Well, I'm back from Vegas and I'm sorry to say I wasn't able to double my savings by betting it all on black - so it looks like I'll have to work next year. Overall, it was a fine time although I don't think I'll be heading back anytime soon. We stayed at the new Wynn Hotel which was nice, had some stellar restaurants (Alex and the brasserie), but some of the most uncomfortable beds (and equally uncomfortable pillows) I've ever slept on. My bad luck at the tables kept me cranky. Still, it was nice to spend time with some of the gang off the lot.
I couldn't help but notice all of the comments with regard to the show and the various characters. What I found particularly interesting was that while some people were enraged that Mitchell was receiving too much attention, others were complaining that he was being overlooked. Some were outraged by the lack of Daniel-centered episodes while others complained because the season was so Daniel-heavy. Well, let me make something clear. There is no exact recipe we follow when writing a script (ie. 1/4 Mitchell + 1/4 Carter + 1/4 Daniel + 1/4 Teal'c = 1 complete episode). The types of stories we tell dictate who gets the focus in a particular episode. Because we wanted to establish new villains in season 9, and because said villains were linked to the Ancients, and because Daniel Jackson was linked to the Ancients, then the first six episodes were more Daniel-heavy. Because we have brought on a new team member, and because we want to explore his character now that we have established the new villains, then some upcoming episodes will be Mitchell-heavy. Teal'c will continue to have an active storyline given the ongoing events on Dakara, while Carter's skills as both a scientist and a soldier will continue to play a significant role in upcoming episodes.
As I said in previous blogs, I appreciate the input, the accolades, and the critiques. But I do have a bit of a problem with personal criticisms specificially targeting our actors and their respective attitudes. Feel free to complain about the direction of the Mitchell character if you like (although, as I said, we've just started exploring him). However, those of you complaining about Ben the person and/or actor might be better off actually writing out said critiques in a letter and mailing it to Santa c/0 The North Pole. I thought Ben did a terrific job on Farscape - and it was his work on Farscape that led me to suggest bringing him aboard (on two earlier occasions prior to his landing the role of Cameron Mitchell). He has done an equally terrific job on our show and his attitude has been nothing less than remarkable. He loves the show and is 100% committed to doing everything he can to make it better (and if that means sticking around set rather than heading back to his trailer or coming in on his days off, then he'll do it). So to those criticizing him or any of the show's actors on a personal level and presuming to be "in the know", I'd encourage you to start addressing all further comments to Mr. Clause. Or, to quote that principal on who the movie Lean on Me was based on: "Stop flapping your vaseline lips".
Well, its back to the office on Monday where we'll be watching some mixes (The Tower and Epiphany), a producer's cut of Inferno (compliments of Martin Gero), and Paul and I get to work on Camelot.
In the meantime, I'm into season 5 of OZ (where the show takes an unfortunate hairpin turn into "the not so wonderful world of fantasy"), and heading into disc 6 of Wolf's Rain, R.O.D., and Peacemaker (and enjoying them all). Also, almost done with the second season of Arrested Development (Great!), and seven episodes into the first season of Lost with my wife (after finishing up with the first season of Airline which we really enjoyed).
Oh, and I forgot to mention this in my last blog, but I couldn't help but notice the Gateworld "What do you think of season 9 so far?" poll. Your choices are:
A) Fantastic! The best SG-1 ever.
B) Entertaining, but not great.
C) Fair. I'm not impressed.
D) Lousy. Where's my Stargate?
E) I haven't seen it yet.
Or, in other words:
A) The greatest SG-1 ever!
B) Not good.
C) Not very good at all.
D) Terrible.
E) No opinion.
Whatever happened to Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, and Terrible?
So, pretty much the Cam show for the rest of the year, eh? As for the poll, frankly New and Improved Stargate requires grading on a curve.
What do I think of Season 9 so far?
B) - But only the first two episodes have aired here so far, and that's not much to base an opinion on.
Or on other words:
E) No opinion until I've seen a few more. But, both are sure to shoot up to A once we're a fair few episodes into the season - It's Stargate, after all :)
Browder fits in so well though... I think it's a shame he and Claudia haven't had much screen time together (but that could just be because I'm a Farscape fan)
Joe, thanks for sticking up for the actors.
Nice to know you have noticed how biased Gateworld has been and continues to be in it's portrayal of the show.
Interestingly the Offical Stargate SG1 magazine published in the UK recently had stacks of fan letters bashing the new season as well.
Nice to know that both the offical and semi offical publications are so supportive when they don't get Jack and Sam marrying.
Thank goodness for your response Joe. Hopefully that'll now put an end to the extremely personal attacks aimed at the actors... not just Ben, but Amanda too.
Just to agree that it was great to bring Ben on and that you appreciate his previous work. I'm really enjoying his character here, although I'm one of those that can't wait to learn more of him. I've enjoyed all of the Season this year... really enjoying Beau's Landry and his historical quotes, Lam and the rascillion Vala.
Congrats on a fantastic Season.
Kas.
After all that I have an uncontrollable desire to say "Buuuuuuuuuuuuuurn!!"
I think the great divide between fans who think there's too much of character x and fans who think there's not enough of character x has to do with how each person feels about that character. If I hate x, then any scene with him is too much. If I love x, then there can never be enough scenes with them. Such is life.
Thanks again for the anime update; all three of your choices have been on my backburner for a while, right after I get through Samurai Champloo, Planetes, and Kurau: Phantom Memory.
You're right. There was quite a bit of AntiCam stuff in that last comments slot. Lots of AntiSam stuff too I might add. And it devolved into making irresponsible and rude comments about both of these fine actors. I wish people would stop with the bashing...it's really not necessary to tear one character down to boost another like that.
I can't say I'm AntiCam as that would be wholly unfair to a character I barely know yet. I loved Ben in Farscape too...so I'm waiting for some of that energy and charisma to show up in Cam. From your blog entries, I sense that we might very well be seeing that soon.
As for the rating system, I'm not sure how to vote. The first five episodes ranged from Entertaining to Where's my Stargate...and the last five ranged from Fair to Fantastic.
Trying to put one rating for the whole thing would be unbalanced at this point as there were a few episodes that were stellar, a few that were entertaining and a few I literally felt shellshocked from the disappointment afterward.
So I'll go with Fair to Entertaining for the first several (I'll ignore the two I hated)...and by Prototype and 4th Horseman, it seemed like Stargate was getting back on track (closer to Fantastic! The best SG-1 ever).
I'm now really looking forward to what comes next.
Mary Beth
Thank you, Joe for your words about Ben. I think it is shameful that people are treating him poorly because their gal or guy or storyline isn't front and center.
Don't dare bash MY favorite but your favorite is fair game. Sheesh.
In other news, Hurricane Wilma is already causing damage and looks to get stonger, in Pakistan, they are still uncovering bodies from the earthquake, and in California, a mentally ill mother dropped her three young children off of a bridge and drown them all.
TV is supposed to be a pleasent destraction from all the ugliness and suffering in the world. When the fans are figuratively cutting each other throats and the actors' over a stupid TV show (Sorry, Joe, I mean in comparision), it's pretty sad.
Some of the worst offenders are obviously trolls looking to stir up trouble because they can, so maybe a "No feeding the trolls" policy is in order.
