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WEISMANSWERS 2009-07 (Jul)

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Hermione R.I.P.

Our basset hound Hermione passed away in her sleep yesterday. She had a large inoperable malignant cancer tumor, so it wasn't a shock.

I know it must seem like we go through these dogs rapidly, but that's because my wife and kids always choose elderly dogs from the Basset Rescue Ranch, because they feel that everyone always wants the puppies and young dogs, and the old ones never find a home. So we get dogs. They're old. They die. My family grieves. And we start the process again... all too often, I guess.

We still have one basset left, Murray. Plus our cat Emmy. I'd like to put off getting any more pets for the time being, but it's never up to curmudgeonly me.

Hermione was a handsome girl, definitely the Alpha Female of our pets. Very common sense. We'll miss her.


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Okuraorca writes...

Greetings Greg,
First of all, I want to thank you for doing Spectacular Spiderman. This show has had me on the edge of my seat from the first episode until the last, and I really hope there will be a Season Three. If there is, I hope it all goes well, as I am looking forward to more!
Anyway, I had a few questions about how the show is planned out, if I may ask, as I am keen to learn about how the process of writting and planning out the episodes and the plotlines is done, as I am in the process of trying to create some complex stories myself.
First all, I notice that your plotlines have intertwining plotlines that grow from one thing to something else later (IE: The gene cleanser's use in Season 2 even after we were sure to have seen the last of it in Season one). My question was to this concept, of how you write these plotlines. Do you have them all planned out from the start, or do you look backwards to previous episodes to find ways to get them to interact with what's happened before?
Second question, about the planning of the series again. Do you choose a character then create a plotline about that character, or rather; Select a plot idea, then cycle through characters to find what ones would work best for that episode? Or if there is a combination of the two, which do you find easier to work with?
Third, when it comes to cutting things from a plot (events, characters, etc...), because there's just not enough time for it all, what are the things you look for or consider with things that have to be cut? I'm not just meaning main events in the plotline either, but more like, you have two jokes that could happen and you remove one and keep the other. What makes you keep one thing you want, but cut the other?
And finally, just a small, easy one here. I loved the use of Molten Man, as I'd always seen him as a minor villian, as there's very little about him compared to major villians, yet you made him awesome in the show (I'll also admit Mysterio also always bored me, but you made me like him in the show and want to see more!). I don't want names, as I know you don't give them out, but did you have plans for other 'minor' or lesser known villians to show up further down the track? Just curious really.

At any rate thanks for your time, and here's hoping for Season Three!

~ Okuraorca

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. For each season, I have a giant bulletin board (really two bulletin boards hung side by side) covered with multi-color index cards, so that we can track plotlines across an entire season. The writers and I then break one arc at a time, constantly aware of what has come before and what is planned yet to come.

2. It's just more organic in general than what you're describing.

3. How crucial it is to the storytelling of that episode.

4. I don't consider either Mysterio or Molten Man to be minor or lesser.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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Kait writes...

Even though Demona and MacBeth are tied together, and neither can die unless one kills the other, would it have been possible to smash Demona when she was stone during the day (BEFORE "The Mirror"), such as when she turned to stone in "Long Way To Morning"? If so, would MacBeth have died? I know this is a moot point, and even as silly as asking "What if one of them were BEHEADED?!" but I'm just curious! Thank you.

Greg responds...

This is a moot point, and even as silly as asking "What if one of them were BEHEADED?!"

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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clyde writes...

Hey Greg! Earlier I've asked you if you hate Carnage. You didn't answer my question yet and you don't have to because I heard that rumor was fake. I'm sorry for not checking if my question was answered. So don't when you get my questions, don't answer question #2 but answer all the other questions left. Thanks and I hope this message reaches you before you answer my questions.

Greg responds...

There's no way a LATER post would reach me before the earlier post. That's just not how ASK GREG works.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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Tommy writes...

Hi Greg,
I'm a huge Spidey (and Gargoyle) fan and I love your Spectacular Spidey animated show. By far my favorite episode is NATURAL SELECTION. So naturally, I have a few questions about it.

1. When this episode originally aired was it incomplete? I ask because there're two scenes that stand out that have been changed (or fixed?) since its first airing compared to its DVD release and widescreen airing on Disney XD. The first scene is the cake scene where it changed visually from a white cake to a chocolate cake. The second scene is the under water struggle between Spidey and the Lizard. In the first airing the under water scene is shot almost like it was in black and white, the exception being the Lizard's eyes are yellow. On the DVD release and Disney XD airings, Spidey and the Lizard are colored. Obviously you guys fixed the cake to match the dialogue, but what about the under water struggle? Was it fixed or changed? If it was changed, then why?

2. With there being different interpretations of the Lizard throughout his appearances in the comics and in other media, was there any specific reason why you guys went with an all-savage Lizard instead of one that retains some of Dr. Connors' intelligence?

Thanks for the time you take to answer these questions, I really do appreciate it.

Greg responds...

1. We had a number of color issues during the first season. But I don't recall things not being fixed in time for airing.

2. We went with what felt right to us.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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haley again writes...

i am the one who is writing a book and i was think why not turn gargoyles into a feature film, with narnia, harry potter, Twilight and many others making it big? I would definitly go to the theatres ten times to see that as a franchise. That dramatic series is perfect to see as a film. I think that if disney doesn't pick it up, when my book is done i will be pitching it as a movie idea. Sorry but your idea of gargoyles is too goo to be left alone. It is just to perfect.

Greg responds...

Am I supposed to be enthusiastic about you writing a gargoyles book and then turning it into a movie? Cuz... I'm not.

Anyway, you can check the ASK GREG archives under "Live-Action Movie" and find out all there is to know about the status of the Live-Action film.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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Alice Vandermark writes...

what does roman numeral lxm stand for

Greg responds...

It seems an incorrect form to me. L being fifty, I believe, and X being ten, and M being a thousand. It would seem to indicate 1000 - 60 = 940. But no self-respecting Roman would write it that way. I'd think 940 would be written CMXL. But I'm hardly an expert.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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? writes...

Hi Greg! Now that I’ve watched Season 2 of The Spectacular Spider-Man, I have a few more questions. But first regarding the last set I asked:
I. Sorry about spelling your last name wrong, I didn’t realize it until it was too late.
II. With my 3rd question you did answer that you avoid biasness regarding characters which is great; I did mix the “parts” of my question together though (sorry about that again), so I was wondering if you liked the character of Venom? Most (not all) people I’ve met who said they don’t like Venom grew up in the “Stan Lee Era”. I understand you grew up during the “Lee/Romita Times”, but I also know that the “Greg hates Carnage Rumor” is false (I’m not a fan of Carnage, but I don’t hate him either, I’m “neutral/take or leave” to Carnage).
III. Thanks for answering my last batch of questions!
Alright, now onto the new batch of questions:
START OF SPIDEY SPOILERS!
1. I remember you said in an earlier post that you saw a little bit of the 90s Series but not enough to give a “true opinion” on it. My question is: Do you remember which episodes of the 90s series you saw? It’s OK if you don’t know the episode names; the villains from the episodes will suffice. I ask, because I noticed that the Symbiote arrives on Earth on John Jameson’s space shuttle in The Uncertainty Principle. This idea was 1st used in The Alien Costume Part I.
2. Why did the local authorities put Dr. Octopus in Raven Croft Asylum after Group Therapy when they had him in Rykers Prison before he escaped in that episode? I figured the “behind the scenes” reason was for your production crews’ plan, but what’s the “in story” reason (if you get what I mean)?
3. What was Eddie Brock doing during the Master Planner Arc? The most I can tell is that he was working out (he’s buffer then he was in Season 1) and that he made his own web shooters and costume. So where was he hiding and what else was he doing besides the things I mentioned earlier? I figured this was OK to ask as I don’t see how it would spoil anything in the future (sorry if it does).
4A. Whose idea was it to have Venom speak with 2 voices (Eddie’s voice and the Symbiote’s voice in unison)? I love the idea and I think it works so well for Venom.
4B. It actually reminds me of the fusion characters from Dragonball Z; have you ever herd of or seen Dragonball Z? If so, what did you think of it?
5A. What was your reason for making Walter Hardy/Black Cat’s dad into Uncle Ben’s killer? As someone else pointed out, it probably worked out better then it did with Flint Marko/Sandman in Spider-Man 3, because Walter was still the same guy Spidey let get away.
5B. What made James Remar your choice for Walter’s voice (I found him to be a great choice)? Do you remember who else tried out for Walter’s voice?
6. Seeing as how Norman and Green Goblin had different voice artists (for obvious reasons) I think it’s safe to say Roderick (or who ever you choose) and Hobgoblin will have different voice artists as well. My question is: If Season 3 does happen, will you just have Steve Blum voice Hobgoblin since he voiced Green Goblin or do you have someone else in mind for Hobby? The 90s Series used Neil Ross and Mark Hamil for Green Goblin and Hobgoblin respectively. I thought this would be OK to ask, since we already know Hobgoblin is in Season 3 and I’m only asking if Steve Blum is your voice choice for Hobby or not (not who exactly will be Hobby as we both know Season 3 is still undecided). Sorry if this was a “bad question” to ask.
Well, thanks again for answering my 2nd set of questions Greg! Hope you enjoy your summer (as far as temperature is concerned).

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

I. Don't worry about it.

II. I like our Venom.

III. You're welcome.

1. I'm fairly certain that the episodes I saw involved Carnage's debut and a Hobgoblin/Green Goblin conflict. But I don't think I've ever seen a complete episode start to finish of that series.

2. He convinced them he was nuts.

3. I think you've pretty much covered all the important points.

4A. Mine.

4B. I once saw a bit of Dragonball Z in Japanese, and couldn't make heads or tails of what was going on. But the immediate inspiration for what we did with Venom was what we did with Anubis in an episode of Gargoyles called "Grief".

5A. We combined the Burglar with the Cat Burglar with the Cat, etc. It all just seemed to fit, to be right to us.

5B. No one else tried out. We don't audition for guest characters. Our voice and casting director Jamie Thomason suggested James, and I thought it was a great idea.

6. No comment.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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Gareth Tan writes...

Hi, I'd just like to start by saying that I thought The Spectacular Spider-Man was pretty much the best adaption of the comics onto any sort of screen. This might of course stem from my inherent dislike of the movies, but enough about me. I have three questions for you;

1) Are you currently planning to involve SHIELD in any future seasons?

2) Given that all the established pieces are already on the board, do you feel that there's a need to eventually introduce the much-maligned clone saga, if you get a third and maybe fourth season?

3) Are there plans to eventually bring other, less traditional allies into the show, such as Daredevil?

thank you for answering my questions, assuming you do answer my questions. My apologies if they all turn out to be 'no comments'...

Greg responds...

