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WEISMANSWERS 2009-08 (Aug)

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SUCH BIG NEWS

Okay, in the period of just a few days, I have been rocked by two incredible pieces of news.

1. Last Thursday (8/27/09), Vic Cook and I were informed that in exchange for some concession vis-a-vis the live action Spider-Man features, Sony returned the television rights (including the animated television rights) for Spider-Man to Marvel. This took place the day before ComicCon, I'm told. But I was only informed of it this past week.

2. Today (8/31/09) comes the news that Disney has purchased Marvel outright.

NOW, before you ask -- before you post a thousand duplicate and/or overlapping questions to ASK GREG -- let me be clear: I have NO IDEA what this means for either Gargoyles or The Spectacular Spider-Man. Neither of these developments are by definition good news or bad news. Shocking news, sure. But how it will play out for either or both properties is a complete mystery to me. As soon as I have ANY information on either property, I will post it here at ASK GREG. Until then, don't ask. Seriously. Just don't. There's just no point in bogging down the queue with questions I have no answer to. Thank you for your cooperation.


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GATHERING 2009 - Monday, August 24th

GATHERING 2009 - Monday, August 24th

Midnight - The goodbyes begin for folks who are leaving first thing Monday morning or right now. Said goodbye to Marina, Zehra, Sarah, Michael McAdam and probably quite a few others...

1:30am - The party downstairs finally breaks up and I head up to my room.

4am - Went to bed. But I just couldn't sleep at all.

8am - Finally gave up and got up.

9am - Brought my luggage to my car and then went to the staff breakfast: crepe, ham, potatoes, OJ.

10am - Comic book panel with Karine Charlebois and Greg Guler. I'll just repeat the main message I gave. I have no info on the future of Gargoyles comics beyond this: SLG's Dan Vado is sincerely interested in doing more. His ability to make an offer for the license to Disney will depend on the sales of the three trade paperbacks. Beyond that, we had some really interesting discussions about the books.

11:30am - Gargoyles Biology and Culture panel with Jade Griffin and Matt Parker. I love this panel. Always full of interesting discussions, that influence how I handle things in the Gargoyles Universe.

1pm - Closing Ceremonies. Okay, I admit it. I pretty much lost it more than once. It was VERY emotional. A number of us told stories of past Gatherings and how they changed our lives. It was warm and all too fuzzy, but wonderful. I love all you guys. Thank you.

2:30pm - We finally closed the Closing Ceremonies. I helped Patrick and a bunch of other volunteers carry things down to Patrick's rented van. Then we headed up to the Constaff Suite for a dead dog party. Christopher bought pizza for everyone, which was very generous. I had a coke and a virgin jello shot. And we just hung out.

5:45pm - Time to go, to return to real life. I hugged EVERYONE. Jennifer Anderson walked me to the elevator. I was pretty wrecked. It felt a bit like it felt to end a long job. You walk away. What else can you do? You take your memories with you, but you also know you're leaving a piece behind.

But it's been a FANTASTIC THIRTEEN YEARS. Thanks to everyone who ever attended a Gathering. You really changed my life!


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GATHERING 2009 - Sunday, August 23rd

GATHERING 2009 - Sunday, August 23rd

1am - Got back to my room.

2am - Went to bed.

9am - I woke up. Wow, a real night's sleep. I showered and dressed quickly, attempting to make the tail end of the staff breakfast, but got waylaid along the way by arriving guests, like Bob Kline. Managed to snag one croissant, but that's it.

10am - Gargoyles Production panel with Frank Paur, Bob Kline, Brad Rader, Pamela Long, Vic Cook, Greg Guler and Doug Murphy. More fun old stories.

11:30am - Spidey Production panel with Bob, Pamela, Vic, Greg, Kevin Altieri, Jennifer Coyle, Sean "Cheeks" Galloway, Joey Mason and Phil Weinstein. We showed the unaired scenes clip from ComicCon and the animatic for the main title. And again, more fun stories.

1pm - I finally had a break, but I couldn't resist sitting in on the Composer's panel with Carl Johnson, Gargoyles Composer, and Dynamic Music Partners (Lolita Ritmanis, Kris Carter and Michael McCuistion) the Spider-Man composers. They were WELL-prepared. Way more well-prepared than I was for any of my panels. Brought a bunch of clips and talked process. It was fascinating.

2:30pm - Writers Panel. From Spidey: Andrew Robinson, Kevin Hopps, Nicole Dubuc and Matt Wayne. From Gargoyles: Bob Skir and Michael Reaves. Michael has Parkinsons, so first Bob and later Michael's daughter Mallory Reaves served as interpreters for him. It was great having everyone there.

4pm - The writers (and Karine) had a signing.

5pm - My wife dropped my son Benny off at the con. So we hung out a bit.

6pm - Benny and I went to the Banquet. We sat with Gayle, Lauren, Ryan, Grey Wolf, Read and Abbie. Real sweet spread at the buffet. But I've forgotten exactly what. I guess I'm just not that into the food this time. Is that progress?

7:30pm - Another Q&A. This time with myself, Bob Skir, Vic Cook, Greg Guler, Nicole Dubuc, Kevin Altieri, Jennifer Coyle, Ben Diskin, Crispin Freeman, Karine Charlebois and Wendy Pini. Michael Reaves kibbitzed a bit from the sidelines too.

8:30pm - By this time, Beth had picked Benny up again. I went to the bar and hung out with Vic, Guler, Kevin, Jennifer, Wendy and Karine. Just had a coke.

9:30pm - Masquerade time. The judges were myself, Wendy Pini, Keith David, Thom Adcox, Ben Diskin, Carl Johnson and Karine Charlebois. I will attempt to remember all the awards we handed out, but I forgot to save my award sheet...

Best Junior - Ryan & Lauren as Owen & Banshee
Best Performance - Abbie as the Lady in the Lake
Best Original Character - Rika as Venus
Cutest Trio - Jade, Eric and Kyari as Fox, Owen and Alex
If I give you this, I'll have to kill you award - Zehra, Tony & Andrea as Shari & the Illuminati
Best Canon - Aaron as Upgraded Jackal
Excalibur Award - Justin as King Arthur
Gorelisa Award - Charlie as Kalia Sartre
Thom Adcox Memorial Award - Rebecca as a Star Trek Dispensable Red
Best in Show - Esopus as ... okay, this was best in show and it was really great, but I just can't remember the name of the character! SORRY!!!!

10:30pm - We all just hung out in the Ballroom for awhile. I chatted with GXB, Carl Johnson, Zehra & Sarah and many, many others...

MORE NEXT WEEK!!!!!


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GATHERING 2009 - Saturday, August 22nd

GATHERING 2009 - Saturday, August 22nd

3am - Went to bed.

8am - Woke up, with five hours sleep being the most I'd had in any one night in over a week.

9am - Staff Breakfast. Usually, I'm all about telling you what I ate at every meal, but I just don't remember. Orange Juice and a croissant, I think. But also... uh... not sure.

10am - Jennifer and I were joined by Gargoyles/Spidey Voice Director Extraordinaire Jamie Thomason for our second round of auditions.

11:30am - Casting session. We only had thirteen slots for fans to participate in the play because of the LARGE pro "turnout". You see, most years I ask the pros to participate and we get one or two saying yes. But this year SIXTEEN said yes. So from a fan standpoint, we had an embarrassment of riches. Over forty people auditioned and most of those did great, so we decided to cast the thirteen slots, plus STEAL a role from Thom Adcox and give that to another fan, PLUS cast a couple of fans as understudies in case someone didn't show. (But everyone did.) We posted the cast list...

12pm - Lunch in the staff room with Marina Sirtis, Keith David, Karine Charlebois, Greg Bishansky, Thom Adcox and Keith's son Owen. It's always great to see Keith, but it was very cool to see Marina again, whom I haven't seen in years. And, man, has Owen grown!! Broccoli soup, salad, and... see, can't remember!

1pm - Gargoyles Voice Acting Panel with Jamie, Keith, Thom, Marina and Elisa Gabrielli. Fun stories told. Marina and I have very different memories about how she was cast. (I'm right, but I'd never say that.)

2:30pm - Spidey Voice Acting Panel with (again) Jamie, Keith and Elisa. Plus Dee Bradley Baker, James Arnold Taylor, Ben Isaac Diskin (what's with all these three name guys?), Steve Blum, Daran Norris, Deborah Strang, Vanessa Marshall, Josh Keaton, Andrew Kishino, Phil LaMarr, Crispin Freeman and Eric Vesbit. More fun stories. Jamie and I disagreed about how many characters we auditioned. And once again, I'm right. It's a blessing and a curse, as Monk would say.

4pm - Radio Play Rehearsal. We barely had time to do one full read through of the ridiculously long and over-stuffed radio play. There was really no time to direct the actors at all, beyond telling them to project louder, though Jamie and I tried to give an occasional pointer.

5:30pm - Radio Play. Gotta say, thanks to my shameless pandering in the script and the amazing talent of my cast, we really had a phenomenal success with the three night mess of a bloated script I wrote. Got lots of laughs, even a few gasps. Pros were spot on, of course, including some Gargoyles folks who hadn't played their characters in years. But our fan cast was great too.

