I'll never say that I disliked the singing scamp Ewan McGregor as George Lucas's choice to play a young Obi-Wan Kenobi; rather, I tend to say that I preferred the gravitas Sir Alec Guinness brought to the more learned, more practiced Jedi Master. Sure, I've heard all of the hubbub about how much he hated working on the Star Wars films, but -- as an actor -- who can blame him? He had a career of such importance that he probably never really saw (at the time) what pop culture of that generation meant to so many people ... or we can always chalk it up to "grandpa needed a nap." Though he's no longer with us, Guinness was born on this day in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- At the 1978 Academy Awards, Guinness enjoyed an Academy Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor In A Supporting Role' for his work in the original Star Wars.
- At the 1978 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the original Jedi Master took home top honors in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in the original Star Wars.
- In 2023, Guinness' work in the original film saw his character inducted into the Online Film & Television Association's Film Hall Of Fame.
Rita Gam made a welcome visit to the first season of TV's Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea. In 1974, she enjoyed work in a Horror project titled Garden Of Death. She also enjoyed a guest spot aboard Tales Of The Unexpected. Though she's no longer with us, Gam was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Diane Cilento had a solid role about Z.P.G.: Zero Population Growth (1972), one of the quieter yet dark Science Fiction films of the 1970's. In it, she played the neighbor of a couple who secretly conceive a child -- against the law in the future -- that she privately covets for her own. Her career also included a role aboard The Wicker Man (1973) and several visits to the world of the TV serial Halfway Across The Galaxy And Turn Left. Though she's no longer with us, Cilento was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning actress Shirley Douglas didn't make many visits to the worlds of Science Fiction and Fantasy; and -- in even those times that she did -- audiences may not have known it as it was several animated projects. Still, kudos to the lady for taking time to visit such stops as Dead Ringers (1988), Ultraforce (animated), Flash Gordon (animated), and Silver Surfer (animated). Though she's no longer with us, Douglas was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She's one of the ladies who had the good fortune of sharing more than just a few moments of Capt. James T. Kirk's time when he wasn't busy managing the daily affairs of Star Trek's Starship Enterprise, and that'll always get one a cursory mention around these parts. In her career, actress Sharon Acker also visited the worlds belonging to Get Smart, Mission:Impossible, Galactica 1980, The Incredible Hulk, and The Powers of Matthew Star. Though she's no longer with us, Acker was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Penelope Keith lent her voice to a character aboard the 1992 animated adaptation of Beauty And The Beast for Foxbridge Limited. Keith was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The very talented Linda Hunt brought her game to the world of David Lynch's Dune (1984). She also starred in the short-lived SciFi series Space Rangers. Hunt was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Pamela Reed (above left) played the matriarch to a family (and a greater community) trying to cope with what looked to be a contemporary apocalypse in the CBS SciFi drama Jericho for a few seasons. Reed was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Leaving behind a resume of just over thirty different screen roles, Debralee Scott only dipped into the realms of the fantastic sparingly. A review of her profiles shows only work in The Reincarnation Of Peter Proud (1975), The Secrets Of Isis (1975), and Deathmoon (1978) to keep us focused. Though she's no longer with us, Scott was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Christopher Meloni (above right) got to play -- albeit briefly -- in the DC Universe when he joined Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, and a host of others in bringing Man of Steel to the silver screen for a new generation of moviegoers. Meloni was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Marvel Comics films seem to be the place-to-be these days, and everybody loves S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Coulson. His real-life counterpart -- actor Clark Gregg -- celebrates his birthday today, as he came into being back in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jana Marie Hupp was fortunate enough to make not one but two appearances to the world of Star Trek: The Next Generation, although the visits were in two different characters. (Still ... good score, milady!) She's also found employment in such projects as Splash Too (1988), Independence Day (1996), and The Devil Takes A Holiday (1996). Hupp was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Yet one more jewel in the Estevez family crown, Renee Estevez hasn't had a career perhaps as prolific as her father and/or siblings. Genre fans might know her best from such properties as Sleepaway Camp II: Unhappy Campers (1988), Heathers (1988), Intruder (1989), Moon 44 (1990), Addams Family Reunion (1998), or