the pendant one of the miners, Mireille, is wearing – a dead ringer for the one he found in his quarters. What are the chances? Links! Links! Links! http://superior-realities.com/2015/06/15/review-dark-matter-episode-one/#comment-9937 http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/television/2015/06/10/jason-bourne-meets-the-sopranos-in-dark-matter.html
The Dark Matter season premiere left us with plenty of questions. But some answers as well. So who are the six? What we know so far: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/photos/character-gallery Inspired by our Android, SyFy.com offers up their list of Important Lady Robots: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/blog/important-lady-robots An Android with a sense of humor: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/blog/dark-matters-zoie-palmer-is-an-android-with-a-sense-of-humor Want to write your own review? Go here: http://www.metacritic.com/tv/dark-matter/user-reviews?dist=positive Or cast your vote here: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4159076/ratings?ref_=tt_ov_rt
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 15, 2015: Behind the scenes on Dark Matter episode #101!
One more contingent of fans joins our extended family with the premiere of Dark Matter in France. Brazil and Latin America are next: June 24th! So, my mother watched the premiere – which is a huge deal as she prefers to limit herself to, as she puts it: “Shows that finish nice.” Murder She Wrote and the occasional Columbo is more her speed. Still, according to sis, she did seem to genuinely enjoy Dark Matter – although she was on the edge of her seat throughout. When I asked mom about the show, she told me that FIVE was her favorite character – although she is saddened by her working theory that she is a kidnapping victim whose family was murdered by the rest of the crew. She likes the “nice guy” who, she predicts, is going to “fall in love with the girl”. She didn’t like “the guy, he was so vicious”. Can’t wait to hear her reaction to episode #102. Maybe I should have my sis record her reactions so that I can post her review online.
Scene from Dark Matter episode #102
Speaking of episode #102, last night, I re-screened it with a friend visiting from Japan. Boy oh boy, do things ramp up in a big way. Some of the pieces of the puzzle start falling into place and… Well, Akemi – who has seen all 13 episodes because she knows one of the Exec Producers – said it best: “I feel sorry for everybody who has to wait a week for each episode!”. But episode #102 WILL be worth the wait! So, yesterday, I took us through the first third of our first episode. We talked about the stasis pods, the corridor, the bridge, the opening titles, our cast, and stunts – all with the help of behind the scenes pics and videos. Today, we continue our discussion of our pilot episode starting with… 1) Looking around.
“No, show me,”says Director T.J. Scott
Again the crew splits up, this time do a little looking around while the Android (hopefully) works at bringing the ship’s systems online. BUT, as before, there are suggestions that not is as it seems with these characters…especially the kid, FIVE, who displays some impressive knowledge about the human physiology.
Jodelle Ferland (FIVE). Camera loves her!
What’s the deal with the creepy kid? Is she psychic or something? An Android? Half lizard person?
Slashfic fodder?
While the bromance between ONE and THREE continues to develop, FOUR makes an interesting discovery: a puzzle box hidden away in a secret compartment in one of the lockers. Like his way with the swords, he seems to have an uncanny instinct for tapping those subconscious echoes. Is it muscle memory, or something more? Meanwhile, TWO has the Android run her through the bridge operations, eschewing the convenience of the neural link in favor of manual demonstration. “No, show me,”she repeats. Then, later, when the ship is under attack and she needs the Android to take immediate evasive action, the Android responds: “Would you like me to show you?” I’m sorry. Was that attitude? 2) The missile chase and Zero-G. Love this sequence, from the reveal of the missiles sweeping down on our ship to the elevator drop that triggers the zero-G scene.
You can say what you like about our show but the visual effects are top-notch – end of discussion. Other aspects of the show are fair game to subjective critique, but not our VFX. They are great – as good or better than any other show out there, something we’ll prove time and again over the course of this first season.
The magical John Stead.
The Zero-G sequence was our very first second unit Saturday shoot. Stunt coordinator John Stead directed the action.
P.S. Love our jump to FTL which was designed to be unlike anything we’d seen before.
3) In the infirmary
Zoie Palmer (the Android) enjoying some downtime.
Back to the infirmary to get poor FIVE’s noggin checked after her nasty fall. Note the two characters standing over her, concerned, when she wakes up: SIX and TWO. Again, it would seem that certain crew members display immediate, almost instinctive, connections with others.
