Blogs from our BDEs on the set of the BDM!!! by Shiny

GENERAL DISCUSSIONS

Blogs from our BDEs on the set of the BDM!!!

POSTED BY: SHINY
UPDATED: Thursday, July 15, 2004 07:36
SHORT URL:
VIEWED: 10925
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Tuesday, July 13, 2004 7:53 PM

Yes this is long, but it's worth the read. Trust me. Thanks to our Big Damn Extras ("Background Players") for taking the time to share their experiences with all Browncoatdom in such detail!

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From Saxon, B.D.E.
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16601.1

*sigh*
I don't know where to begin...I feel like Dorothy being swept up into the clouds, landing in OZ and then suddenly sent back to Kansas!
Got up at 4 am (at a motel right next to Universal). We (me, Gingi aka Coffeewench & Ewok aka Jessi & Jim) got up and around in time for Rosie to call and say she would be there in a few minutes. 5am, Rosie and Carol arrive at our room...hugs, goodmornings and last minute details, and the 'extras' (oh, sorry, Background) are off!

I send us to the wrong gate, and we have to cut back to the right one, just to see that a BUNCH of cars are backed up at the entrance. We give our IDs to the gal at the gate, she says Jim's and Gingi's are on the list , but mine is not! We have to pull off to the side of the road and use a special phone to get someone to vouch for me. The do, and I get my pass. We park, and are off to find Stage 12. We find it and are told to go to Stage 6 for check-in. I meet Audrey and Sasha. This is the 'holding area' that we will come back to off and on all day. They are serving breakfast and it smelled GREAT! There are other 'background people' there.(Gingi was told not to use the "E" word, as 'extra' is somewhat insulting...Background is more 'professional'!!). Most of the guys are eating already. I was told to go to Wardrobe first to get dressed. I do. Then, I'm told to go to Make up, but the line is very long. So I am then to told to go get my hair readied for my wig. I go into a trailer and the gal starts pin curling my hair to my scalp. Then she puts a tiny little nylon cap over all and pins that to my head/hair. VERY ATTRACTIVE!! *right* I sure don't wanna meet up with anyone I know...or anyone I'd like to know...right? So, of course I see DVD guy Jeremy walk by!! lol! I remind of of who I am, and get back into the make up line. Gingi is there, in her costume talking to other BG (background), one cute gal is a fan/extra, she's doing BG work but is also a fan of the show! It was funny how most of the folks had no idea what the show was, and most didn't care. A few who had heard of it were asking questions though, so that was cool.

The line is really long for Make up, so Gingi says she's going to go see where Jim is, and goes off into the holding area. Just then, who should walk up, all unshaven, bed headed, wiping the sleep from his eyes? ALAN!! He is walking right toward me, looks up after rubbing is face and makes eye contact with me! I say "Hi Alan", and babble something about being a fan, and how great is it to be there, he is very nice and shakes my hand. I mention another fan named Rosie that he might remember from a couple of weeks ago, that he also met her at the LA Comic Con...and he cuts me off and say, 'Oh yes, we took a picture together!', I say, that she says "hi" and that she wanted me to give him some copies of the pix. I say I'll try to find him later and she says 'great' and tells me how nice it is for us to come down and all...so nice...he shakes my hand and says "nice to meet you Saxon" (I guess I introduced myself...I keep forgetting I have a REAL name!!). He walked up to the wagon/trailer where they were making omelettes, while I was all giddy...even with the wig cap on my head!!

Gingi comes back and I tell her all about it...then, since the line is still long, I am sent to get my wig on. I go into the trailer and I am sent to Randy's chair. He was really nice and funny...he checks my wig cap, while I look around...the trailer is full of pix of images that are defining the 'look' they want the different characters to have. There are bits of hair in little baggies on the wall behind me. Braids, ponytails, odds and ends of all sorts. All of a sudden I see the wig Randy has for me!! OMIGOSH!! Now, I'm dressed in a karate type burnt orange gi, with a beige kimono over it, so I'm figuring I'm gonna get a little black short cropped number right? Well, it's the extact style I imagined, the 'asian' cut...but it is NEON ELECTRIC BLUE!! He secures is to my head, making jokes about it not hurting, 'yet', saying to let him know if anything is bothering me, since I'll be in it all day. He says, 'they said we'd have a little blue haired lady, but I didn't envision this!' Now I have this short little blue thing on my head, and I'm thinking well, it could be worse...and before the thought can gel in my head, he starts to 'tease' the hair, making it stand up in spikey points! He 'rats' it all over, and gathers sections up and puts bright orange pipe cleaners on the ends of the spikes! He takes a necklace with bright orange plastic flowers on it and fastens it to my head like a headband of sorts...oh yeah, there go my plans of blending into the background! Randy tells me that the last picture he worked on for Universal was "The Grinch" so he was tryin' not to give me "Who" hair...uh-oh...I told him it was sort of 'Willa Flintstone meets Jayne Jetson", and he says, "yes, if Willa Flintstone and Jayne Jetson had a love child, you'd be it!!". I thank Randy, and all the other hair dressers go on and on about how cute it is.

Then I go back to make up. After all the wait for make up, all they do is give me 'lips'! Oh well. They tell me I'm done, and can get some breakfast now. *yeah right, I got these dark red 'I Love Lucy' lips goin' on! I didn't want to get a full omelette, so I look to see what else they had and ended up with a slice of watermelon and about a teaspoon of oatmeal that wasn't very liquidy at that point! I'm sure most of the women there did not get breakfast unless they did so before the went off to all the stops!

Things start getting fuzzy here...so I'm sure I'm gonna report out of order...I can't remember when I saw Gingi's hair....I think it was before I got mine done...ack...I'll have to ask her. I just remember her face!! OMIGOSH! It was hi-larious! I think she was still waiting in the make up line at that point. Yeah, she hadn't gotten her hair done yet either...so she was sent off to get her hair done. I walked into the 'holding area' and Jim caught site of me...it was the looks are priceless...when I passed Jeremy, I just said, 'keep walkin' mister'...he was grinning from ear to ear!

Anyway, I saw a lady with one of the pointy asain hats on, so I figured it must be Erin (DG), so I asked, it was, we hugged, and I met her husband and also Conrad and Brian (Jeremy's friend who came with him from Utah). We all visited while I carefully ate my melon.

There was a gal there from DC who'd won an auction for a 'walk on'! Some of the professional BG people were sitting with us at the 'fan' table! Gingi came in and wow'ed everyone with her hair!! She got her make up done and it was awesome too! My kid dyes her hair red, and has just done it, so it was kind of a bright dark red...it's cut short, in layers...when she walked in, I thought for sure they'd added hair! They teased it and spiked it straight UP! They added silk flowers in the front across the top like a head band...it was soooo cute!!

Jim was in his 'space biker' stuff, and we all just visited for a while. Erin and her hubby and I took some pix.

I went over to thank Sasha for all her help...she is very sweet and YOUNG! She gave me a big hug! I took some pix of her. SHe had on a cord Zoe-type necklace (except it was longer) on and I commented on it...she didn't know anything about it! She she just liked it! I took a pic of that! I also told her about the cakes being delievered at 2, she didn't know about those either!

Just as I was discussing the show with a guy who was sitting there, Erin cam up and said we should walke out past the smokers and see who we might see...so, we started out...just as Audrey came in and said we were gonna have some announcements! *drat*

We are told that we are going over to Stage 12, and that we need to have our costumes and stuff 'checked'. So we get into a 'line up' of sorts. One gal motions to another and she somes and tells me to take off the outter kimono. So now my costume is just just the orange and black pants with the burnt orange karate gi. AND the hair!! Some of the people have been assigned definate 'roles' and they are pulled out. The rest of us go on over to Stage 12. We walk past the trailers/dressing rooms...seeing names like 'Inara', 'Mal'...on them!!

NOW, I gotta say, I'm pretty much confused and befuddle from here on...too much too see...and my brain is small, or possibly missing!