Here's the cast list:

THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN MEETS GARGOYLES
“Religious Studies 101: A Handful of Thorns”
(Radio Play)
CAST LIST
NARRATOR - Greg Weisman
DEMONA/DOMINIQUE DESTINE - Marina Sirtis
SPIDER-MAN/PETER PARKER - Josh Keaton
GOLIATH - Keith David
LEXINGTON - Thom Adcox
ELISA MAZA - Zehra Fazal
BROOKLYN - John Clemens
CURT CONNORS/LIZARD - Dee Bradley Baker
BROADWAY - Crispin Freeman
ZAFIRO - Joshua Poole
MAY PARKER - Deborah Strang
GREEN GOBLIN - Steve Blum
OBSIDIANA - Elisa Gabrielli
KRAVEN THE HUNTER - Eric Vesbit
HARRY OSBORN - James Arnold Taylor
DOCTOR OCTOPUS/OTTO OCTAVIUS - Michael McAdam
J. JONAH JAMESON - Daran Norris
MARY JANE WATSON - Vanessa Marshall
ELECTRO - Crispin Freeman
VENOM/EDDIE BROCK - Ben Isaac Diskin
GEORGE STACY - Lucas McClain
BIG MAN - Keith David
CALYPSO EZILI - Jennifer L. Anderson
ASHLEY KAFKA - Elisa Gabrielli
ROBBIE ROBERTSON - Phil LaMarr
LIZ ALLAN - Kaitlyn Robrock
SALLY AVRIL - Jennifer L. Anderson
GWEN STACY - Sarah Williams
MATT BLUESTONE - Eric Tribou
GREG BISHANSKY - Greg Bishansky
KENNY KONG - Andrew Kishino
COLONEL JUPITER/JOHN JAMESON - Daran Norris
NED LEE - Andrew Kishino
VULTURE - Seth Jackson
FLASH THOMPSON - Ian Bassett
SHARI - Zehra Fazal
FANCY DAN - Phil LaMarr
GULYADKIN - Dee Bradley Baker
CARNAGE/CLETUS KASADY - Ian Bassett
HOMUNCULUS #1 - Dee Bradley Baker
HOMUNCULUS #2 - Phil LaMarr
HOMUNCULUS #3 - Steve Blum
HOMUNCULUS #4 - James Arnold Taylor
HOMUNCULUS #5 - Thom Adcox
SMUGGLER #1 - Andrew Kishino
DOMINIC DRACON - Seth Jackson
BLACKIE GAXTON - Steve Blum
EMILY OSBORN - Kaitlyn Robrock
TINKERER - Thom Adcox
SEYMOUR O’REILLY - Steve Blum
SILVER SPOON MANAGER - Crispin Freeman
ANGELA - Sarah Williams
PUMPKIN BOMB - Nicki France
THAILOG - Keith David
MARIA CHAVEZ - Elisa Gabrielli
FREDERICK FOSWELL - James Arnold Taylor
ALAN O’NEIL - James Arnold Taylor
ROSIE THOMPSON - Vanessa Marshall
MARGOT YALE - Marina Sirtis
MORGAN MORGAN - Keith David
JASON IONELLO - Ben Isaac Diskin
RAND ROBERTSON - Phil LaMarr
BRENTWOOD - Fox Anderson
CHAMELEON - Steve Blum
NORMAN OSBORN - Eric Vesbit
DILBERT TRILBY - Steve Blum

Thanks to the entire cast. You guys were amazing, and totally saved my butt.

7pm - Once the play was over, all the tension and adrenaline that it had generated over the last week or so melted away, leaving me nearly comotose. I went to dinner in the hotel with my wife Beth and my son Benny. I didn't eat much. Clam Chowder, a roll, a coke and a shrimp cocktail. I was all but passing out. Fortunately, I got a second wind... and I'd need it.

9pm - Blue Mug w/Thom Adcox and the staff of Blue Mug Productions: Mara Cordova, Kalia Sartre, Jennifer L. Anderson and Boswell Bosley. I had to duck out for awhile, and I hear Edmund Tsabard showed up and pretty much insulted everyone in the room. (So what else is new?) I came back, by which time Edmund was gone. I picked up my water glass to take a drink, and someone told me that Thom's chihuahua had sipped from my glass. Someone else pointed at another glass and said that was the one the dog had lapped from. I shrugged it off and sipped from my glass. Then Jen told me Edmund had used that glass. I did a spit-take. I mean do you know where Edmund's mouth has been?!!! I hate to do anything to promote anything that reprobate is working on, but the work of the rest of the Blue Mug staff is so good that I'll ignore his contribution and recommend BlueMugProductions.com to all of you (who are 18 or over). I've seen the work, and it's really good!!! By the way, whomever took my Vox-made macrame Greg doll and put an eyepatch on it to turn it into an Edmund doll: UNCOOL!!! I don't even see the resemblance anyway!

11:30pm - After the mug, a few of us -- Jennifer, Mara, Eric and Tony -- went upstairs to the staff room. I had a virgin jello shot. Black Cherry!

More tomorrow!


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GATHERING 2009 - Thursday, August 20th

Well, gang, I'm back from the final Gathering. Had an amazing time. Truly. I'll start my conjournal now. One day at a time...

As always, all times and quotations are approximate. Please forgive any mistakes or omissions.

GATHERING 2009 - Thursday, August 20th
I was up all Wednesday night, prepping the scripts for the Radio Play, which I had written over the three (largely sleepless) nights previous.

7:30am - Finally went to bed.

11:30am - Got up. Drove to my office in Beverly Hills to finish prepping for the Gathering.

6pm - Finally finished prepping. Drove home to pack.

7pm - Left for the Universal Hilton. Parked and checked in and unpacked in my seventh floor room. The staff then gathered to go to dinner at Bucco de Beppo's in CityWalk. It was a big table. I think a complete list of those present would include me, Liz Chesterman, Mara Cordova, Joe, Susan Leonard, Sammy Behr, Seth Jackson, Eric Tribou, Jennifer L. Anderson, Kythera of Anevern, Rebecca Bochner, Patrick Toman, Tony Zucconi, Andrea Zucconi, Cindy Kinnard and Karine Charlebois. I had garlic bread, calamari, spaghetti and meatballs, apple gorgonzola salad, two kinds of fettucini, green beans and manicotti. Afterwards, we went back to the hotel to check out the rooms for the con.

10:30pm - I went back to my room to continue prepping my script for the radio play.

More tomorrow... please post YOUR ConJournal here at ASK GREG! Thanks!


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Gathering 2009 - Los Angeles CA

Gathering 2009 - Los Angeles CA

Okay, gang, I leave tomorrow for the Gathering. This is our last one for the foreseeable future, so I plan to make the most of it. We've got a TON of programming (including panels on both Gargoyles and The Spectacular Spider-Man and ElfQuest, production panels, voice panels, writing panels, comic book panels), a TON of professional guests (Comic book pros, animation pros, actors, artists, writers, sculptors, directors, etc.) These guests include Frank Paur, Victor Cook, Sean "Cheeks" Galloway, Greg Guler, Thom Adcox, Keith David, Josh Keaton, Steve Blum, Crispin Freeman, Wendy Pini and Demona herself: Marina Sirtis.

We have screenings of exclusive Gathering footage, like the Bad Guys reel and the pro/fan Team Atlantis collaboration. I'm bringing the only once-before seen footage clip from Spectacular Spider-Man ONLY shown at ComicCon last month. And Michael Reaves, Gargoyles writer and story editor, is bringing his STAR TREK webisode, professionally produced and starring George Takei himself as Sulu.

We have a Radio Play (that has nearly killed me to get ready in time) that presents an ORIGINAL Feature-Length crossover between Gargoyles and The Spectacular Spider-Man, with EVERY voice actor guest performing with fans.

We have a Banquet with a pro/guest at every table. We have our "Mug-A-Guests", i.e. a chance for a small group of fans to chat with individual pro/guests. We have the Masquerade and Dance.

We have fan/pro discussion panels on Gargoyles Biology and Culture, mythology, ABJD, Fanfiction, etc. We have Mature Content programming -- including Edmund Tsabard and his Angels at the Blue Mug.

We have Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk right next door.

And we have the opportunity to purchase all three Gargoyles Trade Paperbacks, both volumes of Clan-Building and Bad Guys: Redemption. Plus the auction features more gargoyle merchandise than you could possibly carry home. Great art at the art show.

And a few surprises...

Anyway, if you're anywhere near the Universal Hilton in Los Angeles, we hope you stop by. Let's make this last Gathering the best one yet!

And I'll see you back here at Ask Greg next week...

Oh, and as always, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE post Gathering journals here at ASK GREG!!!!!

Thanks,

gdw


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Akeem M. writes...

Hello again sir, I was wondering if in Spectaular Spider-Man if Peter has had tests or anything run on him after he was bit by the genetically modified spider. If I remember correctly, it seems to be common knowledge that Pete was "bit by the science bug", and something like that I would imagine would need to be examined by the doctors. I may be looking too deep into this, but It never hurts to ask... Maybe the bite didn't really affect him for a couple of weeks (when they were testing him) and the doctors thought nothing of it?

Greg responds...

The bite seemed to have no immediate repercussions, so no tests were run.

Response recorded on August 18, 2009

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raymond writes...

hey greg, spectacular spiderman is my favorite show ever!
if you ever make a season 3, will kingpin be in it.cause in season 1 when i got suspiciuos and guessed who the "big man" was i thought it was kingpin(until i really found out)
best of luck for a season 3!

Greg responds...

Check the archives for the five hundred previous times I've answered this question.

Response recorded on August 18, 2009

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Thailog (from Wikia) writes...

Oh, darn it. Two months (and one day) of waiting and I realize I didn't phrase one of my questions clearly enough. I'm apologize. When I <a href="http://www.s8.org/gargoyles/askgreg/search.php?qid=11312">asked</a> how Sandman, Rhino, and Vulture escaped in "Reinforcement", I should have been more specific and added "from Ryker's Island." Although your answer has some great information, so thank you for that.

So now, how did Sandman, Rhino, and Vulture escape from Ryker's Island in the beginning of "Reinforcement"? I'm curious because in "Group Therapy" their escape was nothing short of conspicuous, while in "Reinforcement" three inmates slipped away before anyone realized they were gone. I gather that Beck's duplicate was proving the hologram for Toomes. But how did Toomes slipped out unnoticed? And how could Sandman and Rhino escape their special confinements TWICE? And having said that, how on earth could Norman Osborn get a contract to build the Vault after two super villains had escaped their supposedly special containment cells?

And finally, yes, I would love to know if Mysterio was a robot all along, but I guess I'll have to wait for Season Three. ; )

Thank you for all your answers, btw. They're all great.

Greg responds...

Mostly, I'm content to leave all this to the audience's imaginations.

As for Osborn getting the contract, he could point to the effectiveness of the cells themselves and blame the prison, it's buildings and its policies, thus requiring the construction of an entirely new building to house the growing super-villain population.

Response recorded on August 18, 2009

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Renee writes...

Since you have done The Spectacular Spider-Man, is there any chance that you might do another Marvel super hero or would you like to?
If so which one would like to do?

And I would just like to say that you did an amazing job with Spectacular Spider-Man and hope that Season 3 comes through. Absolutely the best Spider-Man series I've ever watched. I even like it better than the movies. Great job!

Thanks

Greg responds...

There are MANY Marvel (and other) super-heroes, I'd love to do. Too many to list. But mostly I'm hoping for more Spidey right about now.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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XenothranHero writes...

Dear Greg,
First off, just wanted to say that I love Gargoyles; great show, very inspirational in my own work. That being said, here's my question:

If you recall, Doug Walker of Nostalgia Critic fame added lyrics to the Gargoyles theme a while back. This time, he has released a full fledged review of the series as the Nostalgia Critic (Which, unsurprisingly, is a very positive review).-http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/thatguywiththeglasses/nostalgia-critic/8726-gargoyles
My question is, does Walker express the kind of things in his review that you had hoped would result from Gargoyles (ie, is his review the kind of review you would have been hoping to hear when Gargoyles first came out)?

Greg responds...