1. No.

2. No comment.

3. See the archives. I've answered this ad nauseum.

Response recorded on July 31, 2009

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haley writes...

i have loved gargoyles for a long time. I have seen all the episodes and has inspired me to write a book. But with my own twist and characters. Do u think useing the same location as the tv series is copying your work?

Greg responds...

Uh... well, not that I want more specifics, but it really depends on how many specific touchstone points you're using. I hardly have a monopoly on either Gargoyles or Manhattan, but if you're doing "Gargoyles in Manhattan", you're already treading pretty darn close. You put them atop a skyscraper, you're in very dicey terrain. Frankly, if you have to ask, I'd guess that, yes, you're too close to copying us.

In any case, I can't get very enthusiastic for you no matter what you're doing. I'm glad we've inspired you, but I'd rather we inspired you to something way more your own than something that is close enough that you are merely bringing your "own twist and characters" to the project.

If this is merely intended as fanfiction, fine. But if you have some desire to release this commercially, than I'd rather you didn't compete with me on my turf, using work inspired by my show. Does that sound selfish?

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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Harlan Phoenix writes...

"So, I'm curious about something involving the early development of Gargoyles...particularly, the pitching process. I'm not exactly sure how to word this, as my knowledge of how the process of actually pitching a show works, but I'll try my best."

That should read "As my knowledge of how the process of actually pitching a show works is limited." My bad. Last time I post a question late at night.

I do have a question concerning Spider-Man's stand alone status but the "in the early Marvel Universe" hypothetical status it's also in in your mind. Do you have any process of rationalizing why other heroes haven't been around to stop Spider-Man's villains? (I have this same general question concerning normal comic stories, as well, but that breed of this question obviously wouldn't be aimed at you. It's just always puzzled me how exclusive to their Rogues Gallery some heroes can be the grand majority of the time.)

Greg responds...

In my mind, there aren't a lot of heroes around yet. It's early days.

Tony Stark hasn't been to Vietnam or Afghanistan yet. Don Blake hasn't been to Norway. Steve Rogers is still an iceberg. Etc.

The Fantastic Four exist, but they're mostly dealing with COSMIC level threats.

The Hulk is leaping around the Southwest, more an exurban legend than a hero.

Ant-Man is operating in his own small way. Janet doesn't yet have her wings.

Professor X has only recently founded his school and only has a couple students (Cyclops and Beast).

Keep in mind, this is only my interpretation and is hardly official. As of now, we don't have access to ANY of these characters.

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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David B. Jacobs writes...

How does the Green Goblin change his voice? Does he have a voice-changer in his mask?

Greg responds...

That would be telling... and I try not to tell on murderous psychopaths.

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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Lee H writes...

Hey Greg. I love the work you've done on The Spectacular Spider-Man, it's by far the best version of the character and his stories since Steve Ditko was handling him. A few questions:

1. You've mentioned before that you try your best to avoid creating original characters, so a lot of minor roles in the show are characters from the actual comic books. Are there any you can "reveal" that people haven't picked up on? I believe you've mentioned Tiny (McKeever, from Untold Tales right?) and Vin Gonzales before, which episodes did they appear in? Furthmore, has Seymour O'Reilly ( http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/seymourspdm.htm ) appeared in the show?

2. An excellent job has been done of merging certain characters, such as Montana/Shocker, Fancy Dan/Ricochet and Bennet Brant/Molten Man (which by extension merges some of Betty Brant with Liz Allan). Was Black Cat intentionally merged with Jessica Carradine? Are there any other, more subtle, character merges in the show?

3. Peter hasn't been shown tinkering with web shooters and gadgets as much as he did in the early issues of the comics. Was this something intentionally downplayed, or just due to time constraints and what-not?

4. What do you think worked best in Spectacular Spider-Man so far? Anything that didn't quite turn out as well as you'd hoped?

Thank you!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. Tiny, Seymour and Jason have all appeared. Tiny and Jason are on the football team, though Jason was injured mid-first season and Tiny's low grades temporarily knocked him off the team. Tiny dressed as a cheerleader on Halloween. Seymour announces the games. You might also recall his conversation with Mark Allan, when the latter returned to Midtown.

Vin and Alan have appeared many times too. They're the two uniformed cops who are NOT DeWolff and Carter.

You'll see more of all five characters if we get additional seasons.

2. Yes. Probably.

3. Mostly time constraints, but we have a major storyline planned about the invention of his web-shooters. Given enough episodes, we'll get to it eventually.

4. Uh... I'm pretty happy with pretty much everything. But of course, I'm biased.

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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Paul writes...

I asked before whether Spidey had ever crossed paths with the real Mysterio in season 2, and you asked me to define "crossed paths", by which I mean any occasion when Spidey had come into contact with the real Beck in his Mysterio disguise. So did Spidey ever encounter the real Mysterio in season 2? I guess Beck was real enough in "Persona", but did Spidey ever meet the real deal on any occasion that he met Mysterio in season 2?

Greg responds...

Yes.

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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Martin writes...

Greg responds
And just so it's clear, I do NOT enjoy answering nearly every post with "NO COMMENT". This isn't fun for me either, gang, but since collectively you all keep insisting on asking for Spoilers that I've already made clear I'm not going to give, you're not leaving me much choice.

Look, Greg, you gotta understand us (the fans). These season 3 questions are probably coming from people who have already seen season 2. Plus, you revealed two big villains for the 3rd season (and you revealed it waaay back, I think in an interview with Spidermancrawlspace, even before the show started on KidsWB). Two teases, and now, with the show's fate in the air, we want more. But I agree with you, we should stop with this. it must be frustrating for you to see every 3rd question be something like "will Venom return and Chameleon too" or "Will you kill off Gwen". HE'S NOT GONNA KILL OFF GWEN, ATLEAST NOT IN SEASON 3 SO BACK OFF. Now I was about to ask you something, but what was it.... oh yeah:

I read your interview where you say that if the show gets 4th season, there will be Spider-Mobile. Is this still valid?

Greg responds...

Yes.

And believe me, I get it. But at some point, the message needs to sink in that I can't and won't spoil Season Three, right?

Response recorded on July 30, 2009

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Blue Mug Productions

Blue Mug Productions is up and running!

If you're 18 or over, check out http://www.bluemugproductions.com/ for the very latest in story-driven mature content.

They've got preview pages of the web-comic LAST TENGU IN PARIS, so you can see what you're missing. But I suggest getting a membership which gives you access to all existing pages of LAST TENGU, as well as a forum, Gallery, even an ASK EDMUND feature and more. This is good stuff. You don't want to miss out.

[Okay, Edmund, I gave you your damn plug. Now put down the gun...]


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Clark Cradic writes...

Are you allowed to create show only characters for Spectacular Spider-man (not counting background characters like the couple) or does the agreement with Marvel prevent you from making your own characters for the story?

Greg responds...

There's no contractual rule saying we can't create original characters, but we made a CREATIVE decision early on to NOT create any original name characters.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Spiderman Fan writes...

Hey Greg. You've done a great job with Spectacular Spiderman. I liked the twist with Black Cat's father murdering Uncle Ben which leads me to my questions:

1. I know you can't / won't reveal Season 3 but do you think Spiderman knowing Cat's relationship with Ben's muderer was a wise decision? The reason I ask is Black Cat's identity is basically shot since Spiderman could easily deduce her identity with a simple google search on The Cat Burglar.

2. Was the revelation Black Cat's father murdering Uncle Ben a calculated one (meaning Spiderman will use the info in a future episode)?

3. In Opening Night, it almost seems Cat's dad knows Spidermans identity based off his reaction in the air vent. This is my interpretation and perhaps am reading too much into it. Without revealing any spoilers, do you plan on having the Cat Burglar Cat's Dad) in future episodes?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. Obviously, I think it was a wise decision, or I wouldn't have done it.

2. We have plans.

3. No comment.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Josh Wright writes...

As a long-time fan of Gargoyles, I've often wondered why Disney seems to have left the property in the "scrap heap" as it were. It is truly the only half-hour Disney animated series that has been close to serious or has addressed real themes. In the late 90's, when the idea was being tossed around for a movie, I can almost understand why Disney wouldn't have wanted to pursue it. At that point, Disney had never even approached the idea of doing a PG-13 film (as a Gargoyles film would almost have to be PG-13). Plus, the effects may not have been up to par to do the clan justice.

Now, however, after the success of the Pirates franchise, I can't imagine why Disney wouldn't want to pursue this concept in film form. They've proven they can handle a PG-13 film. Also, through the effects used to bring Davy Jones to life, they've proven that bringing Goliath and co. to life would not be that difficult. In this day and age, there doesn't seem to be any good reason why Disney wouldn't want to bring Gargoyles to the big screen.

Ultimately, my question is: Has anyone at Disney given you anything close to an explanation as to why they aren't pushing the property further?

Greg responds...

Not really, but I think the answers are fairly obvious.

First, the NOSTALGIA PERISCOPE is still firmly fixed on the 1980s, with cartoons like Transformers and G.I. Joe becoming big movies. Give us eight to ten years and the periscope will have moved on to the 90s. Maybe then...

Second, if we're being honest, the property never did BLOCKBUSTER business. So there's no huge incentive to trot it out early, i.e. ahead of the periscope.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Daniel writes...

Hi Greg,

I love 'The Spectacular Spider-Man', especially with what you and the crew did with the Green Goblin. Season 2 finale was Excellent!
The show itself has capture that old school Spidey feel and the only Spider-Man related comic book that captures this feeling, IMO, is the Spider-Girl series by Tom DeFalco and Ron Frenz.
That brings me to my questions:

1) Have you ever read a Spider-Girl comic?
2) If you have read Spider-Girl, what are your thoughts on the character and her world?

Greg responds...

1. Yes. But just a few issues.

2. There seems to be a lot of fun stuff there.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Nelio writes...

Not so much a question but praise / comment.

I'm not the biggest Spidey fan in the world, I was a little skeptical about watching the Spectacular Spider-Man. However after your announcement about it getting a second season, I decided to give it a chance.

I'm glad I did. The show is great. First I love the character designs, especially Parker. Not sure if you played a hand in their creation, but I like Parker in particularly because of the few idiosyncrasies with his face such as the mole. I was curious though about the triangle nose "slit" he seem to have. Is that supposed to be just a nostril or some type of disfigurement due to an injury, or something like that? I personally hope it is one of the latter as I feel having an injury like that brings some insight to the character.

One thing I must mention is the level of complex interaction going in the show. It's very good, and something I wouldn't expect from a cartoon. I dare say it has complexities of that of a prime time drama. I also love the long fight scenes.

While I'm mostly like you Greg for Gargoyles, I have to admit in the two other cases I've seen you work (7 episodes on The Batman and now Spectacular Spider-Man), I'm very happy with he quality of story you provide us with. Thank you very much.

Greg responds...

