Syfy's Defiance was a program that just never quite 'clicked' with me. I gave it all of the first season -- as well as an episode or two of its second -- but it just felt as if it were treading water thematically. And I say this with the full confession that I thought it had an incredibly talented cast and creative team ... but -- at the end of the day -- if it ain't for me then I do tend to tune it out. In any event, it lasted for a full three seasons, and SciFi audiences have long ago learned to be thankful for small favors. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the year 2046, it's a new Earth - with new rules. Over thirty years after various alien races arrived on Earth, the landscape is completely altered, terraformed nearly beyond recognition. To the town of Defiance, on what used to be St. Louis, comes the mysterious Nolan and his charge, Irisa. As they settle into town - overseen by the mayor, Amanda Rosewater and filled with residents like the powerful Rafe McCawley, enterprising lounge owner Kenya (Mia Kirshner) and the ambitious, alien Tarrs - events begin to unfold that threaten the fragile peace this border town has fought for."
For the record:
Though I never found Defiance my cup of tea, I'd be remiss in my duties if I failed to mention that the show was nominated for a 2013 Primetime Emmy in the category of 'Outstanding Special Effects' of its pilot episode. Furthermore, it garnered an impressive nomination from TV Guide in 2014 when the program was nominated for 'Favorite SciFi/Fantasy Show.' Such praise certainly assures someone was definitely watching!
"In the year 2046, it's a new Earth - with new rules. Over thirty years after various alien races arrived on Earth, the landscape is completely altered, terraformed nearly beyond recognition. To the town of Defiance, on what used to be St. Louis, comes the mysterious Nolan and his charge, Irisa. As they settle into town - overseen by the mayor, Amanda Rosewater and filled with residents like the powerful Rafe McCawley, enterprising lounge owner Kenya (Mia Kirshner) and the ambitious, alien Tarrs - events begin to unfold that threaten the fragile peace this border town has fought for."
For the record:
Though I never found Defiance my cup of tea, I'd be remiss in my duties if I failed to mention that the show was nominated for a 2013 Primetime Emmy in the category of 'Outstanding Special Effects' of its pilot episode. Furthermore, it garnered an impressive nomination from TV Guide in 2014 when the program was nominated for 'Favorite SciFi/Fantasy Show.' Such praise certainly assures someone was definitely watching!
Herbert Bunston found his way through the shadows and the light to make an appearance aboard the groundbreaking Horror/Fantasy Dracula (1931) for Universal Pictures. Though he's no longer with us, Bunston was born on this day in 1874.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
According to IMDB.com, the very last professional gig the venerable John Williams enjoyed in his go'round in this dimension was as 'Sire Montrose' aboard the original Battlestar Galactica. As for other adventures genre fans might be interested in? His career boasts visits to such properties as The Twilight Zone, The Wild Wild West, Mission: Impossible, and Night Gallery. Though he's no longer with us, Williams was born on this day in 1903.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Those dastardly, dastardly Klingons! Nobody played the classic Klingon on Star Trek with more simmering reserve than veteran character actor Michael Ansara. It was terrific that he was given the chance to reprise his character on both Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as well as Star Trek: Voyager, but Ansara has also appeared in such singular visions as The Lone Ranger, Abbott And Costello Meet The Mummy (1955), Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea (1961), The Outer Limits, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Lost In Space, The Girl From U.N.C.L.E., Bewitched, The Time Tunnel, Tarzan, Land Of The Giants, I Dream Of Jeannie, It's Alive (1974), The Manitou (1978), Dr. Strange (1978), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century, Fantasy Island, Babylon 5, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and Johnny Mysto: Boy Wizard (1997). Though he's no longer with us, Ansara was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1979 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films), Ansara enjoyed a 'Best Supporting Actor' nomimation for his work aboard The Manitou (1978).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I took a look back at "Soldier," one of the revered episodes of the mid-1960's SciFi/Classic series The Outer Limits, in which Ansara played a huge part. Interested in my thoughts on the episode? My review can be found right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1979 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films), Ansara enjoyed a 'Best Supporting Actor' nomimation for his work aboard The Manitou (1978).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I took a look back at "Soldier," one of the revered episodes of the mid-1960's SciFi/Classic series The Outer Limits, in which Ansara played a huge part. Interested in my thoughts on the episode? My review can be found right here.
The late Jean Willes enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard the fondly remembered SciFi/Horror Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1956) for Allied Artists Pictures. She leaves behind a legacy of over two hundred different screen roles, including work in such genre properties as Jungle Jim In Forbidden Land (1952), Abbott And Costello Go To Mars (1953), Adventures Of Superman, Science Fiction Theatre, The Adventures Of Dr. Fu Manchu, The Man Who Turned To Stone (1957), The Twilight Zone, and The Munsters. Though she's no longer with us, Willes was born on this day in 1923.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, even as a young actress Elizabeth Montgomery was definitely someone to watch. I remember her vividly from her work aboard Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone. Still, she'll likely always be remembered as the lovely and beautiful modern era spellcaster 'Samantha Stevens' aboard the long-running Bewitched (1964-1972). Though she's no longer with us, Montgomery was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To her everlasting credit, Montgomery enjoyed an incredible five nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award for her work aboard the popular Bewitched.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To her everlasting credit, Montgomery enjoyed an incredible five nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award for her work aboard the popular Bewitched.
