So guys - what's up with the finale? What did they freakin' do? Who is Sookie Stackhouse? Some damsel in distress?

Oh, I don't see her as a damsel in distress at all!  I think he best part was that she saved herself.  She needed some help - from Sam - but he's getting his ass kicked before it's through, and there's some question as to whether Bill helps too.  But she's the one who kills Rene in the end.  I thought it was great.  And for a pathetic ol' Bill lover like me, that reunion kiss was certainly satisfying!

Okay, so I promised Linda my rant on Bill's tribunal punishment.  I got slammed for expressing this on the Wiki, and no one I've talked to agrees with my perspective.  But since we have such friendly, mutually supportive debates, I'm willing to go ahead and try to share again.  Here goes.

Bill murders Jessica.  The show makes very clear that he had no choice.  It was her or him.  And there was a hint that if he refused, she would be tortured.  So, I fully understand that he was in a bad sitaution and really faced with no alternative.  I empathize with his position greatly.  Frankly, I am certain that if I were in his shoes I would make the same choice - since the only alternative - chosing to die himself - isn't any better.

But all that being true, I still have a very hard time with him making her a vampire against her will - taking away life as she knew it.  It's murder. And my moral compass says the act is wrong, even if there was no choice.  No matter how justified it might have been, he has to live with it afterwards.  I struggle with how I feel about the character because of that.  I sympathize and empathize, but . . . it's a blemish.

Who's Linda?! You mean me Gilly?... Laura...

Well- I think it's interesting you feel that way b'c I think that AB is probably figuring out a way to abiguiously blur the lines about Bill (since he certainly ain't following the books).

So probably - they way you feel is EXACTLY how you're supposed to. It's the "awww....but he couldn't help it. He was under orders, he would've been tortured."

But yes - you're right, it's wrong. It's against her will. Sound familiar?

So I think that's AB version of demonizing Bill. He's not doing a very profound job IMHO

But overall, I don't feel one way or another b'c he's bastardized the books so much & the TV show has been pretty slow burning & lackluster for me personally.

There have been moments of greatness but they have been very far & few between. It's an Alan Ball vanity project he ran a-muck with.

I don't think you want to get me started on Anna Paquin as Sookie Stackhouse. That seriously puts a bee in my bonnet. And the worst - is that I started picturing her mug as SS last night when I was reading. I had to exorcise that picture real quick!

BTW - I have some interesting bits form CH about her thoughts on TB: I'll post those next.

Laura - I'm sorry!   I have no idea why I typed Linda.

Wow - you're not a show fan, huh?  That's a shame.  I love the show.  I separate the show and the books entirely in my mind and enjoy them as to separate, stand alone pieces.  The books are just the inspiration for the show, for me.  That's why I don't mind the changes - I like them, it keeps it interesting and different.  I think the actors are doing a great job (with the exception of Sookie, sometimes), but they have chemistry, the dialogue is great, the music is great.  I'm sad to hear you don't like it!

I don't actually think AB is trying to demonize Bill.  I think he's going in a totally different direction with Bill than in the books.  All the things that you guys have pointed out about Bill in the books - I am slowly being persuaded that CH's vision of Bill has been dark from the beginning (or at least, he's written ambiguously enough to provide for it).  But AB has said he sees Bill as a tragic hero - which I agree with, based on how Bill is in the show.  - I think he's supposed to be conflicted and guilt-ridden and a character whose bad choices and errors bring hm down, but I don't think he necessarily will turn out to be bad as Bill is in the books.

All good Gilly.

Oh!  So I am going to vent (actually rant) here a little b'c I haven't really had the chance! Don't mind me.... just a little cathartic release. I warn you not to read b'c it really is a RANT. It serves no purpose except for me.

I'll watch it b'c I LOVE Alexander Skarsgard as an actor - but it is what it is for me. It is separate -  but I am & was - already  too invested in the books.

Plus - when I read them all I kept thinking was - if done right - the books would be an amazing, amazing TV series!

I think he duped CH to a degree. Someone asks her if shes really a consultant in the show like it says on IMDB & she says "Though I'm listed on IMDB as a consultant, no one has actually consulted me. I'm waiting!"   She also says: "I'm waiting to see where Alan's going with the storyline. I'm sure there's an overall arc, and I don't see the whole thing yet" And that was as of 11-17.

What really got me was I felt a real lack of "love" for the material & the viewer actually. I felt condescended to. The 1st - 5 or so episodes, I saw a real lack of continuity - but real sloppy. Like - Sookie was pale in one scene talking to Gran & then Bam! She turns around & has bright pink lipstick & a fresh fake tan & when she runs up the stairs you see big white gashes under her buttocks from it being poorly applied. Or Bill slipping into his English accent constantly, etc...

So sure - I can be nit picky but it takes me out of that world when I notice a Boom mic - or a person changes their appearance or accent. It's just sloppy & honestly - I don't think there's an excuse for it.

It's kind of like :"Man were so cool, we're having so much fun!  Ahhhh.... F%^k it. We don't have to go back & fix it, no one will notice. Let's get back to writing about Jason's Boner!!"

Plus - it's a little hard for me b'c I have a bit of inside scoop (our OM - her BF is in Marketing for HBO London & sent to LA during taping) & I know for a fact that we were subjected to Jason so much b'c all the writer's have man crushes on him. They just LOVE writing for him (& Nelsan Ellis). I don't blame them - he's a great actor (esp. by certain comparisons). And that bit is also pretty much confirmed in an interview w/AB somewhere too.

But my main issue is that I kind of don't understand why AB chose to hire AP & reinterrpret these books when their from Sookie's perspective esp. b'c rumor has it - he really didn't want AP. He made her audition 5 x's & I think he relented b'c she & Stephen Moyer started dating. He gave some BS excuse like - "well AP would have to work  12 hours a day if we did it from her perspective. It would be too much".

So I think ...well ah...Yeah..small price to pay when you only have to shoot 12 episodes.

So my take is - he got away cheap. He got a "big name" to help draw people in BUT b'c she isn't really that great, it doesn't matter b'c everyone else is pretty good & we'll focus on them & buoy them up so people won't get PO'd about AP & we won't have to pay her rate if we keep her work to a minimum.

Plus - Bill was really hard to cast for them so when they finally had SM on board & he and AP really hit it off....it's like well....maybe we can mine/exploit some of their real life chemistry. Rather than look further to see if she's really right.

I am also extremely jealous that she is not a better Sookie damn it! I'd love that freakin' role & she is torturing it! Her wonky eyes & wonky way she stands & runs. And what's up w/her left arm? Why can she fully put it down?

Her breathy voice when she' supposed to be........charming? Flirtatious? In awe? Cross eyed?? I don't get it. It's just wack. And what KILLS me is her FAKE scream & crying!!! It's so crazy!! The pie scene (although - I have issues with that scene...I know - everyone likes it) & last night when she buried Bill - she did a decent job. The best I have seen her but that's not saying much. She has indeed - made me & my friends laugh out loud. That's never a good sign.

Oh god! This feels SO good!! hallelujiah!!

And on the Wiki boards - everyone talks about AP having "inner beauty". Ok ...Whatev. Call me shallow. I'm ALL for inner beauty but Sookie is supposed to be extremely attractive & her SKIN is supposed to  gorgeous. They put so much makeup on AP it screams war paint! Her skin is so bad & they make her boobs try & be something they're not. It just aint' right.

Well - makeup overall is pretty bad on the show.

But amazingly!!..... I watch - & the majority of the time it is painful. Apparently - I am a masochist. No really - I wait for Eric & live in hopes that it will get better.  I'm sorry - but seriously - where are my vamps? I need more vamps. What the hell.

Do you know it got the point where I timed Jason & Tara's appearances on the show? In one ep. Jason had a 3/4's of the show! Sook & Bill had a 1/4, if that!

PHEW!!! OK I am done & I will probably never speak of this again so thank you all for baring with me if you managed to make it through this.

Oh wow.  I think you might need to stop watching, Laur.  I'm worried about your blood pressure! 

LMFBO!!! I know!! I know!! Actually - I thought I had made a peace 2 episodes ago but apparently I really had to get it out!!

Like Gilly, I've learned to separate the show from the books -- but it took me 4 episodes to accomplish that mental separation.

My one real complaint about the show is that it's lost the focus of Sookie -- there are way too many side stories, and the only two side stories that go anywhere are Jason's and Lafayette's -- I actally really like what True Blood has done with these two characters (and I'm thankful that after episode 6, Jason stopped being so sweaty all of the time).

I understand that a television show needs to be an ensemble piece so I appreciate the time spent developing other characters -- but we did not need the Tara & Lettie Mae debacle, that could have been fine for a couple of episodes but I think Rutina Wesley has had more screen time than any other woman on the show and her character is really annoying. To be honest, I was hoping they'd kill Tara and replace the "girlfriend" role with Lafayette who is a better character and the actor steals every scene he is in.

I've read in USA today that they are following the plot line of LDID for Season 2 and I think they've set that up well -- in Bon Temps there will be the Maenad storyline (they've set that up nicely) and in Dallas we can have the vampire investigation and get Eric in on the action more.

Overall, I think they need less human drama and more vamps.

I loved Pam's lilac suit on the finale...

Another complaint, is that I think they're turning Sookie into a "Mary-Sue" and they need to bring her back to the literal Sookie and make her more likeable.

The Sookie in TB is a tempermental, flaky, selfish jerk --- more Hadley than Sookie if you ask me.

Too much filler - no killer. I agree Rach!

Oh - I also loved Pam's line: "She is extremely annoying."

Was Pam's suit Chanel?

I don't know if Pam's suit was Chanel -- I don't know if there was enough gold trim on it for Chanel. It might have been St. John -- Marie Gray works with all of those knits but whoever designed it, the suit was PERFECT for Pam.

The Hermes "Kelly" handbag was spot on too.

Oh god - really you liked the suit? It was hilarious and very Pam, but I was going to put it in our fashion sinners page . . . It looked like boucle to me - Boucle is soo Upper East Side Grandmoether in 2004.  I missed the Kelly bag, but she was earing Chanel sunglasses with that brown dress.

I understand the difficultly in losing what you think are pieces of Sookie that you value from the books.  But I have issues with Sookie all over the place, so six in one hand, half a dozen in the other.  What I dislike about Sookie in the show is how they amde her stupid after she had sex.  All of a sudden she starts blurting out these private things and saying such idiotic stuff.  That annoyed me.  And Laura - you are totally right about how she holds her arms when she runs.  Weird!

But I otherwise love the show.  I like Tara and her mom, actually.  I like that there's another strong woman lead and I like that Sookie has a female friend, which she lacks in the books for the most part.

It's funny to hear Jason gets to much air time b/c te writers have crushes on him - he's cut and all, but I don't find him the end all and be all.  Sadly, like all the rest of the poor slobs out there, I'm crazy about SM's Bill.  I think he does a GREAT job - it's a very subtle performance (tone and facial expressions) despite the admitted occasional slip into his British accent.  This is the first time since I was a teenager that I've got an honest-to-do crush on an actor.

I generally think she show is fun, funny and self-deprecaating, for the most part.

Yes - they have dressed her better in the show than in the books for sure. I loved when she had the trench dress on & she was wearing sunglasses on top of her head. I just loved that.

She soo looked uptown! That's why I loved it. Pam's always been a bit preppy/conservative/Waspy but they took it to a whole new level on the show. It was Boucle. But I Thiiiiink that was AB's nod to the Alice in Wonderland w/fangs comment Sook makes at one point...

What I dislike about Sookie in the show is how they amde her stupid after she had sex.  All of a sudden she starts blurting out these private things and saying such idiotic stuff.  That annoyed me.  And Laura - you are totally right about how she holds her arms when she runs.  Weird!

Oh well...that is just par for the course - the whole blurting about the sex. Apparently she had a lobotomy after she sex. Bill boned the brain right out of her. (!)

I'm glad you can see the wonky arm & run. Makes me feel slightly less demented about the whole thing. Lol!

Since we're nit-picking on the wonky arm -- has anyone else noticed that they don't use full length shots for any scene AP is in unless she's wearing a skirt or dress (if you see her whole body in shorts and she's not laying down, then she's leaning up against something or wearing an apron)? She may not be cover material for Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition but she has a nice build and there is no reason to keep her cropped as closely as they do  (we've seen her in a leather bodysuit in the X-Men, Alan, she looked fine).

Anway, I am annoyed with the way the camera shoots her.

As for make-up, I think they did a great job with her hair color and tan -- it's really difficult to fake-bake/spray and not come-out Oompah-loopah orange. I also think they do a nice job with AP's eye make-up.

The make-up on Eric is horrible -- his face is all vampire white but his arms are normal white-guy color, what's the deal with that?

Hmmm.....didn't notice how they shoot her.

It's defo not orange but for me,  it's the continuity in the editing process which make the fluctuations in the same scene, more pronounced & I still can't forgive that they didn't let fake tan under her buttocks - dry. And I know it's a difficult area but I've never had white eyebrows like that under my bum.  I'll forgive Bill over that!

Her hair is decent although I did notice in this last ep. her ends were really dried out & I thought it was starting to look brittle. I could see her roots more. Yes I agree on her eye makeup but other than that - war paint. It just makes her bad skin all the more obvious.

Eric is horrible it's beyond ridiculous. The hair - the makeup....Bill has had his moments too. Pam - while she is very pretty - caked on.

All in all - they are all caked on.

What I want to know is - why did Jessica get to look all rosy cheeked as a vamp? She looked fresh as a daisy in every scene. Even dirty.

Well, she was just turned - aren't they supposed to fade as they get older.

The scene with Eric in his office is the worst make up abuse, IMO.  Rach is right - his face looks so weird with the giant red circles around his eyes.

Oh and here's one for your laura.  There's a horrible spray on tan moment with Sookie's arm pits when she wakes up from her dream about Bill bruning up in her kitchen after cooking her breakfast.

But the set dressing in Eric's office rocks - did you notice all the nautical pictures?  And the dracula book on his shelf, which I now know thanks to yuo guys turning me onto Dracula Night is even more significant?

Yes, Gill, I agree that the set dressing for Eric's office is great. And notice that the Dracula book is on top of the others on the shelf - like it is often read, and has been looked at recently, and just put back on top so that it is within easy access.

Yes, Gilly - yes. I did notice her pits. Oh good god.  I am leaving this thread for good.

Missed the Dracula book. Hooow cool!

Good interview w/ Alexander Skarsgard. He's pretty darn hot. Good to know he likes to be naked...

There is a great interview with Alan Ball on the NPR archives -- it's approximately 40 minutes in length and he delves into his own personal history with sexual abuse -- his take on the matter is very different than many people's, he doesn't see it as some awful thing or himself as innocent in the events -- sort of a matter of circumstances with limited options.

 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=94486732

Question: Is True Blood returning for a second season? And, if so, got scoop? -- Jeremy
Ausiello: Not only is there fresh Blood on the way, there's also fresh... um, blood. The vamp hit is on the hunt for a new series regular to play Sarah, the pleasure-seeking missus of Steve Newlin, the Fellowship of the Sun's big kahuna. New semi-regulars are also being sought for six-episode arcs as Daphne, Merlotte's new waitress (and Sam's likely new love interest), and Luke, a burly twentysomething who's as dedicated to religion as Jason is to sex.

Spoiler for Season 2, episode 2.

It looks like they are creating another new church-going character -- I haven't heard anything about Luna but I hope they keep here.

 Luke - A big handsome, bear of a guy, around 25ish. All the energy Jason has spent in his life getting girls, Luke has spent in the service of God. And growing. And being insanely competitive. Southern, Texan. no nudity required, although the guys at the church camp do spend time in their underwear. 6 episode arc beginning with episode 202. (source: spoilertv.blogspot.com)

God, I'm sitting at my desk smiling like a freaking idiot watching the AS interview.  Could the man be any hotter?  And Nudity, if you look like Skarsgard, is GREAT!

NO, no....I doubt he could.

OK so I am on a completely gratuitous tip tonight. I tried finding the better video clip of this but alas no luck. we'll have to settle for this one in the meantime. Move the cursor to 2:50 min.

Here is some spolier information about the first episode of Season 2 (source: spoilertv.blogspot.com):

  -Sid Matt Lancaster - This small, fatherly-looking man in his 60s is the Stackhouse family lawyer, who arrives at Sookie's house unexpectedly. Obviously distraught, he's sad to be the bearer of bad news. 9 speeches & 3 lines, 1 scene.

-Shawnelle - "Trouble on legs," this sexy barfly in her 20s propositions Jason, and when that fails, tries to work her wiles on his companion, Hoyt. She's a real siren, out for a good time. 2 speeches & 3 lines, 1 scene.

-Coralee - This bar patron in her 30s is questioned by Andy about the recent murder. She's gossiping about the death with her friend Vonetta when the angry Terry throws them out of the bar. 2 speeches & 3 lines, 1 scene.

-Vonetta - Coralee's friend, this bar patron in her 30s gossips avidly about the recent murder -- right up until Terry throws her off the premises.sptv050769. 1 speech & 2 lines, 1 scene.

-News Anchor - Via satellite, this female news anchor in D.C. interviews Steve Newlin and Nan Flanagan, who exchange their explosively opposite views on the air. 1 speech & 2 lines, 1 scene.

  -Sarah Newlin - Late 20s - bright, pretty, cheerful wife of Fellowship of the Sun head Minister Steve Newlin (Michael McMillian), Sarah is an example of the new "hip" evangelical movement, hates vampires with a passion, deeply believes in her mission, her marriage, her country and her church. very feminine, but down-to-earth, also with a healthy appetite for life's many pleasures... as she sees it, it's all part of God's gift to us. No actual nudity, but implied.. Series Regular.

-Daphne - Late 20s / early 30s - Daphne is sexy and down to earth, a real country girl, not the greatest waitress, but Sam Merlotte (Sam Trammell) couldn't care less, once he gets to know her better. Common sense, no-nonsense, funny, definitely not neurotic. Nudity is preferable in this role. 6 episode arc beginning with this episode.

Update on Season Two: for the first episode another character has been cast...