Hopefully others will report better than I am at this point. We went into the studio, were given our props (I got a purse), gave our names (we would be checked for all props before we left) *they are on to us!* And then we had to all gather in the huge stage area...Erin and I get behind, and don't know where to go...we thought they went to the left....but we start that way and can't see anyone...so we go back...and they aren't that way...we go back and forth, giggling like school girls and then are told to go the other way, where we find them. Apparently we did go the wrong way...we took a short cut. *darn it* and missed seeing some stuff!

Oh well...

We walk around in front of the 'nose' of Serenity! (Gingi keeps calling it the Melennium Falcon!). We walk into a very 'busy' area. Lot's of stuff in a very tight space. I don't want to go into to any detail that might be considered spoilerish, but I will say that everything is taking place at the 'front door' of Serenity. We all mill around while one of the 'helpers' (sorry, can't remember her name or title), tells each person where to be, what they will be doing. I'm tapped on my arm, and told, "here, I got you a husband"! I'm introduced to Marv. He is a regular BG guy, been doing it since February and was very funny and nice. I'm told what I will be doing, and see that Conrad is gonna be there with me! Yay, two Browncoats in one 'set/scene'! Right next to us is DG and her hubby! I look around to see if I can see Gingi and Jim and I see her RIGHT AT the door of Serenity! She grins and mimes "we're a couple!!". She was so worried that she and Jim would be seperated. We stand around and every time one of us Browncoats caught sight of one of the BDHs we'd pass the word along...trying to be quiet and discrete! Gingi and Jim were RIGHT there, were they all were at, since they were going to be exiting the ship! Everyone was there except Morena and Ron. Gingi keeps trying to motione over to everyone, you know, with her eyes and face...not wanting to point and yell at me, "Mom! There's Adam! or Nathan"...I couldn't see where she was looking most of the time!

Any way, they do a 'safety' annoucement, warning everyone of an incline that has gravel and is very slippery. Then they tell us that they will rehearse the scene, and then shoot. It was all a blur to me, thank goodness we had Marv, who explained what to listen for! He knew just where the camera was and told me to get 'as much face time as possible without looking at the camera'...I told him I didn't even know WHERE the camera was!!

When they had us waiting to watch how the scene would be played, I saw that Gingi and Jim were being told to walk right out across the paths of the 'stars'!! Oh man! That was freakin' awesome! They practiced a bunch of times. I've told Gingi she needs to write up here memories...cuz most of the stuff she did I didn't see, since it was going on in a different area than me. I do know that she within arms reach of Adam and Nathan!

We rehearsed and shot our scenes, and Marv, Conrad and me had fun saying silly stuff under our breath! Conrad said he was glad his wasn't a mime...it was annoying now being able to speak out loud, yet try to fake a conversation. I noticed that we got pretty good of just repeating our movements over and over.

The ONLY down side to the experience was the smoke! They had lots of smoke, coming from three sides of us! It didn't smell bad, I thought it was insence, but the guys who came and lit it and replaced it said it was walnut shells. It was literally in Marv's and Conrad's faces...I kept stepping away...I was worried Gingi might need an inhaler, but she wasn't that close to it.

Things went on in a blur...rehearse, then shoot, change a bit, rehearse shoot.

It really is shiny that I can honestly say that as to plot and script, I'm still pretty much spoiler free! I know what the scene is, but don't know for sure what the story line is around it, ya know? Watching Joss work was awesome! You can see that he 'sees' this whole story in his head. And it's all being broken down into tiny little puzzle pieces, and he gives out each piece to his troop of crew, and they do their thing and each piece gets made. Awesome!

I think we all went outside then...I think...I can't be sure, cuz I saw Adam walk by and my brain left.

All the Browncoats told me to talk to him, but he was walking toward the trailer/dressing rooms fairly briskly and I didn't want to bother him. Everyone said I'd regret not speaking up...but none of them made a move to talk to him either!! We saw him twice...and I didn't speak up either time...yeah, I do regret it, we didn't get another chance the rest of the day!

One of the times when we (the BG) were all walking out, I noticed a really pretty girl walking next to me...it was Jewel! She walked out with our group...and I thought, I better say something this time! I turned to see if anyone else in our group saw her and no one had, I told the guys to say something, and they wouldn't! I looked and she was pretty far ahead, so I figured I'd blown it, but she stopped to fiddle with her boot, so I said something about her "waving to the fans to confuse them" in reference to her blog entry. And she cracked up. I told her I was from the 'green board', and introduced myself. She was very nice and thanked all of us for coming out! These folks are awesome. As I walked away, Conrad taps me on the shoulder, like 'shame on you!', I told him 'well, where were you? You guys are supposed to keep me from accosting....*just as Alan walks past me*...the TALENT" *as I motion at Alan, he turns and grins!

Okay...I think this is where we had lunch. It was fantastic! We were told to please sit on 'that' side of the room and get our food from 'that' side (two stations were set up, one for BG, one for Cast/crew). I said it was like high school, and we weren't allowed to sit at the 'cool kid's' table! All of the Browncoats sat together, and as I sat down, Gingi said, 'mom, there's Summer'. She came and sat right across from us, on the 'cool kids' side. It was funny letting the guys know she was there...I think Jeremy's brain went off line for a couple of seconds there! :P

Erin told me to speak to her...since I let Adam 'slip by'...I told her I'd spoken to Jewel, so it was her turn! She went over and very nicely told Summer who she and we were...Summer was so nice! I'll let DG fill in these blanks. We also saw that Jewel and Nathan came in to eat, but none of the others did.

Well, we had a really long lunch break, and I was waiting for a chance to get Summer to autograph my t-shirt and the drawing I'd gotten at the LA con, I'd told her about it and said she was jealous cuz she thought it was such a beautiful drawing!

I took the time to call Rosie to check on Ewok, and they told me they were right near where we walk up to Stage 12, so I walked out to see them. They were right at the corner, behind/between some bushes! They went crazy over my blue hair! I told them what was going on with us. I'm not sure if Rosie gave me the info about getting backstage then or not...too blurry headed again. I went ahead and went back inside, cuz I wanted to be sure to get Summer's autograph. She finally finished lunch and I pulled out the drawing and t-shirt. She was very sweet! My camera would not work, but DG got a shot of me and her together. As we were finishing up, I saw that Summer was waiting for a guy that she was supposed to be going back with, I decided to call Ewok...just as I got Rosie, and asked for Jessi, Summer smiled at me, and I said, "Summer can you do me a favor and say hi to my daughter?" *I had told her that Ewok was over at the park with Rosie and her sister*...well, she just didn't say 'hi'...she started a conversation! It was awesome! The guy with her said they had to go, but she kept talking, so he said, 'walk and talk at the same time'...so we both started walking back toward Stage 12, she was telling Jessi how blue and cool my hair was, she asked her where she was, just as we turned the corner I said, 'she's right there', and she told Jessi to wave so she'd know which one was her'. (it was funny, cuz Ewok said when Summer asked 'where are you', she said, "if I say I'm in the bushes will it freak you out?"...Too funny!!

Anyway, she was so great...beyond great! The guy kept telling her she had to go, so I thanked her and she went off...Ewok was flyin' higher than Serenity!!

**I have to stop for awhile...my hubby is home and I haven't seen him since Sunday!**

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From Rosie, B.D.E.
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16591.1

Rosie's -'Versal Shindig w/Nathan, Alan and Jewel.

Ok I still cannot believe it first I'll tell you the gist then the details.

We had personal interaction w/ Nathan and Alan and Jewel. Pictures to be posted soon. Also we went on the set and toured Serenity full of the little details. Summer waved hi to us. It was such an amazing experience. I just can't do it justice. Seems I think it and want it then I can achieve it.

My sister, Blinksgurl of the Serenity Board, and I woke up at 4am to get ready to meet Saxon and Little Ewok. They had a 5:30 am call time so we needed to be there around 5am. Basically we had breakfast and drove around for a while before going in to Universal Studios. The park opens at 9am.

