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« Michael's 24 & Stargate SG-1 Blog
Hatin'
Wow.
I have not gotten into so much trouble for not completing my homework assignment since grade 9. You have no idea how many people have been riding me like Zorro for not keeping up with this blog. Thanks for caring. "I'mmmmmm back!"
Well, not to make any excuses, but we have been shooting the second SG-1 movie, Continuum, for the last three weeks and things have been a bit hectic. Not to mention the fact that the first shooting week overlapped with my wife's last week of filming her movie on Vancouver Island, so I was working during the day and being both mother and father at night. This wouldn't have been that much of a chore if my daughter Mia hadn't gotten a bad cold in Victoria, and happened to keep both her and I up through the entire first night before filming. Zero sleep is not the best way to kick off the work week. "Tough darts, Batman."
Anywho, the filming for Continuum has been great: frozen sets, Air Force F-15s and Richard Dean Anderson's return all crammed inside two hours of movie magic will be a fantastic way to finish. There is already talk of doling some more of these SG-1 movies, so keep your finger's crossed....
As for this week's SG-1 episode [airing Friday at 8 pm/ET], "Dominion," I thought it turned out really swell. That's right — "swell" (I'm bringing that word back). Multiple Baals (Cliff Simon at his gloating best), Morena Baccarin in black leather and Claudia Black let loose make this one of our better episodes this season. (Watch for bad guy "Cordon Bleu" appearing soon at your local deli.)
Previous episodes I hadn't commented on were "Talion," the Teal'c revenge episode, and "Family Ties." "Talion" was a great story, an episode that I was a little worried about at first. When I heard that it was kind of a Man on Fire ripoff, I was a little skeptical. Sometimes in the past we have not done homages very well. However, after seeing the finished cut, it is a great ride. All the team has something to do, Tony Amendola returns in all his glory, and there are some great fight sequences. Special kudos go to CJ and Ben Browder, who did all of their own fighting in their scene together. The boys had fun and a few bumps and bruises to show for it. Although this was another episode that ran over by about 20 minutes in the original edit, it still holds up very well. One of the best Teal'c episodes to date.
"Family Ties" was a bit disappointing, I felt, and I'm not sure why; the script was a good read, the casting of Fred Willard as Vala's con artist father was a windfall, and there was a poignant B-storyline with "General Landry" and "Dr Lam" finding a resolution to their family conflict. It just seemed to be lacking something in the final cut, and I really can't put my finger on what it is. Maybe I'll address it next week, when I have more time to think about it. Perhaps more emotional fleshing out could have been done with Jacek.... I don't know.
As for current events: I will refrain from talking about them, because if you've watched the news lately, there seems to be only one thing to talk about and you already know how I feel about that.
By the way, keep the comments coming! It's nice to read feedback — good, bad or just honest. Talk again next week for the finale. There may be tears....
Later!
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Jun 15, 2007 10:59 AM
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I know what was wrong with "Family Ties". Not enough Daniel and Vala time. 
Glad to have you back blogging. You were sorely missed. Just reading your blogs makes me feel like I'm at a con again.
Well, I'm going to try and enjoy the last two eposides, though I'm sure there will be tears as I watch next week's. I can't believe the end is so close. I'll be counting down the time to see the movies. And I'm crossing my fingers, toes, and anything else I can think of for more movies.
Hey, if you can make it, come down to the Seattle area next Saturday... We are having a finale get-together that afternoon to celebrate a wonderful 10 years of SG-1.
All the best,
Angela
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Jun 15, 2007 11:08 AM
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> Wow.
>
> I have not gotten into so much trouble for not
> completing my homework assignment since grade nine.
> You have no idea how many people have been riding me
> like Zorro for not keeping up with this blog. Thanks
> for caring. "I'mmmmmm back!"
Welcome Back Michael!
>
> Well, not to make any excuses, but we have been
> shooting the second SG-1 movie, Continuum, for
> the last three weeks and things have been a bit
> hectic. Not to mention the fact that the first
> shooting week overlapped with my wife's last week of
> filming her movie on Vancouver Island, so I was
> working during the day and being both mother
> and father at night. This wouldn't have been that
> much of a chore if my daughter Mia hadn't gotten a
> bad cold in Victoria, and happened to keep both her
> and I up through the entire first night before
> filming. Zero sleep is not the best way to kick off
> the work week. "Tough darts, Batman."
