The TV/Film Thread

Manticoraus · Post by **Manticoraus** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 6:06 am

I'd have to be honest. I've promoted FAANS I like FAANS.I heard of it by pure accident. Found it on a whim only possible on the internet.I wouldn't even give this webcomic *cult icon* status. I'd give that to KODT, sparingly and that is *only* because its in fifty percent of the comic vendors I walk into. And at gaming clubs (the cult population) I can mention it and get an "oh yeah."So let's start at- T is an unknown. Referenceable. But unknown. Unknowns HAVE happened. But full creative control whilst getting funds jumping from Unknown is....is... well I think it is unlikely. Live action TVTry not toAlso the sheer funds for a relatively lowtech scene like the first club meeting. Set design and building. Wardrobe (Darth Vader suit and royal deal and made to look authetic but fanish) plus the cre that gets this. That's ALOT of money.Think about the hubub for casting X-men. How'd you'd handle Will, Tim, and Kath. Who'll play the cameo/counterparts.
Animation
Voice actors for original series aren't as bad. Its dubbing that's got bargain basement beaucratic funding funneling and abuse. But production fees...I seriously seriously suggest try the OAV approach its not totally impossible in the US. didn't South park get its leg up because of Clooney's bootleging th series or something.
No network's going to be easy about this. I do suggest trying to hit Toonami, primetime, Adult Swim, SCIFI. Something besides networks. WB has been very experimentive. They've had 3 or 4 adult cartoon flops. Oblongs, one where the little bro moves in, and something else. fox is getting some flak for being so cartooning. And even Matt Groening hasn't had all his attempts fly.Also consider some things. At one page per day Faans' production.. to *me* seems a little..uhm slowish. I think currently if you made every arc an about three episode deal.... that get you a season and a half. And in fact with TV you could squash alot of things into one episode. The Human story (Roomie) could be in each ep. Pillow talk one would be elsewhere.And also consider the crossover. Not toomuch plot is tied to that. It wasn't entirely magic reset button but for the most part its actual consequences are ignorable. Most things were character exihibition and cute silliness that was an injoke to fans of both series encouraging learning of one or the other.Novel/papercomicYour best bet. With this out you could then try for full motion medium (ding ding ding Manticoraus finally ponied up an alliteration). I know the cost would be exorbent. But as a complete heartless bastard fanboy some serious suggestions.No price reaming, multi-covers, stories so large it takes 3 megamorphs books to cover the cost of getting the full storyline.Is there aspecific reason this should contain as much per issue as the regular comic. If you can. CRAMM those suckers so they are like mini GNs. It'll cost more but the value per issue per dollar will go up. It is for reasons like these Kenzer has hooked such a loyal customer in me. Three to four stories. PLUS fan work PLUS game reviews/info PLUS this plus that.I don't know what happened between you and mister blackburn or kenzer. But I really mean you could take a look at their line to get inspired. I want to live in a world of Kenzer comics.. preferably with color.Off course Dork Storm isn't sneeze atable either. Neither is the Manga house with Darhorse. Super Manga Blast costs that much more but is well worth it.Novel wise I am no help. Perhaps catch the e-book wave. And pimp your services to well liked things. Just for small contributions. So you catch fan's eye.
Okay My stream ends here. If you can read this I think my sum total advice is to build your fanbase up before you start broaching other venues.that it

Vitriol · Post by **Vitriol** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 6:36 am

In the short term, there are various things you could try to boost revenue.1) I don't know the requirements to get onto Keenspot; they're probably stringent. But with the high quality art, huge archive and consistant updates, you should be in with a good chance. The main problem is the target audience, but I would guess that almost all of the people who read the comics can get most of the references.2) Plan9 publishes a whole bunch of stuff, and might be a good place to try out a printed version. Again, I have no idea what percentage of money gets back to the artists, but it must be worth a try.3) A donation button, auctioning original art and so on all helps.

