San Diego Comic Con July 15-17, 2005

San Diego Comic Con - July 15-17, 2005

Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Morena Baccarin, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, Ron Glass and Joss Whedon

 A report co-written by Rosie and Julie. Photos taken by Julie or found online.

Julie's Point of View 

The Browncoat table was amazing! Every time we walked past, people were crowded around it, entering the raffle, gathering information from the tables, and getting a crash course on the Firefly 'verse. The Browncoats manning the table were so hardworking and outgoing. Passing out the awesome CD sampler, generating interest from passers by, and encouraging people to enter the raffle.  In awe of the organization and dedication of all those involved. Hats off to all of you!

Adam and Ron signed autographs early this morning at the Diamond Select booth. The vendors at first said we couldn't line up in advance, but when they realized how popular the two stars were, they reconsidered when they saw how many people were around the booth pretending they weren't in line. Both Adam and Ron were incredibly gracious (no surprise there) and I'm sure Rosie and Saxon will have more wonderful things to add about the autograph session.

The Serenity Panel was at 2:15, right after Kevin Smith. Hall H was filled to its capacity of 6,500 people. Joss came out on stage and introduced the cast (Alan was unable to attend due to Spamalot), but completely forgot to introduce Jewel and started the Q&A. Morena and Adam pointed out his error and Jewel came out pretending to be very sad.

Joss got down on his knees in front of her, begging for forgiveness. Our BDHs looked great as always.

Panel highlights:

During the Slither panel, someone asked Nathan how his One Life to Live Days has helped him in his other roles. He responded that on soaps, you always have the dramatic pause after someone reveals something to you and then it goes to the next scene. He said during his dramatic pauses, he always had three things go through his head. "Did I leave the stove one? I think I did! Oh, no wait, I didn't." Then, he turned to a costar to demonstrate. Costar: "I slept with your brother." Nathan: pause as you see him mentally go through is three steps. Applause. "Works every time!"

An audience member suggested that Gina would be perfect for Wonder Woman. Morena protested and said she wanted to do Wonder Woman too. Joss said the two women would have to fight to the death for the role. Adam jumped in immediately and said he wanted to be in the film, and have the two girls fight him. Then Nathan proceeded to stand up and audition for the Wonder Woman role on the spot. Our own Cappy, arms spread, spinning around in a circle. Pause for effect. More spinning. Arms on hips.

The man is hysterical!

Nathan's new thing during the panel was the "slow clap". Any time someone said something incredibly moving, he would start a slow clap that built up until the entire audience was clapping and cheering.

They showed a new clip from Serenity. Non-spoiler description: It was great! 

Question from the audience: "How do you picture each of your characters dying?"

Joss: Between two buses
Adam: In his bunk. (Gina added, "With a big smile on his face.")
Gina: With her guns, in Jayne's bunk.
Nathan: Mal would die from a common disease that had been misdiagnosed by the Doctor.
Summer: River wouldn't die. She would outlive everyone.
Sean: After Jayne, Zoe, and Mal died, Simon would take control of Serenity, promptly crashing the ship, killing everyone else on board.
Jewel: Kaylee would die in Simon's arms. (So sweet!)
Morena: Inara would die with a bang...wicked laugh. She wanted to add in Mal's arms.
Ron: In his deepest fantasy, Book and River would be immortal.

In addition to the "slow clap", Nathan also had another trademark for this afternoon's panel. If one of his fellow costars said something very eloquently, Nathan would pip up with this agreement. "Word, Adam. Word." Go, white boy, go!

After the clip of the film, Joss mentioned they were almost out of time. Everyone groaned, but Nathan piped in and told us not to worry. "I've got some good news." Collective gasp from the audience., more clips? "I've just saved a ton of money on car insurance." That brought the house down, and prompting odd looks from his friends. "Oh yes, I went there."

All the questions were supposed to relate to Serenity, but a gentleman came up and said he was representing many fans from Europe and that they think Joss was the best thing in entertainment since aerosol cheese. The fans are involved in an Angel RPG online. He wanted Joss to give him some magical tidbits to take back to the group to help in the game. Joss had no idea what the man was talking about and explained that the magic was made up. He then directed the question to Sean, who looked completely stunned to be called upon. Sean said he was still trying to decipher the aerosol cheese comment and asked for a pass on the question.

And I'm sure someone will post this more eloquently, but someone asked a question about how the fans have affected their lives. All of them were so appreciative of everything the fans have done. Summer said that we were like family to her. Sean jokingly said that his new celebrity status caused him to have to move four times because it was so hard getting out of the garage every day with all the fans jumping onto his car. Then he got worried that people would think he was serious, so he emphasized that he was kidding. I love this boy! Adam, as always, said they owed the fact that there was a film to the fans. He said some lovely things about the fans. There will be no sound in space, according to Joss. (much applause) Some sound in the area between planet and space and lots of dialogue on planets.

Adam praised Nathan for being a true leader and keeping them all going during the black time before the filming.

Nathan then gave a hysterical speech that ended with him proclaiming that the cast members were his “broken time-rock people”.  I've heard that mentioned before, but I still love that our heroes are so close and that Cappy is just that...a captain to the crew. :)

Rosie Comments

Nathan is definitely improving on his selection of wardrobe. I just think it’s important to point out, at Wizard World he was wearing a nice regular T-shirt and now a nice white shirt, simple.

I just really want to say I am way tooo tired to be coherent. That last picture of Hasufel's Rosie and Jeremy shows how tired I really was. I just walked aaaaallllllll the way back back to the booth and sat on the floor. Also I just remembered I was talking to Jeremy so I was moving when that was taken.

I would be happy not to see that picture again. Jeremy looks great though. That is why I did not take a picture with Jonathan Woodward; I just started a hottie thread for him.

Rosie’s Report

I am so sorry. This report did not get written up right away. This was my first 3 day con and I did not realize how tired I would be. Also I thought that I could save money by driving back and forth each day, San Diego is 2 hours away; that was definitely a bad idea. I was way tired after the 3 days.

