James Cawley To Appear In New Star Trek Movie + Talks About Visit To Set January 23, 2008
by Anthony Pascale , Filed under: Interview, New Voyages/Phase II, Star Trek (2009 film) , trackback
EXCLUSIVE: As the creator of the independent fan production Star Trek New Voyages, James Cawley has sought to recreate an exact replica of Star Trek The Original Series, right down to the braid on Kirk’s sleeve and the color of the bridge railing. So it is not surprising that he has been on the skeptical side with regards to JJ Abrams’ Star Trek ‘re-invigoration.’ But a chance encounter on the Paramount lot has turned the purist Calwey around…so much so that he is now literally ‘on board.’ In an exclusive video interview (below) Cawley tells TrekMovie.com all about his new Trek adventure and what he now thinks of Abrams and his new Enterprise.
VIDEO INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW SUMMARY
Below is a summary of the interview with some select quotes from Cawley regarding his time at Paramount with director JJ Abrams and his new crew.
Cawley on his chance encounter with JJ Abrams on the Paramount lot
As we walked past the entrance to [stages] eight and nine, it was like the hand of fate. There was JJ Abrams walking out. He looked at me and I looked at him….as I turned to say hello he instantly said to "I know you, you are James Cawley."
After running into Abrams, Cawley was invited to visit the set where they are currently shooting scenes on the bridge of the Enterprise. Cawley offers his thoughts on his visit.
On Abrams:
He is such a normal down to Earth nice man. I guess I didn’t know what to expect, but to experience his generosity and his humor was the best of it all.
Does Abrams get Star Trek?
One of the conversations with JJ I had was about his feelings about Star Trek. And that’s what absolutely sold me on JJ Abrams. He said how much he believes in the philosophy of Gene Roddenberry, the humanity, and the message that The Original Series delivered. That ’s his focus. That put everything in perspective for me. I thought ‘things don’t have to look the same as long as the message and the heart is there.’ And he’s got it
On the sets and the bridge
I like the set. The bridge is spectacular, absolutely stunning, but it is not what I would have done. But I think the fans are going to go ‘woah’ I think people are going to be genuinely stunned. I think people are going to be impressed. It is a beautiful set.
On the costumes and uniforms
The uniforms are perfect, spot on perfect. I wouldn’t have done anything any different. When I saw the look of what he was going for, he’s got it.
On actors’ performances
Brilliant. I think these people I the characters. And I think these peole have a handle on these characters and keep them familiar to all of us…These guys are going to be very well respected and I think they are going to shock a lot of people. When they come out people are going to say ‘why did we ever think nobody else could play these parts.’
After James’ visit at the Star Trek set last week he was offered a role in the film. He has been fitted for a costume and has to report for work on the set today (Wednesday Jan 23rd). All he knows is that he will be playing a Starfleet officer on the Enterprise.
James still considers himself ‘a purist,’ and admits that he would have done things differently, but rejects the notion that he has been ‘assimilated’ by the offer of a role. Cawley explains
No two people are going to share the same ideas. I can like aspects of it, even though they are not my choices…If I had been in his position I would have done things a little differently because I am not JJ Abrams. He has an idea and is going to follow that to the end, just like we do with New Voyages…We can have differences of opinions and still enjoy each other’s work. Would I have made some design changes? Sure! Would I have made a red button, blue? Ya! Are his sets spectacular? You better believe it!
TrekMovie.com thanks James for sharing his adventure with us and wishes him the best on his exciting day today on board a different Enterprise.
Cawley (seated) on the set of “Star Trek New Voyages”
For more on James Cawley and Star Trek New Voyages, visit startreknewvoyages.com
Comments»
Wow that’s pretty cool. Congrats to James on that!
this is pretty cool, I’m glad he has gotten the opportunity to be in Star Trek
Wow. Some people wish they could be Bill Gates or win the lottery, today, I just wish I was Jim Cawley.
What an opportunity…I would have passed out for a chance to see what we’re all dying to just get glimpses of these days…the sets, the uniforms, etc…
Congrats, Jim, and keep up the good work on New Voyages!
\S/
Cool stuff, I’ll be interested to see the reactions of other purists in this talkback.
Can’t wait to see the bridge … and I like the notion that JJ gets the ‘heart’ of Trek. Also, ‘perfect’ uniforms? Sweet!
If JC can wrap his arms around XI, so can most others. Get off the high horse and see the future.
Come to think of it.. it must kill Shatner to know that the Kirk of a fanfic is in the movie.. but not him!
Not a pro/anti Shatner thing, just funny is all! But cool none of the less!
Wow. Congrats, James. That would be the highlight of my year. I wonlder how many times he had to walk past stages 8 & 9 before the ‘hand of fate’ took over? LOL. I would have camped there all day….
James! Congratulations! That is an absolutely amazing opportunity! Would you have believed you would be doing this when you started up New Voyages? :) All the best!
Wow if James is on board with all the new ideas then so am I!
He’s definitely star struck haha. Down to earth yada yada. What the heck is a purist? I grew up watching star trek it was about tech and it was based 100’s of years ahead of us. Our tech has changed since 1960. All I have to say is they had better change a lot and this better not be a Brady Bunch reboot. HAHA
Wow, now James will be a “real” Trek actor! Double the honor.
It’s bound to be awesome if James Cawley gives his approval!
Chris
Oxford - England
Lt. Elvis to engineering!
What a cool guy JJ is. It’s like it’s Christmas (already) at Paramount and he’s being a very careful Santa. I know most of these favors will be one-liners or no-liners, but what fun! I’d give the third toe on my right foot to be a blur behind Chris Pine going into a turbolift.
Congrats James!
As a STNV fan, I am very happy for you. The ultimate TOS fan gets to be in the new movie.
Your endorsement of JJ’s team, that they understand and have the spirit of TOS in the new movie, is a fantastic endorsement.
Can’t wait til Christmas!
This is the best news I’ve heard in some time. Thanks for posting this interview Anthony!
That’s awesome.
Goes to show, and I’ve said it before, it’s all about the story.
Get the story, and a good execution by the actors, and you’ll have a winner.
Look how popular ST was in the 60’s and even today! My 6 and 8 year old sons are hooked on the original series.
BTW…I posted that the trailer did nothing for me yesterday…I pumped up the volume and watched it again…it rocks.
Our spies are sleeping on the job.
We should’ve had a leaked script by now.
” I thought ‘things don’t have to look the same as long as the message and the heart is there.’ And he’s got it”
That’s true, I guess, to some degree. For some, the look is as much a part of why they like TOS as Kirk and Spock. And for others, Trek is just an fun-sci-fi action adventure show that has real people facing unreal situations. The whole pie-in-the-sky idealism aspect of Star Trek gets a little blown out “of proportions at times. .
The bridge is spectacular, absolutely stunning, but it is not what I would have done.”
Nice. Can’t wait to see that. Hope pics surface soon!
“The uniforms are perfect, spot on perfect. I wouldn’t have done anything any different. When I saw the look of what he was going for, he’s got it.”
Knowing James is an expert who worked with the master Bill Theiss himself, they must be pretty damn cool and true to TOS. The “TOS uniforms are corny and will be laughed off the screen” crowd won’t sleep much tonight with this revelation.!
“When they come out people are going to say ‘why did we ever think nobody else could play these parts.”
Naturally, coming from someone who is playing Jim Kirk, this reaction is expected. Having said that, I do hope the chemistry is there. It’s that fun friendly feeling you get when Kirk, Spock and McCoy are all three bouncing off one another that makes it worth the visit.
All in all, it sounds like it’s really shaping up to be one heck of a ride.
Getting James in on the production, although a gamble, was a good move by JJ. Getting a good buzz from Cawley would go a long way toward bringing like purists into the fold. And I think this will do just that.
Smart man!
Anthony…this was awesome. GREAT content, sir. Thanks for bringing it to us and thanks to James for taking time to sit down with you.
Cheers…
I am not a purist by any means, but all of my doubts about this film have been put to rest by James Cawley here. If one of the most vocal purists can be converted, anyone can.
This makes me feel good like you wouldn’t believe. I love JC’s work and see myself in his place and must say that if they impressed him then I’m impressed.
YOU GOTTA GIVE ABRAMS CREDIT…
…as much as some people (including myself) might scoff at THE NEW VOYAGES, it’s a pretty classy move on J.J.’s part to include Cawley in the film.
