"Serenity" preview in LONDON !!!!!!

POSTED BY: CapnEric
UPDATED: Monday, February 14, 2005 11:22
VIEWED: 38047
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CAPNERIC

Friday, January 28, 2005 7:54 PM

This is for Starfury:Serenity ticket holders ONLY !!

""As many of you may have been reading on the internet, Universal
have
been conducting a series of test screenings of an advance print of
SERENITY to gauge audience reaction to the film.

At 6:30pm on Tuesday 8th February, Universal will be showing
SERENITY
for the first time outside of the US at a cinema in central London.

It is not a complete version of the film. The music score has yet to
be done, and the bulk of the special effects have yet to be
completed. It may also undergo further re-edits or changes between
now and the final release in September.

Chris Buchanan, the producer of SERENITY, and Michael Boretz, Joss
Whedon's assistant, thought it would be cool to let British
Browncoats have an incredible opportunity to see SERENITY a full 8
months prior to release!

They have kindly asked Universal to make a number of tickets
available exclusively to STARFURY to distribute to FIREFLY Fans.

So if you've booked to attend STARFURY: SERENITY, and you'll be able
to get to central London by 6:30pm on Tuesday 8th February, you
could
end up seeing SERENITY!

If you are a ticket holder for STARFURY: SERENITY and whish to go to
this screening, please e-mail me at SeanHarry@aol.com requesting
tickets. Please let me know your ticket number for STARFURY:
SERENITY
(it'll be strictly one film ticket per attendee).

Alternatively you can phone me on 07930 319 119 anytime between 10am
to 6pm Monday through Friday.

If any tickets are still available on Wednesday then we will make
them available for those who have not booked to attend STARFURY:
SERENITY as well."

SIMONWHO

Friday, January 28, 2005 8:17 PM

First reaction: Wow! Amazing! I'll go, I'm at Serenity and everything!!!

Second reaction: Oh but then at Serenity I'll have seen it and people will want to eat my brains to take the knowledge from me.

Third reaction: And the music isn't done nor most of the special effects. Plus there could be other changes.

Help, I'm so conflicted! What should I do?

PETITRHINO

Friday, January 28, 2005 8:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SimonWho:
First reaction: Wow! Amazing! I'll go, I'm at Serenity and everything!!!

Second reaction: Oh but then at Serenity I'll have seen it and people will want to eat my brains to take the knowledge from me.

Third reaction: And the music isn't done nor most of the special effects. Plus there could be other changes.

Help, I'm so conflicted! What should I do?

I'm right there with you.

Also, I've booked for Starfury, but still haven't got my tickets. Does that mean I can't go?

"Damn it Mal. I forgot my line."

SIMONWHO

Friday, January 28, 2005 8:44 PM

I'm sure if you told Sean the situation you'd get on the list (plus you might find out what's happened to your tickets!)

I must admit I lasted a good 2 minutes before I caved. Serenity sooner = goodness. Besides, it'll be interesting to compare it to the finished film. Anyone who's seen the Highlander: Endgame DVD knows that sometimes these things slant off. But of course that movie was a big screen outing for a cult TV show, nothing like Ser... um. Well, never mind. Highlander is a completely different kettle of oranges.

PETITRHINO

Friday, January 28, 2005 8:55 PM

I just emailed Sean. I don't think I could resist it either. Plus comparing could be good... *babbles incoherently* I just wanna go, gorram it! *tries to calm down* Sorry, my brain is fried. *leaves*

ZOL

Friday, January 28, 2005 9:32 PM

There is a God!

This has got to be the best thing to happen in a long while & Kudos to all involved in arranging this - now all I`ve got to do is stop bouncing off the ceiling with joy!

Zol.

CAPNERIC

Friday, January 28, 2005 9:37 PM

Of course, there's a god

His name is Joss !

(Apologies to all serious monotheists out there, just joking, of course!)

EMZ

Saturday, January 29, 2005 10:29 AM

Just got my confirmation that my name has been put on the list for the screening. I just couldn't resist going. Can't wait!

CAPNERIC

Saturday, January 29, 2005 12:53 PM

I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going....!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PHOEBE

Saturday, January 29, 2005 2:04 PM

OMG! I'm so excited I'm shaking! I have to go, please let there be tickets left.

I just had a 30 min long screaming match with my mother about going LOL. Yep, its official, she hates me.... but I'm going if I can get my name down on the list!

Anybody know which train station I'd need to go to? :s

SBOOK

Saturday, January 29, 2005 2:58 PM

For West End cinemas (best guess for the screening) I'd go with Charing Cross. But any London train will get you on the tube. Where are you coming from?

