Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 486

September 8, 2012: We’re go for Philly Cheesesteak Sunday! Fuji blows its top? Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! Travelers!

While out shopping this afternoon, I came across this:

Okay all you know-it-all gourmets, let’s hear your best ostrich egg recipe.  According to the shop owner, although it may seem daunting, I shouldn’t feel obliged to use the entire egg in one meal.  Apparently, ostrich eggs keep surprisingly well.  I honestly considered picking it up and surprising the guys tomorrow but, ultimately, decided against it figuring I would have my hands full with the Philly Cheesesteaks.  Also, the $95 price tag seemed a little much.  I say “seemed” because I really have no idea what ostrich eggs go for these days.  Also, even if I did shell out for one and managed to find a terrific recipe, I’m not at all sure how to open one up.  If Chopped has taught be anything, it’s that ostrich shells are incredibly thick.  Suggestions on cracking this puzzle would be greatly appreciated as well.

Yes, I’m all set for Philly Cheesesteak Sunday.  Today, I picked up the shaved rib eye, onions, mushrooms, peppers, mayo, ketchup, provolone, American cheese (aka processed cheese) and, believe it or not, Cheese Whiz (Akemi refused to believe it was actual cheese). Tomorrow morning, I’ll wake up early(ish) and pick up some fresh rolls at which point I’ll be good to go.  I think I’ll start on the onion, peppers, and mushrooms, pop them in the oven, then add them to order as I prepare the meat for the individual sandwiches.

As an added bonus, Rob texted to inform me he’s been experimenting with donuts.  Tomorrow afternoon, we’ll see the results of his mad genius.

I will, of course, snap pics of the finished product for you all to criticize.

Well, this would certainly put a damper on my planned trip to Tokyo later this year: Experts Predict Japan’s Mount Fuji Will Erupt Soon.  Uh, exactly how soon is “soon”? Next year soon?  In the next five years soon?  November soon?  Hmmm.  Better pack a snack and extra underwear just in case.

This blog’s resident movie critic, Cookie Monster (check out all his past reviews here: Film reviews by resident film criti…) asked me to remind everyone that next week’s Supermovie of the Week Club selection is Hellboy.  Discussion begins Monday.  Watch it!

Continuing our trip down SGA memory lane…

 TRAVELERS (405)

For the longest while, Joe Flanigan wanted us to cast a sexy female regular to play off Sheppard, a character who, in tandem with John, would offer the show a Moonlighting dynamic.  While I wasn’t against the idea, I felt that the addition of another regular would take away from the existing dynamic.  Instead, I came up with an alternative scenario, one that would introduce a character with recurring potential. And so, the idea for Larrin, and the Travelers, Larrin, was born.  As was the case whenever we cast a guest star, everyone was all over every audition – to the point that I seriously wondered whether we would ever find our Larrin in time.  Well, we did – eventually – casting the lovely Jill Wagner.  The plan had always been to bringer back but scheduling conflicts quashed that possibility and, sadly, while referred to onscreen, Larrin was never seen again. [Oops.  Right.  Never seen again.  After the mid-season two-parter].

Tagged: Atlantis, Days of Stargate Atlantis Past, SF television, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis, Travelers

September 7, 2012: News of note! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! Doppleganger!

Cool, huh?  High speed video of gelatin cubes being dropped onto a hard surface via http://www.modernistcuisine.com/

Well now, isn’t this interesting: Internet Video Contributes To Second Straight Decline In TV Households.  “Nielsen is working with its clients on the evolution of the current definition of a TV household and a TV device for their ratings services, potentially qualifying video content delivered to a TV via the Internet,” the company says.  That’s nice. Get right on that whole digital revolution thing before it really takes off.

Elderly couple cleaned out of all their worldly possessions following break in.  Individuals responsible won’t face any jail time because they said it was a terrible mistake.  Oh, and they’re a major bank.  Owners Lose Possessions After Home Near Twentynine Palms Is Mistakenly Foreclosed

ESPN ranks the best (and worst) sports franchises in 2012, taking into account such variables as Bang for Buck, Fan Relations, Ownership, Affordability, Stadium Experience, Players, Coaching, and Title Track. Coming in at the very bottom (122nd spot?) – well, let’s just say we should make sure my buddies and former Toronto natives Rob and Ivon don’t see this: http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/teamrankings#table

HD solar eruption compliments of the gang at NASA:

And our trip down Atlantis memory lane continues with…

DOPPLEGANGER (404)

When Paul and I took over as show runners for the show’s fourth season, a lot of fans wondered where Brad Wright and Robert Cooper were going.  The answer: nowhere.  They remained involved in the show’s creative, helping to break stories, write scripts and, in Rob’s case, direct and produce the occasional episode.  This one was a lot of fun for all involved.  For Joe in particular because he got to play a bad guy, something all actors love to do – unless they’ve made a career playing bad guys in which case they want to play the part of the hero.  

