Al Gough Taking Questions at TV Guide

[RakuMon]

Credit the tip to Riva!

Hi all!

Someone on my Myspace just told me about the following TVGUIDE link:

http://community.tvguide.com/thread.jspa?threadID=700016221&tstart=0&mod=1168454352140

Apparently Al Gough will be answering Smallville fan's questions. So if you have something to ask, go ask! Registration is required, btw.

Since I cant post a new thread, I thought it was best to let everyone know of this here in the Talon section.

 

[Brainiac 8]

Thanks for putting that into a thread for Riva.

Some of us should get in on that session.

 

[RakuMon]

Thanks for putting that into a thread for Riva.

Some of us should get in on that session.

No doubt. In fact, I already did! http://community.tvguide.com/thread.jspa?messageID=700094522&#700094522

But like Brain said, we should definitely post some real questions if for no other reason than to keep the site from being overrun by 'shippers (see: DeKnight's MySpace.)

 

[Riva]

But like Brain said, we should definitely post some real questions if for no other reason than to keep the site from being overrun by 'shippers (see: DeKnight's MySpace.)

Exactly, RakuMon, which is why I thought I'd tell everyone here about it, because I knew some sensible but interesting questions would come out from here.

 

[Serene]

But like Brain said, we should definitely post some real questions if for no other reason than to keep the site from being overrun by 'shippers (see: DeKnight's MySpace.)

Hah! Too late.

Man, it's like you can see the shippers representing in waves as the links went up in their respective sites. Too funny.

I'd like to ask him if he's surprised at how polarized the online fandom is into shipper corners. I doubt he is since I'm sure it's intentional at this point. One way to keep people tuning in, is to fire them up. They've become experts at manipulating the fans by dangling Clana, Chlark, and Clois carrots. Clex too, if you really want to cover the bases.

I'm curious to see which questions he chooses to answer.

 

[Riva]

Oh no, has it been overrun already? I'm still waiting for an email confirmation, so I havent checked back at the link yet. That's sad, though it was inevitable I guess.

 

[triplet]

Here's what I said:

I'm loving the show so far this season!

Justin Hartley is a wonderful Oliver, and despite some weirdness with Lana acting so erratically, I'm liking the new edge to Lana. I also love how Lois is progressing to her future ace reporter self..

But I'd like to hear something about what Clark will be up to in the second half of the season. DeKnight hinted in his blog that Clark's arc would pick up steam later in the season... Any hints would be nice, if you can't provide spoilers.

Also, I must complain about the lack of Clark shirtlessness this season.

You've had Erica and Kristin both wearing workout wear at different times this season... Hopefully you can come up with some way to give us some Tom eye candy. After all, it would only be only fair for the Tom fans to get equal time...

 

[Serene]

I love your priorities! LOL!
I think I'm going to post too. Wth.

 

[Riva]

I saw your question there, Triplet! And yes, everyone, please, do go post. We need Hype to be represented there too! Lol.

Here was my question:

Hi Mr Gough. I was wondering if you could tell us a little something about Clark and whether or not you plan on introducing him to journalism soon?

And I love the show, love the characters. (Most of them - lol) It's the plot, the cast, and the characters, particularly Clark for me, that have made me such a fan. I like romantic relationships and enjoy them just fine, but they are not what makes the show, IMO. And there are a lot of us out there who feel this way, unfortunately we're just not as vocal as some of the more ''present'' 'shipper fans.

 

[triplet]

I love your priorities! LOL!
I think I'm going to post too. Wth.

Not surprised you like that...

I saw your question there, Triplet! And yes, everyone, please, do go post. We need Hype to be represented there too! Lol.

Here was my question:

Hi Mr Gough. I was wondering if you could tell us a little something about Clark and whether or not you plan on introducing him to journalism soon?

