Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 474

February 2, 2013: News of Note! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past continues with Outsiders!

A guy in Tennessee sends his pit bull to the pound after suspecting his dog may be gay.  The ensuing outrage resulted in the pooch being rescued.  What struck me most about this story wasn’t so much the circumstances but this line from a CNN article: “According to the irreverent website Gawker, Facebook users had a hissy fit Wednesday when they found out the dog’s owner got rid of the animal after he (the dog, not the owner) humped another male dog.”  I checked the original Gawker piece but found no use of the term “hissy fit” to describe the reaction.  ‘Gay’ dog gets euthanasia reprieve – This Just In – CNN.com Blogs  Hissy fit?  Seriously?

  And at the top of the list, no surprise, sits CEO.  I’m sure Lawyer was a very close second.  Not sure how to react though.  Media (TV/Radio) comes in at #3 in the +Psychopathy list but, on the other hand, Creative Artist sits at #8 on the -Psychopathy list.

Forget blue chip stocks.  Invest in these market darlings – chicken wings!: http://business.time.com/2012/02/13/chicke…ces-are-hotter/

Yeah, the first thing I wondered when I heard Iran had shot a monkey into space was “Did it actually make it back?”.  Apparently not: Is Iran’s space monkey a fake?

Major backlash for Burger King on Facebook and Twitter as horse meat found in … As someone pointed out elsewhere, the horse may be the least of your problems: What’s in the Meat? excerpted from the book Fast Food Nation by …

Just in time for Superbowl Sunday:

http://www.i4u.com/2013/02/bizarre-food-super-8-past-flashback-bowl-fast-commercials-sundays

A greatly appreciated change of pace from all the “cops shooting dogs” articles.  In this case, a police officer risks all to save a dog: Police Officer Kidnaps Dog Sentenced to Death www.lifewithdogs.tvA Facebook campaign launched to save the life of a dog sentenced to death took an interesting turn when police officer Lars Bo Lomholt went above and beyond the call of duty and kidnapped him from the kennel where he was being held.

Continuing our stroll down SGA memory lane…

OUTSIDERS (512)

Okay, I’ll be honest.  I don’t really remember much about this episode outside of the scene where McKay and Beckett argue over the cramped seating in the dart.

I do recall one of the fan sites, again, incorrectly stating that the working title of this episode was “Amort”, presumably based on the fact that some Art Department sketches contained the word “Amort” under Episode Title.  As I explained in a previous post, “Amort” is short for “Amortize” – in this case, it’s a reference to the village set, the cost of which was amortized (written off over time) over the course of many episodes.

Actor Brendan Penny who plays the wraith technician here (and stepped in for Chris Heyderdahl in Spoils of War and Be All My Sins Remember’d) is presently playing the part of Brian Lucas on the t.v. show Motive starring Louis Ferreira (SGU’s Colonel Everett Young).

The local color

The terrific Joel Polis as Elson.

Just like high school.  You’ve got the villager clique and the crew clique.

Cast or crew member?  Often it was hard to tell.

February 1, 2013: Stargate Prop Builder Mark Nicholson Answers Your Questions!

The hard work and contributions of so many individual went into making one of the greatest SF franchises in television history.  Over the course of this blog’s run, I’ve invited various members of the extended Stargate family to talk about their experiences on the show(s).  We’ve spotlighted writers, producers, directors, actors, stunt coordinators, VFX and FX supervisors, and many more.

Today, we turn the spotlight to Mark Nicholson, a longtime prop builder for (and, it turns out, fan of) Stargate.  Mark has kindly taken the time to field your question – AND offer up some visual aids!

Take it away, Mark…

Patricia Stewart-Bertrand writes: “As for a question for Mark Nicholson – my question: I’d like to know if you needed any special education or training to get into your current field. Did you want to work in the entertainment industry so looked for a job you could do and enjoy within it, or did you have an affinity to creating props and the rest naturally followed?”

MN: Special education or training? Sort of. I don’t believe there’s any places here that specifically teach people how to make movie props as a course. Most of the people I worked with did have a lot of special training, or a lot of experience in something before bringing it to this industry. I worked with people who went to school for Pottery, Engineering, Photography, Graphic Design, Sign making.  It’s kind of a weird industry.