PHOEBE

Saturday, January 29, 2005 3:35 PM

Stoke-on-Trent. Be going from either Stoke or Crewe station.

SBOOK

Saturday, January 29, 2005 4:12 PM

Stoke to London Euston and then take the Underground. It all depends on which cinema it's at. (I can't get to Starfury. I'm hoping there will be a ticket to the screening left after the dust has settled.)

PHOEBE

Saturday, January 29, 2005 4:24 PM

Ahhh, cool, thank you. I checked out stoke to Euston and I can afford the price. Just about. The things I do for Firefly!

I hope there are tickets left for you. Its not such a long time until Wednesday so I doubt word will have gotten out to many Starfury patrons by then...

SBOOK

Saturday, January 29, 2005 4:43 PM

You don't think they check this site as often as we do? (chuckle)

Thanks for the good thoughts. I can but hope.

CAPNERIC

Saturday, January 29, 2005 5:15 PM

For the love of Joss, when I posted this I sure didn't expect 1600 views inside of 24 hours!

See you all there...

PURPLEBELLY

Saturday, January 29, 2005 5:28 PM

I wonder if Chris is trying to persuade Universal that there would be an advantage to simultaneous trans-Atlantic release?

SIMONWHO

Saturday, January 29, 2005 6:25 PM

It's probably worth mentioning that Firefly has never been seen on terrestial TV over here and that the show was broadcast (right order but with voiceover and the Firefly swoosh at the end) on the SciFi channel which is much more of a minority channel over here than in America. Which is strange as cult things get much more of an audience over here.

To put it another way, when BBC 2 (terrestial channel, think ABC when it was doing less well) showed Buffy, it was getting about the same number of viewers as it did America, despite us having a quarter of your population.

Perhaps this is just a try out to see what the demand is like over here. High, I suspect.

HEB

Saturday, January 29, 2005 6:49 PM

Last update from Sean Harry was that 2/3 of the tickets had gone.

...................
Well, my sister's a ship... we had a
complicated childhood
.................
I wear the cheese. It does not wear me.

QUIETUDE

Saturday, January 29, 2005 11:48 PM

I've got a golden ticket!!! Just want to say a BIG thank you to all the organisers involved in bringing this screening to London.

PHOEBE

Sunday, January 30, 2005 11:25 AM

Ahhhh, my name's down on the list. *bounces* My god I'm excited, LOL. See you all there!

ZOL

Sunday, January 30, 2005 12:56 PM

Names on the list, confirmed, just got to wait for the ticket & location TBA.

Look forward to seeing people with or without their browncoats on

Darin (Zol.)

PHOEBE

Sunday, January 30, 2005 1:36 PM

Double post, sorry!

PHOEBE

Sunday, January 30, 2005 1:36 PM

Do you think I can get into Euston at 5:50 and be at the screening for 6:30? I mean it depends where the screening is, but... what's the likelihood? :-s

SIMONWHO

Sunday, January 30, 2005 1:52 PM

Yeah, you could walk into the West End from Euston in 40 minutes easily, a tube should only take around 10-20 mins, if that.

Actually are we all going to do a mini-meet? Presumably there is going to be a mix of civilians and Serenity convention goers but it would be nice to put a few faces to names and know a few more people before the convention itself.

Perhaps if we all start shouting "Shiny" and gravitate towards each other like that

CAPNERIC

Sunday, January 30, 2005 1:55 PM

Hi, I'd hazard an uninformed guess of "yes, you can" but be prepared to catch a taxi if necessary.

I just had a worrisome thought - I hope Universal's definition of "Central London" is similar to ours - I would really hate for them to get confused between Buckhingham Castle and Buckhinghamshire.

PHOEBE

Sunday, January 30, 2005 2:02 PM

Thank you both! And LOL yeah, lets hope :-s

You mean, stand there in the queue yelling "SHINY people over here! Ahoy! Shiny people, here!"? Nah, I'm just kidding. If we do meet up though, probably best to do so afterwards and not before? My train leaves at 10:50 so I have until then to find you guys. Plus if we do have a mini meet afterwards we can discuss the film and that jazz.

*Edited. I know this is going to sound really kiddish of me (I'm 17) but if I can get my mother to meet at least one of you (I'm going down with her) who are going to the convention, it would put her mind at rest and she'll let me go in April, stress free

ZOL

Sunday, January 30, 2005 2:10 PM

You stand in a queue and start shouting "I hate Big Gorram Queues"

Any queue will do

Darin (Zol.)

p.s. Would love to meet up with a few people as firends who love Firefly can`t actualy get to the Serenity Con & probably not the showingif most of the tickets have gone.