Roger Cross (SIX) and Jodelle Ferland (FIVE). Fast friends.
The Android, meanwhile, has some good news. She was able to unearth the ship’s original destination. Finally, some answers! 4) The mysteries deepen. Love the in-FTL shot that kicks off this sequence. We moved away from the more traditional “flying through a tunnel” visual of FTL or hyperspace travel in favor of a more ominous sweep through a “dark and stormy” environs towards a discernible horizon.
Meanwhile… Questions, questions, and more questions.
Stunt Coordinator John Stead directs Marc Bendavid’s (ONE) discovery of the pendant.
ONE finds the pendant. FOUR tries to solve the puzzle box. And FIVE, again, displays some puzzling knowledge concerning a big metal door… coincidentally as a snooping THREE discovers a big metal door in the bowels of the ship. His attempts to open it prove, uh, fruitless however. But we don’t need him to open it to find out what’s inside because FIVE already has the answer: “Secrets.” Wait! She IS psychic! Or an Android! Or half-lizard! Or maybe even a child magician! Or is she? 5) Turning in. More or less. While everyone else turns in for the night, TWO kicks back on the bridge in one of director T.J. Scott’s most memorable shots. When he first pitched it, we were dubious – but it worked. Worked beautifully. 6) Rise and shine. TWO drops by ONE’s quarters to give him the heads up – and screw with him a little. She’s tough, but also has a playful side.
This kinda reminds me of…
THIS on another show. Same writer.
7) The Phantom Class Marauder
Part of the crew heads down to the planet. TWO elects to stay behind since she’s the only one who can operate ship’s systems in the Android’s absence. Our shuttle actually sits on another stage on another location, so tying in the walk-in was tricky – and done with a cyc (What appears to be the corridor set is actually a faux backdrop).
It was also incredibly challenging to shoot in. Episodes later, we made an adjustment that allowed us to remove the front section for easier camera access.
The marauder makes its way down to the planet’s surface, kicking up dust and dirt as it settles down for a landing. It’s a damn impressive sequence.
8) Meeting the miners We meet the inhabitants of an independent mining colony who have fallen afoul of one of the big multi-planetaries, Ferrous Corp.
We shot these sequences in a couple of warehouse locations in Hamilton. It was the middle of winter and, amazingly, was actually colder INSIDE the warehouses than outside. At one point, during a delay while we were scouting the building, we actually went outdoors to wait because it was warmer. A downright balmy -5 degrees celsius.
Keeping warm during downtime.
The miners warn us away because their world is about to become a battle zone. The “Raza” are on their way, a race of legendary half-lizard creatures rumored to have skin that burns to the touch! They sound damn scary. Over the course of their chat, ONE notices the pendant one of the miners, Mireille, is wearing – a dead ringer for the one he found in his quarters. What are the chances? Links! Links! Links! http://superior-realities.com/2015/06/15/review-dark-matter-episode-one/#comment-9937 http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/television/2015/06/10/jason-bourne-meets-the-sopranos-in-dark-matter.html
The Dark Matter season premiere left us with plenty of questions. But some answers as well. So who are the six? What we know so far: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/photos/character-gallery Inspired by our Android, SyFy.com offers up their list of Important Lady Robots: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/blog/important-lady-robots An Android with a sense of humor: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/blog/dark-matters-zoie-palmer-is-an-android-with-a-sense-of-humor Want to write your own review? Go here: http://www.metacritic.com/tv/dark-matter/user-reviews?dist=positive Or cast your vote here: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4159076/ratings?ref_=tt_ov_rt
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 15, 2015
June 15, 2015: Behind the scenes on Dark Matter episode #101!
Fans in the U.K., Germany, Spain and Portugal just joined the Dark Matter family and fans in the Netherlands and France are about to follow suit. So welcome, wilkommen, bienvenida, bem-vindo, welkom, and soyez les bienvenus! The best is yet to come!
And welcome to my little blog which, over the course of the Dark Matter’s first season, will be offering up plenty of behind the scenes photos, videos, and insights – as well as a surprise or two.