Wow, things sound really bleak for the original characters in the second half of season nine. Nobody expects you to ignore Mitchell (though you've done a terrific job of that so far), but you've had absolutely nothing good to say about Carter, Teal'c, or Daniel for quite awhile. Nothing, that is, but snide, dismissive comments that I hope are intended to be witty or glib. I feel I have to tell you, they mostly sound petulant. So, maybe instead of saying, "Daniel? Yeah, he's still around. But have you seen our wonderful new guy?"; or, "Carter and Teal'c? They'll be doing their special things in some future episodes. But haven't I already told you how wonderful the new characters are? I championed them, you know", you could say something that shows a little more gratitude to those actors and those fans who have kept you rolling in enough money that you can blow a sizable chunk of it in Vegas for quite a few years now. Oh yeah, remember Jack O'neill? Where the hell is he at? Spontaneous combustion?
Because we have brought on a new team member, and because we want to explore his character now that we have established the new villains, then some upcoming episodes will be Mitchell-heavy.
Some. Just like there should be some episodes that are Daniel heavy, and some that are Sam heavy, and some that are Teal'c heavy. And, even if it's not mathematically thought out, hopefully the overall feel will be that everyone gets their chance. And, most importantly, a huge load of TEAM heavy episodes.
Hey, if the second half of season 9 does turn out to be only about Mitchell, I won't be happy at all. But, saying that some episodes (some, some, some) will be Mitchell heavy is not synonymous with it being the Cam show for the rest of the year.
As far as grading, so far this season gets an excellent from me, but it's not the best season ever. That still belongs to the grand and glorious season 2.
Dani347
I'm in the 'Don't feed the Trolls' camp, but then I cut my fannish teeth on Usenet so it's second nature by now.
I like Cam, think he's a great additon. Oh, and cute. I'd like to see more of him and more of him interacting with the team.
Love having Sam back, missed her, even though I understand why AT was otherwise occupied, you have to get your priorities right in life.
Adored Daniel and Vala, how the bloody hell are they going to defeat the Ori, how do you defeat an ideology? Will we finaly find out about that lost year with the ascended, forgotten inside that pretty head?
Very interested in what happens next with the Jaffa. Can
Teal'c draw them back together? Do they want a focus so badly that they will go back to worshiping gods? Looking forward to finding out, reminds me of the good old days of DS9 and Bajoran/Cardassian politics.
In short, enjoyed first 10 episodes and can't wait for the next 10.
I live between three ice cream farms - we are a big milk producing county, hence Cheshire cheese, the ice cream farms are just a bonus. I can give you directions if you are in the UK. Cheshire Ice Cream Farm rhubarb and custard is my current favourite, the rhubarb is slightly tart which makes a great contrast with the sweetness of the custard.
Frostfox - Sorry SG1 didn't win the Hugo, Joe, I voted for it. [smug] Mine is very pretty though![ /smug}
Joe,
Thank you so much for addressing the issue of the personal attacks on the actors, especially Ben. It's amazing what people will say under the cloak of anonymity, and I suspect the comments section from your last blog had a bit of a mob mentality to it, where one comment fed another and so on.
Everything I've ever heard about Ben's work ethic and his committment to what he's working on has been excellent, so I found the personal comments about him to be particularly offensive.
I'm very glad to hear there is more Mitchell, and your reasoning behind how the season was structured makes a lot of sense.
Thanks for coming here and blogging for us. I hope you enjoy some time off before Season 10 starts - fingers crossed.
ShardsofGlass
Personally, I love the cast changes for S9. I'd love to see Vala every week, though I guess she'd have to tone it down a bit to be a full-time member of SG-1. But hey, it worked for McKay, big-time! I love Mitchell and found his gradual introduction refreshing.
As for the GW S9 poll, I noticed the same weirdness to the choices you did. I hope it's not as simple as "no ship = no support" as some have claimed.
Here's a nice page of polls if anyone would like to vote or view:
Poll Page
Season 9 looks like a winner on that page!
Sorry to hear about the beds at the Wynn. All I've heard is how beautiful it is...
Joe:
Welcome back from Vegas. Sorry you didn't win anything. Did you get to see any filming of shows like CSI or the new show about Vegas while you were there?
Thanks for standing up for the actors.
I'm afraid I have to agree with the growing number of comments here on the blog, and elsewhere, from fans who are tired of the BB pimping in the PR department. (I am talking strictly about the PR using BB I am not making personal attacks or remarks ON BB).
I admit you and your colleagues have all stayed admirably "on message" with all the pimping of BB in the PR, however, at some point credibility does begin to suffer and that point seems to be rapidly approaching. Joe, that sound you hear is the majority of the fans that encompass that 2.0 rating, choking on BB being shoved down their throats to about the total exclusion of the 3 main stars (in case you are not sure who I mean it's AT, CJ, MS)- the next sound you hear will be the gagging. (BTW, it's very nice the way you stand up for BB, however some of the most nasty, personal attacks these days have been on Ms. Tapping and Mr. Anderson, so nasty that I will not even repeat them, but once again, staying on message, you have pushed them to the background whilst over-extending your defense of Mr. Browder and it is not attractive, not when you see the vile nature of the comments being made about ALL 3 imparticular, no one actor should be singled out for special treatment by TPTB and that continues to be the impression you and your colleagues are giving, even when it comes to sticking up for them (him) from personal attacks.)
As was pointed out in another comment, that 2.0 rating is made up of a huge majority of SG1 fans who have followed the ORIGINAL team for 6,7,8 years, the very fans that have kept you, your colleagues at Bridge and SG1 and skiffy, in the money for the past 9 years. A huge part of that 2.0 is watching the show BECAUSE OF AT, CJ and MS -not really because of the addition of BB, or anyone else (yes there are some but let's be realistic shall we?).
Things are not pretty with SG1 right now and they have been going downhill since S7. Plenty of debacles along the way and now in S9 3 additional biggies, the complete and total mishandling of O'Neill's exit for whatever reason, but it was mishandled, the co-leader debacle (based almost solely on the unrealistic position Mitchell was put in as to come from nowhere, not having ever seen a Stargate before and not ever having been off world or seen an alien before, to be co-leader with someone who trained with the best and has 8 years of experience - in what world did anyone at Bridge or Skiffy think that would be bought by the majority of that 2.0?), and the third being the new 1 minute credit debacle - once again BB being shoved down our throats to the detriment of the 3 major reasons a large part of the 2.0 is watching.
You all are doing a great job at one thing, alienating a very large piece of that 2.0 and for what, a few hundred thousand Farscape fans? It makes so little sense it's scary.
IIRC SG1 averaged a 2.1 in S8 over all and 2.0 for the first half - thus far S9 is at 2.0, so taking into account you lost some diehard SG1 fans with loss of RDA, and an additional few hundred thousand to account for added numbers per percentage point, the numbers certainly don't bear out any huge influx of Farscape fans that TPTB can afford to lay their futures in (I have to believe that Farscape stayed on the air for 4 years with a ratings base higher than a .3 or a .4) - my question - where are all those people you've all been pimping BB for? Perhaps the suits at Skiffy/MGM/Sony/Bridge, whoever made this decision to pimp BB to the exclusion of the 3 lead actors, overestimated the number of fans they would bring in with all this pimping of BB – oh wait, no one involved at TPTB level for SG1 ever admits they made a mistake so that CAN’T be it.
My Mom, one of the 2 people I hold out as my hero (my Dad being the other), always taught me "careful what you wish for"-- you all may get your "male lead" wish but in the end you may lose your show if you are not really careful in how this continues to be handled. Some of your newest comments are a concern as well let's just hope the pimping of BB stays in the press and does not overtake the show with the Mitchell hour, the TEAM is the thing and the 3 lead actors (again just a reminder that's AT, CJ, MS) that the majority of the 2.0 watch for are, and have been your bread & butter, let's hope you and your colleagues do not lose sight of that.