We had many good reviews when Gargoyles first came out. I liked NC's review too.

(I can't believe I'm actually being asked to review the reviews! ;P )

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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This Is My Screen Name writes...

What did you think of the Nostalgia Critic's review of Gargoyles?

What was your favorite part? Any parts you didnt like?

If you havent seen it, here is the link.

http://nostalgiacritic.blip.tv/file/2278492/

Greg responds...

It's been so long since I watched it, I don't remember too many details. But I liked it. He liked us. We liked him. It was a whole mutual like-fest.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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Light writes...

When season 3 of Spectacular Spider-Man will be ordered, will you reveal more villains or will we not know which villains to expect when season 3 will air?

Greg responds...

I'm sure there will be some spoilers and some surprises.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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ColdFusion writes...

Yay! SSM season 2 has started! I love how REALISTIC this show continues to be. The attention to detail is so appreciated..
though I must say I was surprised to find out that Pete doesn't stay warm enough from all the activity of superhero-ing, that he actually needs some long undies. I mean, when kids ice skate or build snow forts they tend to overheat and take their coats off.
Then he plunged into the water (is that the East River?) and suddenly I was fearing for Pete's life.. (though having him catch a cold is a bit cartoonish, do people still believe cold gives you a virus?)

Particularly well-executed was Mysterio's whole thing. I mean, after the Chameleon's tricks were revealed to careful viewers, I was surprised that Mysterio's magic looked so... legit! I was SURE you weren't going to fall back on sci-fi "holograms".. and then it turned out they were projected on mist! That totally works with only a little disbelief-suspension.

And then in Kraven's episode, I mean, FINALLY. I've been wondering for YEARS why nobody ever traced Spider-Man's origin, since a spider-themed guy just happened to show up after special spiders were engineered. I can't wait to see what comes of it.

Keep up the awesome work.. in general.. or if the show gets picked up for a third season. :)

Greg responds...

Cold lowers your resistance. I think that's well-established medically.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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David B. Jacobs writes...

Why can't the gene-cleanser cure Electro?
His abilities came the electrical shock of genetically altered eels and rays, like how Peter got his powers from a gentically altered spider's bite. So why can't it cure him?

Greg responds...

Neither Curt Connors nor myself can quite figure that out. But we're working on it.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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Big Fan writes...

Hey Greg big fan, Awsome work on the Spiderman series it truely is the best. But my question was about the gargoyles series. I recently revistited the show and watched it from beginning to end and i was seriously impressed. I know that disney has the rights and all that, but have you ever tried/considered to re-pitch the series to them? perhaps thats simply not how things work but i find it dificult to see how such a powerful storyline couldnt be profitable.

Greg responds...

I've pitched and repitched Gargoyles to Disney many, many times. No luck beyond the DVDs and the comics we have now. But I haven't given up.

Response recorded on August 17, 2009

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STONE OF DESTINY -- SPOILERS!!!!

STONE OF DESTINY -- CLAN-BUILDING, VOLUME TWO SPOILERS!!!!

GXB sent me a question about the Stone of Destiny in Clan-Building. He wrote:

"Just to be clear... Xanatos has the original Stone of Destiny? Scotland has a fake? That's... kinda cool. :)"

Now, of course, I shouldn't have responded. The book SHOULD either stand and fall on it's own. But of course, if that was my policy, we wouldn't really have ASK GREG at all, would we?

I apologize that I wrote with so little clarity that an explanation is necessary at all, but here's my answer to him, and before the rest of you get a chance, to all of you:

You're missing the point.

Which was the original, the one Moses sent with Gathelus or the one Moses kept and used to bring forth water in the desert?

Which was the original, the half that stayed at Tara or the half that sailed to Dalriada? (Note that both halves are the same size as the so-called "original".)

Which was the original, the one that was kept in London or the one that became the Blarney Stone?

There is no original. There is no fake.

But if you're asking where the specific stone that had been at Westminster went, Peredur has it in Carbonek. Look at the timeline. Xanatos switched the stone at the bridge and was about to make a DOUBLE switch at Leith before Blanchfleur came to pick it up. He was planning to keep the one he assumed was the original, when the stone itself told him it was pointless. So he gave Blanchefleur the stone the Illuminati wanted, i.e. the Westminster stone.

Xanatos kept one of the two "fakes" and Edinburgh has the other "fake", except both are still real stones. (It's not like they're paper mache or something.) And ANY stone can be THE stone.


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Phoenician writes...

Well, with Season Two of Spectacular Spider-Man finally in swing in the United States, I thought, what the heck, why not jot some thoughts down?

**TSS-M SPOILERS**

"Blueprints"

What's funny about the Venom nightmare in the very beginning is that the snow didn't register until after the dream was over, when we pull out of Peter's bedroom. Its a small aspect of this great episode, but when a person can rely on this kind of continuity week in and week out (as I witnessed in season one), it just makes it all the easier to actually get absorbed in the universe being created. I'm actually realizing that the season one finale, though a long wait for me, has only been, say, a week ago for Peter Parker and company :)

I was kinda spoiled that there would be Latin spells a bit back, but as a Latin student back in the day, I loved hearing every bit of it, especially with Mysterio's quicker pace . . . at least, compared to what I've heard in Gargoyles and my own translations.

Fun Fact: Gargoyles is what encouraged me to take Latin back in high school. Most people site Shakespeare as their educational dessert from watching Gargoyles, I took on a dead language. Speaking of Gargoyles, I loved the inside joke of "Fulminos Venite", though I must admit it I only realized it later in the episode, as Mysterio DOES say it differently than the Archmage . . . and quicker. I also TOTALLY loved the line that I was able to decipher on the moment: Nullae Satisfactionis Potiri Non Possum! (I can't get no satisfaction!) Hilarious.

Stan Lee cameo! Was it fun having him on the set?

Spidey in the water! . . . "COLD COLD-COLD-COLD!!!" I live in the desert for a reason, and that just felt horrible even for me d:

The whole Liz-Misdirection scene was bugging me I think more than my roommate, if only because I'm rooting for Gwen and my dorm buddy is enjoying the Liz flirts. The 'tutledge' reminds me of early season one when Liz was dreading being tutored by Peter . . . funny how much has changed in three months time.

The Hormunculi Mysterio unleashed had some funny moments, one of my favorites toward the end of scene where the all vanish, including two holding Spider-Man . . . they realize they're being wisked away and with a line totally reminiscent of the 1993 film Hocus Pocus: "Ohh . . . buh-bye!" Had me laughing, even though I'm unsure if the connection was intentional or not.

The Osborne Dinner Party was interesting . . . Norman gets Peter his internship back, we meet Miles Warren, who's mum on any ideas he'll bring to the lab, the Conners have to swallow some pride in giving Peter a third (or fourth, I forget) chance. Plus: another sighting of the odd Emily Osborne. I'm no Spider-Man virtuoso, and I haven't seen her in really any other incarnation, so she's fun to watch . . . to say the least.

"Robots! To think I used to like them as a kid!" Wonderful line, gives us a glimpse into Peter's geekitude.

The last fight's bar scene was hilarious, already had me grinning when the music took on the sound of the piano, and I was laughing hard as a robot decked Spidey with a prop bottle from behind. This great moment was followed by a Monty Python & the Holy Grail reference (and in turn, reminded me of the Gargoyles episode "Future Tense"). Love the banter on this show.

Norman Osborne becoming Pete's mentor . . . creepy (as well as Norm's breakfast 'mannerisms'). I'm reminded of the first Spider-Man movie where Pete turned him down for a job, which impressed Norman nevertheless acknowledging that Peter wanted to get by 'on his own steam' or something similar.

And then at the end we see it's Quentin and Mason from the episode 'Persona' . . . apparently Chameleon was busy with something. Quentin is an absolute ham, and I love Xander Berkeley's performance from the second he found himself in that bubble. Mason as 'Tinkerer' gave me a jolt of "Lexington!" and I'm left with the thought of who the Master Planner is. Again, I'm no Spider-man expert, so I was eager to see the next episode. :)

Which I might as well review now as well d:

"Destructive Testing"

Of the two Spider-Man incarnations I delved in -- the recent movies and the 90's show -- Kraven was a villain I enjoyed. Couldn't really tell ya why . . . he must have been presented in a way I thought was well done. It's been so long since I've seen the 90s series I was curious if Kraven would have the same effect. Well, in short, Kraven is a ton of fun here, and unlike his 90's counterpart, the evidence is overwhelming. From the voice I hear to the lines he says and the way he looks (before and after Miles) and the way he fights (spears and claws): This guy is cool.

But not cool enough. Spidey owns him easy. "You're out of your league." A great line in that Spidey doesn't seem to JUST be goading him, like he does with other villains we've seen.

Other thoughts:

Was that the Rhino in the photos that Kraven was holding? AFTER Kraven tackled the rhino into a nap? Now that's good storytelling . . . :)

Freakin' Kenny Kong . . . must you make the Peter/Gwen interaction harder than it is? And Pete gets his first "look" of the season. Ouch.

Gwen, Liz, Black Cat . . . rub it in, Pete. Rub it in d:

Other great lines . . . mostly Spidey:

"Two moms and still so ill-behaved?"

"Prey? Silent? Dignity? Oh, you don't know me at all..."

"Now you got me talking in the 3rd person!"

"Okay, the thermals with hearts were half-priced and they do not reflect my very high macho-quotient!"

Hmmm . . . Only the hunt may restore my lost honor? What was Calypso offering exactly? d:

Loved the brief Jameson bit . . . shame we didn't get to hear him chew off Kraven. Here's hoping we see some JJJ soon.

Miles Warren: Wow.

Oh, that Sally Avril . . . poor Rand.

"You can smell him?" a great line from Miles.

The banter in their second fight is just as good as the previous, if not better:

"I could call you a lot of things..."

"All I smell is fear."

"I so prefer my felines female" (focus Peter! Or I'll start calling YOU 'Randy')

Its the return of the Itsy Bitsy Spider! And for once, its not Aunt May d:

And despite the upgrade, Kraven gets decked by all of Spidey's limbs . . . "Excuse me? Who's the prey?" I remember a discussion a while back that had people wonder if Peter was always going to find a geek-solution to every supervillain . . . well, if the many episodes of season one didn't answer it, this one sure did. Spidey swept the floor with Kravenoff. XD

"Courtesy of the original and number one genetic misfit"

"The Hunt is not over" . . . is it wrong of me to think of Gargoyles here? d:

And as we get a frozen Spidey mask in the skyline, we're given the hint that Kraven might not be gone just yet, not to mention we could see some old favorites soon. :)

***END OF SPOILERS***

If you couldn't tell by now, I loved these two episodes. There's ton more I could say, I imagine, but no worries. What I do believe is that these two eps are start of another spectacular season!!