Day 1 was about getting to see the Browncoat table and non-Serenity panels. I was very impressed with the Browncoat table. It was always very busy each time I stopped by. It looked like they always had more than enough people working it.  They day went in a blur. There was a lot of walking around. We drove back early.

That guy from that show. He's everywhere! Most recently the dynamite guy on Lost.

Day 2 was Serenity day. The first order of business was getting in line for the autographs for Adam and Ron. We stopped by to buy tickets the day before. There would only be so many autographs. There were also tickets for the screening of Serenity that night, the final cut. We went to the Browncoat table and saw the line so we got in line. They did not know when the tickets would arrive. We would not be able to stay to see the movie but thought we would be able to give the tickets to someone who was not there in time. However we needed to move to the autograph line so we decided not to wait.

With me were my sister Carol, her friend Christiann, Julie, her 2 co-workers Betty and Aimee and Marci.. Also Saxon, Ewok and the rest of the family were there as well. We made our way to the Diamond Select stand where the autographs would be. Some folks already started to line up. The people from Diamond Select did not expect this number of folks. At first they told us we could not form a line yet. So we all hung about. Finally they realized we would not go away and began a line against the wall. I always get very excited waiting to see them. Finally Ron and Adam came in. It was great seeing them. The line started to move and when I approached the table, Adam looked up, stood up as he shouted “ROSIE!”

    Adam and Rosie

We hugged and smiled as he sat back down. I told him how much I enjoyed his new show The Inside. He said to enjoy it while it lasts. I also mentioned that is the only show my sister Perla, mother of 3, tries to watch each week. I can’t remember what else I said. Then I moved on to Ron. I don’t really remember saying anything more than thank you for coming.

    Ron Glass and Rosie 

   Carol and Adam Baldwin

After we finished we split up. We needed to get to the Hall H. Others wanted to walk along the exhibit floor or see some other panel. There was a huge line to get into Hall H. It was the big-ticket item hall. Star Wars was having a panel talking about the future. Aeon Flux was having its panel, then Kevin Smith and finally Serenity. The room was massive. I wanted to go back and see if Adam was still at the table but did not want to lose my spot. Joss forgot Jewel. Nathan auditioned for Wonder Woman. Nathan was very funny. The cast is always fun to watch. We did not get a chance to get any closer. By the time we arrived back at the Browncoat table I was exhausted. The Table was under banner A and the Great Hall for panels was H. It was about half a mile from point A to H. There were 90,000 people registered. The maximum occupancy for Disneyland is 45,000. So by Saturday night I was so tired I just kept thinking that it’s like being in Disneyland but there are no rides, just a lot of lines and walking around. We left Saturday and said goodbye to everyone.

Day 3 Julie decided to go to Disneyland. Sunday was the 50^th anniversary of Disneyland and she had plans to go. Saxon and her family are huge Disney fans and they went to Disney land as well. I went back to San Diego with Carol and Chrisitann. There were a few folks we wanted to see. The Browncoat Table was the best fan table. It was well decorated; it had a charity side and a promotional side to raise funds for Equality Now. By the end of the weekend they raised over $12,000. The raffle was schedule for Sunday at noon.  They had to move all the stuff up for raffle to the Browncoat room upstairs. I helped move things but things were not quite ready at noon. Therefore I was asked to talk to the crowd as things were being set up. We had Browncoats from all over. The person who traveled the farthest was someone from Australia and it wasn’t our Aussie Browncoat that has been going to all the cons this past summer.

I had a great time talking to the folks there sharing my stories and asking trivia questions. Many were from California and others were from out of state as well. It was nice hearing how folks came to find out about Serenity. Winners did not need to be present to win which is how we were able to raise so much money. The big prize we had was Inara’s red dress from Shindig. Shawna Trpcic, the costume designer for Firefly donated the dress for charity. The best thing was that the winner of the dress was indeed present and was a man. He was quite surprised and happy at his luck, he only bought one ticket.

After the raffle we went back to the Browncoat table. I simply sat down once we arrived I just did not feel like moving at all. Then I remembered I needed to stop by Jason Palmer’s table for a print of his latest work, Shindig featuring Mal, Inara and Kaylee.  However Jason was clear on the other side of the exhibit hall. I walked over with Marci and on our way spotted Joss just walking about. Marci wanted her picture with him so we approached. Joss was great as always, very welcoming. I did mention the amount that was raised for Equality Now. He was very impressed and happy. It is amazing what a group of Browncoats banning together can do.

Once I returned Jonathan Woodward was there. That was my first time seeing him. He just walked in to the back area of the table. I didn’t recognize him right away since he had some facial hair. He was friendly and easygoing. I didn’t get a chance to talk to him I was way too tired to be coherent. But I was happy he stopped by and was excited to be with us. It was time to clear out. We grabbed something to eat and hit the road. There was a lot of traffic. It was a great experience.

 Back Row: Betty, Carol, Christiann, Marci          Front Row: Aimee, Rosie and Julie

Advanced Screenings of Serenity May 5, 2005 & June 23, 2005

Advanced Screening of Serenity – May 5, 2005

Joss Whedon Summer Glau

 

Wow, what a great opportunity. I was so excited that more Browncoats were finally getting the opportunity to see Serenity. I had already seen a rough cut in December and not being able to talk about it was difficult. I was online as tickets went on sale. I did not buy any tickets myself. The screening was in Vegas and I had to work the day of the screening and the next day. Vegas is about 4 hours away and the screening was at 10pm. There was just no way I could do it.

 

All 10 cities sold out in a few hours. It was wonderful and amazing. I was proud that we sold out all 10 showings for a Thursday night 10pm screening of Serenity. I knew how long folks had been waiting to see this movie and waiting was not an option. We had already waited for over 2 years for this. I was a little sad thinking I would miss out on the unique opportunity, then James called with an extra ticket, he was offering it to me. I met James almost a year before at the LA Comic Con when I met Alan Tudyk. He was at Wonder Con and Wizard World and was our contact for the San Diego Comic Con. I told him I would get back to him.