Mr. Mallozzi, I'm shocked! How dare you send the crazies to Mr. Claus! He already has enough mail from the naughty and nice children to deal with than to deal with fielding mail from the ones who act like children! ;-)
I saw the opening credits via the wonders of the internet. I like the way the transitions of the clips work (ships moving from one shot to another, the fades...yes, we notice those things too). I think a mountain's been made out of a mole hill for who's showing where (though I DID notice a lack of Teal'c, LOL! ;-) I'm aware others disagree. Just my opinion.
I haven't voted in the last two polls at GW, because my opinions don't fit with their choices. I like the ones over at Stargate Solutions, though. They're pretty colors. Haven't seen any at the other stargate fan sites.
All four of SG-1 for second half of the season and SEASON 10. All four of SG-1! (Yes, I mean the four listed in the current credits)Team baby team!
Darren already admitted he didn't do as good a job on the poll as he could have: "The first two options were meant to be positive, the second two negative. I made the mistake of including a negative qualifier in #2 to try and distinguish it from #1. Send me your receipt and I'll issue a full refund."
And while it'd be nice to think that folks will magically behave now that Joe has spoken out against the trolls and other effluvia oozing through the blogs, spreading their diseased ideas... it just ain't gonna happen. As long as the Anonymous option remains open, certain "people" (and I use that term loosely) will feel compelled to exploit it to their full, sick advantage. *shrug*
The best option is most definitely to ignore them, no matter how overwhelmingly tempting it may be to jump to the defense of the actors/characters/crew/etc. Anyone rational will know to discount the irrational and anyone irrational isn't willing to listen to reason.
It won't make ALL of them go away, but it might thin the herd a bit.
We can all dream, anyway, right? :)
As I said in previous blogs, I appreciate the input, the accolades, and the critiques. But I do have a bit of a problem with personal criticisms specificially targeting our actors and their respective attitude
Welcome to the latter stages of fandom. In the beginning, everything is rosey, everybody gets along because everybody loves the same show. All the actors/characters are beloved. In ye olden days, this could last a year, now it’s more like months because of the speed of the internet. Soon fans beginning pairing off into their own little groups (ship, slash, etc.) but still get along because they all play in their own playgrounds. But soon the show’s been around, fans get bored or the show has changed or both and some fans will make critical remarks. What usually starts the downward spiral of fandom is fans who hate the show but never leave the boards, just complaining all the time, and those that feel that NOTHING is wrong with the show and proceed to flame anybody who so much as says “Gee, Jack would have looked better if he combed his hair,” taking personal affront to a supposed slur or scream at newbies who ask an innocent question ;)
Wait, I went off track. Anyway, unless a fan knows an actor personally, I don’t see how they can criticize them personally. Sure, actors do conventions, but they’re there to entertain, not be a best bud. Personally, I think choosing Ben Browder to head up SG1 was one of the best decisions in the last couple seasons. I’ll be flamed for this, no doubt, but wish it had been done sooner.
You can read this humorous account of fandom at http://www.pink-khaki.net/10stages.html
And there’s a good light bulb joke that applies to any list – just change ‘lightbulb’ to ‘stargate’ and well, same thing - http://www.ahajokes.com/com009.html
However, there’s a much better description out there somewhere that explains how fandom is great in the beginning, sucky at the end, but there are so many websites to look through and so little time ;)
Re polls
Whatever happened to Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, and Terrible?
Too blaise?
I don’t vote too much on GW because the options can be limited. You get 4 choices on one show, 5 on another. At times you get excellent, good, poor and terrible. You’re not allowed to vote fair/average, which makes no sense. If I don’t think the episode is good, but don’t think it’s poor, I have no option, so why bother voting? If GW wants to accommodate all fans, they should offer 5 choices on BOTH shows all the time, and give standardized answers. If they want to add Excellent – Love it, Terrible – it sucked, fine, but give fans a proper choice.
Mr. Mallozzi,
I agree with you and your sentiments. You were VERY nice recommending Santa !
I probably would have used 'stick' rather than 'send' !
You shouldn't have to defend this season, though. The characters are FAR more 'rounded out'. Participating more in each episode than any other season.
[Except when they cannot be on set (Amanda).]
It would not take too much effort to think of a LIST of episodes from the first seven seasons where a MAIN character could have been missing entirely and not affected the story one whit. This is no longer true. With Mitchell being a leader, and not a star (Hey, I LIKE RDA!!), everyone else gets a bigger part to play.
As for Daniel, remember the movie. There, Daniel DROVE the movie. He is supposed to be an INCREDIBLE GENIUS (Like Sam). I completely accept his leading (in the first three eps), and coming up with BIG ideas in the rest. Even Teal'c is more a 'part' of the show. I do not know if it's the best season ever. It is on it's way. Ask me in April.
Mr. Mallozzi,
I have to say a huge thank you for sticking up for the actors/actresses and the shows. Bravo and well done! After all, it's not just what co-workers are for.... but what friends (and family) are for.
I wish you all the best for the future.
Irimaelen
Ontario, Canada
I thought the EXACT same thing about the poll, so I just didn't vote...good call.
All in all, it sounds exactly like the group of people who attacked Michael Shanks as well. Certainly when you start to wander back in history the names on the forum are the same as those back then.
Sorry to hear this is your last blog... I, As I'm sure many others with me have enjoyed reading it...
As far as critisism on actors go... I think everyone there is doing a great job, I'm certainly not going to send a letter to Santa :D ... Kudos to all of you people there at bridge studios for a job well done... Looking forward to many more adventures you guys entertain us with...
Oh... and... My answer to that poll would be "A"... These Orii are an interesting lot... I can't wait to find out more about them...
By the way... Did you know that there are actual conspiracy theories in the real world that say the Stargate TV series is all a cover up to keep a real life Stargate under wraps?... Would be cool if that theory was fact... Allthough I'd be a little scared if the Orii were real then too :D
Angel :P
"Marla Reed, Journalist wrote:Thanks for standing up for the actors."
That's a bit rich coming from you Marla (both the claim to be a journalist and the comment about standing up for the actors).
Considering you basically defamed Richard Dean Anderson recently on your own blog I am amazed you have the hide to say this. But funnily enough all your innuendo has been removed now.
Did your trail of lies and innuendo finally catch up with you Marla?
Joe, you've been asked a couple of times not to paint with the same brush all those who criticise some of the plot holes and irrational decisions that are being made. There are a lot of valid concerns being raised, mostly in regards to the TEAM aspect of the show we all love. But just about all of your recent blogs seem to blithly or, as is disappointingly the case, angrily dismiss those concerns as being voiced solely by wackos and trolls whose opinions are automatically not worth hearing. Yes, some fans go way over the line and attack the actors. You know what? It's been happening for years, at least as long as you've been with the show. It's unpleasant and uncalled for, but it's not likely to stop, no matter how often you plead. And it's a little discouraging that the producers (you) have only felt the need to speak out and defend the actor because he's "new". Perhaps more carefully chosen words would have included all of the cast (who have been subject to insulting, hurtful comments and accusations without studio support for years) rather than just Ben Browder. In any case, perhaps you guys could take your admittedly inexact recipe for writing a script and try to tweak it to include all four characters. You know, maybe try to whip up that increasingly elusive dish that used to be known as a team episode. That would, of course, necessarily mean larger amounts of those tasty ingredients, Daniel, Sam, and Teal'c. Or are you all out of those?
A-freakin-men!
Thanks for speaking up Joe. I know that a lot of fans really appreciate the fact that you back up your actors. They do occasionally read these boards, and it's very disheartening to see this kind of behavior.
It doesn't make anyone look good; it could possibly turn actors away from wanting to either join the cast or merely to guest star. Who would want to perform on a show that has a fandom that verbally abuses the actors?