I’m sure it was also a blast for Rob who really went all out with the fantasy sequences, drawing on some of his own childhood fears for inspiration.  The whale nightmare, for instance, was no doubt influenced by Jaws, a movie Rob saw when he was admittedly way too young to appreciate the nuances of a man-eating shark.  It apparently haunted him for years but, on the bright, help shape him into the fine storyteller he is today.  There’s also an homage to one of the creepiest scenes in an SF movie ever when the creature bursts out of Teyla’s stomach a la Alien.  This scene apparently earned the episode a “15″ age restriction on the dvd release, which is kind of interesting given that the original scene was A LOT more visceral and ended up being toned down for air.  I also had to laugh at the scene in which Sheppard realizes Teyla is mad at him for something he apparently did in her dream.  I recalled Rob telling me that the exact same thing happened to him once after his wife had a nightmare.  

Doppleganger was the first episode shot that season in order to accommodate Robert Cooper’s commitment to directing Ark of Truth. Although it was the fourth episode to air, the production designation, 401, caused a little mix-up that resulted in iTunes subscribers receiving this episode instead of the season premiere.

The Art Department bulletin board at the start of season 4.

Whenever the half-wraith Sheppard in rustic clothing attacked Teyla in her dream sequence, Martin Gero would shout: “No, hobo Sheppard. No!”.

One of the stunts during the climactic Good vs. Evil Sheppard sequence called for a ratchet pull which required Joe be jeked trough a portion of breakaway railing and cross the room.  It was a bit of an unnerving stunt for the uninitiated since he needed to fly through the air, backwards, from a starting point of the set’s second level.  Joe was harnessed, Rob called action, the countdown came “Three…two…ONE!” and…nothing.  Our special effects coordinator called for a re-set and as everyone relaxed and prepared for an equipment check – the apparatus suddenly engaged.  I remember watching (and rewatching) the shot in dailies, the exact instant when Joe realizes – eyes widening slightly, body tensing, managing an “Urk” before – being abruptly yanked off his feet, through the railing, and across the room.  Acting is a tough business.

Tagged: Atlantis, Doppleganger, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis

September 6, 2012: The Great Philly Cheesesteak Debate! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! Reunion!

Philly cheesesteaky photo courtesy of Advance Food Company, Oklahoma City, OK

Well damn.  Little did I realize the firestorm reaction I would elicit when I mentioned that I would be making Philly Cheesesteaks this weekend and serving them in focaccia.  Apparently, there are some Philly Cheesesteak purists among this blog’s readership who would sooner smack me upside the head than eat a Philly Cheesesteak with focaccia.  They have made it clear that a Philly Cheesesteak is NOT served on focaccia.  Nor is it made with anything but shaved rib eye. As for the cheese, I can take my pick between provolone, American, Cheese Wiz and, in extreme cases, mozzarella.  Apparently, there is some leeway on the toppings.  Fried/grilled onions are standard but, in some circumstances (not clearly detailed), green peppers, hot peppers, and even mushrooms are acceptable.  The addition of tomatoes, lettuce, ketchup, hot sauce and even mayo remains a highly contentious issue.

Got it!  Thanks or the outraged input.  I’m going traditional this Sunday.  Nevertheless, I might put the focaccia on the side and look the other way.

Continuing our trip down Atlantis memory lane…

REUNION (403)

This one was a memorable for a number of reasons, but chiefly for actor Jason Momoa’s dedication to the material.  Understand, Jason always did a great job on the show but, in episodes like these in which we explored Ronon’s backstory, he always worked especially hard, studying the script, asking the right questions, making suggestions, and then throwing himself wholeheartedly into his role (literally throwing himself as, at one point during production, he jumped out of the gate and scraped the hell out of his arm).  He was always very passionate and committed, especially to those very demanding fight sequences that saw him acquire some pretty remarkable skills in a relatively short period of time under the guidance of our fantastic Stunt Coordinator James “Bam Bam” Bamford.  In fact, check out the trailer for Stallone’s new movie (at the end of this write-up – just skip ahead to the 2:00 mark) in which Jason plays the bad guy.  That’s some nifty axe work!

Jason and Amanda at the Reunion read-through.

Mark Dacascos as Tyre.

This episode was also notable for the appearance of Mark Dacascos (Brotherhood of the Wolf, The Crowd, Iron Chef America) who had been recommended for a part on SG-1 by actor Ben Browder.  I was a big fan of Mark’s work and, for that reason, didn’t cast him on SG-1 because he would have played the role of a Jaffa who ended up dying at episode’s end.  Instead, I kept him in mind and, after this script was written, immediately thought of him for Tyre.  And, he was perfect – likable (which made his turn all the more shocking) and a seasoned martial artist (his fight scenes were terrific).  In an early incarnation of the story, Ronon kills all of his former friends but I had a change of heart after casting Mark.  He was not only great as Tyre but simply a great guy as well, very well-liked by the crew.  All the more reason to write a sequel the following season (Broken Ties) and have him back for a little revenge and redemption.

