'Deviant' Writer Describes Episode's Creation And Development

Krystal Houghton, who wrote the Miami episode "Deviant," talked in the CSI: Miami blog about how she became involved with the show.

"My writing career began last season when Executive Producer Ann Donahue gave me my big break –the chance to co-write "Cop Killer" with veteran writer Steve Maeda," Houghton said. "I guess it didn't turn out too bad because this season, she told me that I would be writing a coveted solo script. My very own episode! Nothing could be better. Or scarier."

Going solo was a scary experience for Houghton, but she admitted everyone helped. ""Deviant" started out with a question in the writers room: 'What would you do if a sex offender moved into your neighborhood?' The entire writing staff pitched ideas and character moments to get the brains storming. Such a monstrous victim led us to think of lots of suspects and even more motives."

Blog master Corey Miller returned this week to share an interview with Production Designer Fred Andrews, who provided a detailed description of his job and how he produces such beautiful Miami sets.

"I start with a pencil drawing of a rough ground plan," he said this week. "Going from this rough idea, I then create a 3-D model on the computer. This helps me to be 'in' the space; that way I can work out any problems with the spatial relationships, as well as set up the proposed shots with a virtual camera and see what needs to be added to the space or what I can cut."

Andrews designs and draws the sets, but he's also involved in their construction. "When blueprints are finished and approved by the Director and Producer, the Construction department starts to swing hammers. After I have picked colors, paint treatments, floor treatments, etc., I discuss the overall feel with the Set Decorator. We then discuss what colors, textures, the type of furnishings, knickknacks, curtains, etc. are needed to create or fill the space. All of this happens in a very short amount of time, so I do not have to wait long to see my ideas go from concept to completion."

Visit the official CSI: Miami blog to read the rest of these two entries.

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