The mole is a "signature" of our character designer Sean "Cheeks" Galloway, who -- no surprise -- has the exact same mole.

There's no injury to Pete's nose.

Thanks for the kind words.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Ming writes...

So, Greg, just out of sure curiosity, have you ever felt there was a whole conspiracy against the Gargoyles series at Disney? I mean, judging from Disney's actions, it was like they wanted the series to fail?

Greg responds...

As I've said many times before, that's SO far from the truth it's beyond preposterous.

They made 78 episodes before RATINGS caused them to cancel the series.

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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rick writes...

first off, in 2005-07 i wasn't a real big fan of marvel until spidey 3 came out then i loved it again i cab probaly name every characters comic, animated series, movie, etc. but after spierman friend or foe came out (game) i was kinda fallin behind. then i saw the spectacular trailer for spiderman and i loved it, the action even the animation i really don't get why some people don't like it. anyway i have a question and opinions on some of the characters.

question: have you ever played any of the games because i noticed spidey called goblin emerald elf just like in the first movie game.

opinions:
vulture: when i first found out he was the first villain i was asking myself why? but you really did a great job with him it's everything he should be plus more.

enforcers:
in survival of the fittest i was only expecting vulture but when i saw the enforcers i was in a state of shock to see they were in a series. after spidey 3 i went out and bought spiderman essentials and thank god i did because i now know characters like blacky gagston (sorry if its spelled wrong, frederick foswell and both his alter egos, and enforcers or i wouldnt have known about them. more to the point these were really great adaptations of them and the fight scene was perfection. thanx

hammerhead: one word, brilliant this is how i always pictured hammerhead. a deep voice, a henchman for a crime boss but still is his own man, he was pulled off so nicely.

electro: me and my friends always mde jokes about his outfit, like how stupid it made him look but we still liked the character nonetheless. but this electro brings it to a whole new level, he is easily one of my top 5 favorite villains in the show.

lizard: i always liked dialouge in comics but for characters like liazrd, manwolf (even though he had no dialouge)and other monsterous characters like that i didn't think it suited themi mean i would like to see a few words coming out of his mouth but not a shitload (sorry for language)and not to mention the way he looks does resemble the comics but it is more ripped up and his silentness just made this character more frightening and AWESOME!!!

shocker: i saw the commercials and i just was in amazment of how awesome the episode looked and when i saw it it didn't disappoint. it was excellent. shocker though at first when i found out it was montana (here we go again, right) i was a little confused but after the episode it made more sense. montana suits your series' shocker.

sandman: flint marko was awesome and so is sandman, incredible job, this sandman was 10 times better than the movie version (not saying i hated it) and maybe even the comic version.

rhino: again better than the comic version. he reminded me of the hulk. and that is how it should be. although did you ever think of using ultimate rhino's look?

bigman/ tombstone: i was expecting fosswell but tombstone worked out great. in this he's more than just a henchman and thank god for that. also, i got kinda tired of kingpin in 90's series, not that i don't like him just he was in every episode. i do hope to see kingpin in this though.

green goblin: my favorite character right next to venom on this show. this goblin is exactly how it should be, just an excellent choice and steve blum is perfect.

doc ock: when i saw his look i had my doubts but it grew on me and soon he bacame one of my favorie villains on the show. his attitude, his action scenes, and the fact you made him master planner just like in the comics is awesome. and the battery pack or whatever it is called is another great improvement.

chameleon: not a huge fan of the chameleon but this version is just speechless. he is a cool villain in the show not best but cool.

Black Cat: 100 times better than the 90's version, exactly how she was in the comics, but will we ever see felica hardy out of costume?

sinister six: PERFECT!!! first six with ock, rhino, sandman, vulture, electro, and shocker was the best one. and the second one with sandman, rhino, vulture, electro, mysterio and kraven was cool and all that but when mysterio and kraven were introduced i was expecting the ock, mysterio, sandman, electro, kraven, and vulture version, will we ever see them?

Venom: Awesome job with black spidey, but why was his costume changing every episode. the symbiote going through his thoughts and memory and stuff was awesome(i use this word entirely to much) and venom was just too great to be true but it was and i loved it. eddie being his friend like in ultimate and the symbiote being an alien like in amazing was a great mix. my favorite character on the show.

Mysterio: awesome adaptaion of him.but that cheesey accent is really wierd.

Tinkerer: another character that was brought from a "whos that" level to an "oh him"
level, nice!

Kraven: i liked the mixture of sergei and the wolf looking creature, extremely cool but i do hope to see more of his human form.

Calypso: not really much to say but was a nice cameo and hope to see more of her.

colonel jupiter: just another great improvement w/ a character on this show. he was incredible.

silver sable: cool character but why was she going out w/hammerhead and why silvermane's daughter?

New enforcers: shocker, ox and the new and improved fancy dan, ricochet. a nice adjustment and creative decision to make fancy dan ricochet.

Silvermane: i wished there could have been more with the character but he was still awesome while he lasted, espescially w/ the suit.

Molten man: the last villain introduced throughout the two seasons and yet another great improvement on your show...how r u doing it.

that ends this i hope for at least 65 episodes but if it is doing good would you consider doing more

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

I'll try to cover all of your questions, but in any case, thanks for the kind words...

I'm not much of a gamer.

We're pretty happy with Rhino's current look.

We've seen Felicia out of costume and probably will again.

We'll go through a different variation on the Six each season.

Spidey's symbiote costume changed as the symbiote took more and more control over his mind.

Silver Sable seemed a natural fit as Silvermane's daughter. (How many silver types can we have running around without connecting them up?) As for her relationship with Hammerhead, we liked the backstory and dynamics that created for four characters (Sable, Hammerhead, Silvermane and Tombstone).

Response recorded on July 29, 2009

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Count Orlok writes...

Just wanted to thank you for answering my last question... :) ... and ask you another.
Throughout the run of Gargoyles there were numerous references to various works of literature in its many forms (classic literature, Shakespearean works, philosophy and politics, comic books and graphic novels, horror, gothic romance, science fiction, fantasy, world mythologies, etc.). I recall being an avid fan of all of these literary genres or categories when I was very young, but Gargoyles certainly helped to further interest me in them. Other than the obvious works that you've made allusions to in the series, what do you like to read?

Greg responds...

Lots of stuff. I'm listening to Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" on CD in my car these days, and LOVING IT! (Of course, I've read it at least twice before.)

Generally, I read a lot of detective fiction, with my favorite author being Ross MacDonald. And as I've stated before, I'm a huge William Faulkner fan.

Response recorded on July 28, 2009

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stephen writes...

can you answer a couple of questions:
1.) have you ever seen the 90's spiderman cartoon and if you have did you ever think about using some of the stufff they did?

2.) what made you pick tombstone as the big man...i know you answered it before but you always said at first you wanted to use kingpin but couldn't but my question is why not frederick fosswell but tombstone?

sorry if i confused you i was just curious

Greg responds...

1. I've seen very little of it.

2. Have you seen Tombstone?

Response recorded on July 28, 2009

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Todd Jensen writes...

Yesterday, I saw a promo for the second "Gargoyles" trade paperback by Slave Labor Graphics at YouTube, complete with what were apparently panels from Brooklyn's Timedancing adventures in the latter half (which would have been #10 to #12). It looked great - especially the indication that the Phoenix Gate's taking Brooklyn away from modern-day Manhattan was even more dramatic than I'd imagined. And the scenes in 10th century Scotland - ah, it's a pity that my article on "Gargoyles" for the "television gets medieval" anthology had to focus on the television series rather than the comics revival, because I'd have found lots of material here. (Not to mention the Stone of Destiny story, with Macbeth and King Arthur's involvement, and the glimpses of the Stone's role in early Scottish history, such as St. Columba and Kenneth mac Alpin, through Shari.) Now I'm really looking forward to it.

Greg responds...

Glad to hear it. I got a look at the finished product in San Diego, and it came out great! Not that I'm biased or anything. ;)

I know a few fans - just under 100 - picked it up, and I'm anxious to hear what they think.

Response recorded on July 28, 2009

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Shadow Wing writes...

Is there anything that Humanity has created that Demona likes?

Greg responds...

Big guns.

Response recorded on July 28, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Where there any characters who sided with Mab in her war against Oberon or was it a completely onesided battle between the two with the winner ruling everyone?

Greg responds...

Sides were taken.

Response recorded on July 28, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Can gargoyles recieve the same negative side effects from cigarettes or alcohol like humans do or does their stone sleep negate these effects?

Greg responds...

Largely would negate those effects... largely.

Response recorded on July 27, 2009

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Thorgrimur writes...

1. How did Tony Dracon get out of jail between "Deadly Force" and "The Silver Falcon" and between "The Silver Falcon" and "Protection"?
2. Did Dominic get out of jail the same way as Tony and Glasses after "The Silver Falcon" or is he still in jail?

Greg responds...

1. Bail?

2. Still in jail.

Response recorded on July 27, 2009

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Shadow Wing writes...

How much of Jackel and Hyena's upgrades are attached, and how much is removable?

After all, the organic components of any cyborg do require some form of nourishment, which would in turn lead to other biological necessities.

Greg responds...

I'm not sure I understand the question. Their organic systems do still require nourishment, elimination, oxygen, etc.

Response recorded on July 27, 2009

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Paul writes...

I read your response to my question about when "Final Curtain" takes place and I thought I'd ask: does "Final Curtain" take place before, on or after St. Patrick's Day (considering the emphasis on the colour green on that day, and for the villain of the episode)?

Greg responds...

Not sure.

Response recorded on July 27, 2009

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Antiyonder writes...

An aspect that often attributed to Spider-Man's success is that the audience can, has or had related to him. With that said:

1. As far as Spidey's civilian life (because I have serious doubts that you have superhuman strength or can stick to walls or have a spider sense) goes, do you or have you related to him in any way?

1a. If yes, then how?

Greg responds...

1. I think Pete's an everyman in the classic archetypal sense. He has money troubles, girl troubles, family troubles, job troubles, etc. So sure, I can relate.

1a. What, you want personal details from my life? Sorry.

Response recorded on July 27, 2009

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ComicCon 2009

Hey gang,

Had a fun convention. We had 100 copies of Clan-Building Volume Two on sale, and they went like hotcakes. David Hedgecock and I did multiple signings.

Also did a signing at the Ape booth for Mecha-Nation with Vic Cook.

And Vic, Sean "Cheeks" Galloway, Josh "Spider-Man" Keaton, Robert "Vulture" Englund, Kelly "Sha Shan" Hu and myself had a successful Spidey panel on Sunday.

Saw friends. Ate meals. Bought a Captain Atom action figure.

Good times.


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SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2009

Hey gang(s),

Here's my basic itinerary for SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2009. You can find me at the following places at the following days and times. So I hope you'll stop by and say hello!