SIMONWHO

Sunday, January 30, 2005 2:21 PM

Phoebe, I'm sure most of us will be quite happy to meet your mother if that would put her mind at ease. Given that a large proportion of the queue is going to go to the convention, she could probably judge it on them.

Besides, if you're going to University in September, hadn't she better get used to the idea of you meeting strangers?

PHOEBE

Sunday, January 30, 2005 2:52 PM

Yep, I'm counting on that. Thanks

LOL. Yeah, that's how it should work, in theory. She puts the word 'overprotective' to good use, probably wouldn't let me leave for uni at all if she had her way. The idea of me going 1.5 hours to London alone by train horrified her to no end, hence why she's coming.

CAPNERIC

Sunday, January 30, 2005 5:36 PM

Gee, why would she worry about her daughter mixing with a bunch of folk said daughter has only ever met online?

I mean, we're all normal, mature, considerate, thoughtful people who only happen to be a bit obssessed and likely to turn into reavers at the drop of Blue Sun cola...

lol, see you both there!

"how drunk was I last night?"
"I dunno, I passed out."

KISSTHESTRAWBERRYLOVERMRTAM

Sunday, January 30, 2005 9:52 PM

hi Phoebe,

Are u going to Serenity on your own on the train because i live at uni in crewe so will be getting the train to heathrow from there if u want to join me and my friend michelle at the station so u have some company. Im 19 and my mum has finally stopped worrying about where i go.

Sarah

PETITRHINO

Sunday, January 30, 2005 10:08 PM

I'm 23 and my mum hasn't stopped worrying. Doesn't mean I don't go where I please, I just don't tell her.

See you at the preview

ZOL

Sunday, January 30, 2005 10:39 PM

It just occured to me - there must be a few international people who have booked into the Serenity Con, I wonder how many will actually make a special trip?

I just thought of another little problem - with the U.S. screenings, they wern`t allowed to take anything into the screening (bags,phones etc.) - this might be a bit of a problem, does anybody know of suitable locker space (do the undergrounds have lockers? (I can`t remember seeing any last time I was in London)

Cheers!

Darin (Zol.)

PETITRHINO

Sunday, January 30, 2005 10:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
It just occured to me - there must be a few international people who have booked into the Serenity Con, I wonder how many will actually make a special trip?

I was planning on spending a few days in London. That's the perfect occasion. Plus, it's not far from where I live (near Paris) with the eurostar. The only costly problem: accomodation.

KISSTHESTRAWBERRYLOVERMRTAM

Sunday, January 30, 2005 11:51 PM

hi again Phoebe,

Just to make myself clear i was meaning im going to Starfury:Serenity not the preview - i wish. Stupid uni - do i really need a degree anyway?

Sarah

SBOOK

Monday, January 31, 2005 7:47 AM

Train stations will have storage facilities. Security is so tight on the Underground they don't even have rubbish bins, let alone lockers. Nothing you could slip an explosive into.

PETITRHINO

Monday, January 31, 2005 12:53 PM

I don't know the exact number of tickets given out, but there are ONLY 6 LEFT!!!

CAOILTE

Monday, January 31, 2005 4:18 PM

I don't suppose there'll be any left for people without these Convention tickets then.

EVILTOBZ

Monday, January 31, 2005 4:24 PM

:(

doesn't bode well for those of us who've not booked for the convention and are waiting til wednesday then.

---------------------------------------------
eviltobz - that's lowercase gorram it!

ROBSTHELL

Monday, January 31, 2005 5:56 PM

Well for those lucky few who are going (why couldn't the Serenity con be a weekend later ) could you at least tell us which cinema it's going to be in so those of us who are in London can lurk around outside and hope beyond hope that we might be able to blag ourselves a ticket?

Failing that e-mail me and tell me there! Pleeeease!

ZOL

Monday, January 31, 2005 7:26 PM

It`s amazing just how quickly the tickets have gone - it does make me wonder how big the cinema will be.

I`ve got the time off, & received the email confirmation of a seat.

I hope there`s a handout or flyer to keep as a momento.

I will try to stick around after the screening. So you could always try to catch up with me - but I believe there could be some men in black suits with blue hands who will mind-wipe people on exit (I think they call them Lawyers)

Darin (Zol.)

SBOOK

Monday, January 31, 2005 7:43 PM

Well, he said he had "some tickets" to the screening, right? I just got the notification that they are all gone now.

Truly, I hope you all have an excellent time. I know you will. (Although I'll be happiest when the UK has an official release date. It's already confirmed for Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands and the Czech republic! Why not us!)

Enjoy!

HILARYJANEUK

Monday, January 31, 2005 8:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
Names on the list, confirmed, just got to wait for the ticket & location TBA.

Darin (Zol.)