Storm (1999). Estevez was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you will, but Roselyn Sanchez can do it all. IMDB.com reports she's a singer, a songwriter, an actress, a model, a writer, a producer, etc. You name it, and I've no doubt she can do it. As far as genre appearances, we'll have to presently settle for work aboard Nightstalker (2002) and Fantasy Island to tide us over in the meantime. Sanchez was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you can find it, there's a fabulous little independent SciFi feature called Prospect (2018) that features Pedro Pascal as a truly roguish thief who overcomes his worst instincts to partner up with a young girl needing his help on a distant world; and it's just a fabulous film. Thankfully, the actor continues to build on his SciFi credentials with work in the growing Star Wars universe, always of interest to its growing fanbase. Pascal was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Michael Fassbender has been on a 'fast bender' to the top of many franchise lists. He's blessed the X-Men property with his presence, and he's also starred in quasi-Aliens prequel film -- Prometheus. Born in 1977, he celebrates his birthday today.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I attended a screening of Alien: Covenant (2017) during its original theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I attended a screening of Alien: Covenant (2017) during its original theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Lovely Jaime Ray Newman (above right) first made a splash with fandom in as a guest aboard Stargate: Atlantis. She also enjoyed a terrific run as part of Syfy's Eureka program. Newman was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While not a big name, actress Lindy Booth -- who celebrates her birthday today, as well -- has been around for quite some time, blessing many projects with her presence, including Odyssey 5, The 4400, and bit parts in many more. She was born in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Bethany Joy Lenz played one of the 'freedom fighters' racing to contend with some alien artificial intelligence aboard USA Network's Colony. Lenz was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The track record of Nicole Steinwedell continues to grow, and -- thankfully -- it does include some quality genre appearances. Fans might know her from such entities as Beauty And The Beast and NBC's popular Grimm. Steinwedell was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the fabulously respectful world of Star Trek Continues, the great Tiffany Brouwer reprises the role of 'Miramanee' from the original series. Brouwer was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young and pretty Ashley Peldon has a respectable resume in quality genre projects. She's enjoyed exposure aboard such projects as Quantum Leap, Black Scorpion (1995), The Pretender, Night Skies (2007), Aliens In The Attic (2009), and Chronicle (2012). Peldon was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
My advice to anyone exploring the Resident Evil film franchise? Meh. Don't take any of it seriously, and you're likely to have some fun with some of it. Shawn Roberts plays Albert Wesker in the property, and he's been involved in Resident Evil: Afterlife and Resident Evil: Retribution. The actor has also booked appearances in X-Men, Earth: Final Conflict, Starhunter, Skinwalkers, Flash Gordon, Supernatural, and The Tomorrow People. Roberts was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another day, another Power Rangers citation! The lovely Christina Masterson donned the uniform of the 'Pink Ranger' aboard the Power Rangers Megaforce incarnation of the franchise. Masterson was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com's stats are correct, the very first professional acting gig for the lovely Briga Heelan was appearing as 'Eve' aboard the SciFi/ShortFilm Lovebot (2009). Heelan was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When it comes to considering major motion pictures being inspired by a board game, I imagine that Battleship is probably no one's favorite: the film basically bypassed the game's military strategizing in favor of exploring yet one more alien invasion of Earth. Still, the cinematic players aren't to blame, and young Jesse Plemons made quite a splash as one of the sailors standing in the invaders' path. Plemons was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fresh-faced Emma Myers brought her fresh-faced goodness to the world of Netflix's Wednesday series in 2022. Myers was born on this day in 2002.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1958 (in the U.S.), The Flame Barrier tried to set the box office on fire. Directed by Paul Landres from a story by Pat Fielder and George Worthing Yates, the SciFi/Drama starred Arthur Franz, Kathleen Crowley, and Robert Brown. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Carol Dahlmann enlists the Hollister brothers to help locate her missing husband. The husband was tracking a fallen satellite through the jungle. While tracking him down, the trio discover an unusually strong acid killing animals and people."
"Carol Dahlmann enlists the Hollister brothers to help locate her missing husband. The husband was tracking a fallen satellite through the jungle. While tracking him down, the trio discover an unusually strong acid killing animals and people."