While I never specifically set out to work in Film, I did always want to work in entertainment, starting with computer animation when I was young (I blame Reboot), and later video games (which I did for a while before Film, and still want to get back into). I most certainly didn’t have an affinity for creating props, and my first year really felt like an apprenticeship, spending a lot of time helping more experienced builders with parts of their builds and learning a lot of ropes.

gforce writes: “Question for Mark: How much input/freedom did you have in designing the items for the franchise? Were you able to have a lot of creative leeway or were things pretty much drawn up for you already?”

MN: Input varied. You can find a lot of production concepts here on this blog in fact, and many times, what we delivered was exactly that. Sometimes when things were rushed we’d get a ‘paper napkin drawing’, which is like it sounds, and while the important aspects are laid out, you do end up getting the freedom to interpret it.

Disruptor

We also had things like working from established themes. By season 10 of sg-1 and season 3 of Atlantis, looks like ‘Ori’ and ‘Wraith’ were already established, and while we would sometimes have a lot of freedom with the specific prop, it would still have to be known instantly as ‘Wraithy’, so sometimes we couldn’t deviate too much. SGU was my favorite show to work on because we got to spend a lot of pre-production making up a lot of stuff with a lot of new tools and technology, and allowed us to establish a lot of neat building systems.

JeffW writes: “Did you also make the electronics (lights) for the props, and if so, was it mostly LEDs, incandescent, or electro-luminescent? (Sorry in advance if that was too technical).”

MN:We had a full time electrical engineer who did nothing but build electronics. As for what kinds of lights, I think at one point we used everything, but mostly LED, and second probably goes to small fluorescent tubes (often handled by the lighting department for larger, stationary things, like ships consoles, or the 1/3 section of Atlantis gate for ‘The Shrine’). My favorite was side-lighting laser engraved acrylic.

Ori ship chair

Ponytail writes: “Hey Joe could you post a few pictures of Mark Nicholson’s handiwork so I know who I am talking to and have a better idea of questions to ask him. Did he help make that minature Destiny?”

MN: I had a very small hand in the miniature Destiny (though, that hand is the one in the pictures holding it while I make flying noises

Destiny

Choopy 49 writes: “Question for Mark – What equipment/technology/weaponry did you hope the crew of the Destiny would eventually discover on the ship had the show continued?”

MN: I should start this by saying I LOVED WATCHING SGU. I was a big fan of it, and as a fan was crushed when it was cancelled (let alone the fact that it was also my favorite employment ever). What would I have liked to see? or BUILD!? Either way, a Jeep or ATV would have been cool (the whole on foot all the time thing bothered me about the franchise as a whole). More adapted 3rd party tech (not human, or ancient, but from other sources that they could only reach once), especially weapons. Making weapons was fun.

Actually…

Joe, why didn’t they have jeeps and atv’s?

(I would love a detailed answer to this, apart from the obvious $$)

JM: Yes, part of it was $$$, but in my mind given that the teams would be heading out to make first contact or exploring a new planet’s eco-system OR, later in the series, heading into potentially dangerous situations that would require stealth, being on foot would make more sense.  Then, after that initial foray, IF transportation was needed, they could always go back and pick up a vehicle.  It just so happened that in most cases (well, all the ones we saw), there was either no time or necessity for vehicles, mainly because the civilizations they encountered were always located close to the gate – which made sense.  

DP writes: “Questions for Mark Nicholson…It’s hard not to hit duplicate questions this late in the game. What tools, materials, techniques, and resources are available now that you wish were available earlier in your work on Stargate?”

MN: Honestly, I can’t think of anything for this. We had a pretty high tech group, with several CNC machines, a 3D printer, a 3D scanner, and a laser engraver/cutter. I am not aware of any specific manufacturing technology that has been made available since that would have been handy.

“Is there anything that was available then that’s not available now?”

MN: I recall hearing that the quality of some Latex today isn’t as good as it was in the 60′s, due to tree farming practices, but I haven’t found any facts to back this up.

“How thoroughly were the needed props described?

MN: The function and role of most props could be described to us rather quickly, maybe 10 minutes to understand what it is they wanted (along with the concept art). But that’s also coming from my own perspective at the bottom of the chain. Prop meetings where it would be discussed what they wanted to have, and what was possible/affordable/deliverable were not things I attended, an were very long.