There won't be any actual tickets issued. If you check the confirmation, it says that your name will be put on the list, and there will be someone at the door of the cinema checking people's names.

As for the cinema, we'llh have to wait till Sean gets told by Universal which cinema it is. I won't be able to make any meet-up beforehand, as I'll be at work till 5.30l, but luckily I work in Central London, so I'll have to dash over to the cinema straight from work. Have to make sure I pack the requisite tee-shirt before I go to work, got to be properly dressed for the occasion!

FISCHER1320

Monday, January 31, 2005 10:42 PM

I'm moving to london right now because everyone is less stupid and then I get to watch the movie! what could be better.

ZOL

Monday, January 31, 2005 11:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by HilaryjaneUK:
Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
Names on the list, confirmed, just got to wait for the ticket & location TBA.

Darin (Zol.)

There won't be any actual tickets issued. If you check the confirmation, it says that your name will be put on the list, and there will be someone at the door of the cinema checking people's names.

As for the cinema, we'llh have to wait till Sean gets told by Universal which cinema it is. I won't be able to make any meet-up beforehand, as I'll be at work till 5.30l, but luckily I work in Central London, so I'll have to dash over to the cinema straight from work. Have to make sure I pack the requisite tee-shirt before I go to work, got to be properly dressed for the occasion!

Thanks for that confirmation - I won`t have my Proper Browncoat ready for next week, I`ll just have to wear my other brown jacket - look forward to meeting and greeting & then the range of emotions of actually seeing the rough cut of the movie.

I do hope that it`s not too far away from your works otherwise you will have to hire a motorcyle courier to speed you on your way

Darin (Zol.)

KITTYKAT

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 3:03 PM

Loooooong time luker here, but this has just forced me out of hiding. Been dragging my heels over whether to go to the con or not for months now (money is one serious issue) and now I really wish I'd already got tickets. Think there's any chance of there being any left for non-convention ticket holders?

EDIT: Darn it, just read this:

Quote:
I just got the notification that they are all gone now.

Guess that leaves me with the hang around outside looking hopeful option then.

Oh, and just thought I'd say getting a taxi in rush hour would probably take longer than getting the Underground. As long as you're willing to squish yourself in with all the commuters, the Tube would definitely be quicker.

- Kati

FIREFLYGAL

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 6:38 PM

I'm sooooo jealous of you guys but I'm really glad your side of the pond will get to share the excitement that generally just stays on this side. Wish I were goin'

Way to go Joss, Chris and Michael for thinking of ALL the fans not just the US fans.

Fireflygal

PETITRHINO

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 8:34 PM

Sean Harry said

"Universal where amazed when I informed them that the tickets all went in two days, and have been genuinely heartened by this response."

I hope they're also amazed when the movie comes out. That would get us our trilogy

INARAFAN

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 9:09 PM

I have also been lurking here for a while but have never posted. I really wanted to attend the preview but alas, it would be school the next day so I was unable to go. And I am getting braces that day. But on the plus side, I am probably going to the convention.

CAPNERIC

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 9:24 PM

No worries, we'll look forward to seeing you at the Con, braces and all...

HILARYJANEUK

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 11:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by KittyKat:
Oh, and just thought I'd say getting a taxi in rush hour would probably take longer than getting the Underground. As long as you're willing to squish yourself in with all the commuters, the Tube would definitely be quicker.

- Kati

I know what it's like on the Underground. I use it every day of the week! In fact, I have now told my boss that I'm taking a half days holiday, so I don't have to rush to the cinema after work.

ZOL

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 12:26 AM

Although, those with their name on the list for the special screening can`t disclose the location, might I suggest the following.

I would like to suggest a `meet and eat` in the Pizza Hut at 29-31 Regent Street, SW1Y 4NQ at around say 5pm?

Anybody Interested? I can try to get a sign/ place marker made out to make i.d. easier.

Darin (Zol.)

p.s. any other ideas? or would people like to meet earlier? or a different location? or both?

HILARYJANEUK

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 8:39 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
I would like to suggest a `meet and eat` in the Pizza Hut at 29-31 Regent Street, SW1Y 4NQ at around say 5pm?QUOTE]

5.00 pm might be pushing it if there's a lot of people. Pizza Huts in Central London tend to get crowded and you may have to wait a while for a large group of people to eat. If there are a lot of people in the group it is likely to take at least an hour or more for the meal.

NOTIFY: Y | REPLY | REPLY WITH QUOTE | PERMALINK | TOP | HOME

DOUBLESHINY

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 10:28 AM

I'm going!

I'm so exciting that it's really quite pathetic.

Good idea about meeting up beforehand, but I would say it has to be somewhere almost on top of the venue to make sure we all get there on time.