Well, the late Maureen Arthur may not have enjoyed a great deal of exposure in the realms of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror, but her career boasts a few appearances worthy of mention. Roles big and small were secured as part of her contribution to such projects as I Spy, Get Smart, The Flying Nun, A Man Called Dagger (1968), Night Gallery, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, and Mork & Mindy. Though she's no longer with us, Arthur was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's likely remember far more (by a certain crowd) for her work aboard TV's Crime/Drama Matlock, Julie Sommars certainly racked up a good number roles mostly in conventional stuff. Genre fans might know her for work aboard The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Invaders, Get Smart, Herbie Goes To Monte Carlo (1977), and Beyond Westworld. Sommars was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The actor who played 'Charlie X' on Star Trek grows another year older as Robert Walker Jr. celebrates a birthday today. His episode was actually one of the first ones I remember seeing; that's not necessarily a surprise, but what is surprising is how his story of coming-of-age (of sorts) continues to resonate with viewers today. It's universal, and Mr. Walker's performance should be commended if not celebrated in all of Trekdom. He continued to work in the business, garnering screen time in such projects as The Time Tunnel, The Invaders, Death In Space (1974), and The Six Million Dollar Man. Though he's no longer with us, Walker was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely and talented Lois Chiles played the lovely and talented 'Holly Goodhead' to Roger Moore's take on James Bond in Moonraker. That's the Bond flick that finally put Bond in space. While it's not remembered perhaps as fondly as some of the other James Bond films, I had no major problem with it. After all, what's not to like about the filling the frame with Ms. Chiles? Other genre appearances include work aboard Coma (1978), Creepshow 2 (1987), Until The End Of The World (1989), and Wish Upon A Star (1996). Chiles was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though her resume includes only twenty-five different professional credits, well that's still twenty-five more than most of us get! Helaine Lembeck hasn't done a wealth of genre properties, but there are a few worth mention. Her start in televised Fantasy was as part of The Krofft Supershow -- a children's Saturday morning property that produced a little something called Magic Mongo. Then -- a few decades later -- she provided some voicework for the SciFi/Romance The Time Traveler's Wife (2009). Lembeck was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Demolition Man remains one of the great B movies of Sylvester Stallone's entire career, and that's largely due to the fact that it hit so many of the right elements, including a campy performance from the great Glenn Shadix. Though he's best known for his work in the seminal horror comedy Beetlejuice, Shadix left behind a terrific legacy in genre entertainment, including a great little role in the uninspired Planet Of The Apes (2001) reboot. Though he's no longer with us, Shadix was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I've often said, if you've ever served time aboard any versions of the Starship Enterprise then SciFiHistory.Net is going to find you! Such is the case for actor Kenneth Meseroll, who did have a single adventure aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation ("The Next Phase"). Perhaps fandom knows him best as the voice of Derek Wildstar from the popular anime import, Star Blazers. He also sported an appearance on Fox TV's The X-Files for good measure. Meseroll was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To be perfectly honest, Wendel Meldrum hasn't done all that much work in the realm of Science Fiction, but kudos to this dramatic actress for giving it an honest go. She's booked appearances aboard The Pretender, the SciFi-lite comedy Blast from the Past, The Outer Limits, and the underrated First Wave. Though she's no longer with us, Meldrum was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beauty of Thomas F. Wilson's legendary 'Biff' character from the Back To The Future trilogy is that Marty McFly got the chance to knock the stuffing out of him in three different time frames (the past, the present, andthe future). How could you not love that? Thankfully, the man has a career pretty rich in the world of genre projects -- live acting and voicework -- including stops to such institutions as Knight Rider, April Fool's Day (1986), Batman: The Animated Series, Wing Commander III (1994), Wing Commander IV (1995), Superman: The Animated Series, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Gargoyles, Stripperella, Ghost Whisperer, Star Wars: The Old Republic (2011), DC's Legends Of Tomorrow, and much, much more. Wilson also turns another year older and another year wiser today, born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1991, Wilson took home the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work aboard Back To The Future Part III (1990).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1991, Wilson took home the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work aboard Back To The Future Part III (1990).
Emma Thompson had no problem bringing her level of gravitas to the lunacy at the heart of Men In Black III (2012). Other trips into the realms of the Fantastic include work aboard Dead Again (1991), Treasure Planet (2002), Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban (2004), Nanny McPhee (2005), Stranger Than Fiction (2006), Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix (2007), I Am Legend (2007), Nanny McPhee Returns (2010), Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011), Beautiful Creatures (2013), Beauty And The Beast (2017), Men In Black: International (2019), and Cruella (2021). Thompson was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2007, Thompson enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard Stranger Than Fiction (2006).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2007, Thompson enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard Stranger Than Fiction (2006).
2018's Horror/SciFi Bird Box created a bit of a stir in the popular culture when it premiered on the streaming giant that is Netflix, and critically-lauded director Susanne Bier played a big role in bringing the tale to life on the screen. Bier was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Kamala Lopez (formerly Kamala Dawson) played Tincoo on an episode of Star Trek: Voyager ("Virtuoso"). She's also booked appearances on Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman as well as doing supporting voice work on 1990's epic Total Recall. Lopez was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Her breakout role was playing Jane Porter on the 1990's television version of Tarzan, but Lydie Denier's career didn't stop there. SciFi fans might recognize her best from appearances in TV's Starman, the 1990's TV version of The Flash, or from the TV movies Project Viper or SharkMan. Denier was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Singer-turned-actress Samantha Fox showed that she still has the right stuff with her work aboard Sharknade 5: Global Swarming (2017) for Syfy and The Asylum. Fox was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A former circus performer, Jill Gatsby certainly knew a thing or two about working a crowd, and I suspect those gifts served her well in the wider entertainment industry. Her credentials may be few, but they're certainly impressive in circles where genre fans travel: she's been a part of such projects as It Lives Again (1978), Full Moon High (1981), It's Alive III: Island Of The Alive (1987), A Return To Salem's Lot (1987), Vampire's Kiss (1988), and Class Of 1999 (1990). Gatsby was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ouch! That's gonna leave a mark! The lovely China Chow sacrificed her beauty for the cause of Fantasy with an appearance in Frankenfish (2004) for Silver Nitrate Pictures and the SciFi Channel. Chow was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To be precise, TNT's popular The Last Ship isn't Science Fiction, per se, but it dabbled with speculative science and a potential Apocalypse befalling our beloved planet ... so that puts it close enough. My wife and I loved the show while it was on, and one of the major secondary characters we always rooted for was 'Andrea Garnett' as played by the equally fetching Fay Masterson. She's also found work aboard TV's Highlander, The Lost Skeleton Of Cadavra (2001), and HBO's underrated Carnivale. Masterson was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Walt Disney and Pixar produced a wonderful Science Fiction film for the young-at-heart -- WALL*E -- and the talented Elissa Knight lent her pipes to the character of EVE for the feature. Knight was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com is correct, then it looks like Susan Ward hasn't done any professional acting in some time. Still, kudos to the lovely lady for making appearances aboard Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and Xena: Warrior Princess for good measure. Ward was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A delicious Luvia Peteresen delivered her own brand of 'girl power' to Syfy's Time-Travel/Drama Continuum. She's also stolen scenes while serving time aboard The X-Files: I Want To Believe (2008), Falling Skies, The Tomorrow People, The 100, and Ghost Wars. Petersen was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hunky Luke Evans has certainly staked out some impressive territory in the realm of Fantasy. He's been a part of Clash Of The Titans (2010), Immortals (2011), Dracula Untold (2014), and Peter Jackson's The Hobbit adaptation. Evans was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Broadway actress Caissie Levy enjoyed a bit of screen time with a small role aboard Fox TV's Gotham during its run. Levy was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Talk about your vanity projects: writer/director Seth Rogen cast himself to play himself in 2013's This Is A End, a low-brow stoner Comedy/SciFi/Fantasy about "actors" facing the Apocalypse. Meh. Plus he's been called James Franco's #MeToo enabler. That's kinda gross. Rogen was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Alice Braga helped Will Smith brave the zombie apocalypse in 2007's lukewarm I Am Legend. In 2010, she faced down the ultimate hunting species in Predators. Then, in 2013, she paired up (unfortunately) with Matt Damon in Neill Blomkamp's disappointing Elysium. Braga was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress, producer, and writer Alexis Kendra can do it all. Genre fans might know her best from her appearance as 'Sif' aboard the Fantasy/Telefilm Thor: Hammer Of The Gods (2009) for BUFO. Kendra was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Talk about your nepotism! (I kid, I kid!) Annie Costner had the good fortune of appearing with dear ol' dad (Kevin Costner) in his two Science Fiction properties: Waterworld (1995) and The Postman. Costner was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Proving that audiences anywhere in world love some quality Science Fiction and Fantasy, the lovely Philippine-born Diana Zubiri proved she was made of the right stuff with her work aboard Etheria. Zubiri was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
These days, you can't get more 'Fantasy' than the world of Harry Potter, a popular cinematic franchise which gave rise to the lovely Emma Watson. Watson was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young and stalwart Maisie Williams booked a special supporting appearance on the BBC's Doctor Who (for the ninth season) alongside Peter Capaldi as the Doctor. No stranger to fandom, she's best known as 'Arya Stark' on HBO's stellar adaptation of Game of Thrones. Williams was born on this day in 1997.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hawaiian-born Mainei Kinimaka is no stranger to the islands as she comes from a family of artists all steeped in their native culture. Plus ... she's an accomplished professional surfer! She did enjoyed a small role opposite Jason Momoa in Apple TV's See. Kinimaka was born on this day in 1998.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When she was but an urchin, a young Lily Pilblad enjoyed a run of several episodes aboard Fox TV's stellar genre procedural Fringe. Pilblad was born on this day in 2000.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1932 (in Japan), the dead became the living once again with the premiere of Frankenstein. James Whale directed the motion picture from an adaptation of the Mary Shelley novel, and the feature starred Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, and Boris Karloff. For those born on an island, here's the plot summary as provided by the folks at IMDB.com:
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I purchased a Blu-ray copy of Frankenstein: Complete Legacy Collection from Amazon.com so that I could enjoy the entire Frankenstein family at my leisure. Interested in knowing what I thought of the first picture? Readers can find my review right here.
