"When you're working there, in Los Angeles, it really is the centre of the film universe for the western world," he said. "They do it big and they do it right. Here's the difference between Canadians and Americans: Americans commit in a way that we can only dream about."
Budget differences are part of that discrepancy he sees between the two countries' productions, but it seems television production in general is very much like life itself: "It doesn't matter how much money you have, you never have enough."
"Things have to be done on a budget everywhere," he added. "It doesn't matter if you're on House or this show, every script is more ambitious than the money you have. You have to come up with creative ways to make the show cool or interesting."
Defying Gravity is a hybrid, a co-production between Canada's CTV and Fox Television Studios in the United States. While it has broadcasters set for Canada, Britain, and Germany, no American network has been announced yet, though it seems likely that's only a matter of time.
"This show definitely has a very strong go-for-it attitude," Straiton said. "They're doing it big — as big as they can based on the financing. It's an ambitious show."
Director versus Star
He was attracted to the series because of the "strong writing pedigree" of Perriott as well as his own relationship with executive producer Michael Edelstein (Desperate Housewives). "They're the kind of people I want to be in business with," Straiton said.
He's worked with some big names and strong personalities throughout his career, people like producers Aaron Spelling (Charmed), John Brunton, and Albie Hecht whose rare loyalty he admires and has had cause to appreciate. He's also worked with well-established actors such as James Cromwell (My Own Worst Enemy), Peter Weller (Odyssey 5), and Hugh Laurie (House), but doesn't allow their stature and experience to change his directing style.
"Just because they have their character down, it doesn't mean they're not open to another version of a scene. With Hugh, you throw an idea at him and you watch it process. He's a really good listener and he's the smartest guy on set."
"It's fun to work for a guy like Hugh Laurie," said Straiton, who will direct four episodes of House this season and is aware I'm a fan. "He's a remarkable actor and truly an amazing individual."
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