Hey Joe, I've been rewatching a few of the early season 9 episodes and I have to say that the Cameron Mitchell character has grown on me. I think he was an excellent addition to the show. Rewatching the episodes has made me think that the season is just great. I really like the new bad guys in town and I thought that Vala made a great recurring character. I was happy to see Sam's character return as well. (I still can't believe how quickly Amanda Tapping returned to work, that was great :)) I really don't understand the qualms over Jack's departure or Sam not being in charge of Sg-1. I think it's pretty much inferred that Jack is somewhere in Washington (or am I way off here?) And Carter was at area 51 etc. etc. Well, I just wanted to say that so far I'm loving season 9 (though I think season 4 will always be my favorite b/c of Window of Opportunity :D) and I'm really looking forward to the second half. So keep up the great work and I hope there will be a season 10 and season 3 of Atlantis (which I also am really liking. I like how McKay is more involved now.) This is now a very long and rambling message, so I'll finish off by suggesting (again I think) Veronica Mars as a tv show to watch. Season 1 is now on DVD *hint, hint* :D
-Sarah
Thank you, Mr. Mallozzi, for setting some of those blowhards straight. I'm a Farscape fan and think both Browder and Black are fantastic additions to the show.
I know from all the Farscape stuff that Ben Browder is a smart, committed actor who'll put the show before his own agenda every day of the week.
I'm glad to see you take the opportunity and your take from the true insider's POV to let folks know that the show is honored to have Mr. Browder as part of its cast.
This 'scaper thanks you!!
Eva
Nice to see you defend Ben here. Pity that you couldn't be at the convention when the SamandJack fans booed poor Garwin Sanford when he was on the stage - too his face no less - because accord to them his character supposedly stalked Sam because he had her voice on his home computer.
LOL...they booed him??? Sheesh.
I'm a diehard Jack/Sam shipper and I thought that it was sweet Narim had her voice on his home computer...not sure how anyone could read that as stalking though.
Now if he staked out her house and followed her around using binoculars to watch her every move, THAT would be closer to being stalkerish. And a bit freaky too.
Mary Beth
Joe,
I find it rather puzzling that you react so strongly to the comments posted here or on any forum. I really do hope you keep in mind that the percentage of the viewing audience of Stargate SG-1 that posts on-line is very, very small. The same people may post often, in several places and be very vocal about their likes/dislikes, but I really don't believe they are representative of the viewing audience in general. If the entire viewing audience felt as strongly about the characters as the people who constantly post, *THEY* would be spending their time on-line posting. They aren't, so they don't.
I also wish you guys (the writers, etc.) would just write what you want to write and stop trying to please certain segments or please all segments of those (which isn't possible anyway) fans who express their views on-line. The vast majority of the the Daniel fans aren't going to stop watching the show as long as MS is there, the Browder fans who love him aren't going to stop watching, nor are the Sam fans. Those people who think Daniel is the show, or Sam is the show, or Mitchell is the show, are never going to get enough of their favorite character and you will never please them. So just forget about them, stop writing for a vocal focus group and start writing some good stories and get off the fence.
That's my 2 cents.
Thank you so much for sticking up for the actors, especially Ben Browder. He is an amazing actor and a great person, who deserves much more than most SG-1 fans have given him. I am so proud of him and love hearing about the dedication to his work and the show.
I hope you will stick with your visions of how you'd like the show run instead of caving in to what certain groups of fans want you to do. You can never please everyone 100% of the time but if you stick with your vision at least you'll have that respect.
I've also seen the new opening credits for the second half of the season and think that they are pristine.. lovely. Awesome work!!
I've got no beef with Browder, but I do with you and your partner in crime. The way you handled the exit of Jack O'Neill was absolutely insulting to the character and his fans and wrong on so many levels. What? We don't deserve to be told *on TV/in the story* where Jack went? Why he left? We get to see absolutely no character saying they miss Jack or even now mention his name? Not Landry, but his "kids" who knew him so well? Are you so focused on this "brand new wonderfully fun season with great stories and new characters" that you can't even have one of his friends occasionally mention Jack?
Horrible, horrible way to handle Jack's exit...just horribly pathetic Joe.
I had the same thoughts that you did about the gateworld poll. Very odd wording. For what it's worth I voted best SG-1 yet and that's high praise.
-Don
I also have no issue with Ben Browder. Joe, if that's what you're taking from the criticism I've read in the last blog, then you really are only hearing the extremists. The issues that most people are having with season nine is the unbalanced feel it has, primarily the result of paltry character development and interaction among the original members of SG-1. They ARE why I keep tuning in. End of story. They deserve better than to be shoved into the background, be it in the actual episodes, publicity-wise, and in the credits. And as was so passionately stated above, Richard Dean Anderson and Jack O'neill really deserve more respect. Very poorly done, especially considering how long his inevitable departure was known. Anyway, every character/actor has crazy fans. Don't be too encouraged by a few vocal ones, be they Ben Browder fans or any other. I don't know how better to express this, so I'll just say it would be nice if that show you're making now could show the slightest bit of respect for the show you made for the last eight years. That is, it would be nice if Carter, Daniel, and Teal'c acted like friends again. They could mention Jack once in awhile too.
LOL
OK the only thing I have to say about next year is PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE can you NOT make Mitchell an Ancient as well...be original maybe make him some decendent of like the Orii or something..
OK so a decendent of the Orii may not be as original as something else but...point LOL
I appreciate your desire to stick up for the actors, but please remember most of us are not wackos who confuse discussion of the show with personal attacks on the actors. I think you guys have generally done a good job balancing the individual storylines,and your explanation of the imbalance early in the season makes sense. On the other hand I do love seeing the TEAM together. Oh, and btw I LIKE stand- alone episodes.
My rating for S9--getting better.
Thanks for taking time to spend on GW.
jckfan55
"The types of stories we tell dictate who gets the focus in a particular episode. Because we wanted to establish new villains in season 9, and because said villains were linked to the Ancients"
But then shouldn't that made it a Jack driven season?
I like how SG-1 got away from character driven stories each week...sure there were a few but SG-1 IS a team and as they say..there's no I in team
:)
Well, I find the comments here at GW less harsh then at some places I've gone on the web. One recent one reguarding Michell was rather harsh.
"The charcter of Mitchell is so poorly written that Mitchell couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat"
hey dude,
i honestly don't understand how people can be so critical about stargate well i'm sure a few could come up with a story but when it comes down to it you lot do a way better job than most. i'm so gutted that i'm unable to attend the armageddon pulp expo in auckland i really wanted to go to see the actors but i'm stuck at home on labour weekend becuase the roads are so busy but maybe next year..... i hope. congratulations on the award nominations hope that other dude wins. i sure hope that stargate atlantis dvd box set comes out here soon it would be great to see.
laters
Ok I found the whole statement and it was just some guys blog so...
"The charcter of Mitchell is so poorly written that Mitchell couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat much less lead a team of seasoned SG-1 team members."
So I guess not so much concerning Ben as the writing of his character...opions are like...well you all know that one ;)
hi, joe,
i like mitchell/ben browder just fine.
landry's great too.
lam i'm still thinking over.
vala may leave the building now, but that's just my taste.
as a fan of the original sg1 (and a fan with specific tastes), i'd like to know --
*where's jack exactly? what's he doing? will any of his 'friends' ever mention him?
*why didn't sam get sg1 back (as commander) when she returned? did she lose interest? does she want more freedom to return to cassie or area 51, etc? sam is, basically, a competitive military officer: i thought she cared about her career.