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I purchased a Blu-ray copy of Frankenstein: Complete Legacy Collection from Amazon.com so that I could enjoy the entire Frankenstein family at my leisure. Interested in knowing what I thought of the first picture? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1934 (in the U.S.), it all came down to this when audiences were treated to End Of The World. Written (in part) and directed by Abel Gance, the SciFi/Drama starred Gance himself, Colette Darfeuil, and Sylvie Gance; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The two Novalic brothers, Jean and Martial, are in love with the same woman, Genevieve. Jean is an impoverished actor and an idealistic dreamer, who does not want Genevieve to share in his life of suffering. Martial is an internationally-respected astronomer who discovers the return of Lexell's Comet, on a collision course for Earth. Meanwhile, the rich play while the world is arming for war. Martial decides to use the impending threat of world destruction to reorganize and improve global society. But he is opposed by the rich financiers and government officials who stand to lose their power and influence."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of End Of The World (1931) from a distributor in exchange for promotional coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
"The two Novalic brothers, Jean and Martial, are in love with the same woman, Genevieve. Jean is an impoverished actor and an idealistic dreamer, who does not want Genevieve to share in his life of suffering. Martial is an internationally-respected astronomer who discovers the return of Lexell's Comet, on a collision course for Earth. Meanwhile, the rich play while the world is arming for war. Martial decides to use the impending threat of world destruction to reorganize and improve global society. But he is opposed by the rich financiers and government officials who stand to lose their power and influence."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of End Of The World (1931) from a distributor in exchange for promotional coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born!
And there be monsters here! On this day in 1944 (in the U.S.), The Monster Maker enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Directed by Sam Newfield, the SciFi/Horror film starred J. Carrol Naish, Ralph Morgan, and Tala Birell. Here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"A mad scientist injects his enemies with an acromegaly virus, causing them to become hideously deformed."
For the record:
Alas, as can happen with these older, small studio releases, I've not been able to learn much about The Monster Maker for share in any great length. It was directed by the Sam Newfield, one of Hollywood's most versatile directors, amassing a resume of nearly 300 different screen credits. Newfield also directed Lost Continent (1951), a SciFi/Fantasy film from Lippert Pictures.
"A mad scientist injects his enemies with an acromegaly virus, causing them to become hideously deformed."
For the record:
Alas, as can happen with these older, small studio releases, I've not been able to learn much about The Monster Maker for share in any great length. It was directed by the Sam Newfield, one of Hollywood's most versatile directors, amassing a resume of nearly 300 different screen credits. Newfield also directed Lost Continent (1951), a SciFi/Fantasy film from Lippert Pictures.
On this day in 1952 (in Denmark), Destination Moon landed in theaters. Directed by Irving Pichel, the groundbreaking film starred John Archer, Warner Anderson, and Dick Wesson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has consumed too much fuel during the landing, leaving them short for the return voyage to Earth. After stripping the ship bare, they are still over 100 lbs too heavy, meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
For the record:
At the 1951 Academy Awards, Destination Moon was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color' but missed out on taking the statue home; it did, however, take home the gold in the category of 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' For the 1951 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has consumed too much fuel during the landing, leaving them short for the return voyage to Earth. After stripping the ship bare, they are still over 100 lbs too heavy, meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
For the record:
At the 1951 Academy Awards, Destination Moon was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color' but missed out on taking the statue home; it did, however, take home the gold in the category of 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' For the 1951 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1957 (in Argentina), Tarantula crawled onto the silver screen. Directed by Jack Arnold, the SciFi feature starred John Agar, Mara Corday, and Leo G. Carroll. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A spider escapes from an isolated Arizona desert laboratory experimenting in giantism and grows to tremendous size as it wreaks havoc on the local inhabitants."
"A spider escapes from an isolated Arizona desert laboratory experimenting in giantism and grows to tremendous size as it wreaks havoc on the local inhabitants."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), mankind was introduced to the worst kind of walking dead imaginable: Teenage Zombies. Written and directed by Jerry Warren, the film starred Don Sullivan, Katherine Victor, and Steve Conte. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A crazed female scientist uses nerve gas to turn local teenagers into her unquestioning slaves."
"A crazed female scientist uses nerve gas to turn local teenagers into her unquestioning slaves."
On this day in 1962 (in the United Kingdom), the Battle In Outer Space was waged cinematically. Directed by Ishiro Honda, the SciFi feature starred Ryô Ikebe, Kyôko Anzai, and Minoru Takada. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Munchkin-like aliens invade Earth full force with their flying saucers and laser weapons, rendering cities helpless. All eyes turn to the most powerful nations on Earth as they unite to concoct a plan to vanquish the aliens and return Earth to the hands of humans, thus, resulting in the most fierce and ultimate battle royale in outer space the galaxy as ever seen."
For the record:
In 2010, Battle In Outer Space was inclued as part of the 'Icons Of Sci-Fi: Toho Collection' that enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"Munchkin-like aliens invade Earth full force with their flying saucers and laser weapons, rendering cities helpless. All eyes turn to the most powerful nations on Earth as they unite to concoct a plan to vanquish the aliens and return Earth to the hands of humans, thus, resulting in the most fierce and ultimate battle royale in outer space the galaxy as ever seen."