Speaking of two – in case you hadn’t seen them, a few sneak peek pics of our second episode (#102) have popped up online…
DARK MATTER — “Episode Two” Episode 102 — Pictured: (l-r) Melissa O’Neil as Two, Mark Bendavid as One — (Photo by: Steve Wilkie/Prodigy Pictures/Syfy)
http://www.spoilertv.com/2015/06/dark-matter-episode-102-sneak-peek.html
And there’s also this Season 1 preview from the gang at SyFy:
Now, let’s talk about Episode #101. Those of you who read the Dark Matter comic, edited by the awesome Patrick Thorpe, illustrated by the brilliant Garry Brown, colored by the awesome Ryan Hill, and published by Dark Horse Comics (https://digital.darkhorse.com/browse/brand/52/) will note that the first episode was word for world, almost shot for shot, the first two issues. However, there were occasions where we veered away from the source material.
THE TEASE
1) Drifting through the corridors…
*
This was our first shot of Day #1. T.J. Scott always liked to have a little background music playing (his mixtape) to help foster a relaxed on set atmosphere. We discussed options with our Director of Photography, Craig Wright, and ultimately decided to go with the lurid red lighting which always made me think “The Shining in space!”.
2) The stasis pods…
*
While I loved the idea of the amniotic fluid spewing out as the stasis pod disgorges its occupant, we opted for something a little more production-friendly that wouldn’t require our actors to spend much of the early scenes sopping wet. The mist effect replaced the liquid while the pod itself (upright, like in the comic book) was recessed in the corridor for a more visual reveal.
3) The bridge…
Production Designer Ian Brock pitched out a bridge design that was unlike anything I’d ever seen: rowed windows out front and in the ceiling as well, offering plenty of opportunities for interactive lights – especially when traveling through FTL. Stunt Coordinator John Stead did a terrific job choreographing this first encounter between ONE and TWO.
4) THREE’s entry…
Enter the ship’s resident bad-ass. You’ll note that, unlike the others, he is armed – which would suggest he actually went into stasis WITH his guns…which says a lot about the guy.
5) The Opening Titles…
As much as I love a nice lengthy opening title sequence, they’re becoming increasingly rare nowadays so we opted for this abbreviated version pioneered by shows like Lost. Executive Producer Jay Firestone suggested we use our streaking FTL effect which gives it a nice, dynamic feel. The Dark Matter clanking into place are reminiscent of our hero ship. We went back and forth on the crew – yes or no – and eventually decided on having them fade up and be partially obscured. Finally, we decided to go with this musical accompaniment because, as Jay pointed out, it would alert people in the next room that “Dark Matter is on!”.
6) Everyone awakens from stasis…
*
In the comic book, we fast forward to the character of SIX awakening from stasis to discover the rest of the crew already up and around. Director T.J. Scott was adamant that he wanted to see the moment where the rest of the crew wake up – which, in retrospect, was a brilliant idea: a bewildered FOUR followed by a composed FIVE and ending on a confused SIX.
7) Designations and discovery…
Our amnesiac crew members name each other numerically, discover clothes, comms, and a weapons cache. Curious. My writing partner, Paul Mullie, suggested the little bit of business with FIVE and SIX switching outfits – which is the first interaction between the two and hints at the friendship to come. In fact, this episode is full of little hints about our characters. Note the way TWO takes charge and the others quickly fall into line. Also not the glint in THREE’s eyes as he swings that big gun around…”Expecting trouble?”, “Hopin’!”
8) Splitting up and searching…
TWO and FIVE head for the bridge, ONE and FOUR find the training room, and THREE and SIX discover the shuttle (The Phantom Class Marauder). All begin to display certain abilities suggestive of their respective pasts. I’ve spoken at length about how anime (the swords in space motif) heavily influenced Dark Matter and nowhere is this more evident than in the character of FOUR. Alex Mallari Jr. was supremely dedicated to his training, waking up at 3 a.m. every day so that he could get a workout in prior to heading in for his early call and stunt rehearsals. He got pretty good with those katanas. So good that he ended up running the table on the various weapons in that room.
FOUR of a kind. Can anybody guess the three other swordsmen?
But seriously. What’s with the space sword? Stay tuned!