*when will we find out the statis of sam and jack's relationship?
*is cameron mitchell really the best person (other than sam) to lead sg1? what are his credentials to lead such a regal team?
*will it ever be 'stated on the show' that sam and mitchell are co-leading?
i have more questions, but these are *my* predominate ones.
i'm not expecting you to answer these questions, joe, but i just wanted you to know that as a fan of the original team/show, these are the questions that are on my mind in season 9.
take care,
sally :)
I don't tend to speak up very often and heck, I don't even know if you read these comments, but I'll give this a shot anyway. This is for both Joe and fellow fans.
Firstly, thank you for sticking up for the integrity of the actors. I am so tired of actor bashing. I am tired of character bashing.
What I think most of us would like to see are some great team episodes where everyone has something to do and where the characters have a chance to shine with their given strengths. Ideally, the episodes would have an even distribution among the main cast.
However, stories fall as they fall. Character focus isn't going to end up computed like a mathematical equation. Please be true to the stories and the characters and they should fall naturally. To do otherwise cheapens the story and hurts the characters. If that means tuning us out, so be it. Instead of worrying about segments of the fandom, just write good material and everything else will follow. You don't need to be told that you'll never please everyone.
We all have our favorite characters. We all have our own opinions. But why get rude, mean, even brutal? We're all watching the same show, right? Instead of fighting, can't we just understand we don't agree and throw our support into the show as a whole?
I just don't get why we can't enjoy the show and have a good time.
There have been several very relevant points made that I have to agree with here:
Like others, I too have no issue with BB, and I agree Joe, you should not paint with a broad brush and just address the completely negative as if there are no other comments (this is disturbingly similar to the way the introduction of a certain other very controversial issue/character was handled in S7 -all of TPTB addressed only the extremists and not a word was ever said about all of the legitimate concerns and it is detrimental to TPTB to address extremists and stay completely silent on the legitimate concerns as if that portion of the fan base does not exist.
There are many, many valid and legitimate posters here, and elsewhere, that are making valid and legitimate criticisms and voicing concerns because a large group feel the show has taken a turn for the worse with some of what has been happening. A lot of these people are people who have been watching the show for years now, people who, as was said above, helped to keep the show on the air this long and people who do make up a rather large piece of the current rating points.
In particular the command issue - it's not that I (or many of the others who are critical of Mitchell) dislike the character or are taking potshots at BB -- the concern is with the fact that this is a new guy, out of nowehere that we have never seen, or even heard of, before. A guy that has never ever SEEN a Stargate before, never been off-world, never dealt with an alien, a guy that said he wanted to "LEARN" from the best, agreed to serve UNDER Carter when he first joined the TEAM, and the list goes on and on.
The criticisms and concerns are around the issue of why is he co-leading SG1 with someone like Carter who has so much more experience and who was put in as THE SOLE LEADER OF SG1 IN S8 BY TPTB. If it was the intent to have this new guy be co-leader then why not make him worthy of the slot by at least showing that he already had been through the Gate, or something, anything. So far we have seen very, very little to indicate why (we have been told once of his superior leadership qualities but talk is cheap as they say). Also, there have been those that are concerned with this new guy being there to show the excitement, the newness, etc. Well so far I have to say I agree with the posters that are a little tired of this wide-eyed 12 year old act. BB is the oldest member of the cast, clearly because of that Mitchell is a soldier that has been around a while, why is Mitchell acting like a 12 year old in his excitement, if it's to put a little Jack in him it's not working - Jack was irreverant but at least for the most part he acted his age, Mitchell just looks childish. IMO, it would have been better if we got a mature soldier who acted his age and acted to his background of a supposed superior leader of a fighter pilot squadron.
The way he is written is the main problem, there are too many contradictions saying he should not be co-leading, he should be a team member who is there to LEARN from the BEST and maybe one day he can lead, one day when he shows he can handle it and one day when he shows he deserves it - right now Carter does - not Mitchell (and I say Carter because TPTB put her in as sole leader of SG1 in S8, she is on the team, has been for 9 years now, she is a Lt. Colonel, and she is the LOGICAL choice, heck even though they can't do it cuz they are not military, Teal'c and Daniel deserve it more than Mitchell does as written).
I wonder, with the backlash of this co-leader decision, how on earth the command issue in S10, if there is one, will be handled.
Just a suggestion, perhaps you could give Mitchell "command of SG-22 (and follow [his] adventures in another spin-off series)", instead of trying to push a square peg into a round hole as "a nice compromise".
And I am still looking for that ever elusive answer to the question of what he brings to the team that was not already there when it was Carter, Teal'c and Daniel? I also agree with the posters that are still clamouring for the TEAM - that is why this show has been successful for 8 years - the TEAM. All of TPTB have been saying "we're going back to the roots" - what roots? The roots are the TEAM and thus far we still have the same thing we have had since S7 - the team separated with maybe 2 of them together at any one time - where is the TEAM?
Where are the 3 original characters who are supposed to be friends for the past 9 years - I see shadows of them but that's it -there is no cohesiveness, there is no camaraderie, there is no feeling, there is NO team, thus far it's just a group of people who obviously know each other but do not act like friends of 9 years who have saved each others butts hundreds of times. I also agree with the poster that said that the three main characters of Carter, Teal'c and Daniel, "deserve better than to be shoved into the background, be it in the actual episodes, publicity-wise, and in the credits". They are three of the major reasons this show is still on the air. As another poster said above, they "are, and have been your bread & butter" for the last 8 years, don't forget that.
Binkpmmc
My we are cranky, Joe. Bet on red next time.
Love Browder, Farscape, and Stargate.
Miss RDA/Jack. MISS HIM.Missed him since season 3.
Would like to see villians who are not the all-powerful type. Can't relate to the Ori. Loved the Goa'uld. How about some really advanced humans up to no good? At least the Goa'uld were invested in humanity and a more or less human perspective and frailty.
Want Season 22....
Stargatebabe
Thanks for a great season 9. I have absolutely loved every episode. Ben Browder has been a great addition to an already incredible cast. I'm on pins and needles waiting to hear the announcement of Season 10.
I think many of the comments were by a few trolls posting numerous times; taking advantage of the fact that you can post anonymously and are unmoderated.
From what I’ve seen on the boards most people seem to like Mitchell and want to see more character development and team interaction.
The new SG-1 credits also seem to have been well received overall, with only a few of the more, um, *over zealous* fans in the previous comments really freaking out about them.
Em
Em said:
"From what I’ve seen on the boards most people seem to like Mitchell..."
and
"The new SG-1 credits also seem to have been well received overall..."
Really? Have you actually looked around other forums, read posts by more than 2 or 3 people? I have, and while I agree that some people are happy, there's a whole lot of different people posting a whole lot of different complaints regarding the credits and Mitchell.
I understand that the characer-based segments of fandom are easy to dismiss out of hand (whether their complaints are valid or not), but there are alot of complaints about the cohesiveness of SG-1. And I'm talking about after "the band is back together".
Anyway, it's easy for Browder/Mitchell fans to be happy right now. Aside from the fact that the character has been totally useless so far, he has been getting every bit of the press and praise from the producers and the media. I don't think many people hate Ben Browder. But it has all been a little much; it's not helped by the fact that so far all of the bluster has been for what's turned out to be a weakly written, superfluous addition to an already complete team of extreme experts.