Director Will Waring – camera shy.  Ironic, no?

Director Will Waring unmasked. A pleasure to work with. And, if things fall into place, hopefully I’ll get the chance to do so again sooner than later.

I’ve spoken extensively about this episode in past blog posts so, rather than repeat what has already been said, allow me to direct you here (October 13, 2007) for a rundown of my thoughts on the episode, covering everything from scheduling conflicts, my favorite scene (the Ronon/Sheppard talk), and the loss of my favorite line: “Who’s Hootie now?”.

Spooky, no?

The wraith set.

Director of Photography, Michael C. Blundell, transformed the set into an remarkably creepy environment.

More goodies here (October 14, 2007) in the form of scenes and excerpts that didn’t make the cut.

BTW, that garish painting Ronon had up in his room adorned my office for that entire year.  I always wondered where it wound up.  I can only assume it was purchased at auction by some discerning art collector. 

Tagged: Jason Momoa, Mark Dacascos

September 5, 2012: Philly Cheesesteak secrets! The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History results and winners! Let’s hear ‘em! Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! Lifeline!

Look out!  My Snow Monkeys are back and gunning for their second consecutive Fantasy Football league championship.  The season kicks off tonight but things will really get interesting on Sunday when I’ll be hosting an all-day football fest and feast.  And, since I’m hosting, it falls on me to put together a schedule for the day.  I was thinking we could start with a few relay races, then move on to the scavenger hunt, some charades, an egg toss and then, time permitting, watch some football.  I also have to do a little menu planning and, to that end, I’ve been scouring some recipes from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.  I’m thinking Philly Cheesesteaks on focaccia (and maybe a roast chicken variation).  Thoughts?  Am I going with American, cheddar, or Swiss cheese?  I don’t want to end up having the wrong choice cost me the election like John Kerry.  Thoughts?  Anybody out there have a surefire Philly Cheesesteak recipe?

Hey!  We’ve moved on to Atlantis’s fourth season as part of our ongoing Days of Stargate Past reminiscences.  Over on Gateworld, they’re also doing a season 4 rewatch.  Head on over here for the details (Stargate Rewatch: Atlantis Season Four We’re rewatching Atlantis’s fourth season all through September — part of the Stargate Rewatch! #SGRewatch) then over here (this forum thread) to submit nominations in the categories of Best Episode, Best Sheppard Moment, Best McKay Moment, Best Teyla Moment, Best Ronon Moment, Best Carter Moment, Best Keller Moment, Best Team Moment, Best Alien Race, Best Individual Villain, Coolest Ancient Technology, Coolest Alien Technology, Best SG-1 Crossover, and Best Guest Star.

Oh, and speaking of voting, the results are in for The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History:

Hunh.  I’m surprised.  Not that the death of Janet Fraiser won the poll, but that it won so handily, easily doubling Daniel’s goodbye in Meridian.  I suppose that, placed in the context of the series as a whole, it makes sense since, even though he did ascend, Daniel’s goodbye wasn’t a final farewell.

Anyway, as promised, we have some lucky winners, both of whom have won some signed scripts.  And they are:

Becky Truitt

and

Alex Valentine

Leave a comment in this entry’s comment section with your email (fear not, it won’t be published) and Stargate Command will be in touch.

Continuing our stroll down memory lane…

LIFELINE (403)

What I found particularly interesting about this episode was not so much what was going on in front of the camera, or behind the camera, but way over on the other side of the lot beyond the security fence. I’m talking about -

This.

And this.

Yes, this was the year fandom galvanized for the Save Carson Beckett Campaign which culminated in a demonstration outside the Bridge Studios in support of the good (dead) doctor.  As far as demonstrations go, it was well-organized, spirited and, ultimately, successful.  They DID save Carson Beckett!

And, not to be forgotten…after the conversation wrapped up and everyone had left, I discovered this forlorn sign sitting on the lawn.

As for the episode itself, it was another Carl Binder masterpiece.  Carl had wanted to a heist episode for a while and Lifelife offered him the opportunity with the team infiltrating the Asuran homeworld in order to get their hands on a desperately needed ZPM.  They succeed, but at a great cost when they are forced to leave Elizabeth behind.  Jennifer Keller, meanwhile, cements her position as the new CMO while Samantha Carter takes over command of the Atlantis expedition.

Writer-Producer celebrates a successful heist.

Andy Mikita called in for directing duties since Martin Wood had his hands full with Ark of Truth.

Andy Mikita directs.  Listening to the actors and following the script.  Radio in hand to offer constructive criticism like: “Great job!”, “Perfect!” and “Speak louder and hold the prop up higher!”. 

