Entry 09 - Huston We Fixed A Problem

October 19, 2007

Entry 09 - Space Games Headquarters, Farmington, UT

We don't have much time to write now as we're heading out to a semi-relaxed dinner (our second for the week -- second semi-relaxed dinner, that is ... not our second dinner).

Our plan as of now is to try and save money. We're going to fly standby on the last flight out on Monday. Sadly, that only gains us a little less than two hours and involves a layover, which isn't great. However, that two hours could make a world of difference. But, should we miss something spectacular, there will be enough cameras rolling here that aren't ours (and we've made friends with virtually everyone here) that we'll have access to the tapes.

We've done a ton of interviews in various locations. At this point we just need the content, so unfortunately the lighting has suffered, which Dan isn't happy about. But better that than nothing. And in the end, we were here to do a bare-bones test film, not the full slam dunk. But we have more than enough OUTSTANDING footage and some really great interviews.

We walk around now and get waved at and people come up to us and start conversations. We've been up against the previous year's film crews in the sense that they have been in the way, done stupid things (so we're told), shot and edited poorly, or came and shot and then disappeared off the face of the planet. Honestly, it was a difficult hurdle earning people's trust but it's a pretty safe bet that we've done just that.

In addition, we've been getting Polaroids of each of our interviewees. These will serve two purposes. First, we'll be able to keep track of everyone when we're back in Chicago. Secondly, we're thinking of using them in the credit sequence. Nic started started a competition with the people here for the best Bitter Jester Polaroid photo. Currently, Dr. Brad Edwards (the guy who basically "wrote the book" on Space Elevators) is the record holder. Not only are two of his fingers in his mouth making a face, but his eyes are crossed.

He said "Man, this is going to come back and haunt me, I just know it." We all just laughed. Who does he think we are!?

:-)

Ok. Now it's off to dinner, then to interview the Japanese team ... and then drink Saki and Bud Light with them. They requested Bud Light ... so that's what we're bringing.