Once inside Universal, the three of us go straight for the tram tour to see if we can see anything. I talk to this guy who says Ingrid is the tour guide who loves Firefly. We tell him we are expecting many Browncoats so is there some way to sit together. He says they can work something out if we all come down at the same time. We were disappointed becaue we saw NOTHING. apparently they were filming indoors and we hoped it would be an outdoor shoot. After the tram we went down to the Mummy Ride, which is really cool, but way too brief. Then we went on Jurrasic Park the ride. Then we started to go back to meet the rest of the Browncoats arriving at 11:30 am at the store.

I really wanted to get a tour of Serenity both Blinksgurl and Little Ewok got their work permits and were not cast in the movie. I thought it would be great to get a tour of the set. So I went to inquire about it. I went to VIP Experience and they said it needs to be set up through the production company, it is a closed set and they are not able to give tours unless someone authorizes it. Wel I was a little bummed an d went to meet folks. I walked out of the park at 11:30 am and stayed at the store until Noon. Only Wiley appeared. We were planning are meeting up again at 2pm but we were a little busy.We went to the 12:30pm showing of T:2.
When we exited we got wet at the splash zone. That is when I received a call from my mom saying Saxon called. Apparently she did not have my cell number. I called Saxon and she said they were at lunch and she was trying to get some autograph. I told her we are going to come down and find out the closest spot to the stage 12. There is a spot jsut acroos from where their trailers are.

We had to cross a couple of barriers but finally we arrived. Saxon came to us once we were there. She looked so cute with her blue hair. ADORABLE. She will be easy to spot. Then she leaves and we are just standing there in the bushes behind the gates/bars separating us from them. We waited to catch glimpses. We waited patiently. Many people walking by just stared at the girls in the bushes.

To be continued...I promise.

Rosie aka Fireflypsngr

http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16591.14

OK here is the next installment, still once more coming:

So we are waiting. We arrived around 1:30 pm and I know folks will be passing by until at least 2:30 pm. So we wait. Many people are walking by staring at the girls in the bushes.
Finally one of the Production Assistants, Bryan walks over to us and asks, "Did you pay money to stand in the bushes?"

I respond, "Nooooooo, We are just trying to see if we can get a glimpse of someone. You would be our hero if you could get us on the set of Serenity."

Bryan replies, "That would take a miracle. But I’ll see if I can get someone to come over… I can’t promise anything."

I reply, "Thank you, of course we under stand thanks."

Then we wait and then I see Nathan start to walk over with Bryan. I tell the Girls, "Nathan is coming!!! Everybody calm down be good Nathan is walking over." I am just way tooo excited. It was unfathomable that Cappy is walking over.

So Nathan grabs the bars separating us with both hands and my sister takes a picture, very shiny picture!

Nathan say, "They told me there were fans in the bushes and I just had to see for myself."

He looks at our shirts, 2 Blue Sun, one Serenity and I am wearing the BDH T-shirt that Irish and Dar created. I show him the back. My sister Blinskgurl, asks for a picture then Bryan still standing there says here let me. Bryan takes a picture and then the rest of the girls pose for a picture with Cappy. I was not to be left out so I took a picture as well. We thank him for coming over and taking the time and they walk off.

We are just basking in our unique opportunity and since I led the expedition I am declared their hero. Then, before I know what is happening my sister tell me to be quiet.

She said she just heard Nathan say, "Alan come over and say hi to Rosie."

I am trying to rack my brains figuring out how Nathan knew my name. I don’t believe he remembered me, but then I finally remember I told Bryan my name. The girls are up against the gate and I am stepped back trying to get calm. THIS IS JUST TOOO MUCH.!!!!

Then I hear Alan say, "Hey Rosie is that you?!?" He is peering through my sisters trying to find meeeeeeeee!

The girls step aside and I step forward extend my hand to him and say, "Sure is sweety. I am holding his hand, honestly not sure for how long. I am talking to Alan and he remembers me. (I am so lucky I did not faint right then and there.) I told him I had given Saxon a copy of the picture we took. I asked if he got it and he says yes then corrects himself and taps my hand with his finger and says, "No, she told me about it but I still haven’t got it." I told him he looked good.

Then somehow Nathan jumps into the conversation asking about the picture and I tell Nathan about seeing Alan outside the Shrine Auditorium. Directing myself to Nathan, "Imagine, I am paying money go and get his autograph and he is standing outside on his cell trying to figure out how to get in!?!"

Then Alan says, "Yeah I am on the phone trying to figure out how to get in." That is when I see Jewel walk up. She walks up with this look like she wondering what are you doing in the bushes. She doesn’t make a comment though. She is truly beautiful. My sister tells her so and takes her picture.

Then Nathan says, "Let me take a picture of everyone." He takes my sister’s camera and takes a group picture. Then he sees the bars are blocking people’s faces so he says "Let me take another one from this angel." more staright forward.

We then take a picture of the 3 of them and thank them for stopping by. I tell Jewel how much I love her blog ans thank her for posting. I love the way she writes. Nathan points out my shirt and tells Jewel, " They did a good job with Adam and I but I don't think you came out very well." Jewel smiles up at Nathan. They are so cool and begin walking back to the set.

So we are still waiting because it is not yet 2:30 and we haven’t seen Adam yet. We still hope for a glimpse. Then I get a call from Audrey my super hero production assistant.

More coming soon …

http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16591.34

Here is the Final Installment:
So Audrey calls and says Saxon gave her a piece of paper about the VIP Experience. I had given that to Saxon earlier so that we could get permission to go on to the set. I explained to Audrey that I wanted a tour of the set of Serenity and they said it is a closed set. We need someone from the Production Company to authorize a visit. She said ok let me see what I can do and hangs up. So the waiting continues and then she calls back not even 5 minutes later. She says she is sending an intern Matt to come escort us and give us the tour. I tell her where we are and as soon as she see us she says, "I am hanging up now."

So now she is standing at the corner where we are and says, "Ok let me see if I can find someone…" I interrupt, " The gate is open over here!" So she turns and walks toward it. I am sure she is thinking if its open why are you in the bushes? She does not make any comment however. I introduce her to Blinksgurl, Little Ewok and Wiley. Then I declare Audrey my hero. Then I extend a hand and ask the guy with her, his name. It’s Matt. Then we start walking over to the stage. Now I am focussed on Audrey and Matt and what she is saying to him. I am not looking around since I expect no one. The girls glance over to the trailers and Alan is just sitting outside and waves. They try to get my attention but I am focussed. Then they tell me, "Alan is waving at you." I missed it. Audrey says she has to go but Matt will give us the tour.

We are entering the stage. We can’t really see anyone because we are on the opposite side of the ship. The ship is dark so it was hard to step in and look around. We entered through the fore deck and went up into the bridge. They started rolling as we were in there. I placed my hand where Alan would rest his head. Just looking around the ship, I spotted the 3 switches and the 2 new panels Alan mentioned. We are going back through the fore deck to the kitchen. My sister says touch the handles. I do and I touched the top ring of Kaylee’s bunk. Lights are up and so is her sign. Then we enter the kitchen. Folks are lounging in the kitchen. Just hanging out. Then we enter the bridge. I touch Kaylee’s hammock and notice a poster on the wall. Lot’s of Chinese touches. Then we walk out and over to the cargo hold. They are shooting there but we entered through a side way. We stood in front of the infirmary. They had just finished rolling, the we walked in. Summer saw us and waved. All I saw was Nathan and Jewel. My sister said she saw Sean and Gina.

Then the tour was over, the other stage were down. Matt asked if we wanted anything more and I waited to see if anyone else had any request but we were just floored with all we had been given we couldn’t ask for more. We told him they had already gone above and beyond. So Matt escorted us to just outside the stage. The girls wanted to wander but I said no. We are going to be good. Then I see Bryan going over to get Alan and he asks, "How did you get here?" I reply with a smile, "Audrey", now I am not sure if I said it or just thought it but I added, "She’s a powerful woman." Then Alan comes out on his cell waking toward the stage. We all wave but can’t talk.