Of course, the cat-calls of “Cawley’s in, but Shatner’s OUT?!?!?!” will be deafening and more than a little annoying…
#21.
Yes, a big thanks to Anthony for pulling this stuff out of the ether every day.
A vote of confidence from a TOS purist! I love what Cawley has done with STNV and if anyone who loves TOS has not seen them, you MUST check it out.
I am also a TOS purist, and I am glad to hear what James said about the new movie. I knew we would never get the type of Enterprise or bridge that us purists want, however, I agree with what he is saying about JJ’s vision, and I think in order to capture a new worldwide audience, the new directors and producers have to be able to do their thing in order to tap into the “pulse” of a new and different audience. The fact that Cawley says JJ respects and honors the core message of Star Trek speaks volumes to me about what the new movie will be about. It’s kind of another Easter Egg for TOS fans that Cawley will actually be in the new movie too.
What a cool interview! Thanks TrekMovie.
If James has put his blessing on Trel XI, than I think it’s quite certain there is nothing to worry about. But then again, seeing as how he now has a part, I doubt he would go on trashing the thing would he? However, I doubt he would take a role if they were making an abomination. At the end of the day, it is becoming more and more apparent that this movie will be true to the original in pretty much every detail with the exception of the updated sets which suits me fine as long as they keep some references to the original.
#7 “it must kill Shatner to know that the Kirk of a fanfic is in the movie.. but not him!”
Shatner has valuable uses for his time. He’s a big millionaire iconic star.
But it is killing me! [rolls eyes at JJ] GROAN.
-Well ..the tos fans have now reasons to be happy…i like tmp and the rest of the canon..but tos it means nothing to me..i’m a non tos fan..altough i readed very good books about original trek..
this is very very promising!
With Blood and Fire and this new movie this is going to be a great year for trek. My only regret about the franchise is that Enterprise never got the chance to finish it’s run. Manny Cotto was doing a great job with the show. I have so much respect for James Cawley.
What a great endorsement! Congrats James!
See, it’s going to be OK! LOL
wow james bet you dont get any sleep the night before your shoot!
congrats… sounds amazing!
What do I have to pull to get in the movie. I’ve seen Alias, Lost, MI:III, Cloverfield, surely that could get me in!
James: If you’re lurking here,please give Chris Pine your best Janice Lester-as-Kirk imitation, “I’m Captain Kirk!!!!!!!”
William Shatner created James T. Kirk while Abrams was still in diapers, now JJ owes The Shat his rightful place at center seat!
It’s the human thing to do, and as The Shat says, GOOD BUSINESS!
PS: James Cawley, Congratulations, wish you were the one directing XI.
Nothing but net, Jimbo - kudos. This is due dilligence and hard work come to fruition. It must be surreal for you - I bet this was the last thing you’d have thought would happen a few years ago, when you were starting to build the STNV sets. Let’s just hope J.J. doesn’t redshirt you so you get killed by an exploding console. ;-)
See the interview? He’s already wearing the new uniform–the Big E is for “Enterprise.” See JJ is doing a great job, no worries! ;)
K
I feel better now.
Perhaps James, as a purist, would relish the red-shirt treatment (especially if he gets a red shirt).
Wow, that’s shocking. I mean it really impresses me that Abrams even knows who James Cawley is (I’d bet half the Trek fans don’t!). I suppose that means he watches New Voyages? I’m just amazed. He certainly didn’t have to offer him a visit to the set, let alone a part, given the criticisms Cawley was leveling at the production design. All this does is reassure me that Trek is in exactly the right hands. I’m glad he could make a believer out of Cawley!
Now he just has to offer Stanky & Iowagirl a visit! I keed, I keed.
I think it’s very interesting that Cawley was so approving of the costume design. Wonder if we’ll be seeing something closer to the 60’s designs than we thought?
And I love the subtle New Voyages plug on the monitor in the background! Haha.
Congrats, James! Hopefully this gets the rest of the purists to calm down. This is going to be a fantastic film.
Gosh! It’s getting better and better every day…I’m a BIG fan of New Voyages and I really feel relieved that Cawley approves what JJ is doing. As for him being part of the movie (while the Shat isn’t)…well, it’s interesting to say the least…
I think it’s time to release a remastered version of New Voyages on official Paramount DVDs…they could make it a charity release with its incomes donated for a good purpose…”In Harm’s Way” needs serious SFX updates but the two episodes with Koenig and Takei are brilliant as they are…NV could soon become an official part of the legacy…In my book it already is!
Okay, what does “spot on perfect” mean, in relation to the wardrobe? I wonder how much of Orci and Kurtzman’s MacGuffin is the Romulans going back before the primary crux of the movie. I mean we see Kirk’s parents, Spock’s parents, etc., right? If they (the Rommies) are going back before the primary part of the movie, then Roberto and Alex can get away with there being “changes” in the look of the ship, the uniforms, et cetera, because there would be reasons for change, i.e. a change in the timeline that would cause subtle changes.
I am from the camp that accepts that change is not always just for change. Let’s be honest here, Gene changed the way the Klingons looked when he had the resources to make them look closer to the way he originally imagined.
I don’t think James is being emotionally bribed with his cameo role on JJ’s ST. He made it pretty clear that he liked “this” but would have “done this differently.” I am envious though! It would be funny, if like my nom de plume, he were to wear a red shirt, and get zapped, instead of Chekhov.
If Roberto and Alex have any sense of humor (which I think they do) they should zap Pavel, right? It’s a long tradition to torture him on screen!!!
If James feels comfortable, then that reasures me to no end. I love how he has given absolutely nothing away in terms of spoilers, but has managed to answer so many fans questions. And considering this guys is one of the most informed fans in the world, I feel as though a weight has been lifted over whether this movie is going to be ‘true’ Star Trek.
Great interview and set report from James. I think what he’s said will make a lot of fans feel good about the new film and JJ Abram’s approach to it.
See, and you people thought I was just making this all up about Cawley being in the movie.
Nah Nah.
Elvis on deck!
‘Tis brilliant!
Puts me in mind of “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” as a fitting recipe fur this picture…
It also goes ta show ya that thar’s world enough and time for all us trek fans to serve all our days together, and not fractionalize, so this bit of news can be our last battlefield of the purist debate…
Harrr! Righto! How silly o’ me ta think that… I’ll have shat nerds ‘fore we stop debating TOS vs JJ
Useless Sailor Trivia: I tried out fur a part once… or rather auditioned fur one I made up… as the bilge scrubber fur the latrines on Voyager… turns out they don’t have potties in Star Trek…
arrrr….
If you don’t get excited listening to James Cawley talking about his expierence there and how he is excited about the film, then somehtings wrong. Is it December yet?
11 - “All I have to say is they had better change a lot and this better not be a Brady Bunch reboot. HAHA”
It’s funny you mention that because I was pondering yesterday how sad it would be if they were to put Shatner in the film in some role other than as the very aged James T. Kirk. It would be like putting Florence Henderson into the Brady Bunch movie as a truck driver.
Seriously, I think that this has potential, though I’m beginning to fear that the big E is still going to have that dorky dish in the front of the drive section of the ship. Some things are meant to be changed! It also worries me that James describes the uniforms as “perfect.” It seems to me that the only thing a purist like him would describe as perfect are the original uniforms from the show, and I just don’t see those adapting well to the big screen, hence the reason they were changed for the movies in the first place.
I really hope they start leaking some images soon.
This is excellent news. I also most wet my tardis with the trailer, now the ant Cawley iis in it how many days to this movie opens??
.
Congrats to James Cawley. I look forward to your work on Abrams’ Trek and in the upcoming New Voyages episodes. Boldly Go!
#41 AJ - eliminating the competition, so to speak. LOL ;-)
@webmaster
I think James Cawley should now be listed on the “cast-page” as “unknown starfleetofficer” ;-)
and on the “creative & crew-page” Stratton Leopold is still listed, isn´t he out of the production team?
just thought there should be an update on those pages.
Greetings from germany :)
This is very cool news, and I’d give my right arm to be a redshirt in this movie. Come to think of it, I’d give both arms to see Tom Cruise killed by an exploding console even more… :-)
I don’t like and I don’t trust people that can turn their opinion on something so drastically. One might say that he was sold for a part in the movie. And that someone could be right.
I’m not saying that that was the case, I trully believe that he liked what he saw in Paramount because from day one I believed in JJ, but he should have kept his mouth shut about the new movie, knowing that he knew nothing about it. It’s easy to trash something, and a virtue to wait, hope for the best, expect the worst and than form and defend your opinion AFTER watching the movie.