THURSDAY, JULY 23
11:30am - 1pm - SLG BOOTH.
David Hedgecock and I will be signing Garg stuff. Dan Vado assures me, we WILL have 100 copies of GARGOYLES: CLAN-BUILDING, VOLUME II, sent FED EX directly from the printer. We might even have copies of GARGOYLES: BAD GUYS: REDEMPTION, although that's not definite. And of course we'll have copies of GARGOYLES: CLAN-BUILDING, VOLUME I, as well as individual issues of both series. We're also hoping to have a prototype of the Electric Tiki Goliath statue on display.

FRIDAY, JULY 24
4 - 5:30pm - SLG BOOTH.

SATURDAY, JULY 25
2 - 3pm - APE BOOTH.
Vic Cook and I will be signing promotional postcards and talking about MECHA-NATION, our new comic book series (with Greg Guler and Antonio Campo). This was a project that was seen at a couple of Gatherings and was previously announced with SLG. Unfortunately, SLG had to bail, but the good folks at APE scooped it up.

3:30 - 5pm - SLG BOOTH.

SUNDAY, JULY 26
10 - 11am - ROOM 6A.
THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN panel. Vic Cook, Character Designer Sean "Cheeks" Galloway and voice actors Josh "Peter Parker/Spider-Man" Keaton, Kelly "Sha Shan Nguyen" Hu, Robert "Vulture" Englund and Greg "Donald Menken" Weisman will all be there, talking, answering questions and showing NEVER BEFORE SEEN FOOTAGE. This is not stuff you'll find on as-aired episodes or DVDs or YouTube or BitTorrent or anywhere else -- except maybe the Gathering next month.

12:30 - 2pm - SLG BOOTH.


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Harlan Phoenix writes...

So, I'm curious about something involving the early development of Gargoyles...particularly, the pitching process. I'm not exactly sure how to word this, as my knowledge of how the process of actually pitching a show works, but I'll try my best.

Listening to commentary on Awakening recently and browsing the Archives revealed that you had pitched Gargoyles multiple times: First as a comedy, then as an action show. What intrigues me in particular is the fact that the show had multiple pitches over the course of however long (the amount of time escapes me, sorry).

1. Are repeated pitching sessions common for television shows?

2. On what basis are pitches repeated (after being tweaked)? Positive notes from executives, faith in the concept, a combination?

3. Has the environment for pitching become stricter? As in, are concepts expected to be marketable/viable in one try or are multiple pitching attempts on the same concept still possible?

I apologize if these aren't worded all that correctly, it's just something I find very puzzling and I'm not entirely sure how to word my questions.

Greg responds...

1. Sometimes, although more often if a show doesn't sell the first time out it dies. But often enough, a creator will keep trying variations until he or she sells their idea... or runs out of people to sell it to.

2. All of the above, plus a smidgen of desperation.

3. See above. Nothing's really changed, though it's definitely tougher to sell an original idea now than it was back then.

Response recorded on July 21, 2009

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Clyde writes...

1 more question i forgot to ask:
The Green Goblin in Spectacular Spiderman seems a lot more dangerous than in the comics. He sort of reminds me of the Joker from The Dark Knight. If Venom and Green Goblin would get into a fight in the show, who do you think will win?

Greg responds...

These sort of hypotheticals don't really interest me.

Response recorded on July 21, 2009

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Clyde writes...

1. Is there at least a small chance that Spider-Man will bond with the symbiote one more time in future episodes?
2. Is is true you hate Carnage?
3. Your goal is to reach 65 episodes. If the show gets really high ratings after you're done all 5 seasons, would you still continue the show with a season 6 and beyond?

Greg responds...

1. No comment.

2. Rumors, vicious rumors.

3. I'll continue as long as they'll let me.

Response recorded on July 21, 2009

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SpecSpidey546 writes...

which Hobgoblin do you prefer - Roderick Kingsley or Jason Macendale?

Greg responds...

Do I have to have a preference?

Response recorded on July 21, 2009

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Vaevictis Asmadi writes...

Hello Greg,

This is probably a strange question, but here goes:

In (or before) "Mark of the Panther," Anansi became big and fat because the werepanthers brought meat to him, right? But the Third Race are creatures of pure magic, not mortal flesh and blood, so they don't necessarily digest food the same way we do. For all I know, even eating is a strange magical process for them.

I'm not saying that he should not have become fat or that I disagree with the story. I'm just interested in how it happened, because it seems to me it could possibly be different from how a mortal becomes fat. Anansi isn't a sympathetic character in Gargoyles, but it did seem like he enjoys food!

So just out of curiosity, in what way did eating a lot make Anansi big and fat? Did he gain chemical energy from the protein, carbohydrates, and fats in the food like a mortal animal would, by chemically digesting them? Did the food simply add matter to his body? Did it give him some kind of non-chemical energy? Or was it some other reason?

Thanks!

Greg responds...

He was a gourmand. He liked food. He ate food. His spider-form got larger. Beyond that, I have no details.

Response recorded on July 21, 2009

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Matus/Slovakia/ writes...

I just wanted to say how pleased I am with all TSS stuff. Great job. No questions, life is full of surprises and I am going to wait for it all in TSS S3!

Greg responds...

Glad you like it.

Response recorded on July 20, 2009

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SpiderFan89 writes...

oh, I forgot to ask you - if season 3 is ordered, will the situaton with season 4 be same (waiting for the ratings and stuff)?

Greg responds...

I'd think so.

Response recorded on July 20, 2009

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SpiderFan89 writes...

Greg, congratulations for your Spider-Man series. I watched the two seasons and as everybody else, I want more. but I'm not gonna ask season 3 questions because:
A) you wont reveal anything
B) by the time you answer this we will know if there's going to be another season

so:
1) have you watched the other new Marvel shows - Wolverine & The X-Men and Iron Man - Armored Adventures? if so, what do you think of them?
2) theres been speculation that Teletoon (Spectacular Spidey's Canadian home) may step in to save the show. is that a possibility, or the fate of the series depends entirely on Disney XD?
3) can you use Jack O'Lantern and The Punisher?
4) which Spider-Man games have you played?

thats for now.

Greg responds...

1. I haven't seen them.

2. I have no idea.

3. Not the Punisher.

4. None. I'm not really much of a gamer. But I do love Tetris.

Response recorded on July 20, 2009

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AJC writes...

Based on season two of Spectacular Spider-man, the character Debra Whitman appears to be quite aloof and unsympathetic (when she stood in the background as miles warren basically took over the connors' lab and fired them). What was the reasoning behind this characterization and how is this bringing out the essence of the character? Sorry if I am being analytical.

Greg responds...

There was actually a bit of a mistake there. Deb was supposed to be walking by when she was introduced. She doesn't respond, but it's not because she's being rude, it's because she's completely immersed in her work. The board artist didn't get that and had her stop for the introduction but then walk away. She comes across quite differently than we intended. I caught the error and alerted the director, but it fell through the cracks, and the boarded version was animated. As you can imagine, I wasn't pleased, but I was stuck with what we had.

Response recorded on July 20, 2009

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Lylat-Warrior-Galaxia writes...

You know the funny thing is? I played Star Fox 64 on my Nintendo Wii and I had noticed that there are two characters and two planets are named after th animals and history stuff. Fox McCloud and Wolf O'Donnell (Fox Xanatos and Wolf of the Pack) while Titania and MacBeth are the planets (Queen Titania and MacBeth Xanatos hired). Pretty funny huh? Next thing you know, Star Fox might have another character and/or planet named after the Gargoyles character's name.

Greg responds...

Neat.

Response recorded on July 20, 2009

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Alex writes...

Hi, Greg.

Have you ever had the chance to watch any episodes of Gargoyles or The Spectacular Spider-Man on another language (German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, ...)? If so, which did you enjoy the most/least?

Greg responds...

I haven't.

Response recorded on July 17, 2009

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Pete writes...

Before I begin i just wanna thank you for the best superhero animated series EVER!!!!
Now, with that said I would like to ask...
1.) If you were to ever use any other hero in the marvel universe who would it be?

2.) Did you like the fact that Harry was Hobgoblin in the Ultimate Spiderman Comics?

3.) Are you a fan of the Crime Master? (The crimelord that was in about two comics with the goblin then killed off.)

4.) Season 1 and 2 were both incredible, none of the episodes were below 8 out of 10, but something is bugging me...Norman's alive just like in the comics, were you trying to respect the comics or were you not aloud to keep him dead.

5.) Quuestion four leads me to another question, can you name some of the things you are not aloud to do on the show?

6.) Finally, when, not if WHEN, season 3 gets commisioned will you announce it on this site.

Thanks for your time and the best anime series out there:)

Greg responds...

1. In Spec. Spidey? Or in his or her own show?

2. If I say yes, does that imply that I'm planning the same thing? If I say no, does that imply I'm not?

3. I'm not not a fan.

4. Neither.

5. i can't think of anything beyond using realistic gunshot sounds.

6. Yes.

Response recorded on July 17, 2009

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Rachel N. writes...

Just as a brief FYI, in the May 2009 issue of Empire Magazine, on page 73 in an article about the movie "Angels and Demons", there's the following blurb:

"Unsurprisingly, the Illuminati often crop up as Hollywood baddies. As well as Angels & Demons, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and TV cartoon Gargoyles feature the Illuminati, or Illuminati-associated wonks, as villains."

I just thought it was cool that they mentioned Gargoyles and made that connection.

Greg responds...

I agree!

Response recorded on July 17, 2009

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Aldrius writes...

**Spider-man spoilers***

***Seriously***

Ramble: Child Development 101

Okay, so last season I thought the Symbiote arc was pretty good, I didn't really like Eddie that much, but I thought that the take on the Symbiote was interesting. My only real complaint was as with most symbiote stories (in Ultimate, in the other Animated Series), we didn't go long enough thinking it was just a regular costume. (Though I guess that'd be kind of pointless with most people knowing it's an alien.)

I find the theme of this arc hard to pin down. Psychology made sense last season as we were sort of looking into the motives and histories of Eddie Brock and Peter Parker and how they contrasted with one another. But here? We're not really getting a deeper look into Eddie or Peter's history beyond the first episode. I suppose to a degree the major theme is people with power they cannot yet handle or control. (Jameson and his spores, Sandman and his beach, Eddie and the Symbiote.) Which is of course, a big part of growing up.

Anyway, overall while reinforcement was my least favourite episode, this was probably my least favourite arc of the series. Most of the B-plots were always more interesting than what Venom was up to. I really loved the Sandman plot, I thought there could have been more information involved in the relationship between the Master Planner and the Big Man. I also vastly preferred the personal stake Jameson had in the Colonel Jupiter episode. And the third episode had some fun with people considering whether Peter could be Spider-man.

