Phase 2's Mr. Scott, Charles Root

Today I am honored to say that I have Charles Root here to talk to the blog:

1.What is it that you do for your “day job", if you can talk about it

I am the Director of Technology for an Intellectual Property company called IPCG, in Williston Vermont. We consult with large corporations on patents, trade secrets, that sort of stuff. I’ve been here for 11+ years.

2. What is your connection to Star Trek? and how has it affected your life?

This will probably come as sacrilege to many a Trekker that look at Trek as almost a religion, but for me my only connection to Star Trek, is that it is enjoyable science fiction. I never bought in to Roddenberry’s humanism or the whole “The future will be a better place” aspect of Trek. I liked Star Trek because of the Enterprise and the power of her weapons ripping Romulan warbirds apart, and Kirk kicking ass, and Spock being so smart.

I would say though that Star Trek has pronouncedly affected my life, in that had I never enjoyed the TV show, I probably wouldn’t have been introduced to other Sci-Fi and fantasy properties, that exposure got me involved with computers in the 80’s and that is how I now make a living. Plus of course I never would be part of Phase 2 if Star Trek wasn’t part of my life.

3. How did you first hear of Star Trek: New Voyages/Phase 2?

Randomly found it on the Internet one day while searching for information on Star Trek: TNG, didn’t even know it was being filmed an hour from my house. Started following it on the web, and then saw a local news story discussing the project and that it was in Ticonderoga. Dropped the production an e-mail, turns out I had actually met James Cawley a decade earlier.

4. "In Harm's Way" was your first go around as Scotty, how hard is it to be the character and do you think you have gotten better with each performance?

Scotty was always one of my favorite characters, as I said Trek for me was the Enterprise 1701, so I gravitated towards Scotty as he “owns” the Enterprise, regardless of what Kirk or Starfleet thinks!

Acting the part of Scotty which was made particularly iconic with James Doohan’s “Scottish” accent has to say the least been a challenge. You don’t want to come off as mimicking Doohan, but if you stray too far away his original interpretation then you really don’t have the Scotty character any longer, you just have an engineer from Scotland.

Then of course there’s the issue with accent, where everyone on the planet seems to think they’re a master linguist, and can give you pointers on how to sound more “Scottish”, that can get old after a while.

5. What is your favorite memory of being on set or just hanging around with the crew?

There has been many times I’ve been in tears laughing from interaction on the set with my friends, that is always enjoyable and memorable. There’s the times working with Trek alum like George Takei when it’s almost surreal, but there is one specific time that stands out in my mind.

The 360 degree bridge set was being prepped for shooting a scene, it was cleaned up, freshly painted, and all the internal lights were on, but no other lighting equipment had been set up yet. The consoles were powered up and blinking away, the helm glowed softly. Overhead the large light diffuser covered most set. I was the only person there. If there was one single time during all my shooting with Phase 2 that I was transported to the 23^rd century it was then. It really felt like I was walking on to the bridge of an operational Starship.

6. In your own words, how would you describe both the atmosphere on set and the realization of a dream that many dream but few can say they have experienced

Honestly, it’s hectic. We shoot with almost no money, in a cramped, somewhat rundown space, it’s hot, or cold, there’s always one more set to work on, or technical issue to deal with, the days are long, and if you’re not shooting it can be very boring just sitting quietly while the camera’s roll, BUT it’s the final product that makes that all worth it. When you watch something like “World Enough and Time” or “Kitumba” you really get the satisfaction of seeing the sacrifice turned in to entertainment.

As far as living the dream, I am truly blessed in many, many ways. It humbles me to know that I experience what others can only imagine.

7. Is it really a "family" as some people have described it? And has anyone pulled a prank on you?

It’s a very interesting dynamic on the set. As we’ve grown, we bring in people that may only be there for one shoot, and there may be 100+ people at the studio, so I can’t honestly say everyone feels like “family”. Are there friends that I would do anything for? Absolutely, that’s your family core. Are there friends that are like drinking buddies? There sure are. Are there people that are more like work colleagues? Certainly. Are there people that I can’t stand? Sadly there are, but that’s just the nature of having some many diverse people around. I challenge anyone to bring as many people together as we do and have them feel the same about every single person.

Yes there has been pranks, one involving the “Scotty” voodoo doll stands out, I think we need to go no further there, LOL!

8. What is it about the original Star Trek that carries on even today in your opinion?

Classic science fiction for some, the positive message for others. There’s also part of becoming a cultural icon that keeps Star Trek in the collective memory of society.

9. Are you amazed at the volume and quality if the Trek episodes that RFS produces? And do you see an end in sight for the 5-year mission?

