But what I want to know is who's looking to pitch it, not to whom.
Rocket Builder?
- Thread starter artapplewhite
- Start date
-
- Tags
- casting media rocket builder
Help Support The Rocketry Forum:
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
Here is the "Wyldside Media" office . . . 3210 W Burbank Blvd Suite C, Burbank, CA 91505
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.176...4!1so1sCOYiy3kI1C87oQj3cqg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192
https://www.wyldsidemedia.com
Their list of "Credits" . . .
https://static1.squarespace.com/sta...cca71c10be7a47d7c8b/1549405387165/CREDITS.pdf
They even have "Street Cred" . . . LOL !
https://www.wyldsidemedia.com/street-cred
Dave F.
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.176...4!1so1sCOYiy3kI1C87oQj3cqg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192
https://www.wyldsidemedia.com
Their list of "Credits" . . .
https://static1.squarespace.com/sta...cca71c10be7a47d7c8b/1549405387165/CREDITS.pdf
They even have "Street Cred" . . . LOL !
https://www.wyldsidemedia.com/street-cred
Dave F.
artapplewhite
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Apr 25, 2009
- Messages
- 158
- Reaction score
- 24
The channel where is to be aired is important. The ID channel would want to have some murders as part of the show. The Food network would want us to make rockets out of pasta, etc. The Science channel is more likely to pick up shows involving.....now let me see.....Science. That being said, they do have reality competition shows like Battlebots and Punkin' Chunkin'.
Besides productions companies are started, morph, evolve, and die all the time. Some production companies are formed to make one production. Who's to say that a show about "Rocket Builder" isn't made by Rocket Builders Productions, LLC.
The fact that Wyldside have "cast" their nets a little wider might only mean they are done fishing in the shallows.
Art Applewhite
artapplewhite
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Apr 25, 2009
- Messages
- 158
- Reaction score
- 24
The best way to learn that is to ask them yourself. It would cost you nothing to submit a "resume" [email protected] and then ask them what this is about at your casting interview. Don't forget to attach that lovely GIF file you included in message #76.
Art Applewhite
Don't fear failure,
Fear not trying.
Very well stated Art. I work in television production, and agree that if we don't contribute our "voice" to the program--then we simply won't be represented. Never a good thing from a PR standpoint.
Art's other points about the names of our organizations and events is also well stated. "Large Dangerous Rocket Ships" isn't doing us any favors, nor Balls or Tripoli itself. (What is that name about anyway?)
I'd like to see a renewed focus on safety, and more pride in successful flights. While it may be "boring" to some to fly a rocket to apogee, deploy a recovery device, and return it safety to the ground--that is the mark of a competent rocketeer.
Too many in our hobby seem interested in pushing the envelope all the time. With flying fields getting harder to come by, we need to focus more on safety and reliability in our designs.
Art's other points about the names of our organizations and events is also well stated. "Large Dangerous Rocket Ships" isn't doing us any favors, nor Balls or Tripoli itself. (What is that name about anyway?)
I'd like to see a renewed focus on safety, and more pride in successful flights. While it may be "boring" to some to fly a rocket to apogee, deploy a recovery device, and return it safety to the ground--that is the mark of a competent rocketeer.
Too many in our hobby seem interested in pushing the envelope all the time. With flying fields getting harder to come by, we need to focus more on safety and reliability in our designs.
Cnorm
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2017
- Messages
- 529
- Reaction score
- 835
Do you understand the difference between a casting company and a production company? Because it seems like you don't.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
I merely presented the evidence. I did not attempt to present an analysis of it.
The items provided speak volumes, however.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
www.tripoli.org/History said:
Did everyone get the Tripoli letter STRONGLY advising us that this is not a good idea and we are advised not to do this?
After all they are calling it the "explosion show"
Come on guys...
After all they are calling it the "explosion show"
Come on guys...
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
Yes . . . There should be a similar letter from NAR, as well !
Of course, once they start "talking money", all bets are off as to whomever might become involved. ( No, not me, EVER ! )
Dave F.
I don’t think the explosion show is related to the rocket builders. Two completely different things.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
Steve,
I think that the NAR should, publicly, show unity with TRA and denounce "Master-Blasters - 2.0" or whatever moniker they decide to give it !
Dave F.