Then we went back through the gate and that is it really. Way too cool for words. Standing next to Nathan, Alan and Jewel then touring Serenity left me totally dehydrated. I could no longer think. I was overloaded with joy.

We all felt bad for those who didn’t make it but then again it would never have been possible for a large group. Audrey ROCKS and so does BRYAN.

I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH I HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS.

I will not be online tonight until maybe late. {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Browncoats}}}}}}}}}}}}}

=====

From Wiley, B.D.E.
http://browncoats.serenitymovie.com/serenity/index.html?fuseaction=for
um.viewtopic&t=4158&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=15

Okay. So. Having trouble articulating. I'm just going to post whatever quick notes come to mind and let the others post something that's actually, you know... coherent and intelligent.

Somehow we missed the rest of the shindiggers... dunno if they opted not to go, or arrived late, or what, but I met up with three of the girls (who I hope will post some fabulous accounts of all the fabulousness) at the store, and we waited until about noon at our rendevous point and then set off into the park. We'd all been inside already and taken the studio tour tram on our own, and decided that there wasn't much to see... went on a few rides when we entered the park, then moved down to an area a little closer to Stage 12, which is the main Serenity soundstage.

I'll let the girls describe exactly how we ended up loitering in a shrubbery (they are so much braver than me in so many ways), but I can tell you that we saw some very cool-looking extras... one of them was wearing a zany zebra hat. Summer walked by on her way to somewhere and waved at us. At one point, a PA noticed that the shrubbery was talking, and he came over to visit us. He then left, and came back with Nathan Fillion. Nathan chatted with us, we took some pictures, then he left and came back with Alan Tudyk. Then Jewel Staite was walking by, and was no doubt wondering why Alan and Nathan were over there talking to a shrubbery, so she came over to say hello too. (Everybody likes a talking shrubbery.) They all had to get back to work, so they moseyed away...

And then another PA came over and invited us in for a tour. We were taken into stage 12, where we got to wander through Serenity: we went up into the cockpit area, down through the corridor where everybody's quarters are, through the dining room, out to the lounge and the infirmary. We didn't go into the cargo bay, because they were shooting in there, but we did get to look in between takes; Summer waved at us and Sean gave us a funny look like "what is Summer waving at?" ;D Once we'd seen pretty much everything, the very kind PA led us outside again, and we ran into Alan again as we were leaving; he was on the phone so he just waved goodbye at us. Then we went back out and, you know... gibbered incoherently at each other. It was a good day.

I'm sure the girls will have better photos to share (one of them got a jawdropping shot of Alan and Nathan), but here's the few salvageable ones I took:

(This is the trailers outside Stage 12, which is the main soundstage and the place they were shooting today. You can see one of the zany-looking extras going into a trailer.)

(Alan talking with a Shindigger. Look! It's The Fabled Outfit!)

(Alan again)

(Jewel, tragically out of focus)

(Our big damn heroes walking away)

(And more walking-away action)

(And the best for last... a photo of me and Nathan, only with the "me" part cut out. You can see why I found his shirt so distracting.)

Okay, that's it for me. I've got to scrounge up some dinner. Hopefully the rest of our merry party will show up and share what will undoubtedly be more interesting anecdotes and pictures.

=====

From Carol, B.D.E.
http://browncoats.serenitymovie.com/serenity/index.html?fuseaction=for
um.viewtopic&t=4158&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=45

Hi I'm carol aka blinksgurl and Wiley, my sister Rosie, Ewok, and I went to Universal Studios. It was so much fun! Now I know all of you know that we met some of the cast so if u want so skip over to the blue font that’s the main part you all are interested.
K well we, my sister and I, woke up at 4am to meet up with Ewok at her hotel room. We had breakfast at Denny’s and then after a while off we were to Universal Studios. Now of course the first thing we did was go on the tram tour. Waited through hoping for a glimpse of our heroes and was sadly disappointed. Nothing we saw nothing. I’m not even sure if our guide mentioned Serenity now that I think of it. Although I know that another one of the guides is a Firefly fan an always talks about Serenity with the folks on there.
After the disappointing tram tour, we went on The Mummy rollercoaster it was fun but it was way too short. Then went to go meet our other browncoats at 11:30 and only Wiley arrived (lucky her) then we waited until 12 no one showed up so we left - off we went back to the park. We went once again on the tram tour and only saw trailers and no one from our BDM. After we left we went on Terminator 2: 3D and then we went down to The Mummy to go on that again. After that ride we went on Jurassic Park, and left to go see Spider Man rocks. (I’m not sure if I’m saying everything correctly doesn’t matter I only forget what rides we went on and that’s not really important).
Now this is the good stuff – we were down around where Jurassic Park is and I thought we were going to go on it again but the line was long. Then all of a sudden my sister, Rosie, told us all to follow her. Now their was a small barrier or fence but it was just to let everyone know that the line wasn’t as long as that. We passed by and got as close as we could to the sound stages. Rosie called Ewok's mom to let her know where we were (Ewok’s mom was lucky enough to be an extra). She came down and we got some pictures of her. Then after many people passed by someone came up to us and asked if we had paid money to wait in the bushes, it was funny, we told him our story and he remembered my sister from when she was an extra. He told us he would see what he could do but he would not promise us anything. Than after a few minutes he came back with Nathan, it was amazing we were all excited and wanted to scream like little girls but we restrained ourselves. Brian I believe was the name of the PA he suggested pictures and of course we took some. Then Nathan and Brian left and a few minutes later Nathan is back wit no one other than Alan. (Hopefully my sister will post about the conversation she had with Alan and Nathan, the rest of us where to stun to say anything). I think that they were shocked that we were waiting in the bushes. Later Jewel comes by probably wanting to figure out why Alan and Nathan where there. She is really beautiful and sweet. They all are. Nathan asks me would you like me to take a group shot with your camera. I of course told him yes. It was funny because he was the one taking the group shot when hello he’s a star. After they chatted with us a little but had to go on. We decided to stay for a little while but not too long because we didn’t want to look like stalkers. My sister then gets a call from her old production assistant Audrey and tells us that she’ll try and get us in. Rosie tells her where we were and she comes by. Oh and I forgot to say that previously Ewok’s mother had put Summer on the phone to talk to Ewok and she waved to us as she walked by. So back to the story, Audrey comes up to the gate and tells us she’ll ask those people if they’ll open the gate so that we can go on the set. We told her about the open gate and tells us to come right through it. She had to leave but she left Matt with us to guide us around the sit. We got to go through the set it was wonderful. I’m not going to give any details but Serenity has changed a little. Once we were done we thanked him and left. After we went to eat and just sort of hung out and went on some rides and watched some shows. It was so much fun. For those of you who want to hear some more, my sister Rosie, is going to post the whole day (complete with every little detail she can remember about what happened)

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Tuesday, July 13, 2004 8:14 PM

GRIMLAKIN

Somewhere in the world the casba was just rocked.

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Tuesday, July 13, 2004 8:16 PM

SHINY

And in case anyone hadn't already read about Bob's Excellent Adventure as an Extra, you can find his story here:
http://fireflydvd.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=1566#1566
and the photos (very mildly spoiler-ish) here:
http://fireflydvd.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=177

"I left my heart in Serenity Valley"

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Tuesday, July 13, 2004 8:46 PM

HAKEN

Likes to mess with stuffs.

I would like permission to repost this entire thing into the FEATURES section so that it's more visible. Please let me know if it's okay. I already have Wiley's permission. Just need the rest.

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Tuesday, July 13, 2004 10:41 PM

SAXON

Hi, I'm Saxon, you have my permission to post my stuff where ever you want! :P

I have the second half of my story if you want it.

***********************************************
Saxon's story, part 2:

Okay, let's see what happened next?
After saying thanx to Summer I think we all went back into Stage 12. I know I had given Audrey the info about getting someone to vouch for Rosie, Ewok, Carol and Wiley to come onto the set. She said she'd see what she could do. I also told her about the cakes being delievered at 2. She didn't know about them. We went back to work, and I was sorry that I didn't take the chance to get Jewel to autograph my drawing and t-shirt...*sigh*...oh well.