And I love the show, love the characters. (Most of them - lol) It's the plot, the cast, and the characters, particularly Clark for me, that have made me such a fan. I like romantic relationships and enjoy them just fine, but they are not what makes the show, IMO. And there are a lot of us out there who feel this way, unfortunately we're just not as vocal as some of the more ''present'' 'shipper fans.

Excellent comments, Riva!



Not that being a shipper is bad, but I agree with you.

The fanatic shippers are probably giving TPTB the idea that most fans are like them and I think they are probably in the minority.

Unfortunately, the most vocal people get the most attention.

 

[Serene]

Well I posted an overlong question/comment. Brevity has never been my strong point - but you guys already know that.

Here's what I wrote:
Hey Al,

First of all, thank you. SV has been more than just a tv show to me; it's helped get through some difficult personal times as well. My children are huge fans, so we have a lot of SV talk around our home.

My question is: are you surprised by how polarized the internet fandom is based on shipper preferences, and is this something that was intentional from the start, or just something that has naturally developed and surprised everyone?

A few comments..I adore watching Clark continue to embrace his destiny. There really can't be enough scenes of Clark being heroic and saving the day through his own intellect, strength, and heart. Tom Welling IS the Superman of this generation.

Lex is becoming more deliciously evil, and his highly charged scenes with Clark are a constant pleasure to watch. More, please.

I'm one who adores Clark and Lana together, but at this point, I'm just hoping that there will just be a fitting resolution to all that's happened between them. I'm hoping that you do right by Lana in the end.

I also love the addition of Lois on the show. And I thank you so much for not pitting all the females on this show against each other, because that's just so typical. I like that they all want what's best for Clark.

 

[Riva]

Not that being a shipper is bad, but I agree with you

Oh, god no. I love me some good, interesting Clark/Lois or Clark/Lana even. But I meant 'shipper, in the sense that when it takes over your viewing experience so much, that's all the show remains for you, a mere 'ship. I think liking a 'ship and rooting for it should be in addition to loving other aspects too, like the characters, and the mythos, and the plots, the cast, etc. But I think the ones who are just obsessed with 'ships are unfortunately the ones who are always more vocal anyways on the 'net, and they're proving that even in this TVGUIDE thing. Lol. That's why I even wrote in my post that I like and enjoy the relationships of the show myself, but that's not the be-all and end-all for me.

Excellent comments, Riva!

Thanks Triplet! That's quite a compliment, coming from you.

Hey Al,

First of all, thank you. SV has been more than just a tv show to me; it's helped get through some difficult personal times as well. My children are huge fans, so we have a lot of SV talk around our home.

My question is: are you surprised by how polarized the internet fandom is based on shipper preferences, and is this something that was intentional from the start, or just something that has naturally developed and surprised everyone?

A few comments..I adore watching Clark continue to embrace his destiny. There really can't be enough scenes of Clark being heroic and saving the day through his own intellect, strength, and heart. Tom Welling IS the Superman of this generation.

Lex is becoming more deliciously evil, and his highly charged scenes with Clark are a constant pleasure to watch. More, please.

I'm one who adores Clark and Lana together, but at this point, I'm just hoping that there will just be a fitting resolution to all that's happened between them. I'm hoping that you do right by Lana in the end.

I also love the addition of Lois on the show. And I thank you so much for not pitting all the females on this show against each other, because that's just so typical. I like that they all want what's best for Clark.

Sooo refreshing, Rene!

 

[Serene]

I don't have a problem with admitting I'm a shipper. But fortunately for me, that's not my primary or sole reason for watching the show. I love the Superman mythology stuff, I love the cast, I love the family stuff, and I love the romance.

I feel badly for the Clana fans that have stopped watching because they have lost what they loved most about the show. This includes my daughter's group of girlfriends that used to watch with her. They're teen girls, they love the romance.. there's nothing wrong with that. I think my daughter only watches still because of me talking about it all the time, and she happens to love Tom Welling. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

I've never understood the snobbery that assumes that watching for Super-moments is any more valid than watching for your favorite couple. It's just different strokes, etc.

