January 7, 2015: Read-thrus, camera tests, cast dinners, and sound medical advice!

Today, we had our very first read-thru (episodes #101 and #102). ��A great time was had by all – but especially Paul and I who had our expectations far surpassed. This cast is amazing!

Melissa gives the read-thru TWO thumbs up (one for each script).

The rest of the day was spent doing camera tests of the ship’s corridors and bridge. We tried different cameras, different looks, varied the lighting, and got into some very long and involved discussions about monitors and bridge windows. ��We also got to see all seven of our cast members in costume, walking – and occasionally running – the halls. ��It’s finally coming together!

Director T.J. Scott oversees the action.

Testing the MoVI

Executive Producer Vanessa Piazza greets me first thing in the morning.

Executive Producer Jay Firestone, all smiles. Always a good sign.

We snacked throughout the day – on everything from crudit��s to chicken kiev. Later in the afternoon, Cathy and Darlene, the Catering Servers, came by and introduced themselves. ��Apparently, Cathy is a frequent reader of this blog.

And that earned her and Darlene a cameo.

We shot some inserts for the end of episode #101, then wrapped. ��Actor Roger Cross gave me a hug so enthusiastic that I fear he cracked my rib or possibly ruptured my spleen. ��Fortunately, at the cast dinner, Zoie Palmer offered me some sound medical advice.

“I didn’t know you were a doctor,”I told her.

“I’m not,”she said. ��“I just played one for five years.”

Tomorrow, it’s the color test meeting and an all day rehearsal. ��The last day of prep before we finally go to camera!

Tagged: Dark Matter, Dark Matter t.v. series