Rigor Tortoise

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Goodbye 2009.  Here, with his parting comments, is Mr. Greg Castle:

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

I married the woman of my dreams.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

Shooting things at night is always really fun. We get especially loopy for some reason. We shot all three seasonal sketches at night and I remember a lot of laughs at each one. Thanksgiving was particularly great because it was just a big party. Lots of great conversations that night.

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

Even though I was choking back tears throughout most of it, the bacheleor show was tons of fun. I think maybe my favorite scene from this year was one during that show where Adam, Dustin and I played fish in an aquarium. We had this really amazing moment when we discovered there was a hand outside of the tank tapping on the glass. I’ll never forget how much fun it was to make that discovery and move back and forth across the stage together, following the finger outside the glass.

Everything about that show was something I’ll never forget.

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

My wedding in Georgia was an absolutely perfect day. Perfect.

What is something from pop culture that inspired you in 2009?

In order of importance:

Zombieland (hit all the right notes)

And Here’s the Kicker by Mike Sacks (I will probably read this book every year from now on)

The song “Introducing Palace Players” by MEW (The video is pretty amazing too.)

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009?

A lot of people have seen the girl in this video. But for my money I could watch the bearded guy who has something to say about every issue, the blue shirted man in suspenders and Mr. Tomasi at the 3:15 mark, talk all day long.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dChBN_zfofY

“Item number 17 has to do with the light brown apple moth.”

Also, if I had a bad day, I watched this:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5IJouKxHCg

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

Keep your fingernails trimmed.

Favorite Rigor Tortoise fan interaction from this year?

I loved passing out tattoos at the birthday show and watching people stick them on their face. Any time anyone shows me that they are wearing one of our tatttoos, it makes me pretty happy.

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

I got to be a DJ for the IO Rep Concept Album and the audience picked “The Soft Bulletin” by The Flaming Lips. The Rep did an entire show with this album playing underneath them. It was a really nice blend of creativity.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

Creating a webseries with Rigor Tortoise. And more writing.

If you could pass one bit of advice along to the fans of Rigor Tortoise what would it be?

Join the Facebook fan page. Right now, it’s the most up-to-date way to find out what we are doing. And it’s usually pretty entertaining.

What are “angel-babies” ?

Pure light.

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Answers from a man who needs no introduction, Mr. Dustin Sterling:

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

The year I will refer to in the future as “The one before I built my Robot Best Friend.”

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

I think the combo shooting day of Wing Men and the Prop election commercial was my favorite day on set.  It was all of us in the Rigordome living room on some Saturday morning.  We were crammed onto couches and chairs on the side of the room to keep out of the way of the green screen in the center.  I just remember us all pitching in ideas and cracking each other up from the sidelines.  And that’s what it’s supposed to be about, right folks?

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

It’s hard to pick one favorite memory of treading the boards with the RT boys this year.  If I had to choose it would probably be the show where Paul and Adam were my ninja sons (How many times have we seen that one?) and they were in a locked bedroom.  When my father character (also trained in the martial arts) couldn’t open the door he decided to kick it down.  Meanwhile Adam is having the same idea on the other side.  It happened so fast (Group mind!) that we had to play it off and ended up exploding the door into tiny pieces due to the fury of our kicks (Not really. In our imagination.)

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

That’s personal.  Just know that it was VERY memorable.  Which is why I favor it above the others.

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

It’s funny that something that inspired me this year was something that first inspired me back in 1994.  The State DVDs finally came out this year.  This was a show that really influenced me back when I was a high school freshman.  They were like a group of cool older kids that were doing the kind of comedy that I wanted to be doing.  I had been making home movies with my friends for a few years by that point, but once I saw what The State was doing I started copying aspects of their style and wanted to be a part of a show like that.  So to rewatch those old episodes now, some of which I hadn’t seen in years was like being that eager kid again.  Also to listen to their commentaries gives some perspective to how they made that show and interesting to see some parallels to how we do things with RT.

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

Those graphs with the overlapping circles are called Venn Diagrams.

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

Wilco at the Wiltern!  Also Okkervil River opened for them.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

Meeting my Robot Best Friend!

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Today we hear from a man who you will soon see during every commercial break, Mr. Adam Karell:

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

A stepping stone.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

One of my favorite memories from this year was when we were filming Greg’s wedding celebration video.  It was so much fun seeing and playing all those wonderful characters we had fallen in love with from previous sketches.

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

One of the many things that I love playing with Rigor Tortoise is the unquestioned support we have for each other.  During a show Justin and I were in a scene together where he was clearly a cat to everyone else, but I just didn’t see it and labeled him a wolf or something like that.  And instead of making me look dumb for not knowing, Greg came on and labeled him a badger.  Thus the game of the scene became we didn’t know what he was.

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

If I may be a bit self-indulgent for a moment, one of my favorite personal memories happened towards the end of the year when I booked 3 commercials in the last 2 months.  It felt good after a slow first part of the year, and I hope to keep that positive energy moving forward in the new year.