 

Everyone said I should go and I wanted to go, I just couldn’t get the time off. They give points at work for taking a day off or calling in sick. I explained everything to James and he said we could drive up and turn around and come back after the movie. So that is exactly what we did. I drove to James’s place after work and left my car there and we left around 5pm on Thursday May 5^th. James drove and made great time. We arrived at the Palms Casino where the screening was just before 9pm. We met folks in line we knew and grabbed some food. I received a call that Joss was scheduled to attend our screening. It was awesome seeing a long line for the screening of Serenity.

 

Universal had people there getting interviews and covering the event. They provided us with Serenity buttons and key chains. Getting official Serenity stuff was amazing.  Finally we go in and take our seats. Now from my first experience watching Serenity I knew I could not eat popcorn and watch it at the same time. The movie is just too intense for me to relax. There were a lot of people I knew there from various other shindigs and cons. There were folks from Portland, Oregon, Utah, Arizona, California and someone from Oklahoma. This is a movie worth traveling any distance to go see.

 

At last Joss and Summer walked in. We all stood to give them a standing ovation. Summer looked beautiful and had a great smile. Joss looked great! He was happy and excited maybe a bit tired but he looked great. He said a few words but mainly said he already had an intro at the beginning of the screening. The lights dimmed and the intro started. Joss spoke about how this movie really should never have been made. But it was made because he loved it and the cast loved it and the fans loved it so much we couldn’t let go of this verse. At the end of the clip he had this great smile like a little boy about to share something he loves and is proud of.

 

Serenity rocked and it was definitely easier watching it the second time. I did brace myself for the difficult moments, especially when Serenity is landing. Afterwards the folks around me were surprised I had kept quiet about it for so long. Others were visibly upset and really mad at Joss. I felt bad for them but I knew how they felt. I did tell them it would get better with time. Then Joss and Summer sat down and started giving autographs to everyone in the theater! I was truly blown away. Getting so see Serenity early was great. Having Joss and Summer come in person to enjoy the movie with us was amazing. Then to have them sit down at midnight and sign autographs for us was just incredible. The generosity of our BDHs never ceases to amaze me. They just keep giving and giving and giving.

 

We got our autographs said good-bye to our friends, got gas and left around 1am. This was James first time watching Serenity. We arrived to his place by 5am and I hopped into my car and drove to the Starbucks closest to my work. I grabbed some coffee, changed in the restroom and took a short nap. My shift started ant 6:55 am. Luckily I was able to get off by 11am. I was starting to fall asleep.

 

It was definitely worth the trip.

Advanced Screening of Serenity – June 23, 2005

Joss Whedon

 

Today was Joss’s birthday and we were getting to watch Serenity once more, this time in Riverside about an hour away. This was the third advance screening and there were 35 cities all sold out in minutes. I was able to attend the second advance screening as well and that was also due to an invitation. This third screening was my 4^th time seeing Serenity. This was my first time buying tickets to a screening. I bought tickets for my sisters. Serenity just keeps getting better with each viewing. Joss was scheduled to appear at this screening.

 

Again there was a long line. Some folks had a big birthday banner for folks to sign for Joss. Being in line for Serenity with other Browncoats is lots of fun. We had trivia contests for prizes. A friend won a Wash button for me. When Joss arrived I heard folks singing Happy Birthday. Joss was at the center smiling, tired and happy. He looked great; he spoke a few words and took a few pictures and signed autographs.

The line was moving and it was time to enter. My sister Perla and her husband Zhong arrived just in the nick of time. My other sister Carol and her friend were ahead of me. Joss came in as we entered. Zhong tried taking a picture but he did not know Joss. He couldn’t identify him since Joss dresses so unassuming. Joss walked in and we walked in after him to take our seats. Carol had already seen Serenity back in December. This was Perla and Zhong’s first time. I sat in between both sisters.

 

Various friends told us that Joss was signing autographs outside as folks entered. Carol and her friend decided to go, Joss was on his way in. They wished him a happy birthday and gave him a hug. Then came back in all happy about their encounter. The whole movie theater sang Happy Birthday to Joss. Joss said he spent his birthday working on the score for Serenity. The orchestra played Happy Birthday for him. It was a long day for Joss, which made his presence there even more special.

 

Watching Serenity just keeps getting better. It is still very intense and funny but it feels better each time. The difficult moment for me in the movie came and Carol and I were holding hands in order to brace ourselves. I did not warn Perla since I did not want to ruin the experience for her. I did feel badly for it. Perla and Zhong enjoyed it. I looked around and found a co-worker that is a big Joss fan and he just shook his head in disbelief and denial. He was upset. I am happy to report that by the time I saw him at work he was better and able to say Serenity is great.

 

I stayed around a little after the screening since the folks from Universal were interviewing folks. Adam had already interviewed me at Wizard World. Other friends were interviewed and I stayed to watch. As we walked back to our cars we talked about how great the movie was and how great it was to hanging out with other fans waiting to watch it.

Wizard World LA March 20, 2005

Wizard World LA March 20, 2005

Joss Whedon, Nathan Fillion, Morena Baccarin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher, Ron Glass

For this report I have decided to include Julie’s report and other tid bits added by other Browncoats who were also in attendance. I think it will give better overall view of the experience of many Browncoats.

From Julie:

The panel began with Joss showing off the Mal and Jayne action figures.  He began playing with them, impersonating their voices, and then making the two figures “kiss.”  Joss introduced each of the cast members, with Nathan coming up last.  He began conducting the cheers and applause of the audience.  It was hilarious.

Later in the panel, Nathan was playing with the Mal action figure, but broke off the arm. “Doc?” he says, and then hands it over to Sean. Sean tries to reattach the arm, is unsuccessful, and then hands it over to Ron. Ron does a last rites blessing over it, and lays the Mal figure to rest on the table.  The cast never fails to crack the audience up.