Greg responds...

We had fun with the Latin this time, though it is ALWAYS a pain.

Stan was great. A geek-out moment for all of us.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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David B. Jacobs writes...

Oh, wow. I just realized that I never asked this. Which is weird 'cause I thought I had, like, two months ago.

So anyway, you've said in the past that, out of the guest heroes, you would like to use Human Torch and Hulk if you were able to get the chance. Well, what about guest villains? I don't mean Kingpin - you've already said that you'd use him if you could and plus it's ridiculous that you can't use him anyway (who comes up with those lists?) If you could guest-star villains, which would you most want to use? Doctor Doom? Juggernaut?
I want to make this very clear: I'm NOT asking if there will be guest villains/crossovers. You already answered that a million times. I'm asking which you would like to use.
Also - seriously, who does come up with that list?

Greg responds...

Lawyers make lists... I assume.

I don't have a lot of interest in guest villains, frankly. But since that's the least of my worries, I haven't given it much thought. If and when guest heroes become available, then maybe I'll give guest villains a shot.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Joe Anonymous writes...

As you can see from my name I watched "Persona" quite a few times. Just bought all the DVD's this past weekend and just got done watching "Blueprints" and "Destructive Testing" and everything you're doing with this series is briliant. I hope a season 3 gets commisioned, the wait is killing me. Plus, can't wait to see what you do with Hobgoblin and Scorpion, just hope Scorpion isn't a clone...that will make me angry, and you won't like me when I'm angry..aughrghagh...getting off focus.
I do have a few questions and well, here they are.

1. Was Green Goblin at all insspired by the Joker?

2. Where did you come up with Electro's Look?

3. Who rescued Kraven at the end of "Destructive Testing"...I'm thinking he either jumped out or we just got a glimpse of Calypso's powers.

4. If you do get permision to use other heroes and villains who wouuld interest you?

5. You do like Carnage...thank God, nasty rumors. So the question is are you aloud to use him in his serial killing form (without showing it you know, hahaha...I need a life.)

6. Can you name any villains you can't use other than Kingpin and Beetle?

7. Why did Harry go to Europe and not just go to ravencroft or something?

8. When is the latest season 3 could be finished and ready for TV, if it gets commisioned...and hoping it does:)

Keep up the good work, and one more time...Please God, let there be a season 3. Thank You!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. You'll have to ask Stan and Steve. Our Goblin was inspired by their Goblin, not by Joker. I won't deny the two villains have certain traits in common -- both utilize the Trickster archetype -- but most of what they have in common is fairly superficial.

2. I described it to Vic and Cheeks. I wanted something that was reminiscent of Electro's Silver Age costume, but less cheezy. So the idea that the electricity flying off his head would resemble -- but hopefully be cooler than -- the fake lightning bolt starfish thing on his mask was intentional. Also, instead of just putting him in tights, we put him in a suit designed to restrain his power, that would again be reminiscent of the original costume, but feel a bit more real.

3. No comment.

4. I've answered this before. Check the archives.

5. No comment.

6. Uh... Joker, Lex Luthor, Vandal Savage, Ocean-Master, Ra's al Ghul, Darth Vader. Oh, wait, you meant Marvel villains? Seriously, what do you expect me to do here? List all the Marvel villains I can't use? If they're not Spidey villains, the answer is no. So for example, Doctor Doom would clearly be a no. (Not that I even bothered asking about him.) One last character I did ask about and got a no answer on was Owl. Otherwise, you can use common sense to do the research yourself.

7. Ravencroft isn't for teenagers in need of detox. Getting him away from the influences that caused him to take the drugs in the first place was an important part of treatment. Getting him out of the country, given what he was accused of wasn't a bad idea either.

8. I don't understand the question. If and when we get the pick-up, we'll start work. Then it'll be ready between eight and twelve months after that.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Jason R. Carter writes...

I think I'll rephrase one of my previous questions: why does Rand put up with Sally?

Greg responds...

And I'll more or less repeat what I said before... "Dude, why do you think?"

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

I'm rewatching the second season of Spectacular Spider-Man (Premiere on Disney XD) and two questions crossed my mine: When Kraven was first introduced, at first the only pictures in the newspaper clips were of the Rhino, was that an attempt to mislead the viewers for a few seconds or perhaps a hint at a future plotline? Also I've noticed that Kraven is a lot more sane (and likeable) in this show than in his previous incarnations, especially with what his 'day job' is. So I was wondering, when he attempted to hunt Spider-Man, was he actually trying to kill him or just capture him? Once again thanks again for answering all my questions, I hope they weren't too much of a bother to answer or all "no comment" answers.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

There were pictures of Spidey fighting Rhino, but yes, we were trying to mislead the audience. He struggles with a Rhino on the veldt, and now it would seem he's going to fight Rhino in Manhattan.

"Bag him".

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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nacnud writes...

Dear Greg,

The season Two finale of The Spectacular spiderman reported that norman was the green goblin. at one point in production, was harry ever suggusted for the role ? or was it always Norman from the start?

Will there be any direct to DVD movies or episodes that continue the Spectacular spiderman continuity?

How did you get the idea for the episode "Opening Night"? was that story ever in the comics or did you come up with the idea? if you or the team came up with the idea, then it was pure genius!

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

We always knew it was Norman, but we worked very hard to make the audience think it was Harry. (And later Menken and even Emily.)

I hope so.

"Opening Night" was inspired by an early issue of THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN when Spidey was trapped in a prison with a bunch of convicts.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Brian writes...

Is the reception of The Spectacular Spiderman season 2 on Disney XD going to implement on season 3?

Greg responds...

Did you mean "impact"? If so, then, yeah.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Drake writes...

How is Professor Smythe is going to be used? Is his son-Alistair-will also appear?

Greg responds...

No comment.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Anonymous writes...

Hey the whole Green Goblin identity mystery was awesome! I was curious, did you get that idea or inspiration from the Hobgoblin mystery in the comics?

Greg responds...

No. I got it from the Green Goblin mystery from the comics, back in the sixties under Lee, Ditko and Romita Sr.

Response recorded on August 14, 2009

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Gargoyles: Clan-Building, Volume II TPB

Reports indicate that the Gargoyles: Clan-Building, Volume II TPB has arrived in some (though not all) stores, and is being shipped out from SLG and other sources. As most of you know, this trade contains the previously published issues #7 & #8, plus the unpublished issues #9- #12. There is TONS of new material here, tons of revelations. Tons of new canon. And if we hope to get more Gargoyles comics of any stripe in the future, it is imperative that this volume sells. If you don't have it already, I'd recommend purchasing Volumes I & II together. Read the stuff in order in (more or less) one sitting, and you'll get more out of it.

If your store doesn't have the book, ask them to order it for you!

And please, please, please, help us SPREAD THE WORD!!!!

Thank you.


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Paul writes...

1) Did anything of note happen between Tombstone and the Green Goblin immediately following the cliffhanger ending of "Gangland"?

2) Why didn't Hammerhead interfere in the Green Goblin's criminal activities after the Goblin 'replaced' Tombstone as the Big Man?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. Not particularly.

2. Did you see Hammerhead's last scene in "Gangland"?

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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Gargan writes...

I heard Sony has the rights to Ghost Rider. Does that mena you can use Ghost Rider in Spectacular Spider-Man if you want to?

Greg responds...

Nope. At least it's NOT automatic.

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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Marjorie writes...

In what part of New York does Jeffery Robbins live? In what part of New York do Elisa's parents live? In what part of New York does Halcyon Renard live?

Greg responds...

Robbins lives northwest of Harlem. We haven't established homes for the other characters you've mentioned.

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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DNL writes...

Hi Greg,

If I may, I'd like to ask what your take is on the movie reboot of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, notably on the fact that Joss Whedon is not to take a part in it. Do you think it could work? Does the Buffy timeline even need a reboot this soon after the series ended?

And since I'm here, what did you think of Whedon's Dr. Horrible series?

I ask because you've said many times in the past that you're a fan of Whedon's work, and I thought it would be a nice change from everyone else asking you about SSM season 3.

Greg responds...

I haven't heard ANYTHING about this. Buffy without Joss seems unwise, but I'm not going to credit what amounts to a rumor.

I thought Dr. Horrible was great.

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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Spiderman659 writes...

Hey Greg, if you don't mind, i have a few questions for you:
1) On the Spectacular Spider-Man Attack of the Lizard dvd, there is a music video that shows 2 other versus to the main theme song. will you ever use those 2 for a theme song some where in the other seasons?

2) How did you get the idea of Fancy Dan becoming Ricochet? And why didn't Ox get a new name?

3) Do you like the Spectacular Spider-Man TV show airing on disney XD? Or would you want it to air somewhere else?

Greg responds...

1. Don't know.

2. It just sort of came to me as an extension on his traditional abilities. And Ox didn't seem to need a new name.

3. I'm just happy it's airing at all.

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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Paul writes...

I read the interview for Marvel Animation Age that you participated in, and I was wondering:

1) Since the unused footage (like Shocker's escape at the end of "Group Therapy") won't be on the season sets, could you please elaborate on what the unused footage for the first two seasons consisted of? It would be really interesting to hear what kind of stuff was fully completed but didn't make it onto the DVDs. You probably won't remember all of the stuff that was cut off the top of your head, but please give some examples of stuff you were going to put back into the movie releases for volumes 1-8 before the volume format was scrapped.

2) Is there any chance, any at all, that the unedited episodes will see the light of day someday on a future release? It's ridiculous that completed footage would go to waste.

Greg responds...

1. You can try asking this question again at a later date, but for now that footage (or most of it anyway) was shown as a Comic-Con exclusive last month and will next be a Gathering exclusive THIS month.

2. Isn't it though?

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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F.Z. writes...

Hi Greg, first time that I make a question here Xp, that thing is I am from Mexico and i really wish to buy the comics and the DvDs and apparently neither of them where imported, so the question is if I am gona need to buy them in english because they are never gona be translated or i can wait for them to been Translated?
i ask that because the shipment is expensive Xp, But i really want the comics
P.S. Sorry the bad english, and congratulations fot TSSP the series is awesome

Greg responds...

I don't remember off the top of my head whether the DVDs have a spanish language track or not. The comics probably won't be translated.

Response recorded on August 13, 2009

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rayray writes...

hey greg, spectacular spiderman is my favorite show of all times.
when gwen chose harry on "final curtain" was it out of guilt or was she too shy to break up with him(for pete)
oh and does it help(for season 3)if more people watched spectacular spiderman on TV

Greg responds...

Doesn't hurt!

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!!

And it was mostly guilt. Neither she nor Pete could bare to "kick him when he was down".