I have a theory about Norman's "No." but I'll chose to keep that to myself until I review Drama 101. The Conner's perspective is interesting, and I kinda like that they suspect, Aunt May's reaction is okay, but I'm still disappointed Peter has never told her. (And that's something I still don't really get. I guess he doesn't want to worry her, but it still seems irresponsible.) Stacy's reaction is of course, awesome. There are so many series and movies out there where the police are made out to be incompetent and completely incapable of foreseeing or preventing even the smallest of crimes, nice to see that subverted here. Stacy is actually a detective.

The use of the gene cleanser was an interesting choice, but a lot of wasted potential in the last episode again, I feel. Kind of like Reinforcement, I think a re-balancing between action and the villain's reaction to Peter Parker would have been apt (that one fight with Venom seemed to go on for a really long time for me). Though that's a tricky bit of writing to pull off, as I also find it difficult to justify why somebody like say, Tombstone (or even Beck really) wouldn't get rid of Peter just in case he was Spider-man.

Other than that, I liked the use of different soliloquies for each part here. Made for nice little bits of character development. While Gwen hooking up with Harry is almost as foolish as Peter hooking up with Liz. Bah, teenagers.

Overall, like I said, not my favourite arc, but overall much better upon reflection. I enjoy Venom somewhat, but still feel like there's something missing with the character. His motives make sense, but I think I just find them too petty to be invested in them. And Venom comes across as too much as a petulant child for me to find him scary beyond his first appearance.

Greg responds...

Okay... hopefully the next arc will work better for you.

Response recorded on July 17, 2009

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luis salaz writes...

where can I watch the crossover "team atlantis-gargoyles"?

if i live in mexico...can i watch it on any site on the net?

(i'm so very bad in english lenguage)

please,answered my question...

thanks!!!^^

gai-kun@hotmail.com

Greg responds...

Currently, the only place to see this is at the Gathering: http://www.gatheringofthegargoyles.com/g2009/

It's not too late to sign up!

Response recorded on July 16, 2009

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Anonymous writes...

I heard a rumor that a Gargoyles-themed world might be made for the in development Kingdom Hearts 3. I was skeptical at first but a little research showed that with the exception of some of the main characters who were voiced by mainstream actors (Goliath, Elisa, Demona, Xanatos, etc), a significant portion of the other Gargoyles voice actors are already working or have worked on KH (Jeff Bennett, Jim Cummings, Matt Frewer, Cree Summer). Do you know if there is any truth to this? From a story standpoint, the Gargoyle's universe seems to lend itself well to videogames like KH.

Greg responds...

I'd bet it's just a rumor. I've heard nothing about this. I haven't even heard the rumor.

Response recorded on July 16, 2009

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Matthew writes...

When the DVDs for Spectacular Spider-Man were being talked about (prior to the release), the plan was for the arcs to be combined into "movies" and would feature cut material as well as stuff like gunshots. The first release followed this format. The episodes smoothly transitioned into each other and there were added scenes (as far as I know, only the scene with the cop shooting at the Lizard and Flash hitting Pete in the crotch with a water balloon). Now, when the following 3 volumes were released, this format was changed. The episodes were separate and the gunshots were still lasers. No apparent added scenes were present.

I just saw an early solicitation for the upcoming series set and it made no indication on whether or not the set would include extra scenes or actual gun sounds. I was just wondering if you have any idea if these will be uncut episodes or not.

Also, I've been curious, in "Group Therapy" when Black Costume Spidey fights the 6 for the second time Rhino gets shocked by Electro and Rhino's mouth moves, almost like he's trying to say something. Was his line removed? Or was this just part of the animation? It's been bugging me a lot and I just wanted some clarification.

Thanks for the time. The show is amazing. I was actually at Wondercon when you premiered the pilot of the show and ever since then I was a HUGE fan of your take on the Spidey mythos. I can't wait for the second season to air in the US and I have my fingers crossed for a 3rd season (as well as a 4th and 5th!)

Greg responds...

I assume the series box set will be the as-aired episodes. But I'm not in the loop.

I'm afraid I don't remember the Rhino moment you're referring to. I'd need to see it again.

Response recorded on July 16, 2009

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gary writes...

i would like to say thank you for creating the best superhero animated series of all time...second, this is a question, i know you can't and won't reveal any future plans for the series but can you answer this, i know fox had a hellofalot things the 90's series couldn'y do like punch...PUNCH, obviously this series doesnt have as much problems but, finally my question, is carnage to dark for the series, along with morbius biting people, and how about the death of gwen and george stacey stories? thanks

Greg responds...

I don't know any way to answer this without making it sound like hints toward future plans.

So just talking about S&P in general, the situation shifts and changes all the time, depending on everything from the network and its current strategy and target audience to the individual giving notes -- but most of all depending on how any given thing is handled by the writers and board artists. Ultimately, it's all about execution.

Response recorded on July 15, 2009

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Aldrius writes...

****Spectacular Spider-man season 2 spoilers***

***Avert your eyes!!***

Ramble: Engineering 101

These reviews are taking me forever to write out, I don't really have that much to say about each individual episode so I'll just write the reviews about arcs instead.

Here we have Engineering 101. I really liked this arc, I think. The mystery was kinda absent and hard to follow, but of course I think establishing that the Big Man is not necessarily Foswell, Shocker is not Herman Shultz and 'Harry Osborn is the Green Goblin' made it so that we could believe it might be someone else.

I think I just found it too silly to believe that Dr. Octopus' arms were the Master Planner. Which is what it seemed like you were going for. The mystery also was given too much breathing room, there wasn't enough called into question. Though I guess that was true of the 'Big Man' mystery as well, it didn't seem like as much of a... mystery? If that makes sense. But maybe that was just because I didn't know that Foswell was the Big Man in the comics, so I had no real suspects. (Unlike the Master Planner arc where I had one, maybe two suspects with the Chameleon.)

At first I didn't really enjoy this arc that much. Reinforcement is probably my least favourite episode in the entire series. There wasn't a whole lot of plot development and outside of the first five minutes and the last two minutes, nothing really changed or progressed. I also didn't feel the action, while exemplary as usual, made up for this fact. I find the gigantic robotic dragon...especially puzzling.

Blueprints and Destructive Testing were fun diversions that introduced new villains while connecting them to the overarching plotline of the Master Planner. I actually liked Kraven's design as a 'mutant' and I thought it made his character development a whole lot more visceral. Though I hope to see some more depth injected into this in *crosses fingers* season 3. I definitely don't agree with many who want to see this change reversed, however.

Warren is an interesting creature, I don't know a lot about his character from the comic. But he makes a good enough anti-Dr Connors with his experimenting for money and his carrying a handgun around wherever he goes.

Really nice direction by Kevin Altieri here, especially with the scenes in the lab. It's so cool that he got the threat of a handgun into a scene without having to make issue with standards and practices. And there was this one great shot focusing on the lion's eyes. I love scenes where people square up against eachother without actually fighting, and merely one-up eachother with their demands. They're so much more interesting than actual fights.

Calypso was also very cool. Another character I hope to see more of in the future, though it's strange to me that she just disappeared. The drum motif that accompanies her is also very cool, and gives the character a sense of power that I appreciate.

Shear Strength is very cool, though. It was nice to see the Vulture and Electro taking up major roles in this episode, giving certain villains their own spot-light episode to accompany the major sinister six episode. This is also where I (and I believe the rest of the fandom) began our secret love affair with George Stacy. The guy was cool last season in Persona and Nature vs. Nurture, but here he's sticking it to a super-villain to ensure his daughter's safety, and who doesn't love that?

The end to this arc is both disheartening and interesting. I kind of like Liz, though she's... really wrong for Peter. Good for her for sticking up for herself anyway, though Gwen really could and should have done the same beforehand.

Overall a pretty rocky, but overall good arc, I enjoyed it immensely and hope to see more in the future!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!

We were absolutely NOT going for the idea that his arms were the Master Planner. What we were going for was the idea that Otto was a big, fat faker in "Reinforcement". And I would think that his conversation with Electro in "Shear Strength" made that pretty clear.

Response recorded on July 15, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Was the Norman Osborn right before and after the accident that created Doc Ock Chameleon?

Greg responds...

No.

Response recorded on July 15, 2009

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Akeem M. writes...

I have to congratulate you on the success on The Spectacular Spider-Man series. Season 2 Spoilers ahead! Good job on letting the villains like Ock and Norman use big words. I found out that Norman had no idea that Harry was drinking the green after he mentioned that it was "more serendipity" that he found Harry there after mentioning that he happened to find "Norman Osborn" witnessing a Green Goblin theft. It was genious, I applaud you for making people look up words.

Fredrick Foswell obviously knew that Mr. Lincoln was the "Big Man" during the events of the episode "Gangland". Now when initially asked by Peter about this, he tells the teenager that Mr. Lonnie Thompson Lincoln is a good man and is not a criminal. Why was that? Now I beleive that Foswell is a good man and isn't a reporter/crime lord like his comics incarnation. I can only assume that he didn't want this child going out to investigate it and getting killed.

Will they EVER catch Mysterio? Also, I want to know ouside of the aftermath with Tinkerer in "Blueprints", have we even SEEN the real Quentin Beck as Mysterio? Does Spider-Man catch the robots? I tend to think that when he speaks it is really him (Spider-man catching him in "Blueprints" and "Reinforcements", and Beck's prison appearance in "Identity Crisis") because when he is revealed as a robot, he has some kind of blank stare...so I guess he escaped out of prison off screen after "Identity Crisis". Am I right?

Does anyone outside of the Osborne family, Pete, Gwen know about Norman's "hobby"? I assume not because I'm sure that being a supervillain/crime boss is looked down on in the world of business and Oscorp will be asking for a bailout...

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

Foswell found out about Lincoln at the opera house in "Gangland". He didn't know before.

As for the Mysterio stuff, I think it's way more fun to leave you guessing... so I will.

And, yes, the world learns that Norman was the Green Goblin somewhere between his "death" and his funeral, which -- as you saw -- was rather sparsely attended for a man of his means and stature.

Response recorded on July 15, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

What would you say is your favorite mythological creature/character (not including any from the Shakespeare mythos)?

Greg responds...

Uh... gargoyles?

Response recorded on July 15, 2009

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Bazell writes...

Personal question:
Do you read nonfiction? I enjoy the polar opposition memoirs and essays provide to the wonderful fantasy that you are known for which is my other love.

Asking as one writer to another, do you keep a journal?

Greg responds...

I do keep a journal, though I'm inconsistent about writing in it.

I do read non-fiction sometimes.

Response recorded on July 14, 2009

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Henry Goeldner writes...

Hello Mr Weisman, an Australian fan here curious about quite a number of things pertaining to your most excellent adaption of the Spiderman mythos. Hypothetical questions in fact.