9) The Android’s greeting…
Our first elaborate stunt sequence, choreographed by stunt coordinator John Stead, directed by T. J. Scott. This one took all day! Some nice little touches including the beat where the Android disarms SIX of his weapons, snatching the last one out of his holster and tossing it aside before he can react. Zobot lays a beatdown on the boys. Luckily, TWO saves the day.
10) Bringing the Android back online…
The show is full of parallel themes and tracks. Take the Android for instance who has her memory stories wiped by the reboot. Still, her neural link to the ship allows her instant access to the ship’s systems – and the realization that the data has been wiped. Now why would someone do that? Just add it to the growing list of questions.
By the way, my favorite beat in this scene is the moment the Android suddenly sits up. Everyone else is startled, reacts anxiously by pointing or clutching their weapons. FIVE, on the other hand, scooches forward, intrigued.
That’s all for today. Let’s pick up tomorrow. For now, a couple of links to check out…
Another review:
http://www.douxreviews.com/2015/06/dark-matter-pilot-part-1.html
Travel via clone. I discuss Transfer Transit, the fastest way to get around in the Dark Matter universe:
Chatting with Starburst Magazine:
http://www.starburstmagazine.com/features/interviews/12270-joseph-mallozzi-dark-matter-interview
Tagged: #DarkMatter, Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 14, 2015
June 14, 2015: Dark Matter! Behind the scenes on episodes #101! More Dark Matter-related links! And I answer your Dark Matter questions!
With Dark Matter having already premiered in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Asia, Poland and Eastern Europe, the internet is rife with comments, critiques, and theories. Lots and lots of theories. I’d like to get to those – eventually. And offer some specific pics and insights – eventually. But, with the show poised to premiere tomorrow night on SyFy UK (20:00), SyFy Portugal (22:10) and SyFy Germany (21:00), and the following night on SyFy France (21:30), SyFy Netherlands (21:00) and SyFy Spain (22:20), I’m going to steer clear of any spoilers. So let’s stick to non-spoilery behind-the-scenes insights for now…
Our very first cast read-thru!
Actor Alex Mallari Jr., Dark Matter’s FOUR (with hair!) at an early costume fitting for Episodes #101/102.
T.J. Scott directs Zoie Palmer and Melissa O’Neil in a scene (“No. Show me.”) from Dark Matter Episode #101. Executive Producer Paul Mullie looks on in the BG, hoping for a cameo.
Prepping the pod.
Emergency lighting.
What’s behind the second set of airlock doors?
Those vertical mats sure came in handy.
A few more Dark Matter-related links for you to peruse…
Dark Matter Explodes: http://guardianlv.com/2015/06/dark-matter-explodes-everywhere/
A review of Episode #101: http://twonerdstalking.com/dark-matter-pilot-episode-review/
Another review of Episode #101: http://pop-break.com/2015/06/14/tv-recap-dark-matter-episode-one-series-premiere/
Exclusive wireframe images of our space station: http://www.threeifbyspace.net/2015/06/exclusive-gorgeous-wireframe-images-of-dark-matters-space-station/
Where to watch in the U.S.: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/where-to-watch
Time for another mailbag:
bambamfans writes: “Questions ( I understand you may not be able to answer): 1. Did they all retire to their previous sleeping quarters?”
Answer: Some were instinctively drawn to their own quarters. Some not. In some instances, it was a little more obvious: ie. the room with the sketches, the room with the weaponry…
“2. Which character is the easiest to write dialogue & which is the toughest?”
Answer: They all present their own challenges and rewards.
“3. Which character/s did you connect most with? Was it different between the graphic novel and when you saw the performances on screen? On an initial watch it was ONE & TWO for me.”
Answer: What I love about the show is that it’s a true ensemble. The crew is made up of varied personalities and different viewers will respond to different characters. In my case, I found something in each of them to connect with.
“4. Will the people on the planet keep coming into the story?”
Answer: We’ll see them again in episode #102.
“5. Why is the Marauder so light inside? It seems different to the rest of the ship. Is there a reason?”
Answer: Yes. There’s a stark contrast between the clean, streamlined Phantom Class Marauder shuttle and the battle-scarred hero ship. One clearly doesn’t belong with the other. It’s more than possible one, or both, were heisted.
“6. I know they found jackets but did they find socks?”
Answer: Yep. And underwear too!
“7. What was the inspiration behind the music, which I found quite unique and surprising?”
