January 4, 2015: Introducing…Director T.J. Scott!

One of the most important decisions we had to make early in process was the selection of our first director.  Whoever we chose would be shooting our first two episodes and, as such, would not only be responsible for setting the tone for the series, but would be charged with the task of “working out” any early issues that happened to present themselves (and, for a new production, a few do inevitably crop out). We needed someone with a sharp narrative sense and a great visual style, a visionary capable of delivering a dynamic story, nuanced character moments, and kick-ass action sequences – on budget and on schedule.  We needed the ultimate pro – and we got him in director T.J. Scott.

T.J. oversees the concept meeting for episodes #101 and #102.

Some of you are probably familiar with his work even if you may not immediately realize it.  Xena: Warrior Princess, La Femme Nikita, Spartacus: War of the Damned, Orphan Black and Gotham are just a few of the shows on his extensive resume.

T.J. on a location scout, considering a possible #102 reactor room.

And there’s also this: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tj_scott/sets/72157625670731438/, a massive coffee table book comprised of gorgeous celebrity photographs, all shot by the man himself.  Over 150 “models” from film, fashion, music and television,  stripped down for this project – and a good cause.  100% of the profits from the sales of these books are donated to Breast Cancer Research.  You can order your own copy here: http://www.amazon.ca/In-Tub-TJ-Scott/dp/0988738503

Stunt Coordinator John Stead and Director T.J. Scott plan the “last stand” sequence.

It’s been amazing seeing him work.  He’s been all over prep, pitching ideas, overseeing all meetings, leading the creative charge as we accelerate toward production.

Smart, inventive, cool under pressure – and a hell of a nice guy.  I instantly knew I’d like him when, for our very first meeting, he insisted we discuss the show over oysters and beer.

These next few weeks are going to be a blast!

https://twitter.com/tjscottpictures

Tagged: Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v. series, Dark Matter the series, Science Fiction Television, scifi, scifi television, SF, SF television, T.J. Scott