Podcast appearances and mentions of Vic Mignogna

american donald trump joe biden alive wake designed certified kamala primetime proves cents exclusively alex stein blaze tv willie brown vic mignogna liver health formula getliverhelp

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 65:19

Alex Stein is back, and we are pumped for Kamala! After a week of rumors that Joe Biden died, he emerged ALIVE today. But was it a body double? We debate live. Joined in studio by recurring guest Vic Mignogna, we discuss Kamala as the nominee and her start in politics with Willie Brown. Additionally, we play Alex's latest appearance at city council where he pushes for his newest group, “Gay Cowboys for Kamala”! Following, we play Alex's video where he went to an illegal immigrant labor pool and signed the illegal immigrants up to vote for Trump. Finally, Vic Mignogna discusses the latest on Nick Rekieta and how he is back doing hot tub streams. Don't miss this episode of “Prime Time with Alex Stein”! BRAND NEW MONDAY SHOW! We have a new Monday show EXCLUSIVELY on BlazeTV.com that you can watch for only 99 CENTS (for the first month)! Go to https://blazetv.com/primetime and use code PRIMETIME99 to see our Monday show and other exclusive Blaze content that Big Tech CAN'T censor! Today's Sponsors: CastBrew Coffee Experience bold, American-made coffee with Cast Brew Coffee, supporting freedom and a parallel economy. Try Alex Stein's Prime Time Grind, a dark roast with 2x the caffeine, for the strongest brew around. Certified organic and micro roasted in the U.S., visit https://CastBrew.com with promo code PRIMETIME for 10% off. Wake up responsibly with Cast Brew! PureHealth Boost your energy, clear brain fog, and shed extra flab with Liver Health Formula. Designed to revitalize and protect your liver, this powerful supplement contains 11 clinically proven herbs and nutrients. Say goodbye to energy crashes and belly fat by visiting https://GetLiverHelp.com/ALEX to order today and receive a free bottle of Blood Sugar Formula to reduce sugar cravings. Don't miss out on this opportunity to reclaim your health! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 195 | Steel Toe EXPOSES Nick Rekieta | Vic Mignogna CANCELS?!

american wake shop certified primetime exposes cancels cents nikola tesla exclusively blimps alex stein blaze tv vic mignogna blaze media steel toe

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2024 64:29

On this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein," Alex dives into the tragic and controversial downfall of YouTube lawyer Nick Rekieta. To help break down the facts, we bring on Aaron “Steel Toe” Imholte of the “Steel Toe Morning Show.” With new allegations of wife swapping, drug use, and illegal firearms, this case gets more and more disturbing. Additionally, we discuss why Vic Mignogna, a former client of Nick Rekieta, canceled last minute. However, to end the show on a lighter note, we bring on “Dr. Parkinstine,” a Nikola Tesla enthusiast who has transformed his house using electrical items from the early 1900s. You don't want to miss this episode of “Prime Time with Alex Stein”! BRAND NEW MONDAY SHOW! We have a new Monday show EXCLUSIVELY on BlazeTV.com that you can watch for only 99 CENTS (for the first month)! Go to https://blazetv.com/primetime and use code "PRIMETIME99" to see our Monday show and other exclusive Blaze content. Today's Sponsors: CastBrew Coffee Experience bold, American-made coffee with Cast Brew Coffee, supporting freedom and a parallel economy. Try Alex Stein's Prime Time Grind, a dark roast with 2x the caffeine, for the strongest brew around. Certified organic and micro roasted in the U.S., visit https://CastBrew.com with promo code "PRIMETIME" for 10% off. Wake up responsibly with Cast Brew! Blaze Merch Explore a wide range of merchandise from your favorite show and Blaze Media at ShopBlazeMedia.com. From Pimp on a Blimp tees and hats to Big Booty Latina merchandise and Blaze Media collections, there's something for everyone. Use code "BLIMP10" for 10% off your entire order. Shop now and don't miss out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#354/Where No Furniture Has Gone Before Part 2: Ray Tesi + Vic Mignogna + Musical Guest Amanda Carr

US Modernist Radio - Architecture You Love

Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 60:39

In 1966 the first episode of Gene Roddenberry's Star Trek launched a franchise still going strong nearly 60 years later. Star Trek adapted midcentury Modern furniture for set design, from the Bridge to the Conference Room to buildings on the planets they landed on. In a follow up to Where No Furniture Has Gone Before, where we interviewed Dan Chavkin and Brian McGuire on their book Star Trek: Designing the Final Frontier, George travelled to Kingsland GA to see, and sit on, that special Star Trek furniture. You'll hear from Ray Tesi, owner of Neutral Zone Studios, and Vic Mignogna, Executive Producer of the true-to-canon web series Star Trek Continues. Later on, quality time with musical guest Amanda Carr.

art design modern musical bridge star trek architecture executive producer carr trek furniture final frontier modernism gene roddenberry vic mignogna star trek continues conference room brian mcguire ray tesi

Vic Mignogna : Defying the Odds!

The Happy Warrior Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2024 74:29

music sun ice odds vic defying video editing young voices vic mignogna peter pischke

Ep 171 | “Transgender Day of Visibility” Training with Vic Mignogna

american training wake certified lizzo visibility primetime 2x transgender day alex stein vic mignogna tiffany gomas

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 65:56

Guess what? We went viral AGAIN! In this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein," we discuss how cohost “Tiny” had a city council speech go viral, where he discussed his foolproof betting strategy of betting exclusively on transgender athletes! Joined in the studio by Vic Mignogna, we start the show by lamenting poor Lizzo and how she has quit music forever. Will we miss her? We'll let the audience decide. Following, we bring on “Tiny” to discuss how going viral has changed his life. Finally, we react to the viral clips of the day, including a crazy plane lady who makes Tiffany Gomas appear calm. Don't miss this episode of “Prime Time with Alex Stein”! Today's Sponsors: Cast Brew Coffee Experience bold, American-made coffee with Cast Brew Coffee, supporting freedom and a parallel economy. Try Alex Stein's Prime Time Grind, a dark roast with 2X caffeine, for the strongest brew around. Certified organic and micro roasted in the U.S., visit https://CastBrew.com with promo code "PRIMETIME" for 10% off. Wake up responsibly with Cast Brew!

The Downfall of Vic Mignogna: What Happens Now?

iCritic LIVE

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2024 27:39

"In a thought-provoking episode of iCritic LIVE, we delve into the controversies surrounding Vic Mignogna, exploring his downfall and the aftermath. Join us for a candid discussion on the implications and what lies ahead for the voice actor. #VicMignogna #iCriticLIVE #VoiceActorControversy"Support the show

downfall vic mignogna

Ep 126 | THERAPEUTIC: 'Office Space' Printer Smashing LIVE

american space office designed primetime therapeutic smashing printers office space oden alex stein vic mignogna liver health formula getliverhelp

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 65:13

In this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein," we start off on a more somber note as Alex does a tribute to his best friend who suddenly passed away this weekend. In-studio guest Vic Mignogna joins Alex to discuss the deeper meaning of life and how to best honor Alex's friend. After that, the episode resumes its regularly scheduled program as Alex berates his producer for going on paternity leave and also discusses another viral video of Alex's wife's boyfriend, Dontarius. Finally, Alex ends the show by blowing off some steam with a little “man therapy.” We go outside and smash a bunch of electronics in the parking lot in an attempt to recreate the famous printer-smashing scene from the movie “Office Space.” Will this lead to a workplace injury? Likely, yes! Will it also be a therapeutic experience? Who knows? Don't miss this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein"! Today's Sponsors: PureHealth Boost your energy, clear brain fog, and shed extra flab with Liver Health Formula. Designed to revitalize and protect your liver, this powerful supplement contains 11 clinically proven herbs and nutrients. Say goodbye to energy crashes and belly fat by visiting https://GetLiverHelp.com/ALEX to order today and receive a free bottle of Blood Sugar Formula to reduce sugar cravings. Don't miss out on this opportunity to reclaim your health! Fox and Oden Settle in for the holiday season with Fox and Oden whiskey, crafted to honor the beauty of nature and blended for your enjoyment perfectly. Whether by the fireplace or under a tree, savor the spirit of the holidays with this double-gold, award-winning American whiskey. Order online at https://FoxAndOden.com with promo code ALEX for free shipping, and please, remember to drink responsibly.

Ep 104 | Alex Stein STANDS with 'Queers for Palestine' | Guests: Vic Mignogna & Rabbi Shmuley

israel michael jackson palestine hamas stands primetime israel palestine gaza strip queers alex stein vic mignogna rabbi shmuley rabbi shmuley boteach

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2023 67:41

In this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein," we attempt to navigate the complexities of international politics as we discuss Hamas' gruesome and horrifying terror attacks on Israel. Joining us back in the studio is the lovable and handsome Vic Mignogna, known for his work in voice acting and entertainment. What is funny about the Israel-Palestine conflict? NOTHING. However, Alex is a professional culture jammer, and he went to a city council meeting posing as a “Queers for Palestine” member. We react to his hilarious, satirical speech exposing the absurdity of those defending Palestine and Hamas' unspeakable atrocities. Following, we welcome Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, renowned for his role as Michael Jackson's rabbi and his expertise in the Israel-Palestine conflict, who provides historical insights and context to the war on the Gaza Strip. To add an unexpected twist, the episode concludes with Vic Mignogna making a live, on-air call to his mother, revealing her candid thoughts about Alex Stein and his show. Tune in for an episode with some uncharacteristically serious moments, but which is also filled with the regular laughs and inappropriate humor. You don't want to miss this episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein."

CMP 653 - Vic Mignogna

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2023 96:25

Chrissie Mayr Podcast with Vic Mignogna! Anime Matsuri in Houston! VISIT VIC MIGNOGNA https://twitter.com/vicmignogna https://www.startrekcontinues.com/ https://www.vicsworld.net/ https://www.risemboolrangers.com/ Check out the Star Trek Continues Studio! https://neutralzonestudios.com/ SEE CHRISSIE ON TOUR 9/23- Mahopac, New York https://www.eventbrite.com/e/comedy-fundraiser-to-benefit-yorktown-diamond-thistle-lodge-tickets-682169646777?aff=oddtdtcreator 10/27-10/28- Bellmore (Long Island), New York https://brokerage.govs.com/events/78469

new york interview actor anime convention voiceover vic mignogna matsuri mahopac anime matsuri chrissie mayr podcast

Ep 86 | Alex & World-Famous Voice Actor Team Up to Find the Next BlazeTV Idol | Guest: Vic Mignogna

american 5g big data idol primetime team up voice actors made in america world famous faraday alex stein blaze tv vic mignogna

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 64:50

We've got another wild show tonight on "Prime Time with Alex Stein," as Alex enlists world-famous voice actor Vic Mignogna to help him find the next BlazeTV Idol. Will White Darius or Big Darius take home the title? Josie Martinez, streamer and winner of "Fishtank," joins to talk about her experience on the absurd reality show and what she's up to now that it's over. Finally, we're having a glizzy competition between White Darius and Big Darius to see who can gobble the most glizzies. We've got an action-packed show tonight, folks! Today's Sponsor: Refuge Ghost Big Tech and Big Data have shown us time after time that they're not on our side – and yes, we are giving them access to record our personal lives 24/7 through our phones. Even when your phone is off, the microphones and cameras and location trackers still work. And that's just the tech people. What about your personal security when it comes to the crazy ex or someone stalking you or even trying to blackmail you? It happens more than you might think. This is why I use the Refuge Ghost Sleeve. It's made in America – from American buffalo leather – and it blocks 5G signals that other Faraday sleeves miss and is the only Faraday sleeve that blocks signal AND sound. They added sound-blocking panels on each side that keep conversations private. This isn't some clunky metal box – it looks cool, it's easy to put your phone in and take it out throughout the day, whenever you want privacy. You can't be too careful these days, and the Refuge Ghost Sleeve can help keep you safe! Visit RefugePrivacy.com today. Use code “ALEX” to get 10% off your order. That's RefugePrivacy.com, promo code “ALEX” for 10% off!