Answer: We wanted something different – unique and surprising.
“8. How did you do the zero gravity sequences, with wires?”
Answer: Yes, wires. I’ll be posting some behind the scenes videos on the stunts soon.
“9. Who doubled Anthony for the ratchet into the wall in the door scene? It was impressive.”
Answer: His stunt double, Blair Johannes under the direction of stunt coordinator John Stead.
“10. How many takes for FOUR’s Katana display sequence?”
Answer: You’ll have to ask Alex. He was prepared and pretty flawless.
Tom Gardiner writes: “Questions, you say? I have some. They may not be good questions, but they’re the best this brain can come up with. 1 – Will David Hewlitt’s character have some of the more reprehensible qualities that McKay had? Y’know, weasely self-preservation over almost anything else.”
Answer: Oh, he’s got all of those qualities x 10.
“2 – Does Two have a condition that requires her navel to get continuous fresh air? (I’m not complaining, mind you.)”
Answer: She has a fairly extensive wardrobe.
“3 – Six watches over Five. Any hints on why or should I shut up and wait?”
Answer: It would seem that, in some cases, the characters are drawn to connections they may have made in the past. Would losing your memories change who you are? To what extent? These are some of the questions we’ll be looking to answer this season.
“4 – Five seems to be remembering someone else’s memories (Maybe Two’s?). Some glitch in the memory wipe or a hint at her having some extranormal abilities? Maybe she was responsible for the memory wipe!”
Answer: A lot of questions – which will be answered this season.
“5 – Why does One have to see his reflection in the metal cup? Are mirrors rare in the future? Where are the bathrooms?”
Answer: He didn’t have to see his reflection in the cup. He just caught it while searching through the various items in his quarters, seemingly trying to jog his memories.
“6 – No, really, where are the bathrooms?”
Answer: That opaque door behind him? That leads to the bathroom.
“7 – Back to Five. Hers was the only identity not revealed in the ship’s recovered data. This again makes me think she’s outside the loop of the apparent framing of the others by, I assume, the Big Bad Company.”
Answer: Yeah, many have been making that same assumption.
Keith writes: “This may have been asked already, but which episode (besides the finale) are you personally looking forward to the most for fan reaction? Or which episode is your personal favourite, the best example of the show?”
Answer: I think that Episode #102 offers a nice counter-balance to #101’s more ship-centric mystery, opening up, delivering more in the way of action and character moments.
Keith writes: “Also, when you wrote the first two episodes, were you envisioning them as a two hour premiere? How do you feel about the episodes being aired individually?”
Answer: If there were any two episodes that could have aired on the same night, it would have been episodes #101 and #102 – but our post and delivery schedule was very tight and we didn’t have the option. All the same, I’m quite happy to air this show on a weekly basis instead of doubling up as each instalment offers plenty of rewards – and some terrific closing moments.
JustLookAtTheFlowers writes: “Is this going to stay a family-friendly show? Meaning so many shows seem to force sex scenes or unnecessarily brutal violence on audiences. It wasn’t an issue for SGA so I’m hoping for the same deal with Dark Matter.”
Answer: Depends on the family.
Catherine Rawa writes: “Why is there sound in space?”
Answer: For the same reason we’re flying around in cool spaceships with inertial dampeners.
Ponytail writes: “PeterJ wrote, “Last time I saw Joe Mallozzi characters doing anything in a new drama they were climbing into the pods. It was a strange closure and the start of a new era.”
Wow, interesting thought. When one stasis pod door closes… another opens. Literally. Joe did you do this (start there) on purpose?”
Answer: Nope. I started developing Dark Matter back in Stargate: Atlantis’s fourth season, well before Stargate: Universe was even a pitch.
Tim G writes: “5 reminds me of River from Firefly/Serenity, only more sane. Was that an intentional move, or just a coincidence?”
Answer: I think you’ll find that, as the show progresses, FIVE is very different from River. Latent psychic abilities you say? Nothing is ever as it seems.
alex30425: “Does the title Dark Matter have any meaning to the story?”
Answer: As I said in an recent interview, the Dark Matter of the show is more thematic than literal. While some scientists posit the existence of this nebulous dark matter which hypothetically makes up about 25% of the universe, the premise of this show alludes to the “dark matter” that resides within all of us – to varying degrees.
scott writes: “Also interesting how in Dark Matter, you’ve named the episodes, “Episode One”, “Episode Two”, etc. instead of giving each episode its own unique name.”