Given the talent that is involved with our production, no the quality doesn’t amaze me, that should be given. As we approach 10 episodes either done or in some point of production, you do have to be amazed that we have pumped out that many based completely on the generosity of others and our own hard labor.

I only see an end to our efforts if financially we simply cannot go on. It’s sad to think that if we could simply charge 99 cents for a download of the episodes, or sell a DVD box set of the episodes for say $14.99 given our download numbers we would literally make millions for CBS and for RFS. I could then give a core group of actors and crew good paying jobs and make 12 episodes are year no problem, ah but likely only a dream….

10. Are there any other projects you are working on? Whether it is Star Trek or Something else

There is quite a few things that I’ve got going on. In the entertainment industry you really need a lot of “pokers in the fire”. Under the RFS banner, regardless of talk to the contrary, Buck Rogers is not dead, we hope to move on that soon. There is also a completely independent and new Science Fiction franchise that RFS has begun discussing with the author to bring to life. You may also see a peak of me in the Wild Wild West episode that RFS is producing.

I’m also involved with a film company in Atlanta, GA called Digital New Age Entertainment, and a film I worked on 4 or 5 years ago called “Operation Dead 1” has had some discussion on being rewritten with the sequel and made in to a new film called “Vector” , the premise of Zombies and computers is very, very cool.

I’m also working on a graphic novel with Bill Lutz called “Mars Vs Earth – The Solar War Chronicles” It is set in the year 2262 A.D. and a war between an Earth and newly independent and colonized Mars, really heats up when alien technology is found.

Plus, on a totally different entertainment track, I’m designing a very large Casino for construction in Las Vegas, that I hope to pitch to some associates I have in the gaming industry

11. Any other thoughts you'd like to share with our readers? If you'd like to promote something you are in or are interested in here.

Yes, I’ve been working to merge my two worlds of Intellectual Property and the Entertainment Industry, in that effort I have written a piece on how each can benefit from the other, more information and links to the article are here: http://www.ipcg.com/?file=Hollywood_IP

Thank you!

***************END TRANSMISSION****************

I want to thank Mr. Scott for his time and all of you who read the blog....

Until next time Star Trek fans, keep reading... and Live Long and Prosper.

Phase 2 Spotlight: Jonathan Zungre

Jonathan Zungre is an up and coming individual, who is an actor for Star Trek Phase 2. I am honored to personally know him and that he agreed to do an interview for me.

1.What is it that you both do for your “day job", if you can talk about it

JZ: It talk about video games on the radio. I started a company called Video Game Winners and Losers (VideoGameWinnersAndLosers.com) where I review all the new video games on a bunch of different radio stations all over the country. It's a tough job, but someones got to...nah, I'm kidding, it's awesome.

2.What is your connection to Star Trek? and how has it affected your life?

JZ: I play Chekov on Star Trek New Voyages/ Phase II. It's the most fun I've had acting and something that people always think is cool when I tell them about it.

3.How did you first hear of Star Trek: New Voyages/Phase 2?

JZ: I heard of it through my first audition. I was like, "No way, acting in a Star Trek show? That is too cool." When it came to auditions, it really was the diamond in the rough. The "rough" being weeks and weeks of auditions for commercials, cruise ship musical theatre and self indulgent student films. I think I prepared harder for that audition than any.

4. "Enemy: Starfleet!" was your first go around as Chekov, how hard is it to be the character and do you think you have gotten better with each performance?

JZ: The accent can be tricky. I have to warm it up and keep speaking in it or I'll start to lose it. But Chekov is a fun character and especially in a lot of the scripts I've had the pleasure to work on, he's got some great character moments. I got to do a fight scene where I duke it out with a humongous Klingon. I love stuff like that.

5. What is your favourite memory of being on set or just hanging around with the crew?

JZ: A couple of the guys gave me a pantsing during a bridge scene during Enemy Starfleet. Thankfully my regulation uniform was tied pretty tight, so my pants didn't come all the way down. And we used to have bonfires every night, where we'd just sit and talk. Those were great. We eat breakfast in these little restaurants near the set. Driving an hour to see a movie with JT. Laughing till we started crying while playing Grand Theft Auto with Bobby during The Child shoot. Too many good memories to name.

6. In your own words, how would you describe both the atmosphere on set and the realization of a dream that many dream but few can say they have experienced

JZ: It's a blessing, it really is. It's something I'll always be grateful for. And the atmosphere is friendly...when we're not up at 3 am trying to finish a scene. When you're on set, it's a great marriage of professionalism and fun.