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

Avatar.  One of the best examples of human imagination and creativity to happen in a long time.  And I think we as improvisers play in a world of imagination.

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009?

Twilight Cycle starring former Rigor Tortoise guest star Brandon Routh.

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/f57c441be1/twilight-cycles

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

As a performer I’m trying to trust that I’m enough.  That I need to trust that the character, or the relationship, or the funny will come.

Favorite Rigor Tortoise fan interaction from this year?

When I was in Chicago working on a commercial I was riding back in a production van with the Director of Photography and I mentioned I was in a sketch group and I brought up “Bad Spellcheck Theatre” and it finally clicked for him why I looked familiar all day long.  He had seen that sketch and loved it and shared it with some friends.

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

Dasariski scripted show “Dead Uncle Ted.”  The story was so beautifully acted, visualized and told.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

More of the same.  Continue to create funny, intelligent, comedy with the boys of Rigor Tortoise.  And further my steps into Hollywood.

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Let’s hear from RT’s man behind the scenes of the behind the scenes, Mr. Josh Blackburn:

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009?

2009 was a year full of challenges, which in many ways strengthened areas of my life that would have otherwise stagnated.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

My favorite memory on set this year was the ‘Night Before Thanksgiving’ shoot. I loved having a blend of talent from the Rigor boys, the beautiful and talented girls from the Dollhouse, and a generous mingling of some of the best and brightest improv artists established in the upper ranks of the IO West. I felt like that night really showed the possibilities when you have a strong ensemble. It was like an all star game with a giggle derby.

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

My favorite moment on stage this year was watching a show which had started with the suggested location of a basement. The guys started strong establishing a junior high sleepover, seamlessly moved from one point to the next, and brought things full circle to the boys in the basement through a rousing rendition of the Electric Slide. The crowd went nuts! Whatever the tortoise equivalent to goosebumps are, I had them. (Turtle Mumps?)

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

Personally I loved spending time w/ my family when they came to visit. I haven’t lived in California for many years, yet I was able to share with them some of the best it has to offer. Walking w/ my 5 year old niece to the top of Point Dume before spending the day at Zuma Beach is something I will always remember.

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

A person on the fringe of pop culture, and a man who I hold in the highest regards, has inspired me more than Orwell’s 1984, Pixar’s Up, and Phoenix’s Lisztomania combined… Texas Congressman Ron Paul. Putting it simply, he is someone to watch, learn from, and expect more of in 2010.

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009?

The best video this year could have been several videos from the past year of TED Talks. If I had to pick one it would be Pranav Mistry: The thrilling potential of SixthSense technology. The subject mater of possible new technology is fascinating but more importantly he reinforces the concept of perpetuating open-source methods to further the advancement of the technical world around us.

www.ted.com/talks/pranav_mistry_the_thrilling_potential_of_sixthsense_technology.html

Favorite Rigor Tortoise fan interaction from this year?

Any one of the many moments a total stranger has asked to be a part of a video shoot while we were out and about. That makes me feel good to hear someone yell, “I wanna be a part of it!”

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

I’m looking forward to more collaborations w/ IO West members, more guest appearances from members of the entertainment community in general. I love it when you add new talent to an already great recipe like the members of Rigor Tortoise. You never now exactly how it will turn out, but you always know it will be comically delicious.

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Today we hear from Santa, Mr. Paul Natonek:

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

Jay Cutler has a league leading 26 interceptions.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

Running down the beach holding on to a giant squid tentacle, with Justin Johnson on the other end, while the sun was setting over the Pacific Ocean.  Happy times.

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

Almost passing out during a staring contest with Adam Karell.  That was a good one.  Or any time Greg Castle is onstage.

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

The Twilight Saga, because it continued.  And I would like to continue in the near future.

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009? I don’t watch any internet videos other than Rigor Tortoise.  I think I saw one. It was called Cake Farts, but to save you all, I’m not going to put down a link.

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

Watching “Cake Farts”

Favorite Rigor Tortoise fan interaction from this year?

Eric Yang telling me at the bar at IO West that he really enjoyed our shows, and wished we performed more often than once or twice a month.  That made me feel pretty darn good.

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

Steve Shane in the basement of the Viper Room.  I realized that I am surrounded by some very talented people.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

Having lots of sex with many random partners.

If you could change one thing about 2009 what would it be?

I wouldn’t care so much about the Chicago Bears and I wouldn’t let it ruin the beginning of my week every time they lost.

What animal were you in 2009 and what animal do you plan to be in 2010?

In 2009, I was an old lion.  Sitting in the Serengeti, happy content, but not really doing a whole lot of hunting.  In 2010, I plan on reinventing myself as a no holds barred, take charge kind of Great White Shark.  In 2010 , you better hope you’re not a seal, cuz i will breach on your ass so fast, you won’t know what hit you.

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

Today, we’ve got the dirt on 2009 from Triple J himself, Mr. Justin J. Johnson.