Someone who saw the Serenity screening started to ask Joss about the ending of the film. The crowd booed him, and Joss cut him off and told him to rephrase the question. He did, but didn’t do a very good job of it, and ended up getting more boos.

The cast was asked about upcoming projects. Morena talked about her film Way Off Broadway. Ron and Sean had both seen the film last night, and they spoke highly of it as well. Jewel and Ron have nothing lined up at the moment. Sean just finished a pilot, and is now looking for something. He did say that Joss was working on a circus act that he and Summer were going to perform in called “The Flying Tams.” Nathan is in Vancouver filming a movie called “Slither”. Nathan and Jewel flew down together for the con. (Summer is up in Vancouver as well filming a pilot.)

Nathan’s parents were there, taking pictures of their son, and looking very proud…when they weren’t turning red at some of his hijinks.  Nathan was answering a question and stood up for some reason. Joss walks over trying to push him back down in his seat. He ends up on lying on Nathan’s back until Nathan finally sits down. Joss then pretends to wake up from a deep sleep saying that happens often...him falling asleep on top of Nathan and waking up in front of an audience.   Morena was seated next to Nathan and put her head in her hands, laughing hysterically.

I asked the cast what was their favorite scene to film and what was their most difficult from the series. Ron’s favorite was one with Morena. His most difficult was the first scene he filmed because he wanted to impress Joss. Sean’s favorite was when Simon and Jayne kissed. He smiled wickedly and said, oh no, that’s the movie. His favorite was any with River. He then stopped and said he was waiting for us to go “Awwww.” which we did. His most difficult was when he had to do the speech in front of the crew in the pilot. He said it was difficult because he too wanted to impress Joss and because it was a long speech. This prompted Nathan, Morena, and Ron to tease that it was indeed long. Jewel said she and Morena had just been discussing that very thing that morning. Their favorite scene was from Safe when they were shopping in the store, and then Simon walks in. They said they had the giggles that day for some unknown reason and couldn’t stop laughing. Tears were running down their faces and they said Sean was like “Keep it together.” Jewel’s most difficult scene was her scene with Early, although she did add that in retrospect, it may not have been as hard as she thought since Joss kept telling her that she had been holding back. Morena’s most difficult was the entire Heart of Gold episode since Inara was put through so much. She said she cried when she first read the script. Nathan’s most difficult scene was being naked in the cold desert. He paused and said, he knew what we were thinking and why yes, think shrunken turtle!

Someone asked about Wonder Woman, prompting both Jewel and Morena to raise their hands and ask to be in the film.  Nathan announced during the panel (and I don't even think it was related to any question he was asked) that Sean's nickname among the group is "The Bod". Yes, Nathan even did the quotation marks. :)

From James:
I'm going to tag on the heels of those who can write everything up also.
There seemed to be a little more hijinks than usual...especially from Nathan. I think he was really playing it up for his parents!

Since I might end up being the only male perspective in a land of Fillionaires and SimonSwooners (what is the name anyway )...Jewel and Morena were stunning as usual. And go see Morena's movie.

I'm really tired, but really, really happy. There is not much better than spending a day with Browncoats and getting to see our BDH's!!!

Oh, and there's also the little thing about Julie, Rosie, her sister and I getting interviewed for a special fan feature to be included on the DVD release of Serenity. We might be on the DVD! I'll let them talk about it if they wish; I just couldn't hold it in any longer!

From Julie (again):                                                                                                                

After the panel, Carol, James, and I make our way down to the signing area. (We had gotten separated from Rosie) The line was already long, but we had our tickets, so we felt confident that we would get an opportunity to get up there. The panel ended at 3:00, and the signing was scheduled from 3:30 until 5:00. I was being teased about getting giddy and nervous, but I was fine by that point. I’m a huge Simon fan, but I am perfectly capable of separating actor from character. At the table was Nathan, then Ron, Sean, Joss, Jewel, and finally Morena. When they’re not busy signing and greeting the fans, they’re signing and passing along mini Serenity posters. They were so very busy, but they greeted each fan, smiling and shaking hands. A few people were taking pictures with the actors, so that was another plus.  No matter how long the lines are, the cast cares enough to focus only on the person in front of them.  It makes for memorable experiences.

James gallantly offers to go ahead and says he will talk to Joss for as long as he can so I can have a few more seconds with Sean. Carol says she’ll try to get a picture of the two of us. I’m not going to turn that down. I’m standing behind James while Nathan is speaking and signing. Sean isn’t with anyone in the moment and I happen to make eye contact as he looks over at us. He smiles, this beautiful brilliant smile. And I…giggle out a hi. Yes, I know. I was so embarrassed. Luckily, it was my turn with Nathan. He went to shake my hand, looks at me and says, “I know you.” Then he turns to Carol and says, “I know you too!” Nathan is the best. All smiles. I get him to autograph my newly purchased Firefly litho. Share a few words with Nathan and move down to Ron. He looks at me and says, “I met you last night.” I apologized if I had frightened him in the lobby.  He said once I had mentioned I was a Firefly fan, everything was okay. Our BDHs are the best!

Sean is next. I reach out to shake his hand and apologize profusely for giggling like a schoolgirl earlier. He laughs and says don’t worry about it. As he’s signing my DVDs and litho (we got to have them sign two things), I tell him that Simon is my favorite character. I explain how I fell in love with Simon at the end of Safe when stood next to his sister on the pyre and I adore how dedicated he is to his sister. He stops signing at this point, looks at me and smiles, saying, “Thank you so much. That’s sweet.” Carol is next to me at this point and I ask Sean if it’s okay if I take a picture with him. Of course, he says. He stands up, and puts his arm around me. Poor Carol is shaking because she’s so afraid she’ll take a blurry picture. Carol takes the picture, exhales a sigh of relief, saying “Oh good, it came out.” Sean says, “Are you sure, because we can take another one.”