“Who did you go to for clarifications when you weren’t sure what was being requested?”

MN: Being off-site, it was a very rare day we would ever see a Production Designer directly. Often, we would see the Prop Master, but 95% of the time, I’d just go to our Lead Prop Builder.

“What’s an inexpensive thing to build with the help of a seven year old? If he can get plenty of big muscle movement during the build, during the use of it, or while destroying it, all the better.”

MN: I have no idea! …after some time thinking on it, I might suggest doing what my dad did, cut swords out of wood with a jigsaw (we did guns too, but that isn’t as well received today as it was then). Or candy glass.

“What examples of serendipity happened in your prop-building?”

MN: Ok. So you know that Jaffa Staff Weapon? The one that opens to fire? They only ever had one that actually opened. And it was only the front half of the staff weapon anyway. After Sg-1 ended, MGM expressed an interest in having a full, working staff weapon. So the working half weapon was pulled out, the back half was put on, it got a fresh paint job, and a custom box for shipping. It was finished, and out the door an hour later, never to be seen by any outside of MGM head office. So there was only ever a working staff weapon we could see and use for an hour. I just happened to get my brother from out of town a tour of the shop in THAT HOUR

“Did you think Lord of the Rings included too many visual details?”

MN: NO. Not ever. They did awesome work, and I would never wish them to do less, ever. And related to that, once you make a bunch of this stuff in movies, and really see what things look like, and how fake it really is, you pick it up when watching it in the theatre, or at home on TV. It then looks fake to you, ALWAYS. So getting to see something that manages to not look totally fake all the time then becomes one of the few movies you can watch and actually forget that it’s all fake. Captain America was another good example. The story was ok, and the acting was…eh. But the props and sets, those were always AMAZING.

Pontytail writes: “First some questions for Mark Nicholson then I have to watch The Shrine then I’ll be back for comments on that…much later.

1. Okay, Mark Nicholson, just answer the question. Did you make the mini Destiny as seen here on Joe’s blog on Aug. 28, 2010?”

MN: I did not make it, but I did make the stand and case for it, and did get to play with it, and make whooshing space noises flying it around the room.

“That model was the coolest thing ever! If you made it:
a. how long did it take?”

MN: I think my co-worker Jay spent a week turning the VFX model into something printable, and another two days to print the 5 parts (4 quarters and a shuttle), paint and assembly was a couple hours.

Destiny progress

“b. what was it used for?”

MN: Ask Joe! It was asked for so directors could plan shots and explore what it actually looks like in depth, in 3D.

(seriously Joe, feel free to chime in here and talk about it’s fate)

JM: Alas, I am unaware of its fate (or the fate of most of those props with the exception of a handful of those Scourge bugs and the pain stick sitting in my garage) but, yes, you’re correct – the model was used to plan shots and sequences.

“c. was it your proudest moment?”

MN: No, but it was one of the coolest things we made. We also did some test prints of a Wraith Dart and an F-302.

F302

Wraith dart

“2. What was the funnest item you made, and why?”

MN: Anything we did for 200. Weapons, and webbing, and incredibly acurately detailed uniform details including campaign badges for O’Neill, Carter, and Hammond, all at 1/3 scale.

Scale weapons

“3. Do you ever hang out on set just to see your art in use?”

MN: Every chance we got, which were unfotunately few.

“4. Do you get to keep anything you make?”

MN: Technically, no. On rare occasions, we would make samples that would not get used, and it was okay if those went missing. One of these was a spare of Tyre’s sword, made of ABS plastic, to see if the material was viable for stunt work. It was too wobbly, and thus discarded and sat in a room for a few years. It now hangs on the wall of a friend of mine who introduced me to Stargate, and is a huge fan.

“5. What have you made that got the most attention from the cast or crew?”

MN: Ironically, the same thing got the most attention both positively and negatively. The Asguard Suits in ‘The Lost Tribe’ and ‘First Contact’ got the most positive, and the same suits got the most negative attention in ‘Water’, when actors had trouble breathing in the new helmets.

“6. What was the craziest thing you ever were asked to make?”