Ah well I figurd as much that the movie was keeping you busy in fact was thinking more screen time (can't help a fan for thinking that)! So will lack of sleep be showing when you are on screen? And hope your daughter is doing well.
>
> Anywho, the filming for Continuum has been
> great: frozen sets, Air Force F-15s and Richard Dean Anderson's return all
> crammed inside two hours of movie magic will be a
> fantastic way to finish. There is already talk of
> doling some more of these SG-1 movies, so keep
> your finger's crossed....
Fingers and toes are crossed for more films; looking forward to the releases of the two coming out. Now just got to get you to do commentary on the movies that would be great 
>
> As for this week's SG-1 episode [airing Friday
> at 8 pm/ET], "Dominion," I thought it turned out
> really swell. That's right — "swell" (I'm bringing
> that word back). Multiple Baals (Cliff Simon at his gloating best),
> Morena Baccarin in black leather, and
> Claudia Black let loose make this one
> of our better episodes this season. (Watch for bad
> guy "Cordon Bleu" appearing soon at your local
> deli.)
LMAO; great comment and ALL three do a great job in this eps; hopefully lead in to the movies one can hope >
> Previous episodes I hadn't commented on were
> "Talion," the Teal'c revenge episode and "Family
> Ties." "Talion" was a great story, an episode that I
> was a little worried about at first. When I heard
> that it was kind of a Man on Fire ripoff, I
> was a little skeptical. Sometimes in the past we have
> not done homages very well. However, after seeing the
> finished cut, it is a great ride. All the team has
> something to do, Tony Amendola returns in all his glory
> and there are some great fight sequences. Special
> kudos go to CJ and Ben Browder, who did all of their own
> fighting in their scene together. The boys had fun,
> and a few bumps and bruises to show for it. Although
> this was another episode that ran over by about 20
> minutes in the original edit, it still holds up very
> well. One of the best Teal'c episodes to date.
Tony and CJ did a wonderful job in this eps; totally agree. And I think alot of fans will agree with you one of the BEST TEALC eps to date.>
> "Family Ties" was a bit disappointing, I felt, and
> I'm not sure why; the script was a good read, the
> casting of Fred Willard as Vala's con artist
> father was a windfall, and there was a poignant
> b-storyline with ‘General Landry' and ‘Dr Lam'
> finding a resolution to their family conflict. It
> just seemed to be lacking something in the final cut,
> and I really can't put my finger on what it is. Maybe
> I'll address it next week, when I have more time to
> think about it. Perhaps more emotional fleshing out
> could have been done with Jacek.... I don't know.
I was hopeing for more out of Family Ties but nice to meet Vala's dad and casting of Jacek of Fred Willard.
>
> As for current events: I will refrain from talking
> about them, because if you've watched the news lately
> there seems to be only one thing to talk about and
> you already know how I feel about that.
YOu don't mean; the person mentioned in your first blog entry do you lol!>
> By the way, keep the comments coming! It's nice to
> read feedback, good, bad, or just honest. Talk again
> next week for the finale. There may be tears....
>
> Later!
Nice to see that you read our comments and can't wait to hear next week about the finale; and tears will be coming from fans also of the show.
Later!
Happy Fathers Day
Sue
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Jun 15, 2007 11:16 AM
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Hi, Michael! 
I'm so happy to see a new blog entry from you. I love reading your blogs. They're so entertaining.
I found Family Ties quite amusing. I loved it. Though, I think you're right. There could've been more emotional bonding between Vala and Jacek. There didn't seem like a closure or a good ending to that story. Though, I liked the interaction between you and Ben. I love when you two are together. Also, love the leather jacket. Is that yours?
Well, looking forward to Dominion. Looks like a good episode. I can't believe the ride is almost over.
Well, Happy Father's Day!
God bless to you, Lexa, and the children.
Sue Jackson
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Jun 15, 2007 11:27 AM
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WOOHOO Michael is back!!!!!
I have missed your blogs and am glad you have time for more :P
I thought the casting of Fred Willard was so fantastic. He is so funny and a great person to have as Vala's father. I also thought that there could have been a little more in the episode, but oh well, won't keep me from watching it over and over!
Dominion is one of my favorite episodes of the season. You were great in it. Very emotional!