You have stated previously that you had wished to use Kingpin in some form and still hope to. If you could use Kingpin, for season three or hopefully even a season four (or five, six, seven, it deserves that much at least) would you have Daredevil make an appearance as well? What of other costumed adventurers, both major and minor? If you could use any Marvel hero, which would you incorporate into your highly entertaining series?

Say for instance, Prowler?

Greg responds...

I've answered this many times. Please check the archives.

Response recorded on July 14, 2009

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Forrest writes...

Do you know when The Spectacular Spider-man Season 1 box set will come out, some people say it will come out this summer. Do you know a release date for it? And will there be a Season 2 box set?

Greg responds...

July 28th for the first season box set.

I assume there will eventually be a Season 2 box set, as well.

Response recorded on July 14, 2009

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Mo writes...

Guess what? More Spidey questions!

1) Exactly how did a Goblin costume tailored for Norman Osborn convincingly fit Harry Osborn?
2) Is Spider-Man at all wanted for the attempted murder of Otto Octavious in "Group Therapy"?
3) Did nobody put together the disappearance of the Symbiote, Spider-Man being at the scene of the crime and him wearing the black costume?
4) Will Spider-Man at all appear in season 3?

Thanks again!

Greg responds...

1. It's stretchy.

2. Nope.

3. Why would anyone associate a missing alien with a change in color to Spider-Man's costume?

4. Yes. (You got me.)

Response recorded on July 14, 2009

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Timothy Fackler writes...

Hello Greg, and whoever Todd is.

I’m not really sure if this qualifies as a question, and I think it fits the guidelines…
Then again if it doesn’t I won’t get an answer anyways, but that’s not the point.
(Sorry, I’m nervous.)

I’m not sure if I’m too late or not, I don’t think I am.
I found out Lex is indeed a homosexual, but I don’t think his mate has been released yet.
I was wondering if I could in fact be with him, or at least go on a date maybe?
I Always had a bit of a crush on him, and I know Gargoyles and humans have been mates before.

A bit about myself:
I’m 20, which I think is close to Lex’s age if I remember.
I’m kinda nerdy, if you couldn’t tell by me asking to date a Gargoyle.
I’m in college for English and Psychology.
My interests are anime, comics, manga, hanging with friends, coffee, shopping, and obviously boys.
I’m tall, about 6 ft. and a little over 200 lbs. I guess I could send a picture if you want?
I don’t know if it really matters but I’m a versatile top >.<
Thank you for your time, and I hope I get to be with Lex soon.
I suppose you could email if your interested?

Greg responds...

But -- and this is the key question -- are you public domain?

Response recorded on July 14, 2009

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Gargoyleslady writes...

Hi, Greg! I've got a question about Broadway. In Deadly Force, did Broadway feel so guilty about shooting Elisa that he felt like throwing up?

Greg responds...

I'll leave that to your interpretation.

Response recorded on July 13, 2009

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Forrest writes...

Hi Greg,
I'v been watching Spectacular Spider-Man on Disney XD, and its always on when Im at school. And its never on agine, do you think you can change the time from the morning to the afternoons. So there can be more viewers for the show, so third season could come out.

Greg responds...

I have no control over time periods, but you should check your listings, because I know they rerun episodes ALL THE TIME.

Response recorded on July 13, 2009

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NOT A TRUE STORY...

So I stopped by the bank this morning, because my wallet was totally cash-free. Both ATM's are "Out of Service" so I go into the branch to get some money. It occurs to me that I haven't actually been inside a bank in many months, maybe in a couple years. But here I am in the single rope-line that traverses back and forth in front of the tellers. The line is fairly long -- probably because the ATMs are down. Within a minute or so, there are a few people behind me and about a half-dozen in front of me.

The next customer achieves her teller, and I turn the corner so that I'm now facing the entrance to the bank. My eyes are wandering about, bored mostly, when I notice a tall man enter the bank wearing a trenchcoat. Now, it's July in Los Angeles, so this is odd. And maybe I'm kidding myself -- I am a cartoon writer, after all -- but the security guard who's standing by the door, seems to think this is odd too. He takes a few steps forward to keep an eye on this guy.

Trenchcoat marches right up to the end of the line, and says -- not loudly, not muttering: "The A.T.M.s are out of order." The guy at the end of the line turns at this and nods curtly to Trenchcoat. Then Trenchcoat says: "Get out of my way." End-of-the-line gives him an incredulous look. If he says anything at all, it's too quiet for me to hear (and I'm about two yards away).

Then shouting "GET OUT OF MY F***ING WAY!", Trenchcoat pulls -- I kid you not -- a goddamn MACHETE from out of his coat and swings it down at End-of-the-line over and over. But -- and it's a huge but - he's not hacking at him. He's WHACKING him with the FLAT of the blade. End-of-the-line is holding up his arms defensively and screaming. I don't think he even realizes he's not being chopped into horror-movie bits. All he sees is this maniac swinging a machete down at him.

Meanwhile, nearly EVERYONE in the bank -- myself included -- does absolutely nothing. We all stand, rooted to our spots. Maybe we're too shocked to react, maybe too afraid. I remember noticing that Trenchcoat is hitting him with the machete instead of cutting him, but still I don't move. I don't even run away, let alone help. I just stand there.

The only person who does react is the Security Guard, who is standing behind Trenchcoat. There can't be anyway for him to know that End-of-the-line is not being horribly murdered. Security Guard pulls his gun. He says something like "Drop the knife!" (He said "knife", but it really was a machete.) Trenchcoat turns to face Security Guard, holding the machete high. He does not drop it, but takes a step toward Security Guard, who promptly shoots him twice. The gunshots are very loud, and I can almost still hear them echoing in my eardrums. Trenchcoat goes down. The machete clatters to the (probably faux) marble floor. The Security Guard advances quickly and kicks the machete out of Trenchcoat's reach. It goes skittering across the (probably faux) marble floor until it hits the carpeted area where the loan officers have their desks.

Security Guard then kneels beside Trenchcoat, who is lying on the (probably faux) marble floor, breathing heavily with his eyes open. Security Guard, keeping his gun aimed the whole time, pulls open Trenchcoat's coat. I lean forward and see that Trenchcoat is wearing what appears to me to be a bullet proof vest of some kind. In any case, there's no blood that I can see.

The police arrive almost immediately, which suggests that at least one of the tellers was not quite as paralyzed by events as I was and hit a silent alarm. End-of-the-line is freaked out but basically fine. He has some nasty welts and a few extremely superficial scratches on his arms, I suppose from where the edge of the blade dug into his skin a bit. The cops insist on him going to the hospital. An ambulance arrives to take Trenchcoat away. One cop actually suggests that End-of-the-line get in too. Unsurprisingly, End balks at riding with the guy, and then makes it clear he's not even willing to go to the same hospital as "that F***ER". He eventually gets in a squad car and is driven away.

They keep all of us there for about two and a half hours. I talk to a uniformed officer and then to two plainclothes detectives. I tell them what I saw, but I have more questions than answers. I get no answers. And since I knew I wouldn't get any, I make very little effort to ask the questions. Finally, they take my information and let me go. I leave, passing the useless ATMs as I go.

It's all like some really bizarre performance art, and now that it's over I can't help wondering if that's exactly what it was. But if so, it was incredibly elaborate and damned irresponsible.

But in any case, that's why I'm broke and late for work.


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Cherie writes...

Dear Greg,
I think you did an amazing job on Gargoyles. It really was a great show/movie. As you instructed, I read through the answered questions and I couldn't find the question I am about to ask you.
1. I know that we don't know about any Gargoyle movie coming out anytime soon, but if there are so many fans that really do like it and would like to see it come alive, how would we go about that?
2. I know Disney owns the rights to Gargoyles, but if there was a movie to come out with live action, would you be able to pick the people to play the characters? I hope so since you are the visionary.
I hope that you can answer these questions. I know you are busy just like the rest of the world is and I thank you for taking time out of your day to answer these questions. Have a great day!
Cherie L. R. M.

Greg responds...

1. Buy Gargoyles product. Tell Disney.

2. I doubt it would be up to me. But if they gave me that power, I wouldn't turn it down.

Response recorded on July 09, 2009

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Tanner writes...

If the third season of the Spectacualr Spider-man does come out, when will it come?

Greg responds...

No idea.

Response recorded on July 09, 2009

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cboy305 writes...

When recording voices for animation, must all actors record voices in the same studio?

Greg responds...

It's not an absolute, but we like it both for reasons of actor chemistry and because it's easier on our budget.

Response recorded on July 09, 2009

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Natan writes...

Hello Greg!

Will you be doing audio commentaries for the season sets of Spectacular Spider-Man?

I have currently have the individual volumes and I have to say that the special features are very disappointing to say the least. Are you involved with the distribution of the DVD's at all? Do you know when fans can expect the sets to be released? I hear it might be this July.

It would also be fun if there was a sort of pop-up video or trivia special feature that tells you all the little references to the comics from each episode. I love how every little supporting character plays a part in this show and how they are all existing characters in the comic book world - even ones obscure as Sha Shan (I don't think anyone even realizes that she is an actual character in the comics!).

Also, will you be attending San Diego Comic Con this year?

Thanks.

Greg responds...

I will be at San Diego Comic-Con, and we'll be having a Spider-Man panel on Sunday, July 26th at 10am in Room 6A. The panel includes me and...

Supervising Producer/Supervising Director Victor Cook;
Supervising Character Designer Sean "Cheeks" Galloway;
Josh Keaton, the voice of Spider-Man/Peter Parker;
Robert Englund, the voice Vulture/Adrian Toomes;
Kelly Hu, the voice of Sha Shan Nguyen...

I haven't done any audio commentaries yet, but I hope to. I'm not involved with the production of these DVDs, however.

Response recorded on July 09, 2009

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AL writes...

Hi Greg,

First I just want to say congratulations on creating what many have dubbed "the definitive Spider-Man show". Spectacular Spider-Man is such a wonderful show. Everyone working on the show has just done such an amazing job. Thanks for all the hard work.

I know you are still awaiting a third season to be picked up. I've read a lot of concerns from fans about how the show might never get more than 26 episodes. This is pretty irrational since it's still too early to know, but there is always a chance that a third season may never be picked up. So my question is, IF the show does not continue with a third season or IF the show is canceled (let's hope not!) before it reaches your target 52 or 65(?) episodes, do you think it's possible to continue the story in a different medium? For example: as a comic book series. Or, could the show continue as a series of straight to DVD movies, like what you planed after the entire series ended?

Thanks! Crossing my fingers for Season 3!

Greg responds...

I'd be willing, but ultimately it's not up to me.

Response recorded on July 09, 2009

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M. writes...

Another issue I'm not completely clear on is why Xanatos and Sevarius parted ways(assuming they had). I never knew them to be on bad terms, except for the brief moment in "Double Jeopardy". Did Xanatos' moral changes have anything to do with it, or was there some other reason? Again, I apologize if this question had been done over and over. I never found any question quite matching the one I'm asking, or at least I don't think matches it.