Ep 74 | RAP BATTLE: Vivek Ramaswamy vs. Alex Stein

american california harvard republicans primetime hunter biden vivek vivek ramaswamy rap battle alex stein vic mignogna

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2023 65:59

Get ready for another wild episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein" as host Alex Stein sits down with American entrepreneur and 2024 Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. The interview covers a range of topics, including the latest Hunter Biden scandal, Vivek's retrospective views on the pandemic, and a look back at his rapping skills from his college days at Harvard. Alex then plays some of his rap songs in what will turn into a rap battle for the ages. We're then joined by in-studio guests Vic Mignogna — a talented voice actor who was canceled for various controversies — and Harrison Tinsley — a young father entangled in a legal battle after he refused to affirm his 3-year-old son's gender and had his son taken by the state of California. And, as always, the episode ends with a freestyle finale.

Star Trek Continues ”To Boldly Go. Part 2” - Detailed Analysis & Review

Star Trek: The Undiscovered Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2023 33:28

Today, we're looking at the final episode of Star Trek Continues. "To Boldly Go. Part 2." So how does this episode hold up against other series finales such as "All Good Things" and "What You Leave Behind". And how well does this episode tie together Star Trek: The Original Series and Star Trek: The Motion Picture. There's a lot to talk about, including some cool stories shared with me by director James Kerwin. Audio Player control at bottom of page. ----more---- Transcript Welcome to Nerd Heaven. I'm Adam David Collings, the author of Jewel of The Stars. And I am a Nerd. This is episode 107 of the podcast. Today, we're talking about the final episode of Star Trek Continues. “To Boldly Go, Part 2.” bringing our coverage of this show to a close. The description on IMDB reads The iconic mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise comes to an end, as Kirk and his crew battle the ultimate adversary. This teleplay was written by Robert J. Sawyer and James Kerwin. With story by Vic Mignogna, Robert J. Sawyer and James Kerwin. It was directed by James Kerwin And it first aired on the 13th of November 2017. We pick up in a very tense situation from last episode's great cliffhanger. Kirk is unwilling to relinquish his bridge. He, Spock, and Uhura all try to fight back. To no avail. Even the security officer's phasers are useless against Lana's powers. And then the big surprise twist happens. Smith's eyes go silver. She is uplifted as well. This was nicely foreshadowed in the last episode where they mentioned that she was holding Garry's hand when they passed through the barrier. I felt then, that she was holding something back. She uses the same lightning force powers that Lana was using. We saw Gary Mitchel and Elizabeth Denher use them in “Where No Man Has Gone Before”. She forces Lana and Sentek to retreat to the Kongo. So … it seems Smith wasn't quite so unaffected as she claimed. I think this is a very cool development. But it raises a lot of questions. Where does Smith sit in the esper scale? Has she always been affected, but has been hiding it, or have her powers only just now manifested. And if so, why? Kirk asks security to escort her to sickbay. At first, she's taken aback. After all, she's one of the good guys right. She helped them against Lana. But after a moment of thought, she relents. It's probably a good idea. She understands the potential threat she represents. She sees things from Kirk's point of view. Maybe she'd even do the same thing in his place. She voluntarily goes with security. The big question is, why are they just sitting there. Why have they not destroyed the Enterprise and her crew? McCoy has the answer. It takes time for uplifted espers to grow in their powers. Perhaps they're biding their time until they all reach full strength. Bones has a medical defence that might help with the illusions. Scotty recommends keeping their distance as the espers don't have unlimited range with their powers. The Kongo's engines are offline. The crew must have shut it off before they were overpowered. Maybe the espers don't know how to get them going again. Kirk hasn't slept for two days. McCoy doesn't argue. Usually Kirk would be wrong, but not this time. He needs to keep going. I'm not sure McCoy is right, actually. As Riker says in Best of Both Worlds, you can't fight the enemy at the same time you're fighting your own fatigue. Lack of sleep impairs human decision making. I know my mind is absolutely useless after putting in a day of work, and Kirk has been going much longer than that. Yes, the situation is critical, but for the moment, it's quiet, This might be the perfect time for Kirk to catch 30 minutes of sleep while the enemy regroups. Of course, there's a lot to accomplish while they have this time. Coming up with defences, a plan of some sort. There are no good or easy answers, which is probably why McCoy is not arguing with him. In five years, 73 people have died under Kirk's command. He remembers the exact number. Of course he would. McCoy says “we'll stop them” but that's not the point. “At what cost, Doctor?” Kirk asks. That's what's really on his mind. It's fitting for Kirk to reflect back on the cost of his five year mission as it's nearing its end. Especially at a moment like this, when it looks like that cost is about to skyrocket. But there's more to it, as we'll soon discover. McKenna goes to see Smith. Everyone is afraid of her. Understandably. Contact with Gary, at the time of his uplifting left some residual energy in her. She didn't uplift at the time, probably because she doesn't have the psi rating necessary. But her proximity to the barrier now has reactivated that residual energy enough to uplift her. Smith has developed telepathy. She can read McKenna's mind. She can feel the power flowing through her, but she claims to not be dangerous. She would never hurt anybody. But McKenna can't know that for sure. Gary shows early signs of megalomania quite quickly. Denher much less so. She still retained her humanity despite temptation to the contrary. Why? Was it that Denher was intrinsically a better person? What is because Denher had a lower psi rating than Gary? If that's the case, it looks good for Smith as she seems to have a lower rating still. So far, it's looking like Smith has a good chance of keeping her humanity long term. But there are no guarantees here. We just just don't know. Charvanek comes to see Spock. It seems she is still trying to pursue a relationship with him. A relationship he was tempted to enter into in the past, but resisted. She asks Spock to come with her when her ship departs. The mission of the Enterprise is almost over. His job is complete. It's a logical time to make a change in his life. She tempts him with the promise of unification between Romulans and Vulcans. A promise that will consume him a century from now. But why would a Romulan commander want reunification? She is as he would want her to be, not as she truly is. This is not Charvanek. When Spock resists the illusion, it disappears. Other illusions are being used against the crew. An order to Checkov to lower shields and head into the barrier. Even Kirk's preoccupation with the deaths of crew under his command. I'm glad these moments were included. The greatest weapon Lana's espers have is their mental abilities. Their ability to confuse and manipulate the crew of the Enterprise. They should be using it every change they get. Probably a lot more than we see on screen. With that many espers, and so many on board the Enterprise susceptible to them, it's actually a miracle they don't blow up their own ship. This is one weakness I see in Deep Space Nine, actually. Now DS9 is my favourite of all the Star Trek shows, and I love everything to do with the Dominion War and the changelings. But their greatest strength was not the military might of their ships, or the fighting acumen of the Jem Hadar. Their greatest weapon was the ability to infiltrate the Federation. We saw a little hint of the potential they possessed in Homefront and Paradise Lost. And that was only 4 changelings. They should have used these infiltration tactics a lot more during the war. We know the blood screenings were not entirely effective. The Federation wouldn't have stood a chance. The reason I bring all this up is just to praise this episode for including these scenes. The battle begins. The Kongo fires on the Enterprise. The starboard nacelle is damaged. The Romulans join the fight but then move off. The espers might need a minute to recharge their powers. The nacelle needs 30 minutes to repair. Kirk orders a risky cold restart. The esper's powers cannot deflect multiple simultaneous strikes. But two vectors will not be enough. Three would do the job, but they don't have a third ship….or do they? Kirk orders the crew to prepare for a risky procedure. One they have never before attempted. Scotty will re-start the engines. They will separate the saucer from the Stardrive. Spock will command the saucer. Kirk, the secondary hull. Obviously, this is something that TNG did, but TOS never did. I was already aware that Gene Roddenberry had intended that the TOS Enterprise be able to separate. They didn't really have the budget to make it a reality until Encounter at Farpoint. What I didn't realise, until it was pointed out by James Kerwin, is that Kirk referred to the process, which they called “Jettisoning”, not “Separating” in two different TOS episodes. “The Apple” and “Savage Curtain”. Spock points out that it will be very difficult to re-integrate the ship after this. But not impossible I like this approach. It shows that while yes, the original Enterprise COULD separate the two sections, it wasn't a routine operation like on the Enterprise D. It's a last resort. Not necessarily indeed to be undone. Kirk describes it as “jettisoning the stardrive section.” So it's not the same as in TNG. I like this a lot. This gives the final episode of Star Trek Continues quite an epic feel. Now they can conduct a three-pronged attack on the Kingo. And it's working. The Kongo's power is decreasing. Kirk is commanding the stardrive section from Auxilary control, which was seen from time to time in the original series. The set was built for episode 3 “Fairest of Them All”. Director James Kerwin shared a story with me. The Auxilary control set was re-assembled for the finale, not having been used in a couple of years. But the buttons and lights on the helm console had deteriorated due to humidity and dust. They no longer worked, and they had to film in two days. Kermin checked the travel manifest and realised that Grant Imahara, who played Sulu, was flying in that day. Grant was an electrical engineer by trade. Kermin called him on his mobile phone and said “Grant, I'm so sorry, I know you have a day off before you need to film, but could you please come to set now and try to repair the auxiliary control helm console? He gladly did so and made it work beautifully. So when we see Sulu pressing the aux control helm buttons, and the lights on the console flashing, that was Grant's work. The Kongo hails the Enterprise. We hear some ominous music. Music that is very reminiscent of the score from Star Trek The Motion Picture. A very nice touch. This episode was the third time Andy Farber wrote and recorded original music for the show. Starting to integrate some themes from The Motion Picture was a deliberate charge from Mignongna to Farber. This episode is, afterall, the missing gap between TOS and TMP. A handing of the torch. What he did was incredible. He weaved these different styles of music together in an impressive and wonderful way. You hear it clearly during the saucer separation. What made this extra special was the inclusion of Craig Huxley. This man has deep connections to Star Trek. He played Peter James Kirk - the nephew of James Kirk, and also appeared in the episode “and the children shall lead.” He invented a very unique musical instrument that featured heavily in the score of Star Trek The Motion Picture. The blaster beam. The longest stringed instrument ever. You probably know what I'm talking about. The score for TMP had these deep resonant sounds like nothing you've heard before or since. Those sounds came from this unique instrument. Jerry Goldsmith discovered this instrument and wanted to use it in his score. It was also used in Star Trek 2 and 3, and even Back to The future and Alien. I was surprised to hear that, because to me, those sounds are uniquely synonymous with The Motion Picture. They brought Huxley back to perform some blaster box for the score of this episode, and man does it make a difference. It impacts me on such an emotional level, because of the link to The Motion Picture. The Kongo's original crew, including their captain, are alive in the cargo bay. Lana is going to use them as leverage to negotiate. They want McKenna to beam aboard the Kongo, in exchange for the Kongo's captain. If she doesn't they'll decompress the hanger deck. It's a classic prisoner exchange, like in Generations. But who will it benefit most? McKenna is willing to go. Sentek gives only one minute. Spock tries to contact Kirk but Uhura can't get through the interference. McKenna is trained in mediation. She can find a way to a win-win situation. Spock is in command. He has to make a decision. This could be a deception. The Kongo crew may not even be there. McKenna urges Spock to listen to his feelings, rather than his logic. Interestingly, I would have thought that his emotions would want him to protect McKenna, his friend. But he relents and agrees to the exchange. Mckenna for Captain Azmi. This raises the important question of why they want McKenna so much. As soon as McKenna beams away, it is revealed that the lifesigns were an illusion. There are no crew to be saved. Sentek lied. When Spock confronts him about this, saying Vulcans never lie, Sentek says they both know that is not true. And I can't argue with that. They now have a valuable hostage. One for whom Spock has affection. And that may be motivation enough for the espers wanting the exchange. Lana orders Spock to stand down or McKenna will die. Spock agrees. The Kongo warps out of the system. Can things possibly get any worse? Lana brings food to McKenna, which gives her the opportunity to try to reason with her. McKenna says there is room for everyone in the Federation. She'll do all she can to help them find acceptance. Lana points out that time after time, humanity has turned its back on self-improvement. After all they've done, Lana knows there is no place for her and her people in the Federation. She may be right. I can't imagine many in the Federation would be keen to welcome these people, given the danger they possess. Lana sees her and her people as humanity's successors. She doesn't want to assimilate into the Federation. She wants to replace it. With help from the Romulans, the Enterprise has been re-attached into one piece. They're now in pursuit, but they're a long way behind. Starfleet has requested help from both the Klingons and the Romulans. Both have said no. McCoy's medical defence is ready to help them focus. This is important for the story, because otherwise, sooner or later, someone on the ship would succumb to an illusion. The good guys have to have a chance