By GustavoLeao / 21:33, 28 December 2007 / General Star Trek

• Beam story to friend
• Join our newsletter
• Syndicate news
• Shore Leave forum

Making Movies posted this interview with Star Trek Of Gods and Men producer Sky Conway a few months ago, and now we bring you a few excerpts of this article to celebrate the release of Part 1 of the fan film last week.

MM - What prompted the involvement of [director/actor] Tim Russ?

SC - Tim is a friend and long time business associate. He and I have worked on numerous projects dating back to 1999. Not only is Tim an accomplished actor, but he is a terrific Director, musician, producer and creator.

MM - What difficulties did you face in bringing seasoned Trek actors and writers on board?

SC - Between Tim and I, we knew all the Actors and have worked with them as well. No difficulties..they are wonderful people... very talented...professional. The best to work with! I think everyone had a great time. How cool is it to play in "Gene Roddenberry's sandbox?"

MM - Tim has mentioned that "this is not a fan film."(story) Have you approached CBS for licensing for this film?

SC - No, we haven't talked to CBS and they haven't contacted us. Tim is very proud of his work and has approached this as an independent Trek mini-series....not a fan film.

MM - Even though this isn't considered a "fan film," it owes its roots at least in part to fan films and series like "Star Trek: New Voyages." What impact do you think ST:OGAM and fan films in general will have on the entertainment and film industries?

SC - Its the beginning of an incredible trend where fans can truly involve themselves and participate in entertainment properties owned by Studios. Its the ultimate extension of "Brand identification". Hopefully the Studios will continue to embrace these fans efforts. Its certainly a cool way to keep a brand alive and current after its "off the air".

MM - Do you feel that there is some interest in fan films on the part of CBS and other studios?

SC - Yes. I believe the CEO of CBS, Les Moonves, is on the record stating he wanted fans to be more interactive with their properties.

MM - What are you feelings about intellectual property when it comes to a film such as this one?

SC - Owners must be able to protect their intellectual property. However, once a property becomes modern mythology...like Trek and Star Wars, etc....hopefully the owners will embrace the fans involvement and desire to create their stories or films based on that Mythology. This can be done without the property reverting to Public Domain.

The full interview is here.