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

Electric, dynamic, amazing, I am Nine…the film.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

I think Robot Dance Off was great because I got to show off my dancing chops.  Which are too hot to handle, obviously.   In a real contest I would have melted that robot to death.

What was your favorite memory on stage with Rigor Tortoise this year?

We did a lot of shows at the ol iO West Theatre this year.  But one particular moment that really grabbed my attention, was when Adam Karell took the liberty to craft a feud against Jenny McCarthy’s family (Jim Carrey not included, if he did that, I would have punched him in the nose.  You mess with Jim Carrey, you mess with Justin Johnson)  Also, really loved doing some sketch stuff at the LA Comedy Fest, busting guts and taking ID’s.

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

Too many, too many, I mean, I’m pretty accomplished at this point.  Probably when I wrestled a bunch of buffalo up in Yellowstone.  There are pics to prove it on my Facebook page, most of you have already seen them because I have a lot of friends, but that’s just how I am.  In addition, you can keep up to date on all my personal happs at www.justinjohnson.com

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

I think Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” was a big inspiration.  He made a post hummus film that was pretty delicious.  In it I re-found my love of dance and extravagant stages.

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009?

Greg Castle sent me this video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=skCV2L0c6K0

Blew my mind off my head.

Also, I should give a shout out to this girl I met recently, Maria Blasucci.  Her and some friends, Amanda Lund and Andy DeYoung did a few videos that are pretty gnarly.  www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTykw5_AoZ0

Oh, and there’s this…www.youtube.com/watch?v=zouSojyIi94

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

When you’re too hot, nobody wants to touch you, so you gotta cool down from time to time.  Also learned, don’t walk closely to a cactus.  Seriously.

Favorite Rigor Tortoise fan interaction from this year?

Flowers, punchbowls, parades.  That’s usually what we get after the shows.  But yo, this one goes out to all those people I don’t even know that say “good show!”  Those words are much appreciated, I dig it.  Can you? (dig it?)  Also, big fives go to Eric Yang for including us in his fave groups of 2009.  It was much appreciated.  Go dig that dude, now!

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

Oh man.  Other than the Rigor Tortoise shows?  You know that group that performs with them, The Dollhouse, pretty good.  If I were a reasonable human being that enjoyed fun, I’d go see them both perform at iO West.   I go out to a lot of shows.  I’d probably say I saw a good Avett Brothers concert that really tore me to my emotional core.  I was digging it.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

More electricity, dynamicity, amazingicity, and more Nine…the film.  Also, Rigor Tortoise has some big plans in “The 10.”  So look forward to that.  If you thought we were pushing the boundaries of the FCC’s regulations and/or web content generation, get ready for what’s about to hit your face in “The 10.”  Also, just using the phrase, “The 10” a lot.

What two people would have to get together to create a baby like Rigor Tortoise?

I’d say probably The Dude of The Big Lebowski and Gale Weathers of Scream.  Also, Robert Duvall is involved somehow, but nobody knows how exactly. 

Favorite inspirational quote Ray-J gave you before a Rigor Tortoise show?

That’s a funny question.  Most people don’t know that Ray-J meets with Rigor Tortoise before the shows, but he does.  I think my favorite thing he told us was, “hey, at least you guys aren’t me.  Go have a good show!  And please…do it for the love of Ray-J.”

We asked Rigor Tortoise to answer some questions about 2009.  We’ll be posting the answers throughout the week.

First up, our wonderful director/editor/guru, Mr. Behn Fannin.

Write one sentence that sums up your 2009.

My 2009 was a hoot.

What was your favorite memory on set with Rigor Tortoise this year?

Even though Greg wasn’t there I would have to pick the wedding video we made for he and Beth. It was so much fun to revisit those characters and work with other IO talent, and it was all made especially good knowing we were doing for two wonderful people. Spencer and Bill Magillicutty, our two biggest twin fans.

What was one of your favorite personal memories from this year?

Having my feature film Woke play at Newport beach film fest, and the subsequent beach house party!

What is something from pop culture (books, movies, songs, etc.) that inspired you in 2009?

The FOX BAT STRATEGY album, produced by good ol Davey Lynch.

Rigor Tortoise excluded, what was the best internet video you saw in 2009?

Weird Al’s “convenience of modern day shopping”. www.twitvid.com/E0C44

Favorite mistake/lesson learned from 2009?

Don’t kill more people than your refrigerated storage space.

Favorite live show you saw in 2009?

The Griffith observatory monthly speech, for Justin’s birthday.

What are you most looking forward to in 2010?

Making contact.

John Muir was an important figure in the preservation of American’s beautiful landscapes.  In addition, he had a way with words.

Here are some things he never said:

1)       When’s Disney gonna do a Pocahontas, Mulan mash-up movie?

2)       George Burns died too young.

3)       Rugby is an interesting sport.

4)       If you come at me aggressively, I’m gonna get at you aggressively.

5)       Let’s put a freeway over there!