MN: So tough to answer. Many things were crazy, and more importantly, I can’t even remember half the stuff we made, so I’ll just list what I can think of that was rather out there:

Wraith Ultrasound Device

Universe Gate

Universe gate

1/3 of an Atlantis gate (for the water scene at the beginning of ‘The Shrine’, no movable version of the Atlantis gate was ever built before this, it was all camera trickery and cg).

The Ark of Truth (or as those frustrated with it by the end called it, THE ARK OF LIES!)

A ‘Space Dishes Rack’ for The Destiny

A ‘Wraith to USB’ adapter

And I know I’m forgetting so many ridiculous things we did.

“7. How do you feel about seeing your work pictured on Joe’s blog?”

MN: Happy Memories, every time.

“8. Where are you working now?”

MN: Kodak, which is boring compared to making props, but reliable. (see Joe’s post last week about the state of the film industry in Vancouver)

for the love of Beckett writes: “Mark Nicholson — How cool was it being a Prop Master for Stargate? And now your creations are collectibles! A different kind of question would be about the overall style or look of each show, and getting the props to match the set and scene. What were your points of inspiration? It looks sort of like there’s an Art Deco feel to Atlantean objects, but still sci-fi. I liked the tall, copper standing piece of art in Woolsey’s office that Joe liked. Also, I’m not normally big on weapons, but Ronan’s/Jason Momoa’s big ol’ gun that charged up with sound effects was my favorite. Did you get to design that?”

MN: I was a prop builder, not the prop master, and it was VERY COOL. Most of the design feel came from the production designer, and coming in later in SG-1, and Atlantis, many themes were already established. We got a lot more leeway with SGU, and it was so liberating and fun to get to design things from scratch. I’m quite sure the tall copper thing in the office was done by the Set Decorators, who tend to handle things in the background that never get touched. Ronon’s gun was cool, and I didn’t get to design it. I did get to repair it a few times (and repair the rubber stunt ones even more. Rumor has it Jason didn’t like carrying the real ones, which were much heavier).

Mike from Canada writes: “I have questions for Mark Nicholson, if he doesn’t mind. I’ll repeat the questions I had on the shotguns with drum magazines if that’s OK.  How did you make them, what did you use, fiberglass? Actual metal parts?
Did you base them on actual firearms?
How long does it take you to make them?
Did you make each one a one off, or did you make molds?
Do you weight them so they feel more realistic?”

MN: Those shotguns are AA-12′s, and were cast from real ones. Real ones were used on set. I recall hearing not many exist tho, and they’re hard to find. We aim to make things as light as possible.

“New questions:
Do you make all your props pretty much the same way?
How did you get started building props?
Are you working on any other shows these days?”

MN: Yes, most were made with a lot of pre-established techniques.

How did I get in? Like most of the people I worked with, we never intended to be there, it just sorta happens through opportunity. My initial contact was through the model shop asking my old school for any grads who could help with 3D scanning tech they were testing.

I am not currently working in the Film industry.

Mike from Canada also writes: “Hey Joe. I thought of another question (or two or three or four) for Mark Nicholson.  Was there any projects that Mark was particularly proud of?”

MN: The Replicator Chip Merek uses in ‘Ark of Truth’

The backs of the chairs in SGU (I got to do whatever I wanted with them)

The Universe gate

Destiny’s bridge consoles

Bridge console

“Was there any that he particularly detested, that were a mess, or screwed up terribly?”

MN: The Ark of Lies (formerly the Ark of Truth) was built in 7 days.

“If there was any show he would really like to work on, what would it be?”

MN: Tron Legacy. We were asked to help, and had to decline, as we were in pre-production for SGU, and currently building the Universe Gate. (Second place goes to A-team, which I DID get to work on )

“Does he work on any software based graphic tools or such for his work? Maya, Vue, cad program, photoshop, etc.”

MN: YES. All of it, lots! Solidworks and Rhino were comonplace, as well as a lot of Corel Draw. And at some point we tested out anything that would help. I prefer 3ds MAX and Zbrush for 3d modelling too.

“How did Mark wind up doing this kind of work?”

MN: Like everyone else, through strange circumstance and lots of luck.

“Did you work on the sets/stages as well as props?”

