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!
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. Though he's no longer with us, Williams was born on this day in 1903. [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 franchises as Babylon 5 and Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. Though he's no longer with us, Ansara was born on this day in 1922. [Source: IMDB.com]
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]
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. Though she's no longer with us, Montgomery was born on this day in 1933. [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]
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]
The lovely and talented Lois Chiles (above left) 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? She was born on this day in 1947.
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]
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.
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.
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. Meldrum was born on this day in 1958.
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? Wilson also turns another year older and another year wiser today, born on this day in 1959.
Emma Thompson had no problem bringing her level of gravitas to the lunacy at the heart of Men In Black III. Thompson was born on this day in 1959.
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]
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.
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.
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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.
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]
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]
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]
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]
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.
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]
On this day in 1932 (in Japan), the dead became the living once again with the premiere of Frankenstein. Directed by James Whale, the SciFi/Horror film starred Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, and Boris Karloff; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Frankenstein dares to tamper with life and death by creating a human monster out of lifeless body parts."
"Dr. Frankenstein dares to tamper with life and death by creating a human monster out of lifeless body parts."
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."
"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."
A star is born! And there be monsters here! On this day in 1944, The Monster Maker enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. The SciFi/Horror film starred J. Carrol Naish and Ralph Morgan, and 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. Adapted from a novel by Robert A. Heinlein, the SciFi/Drama starred John Archer and Warner Anderson, 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 miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
"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 miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
On this day in 1957 (in Argentina), Tarantula crawled onto the silver screen. Directed by Jack Arnold, the SciFi feature starred John Agar and Mara Corday, and 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, mankind was introduced to the worst kind of walking dead imaginable: Teenage Zombies. The SciFi/Horror feature starred Don Sullivan and Katherine Victor, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"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 Ishirô Honda, the SciFi feature starred Ryô Ikebe and Kyôko Anzai, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The nations of the Earth unite in a common cause to fight off an invader from outer space."
"The nations of the Earth unite in a common cause to fight off an invader from outer space."
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.
A star is born! Why, it's the end of the world as we know it! (Again? Oh, will this ending never end?) On this day in 1965, Crack In The World gave audiences one more look into our planet's impending demise. The SciFi feature starred Dana Andrews and Janette Scott, and 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. The film starred Fred MacMurray and Nancy Olson, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When Professor Brainard experiments further on Flubber derivatives, he gets in trouble and only his students can help."
"When Professor Brainard experiments further on Flubber derivatives, he gets in trouble and only his students can help."
On this day in 1968 (in Denmark), The Reluctant Astronaut launched into theatres. The SciFi/Comedy starred Don Knotts and Leslie Nielsen, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Don Knotts is Roy Fleming, a small town kiddie-ride operator who is deathly afraid of heights. After learning that his father has signed him up for the space program, Roy reluctantly heads for Houston, only to find out upon arriving that his job is a janitor, not an astronaut. Anxious to live up to the expectations of his domineering father, Roy manages to keep up a facade of being an astronaut to his family and friends. When NASA decides to launch a lay person into space to prove the worthiness of a new automated spacecraft, Roy gets the chance to confront his fears."
"Don Knotts is Roy Fleming, a small town kiddie-ride operator who is deathly afraid of heights. After learning that his father has signed him up for the space program, Roy reluctantly heads for Houston, only to find out upon arriving that his job is a janitor, not an astronaut. Anxious to live up to the expectations of his domineering father, Roy manages to keep up a facade of being an astronaut to his family and friends. When NASA decides to launch a lay person into space to prove the worthiness of a new automated spacecraft, Roy gets the chance to confront his fears."
On this day in 1977, Monty Python's Terry Gilliam served up Jabberwocky for interested audiences. Based on a poem by Lewis Carroll, the Fantasy starred Michael Palin and Harry H. Corbett, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A young peasant, with no interest in adventure or fortune, is mistaken as the kingdom's only hope when a horrible monster threatens the countryside."
"A young peasant, with no interest in adventure or fortune, is mistaken as 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."
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 and Leona Hirota, and 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. This SciFi oddity starred Anne Carlisle and Paula E. Sheppard, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"Invisible aliens in a tiny flying saucer come to Earth looking for heroin. They land on top of a New York apartment inhabited by a drug dealer and her female, androgynous, bisexual nymphomaniac lover, a fashion model. The aliens soon find the human pheromones created in the brain during orgasm preferable to heroin, and the model's casual sex partners begin to disappear. This increasingly bizarre scenario is observed by a lonely woman in the building across the street, a German scientist who is following the aliens, and an equally androgynous, drug-addicted male model. (Both models are played by Anne Carlisle, in a dual role.) Darkly funny and thoroughly weird."
"Invisible aliens in a tiny flying saucer come to Earth looking for heroin. They land on top of a New York apartment inhabited by a drug dealer and her female, androgynous, bisexual nymphomaniac lover, a fashion model. The aliens soon find the human pheromones created in the brain during orgasm preferable to heroin, and the model's casual sex partners begin to disappear. This increasingly bizarre scenario is observed by a lonely woman in the building across the street, a German scientist who is following the aliens, and an equally androgynous, drug-addicted male model. (Both models are played by Anne Carlisle, in a dual role.) Darkly funny and thoroughly weird."
On this day in 1983 (in West Germany), Sorceress cast its spell on audiences. Directed by Jack Hill, the Fantasy film starred Leigh and Lynette Harris, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"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?"
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, Cube 2: Hypercube opened theatrically. The SciFi/Thriller starred Kari Matchett and Grace Lynn Kung, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Eight strangers awaken with no memory and find themselves in a puzzling cube shaped room where the laws of physics do not always apply."
"Eight strangers awaken with no memory and find themselves in a puzzling cube shaped room where the laws of physics do not always apply."
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 2010, 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."
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.
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."
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 1981, The Greatest American Hero aired "Reseda Rose." 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, 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."
"David Starr realizes he may not be of Earth when he starts developing amazing powers."
On this day in 1994, Fox TV's The X-Files aired the nineteenth episode of the popular program's inaugural season. 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, "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, "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, Star Trek: Voyager aired "The Omega Directive." For the record, 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, 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 2002, Mutant X aired "Presumed Guilty." 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."
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, 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, Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Providence." 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, 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."