Best Regard,
Q.
Cawley’s thoughts are very heartening. Interesting how he is more at ease with the interior look of the Enterprise than the exterior.
Come on Christmas 2008!
I’d imagine James will drop in and spill what few beans he can, when he gets the chance. Anthony, you got one shit-hot clearinghouse for the new movie going on here. :-)
Cool deal….good for you man!
I guess the above posts demonstrate that this interview is one of the best things to happen to the fanbase’s attitudes towards the new movie. I’m sure we’ll continue to have our naysayers, but it looks like James’s stamp of approval has helped a lot of people get over their skepticisms.
I have been aware of James C and his “New Voyages” for about a year now. I just watched “In Harms Way” last night for the first time and enjoyed it very much. I am lookig forward to watching the next two episodes in the series soon. It made me laugh to see this article. I look forward to seeing James in the new movie. Good luck!
Thanks Anthony for a great interview. And thanks James for giving us an insite to what is to come.
DOES CAWLEY SING “TREK-THEMED” ELVIS TUNES?
“Viva Las Vega”
“Return to Ceti”
“I Just Wanna Be Your Pet Selat”
“You Ain’t Nothin’ But a Hound Targ”
“Suspicious Mind Melds”
“You’re the Devil in the Dark in Disguise”
“Are You Lonesome T’Pring?”
(Okay, I’m bored and in a goofy mood…) :)
#58: “I don’t like and I don’t trust people that can turn their opinion on something so drastically. One might say that he was sold for a part in the movie. And that someone could be right.”
How about about people who deny anyone else the right to change his mind, lest he be suspected of impure motives?
Just sayin.
#48 nah, you said they’d cut his cameo out. They haven’t even filmed it yet. Anyone with connections to New Voyages would have known he had a cameo.
what was Cawley doing on the Paramount Lot anyway?
PS did Chris Doohan ever get a role in the film?
James’ most important point was that it was JJ Abams’ vision and perspective towards this movie. Not James’ or anyone else’s. The naysayers may not get over themselves completely after this, but when their very own Master Skeptic gets turned to the Trek Side….hmmmmm.
They can find a spot for James Cawley, but not William Shatner?
You guys put the wrong Captain Kirk in the movie.
#65
Ah, yer killin’ me! LOL
Nice. Congrats, Jim!
“All he knows is that he will be playing a Starfleet officer on the Enterprise. “
…He’ll be playing Admiral E. Aaron Presley, Chief of Starfleet Morale in charge of USO Shows around the galaxy :P
James gets a well-deserved nod from JJ for his help in keeping Trek not just alive, but thriving. And if anyone can speak on costumes and sets with authority, it’s him. Just the chance to see what he winds up doing will be worth the price of going to the movie (not that there aren’t other reasons, obviously). Congrats to James!
“You guys put the wrong Captain Kirk in the movie. “
…Sadly, John Belushi is dead.
#68 He said in the interview. He had a business meeting about New Voyages. I’m sure there is regular contact between NV and Cbs/Paramount.
This is really good news, and big congratulations to James. If JJ can convince James, one of the biggest die-hard purists, then I’m sure he can convince most of the fans.
#65–Thanks a lot. Now I have filksongs locked cluttering up me head!
Can you say Admirl April or perhaps a young Capt. Matt Decker there to see the launch of the Enterprise.
58
If you look at his old post about the exterior of the ship he wasn’t histrionic about it- he was disappointed in the design and said as much. Now he’s excited and impressed. It’s not two polar opposite positions, more of a fluctuation around a median value, IMO.
I love James Cawley’s enthusuiam for Star Trek.
I also trust his opinion on Abrams the crew and the film itself, but it won’t be the same without Shatner.
Keep up the great work James.
As long as the new movie is going to preserve the heart and soul of trek / Roddenberry I am going to be a happy camper. As purist as Cawley is, he obviously understand where J.J. is going with this one.
Cool stuff.
Here’s a better, brighter image of one of the new corridor sets… not bad! Bigger than the dark version looked….
http://www.sonfishstudios.com/corridor.jpg
Congratulations, James.
Congrats to James. :)
Will defnitely be going to see the new movie,
So, James. Ummm, how long did you wait outside that door until J.J. just happened to come out. :)
Glad to see Mr Cawley’s been brought on to the project. He was the unwitting lightning rod for many of the knuckle-draggers (as opposed to genuine ‘purists’) who were foaming at the mouth against the movie. Now he’s ‘on board,’ the idiot brigade can get lost!
-Maybe he will be a cardassian…
Oh and congratulations, James!
I remember the same concerns with the release of Star Trek: TNG… and look how that turned out.
I’m psyched.
Pretty cool, James! Pretty cool indeed! Congratulations! Please come back and tell us what you can.
Seriously, with all the secrecy on this project, the CIA/FBI/Homeland Security should just “privatize” their operations and subcontract out their duties to Bad Robot.
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
…this is my fried peanut butter banana sandwich and coffee.
Yeah, really. J.J. Abrams could easily run the CIA at this point.
#70… Cawley comes with a lot less baggage. For one, they don’t have to first ressurrect his character.
Funny, everyone screamed about the “small dark corridor” shot, but no one comments on the better image of a larger corridor?
I know that I will cry when I see this movie. I know it because I’m crying right now. TREK PHILOSOPHY SAVED
I’ll force all people I know to watch this movie… I’ll point all the 9 phasers I have at them and tie them to the cinema seats :D
ok, if James Cawley is in, I am cautiously optimistic.
Love his work
I think It’s great he’s in the movie.
Cameo or speaking part- was that discussed?
Still worried about why they need a casting call for little people…
Chris
I want at least 6 hours of documentals in the DVD!
A FEW MORE…
“Khan-tucky Rain”
“Want I You, Need I You, Love I You” (sung by a Horta)
“Tribble”
“Little Sisko”
“I Got Stunned”
“Wear My IDIC Around Your Neck”
“Blue Suede Shatner”
(Oh, my brain…)
- I want to see JAMES starring as cardassian…..seriousely…!!
Hey if Mr. Cawley like it I think everyone will too.
I don’t post on here much, but just had to come here to say,
I feel MUCH better.
I trust Cawley’s opinion. I feel much better.
Congratulations James…all the best
and a well nice interview too Anthony :)
Dear James Cawley,
Of any of the many many folks involved to any degree with Star Trek in any shape or form over the years, yours is a perspective I trust and respect most. You’re a class act. Please don’t ever quit doing New Voyages and I know that you will never deviate from keeping Trek true to what it is and can be.
I’m very happy for you and this chance to be involved in the new movie. And I think it does reflect well of sir JJ himself to openly show you that respect. Enjoy every minute of what you are doing - you have earned it.
What a great week it’s been - the teaser trailer, the OrcSter dropping by, and now James Cawley on board for the new Trek movie. Wow. Old hitch1969 is very very excited and thanks to everyone (including you, BIG DAWG AP) for making this time in Star Trek so fun to look forward to everyday.
You east coast / west coast folks are very much in the happenings of the times, but old hitch1969 out here in the midwest of Windsor Colorado, well there ain’t as much happening in real time out here. Drink beer, chase tail… lather, rinse, repeat. Next thing you know, you’ve got all kinds of child support payments and you’re fat and old and you look for that next thing to keep you going. Thats what old h69 is talking about here.
I think we’ve captured that optimism here today in binary digitalis. At the trek movie.com, preserved on the interwebs for all times. Load it onto a microchip that holds gigaterrabytes of info and send it out into space the final frontier to be discovered by advanced life forms. Thousands of years from today. Right here, right now, just like Van Hagar told us back in the 1990s.
Reminds me of a gal that I used to love. Years ago, and all is lost today, but the memory. But it was real and it was good, and it did happen… contrary to the lack of evidence today to prove it. THAT is what I am talking about, J.C™. THAT is what you bring to our table. We thank you, good sir, for that. And for the memories made.
BEST!!
=h=
The bridge set is great news, after the scare about everything being green screened.
Asking for a perfectly consistent, canonical, “pure” visual design is asking for a movie with no inspiration, imagination, or artistry. I can’t understand people who get their panties in a bunch about details like the E being built on earth, or uniform hem lines, etc. That stuff didn’t make Star Trek what it was, the characters and greater story arc did.