When we were on the set, they were doing alot of different stuff, moved the camera angles, had two of the new characters doing some stuff right next to where me, my new 'husband, and Conrad were...and they did it over and over and over...it was fun...except for the smoke!

During one of the 'waiting times' Audrey came over and told me the cakes were there, and asked if I had my camera...I said no, it was back in the holding area...she said, 'oh, well, maybe someone will get a picture of it'...ack! I'd thought about putting the camera in the purse, but it was stuffed with a big towel...so I hadn't! She also asked me for the names of the ones who wanted in, so I gave her everyone's names. We had no idea they'd been there...or had their 'close encounter' till later!

Finally, they let a bunch of us go back to the holding area...and I was so tired that I can't even remember much about that time...After a long while I called Rosie and they told me about meeting the gang and touring the set! It was great. Then my 'husband' Marv told me the wanted us back on the set....but when we got there they told us we were 'wrapped' and could go. I had just emptied the purse out and put my t-shirt, phone, camera and pen in it (the towel was SOOOO heavy), so I pulled my stuff out and returned the purse...I told the guy I'd bring the towel right back over. I went and put my stuff away, and got the towel...most everyone who had been on the same side of the set as me was 'wrapped', so we all made our way back down the process of getting back to 'normal'. I had my wig removed (so my hair looks really terrible in the pix we took afterward!), changed out of my costume and went back to the holding area. Audrey had told us she would give us Browncoats a tour of Serenity! We had to wait till everyone was done though, which was good, since Gingi, Jim, Brian and Jeremy were still busy. I told Audrey how great the day had been and took her pic, I said the only thing I regretted was not getting to talke to Adam and get the autographs of the BDHs I'd missed at the LA Con. She said (and this kills me), "oh, you should have mentioned something, I'd have set something up". By then all the 'stars' had left for the day! We'd seen them on the set before we left, and they were all posing for pix and then were obviously saying bye, hugs, kissed and handshakes! ack!!

After all the Browncoats were back in regular clothes, we heard Audrey getting an intern to show us around. We thanked her for everything, and she left us with Michael to take us back into Stage 12. The lights were down, and the 'ship' inside was pretty dark. When we toured the Angel set, it was really dim, but this, in some places was pitch black!

I'll say this...I now understand what everyone is saying about Serenity being the same, yet different. The changes are so very subtle, but they are there, and for the better! I was surprised how areas looked very small, yet, when we got the pictures back , it looke like they were taken in an open space! I'm always amazed how someone can envision these things and make them appear the way they do on camera! The most well lit area was of course the cargo bay...and it was huge! It looks even bigger in the pictures!

I cracked up when I saw the pix of me...my hair is really whacked...but I have this half crazed look on my face! I was totally excited by this! It was awesome to see 'Jayne, Mal, Zoe, Kaylee, Simon, River and Wash', but walking onto Serenity ROCKED!!!

We all posed for a shot at the cargo bay door. Then said goodbye. I noticed we had a 'stray' with us...one of the other BG guys, Victor tagged along with us!! Yay!! Another recruit!!

I've told Gingi and Jim they have to tell their stories, but they don't know how to put it down with out being spoilerish, they are so new to the FF world. I gotta say, I don't think telling you what the 'set' was about will 'spoil' anything...I heard NO dialog...well, except some Chinese! But for those who don't even want to know where and what we were about, I told them to put 'possible spoiler' warnings on the post.

After we left, Victor told us that we could go through that open gate to enter Universal Studios, so we did and called Rosie, we were at Jurassic Park, so we rode it and they met us at the exit. After that we had to split up to get our car (we had to go back through the gate to a different parking area). We couldn't find our car for the longest time (the stair said 'stair 5', but we were on the 2nd level!). So Rosie and the girls beat us back to the room. We order Chinese Food (Rosie got Bao it was GOOD!), and giggled and went over our day. Rosie was going to take notes for me, to help me remember, but we couldn't find any paper! :P

I wanna thank Rosie SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much for everything she did for us! Ewok would have missed out on an excellent adventure if Rosie hadn't come down to the park and took her with them. It turned out that they got more one on one time with the 'stars' than we did! How cool is that?

I better get, I'll try and remember more later...I'm exhausted!

I still feel like this was all a dream!

"If I say I'm in the bushes will it freak you out" (Ewok in answer to Summers' query to her whereabouts)

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 5:20 AM

SHINY

Jeremy (DVD guy and web-master-type-person of fireflymovie.com/serenitymovie.net) posted the first half of his BDE experience here:

http://fireflydvd.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=2427#2427

[edited to remove text of post at Jeremy's request, please click above link to view]

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 7:47 AM

BROWNCOAT1

May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one.

Thanks for the updates BDEs (Saxon & Jeremy). Thanks for posting the info here Shiny!

This is all great reading. Makes me feel like I am almost there w/ the BDEs.

"May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one."

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 10:20 AM

WREN

DamnitGirlie has now left her report at the OB:

From:(DamnitGirlie) 3:26 pm
To: ALL
Hi All
Ok,
To say my time is limited, both on and off line is a tremendous understatement. We are wrapping up hell week on our theater production and shows start tomorrow, plus of course I have no access online. So my account doesn't have its usual finesse. I hope no one minds. I just wanted to try and get some info out as soon as I could before it got too late to even matter, or too jumbled in my mind. Sorry in advance about spelling, punctuation etc. Here goes.
Lets start with Saturday. Saturday morning I called into the line we were told to call for directions, updates etc. I learn my call time was at 5:30 am (ack AM!)Monday and there is a message about hair and make-up. I am supposed to arrive fully made up. I don?t usually wear make up, and with the exception of my wedding (which someone else did) I haven?t worn foundation since high school when we applied it with a spatula! As far as I know I don?t even own any, and chances for getting out to buy some are more than just limited because Saturday is costume-fitting day for our musical theater group and I am costume mistress. I spent the day fitting three hundred people with about seven hundred costumes for ?Annie? So I don?t get home until around 11:00pm. Sunday is our first full dress rehearsal so I spend the day there again and don?t get home until 11ish. (Remember my call time is 5:30!) I now stay up to try some make up I have hunted down, shower and basically be nervous. I finally went to bed at about 1am planning to get up around 3:30 so I have time. This was silly because I spent my time alternating between checking my alarm to make sure it was set, dreaming about missing my alarm, and waking up in a panic to check the time. It was the longest two hours I never spent sleeping! Plus it is still around 95 degrees so it is impossibly ugly to sleep in. I finally get up on time and do my hair and make up. (I think I did ok but it was so hot I am sure most of it melted off before I got there) My husbands (lets call him Snoozeman) time is 6am so we just go together...he does not need hair or make up. We grab breakfast on the way, but I am too nervous to eat more than a few nibbles. Finally we arrive at Universal and check in at the parking gate. We are issued security passes and given vague and inaccurate directions about where we belong. ?Park and follow this road (wrong road) to building #_ . We follow those directions and pretty much take a walking tour of the Universal lot. Big place! But as we walk several others who look like they know where they are going join us. Apparently they thought the same about us. Now if you think we allowed ourselves to diverge from the directions and just go according to the numbers on the buildings you?re a fool! Finally we encounter some signs which say ?Serenity?. They don?t give any directions but at least we know were close. We pass a stage where we can see the but end of Serenity. YEA! We wander passed a line of trailers and see the woman who fitted us for our costumes. We say hi and she wishes Snoozeman luck in the heat with his all black padded suit. And we continue on. We have arrived at the end of the line. Not our destination just where the lot ends! HOLY COW I can see the front of Serenity now! There were some guys working and very bright lights. We continue to wander right up to the door, passing our loveable crews trailers along the way (I just realized I should have taken a picture!) Our little group [of followers just stands there looking at each other as we all realize the people we were following are just as lost as we are. Finally some guy calls down the road and points us in a new direction...pretty much back the other way. We are told to check in at ?holding? where we are apparently to be wrangled with 75 other folks for the day. I check in and I am sent to the costume trailer and from there I go to hair. In the hair trailer I am given a Rita Hayworth long red wig which is then tampered with and enhanced with streaks of blue purple brown and orange hair pieces, pipe cleaner, and other various oddities. When finished in full costume and wig I look like Dorothy gone wrong. Rather then heading off to OZ she has moved to China, dropped acid, swallowed the Fat Elvis, and is wearing the ?cone of silence? on her head. Daylight is broken! I return to the holding pen and meet back up with Snoozeman, who says, ?you look like a funky Dorothy? so it?s not just me folks! Now the fun part is...the wig covers my ears so I can?t hear anything, so every time someone speaks to me I must lift my ponytails away from my head gently.... But the ?cone of silence? hat makes everything echo. My own voice sounds especially loud in the hat so I keep getting the giggles. It made for some funny looking conversations.
I see a young girl at the next table who looks like she Coffeewench and her Beau, but no Saxon. Now the people who do this for a living have brought lounge chairs and are sleeping, or playing cards etc. We have brought nothing and just sit and stare at each other and the room. Finally a woman comes up and asks if I?m Erin and introduces herself...It is Saxon and we visit for a moment before she heads off to get wigged (OH MY GOD what a wig!) Eventually the room begins to fill with the most bizarre looking group of people you have ever seen. Let me just suggest here that Snoozeman and myself are among the most ?subdued? looking. The rainbow was well represented in hair and in gorgeous airbrushed make up! I also wish I had taken some pics of the really interesting costumes, hairs and make-ups. Rest assured Dr. Seuss had nothing on these guys! We meet DVD Guy and his friend Brian, and CB. We all just gravitated to the same area. Coincidence? I think not. Sax and Coffeewench eventually return looking WILD and great. They were both adorable and Saxon was ?shocking? I don?t know if any photos have posted yet but you?ll know when you see her! And you won?t be able to mss her in the movie...she?s got electric blue hair with little neon orange lightening bolts shooting all around it. She looks a little like she just escaped from Whoville and went on a punker binge. And coffeewench?s hair is simply standing straight off her head like she stuck her finger in an outlet and then sprinkled with some cute little flowers. She looked really cute and should consider keeping the do. DVD Guy got makeup down the back of his head, which looked like Chinese letters had been burned in from his scalp to his neck. It was incredibly cool. I took a close up so we will have to get someone to tell us what it says. The rest of the guys got some little touches like face hair etc. Snoozeman got nothing because he had the furry Ewok hat, and trust me it was enough. So now we all just sit around getting to know each other and snapping discrete photos, as cameras are strictly forbidden on the lot. Not so discrete that the Security guard doesn?t nicely ask us to go back inside where we can't be seen. The AD keeps saying things in movie lingo, but luckily Snoozeman used to work in movies so he can translate for me. As it gets later I figure I should run to the ladies room, so I am not doing the pee-pee dance during filming. Now using the facilities would not constitute an event worth of mention for a lesser person..... But then a lesser person I am not. Not only was it a challenge to keep everything up out of harms way but when I tried to exit the stall I find there isn?t enough clearance for ?the cone of silence?. My head gets wedged between the door and the wall (it was a tight squeeze ok, this is not because I am not smart enough to manage!) I must now return to the hair trailer and get my head remounted. Darn! Girlie now has an opportunity to wander freely. What fools! The hair woman changes my hair while I am there adding some beads and some hair paint which stays wet most of the day. Upon my return I walk right passed Adam who is standing talking to a couple of guys. I didn?t want to interrupt and I figure I will get a better chance later. I am kicking myself. I should have at least said hi. But I do decide to grab Sax and drag her back with me. He is less then ten feet from the door. Arms linked we start to head out when the AD stops us and asks where we are going. I felt like a kid trying to cut school who gets caught by a principle. I make a lame attempt of needing to step out for some air but she tells us we have to stay because we are about to receive directions. Sadly, that was it for my chances to say hi to Adam all day. :(
We return disappointed and receive our first instructions for the day. We are headed over to the stage, where we will each be issued a prop and assigned a position or activity. We stand patiently in line for our prop and visit nervously about our nervousness and our hopes for the day. The others receive their props and continue on but the guy is called away right before Sax and I, so we wait. When he returns we are both issued colorful purse style bags. We step away as suddenly realize neither one of us watched where the rest of the group went. We are standing pretty much completely alone on a sound stage with no idea which way to go (this seems to happen to me alot don?t you think?) So we strike off to the right. We wander aimlessly looking at livestock and deciding that we are venturing into unknown territory. As there is still no sign of the 73 other people we turn back (You should know we were actually headed the right way, but never went back in that direction again.) Upon turning we can at least see a throng of bodies and light in the other direction so we tromp off together trying to look casual and not lost. Now we are in the right area but we have gone the wrong way so w have to push trough a crowd and a lot of equipment. But we eventually find our little group. The set is beautiful. I doubt it will be so lovely on screen but it is bright with color and light and glittery stuff. It is your basic marketplace with little shop looking areas. Think ?swap meet? only with a Whedon flare. Much of the day I was trying to look like I knew what I was doing or wasn?t in awe so I regret not looking/poking around more. Also I looked at my feet alot in hopes I would not perform a classic Girlie swan dive into something expensive or irreplaceable. Snoozeman pointed out the cast was standing right where Saxon and I had just walked through. We probably walked right by them all and never even noticed because we were looking for the group. We run a few rehearsals and then begin filming. After about four tries I am feeling confident with my acting abilities. I can window shop like nobodies business now! Basically we are shopping outside the cargo bay door. The crew has a small convo in the bay while we shop. Cut. Do it again. We film that same minute over and over. Then we continue to shop while the crew films from another angle. Then we shop while the walk down the plank, etc etc. I wish I could report ANYTHING...but my back was to the ship, so I missed everybody doing every damn thing, and the ?cone of silence? limited my ability to hear "action" or "cut" so I had to look at other extras for an indication of when to start and stop. I understand there was some fun slipping and sliding etc behind me, but you?ll have to get that from one of the other extras. I will have to describe the lovely pomegranate I got to look at while the others watched our crew. It was red. It was round. It was plastic. OH and smoke! There was tons of smoke. They put out these little canisters filled with walnut shells and then light them on fire with a blowtorch. Poor Saxon stood in the same spot all day about a foot from one of those canisters. Not that I wouldn?t have traded places with her!
Long and short. We did this all day. I got to move around a little and will definitely be visible in the film. But total I can?t imagine it being more then a two-minute scene total. (12 hours = 2 minutes) I see why it takes so long to make a movie. At one point I got to have a piece filmed very close to me so I got to stand with in spiting distance (not that I would spit on him) of Joss, but I felt the timing to stop and introduce myself was bad so I passed. He seemed busy...you know directing and all. He did do the little hold your hands up in front of you and frame the shot director thing though! He was taller then I expected too!
Finally we took a break for lunch. They fed us like kings. While we were standing in line Summer passed by and went in to eat. She was sitting across from our table with a few people when I sat down. I finally decided we had to let someone know we were there and since Bob had such good fortune with her I gave it a shot. Had I paid more attention I would have known Nate and Jewel were about two tables away and I would have gone there too. I approached her table and explained that there were eight of us (everybody waved hen I pointed) from the OB. We were happy to be there. Some had come from far away. And we just wanted to say hi, and not to be afraid if she noticed us staring from afar. It?s sort of a blur for me. Then I excused myself because I really didn?t want to bother her while she was trying to eat. Sax spoke across the room to her for another minute but I couldn?t hear anything they said through my hair. After I returned to my seat DVD Guy took some posters to Nate and Jewel and also pointed us out, and to Summer. I had Snoozeman snap a blurry photo of Nate and Jewel, you may not be able to tell, but I know it?s them. We didn?t want to use the flash because we were trying to be discrete. Right about then is when my batteries died out on the camera. We managed a couple of shots of Summer when she came over to sign Sax?s stuff. But that was it. After lunch we returned and did more filming. For a long time. My feet were killing me in my granny shoes and they were filled with gravel, but I still loved every second. Right after lunch Nate returned still putting his shirt on. Small gesture as it was, it was nice of him to stand center stage unzip and tuck his shirt in. I thought of you all at that moment and was convinced if there was a moment to snatch the pants that was it! The moment passed without incident and we continued filming. The stopped after awhile and took some cast photos (No Morena or Ron this day either). Then we watched them all hug goodbye and realized they were done for the day. Leaving. Gone. We were too far away to even yell goodbye. It was a little sad to never get to really introduce ourselves. We worked for awhile longer after they left. Nathan was still standing around visiting with a girl who had won her extra part in an online auction (What? How did we miss that!)? She also got to take one of the cast photos with them. AARRGGGHHH! As we passed him on our way off the stage we waved and said hi but he didn?t seem to notice us.?. We walked back to holding, and were eventually told to return our props, and costumes and hair. Gina drove passed us as she left the lot, but I didn?t see her. Snoozeman never says anything until the person is gone like ? that was Gina who just almost ran you over? or ?did you see Andy Garcia sitting behind you in the restaurant? Sometimes I hate him! When we were all done we asked the AD if we could please get a little looksey around the ship. She said she would have an assistant give us a fast tour when everything wrapped. We sat around until pretty much we were the only people left. She took us back to the set. Most of the lights were off but we still got to take a quick tour of Serenity. Of course by then naturally my camera was dead! We did get a nice shot (I hope) taken of all nine of us (we picked a guy up along the way who tagged along on the tour) standing on the cargo ramp. Right where the cast took their photo. Funny how there ended up being nine of us!