A SciFi cinematic classic is born: on this day in 1968, Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed its very first theatrical engagement ever by premiering for audiences in Washington, D.C. (It's New York premiere would follow tomorrow, along with a limited U.S. release to get people talking.) Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke, the feature starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
On this day in 1973 (Sweden), the 1940-produced Flash Gordon Conquers The Universe enjoyed its premiere on television. Based on the works of Alex Raymond and directed by the team of Ford Beebe and Ray Taylor, the SciFi/Serial starred Buster Crabbe, Carol Hughes, and Charles Middleton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mysterious plague, the Purple Death, ravages the earth. Dr. Zarkov, investigating in his spaceship, finds a ship from planet Mongo seeding the atmosphere with dust. Sure enough, Ming the Merciless is up to his old tricks. So it's back to Mongo for Flash, Dale, and Zarkov, this time with ready-made allies waiting: Prince Barin of Arboria and Queen Fria of the frozen northern land of Frigia; where, it so happens, is found polarite, antidote to the plague. But Ming will use all his forces to keep our heroes from thwarting his plans of conquest..."
For the record:
At the 1941 Hugo Awards, Flash Gordon Conquers The Universe enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.'
"A mysterious plague, the Purple Death, ravages the earth. Dr. Zarkov, investigating in his spaceship, finds a ship from planet Mongo seeding the atmosphere with dust. Sure enough, Ming the Merciless is up to his old tricks. So it's back to Mongo for Flash, Dale, and Zarkov, this time with ready-made allies waiting: Prince Barin of Arboria and Queen Fria of the frozen northern land of Frigia; where, it so happens, is found polarite, antidote to the plague. But Ming will use all his forces to keep our heroes from thwarting his plans of conquest..."
For the record:
At the 1941 Hugo Awards, Flash Gordon Conquers The Universe enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.'
On this day in 1975 (in Italy), Lisa And The Devil enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Mario Bava, the Horror/Mystery starred Telly Savalas, Elke Sommer, and Sylva Koscina; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A tourist spends the night in a derelict Spanish villa seemingly held in the supernatural grip of an eccentric butler, who resembles a depiction of the Devil she had seen on an ancient fresco."
"A tourist spends the night in a derelict Spanish villa seemingly held in the supernatural grip of an eccentric butler, who resembles a depiction of the Devil she had seen on an ancient fresco."
A star is born! On this day in 1975 (in Italy), The House Of Exorcism first opened its doors for theatrical business. Directed by the team of Lamberto Bava, Mario Bava, and Alfredo Leone, the Horror/Fantasy starred Telly Savalas, Elke Sommer, and Sylva Koscina. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A troubled priest attempts to exorcise the soul of a tourist who has been possessed by the Devil after witnessing supernatural events at a Spanish villa."
Editor's Note:
In case you've noticed, The House Of Exorcism (1975) is actually a slightly re-imagined version of Lisa And The Devil (1973). From what I've read, House incorporates some additional footage not used in the original release and retools the story with more emphasis on exorcism in a somewhat obvious attempt to capitalize on the box office interest created in the wake of 1973's popular The Exorcist feature.
"A troubled priest attempts to exorcise the soul of a tourist who has been possessed by the Devil after witnessing supernatural events at a Spanish villa."
Editor's Note:
In case you've noticed, The House Of Exorcism (1975) is actually a slightly re-imagined version of Lisa And The Devil (1973). From what I've read, House incorporates some additional footage not used in the original release and retools the story with more emphasis on exorcism in a somewhat obvious attempt to capitalize on the box office interest created in the wake of 1973's popular The Exorcist feature.
On this day in 1980 (in Sweden), Gene Roddenberry's Star Trek: The Motion Picture warped from the small screen to the silver screen to the delight of Trek fans everywhere. Directed by Robert Wise, the original crew of the Starship Enterprise all returned to active duty for the film; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an alien spacecraft of enormous power is spotted approaching Earth, Admiral James T. Kirk resumes command of the overhauled USS Enterprise in order to intercept it."
For the record:
Star Trek enjoyed a trio of Academy Awards nominations -- 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score' -- yet failed to take home any trophies. It did, however, take home the Saturn Award for 'Best Special Effects' in the 1980 ceremony. Lastly, it enjoyed the nomination only for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1980 Hugo Awards.