For the life of me, I don't know why Mitchell wasn't simply the new fourth. He could have had a whole, easy-to-swallow, built in character arc where he's learning from SG-1, training to be the future of the SGC, the future leader of SG-1 even. There could have been tons of little, very teamy scenes where Daniel explains something about the ancients or Goa'uld; where Carter teaches him the basics of certain technologies or little things about leadership that she learned from O'neill; where Teal'c helps Cameron when it comes to the Jaffa or, gasp, teaches him how to fight. The character of Mitchell just seems shoe-horned into his current place in the show. Hopefully, things will get better.
Brad M.
I find this site takes on a very negative slant about everything - for example when they talk about the ratings, its all doom and gloom. But when you go on other sites, the same ratings are seen in a more positive light.
I so agree with the poll - ridiculous wording - if I didn't know better I'd swear it's worded to guarantee certain results.
As for season 9 - outstanding! I can't believe you managed to revamp an already terrific show and make it even better.
I love it - don't change a thing!!
TAB
I totally agree about those poll options. I couldn't even vote because the choices were so horribly skewed. :(
About the Ben/Mitchell thing: I think people are just pissed off that he isn't Jack. I haven't seen anything that would lead me to believe he's a bad actor portraying a dumb character. In fact, everything I've seen has been quite awesome, and season 9 is shaping up to be one of my favorites. And this is coming from a person who thought SG-1 peaked in season 3. So whatever you guys are doing, keep it up. I might not agree with you folks all the time, but I know good TV when I see it. ;)
I too am liking mitchell so far. Daniel's mentor relationship with him is the one thing about his character that has stuck with me. So, as long as the Daniel/Mitchell dynamic continues in the secnod part of the season, I'll be happy. However if Mitchell starts taking stories away from Daniel I'll be angry. This is Daniel's story, moreso now than ever. He's the only character left from the movie. If Mitchell starts taking over, then I'll turn the whole show off, just like I did in season six. Oh, and I have no interest at all in watching Mitchell and Carter. If the second half curse is going to happen this year, I'll be mad. Keep Sam and Mitchell where they belong. As the supporting cast for Daniel.
Yes, as long as the script elves stay hard at work in their little workshop, then I'll be a happy camper. This has been the best season since Jonathan Glassner left. I didn't think that these particular PTB had it in them.
Anonymous wrote:
<< too am liking mitchell so far. Daniel's mentor relationship with him is the one thing about his character that has stuck with me. So, as long as the Daniel/Mitchell dynamic continues in the secnod part of the season, I'll be happy. However if Mitchell starts taking stories away from Daniel I'll be angry. This is Daniel's story, moreso now than ever. He's the only character left from the movie. If Mitchell starts taking over, then I'll turn the whole show off, just like I did in season six. Oh, and I have no interest at all in watching Mitchell and Carter. If the second half curse is going to happen this year, I'll be mad. Keep Sam and Mitchell where they belong. As the supporting cast for Daniel.<<
Well, there you go; the old talking points about Stargate being Daniel's story. Yep, keep Mitchell and Sam down on the farm where they belong. Mitchell is only accepted by many Daniel fans because he isn't taking storylines away from Daniel, because he seems to respect Daniel and is nice to him (unlike that old meany Jack). For many of the Danielites, Mitchell can only be liked in terms of how he relates to Daniel. Heaven forbid, though, that he should be given any more airtime than Daniel -- watch out.
For every poster like this who maintains they will stop watching the show if Mitchell outshines Daniel, I'm sure there is a viewer with the opposite view -- that if the 2nd half of S9 features Daniel as prominently as the first half did, they will stop watching the show.
Gotta laugh...it's all about *me, me, me* and my favorite character. I agree with the poster who suggested you ignore all these obsessed fans and just do what the heck you want.
Xayeidemon said...
I totally agree about those poll options. I couldn't even vote because the choices were so horribly skewed. :(
About the Ben/Mitchell thing: I think people are just pissed off that he isn't Jack.
Is that like those fans who were just so pissed off in S6 because Jonas wasn't Daniel, or is this different?
Anonymous said...
Yes, as long as the script elves stay hard at work in their little workshop, then I'll be a happy camper. This has been the best season since Jonathan Glassner left. I didn't think that these particular PTB had it in them.****
Goodness, you're not as anonymous as you would think.
By Anonymous:
Is that like those fans who were just so pissed off in S6 because Jonas wasn't Daniel, or is this different?
Yeah, I'd say it's about the same, only the railing is coming from different camps this time.
People like who they like, and I'm not going to fault them for it, but I don't remember the Jonas haters ever being Corin Nemec haters. There was a line they didn't cross, and I respect that. At least that's what I saw. I'm sure there were a few immature individuals out there who ragged on the actor as well, but I didn't see it.
Joe, I think it's a good thing that this is your last blog. Generally speaking, I think it's a bad idea for writers of a TV show to do blogs. You don't owe the fans anything of the sort and it creates a sense of "familiarity" for some fans that takes them to weird places. You also say things that (I have to think you know will) get fans upset and you have to know you are going to get some very unconstructive, negative, personal feedback. Can't see how you could enjoy that.
Anyway, I think you ought to keep your distance from the fans, go with your vision and your writing talent will speak for itself one way or the other.
For the record, some people are obviously misreading Joe's last blog entry. He does not state that it will be his last blog.
**xayeidemon said...
Yeah, I'd say it's about the same, only the railing is coming from different camps this time.
People like who they like, and I'm not going to fault them for it, but I don't remember the Jonas haters ever being Corin Nemec haters. There was a line they didn't cross, and I respect that. At least that's what I saw. I'm sure there were a few immature individuals out there who ragged on the actor as well, but I didn't see it.**
I wasn't even around in S6 and I still see people at this point in time (3 years later) making nasty, negative comments about CN (I must say mainly the Uber Daniel fans) no less nasty than any comments about BB. IMO, some of them still cross that line.
Ragging on BB now is no different than what's been done in the past to MS, AT, CN and to RDA. Different camps - same mentality.
Joe, thanks for picking up the slant that Gateworld has everywhere.
Whether it's the ratings (all this year it's been SG1 is doing badly, yet when SGA drops a point we have excuses like hurricanes stopping people watch SGA); episode reviews (how can you seriously review Abyss and not mention Daniel in the entire review?); to those of us who try to post in the Ask JM thread and are frequently frustrated because any question in we which is not raving about Sam, or Sam and Jack, is edited or deleted. Apparently asking too many questions about Vala, Mitchell or Daniel (and I'd classify more than 2 questions per page as too many according to Gateworld), we are apparently spamming the thread and annoying you.
Seeing this is the behavior of the place, and it's owner gets rewarded with a job at MGM, no wonder TPTB got a slanted view of what was popular.
Joe,
Hi, my name is Aaron Hall, and I'm just some random guy in Ohio who has watched Stargate SG-1 (and now Atlantis) since the beginning. It was fantastic then, and it's fantastic now, too! You guys have done an excellent job with the shows, and I trust that you will continue to do the same. I know you take support and criticism hand in hand from what I've read, but don't let them get to you... I've learned that misery loves company, and some people whine so much that they start to drag others down with them. All the actors do a great job, and I can't wait to see the back half of the season and season 10. Keep it up!
Hi Joe,
First of all thank you very much for your words about Ben, you're winning Scapers' hearts with them :)
Sorry to hear you didn't win anything in Vegas, but they're saying that these who are not lucky with gambling, are lucky with love! :D
I re-watched The Ties That Bind yesterday evening and even if it was for 10th or 15th time I had exactly as much fun as for the first time, maybe even more. More episodes like this one in season 10, please, with the alternative original team (Vala, Daniel, Teal'c and Mitchell)!!! :)
Dear oh deary me, Joe. Where does this leave you now? When your very own special pet fans bite the hand that feeds them and the only places that are vocally enjoying the new season and discussing it exhaustively and positively are the places you have so gone out of your way to brand as the rat bag fringe and the "vocal minority". Guess you'd better bet hope they're not such a minority now, eh?