Sean and Julie

Seriously tempted, but Joss is watching this whole exchange and there’s a huge line, so I thought maybe it might be a good idea to move along.

Can’t for the life of me remember what I talked about with Joss. I was never really a fan of his before Firefly (I’m sorry! And yes, I was disciplined for it all day.), so I went by him rather fast.

Jewel was next. Since I adore Kaylee, I thought I would be able to focus more on her, but I was still in Sean mode. I did thank her for helping to make Kaylee such a likeable character as perky, happy, and optimistic people are often portrayed as annoying on tv. And we’re not! She’s just beautiful. Morena was last, and she was just as sweet as always.  She thanked me for coming to see the film.  Rather nice that two of our Heroes recognize me now.  J

From Rosie:
All I must say right now is: NATHAN WAS HI-LARIOUS!!! He was the best I had ever seen him. He truly worked the crowd and facilitated the discussion. He had me laughing  the whole time. It was his best appearance to date that I have seen.

From Julie:

So Carol, James, and I get our autographs. And yes, as James said, I was suffering from a mild case of Sean Shock. As we're walking away, a gentleman comes up to us and asks if he can have few moments of our time. His name was Adam and he was working on footage for the Serenity DVD. (We had to sign release forms from Universal, so I'm assuming this is the official DVD.) We had to say and spell our names in front of the camera. Adam stood off to the side and asked us questions. He told us to look at him, not the camera, and try to incorporate the questions within our answers if we could. I'm not too sure that we did a good job on that, but oh well.  All three of us were answering questions, building on each other’s answers.  Adam was very nice and patient with us, so that was a plus.

First we were asked why we were there at the con.   We were there to support Joss, our BDHs, and the film, as well as to show our appreciation. The entire interview probably took just under ten minutes. Adam asked a lot of questions, and we talked about how wonderful the cast was, how you could really tell they cared about each other onscreen. There was tons of praise for Joss and the writing. We each talked about what we enjoyed most about the show. Carol and I had both seen a Serenity screening, so we talked about why we thought it would be successful. More praise for the cast, how wonderful they were to the fans. The Internet was brought up, and he asked about the Universal Board. We talked about this board and how it's amazing the cast interacts with the fans so regularly, especially Adam, Nathan, and Jewel.

Carol and James were great, very articulate in expressing their views and opinions, very poised. They did a great job. I don't remember much of what I said, so I probably ruined their chances of being on the DVD. (Sorry guys.) James did mention how wonderful the characters were and how they were people you really wanted to be friends with. I add, "Or date." Without thinking of course, which is something I seemed to be doing a lot during the past few hours.  Adam starts laughing and asks what character I would most like to date on the show. When I admit Simon, he starts laughing again and asked if I enjoyed meeting Sean. So yeah, Carol and James very poised and articulate (not naked though). Me, not so much.

Adam thanked us afterwards. I happen to be wearing a Serenity shirt I made using fan art that I had ironed on. During the interview, I saw Ed the cameraman pan down to it, so my shirt may be on the DVD. (Or my chest...wait a minute!) I asked him about it, and he said he really liked the shirt and said he would offer to trade me for it, but he didn't think it would fit him. Adam and the crew were very nice.

We're walking away, and James tells Adam (paraphrasing) "If you want to interview a big fan who will have a lot to share, grab the red head right there."  So Rosie got her turn on camera. And I don't have a clue what she said as we were all so tired so I guess that is a story for Rosie to share. She's a little introverted, but I bet if we ask nicely, she'll share it with us. ;)

Rosie’s Wizard World Report   

Thanks dear for that segue. (yes I am exhausted it was an exciting weekend with the Morena's screening and then the con and a long day at work that I had to get up at 5am)

Well, I must say it doesn't get any less exciting or thrilling meeting our BDHs.

We arrived around 8am at the Long Beach Convention Center. We were hoping for earlier but luckily we got there in the nick of time, the autographs tickets were gone 5 minutes after us. There were about 50 people before us. Tickets were first come first serve and free that alone is a great reason to go to Wizard World and go early. The Con did not open until 10am and we turned right and went straight for the tickets. Lucky for us James was already inside and helped give us the heads up. James and Harpy arrived after us and then 2 Browncoats I met at WonderCon and a friend of theirs. After we got the tickets we went to see the action figures. I asked about getting all 9. The guy says it depends on the movie, if it does well then yeah. He said it just has to do HellBoy good not like insanely good. He said the major ones would be made next. I stressed the importance of all 9 characters and the fact we need all 9 at least 1 of each for the collection. I am confident we don't have to worry about that though.

Then we made our way to the ballroom upstairs and found someone already forming a line. So we were among the first 20 in line. Then we just took turns walking around. I went with Julie to see Jason Palmer. I saw Erin Gray. Now for those who don't know I decided in the beginning to write notes to the cast because when I meet them I am not sure what I will say and there's plenty I want to say. So I wrote a card to Erin, telling her about the Serenity Premiere fan party and the need to know the date. I gave her my contact info and just thanked her for all she does for our BDHs. I returned upstairs and waited. Others walked around then and went to get food. Finally it’s like 1:30 pm and Harpy and I decide to go get a picture to get autographed. I spotted Sean as he was making his way up. We needed to go right but I yell “To the left.” I knew they hadn't seen him. I totally missed Jewel. I saw Sean and that was it. I just walked by. He really is very pretty. His smile is awesome. Anyway, we ran around and found something then came back up just in time.

The panel was really funny. I have been to several and I love the way it is always entertaining. Nathan was exceptional. I will repeat it - he was HI-larious. It was his best appearance. I was in stitches through a lot of it. He could have hogged the light but he was great at sharing the limelight and encouraging those who don't readily jump in to answer the question. One of my favorite parts was when he broke the Mal doll. I was mortified. Then he hands it to Sean as the doc, and then Sean hands it to Ron as the preacher for a blessing. Another is when he introduces his parents, I wanted to go say hi but I didn't. Joss jumped on his back to sit him down. They get asked the same questions and they always make it fun. The love among the cast is apparent.