"When an alien spacecraft of enormous power is spotted approaching Earth, Admiral James T. Kirk resumes command of the overhauled USS Enterprise in order to intercept it."
For the record:
Star Trek enjoyed a trio of Academy Awards nominations -- 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score' -- yet failed to take home any trophies. It did, however, take home the Saturn Award for 'Best Special Effects' in the 1980 ceremony. Lastly, it enjoyed the nomination only for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1980 Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1981 (in Australia), The Howling howled its way into the hearts of audiences. Directed by Joe Dante, the Horror feature starred Dee Wallace, Patrick Macnee, and Dennis Dugan; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a bizarre and near deadly encounter with a serial killer, a television newswoman is sent to a remote mountain resort whose residents may not be what they seem."
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Howling took home the big win in the category of 'Best Horror Film.' The production had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a special streaming of The Howling when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
"After a bizarre and near deadly encounter with a serial killer, a television newswoman is sent to a remote mountain resort whose residents may not be what they seem."
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Howling took home the big win in the category of 'Best Horror Film.' The production had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a special streaming of The Howling when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), audiences opened up a little Basket Case. Written and directed for the screen by Frank Henenlotter, the Horror/Comedy starred Kevin VanHentenryck, Terri Susan Smith, and Beverly Bonner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While leaving home, Dr Julius Lifflander feels something strange on the street and returns home. He locks up in the house, tries to call the police but is attacked and murdered. In New York City, a man named Duane Bradley arrives from Glenn Falls and check in the very low-budget Hotel Broslin. He pays the manager Anthony in cash and stays in room 7, where he opens a basket and feeds something with many hamburgers and reads the medical record from Dr. Lifflander. He looks in the phone book for the address of Dr Harold Needleman and goes to visit him with his basket. The receptionist Sharon hits on Duane and they schedule a date. When Dr. Needleman sees the scars on Duane, he sends him away and unsuccessfully tries to contact Dr. Lifflander. He calls Dr. Judith Kutter, who does not gibe much attention to him, but advises Dr. Needleman to deny anything about Glenn Falls. What is the secret of Duane's basket and what is the mystery of the three doctors?"
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a complimentary Blu-ray copy of Basket Case (1982) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"While leaving home, Dr Julius Lifflander feels something strange on the street and returns home. He locks up in the house, tries to call the police but is attacked and murdered. In New York City, a man named Duane Bradley arrives from Glenn Falls and check in the very low-budget Hotel Broslin. He pays the manager Anthony in cash and stays in room 7, where he opens a basket and feeds something with many hamburgers and reads the medical record from Dr. Lifflander. He looks in the phone book for the address of Dr Harold Needleman and goes to visit him with his basket. The receptionist Sharon hits on Duane and they schedule a date. When Dr. Needleman sees the scars on Duane, he sends him away and unsuccessfully tries to contact Dr. Lifflander. He calls Dr. Judith Kutter, who does not gibe much attention to him, but advises Dr. Needleman to deny anything about Glenn Falls. What is the secret of Duane's basket and what is the mystery of the three doctors?"
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a complimentary Blu-ray copy of Basket Case (1982) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1982 (in Sweden), the original silver screen adaptation of Robert E. Howard's Conan The Barbarian enjoyed its quest for vengeance. Written (in part) and directed by John Milius, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Earl Jones, and Sandahl Bergman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Beyond the mists of time, having witnessed the brutal death of his blacksmith father and the massacre of the entire village by the murderous followers of Thulsa Doom, the undead evil wizard and servant of the serpent-god, Set, Conan, the orphaned young Cimmerian, is condemned to a life of slavery. Chained to the perpetual Wheel of Pain, the helpless boy grows into a man, and after years of rigorous training as a fierce gladiator, Conan, now an unstoppable mountain of muscle, regains his precious freedom. But, with the image of the blood-soaked raid etched on his mind, Conan teams up with Subotai, the Hyrkanian thief, and Valeria, the Queen of the Bandits, and embarks on a peril-laden journey to the mysterious Mountain of Power, and the impregnable Snake Cult Temple. Will Conan avenge his parents?"
For the record:
At the 1983 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films), actress Sandahl Bergman took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in the production. Alas, Conan had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a complimentary new release of Conan The Barbarian in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts of the film? Readers can find them right here.