The puddle jumpers were surprisingly roomy.  The backseats made for a much more comfortable ride than any SG-1 cargo ship could provide.  

Anybody else watch the season 5 finale of Breaking Bad?  I mean do we really have to wait until next summer to find out how it all ends?  Really?

Tagged: Atlantis, fantasy football, Philly cheesesteak, Save Carson Beckett, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis

September 4, 2012: Days of Stargate Atlantis Past! SGA’s Fourth Season! Adrift!

2007 marked the year Paul Mullie and I took over as showrunners for Atlantis’s fourth season.  It also marked my first full year of blogging. As a result, some of these look-backs will be a little more involved, starting with…

ADRIFT (401)

The episode opens with a frenzied shot of the medical team wheeling a seriously injured Elizabeth down the corridor and into the infirmary.  It was so frenzied, in fact, that no one noticed there was a camera man in the shot until well into post-production.  In the original version the shot starts on the Weir’s gurney and various medical equipment being wheeled in and by – except that, unbeknownst to us at first, one of those pieces of medical equipments happened to be a camera men.  It was while we were watching one of the cuts that Martin Gero noticed. He rewound, played, paused and, sure enough, there was our phantom invisible camera man, suddenly very visible in the frozen frame.  Oops.

Out visual effects supervisor, Mark Savela, and his team were nothing short of amazing, following up our VFX-laden season three finale with this visually spectacular season opener.  About a year after the episode aired, Mark swung by the blog to do a little Q&A (check it out here: July 24, 2008: Stargate Atlantis Visual Effects Supervisor Mark Savela answers your questions. And he brought treats!).  Among the visuals he forwarded me for inclusion in the entry were a couple of videos I wasn’t able to upload at the time, specifically…

We open on Samantha Carter effortlessly floating through the Midway station as she works with Dr. Lee.  The smoothness of Carter’s movement was achieved by pulling her along on a skateboard (don’t know if we borrowed Joe’s longboard for that one).

And the sequence itself – the Midway station wasn’t actually constructed until later that season.  The impressive station environment was actually created by our VFX department.  Check it out:

Then there was the big EVA chasm jump Sheppard and Zelenka execute to repair the damaged stardrive’s control crystals, one of my favorite VFX sequences in Stargate history.  And it all started with those bulky (and stifling hot) space suits…

Actor David Nykl (Radek Zelenka) was always a good sport. Here he is, modeling the space suit prior to shooting the sequence.

And practicing his space dance maneuver.

Space zombie!

The sequence was shot on our largest stage, what we referred to as the VFX Stage, which was home to the village set, some Atlantis interiors, and the hive ship.

Again, the virtual environment of the chasm, the destruction, and the facing building are achieved through the magic of green screen:

And then there’s the sequence in which puddle jumpers fly ahead to take out the approaching asteroids.  Rodney proves himself amazingly adept -

But, of course, he had a lot of help from Mark Savela and co.  A few stages of the development of this sequence:

This was the Torri Higginson’s first episode back as a guest star and it was very difficult and demanding, requiring her to spend much of the episode immobilized for her character’s brain surgery.  We, of course, didn’t shave the actress’s head for the sequence, instead using a bald cap.  After the nanites save Elizabeth’s life, there was only the briefest of discussions on her post-operative physical appearance.  They would have shaved her head for brain surgery so it stood to reason that Elizabeth would come back bald, no?  Well, no.  Fortunately, this is science fiction and one could argue that, if the nanites could repair her physically, they could also regrow her hair.

A lot of great scenes in this episode but, for me, the most memorable remains the one in which Ronon speaks to the unconscious Weir, thanking her for all she’s done for him.  It’s a rare, vulnerable moment for Atlantis’s resident bullheaded warrior and one that resonates for that very reason.  A wonderful performance on the part of actor Jason Momoa.

Tagged: Adrift, Atlantis, Days of Stargate Atlantis Past, film & television, science fiction, scifi television, SF television, SGA, Stargate, Stargate: Atlantis

September 3, 2012: The Supermovie of the Week Club Reconvenes! Cookie Monster reviews The Hulk (2003)!

At one point during movie, monster get so enraged he charge into food court and start smashing, stomping, screaming, and trowing Sbarro pizza toppings at frightened children when – Oh, sorry.  Dis not scene from movie The Hulk.  Dis was Cookie Monster’s REACTION to movie The Hulk, one of de most tortuously long and plodding superhero movies me have reviewed so far.  Ang Lee direkts dis film like a 70′s t.v. show, wit so many cheezy wipes and split screens monster feel like he watching an old episode of Streets of San Francisco.  Lame dialogue not do much to dispel dis illusion.  Only moments it not look like a 70′s t.v. show be during extended CG/visual effects sekwences – when it look like a lame videogame.