The role of Sarah Newlin has been cast with Anna Camp — she's currently horsing around with Daniel Radcliffe in Equus — has been tapped to play the series-regular role of Sarah.

The role of Daphne has been cast with The Bold and the Beautiful's stellar Ashley Jones has booked a six-episode arc as Daphne

Oy.  The last soap star they cast didn't work out so well. Have you seen the pilot they originally filmed with a soap star playing Tara?  She was so poorly received when they did focus groups that they recast her and re-shot it.  I saw it - she was terrible!

Really? How did you see it?

The un-aired pilot used to be on You Tube and included not only the original Tara (who was flat, flat, flat) but also a shot of a mysterious blue-eyed woman in the parking lot during Sookie's fight with the Rattray's... in the scene, after Sookie first strikes Mac Rattray with the chain, the camera cuts to a blue-eyed blond in a grey dress hiding in the bushes who flashes her eyes and forces the chain to tighten around Mac's neck and then the camera pans to Bill who sees the blue eyed woman and starts looking from Sookie to the woman who then runs off -- Sookie never sees the woman.

The way the scene is constructed it would mean that Bill saw Claudia aid Sookie in the fight by using metaphysical powers to tighten the chain around Mack's neck and it would provide an obvious (but different) motivation for Bill's interest in Sookie and why he keeps asking her "what are you?"

Interestingly, in the aired version of the pilot they kept the shots of the chain tightening around Mack's neck and Bill's stunned look as he witnesses it, they just cut out the two shots of Claudia.

I'm glad they did because it really was too big of a deviation from the books and Claudia isn't a blue eyed blonde, that's Sookie (and Eric and Pam and Jason).

One continuity faux-paus that really annoyed me in the first season was that even though the actor cast to play Jason as an adult has brown eyes, the child actor cast to play him has huge blue eyes -- what the hell was that? Couldn't they find one reasonably capable child actor with blonde hair and brown eyes? It annoyed me.

Ahhh..very interesting.

R - I caught that too (about child Jason) & you can imagine, based on my rant, it annoyed me too.

I think I have the link somewhere.  I'll see if I can find it.

More spoilers for Season 2....

Mariana Klaveno (who plays Lorena, Bill's maker) has been upped to series regular on HBO’s “True Blood.” (source: variety.com). Having both Lorena and Jessica as regular characters in Season 2 would seem to present a challenge to Sookie and Bill's relationship -- hopefully, we will get more Eric!

My 'cross-post' from the introduction thread in response to Kendal:

There are some theories on why AB 'departed' from the books - and some of these theories have been supported by comments that AB has made in the press. Other theories, are just the speculation of ourselves and others - like changing from Sookie's POV to a general omnipresent POV would allow for AB to show more of the 'world of the show' - which would be fine, except that AB has seemed to waste a lot of opportunities in that regard.

The theories that have been substantiated are the ones stating that AB wants to use the show as a way of showing an analogy between intolerance towards minorities and the way vamps are treated. Also the additional emphasis on the character of Jason, has been confirmed (in an AB interview) as being a result of the writers and others having serious 'man crushes on Jason and Lafayette' because the characters are 'so fun to write for'.

Other than those theories, it's anyone's guess why AB would depart from the richness that is the book series.

He has also stated that he sees "TB" as a romance - so he sounds like he's going to be building a case for Bill, one that a reading of the books will not support.

Someone offered this advice: "Treat the show like fan fiction." That's what I do, and I'm much happier for it.

I do agree with you that the show seems to suffer from sloppy or 'lazy film-making' - and lazy writing too. Perhaps the most glaringly obvious lack of attention comes from the rather haphazard way that the vamp make-up is applied. There are scenes where Eric's face is ghost white, and his neck, shoulders, and arms are his natural flesh color. The other mod (Laura, aka lmb1309) pointed out the bad wig for Eric in one scene, and the really bad make-up on AB and Bill in another - the list could make for its own thread, and maybe it will.

I'm going to cross-post this in the thread "True Blood TV Discussions: It's an AB World..." - just so that it will be easier to find for referencing and responding.

Hi gang,  hope everyone had a great holiday & Happy New Year! 

I seem to be in the minority, the only one thinking that AP is doing a decent job given the mediocre writing & direction. I like that she's quirky looking & not your average blonde, big boobed clone. It makes her different although they did dumb her down from the books.  And I agree with Laura the continuity is awful (they should fire that person) & there are holes in the story, did anyone else notice the following:

• Sookie's eyebrows change colour - by episode 12 they're thinner and darker
• In Episode 8 it was raining when Sookie’s sitting outside but dry as a bone when she goes to lay flowers on Bill’s grave. Did I miss something?
• What’s with Bill’s hair? It was normal in the first couple of episodes then it looks very poofy the rest of the time.
• If Tara and Sookie are BFF’s why do they never do anything together?  And wouldn’t Tara call Sookie to stay with her? Or call Sookie to get her out of jail?
• As for the make up on Eric/Alexsander - why did they give him the sickly face &  red eye treatment & all the other vampires (Pam, Chow, Bill) look fairly normal?   Is it because of his age?

I do like SM but does anyone know why he got the role?  When I read the books I kept picturing Richard Armitage (another British actor he is in Robin Hood) as Bill, he's closer to what CH describes him as.  Check him out here.

What do you think?  

oops, sorry that link doesn't work.  Wouldn't he be a good Bill?

ivorygirl--I totally agree with your comments.  I actually like AP quite a bit.  She is definitely NOT how I pictured Sookie, but I can't say that I had any known actress in mind.  AB has made her more testy, more sensitvie, but he's also made Bill more sympathetic . . .

Also--WHAT is with Bill's hair.  So much better in the first couple of episodes, but then it got overdone.  And Eric's make-up has definitely got to get improved and why does his hair (with the exception of his debut scene) always look so greasy?!

Here are some updates on Episode 202 "Keep This Party Going" for season 2:

  -Dirk - 25 years old, enthusiastic, he's a red-blooded American male who hates vampires. Guest Star. Recurring.

-Amanda - 18-23. This pretty, young, flirty and devoutly Christian girl hands out "honesty rings" at the Rising Sun Leadership Conference. Amanda fronts an all-female Christian rock band "that combines Courtney Love's rock and roll aesthetic, Katy Perry's teen sensibility, and Hilary Duff's squeaky-clean sex appeal." She and her band sing a song about abstinence that has all the boys in the audience mesmerized and lusting. 1 song. 2 lines, 2 scenes. Possible Recurring. Actress must be able to sing.

-Mrs. Hamby - 40-50, Jessica's grief-stricken and tearful mother, she appears on the news begging for information on Jessica's whereabouts. Mrs. Hamby is an uncertain woman who completely submits to her husband's decisions and can't make a move without consulting him. Guest Star. Possible Recurring.

-Mr. Hamby - Late 40's-early 50's, stoic and intimidating. Guest Star. Possible Recurring.

-Eden - 9 years old, she is Jessica's awkward sister. Guest Star. Possible Recurring.

-Saleswoman - 40 years old, flirtatious, and hot for vampires, she suggestively offers to model some clothing for Bill in the dressing room. 1 scene.

-Saleswoman #2 - This saleswoman is thrown by Bill's request for "proper" clothing. 1 line, 1 scene.

-Large Woman - This large woman is insulted by Eric's derisive remarks but quickly scurries away when she sees his fangs. 1 line, 1 scene.

-Anchor - Seen on TV, this female anchor discusses Mrs. Hamby's latest plea. 1 speech, 1 scene. (source: spoilertv.blogspot.com)

More random "spoiler" teasing about Season 2 (I don't think it's really a spoiler since anyone in this forum already knows what Maryann/Callisto is).

 Question: What's the deal with Michelle Forbes' character on True Blood? Is she Tara's Demon? How does Sam know her? -- Marcy
Ausiello: The mystery surrounding who (or what) Maryann is will play out front and center in season 2 -- and you may not find many clues in the books. "She's definitely a new kind of supernatural creature in Bon Temps," teases Ball. And as new as "it" is, it's also old. "Ancient. Ancient," Ball stresses. In other words, not a Cylon. BTW, production on True Blood's second season begins this week!

Laura...just joined today and your posts have kept me distracted (in a good way) at work all day!  Your rant at the beginning of this topic is priceless!

The one thing I'm shocked no one has mentioned especially considering eye color was brought up...is that AP's eyes are NOT blue!

The best part about True Blood for me is the casting of Eric and Pam.  Alex Skarsgard is a true viking!  And Kristin Bauer plays the dry sarcastic Pam perfectly.   The rest of them I could take or leave....

I agree with many of you that the show has way too many side-plots.  Jason and Amy; Tara and her mom; and what the heck is up with creating Jessica as a punishment!?

I haven't been able to see the AS interview...my work blocks some video sites, so that might be why....I'll try to see if I can view them at home.

Great site!

Hi Pearle, welcome.

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned AP winning a Golden Globe for playing Sookie (of all the people on the show...), I'm sure that as soon as Laura can, she will post on that, but perhaps I can add a preemptive Grrrr.

As much as I love True Blood, and am happy that it as a show received a Golden Globe, I am not particularly convinced that AP ( I suppose that is the forum lingo), deserved to win it.  I watched an interview somewhere , where  Anna admitted to not reading the books, or at least all of them. I was like WHAT!, i just don't think that Anna plays the Sookie that Charlaine wrote.  Maybe its because I prefer the books over the show, but her portrayal of  Sookie really bothers me.  I read above that someone sees Anna's face while reading the books,  the two are so incompatible in my mind, that  it doesn't even happen to me. (It usually does, with other movies made about books.)  Even without comparing Anna to Charlaine's Sookie,   I don't think she deserved the globe.

Good God! I am in the UK on business & just found out AP won the freakin' Golden Globe! NOOOOOoooooo!!! !!!

OK - another rant. I thought I was over it but Nance was certianly right - I have the need to spew.

I don't believe it was legit. No. No. The judges were bribed. They had to be. Either that or they were struck deaf, dumb & blind while they were casting their votes. Maybe they were Glamored....Hmm.....that sounds more like it.

Oh for God's Sakes. Now there's aboslutely no getting rid of her bar assination. Arrrrrgh! I cannot believe they rewarded that God awful pie scene. I cannot believe they rewarded her measly screams & cross eyed seduction scenes. I'm done. Put a fork in me.

It has ot be b'c Alan Ball is a critical darling & b'c AP won the Oscar at 11 they give the award to her b'c she already has some clout to make it more legit & get ratings up further.

BTW - I still have to post the Latest Q&A CH had about True Blood. It's very interesting & my rant has some merit! Basically - she was asked about the reason AB is taking it in a certain direction & why there seems to be a certain other focus & basically it was to appeal to a broader audience. The inference being a gay audience. Hence all the focus on Jason's Boner.

OK - obviously it wasn't said exactly like that but I think the implication of that reasoning is certainly there - I will post at some point I promise & you guys can judge for yourselves.

Disclaimer: uhhhh....so I relealize that sometimes when you voice strong opinions (esp. on boards), some might shy away from offering an alternative. For those you enjoy AP's performance, please don't take my rant personally. Keep posting & feel free. Thanks - L

Guys, the way I see it, AP is definitely NOT Sook.  Her performance is ok (minus the awkward and painful pie scene!!!) but I have to believe that she is only playing the Sookie in Alan Ball's world.  Therefore, I can forgive her for not being the Sookie in my head--much like Bill is not Bill.

CH has mentioned--sorry for not using the particular quote and paraphrasing, but I think it went something like: she was amazed at all the sudden Bill empathy and that it must be because Stephen Moyer portrays Bill as a sypathetic charcter.  He is much, much more mushy on TB than I ever pictured him in the books.  I mean, c'mon, sacraficing himself in Season 1 to save Sook from Rene?  Maybe he would have by ATD, but even in LDID he left her to get vengence on FotS peeps (PS as we all know, Eric stayed behind, sigh).  Clearly, AB has a different take on the world post Japanese Synthetic Blood.  I like CH world much better--no comparison, really, but I still think the show is worth watching.

I am VERY interested to see what happens in Season 2 just because 1) Alex Skarsgard should be featured more promentently , and 2) will AB give the viewer any hints as to what happens in CD?  I read that the character that plays Lorena will be back for the second season . . .

I've said it a few dozen times but "True Blood" is more like fanfiction than cannon -- and as long as I keep that in mind, I am all right with it.

In looking at the series on it's own merit, I do not understand how Anna Paquin was named lead over Rutina Wesley whom I believe had more screen time and defintely had the opportunity to show a greater range of emotion and growth than we've seen from the screen version of Sookie in Season 1.

To be honest, I don't really know if Anna's flat in the role or if it's the material she has been given to work with -- I am happy to see the series get attention and she got the award, so she managed to get the good opinion of the folks with ballots and that's what really matters.

The show did prompt me to read the series and so I have to give credit where it is due....

Hey guys, Deadwood blogspot is probably the best spoiler info for the show. I believe it it from someone who has inside scoop b'c of working there (or in the past) if I remember correctly. Anyway - this is were I usually went to get my info about upcoming shows.

Roshwen (the admin's name) started posting for Season 2:

http://deadwoodstage.proboards34.com/index.cgi?board=otherspoilers&action=display&thread=393&page=1#2643

Hey guys, just ran across this on Ask Auesiello:

Question: Thanks for telling us that True Blood started shooting its second season last week, but could you tell me when the episodes will start airing? -- Katie
Ausiello: This summer, which means season 2 will air roughly eight months after the conclusion of season 1 -- a lightning fast turnaround by cable standards. "Alan Ball is a very fast writer," explains an HBO source. In other True Blood news, I caught up with Sam Trammell (Sam) at the Globes and he teased that his new love interest (played by The Bold and The Beautiful's Ashley Jones) is up to no good. "I don't know the whole storyline, but I've read the first three episodes, and it's going to be really twisted and dark and exciting. She's got some serious secrets and questionable intentions."

http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/01/ask-ausiello--1.html 

Taken from EW: http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20250817,00.html

Killer True Blood spoilers!
Season 2 of HBO's fangtastic True Blood doesn't bow until summer, but I've already got intel from series creator Alan Ball. Fancy a bite?

Three's Company: Sookie (Anna Paquin) and Bill (Stephen Moyer) will wing it to Dallas, where they'll assist the local bloodsuckers in locating their MIA sheriff. But the couple's bigger problem may be their new third wheel, the irritating Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll). ''She's part of their life now,'' says Ball. ''Bill made her; he's responsible for her.''

Diff'rent Strokes: The question of who — or what — Maryann (Michelle Forbes) is will play out, and the answer doesn't lie in Charlaine Harris' books. ''She's a new kind of supernatural creature.''

Dead Like Me: ''I can't tell you if Lafayette [played by Nelsan Ellis] will be back,'' says Ball, adding ominously, ''He did die in the books.'' He will reveal that Lois Smith's Gran returns in flashbacks.

Highway to Heaven: Sookie's sex-obsessed bro, Jason (Ryan Kwanten), will get mixed up with the nefarious Fellowship of the Sun. ''He realizes something's missing in his life,'' says Ball. Aside from his pants?

and the answer doesn't lie in Charlaine Harris' books. ''She's a new kind of supernatural creature.'' 

Wait, so "Maryann" isn't a maenad in True Blood?  Seriously?!  Am not liking that at all.  That's taking creative license a little far IMO.

Sookie (Anna Paquin) and Bill (Stephen Moyer) will wing it to Dallas, where they'll assist the local bloodsuckers in locating their MIA sheriff. But the couple's bigger problem may be their new third wheel, the irritating Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll). ''She's part of their life now,'' says Ball. ''Bill made her; he's responsible for her.''

Their Mia Sheriff? Their's, Whose their? Sookie and Bill or Dallas' missing Sheriff? Good God don't tell me they go looking for Eric. Please, Please, Please, tell me it's Stan.

And they are taking Jessica. Really? NO, Really? so what is Alan going to form the buddy, buddy female Vamp relationship with Sookie and Jessica not Pam? I hate to say it, but that is what he could be doing. They are closer in age, she is closer to her humanity then Pam, and being in danger has it's was of forming bonds. I have to go throw up now.

"so what is Alan going to form the buddy, buddy female Vamp relationship with Sookie and Jessica not Pam? I hate to say it, but that is what he could be doing. They are closer in age, she is closer to her humanity then Pam, and being in danger has it's was of forming bonds." - Pam was supposed to be approx. 20 when she was turned; they like each other almost in spite of themselves (I can't believe that I'm friends with a human/vamp!); and it's almost her lack of humanity coupled with her study of human nature that makes her such a good friend for Sookie - remember her summation of Sookie's relationship with Arlene - why change the richness & the nuances that CH has already put there.

In fact, why buy the rights to a book/series of books if you're going to change things so much?  I wonder if the maenad will actually be in the series - she's pretty key in the book.  But then they had Bill kill Long Shadow when the fact that Eric actually staked him is REALLY important for the story line of later books!!!!!!

Frenchie,

I couldn't agree more.  I watched the show before reading the books and was a total devotee to Bill, but since reading the books I am so totally for ERIC.  I hate that they let bill do the killing.  I re-watched that episode the other day to see how that they had Eric act and he just stood there and then makes the remark.  "Humans bill.  I really don't know what you see in them?"  They portray him as cold, mean and harsh and only interested in Sookie in a sexual manner.  Before reading the books I was under the impression that Eric was truly evil and that he would exploit Sookie for his sole pupose.  Now having read the books and re-watching the show the only justification I can give is that Eric wants to get Bill punished so that he can have Sookie all to himself...but for what reasons I'm not sure.  I hope that they will show Eric in a more positive role next season.  I love Alex Skarsgaard as Eric that to me is the best casting on the show.  Why couldn't they have gotten Reese Witherspoon for Sookie...She has the blond hair, blue eyes and natural southern accent.  Oh WEll.

"the only justification I can give is that Eric wants to get Bill punished so that he can have Sookie all to himself...but for what reasons I'm not sure" - and that would not gel with the character that CH has developed for Eric in the books - he has become one of the most upright guys in Sookie's life - but, heck, they've changed most everything else, why not change that!  However, AS as Eric - inspired!