Chris Crosby · Post by **Chris Crosby** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 6:36 am

I am most in favor of a FANS! TV show or motion picture if Keenspot Entertainment co-produces it. <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/smile.gif">------------------
Chris Crosby
Keenspot Entertainment
<A HREF="http://www.keenspot.com" TARGET=_blank>http://www.keenspot.com</A>

Maritza_Campos · Post by **Maritza_Campos** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 6:53 am

Oooh!! You know what would be nifty??? Animation Fans. In b&w just like the comic <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/wink.gif">Maritza
CRFH.net

T Campbell · Post by **T Campbell** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 7:06 am

Wow! So many great responses, and it's early yet!I know I promised I'd shut up and listen, but there are a few issues raised I do want to address...All of what we're talking about here is IN ADDITION to a regularly produced webcomic. I will not abandon FANS in order to adapt it.Jason's position on the webcomic is secure, and he and his brother John are my first choices to develop any other visuals from FANS. He and I have a gentleman's agreement which effectively prevents FAANS.COM from ending before 2004.The financial cost was a result of early experiences I had, which convinced me that I would not get an artist to draw what I wanted on a regular basis, sticking to deadlines and the script, unless I paid him. (Recent experiences have not shaken that belief. Sorry, Gisele, even if I WAS technically working FOR you.) Most other webcomics are drawn for free.Shatteredtower, you've cut closest to the heart of the matter. The thing is, my "first answer" is changing. A year ago, I was so completely in love with webcomics that I might have refused an offer to turn it into a TV series.It's sad to realize that you've changed, but I have. The money's a factor. The audience size (and what that might mean for my career, long term) is a factor. And the opportunity to explore other media... just to see what can be DONE with them, as we've done here... that is one big factor.I still love this site. But I'm coming to want more... or at least to REACH for more.Okay. Back to listening...[This message has been edited by T Campbell (edited 12-08-2001).]

Onion Boy · Post by **Onion Boy** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 7:30 am

Alright, just to give you an idea of my perspective here, I am one of those people who read webcomics by the TON. I have at least fifteen that are a regular part of my daily schedule, so I am definitely prejudiced in favor of the webcomic. Also, I didn't start reading Fans because it was reccomended to me, or I came across it on a links page and thought 'Oooh - here's a juicy one,' or anything like that. I ran into it for the simple reason that it crossed over with CRFH, which I greatly enjoy.
That having been said, I LOVE Fans. I got caught up with the entire series in about three days, thereby cramming my skull brimfull with it, and I am now definitely a Fan of Fans.
Now, then. As to your problem. Personally, I am overjoyed that you specified that you WILL keep it on the web, no matter what. Cling to it with all the fury of a hungry, breast-feeding limpet. You have devoted readers here, and it is, if all else fails and even if it doesnt, a last bastion of creative energy which you can use to promote your unique vision to the world.
However, I personally would be cautious in expanding. The fact that you need to is all very well, but look before you leap. I think a Fans comic book might be very interesting, although you'd have to change the pacing a bit. Your current form is fabulous on the internet - I mean, as in orgasmic-wet-dream-on-crunchy-cheese-covered-toast-fabulous - but might be a bit plodding in a different format.
Also, I agree with previous writers on the subject of TV. A live action show would be expensive and difficult to cast, and you'd lose that great look that makes fans so special. If you're doing the boob tube, go animated. What I, personally, would do is write a pilot episode - a LONG one - and then try to put it out on a direct-to-video. They will put ANYTHING out on a direct-to-video. I have seen both high-quality and total BS on direct-to-video, so I think that a stunning concept and creative vision such as yours definitely has a chance. Plus, if it got good sales, you'd have built up a reputation of sorts, and could parlay it into something bigger - hopefully a TV Show.
Also, there are more domestic approaches. I know that I'd buy a Fans collection, and so would others, I wouldn't be surprised. And you could try putting out a few more products besides the T-Shirts - I know it costs more, but people will buy damn near anything if it's on a coffee mug, so it would be definitely worth a try.
Well, that's pretty much it. May you dream of Onions. (I.E, good luck.)

