Applying the Bechdel Test to Star Trek Voyager September 16, 2012

I’m embarassed to admit that until recently I had never heard of the Bechdel Test. To the uninitiated, it’s a test that measures movies based on whether they have two named women in it who a. talk to each other and b. talk about something other than a man. I first heard about this test at the Star Trek Las Vegas convention when a woman in the audience asked a question about it. Forgive me, but I can’t remember the exact phrasing of her question, but it had something to do with whether we thought Star Trek would pass the Bechdel Test? First of all, I love being on a geek girls panel at a science fiction convention for this very reason. It’s a humbling experience because I learn from the audience as much as they learn from us. I am often introduced to new ideas because the fan base is so invested and well-read. I was caught off-guard by the question because I was not familiar with the term. Once she defined it, I thought The Original Series would fail for sure. Next Generation might even fail depending on the episode. Sure, there are quite a few female characters on Next Gen, but how often do they really interact with each other alone? Star Trek (2009) passed the test, but the test itself doesn’t determine whether it’s feminist-friendly.  I seem to recall one of the main female interactions taking place with both Uhura and the Orion in their underwear, which quickly devolves into a conversation about where Kirk is hiding. I feel it shouldn’t have passed, but that’s open to debate. The main reason for it passing is probably because the conversation prior to revealing Kirk definitely delivers some key information that drives the plot.

I immediately thought Star Trek Voyager would pass with flying colors. Female captain? Check. Female chief engineer? Check. Female scientist? Check. Mothers and daughters on the ship? Yep, got them too!  It’s interesting, for as much crap as Voyager gets for being conceived through the eyes of male fantasy, it has many instances of women talking shop, questioning their humanity and occasionally, discussing a strongly brewed cup of Joe. Of course, no one can deny Voyager’s epic bro-mance between Tom Paris and Harry Kim, but that’s another topic for another day.

Granted, this test is usually used to measure female interaction within films, but each episode of Star Trek plays like a mini movie. It seems more than fair to try to apply the test. You’d be hard-pressed to find an episode where Torres and Janeway don’t talk tech. It seems to be a regular plot point on Voyager that there’s some problem with the warp core going offline and B’elanna needs to fix it. Similarly, when Seven of Nine is introduced we see her schooling the captain in the astrometrics lab quite often. Plus, who could forget Seven’s feisty introduction to Torres?

We also learn about Torres’ mother, Miral in “Barge of the Dead,” where she appears to her in spirit form. Many interactions of female characters on Voyager happen in non-traditional ways like Miral’s soul talking to B’elanna. We also encounter characters talking to another version of themself. It all counts towards the Bechdel Test because remember we’re looking for two named female characters talking about something other than romantic relationships.

One of the things I love most about Voyager is Janeway’s compassion for her crew. Her maternal qualities open the door for many mother/daughter type interactions. We get many memorable scenes with her mentoring Seven. She encourages her to recall pre-Borg life. Speaking of Seven, we get some really entertaining scenes between her and Naomi Wildman, the young daughter of Samantha Wildman. They often had lunch, played kadis-kot and learned from each other. Naomi’s curiosity about the Borg made for some very amusing female interactions.

Then there’s Kes, a character who would not finish her run on the show, but definitely left some Bechdel Test-approving scenes. I seem to recall Janeway comforting her and giving her advice on many occasions. Kes’ exit in “The Gift” is one of the most-heartbreaking moments. We see Janeway’s vunerability as she embraces Kes, on the verge of tears telling her how much she will be missed.

So, Voyager may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does meet the requirements for the Bechdel Test in a multitude of episodes. With any ensemble show that’s been on seven seasons you’re bound to have a male-driven plot line here and there, but overall you have a lot of dynamic female characters that talk to each other about a variety of topics. Now that I’m aware of what the Bechdel Test is, I can’t stop noticing whether or not movies or TV shows I watch pass. I’m constantly amazed that in 2012 they don’t all pass.