Frenchie, I know what you are saying about Pam, but it is very clear that Pam in the show is not 20. As a matter of fact, she looks older then Eric. I can see them adjusting her back story for the show. It is all about the demographics of the viewers and not the book readers. So if Alan is going to try and draw in the 20 something viewers a Jessica/Sookie pairing would make more since.

Also look at who they pick to Play Chow. Do you find him anything like the book?

Plus, the viewer-ship for this show is more female then male. Jessica is the eye candy for the straight guy. Did you see the way she was dressed her last scene of the session. Hello! Straight guy all the way. HBO needs this show to work. They have had a crappy run since the Sopranos went off the air and they will try to broaden the market appeal.  Knowing network politics, Alan may have a strong control over the show from his success of Six feet under, but the accountants always have a say. Always. You have no idea how I hope I am wrong on this.

I like the actress that plays Pam in the show, even though she isn't 20.  She pulls off the dry wit and sarcasm very well.  And she and Alex Skarsgard are friends in real life, so I think that helps with their screen presence.

And it was a shock to see what Chow looked like.

Hey Erika - I know that you know what you're talking about, and as an accountant I'm not offended  - I guess that I just don't understand what they've done - they could have cast Pam as per book (plenty of eye candy for the straight guy then - her Fangtasia outfits vs her "daywear"); and they could have kept her "English"; and casting Chow per the books would have made more sense with regard to audience demographics.  I just don't think that they had to depart from the books so much to attract their target audience.  There are 8 books, so even condensing the material they had enough storyline for a few seasons.

I also really like the actress playing Pam, although she certainly isn't to cannon. Chow on the other hand - quite a step away from the Chow in the books! However, if he doesn't get much screen time it won't really matter how he looks.

I totally agree with everyone on the casting of Pam. Her delivery of the lines is magic and Like Pam she loves playing her. There is a great two part podcast on True-blood.net with an interview with Kristen Beur. It is well worth the time to listen to. You will never look at the exit scene from Fangtasia the same again.

I always thought she (Amanda Seyfried) would be a great Sookie looks-wise (& she can act). I just think she has that skin like a plum thing going for her. Plus the girl next to her (Megan Fox) I always thought would be perfect for Claudine.

http://celebrities.ninemsn.com.au/img/blog/blog_megan_260808.jpg

NL - thank you for the podcast tip. I will defo listen. I think Kristen Beur is genius as Pam. She is perfect! just like how I hear her in my head when I read the books.

Oh yes Laura - they so match up with what I pictured in my head - why weren't you in charge of casting  - but in that reality would AS have still been Eric?

Oh yes! I would defo have AS as Eric! I really can't think of anyone else to be honest b'c he is sooo good.

And I would have Juliette Lewis as Debbie Pelt!

Yep - they should have had you in charge of casting - what were they thinking?

I would love to see Juliette Lewis as Debbie Pelt~~~that is absolutely perfect.  She is just bitchy enough to carry it off.  I like Pam on the show too but think she should have had an English accent per the books. An of course AS as Eric Perfecto!!

Thanks Frenchie! I often throw my remote @ the TV & think the same....Doh!

And further into my fantasy casting world, I had Timothy Olyphant as Quinn b'c he moves w/a grace that is very feline & he looks good bald & he can pull off calling a relative stranger "Babe" w/out making one's skin crawl

I tend to try & re-use my favorite actors (Rach will attest) - we've done a fantasy casting for Anita Blake & I use TO there too.

I can't help it!  I also use Emile Hirsch in Anita's world but in Sookie's I picture him as Andre.

Juliette Lewis as Debbie would be perfect! She can play crazy and bitchy so well! Maybe the casting people should have contacted some fans before they got started.

I had to google Emile - and, darn you're good!  Do you have any brain capacity left for life with all these fantasy castings, & playlists, plus memorizing all of the SVMs?

And you're right on with TO and Emile HIrsch, too!

I really don't have any brain power. My short term memory is piss poor that's why I need notes! And if I don't keep notes, I am in trouble. Notes are my friend.

And ah....what's SVM's? See?

Southern Vampire Mysteries - I thought that I picked that up on this board because I'm not very good with acronyms - but I can't remember exactly where I saw it now!

Ahh....nope - you're right, that's the one of the names of the series. It's on the books themselves.

Oh and as far as my brain capacity for life, it comes & goes! Seriously. Lucky for me I am a crazy multi-tasker & quick w/the internet & computer.

If Stephen Moyer wasn't playing Bill - does anyone have any other suggestions??

Tsk, tsk Laura -- I thought we agreed that Tim Olyphant was going to be our Richard for the Anita Blake series -- he can't do both shows and Richard is a much juicier (and nuder) role.

What is the feeling on Stan Davis?

I don't know if any of you have read the Twilight series, and I realize that Edward is supposed to be like 17, but in my mind I always pictured him looking a LOT like Timothy Olyphant too...yum!

I love Tim Olyphant almost as much as everyone else which is why I am pushing for him as Richard for Anita Blake -- he will spend at least half of his screen time partially clothed or nude and raging, who could complain about that?

LOL!! ...Lol, Rach. You do make me laugh.

OK, OK, so what will we do for Quinn then?

I had someone for Stan - oops - oh shit - I don't know if we can use him either! It was Edward Norton but he's our Edward in AB isn't he? Ok anyone else?

Please - someone find a place for Ryan Gosling. Please? Somewhere good....

Ah Jason Statham for Quinn!

Oh yes! Statham for Quinn would be perfect!  Ryan Gosling with black hair for Claude maybe?

Awww...he's not in it enough. We need to give Ryan a meaty role b'c he's brazilliant & oozes charm! Doncha' think? What about as Sam?

I like Ryan Gosling as Sam that really works good for me.  I always pictured Quinn as some kind of Body Builder type like say Vin Diesel and I would love to see Reese Witherspoon as Sookie.  She has the blond hair, blue eyes and NATURAL southern accent plus, big bonus here she can actually ACT!!!

Both Vin & Reese were the original inspiration for Quinn & Sookie. Did you know that??

Reese would be an awesome Sookie. She really is a fantastic actress. She only did that bit part in Friends. I never really entertained wither of them b'c I thought they were too big but CH was spot on w/her basis really.

Thank god I found a forum for my addiction to true blood and I call them the Dead books. For Quinn Vin Diesel with purple eyes would be very yum.I think he could pull off the whole babe thing.

Oh, you're right! Gosling needs a bigger part. I could definitely see him as Sam. Vin is perfect for Quinn, I had no idea he was the inspiration for the character! No wonder I first thought of him when I read about Quinn.

I did not know that Reese was the origianl inspiration for Sookie,  that is so cool!!  I just had to get that mental image of AP out of my head while reading the books. (I watched the show first)  I  had to think of someone to fit the desription from the book and Reese immediately came to mind.  Wow she knows how to describe her characters well.

Alcide? I have a very strong image & so far...no good....can't picture...

I see Hugh Jackman as Alcide...maybe it's the X-men Wolverine that's stuck in my head, but there it is....plus he's got great pecs.

Yeah - my co-worker said the same thing but I am not 100% sold.. Alcide has green eyes (I know, I know... contacts) - what actors have naturally green (or even hazel) eyes?

What about Marion Cotillard for Sophie Anne?

maybe...i see SA a little younger and innocent looking, though

Audrey Tatou?

Ah HA! How could I forget!? I have my Alcide - Karl Urban. He played Eomer in LOTR: 2 Towers & Return of the Fing. He's awesome.

http://www.listal.com/viewimage/176630

bravo! on Karl.

I have often pictured Saide from LOST as Alcide, I don't know if the names just sound alike but I see the black curly hair and the muscle in him

I see Naveen Andrews (Sayid) as Rasul.  That Karl Urban isn't bad for Alcide, except I see him as a little more rugged.

I am feeling Crispin Glover for Stan -- go ahead and deny me if you must but it's not a bad idea

What about Adrien Grenier for Alcide? Give him 6 weeks in the gym and he'll be built up enough for the role -- he's got the eyes and a certain animal magnetism. Also, HBO has a history of cross-casting and Adrien hasn't done anything like Alcide before plus it's a good role with a range of emotions and some action.

Naveen Andrews isn't a bad choice for Rasul but what about Nestor Carbonell (aka Richard Alpert from Lost)?

Maybe we should start a fantasy casting thread? This is fun!

Ahhh....pulling out the big indie guns! That's actually a great, great choice IMO. I just re-listen to Stan in LDID & I think it fit s very nicely.

Karl is my Alcide - broad face, light eyes, shoulder length hair which is kind of curly & stringy b'c it's fine., delicate nose...I don't know about anyone else but that's who I picture totally!

Yeah - I like Nestor as well.

I've always seen Quinn as Vin Diesel.....even before I saw that on CH's blog.  I was pumped!

Karl Urban is good as Alcide......but what about Eric Bana? Adrien Grenier is too skinny for Alcide even with Gym time.  Alcide has always been a made up person in my head....couldn't place him as anyone.  Just like Sookie. 

Crispin Glover would be a PERFECT Stan.  Never thought of that until you said it!     Naveen Andrews is good for Rasul....never heard of him...but I looked at his google pic.....perfect!

Please - someone find a place for Ryan Gosling. Please? Somewhere good....

yesterday

Ah Jason Statham for Quinn!

AMEN TO THAT. Love Ryan, he can play any or all parts as far as I'm concerned...

Love Jason S too, he is hot as hell and he can fight better than anyone, great Quinn choice!

Is there a part meaty enough for Ryan left in the series? I am not so sure, I'd hate to waste him on a supporting character. Then again, with the liberities Alan Ball has taken maybe there will be a part worthy of Mr. Gosling.

I will dream of Crispin Glover for Stan, he needs the work and can make the role memorable and I am pulling for James Ransone as Barry. By now I'm sure many of you have watched "Generation Kill" with Alexander Skarsgard well, James Ransone played Ray and I think he'd nail the role of Barry -- plus it plays into HBO's habit of cross-casting and he's a very good actor (he was great in "The Wire"). Check him out...

oh my. James Ransone would be PERFECT  for Barry!

oh.. this may be off topic  ( and a tad lewd), but i know alexander skarsgard love is practically universal here

in the generation kill dvd commentary.. there is  a hilarious dialogue between james and alex.. where james basically talks about how big alex's penis is.  i suggest taking a listen.

yepppppppppp

I like James Ransone, too.....but do you think he's a little old for Barry?  I know that may not matter....but I've always thought Barry's young age was key in him not being able to control his ability and being kind of freaked out by it.  He does look young though.....so who knows.

I love his and AS's chemistry in Generation Kill. 

I think Shia Lebeauf would be a good Barry.  He's twitchy and nervous and can have a really good nerdy side plus be cute if we need him to be.   I love Crispin Glover as Stan...That one is pure genius.

Now, Tsk, tsk Rach - didn't we already use Ransone for Willy in Anita Blake?

If I can't recycle TO as  Quinn, then you can't recycle Barry.

Buuuttt...I'm all for recycling so  - you make the call.

Damn our actors are going to be dead tired.

I love Shia too. He's good. I can totally see him as Barry....

OK back to Ryan -you know, I would have had him as my Eric b'c he is a badass & he's 6'1". Buuuutt....maybe he's be my Bill.

Yes - I know, SM does a good job - he does. But he goes in & out of the accent too much. It does distract me. I think I notice it more b'c my hubby is a Brit so I get hung up on it when I hear British actors do a bad American accent (& vice versa).

So in my world - everyone would have their continutity ship shape!

Yup - I'd make him Bill. He does conflict extremely well (Half Nelson, True Believer)....He'd be a good Sam but frankly - I'd want to see him steam up the scenes w/Sook so Bill would be my 2nd choice.

Rach - I thought you'd have started a Fantasty Casting thread by now?

Naveen Andrews is PERFECT for Rasul!  He's tough, but has kind of a rascally charm.  Pearle I freaking LOVE Eric Bana as Alcide.  I think if you take Eric Bana as he was in Munich--all bulked up and rugged, that he's dead on!.

What about Hayden Christiansen--sexiest man alive.  He'd have to be a Vampire I think.  Where do you guys see him fitting in?  Maybe as Victor Madden?!

No, as Andre, he has the innocent and young face.

Okay, I didn't think that I'd be the one to pick up on this from staralfur:

in the generation kill dvd commentary.. there is  a hilarious dialogue between james and alex.. where james basically talks about how big alex's penis is.  i suggest taking a listen.

But it sounds like AS really was a perfect Eric - 'gracious plenty' and all.

But it sounds like AS really was a perfect Eric - 'gracious plenty' and all 

"Carrying concealed"

so, i'm not a big vin diesel fan, so i can't picture him as quinn w/ out being grossed out.  i see Dominic Purcell from prison break doing a good quinn

love the eric bana and shia ideas

Has anyone heard whether or not AB is gonna have Bubba in the show?  I am very anxious to find out if that could happen, I personally love the idea of Elvis being a vamp and he plays very prominently in the books.  I hope he show up in the show.

I heard b'c of licensing issues that it's not got to work.

I figured as much!!!  I didn't think they could use such a famous person on TV and in such a low role.

Also, some one asked on CH's site if there would ever be a direct mention of Bubba being 'Elvis' - and the word is no, because then you'd run afoul of his legal estate.

Besides, having Bubba's identity implied (and confirmed by revealing clues) works much better, and make him the character that we've come to love.
 

http://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/15064

-- some new vamp news. Preston Jones. has been cast in a recurring role. Picture at link,

Who do you think he is supposed to be?

I don't know, but I bet we get to at least see him with his shirt off, If not more at some point. I can see another round of man crush scenes coming our way.

It looks like they are going to bring in Dr. Ludwig...

 -Dr. Ludwig - A female LITTLE PERSON, she is a no-nonsense, take-charge medical healer who tends to a severely wounded Sookie (Anna Paquin). Clearly disdainful of Eric (Alexander Skarsgard), Dr. Ludwig is "no fan of the fang," but tolerates vampires as their blood is of great value to her profession. 4 speeches & 9 lines, 3 scenes. (source: spoilertv.blogspot.com)

True Blood - Episode 2.04 - Let’s Take a Trip Together

.. So Jessica is using room service .. not Bill. .. the Bill love will continue.   I am sure Allan Ball has reasons for doing so, but in my mind Bill's room service scene was key to revealing his true Vamp ways.

Posts moved into "BIll & Self Control issue's thread".

30 to 45, this suspiciously pushy driver, whose thoughts are violent and dark, is sent by Fellowship of the Sun to abduct Sookie when she arrives at the airport. Instead, he is glamored (hypnotized) by Bill and Jessica, and experiences a wide spectrum of emotions and outbursts, from fear, to relief, to embarrassment as his will is usurped and his behavior is dictated. He is ultimately released to return to his superiors and tell them that Sookie “never showed up” (which is what he now believes)…GUEST STAR (33)

Wow, the writers on this show are really making Bill look good -- here he and Jessica not only stop Sookie's abduction at the airport but they actually get more information out of the would-be attacker. This stinks because it further strips away some of Sookie's developing slueth skills and makes Bill the misunderstood hero yet again.

Sookie's role in True Blood continues to take a more passive and reactionary tone than the Sookie we know and love from the books. This is what bothers me the most about True Blood, it's not that Bill is transformed into a misunderstood hero because I think Stephen Moyer is doing a phennomenal job with the role, rather what really frosts my cupcakes is that our Sookie continues to be presented as a submissive and tempermental damsel in distress. In the book, Sookie does get out of danger on her own and she solves problems and pieces together information using her own intellect -- that's not happening here, many of the little bits that contribute to her growth are chipped away and given to Bill and it bothers me. Whew, had to vent!

In total agreement w/ that.

Someone should sue HBO for misrepresenation - "True Blood" is not based the Sookie Stackhouse/SVM Novels - it is based very loosely on the characters in the Sookie Stackhouse novels.

Hey Rach, I'll see your vent and raise you a rant.

Of the many things that I have had a problem with regarding the show (oh, and there are many) one of the biggies is how Sookie has been devalued, to the point where she comes off as either a shrill shrew, or as a helpless lass.

The scene with Rene in the graveyard just took the cake. Gone was the strong and resourceful Sookie who saves herself - and solves the case. In her place was a frightened girl who needed two supernatural suitors to come to her aid and 'save' her - even to the point that it is implied that Bill 'gave her' the strength to regain consciousnesses so that she could flee from Rene (oh, and you do not want to get me started on the whole "Bill awakes during the day" not to mention "runs out in the daylight to save her").

Not having watched the episode for a while, but as I recall, there wasn't much thought given to how she fled - considering that they had Rene come to her house.

It would have been much more compelling to see her try to get out of the house and across the graveyard (at night) without making any noise that would give away her position. Okay, don't get me wrong, I understand why dramatic licence may be taken in this case - but it wasn't the first time that the fire and resoursefulness of Sookie was stripped away from this interpertation.

When Sookie sees Sam naked at the foot of her bed, her reaction is not that of the confident woman who is surprised that her friend had been hiding such a secret (and watched her undressed - though in the show "Dean" was very polite and didn't watch her undress); but rather she spends the rest of the episode acting very 'miffed' and 'bitchy' towards Sam.

Arrrgh!

"Hey Rach, I'll see your vent and raise you a rant." - LMBO - I love this board!

Someone should sue HBO for misrepresenation - "True Blood" is not based the Sookie Stackhouse/SVM Novels - it is based very loosely on the characters in the Sookie Stackhouse novels.

Oh sing it sister. I have been saying that since the beginning. I even wrote a letter to Alan Ball about it (& his gratuitous use of Jason's boner issues to move the plot along). It's a freakin' mockery IMHO. I could go on & on...oh wait... I've done that.

Nancy - I am goign to add your little turn of phrase to my everyday lexicon. That & "HSM"....

Cool,

I've coined a phrase - I feel very Stephen Colbert-ish right now.