"Beyond the mists of time, having witnessed the brutal death of his blacksmith father and the massacre of the entire village by the murderous followers of Thulsa Doom, the undead evil wizard and servant of the serpent-god, Set, Conan, the orphaned young Cimmerian, is condemned to a life of slavery. Chained to the perpetual Wheel of Pain, the helpless boy grows into a man, and after years of rigorous training as a fierce gladiator, Conan, now an unstoppable mountain of muscle, regains his precious freedom. But, with the image of the blood-soaked raid etched on his mind, Conan teams up with Subotai, the Hyrkanian thief, and Valeria, the Queen of the Bandits, and embarks on a peril-laden journey to the mysterious Mountain of Power, and the impregnable Snake Cult Temple. Will Conan avenge his parents?"
For the record:
At the 1983 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films), actress Sandahl Bergman took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in the production. Alas, Conan had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a complimentary new release of Conan The Barbarian in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts of the film? Readers can find them right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1996, They Bite took a bite out of the competition with its debut. Written and directed by Brett Piper, the SciFi/Horror starred Donna Frotscher, Nick Baldasare, and Christina Veronica; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sea creatures come to shore and attack and mate with humans."
"Sea creatures come to shore and attack and mate with humans."
A star is born! (Or is that porn?) On this day in 1996, Science Fiction got sexy with the release of the Adult-themed Virtual Encounters. Directed by Cybil Richards from a story by Lucas Riley, the feature starred Elizabeth Kaitan, Taylor St. Clair, and Jacqueline Lovell. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Happy birthday, Amy. Amy's boyfriend Michael gave her the deluxe, super-duper virtual encounter. This is his way of removing her inhibitions and allowing her to fulfill the desires hidden deep inside. He finds he has a real tiger by the tail."
"Happy birthday, Amy. Amy's boyfriend Michael gave her the deluxe, super-duper virtual encounter. This is his way of removing her inhibitions and allowing her to fulfill the desires hidden deep inside. He finds he has a real tiger by the tail."
On this day in 1999, Scorpio One enjoyed its release to the U.S. home video market. Directed by Worth Keeter from a script by Steve Latshaw, this SciFi/Adventure starred Robert Carradine, Jeff Speakman, and Star Trek's Robin Curtis, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"A disaster on space station Scorpio One leaves all the crewmembers dead. The CIA sends one of its crack agents, Jared Stone into space with a team five elite Rangers to investigate."
"A disaster on space station Scorpio One leaves all the crewmembers dead. The CIA sends one of its crack agents, Jared Stone into space with a team five elite Rangers to investigate."
A star is born! On this day in 2005 (in the United Kingdom), the SciFi/Telefilm The Quatermass Experiment aired. Directed by Sam Miller from a story by Richard Fell and Nigel Kneale, the feature starred Jason Flemyng, Indira Varma, and David Tennant. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Professor Bernard Quatermass' manned rocket ship returns to Earth but two of the astronauts are missing and the survivor seems ill and unable to communicate."
"Professor Bernard Quatermass' manned rocket ship returns to Earth but two of the astronauts are missing and the survivor seems ill and unable to communicate."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in the United Arab Emirates), the SciFi/Horror hybrid It's Alive scared audiences thinking about having a baby. Directed by Josef Rusnak, the Horror/Fantasy starred Bijou Phillips, James Murray, and Owen Teale. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A baby born to a human couple turns out to be a mutant monster with an appetite to kill when scared."
"A baby born to a human couple turns out to be a mutant monster with an appetite to kill when scared."
On this day in 2013, 13 Eerie enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Directed by Lowell Dean, the Horror/Fantasy starred Katharine Isabelle, Michael Shanks, and Brendan Fehr; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Six forensic undergrads embark on a scientific expedition to a remote island that was once used as illegal biological testing grounds for life-term prisoners."
"Six forensic undergrads embark on a scientific expedition to a remote island that was once used as illegal biological testing grounds for life-term prisoners."