I am looking forward to the movies and more blogs from you in the future
Happy Father's Day
Wendy
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Jun 15, 2007 11:33 AM
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Hey Michael!
Glad to have you back! I was checking every day. I agree with your comment about 'Family Ties'. It seemed a bit flat, like soda without the fizz. I'm sure it would have been better with more of Daniel in it, but I can't help it, I'm biased.
I'm looking forward to tonight's episode. Looks to be action packed with my favorite characters. I am not sure how I feel about next week's episode. There's been a lot of talk about it and it sucks that it will be the last one but I also won't be able to watch it until Sunday. I'm going to visit family and they don't have cable so, alas, no Stargate but I have my VCR set. I'll try to remain calm through the weekend and the 6 hour drive home. Upon returning, I'm sure my husband will need to crash (that's a long time in a car) so I'll watch while he's napping and I'm sure he'll wonder what all the wailing and gnashing of teeth is all about. I'll probably go through a whole box of tissues. I'll just have to watch the DVD's when I need a Danny fix but it won't be the same.
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Jun 15, 2007 11:40 AM
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It is great to see you blog again! Even if we ribbed you a lot for taking so long. In trouble, maybe... but come on you must feel the love!
I have seen the pictures of you all (I am Southern, we say you all because the rest of you don't recognize that you is singular and you all is the obvious plural form) on the final shoot day... both you and Amanda are crying. It is one incredible shot.
I so hope there are more movies for SG1. I also hope you find a wonderful mainstream series to put you in the place acting wise that you deserve.
I have to agree that Family missed the mark but think Talion had some great moments. I have already seen the last 2... this next one rates in my probably top 40 ever, maybe higher. Unending to me is a top 10. In the cheap "kill off main characters for shock value" world, I am glad that SG1 did the last episode with style and care for the fans.
Hugs to you and your family.
Oh yeah, did I mention in my last 4 comments how I hope you don't have to bail on Atlanta con?
Debra (maintainer of the SciFi Msg Board Daniel Jackson/MS threads)
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Jun 15, 2007 11:46 AM
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Woot!! Welcome back!!
You were missed.
Again thank you for giving us your insights on Continuum and the various episodes.
I like your no holds barred honest commentaries on the episodes. It makes it interesting to go back to watch those episodes again, this time with an insider's view so to speak. I guess with any job some days you feel it comes out good and sometimes not so good.
Erm, no we won't talk about you know you. Even here in good ole New Zealand we cannot escape the you know what dominating the headlines. FCOL. 
Best wishes to you, Lexa and the kids.
Cynthia
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Jun 15, 2007 11:55 AM
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Welcome back, we missed you! You had no idea what you were letting yourself in for when you signed on for this, did you? You now have responsibilities!
I hope little Mia is feeling better, poor lamb. It really breaks your heart to see them sick at that age, doesn't it?
Your comments on Continuum are encouraging, other spoilers have made it seem less than appealing (not to mention the frightening prospect of them dragging out the rotting corpse of the non-relationship between Sam and "Sir" yet again) but if you've been busy, that's certainly good news! Can we hope for Daniel a little whumping? You know it's cos we love him, don't you...?
I'm glad you were happy with Dominion, I thought it was one of the best episodes of the season. At the risk of getting gushy, it's episodes like this that highlight what a truly remarkable character Daniel Jackson is and how he has grown over the years we have been gifted with him. Thanks to both you and the writers on that one. I would also love to see you and the lovely Morena work together again, you two had amazing chemistry.
Hope you're enjoying a little family time now that you're finally free but don't get too relaxed, homework's due next Friday on the dot!
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Jun 15, 2007 11:59 AM
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Glad to see the blog up and running again. I've had to settle for Joe Mallozzi's blog in your absence. If you see him, make sure to tell him that he comes in second place to you.
I completely agree with you on "Family Ties." I was so excited to see Vala's character and history fleshed out more, but the episode left me disappointed, more than any episode of the season. Of course, Claudia turned in another excellent performance.
I've seen "Unending" before but I can't wait to watch it again this Friday. I'm curious as to what your reaction was when you read the BIG scene with Claudia/Vala. It seemed like it would be a hard one to deliver. I was about ready to reach into my screen and smack you during the course of it!
Anyway, hope all is well and I look forward to reading your next entry. Oh, and I just purchased tickets to my very first convention tonight (Creation Con in Chicago). You better be as funny and charming as people claim you are or I expect my money back. No pressure though.