For the record:
In 2010, Battle In Outer Space was inclued as part of the 'Icons Of Sci-Fi: Toho Collection' that enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
On this day in 1963, Hercules Conquers Atlantis enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. (FYI: as I've found, the film is referenced by several alternative titles included Hercules And The Captive Women or Hercules And The Haunted Women.) Written (in part) and directed by Vittorio Cottafavi, the Fantasy feature starred Reg Park in the role of the singular strongman, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The ever intrepid world-trotting hunk of a man Herc (Hercules to those who are not his friends) saves a beautiful maiden from the hands of an evil creature. She takes him to her home, Atlantis. Herc kicks some butt and saves her from her mother who wants to kill her and from some scary looking blond guys but unfortunately the rest of the inhabitants are destroyed. Do not worry because Herc escapes along with his son, the maiden and an annoying midget."
For the record:
Your humble editor has had the good fortune of seeing Hercules And The Captive Women, and he's even penned his thoughts on the film's 2021 video release. Interested parties can find the article right here.
"The ever intrepid world-trotting hunk of a man Herc (Hercules to those who are not his friends) saves a beautiful maiden from the hands of an evil creature. She takes him to her home, Atlantis. Herc kicks some butt and saves her from her mother who wants to kill her and from some scary looking blond guys but unfortunately the rest of the inhabitants are destroyed. Do not worry because Herc escapes along with his son, the maiden and an annoying midget."
For the record:
Your humble editor has had the good fortune of seeing Hercules And The Captive Women, and he's even penned his thoughts on the film's 2021 video release. Interested parties can find the article right here.
On this day in 1965 (in Japan), Crack In The World gave audiences one more look into our planet's impending demise. Directed by Andrew Marton from a story by Jon Manchip White and Julian Zimet, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dana Andrews. Janette Scott, and Kieron Moore. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A dying scientist pushes forward his project to tap through to the Earth's magma layer, with results that threaten to destroy the Earth as we know it."
"A dying scientist pushes forward his project to tap through to the Earth's magma layer, with results that threaten to destroy the Earth as we know it."
On this day in 1965 (in The Netherlands), the Walt Disney Company served up some SciFi laughs with the release of Son Of Flubber. Directed by Robert Stevenson, the SciFi/Comedy starred Fred MacMurray, Nancy Olson, and Keenan Wynn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Professor Ned Brainard's discovery of flubber hasn't quite brought him - or his college - the riches he thought. The Pentagon has declared his discovery to be top secret and the IRS has slapped him with a huge tax bill, even if he has yet to receive a cent. He thinks he may have found the solution in the form of flubbergas, which can change the weather. It also helps Medfield College's football team to win a game. At home, his wife Betsy is jealous of the attention lavished on him by an old high school girlfriend."
"Professor Ned Brainard's discovery of flubber hasn't quite brought him - or his college - the riches he thought. The Pentagon has declared his discovery to be top secret and the IRS has slapped him with a huge tax bill, even if he has yet to receive a cent. He thinks he may have found the solution in the form of flubbergas, which can change the weather. It also helps Medfield College's football team to win a game. At home, his wife Betsy is jealous of the attention lavished on him by an old high school girlfriend."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in the U.S.), things were looking downright Neanderthal with the release of Women Of The Prehistoric Planet. Written and directed by Arthur C. Pierce, the SciFi/Comedy starred Wendell Corey, Keith Larsen, and John Agar. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship crashes upon an unexplored planet, and the rescuers sent to search for survivors discover that decades have passed due to time dilation."
"A spaceship crashes upon an unexplored planet, and the rescuers sent to search for survivors discover that decades have passed due to time dilation."
On this day in 1968 (in Denmark), The Reluctant Astronaut launched into theatres. Directed by Edward Montagne from a story by James Fritzell and Everett Greenbaum, the SciFi/Comedy starred Don Knotts, Leslie Nielsen, and Joan Freeman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A NASA janitor is sent into space."
For the record:
In reaction to his performance in the picture, actor Don Knotts enjoyed a 1968 Laurel Awards nomination in the category of 'Male Comedy Performance.'
"A NASA janitor is sent into space."
For the record:
In reaction to his performance in the picture, actor Don Knotts enjoyed a 1968 Laurel Awards nomination in the category of 'Male Comedy Performance.'
A star is born! On this day in 1974 (in the Soviet Union), Molchaniye doktora ivensa (aka The Silence Of Dr. Evans) enjoyed its general theatrical release. Written and directed for the screen by Budimir Metalnikoa, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Sergey Bondarchuk, Zhanna Bolotova, and Irina Skobtseva. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A plane crashes over the Atlantic. Aliens save passengers and come into contact with one of the rescued scientists, Martin Evans."
"A plane crashes over the Atlantic. Aliens save passengers and come into contact with one of the rescued scientists, Martin Evans."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), Monty Python's Terry Gilliam served up Jabberwocky for interested audiences. Written (in part) and directed by Terry Gilliam, the film starred Michael Palin, Harry H. Corbett, and John Le Mesurier. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young peasant with no interest in adventure or fortune is mistaken for the kingdom's only hope when a horrible monster threatens the countryside."
"A young peasant with no interest in adventure or fortune is mistaken for the kingdom's only hope when a horrible monster threatens the countryside."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), The Beast really gave audiences something to think about in the realm of Fantasy and Horror. Written and directed by Walerian Borowczyk, the picture starred Sirpa Lane, Lisbeth Hummel, and Elisabeth Kaza; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In order to inherit a fortune a young woman agrees to marry a young man. She soon discovers that his family harbours a dark past involving a monstrous beast."
"In order to inherit a fortune a young woman agrees to marry a young man. She soon discovers that his family harbours a dark past involving a monstrous beast."
A star is born! On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), The Billion Dollar Threat was made public ... with its first airing on television. Directed by Barry Shear from a story by Jimmy Sangster, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Dale Robinette, Ralph Bellamy, and Keenan Wynn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mad scientist plans to destroy the earth's ozone layer."
"A mad scientist plans to destroy the earth's ozone layer."
On this day in 1982 (in Australia), Roger Corman's Galaxy Of Terror scared audiences silly. (Well, maybe ...) Written (in part) and directed by Bruce D. Clark, the SciFi/Horror starred Erin Moran, Edward Albert, and Ray Walston; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A ragtag spaceship crew sent on a rescue mission encounter a formidable enemy, their worst fears projected by their own imaginations."
"A ragtag spaceship crew sent on a rescue mission encounter a formidable enemy, their worst fears projected by their own imaginations."
On this day in 1983 (in Japan), It's All Right, My Friend enjoyed its theatrical release. Written and directed by Ryû Murakami, the SciFi/Comedy starred Peter Fonda, Leona Hirota, and Kumi Aochi. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In this sci-fi parody, Peter Fonda's plays an alien who falls from the sky and is befriended by some Japanese people who help him stop an evil group out to get him."
"In this sci-fi parody, Peter Fonda's plays an alien who falls from the sky and is befriended by some Japanese people who help him stop an evil group out to get him."