After the panel I got separated from everyone and finally went in line. Harpy was next to me it was so nice meeting her. She used public transportation. It works. I do get really overwhelmed by the cast. Meeting them is always a thrill and I really want to stay cool and not be a total geek. My main concern was that Julie get her time with Sean so I was happy for her.

The Autograph session:

Nathan smiled shook my hand I told him he was in rare form, I meant exceptionally funny. I gave him his card and he placed it among his prized possessions. Then I moved on to Ron, I apologized for stopping him yesterday at Morena's screening of Way Off Broadway. I touched his arm to stop him as he was walking out. Geek fear that is a good name for that look. He did not expect to be recognized. I touched his arm explaining I am a touchy feely person. He smiled and said that was OK, as if it really was. Ron signed my little address book that I had the cast sign on the set of the movie. Then I gave him a card. Sean was next, he really is pretty. I remember I said my name, he said he was Sean and shook my hand. I wanted to comment but instead I asked for his autograph on my Jason Palmer poster then the address book. I can't remember saying anything except thank you for coming. Sean smiled, have I mentioned he is very pretty, handsome and a great smile that lights up his whole face. Then it was Joss. He smiled and I shook his hand. It seemed like maybe he recognized me but he didn't really say anything that I can remember. I spoke to him on the set several times but I don't expect him to remember anything. I had him sign my address book and gave him a card. Next was Jewel. She signed my poster, then my address book. I really don't remember what she said or what I said. My brain was fried by this point. Finally I came to Morena, I had her sign a postcard of her movie. I told her how much I really enjoyed it. The second night I didn't get to say hi because I wanted to talk to Dan Kay, the writer and director of the movie, and tell him how good it was. I told her I posted about it and then gave her a card. I gave her a card on Friday as well. She commented, “You are always giving cards.” I told her it’s because I am not sure I will be able to say what I want to when I am here. She nodded and smiled and that was it.

Then Adam, the interviewer from Universal comes over to tell me my friends had told him he should interview me. So I get myself together and walk over. I am short and I guess I was looking up so he had to stoop to talk to me. He asked how tall I was and I said I was 5'2". He asked many questions and I can't truly remember all I said. I remember mentioning the date Firefly aired and the DVDs and the fan support and the movie. I knew there would be a movie in September of 2002. I mentioned the board and that ours is the one on the Firefly DVD. He asked something about Joss and I said we trust Joss. He has a plan, a direction. Sometimes he takes you to scary places but he always brings you back. Adam asked about the panel. I said I love the cast interaction and the fact they keep it fresh and interesting even though they get asked the same questions repeatedly. I mentioned the various Cons I have been to and then he asks me why. I said because I like it. People do what they like to do. I was a bit defensive there. I remember mentioning being on the set of the movie and Chris Buchanan's assistance with that. That's all I can remember. He thanked me, I signed the release and asked what it was for and he said the Serenity DVD. I was so happy just hearing Serenity DVD.

   Adam stooping and interviewing Rosie

Our group took a photo, I said, "Next stop ComicCon." and we all went our separate ways.

Way Off Broadway Screening March 18th & 19th, 2005

Way Off Broadway Screening March 18 and 19th, 2005

Morena Baccarin and Ron Glass                                                                    

I went to see Morenca's first movie Friday. This movie is really funny and well written. I was laughing and clapping at certain spots. Morena was really funny. This character is totally different from Inara and it was great to see that range. This movie is laugh out loud funny and well written. The performance of the cast really makes the movie and it is just great to see Morena in 90% of the movie. The movie is about the struggle we all go through after college - what do we do now? Make my dreams come true or get a job? It gave a great view of what struggling actors in New York City are able to do and how friends keep each other going. Afterwards I handed Morena a card and told her I thought she was great in the movie. The card is just written praise in case I don't get to say what I want to say because my brain goes missing. 

I went back to see it again on Saturday with my sister Carol and Julie and we met Harpy outside the theater. Harpy is a German Browncoat who was visiting the States and going to various Cons. I really enjoyed the movie the second time just as much. We didn’t ask questions.  Afterwards we saw Ron Glass congratulating Morena! He was walking away from her and there were a few Browncoats near me as he passed. I stopped him by placing a hand on him. What I didn’t know at the time was that Carol had also put her hand on him on the other side. I just told him we were fans of his as well. All these folks were Browncoats. Ron smiled and nodded and then moved on. I think he really just did not expect to run into fans and was surprised. Afterwards he spoke to others in the lobby and I think he was better prepared.

I went back to congratulate Dan Kay on his hard work. It’s a great movie and he has worked hard on making it happen. I did not get a chance to speak to Morena the second night.

I actually went during the week one more time and took my sister Perla. She loved it.

Julie Highlights:

I was lucky to see the 7:15 showing with Rosie, Carol, and Harpy (a Browncoat visiting from Germany). James and several others met up with us after attending Wizard World today.  The movie was very good, as was Morena. She did an amazing job!  This was Rosie's second viewing, so she can provide a much better review.  There was a Q&A after with the writer/director and three of the main stars, Morena among them. Very insightful questions were asked and I thought it was a good discussion.

Many from the audience went up to the cast to congratulate them and wish them luck on the film. Apparently, the film is only being released in LA. So it needs to do well this weekend in order to continue on.

As I was waiting to speak with Morena, who should walk past us but our favorite Shepherd. Yes, Ron Glass was there to see the film. He went over to hug Morena and speak with her. I spoke briefly with Morena and told her how much I enjoyed the film.  I also handed her the two cute pictures I had taken of her and Nathan at Gen Con.

I saw Ron again in the lobby. I approached him and said I was a fan of his work, and was looking forward to Serenity. He seemed surprised that he was recognized, but he was very pleasant. He and Morena left together.

To sum up: Good movie, BDHs continue to rock.