MN: Not as such. But we did often work on detailed components that would get integrated into sets, like consoles and special panels.

“What is your current favourite TV show?”

MN: Top Gear.

“Have you read anything lately you would recommend? Fiction or nonfiction.”

MN: I just finished the last book in ‘The Wheel of Time’ series. Also, Zoe’s Tale (from scalzi’s ‘Old Man’s War’ series, which has gotten plenty of attention here), and my favorite book, The Count of Monte Cristo.

“Can we see pictures of your workroom?”

MN: Keith almost gave me a heart attack when I came back to see this guy, sitting there, all sad with his coffee (and again the next morning when I walked in, having forgotten about him).

Suit

“Sorry if I repeated any of the questions, or if I’m too late, or if I’m getting carried away. Curious monkeys want to know!”

MN: No, it’s good. We love monkeys!

Space monkey

BMc writes: “Mark Nicholson – are you AKA confracto? I’ve enjoyed your comments here!
What was the most used/re-used/re-adapted piece of equipment you made? And, were you involved with those great suits worn by the Pegasus Asgard, which I believe later re-appeared as Ancient EVA suits on the Destiny?”

MN: Yes, confracto is my online handle. It was the result of ‘Hey Mark! What’s the weirdest word you can think of!?’. We were bored and checking out what domain names were free and taken years ago. Confracto.com will take you to some of my work.

Most re-used peice? Probably all the knobs and buttons for Destiny.

Wall panels

Yes, I was involved with those suits. It was actually one of the best building experiences, since it took 100% from everyone for weeks to do, and really bonded the team. I have never felt more accomplished than seeing those go out the door. My wife tells me I have to mention that I missed our anniversary one year for these suits, due to working 14 hours that day. But they look so cool!

Thanks to Mark!

And today’s entry is dedicated to birthday gals mamasue9 and Ganymede!

Tagged: Mark Nicholson, SF television, SG-1, SGA, SGU, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis props, Stargate props, Stargate SG-1 props, Stargate Universe, Stargate Universe props, Stargate: Atlantis, Stargate: SG-1

January 31, 2013: The Hot Chocolate Festival!

The Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival is in full swing and Akemi and I have been trying our darndest to sample as many of the 60-some flavors available at the various shops and cafes around town.  So far, we’ve managed to try about a dozen decadent offerings.  Looks like we’re really going to need to pick up the pace with roughly two weeks to go.

Here’s a rundown of our tasty accomplishments to date.  Please note that some of the flavors have been discontinued – but been replaced with other (no doubt) sublime selections:

Italian Honey Moon: Honey nougat and hazelnut made with Avalon Organic milk and Michel Cluizel chocolate served with Erin Ireland’s “To Die For” Banana Bread.

Available: Every day of the festival at Bella Gelateria 1001 West Cordova Street.

www.bellagelateria.com

I was leery at first.  Hot chocolate topped with shards of honey nougat? I love particulates (that’s what they call ‘em) in my ice cream, but in my drinking chocolate?  Well, they turned out to be a wonderful little textural addition to the drink.  I am now a hot chocolate particulate convert!

Monkey’s Choice: Caramelized Banana & Honey served with Erin Ireland’s  “To Die For” Banana Bread.

Available: Every day of the festival at Bella Gelateria 1001 West Cordova Street.

www.bellagelateria.com

Very good although I was on the fence about the banana bits.  The banana bread was the perfect dipping accompaniment.

Ohhh CANADA: Canadian maple syrup + pecan hot chocolate served with a sable.

Available: January 19 – 29 at Thierry Chocolaterie Patisserie Cafe 1059 Alberni Street

http://www.thierrychocolates.com/

A tasty tribute to The Great White North.  And those candied pecans were a lovely touch.

Malteaser: Barley malt-infused hot chocolate served with salt caramel malt truffles.

Available: Every day of the festival at Thomas Haas 2539 West Broadway, Vancouver.

http://www.thomashaas.com/

Terrific!  I could have had two but I’m sure the sugar rush would’ve killed me.

The Sweet of Bitter Dark: Bitter dark drinking chocolate.