All in all it was still an amazing day. I know everyone had different encounters with different people so I can?t wait to read the other reports. I have several regrets and I wish we had been bolder. But they were just so busy and there were so many people there that day, we didn?t want to be un-Browncoat like and disrupt or disturb. At the end AD Audry said we should have told her we wanted to meet everyone and she would have arranged it. We just figured that was implied. Oh Well! Maybe they will have to reshoot something and have to call us all back. And I ended up with a little souvenir, which I will photograph and put up with my other photos, when I get a chance.
We left around 7:00 PM and from there I had to head to the theater to finish load in of sets and costumes and finish dress rehearsal for ?Annie?.

Last part may be slightly although not really spoilery .
.
.
.
.
.
While in the bathroom I overheard a girl talking about having worked on the film a few days earlier. When asked what it was about she told the other woman it was (get this) a Zombie movie. I thought I would burst into laughter. She explained they had been playing these monster scary characters who looked like walking dead people with drippy skin etc. Can you say REAVER? I knew you could!
By the time I unwedged my head from the stall they were gone. I didn?t even get to see who she was so I could go ask questions.

Well that?s my report. Not as eventful as it could have been. But nothing I would complain about. (Except my feet are still distorted into the shape of those hideous shoes!) Or pass up. It was still awesome just to be in the presence of greatness and know it while it happening.
It was so nice to meet the other OB folks. And big hugs to {{{{{{{CHRIS B}}}}}} for letting us do this. I hope we didn't ruin your movie, but if we did PLEASE RECALL US!

Love to all,
gotta go,
If you need me Saxon has my number.
BYE

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 10:21 AM

THEDUKE333

Hello Haken,
You can use any of my stuff if you want. I think it is a great idea to post all of our stories in one easy to find place. Also, is there a way to attach a picture of each extra in there costume so everyone can spot them in the BDM?

I think you do a great job here...

TheDuke333

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 10:38 AM

LEXIBLOCK

I wanna see the green wig :)

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 11:13 AM

HAKEN

Likes to mess with stuffs.

Just post them in the blue sun room, or you can email them to me and I'll get them posted.

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 11:45 AM

TALLGRRL

hey y'all, thanks for bloggin' about your shiney day on the set.
how cool is that to do BG work on something you know and love?
and how cool to be a fan, get yerself a BDT (Big Damn Tour)and chat with some of the BDSs (Big Damn Stars)?
now i have to get back to work, but i'll be reading this post again later, when i can savour your experience vicariously.
thanks again!

"Take me, sir. Take me hard."

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 1:14 PM

SAXON

Hi again...this is only the second time I've posted here, although I lurk a bit. Here is a little website I set up with pix and the blog entry.

http://saxon1014.tripod.com/

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 4:22 PM

SHINY

Quote:
Originally posted by TheDuke333:
is there a way to attach a picture of each extra in there costume so everyone can spot them in the BDM?

Saxon:

Rosie (fireflypsngr):

Ruben:

Jeremy (DVDGuy/JAYSEDAI):
[Edited to remove inline image at Jeremy's request. Please click on below links to view]
http://fireflydvd.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=1980#1980
http://saxon1014.tripod.com/id4.html

Bob (TheDuke):

(Bob's the one on the right) ;)

Erin (DG/DamnitGirlie) and Rick:

Jim and Gingi (Coffeewench):

Let me know if I missed any.

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 4:42 PM

SHINY

From Ewok, B.D.E. (or some resemblance or relation thereof at least):
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16624.1

Since Blinksgurl and Rosie already told this story, I'll cut past the stuff that happened before lunch.
We had just gotten wet at the soak zone, I saw Rosie on the phone, she was busy talking to someone. When I asked who is was, she said it was my mom. She told us we were gonna meet my mom at he end of the Jurassic Park ride, which is right on the corner where the tour bus goes, and is where the people walk back to Stage 12. We got down there, I was very wet, and the line was very long so we bypassed the crowd and went to an area where super long lines might have gone (this was obviously a very popular ride at one time). Now they have barricades telling you you don't have to go that far...that the line isn't that long today.
All the gates that exit to the back lot say 'alarmed' and one was open, but we resisted the urge to go through it! We ventured on to the curve where the tour goes, and we saw a big gate where people were going through but we stayed at our little corner and just watched any one going by. We saw a zebra-headed lady going into the porta-potty! Also a very muscular 'woman' too!! hehe!
Then my mom called and said she was coming, and I saw a blue haired lady walking up, and I thought, 'hey that blue haired lady is on the phone!"...it was my mom! Blinksgurl started taking pictures. She came up and talked to us for while, but wanted to get back to try to get Summer's autograph.
A little while later the phone rang again, and Rosie smiled and gave me the phone, I heard my mom say, "Summer, would you do me a favor and say hi to my daughter?" and I hear Summer say, "okay". It was so weird! I had my bush-mates tryin' go figure out who I was talking to...listening to Summer talk about how my mom's hair was the coolest hair here, and that was saying alot today! When she asked where I was, I said, "If I say in the bushes will it freak you out?". We talked for while, but she had to go, so she gave the phone back to my mom. She was sooooooo friendly!
After that we waited to see if we could see anyone, 3 guys who were dressed in 'Egyptian mummy type stuff' came up to us and said, 'can I help you? what are doing?'...they were being really snippy and rude...but we told them we'd soon and we'd be sure to check out the mummy ride! After awhile Bryan came and said he'd see what he could do about bringing someone over. After awhile he came walking up with Nathan, we talked for awhile and took pictures, after he left Rosie a couple of happy dances. I told her to be careful that no one saw her, just then Nathan came back with Alan! We talked with Alan and took pix, and while she was busy talking to Alan I noticed Bryan coming back over with Jewel, and when I tried to tell Rosie, she was 'shushing me', then a tram went by and Nathan and Alan waved...suddenly Jewel was standing there! She startled Rosie! So we all took pix again, and Nathan even got my camera to take pix for us! Then they walked off and I was saying how I wished I had a digital video camera, and Wiley said she had one, and Carol said this one has one, and started taking video Rosie, and the phone rang...right when Rosie got the word that we could come on the set!
Audrey came out and we showed her where the open gate was, and we came around. Rosie was following her and Matt and listening to what they were saying, so I was looking around to see what/who I could see...and there was Alan sitting on the step of his trailer and he smiles and waves at us! I tried to tell Rosie and she 'shushed me' again! By the time I got her attention we'd passed him! We got inside and toured the set...we were watching a monitor to see what they'd been filming, but they were stopped so we kept on going. Then we walked through were the infirmary was and I could see the cargo bay, and I saw Nathan and Summer and she was waving at us! I saw other people, but didn't realize that I was seeing set that my mom was on. There was so much going on!! I was talking to lady from the set and she was teasing about Matt being a tour guide, while we were talking I heard Blinksgirl say, "look there's Sean", so once again, I tried to get Rosie's attention...and yep, for the third time she SHUSHED ME! :P And walked out of the infirmary and asked, 'where was Sean?'! It was hi-larious! I never did see Gina or Adam. When we were walking out, Matt asked if there was anything else we'd like to see, but we didn't even know what to ask for, so we thanked him and he just left us at outside the door. If we'd wanted, we could have just walked where ever we wanted to, but Rosie said we had to be good...grrrrr...hehe...it was so great! When we were walking back I was teasing Rosie that she'd missed Alan the first time cuz she didn't listen to me when I told her, and she was excited and saying she didn't know he was there...and I said, careful, you don't know, he could still be around here...just then I turned around and he was right there talking on his cell phone! He waved bye and went back to the Stage we'd just come out of!