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Todd Jensen writes...

I saw a promo for the "Bad Guys" trade paperback on YouTube this morning (an official one, done by Slave Labor Graphics), and was delighted by it. Especially the meeting between Dingo and a new (as in, introduced to us in this story) member of the Illuminati (we don't know his name yet - but I have my suspicions, which I can't reveal here because of the "no ideas" rule) - I enjoyed the Illuminatus's statement that the Illuminati are the "good guys" as an echo of the series title. And also the scene with Yama and Matrix at the end of the promo; it was great to see Yama, so solemn up until now, beginning to develop a sense of humor.

I'm looking forward to this book all the more now.

Greg responds...

Me too, believe me. It should be arriving in stores any week now. And I've been promised we'll have some copies available at the Gathering.

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Flint Marko/Sandman writes...

Hey, Greg. What's the deal now, man? I've seen "First Steps." What now? Am I a hero? Will I join the Avengers? Will I ever get my big score? Does that mean I'm spidey's friend now? Oh, I knew I shouldn't have saved those people. Now people like Doc Ock and O'Hirn think I'm soft.

Now I've changed my name to Norman Osborn. In the comics, was the drug that made me the Green Goblin called Globulin Green or did it have a different name?

Greg responds...

Well, Flint, only time will tell.

And Norman, I'm fairly certain I made up the name Globulin Green.

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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MisterDrBob writes...

Okay, so I know you haven't read my second question yet, so consider this an apology for it. Looking back it's stupid. (Beside the Tinkerer one, that one I think is justified.)

Anyway, what I meant with my first question, about Shocker, was there more to the thought process than deciding that Herman Shultz was boring and casting Montana? i.e. were there any other candidates besides Montana? Before you answered the question, I did go and look harder and saw that there were a lot of questions on this subject, so what I'm trying to do is ask a more intellegent question on this subject. But my wording obviously made it sound like the genereic repeated question the first time. So I apologize for that too. (Speaking of which, who approves these questions that get asked over and over again?)

On the subject of constantly asked questions (namely Kingpin), when I saw Foswell, I was sure that he was the Big Man like in the comics. Did you ever consider doing this when you found out you couldn't use Kingpin, instead of using Tombstone?

Greg responds...

Some things just flow. And that was the case with Shocker/Montana. No one else was ever considered for the "role of Shocker" as if we were casting it in a play. Montana evolved naturally into Shocker.

I never really planned to have Foswell become the Big Man. I just didn't buy it in a modern context. Kingpin was my original choice for Big Man. Tombstone became our immediate substitute.

You do understand that I see these posts in order, right? There's no way I'd see an apology (no matter how unnecessary) for a question before the question itself.

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Nicky Wan writes...

Hi Greg,

First off I think "The Spectacular Spider-Man" is a fantastic show; it's perfectly captured everything I love about the character, something I didn't feel was the case growing up with the 90s series.

I know that you probably don't know much about this but do you have any information regarding the release of the show on DVD in the Europe? It's available on iTunes in the UK but there's no word of any physical release.

*** SPOILERS for SEASON 2 ***

Apologies if this has been asked already but a search didn't appear to find anything relevant. I was wondering whether you made the decision to include the final scene showing Norman Osborn surviving the explosion because season 3 was not in the pipeline? Or was there some other reason like it just felt better for the flow of the story or for the target audience of the show?

Of course keeping his escape a secret would have made any later return more dramatic; almost as much as the reveal that the Green Goblin was Norman all along. I must say that that revelation was stunningly executed; the way the final episode kept planting seeds of doubt linking Norman to the Green Goblin until the dénouement was amazing!

Thanks a lot for reading this, I hope the executives see sense and let you make season 3 and many more!

Greg responds...

I'm afraid I'm not privy to Sony's international DVD release plans.

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

Norman's survival was a purely creative choice. Don't you get tired of characters "dying" and then inevitably returning. To me, it cheapens the very concept of death. So I didn't want our series to try to fool you on that subject (for more than a few minutes). You'd know right up front that he was alive and well, even if the cast all thought he was gone. That way no one feels cheated, right? I mean face it, if he had eventually returned would you really have been stunned?

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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dino writes...

which color is Samson

Greg responds...

You'll have to wait and see.

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Faust writes...

First I'd like to say, oh my goodness, spectacular spiderman basically took over my life for at least a week watching seasons 1 and 2 in order on youtube, and still watching it when it comes on Disney XD, crazymazing. Secondly, I'm kinda myphed how Gwenn just sorta stopped wearing glasses with no mention of when she got contacts or no one saying, lookin good, or, you look different.

Ramblings aside, my question is who is your favorite character out of the whole show specifically which was the (most fun?) most fun to draw/fabricate? Also, who is your favorite love interest for pete, liz, gwenn, MJ, or cat? (not who he will end up with, you know, just who is your favorite)

big fan :D keep rockin!

P.S. If you're about to type, "I don't have a single favorite" for any of the questions above then my question is, do you have any favorites in this show whatsoever?
P.S.S. Gargoyles was a badnasty show in its day very very high kudos, one of my favorite shows I grew up on :D

Greg responds...

I'm not sure how you missed the moment when Gwen first appeared without glasses (and, yes, of course, wearing contacts) in front of Liz's father's hotel and both Harry and Peter were starstruck. It's not like they didn't notice.

I don't play favorites among the characters I write. I just try to let them live their lives, as much as possible dictating to me what happens next.

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Bob writes...

Hey, Greg Weisman. Love the new Spider-Man show! (best one so far; better than Ramii's movies). My favorite episode so far is "Itervention" where Peter battles the symbiote in his mind. But there's one thing that confuzes me. I know Eddie Brock hates Spider-Man and Peter and blames them for loosing his job. At the end of "Intervention" Spider-Man brought back the symbiote but "killed" it. The symbiote didn't really die. If the symbiote didn't die, that meant Eddie could get his job back. But instead, he bonded with the symbiote and still hated both Spider-Man and Peter Parker. If the symbiote wasn't dead (which at that time were great news for Eddie) then why did Eddie continue to try ruining Spider-Man's life? And plus, in season 2 he got his job back and all so why does he still hate Peter?

Greg responds...

The symbiote is clearly influencing Eddie's mind. And the bond between them eventually becomes all-important to Eddie. And since the bond is based on hatred...

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Greg Fan 123 writes...

Hey Greg ,man...congracts on this show....BRAVO !!!

I wanted to ask you that have u guys ever considered the idea of making a Spectacular spiderman Comic based on this series storyline.??? That would be so cool....i suggest making the comic after ending this show as a continuity u knw......and i hope u end the show after making atleast 12 or more seasons lol hahahaha

Spectacular Show !!!!

Greg responds...

Thanks. I have talked to Marvel Comics about doing the comic. There was definitely some editorial interest, but there were various contractual and/or strategic reasons why it seems to be impossible at this time. Too bad, huh?

Response recorded on August 12, 2009

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Mike P. writes...

I have 2 questions:

1. Did any previously established character(s) inspire Sha-shan?

2. I know this might be a stretch but: Have you ever met Sam Raimi, and if so did the topic of the spider-man series/character come up? I understand the worlds a big place with a lot of people, but I was just curious if you two had ever come in contact with one another.

Thanks for the classic shows you've put out, and here's hoping for season 3 of spidey!

Greg responds...

1. Yep. Sha Shan inspired Sha Shan.

2. I've never met Sam Raimi.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Matt writes...

Hey Greg.

This is a very minor question, I admit, but I wanted to make sure the facts noted on your Timeline (and thus the GargWiki) were accurate.

You've noted that on February 3rd, 1995, the armed robber heldup Mr. Jaffe at his store and that the next morning on the 4th the robber returned the money to him.

However, on the night of the third, Mr. Jaffe says, "Can't you rob somebody else this time. This is the third time this month!"

My question is, since it was only the third of the month, was Mr. Jaffe exxagerating or was he implying the last 30 days or did he think it was still January or what? Or did the robber actually rob the store three times in three days?

Sorry if this question strikes you as silly. I admit it certainly is trivial, but I wanted the facts to be straight for the GargWiki if nothing else. At this time, the Wiki indicates that the robber heldup the store three times in January. Should this be changed?

Thanks Greg.

Greg responds...

I think he was saying "within the last 30 days" give or take.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Thorgrimur writes...

I just rewatched "Avalon", and while I didn't have any trouble understanding the time loop, there were several things about the Archmage's behaviour that I began to find slightly confusing, most of them because from the Archmage's perspective, only about one day seems to have passed since he was the "one-shot villain" from "Long Way to Morning". So I'd like to ask these questions:

1. Did the Archmage ever actually find out that the Magus managed to cure Prince Malcolm's poisoning? If so, did he get that information from Demona?
2. Why does the Archmage feel his revenge won't be complete without Goliath? As far as the Archmage seemingly knows, Hudson is the leader of the gargoyles, and Hudson was the one who decided to go after him and get the Grimorum, resulting in his "death". It just seems to me that someone as arrogant as the Archmage would consider Goliath in 984 an unimportant pawn. Did Goliath do something to the Archmage prior to their encounter in "Long Way to Morning" that would make him hate Goliath more than Hudson and Prince Malcolm?
3. Did the Archmage ever find out the details about how Goliath survived into the 20th century?

Of course, I guess NONE of the plotting in "Avalon" was really the Archmage's idea, since he was merely instructed by his future self and probably didn't want to alter the plan by adding Malcolm or Hudson onto his black list.

Greg responds...

1. Probably not, but it doesn't matter. As you noted, he was, by this time, following the plan laid out by his empowered self. His vengeance on Malcolm was no longer relevant.

2. Rewatch "Long Way to Morning". Goliath was the IMMEDIATE cause of his "death".

3. Probably not, but it doesn't matter.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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a garg fan writes...

what do you think/is the future for gargoyles are there and plans to continue the "saga" after the last few comics are released or is Gargoyles dead in the wind.
-thanks for reading

Greg responds...

<sigh>

No one checks the archives...

Anyway, we are hoping to do more, but much depends on the sales of these most recent trade paperbacks.

But in any case, Gargoyles will NEVER be "dead in the wind" as far as I'm concerned.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Do gargoyles posess a written/spoken language all there own or do they just adopt ones similar to the local humans?

Greg responds...

Check the ASK GREG archives under "Gargoyle Customs" or come to the 2009 Gathering's "Gargoyles Biology & Culture" panel.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Is Doc Ock's agression in this series because of his repressed feelings towards Osborn and his accident or do his tentacles have AI similar to his movie counterpart?

Greg responds...

The tentacles have no A.I.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Rage writes...