TrueRaijin · Post by **TrueRaijin** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 7:34 am

All I got to say, is GO FOR IT, T!
Youve got thousands of people who love your stuff, and that isn' an accident. All it would take is some cash to get yourself moving, and there ARE succesfull web-comic artists out there. Theres the Cloudman, and Penny-Arcade, and so on. IT CAN BE DONE!
And, BTW. If you are going to do TV, toon. NOT live-action. I think the reasons are self-evident, but I will esopouse, cause I love rambling.
1. There would sill be the same art styl. Sides, where you gonna find someone who could pull of Will?
2. All the weird stuff, like demons, XenoChiclets, and so on, would be easier=cheaper to do in toon form.(Right?)
I think that about covers my main points. Good.

Bushipunk · Post by **Bushipunk** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 8:16 am

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>Originally posted by Onion Boy:
[SNIP]
Now, then. As to your problem. Personally, I am overjoyed that you specified that you WILL keep it on the web, no matter what. Cling to it with all the fury of a hungry, breast-feeding limpet. You have devoted readers here, and it is, if all else fails and even if it doesnt, a last bastion of creative energy which you can use to promote your unique vision to the world.
However, I personally would be cautious in expanding. The fact that you need to is all very well, but look before you leap. I think a Fans comic book might be very interesting, although you'd have to change the pacing a bit. Your current form is fabulous on the internet - I mean, as in orgasmic-wet-dream-on-crunchy-cheese-covered-toast-fabulous - but might be a bit plodding in a different format.
Also, I agree with previous writers on the subject of TV. A live action show would be expensive and difficult to cast, and you'd lose that great look that makes fans so special. If you're doing the boob tube, go animated. What I, personally, would do is write a pilot episode - a LONG one - and then try to put it out on a direct-to-video. They will put ANYTHING out on a direct-to-video. I have seen both high-quality and total BS on direct-to-video, so I think that a stunning concept and creative vision such as yours definitely has a chance. Plus, if it got good sales, you'd have built up a reputation of sorts, and could parlay it into something bigger - hopefully a TV Show.
Also, there are more domestic approaches. I know that I'd buy a Fans collection, and so would others, I wouldn't be surprised. And you could try putting out a few more products besides the T-Shirts - I know it costs more, but people will buy damn near anything if it's on a coffee mug, so it would be definitely worth a try.
Well, that's pretty much it. May you dream of Onions. (I.E, good luck.) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Sorry for the excessively long quote, but I'm more or less posting just to agree entirely with what Onion Boy says. Figures that by the time I manage to connect and check this thread, somebody's taken the words out of my mouth... I guess I'm agreeing with more less everyone by saying I'd buy a paper comic in an instant, and I think an animated version could be extremely cool and potentially a success. I particularly agree with the direct-to-video pilot idea; easier to play to your current fanbase while becoming more accessible to others that way.Bushi

GodaiYuhsaku · Post by **GodaiYuhsaku** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 8:29 am

I say go for it.Tv, movie either would be great.mulder/scully thing. Faans is parody at its purist. The tick had deflaturmouse (no idea how to spell it) which they changed to batmanuel. now the count and cookie monster and of course kermit may need to get changed.I think it could be pulled off either as a live action or a cartoon. I'd suggest against having it be B&W. it would be too artsy for alot of people. The one place that hasn't been suggested to take it to so far is one i think would have a good chance. Sci-fi channel. They have been making shows of thier own plus also dabble with animation but haven't really made any yet.The best of luck to you. Though it looks like you are turning Rumi into your punching bag again. Bad T.
hehGodai

Catz Bartlett · Post by **Catz Bartlett** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 8:59 am