A scene from Hulk videogame movie videogame movie…uh…videogame.

So, direkton, skript, and CG be crap.  What else you got?

How about: contrived story, stoopid developments, and one giant useless subplot involving skeevy-looking Nick Nolte (playing skeevy-looking father of Hulk) and his dogs.

Sorry. Dis be a scene from The Hulk movie videogame movie videogame…movie.  Me tink.

Movie begin in what look like (appropriately enuf) de 70′s where scientist David Banner (wit cheezy pornstar mustache) do sekret experiments on his son, Bruce.  Years later, Bruce grown up and he too is scientist, working wit his hot ex-girlfriend fellow scientist, Betty.

Sorry.  Me can accept sekret experiment dat turn human into raging green monster.  Me can even accept fakt dat Bruce Banner’s stretchy shirts and socks rip off when he changes into Hulk while non-stretchy pants do not.  But me have have major problem accepting a nerd like Bruce Banner have hot ex-girlfriend dat look like Jennifer Connelly.

A magikal world where humans turn into giant green monsters, electricity makes people stronger, and hot girls go out wit nerds.

Movie peppered wit so many bizarre moments, monster would have to make dis a two-part review to cover dem all.  For instants, when Betty leaving lab one night and notice creepy-looking new janitor, she ask: “Where’s Benny?” Creepy janitor inform her: “Benny’s dead.”  Any normal, non-psycopatik human at dis point would say someting like: “Dat’s terrible.” or “I’m sorry to hear it.” or at least be shocked or saddened by news dat “Benny’s dead”.  Instead, she respond: “Pleased to meet you.”  Pleased to meet you?  Pleased to meet you?!!!  Moving on…

Another bizarre moment come when Bruce moping over Betty.  He pull out photo of dem together and, suddenly, photo come alive and become window into  flashback.  In flashback, Betty tell Bruce about someting dat happened to her when she was young – at which point we go into another flashback.  A flashback INSIDE a flashback.  What de Fudgee-o?

Next day, back in de real world, experiment go awry and Bruce blasted wit nano-mats(?).  But he bounce back and in fine shape.  In fact, even better shape dan before.  It turn out dat nano-metes PLUS experiments dat his father subjected him to changed Bruce.  He turn into Hulk and trash lab in scene reminiscent of de most mediocre of video game sekwences.

Hulk furious. Me know how he feel after sitting thru dis dud of a movie.

Despite being incredibly destruktive, Hulk never kill anyone in dis sopomorik movie.  At one point, he cause helicopter to crash.  Seconds later, pilot radio everyone be a-okay.  It like, suddenly, me watching de A-Team t.v. series!

But den, a couple of scenes later, me suddenly watching a low-rent Pixar knock-off when Hulk attacked by mutant dogs (led by hilariously creepy gamma poodle).  Hoo boy.  And dis movie not even close to over.

Rut ro, Shaggy.

More stoopidities abound:

Creepy janitor somehow gets access to trashed lab’s top sekret contents.  How?  Becuz he works dere.  How did he get job?  Well, me assume he passed de rigorous screening process.  Well, as rigorous a screening process as possible considering de guy travels to and from work wit a pack of dogs.

Bruce put in containment chamber and transforms into hulk. Containment container is breached.  How?  Does Hulk use his super strength to break it?  No.  It spring a leak.  It breached by water displacement!

Rut ro, Shaggy.

Wait.  Monster take back de fakt dat nobody die in dis movie. Somebody does die – de stereotypikal businessman – who killed (for reazon me still not understand) and blown up in ridikulous shot dat have him flying thru de air and den freeze before shot consumed by fire.

General Thunderbolt Ross order all out attack on Hulk.  Hulk smashing tanks.  Army shooting at Hulk.  It look like it going to be one messy massive climactic battle – until General notice Hulk making googoo eyes at Betty.  So he order his troops to stand down and send his daughter to confront crazy monster alone.  Confronted wit Betty, Bruce lose his raging Hulk-on.

De End.

No, wait!  Me forgot about useless subplot involving creepy janitor who turn out to be Bruce’s crazy scientist father who used equipment leftover from lab thrashing to transform himself into mutant absorbing man.  And so, audience have to sit thru interminable tacked-on extra half hour ending in which Bruce Hulk battle Father mutant in darkly lit sekwence where impossible to figure out what de hell be going on.

“Bite the Cable: A reference to the precise moment in which a movie goes off the deep end of plausibility and/or sanity.” – http://www.thefilmyap.com/

Seriously!  Your movie be 138 minutes long!  Why dis subplot at all necessary?  Lose 20 minute sekwence of father experimenting on Bruce off de top, lose creepy janitor, lose goofy gamma dogs, lose useless second ending and just have accident in lab be cause of Hulk.  And voila.  Instead of unbearable two and a half hour movie you let wit somewhat less irritating film dat run a more or less watchable 90 minutes!

