July 26, 2006
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Sitting in a dimly-lit room that seemed to be laced in mildew and broken dreams, my college film professor bestowed a nugget of wisdom I’ve carried to the ripe old age of 28: “In film, never work with kids, bouncing balls or dogs.”
I assumed the bouncing ball comment was a momentary lapse into one of his acid flashbacks until I tried to bounce a ball perfectly in and out of frame in one of my own films; 38 takes later, perfection. I took this bequeathed knowledge to heart from then on. Therefore, when the decision to do a dog challenge on “Project Runway 3: Attack of the Clones” came to fruition, I cried to myself: “Why, Satan, why?”
Alas, the Dog Challenge had more than one hoop to jump through before it could take off running around the track. (Count ‘em -- 2 dog references in 1 sentence! And yes, eye see that eye’m starting to type like Prince.) First, the challenge had been slated for later in the season, which would have cut down the number of pooches needed (believe me, these quadrupeds don’t come cheap) while simultaneously giving production more time to prepare location, props and logistics for the challenge. Unfortunately for me and my segment producer, Julia, who produced this episode, a sponsor backed out of the show -- leaving the third episode slot emptier than my prom night. (“Mom, what do you mean Jessi isn’t coming? I rented this tux from After Six!”) Luckily, our wise Executive Producer Senor Bye -- check out the blogvideo footage for his well-chiseled face -- had insisted that we go with professional dogs for the episode to minimize headaches. This allowed Julia and I to make one phone call to our helpful friends at “Animals in Advertising” and change our order from a handful of dogs to the more Wicca-friendly 13.
Now, I considered being a mathematics major in college and soaring to the levels of Paul Erdös, so I should have paid more attention to the ominous cloud associated with the number 13. The night before shooting of “A Designer’s Best Friend” was to take place, we noticed the Project Runway distress light pierce the New York skyline (it’s a big sewing needle with a silhouette of Tim Gunn). Following the beacon to Central Park, we ended up at the location for the morning’s shoot. Before us was a forty-foot tree limb that had fallen from a massive oak, right where the designers were to stand. Luckily, we avoided the potential maiming of at least seven designers, but the limb left us with two unappealing options: find another locale in the dark of night or allow Tim Gunn to reenact a favorite scene from “Fargo” -- sans body -- blanketing Central Park in saw dust with wood-chipper.
Comments
Jim wrote:
Having worked as a stage technician for many years, I find your blog to be hilarious I understand the backstage and behind the scenes antics and mishaps that the audience never sees. Thanks for the reminder of the chaotic comedy of off camera! And congrats on the Emmy nods! You guys deserve it.
posted on July 27, 2006 at 3:27 AM
CE Gonzales wrote:
As a producer of the show, I have some questions for you. I know from a story in the Washington Post that the sponsors have something to do with who stays/ who goes (making better television, supposedly). It feels to me that this season that is even more evident. Some things -- good and bad -- are clearly overlooked. Examples: Kayne's pageant dress -- design was beautiful but the fit was terrible! It did not fit the model in the torso, all bunched and puckered. Maybe it was because Michael Kors wasn't there -- always the sharpest eye with fit/finish. It was a beautiful dress, but I was surprised nothing was said about the poor fit. On the other hand, Kayne had an outstanding outfit last night (dog show) and he didn't make the cut. Yeah, I know he had immunity, but his design should still be recognized. I think he was sacrificed for Bradley, whom I love, just so we could see the end of his story.
I just feel like there is a lot of behind the scenes manipulation that wasn't there in the first two seasons.
I know you probably can't say anything, but maybe other bloggers can weigh in.
posted on July 27, 2006 at 9:01 AM
Rob wrote:
That's it for me!!!
Santino last season! Wendy Pepper the first!!!
Still I refused to believe that certain people were being kept on the show for their potential for future conflict.
Now season three (which I had been awaiting most eagerly) and we get three utter buffoons getting pass after pass for no reason that I can fathom while hard working, well meaning designers get sacrificed in their place. Vincent and Angela are jokes - designing and making outfits that stand as caricature of what fashion is meant to be.
Then there's Keith. A major talent, to be sure. But a complete jerk, which in itself doesn't really matter (this is not a popularity contest, after all) but his weekly snubbing of the judges coupled with last week's absolute refusal to play by the rules leaves me bewildered as to his continued presence on the show.
The rumors have become absolute truth to me: The judges at the runway are window dressing, the real calls are made by producers and their market analysts in the wings.
