Interview with Joss Whedon about Serenity

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Q: First all, a big thank you to everyone involved for taking the time to include webmasters in the promotion of Serenity. It's great to be able to give something back to Joss after so many years of entertainment! With regards my question, whilst reading an extract of the "Serenity" novel, I was struck by a line claiming that River was particularly afraid of a certain crew member. This got me wondering how much involvement you have with novelisations. Do you provide specific background details such as this and, on a similar note, has there ever been a proposed plot development in a "Buffy" or "Angel" novel where you've had to put your foot down? 
 
Joss Whedon: I don't have much involvement. I just don't have time. If I started to read them I'd just get frustrated and have to write them myself. This would cause fewer movies and shows. I just whistle and look the other way. Hope ya like 'em! 

Q: The whole cast have been excellent at promoting Serenity, often travelling large distances to attend events; how does their enthusiasm and commitment compare to those of other projects you've been involved in? 
 
Joss Whedon: Nothing compares to the work these guys have done promoting the film -- and nothing is nicer than flying to a faraway land to find yourself surrounded by good friends who are all wicked pretty. It should always be like this. 

Q: Joss, why did you avoid letting Jayne and The Operative go at it (fight I mean) in Serenity? Jayne for president!  
 
Joss Whedon: You totally gave away the sequel! (The president thing, I mean. Jayne would never fight the Operative -- they are timid men.) 

Q: Hey Joss, I've heard lots about the now famous Shakespeare readings at your house. I wondered if you would ever consider directing a stage play (Shakespeare or anything else) and if so which play would you choose and who would be your dream actors to play the main roles?  
 
Joss Whedon: I wouldn't hate doing "Much Ado" with Amy and Alexis... 

Q: Do you have a fascination with feet (and if so, why?), or, why do you have so many shots of feet in the movie?  
 
Joss Whedon: Sigh... see, Summer's a dancer, and she acts from the ground up. In Objects in Space, the physical connection between her and the ship was key, and it became a motif... maybe that's all just rationalization for something darker, but how dark can it be? It's feet! 

Q: What did the two animal handlers mentioned on the end titles of Serenity contribute to the filming process?  
 
Joss Whedon: They kept it real, bro'. 

Q: Given your position at the moment, where do you see yourself in 5 years? Is motion picture greatness where you wish to be?  
 
Joss Whedon: And TV greatness, and Broadway greatness, and chocolately goodness... I want it all. But honestly, rehab. 

Q: You've made an extensive effort to spend some quality time with your fans in Australia, what with the pub visit on the Sunday to the Q&A sessions on Monday and Tuesday evenings just gone. Is this something that you're prepared to do if that is what it takes to ride a continual wave of success or is this more in your own mantra to recognise the fans for their support and as such give something back.  
 
Joss Whedon: I had a free day. When you tour, you're supposed to talk to the press (and hoo doggy did I) but you wanna see your peeps, and not just for the length of your name signing. I couldn't do it every night (raging ego/hangover) but it's nice when I can.