Episode 205:

• NEW 2/2/2009 - Roles:

-Godric - Over two thousand years old but looks 15, he is an ancient Vampire. Small in stature and youthful appearing, but able to project intense power and wisdom. Can have an accent from anywhere. Must be 18 or emancipated. Recurring. (source: spoilertv.blogspot.com) <--(Godric was the "renouncer" vampire in book 2 who had gone by the name "Godfrey" for the past century. He allied himself with the Fellowship of the Sun and wanted to "meet the sun" (commit suicide by staying out past daybreak).)

7/11/09 scoop

MICKEY: I’m sorry to say that the person you were hoping wasn’t actually dead is actually dead. Bill, Sookie and Jessica, who are now kind of a demented family unit, travel to Texas, where they’ll meet this guy. (The stars at night… are big and bright…. everybody!)

And with “this guy” they mean Preston Jones who is portraying the role of Dirk. The interesting thing is that Dirk is at the Fellowship Of The Sun Church camp with Jason Stackhouse. So if he also meets Bill, Sookie and Jessica, that could mean that Jason is there too and the five of them in the same room would no doubt cause a lot of tension.
What I really like is how Bill, Sookie and Jessica are described as a “demented family unit”. Stephen Moyer describes Jessica in this way: “She is nuts—and fantastic.”

The dead person who is actually dead is ofcourse Lafayette. There was really no way around that. Lafayette, you will be missed. 

What I really like is how Bill, Sookie and Jessica are described as a “demented family unit”  

Really? I think some writers need to be slapped. How can they not see the way CH wrote Bill? I don't get it and I am proud to say I don't.

Amen to that.  Plus I hate the way this Jessica is suddenly a main character on the series.  I mean, she doesn't even exist in the books!  Ugh.  I might not even watch this season.  I knew the books would ruin the series for me, which is why I held off until the first season was over before I read them.

Your words are as my own. Although, I am glad I did because I would have never known CH's Eric.

I am spoiled because I read the books first.  I know that I will not watch the show now because they have twisted the roles so much that it has polluted the story of Sookie in my opinion.  However I knew who was cast to play the role of Eric, so as I read the books I could picture him as CH intended the character to be.  Perfect really!  Like I said I have been spoiled!

Episode 205

“Never Let Me Go”
Airdate: TBA
Gallery: Promotional Photos | Screencaps

Filming begins March 5, 2009.

Casting Call - added 2.23.09
[STAN] In his 40s, metro sexual. Godric’s lieutenant in Texas, he’s a vampire dressed in expensive Western wear. A volatile troublemaker…1 speech & 12 lines, 2 scenes (31)

[ISABEL] In her 30s, an elegant Hispanic vampire, Isabel is Godric’s other lieutenant…1 speech & 13 lines, 2 scenes (31)

[GUNNAR] 20’s, Viking seen in a flashback to the tenth Century AD, Gunnar is badly wounded and bleeding. Speaking in Old Norse…5 lines, 2 scenes (43)

[HROLF] 20’s, Viking seen in a flashback to the tenth Century AD, Hrolf is badly wounded and bleeding. Speaking in Old Norse…4 lines, 2 scenes (43)

[WELL-DRESSED WOMAN] A well-dressed woman with fang scars all over her chest and neck, she comes to the Hotel Carmilla, looking for work. She has no idea that Sookie and Barry can read her every thought…1 speech & 2 lines, 1 scene (16)

[GUY] Another guy at the training camp for vampire hunters, probably overweight and definitely not in good shape, he is a bank teller who can’t make it through Boot Camp without collapsing in near tears…1 line, 1 scene (24)

[MAN] 30s to 40s, a patron at Merlotte’s, possibly overweight, he’s a husband who’s busily arguing with his wife, and gripes to Arlene about the poor service…2 lines, 1 scene (37)

[WOMAN] 30s to 40s, a patron at Merlotte’s, possibly overweight, she’s busily arguing with her husband, and gripes to Arlene about the poor service…2 lines, 1 scene (37)

Casting Call - added 2.02.09
[GODRIC] 
Over two thousand years old but looks 15, he is an ancient Vampire. Small in stature and youthful appearing, but able to project intense power and wisdom. Can have an accent from anywhere. Must be 18 or emancipated … RECURRING

 If the additional roles above are accurate and not some of the purposely misleading ones that Alan Ball has recently said are being released in order to throw off spoiler hunters, then Godric will be the Dallas area sheriff instead of Stan, who was the Dallas area sheriff in the books. Until further information becomes available (promotional or set photos, cast interviews, official episode descriptions, etc.), then all True Blood casting information should be taken with a grain of salt, because characters/plots could be very different when the episodes actually air.)

Stan a metrosexual in a cowboy hat no less -- I thought that Western wear was an antidote to metrosexuality, goes to show what I know? So what's next, Alcide as a wererabbit? The way things are going, nothing would surprise me.

Read about AP & SM's real life admittance to their relationship. He looks rode hard & put away wet in this photo.

Anna & Stephen

Did you see the way the article states "Enjoy the romance while it lasts!"?   I think he looks better in the first episode.  They changed his hair too much in the later episodes.

Oh yes - I read that.

I'm sure it will be uncomfortable for both Stephen and Anna when she starts doing intimate scenes with Alexander Skarsgard. Hopefully, their relationship last that long.

Meterosexual cowboy...? I thought Stan was supposed to be a bit of a geek in Sookie's eyes...

Meterosexual cowboy...?

LQTM, I know, it's an oxymoron!

I thought Stan was supposed to be a bit of a geek in Sookie's eyes... 

Stan took all of his style tips from Revenge of the Nerds including tape on the bridge of his glasses, Stan is a super nerd in the books and now he's demi-suave. It was Stan's vassel, Farrell who took up with Godfrey/Goderic that was into Western wear in the books.

At this rate, don't be surprised if Aclide is EMO!

God only knows what they're going to do w/Eric.

BTW - do you think they're making him grow his hair out so the heinous wig could be burned? In the interviews that Erika posted - his hair is pretty long.

we can always hope, laura

I am almost to the point of not wanting to continue watching the show. The series was what got me into the books.I loved it. It was not to campy, but not up it's own ass either. Lots of vampire stuff gets lost in the lore and the romance of being a vampire and it can get a little cheesy, but this didn't. I also loved how he "got" southern. Lots of movies and TV shows miss by a mile.

When I started the books, I thought that they had that same something that the series had, but I did see a big difference with the show and how they added filler to add to the Sookie perspective. The show followed the books but at some point Allen Ball took a lot of liberties with the Sook / Bill relationship that did not seam to leave a lot of room for her to breakout. I know that he has built in some points where he can bring that baby back home to the books, but a lot of stuff that I have read (which could be complete bunk) point towards him keeping the Sook / Bill thing going.... plus it seems that he has taken a very liberal interpritation with who does what and where and how they really are. he has some leeway because... but damn it, I like the books way better.

Long story short, I will probably continue to watch, but begrudgingly. I do love me some Alexander Skarsgard....

http://www.trueblood-online.com/public/?p=3057

Sigh. Can I make it through season two after reading this? I guess I kind of already knew Alan Ball would change everything, but it's still hard to absorb after all of the fun of getting to see the characters come to life in season one. That's not to say I didn't get frustrated with the last couple of episodes. Oh well.

That does it... I am done. Not with the books of course, but if what chick is saying is true, Alan Ball has screwed the pooch in my book...

From the moment they had Bill actually stake LongShadow I knew it was never going to be true to the books. Its hard to watch it and have it not true to the story line, but I have to admit, I think its still fun to see it.

It will be interesting to see where AB is going with all of this. Can't wait to see what he did with the scene where they all take turns sucking out Sookies blood from the Maened attack.

I have to wonder if AB ever plans on something happening between Sookie and Eric, after all there are a few signs in the first season. Guess we will either have to watch to find out, or not watch. which ever your fancy.

If he can bring home to some hot Eric / Sookie action, I will be back in.

If anyone has ever read my rants on this thread, you'll know I've always had issues w/how AB interpreted the books.

Aside from that - I didn't find the series actually that good. It had it's moments. And certainly majority of the cast are excellent actors but I felt it really dragged.

I will definitely watch b'c I want to see AS bring his part to life but it is the only reason I want to or will watch.

You said a mouth full... or a gracious plenty with that. That is a lovely man....

I am hoping that they do a scene where Eric kisses Sookie after she sucks the bullet out of him...or something close to that.  I would also like to see a scene from Eric picking her up to take her to the orgy up to Bill stepping out of the woods and catching Eric lying above her on his corvette after she says that Bill is her boyfriend...and all the kissing E & S does in between.   I won't keep my hopes up in case Alan Ball has changed that too.

ok this is part of an interview with Carrie Preston about a new movie she has out, but they cover some of True Blood. This part makes me very uneasy, but I have to remember that they AB is on a big dis-information campain with all the leaks to the internet.

ABNegative: “Yeah, from some of the titles we can sort of figure out what’s going on. I think “Scratch My Back” must be about Sookie being attacked by the Maened and having her back all messed up.”

Carrie: ” Yes, the Maened. That sounds like it. And without giving away anything, I can say that season 2 really strays far away from the second book, hardly anything like it. It’s just so far out there with more characters and going in different directions. Not much like the book at all.”

you can read the whole thing here:  http://www.trueblood-online.com/public/?p=3057

I just read on true-blood.net that there is a spoiler going around that Eric's backstory will be in season 2.  Supposedly, there is a flash back scene with him in full viking regalia fighting in a battle.  Whether or not this is true, I do not know.  There was supposed to be 2 casting calls for other viking looking characters.  This could all be a ploy to throw off spoiler hunters though.

However, I would love to see AS as a viking.  That is some visual imagery I could live with. 

Just a quick note True Blood is running on HBO 2 every saturday night. Episode 3 should be this weekend.

Just like Sookie is "ruined" for humans, I am completely "ruined" for the TV show.  What a bummer.  I so loved it last season before I read the books.  I'm never gonna be able to see it the same way again.

Episode 2.06 - Friend Is a Four Letter Word - Casting Call
The casting call for Episode 2.06 - Friend Is a Four Letter Word has been released.
This episode will start filming on the 20th March and is directed by Michael Lehman and written by Brian Buckner.
Spoiler warning!
Read the casting call after the break.
[HUGO] Early 30s to 40, a buttoned-down accountant or lawyer type, he is Isabel’s human boyfriend. He is locked up with Sookie in the bomb shelter of the F.O.T.S. Church…GUEST STAR (3) WILL APPEAR IN TWO EPISODES. PLEASE SUBMIT CAUCASIAN ONLY.
[MIDDLE-AGED MAN] Seen in flashback, middle-aged, and drunk when we meet him, he and his beautiful companion are enjoying the music at a 1920s Art Deco House. He is shocked but intrigued by Lorena’s invitation to enjoy the scandalous after-hours partying. Later, we watch as Lorena and Bill have their way with the terrified Middle-Aged Man…1 speech & 6 lines, 2 scenes (5)
[YOUNG WOMAN] Seen in flashback to Prohibition days, she is the Middle-Aged Man’s beautiful, much younger date. She is innocent and sad, later victimized…3 lines, 2 scenes (5)
[FEMALE HUMAN BLOOD HOOKER] This human blood hooker is allowing a clearly disinterested Eric to drink from her…4 lines, 1 scene sptv050769(1)
[BONITA LOU] 50s - 60s, she is Maxine’s fun-loving friend; the two are seen dining at Merlotte’s…2 lines, 2 scenes (21) 

from the same site:

Every True Blood episode is named after a song. The sixth episode of Season 2 is titled “Friend Is A Four Letter Word”.
“Friend is a Four Letter Word” is the name of the last single from the 1996 hit album “Fashion Nugget” by alternative rock band Cake from Sacramento, California.
I found some information about the meaning of this song and if it is any indication of what will happen in this episode…. it doesn’t look good…

“This song is about a girl who breaks up with a guy by telling him they should be “Friends.” This is not what he wants to hear, and to his ears, and the resulting heartbreak makes him think of the word “Friend” as dirty and cruel - similar to many vulgar 4-letter words in the English language.” 

Awwww Sookie now!

new casting call:

[QUEEN SOPHIE ANNE] 
Vampire Queen of Louisiana. Originally from France (no accent necessary), Sophie-Anne has been a vampire for almost five hundred years. She is charming, wily, ruthless and wise. With one foot in the old world and one in the new, she rules all vampires in the state of Louisiana, engages with Kings and Queens from other states. Brilliant and far-sighted, she is a consummate diplomat, politician and adversary. Incredibly cultured, has known many of history’s most famous people personally — as well as had affairs with many of them — she is entertaining, funny, dangerous and delightful.
Scheduled for one appearance in season 2, she will figure in future seasons.

PLEASE SUBMIT STAR NAMES ONLY. 

Interesting casting description for Sophie-Anne but they forgot to mention that she should be a teenager -- I guess they're casting a wide net so to speak.

I also think that making her 500 years old is a big mistake as well. You take out her whole back story and the Vamps around her. Plus that makes Eric much stronger then her and Andera so why would he be worried about stopping Andera from bonding to Sookie? just some things to thin about.

True Blood Gets a New Supernatural Creature
From Watch with Kristen EOnline
A new villain is coming to True Blood’s blood-loving, fictional Louisiana town of Bon Temps, and the vampires are not happy campers.

“There’s a new supernatural creature in town, one I’ve never seen on TV,” says a source on the set of the HBO series. “Even vampires are scared of this thing. We’ll be seeing a lot more of Eric (Alexander Skarsgård) this year. Romance is in the air for most of our main characters, but as always with our show, nothing is ever what it seems.” 

Drama also ensues when Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin) and Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer) take a business trip out of Bon Temps and find themselves in the middle of some sticky vampire politics, according to our source. 

I just re-watched episode 4 "Escape from Dragon House" today and thought it was kind of telling that the song that is playing when Sookie enters Fangtasia is "Don't Fear the Reaper", are they subtly saying don't fear Eric????  Just and observation.....

NO WAY. She is amazing! I love her.

That would be GREAT!!  She is definitely beautiful enough.  the only draw back is that S.A was supposed to be a teenager, but I can live with it.

I can too. I mean - he is breaking all the rules & killing the books anyway - at least MP is a step at some sort of redemption. She was the best Catwoman ever.

Yes, she was a great catwoman, and I think that she can pull off the aloofness that S.A. seemed to have.  I wonder who will play Andre now?? I'd like to see someone like Colin Farrel..or James Marsden

Well I think it has to be someone who is at least as old as she is now, maybe a tiny bit younger. So I think someone more mature. Rachel & I were talking about what a great actor Rupert Everett is & how we wished we could see him as a vamp. With MP being an older version of Sophie, he would fit the bill for her Andre.....urban, European, predatory, aloof....

Colin Farrel is ...yum...did anyone ever see his sex tape? It was between the most hilarious thing ever (I do an impression of him in the throws of er...passion?) & kinda sexy. You know, some guys just really love women. It's just their thing. You can tell he does. So I couldn't hate him for that!

You know, some guys just really love women. It's just their thing. You can tell he does. So I couldn't hate him for that!

Indeed, the man does really love women -- here's to his mother, who raised the lad free of mommy-issues, she should write a book.

Incidentally, I share a friend in common with the young woman on that tape -- she never wanted it released and she was sincerely quite smitten with Colin.

And she should have been (smitten)

Even in his Irish Lucky Charm Brogue (don't get me wrong - I LOVE an Irish Brogue, but he sounded like the Lucky Charm Man during one particular part) - he was quite the charmer.

That sounds great...sorry I missed that one...uh, Laura feel free to share with us your interpretation.  LOL  I would love to see Rupert Everett too....his voice over as Prince Charming in Shrek 2 was fantastic...I think he could pull off Andre.

Well, it certainly won't have the same affect b'c you won't be able to hear my accent - but ah - I don't know  if it's something I should post publicly, it's pretty in the raw .

Ahhh....too bad.

Rupert Everett - he would be so good, it's making my skin tingle just thinking about it!

And I was curious about the CF tape, so I googled it - I love that the site where it was first posted had to be shut down because the server overloaded - popular guy!!!!

The CF tape really was classic, IMHO.

first promo for season 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYjuCdUqP3I

http://community.livejournal.com/ohnotheydidnt/33664766.html

Some pics from season Two. One of AS... Looks like the hair is gone.  ( and sorry for the gossip blog link. I am too lazy to repost the pics.)

I thought that vamps couldn't cut/grow their hair? 

I know frenchie. To be honest, I like long-hair Eric. I think its an essential part of the character...but also.. my Eric does not wear track jackets.  Oh Alan Ball.

I'm with you - that shot does not show Eric, or anyone else, as we would probably picture them; to me it doesn't it doesn't look like anyone in my "idea" of Sookieverse.

I can't believe they cut Eric's hair.....That is a real let down....

I agree with the comments on Eric's hair and the tracksuit jacket...the way they are all fangy and about to pounce in that picture...I just can't take them seriously whilst Pam and Eric are wearing tracksuit gear...

I thought AS mentioned something about growing his hair out for the character so he wouldn't have to wear the wig...but I assumed he'd let it get longer than that...

I hope they are not down playing Eric's looks for Bill fans. I pray there is a bad ponytail on the back of his head.

I just hope they don't down play Eric's entire character and simplify him to 2Dness. Even if AS understands the dynamicness of Eric Alan Ball has full creative control and seems to be continuing on the Bill/Sookie love angle so everything else is cannon fodder for it. But I will wait until I see season 2 to confirm my suspicions. There's rumours that it might Bill who takes Sookie to the orgy...I don't know if I'll be able to watch it much after that...I'd feel sourly cheated out of pink lycra.

plus how did Chow turn into that plump, three-piece suit wearing, hair dresser type?  Where are the vests, tattoos, and muscles?

ugh

I've started watching season one of True Blood again, and despite all the changes Alan Ball has made ( especially with what has leaked about season two), I think I still have faith that he will ultimately reach the same conclusion of the books, aka: discovering the true nature of Bill being in Bon Temps. He is just going to go about it in a different way.

..or at least this is what I am going to tell myself to get through the next season without screaming at the television for its discrepancies every week.