Hi Greg!..iam a full supporter of your show....this show is by far the best spidey show ever...everytime i watch an episode i need more!! AMAZING JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Truly amazing! AMAZING !!!!!!

I have 3 Questions And A Request. :)

1) How much time does it take the crew to make one episode? and then a whole season ? i mean the final thing when every things (editing etc) finished,

2) If the confirmation for season 3 comes out (i hope it does!) ...how much time will it take for it to air? i heard season 2 came late because of the whole channel changing thing...now that every things set how much time will season 3 take ? i mean which month?

3)If ratings on all future seasons are good how many seasons would you plan to make ? (i hope more than 10 !!!lol)

And a Request

This show....has made me an addict to the extent that ive spent my holidays discussing episodes of Spectacular spiderman with my friends and not doing anything else lol....and i like it !!! this is the 1st show that im in love with ....i want you to promise your fans that other than the ratings you will do everything in your power to make this series a success and by success i mean doing more seasons! :)...Please please please please x 100000 Dont Stop making new seasons please.And i pray that this success will continue.:)

Eagerly waiting for your reply.
Long Live Spidey.!!! Long Live Spectacular Spiderman!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Greg responds...

1. It takes between eight months and a year to produce a season of animation, with multiple steps going on simultaneously on multiple episodes, a bit like an assembly line.

2. No way to know at this point. We'd need the pick-up. I'd have to plan the season, then we'd get started. And even once we finished, they could choose to hold the episodes for a more auspicious launch time (at least to their minds).

3. Generally speaking, I'm shooting for 65 episodes and then hope to continue with Direct to DVDs. But I'll take more or less... basically whatever I can get.

As for your request, it's just really not up to me. If they offer me the opportunity, I will make more. But I have no control, I'm afraid.

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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Nelio writes...

Hi Greg.

I'm not sure if you are aware of it, but Internet Celebrity Douglas Walker (The Nostalgia Critic) Recently did a review of Gargoyles. This guy does reviews of a lot of old things from the 90s that often impacted people childhood; and in the case of Gargoyles, this is equally true for me. Regardless, in the past he has spoken positively of Gargoyles, and so I think you might be interested in watching the review when it goes up in a week (or when you get around to answer this question). I'm also curious as to your thoughts on it.

Here is the link to Nostalgia Critic's list of reviews:
http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/thatguywiththeglasses/nostalgia-critic

Greg responds...

I did see it. And I was glad for the -- generally -- good press!

Response recorded on August 11, 2009

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SpecSpidey546 writes...

Hello, Greg.
1) first of all, your Gwen is awesome. I can't imagine the show without her. if your goal was people to care about her, well, you've accomplished it.
2) I'm sorry if this falls in the "no comment" area, but why was Kingsley bidding? I dont get why he needs to produce Rhino super-soldiers?
3) if the bald dude with black glasses (Osborn' security) isnt Mac Gargan, then who is he?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

1. Thanks.

2. The short answer is: He's ambitious.

3. No comment.

Response recorded on August 07, 2009

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rapscallion writes...

**SPIDEY SPOILERS**

How did Harry escape the Goblin(Norman) in Season 2? And why was he captured in the first place? Was it just so Norman could make Harry, the likely suspect, look more suspiscious?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

Last question first: Yes. As for your first question, Harry THOUGHT he escaped, but really he was allowed to escape, because by that time, Norman had laid his various traps for Spidey.

Response recorded on August 07, 2009

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Will Keaton writes...

Greg:

SPIDEY SPOILERS

1. You've often mentioned how you chose Tombstone as the new "Big Man of Crime" because the Kingpin was unavailable due to legal issues. What other characters besides Tombstone did you consider for this position? Also, is the phrase "Big Man" a title given out to whoever happens to be in control of New York's crime rings at the time and is passed on to their successor, (ie, like a king or queen) or is it an alias that is permanently attached to Tombstone? I've seen evidence to support both cases.

2. How exactly does Doc Ock get dressed in the morning? The part of his harness that lines up with his spine clearly goes on underneath his clothing but the ring around his waist goes overtop of everything else. Can the harness still open up in front or is that fused shut too? Just watching Ock go through his morning routine would probably clear most of this up, plus the notion of him using his tentacles to brush his teeth is just hilarious. (Just be glad I'm not asking how Rhino goes to the bathroom.) I also assume that for the duration of Season 2 he's had enough time to acquire or build a new power source for his harness that can last for years at a time?

3. You burned down the Big Sky Billiard lounge! I loved that place. Every comic book needs a place where the supervillains can go for some downtime and hang out. Please, I know you don't want to spoil anything you have planned for season 3 but at least give us a vague hint that we'll get to see a new "Bad Guy Bar."

4. Is Chameleon's white visage a mask that he wears with other masks going on top of it, or is that actually his face after being surgically altered to have any distinguishing features like a nose and ears removed? Typically one would expect a face-changer to remove as much of their original face as possible and then add on top of that as needed, (just look at Metal Gear Solid's Decoy Octopus, the guy shaved down his cheek bones and cut off part of his nose and ears.) Wearing two masks doesn't seem to be that effective since you're doubling the amount the disguise is lifted above your actual face.

5. Exactly how long has Norman been inhaling the gobulin green? I'd assume he'd either start as soon as he'd invented the stuff, shortly after he was nearly killed by a giant geriatric buzzard and wanted to make sure he didn't have to rely on Spidey the next time something similar happened, or shortly after his first dealings with Hammerhead when he started planning to overthrow the Big Man. By the way, what kind of guy develops an experimental highly dangerous performance enhancing drug and then brings it home to show his family and then just leaves some lying around where his son can start chugging the stuff without anyone noticing it's gone?

6. We didn't see much of Aunt May in Season 2, but with so many characters floating around this isn't too surprising. If May does play an important role in any season three episodes is she going to get a spot in the opening credits for that episode?

7. When comparing animated shows through the years there doesn't seem to be a large change in the style and tone from the 1960's through to the late 80's. All the animated shows had a simplistic plot and generally weren't mentally demanding. However sometime in the early/mid 90's we started seeing shows like Fox's Spider-man, Batman The Animated Series, Reboot and Gargoyles, all of which felt more sophisticated than earlier shows and had such features as real character development and story arcs that could last through a season. Somehow I have a hard time imagining an episode like "Lethal Force" being done on G.I. Joe. As someone who has been in the industry a while did you notice a change in attitude from networks or executives towards animation at around that time? When producing Gargoyles did you find that in general people were more willing to let you attempt making a show with more mature themes relative to what you had done before?

8. Should Spiderman not get a third season or become cancelled for certain after season three wraps up, how likely is it that production could continue on direct to DVD movies? Generally speaking is it easier to convince producers or whomever to greenlight a single movie length piece of work comparred to an entire season of an animated show?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. No one really. Tombstone was pretty much my instant second choice to replace Kingpin. And as for the "Big Man" title, I've seen evidence to both sides too.

2. I'm mostly content to leave Ock's morning routine to your imagination. As for his power-pack, he has had time to find one that lasts a long time. But he still NEEDS the power-pack. The arms won't function without it.

3. Yes, eventually.

4. Again, I'll leave this to your interpretation.

5. As you indicated, he started immediately after surviving Vulture's attempts on his life. He did not like feeling that powerless.

6. Yep.

7. I think Batman the Animated Series was a revelation to many of us, and gave us the courage and evidence of success that allowed us to at least attempt to match or better that great series. Simpsons helped too, as did Who Framed Roger Rabbit and The Little Mermaid (the movie), and to a lesser extent The Great Mouse Detective. Animation seemed to be in something of a renaissance. But it shouldn't have been surprising. A generation of multi-discipline writers and artists who grew up on cartoons, comic books and genre fiction -- creative types who had learned to be discerning readers and viewers -- began to execute the kinds of shows they wanted to see. As for Gargoyles specifically, the miracle wasn't that people let me do what I wanted, but that they left me alone, which allowed me to do what I wanted. A subtle distinction, I know. But a significant one.

8. If we got cancelled or not picked up after Season Two is done airing, it would, I believe -- despite all evidence to the contrary and no matter how unfair that perception might be -- put the stink of failure on the series. Which would make it hard to get a greenlight on a DVD.

Response recorded on August 07, 2009

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samuel writes...

ummmmmmmm you probably cant answer this but who is in charge of putting witch back on tv
i was just gonna form a petition and see if we can get it back on the air and i had numerous amounts of ideas for episodes.
THANK YOU SO MUCH
PS
how many signatures would be needed to get witch back on the air if u can email that back to me
email is Olasehinde12@gmail.com

Greg responds...

I'd guess it's someone at Disney, if you're talking about the reruns. But I don't think there's any real chance of new episodes getting made at this point.

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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No comment writes...

Hey, Mr. Greg. I have a few questions from TSSM I want you to answer.

1. Have you already planned out season 3 in your head or do you not know yet how will it be like? I am NOT asking you to reveal season 3 villains and plot. I'm just asking you if you already know where you're going with season 3.

2. You have an awesome imagination. Spectacular Spider-Man is just great. I don't know where you come up with all these amazing ideas. Who are you? No. What are you? No human can be that talented. You must be an alien.

3. Are you allowed to kill anyone in the show if you want to?

4. First of all, Molten Man was awesome. The Green Goblin had control of Molten Man's abilities with that remote. Now that Osborn is defeated, where is the remote?

5. IT'S A JACKAL!!!!!!!!! Will Miles Warren ever become the Jackal in the show? You don't have to answer this question. I already know you will answer it with no comment so go ahead and say no comment. The reason why I wrote this question is because I felt like saying "It's a jackal". I love Family Guy. It's hilarious.

6. Hey, Cool. I can count to 6. Here's my last question. It's not really a Spectacular Spider-Man question but a Comics Spider-Man question. Do you think Spider-Man would be better in high school, university, or somewhere in late 20s when he's not in university?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

1. I've answered this before. Check the archives.

2. Uh... don't ask questions that will force me to assimilate you.

3. We already have.

4. No comment.

5. No comment.

6. I think Spidey should age normally.

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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Marcus writes...

Hey, Greg! I love what you've done with Spectacular Spider-Man. The the best show ever. The 90s show compared to yours is nothing. This show rules!! Here's my question:
Every season in Spectacular Spider-Man has 4 arcs. Each arc is 3 or 4 episodes. You were involed in "The Batman" but you weren't the main director. If you were the main director and producer of "The Batman" when it was first planned, would you have done the same thing you did to Spectacular Spider-Man (having 4 arcs per season)?

Greg responds...

I'm not a director at all. (Well, I've been a voice director, but I'm guessing that's not what you're talking about.)

What you seem to be talking about is me being a writer-producer. But no series exists in a vacuum. The arcs weren't my idea on Spec Spidey -- they were part of my marching orders -- though I took to the notion like a duck to water.

