Posted by: 1stDragonarse

I understand we are to view this as an 18 hour movie, but I am curious about some technical aspects related to the writing, editing and filming of the show. I'm hoping some of you might share your knowledge of the industry. 

1. Is season 3 completely finished?
2. Can Lynch/Frost go back in and edit anything before it airs?
3. Did/does Showtime need to approve everything before it airs?

I'd really love to see an outline of what happens from the time a script is pitched.

Thanks in advance, and please, don't get TOO technical as I'm still reeling after viewing Part 8 a few times 😉

I'll try to help-

1.) Final editing was very likely finished and "locked" several months ago.

2.) Re-cutting would be crazy-making for DL this late in the game-and he wouldn't be able to keep it a secret.

3.) I have to believe that DL has iron-clad "final cut" stipulations written into his contract with Showtime-they take what he gives them.

"Standard" procedures with development don't apply here, as the Lynch (Writer-Director)/Frost (Producer) partnership was formed to preclude "meddling" with "the product". This was a "status" project for Showtime, which will enhance their reputation whether on not it goes into profit. TPR was likely sold to Showtime as a complete package, with ST having minimal input on content, form, story, etc.

@Mark, thanks... well said.

now I'm wondering what would happen if say, during this off week, Showtime brokers a new deal with Lynch/Frost for another season... could they modify episode 18 to fit the scenario? I suppose they could've even filmed an alternate finale. 

Posted by: 1stDragonarse

@Mark, thanks... well said.

now I'm wondering what would happen if say, during this off week, Showtime brokers a new deal with Lynch/Frost for another season... could they modify episode 18 to fit the scenario? I suppose they could've even filmed an alternate finale. 

Chances are, they wouldn't need to.  There's always going to be something left unresolved at the end.  Even if Coop does end up playing Happy Families with Janey-E and Sonny Jim there's always going to be some other weirdness lurking out there for him to investigate.  Or if not Coop himself, some other agent may find something in Coop's case notes that merits another, closer look.

Coop may even write his memoirs, which could be a basis for the next show, should they decide to make a new one.  As Doc Manhattan says, "Nothing ever ends".