Hi Rocketry friends there is an email starting to make the rounds about a potential upcoming rocketry TV show by producers that worked with the similar teams like MythBusters. Not the same company, but similar worded information. Wanted to let you know you might be seeing emails floating around out there. I don’t know the source of how the production company is getting email addresses (I have not personally received one) but what I would ask is to use your best common sense when engaging back to this production company as it would be wise to try to show Rocketry in a positive light. I’ve had some personal past experiences where the production company wants to do some pretty wild and wacky things that looks good for TV that don’t represent the hobby very well nor consistent across the organization and the Rocketry community. Something for your consideration. Thank you all!
Nytrunner
Pop lugs, not drugs
I received it because it was sent to at least one of HARA's officer email addresses
The last one of these productions was at LDRS at Potter Field in NY. What a cluster $%#&. The normal launch activities were held up, at numerous times during the launch, sometimes for almost an hour. Some of the production crew had to be warned several times to slow down their golf carts. One even used the excuse, I'm with the production crew. That's what I know. If you want to support this kind of crap, go for it. IMO, launches are where we launch rockets for our collective enjoyment, not where we stand around and wait for some production crew to perfect their video shot or put up with their dust chocking speeding golf carts.
Last edited:
dr wogz
Fly caster
I thought the recent "Lego builder" show was garbage..
I think the 'want' is there, but they haven't a clue as to how to turn it into a show..
Except for football, what other sport stops for replays, commentary, opinion, etc.. ? (I say football, 'cuze it seems to be played in 5-second spurts..)
"Hold for Nadine"
I think the 'want' is there, but they haven't a clue as to how to turn it into a show..
Except for football, what other sport stops for replays, commentary, opinion, etc.. ? (I say football, 'cuze it seems to be played in 5-second spurts..)
"Hold for Nadine"
I mostly agree, although it had occasional good bits (especially: the bridge building episode). The problem was, as a Lego enthusiast, I wanted to see more of the *building*; the techniques, part selection, etc., not the emotional drama of each team relationship. They got the balance wrong.
A rocket-building show could be interesting, certainly, but I'm guessing that the same considerations would apply. Many of us here would be interested in the technicals, and the show producers would probably focus elsewhere. But maybe not, who knows. I'd be willing to give it a watch, certainly, if for no other reason than I would possiby know (well, "forum-know") some of the contestants.
That is, if it ever actually makes it to air, which seems like a longshot.
dr wogz
Fly caster
Neil, totally agree. I gave up on the Lego show after 2 episodes for that exact reason. (I did tune in if I passed as I surfed, and left as soon as either the drama started, or a commercial came on..) I was really turned off when they did the drop tests!!
I would fear that the rocketry show would follow the similar path: ±8 teams, each with a unique dynamic (so that the audience can "identify" with a team)..
Th challenges for each show are hard to pin down. (And the audience would want to see at least one CATO / explosion)
I would fear that the rocketry show would follow the similar path: ±8 teams, each with a unique dynamic (so that the audience can "identify" with a team)..
Th challenges for each show are hard to pin down. (And the audience would want to see at least one CATO / explosion)
- max altitude
- max altitude with a 2-stager
- max velocity
- drag race
- target landing (closest to pad)
- duration aloft
- egg break
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
I've worked as a TV director for most of my adult life. One thing that any group needs to understand about a television production is that the top priority of the producers is always to make compelling entertainment.
Producers are accountable to networks, and networks to advertisers. For many networks there are "formulas" that guide the structure of new programs. These often include:
1.) Characters (casting). People who appear on camera are often chosen because of their personality, appearance, and how their chemistry works with other participants. Diversity and appearance are also often factors. Age is often a huge consideration. Advertisers want specific demographics, generally younger audiences.
2.) Pace. To keep the narrative of the show moving forward, artificial deadlines, objectives, challenges, etc. are often added.
3.) Excitement. While we may all think that rocketry is exciting---I'm not certain that will translate well to audiences. Under ideal conditions, shows will always be edited to focus on CATO's, accidents, or dramatic interactions between participants. Under less than ideal conditions, producers may seek to manipulate events to satisfy their own needs.
If your section or group ever decides to work with a television producer, then the responsibility to ensure safety is 100% in your wheelhouse. You should have written agreements that enshrine your right to shut down the production at any time if safety is a concern. A standard to mediate any such disagreement must be in place.
In our productions that have involved rocketry, we have always gone the extra mile by having completed productions submitted to the National Association of Rocketry for their clearance prior to airing. This ensures that the best image of the hobby is represented and that safety is respected. Not all producers will share these concerns. Work them into your contract and don't participate without them.