But Cookie Monster not writer/producer, so what me know?

Verdikt: If dis movie was a frat house, it be Pi Krappa Gamma.

Rating: 2 out of 10 chocolate chippee cookies.

Please diskuz!

Next week Supermovie of de Week Club selektion:

Tagged: comic book movies, Comic Books, Comics, Cookie Monster, Cookie Monster reviews The Hulk, Hulk, Hulk (2003), Hulk movie, superhero films, superhero movies, superheroes, SuperMovie of the Week Club, The Hulk

September 2, 2012: YOUR sure-fire recipe for the perfect steak!

Meat Santa

Last night, Ivon came over with fifteen pounds of meat.  Now, normally, the writer in me would be instantly suspicious of a friend who just happened to show up on my doorstep with a bag full of red meat that needed eating, but in this case Ivon paved the way with a (suspicious?) story about placing an order with a farm that raises organic, grass-fed livestock.  He’d informed me he was scheduled to pick up his order at around 6:00 p.m. and suggested he and his girlfriend, Sarah, could swing by and taste test the meat at my place.

I said “Sure!”, swung by the farmers market and picked up some accompaniments – fresh carrots for Akemi’s honey-roasted carrot dish, fresh sungold tomatoes, lemon cukes, garlic, and basil for a nice end of summer salad, and an assortment of fresh desserts from French Made Baking.

Ivon and Sarah arrived at around 6:30, meat in tow.  We decided to sample four cuts:

New York, Sirloin, Rib, and Tenderloin.

My preferred preparation method involves heavily salting the meat and letting it sit for an hour to break down the tissue, then rinse it off, pat it dry, season with pepper and thyme, then sear in a cast iron pan for two minutes aside before topping it with more thyme, crushed garlic, and butter and popping it into the oven for ten minutes to finish.  Alas, the fact that the steaks were frozen solid put a bit of a crimp in those pans.  And so, instead, I looked up a recipe for searing frozen steaks.  According to the adherents of this method, frozen steaks actually sear better than room temperature steaks.  After searing, the steaks are popped into the oven for thirty minutes to an hour at fairly low heat (250 degrees) and then served to a perfect, buttery medium-rare.

Steaks!

The steaks seared nicely and, as per the instructions, I popped them into the oven at 250 degrees.  After about twenty minutes, we checked the meat.  It was still raw inside.  Patience may be a virtue but hunger trumps everything so we ratcheted up the oven to 350 degrees, waited another fifteen and -

Voila!

Our plate of meat.

The meat was very good, the tenderloin in particular, but I think we did it a disservice by rushing it along.  Some day, I’d like to prepare them, unfrozen, with my salt and sear method.

Steaks compliments of Ivon and Sarah.

Everyone has their version of the perfect steak.  Would love to hear yours.

Since we’re on the topic of perfecting cooking methods, here are a couple of pics of Akemi and my recent attempts at souffle:

Akemi

Me

Inspired by a recent episode of Master Chef (Can I just say how much I hate it when eliminated contestants are given the opportunity to return to the competition?  It gives them an unfair advantage over every chef that is eliminated moving forward, every other chef who DIDN’T luck out with a second chance.  But this is a topic for another blog rant), Akemi and I set out to try our hands at the difficult dish, baking up four versions: Savory Cheese, Blueberry, Cherry, and Chocolate.

Surprisingly, the cheese – while the ugliest – was the tastiest.  The chocolate was first runner up because, while slightly dried out, it turned out better than the undercooked fruit souffles.

Work continues on perfecting our souffle recipes.

We’re also working on perfecting our pork belly recipes.  The other day, we tried a Gordon Ramsay version that involved slow roasting the pork belly, pressed it, refrigerating it overnight, then slicing it up and finishing in the oven to crispy doneness.

Ramsay’s pork

As much as I loved the crispy top, I found the meat too tough, nestled between layers of fat that hadn’t rendered properly.  We still prefer a version Akemi makes (she calls it “Winnie the Pooh Pork”) that sees it braised for several hours in a soy, honey, orange and balsamic vinegar-based sauce.

Sometimes, simple is best.  Like this simple salad comprised of sweet sungolds, fresh basil, burrata cheese, Arbequina olive oil, and sea salt.

And, finally, a taste of Japan.  Akemi’s “happo sai”: nappa cabbage, shitake mushrooms, pork, carrots, and quail eggs in a chicken broth-based stew.

Natsukashii!

Last chance to vote (and most importantly, leave a comment on the poll page to win a signed script) for The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History:

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Our Supermovie of the Week Club resumes tomorrow as this blog’s resident film critic, Cookie Monster, returns to offer his take on Ang Lee’s The Hulk (2003).  Monster has been uncharacteristically generous of late, doling out high cookie praise for movies like X-Men, X2: X-Men United, and Spiderman while demonstrating more typical disdain for recent stinker Daredevil.  How will The Hulk fare?  Tune in to tomorrow’s blog episode to find out.