to succeed at some point. Uhura has a way to circumvent the esper's subspace disruption, so they'll be able to communicate and coordinate. The Enterprise will be working with the Exeter and the Potempkin. The only other two constitution class ships in service. Spock apologises for his recent decision. Kirk confirms he would have done the same thing in his place. Smith wants to help. Kirk isn't convinced it's a good idea. Her power is growing quickly. But is her ego growing with the power? There seems to be no evidence of that so far. Five years ago, Smith watched Kirk make impossible choices to protect his crew. That set something in motion in her. He showed her what it means to serve. Originally a yeoman, Smith left and got her commission so she could return to the Enterprise and serve her crew. This is what she's meant to do - help. Either Smith is a very good actor, or she is still herself. Still a good person. It's a great speech and a very nice character moment for Smith. If things weren't already bad enough, it seems the Exeter and Potempkin have both been destroyed. They fired on each other. The espers powers of illusion have grown significantly. Probably greater even than what Gary's were before he died. This episode is doing a fantastic job of taking the tension and ramping it up further and then further. Uhura and Spock have come up with another way to shield the Enterprise from the illusory power of the espers. It will be limited, but might buy them some time. But without the other two ships, time to do what? When they see the Kongo on screen, we hear another booming note from the blaster beam. So effective. Smith is going to try to use her powers to force her way through the Kongo's shields in order to beam over there. Kongo has started firing. Spock has located McKenna. Smith is on it. The scene where she storms into the Kongo engine room and throws the espers aside is awesome. She has become a powerful superhero and I love it. Who would have thought, looking at the character in Star Trek's second pilot, that she would end up here. But now it's two against one, and their powers have had a lot more time to grow than hers. As they zap her, her eyes seem to dim. So she starts to fire all her power into the ship's engines. The espers run. Her eyes fade to normal. Her lifesigns are gone. She used the last of her energy to burn out the Kongo's systems. And this brings the story of Smith to an end. She dies a hero. She fulfils her dreams. She is able to serve in the most powerful way, doing what nobody else could have done. When I think back on this episode, I always remember another death, that we'll talk about shortly. But after this time through, Smith's death will stick with me just as much, maybe even more. This death is just as emotionally impactful. This is the moment when the good guys win. James Kerwin really enjoyed shooting Smith's sacrifice. He and actress Kipleigh Brown had been working together on film projects for many years, and both started working on Star Trek Continues at the same time, episode 3. He was glad to give the character an honourable send-off. Not only did Kipleigh Brown write the previous episode, “What Ships are For”, she also wrote Smith's farwell speech to Kirk. The Romulans are firing killing shots at the Kongo. But they still have someone over there. The Romulans, like their Vulcan cousins, it seems, are very pragmatic in this situation. They're not willing to risk the galaxy just for McKenna. The visuals of the damages Kongo with it's decks exposed looks awesome. Reminds me of the remastered effects in The Doomsday Machine. Even Charvanek,who is still aboard the Enterprise, doesn't approve of Tal's actions. Now the Romulan ship is firing at the Enterprise too. The Enterprise takes some very significant damage. Casualty reports coming from all over the ship. As the saucer is mangled, and sparks flare all over the bridge, we get an epic sense of disaster you wouldn't see in any other episode of TOS. This is the finale. It all ends here. This nicely gives an added reason for the ship to undergo a major refit prior to TMP. Charvanek disables the weapons on her ship, relieving Tal of his position. The Kongo hails. They're in bad shape. Even Lana has lost the silver from her eyes. “Well fought, Kirk,” she says. “For a moment we knew the freedom of infinity.” Their reactor is building up. Scotty needs a minute to beam McKenna out. He doesn't get it. He's half got her, but having trouble re materialising her. It looks like Spock has done it, but it still doesn't work. Spock's emotions come out as he hits the console. McKenna is still standing there, shimmering, allowing them to have a tearful goodbye. Kirk apologises and thanks her. Spock approaches. It's a painful moment for him. She says something to him, although it isn't overly apparent to me in this scene. We get hints of music from Star Trek 2. Fitting. This scene really tears me apart. McKenna herself seems to have a quiet acceptance of her death. She has a smile that seems to say “Thanks for trying.” She is remarkably brave in the face of her imminent death. Were I in her situation. I'd probably be horrified. McKenna fades away. Dead. It makes narrative sense that McKenna would die in this episode. Over the course of this fourth season, she has become an important part of the show. Part of this family. It makes no sense that she wouldn't be around in the movies. It's logical that she would die. I guess the same is true for Smith. And in a story of this magnitude, there needs to be loss. There has to be a price for victory. In the end, McKennma's death was kind of senseless. She wasn't able to make a difference, although it does serve an important story purpose as we'll see in a minute. But Smith's death was critical to their victory. They never would have won without her. In a very real sense, she is the hero of this story. The Enterprise crawls home on its hands and knees. She has come home. But it's not the triumphant moment they had anticipated. Their recent losses, how close they came to disaster, it all weighs heavily on them. Kirk's log is spoken with a very sombre voice. We see the spacedock in orbit, where she'll stay until her refit is complete and Kirk takes her out to confront V'ger. We see a TOS shuttle fly over the golden Gate Bridge in a scene that otherwise could have come from the motion picture. Admiral Nogura, who we hear about in the motion picture, but never see, congratulates Kirk on completing his five year mission, and on saving the galaxy. It's cool to have that character appear in this episode. In the show, we didn't see the Enterprise crew saving the entire galaxy. They tended to deal with smaller scale issues most of the time. But it's very fitting that they have faced and overcome such a threat in their final story. Kirk still feels the cost acutely. Based on Kirk's experiences with McKenna, Kirk calls the experimental counsellor program a success. It should continue. Starfleet ships from now on will have counsellors on board. Kirk looks at a series of models, from Cochrane's Phoenix, to the NX-01, We see the USS Discovery, the constitution class, and finally, the constitution refit, as the TMP theme starts to play. I get goosebumps. Now, potentially, Discovery shouldn't be seen here, as that ship was classified when it travelled into the future. Of course, Discovery season 1 was brand new when this episode was made, so that canon hadn't been established yet. Personally, I think it's not out of the question for an admiral to still have a crossfield class model in his office. It was still a part of Starfleet history. Nogura would have been active in Starfleet during the time of Discovery. And I think it's worth it for the emotional resonance of seeing it in the lineup. It's nicely ties old and new Trek together. The Enterprise will be refit from the keel up. The crew will be given promotions. And the Federation council has voted to reinstate the enterprise Delta as the official insignia of Starfleet. Kirk says Scotty always thought it reminded him of the port and starboard warp signatures of Cochrane deceleration. I can't help but wonder if this is a nod to the novel Star Trek Federation. To Kirk, it's an arrow. Rising upward and outward. I was never a fan of the alternate insignias for other ships, and I believe, neither was Rodennberry. I remember reading somewhere, and I don't remember where, so take this with a grain of salt, but I seem to remember Roddenberry wanted the crew of other ships to have the familiar delta, but the costume designer kept making new insignias, probably because he wanted to express his creativity. For me, this is a part of canon I tend to try to ignore. It's clear that in most of Star Trek, the delta is intended to be the logo for all of Starfleet, and always has been. But, those alternate insignias are part of canon. And they were further canonised by both Enterprise and Strange New Worlds. Later Star Trek established the delta was used as the general Starfleet logo both prior to Kirk's five year mission, and again afterwards. James Kerwin resolved this by having Nogura say that in honour of the Enterprise, they were RE-establishing the delta as the official starfleet logo. This episode makes it all work here in a fitting way. Kirk is questioning whether his time has ended. He is not the same person he was. He's suffered a lot of loss. His preoccupation with the loss of people under his command may have been brought on by the espers, but these feelings are real. He expects more of himself than he's able to give any longer. He could never be happy with that. This makes him more receptive to what Nogura is about to offer him. We see the Enterprise crew assembled in the same room where Kirk briefs them in TMP. It's fascinating seeing those colourful TOS uniforms in a background plate that looks like it's taken directly from TMP. I do love the transitional moments like this. Kirk emerges in his motion picture admiral uniform. Like most people, I'm not a big fan of the TMP uniforms, but the one exception is Kirk's admiral uniform. I like that a lot. I kinda wish the movie had just used that uniform for everyone. Kirks makes a speech. He has been promoted to admiral and chief of Starfleet operations. That's the bad news. The good news is that they will continue to reach deeper into the stars. Explore more new worlds. Venturing further into the final frontier. Our greatest adversaries, he says, are ourselves. We have much to learn about what's out there, but also about what's in here. The experience with the espers has cemented that lesson. Now the music goes full TMP. The next thing the episode needs to do is set up where McCoy and Spock will be at the start of the movie. McCoy says he's done. He's seen enough death. What he hasn't seen is his daughter in five years. He's leaving Starfleet and going home. I feel that McCoy's departure hasn't been as well set up as Spocks, which we'll get to in a minute. But his reasons are sound. Particularly the family thing 5 years is a very long time to not see your child. We don't know the exact details of his family in the prime universe canon, but it has been established through the years, particularly in books, that McCoy had a family. The Kelvin movies made his marriage and divorce canon. I can't begin to imagine not seeing your child for five years, but I applaud him for doing something about it now. This works really quite well for me, but I think it would work even better had there been a little more foreshadowing through the season. Seeing McCoy start to lament the lost time with his daughter. Realising how great that cost had become. Of course, this isn't the end of their friendship. And there's a nice little nod to Drake. There's an acknowledgement of the awkward but strong friendship that exists between Spock and Bones when he invites Spock to join them. Spock tells Jim what McKenna said to him before she was lost in the transporter beam. “Forgive yourself.” A difficult thing. McKenna encouraged Spock to pay attention to his emotions. He did so. He made an emotional decision, ignored his logic and allowed her to beam over. That decision cost many lives, including hers. Spock doesn't know how to deal with the guilt and regret he's feeling. All he knows how to do with emotions is suppress them. And that leads him to make the decision to undergo the Kholinar. He will purge all his remaining emotions. This whole Kholinar thing seemed to come from nowhere in The Motion Picture. So Spock's arc in this episode makes a whole lot of sense. It retroactively makes Spock's arc in TMP even better. I absolutely love what the episode does here. It's brilliant character work. Kirk will see his two friends at dinner. But there's one last thing he has to do. He goes to the bridge of the Enterprise. Now shut down and empty. And he looks at it. Says goodbye. While Kirk says goodbye to his command, we say goodbye to a bridge that we will never see again - not in this form. It's a powerful scene. It holds similar emotional resonance as the poker scene at the end of “All Good Things.” The episode hangs there. Gives Vic the time just to look and react. We finish with a captain's log. Kirk's last. At least for now. Then we pull back on a shot of the Enterprise in spacedock, as the music becomes very TMP sounding. There is no music over the ending credits, just the ambient sound of the bridge. This episode does everything a series finale should do, and it does it in style. We had a huge story with epic stakes. Powerful impacts for our characters. A sense of full-circle as we link back to the beginning, and a setting up for what will come after. I'd put this one right up there with the best of the Star Trek Finales, “All Good Things” and “What you Leave Behind.” This is certainly orders of magnitude better than “Endgame.” I've loved Star Trek Continues as a whole, but this final two-parter epitomises the reasons I love this show so much. I have to give a huge congratulations to the cast and crew. To everyone who made this labour of love a reality. This show has a special place in my heart, and I'm deeply grateful to those who created it. I would like to acknowledge the tragic passing of actor Grant Imahara who played Sulu. He passed away on the 13th of July 2020 at just 49 years of age I'd like to say a huge thankyou once again, to James Kerwin for reaching out to me, and generously answering my questions and sharing some cool stories. Thanks, James. Here ends my coverage of Star Trek Continues. So what next? Well it seems crazy not to jump right into Star Trek The Motion Picture after this. I've covered all the TNG movies on the podcast, but I haven't covered the TOS movies. So I'll make my way through them. I also have some ideas of things I can do along the way. I've been thinking of revisiting the original Transformers cartoon from the 80s, which I have powerful childhood memories of. See if there's anything in them worthy to discuss as an adult. I'd likely cover more than one episode in a podcast, and probably not go into as much recap detail as I've been doing with Star Trek. The idea is something I can do a little more off-the-cuff. Something that will take less time as I try to focus more on the fiction writing. I'm also thinking of giving periodic updates on my reading of DC Comics, using the DC Universe Infinite app. Anyway, there's plenty more to come, so I hope you'll find something of interest in the future of Nerd Heaven. Until next time, Live Long and Prosper. Make it so.