Curse Your Sudden But Inevitable Betrayal!

www.alantudyk.net

KITTYKAT

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 10:37 AM

*sighs enviously*

Tell us everything (in a non-spoilery way), every word - including intonation and facial expressions.

PETITRHINO

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 10:39 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DoubleShiny:
I'm going!

I'm so exciting that it's really quite pathetic.

Obviously, you didn't see me jumping up and down and suddenly shouting 'Woo-hoo!' in the middle of a crowded street.

SLOOPYJON

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 11:04 AM

my gf and i are going ... it should be good

SLAYERFEST

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 11:19 AM

The official release date for Serenity in the UK is November 4th. My contact at UIP told me it was alright to release this information as it is "on the calender now".

Andy

SBOOK

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 12:43 PM

Glory Glory Hallelujah! Thank you Slayfest!

"If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak."

ZOL

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 4:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by HilaryjaneUK:
Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
I would like to suggest a `meet and eat` in the Pizza Hut at 29-31 Regent Street, SW1Y 4NQ at around say 5pm?

5.00 pm might be pushing it if there's a lot of people. Pizza Huts in Central London tend to get crowded and you may have to wait a while for a large group of people to eat. If there are a lot of people in the group it is likely to take at least an hour or more for the meal.

Well I hope to be sat down ready to order at 5pm - so I may be there at least 1/2 hour earlier than that - Basically, I will be hoping on eating at that time and anyone is welcome to join me.

Zol.

ROBSTHELL

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 6:05 PM

Well you might not be able to give away the location for the screening on here, BUT I guess we could just happen to see you in Pizza Hut and follow you

I really wanna go! Thoughts? (What a crap way to end this post heheh)

PHOEBE

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 6:26 PM

Hey Sarah, I'm not sure how I'm getting to Serenity Con, currently. Still in the process of debating that out, LOL

Ahhh, a pizza hut meet up sounds so nice. Pizza Hut is like, my restaurant obsession LOL. Unfortunately I'm not going to get to Euston til 5:48 so I'm gonna have to meet you all in the queue!

ZOL

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 8:49 PM

If you going to come to Pizza Hut - just pop in and say you are meeting friends,shouldn`t be a problem. I`m sure I`ll have a sign or something & more than likely a browncoat on the back of the chair

If you don`t get there before 6.30pm we`ll probably see you at the specified location at the specified time

Darin (Zol.)

KISSTHESTRAWBERRYLOVERMRTAM

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 11:43 PM

Hi Phoebe,

Thats fine, the offer is there if you want it thats all.

Hava a brilliant time at the preview, you are everyone else who is lucky enough to go!

Sarah

ROBSTHELL

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 11:45 PM

You're so lucky! I might come along to the Pizza Hut thing anyway... then either bribe someone at the certain place or hope that they're picking random people out to answer questions on...

Yeah, don't worry about me... I'm not a stalker or anything... or obsessed... just desperate!

DOUBLESHINY

Thursday, February 3, 2005 12:15 PM

Hi guys

Anyone who's going to the screening next Tuesday will have a PM on the way about a possible meeting place after the screening, can you PM me back with your response please?

Sorry, I have an inbuilt need to organise!

www.alantudyk.net

PHOEBE

Thursday, February 3, 2005 2:07 PM

Colour me stupid, but I don't even know how to acces PMs *looks*

DOUBLESHINY

Thursday, February 3, 2005 2:34 PM

It will usually come through your email.

www.alantudyk.net

PETITRHINO

Thursday, February 3, 2005 9:51 PM

Is anyone interested in meeting BEFORE the preview?

I will be in London from lunch hour, with nothing better to do than meeting other coats and acting like crazy flans the whole afternoon. Then meeting still more flans to eat pizza

Anyone wants to join in, do tell so we can arrange a meeting place.

ZOL

Thursday, February 3, 2005 11:27 PM

Well Petitrhino,

I`m figuring on spending some time at the London Aqaurium, possibly Shakespeares Globe Theatre & maybe some other London sights too, oh and must visit the Forbidden Planet Shop whilst I`m down in the area - going to make a day of it. I might even be tempted to fly on the Millenium Eye if the weather is good (for viewing)

So, if you want to do any of that, just pop me a line and maybe can arrange to be in a certain place at a certain time

Darin (Zol.)

DOUBLESHINY

Friday, February 4, 2005 10:56 AM

Hi guys

Thanks to everyone who PMd about meeting after the screening. I'm now going to PM the map of the pub and my mobile number in case anyone gets lost.

Oh, and my email is kirsty@alantudyk.net

www.alantudyk.net

HELYGEN

Sunday, February 6, 2005 9:18 PM

Cross posted all over the place ...