Answer: That was a decision we made early to parallel our characters’ numerical designations, and the running themes of identity and discovery.
Tam Dixon: “The computer didn’t have Five’s records. Will that be revealed later or is she going to be a mystery?”
Answer: The plan has always been to pay off the mysteries we set up, sooner than later. In the case of all of our characters, we’ll be peeling the onions on their respective backstories throughout season 1.
Duptiang writes: “In one of the fractured screen shots near the end, was that David Hewlett?”
Answer: Hunh. Now that you mention it, it DOES look like David Hewlett…
Elminster writes: “What was that see through box thing that #5 was playing with?”
Answer: The box was a piece of technology that she seemed to instinctively know how to fix, in much the same way that the other characters display similar affinities or talents (FOUR with his swords, TWO assuming the leadership role).
Tagged: Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
June 13, 2015
June 13, 2015: Ship-based SF has returned! Let’s talk Dark Matter!
What’s behind the big metal door? Executive Producer Jay Firestone is about to find out!
THANK YOU to everyone who tuned in for our Dark Matter North American and Australian premieres. I was madly live tweeting throughout the night along with many of you and I’m pleased to report we were trending in Canada and worldwide (also San Francisco and New York when I checked!). Judging from your reactions on the various message boards, you seemed to really enjoy episode #101. All I can say is: Wait until episode #102!
So, thank you all for supporting the show. Thanks to David Howe, Tom Vitale, Chris Regina and the gang at SyFy PR & Marketing for all of their support as well. Thanks to the Dark Matter cast, crew, and everyone else involved in the production. And a BIG thanks to…
Executive Producer (and Prodigy Pictures President) who deserves the lion’s share of the accolades for not only putting together the seemingly impossible deals that got this show to air, but assembled the pieces of the puzzle, oversaw prep, production, and post, and delivered a show that has defied expectations: when all is said and done, a fun, character-driven, ship-based scifi series. And, judging from your feedback so far, it’s EXACTLY what you’ve been looking for.
As some of you know from my days on Stargate, I would often invite members of the production (cast and crew) to take part in Q&A sessions here on this blog. My blog readers would post their questions in the comments section of this blog and then our guest would stop by to answer them in a dedicated blog entry. I’d like to do the same for Dark Matter, and I think it only appropriate that our first guest be none other than Jay himself. Having said that however, I know Jay is a busy guy and I’ve yet to clear it with him first – but with a little prodding, I’m sure we can convince him to drop by.
Soooo, start thinking about what you’d like to ask Dark Matter Executive Producer Jay Firestone. I’ll make the Q&A official sometime this week and you can start posting your questions!
Missed Dark Matter’s first episode in the U.S.? Go here: http://www.syfy.com/darkmatter/videos/101-episode-one
Missed Dark Matter’s first episode in Canada? Go here: http://www.space.ca/video/player?vid=611325
Missed Dark Matter’s first episode in Australia? Go here: http://www.syfy.com.au/video/dark-matter-s01e01
Check out the links, then check out the mailbag…
Some reactions to our opener:
http://screenrant.com/dark-matter-syfy-series-premiere-review/
http://www.threeifbyspace.net/2015/06/dark-matter-premiere-episode-review-who-are-you-i-dont-know/
http://www.thetvjunkies.com/dark-matter-pilot/
http://www.channelguidemagblog.com/index.php/2015/06/12/dark-matter-series-premiere-recap/
Previewing the show:
http://www.tvgoodness.com/2015/06/12/dark-matter-series-premiere-preview-interview/
ONE, TWO, THREE and me talk Dark Matter:
Melissa O’Neil chats with eTalk:
http://www.etalk.ca/News/Q-A-Canadian-Idol-alum-Melissa-O-Neil-on-helming-n
And another Q&A:
Dishing on Dark Matter:
http://www.threeifbyspace.net/2015/06/joseph-mallozzi-dishes-dark-matter/
Let’s hit the mailbag:
spalog writes: “The fan response to the show has been really great. But there have been some criticisms. Could you address them? 1. The characters feel too generic and stereotypical.”