Even in the best of circumstances, television production can act additional burdens in terms of safety. You'll have crew people who are unfamiliar with rocketry or it's hazards on site at launches. They'll be under time and financial pressures and concentrating on their jobs--not on safety.
Their equipment may need to be closer than you're comfortable with in order to get the desired footage. Drone photography can introduce additional concerns.
Adding a second RSO or additional safety personnel makes sense. Having experienced flyers with HPR certifications on site will make everyone more comfortable.
It might also be a good idea to find someone who is experienced with both rocketry and TV production to serve as a liaison during filming. They can anticipate problems on both sides, and work with producers to ensure safety and keep the production on track.
One last point...don't judge a production company from previous productions. Personnel change. Network oversight varies considerably from show to show. Most TV producers want to do the right thing--and safety is a big concern in the industry. But they have a job to do. Both sides need to respect each other.
Producers are accountable to networks, and networks to advertisers. For many networks there are "formulas" that guide the structure of new programs. These often include:
1.) Characters (casting). People who appear on camera are often chosen because of their personality, appearance, and how their chemistry works with other participants. Diversity and appearance are also often factors. Age is often a huge consideration. Advertisers want specific demographics, generally younger audiences.
2.) Pace. To keep the narrative of the show moving forward, artificial deadlines, objectives, challenges, etc. are often added.
3.) Excitement. While we may all think that rocketry is exciting---I'm not certain that will translate well to audiences. Under ideal conditions, shows will always be edited to focus on CATO's, accidents, or dramatic interactions between participants. Under less than ideal conditions, producers may seek to manipulate events to satisfy their own needs.
If your section or group ever decides to work with a television producer, then the responsibility to ensure safety is 100% in your wheelhouse. You should have written agreements that enshrine your right to shut down the production at any time if safety is a concern. A standard to mediate any such disagreement must be in place.
In our productions that have involved rocketry, we have always gone the extra mile by having completed productions submitted to the National Association of Rocketry for their clearance prior to airing. This ensures that the best image of the hobby is represented and that safety is respected. Not all producers will share these concerns. Work them into your contract and don't participate without them.
Even in the best of circumstances, television production can act additional burdens in terms of safety. You'll have crew people who are unfamiliar with rocketry or it's hazards on site at launches. They'll be under time and financial pressures and concentrating on their jobs--not on safety.
Their equipment may need to be closer than you're comfortable with in order to get the desired footage. Drone photography can introduce additional concerns.
Adding a second RSO or additional safety personnel makes sense. Having experienced flyers with HPR certifications on site will make everyone more comfortable.
It might also be a good idea to find someone who is experienced with both rocketry and TV production to serve as a liaison during filming. They can anticipate problems on both sides, and work with producers to ensure safety and keep the production on track.
One last point...don't judge a production company from previous productions. Personnel change. Network oversight varies considerably from show to show. Most TV producers want to do the right thing--and safety is a big concern in the industry. But they have a job to do. Both sides need to respect each other.
Thanks for this perspective.
I wonder, would a network and production company ever bother with a limited season for a thing like this? I can see where a broad audience might not be held by the technical stuff for a full season, let alone multiple ones, without all the drama. But what about just, say, six to ten episodes? Would it work? Would it be worth the companie's time?
So, maybe, someone who's a TRF supporter and contributor, and also has been a TV director most of his adult life?
I wonder, would a network and production company ever bother with a limited season for a thing like this? I can see where a broad audience might not be held by the technical stuff for a full season, let alone multiple ones, without all the drama. But what about just, say, six to ten episodes? Would it work? Would it be worth the companie's time?
I think the potential for a general audience is limited. I could see something like this attracting an audience on the Science Channel, but it lacks the attributes that generally appeal to the masses.
To broaden its appeal, you'd need to heavily manipulate the characters, situations, etc...and all of that makes me nervous. It's so easy to twist rocketry into something like "Here hold my beer."
That being said, there are some creative folks out there. Someone might think of a way to make it fascinating.
Remember that first and foremost, it's a TV show. It's unrealistic to expect any producer to care about the hobby the way that we do. They want to entertain and attract a wide, young audience.
Where I could see a niche for this is in what is called E/I programming. This is programming that is directed at a children's audience and often runs on Saturday mornings. It helps television stations meet federal requirements to provide programming that has educational value.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulations_on_children's_television_programming_in_the_United_States
Some of this programming is also very entertaining. It also attracts much older viewers that the intended audiences when it's well done. One of the largest and best producers of this content is a company called Litton Entertainment.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Litton_Entertainment
A STEM-Rocketry show intended for this audience might do very well indeed. It could be organized into a competition (think TARC for Television) complete with characters, competitions, etc. but without the heavy manipulation.