On this day in 1983, Liquid Sky enjoyed its run in U.S. theatres. Written (in part) and directed by Slava Tsukerman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Anne Carlisle, Paula E. Sheppard, and Susan Doukas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A small, heroin seeking UFO lands on a Manhattan roof, observes a bizarre, drug addicted fashion model and sucks endorphin from her sexual encounters' brains."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Liquid Sky enjoyed a fair amount of praise while playing the film festival circuit.
"A small, heroin seeking UFO lands on a Manhattan roof, observes a bizarre, drug addicted fashion model and sucks endorphin from her sexual encounters' brains."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Liquid Sky enjoyed a fair amount of praise while playing the film festival circuit.
A star is born ... and this one's animated! On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), the good people of Boston, Massachusetts were treated to the silver screen debut of Rock & Rule. Directed by Clive A. Smith, the Animated/Fantasy featured the voices of Don Francks, Paul Le Mat, and Greg Salata. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A malevolent rock star kidnaps a singer to force her to participate in the summoning of a demon, and her band must help her stop him."
"A malevolent rock star kidnaps a singer to force her to participate in the summoning of a demon, and her band must help her stop him."
On this day in 1983 (in West Germany), Sorceress cast its spell on audiences. Written (in part) and directed by Jack Hill, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Leigh Harris, Lynette Harris, and Roberto Nelson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hell-bent on becoming the ultimate ruler of the universe by sacrificing his firstborn, the powerful conjurer of illusions and master of the Black Arts, Traigon, makes an unholy pact with the evil deity, Kalghara. However, fate has other plans, and as the magician's wife gives her last breath to protect her newborn twin daughters, Traigon dies. Nearly two long decades later--imbued with the unlimited white force of their mentor, Krona--the dauntless warrior-sisters, Mira and Mara, embark on a dangerous mission to avenge their slaughtered mother and to defeat the resurrected warlock once and for all. Who shall live and who shall die in the final clash between good and evil?"
"Hell-bent on becoming the ultimate ruler of the universe by sacrificing his firstborn, the powerful conjurer of illusions and master of the Black Arts, Traigon, makes an unholy pact with the evil deity, Kalghara. However, fate has other plans, and as the magician's wife gives her last breath to protect her newborn twin daughters, Traigon dies. Nearly two long decades later--imbued with the unlimited white force of their mentor, Krona--the dauntless warrior-sisters, Mira and Mara, embark on a dangerous mission to avenge their slaughtered mother and to defeat the resurrected warlock once and for all. Who shall live and who shall die in the final clash between good and evil?"
Ouch! That's gonna leave a mark! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York suffered a bit of Brain Damage. (Well ... cinematically, that is!) Written and directed for the screen by Frank Henenlotter, the Horror/Fantasy starred Rick Hearst, Gordon MacDonald, and Jennifer Lowry. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"One morning, a young man wakes to find that a small, disgusting creature has attached itself to the base of his brain stem. The creature gives him a euphoric state of happiness but demands human victims in return."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Brain Damage earned a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"One morning, a young man wakes to find that a small, disgusting creature has attached itself to the base of his brain stem. The creature gives him a euphoric state of happiness but demands human victims in return."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Brain Damage earned a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in Canada), Tales From The Gimli Hospital enjoyed its theatrical launch. Written and directed for the screen by Guy Maddin, the Fantasy/Drama starred Kyle McCulloch, Michael Gottli, and Angela Heck. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While their mother is dying in the modern Gimli, Manitoba hospital, two young children are told a tale by their Icelandic grandmother about Einar the Lonely, his friend Gunnar, and the angelic Snjofridur in a Gimli of old."
For the record:
At the 1989 Genie Awards (recognizing film and TV excellence in Canada), Tales From The Gimli Hospital enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Original Screenplay.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional copy of a new release of Tales From The Gimli Hospital in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
"While their mother is dying in the modern Gimli, Manitoba hospital, two young children are told a tale by their Icelandic grandmother about Einar the Lonely, his friend Gunnar, and the angelic Snjofridur in a Gimli of old."
For the record:
At the 1989 Genie Awards (recognizing film and TV excellence in Canada), Tales From The Gimli Hospital enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Original Screenplay.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional copy of a new release of Tales From The Gimli Hospital in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1994 (in Finland), Fortress took audience behind the bars of tomorrow. Directed by Stuart Gordon, the SciFi/Thriller starred Christopher Lambert, Loryn Locklin, and Kurtwood Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future, private underground prison/Fortress, the inmates are computer controlled with CCTV, dream readers and devices that can cause pain or death. John and his illegally pregnant wife are inside but want to escape before birth."
"In a future, private underground prison/Fortress, the inmates are computer controlled with CCTV, dream readers and devices that can cause pain or death. John and his illegally pregnant wife are inside but want to escape before birth."
On this day in 1994 (in the Netherlands), Man's Best Friend enjoyed a run in the cinematic park. Written and directed by John Lafia, the SciFi/Horror starred Ally Sheedy, Lance Henriksen, and Robert Costanzo; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A genetically engineered dog escapes from the science facility where it was created. A family takes it in unaware of its deadly instincts which soon emerge. The scientist who created the dog tries to find it before its too late."
"A genetically engineered dog escapes from the science facility where it was created. A family takes it in unaware of its deadly instincts which soon emerge. The scientist who created the dog tries to find it before its too late."
A star is born! On this day in 1995 (in Japan), audiences were treated to the big screen theatrical premiere of Johnny Mnemonic. Robert Longo directed the script from SciFi author William Gibson, and the feature film starred Keanu Reeves, Dolph Lundgren, and Dina Meyer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A data courier, literally carrying a data package inside his head, must deliver it before he dies from the burden or is killed by the Yakuza."
For the record:
Ach. Thankfully, this foray into the world of the Information Superhighway didn't shy Keanu Reeves away from other Tech Noir projects, or we could've seen a much different version of The Matrix. Still, it was likely a blow when the Razzies nominated Reeves for 'Worst Actor' for its 1996 ceremony.
"A data courier, literally carrying a data package inside his head, must deliver it before he dies from the burden or is killed by the Yakuza."
For the record:
Ach. Thankfully, this foray into the world of the Information Superhighway didn't shy Keanu Reeves away from other Tech Noir projects, or we could've seen a much different version of The Matrix. Still, it was likely a blow when the Razzies nominated Reeves for 'Worst Actor' for its 1996 ceremony.
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen cinematic disaster flick that was Volcano. Directed by Mick Jackson from a script by Jerome Armstrong and Billy Ray, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tommy Lee Jones, Anne Heche, and Gaby Hoffman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A volcano erupts in downtown Los Angeles and a city official and a seismologist try to stop its inevitable flow through the city."
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, Volcano enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Reckless Disregard For Human Life And Public Property."
"A volcano erupts in downtown Los Angeles and a city official and a seismologist try to stop its inevitable flow through the city."
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, Volcano enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Reckless Disregard For Human Life And Public Property."