7. Is it really a "family" as some people have described it?

JZ: Yep. People are close. And they fight. Sounds like a family to me : )

8. Are there any other projects you are working on? Whether it is Star Trek or Something else.

JZ: Well, you can listen to my radio segment. It'll be on every weekday starting October 31st on the Video Game Winners and Losers Facebook page. Hit me up with "like" if you check it out: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Video-Game-Winners-and-Losers-Radio-Segment/204769882900010

9.Any other thoughts you'd like to share with our readers? If you'd like to promote something you are in or are interested in here.

JZ: Just want to send a thank you to James, Patty, Sarge, Rob and everybody else that has made Star Trek such an enjoyable and memorable experience for me.


Again a major Thanks go to Johnny for doing this, and keep your eyes out for Johnny's next adventure as Chekov in Phase 2, "The Child" written and directed by Jon Povill.


Until next time blog readers, keep reading, Trekking and Live Long and Prosper

Phase 2 Spotlight : Brian Tubbs

I met Brian Tubbs on the set of Star Trek: Phase 2's "Kitumba" shoot in 2009, we have been good friends ever since. And I would like to thank him for agreeing to do this interview for me.

1. What is it that you do for your “day job"?

I’m a weather Forecaster for the United State Air Force. The difference between me and your local weather man is that I don’t do my job on TV and the focus of my job is on how the weather will affect military aircraft and personnel. This can be tricky because unlike the civilian side, the military will refuel aircraft in the air; a very dangerous business. It’s my job to inform pilots about weather that could affect the mission, such as thunderstorms, turbulence, and icing. It’s also my job to protect personnel and assets on the ground. I do this by issuing “Watches, Warnings, and Advisories” of things ranging from something simple like a 15kt crosswind advisory to a Warning for Hail and tornadoes.

2. What is your connection to Star Trek? And how has it affected your life?

I have watched Star Trek since I was a small child and developed a lasting love for the show when Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered in 1987. I remember how excited my Dad was for us all to watch it. I looked forward to those nights when my Dad, my brother, and I would watch the show together. Those were good times. I developed a strong love for science and sci-fi because of Star Trek. Being a cast member on Star Trek phase II and just being a part of the production of Star Trek is a thrill that I will always love.

3. How did you first hear of Star Trek: New Voyages/Phase 2?

I first found Phase II over the internet. I was searching for any possible news of a new Star Trek show on Google, and I found Phase II. I watch the episodes and after I watched “World Enough and Time” I knew I had to get involved somehow. I decided to contact the show. So I wrote an email and was contact by Rob Mauro. He asked for my head shot and resume. Eventually James Cawley called me and asked me to come out for the “Kitumba” shoot. James must have liked what he saw because he has called me back for 2 more episodes since then, with bigger roles each time.

4. Which episodes have you worked on?

I have worked on Kitumba, Origins or “The Protracted Man” and I will be back in June of next year to shoot “Bread and Savagery.” Kitumba and Origins are still in post production and my part of “Bread and Savagery” won’t be filmed until next June.

5. What is your favorite memory of being on set?

This is a hard one. I have so many. My favorite part of being on set is just being in front of the camera and performing. But my favorite scene would definitely have to be the “Sick bay” scene I shot with my good friend Matt Ewald during “Origins.” He’s a great actor and it’s fun to work with talent people.

6. In your own words, how would you describe both the atmosphere on set and the realization of a dream that many dream but few can say they have experienced?

The atmosphere on set is very professional and the people are very serious about what they do but they also keep things fun and jovial. Sure tension can get high on set when time is running low and you have several scene’s to film, but that’s all part of the experience. It’s amazing to be doing what you love. Acting is my passion but acting on Star Trek is a dream. I love it. You can’t know what it’s like unless you experience it for yourself.

7. Are there any other projects you are working on? Whether it is Star Trek or Something else.

As a matter of fact, I am working on a few projects. I just shot a short film called “The Looking” it’s a Sci-Fi, and should be hitting the film festival circuit soon. I also have a major accomplishment in my voice over career with my first anime out on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Eve-of-October/dp/B005GR1GN2

I’m also very lucky to be involved in an Anime still in production called “E-depth Angel” this one is going to be huge. You can read the online comic or find out more at http://mayshing.com/edepth/wordpress/archives/archive/1

There are a couple more projects I am involved in but they are a bit so early in development right now.

8. Can you explain the difference between working with Phase 2 versus Starship Saladin.

Phase II is a screen acting gig, and Starship Saladin is a voice over gig. Both are Star Trek.

Fez: Side note... Brian plays Commander Xonac on Starship Saladin, their first episode is due out soon, keep your eyes peeled for info on that! I make a couple of appearances during the first two episodes so keep your eyes and ears peeled.

9. Any other thoughts you'd like to share with our readers? If you'd like to promote something you are in or are interested in here.