Nemesis was visually faithful to everything that came before, but had a weak story and poor use of the characters. Fan films often recreate the look exactly but are undermined by unconvincing performances. The writing, direction, and acting make or break Star Trek.
93. “For one, they don’t have to first ressurrect his character ”
Oh, you mean that problem we fans seem to find ways of solving here on a daily basis?
James Cawley is just passionate about TOS as any harcore TOS fan. The fact that he stated that he would have done the bridge differently proves “HE’S NOT ON THE TAKE”. The fact that he is positive about this project, especially when discussing the uniforms is GREAT!!!. If this is good enough for James Cawley, then for sure it should be good enough for us!!!!
Congratulations James! Have fun and enjoy the gig!
#58:
Al I can say is a quote:
“A foolish consistency is the hobgolin of … “
I have known James and the NV crew for a few years now and i am very happy he has this role. I was also happy When Jack (Marshall) got the job offer to work on the new BSG. It’s exciting to see people’s hard work and dedication pay off and get some recognition.
But.. the bigger question is what role will Anthony be playing!!!!!!! Or do we have to start a ‘Get Anthony a cameo in Star Trek 2008: campagn LOL
CONGRATULATIONS, MR. CAWLEY! YOU’VE EARNED YOUR PLACE ON THE BRIDGE OF THE ENTERPRISE. LIVE LONG AND PROSPER.
six degrees of trekmovie.com:
Shatner—–> Kirk
Kirk———–>JC™
JC™———> Elvis
Elvis———-> Kurt Russell
Kurt Russell —-> dat pic o’ Sir JJ that BIG DAWG AP uses here
Sir JJ—————> blowing smoke up Shat’s butt
Shat’s butt———> Shatner
See… even without Shatner in the movie, his Katra® somehow is going to be in the movie. Yo OrcSter - hows THAT for creative storytelling??? And everyone’s happy - those who want Shat, those who do not.
best!!
=h=
Okay, great for James… I’m envious to be sure!!! ;-) The thing is… I still say the Shat will be the “secret” weapon of Star Trek XI, probably dropped in at the last sec, as a cameo or something… *shrug* But I’m not counting on it, nor does it matter that much. The interesting thing is that James seems impressed with the character work by the actors… but until we get the “story” in total… I’m kind of thinking that’s optimism speaking there.
I THINK THE UNIFORMS FROM ‘POLICE ACADEMY-THE SERIES ‘IT WILL BE GREAT ON A TREK MOVIE..
AWESOME!! One more reason to not miss Christmas Day’s opening!! I think JC is great, and look forward to it.
Shatner was great, now all I see is Denny Crane (not a bad thing, he just doesn’t look like Kirk anymore. He looks like DENNY CRANE, and that would be a distraction, for at least me)
Okay, I’ve accepted they are going to change the Enterprise, BUT if they change the Romulan Birds of Prey one little iota… then they’ve gone TOO da**ed far! I will walk!!!
I am so kidding!!!!
sweet.
this interview was more exciting than the trailer, which was fantastic. james’ enthusiasm is infectious.
we assume that anthony was interviewing here, so why don’t we get a few cutaways to him nodding sagely like barbara walters?
i vote anthony’s cameo to be a communications officer, as that is what he has always been to me…
I think it’s great James is ‘on board’. If he likes the costumes, I’m very interested in seeing them. He’s surely got his knowledge about them from a primary source.
I just wish these N.V. episodes were available for download. Also it would be great if the fans would have access to the music cues from the third season that N.V. has that have never been released to the general public.
Congratulations James!
THANK YOU so much, Anthony and James! Your mutual enthusiasm and clarity were a joy to watch.
Congratulations, Mr. Cawley… break a leg!
Congrats, James Cawley; you definitely earned it.
Now I’m shaken. I was okay with the new E being a prequel ship; that I can swallow. But if the TOS time frame has been re imagined then this is a one time view and forget for me. I don’t care how great and grand his sets are.
Good for him that he got a cameo though.
#82 http://www.sonfishstudios.com/corridor.jpg
Is this really one of the new Enterprise sets?
[…] Nachdem sich James Cawley (von Star Trek: New Voyages) ja vor einer Weile negativ ber das Design der Enterprise geuert hatte, hat er seine Meinung ber den Film nach einem Setbesuch offenbar gnzlich gendert. In einem Interview-Video berichtete er Trekmovie.com einige sehr interessante Details und wirkt ziemlich euphorisch: James Cawley To Appear In New Star Trek Movie + Talks About Visit To Set | TrekMovie.com […]
James, congratulations from one Trek-lovin’ ETA to another! Keep up the great work on STNV. We LOVE them! You have kept TOS fresh and alive.
#65. & #98 SPB - That’s hysterical! I may have to use those in my show sometime.
Can ‘ya feel THAT now, Jim baby?!!
Awesome news. James, if it’s good for you, it’s a-ok with me- with my horrible, evil, purist beliefs.
Now they need Andy Bray and John Lim- the REAL new Chekov and Sulu!
#122… yes, it is… an image from the flickering shots at http://www.ncc1701.com. Looks pretty good!
#121…. come on… did you REALLY expect to see exact replicas of the TV show sets and models? If I wanted to see that I’d watch the old show.
thanks, Diabolik.
Not to rain on parades, but lotsa stuff gets cut and ends up on “the cutting room floor”.
#122
Yes it is.
No, I expected to see a prequel with different sets that CAME BEFORE TOS and would eventually lead up to TOS at the end of JJ’s run.
Good interview. Glad they got him in the film.
Okay, but I doubt even more primitive sets than the 60’s show TOS era would fly in a big-budget movie….
I WILL ADMIT IT SEEMS ODD…
…that STAR TREK XI will feature at least 2.5 Kirks (Pine, Cawley and Mama Kirk’s bun-in-the-oven), but the “real” one will be nowhere to be found.
HOWEVER… if Shatner DOES indeed end up in the film, you KNOW they’ll keep that a secret about a month before release and then BAM! Interest will go through the roof.
Can’t stand STNV - acting is crap and is just good for a laugh, James Crawley….same opinion. “but it is not what I would have done” him saying that makes me even better about this film. JC is a hack.
“Oh, you mean that problem we fans seem to find ways of solving here on a daily basis?”
That would depend on what your definition of ’solving’ is. :-)
“No, I expected to see a prequel with different sets that CAME BEFORE TOS and would eventually lead up to TOS at the end of JJ’s run.”
I feel for you, but given the realities of technological change since 1966 and a budget that’s greater than all of the TOS episodes and movies combined, that was never a very realistic expectation. OTOH, why not see the film yourself before deciding that the changes are more than you can live with? Urban has described the new production design as a ‘high def-stereo” take on the original, and Cawley’s opinion, as he himself has pointed out, is just that–one man’s opinion.
If what you’re willing to do for the love of this franchise counts for anything, no one deserved this opportunity to ‘live the dream’ more than James Cawley. My sincere congratulations.
Look…. old h69 is going to roll it to the homies pure an simple. An listen up, cuz you ain’t gwine wanna miss THIS: The fact of the matter is, in reading all the comments and speculation, and the “I’m in IF…”, or “if no THIS, then I’m not in” etc etc, the reality is that this new movie will either deliver or it won’t. It’s going to be a massive success, or a massive failure. No in between for this one.
Since 2006, I’ve not seen ONE shred of evidence that would indicate that this new movie won’t be a SLAM DUNK home run. Dat’s what dat bloke Kirk Russell and the likes of the OrcSter™ are bringing. In fact, not only are they bringing it, but they are also singing it. And it’s sweet music to the Trek fan’s ears my friends. Have no doubt - this movie is going to work. It will be massively successful. And ALL the doubters - and I’m even talking the Stanky McFibberich’s of the scene - I promise all of you - in one year’s time - they’re gonna look back at these days and these doubts and wonder what the fuss was all about, having seen the best Star Trek movie - nay I say perhaps better than - since Trek II.
Mark my words. Old h69 never overpromises and he always delivers. IN ONE YEAR PLEASE COME BACK TO THIS COMMENT AND QUOTE ME. Heck, do it now for that matter. It will not change what is, and what is to be. Mark my words.
There’s a buzz happening here and it’s so happening, so euphoric - some would say that the man made equivalent perhaps being that of the coke and smack speedball - It’s gonna make your heart pound with excitement until it explodes! It’s gonna make you chill so deep that your respiratory functions cease! ALL AT THE SAME time! Speedballs, baby. Just ask Belushi.