Firefly Happy Hour March 12, 2005

Firefly Happy Hour – March 12, 2005

Adam Baldwin and Alan Tudyk                                                                                                    

There were around 70 people. Many OB Browncoats arrived early and hung out at the bar. No one official arrived until 5pm. My sister Carol and I were waiting for Saxon and Julie to arrive. 

I got the call they were in the parking lot so I went outside to meet them. The convention center was literally across the street from this outdoors 2-story mall. I walked down the stairs and across and noticed a group walking over and beautiful blonde hair. Alan was speaking to Erin Gray. He was being very emphatic telling her something. He was pounding his left fist I believe into his right like three times. I was struck dumb. I was alone and just mesmerized. I noticed Adam on the other side of Erin but I just kept staring. Then it looked like Alan noticed me staring but just then my phone rang and I looked down. I answered it and they continued walking on. I spazzed out with Julie on the phone, “If you were here 2 minutes ago you would have seen them!” Poor Ewok had a broken foot and on crutches and that slowed them down. 

By the time we arrived everyone was seated.

Another Browncoat, Erin, got a seat for Saxon, Ewok, Carol and I. Julie and her 2 friends Betty and Aimee had to sit elsewhere. Our table was right next to Adam and Alan’s table!

As we entered I approached Erin Gray since I had met her at GenCon and re-introduced myself to her. She seemed to remember I went with a group of teachers so she thought I was one too. I spoke to her for a bit. I noticed Alan and Adam out of the corner of my eye at the table where I was going to be sitting but I stayed with Erin talking. Finally I made it over and Alan was talking at the next table I was afraid I had missed him.

Adam was sitting next to my seat. Carol wanted a picture so I went to get the camera and take her picture.
I greeted Adam and he stood up shouting, “Rosie!!!” Opening his arms wide. He really is adorable. People started taking pictures then I told him I wanted to take his picture with Carol. Warning to all I cannot take pictures of our BDHs. So unfortunately it did not turn out well and I took too long. So you are all warned.

He went to sit down and then Erin told him he had to talk to the whole room. So off he went to the other side. I was going to sit down but heard Alan starting to end the conversation. I stood there and wanted to get his attention. I thought I missed him at our table. So I touched his left hand with my right hand tall fingers. He finished and then looked up. He smiled warmly, gave me a hug as a greeting. I told him I was at this table and I was afraid I missed him, I just wanted to say hi. I let him go talk to the rest of the room. Then I sat down.

However I could not just sit there. I knew a lot of Browncoats in the room so I went to talk to them. I do not know how many OB Browncoats were there that I did not know. I do not have delusions of grandeur and I did not walk up to everyone thinking they wanted to talk to me. I did greet folks as they entered especially if they entered alone. I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th Hour. Then Betsy said she wanted to meet Erin Gray so I went to introduce her. I explained to Erin that most Firefly Fans are first time Con goers. She noted that and shared it with someone else. I thought it was important they know that about us.

Then I went to sit with Julie, Betty and Aimee. As I was about to leave I notice that Alan disappeared and then saw the security guy with him standing between our booth and that booth so I sat back down. I realized Alan was coming over. Alan came in and started shaking my hand and then realized it was me again. I kept silent and let the girls speak; I did not want to steal their time. Alan shared how it was to see William Shatner at the Con.

Then I congratulated him on his pilot and told him how there was a group that attended the taping of Nathan’s pilot. I wondered if it would be in front of a studio audience, he said no. He said the writers are folks that worked on 28 Days they wrote the soap opera scenes. He was very excited. He looked so good. He said goodbye and moved on to the next table that was Tamara and Betsy’s table. They were loud and animated. I stayed where I was and we were talking to the security guy.

Finally I left to go back to my table. Turns out there were antics aplenty at my table. I was hoping to hang out with a lot more Browncoats. I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th and they told me of their encounter with Alan. They were all dreamy eyed. Then I moved back over to Julie’s booth and I heard Adam is in Tamara’s booth. 

So I sat and waited and asked the girls what they wanted to say. Then Adam slid in. He looked great and really comfortable with the schmoozing. He was really getting into it and relaxed. He asked what we wanted to talk about and Julie told him her students, well the girls think he’s really cute. He asked, “Who’s your favorite character” but they all said Jayne. Then I said Wash, Adam goes good see it takes the pressure off. Julie smiles and then quickly changes her answer to Simon.  Adam gets this wicked grin and asks if we’d all seen the film yet. We had all seen Serenity so we spoke a little about that and then it was time for him to move on.

After he left I went back to my table and they told me that they never got any time with Alan. I spoke to the Security guy and told him Alan missed a table he said they have to come back here. So I went back and told everyone at my table to move, they started to question but I said hurry. I needed to get them settled before Alan needed to leave. Time was running out. So I sat Ewok and Carol and Erin. Saxon was standing I told her to sit and she said, “There’s no chair.” So I walked over to another table and borrowed a chair and then told Saxon, “Chairs are movable.” I told the security guy this was the new table.

Adam an Alan moving from table to table!

Now while I was walking back and forth we had run out of time. They were supposed to leave but Adam had not even seen a whole series of tables. They were trying to make him leave and he said he would not be rushed. I was going to try to talk to him to move and at least say hi to those tables he missed but he was talking to a little kid and I just didn’t have the heart to take him away. Also it was not my job and I was busy trying to get the Alan thing set up. 

Finally they were saying they had to go now. Alan said all right but came by quickly to the table I just set up. He signed Ewok’s foot. Saxon handed me her camera and I tried to get a picture. Alan circled the table and said hi bye to everyone. I was so frantic I don’t remember even saying goodbye. It was all about those who didn’t get a chance. I never saw Adam leave so I don’t know if he even said hi to everyone. 

Alan did a great job of talking to everyone quickly but not rushed. He seemed to have it timed. He was excellent at this.

