Exclusive Preview 4: The Write Environment with Tim Kring (Heroes)
In my fourth preview of the DVD series The Write Environment, I have to admit that I was enthralled by the interview with Heroes creator/executive producer/writer Tim Kring. The DVD, which was released today and is available on the official site and Amazon for only $11.99, would make a fantastic stocking stuffer for any aspiring writer and Heroes fan. I have seen every episode of Heroes thus far, and while I enjoyed the first episode of this third season – I’m not in love with the current story lines. That being said, I stand by my initial assessment of the first season…that it was one of the most stellar and compelling debuts in recent television history. Before creating the fan favorite series Heroes, the Emmy-nominated Kring (Outstanding Drama Series; Heroes in 2007, Chicago Hope in 1997) created, produced and wrote for Crossing Jordan. Prior to that, Kring wrote and produced episodes of Providence and Chicago Hope. Kring’s first foray into writing for series television, however, was an episode of the original Knight Rider in 1982, followed by several made-for-TV movies. Entertaining career note: in 1987, he and former Heroes/Lost producer Jeph Loeb co-wrote the film Teen Wolf Too (the sequel with Jason Bateman replacing Michael J. Fox). When the interview begins, we are introduced to Kring’s office space on the studio lot. In addition to a smattering of awards statues around the room, there is original art from Heroes artist Tim Sale framed along the walls. [Personal aside: I had the opportunity to meet Sale earlier this year in person, and he sketched a custom print of cheerleader Claire for me in 10 minutes; it was a very cool pop culture moment, and he was quietly polite and charming while I secretly geeked out.] Kring discusses both his film influences and film school experience, as well as his work behind the scenes in TV production before becoming a writer. He elaborates about the development of plot vs. characters, and the collaboration in the writers room that is essential in serialized television. I was particularly interested to hear Kring’s response to interviewer Jeff Berman’s question about whether or not Heroes has an ‘end game.’ And, of course, his thoughts about how Lost paved the way for a show like Heroes to achieve success (large ensemble cast, more questions than answers, etc.). For all of the recent controversy surrounding Kring’s statements about the Heroes audience (followed by his published apology), I will say this for the man…he genuinely cares about the relationship between the show and those who are dedicated to watching and writing about it. Kring really seems to appreciate the cross-pollination that occurs between the series and the fans. While the audience may not dictate the final direction of the show, I truly believe that Kring listens to the voices of both discord and delight. I still have great faith in Heroes, even though I remain puzzled by the dismissal of Loeb and Jesse Alexander. Why, you might ask? Because of the passion displayed at the Heroes panel at Comic-Con a few months ago and also during Kring’s interview on this DVD, and because I look forward to being baffled and entertained every Monday night by a cast of characters that I’ve grown attached to. Not convinced? Get a copy of this DVD for yourself, and let me know what you think. I hope you all enjoyed a nice holiday and weekend. Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for my previews of The Write Environment interviews with Doug Ellin (Entourage) and Sam Simon (The Simpsons)!
