David Weddle

David Weddle is a television writer and producer known for his work on major science fiction and drama series, including Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Battlestar Galactica, and The Twilight Zone. He frequently collaborates with writing partner Bradley Thompson on television projects. Before his television career, Weddle worked as a journalist and author, writing for publications like the L.A. Weekly and the Los Angeles Times. He published a significant biography titled "If They Move... Kill 'Em!: The Life and Times of Sam Peckinpah" in 1994, which examined the life of the influential film director. His television writing credits include episodes for CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Fearing Mind, and For All Mankind. Weddle's work on Battlestar Galactica earned particular critical acclaim, with episodes like "Downloaded" and "Exodus, Part 2" considered highlights of the series. The transition from journalism to television writing occurred after Weddle met Star Trek: Deep Space Nine showrunner Ira Steven Behr, who had read his Peckinpah biography. This connection led to Weddle's first television writing opportunities and launched his career in dramatic series.

Limited reader reviews exist online for David Weddle's television work, with most public feedback focused on his Peckinpah biography. Readers appreciated: - The depth of research in "If They Move...Kill 'Em!" - Direct quotes and first-hand accounts from Peckinpah's colleagues - Coverage of Peckinpah's filmmaking techniques and creative process - Balanced portrayal of both professional achievements and personal struggles Common criticisms: - Writing style can be dry and academic - Too much focus on Peckinpah's personal issues vs. filmmaking - Some readers found the chronological structure repetitive Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (102 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (28 reviews) "Well-researched but reads like a dissertation," notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads user comments: "The research is impressive but the prose lacks flair." Television episodes written by Weddle receive comments within larger series discussions, but few reviews focus on his specific contributions.

If They Move... Kill 'Em!: The Life and Times of Sam Peckinpah (1994) A biography of film director Sam Peckinpah, covering his life, career, and impact on Hollywood through interviews with family, friends, and colleagues.

Among the Dead: The Sugarhouse Gang of Salt Lake City (1993) An investigation into the true story of a 1985 bombing in Salt Lake City that killed two people and revealed connections to document forgery and Mormon history.

CSI: Skin Deep (2004) A tie-in novel based on the television series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, following the forensics team as they investigate a suspicious death at a Las Vegas casino.

Max Brooks focuses on zombies and apocalyptic scenarios with a documentary-style approach to storytelling. His work includes detailed military and political elements similar to Weddle's analytical writing style.

Norman Mailer wrote extensively about war and military conflict from both fiction and non-fiction angles. He shares Weddle's interest in examining the psychological impact of combat on soldiers.

Rick Atkinson specializes in military history with emphasis on World War II narratives and detailed accounts of military operations. His work demonstrates the same commitment to research and historical accuracy found in Weddle's writing.

Hampton Sides produces narrative non-fiction that combines military history with character-driven storytelling. He focuses on historical events through the lens of individual experiences, similar to Weddle's approach.

John Keegan writes military history with emphasis on the human elements of warfare and strategic analysis. His work examines both tactical decisions and personal experiences of soldiers, reflecting Weddle's dual focus on military operations and individual perspectives.