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Jun 15, 2007 12:03 PM
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Hey Michael!
Welcome Back! It has been a bit scary around here with you away... I guess you're just that important to us ordinary folk (try to remain humble)!
I'm not entirely sure what it is that endears one individual to so many people such as you have. Let's see... your portrayal of Daniel (of course), your exceptional skills as an actor in other arenas, your ability to remain genuine, your wit and charisma, the way you appreciate and care about your fans, your good-looks... Oh my! Guess there's a lot to miss - I'm beginning to understand the wailing and teeth gnashing now! I suppose I'll be joining the cue.
I'm still enjoying every minute I can of SG-1, and I must say that your comments about Talion are dead on! This episode was put together exceptionally well! Though this was Teal'c's struggle, the team dynamic was still very much in evidence. When Cam and Teal'c had their final row, you could just feel Mitchell's heart clenching at the thought of having to go up against his friend. I agree whole-heartedly in wishing Kudos to your fellow castmates for a scene well-played!
My vote is still out on "Familly Ties" as I have yet to view it. I'll try to catch up before the new ep airs tonight (thank goodness for VCR's, huh?) I'm sure I'll have more to comment after...
Congrats especially to you for getting through a tough couple of weeks (though there was no doubt in my mind that you could pull it off)! Shooting schedules can be such a bear, add to that keepin' up with the kiddles all by your onesies, and then up all night with a sickie... been there, done that! T-shirt buyin' yadda yadda... No fun!
Glad to see you back again! Looking forward to more of the same. Take care & have a fabulous Father's Day!
Linda
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Jun 15, 2007 12:09 PM
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Welcome back Michael!!!! It's so nice to read your blog...
I didn't like Talion, too much violent and I have found Teal'c very very OC!
Family Ties it's been a disappointment for me too....But I adore you and Claudia in Dominion, and then Unending...what can I say, I love Rob Cooper!!!!
Ciao!
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Jun 15, 2007 12:15 PM
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YAY!! You're back!!!
Been waiting patiently (okay...NOT so patiently) for you to update this here blog.
Of course, I figured the reason you weren't was b/c of the shooting on Continuum, so not complaining TOO MUCH. 
(and definitely has all fingers and toes crossed for more movies....as a favorite pirate of mine says: "One can only hope!" )
Definitely looking forward to Dominion tonight!! I kinda cheated and skimmed the transcript for it up on one of my favorite sites, but hey...nothing compares to watching it on TV. (Just don't tell my BFF Tara I cheated...she'll come down here and hurt me...badly!) Of course working when it airs isn't very cool, but thats what second showings (ONE thing to be thankful to Scifi for!) and VCRs are for! As always, will be looking out for some Daniel/Vala moments...I'm a huge sucker for them.
Yeah, I thought Family Ties was lacking in something as well. It was a good episode, but idk....would have liked to see more (*cough*Daniel/Vala moments*cough*). The final scene, however, was absolutely to die for! I about fell off my floor (yes...off the floor...which isn't possible to do, but hey, that's how funny it was!)
Now Talion....WOW! LVOED IT!! It was one of the best Teal'c episodes, if not the best! It had a little bit of everything (including a Daniel/Vala moment...SEE, THERE I GO AGAIN...), and I truly enjoyed it!! Especially seeing Tony Amendola back! WHOOT FOR BRA'TAC!
Glad you're back posting...it really is a "swell" thing! (I'll help you bring that word back!! People will think I'm nuts, but that's nothing new! I'll just add it to the list of sayings that SO need to be brought back, like "UT OH, SPAGETTIOS!")
Will definitely keep the comments coming!!
~Pip
(who apologizes for total randomess...I have yet to eat this morning, and a hungry hobbit is NOT a good thing!)
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Jun 15, 2007 12:26 PM
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I'm not going to type a whole lot. Just really wanted to wish you a Happy Father's Day.
Kristin
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Jun 15, 2007 12:32 PM
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Ahahaha! But She Who Must Not Be Named was so amuuuuuusing! As an American I feel much better now that we've crowned our brand new Entitlement Queen. I was getting all worried there for a while.
Also, I think it would be excellent if you let Chris write an entry to your blog so he could tell us all about you.
Errr... not that you're not fascinating. Just... yeah.
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Jun 15, 2007 12:41 PM
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