 

[Riva]

That's true. I do agree that 'shippers are looked down upon, Rene. I hope I didn't come off sounding that way! Like I mentioned, I love the 'ship stuff too. In moderation though, personally. I guess I just got frustrated with sooo many 'ship oriented posts over there, that I had to take a stab at the more rabid ones. But I made sure to include that I liked and enjoyed the relationship aspect myself, and then launched in! Lol.

 

[RakuMon]

Since everyone's posting their questions, here's what I asked:

I've been a huge Smallville fan since day one. As a life-long DC fanboy, I love your original yet respectful interpretation of the mythology.

Here are my questions.

1.) Is there a wormhole connecting Smallville and Metropolis? In previous seasons, it's established that Metropolis is at least a 3-hour drive. Yet, everyone goes back and forth without any problem. I can understand Clark doing it (superspeed) and even the Luthors (corporate jet/helicopter). But how can Chloe or Lois do it everyday?

Also, it's been much more egregious this season. For example, in the episode "Rage," Lois is injured at Ollie's penthouse in Metropolis when she dials 911, yet she's taken to the Smallville Medical Center? Another case, involving Lois again, is in the episode "Arrow." Lois is kidnapped from the Talon (which reminds me, please retire the Talon apartment set. Is it possible to redress it and pretend it's Lois and Chloe's apartment in Metropolis?) and is dragged kicking and screaming all the way to Metropolis. Now this wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that Ollie finds out she's been kidnapped in Smallville, but is able to save her in time in Metropolis? Even beating Clark to the scene?

2.) Second, less nit-picky question. What are your plans for the Smallville characters/story after the end of the series? There is such a huge fanbase for these particular characters that it will be a sad moment when they're gone. Are there any plans for continuing their adventures after the show's done? Perhaps in comics (like Whedon's Buffy Season 8 comics), spin-offs (like a Green Arrow show, or better yet, "The Planet" starring Erica, Allison, Aaron and Michael McKean? You know that'll be a great show!) or, dare I say it, Gough & Millar's very own Superman movie franchise? Please say yes to all three!!

 

[Brainiac 8]

I like everyones questions so far...I'll be posting one up for him tonight.

 

[triplet]

Okay, I had another one occur to me:

Okay, I'm a huge Tom Welling fan and Tom's been getting better and better but we've been seeing less and less of him when it comes to the DVDs.

Why aren't there any more blooper reels?

Why hasn't Tom done commentary since Season 2?

I would have thought he'd do commentary last season on the episode he directed, Fragile.

This time out, Hydro was so much more important an episode within the overall story arcs for the season.

Will you try harder to make sure that Tom has the time he needs to do commentary this time? I would love to hear his thoughts on what he did and how things worked out...

He's become an amazingly good director. I want to peek inside the process a bit and hear his insights on how he approaches directing while also being the first lead.

http://community.tvguide.com/thread.jspa?threadID=700016221&start=225

 

[RakuMon]

bump

Anyone know when Gough's going to answer these questions?

 

[RakuMon]

Holy double post, Batman!! :eep:

 

[Riva]

RakuMon, it was said at the start of the questions, that he'd answer in ''a few weeks.'' So, hopefully, soon enough! Looking forward to his answers, and which questions he chooses to answer.

 

[Jack O Lantern]

I asked this

In DVD commenteries you touch on the Smallville style, of focusing on wide shots and extreme close ups. My question is how much creative input or freedon does the director have to go aganist this style? Do any of them ever feel handcuffed by it?

Also what was the thinking behind having The Green Arrow already in costume when the other guest stars were not?