I don't want to put a dampener on things, but I'm a bit concerned that Tuesday's screening is being seen by some fans as something it isn't, so I'm posting this for the very small minority who seem to have misunderstood the reasons for this event (although I suspect they all post elsewhere).
It isn't a generous gesture by Universal for loyal Whedon fans.
It isn't the studio's attempt to quantify "Serenity"'s possible fan base.
It isn't a publicity stunt to generate interest in the film to make sure it's a box office hit when it's released.
It's all about marketing: they need to figure out how to pitch the movie to appeal to the largest viewing market.
If the cinema is full of loyal Whedon fans, shouting out his praises and applauding every scene (which I know I will want to do) then Universal will have NO IDEA how the film is likely to be received by the general public.
When the test screening was shown in LA a few weeks ago, most of the audience were Firefly/Whedon fans who, naturally, loved what they saw and were apparently not shy in saying so. The studio had to re-arrange another screening, keeping details as secret as possible, in order to properly assess a general audience's viewing of it.
Yes, I feel honoured and excited to be going, and wouldn't miss this opportunity for the world. And yes, I will want to hoot and applaud and whistle at my BDH's on the big screen, but I won't. I'll be there mainly to make sure Universal get it right. I feel I owe Joss that much.

I love my cap'n

ZOL

Sunday, February 6, 2005 9:44 PM

Unless you work directly for Universal, you can`t exactly say what they intend - perhaps they do need to know what a `foreign` market & the fanbase is like - but this IS speculation.

I will enjoy it for what it is, and then, when asked for feedback, I will give them honest feedback and not sing it`s praise just because it`s firefly with Joss at the helm.

You must remember that Universal won`t know what to expect until after the screening.

Darin (Zol.)

SIMONWHO

Sunday, February 6, 2005 9:53 PM

Well, the tickets that Sean Harry has supplied were given to him by Universal (or whoever) on the understanding that Firefly fans would go to see it. There's no doubt about that, they know exactly what sort of angle that we're coming in at.

I imagine there will be "civilians" there as well. Perhaps when the film ends we should all walk towards them with our arms outstretched "Join us! Join us!". No, that might put a few of them off.

But as to the "purpose" of the screening, who really knows? Certainly the number of existing Firefly fans in the UK is practically neglible (there's maybe, what 40,000 of us out of 60,000,000, that's less than 0.07%) so inviting even one of us there is going throw the demographic completely off. If it was purely a market research exercise, we wouldn't have been asked along.

HELYGEN

Sunday, February 6, 2005 10:08 PM

Valid comments, both, and I'm sure that fans who post here do get the whole screening thing. It's just that I'm aware of a small group who seem to think it's going to be like a mini-convention or similar fan event.

SimonWho - love your idea of "Join us! Join us!" - that would be fun!

I love my cap'n

PETITRHINO

Sunday, February 6, 2005 10:27 PM

I'm not seing it as a mini-convention my own self. The audience won't be representative of the UK, and I think Universal knows that, seeing how they gave many tickets to fans going to the april convention. Nevertheless, I'll try my best to make constructive comments, even if I know I'll love every second of it.

HELYGEN

Sunday, February 6, 2005 10:42 PM

LOL yeah I think I'll find it difficult to be constructive when I've already decided I'm gonna love every second of it

I love my cap'n

ZOL

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:19 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by helygen:
It's just that I'm aware of a small group who seem to think it's going to be like a mini-convention or similar fan event.

It`s going to be nothing of the sort, but at the same time, it`s also possible to meet people who are going to the `Serenity` Con as some of the ticket holders will be going to both.

It`s good to see everybodies points of view - I think as there will be quite a few fans of firefly at the screening, Universal will have to expect some reactions & at the end you can always feedback the reasons for your reactions.

Darin (Zol.)

HELYGEN

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:27 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Zol:
Quote:
Originally posted by helygen:
It's just that I'm aware of a small group who seem to think it's going to be like a mini-convention or similar fan event.

It`s going to be nothing of the sort, but at the same time, it`s also possible to meet people who are going to the `Serenity` Con as some of the ticket holders will be going to both.

It`s good to see everybodies points of view - I think as there will be quite a few fans of firefly at the screening, Universal will have to expect some reactions & at the end you can always feedback the reasons for your reactions.

Darin (Zol.)

I'm one of the Con ticket holders, and I'm looking forward to meeting up with loads of fellow fans, before and after the screening. Hopefully the movie will convert some new ones, too

I'm just concerned, as I said, that Universal won't get quite the unbiased audience they may have hoped for but I guess they must know what they're doing

I love my cap'n

ZOL

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:45 PM

Just don`t come wearing the following

A Dark Suit & blue nitrile gloves
A Blue Sun T-shirt (especially with River fans around)
& of course don`t come dressed as a Beagle, you may just find yourself kidknapped & sold on another planet

See you there.