Greg responds...

I don't think they've totally parted ways. I just think Sevarius has gone freelance.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Nikolaj Zbikowski writes...

Dear Greg,

I've been trying to locate the original Gargoyles Trailer (or Teaser) featured on VHS from when I was younger (presumably, before the movie/show came out). It's the trailer that shows Elisa's perspective as stones fall from Xanatos's castle, where she comments: "What could be strong enough to leave claw marks in solid stone?" At the same time this is happening, the title "Gargoyles" is being panned across the screen (similar to "The Terminator"). I have not been able to find it on YouTube or Google search, or even this website. If you know of a link or website featuring it, I would appreciate your help locating it.

Thanks,
Nik Z.

Greg responds...

I don't. Sorry. I'd suggest trying to find the Nightmare Before Christmas VHS on E-Bay. I think that's where it appeared. I think.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Daniel Abraham Raviv. writes...

Hey Greg, may i ask you something? What would you do If Disney decided to put Gargoyles In Their Kingdom Hearts Series, or they and Allan Moore decide to Put Gargoyles in The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen? If you know what those series are? Would you want to have anything to do with it? I know they won't be considered canon, but would you want to work on it, after all they're your characters and you're with them to the end, would you want to help with those series, like you'll guide the others on what Goliath would do or what he wouldn't do, or you know just try to put them in the Universes of those two series? What would you Do?

Greg responds...

Well... I'd be all for Gargoyles going into Kingdom Hearts, and I'd be happy to work with those folks. Unfortunately, no one has asked.

As for, LOEG, that's seems an even more unlikely hypothetical. But what the hell? If Alan and Disney somehow made a deal ... and if Alan wanted my help... well, both scenarios are just nonsensical, but, yes, I suppose I'd be game to play along.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Mo writes...

More Spidey questions!

1) Regarding JJJ: I think Daran Norris does an amazing job in the voice role, but i'm wondering if you ever considered having J.K. Simmons reprise the role.
2) With John Jameson, why did you choose him to fill the role of a rival hero? And why did you make Colonel Jupiter rather than, say, Man-Wolf?
3) The influence of Stan and Steve's work, the Ultimate line and the films is clear in the show. Did earlier Spider-Man programs influence it at all?
4) Regarding Green Goblin: Did you ever consider using the Ultimate demonic design or the movie's armored design or did you always want to use the classic Halloween costume look?
5) If you had to choose, who has been your favorite villain on the show?

Once more, I thank you.

Greg responds...

1. It was discussed, but Sony Features vetoed the idea, as they wanted the two casts to be distinct.

2. I love the original Colonel Jupiter story from the Lee/Romita Sr. run of The Amazing Spider-Man. You should check it out.

3. I'm sure the 60s show is a deep influence, as I inhaled that series as a kid. But I consciously chose NOT to go back and rewatch it, so my memories of it are a bit vague. I'm not personally all that familiar with the other animated incarnations. I don't think I've seen more than an episode or two of any other version.

4. Classic. Always.

5. But I don't have to chose.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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The MythMaker writes...

The Egyptian term "netjer", which a previous commentor says can be translated as "god" actually means "watcher". There is more to this story...

Greg responds...

...and you're hiding it from me?

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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AJC writes...

Does Walter Hardy know Spider-man's identity?

Greg responds...

I think he might be able to guess. Maybe.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Joe writes...

this is kinda weird question but when you answer "No comment" is it like "Oh my god, the question is so stupid" (because I've seen some pretty dumb being asked) or "No comment because if I answer I might spoil something"?

Greg responds...

I'm not particularly consistent in my evasions.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

If you had been able to use Kingpin in the series, would have used something similar to his designs from the 90's animated series or the Daredevil movie? Would you still have cast Kevin Michael Richardson in the role?

Greg responds...

Too many what ifs, my friend. We never got that far.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Martin writes...

In "The Invisible Hand" Foswell tells Peter "rumor is that Big Man aka L. Thompson Lincoln is some kind of a crime lord" after which Spidey goes to confront Tombstone. How does Spidey know that Big Man is in this tall building (the one he goes to)?

Greg responds...

L. Thompson Lincoln is a semi-famous local philanthropist with a number of legitimate businesses.

Response recorded on July 08, 2009

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Vaevictis Asmadi writes...

Hello Greg,

In the past, some posters here have implied that only iron can kill a member of the Third Race. This has never really been confirmed. Yet, when once asked if there were casualties in the war between Mab and Oberon, you said "yes, any war has casualties." If some of the Children of Mab did kill each other in that war, I find it hard to believe they used iron weapons!

So, is iron the only thing that can kill a member of the Third Race?

Greg responds...

No.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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Wendy Self writes...

To whom it may concern,

My name is Wendy Self and i am a Second Year Student of Animation and Design at the University of Sunderland, UK. I am currently preparing the research for my dissertation, which i want to base on violence and censorship in children's animation. I was keen on looking at how both aspects are applied to 'message' episodes and mature themed story lines.
I was hoping that i would be able to ask Mr Weisman some questions on the writing and content of the Gargoyles series as it is one of the main examples that i am using for mature writing and intelligent subject matter in a children’s TV show.

I understand that this is probably an unusual request but I would greatly appreciate any help you could offer. However I do realise that Mr Weisman is busy with his own work so if it is inconvenient for me to speak to him directly then I fully understand.
My university contact is wendy.self@sunderland.ac.uk

Thank you very much for looking at my question and I hope to hear back from you soon.
Sincerely,
Wendy Self

Greg responds...

You couldn't post your questions here?

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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Nelio Belmont writes...

Hi Greg, this time I have a production question about Gargoyles. Given that Youtube has started putting commercial products such as old TV shows and what not, do you think there is a chance that Gargoyles will be put up on it as well? More specifically, do you think the second half of Season 2 may be put up there? And finally, if those episodes gets lots and lots of views, do you think Disney would consider a DVD release of Vol 2?

Greg responds...

I think it's (illegally) on YouTube already. I have no idea if Disney intends to put it up legit. Or how that would effect their DVD plans.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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David Blyth writes...

Hi Mr. Wiesman

A question related to "The Batman", it was a very different kind of Batman series, fresh off the gridiron and airing alongside the final seasons of JLU, I'm not sure if it had a chance to really "define itself" in light of such a strong legacy, but part of what gave it it's own identity was the hard work of Duane Capizzi, Alan Burnett, a great voice cast (Mitch Pillegi!), and your own scripts.

"The Everywhere Man" featured the voice acting of "Superman Returns" leading man Brandon Rough, who played the main antagonist, his co-star was Allison Mack, aka Chole Sullivan from long-lasting Superman series "Smallville", so all in all, it felt like a big Hollywood atmosphere

1. Do you have any memories of this beyond just the scripting process?

2. Were you told to write characters that "complimented" Brandon and Allison or did you know they were coming in?

Greg responds...

1. Well, I was at the voice recording, and it was a lot of fun. Both Allison and Brandon were VERY nice. SUPERMAN RETURNS had not hit theaters yet, but was due out soon, and Brandon really struck me as Clark Kent.

2. Didn't know who was going to play the characters when I wrote the script.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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David Blyth writes...

Hi Mr. Wiesman

As a folllow-on from something asked of you by "Anonymous" on the issue of growth and evolution in Spider-Man , I would like to, first, argue that the Spider-Man series you have been working on isnt "pinned down" by the problems the comic version of Spidey faces. You have placed Peter, MJ, Gwen, Harry and others into the most innocent kind of "hell" on Earth, High School.

Long before girls fell off bridges, long before clones and long before Peter realized MJ was the love of his life and married her, you don't have to worry about "resetting" there because that only affects the characters outside of High School...where readers expect them to act grown up and responsible for one another, and when they act like rank adolescents as they do in BND (my opinion), or heck, ever since the last ten years worth (Spidey's never recovered since 1999, again, my opinion)

Spider-Girl has now been running for eleven years, with another good few years left in the tank (I don't know how long Tom intends to tell it, right now the word is "indefinatly"), yet Tom recently admited if he so much as fought for an animated series, he'd be shot down. I find this incredibly tragic and disheartening.

And yet...look at what D.C accomplished ten years ago with Batman Beyond.

Terry McGuiness may only have had the golden rule of syndication ("Get 65 and DIE") one movie, and one episode of JLU, but it says a great deal about the higher-ups at WB to risk three years worth on character growth on someone new, whilst balancing that with remarkable doses of growth for Bruce Wayne and Barbera Gordon to that extent than, say, three more years of "The New Batman Adventures"

Hell, let's argue LOONATICS. Done CORRECTLY, this would have made Loony Toon characters DRAMATIC...key word there is "done correctly" of course, but premises like that are ones any writer can eat up with a spoon...again, WB risked it, suceed or fail.

Likewise you have put a lot of risk into Spectacular Spider-Man that has paid off, so maybe it's not a case of marketers being afraid of "growth and change", maybe it's more a case of certain groups being behind the times and just not living in the here and now.

Time will tell. Right now, I like to think those people KNOW that we need something new. Nothing lasts forever.

Not even the relevancy of the "Modern Myth".

My question: Why is it easier for something like Batman Beyond to be favoured over something like Spider-Girl?

Greg responds...

No idea. Not even sure that's true, frankly.

The thing to keep in mind is that the business is fluid and NOT monolithic. Things change. There's much human turnover, and with that turnover comes changes in direction at every studio and every network. What the RULES are this week may not be the rules in six months time.

I've often said we'd NEVER have gotten Gargoyles on the air today, and that's true TODAY. But tomorrow is a whole other story.

Maybe Batman Beyond hit at the right studio and the right network at the right time.

Spider-Girl's situation is complicated by the fact that Marvel and Sony co-control the Spider-Man license. I'd guess (and it's ONLY a guess) that Marvel views Spider-Girl as a separate property. And I'd guess Sony views it as part of the Spider-Man license... and that disagreement (assuming it exists and/or has EVER even come up) would obviously be a roadblock to making a Spider-Girl series.

In any case, you give me credit for taking risks that I don't really think I deserve. Sony and Marvel came to me and ASKED me to do a Spider-Man series set in his High School years that was not in continuity with the movies or the current comics or Ultimate or anything. That's all they gave me, but that fit perfectly with what I wanted to do with the character. And given the fact that Spidey is one of the top marquis characters in the known universe, it wasn't exactly a risky proposition.

I like to think we executed well, but let's face it -- ANY Spidey show would do pretty well just by virtue of it being Spidey. I can't exactly take credit for the character's popularity. All I can do is strive to do him justice. It's for others to judge if we succeeded, though we succeeded well enough to satisfy me. I'm biased, of course, but my standards are pretty high.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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Martin writes...

you said that you already have overall plan for season 3. does this mean everything from the begginig to the finale is in your head, including what characters and villains will appear?