Tagged: Stargate, steak, superhero movies, superheroes, SuperMovie of the Week Club, The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History, the perfect steak

September 1, 2012: The Snow Monkeys Cometh! The Dogs Eating Ice Cream summer finale!

Finally!  Today was the day our fantasy football league, Vancouver United, gathered for our fantasy football draft.  It looks like my team, the Snow Monkeys, will have its work cut out for it as it faces off against fourteen other tough teams.  Well, thirteen tough teams plus the ragtag assortment of players Tio will manage to assemble every week.

Determined to repeat as champions.

After staying up late last night going over my stats, I woke up early this morning – to go over my stats – then opened up my three laptops, pulled out my research documents, and counted down.  Our draft positions were randomly generated thirty minutes before the draft, so there was no way to prepare – well, short of over-preparing which is what I did, running some three hundred different simulations that saw me drafting at all fourteen spots.  If there was one thing I discovered, it was that I didn’t want to end up drafting in the #5-7 position.  #1-4 and I would draft one of the top three RB’s.  #8-14 and I would have a shot at a couple of fairly strong runners as well.  Of course, as it turned out, I ended up with the 6th pick.

Ready to draft!

The draft began at 11:00 a.m. sharp.  VFX Supervisor Mark Savela (The Savela Skitterers) had the first pick and my buddy Tio, who must be commended for attempting to field a team made up entirely of quarterbacks, had the last pick.  Inside that hour and a half, I snapped up some great players, missed out on a few I’d had my eye on, and even landed a couple of potential sleepers.

Here are my new look Snow Monkeys:

QB: Drew Brees

RB: Fred Jackson

RB: Doug Martin

WR: Dwayne Bowe

WR: Marques Colston

TE: Jared Cook

R/W/T: Mark Ingram

K: Ryan Succop

D: Atlanta Falcons

Bench

RB: Jacquizz Rodgers

WR: Pierre Garcon

WR: Austin Collie

WR: Greg Little

WR: Jon Baldwin

WR: Justin Blackmon

In the end, I had to draft one of the top tier quarterbacks and I’m very happy with Brees.  Regardless of the vendetta against them, the Saints will be a powerhouse this year.  Which is why I also picked up the scoring machine Marques Colston and lead Saints back Mark Ingram who should assume most goal line rushing duties.  A very solid offensive line will make the Chiefs much improved, which means another great year for Bowe and possible breakout status for Baldwin.

Speaking of breakout status, speedy Justin Blackmon has already become a favorite of QB Blaine Gabbart in Jacksonville and he looks to have plenty of upside.  Our opening week match-up will no doubt see me crush Tio’s team, the woefully undermanned Crossplane.  Fred Jackson was well on his to a rushing title last season before breaking his leg.  He’s on the mend and gets another shot this year.  Meanwhile, rookie Doug Martin assumes lead rushing duties on a Bucs squad that also boasts a pretty solid o-line.  I went with a couple of #1 receivers, and a tight end, on teams with new quarterbacks that should be throwing their way plenty: Pierre Garcon, Greg Little, and Jared Cook.

My biggest reach was Atlanta runningback Jacquizz Rodgers but, with Michael Turner slowing down, the pass-catching Rodgers coming out of the backfield presents a terrific opportunity for the pass-happy Falcons. The only pick I’m unsure of is Colts receiver Austin Collie.  Hopefully, he develops some kind of rapport with first year QB Andrew Luck. Finally, as for the kicker and defense – there’s no way to tell at the beginning of the season so I just rolled the dice and will wait and see.

Thoughts?  Agree?  Disagree?  Don’t know what the hell I’m talking about?   The last time I talked football with my friends, Akemi had this to say: “It sounds like you’re speaking English, but I don’t understand anything!”

As a reward for all those non-football fans who nevertheless read through the above post, here is video from this summer’s last soft serve outing with the dogs:

 

Tagged: dogs eating ice cream, fantasy football, NFL fantasy football

August 31, 2012: News of Note! Cast your ballot for The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History!

Off to dinner with Ivon and Tio tonight to discuss – what else? – football!  Our fantasy football season kicks off tomorrow when our league (Vancouver Unite) holds its 2012 draft.  As you all know, my Snow Monkeys are 2011 league champions looking to defend the title. I’ve done my research and plan to spend most of tonight and tomorrow morning going over the stats and making adjustments to my player rankings.  So, any suggestions?  Sleepers?  Duds?  Should I be drafting a QB first?

Today’s blog entry is dedicated to all those who took the time to write about or post pics of their beloved pets in yesterday’s comment section.  And, by the way, my sister greatly appreciates all the well-wishes sent Aspen’s way.