Adam was really relaxed and enjoyed his conversations but did not move quickly. It was totally awesome and overwhelming for me. I was hungry and tired at the end of it so I can just imagine how they must be. Definitely they should be fed beforehand and given a break half way through.

And that was it. Everyone went back to the convention or home a few stayed to get some food. I did not get a picture with Alan but I did get one with Adam. Not able to find it  or the one I took of Carol with these pics. May have been a different camera. 

For the record Odile Beals, may she rest in peace was the organizer for the Firefly Happy Hour. She was a beautiful Browncoat. She had fun. Here she is talking to Adam Baldwin.

Here she is talking to Alan Tudyk.

Thank you Odile for all you did to make this event possible. Rest in Peace.

WonderCon Report February 19, 2005

WonderCon Report February 19, 2005
Nathan Fillion, Summer Glau, Adam Baldwin and Joss Whedon

Friday

Mom loves San Francisco. So I convinced Mom that we needed a little trip up to San Francisco. We drove up from LA that morning and my sister Carol and I arrived at Bubba Gump’s Shrimp Factory in plenty of time to meet up with other Browncoats for dinner. Mom and Dad dropped us off and went to do their own thing.

Saxon was already there. Before we rounded a corner Carol said, “I hear Saxon.” Sure enough I turn the corner and there she is. She was talking to 3 local Browncoats who post on the movie board. One of them recognized Carol from her website. We went to sit down and had a wonderful meal. There were several conversations going on and Carol and Ewok, both about the same age, were very happy to see each other again. After dinner we split up. Some folks went to watch a movie and we went back to Saxon’s place. It took a while to get through and by the time we arrived at Saxon’s we realized needed to get some sleep.

Saturday

It was raining. Mom and Dad dropped us off around 9:30am.  As we entered to go down the escalators Saxon and family arrived. They went to purchase their tickets and we headed downstairs. We headed to the room were the panel would be, and then we made our way to the Browncoat table. They had a lot of shiny prizes. Ray was dressed as Mal with the maroon shirt and tan pants, complete with boots, holster and gun, he was one of many Browncoats manning the fan table. Then we headed over to the lottery table for a chance to get an autograph. We met a lot of shiny Browncoats. After the autograph lottery I went to get some money and coffee. When I returned we saw a huge line forming for the room. The Serenity Panel was not scheduled until 1pm but in order to sit in the front we arrived at least 2 hours early. I was not in the center but facing the stage I sat on the right side, third row.

Finally Joss came out. I can’t remember everything he said. I decided to just focus on the experience. My favorite part was Joss strutting as we were cheering for him. He is so very funny. He called up John Cassaday to make an announcement. John was not sure what to say then Joss kind of starts making faces challenging him to do it. Then he shared there will be another season of Astonishing X-Men. Also regarding the prequel comic to Serenity, there will be 3 parts but nine variant covers. Joss clarified, “For those of you who don’t know that word, it means different.” Then the cast came out, clean shaven Adam, lovely Summer, and Nathan. Joss came out with a clear purple backpack so Adam picked it up like it had cooties and moved it. He said, “That’s better.” Summer came out and gave Joss a big hug. Finally its Nathan’s turn and he came out and greeted everyone.

Joss tried to be suave and cued to roll the clip but someone was not ready I guess so he started waving his arms around for rolling. Then they showed a clip of Serenity. I was very excited they showed us the scene I am in. It was just very surreal to see it for the first time. Joss started taking questions and I told Carol and Ewok to go up and take pictures up close. They ended up sitting on the floor in front of the panel the whole time. There were many questions. One statement I remember was from Adam about Nathan, “Nathan was always the leader and kept everyone’s spirits up when we were shooting the show. Even on the edge of cancellation he kept things fun.” Joss said that after they were cancelled it was Nathan who rallied the group, had dinners, kept in touch and did not negotiate a contract until everyone was on board. Nathan kept the crew together. Joss said that when Summer first auditioned, she performed a 3-page monologue in a Russian accent flawlessly, and then she said she prepared it in a British accent as well. Joss realized then that she would be able to do whatever he asked of Summer.

Nathan was just hilarious throughout. When asked what character he would like to play he said River then he could go Cuckoo, Cuckoo, Cuckoo and shake my bag of marbles. He made funny faces and sounds. Adam said that Saffron was the inspiration for Jayne needing to touch things. Alan called in to make sure the shirts he donated for the raffle had arrived. It was perfectly timed. He is such a sweetheart.

The panels are always too short. They needed to go sign autographs. Adam called Ewok over to say hi. It was a quick moment. Then they were gone. I really hoped they would stop by the Browncoat meeting room but that did not happen. After 3 pm we went to the meeting room and it was almost full, finding a seat was difficult. It was quite warm as well. We decided to wander a bit on the floor and returned to the Browncoat table, and then went to see the autograph sessions but all we saw was the line. We returned to the meeting room but stayed in the hallway talking with other Browncoats, the room was full. It was around 5:30pm and I decided to go get some coffee and I walked off to the nearby Starbucks. While I am paying, Carol calls me and runs into Joss on the floor of the Con. She puts Joss on the phone. I can’t really believe I am talking to Joss as I am pouring cream into my coffee.

I rushed back to the con and find Carol and Ewok with Joss and John Cassaday. Poor Joss sounds terrible, he was really sick, but there he was signing autographs and taking pictures. He was swarmed. I shook his hand and Saxon took our picture. We invited him over to room 113 but left him to the rest of the folks. We walked back and not even 15 minutes later we saw John and Joss walking up the hall to our room. I made sure to let folks know Joss was coming and we cleared a path in front of the door. They entered and the room was now exceeding maximum capacity with a throng outside. I stayed outside so I did not hear anything he said. Joss Whedon is an extraordinary man. I am very proud of what he does and how down to earth he is. We think he is great but he is also a regular guy who really appreciates our efforts. After Joss left, the shirts Alan donated were raffled off. I wish I won that shirt.

The Northern California Browncoats did an excellent job organizing everything. They are a great team.