The only difference being that speedballs eventually kill you. This is a more natural high - therefore a safer, healthier high. Listen, man… what was the Bible - storytelling. Then you got the King James version, the Motel 6 version, the Hebrew version - etc and etc, you dig - all variations of the same great story being told in slightly different ways through the ages, you follow? But the story never really changes, and its intergenerational. Star Trek Generations. Do you see the intersection of the ideas here people?
Of course you do. WHO showed it to you? Old h69, baby. Peace out, bretheren.
BEST!!
=h=
I love that JJ-san knew who James-san was! That is so cool. Did JJ-san ever watch New Voyages? Well, I guess he must have considering he knew him. If he did watch, many, many props.
Congrats on the part in the new movie, btw James-san!
#134 Whatever you feel about James and NV, you can not possibly doubt his attention to detail in both set and costume design.
You may have a problem with his acting or the acting of his cast, but the sets and costumes are as authentic as they could possibly get.
The guy knows his stuff.
The E 1701 being built on the ground. Fine.
Having a new cast playing younger versions of the crew. Fine.
Having a different 1701 in a time BEFORE TOS. Fine.
Even if the design looks more modern that TOS. Fine. Enterprise did the same thing and I was okay with it.
I am NOT FINE with them overlapping classic trek with these new people. If it’s a prequel then let it be a prequel. Leave TOS alone. Kurtzman and Orci are good writers, they don’t need to re-write anything. I would hope that this/these new movie/movies have a logical tie into the classic series. This should be known as JJ’s time in the academy years of the TOS crew.
If they’re going to tell us that TOS is now being rewritten with this new style and character set then TELL US IT”S A REBOOT AND THE BEGINNING OF TREK REVISION B.
BTW, the 60’s style and design aesthetic held up flawlessly on Enterprise’s “In A Mirror Darkly.” Don’t anyone tell me the style is outdated and can’t be accurately reproduced because Eden FX did it, and they did in in spades.
The retro-futuristic Defiant sure did a number on the “modern revisionist” Avenger. ;)
#115: “i vote anthony’s cameo to be a communications officer, as that is what he has always been to me… ”
Perfect occupation for our Bringer-of-All-Things-Trek. Too bad the shirts are red. Oh, well, not many comm officers get blown to smithereens on Trek. I guess he’ll be okay.
Can someone run Anthony over to wardrobe for his fitting?
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
Hitch, it’s been a while since I’ve seen you around. Welcome back (?).
It’s great that Crawley is supportive of the project now, hopefully other ‘purists’ will follow suit.
I think after we see the ideas and style of TOS sets and ships amped up to a current-day level of bidget and effects, many will start to say “that’s the way it was in the series, they just couldn’t show it back then.” Just like the Klingon improvements made in TMP.
We’ll accept it as the way it was, and was meant to be, and enjoy our old Trek brought up to today’s standards. Big, bold and exciting! And the “canon” question will be forgotten.
“JC is a hack.”
Whatever the virtues or faults of NV, Cawley clearly loves what he does. That he invests a great deal of time and effort into a production for which he receives no recompense is beyond dispute. Since the definition of a ‘hack’ is someone who churns out work with no care for money, your characterization is not only needlessly rude, but inapt.
Okay, no need to worry about the new film at all anymore.
- W -
* Happy Fan *
“JC is a hack.”
Almost as bad as my Challenger reference but not quite.
@139 …..”BTW, the 60’s style and design aesthetic held up flawlessly on Enterprise’s “In A Mirror Darkly.” Don’t anyone tell me the style is outdated and can’t be accurately reproduced because Eden FX did it, and they did in in spades. ”
I don’t believe the question was whether it COULD be done but whether it SHOULD be done. I am withholding judgement until I see the film.
Paramount/JJ have quite a bit to gain from this. First of all, it’s like a 5-year old getting to ride with Santa Claus. What a story for the press. It’s DVD extra material.
Also, it gets a storied Trekker “inside” the set, and he has JJ’s ear. It provides the fanbase with an ally inside, but who is now contractually obligated to not spill beans. Cawley can be a strategic ally for staged leaks, and perhaps will show up on the “Blank Screen” once in a while.
The “hand of fate” indeed.
is JC™ in the writer’s union? Is he crossing the picket lines? I don’t know, and please school me on this whole strike thing, OrcSter™, please. I have a hard time understanding it all. Remember, this is old h69 in rural Colorado. About the best way for me to identify with this is by way of analogy to something that I know. Let’s take new home construction for example because that’s big out here. SO you’ve got an engineer who makes a blue print for a house. Then you’ve got all these plumbers, electricians, etc doing their thing to complete the house. OK. House is done - these dudes have been paid. House is sold. 5 years later, it’s sold again, and this happens many times down the road… the house keeps generating revenue for someone. NOW- the idea is - the the dude who drew the plans for the house - and maybe also the specialized construction dudes too - should get ancillary percentages of the profit each time the house is sold to a new buyer?
Looks like old h69 might have a future out here organizing the various trade unions and coordinating the strikes. What do ya think, baybeeeee? Of course, I will give a percentage to the writers union for setting the precedent. Call it a royalty, brotha!
best!!
=h=
@146 “I don’t believe the question was whether it COULD be done but whether it SHOULD be done. I am with holding judgement until I see the film.”
I’m waiting until X-Mas too. Final thoughts will be made then.
#142 “We’ll accept it as the way it was, ”
No, I’ll accept is as the way it is.now, as the direct result of an altered timeline.
James Cawley in the new Trek = Elvis
(Sorry, 49, 65, 73, & 110, but I did say that first here days ago) ; )
Plus I can’t help but remark that Mr. Cawley did NOT just happen to meet JJ on the lot accidentally, HE WAS THERE FOR THE MEETING.
But Kudos anyhow. It is very nice to read new articles about the movie everyday though. THANKS TREKMOVIE!!!
Diabolik. WHERE did that image come from again? Looks very light on design lighting and concept. I hope that’s not real.
Oh, and I still say the bridge will be much larger than TOS.
And if there ARE no buttons on the bridge consols, I will be VERY dispointted in you, James.
YAY!
#151… It’s been seen on the flickering images on http://www.nnc1701.com.
And JC said he was there for another meeting unrelated to the new movie and ran across JJ as he was passing the soundstages.
Maybe Cawley’ll be an Andorian and since he’s ever the purest he’ll insist they put the antenae on the back of his head. Which would delight me.
#134
i’ll admit that JC was a bit of showoff and sometimes went overboard during the sermon on the mount, but hack? that’s hardly appropriate for the dude who made crucifiction a househould word…
wait a minute. unless you mean james cawley. he’s no hack either. he’s a fan like us.
#37–Roddenberry created Kirk while JJ was in diapers, not William Shatner. How could you think that? Bill did not create Kirk any more than George Reeve created Superman/Clark Kent!
I’m just glad Shatner’s not in it.
#105: Yeah, that one. Of all those ways you’ve come up with, if you happen to find one that a.) actually makes sense, b.) doesn’t rely on knowledge of a fourteen year old movie that most non-Trek fans probably never saw or don’t remember, c.) doesn’t feel shoehorned into the script, and d.) doesn’t read like bad fanfic, let us know.
okay - James says, that the Set has changed…
But if JJA refitted the Visual-Gadged from Mr. Sulu´s Console and Uhura´s Ear-Plug out of the Movie - I will start WW3 against JJA and “the planet Hollywood” !!! Some things shouldn´t change!!! NEVER!!! EVER !!!
And the uniforms…. ? James said something about the “fitting” of the uniform as he wear it… sounds like the TNG Spandex-Material…
Greetings from Germany to the rest of the world…
#156: Actors always create their characters to some extent, especially when they originate them. George Reeves did in fact create a version of Superman, in collaboration with the show’s writers and directors. His creation is less distinct than Shatner’s only because other versions of Superman existed and were popular prior to the version Reeves created, while no version of Kirk existed prior to Shatner (and even still, there’s a generation of Reeves fans for whom his version will always be “the” Superman). Chris Pine will be in a position closer to Reeves, since he’ll be creating a James Kirk that some folks will inevitably compare to the prior versions … but Chris Pine will still be _creating_ the character to some extent, because that’s part of what an actor does. A new actor playing Sherlock Holmes today is, in part, tasked to create that character anew.