Available: January 19 – February 14 at Beaucoup Bakery  2150 Fir Street (in Kitsilano)

www.beaucoupbakery.com/

With seating at a premium, we elected to go take-out.  The serving sizes are notably smaller than the other offerings sampled so far on this Hot Chocolate tour (which sat perfectly fine with Akemi who thought it ideal given its punchiness).  Also, there were some temperature issues as the drink was served at just a touch above room temperature – more of a Warm Chocolate.  In the end, probably my least favorite as the sour notes of this particular Valrhona dark proved just too much for me.

Petal of a Rose: Vanilla bean white hot chocolate with rose.

Available: January 26 – February 1 at Beaucoup Bakery  2150 Fir Street (in Kitsilano)

www.beaucoupbakery.com/

This one was a few degrees cooler than the Bitter Dark and, while Akemi found it too sweet, I enjoyed the flavor combination.  The hint of rose was perfect and didn’t overwhelm the vanilla.

The drink was accompanied by a blondie (the brownie’s angelic sister?) that, again, Akemi found too sweet but, yes, again, I enjoyed for its delightful salted caramel combination.

A Snowball’s Chance in Tokyo: White chocolate matcha hot chocolate topped with yuzu marshmallow.

Available: January 19-25 at Beta 5 

(http://shop.beta5chocolates.com/) and The Juice Truck (usually found on the corner of Abbott and Water in Gastown).

Being a HUGE fan of the gang at Beta 5 Chocolate, I was really looking forward to this one – but came away disappointed when I got it off the The Juice Truck during last week’s food truck event.  It was weak, very watery, and devoid of any trace of yuzu flavor (I assume the marshmallow had dissipated in the heat of it all).  Undeterred, I stopped by Beta 5 and picked up the hot chocolate stick mix, then made it myself at home.  The results?  MUCH better – although I still missed the yuzu marshmallow.

When Pigs Fly: Cocoa Barry “Alto El Sol”, a single plantation chocolate, topped with maple and bacon marshmallow, served with a peanut butter cookie.

Available: Every day of the chocolate festival at Chocolate Arts 1620 West 3rd Ave., Vancouver (Kitsilano).

http://www.chocolatearts.com/

A nice cup of chocolate although I didn’t find the marshmallows particularly “bacony” and thought the accompanying peanut butter cookie just so-so.

Armoury Armor: Cocoa Barry  “Madirofolo”– a single plantation chocolate, kissed with raspberry and served with a mini lemon and basil ice cream sandwich.

Available: Every day of the chocolate festival at Chocolate Arts 1620 West 3rd Ave., Vancouver (Kitsilano).

http://www.chocolatearts.com/

Well, damn, this was a surprise!  I’m not a fan of the fruit-chocolate combo and find raspberry a particularly reprehensible partner but this heavenly creation sang.  Akemi’s overall favorite so far and a definite Top 3 finisher for yours truly.  Loved the raspberry sugar rim.

Orange Blossom Flower: 64% dark chocolate – origin: Ecuador. Infused with orange blossom flowers and served with choice of chocolate square.

Available: Every day of the chocolate festival at Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France 198 East 21st Ave., Vancouver, B.C.

www.chocolaterienouvellefrance.ca

Beautifully presented and loved the froth but the orange blossom overwhelmed.

Jasmine: 64% dark chocolate – origin: Ecuador. Infused with jasmine and served with choice of chocolate square.

Available: Every day of the chocolate festival at Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France 198 East 21st Ave., Vancouver, B.C.

www.chocolaterienouvellefrance.ca

Surprisingly spectacular.  Just the right chocolate married with the perfect balance of jasmine yields the most exquisite hot chocolate of the festival so far.

Currant Direction: The sophisticated Euro accent of blackcurrant.  Served with a thyme sable.

Available: January 28 – 30, February 9 – 1 at Soirette Macarons & Tea 1433 West Pender Street, Vancouver. (Coal Harbour)

www.soirette.com

Our first attempt to sample Soirette’s hot chocolate offerings was unsuccessful.  We walked in at 6:30 p.m., a half an hour before closing, only to have the girl behind the counter look at us as though we were homeless people seeking for spare change.  We inquired about the hot chocolate and were informed, alas, the kitchen was closed.  Closed? Damn, I thought, that must be a mighty involved hot chocolate-making process!