Thanks in any case for calling Gateworld on their ridiculous, negative poll, I was going to do it myself but thought, what's the point? Gateworld has been encouraged to think themselves more important than any other fansite and whose fault is that anyway? Somethings come back to bite you in the bum don't you think? What EVER happened to "Trust TPTB"?
Interesting isn't it how the "fans" currently tearing the season to shreds haven't been moderated with the draconian thoroughness that the Daniel fans have been treated with over the years on this charming site. And they never advocated the show's cancellation as seems to be the request de jour round these parts recently. So anyhoo, I voted "Best Ever" in their silly little poll myself because they really didn't leave me any other option, though actually I prefer 2 and 3 by just a whisker. Ya gotta wonder at such ingratitude, really.
Have a nice day Joe. It feels kind of weird to actually agree with you, you know?
Hi Joe,
So pleased and thankful you responded to the saddening trend on the previous blog thread. Thank you for putting things straight and defending the actors. In an ideal world they shouldn't need defending and we would be praising them and yourselves for the hard work and commitment they give to a show we all love and enjoy. I hate to see poeple be ungrateful for the wonderful entertainment you guys provide and for giving us the story.That's not to say people aren't allowed to have an opinion and criticise the show but at the end of the day if a show turns you off then turn the tv off and find something else instead.
I used to love the x-files but as the series went on I found that I couldn't watch it any more so I didn't. I don't blame anyone for that. The showrunners crafted a series they wanted and I'm sure many millions enjoyed it but I left it because for me it lost something. That doesn't make me right or wrong- it just means it lost my interest. I don't though go to x-files boards lamenting this and criticising anyone for my own opinion. I was sad to lose something I loved but instead I just went on to find soemthing different. I still tuned in at some points to check to see if the quality was better so I didn't give up on it completely. It's up to everyone to look inside themselves and see if they want to wait and see if the show improves in their own opinion or walk away and find something else to love.
I know we all invest ourselves in these shows as an audience but if one thing being a fan of Farscape has taught me is that the story of any show I watch isn't mine. I don't own it. I don't tell it. If I did then that series would suck! lol What I'm here for is the showrunners story. What they are giving us. I don't want my preferences or my ideas to influence it because it's not my story. If I did then I'd do fanfic and get it out of my system that way. (Please don't make me do fanfic cause it could get ugly as anyone who has read my sock operas will atest to. *g*)
Also I have to mention this quote-
Feel free to complain about the direction of the Mitchell character if you like (although, as I said, we've just started exploring him)
Yes we have "just started exploring him" I wish some folks would remember that we've had 8 seasons of the other main cast and they have had 8 seasons worth of episodes and back story. Cameron so far has had oooh just over a dozen single eps! If he's to be part of the team we need to find out what makes him tick and get to know him. For those in the UK you have only got to know him for 2 episodes so your viewpoint is even more difficult to form. I look at it from this point- many people were screaming "we hate Vala, ick ick ick" Joe was saying to us- "trust us you will end up loving her". So when she goes suddenly people are now shouting "bring back Vala- we adore her".I think the same will be true of Mitchell. He's had less screen time and development than Vala from my humble point of view so I look forward to finding out more about him *and* also seeing the other characters story too.
I love SG1 and I adore the whole team element but also love each character for their strengths and weaknesses. That is what makes them human rather than supermen and women.
I look forward to the rest of the story, to seeing more of the characters and what your collective hard work has crafted for us.
Thank you guys and gals.
BritAngie
I mean this in the nicest possible sense, but I think if Stargate had carried on in the way it had been going, it would have undoubtedly jumped the shark.
By completely revamping Stargate, it almost feels like the writers have taken a shotgun to said shark. The new show is fantastic, and quite frankly, I can't get enough.
The only criticism I have is that the Orii seem a little bit too powerful, and somewhat lacking in a sense of humour. At least with the Goa'uld, we knew that they weren't Gods, but people with a good grasp of technology (and had snakes in their heads.)
Overall, season 9 makes me look forward to sitting down in front of my TV each week.
Keep up the great work, Joe.
No personal attacks from me--just my thoughts on a show that I really like.
The 2.0 rating is made up of many SG1 fans who keep watching inspite of what we are seeing. Why? Because we keep hoping--hoping to see something of SG1.
I now know that will not happen and will not watch the rest of season 9. That is how Stargate is in trouble--because that 2.0 will drop as the fans begin to loose hope and drop away.
I would be willing to bet there will be NO season 10 because $ talks and with fans gone, so will the $.
It is not just the disjointed "team" but the oh so obvious "political" tone of the show. A mirror of todays world? I can watch the news for that.
I will soon own all 8 seasons--season 8 was and will be what I consider the end of a great sci-fi show.
I really hope that Shanks, Judd and Tapping--get out before all that anyone remembers is season 9.
For that matter--I hope the new guys do too!
Hi Joe,
Thanks so much for defending the actors! It’s amazing how mean spirited people can be. Throw in anonymity and a little self-righteous indignation and you’ve got the makings of some pretty ugly behavior. Sad really.
I’m new to SG1. Only started watching this year when Ben Browder came to the series. So I guess it’s easy for me to tune in to simply enjoy the ride. I can enjoy the process of watching the “band get back together” while I figure out who all the characters are. I’m not invested in what WAS and can enjoy the stories for what they ARE. For me, Vala was a scream and I’m really looking forward to seeing her come back to the show. (I just re-watched “The Ties that Bind” and loved every minute of it!) I’m looking forward to seeing the entire team in action, and to seeing how Mitchell’s background and leadership abilities will come into play in the future.
It’s not easy to revamp a long established show. Trolls don’t make it any easier. It’s that “mine, mine, mine” childish behavior that I find the most annoying. Temper tantrums and spewing personal attacks at the actors because their custom made show isn’t being aired. SG1 has committed the cardinal sin of changing. Sad! In this atmosphere it doesn’t matter how Ben plays Mitchell, trolls won’t be able to appreciate his talents. Their loss!!
Apparently TPTB felt new blood was needed. And maybe the trolls would be less hostile if the new guy came in simply as a team member, while one of the more established characters took the lead. Whatever. Make no mistake about it. Ben Browder is a very talented and award winning actor, and he makes an excellent addition to the cast of SG1.
IM Valacb and i think BEN is great
AHEM!!! Joe??
You do realize that you are putting your Christmas list at SERIOUS risk by having recommended that people complain to ME?
Just thought you ought to know.
On a good note, you are making up for the extra hassle by helping with the naughty/nice list...
As ever yours,
Santa
p.s. I do hope there is a season 10, and keep up the good work.
Thanks for pointing out the season 9 poll phony questions... I didn't vote in this one because I like S9 a great deal but not more than the other 8 seasons.
Should have included another notch at least - a simple 'very good' which did not deny quality to the other 8 seasons would have been nice.
You know, Joe, I think that one of the problems Ben Browder is having is his lack of physical presence. I mean, he's certainly fit and in great shape, but he really pales in comparison to everyone else on the show. One of Richard Dean Anderson's biggest strengths was the fact that he made O'neill look like Teal'c's equal. Right now, Michael Shanks is bigger, has more of a physical presence than Ben Browder. Of course that's true with Chris Judge too. But even Landry and Carter carry more of the screen when they're in the scene with Ben. He just looks so danm little all the time that it's hard to buy into the fact that he's colead.