music starting apple doctors stars explore powerful dead rising lack alien discovery forgive nerds star trek bones delta back to the future encounter endgame generations enterprise personally transformers tal dc comics trek federation scotty prosper separating fitting detailed mccoy garry spock exeter reminds vulcans motion pictures paradise lost captain kirk venturing realising deep space nine homefront tos casualty cochrane leave behind strange new worlds kongo tng starfleet understandably klingons gene roddenberry nx go part live long farber jerry goldsmith star trek the motion picture fairest sulu uhura boldly go both worlds romulan romulans star trek the original series roddenberry farpoint all good things doomsday machine kingo tmp enterprise d vic mignogna star trek continues audio player grant imahara uss discovery where no man has gone before dc universe infinite robert j. sawyer dominion war checkov spocks jem'hadar to boldly go what you leave behind james kerwin gary mitchel stardrive kipleigh brown andy farber

Star Trek Continues: An Interview with Vic Mignogna

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2023 73:58

The team discusses "Star Trek Continues" with it's creator/star Vic Mignogna. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/star-trek-undiscovered/support

vic mignogna star trek continues

Star Trek Continues ”What Ships Are For” - Detailed Analysis & Review

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2023 30:49

In this episode of Star Trek Continues, we are treated to the return of John De Lancie is a new role. But just because he's not playing Q, doesn't mean he isn't awesome. "What Ships Are For" explores an issue that has been topical in our world in recent years - immigration and refugees. ----more---- Transcript Welcome to Nerd Heaven. I'm Adam David Collings, the author of Jewel of The Stars And I am a nerd. This is episode 104 of the podcast. (Yes, I'm counting the chat about DC comics from last time) Today, we're talking about the Star Trek Continues episode “What Ships are For”. The description on IMDB reads Kirk struggles with aiding a society whose inhabitants view their isolated world in a very unique way. This teleplay was written by Kipleigh Brown With story by Vic Mignogna, James Kerwin, and Kipleigh Brown, It was directed by Vic Mignogna And it first aired on the 30th of July 2017 When I first heard that Star Trek Continues was bringing in the legendary John DeLancie, but that he'd be playing a character that wasn't Q, my initial reaction was “What a waste of John De Lancie.” My thinking went something like this. The idea of having Q visit Kirk's Enterprise would be fun. Something that could certainly happen in-universe because Q can travel through time with the click of a finger. But it couldn't have ever been done in TOS because The Next Generation didn't exist yet. It's the similar problem to having Kirk and Spock make references to Archer and T'Pol. While Enterprise took place before TOS, it was created more than 30 years later. These kinds of references and interactions can only be done by fan productions (or maybe Strange New Worlds). But as fun as it would be having Q show up in a TOS episode, it's unlikely a fan production would be able to get John DeLancie. But Star Trek Continues managed to get him. But they didn't use him for Q. They cast him as another character. Added to the disappointment of him not being Q, was the fact that De Lancie is a very recognisable guy, so seeing him as a different character would be odd to say the least. After watching the episode the first time, I had to back-pedal my thoughts on this because of De Lancie's great performance. He did a fantastic job with this character, and now it's hard to imagine this episode without him. The Enterprise is responding to a distress call from an inhabited asteroid with a limited warp capable society. I like that it's an inhabited asteroid. We always see people living on planets, but I think we need more inhibited moons and asteroids, not only in sci-fi, but in fantasy as well. If I ever write a fantasy book, the world I set it on will be a moon, rather than a planet. And a nice bit of ongoing continuity, we learn that two Federation starships have been dispatched to investigate what happened to the hood. Both have suffered unexplainable damage. We also learn that Nurse Chapel is already at Starfleet medical, studying to become a doctor. We know that by the time of Star Trek The Motion Picture, Chapen is a doctor. This is the first really big sign that Star Trek Continues is on a trajectory toward that movie, starting to set up some of the big changes that occurred off-screen between season 3 and the movie. You sometimes see nurses who decide to become doctors in both fiction and real life. It can be almost viewed as a promotion, which, I suspect it technically is, if you look at the hierarchy of authority in a hospital. But nursing certainly needn't be seen as a stepping stone to medicine. Nursing is a respected profession of highly intelligent people. And interestingly, my wife works with a nurse who used to be a doctor, but decided she'd rather be a nurse. You don't often see it go that direction. The other hint of the motion picture you see is the white medical uniform the doctor at Starfleet is wearing. Kirk jokes that you'll never get him in one of those things. The Hyalini have refused outside contact for centuries. We know little about them. We get a little TOS style womp-womp humour, which I don't really care for, but it's very authentic. When the landing party beam down to the asteroid, they are surprised to be seeing everything in black and white. When I heard that the creative team behind this show were looking for ways to do a black and white episode, I wasn't convinced. But the conceit they come up with works nicely for me as a science fiction concept, and also allows them to approach a topical issue in a very unique way. So good on ‘em. While they puzzle over what might be affecting their eyes, they are met by Galisti, leader of the inner council, played by De Lanci, and Thaius, their newly appointed ambassador to the Federation. Galisti is surprised that the human visitors look so much like Hyanoid bipeds. He was expecting a tentacle or two. Thaius is the first to notice that Spock is different from the others. I laughed out loud when she asked with all sincerity, if he was an Earth female. McCoy managed to get by with a stifled chuckle. She is also fascinated and delighted by Spock's kindness and gallantry revealed by pure calculated reason. She notes that in all her excitement at meeting aliens, she didn't see anything other than his ears. “How often we look but forget to see.” This is an important line, not only because of what it says, but because of who says it. As we'll see at the end of the episode. We also learn that Galisti and Thaius are married. Galisti says “How fortunate I am to call my friend, my wife.” And I totally get behind that. I believe that romantic love is best born out of friendship.That's why I don't understand this whole “friend zone” thing that “the kids” talk about these days. Kirk struggles to find the words to ask the aliens about the lack of colour. How do you describe colour to someone who has no concept of it? It would be a bit like describing colour to a blind person. There is simply no common frame of reference. Gaisti and Thaius don't really know what Kirk is getting at, but they assure him the way their world looks is the same as it has always been. They launch right into an explanation of their situation. Their isolation was never meant to end now. Hundreds of years ago, they united in a goal of becoming worthy to one day join the galactic community (clearly they knew, or believed, that alien life existed). They wanted to become a utopian society, somewhat like what Earth has become. Spock explains the black-and-white as the property of an unusual form of radiation from their sun, which impairs the cone cells in humanoid eyes. So far, this is just a strange quirk of this world. And Star Trek is all about discovering strange new worlds. But this will come into play in an important thematic way later in the episode. I love the establishing shot we see of the town. Feels reminiscent of the planet where Pike fought the warrior on Rigel in The Cage. I wonder where they shot it. Might even just be stock footage. When Kirk is introduced to Thaius's most promising student, Sekara, Kirk goes all … Kirk. When he meets an attractive woman, he can't help but flirt with her. Things get awkward when Tomiat, one of the council, points a gun to his head and yells that Galisti shouldn't have brought the aliens here. They are all ruined. His perspective seems to be that making contact with aliens, before they themselves are perfect, will destroy them. I can kind of understand why a group of people would want to perfect themselves before joining the larger community, but this guy's ideas seem odd and extreme. Evidently, the others of his people do not share the extremity of his view. He refers to himself as a “true believer”. But a believer in what? Their plan to perfect themselves? What leads him to take the mental jump from “This would be a good strategy” to “if it doesn't go as we planned, we're doomed”? It seems a bit of an absurd leap. I don't know what he's basing it on. Spock brings things to a peaceful end with a well-placed neck pinch. That's when Galisti explains that Sekara had a disease. She'll be dead before the year is out. This is why they broke their isolation with the distress signal. They don't know what it is, only what it isn't. These people seem to have medical knowledge at least in line with ours. McCoy is confident the disease is related to the same radiation that makes everything look black and white. Not sure how he concludes this. He wants to bring Sekara on board the Enterprise to examine her in sickbay, but Kirk sees a potential issue. On the Enterprise, she'll be shielded from the radiation. Spock isn't certain whether she'll see colour or not, but if she does, it could be traumatic. I can totally get that. Kirk tries to prepare her for what she might see. He does a good job of it. He warns her that it will be unusual, it might frighten her, but it will be safe. She accepts this. When she arrives in the transporter room, we get the reveal that her skin and hair colouring are not what you'd expect from a human. Greenish skin and purple hair. Cleverly concealed by the black-and-white nature of her asteroid home. She still sees in black and white for a moment. But then it happens. And as you can imagine, it's pretty overwhelming.She goes into a panic attack. She asks “is it alive?” Again, Kirk does a good job of calming and reassuring her. This was nicely done. It's taken millennia for the radiotoxins to induce acute radiation syndrome. Mccoy has started sekaras treatment Now that she's gotten used to it, Sekara has a real sense of wonder about colour. It's like nothing she's ever experienced before. I like how something that is so mundane to us is so awe-inspiring to her. The Hyalinans do have limited space travel, but they don't have shields that can block the radiation. That's why they still don't see colour when they travel through space, but Sekara can when on board the Enterprise. Anyway, treating them for the illness is only a bandaid. It will continue and re-occur as they are exposed to the radiation. But Spock has a daring idea. The spectral signature of the Hyalinus sun can be altered using a modified stellar probe. This is something I'd approach with caution. You're talking about fundamentally changing the nature of their sun. What un-expected side-effects could that have? What damage could they cause if they do it wrong? But, with lives on the line, they're right to try. They just wanna make sure they do it properly Sulu is going to accompany Spock down to the surface to see how the radiation has permeated the food chain. For once, he gets to use his botany for the story. Spock took some scans while he was down there. The tricorder doesn't rely on cone cells to detect colour. His can show there are multiple skin pigmentations on the planet. Sekara has greenish skin with purple hair, while many of the others have orange skin with black hair. I'm suprised at how shocked and dismayed the crew look. Earth has a number of different skin tones. This needn't be a surprise. But given the history of Earth, I guess the Hyalians might be in for a shock, and it could lead to treating people differently. Spock and McKenna conclude, in what I think is a bit of a leap, that Sekara and the other minority that share her pigmentation, are aliens. Not native to Hylinus. McCoy points out there could be other explanations, but Spock has apparently gathered enough data to know there are other differences. These people are unquestionable a race not currently native to Hyalinus. And that's a very interesting development. Uhura and Palmer are searching for any other habitable bodies nearby. They have to decide whether to confront Sekara about her origins. McKenna suggests not doing so yet. They don't know who she is, or even whether she knows herself. Kirk surmises that a species as isolationist as the Hyilini would never allow aliens to live on their world, but given their inability to distinguish colour, they probably don't know. Sekara was born on Hyalinus and orphaned at a young age. Her intense awkwardness in trying to answer when Kirk invites her in, suggests she may be as smitten with him as he is with her. She asks an interesting question. “What is the purpose of colour?” Is that something you've ever wondered? Probably not, as it's just such a normal part of our existence. Kirk suggests that it provides variety, vibrance, beauty. Like poetry for the eyes. This episode makes me wonder. We feel