Hmm..I know I'd buy just about any schlock you could put Fans! on...if I had money, anyhow. I didn't even actually know about the T-shirts...but as soon as I can I must now get one ^_^I stumbled on Fans the same way that OnionBoy did - via the CRFH crossover. Maybe...just a dumb idea here...but if there are any other moderately-well-known webcomic artists out there who've been considering "expanding", you could possibly pool your efforts? A jointly produced TV show/book/video/whatever could introduce fans of both strips to the other strip, thus possibly almost doubling your readership/viewership...Plus you could maybe split the burdens - such as alternating epsiodes between the two strips, maybe even with crossovers now and then...problem is finding someone to collaborate with, the linkage of your fates (if their popularity goes in the toilet, so does yours somewhat...), and the fact that proceeds would be split along with burdens...Just tossing out an idea, like I said ^_^------------------
Catz Bartlett, CI
Order of the Knights of JubalBe Virtuous and Cool!"It is better to deserve honors and not have them than to have them and not deserve them." -- Mark Twain"Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear." -- Mark Twain"People who hate cats, will come back as mice in their next life." --Faith Resnick"I have studied many philosophers and many cats. The wisdom of cats is infinitely superior." --Hippolyte Taine"It is better to guard thy honor than thy pocket - money is a fleeting thing, but honor lasts a lifetime." - Me ^_^

GuidoC · Post by **GuidoC** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:00 am

Well T., I've been thinking about this all day, and personally I'd be happy with whatever you decide to do. Whether that means a comic book series, a novel, TV series, movie, animation, live-action, b&w, color, or just sticking with the webcomic, you have my support. Now this is not to say I'm not aware of the risks or difficulties you'll face. But I don't think that those difficulties are good reasons not to try. I've had a number of projects and oppertunities that I either wasted or discarded because they seemed too risky or difficult, and I'm not just talking about creative persuits. I'd hate to see someone else do the same thing, especially with a story as great as FANS!Personally, I'd kind of like to see a live-action version of FANS!, although I may be slightly biased there. A number of former friends of mine from high school were actors, and more than a few made the move to Hollywood after graduation, so I agree with Orko about new oppertunities for unknown actors. (My uncle is a reletively unknown actor as well, although lately he's been doing fairly well on stage.) Realistically, though, I'll conceed that the budget would probably be out of range (although Doublespeak pointed out that The Tick has been doing fairly well on a small budget). And there is the danger of it turning into a teen angst Buffy-ripoff on the WB where, by the time the network executives get done with it, it's been transformed into a sort of

Shatteredtower · Post by **Shatteredtower** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:22 am

Okay, it's been pointed out that you don't have what it takes in this series, and perhaps in your background to produce a television series or a movie, and it's not an invalid point.It's also not the final word on the matter. It's a starting point - one of several starting points.I'm sure it's frustrating to hear that, because I can see that you've had so many beginnings, you've carried this thing so far, and now we're talking about how you want to start out?I guess we are, aren't we? You have decided that this is not enough. (And yet you have been generous enough not to complain about the sacrifice you have made on our behalf to do this series.) And every change is a new beginning, even if that is a cliche. <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/redface.gif">So people have told you why you can't get to some places from where you stand - okay. So is there another route to that point, or is there another promising venue? Do you have or can you get the training, experience, or connections to carry this further in some fashion?I don't. But then, I never committed as much time and effort to anything as you have to this. There are countless stories of people who created their own back door to success, if not wealth - enough that some of them have to be true. I guess what I'm saying is that not being in the position to make some of this ideas work is no excuse for not aiming to get into that position. I wish I could tell you what that position is, or how exactly to get there. (I give lousy directions, don't I?) I can only tell you that it is likely going to find you, once again, at the bottom of a hill, pushing with all of your might on a boulder.Still, you must have quite the fortitude for that by now, even if it turns out to be a new boulder, not to mention a new hill. You've seen wish lists, you've seen offers to buy a book, you've heard people try to attract other people to the series - but it's all just more weight on the boulder, isn't it, rather than sets of arms to push?I'm not being down on your fans when I say that, nor on your team. Especially not on your team - I'm sure we don't half of what they've done for this. But in the end it seems if this is going to grow as you want it to, it will be because you were the one with his hands on the granite while everyone else cheered you on.I feel like James Wood's character in Diggstown - someone who needs to work on his motivational skills, you know? Especially since I am trying to encourage you.