For more information on what movies pass or fail the Bechdel Test check out, http://bechdeltest.com/ or Feminist Frequency’s videos. 

Boldly Gluing June 5, 2012

Hi everyone!
I will be attending Star Trek Las Vegas this August. You can catch me presenting two panels, the Trek girls panel returning from last year as well “Glue Guns and Phasers,” my crafting workshop also returning for its second year. This is the first episode of the instructional web series we made a year ago to tie into the convention appearance. For whatever reason, it never got posted publicly and so I thought it would be appropriate to get it out there in time for con season. Enjoy!

It’s a ranty kind of a day January 29, 2012

One of the great parts about being an adult is being able to call your own shots. Being half way across the country from your family and former responsibilities makes that even more crystal clear. However, even though I do make all my own decisions, I feel the need to address the kind of behavior that feels out of my control. In other words, a basic outline for “not cool” friend moves. If you want to stay friends with me, do not ever think of placing a guilt trip on me. I do not respond well to this kind of manipulation. Secondly, do not use public forums to “call me out.” You have my cell number, you have my email and you can DM me, so why don’t you? I personally don’t like airing all my dirty laundry for the world to see. You clearly want someone to get the wrong idea about me without knowing the full scope of the situation. As much as I am approachable, I do feel the need to retain some level of privacy. Lastly, do not ever think about inviting yourself. If I wanted you there, I would extend an invitation. It’s just rude to assume. Most of these seem to go without saying, but every now and then people surprise me. What’s even more surprising is that I look like the asshole for saying “you can’t come,” when you were wrong to ask in the first place.

I had a friend years ago whose behavior was extremely poisonous. It seemed no matter what I did, he found fault in it. He forced himself on me as his “best friend.” I never wanted this title. The whole basis for our friendship was him making me feel like I wasn’t a good friend when I never recall getting a choice in the matter. He would make up stories about his father dying or him dying, all to get a reaction out me. I don’t know about you, but those are not things I throw around lightly. Why would you ever use that if your friendship was genuine and true? At my age, I have zero tolerance for this. At your age, you ought to know people won’t put up with this. End rant.

Female Archetypes of American Horror Story November 28, 2011

American Horror Story is a TV show that pushes a lot of boundaries, but when it comes to women is it reinforcing archetypes or breaking new ground? Interestingly enough, the show, which debuted in early October on FX, ranked highest of all FX series premieres in women ages 18-49.  So, what are those archetypes and why does this program appeal to women?

The horror genre isn’t exactly the first place you’d look to find multi-layered roles for ladies, but AHS is turning that notion on its head. After all, you don’t get the star power of Jessica Lange if all you’re doing is victimizing women. Let’s take a look inside AHS’ “murder house” and pinpoint some of the female characters who make up its foundation.

The Scorned Woman- Vivien Harmon (Connie Britton) has been through it all, miscarriages, a cheating husband and a home invasion. Yet, at the heart of it all she is a survivor and is determined to move on with her life. Yes, there are plenty of tears and even some gross-out moments with Mrs. Harmon, but she is more than just a weeping housewife. She defends what’s hers, has fantasies outside her marriage and stands up for what’s right.

The Cougar-Jessica Lange plays next-door neighbor Constance who is equal-parts charming and abusive. She prefers the company of younger men and has a nasty habit of putting down others to make herself feel better. She is a cougar, but she also plays the archetypal “boss” character. Her story deals with the loss of children, disabilities and loneliness.

The Innocent- Constance’s playful daughter Addie (Jamie Brewer) who has Down Syndrome. She is obsessed with the murder house and constantly sneaks in. Her innocence makes her one of the shows lighter, more endearing characters. She just wants to be a “pretty girl” but her struggles are heard loud and clear when her mother & society reminds her that she is not.