like our perception of vision is complete, but so did Sekara. What if there is something …. Other. Something additional that we can't perceive that another species might. What could that be? I can't even imagine it. It's so outside our realm of experience. It also reminds me of the Terry Pratchet book, The Colour of Magic. In that book, there is another colour called Octartine. While the book tries to describe it using a combination of other colours, we can't actually conceive of what a colour unknown to us would look like. Because as humans, we've already given names to all the colours that our eyes can perceive. There is nothing more alien than that which you cannot perceive, or conceive of. And then Kirk gets really creepy. At least, that's how it comes across. I'm not suggesting his advances are unwanted by Sekara. But it seems a little premature. But that's Kirk. At least, how he was portrayed in TOS. Palmer has found radio waves coming from another asteroid in the belt. 2 small shuttlepods approach. Unarmed and barely spaceworthy. The Hyalini lock weapon platforms on the shuttles. The council won't respond to Kirk's hails. He makes the decision to intervene. He destroys the platform after it gets off a missing shot. The Enterprise is now involved in this conflict. A potential prime directive issue. Now the council wants to talk. They demand an explanation for the destruction of their platform. Sekara describes the people on those shuttles as Abicians. They've been trying to sneak onto Hyalinus to escape the consequences of their own savagery for decades. They lie and conceal their identities so that they can benefit from the peace and prosperity that we've worked to achieve. One which they have not earned themselves. Kirk asks if they are criminals or refugees. Is it a crime to want to live peacefully? Sekara makes the point, that I think is fair, that Kirk doesn't know enough about the situation to stand in judgement. Her parents were murdered by abicians. Kirk concedes this. It's all too easy to criticise the policies of another until you lose someone those policies could have saved. Now, Kirk says something that I think is very wise. “Please tell me, Sekara. I want to understand.” Their world is in turmoil. Territories perpetually at war. Technological innovation fueled solely by the desire to build better, more lethal weapons. They have squandered their natural resources and polluted their world in the process. Her parents were part of a diplomatic envoy sent to help. To show the abicians a better way to live. Their ship returned to Hyalinus on auto-pilot and all 18 people on board were killed. Sekara was 10 years old. Kirk admits that those people who killed her parents were barbarians. But that doesn't mean they all are, does it? And I think that's the crux of the matter. The biggest issue with what the Hylians are doing is judging all members of a species based on the actions of their leaders. The reality is, the people on those shuttles probably disagree with the violent ways of their leaders. They only want to get away from the killing. As Kirk says, to be able to live in peace. Sekara says “you assume they think like us. They do not. They do not respect our laws. They do not value knowledge or honesty and they do not question their conscience before turning to violence. This sounds like something she's been taught, rather than something she knows factually about these people from experience. As Kirk says, have you ever met an abician? She admits her answer is no, but says they've managed to keep them off their world. This is the moment Kirk chooses to reveal the truth. There are hundreds of thousands of Abicians on Hyalinus. They look just like hyalians, unless you can see colour. You are abician. Your parents were abician. That must be an even greater shock for her to accept than the introduction of colour into her world. And Kirk didn't do much to prepare her for that shock. But what could he do? In the end, he had to just come out and say it. Can you imagine discovering you're a different species to what you thought you were. That you are actually the thing that you have always distrusted? Sekara now has to face the reality that not all abicians are the way she has pre-judged them to be. Spock and Sulu have found that the food chain has been affected by the radiation at almost every level, but there is no permanent mutation, which means after they've put their plan into action, future Hylanini should be healthy and free of the disease. Kirk is trying to reason with the council. Galisti asks if his people must meet some arbitrary moral standard set by Starfleet in order to receive help. Kirk assures him that is not the case. And that's good. Our compassion for people shouldn't be limited by our agreeing or disagreeing with them on moral issues. Kirk is trying to understand why the Hyalini see a few people who are desperate for a better life as such a threat. Galisti gets to the crux of it. “Granting entrance to some is an invitation for all. They would overrun our world.” They have limited resources. They're struggling to feed their own people. This is a legitimate concern. Kirk isn't suggesting that they open their borders to everyone, but he says they're defensive system is excessive. This was a very topical issue at the time this episode was made, especially in America, but also here in Australia. But it reminds me of the jewish people fleeing Nazi germany. They went from country to country in boats that were falling apart. But nobody would take them in. So they'd have to head back out into open sea, where they faced the very real risk that their boats might just sink. And I wonder, how can people be so heartless? I'm more conservative than the average Star Trek fan, but I don't have a problem with immigration - especially if the people are refugees. I believe in compassion. Kirk is trying to be reasonable here and see both sides of the issue. He is taking the Hyaliani's position seriously. But it's difficult to reach any sort of logical compromise when Galisti refers to Abicians as “vulgar, selfish and violent. A scourge .” This is a very interesting conversation between the characters. They both say some interesting things. Galisti has quantifiable proof that violent crime went up when they suspected Abicians of being on their world, and down again after they started using their weapon, but again, they're pre-judging all based on the actions of some. Galisti has valid concerns for the safety of his people, as their leader. But I really like Kirk's response to that. “Safety and compassion are not mutually exclusive. Conscience requires balance.” And that's what missing on Hylainus. Balance. Then Galisti points out the hypocrisy of the Prime Directive, in the way it is sometimes applied in Star Trek. “And you stand here before me, lecturing me about ‘compassion' about ‘balance” You condemn the many for the crimes of none. Who do you think you are? And I'm sorry to have to say it, Kirk, but he's got a point here. Not necessarily against Kirk specifically, but certainly against the Federation itself. I'm not saying the Hyalnini are right in the way they're viewing and treating their neighbours, but the Federation is definitely not morally perfect, as much as they'd like to think they are. Kirk is concerned about what will happen once they cure the Hyalini of their disease and their colour blindness. They'll be able to see the abicians all around them. He doesn't necessarily think they'll resort to violence and killing, but he's worried they'll round them all up and send them home, washing their hands of what happens to them. McKenna recongises that this is deeply personal for Kirk. He's not just angry, he's afraid. Afraid of what might happen to Sekara. He cares for her. Given the few minutes he's spent with her, I think it's probably more accurate to say he has the hots for her, but this is based on 60s episodic television. So I guess we have to suspect a little disbelief for the sake of truncated story-telling. Kirk sees that for all their piety, the hyaliani have no problem turning their backs on desperate people. They have no compassion. And piety without compassion leads to some dark places. They take help, but they won't give it. Kirk wonders if they deserve his help at all? But as a man of compassion himself, as a man of duty to his principles, does that make a difference? Do you only help those who deserve it? Or is this a case where Kirk has to exercise some costly grace? Because if he doesn't as McKenna points out, he'll be no better. He'll be turning his back on desperate people with nowhere else to go? Some of whom may not agree with the prejudice of their leaders. And that phrase “nowhere else to go” sparks an idea in Kirk. Sekara is feeling desperate. She's considering destroying the probe that will save Hyilinus. Because of what will happen next. People will turn on each other. They won't see neighbours and friends, they'll see the brutes and thieves they've heard about. She asks Kirk to help find another way to help her sun. One that won't change the way they see. But there is no other way. The two are inextricably linked. Kirk talks her down. She feels so powerless. Terrified of the people she'll return to. Their eyes will change but their hearts may not. Then again - her heart has changed. She is the one person who can change the hearts of their leaders. Galisti and his wife love her very much. She is the proof that Abicians are not all just savages. It's time to carry out the mission. Kirk warns Galisti that there are abicians living among them. If he repairs their sun, they will be able to see them. Despite their attitude toward the abicians, the hyalini have accomplished much to be proud of. They have achieved a peace and unity in a short time, that it took earth Milennia to achieve. All fueled by the hope that they will one day achieve readiness to join the galactic community. But how will they know when they are ready? The problem is, there is no one answer. An undefined finish line means they never have to finish. Your people will never have to leave the comfort and safety of what they have now. And if you'll permit me, just briefly, to get spiritual, this reminds me of how some people approach God. They feel they need to be perfect first. But of course, that's impossible. I believe that God says, come as you are. Then we get an explanation for the episodes' title. An old saying. “A ship in the harbour is safe, but that's not what ships are for. Do you serve the hope, or have you twisted it to serve you? After making an impassioned speech, Kirk reveals they launched the probe twenty minutes ago. Thaius tells Galisti their world is about to change forever, and reassure him her love for him will never ever change. Why would it? He must wonder, until he starts to see colour. I like how, even though the two races have different skin colour, this was never about colour. They didn't even know the difference. It was about fear and prejudice regarding the abician's character. But their blindness has given them the proof that they were wong. That they need to re-think their attitude toward abicians. There is the possibility that going into the future, some kind of skin-colour-related prejudice may arise, but maybe, just maybe, this experience has taught them the lessons to avoid that. Galisti marvels at this wonder called colour. But then he looks at his wife. She is abician. She's wanted to tell her for a long time, but she was afraid he'd reject her. “I'm still me, I'm still the same person,” she insists. But Galaisti pulls away from her. “This changes nothing,” he says. It seems Galisti is still clinging to his attitude. He can't accept the woman he loves. Kirk has fixed the sun but the asteroid is still bathed in radiation. It needs to be cleared. Galisti asks Kirk to proceed, but he can't. He says the Enterprise has been called away on an urgent mission and won't have the time. But then the surprise. It turns out the Abicians have the technology to fix your sun. “But why would they help us?” Galaisti asks. Why indeed. Because they now have something the abicians need. Medicine. Enough for both worlds. Turns out the abicians are suffering the same disease, but they've had it much longer. It's no wonder their world has fallen into chaos. These worlds can save each other, but they're going to have to put the past behind them and move on. Giving half of the solution each to two warring parties, so they are forced to work together, is a very Star Trek way to resolve a plot. It's very easy to judge Galisti at this moment. He's been given the proof. Why doesn't he see Kirk's point. He's still being a jerk - which he is. But changing your attitude and beliefs is not an easy thing to do. If we're fair, we can't expect Galisti to change his entire outlook in thirty seconds, but you can see that it is starting, as Thaius and Sekara say “there is no them anymore, only us.” This is an emotional journey for Galisti. One that will take time, but I have confidence that he will change. He has to. If he doesn't, his world will die. This was a powerfully written and performed episode. Another example of why Star Trek Continues deserves to be viewed in the same light as official Star Trek. Only two episodes remain - the two part finale that bridges the gap between TOS and The Motion Picture. But before we go there, next time we're going to take a brief detour. We're going to talk about an episode of another Star Trek fan show. Star Trek New Voyages “The Holiest Thing” I like to include this one when I do a re-watch of Star Trek Continues, because, like continues, it delves into the history of Star Trek and fleshes out a gap that exists between TOS and the movies. This episode will introduce us to a much younger Dr. Carol Marcus. Until then, Live long and prosper Make it so.