After that, we went back and had some of Dr. Emmet Brown's Chicken! (Doc Brown even walked by while we were eating!)

Rosie kept making up different songs about how hot Alan was!! BTW she is obsessed with is flat stomach!! She finds flat serfaces to compare his tummy to!

We hung around the park until my mom called to tell us they were done. We met them at the exit of Jurassic Park, then headed back to the motel to talk about our day!

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 5:28 PM

SHINY

From Lisa (twyliteraine), B.D.E
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16601.51

Okay, y'all don't know me, but I was there at the Serenity shoot. I'm a SAG background actor, extra, etc. and I've always wanted to work with Joss Whedon. I'd been to the set of Angel a couple times. Once before Angel was even on the air and again during the 100th episode, but Joss wasn't there. :(
Anyhow, I'd share all my adventures of the Serenity gig, except that Saxon pretty much covered it for me as well. The only thing that I saw that perhaps she didn't was Nathan heading toward his trailer after having grabbed a plate of breakfast from the catering truck. It was about 6AM. Seeing him that early brightened the rest of my day before it had hardly begun.

I've been an extra for about a year and a half. Done about a hundred or so days and still none of them I'd looked forward to as much as Serenity. My first glimpse of Joss was as we were all parading onto the set. He was directing Nathan and the rest of everyone right there in the open door, cargo bay behind them, the ship framing them. It's a moment I wish I could download from my brain to share as a mini-movie.

I believe in the scene, I landed in front of the area where Saxon was. I got to smell that same nasty smoke, too. This was another of those sets where, yeah, I was there, but I don't have a clue what the scene was actually about. My biggest concern was the people tripping as they came off the ramp. They'd covered plywood with gravel and it seemed like everyone slid at least once. Gina tripped pretty good. I was concerned after her slide, but if anything, that just made everyone else really really careful.

I didn't get to talk to any of the cast or crew. Joss sort of directed me, but not exactly. He did like my costume, gloves and jewelry and instructed the cameraman during a short vignette to include my hands in the shot. That was a huge moment for me because those gloves, rings and bracelets were mine. I'd brought them from home and now they're souvenirs! I'm just crossing my fingers that the vignette will be in the final cut. My husband loved Firefly and I'm sure he'd love to see our wedding ring in Serenity.

When everyone else had gone back to holding, I'd stayed behind. Being somewhat experienced, I knew how to quietly hang out without being in the way. Unfortunately, it didn't exactly work in my favor because there really wasn't anything interesting going on at all. Just more watching Joss in action, while wishing I could be more involved. By the time I was wrapped, Nathan was sitting in a director chair by the monitors, talking with the script supervisor. As various extras walked by, he checked out all the costumery. I like to think he enjoyed having all of us there. According to one of the costumers, it was the biggest day for background...75...and they'd all been sort of stressing over it because that's a lot of people to go through hair, costume and make-up. Usually, extras aren't done up quite as much.

Truth be known, I was hoping it'd be an eighteen hour day. Everyone was so great that I didn't want to leave even though I was tired. But Joss knows exactly what he wants and exactly how to get it.

I'm hoping to see him again at Comic-con this year. When I'm not doing background, I write novels...dark paranormal, sci-fi, fantasy novels. My dream would be to get to collaborate with him on something...anything...preferably TV, but hey, for Joss, I'd even put on a Betty Boop wig and a funky futuristic cat suit with a weird skirt over it. Wait a minute...I've already done that. :)

I wish I had more to share of my time on Serenity. If for some strange reason, I get back on the show, I'll definitely post it here. They don't wrap until the end of August, but from what I gathered from the few production people I talked to, they won't be using extras the rest of the time. Or at least not a whole lot. My fingers are still crossed, though. And I'm definitely game for Serenity 2,3,4,5...

Lisa

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 5:38 PM

SHINY

BDE Saxon added:
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16601.34

I keep remembering little snippets of info...all like flashes of dream memory. Like:

Joss: "Forget I'm the director, I'm just the documentary dude, guy".

"Quiet on the set....unless yer poultry"

BDE Lisa added:
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16601.53

Oh yeah, and regarding poultry on Serenity...
Saxon already shared the wonderful line, but just to throw ya'll off in the question about spoilers, I've got another poultry related line. This one from Joss himself as he spoke to the cameraman.

"Fabric and color and hands are good, too, but this shot's all about the ducks. I mostly want the ducks. They are what it's all about."

I was wishing I could've busted out my pen and notebook to write that one down word for word. I'd just been completely upstaged by three dead ducks.

Spoiler? Hardly...the shot probably won't even make it into the final cut.

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 5:43 PM

SIGNYM

I believe in solving problems, not sharing them.

This is SOOOO GREAT!!!!!

And the pix... WOW!!!

I'm in heaven- and I ain't even religious.

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 8:17 PM

JAYSEDAI

Part 2 of my blog is up, read it here:

http://fireflydvd.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=2455#2455

Jeremy

PS I would appreciate it if you all WOULDN'T repost the entire message here. Thanks! (Yes I'm shamelessly trying to drive more traffic to my site).

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004 8:30 PM

JANON990

Such a shameless plug

http://www.dvdrentalworkathome.com

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Thursday, July 15, 2004 4:36 AM

SHINY

Quote:
Originally posted by jaysedai:
PS I would appreciate it if you all WOULDN'T repost the entire message here. Thanks! (Yes I'm shamelessly trying to drive more traffic to my site).

Original posts edited to require clicking through to your site.

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Thursday, July 15, 2004 5:45 AM

JAYSEDAI

Thanks Shiny!

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Thursday, July 15, 2004 7:36 AM

SHINY

BDE Saxon added this on behalf of BDE CoffeeWench:
http://forums.prospero.com/foxfirefly/messages?msg=16601.100

I've been trying to get Coffeewench (Gingi) to write up her memories...but she's just hasn't done it. She's busy with work and stuff...and really doesn't know what she can add to our stories.
She told me to just tell what she told me...ack!

One thing I'll say is, she and Jim were RIGHT THERE with the BDHs! She nearly ran into Adam...Jim cut off Nathan when they were trying to do the 'cross over' they'd been directed to do. She, at one point hit the slippery gravel slope and had to steady herself on Adam!

Once, Joss was directing Alan, and said, "here, let's have our own private rehearsal..." and walked side by side with him, telling him how he wanted it to go...then they both hit the gravel at the same time and both slipped!

All I can say is, if my kid is NOT on screen alot, I'll wonder why...they used her and Jim in a bunch of different shots and angles...from one side of the area to the other...they are bound to be in there somewhere!

Edited to add:
I don't think it was my imagination that all the Browncoats got alot of 'camera time'...someone told me that we all had 'fan' next to our names. Chris and Joss and Co. went out of their way to make this special for us!

*smooches to them all!*

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