On this day in 2014 (in Spain), Bloodrayne: The Third Reich enjoyed its premiere on home video. Directed by the great Uwe Boll from a story by Michael Nachoff, the Fantasy feature starred Natassia Malthe, Brendan Fletcher, and Willam Belli. Here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Rayne fights against the Nazis in Europe during World War II, encountering Ekart Brand, a Nazi leader whose target is to inject Adolf Hitler with Rayne's blood in an attempt to transform him into a dhampir and attain immortality."
"Rayne fights against the Nazis in Europe during World War II, encountering Ekart Brand, a Nazi leader whose target is to inject Adolf Hitler with Rayne's blood in an attempt to transform him into a dhampir and attain immortality."
A star is born! Chalk this one up as another one I've only heard about: on this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), 2307: Winter's Dream found its way to audiences in attendance of Universe Multicultural Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Joey Curtis, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Paul Sidhu, Branden Coles, and Arielle Holmes. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In 2307, a future soldier is sent on a mission to hunt down the leader of the humanoid rebellion."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 2307: Winter's Dream earned a great deal of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"In 2307, a future soldier is sent on a mission to hunt down the leader of the humanoid rebellion."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 2307: Winter's Dream earned a great deal of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired "Spaceship Of Danger." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's that adventure's plot summary:
"A spaceship captain's plan to scuttle his craft for the insurance money places his passengers, including Tom Corbett and friends, in dire peril."
"A spaceship captain's plan to scuttle his craft for the insurance money places his passengers, including Tom Corbett and friends, in dire peril."
On this day in 1969 (in the United Kingdom), The Champions aired "Nutcracker." Officially, this served as the twenty-seventh episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a trip to the dentist government minister Lord Mauncey enters a secret vault and attempts to steal the F File, which contains the country's most important defence information. He is gassed before he can leave and captured by Major Duncan, head of M7. Duncan calls in the Champions to see if they can steal the file, proving the need for a better security system. Mauncey does not know why he entered the vault and he is then killed. Richard enters the vault but memorizes the file's contents before escaping, though he is pursued by heavies, who take him to the man who wants the file. Craig traces a link between Duncan and Mauncey having the same dentist, after Mauncey is hypnotised, as Dauncey was, by the dentist. He has then to get to where Richard is being held before he spills the beans."
"After a trip to the dentist government minister Lord Mauncey enters a secret vault and attempts to steal the F File, which contains the country's most important defence information. He is gassed before he can leave and captured by Major Duncan, head of M7. Duncan calls in the Champions to see if they can steal the file, proving the need for a better security system. Mauncey does not know why he entered the vault and he is then killed. Richard enters the vault but memorizes the file's contents before escaping, though he is pursued by heavies, who take him to the man who wants the file. Craig traces a link between Duncan and Mauncey having the same dentist, after Mauncey is hypnotised, as Dauncey was, by the dentist. He has then to get to where Richard is being held before he spills the beans."
On this day in 1978, Project U.F.O. aired "Sighting 4006: The Nevada Desert Incident." This served as the sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Major Gatlin and S Sgt. Fitz go to Nevada to investigate an Air Force Lieutenant's claim of a UFO sighting in the desert. What they don't expect during their investigation is that the man's own father-in-law is working to discredit him."
"Major Gatlin and S Sgt. Fitz go to Nevada to investigate an Air Force Lieutenant's claim of a UFO sighting in the desert. What they don't expect during their investigation is that the man's own father-in-law is working to discredit him."
On this day in 1979, Battle Of The Planets aired "Curse of the Cuttlefish, Part 1." This served as the twenty-seventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Zoltar attacks Arcturus, where the Conway Tapes have been transferred. G-Force is ordered to go to the planet incognito."
"Zoltar attacks Arcturus, where the Conway Tapes have been transferred. G-Force is ordered to go to the planet incognito."
On this day in 1979, Salvage 1 aired "Operation Breakout." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An African dictator threatens to place Klinger before a firing squad unless Harry gives him Salvage 1's homemade spaceship."
"An African dictator threatens to place Klinger before a firing squad unless Harry gives him Salvage 1's homemade spaceship."
On this day in 1980 (in Australia), Timelapse aired "Trouble In Arcadia." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television. Unfortunately, I've been unable to locate any specific plot summary for the episode, so instead I'm listing the series' premise from Wikipedia.org:
"Set in 1991, it centres around Douglas Hardy, a computer genius who is cryogenically frozen by corrupt politicians after being murdered in 1979. Hardy returns to seek his revenge and bring down the now fascist state government of New South Wales."