While I’m very proud of my service in the USAF, my real passion is acting. I hope to make a living doing what I love one day. It’s a very tricky business to get into and the antithesis of job security. Hopefully the right people will see my work on Phase II or my voice over stuff will get some traction and I live the dream baby!!!

Until next time readers keep reading and... Live Long and Prosper!!

Episode 03: Where No Man Has Gone Before

Season 1
Written By: Samuel A Peeples
Directed by: James Goldstone
Air date: September 22, 1966
Stardate: 1312.4

*****************SPOILER ALERT*********************

Dialogue of the Episode:

Michell: "My friend James Kirk... remember those rodent things on Dimorus, the poison darts they threw, I took one meant for you."

Kirk: "And almost died, I remember."


Synopsis:

The Enterprise encounters an old ship's disaster recorder from the SS Valiant, which crossed the Galactic Barrier, and survived but was destroyed by the Captain, who was threated by a crew member who began to exhibit strange talents. Kirk decides to the probe of the outer reaches, The Enterprise encounters the Galactic barrier is damaged and two of its crew members are alive but were shocked with some sort of electricity: Gary Mitchell and Dr. Elizabeth Denher... Mitchell's eyes glow like orb and he begins to gain extraordinary powers like taking images out of people's minds, reading very fast, controlling his vital signs... The senior staff holds a meeting to discuss the growing concern for not only what Mitchell was mutating into and the Enterprise.

They set course for Delta Vega, and begin their orbit. Kelso's task is to regenerate the engines of the Enterprise, Kirk's task to beam down his best friend, a man he has known for 15 years and maroon him there. In sickbay, Gary begins to have more and more power... electricuting Kirk and Spock as they attempt to bring him to the Transporter Room, Dr. Denher has to sedate him to get him to the Transporter room. Once there he is again sedated, but before that he says "Soon I'll squash you all like insects!"

The teams begin beaming up the retrofitted parts to the Enterprise to re-energize the engines and Kirk orders Kelso to rig a detonation device just in case, Mitchell is placed into the detention area on Delta Vega, and begins to test the force field, and he loses his powers if only for a second. Later on, Kelso is strangled while talking to Scott as to the efficiency of the work they had done. Mitchell breaks out of the cell and attacks everyone, except for Dr. Dehner who has finally transformed into what Mitchell has turned into.



As Kirk awakens he takes the Phaser Rifle (the first and only time we see it in the series), and begins his hunt for Mitchell. As this is happening Elizabeth and Gary plan their life together, Gary seeing Kirk in his mind attempts to kill Kirk with a falling boulder but fails. When Kirk sees Denher he tries to appeal to her humanity to help him defeat his old friend, Jim fires at Gary as he appears Mitchell flings the rifle away. He then digs a grave while saying "I have been contemplating the death of an old friend, he deserves a decent burial at least." He begins to torture Kirk to make him obey him, Dehner begins to fling electricity at Mitchell weakening him enough for Kirk to start beating on Mitchell. As Kirk picks up a rock to kill him Gary is empowered again and throws Kirk, jumping into the grave Kirk brings Mitchell in and jumps out to fire the Phaser rifle at the rock face to Kill Mitchell. As Denher dies her dying words were "You can't imagine what it's like to be almost a... god."

When Kirk returns the Enterprise, he finishes their files with that they died in the line of duty, they didn't ask to have that happen to them.... The End


My Opinion:

It was a well written and well acted episode of Star Trek, personally NBC should have started with this episode instead of "The Man Trap" which was at the most a monster of the week episode. This episode dealt with a couple of themes: "Absolute power corrupts", Feelings verses Cold Logic. I personally would have liked to see a couple of episodes with the Kirk-Spock-Mitchell dynamic.

Continuity:




One of the big complaints of the episode is one of continuity, you see in the screen cap that the Tomb reads "James R. Kirk", as we all know the Captain's full name was first established in "Bem" an Animated Star Trek episode written by David Gerrold but, was formally acknowledged in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country as James Tiberius Kirk. The actual name at this point in the series was not fully explored, however in an upcoming Phase 2 episode there is an in joke to this .


Things to note:



Something that you should realize, the original transporter console was the Helm/Navigation station and also this is the only time in the Original Star Trek that you see Spock and Scott out of their usual colors Blue and Red respectively. Sulu was also in the episode, he was wearing sciences blue, he is the only crew member to wear color on the show: Gold (his main color), Blue (An Astro-scientist in "Where No Man Has Gone Before") and Red (as Mirror Sulu in "Mirror, Mirror")



Well it has been real people but there is more Trek to watch and write about... until the next blog entry... Keep reading and.... Live Long and Prosper