A star is born! On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), The Last Man enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival. Written and directed by Harry Ralston, the SciFi/Comedy starred David Arnott, Jeri Ryan, and Dan Montgomery Jr.; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Alan, a timid anthropology graduate student is coming to terms with his fate as the last man on Earth, until he discovers Sarah, a beautiful, intelligent woman who can't stand that Alan is the last man she'll ever see."
"Alan, a timid anthropology graduate student is coming to terms with his fate as the last man on Earth, until he discovers Sarah, a beautiful, intelligent woman who can't stand that Alan is the last man she'll ever see."
On this day in 2003 (in Canada and the U.S.), Cube 2: Hypercube opened theatrically. Directed by Andrzej Sekula, the SciFi/Thriller starred Kari Matchett, Geraint Wyn Davies, and Grace Lynn Kung. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Eight strangers awaken with no memory, in a puzzling cube-shaped room where the laws of physics do not always apply."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cube 2: Hypercube enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"Eight strangers awaken with no memory, in a puzzling cube-shaped room where the laws of physics do not always apply."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cube 2: Hypercube enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2005 (in Spain), the 1974-produced Frankenstein And The Monster From Hell enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by Terence Fisher, the SciFi/Horror starred Peter Cushing, David Prowse, and Madeline Smith; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Baron Frankenstein works with a mental patient to reanimate the dead."
"Baron Frankenstein works with a mental patient to reanimate the dead."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Chainsaw Cheerleaders enjoyed its debut in the home video market. Written and directed by Donald Farmer, the Horror/Fantasy starred Tiffany Shepis, Jackey Hall, and Michele Grey Hertsoe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the cheering stops, the screaming starts. A demonic 500 year old witch is on the loose, looking for fresh souls to possess. Now only one thing stands between her and the ultimate apocalypse - chainsaw cheerleaders."
"When the cheering stops, the screaming starts. A demonic 500 year old witch is on the loose, looking for fresh souls to possess. Now only one thing stands between her and the ultimate apocalypse - chainsaw cheerleaders."
A star is born! On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), Psychic Experiment enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever for audiences in attendance of the Dallas International Film Festival. The SciFi feature starred Denton Blane Everett and Adrienne King, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An idyllic, small, self-sufficient community. On the surface, it seems like the perfect neighborhood. Everything you could possibly need is within walking distance. But the pastoral exterior conceals a dark past and an even darker secret. As a group of individuals (each with their own ties and agendas with the town and each other) converge on the enclave, strange things begin to happen. Very strange things. Strange enough to test (and then break) the very fabric of reality itself."
"An idyllic, small, self-sufficient community. On the surface, it seems like the perfect neighborhood. Everything you could possibly need is within walking distance. But the pastoral exterior conceals a dark past and an even darker secret. As a group of individuals (each with their own ties and agendas with the town and each other) converge on the enclave, strange things begin to happen. Very strange things. Strange enough to test (and then break) the very fabric of reality itself."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Sunscreen Film Festival were treated to the silver screen debut of Sandrima Rising. Written and directed by Dwight Cenac, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Chris Antilian, Tony Armer, and Krystina Fisher. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A charismatic starship Captain leads his diverse crew through a series of difficult situations while being pursued by a powerful enemy."
"A charismatic starship Captain leads his diverse crew through a series of difficult situations while being pursued by a powerful enemy."
Oh, the humanity! On this day in 2013, the United Kingdom was treated to the SciFi/Animated project Chronicles Of Humanity: Uprising. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set in the year 2340, Katherine McDonald, imprisoned and tortured for inciting a rebellion, escapes and resumes her mission to liberate the colonies from Earth's corrupt government. Meanwhile, the rebellion on New Devonport threatens to spread, bringing chaos and destruction to all the inhabited systems..."
For the record:
Alas, I've not been able to confirm the type of release Chronicles ever received, be it theatrical, DVD, or broadcast. IMDB.com simply lists it as this date in 2015, but the film's graphics (available online) make me suspect this was little more than a video release. Once I can confirm, I'll update the listing here.
"Set in the year 2340, Katherine McDonald, imprisoned and tortured for inciting a rebellion, escapes and resumes her mission to liberate the colonies from Earth's corrupt government. Meanwhile, the rebellion on New Devonport threatens to spread, bringing chaos and destruction to all the inhabited systems..."
For the record:
Alas, I've not been able to confirm the type of release Chronicles ever received, be it theatrical, DVD, or broadcast. IMDB.com simply lists it as this date in 2015, but the film's graphics (available online) make me suspect this was little more than a video release. Once I can confirm, I'll update the listing here.
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Tribeca Film Festival were treated to the exclusive premiere event of Here Alone. Directed by Rod Blackhurst from a story by David Ebeltoft, the SciFi/Horror starred Lucy Walters, Gina Piersanti, and Adam David Thompson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman struggles to survive on her own in the wake of a mysterious epidemic that has killed much of society, and forced her deep into the unforgiving wilderness."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Here Alone earned a good bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A young woman struggles to survive on her own in the wake of a mysterious epidemic that has killed much of society, and forced her deep into the unforgiving wilderness."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Here Alone earned a good bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
Must man always tamper with the fabric of time and space? That's a question toyed with in the SciFi/Drama Paradox, which was released on this day in 2016. The feature starred genre favorite Zoe Bell and Malik Yoba, and here's the plot summary that's listed on the reliable IMDB.com:
"A group of young scientists are working on a secret project that may allow them to travel ahead in time. They test it by sending one of their own ahead one hour. He returns pleading with them to shut it down, explaining that within that hour, they will all die."
For the record:
Alas, I've not been able to confirm is Paradox was a theatrical presentation or video. Online information leads me to believe this was a straight-to-DVD project, and once I confirm I'll update my listing here.
"A group of young scientists are working on a secret project that may allow them to travel ahead in time. They test it by sending one of their own ahead one hour. He returns pleading with them to shut it down, explaining that within that hour, they will all die."
For the record:
Alas, I've not been able to confirm is Paradox was a theatrical presentation or video. Online information leads me to believe this was a straight-to-DVD project, and once I confirm I'll update my listing here.
On this day in 2016 (in Ireland), audiences of the Japanese Film Festival were treated to a special screening of Tag. Written (in part) and directed by Sion Sono, the Horror/Thriller starred Reina Triendl, Mariko Shinoda, and Erina Mano. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A girl's life cascades into chaos as everyone around her suffers a gruesome fate while she becomes less certain of who she is and her once-once normal."
"A girl's life cascades into chaos as everyone around her suffers a gruesome fate while she becomes less certain of who she is and her once-once normal."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Brazil), The Veil was lifted ... well, cinematically, that is. Directed by Brent Ryan Green from a story by Jeff Goldberg, the SciFi/Fantasy starred William Levy, William Moseley, and Serinda Swan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set in a war-torn land where tribal factions live in fear of annihilation, the film tells the story of a deadly warrior leading a destructive war campaign. When he is betrayed by his own and left for dead, he is healed by a mysterious princess and taken in by a hidden tribe that believes he was chosen to wage a final battle."