Some news of note:

Imagine an alternate universe where Thunderbird took Wolverine’s place on the X-Men and Spock had less screen time than that whiney Chekov: 7 Iconic Characters They Saved from The Cutting Room Floor

Almost a candidate for the Darwin Awards: Man almost dies after mailing himself to girlfriend  ”I didn’t realize it would take so long,” said Seng in a Daily Mail article. “I tried to make a hole in the cardboard but it was too thick and I didn’t want to spoil the surprise by shouting.”

In you get, sweetheart.

19 Unintentionally Terrifying Children’s Album Covers

Relax.  You’re in good hands with our trained flight crew: ANA pilots unaware for 17 seconds that plane was almost turning …

It all makes sense now.  My great grandfather was addicted to the internet too!  Addicted to the internet? It could be all in your genes

Apparently there’s been a marked drop in demand for condos located near active super volcanoes: ‘Super volcano’ could kill millions near site of Pompeii

Chocolate linked to reduced risk of stroke — in men Which is why I’ve replaced Gatorade with a chocolate shake as my post-work out drink.

What, in your opinion, was the singular saddest moment in Stargate history?  The moment, above all others in the franchise’s 300+ episode run, that had you crying so hard you scared your dog?  What was THE most bawlworthy moment?  Was it Daniel’s ascension?  Janet’s surprise death?  Young’s gut wrenching mercy killing of Riley?  Or was it Beckett’s farewell?  I want to know.  Cast your vote – and leave a comment on the poll page – for a chance to win a signed script!

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Hunh.  Here’s something interesting.  Of those top ten heartbreaking moments, one was written by Carl Binder (Epilogue), one by Martin Gero (Sunday), one by Paul Mullie and me (The Last Man) and the remaining seven were written by Robert C. Cooper.  Seven out of ten!  Next Comic Con, I’m going to make a tidy profit selling “ROBERT COOPER MADE ME CRY” t-shirts.

Tagged: Atlantis, SF television scifi television, SG-1, SGA, Stargate, Stargate Universe Stargate: Universe, Stargate: Atlantis, Stargate: SG-1, The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History

August 30, 2012: The things we do for our pets! Cast your vote for The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History!

Some of you were wondering about my sister’s dog, Aspen, who made an appearance in yesterday’s blog – a video of him following his post-chemo treatment, clearly feeling a little zoned-out.  Well, here’s the update. In early June, the poor boy was diagnosed with prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bladder and lymph node.  He started chemo and, after a full round, he was switched to daily leukeran chemo pills.  Pictured below, Aspen following one of his treatments, receiving some TLC from his buddy Roxy.

A recent ultrasound showed a slight increase in the size of the mass on his prostate and lymph node so his treatment was again changed.  He is now receiving a high dose of mitoxantrone every three weeks. Another ultrasound in six weeks should reveal whether he responds to his new treatment.

Compounding the problem is the fact that he also suffers from autoimmune issues and takes medication for that as well.  The side effects of these meds include frequent urination, which requires sis to line to cover the floor and beds with pee pads (which must be handled with extra caution because of those chemo treatments).  Despite all this, sis and Aspen are in high spirits.  Hopefully we’ll hear some good news in late September.

Not sure whether it was yesterday’s video of Aspen or just coincidence, but I dreamt of my boy Maximus last night.  As most of you know, Max (pictured in the blog banner) passed away early this year after being diagnosed with a malignant melanoma in July of 2011.  Like Aspen, he underwent a series of treatments, radiation rather than chemo, in addition to an anti-cancer vaccine.  It was expensive and exhausting and, ultimately, still wasn’t enough to save him in the end, and yet I don’t regret having done it.  Rather, I’m sure I would have regretted NOT having done everything I could have at the time.

Anyway, yes, I dreamt of Maximus.  But it wasn’t the sick, tired Maximus in the last few months of his life or the laid-back, chunky Maximus of most of his adult life.  It was puppy Max.  In the dream, I happened to look over and there he was, happy to be back with us. And, as I went over to pat his head, he sat up and started to gently nibble on the tip of my fingers with his front teeth.  It was something he used to do all the time when he was a puppy, something I’d completely forgotten about until I was reminded about it in my dream.  How weird is that?

I’m dedicating this entry to all of the furry four-legged friends who are no longer with us.  Tell me about them.  Post a pic if you have one.

Puppy Maximus…

Continuing the melancholy theme of this blog, I’d like to remind everyone to cast your vote for The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History.  And leave a comment on the poll page for a chance to win a signed script!  Polls close Sunday night.

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Tagged: Atlantis, science fiction, scifi, scifi television, SF, SF television, SG-1, SGA, SGU, Stargate, Stargate SG-1. Stargate Atlantis, Stargate Universe, Stargate: Atlantis, Stargate: SG-1, The Most Heartbreaking Moment in Stargate History, Universe