For me personally, I need to keep the show and the books as two seperate entities.  I watched the show first and then read the books, I truly loved the show when I first watched and as long as I don't view them side by side I can enjoy them both.  I much prefer the books but the show is highly entertaining as well.  Although, it is a very loosely based serious IMHO.  I think it is going to be hard not to compare the two but I will try....I really felt that the best part was AS as Eric and thought that he captured his nature perfectly but without the long hair I feel that they have lessened him quite a bit.  I'll need to see how he portrays him to make a decision on season 2.

In my opinion, the only characters that seem to fit their description in the books are Bill, Sookie and Pam (whose hair is really not so blonde but more like highlighted).  Even Lorena was different in True Blood being a brunette when the books described her as a blonde.  Short hair Eric doesn't work for me either but this could be Alan Ball's verson of Eric's 'disquise' for when he shows up at Stan's home in Dallas as Leif. Instead of the ponytail, maybe they opted to cut his hair and dressed him in a track suit to change his style of clothing as well.  Since vampires have been painted to pretty much stay frozen in the same appearance of when they were turned, maybe they'll write that Eric's hair will grow back quickly and they'll stick that wig on him again at that point. We'll have to see.

Casting Info for season two for "orgy vampire" -- http://truebloodnet.com/season-2-true-blood-casting-news-episode-6/

what does this mean!!?!?! I am hoping that it is just another vampire at the orgy.. and is not replacing Eric.

Wouldn't this be for the scene where Sookie ask Eric to accompany her for protection to an orgy so she can find out who killed Lafayette?  This is where he wore the Lycra and pretended to be bi.

Yes. But if this other dude is the orgy vampire.. no AS in spandex?

maybe they do a flash back scene when Eric tells her he has been to orgies before while...... she is getting ready????  They would need other vampires for an orgy scene for that...then maybe we would see Eric in an animal hide???

then maybe we would see Eric in an animal hide???

Maddeybird...you make me laugh!

Casting Call for Episode 8 - Timebomb

Filming for this episode should start around 21st April 2009.

Spoiler Alert

Read the casting call after the cut.

[FRANK] 25-35. One of the largest and best-trained members of Fellowship of the Sun, he guards the church and tells Jason it’s in lockdown. When Jason reveals his official ring, however, Frank is impressed and steps aside — but not for long…GUEST STAR (14)  

[BRENT AND KYLE] In their 30s, these Fellowship of the Sun members guard the church’s anteroom. Though skeptical of Eric at first, they appear to fall under the vampire’s spell…3 lines, 1 scene; and 1 line, 1 scene, respectively (6)

[RICH] Another Fellowship of the Sun member in his 30s, he attempts to stake Eric but gets pinned and trapped. He tells Eric he’ll never make it past the rest of the group because they’re armed with wooden arrows.sptv050769..2 lines, 1 scene (6)

Nightlover, reading that got me so excited!  Eric is going to be in action!

Thank you S for being such a "the glass is half full" person, and spotting the good aspects of situations.

Cripes he looks wrecked!

Is this what bill looks like after sookie saves him in Club Dead???  he looks like Lorena has had her way with him.  LOL

That is what a lot of night shoots will do to a person we need to send B-12 and fast. Speaking from someone who has been there done that.

LOL!

We have our first peak at a scene of the new season. HMMMM,,,, and some comments about what is happening with out beloved characters from the Paley Center Media 25th Annual Tv Festival Monday night.

sneak peak:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCLqt1khT_I&feature=player_embedded

Alan Ball, Executive Producer 

Does Sookie interact with the new supernatural creatures much this season?
She spends the first half of the season focusing on vampires and vampire politics in Dallas, as sort of a favor to Eric, and she spends the last half of the season cleaning up the mess that some new supernatural creatures have created in her town—and she is pissed. She is not going to take it anymore.

And what changes about Eric this time around?

Eric has more of a presence in season two—you get a little of his backstory, you find out a bit of what’s important to him, what is meaningful to him, what makes himcry.

Alexander Skarsgård (Eric Northman) 

How are you playing Eric differently this year?

Everything becomes more private and personal in season two. Season one the situation started out being kind of business-related, and his attraction to Sookie was “All right, I might use this.” But the stuff between them now is much more personal. He’s very much emotionally involved now. And I’m not just talking about his relationship between Eric and Sookie and Bill, but other things as well. A lot of the fans who have read book two, they know that the reason they go to Dallas is because Eric’s maker has gone missing. That’s a very, very personal quest for him.

Anna Paquin (Sookie Stackhouse)

What does the mission to Dallas mean for Sookie’s situation in Bon Temps?
I haven’t seen any further in the scripts than from when we come back from Dallas, so I don’t know what we’re doing in Bon Temps.

And does Jason get into trouble again this season?
He gets into different kinds of trouble this season, because he’s off with his church.

How are you feeling about the Bill-Sookie-Eric triangle right now?
It’s really only just sort of slightly hinted at, as of yet—we’re shooting seven right now. But Eric’s definitely sort of leering down from his height.  

Stephen Moyer (Bill Compton)

How does Bill feel about Eric moving in on his lady?

That’s a good question. I’m not going to lie, when I see those little things in the script, those little moments when Eric’s pouting at her from across the room, I’m like, I’m going to have a word with that scamp later. It does make me step back a little bit and be upset, which is exactly how Bill reacts it as well…”F–ker.”  

A lot of the fans who have read book two, they know that the reason they go to Dallas is because Eric’s maker has gone missing. That’s a very, very personal quest for him.

I am a little confused by this statement....because in the BOOKS we haven't even met Eric's maker yet???  Do you think he misunderstood the question or was transcribed wrong??  I had read somewhere that AS had read the books so he would know that in LDID they go to find Stan's nest mate....not his maker?   

I was wondering if it was all part of the miss-information they have been putting out to the public. Maybe it is a double code, but I really don't have any idea. I do know that when I heard AS talk on a pod cast he seemed to really wonder why the fans would want to hear my say "My lover", but that could be because I believe he said he only read the first 4 or 5 books.

The other thing I was wondering about is the video. It looked like this is when Sookie gets attacked on the road and not on the way to see Eric, so this will be very interesting how or if they pull Eric and the other into helping Sookie. We do know rumors that they have put out a casting for the doctor, but that does not mean the healing will take place at Fangtasia.

I am a little confused by this statement....because in the BOOKS we haven't even met Eric's maker yet???

If his maker is still around at all! That surely has to be a severe misreading (because NO ONE'S maker is involved in LDID) or a transcript issue.   

A NEW PHOTO OF ERIC SEASON 2 with long hair and  HE IS MAD.

http://www.fancast.com/tv/True-Blood/97877/photos/1082064782/True-Blood?autoplay=0

OOOOH Yummy!!!  Thank You NL for the link.....I am so excited that he will still have the long hair in Season 2!!  He looks really mad but I still think he looks HOT!!!  What a Bod.

WOW...He sure does take care of his body!!!

Only a Brit could call Eric Northman a "scamp"!!!

Have you guys seen this Scene from Season 2 yet?

Bill's accent is still poor (esp. when he is bitching her out in the beginning) & I still can't stand  looking at AP as Sookie. Ugh. How the hell am I going to get through watching it? 

The Meanad apparently looks like a demon in their world. It would have been better is she was dirty, naked & covered in gore.

http://true-blood.net/video/TB_PaleyReel.mp4

Yes. Laura, I have seen this and I agree with the accent and AP  I know this is petty, but I really, really wish she would fix her teeth....they are so distracting...I mean Gee Whiz she's a hollywood star..... fix them please!!!! or wear a partial on the show or something....because I just can't picture Sookie in her at all and put on some contacts too while she's at it....I don't mean to belittle her but if you are engaged to play a prominent character who throughout the series has been touted as absolutely gorgeous with blond hair and BLUE eyes you would think that in America we could come up with someone a little bit better than her....WHEW...glad I got that off my chest....now tomorrow all of my teeth will fall out and I'll go blind for talking about this poor woman so badly LOL

I just read on-line that Alan Ball has slated Evan Rachel Wood to  play Sophie Ann....what do you all think???  She looks the part pretty much to me and she can act well too.

Love your rant about AP Katherine! (Tee-hee). Right up my alley. She looked so un-Sookie-like in that scene. I think they should just let her be her natural brunette self. I think that would be so much better. The series is veering completely away from the books anyway - She doesn't look or act anything like Sookie so what's the diff? If Tara can be black - then let AP be a brunette. We still know the premise is based on CH's books.

At least they got Eric & Pam right.

Ooh I love EVW. She'll be great, I'm sure.

Actually - she was one of my fav. choices for Sookie b'c she can act.

I still can't stand looking at AP as Sookie. Ugh

I think that the new blonde they've added to the show that's included in the photos (slide 14) of the link below would have made a better 'looking' Sookie than AP.  Which character is she playing anyway? It seems like they were simply looking for all the actors that wouldn't have asked for too much money in salary.  However, AP did win an award for her acting on the show.   AS & KB are the best casted actors on the show IMO.  They each fell into their characters perfectly.

http://www.fancast.com/tv/True-Blood/97877/photos/1080015018/True-Blood 

Oh God yeah! She would have been a much, much better choice to play Sookie. How cute is she?

However, AP did win an award for her acting on the show.

LQTM. It was rigged. That's what I have to believe!

Well in truth .... winning an award is like running for politics. There are campagins & everything.

Picking an Oscar winner (depsite the fact that she was 11 when she won it) & then giving her another award for it is great PR.

But you know, admittedly I am going to say something like that b'c I think she is bad in the role. So my take will be cynical!

Picking an Oscar winner (depsite the fact that she was 11 when she won it) & then giving her another award for it is great PR.

Funny you should mention the Oscar, which she won for the piano. I HATED her in the piano.... I hated the piano. Now granted, it has been 16 years since I saw that god awful movie, I can still remember hating that kid (AP) even more than I hated the movie. My sister LOVED the movie and drug my me and my mother to an art house movie theater to see it for her birthday. I had just turned 21 and when I realized how shitty the movie was, I got drunk (yay art house movie theaters that serve beer). Nothing like a mute woman whose daughter rats her out to her really aweful husband, because she is being extorted into having sex with a man who was given her piano. I don't care that she ended up falling in love with him.... Still sucked. If AP is really as cookie as I have heard, it is no wonder. That movie was one long mind f&^k.

Did we read the same books - part of what made the maenad so scary was her beauty!  But noooo - the scary, demonic creature must have horns & claws!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I honestly just don't like the changes that Alan Ball keeps making with the show in comparison to the books.  Pretty soon watching Trueblood will 'ruin' the books entirely because too many things are different.  It's almost best to not associate the show with the books.

I think that we have all come to the conclusion that we cannot relate the books to the TV show - and that we can come here to "vent" amongst like minded individuals, and find solace  - but that does not make it any less annoying!   And because he's made his stuffed up version there will probably never be a TV version that is actually true to the books.

Hey guys I just read this on Borders website. It has to do w/an exclusive True Blood DVD/Book set that they're doing. Anyway - click her to read what CH has to say (sounded to me like she is defending AP as Sookie).

But also - it's really interesting how she acknowledges that Alan Ball has incorp. visual clues to clue us in on the revelations in the book. I had wondered that!! SO that's cool. Maybe it will help me watch the show differently.

Anyway here is the link: http://www.borders.com/online/store/ArticleView_harris2

Marianne Forrester..... Maenad? Watching True Blood right now (episode 11) where she is introduced. So if this is the case who is the beast in the woods that attacks Sookie in that 1st clip?

I think this might answer your question Caroline (meaning that maybe the beast is someone else or maybe instead of having the book Maenad this is their version):

Are you interested to see if they’re going to keep the same type of storyline for Arlene or do you know if they’re going to veer away from Harris’ books?

Carrie Preston: “You know what? It’s so interesting because they are really departing from the books right now. I mean they’re sort of keeping the main kind of theme of the second book, but they’ve already just taken a lot of liberties. They spent the first season really establishing the characters and now they’ve added all these new characters, and it’s getting really wild in there.”

If they stick with any part of the second book, then we know Merlotte’s is not going to be in it very much, right?

Carrie Preston: “It’s not in it as much as it was the first season.”

Which makes sense with the Living Dead in Dallas storyline.

Carrie Preston: “Yes, but Sam still works there.”

I wonder if Carrie Preston is as dingy as Arlene... Of course there have been some interesting cross overs (Bill staking Long Shadow and Jason joining the FOTS) in character traits and this (maenad not really being the one who attacks Sookie) would go along with that.. huh... Still on the fence about the show, but I will probably continue to watch and just have something soft and non-damaging to throw at the TV if something that I don't like happens (Like Bill on the show being more like Eric in the book)... I also wonder what Eric's backstory will entail....

Has anyone seen this preview of season 2?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6CR_u3FY5g

Eric has short hair and is totally badass... humorlessly badass, it looks like... Alan Ball is changing so many things about the Sookieverse that it's turning off the show!

that's turning ME off the show!

I just watched this video and I agree they are taking a much different tone to the show....Eric with the short hair is hot but I still liked him with long hair better, not especially the wig per se but the image of him being a viking...He needs to have long hair, that is what makes him stand out to me...They seemed to still him actng villainous too...he looked very menacing and humorless as you stated goldblossom....I don't want to judge too much from the few seconds of video but I can see that the season in still going to focus on Bill being the hero..GAG...I just really wanted to see Eric get some sympathy too...he is the best character in the books to me and I hate to see him distorted so much....I just need to view True Blood as a separate entity which is very loosely based on CH's books so that I can enjoy it for what it is...I loved the show when I first watched it and I think I will still enjoy it as long as I don't compare it to the books....

I actually like that they aren't following the books.  It helps me to keep the two separate and allows for much more play.  I  can't wait for season 2 to begin.  It looks like it will be totally action packed and keeping me on the edge of my seat!

Not sure if this has been posted here yet but I think it is so sexy.  Even though Eric has the short hair Alex looks to die for.  I'm going to keep the books & show seperate too because if I moan about Alan Ball making all these changes, I would never enjoy the show.  Both the books & the show are great.

http://www.trueblood-online.com/?p=4634

Urbangal, I see your point of view.  I too think AS is a gorgeous specimen of male beauty, and a good actor in the bargain, but AB does offend my purist heart with his changes, although in his own right, he is a good director/writer.  I mean, I probably won't feel this way if he was working from original material, but it's an adaptation from CH's books, for heaven's sakes...  It's an internal struggle I have to work out... sigh...

I know it's been said before, but I need to say it again...I am gutted that Eric has short hair in season 2. Just doesn't fit in with the whole big blond vampire image and my own personal Eric fantasies.

Oh, DiB, I so wholeheartedly (maybe more broken-heartedly?) agree!

I agree too ladies...I don't get why that AB would go to the trouble of a wig in the first season and then cut his hair for the second season...this totally does not make sense...it is such a big part of WHO Eric is that I don't know if I can look past this in the show...I can see if maybe for a couple of episodes for a disguise in Dallas but not on the entire season...how can they explain this...Vampires don't change their appearance...Bill even commented on it in season one saying that he was lucky that he was clean shaven at the time of his turning....this goes against protocol in the vamp world...UGH!!!  AB has some explaining to do!!!

My guess is that he heeded the gazillion audience complaints that people had about his bad wig & the bad make up.

you are probably right Laura...that would be the logical thing...but couldn't he have just gotten him some hair-extensions or something, I mean Britney Spears had long hair days after her head was shaved!!!!   I just want him to have his lovely GOLDEN Lock back...LOL

Me too.  I wonder if we can start a direct-to-AB letter-writing campaign about this...

I don't get why that AB would go to the trouble of a wig in the first season and then cut his hair for the second season...this totally does not make sense...it is such a big part of WHO Eric is that I don't know if I can look past this in the show...  

Hi Maddeybird...after looking at the slides that NightLover posted on Apr 14th, it seems like he'll still have 'slightly' longer hair which may be his natural hair. I think we've just been seeing it mostly combed back and out of his face making it look much shorter.  Correct me if I'm wrong, but in the first season of the show I felt that his hair was shorter than it was described in the book.  We'll see.  Still AS looks SOOOOO GOOOOD!!!!!

http://www.fancast.com/tv/True-Blood/97877/photos/1082064782/True-Blood?autoplay=0

Hey there mtru...I hope you are right...they need to keep it long...and yes the book desribes his hair as flowing down his back so I think the show always has had it wrong...I had it pictured from the books being to maybe mid-shoulder-blade area..Oh well, what do I know??  Anyway, 100% agree that AS is smoking hot regardless...as long as Eric has a larger role this season I will be happy!!!

I hate to say this but I think AS hated to go threw the process of putting on the wig. I heard him make a comment on a podcast that it took hours. He sounded like he hated it, so he could have very well talked AB into some changes. Short hair Eric is just not right. But I do have to say his arm looked yummy in one of those youtube post I saw today.

Has anyone seen this clip yet of Season 2?  The Maenad is a creature.  I wondered how they were going to do that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qQsMcY4EPo 

I think as the series go on we will recognise the characters from the books less and less. You lucky folks in the US will get your vamp fix soon but us in New Zealand will have a long time to wait. We just got series 1 episode 8 last night. I will have to rely on Youtube for clips to keep me going. Somehow I don't think tv Eric will have the same wicked sense of humour and personality we all know and love from the books. He already doesn't have the hair...(I won't go there again!)

DiB, PM me if you want the rest of Season 1

Thanks Urbangal. As soon as I can work out how to I will. I'm not even sure Prime is showing all 12 episodes. Their website is only giving the details of 10. I'm going to order the dvd set from US. No word when it gets released in NZ.

EW’s Whitney Pastorek asked the show’s shirtless wonder, Ryan Kwanten, to sum up season 2 in just five words and, dang-it, the over-achiever did it in four! “Orgy, cult, locked up.” I’m there, can’t wait, and June 14 can’t come soon enough!

I just found this interesting little tidbit on sookiestackhouse.com....sounds promising..maybe we will get our viking in pink lycra after all....one can only dream 

I am glad to hear that Maddeybird.  That orgy was one of the highlights in the books for me.