"Set in 1991, it centres around Douglas Hardy, a computer genius who is cryogenically frozen by corrupt politicians after being murdered in 1979. Hardy returns to seek his revenge and bring down the now fascist state government of New South Wales."
On this day in 1999, Farscape aired its popular "Back and Back and Back to the Future" episode as the third hour to its first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the summary:
"The crew rescues a scientist and his assistant from a disintegrating ship. Crichton starts seeing the future, which holds death for the crew and Moya. He tries to influence the course of events but cannot change the outcome until they all learn what their guests are truly hiding."
"The crew rescues a scientist and his assistant from a disintegrating ship. Crichton starts seeing the future, which holds death for the crew and Moya. He tries to influence the course of events but cannot change the outcome until they all learn what their guests are truly hiding."
On this day in 1999, Sliders aired "My Brother's Keeper." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Sliders arrive on a world where clones are harvested for spare body parts. Quinn's double is blinded in a lab accident and when Quinn tries to help, he is mistaken for a clone. Meanwhile, the others inadvertently rescue the clone, which Colin tries to teach the importance of family and sacrifice."
"The Sliders arrive on a world where clones are harvested for spare body parts. Quinn's double is blinded in a lab accident and when Quinn tries to help, he is mistaken for a clone. Meanwhile, the others inadvertently rescue the clone, which Colin tries to teach the importance of family and sacrifice."
On this day in 1999 (in Australia), Thunderstone aired "The Secret Entrance." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tao has a plan to capture the Nomads - with the help of his Sentinel he will trap them in their own lair."
"Tao has a plan to capture the Nomads - with the help of his Sentinel he will trap them in their own lair."
On this day in 1999, Total Recall 2070 aired "Infiltration." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hume and Farve's investigation of the murder of an Uber-Braun employee is severely hampered by the company itself and Rekall's new head of security Vincent Nagle."
"Hume and Farve's investigation of the murder of an Uber-Braun employee is severely hampered by the company itself and Rekall's new head of security Vincent Nagle."
On this day in 2000, The X-Files aired "Chimera." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode in the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mulder and Scully are on a stakeout of a female serial-killer of prostitutes. Mulder gets called away from the stakeout by Skinner to investigate the disappearance of federal judge's daughter. The strange appearance of a raven shortly before she went missing leads Mulder to believe this case may have paranormal significance."
"Mulder and Scully are on a stakeout of a female serial-killer of prostitutes. Mulder gets called away from the stakeout by Skinner to investigate the disappearance of federal judge's daughter. The strange appearance of a raven shortly before she went missing leads Mulder to believe this case may have paranormal significance."
On this day in 2003, Star Trek: Enterprise aired "The Crossing" as the eighteenth episode of its second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Enterprise is being held captive by non-corporeal beings who claim to be explorers."
"Enterprise is being held captive by non-corporeal beings who claim to be explorers."
On this day in 2003, The Twilight Zone aired "The Placebo Effect." This served as the thirty-fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Mega hypochondriac Harry Radditch believes he's caught a deadly plague from a space novel he just read. His physician plans to dose him with a placebo, as usual, but this time, his symptoms are severe and she catches the disease. How can she stop a science fictional pandemic from killing real people?"
"Mega hypochondriac Harry Radditch believes he's caught a deadly plague from a space novel he just read. His physician plans to dose him with a placebo, as usual, but this time, his symptoms are severe and she catches the disease. How can she stop a science fictional pandemic from killing real people?"
On this day in 2003, The Twilight Zone aired "Cold Fusion." This served as the thirty-sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A brilliant physicist is ordered by the military to a remote Arctic lab where the final start-up preparations for an infinite power source are taking place. He becomes involved in a deadly psychological struggle with the device's creator."
"A brilliant physicist is ordered by the military to a remote Arctic lab where the final start-up preparations for an infinite power source are taking place. He becomes involved in a deadly psychological struggle with the device's creator."
On this day in 2005, Doctor Who aired "The End of the World." This served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor takes Rose to the year 5 billion to witness the destruction of the Earth."