Darin (Zol.)

SIMONWHO

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:56 PM

I know what you mean about the "mini-con" feeling but we'll have to see, eh?

I must admit that it is by no means guaranteed that I will love or indeed even like it. I've been disappointed by hyped up movies before, even from film makers I trust, even when all those concerned have been merrily insisting that it will blow us away (Helllllllo Matrix Reloaded). I may very well walk away from the movie going "Pooey."

That would not change how good the TV show was, nor my appreciation of it. It would put a bit of a downer on my week, to say the least, plus there's always the possibility that it would be "fixed" in time for September but I have a feeling, one way or another, I'll know the truth in 48 hours.

HELYGEN

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:59 PM

Nope, I'll just be wearing the obligatory brown outfit

See you there!

I love my cap'n

YORKY

Monday, February 7, 2005 1:54 AM

Chris Buchanan:

"Almost every seat in the theater is reserved for our fans and no other "general public" folks are invited." (30.1.2005)

I imagine that there will be test screenings where the majority of people have never heard of firefly. Just enjoy it and provide honest feedback.

I don't know anything about a mini-convention, but I also don't think there will be many people there who are new to the Firefly 'Verse.

DOUBLESHINY

Monday, February 7, 2005 10:23 AM

I suspect that what Universal are doing is testing their two clear markets, sci-fi and action fans who haven't seen Firefly and are certainly not Buffy and Angel fans, and Firefly fans.

If Universal release the movie without having tested the established Firefly audience, they will be taking a huge risk. This is their core, their guaranteed cash, and they aren't going to assume that fans will go along with everything presented in the movie. This isn't TV where a badly handled storyline can be eradicated part way through. Joss has never directed a movie before, who knows whether he's going to be able to pull it off, where other TV directors have crashed and burned working on the big screen?

Universal need our opinions, because if we don;t like the film, we won't go and watch it again, and we won't recommend it to anyone. I know that if I told my friends and acquaintances that I didn't think much of the movie, they would think twice about going.

It's the same with any genre film, Universal know who their core audience are, and everything about this movie says 'risk' to them, so they need our input and re-assurance.

www.alantudyk.net

RUTHIE

Monday, February 7, 2005 11:45 AM

Just declaring myself as another screening attendee - will be meeting the group in Pizza Hut beforehand, and hoping to stay to disect it afterwards too :)

Look forward to seeing everyone there!

*******************
Ruthie
*******************
By the data to date, there is only one animal in the Galaxy dangerous to man - man himself. So he must supply his own indispensable competition. He has no enemy to help him. (R.A.Heinlein)

ATHERTON

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 12:03 PM

I'll be there at the screening tonight too although at the moment I'm just about to catch my train and I still don't know where exactly its going to be held! Mild panic is starting to set in!

Just hope I can make it to Pizza Hut on time!

PHOEBE

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 2:22 PM

I won't be at pizza hut, but I'll try to catch some of you guys in the queue and afterwards. I know its not a mini convention but it'll be cool to try to catch some of you. If any of you see a short girl, looks about 15 (pssh, I'm 18 this spring), obnoxiously pink trousers, white coat, purple bag... that'll be me. *waves* See you later. No brown coat for me unfortunately, LOL.

SAKRYSTA

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 6:26 PM

I'm so jealous of you guys! I hope you all have a lovely time! :D Don't forget your camera! Take lots of pictures of each other and enjoy the evening!

Oh, and then come back here and do lots of spoiler-free gushing, 'kay? :D

...still a little whimsical in the brain pan...

SPLOCK

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 11:39 PM

Just got in after seeing the preview. One word review: Wow!

For I dipt into the future
As far as human eye could see
Saw a vision of the World
And All the wonder that would be

MIKEYD

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 11:53 PM

Like Splock says WOW!!

I've also just got back from seeing the Serenity preview and words cannot expres how good this movie is!!

Shiny

SIMONWHO

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 1:00 AM

Okay, obviously, no spoilers follow but this is just to give you a taste of the experience.

We met at BAFTA off Piccadilly Circus, were checked for cameras, videophones and data recording orbs (sorry TWG) and ushered into the cinema (where they had guys walking around checking with infrared for cameras that had slipped through).