CMP 556 - SimpCast 60 - Vig Mignogna, Tree of Logic, Mandy Summers, Brittany Venti, Anna TSWG, Forest Mommy, Faran Balanced, Lila Hart, Nina Infinity

The Happy Warrior Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2023 341:21

SimpCast is back to talk about the ELIZA BLEU drama! Vic Mignogna, Tree of Logic, Mandy Summers, Chrissie Mayr, Brittany Venti, Anna That Star Wars Girl, Forest Mommy, Faran Balanced, Lila Hart, Nina Infinity

tree logic infinity balanced summers venti vic mignogna chrissie mayr faran eliza bleu mignogna lila hart forest mommy simpcast

Interview with Voice Actor Vic Mignogna, His Career, Faith & how Goodness Won in the End

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2022 82:33

Today on CultureScape, I have a fascinating guest, if not a little controversial. Vic Mignogna is a prolific voice actor, doing voice work in films, games, television, and seemingly every major anime production in the last 20 years, including his groundbreaking role as Edward Elric in Full Metal Alchemist. Brolly In Dragon Ball Z & Super, plus loads of other top-rate shows like Naruto, Bleach, Ouran High School Host Club, Digimon, Pokémon, Jo Jo's Bizarre Adventure, RWBY, and much more. If you aren't familiar with his voice work, you likely are familiar with his incredible Star Trek YouTube show, Star Trek Continues, which has millions of views per episode on YouTube; in which he stars as Captain James T. Kirk and directs the production. Mignogna is an actor who has always been good to his fans. He's a popular guy, of course, but he's also a devout Christian and someone that's always tried to make Christ the centerpiece of his life. It's why there are many videos online of Vic wishing people well. Like telling one fan happy birthday or encouraging another going through bereavement to hold in there. This is why in 2018, at the cusp of a huge box office success, in what would become known as one of the worst cancellation events of the last decade, in Kick Vic, certain elements of the anime community started pushing a witch hunt to end Vic's career, largely based on anonymous accounts from fans. For this, Vic almost had his life ruined, his voice acting career cut short, his convention spots depleted, and he became a general pariah. However, Vic, too, held in there, and I'm glad to say things are looking up. So, in this episode, we will talk with Vic about his career, his relationship with Christ, his love of anime and culture, what went on back in 2018, and what he's learned and gained from this hard experience. Vic's Twitter: https://twitter.com/messages/1551992286245969920 Star Trek Continues: https://www.startrekcontinues.com/ SPECIAL THANKS TO SOCIETY REVIEWS & DrunkC3P0 for helping set up the interview. Sponsored by Baen Books & Young Voices. CultureScape is the show that interviews the creators and influencers that built nerd culture. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music by FAAS Sounds, Song: Best Time https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFB6-I9b4Ak Art & Editing by Peter Pischke Interviews scheduled with the help of Sean Korsgaard Assistance from Bobster: https://twitter.com/FilmBobster #anime #istandwithvic #vicmignogna --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/culturescape/message

CMP 528 - SimpCast 54 - Vic Mignogna, Alex Stein, Nick Rekeita, Mandy Summers, April Imholte, Faran Balanced, Brittany Venti

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2022 348:36

SimpCast is back with Brittany Venti, Faran Balanced, April Imholte, Mandy Sumers plus Special Male Guests Vic Mignogna, Alex Stein and Nick Rekeita!

balanced summers venti alex stein vic mignogna faran simpcast

CMP 527 - That Umbrella Guy

johnny depp amber heard umbrella vic mignogna chrissie mayr

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2022 113:17

That Umbrella Guy joins Chrissie Mayr to discuss his rise to YouTube fame covering the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial and the backlash he received. We discuss Vic Mignogna's cancelation attempts then we are joined by special guest Ariadna Jacob!