Ooohh. New season 2 promo everyone. Better than the first one. More Eric. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rR1dshskRf0

You know, I never associated (or found) the whole sucking/licking fingers thing sexy or tantalizing until I saw that video.

Holy Crap!He's looking sooo hottt!

http://www.pretty-scary.net/content/true-blood-season-2-promo-trailer

you must see this!witch scene...wowww

I like that one cos SM's accent slips a bit when he shouts at Sookie. Makes me think of home....

another promo on hbo. This one show actual scenes from series 2. It looks excellent and Eric...well...words fail... Does that show our long haired viking biting someone in the dark cellar?? I really hope so!

http://www.hbo.com/trueblood/video.html?maven_playerId=trueblood&maven_referralObject=4987051

I thought it was Godfrey killing the guy who tried to rape Sookie, but I dont think it matched his "physical" description.

I think that Alan Ball has combined some of the characters so that there is a more central and consistent cast, Like Terry & Dawson may be one in the same in the series and Tara in the series might be Tara and Amelia (not 100%).

Also, it does look like he has combined LDID & CD.

Here's some spoiler news from true-blood.net:

http://true-blood.net/?p=1521

It doesn't sound exactly like what actually happened in LDID, but they've figured out a different way for Eric to get into the equation...

Okay... completely wrong about combining LDID & CD... If that casting notice was right, that would be the orgy scene.

I am hoping the long haired man in the shadows is our viking. I have seen a report from the buzz on youtube showing different clips from season 2 and it shows a very angry Eric in the black vest and with a nasty cut on his head dragging some guy down the steps in that cellar. If it's Godfrey I shall be disappointed.

Afetr rewatching some episodes of S.1 this weekend, I thought it was cute that the hat that Jason wears has a picture of a panther on it. Now I'm excited to rewatch the rest of the episodes to see if they hid anything else!

I have been re-watching because I am recording for a friend and I picked up something in the season finally that I wonder might be a clue. Renee was chasing Sookie through the woods that lead to the grave yard. Sookie was picking up his thoughts about killing his sister and he freaked and started yelling, "I can feel you in my head, you bitch!" I wonder if this is not a clue about Sookie's ability that she is not aware of yet... We know that in DTTW that Hallow knew that Sookie was poking around in her brain and that Sookie thinks that she can project thoughts. Sookie also says that she can easily hypnotize people to some extent in LDID. Would it be possible that Sookie could get inside peoples heads and manipulate their thoughts?

I thought I already read that in one of the books (I have to find which one) where she tries to calm Terry Bellefleur down from manifestations of his PTSD by projecting calm thoughts into his head.

DID anyone see the new trailer for Season 2 last night during Gossip Girl!?? It looks GOOD (bar Anna & her bad acting). But Sookie slaps Eric in the face! And even pasty looking..... AS - looks extremely hot, FYI. Enjoy!

that was Awesome!!  I loved the Eric line.....If I want her I can simply take her!!!  I love him being a badass!!!

I Just pray the AP & SM relationship does not influence the shows path...

I think it is...I just read something which said that although in the books, Bill turns baddie, b'c of SM & AP's chemistry, they might prolong or tweak the romance to draw it out. So I am not sure of the love triangle is going to become as obvious as it was in the 2nd book....

Although - they did said that most characters will have a love interest...

I'll have to try & find it.

What on earth was Sookie wearing when she got off the plane? During a Kristin Bauer interview, she said the wardrobe stylist have read the books & chooses the clothes accordingly. Please follow it VERY loosely (except for the pink lycra).

Alexander Skarsgard just looks hotter & hotter every time I see him, how is that possible? I love his posture, that subtle swagger & facial expressions, they're so Eric (I'm glad he's read most of the books to get to know his character).

bar Anna & her bad acting

Being a kiwi girl myself I really shouldn't be saying this. Glad she is doing well overseas but she is just wrong for the role. I find that she overacts & her accent... slips in & out. I know it's not easy, I sure as hell can't do it but look at what Alexander Skarsgard achieved for Generation Kill in such a small time frame. Ryan Kwanten, I didn't even know he was Australian until I saw an interview.

I watched a few episodes of the show before I read the books & I only warmed to Sookie's character until after I finished DUD. She's supposed to be the star, the telepath from Bon Temps whom we love so much but her performance is bland & annoying. Too much movement & jittering. Sookie gives bright nervous smiles, not smiles that twitches & causes other body parts to twitch with it.

One can only get better... fingers crossed for an improved Sookie for season 2.

Ryan Kwanten - If I have said this once I have said it a million times... He is the only one that nailed it. He has cracker down pat. He is so like the redneck boys that I ate mud pies with growing up and made out with in the back of a mustang in some field somewhere, or partied with in the yard of a burnt out farm house... He could have been the guy that rolled me my first J or the guy that I refuse to make eye contact with when I am in Wal-mart because I am there with my husband and I made out with him in highschool (or wish I had made out with in highschool)...

And Ngan... don't feel bad about AP.. She is not even natural Kiwi. She was born on Canada, so kiwis can still keep their chin up (Sorry Canada).

LOL, that's true Caroline.  I know most have mentioned AP's performance before but I rewatched an episode last night & I just HAD to vent.

I know most have mentioned AP's performance before but I rewatched an episode last night & I just HAD to vent

Oh God don't I know the feeling. Everytime she inspires a tirade in me. 

With AP and SM's real-life chemistry and all, I wonder if she will have any chemistry with AS.  I mean he's hot, no doubt about that, but it takes 2 to make sparks fly when the story line starts following that arc.

Do we even know if they are going to take it in that direction?? So far it doesn't seem like they are building Eric the right way.

On true-blood.net, there was this spoiler:

You know how Sookie got attacked by that thing in the True Blood season two sneak peek? Bill recruits Eric to help save her—and a love triangle is born.

I guess it's not going to follow the development in the books but they're going to fashion the triangle in their own way.  But I agree with you in that they're not building Eric up the right way.  The promos look like he's showing more of his "bad boy" side than the cocky and confident but deeply caring personality we've seen in the books. 

I could only hope that AB gets over his apparent man-crush on SM to make Bill's character development more like how it went in the books.

Is AB an Apius Livius (not that there is anything wrong with that)?

Yes, he is openly out of the closet.

Although I started with True Blood, I think the series will just be something for me to watch on Sundays, and give me my sookiverse fix...but I'm not going to have the anticipation like I now have with the books. I like the books for the characters, not the plot necessarily, and if they change the characters into people I don't recognize it will loose it's appeal.

Going back to the TV Eric...It almost seems to me that they are blending Eric and Bills personalities, creating 2 boring characters. Bill is too smiley and happy in the show, and he smirks and is amused by Sookie and that is more Eric to me, and Eric is so serious and all business and that is more like Bill.  It's frustrating.

"I could only hope that AB gets over his apparent man-crush on SM to make Bill's character development more like how it went in the books."

LMBO. Who in their right mind could have a crush on SM when AS is around?!?!?!?

LMBO. Who in their right mind could have a crush on SM when AS is around?!?!?!?

Could be the British accent.  For me personally, AS is so visually solar flare hot, everyone else is reduced to embers next to him, however, there's something a little off when he speaks.  To me at least, he sounds young - too young.

SM is a very beta-hero in the tv series, while we know AS to be quite alpha.  I just got through watching the whole series last night, and frankly, I can see the appeal of SM's Bill.  He is very...steady.  His portrayal is quite subtle and heart-felt.  Only because I know book-Eric do I like Eric.  Though, AS has a wonderful smile when they let him.  I can so see that smile on Eric.

Ryan Kwanten- yep an Aussie I can be proud of! Some of the soapie stars actually become actors with a bit of weight to them.

Alexander Skarsgard - I too have noticed that they've gone with the 'bad boy' thing, it's not necessarily bad, it just doesn't do justice to book Eric, lets hope he is portrayed with a bit more complexity. In interviews AS seems to understand Eric quite well, but at the end of the day there is only so much control he has over his interpretation of the character.

Anna Paquin- Accent is atrociously over the top, many scenes are overacted and the some of the lines (which can partly be blamed on AB) don't roll off the tongue naturally. My least favourite scene of hers (of which there are many) would be when she is 'reading' Bruce and negotiating with Eric. Physically...it'd have been nice if they'd chosen a more curvy actress.

Stephen Moyer- Blame AB...although I think Stephen has done a good job with the southern gent accent, theres a nice subtley to it.

Kristen Bauer - I think she's got the role of Pam down pat, I'm sure I've already said this before, but so far she seems to be one of the characters close to the book one.

I'll wait to see how Season 2 comes out...but I'm annoyed that someone who created a show like Six Feet Under could create this, it's not horrible...it's just could've been so much better. The casting of AP seems to be the worst decision, I'd have preferred an unknown actress, at least someone who can actually play the role.

I'll wait to see how Season 2 comes out...but I'm annoyed that someone who created a show like Six Feet Under could create this, it's not horrible...it's just could've been so much better. The casting of AP seems to be the worst decision, I'd have preferred an unknown actress, at least someone who can actually play the role.

I'm with you 100%.  Great summary & I think we'll end up pleased with AS. I've loved him in everything I have seen him in.

The casting of AP seems to be the worst decision, I'd have preferred an unknown actress, at least someone who can actually play the role.

I so totally agree.  AP's Sookie is so twitchy and screechy, not at all the brave, gutsy and deadpan funny gal from the books.

Guys I am with you in this - AP so not Sookie Stackhouse.

The movements like a - 5 years old child when she gets mad, when she gets out of the car in the promo of TB season 2 (it looks ridicules).

In season 1 - when she goes to the cemetery at night to Bill's grave and she cries - it looks so fake so not natural.

About the wardrobe - I am sorry but not even in my darker imagination I will not choose some thing as ugly as this dress (when she gets out from the airplane).  

 Sorry - I just don't see Sookie in AP - just don't. 

About AS – he is totally Eric – though I really don’t know where AB is going with this triangle, I do think that SM is very good in playing Bill – but I do hope that the show will be more like the books.

Yes, yes yes!  Also her screams are the same, in every movie, every show, every situation.  As for Eric being more bad boy instead of flamboyant, I'm hoping his character will come out in this second season since I didn't really see his humour or attraction until LDID.  He got me while Sookie was hurt (maenad) in his office when he asked "a pig?"

I think AS will come off as more Eric in the nest season, because the first season is based of DUD and in that book you don't really get to know Eric that well. So hopefully he be more Eric in season 2.

I would have loved to have seen someone like Jamie Pressly (my name is earl) get a shot at Sookie Stackhouse... I know that some of you may be reading this with a funny look on your face and may be thinking that she is over the top, but she is a true Southern Girl and given half a chance, I bet she would be able to do something with the role, or not... But at least the intenet would be a little more genuine.

Jamie definitely has the Sookie bod...btw, does AP even have boobs???! oops, can I say that on here??

Jamie has plenty of personality too...I can just see her doing the big S smile when she is all freaked out by someone...:)

Frog Princess, I have said worse, but I don't know if I would go by me if you are worried... and no she does not have boobs... that bugs me too. Not just that she has none, but the lengths that they go to to make it look like she does... That bra she wears is nothing but foam. The grown up equivalent of stuffing and when they put her in a dress, they use the drag queen approach to make it look like she has cleavage. Tape what you have up (and I mean duct tape) and pad what you don't have below the visible line.

Caroline, that red/white dress she wears to Fantangia brilliantly illustrates your point!  It IS all foam! I wonder if it makes her sweat!??

Her brown eyes bug me too, although I think Jamie's are brown as well...would it hurt to throw some colored lenses in!?

One thing I do like about AP is that her and Jason do really look like brother and sister...but that's the only nice thing I can say...haha.

btw, my name is michelle.  guess i need to go introduce myself on the other thread...i love CH and the Sookie series.  I've read ALL the books several times each and watched every episode at least 3 times...lol.  I am addicted to vampires!

would love to chat more, but am off to take care of kiddos...

Just curious... Where is Deep South?

I live in Memphis, TN...

Been to Graceland? Had to get the nutty Elvis question out of the way.

lol, would you believe NEVER!  but I am a huge Bubba fan...even if he does have a cat fetish!

After watching season 2 promo I just want to say - AS - I WANT TO DO BAD THINGS WITH YOU...

GAS... get in line!

where do I get a number?

New promo that probably explains why eric has the short hair. The vamps seem to have new fangs too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-rUvpGEAYU  

Oh Anna, Anna... That promo was sweet until Sookie opened her mouth before she slapped Eric.  I am so relieved they changed Eric's makeup.  Doesn't look like Anna's performance improved much nor did her wardrobe but at least Eric doesn't look sick anymore.  Just three more weeks before it starts airing.  I know I complain a lot about this show but I'm actually excited.

http://www.respect-authority.com/2008/11/anna-paquin-sucks-no-pun-intended/

Interesting that as season 1 progressed the side stories/characters got more air time and Sookie got less air-time. I remember being annoyed by this at first, but now like the reviewer said,  it probably indicates that there are peeps at HBO that are very much aware of how bad AP is. Big casting f-up. It's a shame, I'll try to enjoy season 2, but when you can't stand the main character who is nothing like the book it is hard. I wouldn't have so big a problem with AB and AP's interpretation of Sookie if AP could actually deliver her lines. The scene where she finds Dawn's body is atrociously bad.

I never really thought about AP. I guess my more baser instincts focused on the tall blond Viking and the other fangy eye-candy. Now I know about the anti-AP feelings I bet I focus on that more. Still, she's not as bad as Kristen Stewart. She totally ruined twilight. Every line she delivered was like she was coughing up a fur ball.

Oh Melissa - that is exactly what I was wondering myself & ranted about when the show was showing soo little of her & much much more of their better actors (Ryan, Nelsan, etc...):

Some part of me thinks after just a few episodes of seeing 40+ minutes of the gap between Anna Paquin’s front teeth, True Blood’s producers drew the same conclusion and began to focus more on the show’s incredible side characters.

You know she had to audition for the role 5 or 6 times & if it wasn't for her dating SM, I don't think she would've ended up getting it.

We should start an online petition - "Recast Sookie Stackhouse." LOL!

And actually - I did think that might have been a possibility (since she featured so little in Season 1 by comparison) until she won that flippin' Emmy. Or was it Golden Globe? Either way....

Yeah I can't believe she got a Globe for it either...especially with the other nominees she was up against.

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series--Drama
Sally Field--Brothers And Sisters
Mariska Hargitay--Law And Order: Special Victims Unit
January Jones--Mad Men
Anna Paquin--True Blood
Kyra Sedgwick--The Closer

Wow.  Wow.

January Jones is awesome as the repressed 50's housewife in Mad Men & Kyra Sedgwick is ridiculously great in The Closer.

I am convinced....the fix was in.

I am convinced....the fix was in.

Isn't that usually the case?

I am watching generation Kill for the first time... It is amazing that AS was that guy.. completely different guy. Nothing like a bunch of marines with varying levels of sanity.

Okay... AS is beautiful... I know preaching to the choir, but goergious

Off topic...but yes I loved GK...I think all the actors including AS did fantastic jobs. Stark Sands as Lt. Fick was my favourite though...the likeness between him and the real Nathaniel Fick is uncanny especially in mannerisms. Whoever did the casting and direction for GK were on the mark.

CMac there is never a limit on how much you can talk about AS's gorgeousness.

Speaking of AS, I have a funny story that you gals might enjoy. My computer desktop is Eric in the bathtub ( being his sexy self), and one day I was in class, and my prof forgot her laptop, and asked to borrow mine. I wasn't using it so I said sure. She swiftly hooked it up to the projector, and the silly girl I am, I forgot about my inappropriate background. So AS was blown up 10x to about 50 U of T students. I was then of course known as the girl who has naked men on her computer.

I would have told them all it was my boyfriend..

And yes I know this is off topic, but some of the ridiculous shit that the officers have these guys do or that they bitch about is like something straight out of catch 22.

Hey Sam - I hope that the other students had the good grace to admit that you have excellent taste in eye candy!

Im like four episodes in to the series, and altho it is way different.  I like it.  I like Tara (even tho she's completely different).  I could do with a little less of Jason's sexcapades though.

Hey Guys, I just watched all 7 episodes of Generation Kill this past weekend and totally loved it.......AS was great as was all of the characters this was a very good series.....It was very interesting to see AS play that type of role after seeing him as Eric....he truly is very talented.....

also, there were a lot of  TB promos in between episodes and it seems that Eric will definitely have more face time this season.....I particularly liked the promo where Eric tells Bill....

"If I want her I can simply take her, I am asking out of respect"

this was a very good line and one that showed Eric more in the light of the books, he was showing his authority while still trying to be respectful, I just hope that TB will show the loyal, honorable side of Eric, not just the badass vamp sheriff side.

Does noone remember that AS played Meekus in Zoolander??

Link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiuysqDjhzE 

Yes, harley I have seen that clip, truly hilarious,  he certainly has a range in his acting abilities!!!

I have just watched True Blood.  It is so fun to watch.  I agree, a little too much sexcapades with Jason, but his character is so dumb he is pretty funny.  I have a hard time seeing him as a were-panther right now.  The point of my post is did anyoone else notice that the show really hints that Bill is in Bon Temps and courting Sookie with another purpose?  He goes to Diane and Malcolm's house and tells them to stay away from him and Sookie or else there will be consequences.  Malcolm says he isn't afraid of Eric, and Bill says there are higher powers than Eric. Malcolm says, "Tell her to come talk to me."  Then in a later episode Bill tells Eric that Sookie must be protected, and Eric says something like, "The way you said that it sounds like an edict, and if there were an edict, I would know about it."  Bill says nothing.  I know I have read the books (more than once) so I know I read more into the show, but for a lot of it Bill doesn't seem like he is that into her.  Of course he does almost die trying to save her, so I think we could believe he loves her then OR he knows the Queen will kill him if anything happens to Sookie so he dies either way...    The first season may not have been true to DUD, but it does seem to make an effort to be somewhat true to the overall series (just not book by book).  Any thoughts on either?

Yeah - I saw those.