Honestly, I am thisclose to giving up on Gateworld because of the very obvious biases. Lately, everything here seems to be painted negatively. I never studied journalism, but aren't reporters supposed to portray the facts of both sides of the story, keeping their own opinions out of it? So why is it when I'm reading their articles I often get the feeling that, oh, SG-1 is a ho-hum show now and that a 1.8-2.0 rating is bad? I was under the impression those are *great* ratings, especially during summer. Why does it seem that the official magazine will only post letters saying how awful the new season is without posting balancing letters about how great the season is, even though I know many people who love it? I can see it already, if we get a Season 10, the announcement will say: "Despite the fact that no one is watching or liking the show anymore, TPTB are giving it one last shot to win back their audience." *rolls eyes*
It almost feels at times like the "power factor" of being the biggest Stargate site on the internet has gone to people's heads and now everyone is supposed to think the same way they do. I am not a blind sheep, nor can my opinions be swayed like one, thank you very much. All those attempts do is annoy me and lower my opinion of the one trying to sway me.
I've been watching the series since it began. I love Mitchell and think he was introduced into the series extremely well. I love Daniel. I love Teal'c. I didn't care for Sam much the past few seasons, but so far I love her this season. I don't miss the ship. I love Vala. I love Lam. I love Landry. I love the new enemies. I only rarely miss Jack, probably because RDA had been backing away from the series for years before this. I think all the actors are doing a tremendous job this season (and that includes Ben Browder, who I like in the role of Mitchell so much that I've begun watching Farscape). All my friends and family are also adoring Season 9 and think it's the best in years.
Perhaps those opinions aren't the ones being promoted as "popular" here, but I'm proud to say they're *my* opinions and that only a change in the quality of the show will change that opinion.
Stargate is a different show than it was in previous seasons, and not everyone will like it. If they don't, fine, just stop watching (although why they need to continue slandering the show, its actors, and its writers/producers so viciously instead of leaving, I will never understand). But others, like me, will like the new show just as much, if not more, than the old show. I will keep watching Stargate until I don't like the show anymore. It's that simple.
Keep up the great work, Joe! Rest assured there *are* many people who love this season, even if we aren't as vocal about it as some others are.
I've been watching SG1 since season 4 and went back to watch season 1-3 on DVD and really love the show. Season 9 in my opinion lacked a send off for Jack. We never really found out that he became head of Homeworld Security or even go a promotion to Major General. All we got was a backyard shot of Hank and Jack where Jack talks about signing papers to sell his house, etc. Then he shows up in Daniel's office with another star on his shoulder. I understand his committment to his daughter and I support him 100%, and actually praise him for it, but most of us watched SG1 because of RDA. He was after all the "Star" of the show to me the writers messed up big time in sending him off that way.
Ben is doing a great job but I see to many "O'Neillisms" in his dialogue. He really needs his own idenity, not a shadow of Jack.
Would love some more 'off world' activity - to me that's what the show was suppose to be about. Traveling to other planets and getting into trouble! It was fun to watch.
Can't really say if I will watch a season 10 if there is one. Nine right now isn't doing much for me.
I do hope that SGA is renewed for Season 3, I'm really enjoying that show a great deal.
Thanks for your Blogs, I really enjoy them and all the hard work you guys do to write and direct the show!
Online factions remain firmly entrenched in their customary views. Their opinions about season nine, the lack of character focus, and the new characters themselves are as predictable as ever. The question you should ask yourselves, Joe, is what faction is more representative of the casual viewers? Those who like the "new", or those who liked what came before? Those who like Sam, or not? Those who think Jack was holding SG-1 back, or those who thought Jack was SG-1?
Oh for Christ's sake. So now GateWorld is what's wrong with Stargate? You people are unbelieveable. To the person who thinks that reporting is "opinion free", what kind of crack are you freebasing? No media is unbiased. None. Not GateWorld, not those fine, rational fans at Our Stargate, not at the Sony forums, not on the nightly news, not in the newspapers you read or the magazines you purchase. You know what, and this will apparently be a shock to some of you, Joe's blog here at GateWorld is the single biggest propaganda tool the producers of Stargate have. He will say nothing but good things about all aspects of the show, tell you all how wonderful the new actors are (even if they're really not), proclaim this as SG-1's finest hour (even if it's really not), try to assuage your concerns about command, RDA, the ship, whatever, with placting words, a slightly humorous tone, and wee bit of misdirection (notice how people are talking about the poll instead of Ben Browder's poor reception?). That's why he posts here, that's why all of the interviews given by everyone say exactly the same thing right now. Sure, it's been this way in the past, but season nine has seen all parties invovled spew off the same tired comments by rote so often that it's actually begun to hurt the show. Right now, nobody invovled with the show seems to have an independent or original thought outside of the studio message. And that's the most telling aspect of season nine so far.
Ya know, I have to admit, this IS getting kinda funny. What, Joe spoke out against people bashing the actors, so now you're moving on to bash Gateworld? LOL! If Darren and David are so "obviously" biased against Stargate, why in hell would they continue to maintain one of the biggest online fansites for it? Why not say, "The show is crap, we quit" and then fold up shop, taking the news section, the interviews, the Omnipedia, the forums and these blogs with them? Probably because- get this- they still like the show. They wouldn't be here if they didn't and they wouldn't go through all the troubles they do (and the flak they take) if their hearts weren't completely in this.
And frankly, if Joe had any doubts about the integrity of the site and the people who run it, he wouldn't be here. One complaint about one poll does not a flaming condemnation make.
Darren already admitted he screwed up on the poll, so why act as if it's part of some huge conspiracy to brainwash people into thinking the show sucks? First off, that isn't what he thinks (unless he lied in his posts, too) and second, people aren't that stupid. Sheep? The only sheep I see are the ones posting their vitriol under the safety of "Anonymous". Must be gelded sheep, at that.
You don't read well, do you? Not a single person said that GateWorld is what's wrong with Stargate.
But you are proving what has been said repeated. GateWorld is extraordinarily negative. Seems to me that YOU need to put down the crack pipe, and trying reading again.
Here's an original thought, take that paranoid stick out of your butt, and TRY being civil.
Man, it's too funny to see Shadowmaat defending the objectivity/positiveness of GW. I tried to give the GW forum another try this year since I heard it was no longer open season on Daniel fans there, but Shadowmaat's negative spewing about the show in every freaking thread drove me away after 1 day. I don't think she's exactly in a position to judge what's negative. And one does have to ask, since you posed the question, why you don't quit? Catch a clue: it's a new show, and Jonass ain't ever coming back.
Anonymous wrote:
*Joe's blog here at GateWorld is the single biggest propaganda tool the producers of Stargate have.....That's why he posts here, that's why all of the interviews given by everyone say exactly the same thing right now. Sure, it's been this way in the past, but season nine has seen all parties invovled spew off the same tired comments by rote so often that it's actually begun to hurt the show. Right now, nobody invovled with the show seems to have an independent or original thought outside of the studio message. And that's the most telling aspect of season nine so far.*
I'm with you on that. Good comments.
I have no problem with Ben Browder as an actor - I quite liked Farscape. I do have a problem with Sg1 season 9. It incorporates hackneyed writing (a crass introduction for the new leader of sg1, a set of unbelievably tedious new villains and a serious lack of joined up thinking about character interaction!) with a group of actors who seem to have lost any sense of ensemble acting! Direction seems to be casual to the point of sloppy. Even the damn CGI no longer seems good! Hey - maybe it's the drip down effect of Bush as president or maybe the whole production team has got a little self satisfied or taken on too much with Atlantis as well! Anyway I'be watching a couple more but unless they improve radically - I think this show is a dead man walking!
I've been afraid to comment before this, as things tend to get very rough in here, but