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November 16, 2008

Brain Storm

This week's episode "Brain Storm", is not your typical Stargate Atlantis episode. First of all, it's a Martin Gero joint - written and directed by. So that's a first, right there. This is more of a science-based story, as you'll see, and it features McKay and Keller. Martin loves to write McKay, warts and all. That is, with all his neurosis and idiosyncrasies, with as much freedom and humor as possible, and a healthy dose of conceit. So you'll see McKay at his bumbling best. But best of all, there are some amazing guest stars and one hilarious cameo in this one.

The guest stars are Canada's beloved Steve Foley, of Kids in the Hall fame, Marshall Bell, who has one of those faces people see and think to themselves, "that guy's in everything!", and last but definitely not least, Bill Nye the Science Guy! And if that wasn't enough, Martin was able to convince none other than Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, the famous astrophysicist, into doing a cameo on the show.

Martin told us it was really fun having Bill and Dr. Tyson on set because they are incredibly knowledgeable about the scientific world. And they are both engaging and were very friendly with the crew and other actors. At one point, one of the grips asked Dr. Tyson if we really ever landed on the moon. Well, instead of sloughing him off, Dr. Tyson waited for a break in the action, went over to him, and explained the scientific evidence that backs up our lunar landing.

Another funny story happened at lunch. That day Bill and Dr. Tyson were discussing the extinction of the dinosaurs with Ivon Bartok and Martin Gero. When Ivon expressed doubt in the asteroid theory of extinction, Dr. Tyson gently explained to Ivon that the asteroid theory is generally accepted among scientists these days. Most everybody who met Dr. Tyson came away impressed. I wish I had had a chance to meet him myself. Also, keep a look out for the "Carl Binder Memorial Auditorium", a little inside joke among the producers.

Enjoy!

Posted by Alex Levine at November 16, 2008 11:49 PM