Regular readers of Ask Greg know I'm not too fond of hypothetical questions, but asking me about The Batman in this context is just... well... a hypothetical that borders on the silly. (Sorry.) There are too many unknown factors for me to evaluate. But since clearly the producers of The Batman had no such marching orders, the odds are slim that we would have taken that approach.

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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the shadow writes...

I'd like to Know something.Why does it take ten years for a Gargoyle egg to hach

Greg responds...

Why does it take 9 months for a human baby to be born?

That's how long it takes.

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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The Main Man writes...

I said at the beginning I have two questions. Sorry about that. When I was going to first ask you a question I had two in mind but once I was done I had more in mind and I forgot to change the 2 to a 5. Anyways, I have 5 questions I want to ask you.

Greg responds...

Still?

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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The Main Man writes...

Hey, Greg. I have two questions I want to ask you. They're both about Spectacular Spider-Man.
1. You've said besides Spidey, there are more heroes active in Spectacular Spider-Man. You've said the Fantastic Four were celebrities, Hulk was a myth, Captain America is still frozen, Ant-Man is somewhere out there also doing his job, and that Professor X is currently building his school with first students Cyclops and Beast. But what about the Punisher? Is he currently active? Did his family get killed yet? Is he already a vigilante? What about the Punisher?

2. You've mentioned active heroes. But what about active villains? Which villains besides Spidey's are currently active in the series?

3. Will we ever see the Lizard again at some point in the show?

4. In the 90s Spider-Man series, Morbius was watered down. He couldn't say the word blood at all so he always said he needed "plasma". He was also not allowed to suck anyone's blood so he absorbed their energy or something (can't really remember). If you are ever going to use Morbius at some point, will he be watered down like in the 90s series or will he be a "real" vampire?

4. Same as question 3 only with Carnage. If you are going to ever use him, will he be watered down or stay the same maniac he is in the comics?

5. Before I ask you to answer my last questio, I just want to stay the Green Goblin was AWESOME! Before, I hated the Green Goblin and now due to you, he's my favorite Spider-Man villain. But most of the plot elements for the Green Goblin were taken from the Hobgoblin (e.g. framing Harry, removing mental effects from globulin green, faking his death and retiring to some island, etc.). I'm kind of worried now because the Hobgoblin barely has anything left. You do have a plan already for the Hobgoblin don't you? You know how to handle him, right? Please say yes. Please say yes!!!!!

Greg responds...

1. Not yet.

2. I'm not going to go down a list of every villain in the Marvel Universe and check off who's been up to bat at this point. But as a general rule, if you go get the ESSENTIAL MARVEL volumes and focus on the early pre-Avengers days, you'll be able to see what villains are extent in my mind -- to the extent I've given ANY thought at all to villains I know I can't use. It's silly enough that I've given thought to heroes I know I can't use.

3. No comment.

4. No comment.

5. I think so. (Though I should point out I don't actually agree with your assessment of our take on Green Goblin.)

Response recorded on August 06, 2009

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TRADE PAPERBACKS!

Hey gang,

I know -- and share -- the frustrations over the vague release dates of the two remaining trades. Both are DONE. So it's just an issue of getting them from the printers, through customs, out to Diamond and then into stores, etc.

BUT, Dan Vado has ASSURED me that all three trades (GARGOYLES, CLAN-BUILDING, VOLUME ONE; GARGOYLES, CLAN-BUILDING, VOLUME TWO; GARGOYLES: BAD GUYS, REDEMPTION) will be available for purchase at the Gathering. Hopefully, they'll be available everywhere sooner or at least shortly thereafter, but at the very least -- if you come to the con, you can get the books!


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Wolf E. Urameshi writes...

Last question: If you were ever given the chance to work on a Gargoyles game on one of today's consoles, which one will it be and why? What kinds of things would you include in the game?

Thanks again, and sorry for the trouble I caused with the last question I asked in... March, was it? I'm not talking about Disney and licensing issues again. Thank you for your time.

Greg responds...

I'm not a gamer. It's all greek to me.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Martin writes...

Goblin/Osborn questions (the questions are from the perspective that we know who the Goblin is):

1) In "Catalysts" after seeing Glory back with Kenny, Harry gets mad and leaves the Fall Formal. Where did he go?
2) The thing that got me suspicious about the revelation in "Uncertainly Principle" was how Norman was able to answer all Spidey's questions so quickly. Of course, after what "Final Curtain" showed us, I can assume that he already had everything in his head before Spidey can confront him. But why wasnt Norman limping, if he was the Goblin who cracked a limp at the factory?
3) the show is great. you're great. I pray for season 3.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. He lurked. He was still there at the end of the episode.

2. As stated in Final Curtain, he didn't crack a limb at the factory. He faked an injury there.

3. Thanks.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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SpiderFan89 writes...

Haha, Greg, i was reading IGN's review of "The Invisible Hand" and it says something about Rhino that interested me. If the suit is permanently bonded to O'Hirn's skin, then how he manages to do a certain body functions??? Whats your opinion/expaination?

Greg responds...

I've answered this before. Check the archives.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Wolf E. Urameshi writes...

Third question as per instructions:

C) If you were given a chance to work on a new Gargoyles cartoon but with different actors if you were ever unable to bring back the originals, what actor(s) would you call in?

Greg responds...

Huh?

Why would I switch actors?

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Bobba J writes...

Hi Mr. Weisman! I remember watching "Growing Pains" and "Identity Crisis" a few months ago. There is something I found confusing. In "Growing Pains" Venom framed Spider-Man and everyone hated him but in the next episode, Spider-Man was treated like a hero again. What exactly happened? How did he go from being considered a villain to being considered a hero again?

Greg responds...

That totally never happened. Watch the episodes again.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Monk writes...

I went on Wikipedia and typed in Spectacular Spider-Man. It said that Scorpion and Hobgoblin will appear in season 3. Obviously, I knew that from long ago but it also said that Carnage has been confirmed. Is this true or did someone just pull a prank on Wikipedia?

Greg responds...

I've neither confirmed nor denied Carnage and won't do either now.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Robert G. writes...

Hey Greg! I just started re-watching Gargoyles and I've got a question for you. Now, Elisa really bought into the whole idea of Gargoyles a little easy and the Gargoyles really adapted to their new lives (and the drastically different version of the English language) really quickly. I know it's a cartoon and we're supposed to be suspended in a bit of disbelief, but looking back, do you ever wish you could have developed these things a bit more?

Greg responds...

No.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Liam Miroy writes...

When Thailog produces his new batch of clones will they be carbon copies of the Manhattan clan, or will he have Sevarius dabble about to mix and match, so he has clones that are mixed like Delilah?

Greg responds...

No comment.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Gonçalo writes...

Hi Greg, so i just recently saw episode 207 "identity crisis" from the spectacular spider-man and i got a question:

What is up with that episode? so all the journalists blindly believe a black suited alien? They see said black suited alien kicking spiderman's ass and they're still focusing more on knowing his identity rather then helping their hero? And even more, they're STILL interested in knowing spiderman's identity even after venom shows his second mouth in front of every journalist while beating spiderman to a bloody pulp?

If I were a journalist i would probably either run for my life or start investigating who is this two mouthed black creature who is defeating spider-man.

Sorry for the rant there, but that episode just made no sense

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

It's funny. I guess you're just expressing your take on the episode, but like a lot of recent posts here it feels like you're expecting me to respond by saying, "Gee, you're right, what were we thinking?" And of course, I disagree with you, so that's not going to happen. And again, you probably don't expect it. It just feels that way to me.

I think the episode makes plenty of sense. The things you bring up are NOT mutually exclusive from the things we focused on. I certainly buy the idea that reporters en masse get an idée fixe (that's the second time in two posts I've used that term) in their heads and RUN with it to the exclusion of other ideas, because I literally see it EVERY DAY on the news. EVERY DAY. (Obama's birth certificate, anyone?) Doesn't mean some or all of these reporters aren't alos pursuing the Venom angle. We just chose not to focus on that.

But you're entitled to your opinion.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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Marjorie writes...

Hi Greg,

If I'm remembering correctly, Elisa and Goliath only figure out that Macbeth and Demona were being controlled by the Weird Sisters when they reach Avalon. So after the events of High Noon, what steps were taken to protect the clock tower, as it appeared that now both Macbeth AND Demona knew where they slept, and could come by any time they felt like it and destroy them when the sun was up? Of course with Macbeth and Demona whisked off to Avalon retaining no memory of what they did, the gargoyles were perfectly safe for the time being--but they didn't know that. Being vulnerable to Xanatos in the same way was the main reason Elisa pushed so hard for the Gargoyles to move house. I know not much time passed between the events of High Noon on Nov. 14th and the day Goliath, Bronx and Elisa went with Tom to Avalon, but the repercussions of those events seem too important for the gargoyles to ignore.

Was anything done to protect the police station's entrance to the clock tower where the gargoyles live? Was it discussed at any length? Just very curious to know how Elisa and Goliath adjusted to this (to them, at least) major breach of home safety.
Thanks!

Greg responds...

It's a fair question, but I don't have a really cool answer. I just haven't thought about it. I think they know Macbeth well enough at this point to believe he wouldn't attack them while they slept. But they can't have been as sanguine about Demona, though I suppose I can semi-buy the notion that Goliath would feel that Demona might be willing to kill them in a hundred ways BUT NOT by smashing them while they slept. That doesn't mean it's true, just that Goliath could talk himself into believing it's true. And, as we know, he can be stubborn when he gets an idée fixe.

Response recorded on August 05, 2009

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rapscallion writes...

Love what you've done with Spectacular Spider-Man. Pure genius. Not just one of the best animated Series since BTAS, but probably one of the smartest shows on TV right now.

*SPOILERS FOLLOWING!*

When it comes to Gwen, I can easily figure why you made her Peter's friend and secret crush and all, due to her role in the comics, but why did you decide to make her a "nerd"? I remember her being, well, "Gorgeous Gwendolyn" in the comics. I realize she had a "make-over" in season 2, but the question is still there in my head.

Emily Osborn. What's up with her? Except in Ultimate, where Norman did some "bad things" to her, Norman was always a widower. So why did you keep her? Especially since, well, she's got the personality of a spoon? I feel like there's a message there but I can't quite get it.

One moment specifically, was when in the episode Blueprints, Martha Connor is getting pressure from Norman, Aaron Warren, Miles Warren, and her husband, to reinstate Peter despite her mistrust and for some reason she looks to Emily Osborn and then relents to it. Was there some message there?

What's with the mole on Peter's cheek? I heard it was some in-joke or something, but to what end?