To broaden its appeal, you'd need to heavily manipulate the characters, situations, etc...and all of that makes me nervous. It's so easy to twist rocketry into something like "Here hold my beer."
That being said, there are some creative folks out there. Someone might think of a way to make it fascinating.
Remember that first and foremost, it's a TV show. It's unrealistic to expect any producer to care about the hobby the way that we do. They want to entertain and attract a wide, young audience.
Where I could see a niche for this is in what is called E/I programming. This is programming that is directed at a children's audience and often runs on Saturday mornings. It helps television stations meet federal requirements to provide programming that has educational value.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulations_on_children's_television_programming_in_the_United_States
Some of this programming is also very entertaining. It also attracts much older viewers that the intended audiences when it's well done. One of the largest and best producers of this content is a company called Litton Entertainment.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Litton_Entertainment
A STEM-Rocketry show intended for this audience might do very well indeed. It could be organized into a competition (think TARC for Television) complete with characters, competitions, etc. but without the heavy manipulation.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
Just so long as they don't let it devolve into another "MASTER-BLASTERS" !
Dave F.
Dave F.
Cnorm
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2017
- Messages
- 529
- Reaction score
- 835
S
So what you're saying is if we help make a show where a bunch of old white guys sit around a prep table arguing about glue for an hour, it wouldn't attract an audience?
So what you're saying is if we help make a show where a bunch of old white guys sit around a prep table arguing about glue for an hour, it wouldn't attract an audience?
dr wogz
Fly caster
We don't argue abut glue.. We just have sticky discussions...
No, seriously, when I got my letter a few years ago, they were also plying for ideas / competitions. I mentioned following LDRS as Discovery / Kari Byron did.. But they seemed more interested to make an Ink Maters, Lego builders, Face off, etc.. type show. I mentioned the drag race, and they wanted to know more about a 'rocket drag race' (what was involved, how does it work, etc..). that's when I gave up..
We know what kind of show "we" would watch that's rocket related. We know what "they" want as a show. Sadly, there is no (or very very little) common ground.
No, seriously, when I got my letter a few years ago, they were also plying for ideas / competitions. I mentioned following LDRS as Discovery / Kari Byron did.. But they seemed more interested to make an Ink Maters, Lego builders, Face off, etc.. type show. I mentioned the drag race, and they wanted to know more about a 'rocket drag race' (what was involved, how does it work, etc..). that's when I gave up..
We know what kind of show "we" would watch that's rocket related. We know what "they" want as a show. Sadly, there is no (or very very little) common ground.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
I think we need a show where a bunch of old "Rocket Guys" work with kids, in groups, teaching them how to use the various tools and adhesives used in Rocketry, build basic kits with them, fly them, and then continue on to teach more and more skills, techniques, and knowledge, including designing and successfully flying their own rockets.
Throughout the series, there could be "Mini-Competitions" among the groups, to demonstrate the knowledge they have acquired and continue to acquire.
There could be Guest Speakers, special demonstration launches, and even group trips to places like KSC, etc., perhaps including a small onsite launch.
If he is willing and available, I have a PERFECT nominee for the Rocketeer to organize the various events, particularly involving the kids . . .
The "Rocket Reverend" - BRAD WILSON !
Dave F.
Throughout the series, there could be "Mini-Competitions" among the groups, to demonstrate the knowledge they have acquired and continue to acquire.
There could be Guest Speakers, special demonstration launches, and even group trips to places like KSC, etc., perhaps including a small onsite launch.
If he is willing and available, I have a PERFECT nominee for the Rocketeer to organize the various events, particularly involving the kids . . .
The "Rocket Reverend" - BRAD WILSON !
Dave F.
That does sound like a good show, one I hope might possibly happen, if there's some team to develop and pitch it. I'm not familiar with Brad Wilson, but I'll take your word for it. As a sad side note, Grant Imahara would have been terrific.
Ez2cDave
Well-Known Member
Joe,
Brad Wilson was already on TV, in 2006, in a segment during the "The Rocket Challenge" series. I have all the video's.
Dave F.
Brad Wilson was already on TV, in 2006, in a segment during the "The Rocket Challenge" series. I have all the video's.
Dave F.