It's actually pretty cool that he is dropping all this hidden clues in the show for the TV viewers like the books do for the readers. I do thinking his own way - he is trying to incorporate CH's basic premise. I mean - one of the things that is soooo compelling about the books is all of these little nuggets that are hidden along the why so you just keep peeling the layers to find more.

I think Ball is trying to do that to a degree.

Hey - did you notice - did Bill have his swords mounted on his mantle??

Speaking of TB and GK, HBO has submitted both for Emmy nominationss.  AS is up for the lead in GK and supporting for his role as Eric.

Wow Ladsalot that is very interesting news, AS is very talentd and I would love to se him win for either role.

gack, i just read another *spoiler* about Eric on the T.V. show. ..

http://www.ericnorthman.net/

With all that i've hear and am hearing right now, I'm so fustrated with AB! It seems like he has this personal Vendetta or something against Eric! Perhaps that's too strong, and i know spoilers can be extremely misinterpreted. But still. The teeter-totter b/w Eric and Bill's magnetism is half the fun! AB's read the books. He's an amazing producer. AS is an AMAZING actor. And Eric is simply wonderful. . .why can't i hear more postive output about these duos? He doesn't have to make Eric and Soookie have a steamy relationship - yet - goodness knows that did not happen in Charlaine's second book. Still, Eric is demensional and a JOY to imagine. . . AB's gotta leave some stuff to mystery. I don't want to know about what we just learned in Book9 (or some 'version' of it) in the second season IMO.

I didn't like it when I read it today either. We all know AB is pro-Bill in a big way and I suspect Eric will be the bad guy. Maybe it will be the orgy scene or perhaps in a flash back to when he was made. Either way, it makes me think ick. I'm not looking forward to it but check out Lady GaGa's new video. Our fav Viking is in it and there's nothing homoerotic about it!

Guys - about the Homorerotic thing.....I don't think we have anything to worry about.

I am almost positive I read that Sookie goes to Dallas b'c Eric is the one kidnapped. I think it's a spin on what happened to her in the book.

IN the previews, it also looks like he is tortured. Then we have the possibility of the orgy. Or maybe there is a flashback to his old life when he is being tortured.

IN the meantime - I cannot believe Lady GaGa got AS to make out with! That lucky Biiiiatch! And Jonas Ackerlund to direct! Very cool video. Thank you Diane.

Man there is something I've always found HOT about a man in suspenders! And AS couldn't have made them hotter!

I love the glances at the camera.

I worked on a project with a Dane named Michael Hansen who looked like a slightly older AS. I would have a hard time thinking straight in project meetings and when he would talk to me after the meetings I was at a loss for words so I would just smile a lot... It is a rare occasion that I am struck dumb. Either he thought I was really shy or really retarded....

I think AS has said in an interview that Eric's maker is kidnapped in Dallas so it's really personal for the character, which obviously is different from the books (unless for some reason Eric's maker changed his name to Godrey) But if everything else about the maker is true, we know he's gay so maybe that's the homoerotic part.  Of course, why say anything about keeping the other "nameless?"

Either he thought I was really shy or really retarded....

LMAO.  God, you make me laugh. Whether you intend to or not, you do.

He probably though you might have been a little of both???

Like..."wow, that woman is shy AND a bit retarded! Jeez. Poor thing."

I can say this b'c I know when someone is looking at me that way. That I am a combo of the 2  - a shy retard.

I wonder how AS feels about the strange shift in the True Blood Eric character... He likes women... and he likes Sookie on the show... Alan Ball has said that Eric liking Sookie does not ever go away in the season 1 recap of true blood that is airing on hbo... wonder what he knows?

Like..."wow, that woman is shy AND a bit retarded! Jeez. Poor thing."

As long as he (the AS looking dude) was also thinking one of the following... "cute", "pretty" or "hot" I am okay with shy and or retarded, though I am thinking it was only shy and or retarded...

 As long as he (the AS looking dude) was also thinking one of the following... "cute", "pretty" or "hot" I am okay with shy and or retarded, though I am thinking it was only shy and or retarded...

ROTFL! LOL!!....have we just crossed the line??? Oh man......

Sorry I am in a silly mood today.

Alan Ball has said that Eric liking Sookie does not ever go away in the season 1 recap of true blood that is airing on hbo... wonder what he knows? 

That's what I say too! He knows....he soooo knows the inside scoop. You know that CH gave him the overall lowdown! Thank about it - he'd have to get the fundamental premise in order for CH to sign off on it right? You can imagine him sitting with her asking question to clarify her intent. You know she told him. I mean - already in the 1st season he has incorporated some things that only come to light later in the books.

Even AS had said in an interview that Eric is a "sweetheart" - then laughed & smoothed it over & said he was a relatively good guy for a vamp or something like that. But he said it b'c he was saying that he didn't understand why everyone though he was such bad guy etc.., etc...

I think the interview is our AS specific thread.

check out Lady GaGa's new video. Our fav Viking is in it and there's nothing homoerotic about it

The video has ben removed, but I found it on perezhilton.com

AS is in Laday Gaga's mini film Paparazzi

sorry its a little off subject, but anything with AS, I m on it!!

thank you Dib! for the info.

beat me back to the stone ages for ignorance, but who is Lady GaGa?

Caroline - Definition of Gaga: a 'singer' who hides lack of talent by taking off as many clothes as possible but has the enviable job of being able to cast members of TB in her videos.

She is making sure her 15 minutes of fame is as enjoyable as possible!

It's now on youtube.

If you go to You Tube, there are plenty of fan videos of AS, E&S videos featuring Lady Gaga's music. My favorite is Love Game.

Caroline - Definition of Gaga: a 'singer' who hides lack of talent by taking off as many clothes as possible but has the enviable job of being able to cast members of TB in her videos.

I take it you are being tounge and cheak...

I Googled Gaga and wiki had the best definition - Ga-Ga or Gaga ball is a form of dodge ball that is thought to have originated in Israel. It does not look like she is dodging to many balls.... 

Maybe I should amend that to has talent of a dodge ball. I am not a fan but my daughter was impressed when she caught me watching her video until she realised the reason. Apparently the video keeps getting removed from sites as it's not supposed to premiere until June 4th. You would think that after getting to cavort around with AS she would make sure his name was spelled correctly. Or maybe she had her mind on other things under the circumstances...

Caroline - Definition of Gaga: a 'singer' who hides lack of talent by taking off as many clothes as possible but has the enviable job of being able to cast members of TB in her videos. She is making sure her 15 minutes of fame is as enjoyable as possible!

Awww! Diane! Harshing on LadyGaga!?? I like her! I find her pretty fascinating. Kind of like a younger Madonna with better musical chops b'c I look forward to what she is going to do next & how she is going to present herself.

Funnily enough - her actual music doesn't hit home for me (although catchy). But I like the overall package. Come on....the demented minnie mouse attire at the end of video? I loved it!

But enough about Lady Gaga - I need to see how AS kisses. He looked a little stiff? Like he keeps his lips a little small & firm?

Oh my god - what is wrong with me.

But enough about Lady Gaga - I need to see how AS kisses. He looked a little stiff? Like he keeps his lips a little small & firm?

What is wrong with you? there was a point where it looked like he had half her funny face in his mouth... and he was coping a feel in a FEW places... I hate her...

I hate her too Cmac!!!  Man that girl really hit the jackpot!  He looks unbelievably HOT.....I love the suspenders too and the eyepatch at the end!!!  He is so f@@#king Hot!!!  I love him!  I lthought his kissing was way sexy!!  geez, I am so jealous of that silly bitch right now.

BTW I loved the shy/retard convo,   that was really funny and I am sure he thought you were the HOT shy/retard LOL!!!

BTW I loved the shy/retard convo,   that was really funny and I am sure he thought you were the HOT shy/retard LOL!!!

I can always dream...

I have always had a thing for those Norse men. A few years ago I had a BIG big crush on a shorter stockier Scandinavian man... He had a crush on me too... Alas we were (are) both happily married so it was all for not but some fun flirting and a close call or two. Oh the memories. I may never know how a viking (Norse man, Danem Swede) kisses but at least with Lady GaGa around I can experience bi-proxy. I still hate her.

For us English people, 'gaga' means you are a bit nuts/loony. Does it have the same meaning in the US?  She can't be that crazy to get her claws into AS. I thought he looked like he knew what he was doing in the kissing dept. I am way too jealous!

PS I thought she was British (don't ask me why) so that's why I came down so hard on her. Oooops

I may never know how a viking (Norse man, Danem Swede) kisses but at least with Lady GaGa around I can experience bi-proxy. I still hate her.

Hey, Cmac, those flirting relationships can be very hot even though nothing comes to fruition, sometimes that makes it better.....

Yes and thanks to Lady GaGa we can all imagine kissing AS/Eric a little more vividly......I still hate her too!!  LMAO

GaGa is a bit nutty here too... I thought Euro trash all the way when I saw that video (sorry Euro), but Lady GaGa is US all the way. I am sure I would not be so harsh if she were not locking lips with the succulent (oh yes) AS.

And Maddy the flirty is very fun, but seriously dangerous. If we had not been from two places very far away from each other, it could have been bad news. Ah lust lost...

Yes, Caro, the flirting while very fun is very dangerous....glad things didn't get to complicated for you....

Apparently the video keeps getting removed from sites as it's not supposed to premiere until June 4th. You would think that after getting to cavort around with AS she would make sure his name was spelled correctly.

It's probably a draft edit that was compiled & hadn't been signed off. Mispelling a name is a biggie. Whoever leaked this is so fired. Not a fan of Lady Gaga (even before I saw her making out with AS lol). Wonder what she looks like without the heavy makeup.  Just two more weeks until TB airs.  Oh I want to see the viking so bad.

What is wrong with you? there was a point where it looked like he had half her funny face in his mouth... and he was coping a feel in a FEW places... I hate her...

ROTFL!I guess I'll just HAVE to watch it again...(& again)

Actually if I can find this kissing clip from one of his films.....well, that was good - but I am going to stand by my assertion! Maybe a little firm...not as pliant as I'd imagined. Let's see if I can find it, you guys be the judges & tell me I am smoking the peace pipe and am out of my mind.

I'm so old school sad though. I compare everything to the Tom Cruise/Kelly McGillis kiss in Top Gun & he's in the closet & she just came out, so what the hell do I know.

I actually have a list of screen kisses that I love & compare other screen kisses to, as one does (of course). Not.

But ultimately, as we well know the real test would be to find out for myself & since that's not going to happen so I'll have to watch & asses in TB.

I have always had a thing for those Norse men.

Me too. My friend is dating a Dane. When he walked in my home I went - WHOA. Heellllo Eric. Speechless.

He was soooo yummy. I am a little pathetic around him. And their both ridiculously gorgeous together & he is crazy about her & he's a really, REALLY wonderful guy. WHAT a catch & she 's all...."Yeah. He's nice. He's sweet....Meh."

I want to brain her.

Wonder what she looks like without the heavy makeup.

If you go on Perez Hilton & type her in, all of his postings come up he has ones he calls "Vintage GaGa" from back when she was in high school. She looks totally cute & normal.

Sometimes she looks like she fell out of the ugly tree & hit every branch on the way down though. But most of her old pic's are cute.  

Laura, you just know all the gab!!!  you need your own blog!!!  You keep me young, by informing us on here of all the hot gossip!!  I love you!!

While I really loved the kissing scene with AS in the GAGA video, upon closer examination I may have to agree with Laura that the lips were a little stiff, but kudos for the steamy groping and cleavage kiss!!  Yummy, he looks like he needs some more practice LOL and I am sure there are more than 1000 willing participants on this site alone, myself included....He needs to limber those luscious lips up for the Eric scenes...he has a very big reputation to protect seeing as how the viking has had a 1000 years of practicing his kissing technique.

Don't get me wrong and flog me, I think his kissing looked excellent but I'm with Laura, the lips could be a little more soft.

Don't get me wrong and flog me, I think his kissing looked excellent but I'm with Laura, the lips could be a little more soft.

See? 

OK true confession time - whenever I see any onscreen kiss I'll comment on whether it looks good or bad & why. It's a bad habit my girlfriends & I started when we were in our teens. 20 years later - I am still doing it. What is that about?

You keep me young, by informing us on here of all the hot gossip!!  

Here's the sad part. I think we're the same age! 

Puhleeze - I can still very much tap into the feelings of my inner teen. I can feel that angst. And I am so looking forward to the new Real World in Miami.  Yup. That's how it is.

He needs to limber those luscious lips up for the Eric scenes...he has a very big reputation to protect seeing as how the viking has had a 1000 years of practicing his kissing technique.

Oh laws.... and I have just the lips to help him...

These posts have been the highlight of a very dull day here in New Zealand! At least we've seen him locking lips with a woman because seeing him locking lips with a man will not 'flick my bic'. Ick!

Night lovely ladies - remind me tomorrow to look for that other kissing scene!

At least we've seen him locking lips with a woman because seeing him locking lips with a man will not 'flick my bic'. Ick!

I dunno, it is Eric we are talking about. He did comply with Sookie's wishes and decided to wear an outfit that would leave them all confused...it could be hot...at least I won't be jealous of the guy he kisses...okay maybe I will...

And Cmac...thankyou for the little story about your 'Dane'...I suppose I might have to go man hunting in Scandinavia one day! Hehe...okay no. Apparently Swedish men are funny about dating, they have to be really drunk to have the confidence to approach someone.  

Could you be referring to the scene from that short movie "Never Be Mine"?  That certainly is a very tender kissing scene (with some tongue action, hmmm) ....

Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eIKx6HQeT0  

You have to love a man who speaks another language, especially one that is more lovely than your own.

Oh niiiice video from Lady Gaga!   But I have to say ladies that we were once again separated by a common language - when you mentioned that AS was in suspenders ... well, what he was wearing is not what we Brits understand by "suspenders" ...

There's an image frenchie! Rocky Horror Picture Show springs to mind. I was going to mention the braces but thought our friends over the pond would be checking out the Ugly Betty teeth!

LOL!

- when you mentioned that AS was in suspenders ... well, what he was wearing is not what we Brits understand by "suspenders" ...

Your a Britt Frenchie? I don't know why but I always thought you were state side, maybe even southern....

So what are "suspenders" to you island peeps?  Pond side peeps is curious.

I am watching TB S1 right now and am at the scene where Jason does V with that Amy Burley bitch... That chick has some serious Manson Lamps. She has crazy written all over her.

There's an image frenchie! Rocky Horror Picture Show springs to mind. I was going to mention the braces but thought our friends over the pond would be checking out the Ugly Betty teeth!

Diane... that was awesome... If you had mentioned braces I would have thought teeth, legs, back, but not the things that go over your shoulders and hold your pants up....

I am not from the UK, not even english speaking, so when I read that comment from the other member I immediately thought of this http://www.classicwardrobe.co.uk/Sock-Suspenders.aspx . I am happy I was wrong. LOL By the way that may not even be what the Britsih member is talking about.

Oh those are sexy..... I picture an older businessman wearing boxers a white shirt an undone tie with those holding up his socks on his fish white legs.

Oh those are sexy..... I picture an older businessman wearing boxers a white shirt an undone tie with those holding up his socks on his fish white legs.

ROFL!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQAA2SAh5ec&feature=related

Check this one out...... Silly

Actually if I can find this kissing clip from one of his films.....well, that was good - but I am going to stand by my assertion! Maybe a little firm...not as pliant as I'd imagined.

After a little more perusing for examples of AS's kissing and seeing several examples I think I have it figured out.... He does not have very full lips... I say this because true confession time, my husband does not either and as much as I think he is an amazing attractive man who rocks my world, his kissing leaves something to be desired.... Of course there is a large variance between lip sizes which may explain a lot, but he tends to purse his lips (I guess in defense of a hostile take over from mine) instead of softening them and they almost disappear all together in a stiff pucker. No amount of gentle direction has changed this.

My honest comment on the Lady Gaga video kiss, it is harsh, very very harsh, I can't believe I will be that harsh publicly . She is so not into it and he is half into it. Re-watching it more than once, I figure the photo shoot between Claude and Sookie would have a similar look.  Now let's pray it will look better on TB. If not I hope AB is creative.

Suspenders to the Brits are what ladies - and cross-dressing gents a la Rocky Horror Picture Show wear to hold their stockings up. Often used as a method to spice things up in the bedroom dept (or so I am told). Do you call them garters in the US? Nothing to do with socks or keeping teeth straight.

Suspenders are called "Braces" in England. Er.. that's what my hubby says.

Yeah. In the UK suspenders hold up stockings (as in fishnets), braces hold up trousers, as in the AS/Gaga video and are devices worn on the teeth as in Ugly Betty. We have also known from long ago never to ask for fags (cigarettes) when in the US as this means something entirely different to you. Vive la difference!

You know Guys; I started to read CH books after watching TB season 1.

First when I saw the show -  for me with out reading the books it was WHOOO…great…

But after reading all the books several times I honestly can say things don’t look so good now.

Let me explain:

First AP – I said it once I'll say it again – SO NOT SOOKIE STACKHOUSE – not in the beauty part and not in the personality part – Sorry Sookie needs to be the passion desire for ERIC & BILL & QUINN & SAM & ALCID they are all hansoms magnificent men's – I am sorry but AP is acting like a 5 years old childe who plays with vampires … the way she walks when she is upset it is so funny.. And the beauty section well sorry but it does not match too …

Second if there is any chance that CH will end Sookie with Sam – than she should have told AB not to make him look like a little sad puppy… I mean come on the way he acts when he is around her... he turns to a damm lion not just to a sad abandoned dog.

I am sorry but from watching Sam in season 1 – I just wanted to say "LASSIE GO HOME"… AND stay there.

It lives AS  & SM– I hope it will go here in the books directions b/c AS he is very Eric in the looks & personality and I hope it will develop like in the books.

I actually liked SM he is very handsome and he plays Bill character very good … but it's not meant to be, and I really don’t care how SM & AP relationship are in real life this is Sookie Stackhouse life and it goes in the ERIC directions.

That's it … Now I am calm…

GAS,

I totally agree with you....I watched TB first too and had much of the same feelings that you did....then I read the books and now am very disappointed in AP as Sookie.....you are dead right on  the evaluations of her personality and looks....she just doesn't fit that picture at all.