 

[Bruce_Wayne29]

Mine:
Hi, Mr. Gough. - Any chance you will do a Superman movie with Tom Welling, Erica and Michael after the show's done for theatrical, tv or direct to dvd release ?
- Any chance you can get Gene Hackman to do a cameo as someone that will make Lex go even further to the dark side ?
- How about Dean Cain and Teri Hatcher (or Helen Slater) as Jor-El and Lara when we will finally be able to see them (and hopefully expose Terence Stamp as The Eradicator)?
- Will we ever see Lori Lemaris on the show ?
- Can you reveal what storylines you had in store for Christopher Reeve if he was still alive (as we know season 4 had to be re-written because of his death) ?

 

[AgentPat]

FINALLY!!!
http://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/I...osting={E42021B1-45B1-4229-A23A-68F282A237BD}

Smallville: Your Burning Questions Answered!
Thursday, February 1, 2007

Three weeks ago, TVGuide.com asked you, the Smallville fans, what questions you would like to ask series cocreator Al Gough. The response was, yep, super. So stupendous, in fact, that Gough has agreed to field some of the best queries each Thursday during February sweeps. So, with an eye on tonight's new episode (8 pm/ET, on the CW), here is his current take on the fates of the series at large, Lois and — of course — the currently fractured Clark and Lana romance.

Why did you kill off the character of Raya (played by Pascale Hutton) so soon? I really liked her immediately and found her relationship with Clark to be very much like that of a sister. Are there any plans to somehow have her come back? Also, was she supposed to be a version of Supergirl? — DarcyEW
Al Gough: As enticing as it would be to have Clark embark on a relationship with a Kryptonian counterpart, it would have been an impediment to his destiny. Part of what propels Clark to his fate as Superman relies on the fact that ultimately he has to face his challenges alone. Sorry, Darcy, Raya's not a version of Supergirl. Supergirl is actually Clark's first cousin in the comics.

Will we ever get a full-on romantic Clark-Lana relationship going again? It doesn't bother me that Lana is not privy to Clark's secrets. (Yes, I'm in the minority here.) — Masque
Gough: Masque, you'll have to keep watching for that answer.

At this stage, are you thinking about Season 7? Is it officially the last season? If so, will that change the way you approach the story lines? — Beatle
Gough: We're definitely thinking of Season 7. Lots of interesting ideas are shaping up for what's sure to be another great season. None of us are ruling out more seasons to come, so no, it's not officially the last season.

When will you give Kristin Kreuk some lighter/comedic moments to play? I bet she would be great at it! — Knotnamed
Gough: There are a few lighter moments to look forward to, but this season's story line puts Lana in a very difficult place — not one with much room for comedy. On the other hand, we think you'll see a new depth to Lana and some stellar performances by Kristin coming up this year.

First of all, I've been a fan since the pilot. Smallville is one of my favorite shows, and I'm constantly converting people into new fans. Next season, will you be signing on Erica Durance for all 22 episodes? Since it may be the last season, it seems that it'll be necessary to flesh out her journey toward becoming the iconic Lois Lane we know she's destined to become. — Erum
Gough: We love Erica, too; don't worry, we've got a big arc planned for her next season that even tops the Oliver Queen story!

First, I want to say that I love Smallville and it is the best show on TV. My question is: In "Legacy," what happened to the key when it went to the wall? And how did Dr. Swann (Christopher Reeve) get a hold of it? — Tomallison
Gough: Thanks for the kind words. You've gotta bust out those Season 3 DVDs and take a closer look. The key was absorbed into the cave wall — but not for long. Dr. Swann was a man with unlimited resources and amazing intellect. Through his research into all things Kryptonian, he was able to recover that important octagon without anyone knowing.

What might you have in store for Chloe (Allison Mack)? Are we going to see any kind of change in her career? Upward mobility? Is she going to stick with journalism until the series' end? — Ferrus
Gough: Chloe has a lot of interesting challenges to face in the coming episodes. This is a watershed time for her, and she'll be faced with some life-changing decisions. Of course, all of Chloe's mobility will be upward; she's not one to move sideways. And how could you even think that Chloe would ever give up on journalism?