Greg responds...

Not to the last detail. Not even broken down episodically. But I know what the four arcs are and who the Big Bads are for each arc, and SOME idea of who the villains are/might be. Nothing etched in stone. But the basics are fairly clear in my head.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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Branden Harvey writes...

I'll rephrase my question since I confused you the first time (my fault, of course, not yours):

In The Uncertainty Principle, when Harry was "revealed" as the Goblin, he was switching back and forth between himself and the Goblin persona right in front of Spider-Man and Norman. Since Harry was never the Goblin, what was going on there?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

What you interpreted as him switching back and forth never happened -- though of course it was what we wanted you to think. Because we told you Harry was the Goblin, you interpreted his drug-addled ramblings as the Goblin persona surfacing. But it was just Harry. All Harry. Look again.

Response recorded on July 07, 2009

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Arthur Jr. writes...

1. To be honest Greg, I may have to agree with Daran Norris doing Man-Wolf if included. I even wonder if Daran can pull of the Man-Wolf vocal effects though.

2. Still, I would recommend Frank Welker and Dee Bradley Baker if another bunch of werewolves (i.e. the Lobo Brothers) were included in a future season. I don't know if you heard of them, but outside of Eduardo Lobo knowing Glory Grant when she worked as a secretary for J. Jonah Jameson, the Lobo Brothers were in a gang war against the Kingpin.

3. I was wondering if you read an earlier comment about Sally Avril later becoming Bluebird in the comics. What is the year that the TV series takes place in since it wasn't specified in the show?

4. As an added bonus, I was wondering if a future season would include the Sinister Syndicate since you already have the Sinister Six and the Enforcers on the show? That which was made up of Beetle (who not only fought the Fantastic Four and Iron Man before becoming a founding member of the Thunderbolts), Hydro-Man, Rhino, Boomerang, Speed Demon, Leila Davis (the getaway vehicle driver before becoming the second Beetle), Blacklash (an Iron Man villain), Constrictor (who was a member of the Serpent Society), Scorpia (she started out as a minion of Silvermane), and Shocker. I don't mind if this is answered as a "No comment."

Greg responds...

1. I wouldn't underestimate Daran -- or our sound effects people.

2. Hm.

3. It's the present day. !962 updated to the present.

4. Many of the villains you mentioned aren't part of the Spidey license.

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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Jess writes...

Hey Greg! I know you've been mostly dealing with Spidey queries lately, but hopefully you won't mind "kickin' it old school" so-to-speak and answering a Gargoyles question.

I'd been taking a Shakespeare course this semester at school, and I chose to write a paper on Shakespeare's Macbeth's influence on yours. (I got an A by the way). Anywhoozle, obviously this meant re-watching some Of the Mac-centric episodes, including of course the wonderful "City of Stone", which as it alway does, reminded me of how much I love Macbeth's complex backstory and that of the legacy of The Hunter.

Now I did search the archives before asking this, so I know the Canmores in "Hunters Moon" were not aware of Macbeth, but I couldn't find if you had said whether or not HE was aware of THEM.

Was he as of "Hunter's Moon?" And if not, is he aware of them as of "The Rock" in the comics?

Thanks.

Greg responds...

I'd guess Macbeth has encountered a Canmore or two over the years. But it's not canon 'til it's canon.

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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SpecSpidey546 writes...

Greg, as much as I love Spectacular Spider-Man, I have a complain. "Reinforcement" is, in my opinion, the weakest episode of all. While it had its moments, it didnt feel like "Group Therapy". Who's idea was Sinister Six to attack Spidey in pairs? and the thing that really annoyed me - Electro shooting electricity from his mouth?!?!? what the hell? Other then this, the series is amazing and I hope it lasts 5 seasons.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

Electro's been shooting electricity from his mouth since his very first appearance. We think it's cool. And your the first person to complain about it.

It was my idea to have the S6 attack in pairs. My feeling was that Ock would feel that in "Group Therapy" they got in each other's way too much, i.e. that Spidey was able to use their powers against each other. So instead he tried to send complimentary pairs, so that it would be easier for the partners to keep track of each other and NOT get in each other's way. In addition, the hope was that Spidey would get progressively more worn out, so that even if he did have some success, by the time he faced the final pair, he'd be exhausted. Of course, Ock was missing a crucial bit of info about the symbiote. And his plan didn't work. But I think it made sense from his point of view.

I'm sorry the episode didn't work for you, but I'm not sorry we did it the way we did. We liked it.

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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Anonymous writes...

Does the real Gisela have that great spirit and did she ever live in Mexico?

Greg responds...

Actually, I knew a Gisela from Mexico. She and her brother Alex went to the same summer camp, Bear Pole Ranch, as my siblings and I did.

Of course, I have no idea what YOU are talking about here.

Weird, though, huh?

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Was it your idea to have Black Cat's father to be Uncle Ben's killer or another member of the team? Well who ever did it I can say it was nothing short of a stroke of genius! One of the biggest plot twists I've seen in a Superhero Cartoon in a long while. My girlfriend's a little sad though, she really liked Black Cat and Spidey together.

Greg responds...

It was my idea. I'm glad you liked it.

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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Lucas writes...

Hello, this isn't a question so much as it is a comment regarding a question Greg previously received. He received a statement from a handle named 'Marn Hierogryph', and I'd like to say that that is me, however I did not send that post in. That was actually a part of a post that was taken out of context from a forum I go to and wasn't in anyway shape or form directed at Greg Weisman or any other crew who work on Spectacular Spider-Man. It was taken from a topic discussing the comparison/contrast of various shows. I'm not sure who sent that in or why, but I'd just like to apologize for whatever annoyance that may have given Mr. Weisman. I'd like to think I have more respect for the people in charge of these shows than to directly write to them critiquing the people who work for the show. It was just a random discussion in a topic. Again, I apologize on behalf of whoever sent in that post to Greg.

Greg responds...

Hey Lucas, I appreciate the apology. And I'm sorry someone used this forum to take your words out of context. That's very uncool.

Response recorded on July 06, 2009

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CONVERGENCE converges with the GATHERING

I just got the following e-mail from a buddy on the staff of CONvergence (http://www.convergence-con.org/), which is taking place NOW:

Hi Greg!

I'm at CONvergence, and I am seeing flyers all over the hotel
advertising for the Gathering. They are having over 40 guests? Wow!

So thanks to those posting our flyers at ConVergence (my second all-time favorite convention). Have a great con!

But don't miss the Gathering, which as of yesterday actually has OVER FIFTY GUESTS attending! Fifty and counting. Soon the guests will outnumber the fans. ( And, dude, I wish I was kidding.) You will NEVER find a better fan to pro ratio at any convention ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!!!! Sign up now at http://www.gatheringofthegargoyles.com/g2009/ !!!!!


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abnormalpixarfan writes...

if you could would do a revamped of johnny quest with you at the helm?

Greg responds...

I'm a big fan of Jonny Quest, so if anyone asked me...

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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Martin writes...

Greg, I was looking at list of Spidey's villains and realized that there are 5 big villains left that you will/should introduce: Hobgoblin & Scorpion (both confirmed), Hydro-Man, Jackal & Carnage. I just hope you dont do like the 90s cartoon and have 3 awesome seasons and terrible 4th season (their season 4 was awful). there are good B and C list villains that deserve to be seen on your show - Spencer & Alistair Smythe, Swarm, Boomerang, Carrion, Jack O'Lantern, Sin-Eater, Spot. Not really a question, just thought I'd share this with you.

Greg responds...

Well, gee, Martin. I was planning to do a lousy fourth season, but since you feel so strongly about it, I guess I won't.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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Mo writes...

So I was going over the first season of Spectacular Spider-Man on YouTube, and I noticed something. In "Interactions", Electro cleary sees Spider-Man taking pictures of the both of them for the Bugle. Did he ever put that together with Peter Parker's photos later showing up in the paper(s)? Did he not know the full details of the Bugle's contest? Or was he just too darn crazy to care?

Again, thanks.

Greg responds...

I doubt he made the connection as NONE of Pete's Spidey/Electro pictures made it into the Bugle. When Pete's Spidey/Lizard pictures were published, there was no particular reason to make the connection between Pete and Spidey. Keep in mind that Electro ALSO saw a college student try to take pictures of the Spidey/Electro battle.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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MisterDrBob writes...

Hey sorry about spelling your name wrong first off (last time Mr. Weisman)
Do you have any other characters planned for if there's a third season? I understand if you can't say, but I'd love to see Hobie become the Prowler, you seem to set up Hydro-Man and Carnage, and I think you could do great things with Blackie Drago the second Vulture, Will-o-the-Wisp, and Rocket Racer.
I also have a comment. I love what you've done with the Tinkerer. You've made a character who appeared maybe once in ten years a central figure to the underworld. But I also kind of think that you run the risk of making him a plot device. What do you think?

Greg responds...

I think we try to keep all characters as characters first. If Tinkerer starts to become nothing more than a plot device, I'm sure the fans will let me know.

And, yes, I have plans for a third season.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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David writes...

Big fan of the show. I've always wondered, how Elisa can afford such a nice apartment. I know she's a detective but no way can a detective make that much money to afford that?

Greg responds...

Your premise is faulty. Stating that there's "no way" she can afford that is patently false. We don't know if she owns, rents or sub-lets. We don't know how she got the place. We don't know who had it before. We don't know what it looked like when she got it, whether it was a disaster that she cleaned up or an empty industrial loft. We don't know if the building is a co-op, rent-controlled or rent-stabilized. We don't have enough information to state what you've stated.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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Harlan Phoenix writes...

So, what's Midtown High student Greg Weisman like?

Greg responds...

I know you're kidding, but I'm not quite getting the joke.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009

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Thorgrimur writes...

I would like to ask a few questions about Preston Vogel. For some reason, I actually like him more than Owen.
1. Does Puck have any liking for Vogel?. Did he create the Owen persona more to honour or mock Vogel?
2. How did Vogel and Owen get along when they were both working at Cyberbiotics?
3. Did Vogel get to keep the fee he was paid by Fox for sabotaging the Cybots in "Outfoxed"?
4. (This has been asked before, but not properly answered). In the Silver Falcon story memo, there is a line refering to "Vogel's murder" (the exact line was: "Vogel's murder in the other premise, was never gonna fly". What was that about?

Greg responds...

1. I think Puck was amused by Vogel and wanted to do him one better.

2. Owen got along fine with Vogel. Vogel was somewhat disconcerted by Owen, for reasons he could not quite put his finger on.

3. Good question.

4. I don't recall. But clearly an earlier draft of the writer or story editor's premise had Vogel being murdered, and I was saying that would never get past S&P.

Response recorded on July 03, 2009


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