CMP 523 - SimpCast 53 - Vic Mignogna, Hannah Fronz, Keanu Thompson, Brittany Venti, Libby Emmons

Mack Maloney's Military X-Files

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2022 226:41

SimpCast is back with Special Guest Vic Mignogna! Plus Hannah Fronz, Keanu Thompson, Brittany Venti, Libby Emmons and Chrissie Mayr of course! We discuss Kanye, Elon, Twitter, Balenciaga, WikiFeet, the psychology of haters, Anime, Star Trek Continues and more!

elon musk kanye west anime thompson balenciaga venti emmons wikifeet vic mignogna star trek continues chrissie mayr fronz keanu thompson simpcast

What is the Most Secret Top Secret of All Time?

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2022 112:49

In a popular, audience-requested show, the gang talks with historian Phil Orbanes about a special op from World War Two that was so secret, even the President wasn't told about it. Vic Mignogna, star of “Star Trek Continues,” dishes on William Shatner and others. The Ghost Sisters talk about their chilling ghost-hunting adventures. Switch gets an unusual fan letter. Mack & JJ argue about Quentin Tarantino again, and the gang proves that Roger Moore was the best James Bond ever. Special guest: Lois Lane. Mack Maloney Online: Website - https://www.mackmaloney.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WingmanMack/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/MilitaryXFiles Twitter - https://twitter.com/WingmanMack Amazon – https://amzn.to/2IlFRkq

president world war ii switch james bond quentin tarantino william shatner top secret roger moore lois lane vic mignogna star trek continues

#570: The Fifth Tuesday.

Anime Jam Session

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2022 64:48

Popeye: The Manga! Also, Chie Nakamura takes a break from Boruto, singer Kiro Akiyama is arrested for assault, and welcome the cast of LoveLive!: The Musical! Plus, Vic Mignogna petitions to have his court case reviewed, and the new anime Pole Princess! Meanwhile in Japan, city employee kills a boar on school grounds, youth suffer from constipation due to toilets, and Asahi gifts employees bonus money to eat out? --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/animejamsession/support

japan musical boruto asahi vic mignogna

CMP 515 - Vic Mignogna

geeks gamers hanging fandom karaoke dragon ball z voice actors my hero academia captain kirk fullmetal alchemist bizarre adventure fan expo megacon anthony cumia vic mignogna star trek continues chrissie mayr nerdrotic

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2022 89:17

Chrissie Mayr is joined by Vic Mignogna! Captain Kirk from Star Trek Continues, Full Metal Alchemist, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, My Hero Academia, Dragon Ball Z! Fan Expo's, Mega Con's, and MORE! Orlando, Florida! Content House! Karaoke and Hanging with Anthony Cumia! Geeks and Gamers, Nerdrotic, Friday Night Tights and the supportive Fandom! Voice Actor! #chrissiemayr #vicmignogna #startrek VISIT VIC MIGNOGNA https://twitter.com/vicmignogna https://www.startrekcontinues.com/ https://www.vicsworld.net/ https://www.risemboolrangers.com/ Check out the Star Trek Continues Studio! https://neutralzonestudios.com/

Episode Eighty Five: Beam Me Up, Scotty

Convention Confessional

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2022 50:22

It's guest palooza this week on the show! Patrick joins the five timers club as we talk about some great guest encounters. Which include: playing DOOM with the Mystery Science Theater 3000 people, Scotty from Star Trek, and some not to great times with Vic Mignogna. Also, full disclosure, we don't support Vic on bit on the podcast. Period.

star trek doom period vic scotty eighty mystery science theater vic mignogna beam me up scotty

Star Trek Continues ”Divided We Stand” - Detailed Analysis & Review

Anime News Network's ANNCast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2022 21:43

Today in the podcast, we talk about the Star Trek Continues episode "Divided We Stand" which sees Kirk and McCoy living out something of a nightmare in the American civil war. And we discuss what the mysterious nanites might represent in the greater world of Star Trek. ----more---- Transcript Welcome to Nerd Heaven I'm Adam David Collings, the author of Jewel of The Stars And I am a nerd. This is episode 99 of the podcast. Today, we're talking about the Star Trek Continues episode “Divided We Stand.” And if you'd like to check out some of my original science fiction, head over to AdamDavidCollings.com/books I recently appeared as a guest on the Yum Yum Podcast with fellow Australian nerds, Ryan and Rachel, discussing the Babylon 5 episode “Ceremonies of Light and Dark.” If you love Babylon 5, as well you should, be sure to check out the episode, and all the other stuff that Ryan and Rachel do at Yum Yum Podcast. The description on IMDB reads After an explosion on the bridge resulting from a failed attempt to isolate the ship's computer from a nano-virus, Kirk and McCoy wake up to find themselves in the middle of one of America's bloodiest conflicts. The teleplay was written by Marc Cushman & Susan Osborn With story by Vic Mignogna and additional material by Todd Haberkorn It was directed by Vic Mignogna And it first aired on the 25th of September 2015. This episode was dedicated to the memory of Grace Lee Whitney. Another of Star Trek's veterans who sadly passed away during the making of this show. This one gets right into the action, making good use of the captain's log to skip past all the setup and throw us right in the thick of the crew's trouble. The Enterprise computer has been infected with a virus, or as Kirk calls it, a pathogen, a term I haven't heard in computer science before. This happened when they tried to make contact with an old Earther probe called Friendship 3. This is significant, because, as you may remember, Voyager once encountered the predecessor - Friendship 1 - in the Delta Quadrant. What makes this pathogen interesting is that it is of a much more advanced technology than the primitive earth probe. It is quickly migrating through the entire ship, Spock's library computer, scotty's engineering specs. Spock doesn't think this is a virus, and it's not singular. He says he detects hundreds of thousands of microscopic objects. So…are we talking actual physical objects? He's also seeing evidence of high-level intelligence. McCoy shows a startling lack of awareness as he casually arrives on the bridge and berates Kirk for not keeping his medical checkup appointment. Now if the circumstances were different, McCoy would be well within his rights, but it's very obvious that the bridge crew are in the middle of a crisis. Kirk clearly has a good reason for missing his appointment and this is not the time or place to hassle him about it. That time will come later, of course. The intelligence of whatever is invading the ship is growing. As the bridge controls overload, Kirk finds himself in a very unexpected place and time. He's on a primitive battlefield, surrounded by men firing rifles, and wearing unfamiliar uniforms. This scene marks “Divided We Stand” as the first episode of Star Trek Continues to take us off the ship. If you think about it, the last four have all taken place on board the Enterprise. If I'm not mistaken, this is the American civil war. Is this a holographic simulation? A fantasy created by a being like Trelane? In Star Trek, there are many possibilities, but in their shoes, time travel wouldn't be my first thought. I mean, what could have caused it right? So Kirk and McCoy would be feeling understandably disoriented and confused. But, they're in uniform, which means they're expected to fight. At the very least, they can't just sit here and wait for the bullets. They may have to play along until they figure out what the go is. But they wisely manage to remove themselves from the situation to avoid taking any rash actions they may not be able to undo. They wisely also choose to treat this as real, and not take any unnecessary risks. Now, you'll have to excuse my lack of knowledge about his particular event in history. Oh, I know the basics. North vs South. I believe it was primarily fought over the issue of slavery, although they may be more to it? I imagine American audiences would be able to tell immediately by looking at their uniforms, which side Kirk and McCoy are meant to be on. At this point in the story, I haven't figured that out yet. The interesting thing is, it seems that they are both on different sides. Now THAT could make things interesting. And it was cool to see Dr. M'Benga in this episode. It's only logical for him to step up and take on the role of chief medical officer while McCoy is missing. I believe M'Benga only appeared in two episodes of the original series, although he is, of course, a series regular on Strange New Worlds. At the time of recording, I still have no idea why, although he was chief medical officer under pike, he seems to have been demoted by TOS. I mean, he's still serving on the Enterprise but McCoy is chief. So what happened? Strange New Worlds is gonna have to address that at some point. At first it seems strange that Spock is asking M'Benga about the computer virus. Why would you have a medical doctor assess a computer problem? Then we pan over and see Kirk and Bones unconscious in bio-beds, their faces pale. Whatever has infected the ship has also infected their bodies. I think this episode is lacking some precision of terminology when it comes to what we are dealing with. From what I gather, this isn't a computer virus, which is simply a self-perpetuating piece of software with malicious intent. It's some kind of swarm of small physical objects that are interfering with the computer somehow, but also invading Kirk and McCoy's bodies. M'Benga can't prevent the spread of these things in the human bodies, he can only slow it, but in a day or two, they'll be dead. So, what we can gather so far is that despite the episode descrition, we're not dealing with time travel here. We're dealing with some kind of mental projection from an alien entity. Kirk refers to McCoy as a southern gentleman, so I gather his uniform is from the south. But then again, McCoy himself IS southern, so Kirk could be referring to that. A group of Kirk's team find them. They assume McCoy is Kirk's prisoner, at least until they notice Bones still has his weapon. The leader of this group is pretty aggressive toward McCoy, but then, this is war. He takes Kirk's word for it a little too easily when he pretends to be a famous Kirk from the time, especially given his uniform has the wrong rank. The leader is shot by a sniper on the other side. And we get verbal confirmation that McCoy's uniform is confederate, which I believe is the south. Kirk wants to bury the confederate sniper. The northerners are hesitant. Afterall, he's the enemy. Kirk tries to preach the virtue of having compassion for all people, even one's enemies, but they're not very interested. It's hard to judge them too harshly. Kirk is correct, of course, but it's not easy to have compassion on somebody who just killed one of your own - probably a friend. McCoy could easily save this wounded soldier's life with 23rd century technology, but it'll be a challenge with period instruments. But I don't think it's just technology. A doctor of the time could probably do a lot more because they're familiar with the equipment. McCoy raises the typical time travel problems. What if man is supposed to die and they heal him, or what if he was supposed to live, but by being here, they caused him to get shot? Being in the past is very risky. Of course, they don't know that they're not actually in the past. They have to treat this as if it's real. Like the previous episode, this one had new music composed by Andy Farber and performed by the STC Orchestra. Back in the original series, they didn't write all new music for every episode. Each season, they'd record some new music cues to add to the toolbox, and a music editor was apply them to the scenes of episodes, But when something big, special, or out-of-the-box happened, they'd write specific new music for it. That's kind of how they did this episode. With all the civil war stuff going on, this episode really cried out for new original music. They re-used stuff where appropriate, but created new stuff where it was needed. Some really interesting trivia. They used the melody of Uhura's song about Charlie, in the episode Charlie X, but that melody actually dates back to the American Civil war. It was a folk song about union volunteer soldiers. In this episode, it becomes Billy's theme. Spock and Scotty have found a way to draw the alien presence out of the Enterprise computer. It's attracted to new sources of information. They can lure it into a backup module and then jettison it. I'm a little shocked that Spock chose to destroy the jettisoned objects with the phasers. Yes, they were an infestation that caused problems to the ship, but there was also evidence that collectively, they represented an intelligent lifeform. It doesn't seem very Starfleet to just blow them up. Once removed from the ship, they were no longer an immediate danger. In any case, the ship is safe. Now they've just got to save Kirk and McCoy. The northerner doctor doesn't care about uniforms, he is just happy to have another set of hands to help the wounded. And as a doctor, McCoy is willing to help whoever is in medical trouble, regardless of who they are. Spock clearly values McKenna's services. He knows that this will be a stressful time for the crew, with the captain and doctor incapacitated. But he naturally assumes he is immune. McKenna not-so-subley makes it clear she is available to him as well. It raises the question of Vulcan mental health. Vulcans have emotions, strong ones, so it would seem that counselling and psychology would be needed, and a logical people would understand their importance. But because of their mental disciplines, Vulcans are so good at suppressing their emotions. They don't let themselves be controlled by their emotions. Does this negate the need for counselling? For a human, to suppress everything you're feeling is not healthy, but Vulcans aren't humans. Doctor M'Benga has discovered something interesting. While their bodies are still, he is detecting high levels of neural activity in Kirk and McCoy, very unusual for patients in a coma. And they spike at the same time, showing that they're linked. He's well on the way to uncovering what's actually going on here. Checkov has found that at the time the computer was shut off, the entity was reviewing a particular battle in the American Civil war, as part of its analysis of Earth history. So while they don't have solid evidence, the Enterprise crew have pretty much figured out what is happening to Kirk and McCoy. One of the soldiers is no longer sure what he's fighting for. Just to free some slaves? He doesn't know the victims of slavery so it doesn't feel personal to him. Kirk suggests that they're all slaves to something, and this war is about freedom for all. They're all having doubts. One of them wants to be there for the birth of his grandchild, but instead, he's here taking lives. And he's right to see that as a tragedy. But Kirk explains that what they do here will be remembered. He knows this as a matter of historical fact. They can't understand that, of course. So his words fall flat for them. I'm really struck, in this scene, just how much Vic looks like William Shatner. It's almost uncanny. Bones is horrified by the brutality of it all. The wounds, the lack of proper anaesthetic. It all feels barbaric to him. But it's not about technology, it's about the human suffering he's seeing. Kirk blames himself. If he'd gone to his physical, McCoy wouldn't have been on the bridge. But as I said, in this case, he had a good reason. But I like what Bones says back to him. “The only thing worse than being stuck here with you, is you being here all by yourself.” Now that's friendship. McCoy raises an uncomfortable reality. It's one thing for him to be saving lives, even lives that history says should be dead, but tomorrow, Kirk has to go onto the battle field and kill people. He can't do that. Despite that, he's on the front line with the other men. Kirk has formed quite a bond with Billy, the young kid fighting for the first time. I've got to give it to this episode, the scale is something else. The many actors, the horses, the canons. For a period piece like this to be done on a fan production's budget is very impressive. Kirk was fighting, but he's badly wounded. I wonder if that's because he held back from doing his best in an attempt not to kill. With the equipment of the day, all Bones can do is amputate Kirk's leg below the knee. That's a pretty big deal. We know that even in the 24th century, Star Trek medicine can't just magically grow back a limb. Nog was given an artificial leg in Deep Space Nine. This is a loss Kirk is going to have to live with for the rest of his life, if this were real, of course, which we know it's not, but Kirk and McCoy don't. Can you imagine what it would feel like to have your leg cut off with a saw, when all you have for pain relief is a piece of wood to bite down on? I can't. The thought absolutely horrifies me. Even if it's not real, the pain Kirk experiences is real. But it's even worse. M'Benga finds that back on the Enterprise, Kirk's real leg is dying. I'm not even going to try to make sense of that. There's no reason that should be a thing, so let's just accept that and move on. M'Benga has managed to extract one of the pathogen objects. Turns out they're nanites. Not a big surprise. The episode was clearly leaning in that direction. Spock has an idea. They can help Kirk and McCoy the same way they cleared the Enterprise computer. Shut down their brain functions temporarily to starve the nanites, then lure them away with a trail of new information sources. M'Benga can do it for a very limited time, but the while feasting on a biological brain, the nanites might not be tempted by an inorganic source. They need something cybernetic. Nurse Chaspel suggest a prosthetic limb. There's a crewmember with a bio-mechanical arm but confidentiality prohibits her from disclosing who it is. But with the captain and doctor's lives at stake, Spock asks her to forgo her principles. The ideal way to handle this would be to approach the crewmember privately and ask if they were willing to help, but what if they said no? Another thing you wouldn't normally see in a fan production is a practical effect for a soldier missing half his arm. It's just a background detail, but it's another example of this show's professionalism. Billy is in bad shape. Not physically, the bullet just grazed his head, but emotionally, he's suffering from what was once called shell shock, a form of PTSD. McCoy doesn't blame him. Turns out, when the shooting started, he turned and ran, crashing into a tree. Now he feels like a coward. Kirk's words touched him last night, but he's questioning it all. He noticed that Kirk didn't shoot anyone. Kirk can't properly explain his reasons for not firing, but he can say that his freedom was taken away. Taken by the alien entity. Once again, Kirk tries to inspire Billy. When Spock explains the situation to Lieutenant Drake, he's quick to volunteer his cybernetic arm. I was confused when M'Benga said that if this fails, he'll lose all three of them. Kirk, McCoy, and Drake. So …. Why would they lose Drake? Are they not just going to remove his arm and use it as a tool? Worst case scenario, he doesn't get his arm back. And he has to wait until a new one can be made for him, maybe on a Starbase. But apparently, Drake's arm cannot be removed. He's sitting there in a chair between the biobeds holding a device. So….I guess that means there's a risk the nanites could enter Drake's body. Kirk must have been asleep for some time. When he wakes, Billy isn't in the next bed anymore. Turns out that Kirk's words had a big impact on him. When all hope seemed lost, Billy led the charge, inspiring the other men to fight for freedom. He lost his life in that battle. I think Kirk is feeling both proud and guilty. It was his words that led that boy to his death. That's got to be a heavy thing to live with. When someone announces that the president is here, Kirk jumps out of bed onto his crutches, despite his injuries. He doesn't want to miss the chance to see a famous historical figure like Abraham Lincoln. Although, he's already met him once. That was a pretend Lincoln, of course, manufactured by aliens, but then, so is this one. Kirk just doesn't know it yet. There's a historical photo I've seen of Lincoln talking to some soldiers outside a tent. The staging of this shot looks very similar to that photo, and at the end of the scene, we see someone taking a photo. So I'm assuming this was meant to be the moment in history when that real photo was taken. It's pretty special for Kirk to be there. McCoy points out that while Kirk only has one leg, he still has purpose, and that can allow him to stand just as tall. M'Benga successfully draws the nanites out of Kirk and McCoy, then gives them stimulants. Their skin returns to normal colour. Drake is escortedto the transporter room for some reason. It's still not clear exactly how this whole plan is working. But I think the nanites are not so much in Drake's artificial arm, as they are in the device he was holding. Except when Drake enters the bridge to see Kirk, he's missing the arm. So …… I'm really confused. None of this was clear to me. McCoy points out there could be more of the nanites out there. Kirk says God help anyone who encounters them. This sounds like the episode is suggesting the nanites might be something we've seen before. The obvious place my mind goes is the Borg. We know they use nanoprobes. The Enterprise wasn't assimilated, and neither were Kirk and McCoy, but their skin did go gray. So maybe these are early Borg nanoprbes. I'm sure they had less sophisticated ways of assimilating before they developed nanotechnology properly. Perhaps in Kirk's time, they've only recently assimilated that technology and have yet to perfect it. It's all speculation, of course, But that's half the fun of science fiction. I felt the script was a little lacking in this one, when compared to the previous 4 episodes. Some things weren't explained as well as they could have been. But it was still a good story. And the production with all those extras, costumes, location shooting, was very well done. This is hardly a bad episode, just not as the good as the ones that have preceded it. But still well worth watching. Next time, on what will be our 100th episode, we'll be talking about a special episode that gives us some practical creature effects, and a special guest appearance by an Australian actress of Farscape fame. I'll see you for Come Not Between the Dragons. Until then, have a great two week Live long and Prosper Make it so.