Too bad. I really, really did like the show. I wonder if "Midsommer Murders" is back on Wednesday night?
posted on July 27, 2006 at 12:21 PM
Dan Szuhay wrote:
I loved the producer's commentary. Very witty. I do agree with what other bloggers are saying. I think decisions are being made on who stays and who goes based on who will make "good" TV and who will not. I was talking with a friend this morning and it also seems evident that some designers were choosen because they add drama to the program, not good design and other designers were choosen because they could easily be eliminated. I do understand the need to create a watchable show, but this season seems to be more "produced" then the first two seasons. Anything over produced loses it's original freshness and appeal. Risk taking and letting things flow naturely makes good TV, not a bunch of people trying to manipulate the situation.
posted on July 27, 2006 at 1:07 PM
rikki wrote:
Note to PR video editorial staff. Although your preview about “having to ask someone to leave” was meant to be a teaser really turned into a spoiler. Fast forward to the end of the show. Angela and Katherine are on the “auf”ing block. Who will go? Hello!!! The teaser preview showed Angela with her classic stunned look meaning she is in episode 4. Thus, is Angela or Katherine out? Surprise!!! Returning from the commercial break, Katherine is out. Nice going!!!
posted on July 27, 2006 at 1:43 PM
Elizabeth wrote:
Coming from someone who is just an enthusiastic and loyal viewer of PR, I just want to say how much I love your show and these blogs keep me entertained at work. This one is definitely my favorite, though. Keep up the good work!
posted on July 28, 2006 at 1:07 PM
Miss Dish wrote:
I'm glad I found your blog. Actually, Daniel V sent us here for some laughs and good Dish about the show. First, congrats on the emmy nomination(s)! I hope someone on PR is awarded an emmy.
I did love the last episode with the dogs, but I wish you kept the title as "Man's (Girl's) Best Friend." I love animals and hated to see your show call those adorable dogs "accessories." But I wish I could have seen the entire version of Robert and his dog Chanel. What you did show on tv was hilarious but it almost looked like he was close to abusing the dog trying to get the poor thing to sit or stay still. I don't think PR should work with anymore live animals in the future (but I think you probably learned your lession after this one!).
I agree with the other posters who say that some of the designers are kept on for their personality or drama potential rather than their design potential. Look at Santino from last season! He should have been auf'd after that lingerie fiasco he produced! I wouldn't be caught dead in any of those pieces he made. And the thought of wearing them to bed for my husband...? Yikes!! Did Santino think the challenge was to make a halloween costume? Then I would get it.
Ok, this season, please tell the producers the name of the show is Project Runway and not the "Angela and Vincent Show"? Both of them are idiots and neither can design for sh#t. Keeping them on the show is lowering the quality of the program, and I hope the producers realize that even though they are causing a lot of people to talk about the show, it's all negative! Highlight the good designers. Like Michael. He's been kept in the backgroud and he really should be showcased more because his designs are very modern and innovative. Can't believe he hasn't been in the top 3 the past few weeks. But my god, if you have any influence, help get rid of Angela and Vincent! They are bringing down the quality of the show!
My best to you on the show and in studying math (I majored in physics and math when I went to college).
Miss Dish
posted on July 28, 2006 at 2:11 PM
Lexie wrote:
hahaha... oh my god.
i've just finished reading your lovely ramblings from the last 3 episodes. They were quite entertaining.
The combination of your blog and Daniel V's has kept me chuckling (or positively laughing-out-loud) for a good hour. :) Thanks for that.
Lexie
posted on July 28, 2006 at 2:40 PM
Rob Citino wrote:
Rucker--
In the PR blogosphere, you are the CHAMP. The funniest and most informative dish on our favorite show. And I really dug that extrended "Bad News Bears" metaphor.
--RC
posted on July 28, 2006 at 3:24 PM
Sara wrote:
empty on prom night??? awww, that is awful. You don't deserve that!! I would've gone with you! :)
posted on July 28, 2006 at 5:41 PM
Adjy wrote:
I really appreciate the behind the scenes look of what goes on to create the show!!!!!
posted on July 28, 2006 at 9:25 PM
Sal wrote:
Hey Michael, just a note to say that I really enjoy your clever blog. So much so that I would choose to read it first, if not for Tim's Take, but I'm guessing you'll not be offended...being displaced by Senior Statesman Gunn.