Tailsteak · Post by **Tailsteak** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:23 am

As far as I can see, Fans is one of the only webcomics that would be able to make the jump to TV without seriously damaging its style/feel/soul, and an animated TV series is obviously the best format for this jump.Just a thought-- what would you think about keeping the cartoon in B&W? Basically, make it look like it does now, only moving? I just thought that would be cool...

Alexi Strigoii · Post by **Alexi Strigoii** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:40 am

Yes, yes it should be on tv, MTV at least now if we could only find some artists who could draw the characters as well as you guys

Acradius · Post by **Acradius** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:40 am

Ok, I suppose it's time for the resident newbie to get up on his soapbox.First of all, I'm putting my hand WAY in the air for a giant leap for Fandom. The TV series could be pretty hard to handle, both parody-wise and idea-wise. When you really think about it, the jumbo-sized Chord of the Rings would probably make a good half-hour to hour show. T, if you're going to get a series past the first thirteen, you might find yourself fairly strapped for ideas.If you decide to go movie, I would, of course, put more than one of the comics into it, maybe going from the Fandom Menace to Hyperman. Now, I mean absolutely NO offense to anybody here OR the incredible FANS! artistry, but if you go movie, I would personally go live action. I know I'm going quite against the flow here, but I've got reasons. It is my understanding (via watching 'making of' documentaries for Star Wars, Gilligan's Island, and other big things) that one of the tougher parts of live action is finding some decent actors. One of the major concerns for acting is the accents. However, out here in Nebraska, we actually have very little accent at all. What I'm poking at right here is the fact that I could probably line you up with quite a few decent actors. Sure, most of us arn't old enough for college, but with the right clothes, and a little makeup, we could fit the part quite nicely. Best thing is, we'll do it for cheap, too! <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/biggrin.gif"> Now, I know this sounds kinda odd, but I'm actually serious about this...Onto MY other hand now. If you decide to go for a series, I wouldn't go for Cartoon Network. They specialize in DBZ-style anime, messed up Cartoon Cartoons, and Bugs Bunny. Animate the series, but I would more see it on something like MTV. They do that kind of zaneyness. And don't worry about Miller and Sully. EVERYBODY parodies X-files. I personally recall an episode of Reboot that guest starred Fax Modem and agent Shelly (you know, like command shells? Get it?). But from what I've seen in the way of 'making of' docs for series, you can walk into Hollywood with a billion dollars, a nice suit, and a great idea, and walk out five mintues later broke, naked, and depressed.My advice: film/draw up a pilot, try not using Fandom Menace, and save the big guns till later, then throw it around to differant companies. 20th Fox was actually the LAST company George Lucas tried before Star Wars got out on the market.Ok, I think I'll step off the podium now, before the eggs and tomatoes start flying. <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/biggrin.gif">

Fantasy Lite · Post by **Fantasy Lite** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:43 am

just my two cents,if you went to tv, US at least, you'd probably have to seriously tone down Alison, and I would hate to see that...