We returned a few days later for an afternoon visit.  A different girl was at the counter and she was sweet as can be.  The owner, came out from the back to chat macarons and hot chocolate with us – and present us with the thyme sable that accompanied our order.

I’m not a big fan of mixing fruit and chocolate so the cocoa-currant combo didn’t really sing for me.  Akemi, on the other hand, was quite charmed by the creation – although she felt the addition of lavender petals was a bit much.  That thyme sable however…Holy Smokes! Closer to cake than sable, sweet and salty with a savory thyme undertone, it was the best thing I’ve eaten this year!  Unbelievably good but, sadly, not on the regular menu.

P.S. It only took all of 45 seconds to actually prepare the hot chocolate.

The Ayala: Jasmine drinking chocolate, topped with housemade juniper marshmallows.

Available: January 19 – February 14 at Cocoa Nymph 3739 W. 10th Ave (at Alma), Vancouver, B.C. 604-222-4477

www.cocoanymph.co

A subtle blend of jasmine and dark chocolate.  The homemade juniper marshmallows were a nice little addition.

The Noah: Balsamic drinking chocolate, topped with housemade cherry marshmallow.

Available: January 26 – February 14 at Cocoa Nymph 3739 W. 10th Ave (at Alma), Vancouver, B.C. 604-222-4477

www.cocoanymph.co

Thicker, silkier than The Ayala but, ultimately, possessed of just a tad too much of a vinegar kick.  Sipped on its own, it didn’t quite do it for me although the cherry marshmallows offered a nice counterpoint.

Tagged: Chocolate, Hot Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Festival, Vancouver festivals, Vancouver food event, Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival

January 30, 2013: Projects brewing! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! The Lost Tribe!

Today, I revised and sent off the mythology document for the urban fantasy series we’re developing, then continued the rewrite of the pilot script.  Feedback on the first draft was heartening (“Lots of twists and turns and high stakes jeopardy”, “loads of fun” and “Great little horror movie”!) and we received some terrific notes that, once addressed, will no doubt make the script that much better.  Came up with a new scene to kick things off, one that establishes our heroine from the get-go. Tightened up the teaser and the first act and just about to write the second flashback scene that will cement “the ritual”.  Ideally, I’d love to shave another page (maybe two) before moving on to the second act. If all goes as planned, my writing partner will have a first pass at the second draft awaiting him upon his return to Vancouver.

Gotta say that, as this pilot and series continue to take shape, I grow increasingly excited.

On two fronts, as the initial feedback on the scifi pilot we’re developing has been equally fantastic.  A few more entities have to read the script and weigh in (with either notes or a commitment) and then we’ll be on our way.  Smooooooth sailing!  I’ve already established the major story and character arcs for the proposed first season (that’ll end, like every episode planned, with a shocker), setting things up, seeding clues, and paying things off in a big way – or opening the door to more surprises to come.  I also have a fairly detailed sense of what those first seven episodes are going to be – as well as the last four.  I’ve yet to decide on #8 and #9.  Anyone have any ideas?

In addition, I was informed today by our producing partner that there is a lot of interest in that third project (an SF series based on an existing property) which we should start discussing whenever we come up for air.

Continuing our stroll down SGA memory lane with…

THE LOST TRIBE (511)

Oops.  Mis-titled the last Days of SGA Past entry.  First Contact was the first part of the mid-season two-parter while, of course, The Lost Tribe was second.

I remember walking through the Traveler’s ship set with my writing partner, Paul, and thinking: “Damn!  We’ve got to find a way to fold this set and store it away for the Dark Matter series. “.  Dark.  Dirty. More Nostromo than Enterprise.  It was, in a word, “perfect”.  How were we to know it would be another five years before we’d get a shot.

Marty G. at the controls (photo courtesy MGM Television)

High maintenance Asgard actor holds up the shoot (photo courtesy MGM Television)

Getting into those suits was as much as a chore as trying to walk around in one (photo courtesy of MGM Television

A view from the cockpit (photo courtesy of MGM Television)

Robert Picardo.  Loved writing for his character.

The talented and terrific-to-work-with Sharon Taylor and David Nykl

Tagged: Atlantis, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis, The Lost Tribe

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