"Set in a war-torn land where tribal factions live in fear of annihilation, the film tells the story of a deadly warrior leading a destructive war campaign. When he is betrayed by his own and left for dead, he is healed by a mysterious princess and taken in by a hidden tribe that believes he was chosen to wage a final battle."
On this day in 2018 (in Sweden), Hungerford was released to the masses via the Internet. Written (in part) and directed by Drew Casson, the SciFi/Horror starred Georgia Bradley, Sam Carter, and Mark Cusack; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The lives of a group of teenagers are turned upside down when their town is taken over by sinister forces."
"The lives of a group of teenagers are turned upside down when their town is taken over by sinister forces."
On this day in 2018 (in Germany and Sweden), Earth was invaded (yet again!) with the internet release of The Darkest Dawn. Written (in part) and directed by Drew Casson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Bethan Leadley, Cherry Wallis, and Jess Cleverly; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The movie that tells the story of two teenage sisters as Britain descends into an alien apocalypse. Told through the eyes of the younger sister, the sisters' descent into a post apocalyptic hell where they must choose between humanity and brutality in the fight for survival."
"The movie that tells the story of two teenage sisters as Britain descends into an alien apocalypse. Told through the eyes of the younger sister, the sisters' descent into a post apocalyptic hell where they must choose between humanity and brutality in the fight for survival."
A star is born! On this day in 2019 (in Belgium), The Room enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation ever for audiences in attendance of the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival. Directed by Christian Volckman, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Olga Kurylenko and Kevin Janssens, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Matt and Kate buy an isolated house. While moving, they discover a strange room that grants them an unlimited number of material wishes. But, since Kate has had two miscarriages, what they miss the most is a child."
"Matt and Kate buy an isolated house. While moving, they discover a strange room that grants them an unlimited number of material wishes. But, since Kate has had two miscarriages, what they miss the most is a child."
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Tribecca Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of My Heart Can't Beat Unless You Tell It To. Written and directed by Jonathan Cuartas, the Fantasy/Horror starred Patrick Fugit, Ingrid Sophie Schram, and Owen Campbell. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two mysterious siblings find themselves at odds over care for their frail and sickly younger brother."
For the record:
To the film's credit, My Heart Can't Beat Unless You Tell It To earned an awful lot of love from screenings of the film festival circuit.
"Two mysterious siblings find themselves at odds over care for their frail and sickly younger brother."
For the record:
To the film's credit, My Heart Can't Beat Unless You Tell It To earned an awful lot of love from screenings of the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), Future Cop aired "Cops And Robin." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"To protect his former partner's widow, Cleaver teams up with Haven to keep her safe."
"To protect his former partner's widow, Cleaver teams up with Haven to keep her safe."
On this day in 1978 (in the United Kingdom), Logan's Run aired "Night Visitors." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The runners stop at a house haunted by devil-worshiping ghosts. Jessica is captured so one of the phantoms can use her as the receptacle for his dead wife's spirit."
"The runners stop at a house haunted by devil-worshiping ghosts. Jessica is captured so one of the phantoms can use her as the receptacle for his dead wife's spirit."
On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), The Greatest American Hero aired "Reseda Rose." Officially, this served as the fifth episode to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ralph and Pam's plans (all of them) take a back seat when Rhonda's Mom Rose is kidnapped, opening the door to a Soviet operation to steal U.S. secrets."
"Ralph and Pam's plans (all of them) take a back seat when Rhonda's Mom Rose is kidnapped, opening the door to a Soviet operation to steal U.S. secrets."
It all came down to this ...
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), The Powers of Matthew Star aired "Starr Knight." This served as the series finale -- its twenty-second episode -- and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"David Starr realizes he may not be of Earth when he starts developing amazing powers."
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), The Powers of Matthew Star aired "Starr Knight." This served as the series finale -- its twenty-second episode -- and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"David Starr realizes he may not be of Earth when he starts developing amazing powers."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Fox TV's The X-Files aired the nineteenth episode of the popular program's inaugural season. Officially, the hour was titled "Darkness Falls," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A group of loggers working in a remote forest unearths thousands of deadly insectlike creatures that paralyze and cocoon their victims."
"A group of loggers working in a remote forest unearths thousands of deadly insectlike creatures that paralyze and cocoon their victims."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), "Hard Time" aired as the nineteenth episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's fourth season. With its dark subject matter (that even includes a scene of contemplated suicide), this one gave Colm Meaney the chance to exercise his acting talent, and here's the plot summary from TrekCore.com:
"On a mission to Argratha in the Gamma Quadrant, Chief O'Brien has been convicted of espionage. As punishment, the Argrathi give him false memories of twenty years in prison. When he returns to Deep Space Nine, O'Brien has trouble readjusting to life on the station."
"On a mission to Argratha in the Gamma Quadrant, Chief O'Brien has been convicted of espionage. As punishment, the Argrathi give him false memories of twenty years in prison. When he returns to Deep Space Nine, O'Brien has trouble readjusting to life on the station."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), "Sic Transit Vir" aired as the twelfth episode of Babylon 5's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Vir returns to Babylon 5, and meets his fiancée'. As he and his bride to be get to know each other, a Narn attacks, and takes a blood oath to kill them. The command staff must figure out why someone would want to kill Vir."
"Vir returns to Babylon 5, and meets his fiancée'. As he and his bride to be get to know each other, a Narn attacks, and takes a blood oath to kill them. The command staff must figure out why someone would want to kill Vir."
This is another one of those rare cases wherein I diverge from the consensus of fandom: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's popular "In The Pale Moonlight" told a very specific and somewhat disturbing tale of the Federation in conflict wherein things ended up being not so squeaky clean as perhaps Starfleet had been otherwise portrayed. While I had absolutely no problem with the subject matter (for my tastes, Starfleet needs a bloody nose every now and then, as well as needs to show it), I thought the presentation -- the set-up of having Captain Sisko essentially narrating the tale -- was more than a bit pedestrian. This was the nineteenth episode of the program's sixth season (airing on this day in 1998), and here's the plot summary compliments of TrekCore.com:
"Sisko realizes there is only one hope of winning the war - the Romulans, who signed a non-aggression pact with the Dominion, must be convinced to join the Federation/Klingon Alliance. Sisko recruits Garak to manufacture evidence from Cardassia that will bring the Romulans into the war."
"Sisko realizes there is only one hope of winning the war - the Romulans, who signed a non-aggression pact with the Dominion, must be convinced to join the Federation/Klingon Alliance. Sisko recruits Garak to manufacture evidence from Cardassia that will bring the Romulans into the war."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Voyager aired "The Omega Directive." Officially, this was the twenty-first episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TrekCore.com:
"Voyager comes to a standstill when the computer detects extremely powerful Omega radiation in the vicinity, triggering an unknown Starfleet protocol which the captain must implement."