The level of contribution varies and depends a lot on how much leeway the actor is allowed and how many of their own creative choices make the final cut, but in some cases it can be very major (for example, had someone besides Brent Spiner played Data, he may well have been a Vulcan as originally intended, but he took an active role in character creation, one that another actor might not have taken, or would have taken differently).
I don’t think we’ll ever know to what extent Kirk was created by each of the many people responsible, but a TV character is almost never created by one person, and it’s certainly fair game to credit Shatner as a “creator” of Jim Kirk, if certainly not the only creator.
@ 160 - well said.
Congratulations James! I enjoyed the great trekmovie.com interview and I hope other purists wil take note of your comments. I agree that it has been wrong for some to think nobody but the original actors could pay these characters. I love the original cast and over the last 30 years have met or at least seen each of them in person at least once but wih the right casting the characters can live on through many generations of actors and productions. I am dumbfounded by those who oppose a reimagining of the sets, etc
James has done a lot to keep Trek in the public eye since there has been no official productions for several years, and I salute him for that. But landing a role in the the upcoming movie is the icing on the cake. Congratulations, James!
James is one of us at heart. If he is excited and happy about JJ’s vision then so am I. I actually got to visit the Next Gen sets many years ago and the experience was something that will be with me forever.
If Chris Pine does not incorporate Shatner’s style is some way, at least two or three times throughout the movie, I WILL be dissapointed.
Who could ever forget the way Shatner always played it over the top?
Spock!…Transmit now! (STTMP) or, in another classic moment… Miramony!!!! (Paradise Syndrome)
#43–We’ll see.
#62–I hope so. I am not comfortable sometimes with all of this polarization going on when we have something so potentially wonderful to look forward to. Someone on another thread mentioned, “two camps”. I cringed. How horrible. There are too many good things about this project already for there to be so much anger and second-guessing of things we have yet to see.
#70–Well, so much for calming the naysayers.
#80–A step in the right direction, Ivory, I’ll give you that. Of course it won’t be the same. How could it be? It hasn’t been for a long time, with or without Bill. At least Mr. Crawley has given us some hope about how the new cast is handling their iconic roles. Sounds good.
#104–Excellent point of view.
#105–You only solve it in your minds. Most of the time it leaves too big of a mess, and none of it has ever once been proven to be crucial to JJ’s story (especially since we do not yet know what it is). All you do is tell him that “yours” is the story he should tell, and that he “must’ find a way to use a certain actor. Well, Paramount did not give you an estimated $135 million to make a Star Trek movie. They did give that budget to JJ, though. Should it not live or die on his ideas? Or should he put its future in your hands? I think the answer is clear. He should not allow armchair quarterbacks to influence his art. Otherwise, it isn’t really his.
#146–My thoughts exactly, but this news just reaffirms my faith in the upcoming film. I think it’s great.
I’ve started to believe the earlier reports (rumors) that Bill stated he would not take a cameo role in the film. If JJ would go out of his way to do this for a popular fan-film maker, then it is certainly plausible that he would have found a spot for Bill, eventually (outside of the Kirk character). Now that Bill has hurled insults at JJ, I think he has probably shut that door in his own face.
#160–I certainly disagree. You do not audition for a part and then create it. Kirk is Roddenberry’s character, just as Hamlet belongs to Shakespeare, no matter who played him first. You can say that Bill added to the character, thus helping it evolve, but “creating” and “evolving” are two distinctly different things.
I couldn’t help smiling all the way through that interview! Smiling ’til it hurt. Great news JC.
Hey… Did u give a tip or two to Chris Pine. And one more thing Jim. Whatever happens, DON’T WEAR the RED SHIRT!!!
I hope the uniforms keep the yellow/blue/red differentiation of TOS.
I think we need an update on the casting list. James Cawley, Randy Pausch, Anthony Vitale (if he’s actually not only seen in the teaser)…
So Here’s what I think we know:
The uniforms will apparently be very true to TOS
The sets and interiors will be quite dfferent but stunning and more spacious
The Ship looks much more like the TMP E, with TOS style engines and flourishes
The new ship is enormous. Prob about 800-900 meters which means we can kick the crap out of The Galactica or a Star Destroyer (not that we couldn’t do so already based on guile and phaser power)
So far so good !!!!!!!
well if james is impressed thats got to be good news for classic trek fans like me. this guy is a purist so it must be good if he’s excited about it.
good news indeed
greg
uk
#151
James was at Paramount with another person regarding other business unrelated to the JJ Abrams encounter. The other person there was Marc Zicree as he says on his new podcast.
You can hear it and/or subscibe at http://zicreesimkins.wordpress.com/
I’m really glad for James. If you’re reading this congrats.
Everyone who checks this site daily knows who you are and has to be ecstatic for you. You’ve officially landed in Gene’s universe James. good on ya. cheers from Canada.
#172 Lord Garth “So far so good!”
Right, now all they need to do is slap a dead rat on Pine’s head and the illusion will be complete! :)
nice. Very nice. Glad to hear he got not only to see the set, but to be in the movie as well…..
*SO DAMNED JEALOUS*
Fantastic Interview.
My excitement levels for this new movie just went up to eleven.
Congrats, James.
Congrats James,
And WHY are a few twisting this into a Shatner thread? Good or bad… this story isn’t about him.
Okay, I finaly got a chance to watch the video (it’s blocked at work). I am absolutly GIDDY!!! What a fantastic interview. Nice job!!! Keep up the good work!
#176 - LOL! I literally laughed out loud. :-)
Aww…Cawley sold out to the MAN!
Fight the Power!!!
Seriously, congratulations James. As someone said above, it’s like a kid getting tapped by Santa to help deliver toys on Christmas Eve.
I’m looking forward to looking for you in the movie. Too bad about the writer’s strike, or they could give you a throwaway line like, “No, ensign, that button should be GREEN.”
And I’m glad you’re digging the uniforms!
Scott B. out.
Incredible! James Cawley is like Star Trek’s version of Ben Stiller, the game is everywhere. Glad he was so enthusiastic. Sheesh, the question soon is who isn’t going to be in this movie? D’oh, oh yeah, Shatner. J.J. has two Kirks out of three. It’s really have your cake and eat it to if he could have brought in Shatner. But man, that would have been a great cake! :(
They probably won’t be continuing the red shirt tradition. More likely the ill-fated crewmember will have a look of doom about him. Cawley looks like he could easily wind up inside a carniverous plant.
James is the man!!!
Mr Cawley imho has done more to keep Star Trek alive than the last three series combined.
I’d go as far as saying his New Voyages episode with George Takei was among the best Star Trek of the last 15 years.
I trust your opinion on the new film and the cast.
ps: Hey James, tell your buddy J.J. that VOODOO said he should slip Shatner into the new movie + good luck on the new film. I’m sure you will have a blast.
I’m glad that James Cawley is impressed with the new movie. I’m equally glad that he is going to be in it. He definitely deserves to be a part of it, and I truly believe that his New Voyages series effectively demonstrated that these classic parts could be played by other actors. I’m sure that J.J. Abrams and company must have realized this after watching Cawley’s series– and helped give them the confidence to go forward with their project. May this new Star trek movie live long and prosper, and may James Cawley and New Voyages continue to do what they do so well. It is very exciting to be a Star Trek fan right now, and I’ve been there since the very beginning. As a young kid I remember sitting in front of the TV watching TOS in prime time. It aired on Friday nights, by the way.
Hi, Anthony and James, thanks for the report. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
Now, some of you may know the syndicated radio reporter Mike Evans; I’ll provide the link below. His report made the rounds yesteerday.
Here’s what he wrote, but take it with a grain of salt — how much of this film has been filmed? Who did he talk to? Same for Harry Potter, which he said on my local station “Not one of the better [movies]”
http://www.evansradio.com/blog/index.php
Mike wrote (and as he asked, don’t send the guy hate e-mail); no publicity is bad publicity — maybe):
Watching Cawley’s interview reminded me of a similar situation from a few years back, when Sci-Fi was premiering the new Battlestar Galactica. Richard Hatch, who played Apollo in the original series, had been trying to re-launch his own version of BSG for years with no luck. Hatch was dead-set against the new series and seemed genuinely unimpressed with the mini-series.
Then he got a call from Ron Moore to visit the set, and was later offered the role of political dissident Tom Zarek. After seeing the production in action and working on the show himself, Hatch had a big change of heart and embraced the new show, saying that while it wasn’t his Galactica he was excited to be a part of the new BSG.