Will Martha break off her relationship with Lionel? And when will Clark learn that Lionel knows about the Phantom Zone? — Kaye2
Gough: Funny you should ask: These questions will all be answered soon in upcoming episodes.

Over the last few years, Mr. Tom Welling has become quite an accomplished actor. Additionally, he has proven to be a talented director. Having said that, I have one question: Is Clark ever going to take off his shirt again? — Emmelinebelle
Gough: We agree with your sentiments about Tom Welling's multifaceted talent. And to answer your question: Everyone's got to take their shirt off at least once in a while.

Why won't you guys make Clark and Chloe an official romantic couple? What's holding you back? I guess I'm just frustrated from years of hoping and wishing and longing. — Clear227
Gough: Clark and Chloe are always going to be the closest of friends. Romance might spoil that. Not to mention Jimmy — she's really stolen his heart. How could we do that to him?

Are Lana and Lex going to get married? I don't want them to because, first of all, I don't think they belong together, and secondly, they never even really knew each other in the comics. I know you don't always follow the comics, but I think you should on this one. — Tomcat22
Gough: This question may be answered sooner than you think. There are lots of differences between the comics and the show, and that's what makes Smallville unique. After all, there were no meteor freaks in the comics, either.

Will Clark go through his training like he said he would, at the end of this season? And if he does, how will that affect him next season? — Milton Fine
Gough: Milt, that's a very good question. When you look back at the comic mythology, you'll notice that Clark's training involved years of solitude. Not exactly the ingredients for scintillating television. But every hero has his trials, and Clark will have to endure his own, whether at the end of this season or sometime later.

Will Jimmy ever return? He has potential outside of being an obstacle for Clark-Chloe. Plus, we know Jimmy has to be there when Clark and Chloe are working at the "Daily Planet" as reporters. — Bluediamond
Gough: The addition of Aaron Ashmore to the cast has been one of our favorite parts of this season. He's been a terrific embodiment of the character, and we happen to agree with you about Jimmy's potential. Keep watching, and we have a feeling you may just see more of him in the future.​

 

[Brainiac 8]

This is the third time these have been posted here.

 

[shy175223]

FINALLY!!!
http://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/I...osting={E42021B1-45B1-4229-A23A-68F282A237BD}

Smallville: Your Burning Questions Answered!
Thursday, February 1, 2007

Three weeks ago, TVGuide.com asked you, the Smallville fans, what questions you would like to ask series cocreator Al Gough. The response was, yep, super. So stupendous, in fact, that Gough has agreed to field some of the best queries each Thursday during February sweeps. So, with an eye on tonight's new episode (8 pm/ET, on the CW), here is his current take on the fates of the series at large, Lois and — of course — the currently fractured Clark and Lana romance.

Why did you kill off the character of Raya (played by Pascale Hutton) so soon? I really liked her immediately and found her relationship with Clark to be very much like that of a sister. Are there any plans to somehow have her come back? Also, was she supposed to be a version of Supergirl? — DarcyEW​

Al Gough: As enticing as it would be to have Clark embark on a relationship with a Kryptonian counterpart, it would have been an impediment to his destiny. Part of what propels Clark to his fate as Superman relies on the fact that ultimately he has to face his challenges alone. Sorry, Darcy, Raya's not a version of Supergirl. Supergirl is actually Clark's first cousin in the comics.​

Will we ever get a full-on romantic Clark-Lana relationship going again? It doesn't bother me that Lana is not privy to Clark's secrets. (Yes, I'm in the minority here.) — Masque​

Gough: Masque, you'll have to keep watching for that answer.​

At this stage, are you thinking about Season 7? Is it officially the last season? If so, will that change the way you approach the story lines? — Beatle​

Gough: We're definitely thinking of Season 7. Lots of interesting ideas are shaping up for what's sure to be another great season. None of us are ruling out more seasons to come, so no, it's not officially the last season.​