america god american earth friendship australian south north ptsd dark star trek dragons bones babylon enterprise shut abraham lincoln vic voyager scotty william shatner detailed mccoy borg spock ceremonies nog vulcans deep space nine tos strange new worlds afterall starfleet uhura farscape starbase vic mignogna delta quadrant star trek continues charlie x divided we stand american civil earther checkov trelane grace lee whitney yum yum podcast andy farber come not between

Live! From The Omaha Parking Lot

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2022 74:54

The ANN After Show crew evaluates the recent debacle in a Nebraska parking lot and the current controversy over Final Fantasy XVI. Then, you will want to join in the discussion on Chainsaw Man and Mob's battle against Dimple!

nebraska omaha mob parking lot gundam chainsaw man final fantasy xvi dimples mob psycho 100 new anime vic mignogna anime news akiba maid war

Star Trek Continues ”The White Iris” - Detailed Analysis& Review

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2022 25:23

While not as memorable as the big tentpole episodes, "The White Iris" is a true classic. This is a very emotional character-driven episode that advances Kirk's arc and adds depth to a number of previous Star Trek episodes. This episode is a great example of what makes Star Trek Continues so special. ----more---- Transcript Welcomed to Nerd Heaven. I'm Adam David Collings, the author of Jewel of The Stars And I am a nerd This is episode 98 of the podcast. Today, we're talking about the Star Trek Continues episode “The White Iris” The description on IMDB reads Captain Kirk finds himself haunted by guilt from his past as the fate of an alien world hangs in the balance. The teleplay was written by James Kerwin, Chris White, and Vic Mignogna Based on a story by Vic Mignogna and Chris White. The episode first aired on the 29th of May 2015. This episode was dedicated to the memory of Leonard Niymoy, placing it in time just after he passed away ,which was certainly a significant and sad moment for all Star Trek fans. Going into this one, I didn't remember the episode. Looking at the thumbnail and description on the Star Trek Continues website didn't ring any bells, but I knew I must have seen it before, because I've watched all of Star Trek Continues. It gets right into the action from the get go. Some aliens, the Calsins, are expressing their pleasure at the invitation to join the Federation when Kirk is unexpectedly attacked from behind by one of them. He's beamed to sickbay but is suffering fatal damage to the part of the brain responsible for emotional memories. Spock suggests an experimental drug. It hasn't even been tested yet. They don't know the dosage. Now I have a feeling that in the real world, by administering this drug to a patient, McCoy would be doing something highly unethical and probably illegal. Although Kirk does give his verbal consent. Still, giving an untested drug that doesn't have approval to a patient has got to be a huge risk. Kirk sees a vision of Rayna, an android woman Kirk had feelings for in the episode Requiem for Methuselah, one that I don't remember in huge detail either. Spock erased all memory of Rayna from Kirk's mind, to spare him the pain of her death. But now he remembers it all again. After just a few seconds of receiving the medication, Kirk is himself again. And then he's straight off the bed and back to duty. I get there's a time-critical situation on the planet, but minutes ago he was near death. Now he looks okay but he's been given a guessed dosage of an experimental drug. Who knows what kinds of side effects he might experience. I think it's kind of insane not to keep him in sickbay for observation for a while. Spock is an accomplished commander and a capable diplomat. And he can always liaise with Kirk from Sickbay. This was a big believability problem to me. Anyway, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura marvel at how nothing can keep Kirk down. Kirk has a lot of guilt over Rayna. In his opinion, while she started out as an android, she was human when he pushed her too far and she malfunctioned, unable to deal with the conflicting emotions inside of her. I'm not sure that human is the right word here, but Kirk clearly saw her as a sapient being. So Calsis, the planet they're currently orbiting, wants to join the Federation, but their sister world opposes it and will do anything, including assassinating Kirk, to prevent it. Although I do wonder how they think Kirk's murder will accomplish what they want. The Federation is giving them a defence grid to protect their world, but Kirk is suddenly hesitant. Possibly because he's seeing another vision. Time time, a woman named Nakia. She appears to be a new character created for Star Trek Continues. Interestingly, she is named after the actress that plays her - Nakia Burrise. Nakia is ghostly translucent. Kirk can't remember the passcode for the defence grid. He created the code himself, with the understanding he would make the final decision whether or not to give the grid to the Calsins. Nobody else knows it. See, this is why you use a password management product like KeePass. Kirk leaves Spock in charge while he reports to sickbay for further tests. Spock hopes that Checkov might be able to decrypt Kirk's forgotten password. It wouldn't be a very secure system if that were possible. But Checkov mentions that at the academy, he once decrypted something of Xindi origin. This is very cool as it's a reference to the Xindi who nearly destroyed Earth in Enterprise season 3, a story that took place chronologically long before TOS, but was, of course, produced long after TOS. I do appreciate these touches. On the way to sickbay, Kirk sees a little girl in the hallways. Who is she? So the sister planet fires a missile at Calsis. They're not mucking about. The representative is desperate for that defence network now. Why hasn't Kirk told anyone about his hallucinations? This is an annoying trope in Star Trek. A character is undergoing something super weird but they keep it to themselves. It's pretty annoying. McCoy senses there's something Kirk isn't telling him, but Kirk is a little non-committal as to what that is. There's something wrong with Kirk's heart. It's weakening and McCoy has no medical explanation. Spock asks Checkov if he's tried a brute force attack to guess the password. Checkov points out the computer on this device is designed to shut down on repeated failed login attempts. Well that's something. Honestly, if a brute force attack could work then Starfleet needs to fire their entire IT department, and Spock is pretty silly for suggesting it. Kirk finally opens up about Nakia. They served together on the Farragut 13 years ago. They were very close but she died in the line of duty and Kirk blamed himself. He's never spoken of her. He thought he could forget her. I quite like that they created a new character from Kirk's past to go alongside the older ones we've seen in the show previously. It means we're not just dwelling in nostalgia, as cool as that is, but we're also pushing things forward with new backstory. That's what sets this kind of writing apart from a lot of fan fiction. Technically, of course, this show is fan fiction, but it's of a very high quality. I'm really curious what a psycho-tricorder detects. There is a strong link between the biological and the mental, of course, when it comes to health. There are physiological things that affect the mind, the emotions. But a standard medical tricorder should show you all you need to know about the physiological, and how can a device like a tricorder tell you about the non-physiological aspects of mental health? It would have to be a telepathic device. Perhaps it's not so different from a standard medical tricorder, it's just configured to focus on aspects of the brain and body that are specifically related to mental health. In any case, Kirk's emotions are being affected. He's cranky. He's giving in to emotional outbursts that he'd normally control. He's ignoring very reasonable recommendations from McCoy and Spock, and honestly, being a little paranoid. The actres playing Edith Keeler is very well cast. She does a fantastic job of replicating Joan Collins' way of speaking. A replacement console is days away. Sulu emphasises to Uhura to inform Spock as well as Kirk, which already shows how he's starting to lose the confidence of his crew. Also, interesting to note that Smith is back, this time the prime universe version. So, she's probably been on the Enterprise this whole time since “Where No Man has Gone Before” which I think is cool. The Enterprise is unable to destroy the incoming missile because it seems to have disappeared. We're never really given an explanation for this. I assume the sister planet has some form of cloaking technology on their weapons. We get a little more insight into the cultures of these sister planets. The people of Calsis developed a spiritual culture while the others became more materialistic, and disdainful of the Calsis way. Now this is an example of the planet of hats problem which Star Trek does so often, where an entire planet's population will share a specific personality trait. And this concept has been rightly criticised by many. But on the other hand, I think there's room for a little of it. If we look at the countries of Earth we see there are some commonly shared traits. For example, the British people are often thought of as stiff while we Australians have a reputation for being laid back. You could say that Americans are generally quite materialistic as a people, but some European cultures might be focussed more on family. It's all generalisations and stereotypes which will, of course, break down, but that doesn't mean there can't be some truth to these kinds of perceptions. So I'm willing to let the episode get away with this. Spock is meeting with McCoy and McKenna to discuss Kirk's state of mind. The physical injury is healed. His problems might be related to the experimental drug but there's no evidence of this. McKenna can't assess his mental state without Kirk's cooperation. This might be one of the big differences between physical and mental health. While patient consent is certainly a big issue in medicine, you don't need much input from the patient to set a broken leg, but you can't help a patient with mental health difficulties unless they're willing to be a big part of it. And Kirk is certainly not willing. He dismisses McKenna to discuss the issue at hand with his officers. The next hallucination Kirk sees is Miramanee, Kirk's late wife from the planet Amerind, where Kirk spent some extended time, having lost his memory. That episode had a number of issues, but it also dared to do some darker character stuff you wouldn't typically see in the 60s. For that, and the introduction of the mysterious preservers, I quite like The Paradise Sydrome. It's biggest flaw, of course, is that it has zero consequences. We never hear of Miramanee and her child again. It's as if Kirk is just over it. But that's more of flaw of the series, and 60s television mentality in general, than it is a flaw of this particular episode. Anyway, that's where Star Trek Continues comes in. The little girl shows up again. I wonder if Kirk is starting to put it together yet? McCoy is surprised to note that Spock is considering that what Kirk is seeing may be more than just hallucinations. Vulcans believe in the katra. McCoy uses an argument I've often heard. “I thought Vulcans were a people of science,” implying that being a person of science precludes a belief in anything spiritual. Spock counters this by saying “To be a people of science is to acknowledge that sometimes science points to something more. Vulcans are also a people of spirit. The two are not as contradictory as people assume.” I think it can be argued whether this statement is consistent with Spock's character as established in TOS, but I really liked its inclusion. Star Trek usually comes from such a strictly naturalistic point of view, that it's nice when it does acknowledge the possibility of something more. Smith reports a drag on the enterprise's flight path. I like the moment when both she and Sulu put it together at the same time and share a knowing look. This drag could be caused by the missile, and this might be their clue to locating it. Kirk is so distracted by the ghosts of his former lovers that he can't give the order to fire. Spock very wisely gives the order himself. Technically this is a breach of the chain of command, but Kirk is clearly not himself. This was the right call. When Kirk gives an outburst in front of everyone, addressing his hallucinations, he finally realises how compromised he has become. He should have known it a lot sooner, but that was probably another symptom of his condition. He relieves himself and hands the ship over to Spock. I mean he relieves himself of command, of course, not the other kind of relieving oneself. The camera pans to Spock and holds there for a few seconds. He has a satisfied look on his face, but it's not because he has ambition. It's not because he wants Kirk's job. It's because his friend has finally seen the light and done what's best for him, and others. McCoy reminds me, on purpose I'm sure, of Doctor Boyd when he brings Kirk a dose of brandy. But he needs a distraction to scan him. His heart is working at 15% efficiency. Another arrest is inevitable. When Kirk doesn't respond to McCoy as a doctor, he tries to engage him as McCoy the friend. But Kirk doesn't believe he's not alone. He's reminded of the women he has lost. Duty first. Kirk asks McCoy if he thinks Kirk loved those women. McCoy answers, “I think you've loved a lot of women, Jim.” Kirk does have a reputation as a ladies man. But that's not what Kirk is asking. Yes, he's had a lot of lovers in the past, but did he actually love them? Kirk answers yes. He did love them. And he can't let them go. Bones assume Kirk was just a playboy who wanted a string of one night stands. But deep down, Kirk wants more than that. He always has. But command leaves no room for those kinds of indulgences. At least at this point in Star Trek history. By the 24th century we'll see captains marry and have families, raising them on Starships. But this is not that kind of Starfleet. Not yet. This is where things get really interesting. Spock enters as Kirk is seeing all three women. He mind melds, and he sees them. He asks them what they want. So what does this mean? Does it suggest they are more than just hallucinations? Can a Vulcan see another's delusions through a mind meld? I'm honestly not sure. Delusions and hallucinations happen in the brain, in the mind, and it is the minds that are connected. Spock says they need resolution. Closure. Of a type only Kirk can offer. So he's viewing them as something more substantial. Kirk is heading down to the planet with the console, against McCoy's recommendation. But is this different than before? He's relieved himself of duty, so Spock is currently in command, but maybe Kirk still needs to play a part in all this. If he can get better, maybe he can remember the password. Except, that's not where he goes. So maybe I misunderstood. When he enters McKenna's quarters, there's a little moment that kind of mirrors one in the first episode, where McKenna walking in on Kirk shirtless. McKenna is hardly naked, but she does seem taken aback and kind of covers her shoulder. I think the show might be suggesting there's some mutual attraction between these two, possibly because the actors were together in real life, but from memory, that doesn't go anywhere. Kirk doesn't know why he's here. But he's looking for answers. McKenna thinks this isn't about resolution. It's about guilt. Kirk is the one who needs the resolution. He needs to explain to them why he failed them, which he never had the chance to do before they died. These hallucinations give Kirk a unique opportunity that few of us ever get. Enter the pseudo holodeck. I'd forgotten that the show revisited this. He meets the women from his past in the place where he last met them. And he better hurry because there's 23 new tri-cobalt warheads headed for the planet. Edith wants to know why Kirk held McCoy back from saving her. Why did he deliberately let her die. She forgives him. She understands. I think it's possible the real Edith Keeler may have understood as well. She dreamed of the world he was saving. Next he visits the Farragut. Nakia knew the risks when she signed up for Starfleet. She doesn't blame him. She doesn't forgive him because she says there's nothing to forgive. “No more guilt, Jim”. Back on Amerind, Kirk says his farewell to his wife, Mirramanee. He says that she, and their baby, were gifts he could never repay. And she says something interesting. One does not repay a gift. And that's true. That's what makes it a gift. “The great spirit calls us to forgiveness, of others, and ourselves.” It's a hard moment. Of all the woman Kirk has loved, Miaramanee was the longest and most committed relationship. They were married. They conceived a child together. We always remember Edith Keeler and Carol Marcus. But we forget Miramanee. We shouldn't do that. Rayna is last, and she doesn't look impressed. This might be the hardest one of all. But then her face softens into a smile. There are no words exchanged. It seems none are necessary. It's a good performance from the actors. It's done. Kirk has experienced closure with all of them. But he still doesn't remember the password, and Calsis only has 6 minutes. Spock recommends withdrawal. When you have failed, there is nothing left but to try to survive. But Kirk has another idea. Put the Enterprise in the path of the missiles with full shields. Spock surprisingly say they might be able to survive that, but they can't block all the missiles. But it's all they've got. This is the starfleet way. You put your life on the line to protect others. Kirk is still seeing the little girl. Perhaps that's why his memory hasn't returned He chases her through the ship. She offers him a gift. The same patterned stitching on the native american headbands from Amerind. Realisation dawns on him. This is his unborn daughter. She has no name because he never gave her one. And at this point in the episode, my heart is just shattering. Kirk apologises to her that she never had a chance. He promises to love and remember her all the days of his life. As a father this is a very emotional moment for me to watch. I can well believe that Kirk will think of her every day for the rest of his life. Of course, we'll never see that, because this story was written long after the TOS movies that follow it chronologically. But it would be nice to see some sign that he continues to think about her in future episodes of Star Trek Continues. As she fades away she whispers something in Kirk's ear Evidently, this final closure allowed Kirk to remember the code. Kirk's log entry makes that sufficiently clear. The episode doesn't need to spend any more time on it. After seeing the technological might of the Federation, the Eritrans have requested formal peace negotiations. That's a good outcome. We come to understand later, that Irises, the word that Kirk's daughter whispered in his ear, was the password. Kirk is now sold on the need for a ship's counsellor. He has approved a dedicated office for McKenna. I guess she had to use her quarters beforehand. You need privacy for her kind of work. It turns out, the password was likely inspired by the painting by Vincent Van Gough. It is said he only painted one of the irises white because he was lonely. Just like Kirk. If that's what he chose for his password it shows just how lonely he really does feel. The episode closes with McCoy suggesting that the part of Kirk's heart that wouldn't give up belongs to another lady. The obvious meaning to this would be the Enterprise. She has always been Kirk's lady. But I couldn't help but think about Carol Marcus. The other great love of Kirk's life who wasn't mentioned in this episode. Probably because he hasn't met her yet. In fact, another fan series, Star Trek New Voyages, did an episode that told the story of Kirk and Marcus's first meeting. I'm kinda tempted to add that episode into the mix as we're going through Star Trek Continues. I can't believe I didn't remember this episode, though it started to come back as I watched it. This is a beautiful character piece. It helps to solve one of the big problems of TOS, lack of continuity. This episode provides consequence and continuation to some important emotional beats for Kirk in previous episodes. And much like how Avengers Endgame made some of the weaker Marvel movies more meaningful in retrospect, this episode adds power to those previous Star Trek episodes. So I think this is a triumph. Star Trek Continues actually reminds me a lot of Enterprise season 4. It seems to be trying to do a similar thing. Next time, we'll be travelling through time with another episode that I don't remember much about. Divided We Stand. In the meantime, have a great two weeks. Live long and proper Make it so.

Star Trek Continues ”Pilgrim of Eternity” - Detailed Analysis& Review