Cawley’s words sound very much the same. I’m glad he had a chance to really see what Abrams’ and his crew are doing and I’m really glad he got a chance to tell us about it. I’m so damn jealous of him!
And finally, a question. Anthony, is that you off-camera conducting the interview with Cawley? If so, I’m jealous of you, too. All this inside info you’re getting…you must be bursting at the seams!
I shouldn’t feed the Shatner hijacks, but this is pretty far down the commentary…
When Spock was brought back from the dead, an entire movie was dedicated to it.
If Shatner’s Kirk were brought back from death, it should not be set in a movie that’s about something else in a different time period. A major character coming back to life should not be treated lightly. It would cheapen the entire series, worse than changing someone back from a salamander during commercial break.
J. Parker…Mike Evans is the same guy who reported last month that “Shatner says he hopes the film bombs”…something I haven’t been able to confirm. He is probably just repeating that
Buckaroohawk
RE: is that me
Yes all video interviews for TrekMovie.com are done by me.
Great interview…James, congratulations. Has my green blood burning & heart pumping for the new release! :-)
I’ve never seen this man’s New Voyages but I was impressed by his enthusiam for JJ’s film. It all sounds so good and so right, and I know I’m going to enjoy the movie when it comes out, but I just can’t help think that without Shatner it’s gonna feel incomplete. I know most of you have accepted his absence and are happy with the way things are going, but I really believe his particpation in the film would be the icing on the cake and make this film the ultimate Star Trek we’ve been waiting for.
It will be a great movie! You can tell that the buzz is fantastic! (news reports,etc.) Nemesis came and went with a wimper, but, this movie is getting great press and p.r. and I think that Nimoy’s involvement proves that it is true to the story, Nimoy would not be involved if it did not. It will be fantastic!
It would be a lot of fun if the movie has a gag where Cawley is the first person we see in the captain’s chair, like this is the new Kirk, then it turns out he’s the night watch or something.
Ref. the uniforms, James Cawley said that “When I saw the look of what he was going for, he’s got it. “, that to me DOESN’T mean that the TOS uniforms have been reproduced. This is set BEFORE what we’ve seen already so there’s no reason that the crew would be wearing the same uniforms, in fact you could argue that if they are wearing anything that we’ve seen before it wouldn’t be the black collared uniforms that we’re used to seeing Kirk (Shatner & James Cawley) in but the uniform that Pike wore in The Cage.
As a full-blooded Trekkie I’m still a little unsure about what’s going to be produced but I’ll give it a chance!!
I really don’t like New Voyages, but I am glad that a self-styled “purist” can put aside nostalgia and embrace a bigger Trek. I do like that he admitted that they were cruising by the sound stage trying to catch whatever they could. There is now way he would accidently walk right by the production and not know what they were filming inside.
Read the article. Decided not to read the comments for now so as not to influence my reaction to what I read.
I like how his comments are complimentary, yet he took the time to point out that he would have done things differently. He doesn’t really reveal how things are different, and that he bought into some of it, but not all.
Glad to see he is not going all ga-ga over it just because he was given a role. Most of the other people who have been involved in the production to any degree have pretty much just been spewing out the “It’s-great-no-matter-what” lines.
I have no doubt that much of what they are doing could be considered “spectacular” according to some point-of-view. Whether or not that will be according to my own remains to be seen.
Odds are I will not agree with much of what they do when it comes to this “Star Trek”, but I appreciated the way Mr. Cawley presented his point-of-view on the goings-on as much as he could.
seriously, that corridor looks like it has a limbo pole going through it…
http://www.sonfishstudios.com/corridor.jpg
on second thought, maybe its just the angle…
I like that James Cawley kid, he seems to be pretty damned cool. He’s one lucky guy to be in his position right now.
He really needs to work on the hair color though. Looks utterly fake.
200th.
I gave the link to the teaser to a lot of people. Most replied that they’re not interested in Star Trek and never will be. How could you possibly change that? Most of the people I know think I’m just crazy about trek (crazy in a negative meaning) and don’t want to see anything about the new movie :(
Finally got to watch the vid (damned field laptop - I do computer and network support in the field for a living, and you’d think that if they’d give me a friggin’ portable with Sprint wireless and all the audio hardware built in, they’d also make sure it had SPEAKERS BUILT IN!!!!!!!!!).
*AHEM*
Anthony, that was one (dare I say it) fascinating interview. Being somewhat circumspect, it doesn’t surprise me that J.J. might ask Cawley what he thought after each take. Most of the behind-the-camera principals from TOS have long since moved on, and Cawley himself admits he’s a purist. Given the amount of resources he’s poured into preserving the TOS legacy, and the notoriety he’s garnered in the process, he’s probably as close to a walking Wikipedia on the subject as Abrams will find. The whole ‘chance encounter’ aspect of it makes the needle on my B.S. meter flutter a little, but that’s not a hair worth splitting. For whatever reasons, he worked at it, and he got rewarded. The American Dream, baby. ;-)
Very cool. I respect James’ opinion because he IS a purist, as I am. I’m really hoping I’ll love this movie. All this hype and build up for a two hour film…could any version really live up to it? Probably not initially but with the passage of time I hope those in the negative camp will warm up to it and accept it for what it is.
The teaser is superb. If the rest of the film is of the same quality I think we’ll have a winner, and I can hardly wait.
Well, for me that would seem to seal it. Extraordinary coolness being exhibited by JJ Abrams towards Cawley. This obviously shows that JJ is not an insulated film-maker. He is aware of the world of Star Trek, it’s fans and it’s goings on. And he IS respectful of it, to boot. We all, as fans, have been offered an olive branch of trust and good faith through the person of James Cawley by Abrams. I interpret it as a way of saying that the respect for the original series is there. The man must be allowed to make the movie he envisions now.
And my respect for James Cawley has gone up about 5 dozen notches. I wasn’t purely a detractor though, as I straddled the fence when it came to his production. WEaT was excellent Trek, but some other offerings were uneven at best. I also didn’t like his initial comments about the Enterprise about a month ago. But after hearing that interview, I like the guy. And I don’t think he wasoffered a part just to get good publicity and to win skeptics over. I think that JJ genuinely respects James and his love of Star Trek. And who couldn’t respect one person’s single-minded devotion?
JJ and James, I am still waiting for the call to be a sacrificial red-shirt. At no expense. Call Anthony, he has my e-mail.
I hope for a 3 h movie… EPIC
I am still betting there will be a double decker bridge set
Mr Cawley,
You are truly living your dream and it shows on your face. Good luck to you, sir!
#198 It’s the angle, there’s a railing along the walls. From the near corner on the right it juts out far enough to appear to cross the corridor behind it.
The corridors are supposed to be from a camera during construction, so these would be the “unfinished” look.
Okay, so the sets are cool, the cast is young and beautiful, the E looks close enough, Nimoy’s on board - so far, so good. Now gimme a good script. More often than not, the script is the weak link. Most of the ST films were, IMO, mediocre stories compared to the original premise and what it had to offer. No space opera, no cheesy Kobayashi Maru scenes, please. Getting the characters right, with so much prior work and history to draw from, is important but ultimately not the measure of success. ST will truly be reborn and reinvigorated if this movie gives us a real science fiction story that both entertains as compelling drama and makes us think. If they can do that, the franchise is in good hands. But good SF is typically hard to write. And from what we’ve heard about the script so far, which, granted, is not much, I’m skeptical.
#187
So his ‘insiders’ gave every movie 3 stars? Including Rambo (a film each and every person on this planet knows will be dog feces). Can’t say I’m terribly worried about his opinion.
174. Da Big Fire-Chief!
[James was at Paramount with another person regarding other business unrelated to the JJ Abrams encounter. The other person there was Marc Zicree as he says on his new podcast.]
Then we have caught James in a LIE already!
In the interview he mentions it was a “SHE” the he was accompanying on a walk through the lot. (See comment @ 1:40)
tisk, tisk James. Has fame goes to your head so quickly?
Please do’nt stop what your doing on New Voyages either! I hope Paramont is going to offer you a deal on more. Think of what you could do with just 1% of Trek XIs budget!
Nice analysis too, (#188) Buckaroohawk!
I would give anything to be in James situation right now!
Set design sounds awesome and sounds like the uniforms are gonna look great as well. It’s good to hear those kinds of things from someone who has seen shooting take place. Oh and it sounds like the performances of the actors are great as well.