"The Doctor takes Rose to the year 5 billion to witness the destruction of the Earth."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2009 (in Hungary), Farscape aired "Bad Timing." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's fourth (and final) season -- its series finale -- and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With their Crystherium stores low, the Scarrans must travel to Earth through a wormhole as those flowers grow there. With Pilots help, Crichton tries to collapse the wormhole leading back to Earth."
"With their Crystherium stores low, the Scarrans must travel to Earth through a wormhole as those flowers grow there. With Pilots help, Crichton tries to collapse the wormhole leading back to Earth."
On this day in 2009, Smallville aired "Eternal." This served as the eighteenth episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"All signs point to the fact that Clark was not the only one that landed on Earth the day of the meteor shower in Smallville."
"All signs point to the fact that Clark was not the only one that landed on Earth the day of the meteor shower in Smallville."
On this day in 2010, A Good Knight's Quest aired the sixth episode of its only season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dorian finds someone to decipher the map and the land of the sun might not be too far off."
"Dorian finds someone to decipher the map and the land of the sun might not be too far off."
On this day in 2010, Smallville aired "Escape." This served as the fifteenth episode of the program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clark and Lois head out of town for a quiet romantic getaway, but their plans are thwarted when they run into Chloe and Oliver at their Bed & Breakfast Inn. The couples' awkward moment is interrupted by the arrival of the Silver Banshee, who sets her sights on Clark and Oliver. Meanwhile, Tess faces off with Zod with a surprising result."
"Clark and Lois head out of town for a quiet romantic getaway, but their plans are thwarted when they run into Chloe and Oliver at their Bed & Breakfast Inn. The couples' awkward moment is interrupted by the arrival of the Silver Banshee, who sets her sights on Clark and Oliver. Meanwhile, Tess faces off with Zod with a surprising result."
On this day in 2010, Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Bounty Hunters." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Obi-Wan, Anakin and Ahsoka crash land on Felucia and reluctantly join four bounty hunters in defending a village from Hondo Ohnaka's pirate gang."
"Obi-Wan, Anakin and Ahsoka crash land on Felucia and reluctantly join four bounty hunters in defending a village from Hondo Ohnaka's pirate gang."
On this day in 2011, Sym-Bionic Titan aired "The Steel Foe." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Unable to defeat a Mutraddi menace without Octurs, Lance and Ilana have dropped out of school and are traveling the country in search of a way to recharge their robot protector."
"Unable to defeat a Mutraddi menace without Octurs, Lance and Ilana have dropped out of school and are traveling the country in search of a way to recharge their robot protector."
On this day in 2013, Shelf Life aired "Little Big House." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hero Man's gone missing, and the rest of the gang wonders where he could be. But upon his return, his tales of prison, sadistic cell-mates, and, well, what happens to new guys in prison, leave them wishing they could forget."
"Hero Man's gone missing, and the rest of the gang wonders where he could be. But upon his return, his tales of prison, sadistic cell-mates, and, well, what happens to new guys in prison, leave them wishing they could forget."
On this day in 2013 (in Canada), Space Janitors aired "Escape To Desert Planet." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"War! It probably has something to do with a trade federation... but who cares! Darby and Mike are just trying to save their own butts and get off the station before it blows. Executive escape pods are the real deal."
If you're interested in checking out this episode, I've found that it's up on Youtube.com right here.
"War! It probably has something to do with a trade federation... but who cares! Darby and Mike are just trying to save their own butts and get off the station before it blows. Executive escape pods are the real deal."
If you're interested in checking out this episode, I've found that it's up on Youtube.com right here.
On this day in 2014, things took a very, very dark turn for The 100 with the airing of "Earth Skills (aka Earth Kills)" as the third episode of the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As a dangerous, acidic fog approaches, Clarke, Finn and Wells set out in search of a seaweed-like plant to make an antibiotic poultice for Jasper's wounds, while a vulnerable young girl follows when Bellamy takes a group out hunting for food."
"As a dangerous, acidic fog approaches, Clarke, Finn and Wells set out in search of a seaweed-like plant to make an antibiotic poultice for Jasper's wounds, while a vulnerable young girl follows when Bellamy takes a group out hunting for food."