Answer: Over the course of our 43 minute pilot, we establish the premise, establish our world, establish several mysteries (the memory wipe, the deleted data, the big metal door, the puzzle box, etc.), and introduce seven (!) different characters, none of who have any recollection of who they are or how they got on board – and thus possess no frame of reference from which to draw from. So, yes, our crew may seem a little “sketchy” at first blush (perhaps purposely so?), but this show is all about subverting expectations and surprising the audience. Nothing is ever as it seems. And we have 12 more episodes to start peeling the onions on these characters. And throw a slew of surprises your way!
“2. The Asian character has to be the one who can handle the swords.”
Answer: I’ve addressed this elsewhere but will repeat my response here.
I’ve been very up front about the inspirations for Dark Matter: comics, SF literature, film, television, and anime. The latter, Japanese cartoons for those not in the know, was a particularly big influence on the show’s development, specifically, a show called CowBoy Bebop that offered a wonderful mix of humor and scifi in it’s all too brief 26 episode run.
The sword-wielding character of FOUR is a tip of the hat to SF-themed anime, from classics like Gundam to more contemporary titles like Code Geass. Fans of the genre will no doubt recognize many familiar elements.
In creating the character, and his storyline, I consulted with many of my friends in Japan (I visit every year, am a student of Japanese culture and history, and speak Japanese – albeit like a four year old boy) and girlfriend (who also happens to be Japanese) who were absolutely thrilled at the prospect of a North American scifi series with recognizable anime trappings.
So, all this to say, the creation of this character actually came from a place of respect.
But why, you may ask, does he have a sword in space? Illogical? Maybe. And then again, maybe that question will be answered in time as well…
“3. Why did you cast a Filipino actor to play a Japanese character?”
Answer: As someone else already pointed out, Alex was cast because he was the best actor for the role. I felt comfortable doing so because the show is not a historical drama that, I would agree, would require a Japanese actor. Our show is set some 200 years in the future, a future in which I envision an increasingly more inclusive Japan thriving as an intergalactic player. In this setting, a “Japanese citizen” of Filipino heritage would be as common as, say, an “American citizen” of Chinese or Italian heritage.
4. The Three character is too much like Jayne from Firefly.
Answer: I’m sure all of the characters remind someone of some pre-existing character or other. Again, we’re talking about first episode impressions (and that’s fine), but all of these characters have a long way to develop and evolve over the course of the show’s first season. A couple of months from now, I have no doubt that each member of the crew will have established their unique personalities in the eyes of our viewers. And, next year, when the next big SF series comes out, someone somewhere will undoubtedly say: “Hey! That character is too much like THREE from Dark Matter!”.
scott writes: “what were into figuring out the different types of weapons/shields/armor each ship has?”
Answer: Paul and I had a pretty good idea of what we wanted to see in our hero ship. We wanted a tough, battle-scarred vessel with plenty of retro-fitted weaponry – compact and maneuverable to suggest it could hold its own against much larger ships. We left artist Bartol Rendulic the freedom to design the ship based on these specifications, and he came up with a beauty.
tealc writes: “And of course like the last two seasons of sga and the only seasons of sgu the atmosphere is dark can not see anything.”
Answer: I think you need to check the settings on your t.v. Throughout production, I worked with Director of Photography Craig Wright to ensure the darks were not oppressively so.
Joan001 writes: “But how did you get them into the “no gravity” situation?”
Answer: Oh, I’ll be sharing some videos with you in the coming days that will answer that question.
cat444 writes: “Parts of the FTL travel reminds me of how Moya travelled in Farscape. Was that intentional?”
Answer: No, our goal was to create an FTL jump, travel, and drop-out we hadn’t seen before. The only similarity I can see to Moya’s starburst is the shield playing over the ship prior to jump.
sylvia writes: “Any Plans for more presence by Dark Matter cast, crew, writers at Dragon Con?”
Answer: Unless someone invited the cast, I don’t believe they’ll be going.
Ponytail writes: “What are the beds made of? Plywood or actual mattress?”
Answer: Oh, it’s an actual mattress. Every time we’d be in there, Executive Producer Vanessa Piazza would be eyeing that bed, eager for nap time.
More mailbag coming your way in tomorrow’s blog entry…
Tagged: Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v.
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