I just get more and more excited about this movie as each passing day goes by.
I don’t think New Voyages is that great, but I think Cawley has done a terrific job with much of it. I don’t care for the term “purist” however. To me it just means stuck in the 60s. Abrams is smart enough to know better than to emulate a low budget look.
But congrats to Jim! That must be very exciting. He seems like a nice guy and I’m glad for him.
This whole “Suddenly there’s JJ Abrams” thing isn’t cutting it with me. I have a feeling Abrams invited him to the set. It sounds too good to be true and made up.
Either way I’m jealous. :)
Ballzio
If Pine’s hair is like his pappy’s he might just need it in the next 10 years!!!
Get over it, folks.
Fate has a wonderful way of happening. I believe Mr. Cawley’s story.
Exciting news. James is among the purist of the pure when it comes to being faithful to the Original Series. If he endorses JJ, then I am fully onboard.
I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes peeled!
Like most, I’m reeal happy to hear the uniforms will pretty much stay the same. They totally pulled off the retro-uniforms on Enterprise’s 2-parter “in a Mirror Darkly” they looked great.
Its very incouraging to get Cawleys indorsment on this. I’m betting he dosnt get a Red-shirt because he will also have parts in the sequels.
Thanks Anthony for this great interview. !
Keep in mind folks, the uniforms are going to be similar to those we saw in “The Cage” and of Finnegan’s uniform in “Shore Leave.” Now, I don’t recall seeing a red shirt in “The Cage.” Was there one? I realize that people are talking in jest about putting Cawley in a red uni… but SHOULD there be red uni’s in this?
Off topic: I wonder if that’s how they figured out how to kill Spock: put EVERYBODY in red.
219. OR Coast Trekkie
[Off topic: I wonder if that’s how they figured out how to kill Spock: put EVERYBODY in red. ]
Ughhh.
Hope not. I was not impressed with those spy pics from a month ago.
I look forward to the continued efforts of the Trek team to ease us into their “take” on the original series. Maybe Trek’s future is in good hands.
It’s too early to tell of course but at least the signs are positive so far…
That blond hair on Cawley’s head really has me puzzled.
Hasn’t anyone told him that it just screams out BAD DYE JOB?
I should know.
Just got back from checking my in-box.
JJ? James? I’m ready! Hello?
(is this thing plugged in?)
#36 Too funny man, too funny.
So instead of the Shat we get James C.? I’m cool with that. So if or when they bring ST back to tv James could have a real shot at being in it. They could do “ST: After TMP Wonder Years”. That’s an area that has some potential.
But seriousily, after all James has done, the time & money he’s spent he deserves a reward like this. Now as long as it doesn’t end up on the cutting room floor is another matter…I’m kidding. Good luck James.
There was indeed RED Shirts in the cage …also Blue and Gold…they are very pale they can be seen clearly in the remastered version the regular TV series had deteriated on the true greyscale and thus such suttle colors cant be seen well.
I have never known James to Embelish or BS anybody
he dosnt have to.
Any other fanfilm actors been asked by an established studio to do real work??
I can’t wait to see this movie now
#222 Edith Keeler “That blond hair on Cawley’s head”
You’ve got that right! He looks like he stepped off the set of a Beach Blanket Bingo movie. Let’s hope JJ gives him a trim before they start shooting! Yikes!! :)
After reading and viewing the Cawley material above, I must admit my curiosity got the better of me and I went to the New Voyages site and watched “World Enough and Time.”
I was surprised at how it held my interest and was entertaining. It’s hard to suspend disbelief with some of the acting, but all-in-all it was better than previous outings (which I never watched in the entirety.) I’m no big George Takei fan and I thought his costume was, well, “not the way I would have done it” ;) ….but Mr. Takei did a nice job with this. Christina Moses was quite fetching, I must say, as his daughter.
Kind of a strange hybrid of original sets, good-but too “modern” effects, and a combination of sixties and non-sixties style production and performance.
Having seen the preview for the next installment, I can’t say I’m really anxious to see that (or that Koenig one), though.
On a related note, I would very much like to see the conclusion to the Exeter episode. I like that idea better than watching people try to play Kirk and Spock, etc.
I’ll tell you what, though. I give Mr. Cawley and company credit for their efforts at making this production respectful to the original ship and set designs and coming up with an entertaining story. A definite step above the average “fan film.” All-in-all I enjoyed watching it.
Not trying to trash Mr. Cawley here but this is the first thing JJ has done that worries me a lot. Up until now he has been casting the most credible and talented actors available. Not a crowd Mr. Cawley has much in common with.
Mr. Cawley gets a real salute for everything he does except as an actor. I suspect one of two things will happen: JJ will either do take after take after take trying to get a barely passable performance out of him or he’ll end up on the cutting room floor. I doubt the latter.
Ok, who’s pretending to be Stanky? A positive post?
It is somewhat weird how much Cawley has flipped on his purist point of view. There’s quite a bit praise for AJ in the interview. Almost too much.
Like how you sudenly love your job after getting a raise.
re: 229 Xai
Listen, Bucco, I can be positive about things I’m positive about. ;)
In this case, I just pointed out the aspects of The New Voyage episode that I liked, as well as some of those I was not that thrilled with. If you want to take that as some new-found positivity, then so be it.
You might notice that I did not really mention the “movie”.
But if you are looking for me to become the same type of Abrams bootlicker as some of the people who inhabit this site, then you will be sorely disappointed, Mojambo.
Wow, I have to say after watching the interview w/E…er I mean JC, & reading all the comments, my excitement on the new film is doubled. Don’t know how much of a speaking part (if any) this would be due to the writer’s strike unless it was already a secondary or background character written in the script but it’s great!
NOw we have to look for James Cawley & Dr. Randy Paucsh (on the bridge) from Carnagie Mellon in the film- a great lecture I might add!
Anthony thanks for that story posting last week-watched the entire thing and was captivated. Congrats to James again!!!!!!!!
What’s with that comb-across on Cawley?
Is that his real hair.
He does have a great talent for recreating sets and costumes, but the New Voyages episodes are terrible.
I do appreciate his enthusiasm, and hope that he’s not being used as a tool to generate fan support.
Edith
Now that I’ve seen this interview and have heard James Cawley’s opinion about it, I have no worries.
I can’t imagine Cawley having any more than 3-4 lines. I’d imagine he’d be one of the engineering assistants, or a security guy, or his voice call the captain while he is in a meeting with the senior staff…
# 231 Stanky “Listen, Bucco……then you will be sorely disappointed, Mojambo”
Well, which is it, Bucco or Mojambo?? :)
Every S.T. film must have its cringe moment(s).
Good call, Edith. I can’t stand Cawley’s “Jim Carrey-inspired” take on Kirk. Does anybody else remember that old In Living Color skit? Cawley should stick to producing, directing and anything else that keeps him off screen.
222 & 226
James has dyed his hair black for years in his role as Elvis. His natural hair color is sandy blonde. It looks this way because of all the black dye.
Sarge
BTW,
James, I’m jealous! Congrats!
Sarge
Wow, what a great story — J.J. is a class act. Congratulations, Mr. Cawley! A few months ago I watched “World Enough and Time,” and was pleasantly surprised. I had never been able to make it through a fan film until this one; sure, there were moments that lost me, but overall I was really impressed with how you were able to nail the essence of classic Trek.
It’s exciting to read your reactions about the costumes & bridge set. You’re living the fan’s dream, that’s for sure!
#219, I predict the the uniforms will look like the ones used in the cage in the beginning and then end with the traditional ones… This just seems like the logical thing to do with the cannon of the uniforms. IMO :)
^
I was expecting the worst on this uniform look. Now I’m releaved.
re: 236 Harry
“Well, which is it, Bucco or Mojambo?? :)”
Sorry, I meant to say “Buccambo” and “Mojucco”.
Cool - what a dream come true for James.
JJ sounds cool and it’s encouraging to hear his thoughts as it relates to the new Trek and the Roddenberry philosophy.
Cawley didn’t say the uniforms looks like TOS. He said “When I saw the look of what he was going for, he’s got it.” You’re assuming that because Cawley is a “purist” that the uniforms are TOS style. I wouldn’t get your hopes up.
Frankly, the original uniforms are pretty silly from a military/space exploration perspective. I can’t imagine Abrams using them. I hope not, at least.
I didn’t think it possible that Abrams could further dilute the film. I admire Cawley, bu