The Fatalist-Violet Harmon (Taissa Farmiga) is a goth-girl outsider in the making. She suffers from depression and cuts herself regularly. Her boyfriend Tate is a misunderstood young man from the wrong side of the tracks with violent delusions (and sometimes actions). She feels lost amongst her parents constant drama and can’t relate to others at school. She deals with bullying, suicide attempts and drug overdoses.

The Mistress-Kate Mara plays Hayden, the college student who had an affair with Mr. Harmon. She wants to be loved, but her love is not returned the way she would like. On the surface, her character seems like a plot device, but she really digs deep with issues of abortion, rejection and abuse. She plays an active role in making Vivien’s life miserable. The two share a handful of interesting verbal spats.

The Domestic-Francis Conroy plays Moira the cleaning lady who comes with the house. She cooks, she cleans, she gives advice when asked. Her cloudy eye and unflinching servitude to the Harmons make her seem like just another creepy old lady. However, we discover she is a rape survivor and is becoming a loyal confidant to Mrs. Harmon. She is definitely not afraid to get her hands, mouth or whatever dirty in the line of duty. 

The Femme Fatale- Moira (Alexandra Breckenridge) appears in two forms. For the women, she is the before-mentioned matronly housekeeper with a cloudy eye. For the men, she is a young, sexed up pinup girl in a French maid’s outfit complete with garters. She uses her sexuality to gain favor and information from the men who cross the murder house threshold. This incarnation of Moira is less defendable, but is still not a throw-away character.

The Nurturer- Nora (Lily Rabe) is the loyal wife of Charles Montgomery, the doctor who first owned the murder house in the 1920s. She aided him in illegal abortions in the house’s basement. She starts as a strong demanding wife and mistress of the house, but when her own baby is kidnapped we see an interesting change in Nora. When she meets her “Frankenbaby” it is a enough to push her over the edge to do the unthinkable, but first she nurses it. Nora brings us some creepy moments, but like the other female characters there is an underlying tragedy motivating her. Despite her chequered past, she appears to have some redeeming characteristics, especially when it concerns the Harmons and their unborn child.

It would be very easy to dismiss this over-the-top shock fest, but that would be shortsighted. Underneath the gore and gimp masks, AHS is actually treading new ground for women. The show has created rich characters that employ teenage to older actresses.

In horror, we’ve seen the feisty machete-wielding heroine who fights for her life, but how often do we get to see what’s going on inside her head? Jane Espenson said at San Diego Comic Con that the secret to writing great female characters is to make them flawed. The one thing you can definitely say about the women of AHS is they are inherently damaged. Perhaps the true horror of AHS are the things women deal with in everyday life. Maybe this resonates with audiences more than the actual horror elements. What other show is currently covering teen shootings, miscarriages, abortion, hormones, infidelity, rape, death of children and bullying? The show has pulled a switcheroo on audiences by using provocative language and frightening imagery to tell emotional female-focused stories. Of course, no one is complaining about Dylan McDermott’s naked ass that comes with it.

Identity Crisis November 20, 2011

Every few years I have an identity crisis. I’m having one right now. I don’t know if I really enjoy the entertainment business anymore. Now, don’t worry, I’m not quitting acting, but I certainly feel a need to hone my other abilities.

It’s funny, I acted a lot in high school, but then focused on journalism in college. I worked as an editor on the university newspaper and eventually  graduated with a journalism degree. I worked for a little while in the editorial world, first, interning at a magazine while in school. Once I graduated, I worked as a freelance writer and then eventually got a staff position on a publication. I did this, freelanced and had another (unrelated) part-time job. So naturally I burned out.

I stepped away from the editorial world for a good number of years when I realized I might be able to make a living as an actor. This was easier said than done, but I put forth a lot of time, effort, money and went through a bunch of agents in the process. I even moved 2,000 miles from my hometown to pursue acting in Hollywood. Like the hoards of people coming out here chasing a dream, it’s very easy to get discouraged with all the bullshit networking and hurdle jumping. I’m not a natural schmoozer. I feel very uncomfortable talking myself up or getting close to people in hopes of a job. Maybe it’s the Midwest in me, but I’m humble and sincere. I don’t make friends to see what they can do for me.