FrustratedPilot · Post by **FrustratedPilot** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 9:48 am

Just a small observation: If Fans! were made as a show by Gainax, I think it would look more like His and Hers Circumstances than Evangelion or Gunbuster.Boy do I feel old-fashioned now...I'm also thinking that if Fans! were made as a live-action series, it would be a campy, tongue-in-cheek sitcom. Sure, there would be the ongoing storyline, but it would be tough to avoid the cheap humor and laugh tracks.Fans! is in the same boat as Ninja High School, having relied on parody to the point now that in spite of its popularity, it can't make a crossover to the mainstream without altering what is at its core. (Shrug.)I can live without the laugh track, thank you. <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/smile.gif">

Chuym · Post by **Chuym** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 10:47 am

Well... this is a tough decision. For anyone. What you guys do have for yourselves is a great understanding of story line. Every few weeks i am left with a feeling of "WELL?!?!" and end up checking the site about 7 times the rest of the day. This would show your ability to possibly do well in the tv show. Now, your writing is also helped by your very noted way of using point of view almost as a character. It is very impressive (i am anal about these things, can't you tell?).
OK. so we understand that you are good, really good. But the idea of doing a tv show has a few problems. Well maybe 2. Your biggest audience here understands everything that you write about. THAT is why we enjoy it! Just this month i had about 20 people tell me that they did not know what all the fuss was about this this lord in the rings stuff(?!?!). Now, that is a huge part of modern English culture (or so i thought) and such a number seems to pervade the places around me. So, you will have to dumb it down if you need a larger viewing group. Also, the content is mature. now, i personally love that it is dealing with some really whacked out situations and also deals with personal matters. It makes the characters come to life.now other than this? It is all a mater of luck and your ability to keep on going.I personally would like to see you stay as a web comic, but money is always the problem for you guys, isn't it.
Good luck in all your endeavors.

Laeriphea · Post by **Laeriphea** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 11:20 am

I would personally love to see Fans! in a different medium, whether it be novel, animated/live-action TV show, or OAV. I disagree with the previous poster that Alisin would have to be toned down; I am amazed at what is permitted on TV, having seen active (not fade-to-black) sex on network TV (below-the-waist was covered by sheets, she was wearing what I assume was a crotchless teddy). I think a TV series, *provided you can come up with the material for it*, would be incredible. It would be a golden opportunity to bring out more of the characters' histories and quirks, as you'd have more time to focus on such things. In webcomic format, IMO, you need to keep things in motion, whereas on TV you can spend a lot more time on dialogue and introspection. The webcomic, as it stands, is INCREDIBLE. I first saw it because of the CRFH crossover, being a religious reader of CRFH, and read the entire Fans! series in the first day. I love this comic and would probably very much enjoy any other endeavors you took on with it.It will be difficult should you choose to attempt a TV show; assuming you find a network willing to try it, special effects with live-action would probably be extremely expensive. Since it sounds like you don't have a lot of start-up capital, I would agree with others to go the animation route. (If you can get Jason to do it, GREAT!) I think Fans! has a lot of potential if you can bulk it up, which I doubt would be fairly simple. You know the characters intimately, and I'm sure that in your mind each has a long and detailed history that has not shown up yet in the comic, if it ever does.On a pure money-making note, I've seen a few webcomics (such as Penny Arcade) that make quite a bit of money through donations. Penny Arcade seems to make a couple thousand dollars a month, offering a desktop wallpaper for donations. Also, I agree with another's idea for expanding your merchandise beyond T-shirts. I would also HIGHLY recommend that you make the T-shirt/stuff link far more visible; it's tough to find even if you're looking for it. If you put a "Store" link above the comic, especially if you made it a different color than the others or a graphic, you could probably draw in a lot more buyers. Damn this post was long. Sorry.

Shatteredtower · Post by **Shatteredtower** » Sat Dec 08, 2001 11:26 am

Pardon me a small moment of levity. <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>Originally posted by Acradius:
My advice: film/draw up a pilot, try not using Fandom Menace, and save the big guns till later, then throw it around to differant companies.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Shop around - always good advice. And take anything you're told with a grain of salt - which network was it that Michael Eisner told Kevin Smith would be gone within a year? (Disclaimer: This according to statements from Mr. Smith) <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> 20th Fox was actually the LAST company George Lucas tried before Star Wars got out on the market.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Sort of like how you always find something in the last place you look? <IMG SRC="http://www.keenspace.com/forums/biggrin.gif">