RE: your film Professor, "I assumed the bouncing ball comment was a momentary lapse into one of his acid flashbacks until I tried to bounce a ball perfectly in and out of frame in one of my own films; 38 takes later, perfection."
Brilliant (!)flashback.....to my college sculpture Prof. whose oft repeated phrase was, "You must Solve the Problem." (think Ben Stein in Bueller) To this day, my college roomie and I call each other up and suggest that our lives would be greatly improved if we just endeavored to ...Solve the Problem. On that topic, do you magical elves have any catch-quotes? Warm regards, and keep writing!
posted on July 29, 2006 at 1:08 AM
CGR wrote:
dude rucker is hysterical!
super cute too! Congrats on the emmy nom. i'm stupid for project runway. love the blog!
posted on July 29, 2006 at 1:56 AM
Piglet Wildebeest wrote:
Erm... about those "fetish novels"... I take it you've found certain communities on Livejournal then eh? :-)
I have to say that the image of Tim Gunn with the dogs was absolutely priceless... (as was Nina Garcia's elated reaction to Bradley's quite awful design)
posted on July 29, 2006 at 8:40 AM
Cathy wrote:
Congratulations on the Emmy nomination. The producers and show totally deserve to win; Runway is the best reality show on TV right now, and has been from the beginning. It is the only show that I make a point of watching, and everyone is talking about it.
posted on July 29, 2006 at 12:26 PM
Brenda wrote:
Just wanted you to know I read your blog twice. The first day it was up and today, Sunday. I get such a kick out of it and love all the information, this blog is a great idea and you do it justice. Thanks
posted on July 29, 2006 at 6:24 PM
jacy wrote:
Hey mike ,
Love ur blog but I'm sure u must have some other hot producers on the show due u think u could give them a shout out so they can feel the love
posted on July 29, 2006 at 10:53 PM
Gayle Cane wrote:
Read the blog as recommended by Daniel V. I enjoyed it and will read it again.
posted on July 30, 2006 at 8:19 AM
Sherry wrote:
Thank you for writing this! I have to say your blog is witty and insightful. I love it!!! Now I have the wonderful Mr Gunn and your blogs to read every week. Thanks again!
posted on July 30, 2006 at 6:54 PM
jen wrote:
I have a question-- BPR linked to the application for designers for PR3, and it mentions that while the panelists (Tim and co.) make recommendations to the producers and network about who should be on the show, the producers make the final decision. Understanding that this is legalese, could you talk about that process a bit-- how much of the casting is really done by the panelists and how much by producers?
Or is that stuff secret? XD
Thanks, love the blog!
Jen
posted on July 31, 2006 at 11:28 AM
Kait wrote:
Just wanted to say good luck at the emmys - individually and as a group!
posted on July 31, 2006 at 2:05 PM
marina wrote:
Hey there, congrats on the Emmy nom! And major thumbs up on the Paul Erdös mention, I love to see people giving props to my fellow Magyars (Hungarians.) Anyhoo, just wanted to say I was reading yer blog BEFORE Daniel V. sent everyone over here... the stains from me spraying mouthfuls of coffee on my keyboard due to uncontrollable laughter are proof. As For Alison and/or Kayne telling Nina "it puts the lotion in the basket??" -- you win. The Hilarious Prize I mean.
posted on July 31, 2006 at 7:21 PM
stella wrote:
brilliant, to say the least.
posted on July 31, 2006 at 10:03 PM
Godiva wrote:
Ahem.
A dog is not an accessory.
Say it again.
And again.
Now do it again, but sound sincere.
That said it was a great challenge. And whoever chose the dogs did a great job. They all seemed to be well-behaved, if less enthusiastic about some of their sartorial accoutrements.
Laura may not be a dog person but she did well. Vincent should know....many dogs do not like hats. Mine doesn't mind. My previous two dogs would not tolerate anything on their heads.
Make a note.
Alcohol is good. Chocolate is better.
For vintage Louis Vuitton luggage...try eBay. (currently 38 auctions. Oooo nice steamer trunk. And I want that wardrobe!)
And didn't you know? Dogs help to lower you blood pressure.
My bumper sticker reads "Dog is my Copilot" Okay. Makes more sense when my dog is riding in the passenger seat.