Also I hope the show takes the Eric angle too....who cares if AP&SM are a couple off screen, that is not how the story goes, and if AB has any sense he will see that the fans of the books really want our Eric to be a good guy not a snarky badass....

The love story between Sookie and Eric is one of my all-time favorites and I would hate to see that ruined by AP and SM....this is a classis love story that is unique and very much deserves to be portrayed as it was written....

He has already messed with the story by having Bill kill Longshadow while Eric stands by looking bored.....that really pissed me off, after I read the books...I was like WTF....that was a major turning point for Eric in the books and it was completely ruined on the show.

"Your a Britt Frenchie? I don't know why but I always thought you were state side, maybe even southern...." - why southern - I am really intrigued by that?

"We have also known from long ago never to ask for fags (cigarettes) when in the US as this means something entirely different to you. Vive la difference!" - and let's not forget "rubbers" - we Brits use rubbers (aka erasers) to correct mistakes, whereas in the US they are used to prevent one!?!?!??

"I just wanted to say "LASSIE GO HOME"… AND stay there." - LMAO 

why southern - I am really intrigued by that?

I guess it is the easy repartee... Not that place should have a whole lot to do with it. Britt's are able to shift to Southern better than most. Phonetically it is similar, but since I am reading and not listening that can't be it... I am not sure.

I can tell that Samlover is french Canadian. I have a friend who is French and Samlover writes like my friend speaks... Maybe you write like I am used to Southerns speaking...

Would you think I was Southern by reading what I write?

Some of you gals have mentioned being southern (the whole cuisine thing cracked me up!); Laura has said a couple of things which made me question her "Britishness" (& that would be her hubbie), but I would never have picked up on Samlover being French Canadian.  I was just intrigued because I have spent time in Australia, and now actually do live Stateside, just not in the South - but I really wanted to go there - love the accents and the manners (or is that just a stereotype?) - a friend's husband is from NOLA (& I know that is not true "South" (I was corrected in no uncertain terms about this!)) - & I still go weak at the knees when he says "Thank you ma'am"!

Texas is kind of odd, but I consider myself southern since I am from Houston.  Guys here are more polite if they don't know you.  Saying Miss or Ma'am when addressing you, and people are generally friendly and helpful.  Like after the hurricane last year, everyone was out cleaning and getting out the chain saws to help cut the trees up whether they were on their yard or not.

The accent is more a small town thing though, that is to my ears.  The deep drawl is small town.  Us city folk tend to have a slight drawl with vowels and with words like with "y'all" and "fixing to".  My fiance is from Spain, and he breaks into giggles when I use them.  I give it back to him by pronouncing his Castellian Spanish with short vowels.  ::big grin::

LOL I had no idea I could be that obvious in my witting. I guess it is easy to see English isn't my language, but pin point the exact location your are good.

Frenchie where abouts in Australia did you live?

Actually Samlover I am not that good... Your profile says you are Canadian and you have mentioned before that English is not your first Language. I figure French Canadian. It was that, English Speaking Canada or Newfoundland which is still English speaking but funny English speaking. Your writing is fine... But I can hear my friend in the way that you write. It is more literal and the pronouns and such are arranged like a Romance language.

Phew! No idea I had a profile LOL I will have to look into, see if there is anything compromising. LOL
 Newfoundland is part of the Maritime, and not only English is spoken differently there but French is too. It took me a little while to get used to it.

"Frenchie where abouts in Australia did you live?"

Canberra - so not really Australia!

Haha yeah! I've only been there once during primary school for a week long camp trip.

And you weren't inspired to return??????

Don't ya know Australians only go to Canberra for fireworks and porn! Or maybe a job for government.

Maybe some pictures of Swedish hunks wearing suspenders?!?!?!?!??

English suspenders or American??

If we have to go to Canberra to get the pictures, then English!

OK lovely ladies....DEEP sigh of RELIEF coming - hot off the TV Guide Summer Preview summary:

True Blood Season 2: TV Guide Summer Preview

True Blood Season 2 is previewed by TV Guide as it looks at one of the hottest shows to return this summer.   Some of the tidbits that TV Guide mentions in its magazine is that Bill (Stephen Moyer) and Sookie (Anna Paquin) go to Dallas and stay at a vampire hotel “where you can order humans from room service” and Eric (Alexander Skarsgard) tries get in-between Bill and Sookie as Alan Ball states “he has always been attracted to her.” Jason (Ryan Kwanten)  gets wrapped up with the Fellowship of the Sun and a strange comment about the cliffhanger.  Now at the end of season 1 we saw a painted toe-nailed foot hanging out of Andy Bellefleur’s (Chris Bauer) car yet TV Guide says it is a “severed” foot.  Hmmm, I wonder if they know something we don’t yet.  Either way Alan Ball is going to put us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions for season two of True Blood when it return on Sunday, June 14, 2009 at 9PM/ET on HBO. Read the TV

Also from TV Guide (& I really like Ausiello - he's usually spot on, but for me the real test will be EW's write up, I seem to be most aligned with their reviewers).

Question: Since you’ve seen the first four True Blood episodes of season 2, is there anything you can share? — Sanna

Ausiello: They’re bloody fangtastic! (Never. Gets. Old.) Seriously, season 2 — premiering June 14 — gets off to a thrilling, gory, scary, sexy, disgusting, funny, suspenseful start. Alan Ball would drive a wooden stake through my heart if I spoiled any of the big twists (i.e. my lips are sealed about the fate of a certain flamboyant vampire blood dealer), but here are a few juicy morsels to whet your appetite:

•    There are three orgies, all of them powered by Maryann’s (Michelle Forbes) aphrodisiac fairy dust.
•    Alexander Skarsgard’s Nordic vamp has an extremely homoerotic encounter with a character who shall remain nameless. In related news, there are about two dozen gratuitous shirtless shots in the first four episodes, all of them belonging to either Mechad Brooks (Tara’s new BF, Eggs) or Ryan Kwanten (Jason).
•    Sookie has a very revealing conversation with a new character in episode 4.
•    If you’re wondering what secret Merlotte’s newest waitress (played by Ashley Jones) is harboring, a clue can be found on her skin.

From E Online!

Stephen Moyer from Alan Ball’s hit HBO TV series True Blood spoke with E!Online and mentioned a spoiler tidbit from season two. This is what Stephen Moyer had to say about the future of Nelsan Ellis‘ character, Lafayette.  Stephen said, “Lafayette, I can’t talk about. Nelsan is an amazing dude, and, uh, I hope he does come back…but I, you know…who knows.” There’s no decisive statement in there, but “I hope he does come back” seems to suggest that Lafayette’s gone somewhere, and for that matter, Nelsan’s Lafayette also does not appear in any of the season two promo photos, the press releases or the books after Dead Until Dark. Long story short, we’re starting to feel pretty naive for having believed/hoped the show was just toying with us and would find a way to keep Lafayette around for season two and beyond. We are going to need a lot of naked vampires to make up for this disaster.   Another question was posed by a reader about what else will happend on season two of True Blood which E!Online responds with the following.  Lesbians! You heard about the lesbians, right? Vampire queen Sophie-Anne and Sookie’s cousin Lois Lane Hadley Hale end up sucking face.

I watched the Taste of True Blood with AB and he was talking about Eric being the rock star vampire and said that his attraction to Sookie never goes away/is always there. Good news for us Eric fans.

Wow.. season 2 sounds like it deviates from the book quite a bit.. which is sad but exciting.

Now that I've seen the first season of True Blood, I've got to say that I like some of it and hated some of it. Feel free to stop reading, this is pretty much just going to be me ranting. I haven't been to any of the TB boards, but I'm sure I won't be saying anything that someone else hasn't already said somewhere.

I love the theme song. I like it so much it's on my ipod now. I like the opening. Allthough I hate the roadkill. Ick.

More than once, things just don't make sense. My main example is when Bill and Sookie are driving back from Fangtasia and the cop pulls them over. Sookie tells Bill to let her do the talking. In the book, they were making out and his fangs were showing. In the show they were just sitting there. The comment just seemed weird and out of place. As if she was telling him that he was too dumb to talk to the cops.

The Sookie on the seems slow and ditzy. Nothing like the quick-witted girl I've been reading about. There is a scene where she is just babbling to bar patrons while she's waiting on them. Since it's a show, not the book, we don't see what's going on in her head and we need more talking, but she just seemed so ditzy. Way too damsel in distress.

It's weird that Alan Ball has made Bill seem more human loving than the other vampires. When the books pretty much have it the other way around. And it how long did it take for Bill to heal after the graveyard? In ATD he was partially covered and it still took him days/nights to recover.

TB Pam seems so high-class. She reminded me of a high-class call girl. I like the soccer mom Pam from the books.

Sam, Jason, Eric, Bill - all hotties. I just love Sam and Jason. Eric in that tub - damn. Bill's voice.... oooh. And oh, when Jason was dancing around! Damn. There is no need to mention any more about this sinceI some other posts here that have already covered most of this.

Lafayette - I'm gonna miss him. He was fun.

Does anyone else think that the sherriff sounds like a moron? Almost anytime he's with Andy, Andy seems to be in charge. There is so much to say about Andy. He seems like the person in high school that would report you for passing notes.

Out of everything, I think I hate Tara the most. I think the actress is wonderful, but I hate the character. She adds life to the show, but I think Alan Ball should have created a whole new character instead of changing one that existed. If it wasn't for the name, I would never have known it was the girl from the book. Tara is supposed to be a nice girl from a bad background. A girl who overcomes it to become a better person. In the books she seems like someone to be admired. She hits a few bumps in the road (ex. sex club, Mickey), but become a better person who really gets her life together. I just don't see that coming with the hard-ass character we see in the show. Although she did seem to soften towards the season finale.

I don't know if we mentioned it before, I know we've discussed Jason wearing a panther baseball cap in Season One...did anyone else notice Gran reading a book (I'm assuming DUD) by CH in her first scene, first episode?

BMJ

I didn't notice gran reading a CH book in seaon one but then again when I first watched the show I didn't know that there were books!  I have seen that done before in a couple of Stephen King's movies people are seen reading his books....that is pretty cool and a great homage to the author....  I hadn't noticed Jason wearing a panther cap either.....I did notice that in Sam's office there is a picture of a blond headed little girl laying beneath a tree with a dog standing watch over her....that was a good clue.  It was in episode 4 i think right before she goes to Fangtasia for the first time

Huh.... Funny you should mention the dog and the blond because I noticed that in the series and thought it was something... But decided that it was more to do with Sam than it was the blond girl.. BUT now that you bring it up again, in light of all that has been discussed about the men in Sookie's life and why Sam may have come to Bon Temps, I think it is something more....

Damn Alan Ball and Charlaine Harris for dealing this crack... It is like a drug... I wonder if Sam came to Bon Temps to watch over Sookie.... It would not be for love (yet), but for some higher reason certainly... Funny.. All the men on the Sookie Suitor list with two exceptions were sent to get her for someone else or watch over her....

Bill - Sophie Anne

Quinn - Cataliades / Sophie Anne and Later FDC

Alcide - Eric

Sam - If he was sent, who knows but there is some indication that he has had a relationship with the super natural prior (the Maenad and may find out how in season 2 of TB)

So who does that leave? Eric, Barry & Calvin

I am wondering if that should thoroughly depress her or not.   She is so fussy about intent and not the outcome.  For they got sent, but still feel for her despite the mission.  At least, that is how they come off.

And Sam has been there a while.  He could have bought the picture once the relationship grew to give himself a token or even a hint to Sookie there is something more.  A secret lying out in the open.

Though, what if it was his mission papers.  Be a dog and guard the blonde telepath.  Expressed through pictograph.  He framed it to remind him his true purpose.  Like one frames a diploma. 

I am looking on the wiki page at some of the questions from viewers to the cast and crew of TB..

my favorite so far..

To Stephen Moyer- I have been waiting to ask you this Question? What are You? ever since I seen you walk into the Bar ,I have been Mesmerized by you!!!

Laws... that shore is somethin

To Stephen and Anna, How has your lives been affected since True Blood became a hit?

Maybe it is bacuase it is past my bed time, but that is hilarious to me.... 

I keep reading about Eric going the gay way in True Blood... Man that is disappointing.. Feh on Alan Ball... At least make him a pitcher...

Think AB knows that fans of the books will watch TB anyways?  No matter how much he changes the Sookieverse and our Eric?

Hi Guys... When you get a chance, check out the imdb page for true blood and look at the full cast and crew.. There are some interesting new cast additions...

may be a little out of context but... During the trail of Bill when being questioned by the Magister about Sookie....

Eric Northman: To protect my wealth, yes. Magister, she is... valuable.

Bill actually says that Eric summoned he and Sookie to protect his wealth and when questioned by the Magister Eric makes the above response.

Still... something to think about..

Did you guys see this? Alan Ball answering Wiki True Blood fan questions....

http://truebloodwiki.hbo.com/

So if anyone has HBO on demand be sure to check out the enhanced version of episode one... It has hints to the story line and some of the characters back stories.... I am watching and am to the point where Sookie has snuck up pn the Ratrays draining Bill...

Hint: Sookie wields the chain in a way that takes her by surprise, Something she chalks up to luck. But luck cannot explain wht the chain keeps tightening around Mac's neck after she lets go.

This was the best hint so far.. Now what does this mean?

Huh.

Look what I saw today on EW: Question: Not that I don't appreciate the awesome True Blood scoop we got last week, it's just that I need, really need, scoop on Sookie/Eric. Is anything gonna happen between them? --Sofia
Ausiello: Something happens in the first four episodes that may lead one to believe Eric has eyes for someone else (hint: it's a dude!). But maybe I'm reading too much into it.

eeew. Ick.  Leave our Eric alone!! Is AB living out his own fantasies do you think?

OTH if Eric is to look credible at Russell's, if they do TB from book 3, well they have to show some of it right?

I am trying to reassure myself here.

eeew. Ick.  Leave our Eric alone!! Is AB living out his own fantasies do you think?

Probably, but he better back off, Eric has been the ladies fantasy for way too long.......  he needs to back off the Eric homo thing, he is clearly into women, per the books, he was made to succumb to homosexuality because he was ordered too not by preference...AB better get the facts straight! especially on this.

I don't where AB is going with Eric's plot line. I understand when he originally plan to adapt the books to screen ATD FDTW and DAG weren't written yet, and sure enough there were major Eric development in those, that he didn't knew nothing about then. but hey he had time to read ATD and FDTW before adapting book 2. Unless he likes Eric so much he wants to steal him away from us woman. and make all of us miserable.

OMG please please don't - ERIC GAY NO!!!!!!

Ok guys if AB will make AS as Eric gay  I am not watching it ... and thats it.

OMG!  Check out the Eric photoshoot

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1960941&id=57454158392&ref=nf

If you guys are on facebook become a fan of that page.  The admins do a great job & have regular updates with yummy photos.  Kristin Bauer is on there too (my two fav characters).  If you type in AP there are some pretty nasty ones (a bit too nasty actually).

Wow. That is a fantastic photo. Even without the long hair. Thanks Urbangal.

Beautiful, beautiful man...*sigh*

I don't get the 'highlight foils' all over his head though...anyone know what that's about?

Looks like some sort of electric torture to me, bc there are wires hooked up to his face also.

He looks fiiiiiiinnneee. Wow. I love the hair. Very debonair. But still so Eric to me. Thank you for that Ngan.

I'm always happy to share JOY around.  Not usually big on FB but I love the pages, any updates of news, photos, vids are all there.  It's like AS handed over to me everyday (not quite, but oh how I wish).

Hint: Sookie wields the chain in a way that takes her by surprise, Something she chalks up to luck. But luck cannot explain wht the chain keeps tightening around Mac's neck after she lets go.

Claudine?  Dunno if they'd allude to her/fairies this early on though...especially Season One, first episode.

Ahh..Claudine is a great guess!

Hi Guys... When you get a chance check out this web page..

http://truebloodnet.com/true-blood-season-2-spoiler-report-with-photos/

According to Sam Trammel the show will basically follow the books with some new side roads to add to the story line.

Vampire Bill Cooking Show 1

Vampire Bill Cooking Show 2 

Funny video's parodying Alan Ball's Bill.

Not sure if this has been posted yet but it's been confirmed.  Godric is Eric's maker & he's the one who has gone missing in Dallas, hence the homoerotic thing.  Not too long now until we get our Viking fix in season two.

I am really hoping we can find it somewhere on the internet for us Kiwis. By the way, have you seen the 4 new clips out today? Eric and Bill in a women's clothes shop. Bizarre.

Yeah I did, and what was most interesting was Eric's comment about Bill refusing to comply with what Sookie had verbally agreed to with Eric. "Not smart". Eric did also said that after Bill had kill Long Shadow in front of witnesses. I wonder what Eric would consider is a smart action?

I love that.  "Poorly played".  Very Eric.  Very Bill.

hence the homoerotic thing.

I read last night that the homo erotic thing involved Jason or Eggs... I will see if I can dig it up again and post it here.

Jason   HU!

That would be very surprising, Jason isn't homophobic , but  it would really goes against what Jason is, now If it is Jason and two girls that I would believe it.

It is a fairy dust inspired orgy... no holds barred is my guess.

It's probably both. Eric's maker bit & the orgy. I mean - it is Alan Ball after all. Gotta play to his peeps.

Where are the new clips?

Some brief clips from season 2

http://www.dreadcentral.com/news/32077/four-clips-true-blood-season-2

Still looking for the part about who gets the viking by the horn(s).

http://spoilerjunkie.wordpress.com/2009/06/08/true-blood-season-2-spoilers/

The part in question...

In the season’s first four episodes, there are no less than three orgies, powered by Maryann’s aphrodisiac fairy dust. The Nordic vampire Eric gets into a very homoerotic encounter with either Jason or Eggs, and both of those characters spend a lot of time shirtless. Sookie has a very revealing conversation with a new character in episode four. And Merlotte’s newest waitress (Ashley Jones) harbors a secret, and a clue lurks on her skin. (Michael Ausiello)