When will you give Kristin Kreuk some lighter/comedic moments to play? I bet she would be great at it! — Knotnamed​

Gough: There are a few lighter moments to look forward to, but this season's story line puts Lana in a very difficult place — not one with much room for comedy. On the other hand, we think you'll see a new depth to Lana and some stellar performances by Kristin coming up this year.​

First of all, I've been a fan since the pilot. Smallville is one of my favorite shows, and I'm constantly converting people into new fans. Next season, will you be signing on Erica Durance for all 22 episodes? Since it may be the last season, it seems that it'll be necessary to flesh out her journey toward becoming the iconic Lois Lane we know she's destined to become. — Erum​

Gough: We love Erica, too; don't worry, we've got a big arc planned for her next season that even tops the Oliver Queen story!​

First, I want to say that I love Smallville and it is the best show on TV. My question is: In "Legacy," what happened to the key when it went to the wall? And how did Dr. Swann (Christopher Reeve) get a hold of it? — Tomallison​

Gough: Thanks for the kind words. You've gotta bust out those Season 3 DVDs and take a closer look. The key was absorbed into the cave wall — but not for long. Dr. Swann was a man with unlimited resources and amazing intellect. Through his research into all things Kryptonian, he was able to recover that important octagon without anyone knowing.​

What might you have in store for Chloe (Allison Mack)? Are we going to see any kind of change in her career? Upward mobility? Is she going to stick with journalism until the series' end? — Ferrus​

Gough: Chloe has a lot of interesting challenges to face in the coming episodes. This is a watershed time for her, and she'll be faced with some life-changing decisions. Of course, all of Chloe's mobility will be upward; she's not one to move sideways. And how could you even think that Chloe would ever give up on journalism?​

Will Martha break off her relationship with Lionel? And when will Clark learn that Lionel knows about the Phantom Zone? — Kaye2 ​

Gough: Funny you should ask: These questions will all be answered soon in upcoming episodes.​

Over the last few years, Mr. Tom Welling has become quite an accomplished actor. Additionally, he has proven to be a talented director. Having said that, I have one question: Is Clark ever going to take off his shirt again? — Emmelinebelle​

Gough: We agree with your sentiments about Tom Welling's multifaceted talent. And to answer your question: Everyone's got to take their shirt off at least once in a while.​

Why won't you guys make Clark and Chloe an official romantic couple? What's holding you back? I guess I'm just frustrated from years of hoping and wishing and longing. — Clear227​

Gough: Clark and Chloe are always going to be the closest of friends. Romance might spoil that. Not to mention Jimmy — she's really stolen his heart. How could we do that to him?​

Are Lana and Lex going to get married? I don't want them to because, first of all, I don't think they belong together, and secondly, they never even really knew each other in the comics. I know you don't always follow the comics, but I think you should on this one. — Tomcat22​

Gough: This question may be answered sooner than you think. There are lots of differences between the comics and the show, and that's what makes Smallville unique. After all, there were no meteor freaks in the comics, either.​

Will Clark go through his training like he said he would, at the end of this season? And if he does, how will that affect him next season? — Milton Fine​

Gough: Milt, that's a very good question. When you look back at the comic mythology, you'll notice that Clark's training involved years of solitude. Not exactly the ingredients for scintillating television. But every hero has his trials, and Clark will have to endure his own, whether at the end of this season or sometime later.​

Will Jimmy ever return? He has potential outside of being an obstacle for Clark-Chloe. Plus, we know Jimmy has to be there when Clark and Chloe are working at the "Daily Planet" as reporters. — Bluediamond​

Gough: The addition of Aaron Ashmore to the cast has been one of our favorite parts of this season. He's been a terrific embodiment of the character, and we happen to agree with you about Jimmy's potential. Keep watching, and we have a feeling you may just see more of him in the future.​

Sorry, Pat But I already made a thread on thisor did!.