Why did you make Kraven a "Cat-mutant"? I think it ended up working and I personally like it, but it's a very different take. Was it just to make him more modern? To avoid mention of his "voodoo potions"? Why?

I like how you're taking a realistic time-frame with the seasons and Peter's school year, but hypothetically, if you got a fourth season, would that be during the summer, or would you skip over it and get started in November of Peter's senior year? Also, will you include his college years in the show or would that be saved for DT-DVDs?

Did the title at the end of the theme song get an upgrade? In Season 2, it looked... shinier and bulkier. Generally cooler. Did you guys just change it due to Season 1 doing so well or was that always a plan to upgrade it or something?

Lastly, this isn't a question, but a request. I love what you've done with Miles Warren and I like how he's malicious without being "Bwa-ha-ha! evil, but if you ever do clones... you'll make me cry. You will make a grown man cry. Do you want that on your conscious? NO CLONES PLEASE!

You are a genius.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!

I'll take your questions, paragraph by paragraph...

Gwen was ALWAYS a brain in the comics. This is often forgotten, but one of the reasons she was so interesting to both Peter and Miles Warren was because she was beautiful AND smart. We just figured that in high school, she'd be smart but not necessarily (in her junior year) already the knockout that she will be in college. But as you've seen, the transformation has already begun.

There's no message. Tthe main reason she was included was because we felt we had too many teens with single parent families. Pete and Aunt May. Gwen and Captain Stacy. Both of those pairings seemed essential to the four characters. Making the third member of the Pete-Gwen-Harry three musketeers ALSO from a single parent family seemed a bit much. And, we have plans for Emily that we will get to in Season Three if there is a Season Three.

Martha was looking for a little back-up from SOMEONE, anyone. Aaron Warren wanted Pete back at the lab. Norman encouraged it. Miles voted with Norman. And Curt basically folded. So she looked to the only person left at the table. But Emily had no opinion on the subject.

There's no "end". Sean "Cheeks" Galloway, our character designer, has a similar mole and he puts it on the cheek of all his lead characters.

The mutated Kraven idea was borrowed/adapted from Ultimate Spider-Man. The short answer is that we thought it was a pretty cool idea and visual. Plus we have long term plans for Kraven that I won't get into now.

No decision's been made on Season Three, so I'm not prepared to answer questions about Season Four. But one way or another, we'd cover the summer months. As for college, let me get through high school first.

Vic changed the logo. He liked the new version better.

No comment.

Thanks.

Response recorded on August 04, 2009

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Diminuendo writes...

I was wondering if Osborns death being fake was decision of your own or influenced by Kids' WB dislike of characters dying

Also could we get an update on season 3?

thanks

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

My decision.

And no, cuz I have no update to give.

Response recorded on August 04, 2009

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gipdac writes...

1. When was Mary (Tom's mother) born?
2. Where was Mary (Tom's mother) born?
3. When was Finella born?
4. Where was Finella born?

Greg responds...

1. 966.

2. Somewhere within a mile or two of Wyvern, Scotland.

3. 972.

4. Not sure. Scotland, of course, though.

Response recorded on August 04, 2009

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gipdac writes...

As of December 31th, 1996 does Constance ("Coco") have a mate or at least a romantic interest?

Greg responds...

No comment.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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David Sky writes...

Carnage?

Greg responds...

Pickles?

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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David Sky writes...

I must second the suggestion of other superheroes being mentioned in speculator spiderman. In ultimate spidey tony stark is often mentioned alongside other scientists, and sometimes the question is raised if peter is a mutant. but yeah, it wouldn't hurt if in conversation daredevil or frank castle come up in conversation since they are in fact right in peter's backyard.

Greg responds...

AGAIN... we're NOT allowed to do that. PERIOD. That may change someday, but if we're talking about the first 26 episodes we weren't even allowed to put STARK INDUSTRIES on a sign in the background.

And for the record, in our continuity, Daredevil doesn't exist yet and Frank Castle's family is still alive.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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Beoc writes...

Is Gwen's fate in Spectacular down the road going to match what happened in the comics? Would you even be permitted to go down that road if you wanted to since SSM is a kids show?

Greg responds...

Asked and answered before. Check the archives.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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nygma619 writes...

A couple of statements on the outcomes of Gangland in the Spidey-Tombstone battle.

I felt alot of the success to Tombstone's character was the fact that he was nearly invulnerable (IMO it seperated him from Kingpin being in this role). We had this big crime boss who controlled most of NYC's crime, who could seemingly crush Spidey anytime he wanted (he took Spidey down in 5 measely seconds in his debut), add that he was cool, calculating, incredibly competent, and kept his criminal activities private, not only that but he could turn the law on Spidey if he wanted to (an angle I don't think was used to it's fullest potential). Spidey getting a physical victory over him in their second physical encounter, (after getting bulldozed in less than 5 seconds in their first) felt like a clumsy transition.

Now that Spidey has established that he can beat Tombstone clean, it diminshes his preseance greatly, when they meet again, the question of whether Spidey can beat Tombstone or not won't be there to add to the drama, IMO I thought it wasn't handled very well here. As it's one of those things that seperated him from the rest of the villains on this show.
And it's not like his fight with Tombes was one of his most hard fought victories to date. Kraven left a shiner on Pete's face in their second battle, even though Kraven lost, the black eye signified how hard a battle Spidey fought the second time. Also Pete was left sore and bruised after his 2nd alleged battle against the sinister six in group therapy, and he had a sprained arm after his victory over the Lizard in Natural Selection. All these battles he had won but not without being taken to the limit physically or the battle taking its toll on him. Sometimes a little subtlety goes a long, long, long way; (though I don't think I need to tell you that). And Tombstone being invulnerable was one of those subtleties that I think people might of taken for granted. I mean I can live with the Goblin outwitting Tombstone to get to power (it wouldn't be the 1st time the goblin sort of outwitted him), but there were ways to bring GG to power while also keeping Tombstone's invulnerability intact.

There's been some excuses made for this:
-One is Tombstone being exhausted from the battle before him and Spidey. Which I don't buy. Because Spidey was there nearly through as much of the battle as well. And none of the hits seemed like they slowed Tombs down that much, if at all. At least he didn't show very much fatigue from what I saw.
-Also other people are excusing it because Spidey flung a piece of machinary at Tombs and that Spidey wouldn't had beat him had he stuck to hand to hand combat. My comment on that, Well flinging a piece of machinary is practically clean for Spidey at this point. If he gets beat just because of a foreign object, well that still doesn't do Tombstone any favors, since Spidey practically beats foes with foreign objects most of the time. He beat people like Sandman, with certain foreign objects (i.e. cement) and no one was talking about how tough Sandman was, were they?
Heck when David beat Goliath with a slingshot, people weren't saying, "Man that Goliath is some hoss, it took a slingshot for David to beat him." They were talking about how David beat Goliath, period. They weren't talking about the foreign object.

So for Spider-Man to get a clean physical victory (no contrivances, no dumb luck, CLEAN) over Tombs at this stage in the game, felt far too villain of the weekish for my liking, and really took away from Tombstone's character.
I'm willing to give this storyline a chance, but IMO there was far too much potential thrown away where Tombstone could turn the law on & still physically man handle Spider-Man. It feels like part of the fun in Tombstone (his ability to crush Spider-Man/push him to his limits) has been taken away and he doesn't feel as fun as he once was. Not that he's a bad character right now, but there's a difference between being a good character, and being "the balls". Up till Gangland, Tombstone felt like the latter.

My other problems with Tombstone being outed: Spidey trying to out Tombstone's secret identity lacked any real logic. Sure Foswell would end up reporting what he heard (does that even hold up as evidence unless he has a tape recorder? If not, what's it doing in the papers?) but Spidey had no idea that he knew this or would tell anyone. Not to mention how anti climatic it was.
And does what Foswell said really constitute 16 government agencies looking after him? And if they really are serious about that statement how does Green Goblin get into Lincoln's office without any government agencies noticing? Some government agencies.

I realize that this show has an ever changing status quo all the time, with many different outcomes, and thats one of the reasons I dig the show. However Spider-Man's physical victory over Tombstone was still disappointing because it didn't feel like a battle that put Spidey's body through hellfire and brimstone(thank you Jim Ross) just to beat him.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!!

Well, obviously, I don't agree with you.

For example, the black eye only signified that Kraven got in a lucky shot to Pete's eye. Not that the Kraven battle was easy, but I think you're over-emphasizing the symbolism. Though, of course, that's your right. I just wanted to make it clear that wasn't our intent. On the other hand, the Lizard battle was supposed to be one of his toughest. The fact that you're disappointed that Tombstone isn't physically tougher than Lizard... well, I don't think he is. But he has other attributes that make him scarier in other ways.

Tombstone did take Spidey down in five seconds flat the first time (or something like that), but he was aided by Spidey's ridiculous over-confidence. We never said or claimed that Tombie was invulnerable. Hell, we never said or claimed he had any super-powers at all. We've intentionally left it open to interpretation. You've chosen to interpret it to one extreme. I know other posters have gone to the other extreme. I'm probably somewhere in the middle.

As for this second battle it was neither a clean or easy win for Spidey. Yes, we've leveled the playing field between these two a bit. But only that. Personally, that fight is one of my favorite of the series, but that's just my opinion.

And Spidey's been trying to "out" Tombstone since he met him. Why he'd suddenly stop now makes no sense to me. So I don't really get that objection.

But Tombstone is far from down for the count... at least he's not if we get a third season.

In any case, I'm sorry it didn't work for you. But it worked for us -- and still works for me -- and you weren't there when we were making the show to warn us. So we were stuck going with our own instincts on the thing. I'm afraid that's what you're stuck with. There are no lessons learned here from my point of view. I'm sorry if that sounds arrogant, as that's not my intent. But we just disagree. And ultimately, I have to trust my instincts and those of my partners in crime on the series. If we start second guessing ourselves, no one's going to be happy.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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Bazell writes...

How do you come up with your character names? (though the Manhatten's names' origins can be easily deduced)

Greg responds...

Different ways. And I didn't come up with all of them. Some came from other writers and story editors, such as Cary Bates and Michael Reaves. Others come from mythology or legend, etc. We try to make the names believable but have resonance.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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lambert writes...

hi, greg. don't know if you saw this yet. pretty nifty. http://vimeo.com/4947207

p.s. can't wait for the 2nd season of spidey!

Greg responds...

I had seen that, but thanks.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Was it your idea to get Rober Englund to play the Vulture? Was it hard to get such a big star to accept a role on the show?

Greg responds...

I don't think it was my idea, but I was all for it. As for the difficulty... well, we asked and he said yes. Which is nice.

Response recorded on August 03, 2009