"Voyager comes to a standstill when the computer detects extremely powerful Omega radiation in the vicinity, triggering an unknown Starfleet protocol which the captain must implement."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired the curiously titled "The Corps Is Mother, The Corps Is Father" as the thirteenth episode of the program's fifth and final season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A day in the life of Alfred Bester, who starts his day in Psi Corps HQ, where he is well liked and respected. He gets an assignment to track down a rogue telepath, two recruits accompany him. They follow the telepath's trail to Babylon 5, where he isn't as popular."
"A day in the life of Alfred Bester, who starts his day in Psi Corps HQ, where he is well liked and respected. He gets an assignment to track down a rogue telepath, two recruits accompany him. They follow the telepath's trail to Babylon 5, where he isn't as popular."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Batman Beyond aired "Plague." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's second season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Batman and Stalker must work together to stop the Kobra cult from unleashing a fearsome bioweapon on the populous."
"Batman and Stalker must work together to stop the Kobra cult from unleashing a fearsome bioweapon on the populous."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "The Fair Unknown." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's second season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Andromeda finds a Calderan ship ravaged by what appears to be a Vedran, the creator race of the first Commonwealth. Dylan decides to find the Vedran on Ral Parthea, the nature reserve planet dear to the Vedrans."
"The Andromeda finds a Calderan ship ravaged by what appears to be a Vedran, the creator race of the first Commonwealth. Dylan decides to find the Vedran on Ral Parthea, the nature reserve planet dear to the Vedrans."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Mutant X aired "Presumed Guilty." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Adam is framed for murder by a New Mutant with the ability to steal people's memories."
"Adam is framed for murder by a New Mutant with the ability to steal people's memories."
On this day in 2002 (in Australia), The Lost World aired "The Elixir." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Challenger gets trapped in a life-or-death duel with apparitions from his mind, when an experiment with an elixir he makes, goes very wrong."
"Challenger gets trapped in a life-or-death duel with apparitions from his mind, when an experiment with an elixir he makes, goes very wrong."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "Quantum Tractate Delirium." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's fifth season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As Trance's sun closes on Seefra-9, Rommie is rebuilt by Doyle to help evacuate the planet."
"As Trance's sun closes on Seefra-9, Rommie is rebuilt by Doyle to help evacuate the planet."
Any chance to celebrate the Orion slave girls from Star Trek I'll gladly take! Hubba hubba! On this day in 2005, Star Trek: Enterprise aired "Bound" as the seventeenth episode of the program's fourth and final season. According to our friends at TrekCore.com, here's the episode's plot summary:
"After Archer forges a deal with the Orions, the trader presents the captain with a gift - three alluring Orion women, who proceed to seduce all the men on board, except Trip for some mysterious reason. Meanwhile, Trip's continued presence on Enterprise begins to grate on new chief engineer Kelby."
"After Archer forges a deal with the Orions, the trader presents the captain with a gift - three alluring Orion women, who proceed to seduce all the men on board, except Trip for some mysterious reason. Meanwhile, Trip's continued presence on Enterprise begins to grate on new chief engineer Kelby."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Syfy premiered its Defiance to the masses at large. I was there -- well, I think I stuck with the program throughout all of its first season -- but I just wasn't all that "compelled" by the story. It was interesting enough; it just really didn't seem all that riveting. Bland characters set in an apocalyptic tomorrow does not bode well for this viewer. Still, it's marched on, and there's something to be said for perseverance. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future Earth largely devastated after lengthy war with alien invaders, Jeb Nolan and his adopted daughter Irisa live in the badlands, open areas that have no government. After an encounter with Spirit Riders, a roving motorcycle gang, they find themselves in the city of Defiance, formerly St. Louis. They have been at peace now for 15 years and the new mayor, Amanda Rosewater, wants to keep it that way. There are tensions in the community however particularly between the McCawleys and the Tarrs. When one of the McCawleys is killed, Nolan offers his services, for a fee, to track the killer. It all leads to a plot to invade Defiance."
"In a future Earth largely devastated after lengthy war with alien invaders, Jeb Nolan and his adopted daughter Irisa live in the badlands, open areas that have no government. After an encounter with Spirit Riders, a roving motorcycle gang, they find themselves in the city of Defiance, formerly St. Louis. They have been at peace now for 15 years and the new mayor, Amanda Rosewater, wants to keep it that way. There are tensions in the community however particularly between the McCawleys and the Tarrs. When one of the McCawleys is killed, Nolan offers his services, for a fee, to track the killer. It all leads to a plot to invade Defiance."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Providence." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"With Colonel Glenn Talbot now on their trail, Coulson and his team seek refuge in the last place anyone would look, where they begin to uncover S.H.I.E.L.D.'S most dangerous secrets -- secrets that could destroy them all."
"With Colonel Glenn Talbot now on their trail, Coulson and his team seek refuge in the last place anyone would look, where they begin to uncover S.H.I.E.L.D.'S most dangerous secrets -- secrets that could destroy them all."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Class aired "For Tonight We Might Die." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Meet the students of Coal Hill School. The resident genius and under-appreciated good girl are joined by mysterious newcomer Charlie and football star Ram. The events take a nasty turn as autumn prom approaches. An unexpected visitor shows them the ropes and helps them save the day."
"Meet the students of Coal Hill School. The resident genius and under-appreciated good girl are joined by mysterious newcomer Charlie and football star Ram. The events take a nasty turn as autumn prom approaches. An unexpected visitor shows them the ropes and helps them save the day."
On this day in 2017, Doctor Who aired "The Pilot," the premiere for the long-running program's tenth season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Doctor and Nardole team up with a university student to take down a sinister life-mimicking alien."
"The Doctor and Nardole team up with a university student to take down a sinister life-mimicking alien."
- If you'd like to know a bit more, here's a link to SciFiHistory.Net's review of the episode.
It was on this day back in 1984 that animation legend Don Bluth released his Space Ace video game to the full U.S. marketplace. (FYI: this was after a somewhat limited release the previous year.) Sorry, folks, I don't game, but I can tell you what IMDB.com says about the game, and here it is:
"In this game, you play Ace, a dashing space hero who must fight the space villain, Bort, who plans to use his special device, the Infanto Ray to conquer the universe by reducing his enemies' age to the point where they are too young to oppose. Unfortunately, that job is complicated by the fact that Ace himself was hit with the ray and now is only a young boy. Regardless, his girlfriend is abducted by the villian and the pursuit must continue. However, there are times when you can choose to have Ace's full vigour of his proper age temporarily restored, but the price of additional danger that rises to match his strength."
"In this game, you play Ace, a dashing space hero who must fight the space villain, Bort, who plans to use his special device, the Infanto Ray to conquer the universe by reducing his enemies' age to the point where they are too young to oppose. Unfortunately, that job is complicated by the fact that Ace himself was hit with the ray and now is only a young boy. Regardless, his girlfriend is abducted by the villian and the pursuit must continue. However, there are times when you can choose to have Ace's full vigour of his proper age temporarily restored, but the price of additional danger that rises to match his strength."