Does Macy's sell Tuxes?
posted on August 1, 2006 at 4:09 AM
coachwife6 wrote:
Your blog is the most entertaining and most interesting on this site. I love it. Keep up the good work.
posted on August 1, 2006 at 5:18 PM
Ginny wrote:
I agree. Angela should have been gone this week. Haven't you all noticed that she wears the same skirt in different colors every week and then she has the audacity to make one for the runway show and stand they're in her matching one in a different color! And she doesn't go!? Katherine' dress may not be the MOST orriginal dress, but it was preatty enough adn the dog's was by far one of the best, which was part of the challenge.
WHY DID BRADLEY STAY?! The top had horrible construction. He was trying to go for Daniel Vosovic's lily inspired top from season two INspiratio challenge, but failed miserably. It gave the model the shape of a bag being thrown over her. Producers, here's a hint. People who are watching the show are watching because they love fashion, and they do know enough to tell when somethign is ugly and when someone needs to go. So if the pecking order doesn't include Bradley, Angela, and Ugly-basket-hat guy need to go. NOW!
posted on August 1, 2006 at 9:41 PM
marisstella wrote:
I love reading your blog! I also wanted to comment to folks that think that they get rid of people for dramatic effect that if this is the case, they are doing a terrible job, because watching the crap that comes from Angela is painful. And poor Vincent -- his creative process is stuck back in the time period when he was successful. He needs to just modernize it because the 80's are coming back As it is, his clothes just screams "time warp."
All personal favorites aside, I think you guys are doing a great job and your Emmys are well deserved. Your blog is fantastic and informative and the highlight of my pre-weekend mornings (what can I say? i lead an exciting life). Keep up the good work and dishing out the details.
posted on August 2, 2006 at 10:20 AM
Tracey wrote:
Just wanted to say (in reference to Daniel V's referal of people to your blog) that I read your blog every week and just because I've never responded in the comments section until now, doesn't mean I don't love it! I'm sure a lot of other people out there would fall into this category as well.
TO ALL OTHER READERS: It would be interesting to know what you do for a living...just to see what kind of demographics P.R. has. Could you include your job titles next to your names?
-Tracey (Engineer/FORD)
posted on August 2, 2006 at 11:35 AM
Anna wrote:
Your witty banter is quite amusing and the picture of you in a crown is priceless.
posted on August 2, 2006 at 11:42 AM
Tracy wrote:
I love this blog! It really gives you the details on the "other side" of the camera.
posted on August 2, 2006 at 5:26 PM
Akasha wrote:
Your blog never fails to make me laugh and think. Every time I watch PR, it seems as though I always concentrate less on what's going on with the designers and more on "how on earth are they getting all this to work?" I'll be graduating from high school this year (I know, I'm a young'n) and want to go into a field of work very similar to yours. I come from a family of backstage theater technicians, and seem to be following perfectly in their footsteps, loving every minute of it. You all deserve that Emmy, and I look forward to being wowed some more. Keep up the fantastic work!
posted on August 2, 2006 at 8:58 PM
Lyn (SassMaster) wrote:
I'm totally digging your blog (I'm a huge P-Run fan), but wanted to offer some constructive criticism.
I'm a fan of drama as much as the next gal, but this season to me seems so far more about the drama and less about the clothes. I really want to see the clothes more -- have you sped up the runway presentation or is it me? I find myself rewinding my TiVo to re-watch the runway presentation a few times to try to get a good sense for the FULL outfits, and even then I feel like I'm not getting a good look. Like for instance, until the judging, you didn't really ever get to see the bottom cuff of the Allison / Jeffrey pants this week (which were fab once you did get to see them).
PS I'm also a little surprised you made such a big deal about kicking Keith off in terms of the buildup for WEEKS now ("The moment you've been waiting for...." "A Pro-Run First....", etc.) when it really wasn't nearly so exciting in reality! Yes, he deserved to get booted, and off he went, but it wasn't as scandeliscious as the promos led us to believe.... I appreciate that you you need to suck in viewers and get ratings, but it's also important to balance that with managing fans' expectations (reality) because otherwise they (like me) are a little disgruntled with the show when they feel misled.
posted on August 3, 2006 at 4:26 PM
MelanieAnneMc wrote:
You talk about bouncing a ball so many times and all I can think about is the modern version of the movie The House on Haunted Hill and the spinning chamber room where the lunatic guy bounces that ball over and over. Watching Bradley having a hard time woking and stressing out caused me stress. I could really feel his stress coming through the t.v. screen. Love your blog and all the behind the scenes info.
posted on August 8, 2006 at 12:14 AM