David Hewlett Writes, Directs Indie Film

From Sci Fi Wire comes the welcome news that David Hewlett did indeed film his own movie script during the Stargate Atlantis haitus. He had mentioned planning to do so during recent interviews. From SCI FI Wire:

Atlantis’ Hewlett Directs His Pals

Stargate Atlantis star David Hewlett, who plays the irascible genius Rodney McKay, told SCI FI Wire that he has enlisted fellow Atlantis stars and crew members to work on his independent feature film, A Dog’s Breakfast, in which he makes his feature writing and directing debut. The movie centers on squabbling siblings Patrick and Marilyn, who are driven over the edge when Marilyn brings home her new TV-star fiancĂ© from the space soap opera Starcrossed. Patrick tries to drive a wedge between the happy couple … then he reaches for sharper instruments.

In addition to Hewlett, the movie features Atlantis co-stars Rachel Luttrell (Teyla) and Paul McGillion (Dr. Beckett), as well as Stargate SG-1 star Christopher Judge (Teal’c). The film’s crew includes Stargate producer John G. Lenic, cinematographer Jim Menard and an amalgamation of the Atlantis and SG-1 shooting crews. The cast also includes Amanda Byram. Hewlett is also working with his real-life partner, producer Jane Loughman, and his sister, actress Kate Hewlett.

Is the film’s storyline a thinly disguised version of Hewlett’s own life? “Let’s just say that it’s based on a true story,” he said in an e-mail interview. “Starcrossed is just an excuse to see Rachel (Luttrell) dressed as a sexy alien again, as it’s been far too long.”

A Dog’s Breakfast is wrapping production, which took place in and around Vancouver, Canada, where the two Stargate series also film. The movie does not have distribution yet. “At the end of February, we should have a cut of the movie together and will start sending it out to festivals and for distribution,” producer Lenic said.

Does A Dog’s Breakfast mean Hewlett really wants to direct? “All I really want right now is a holiday,” he said. Stargate Atlantis airs Fridays at 9 p.m. ET/PT, immediately after Stargate SG-1.

Gateworld has obtained a synopsis of the movie’s plot and some wonderful production photos. Enjoy those at Gateworld.