This year and half in Los Angeles has been one with lots of ups and downs. I guess what I didn’t realize was how little acting I’d be doing and how much other work for my career I’d be doing. It’s not easy, but I’m not complaining. I just find myself feeling very unfulfilled by the whole rat race out here. At times this industry is cold and empty. I feel the emptiness more and more these days. In Chicago, I had my own theatre company where I experienced a camaraderie like no other. I miss being a part of something special. Mostly, I miss creating.

I find myself seeking solace in the printed word. As we all shift towards technology, I retreat with books and blogs. The printed word seems so tangible now. Hollywood success seems so fleeting if you are even lucky enough to harness it at all.

I forgot how much pride I felt when I saw my byline in a magazine or newspaper. I forgot all about the excitement of sharing a freshly printed copy of the paper with my parents. It’s nice to know I have these skills to fall back on and the time to devote to writing again. For starters, I’ll be writing for a female-focused website about movies, TV and pop culture. The site officially launches next month, but I’m already working on my first piece. It inspired me to jump back into the freelance pool. It feels good knowing I can already swim there.

I’m surprised I got the writing bug again, but I’m happy it caught me. Let’s see where this leads. What’s the point of life without crazy adventures? Stay tuned…

My hosting reel is finally here! October 18, 2011

I got your grassroots right here! July 19, 2011

I’m so pleased to see that there are so many grassroots efforts coming from the world of Trek fandom this year. Not only are there fan panels at this year’s Official Star Trek Las Vegas Con, but there are parties and themed nights galore. Fans have also taken to pimping themselves out to major businesses to get beamed down to Sin City for the con. Namely, David Taylor, who has been relentlessly plugging his “Jim Beam Me Up” campaign to Jim Beam. I’m incredibly impressed with the commitment David has put towards his cause on Twitter and other social media outlets. His self-branding is not only creative, but completely on par with what a real ad campaign for the liquor brand might and should look like. Here’s just one example of his many mock-up ads.

To support his mission and to hear the Star Trek cocktail of the day, follow David on Twitter @SciFi_Core. You can also hit up @JimBeamOfficial to show them you support sending David to Star Trek Las Vegas to imbibe.

You may have gotten wind of my latest launch, www.MakeMeDehner.com. Its been in development for a while, but I’m so pleased to be able to talk about it. Basically, it’s a campaign to get me in the JJ Abrams Star Trek sequel as none other than the incredibly intelligent, Dr. Elizabeth Dehner from “Where No Man Has Gone Before.” Instead of begging for the role, I’ve developed a new strategy to recruit Star Trek luminaries and fans alike to post their video endorsements for me as Dr. Dehner.

Now, I know Dehner may not end up in the sequel script, but you can’t blame a girl for trying right? Even if I only make it as science officer #5, I’ll be content to know I’m a part of Star Trek history. In the meantime, it can’t hurt to garner a little attention towards my acting career and my love of all things Trek. To support me you can visit the main site or hit “Like” on the Facebook fan page: Make Me Dehner. If you’re really creative, I’d love to have your video endorsement. Larry Nemecek and Joseph Dickerson have already gotten into the mix. Those are two tough acts to follow, but you can follow them here at @LarryNemecek and @JosephDickerson.

In addition to being an avid Star Trek fan, Joe Dickerson is a whiz at UX design and even came up with an iPhone app called Experience Matters  for keeping ontop of “user experience” articles and reference information.

While not directly related to Vegas, but still relevant in the convention world, Larry has developed his documentary, “The Con of Wrath” about the ill-fated 1982 all-star Houston Trek convention. You can contribute to the cause or submit your pictures/video if you attended. We in Televixenland like to support what’s happening over in Larry’s Trekland, so show him some love Teletrooper style!