A guy from Universal (sorry, forgot your name) introduced the film, reminded us that it was a rough cut, then read out a letter from Joss. I can't recall it verbatim but it went something like this:

You're about to see a film called Serenity. This is a very rough cut, the special effects aren't finished, the music is a temp track, the color hasn't been corrected and at least one scene is completely stupid. For legal reasons I can't tell you what scene that is but rest assured in September, the special effects will be amazing, there will be an original score and the movie will be at least 30% less stupid. I hope you all enjoy it, Joss Whedon. P.S. Sorry about our President, still can't figure out how that happened (cue thunderous applause).

Then they showed the film.

Afterwards we all filed out, no report or feedback cards supplied (at least not that I saw).

SIMONWHO

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 1:00 AM

Oh, and hi to everyone I met and hi to everyone I didn't. See you at the end of April!

CAPNERIC

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 1:06 AM

Hey, I've just made it back to Cambridge from London, mildly tipsy from the pub.

I needed the cider to stop shaking, it was pretty powerful. The lack of full effects, color correction and proper music didn't detract very much at all, even the temp music was pretty good. Since everyone there was dedicated we were pretty silent except where appropriate. I felt a bit guilty having a mild cough but tried to keep it to a minimum. There was a guy from Universal, read a letter from Joss, sounded good, see SimonWho's post above.

The story, as expected, was great. The plot twists and humour were pure Whedon. As a fan, I wasn't disappointed except in a couple of spots not worth mentioning (besides, they're spoilerish). In terms of changes from the show, the only thing I'll mention I haven't seen written is that Mal and Jayne's weapons have changed a bit and a couple folks hair is a bit different.

I think it will be pretty accessible to the newcomer but I'd purely love to see it again to try and assess what I think the non-fan will think. We were talking about this in the pub and generally...

I won't predict 'cause that will jinx it. We were saying we'd love to have both this rough cut and the proper version on DVD for comparison.

It was great to see some fellow Browncoats, looking forward to the Starfury Con in April.

Roll on November !!!

"How drunk was I last night?"
"I dunno, I passed out"

PIZMOBEACH

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 2:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by SimonWho:
Okay, obviously, no spoilers follow but this is just to give you a taste of the experience.

We met at BAFTA off Piccadilly Circus...

... then they showed the film.

Afterwards we all filed out, no report or feedback cards supplied (at least not that I saw).

Hmmm... thanks for the review of the experience... should I take your non review of the film as a kind of wink-wink, nudge-nudge commentary??!! Or maybe you're just too gassed to be objective right now? Just curious.

I'd like to be king of all Londinum and wear a shiny hat.

ZOL

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 2:58 AM

Just got back in after a longish coach ride home - the film will knock you for six! (as it stands at the moment)

Letter for joss said that there was some trimming to be done about 30% and there was one scene that he thought was `stupid` but neverthe less, that might mean more for the DVD release after the film has done the rounds.

Oh and yes, this is so much better than big budget starwars - for one thing the characters have feeling - a hell of a lot of feeling Oi stop hitting me!

Cheers to all those we met in Pizza Hut & the Pub afterwards (athough we missed some) & thanks to Petit_Rhino for an interesting day accomplying me around some bits o London.

See you guys in April (those going to the con)

Darin (Zol.)

CAPNERIC

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 10:08 AM

Hey, Zol!

Is that emoticon an indication of how your head feels after the pub?

I don't think you have it quite right - Joss's letter didn't say he was cutting 30%, he just said it would be 30% less stupid (as SimonWho notes in his post above).

I can think of a couple of scenes that could live with a little nip and tuck but 30% would eviscerate it!

Great to meet you, see you at the con in April!

"How drunk was I last night?"
"I dunno, I passed out"

ZOL

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 12:07 PM

Hi CapnEric

Ah, you`re right my head does hurt - it feels like it`s gonna explode - can`t keep all this input Wish I had a eidetic memory especially one I could conect to a video recorder or a bionic eye (that would do too)

I read between the lines to mean that there would be about 30% cut when joss wrote that, considering the length of the movie at present and about 30% would probbly take it where the studio execs would like it (for a standard ho-hum everyday film [which Serenity is not]) - but lets hope this film remains almost intact.

See you(all) in about 10 weeks - it`ll be a mighty fine shindig for sure.

Darin (Zol.)

ZOID

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 1:30 PM

UKFlans:

I haven't seen the test screening, but from what I've heard I hope "30% less stupid" means that we'll have 100% of our BDHs by the final scene of the final cut. Two more movies -- with complete cast -- if you please, Mr. Whedon (a.k.a. "God").

Respectfully,

zoid
_________________________________________________

"Burn the land and boil the sea, you can't take the sky from me." The Ballad of Serenity

PHOEBE

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 4:52 PM

*Edit - sorry. Tried to edit my post and when I hit 'update' it posted a new one o.O

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