On this day in 1999, the television airwaves gave way to yet another incarnation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's epic Fantasy, The Lost World, this one very serialized and very adventurous. As far as the series' setup goes, it's relatively faithful to the structure provided by the novel, but the weekly installments -- for obvious reasons -- go off into a myriad of different directions. It had enough strength to last three seasons, and here's the premise behind all of it compliments of IMDB.com:
"At the dawn of the 20th century, a band of adventurers are part of an expedition to prove the existence of a lost world isolated from the modern world. Disaster happens and the band find themselves trapped and isolated in this dangerous land with only the help of a young wild woman who was stranded in the land herself as a child. Together, the band fight to survive against the fearsome dinosaurs and other dangers that land has as they search for a way to escape."
For the record:
In 1999, the Australian Guild of Screen Composers recognized the efforts of Garry McDonald, Laurie Stone, and Nerida Tyson-Chew for their work on the show by giving them the coveted Australian Screen Music Award.
"At the dawn of the 20th century, a band of adventurers are part of an expedition to prove the existence of a lost world isolated from the modern world. Disaster happens and the band find themselves trapped and isolated in this dangerous land with only the help of a young wild woman who was stranded in the land herself as a child. Together, the band fight to survive against the fearsome dinosaurs and other dangers that land has as they search for a way to escape."
For the record:
In 1999, the Australian Guild of Screen Composers recognized the efforts of Garry McDonald, Laurie Stone, and Nerida Tyson-Chew for their work on the show by giving them the coveted Australian Screen Music Award.
One of the more fantastic blonds of a generation was Jan Sterling, who appeared in the 1956 adaptation of George Orwell's Science Fiction classic, 1984. As for other genre appearances? Well, her forays into the worlds of Science Fiction and Fantasy were very light as a review of her career shows mostly mainstream projects. Still, she enjoyed guest role aboard the late 1970's and early 1980's world of The Incredible Hulk. Though she's no longer with us, Sterling was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The unfortunate soul suffering a verbal beatdown compliments of Star Trek's Captain James T. Kirk is none other than actor Harry Landers (as seen from the third season episode "Turnabout Intruder"). Though the actor appears to have retired from the profession, he's appeared in a solid handful of SciFi-related projects including Tales of Tomorrow, Phantom from Space, and World of Giants. Though he's no longer with us, Landers was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I'd be an utter fool if I failed to mention that the late, great Marlon Brando -- yes, THAT Marlon Brando? The guy who played baby Superman's father in Superman: The Movie? He also celebrated his birth on this date. Seeing as how that's one of my most favorite movies AND who wouldn't wanna shout out props to a brief but inspired performance but such an acting legend. Though he's no longer with us, Brando was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Without a doubt, Brando remains one of Hollywood's most decorated and controversial figures of a bygone era. Alas, most of his awards and nominations were garnered for his work in mainstream fare, but his work in genre didn't escape some notoriety. For example, his appearance in 1996's The Island Of Dr. Moreau gave him the 'Worst Supporting Actor' trophies from both the Razzie Awards and The Stinkers Bad Movies Awards. "Stella! Stella!!!"
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Without a doubt, Brando remains one of Hollywood's most decorated and controversial figures of a bygone era. Alas, most of his awards and nominations were garnered for his work in mainstream fare, but his work in genre didn't escape some notoriety. For example, his appearance in 1996's The Island Of Dr. Moreau gave him the 'Worst Supporting Actor' trophies from both the Razzie Awards and The Stinkers Bad Movies Awards. "Stella! Stella!!!"
Though Eric Braeden found a mainstay in the realm of daytime television soap operas, he did give SciFi a chance with a prominent role aboard Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970). Other roles in the realms of things a bit more fantastical include stops to such properties as The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Escape From The Planet Of The Apes (1971), The Six Million Dollar Man: Wine, Women, And War (1973), Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Project U.F.O., Piranha (1978), Wonder Woman, The Power Within (1979), A Man Called Sloane,
The Aliens Are Coming (1980), Airwolf, and Early Edition. Braeden was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
The Aliens Are Coming (1980), Airwolf, and Early Edition. Braeden was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tomas Arana is another one of those brilliant character actors audiences see all over the place doing great work in even the smallest role. Fans know him from appearances aboard The Burning Zone, The Hunger (TV), Frankenfish (2004), Limitless (2011), The Dark Knight Rises (2012), Project: SERA, and Guardians of the Galaxy (2014). Arana was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As long as he's been in the business, John Laughlin has been around genre entertainment. He's been a part of The Powers of Matthew Star, The Hills Have Eyes II (1984), Space Rage (1985), The Lawnmower Man (1992), Tales From The Crypt, Storm Trooper (1998), and WEAPONiZED (2016). Plus, his profile on IMDB.com indicates that he played an uncredited Imperial Stormtrooper aboard the poorly-received Star Wars Holiday Special in 1978. Laughlin was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Despite turning off millions of potential viewers with his incessant political squabbling, Alec Baldwin -- when he acts -- can do a good job. Unfortunately, Andron just wasn't all that interesting a SciFi/Dystopian flick (reviewed here), so he ended up mostly chewing scenery. Baldwin was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 2008, the talented Lesley Sharp played in the world of Doctor Who with an appearance aboard "Midnight." Sharp was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not only is she a former Miss Arkansas but actress Elizabeth Gracen is a former Miss America, and that's a claim to fame SciFi fans don't get to celebrate all that often. She's been a part of such franchises as CBS's original The Flash series, Time Trax, Highlander, Highlander: The Raven, Queen of Swords, and 2013's Coherence. Gracen was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Even Eddie Murphy (above left) went into space ... well, that is if you're willing to concede the argument that the just plain awful Pluto Nash is still Science Fiction. (Haven't seen it, and I have zero plans to in this lifetime.) Murphy was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Heralded as the 'Queen of Body Doubles,' the lovely Shelley Michelle braved the Final Frontier with a top role aboard Galaxy Hunter (2004). Michelle was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Now -- for the record -- I have seen 1995's cultish Screamers starring the luscious Jennifer Rubin alongside the reliable Peter Weller. But the truth is I don't recall that much about it. Maybe I'll have to check it out again on home video. Otherwise, the lady got her start in A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors and followed that up with work aboard The Twilight Zone, Tales from the Crypt, Full Eclipse, The Wasp Woman, and The Outer Limits. Rubin was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I purchased the latest DVD release of Screamers to add to my growing collection. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I purchased the latest DVD release of Screamers to add to my growing collection. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
James Black is a veteran of far too many projects big and small to mention here, but -- as usually -- I'll definitely list those of interest to most Science Fiction fans. Since beginning his career in the business, he's been a part of Babylon 5, Space: Above and Beyond, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Burning Zone, Godzilla (1998), Soldier, and Universal Soldier: The Return. Black was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The impressive Bill Sage continues to build a resume of well over 100 different screen credits. Fans might recognize him from work aboard Strange World, The Blackout (2014), or Shockwave Darkside (2014). Sage was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Despite really loving Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, I didn't think Ben Mendelsohn's villainous 'Orson Krennic' was all that interesting a character. He just never really emerged as anything more than a devoted Imperial leader hellbent on getting recognition for his service, but the actor still deserves credit for making a solid go at it. Mendelsohn was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alongside Edward Burns, lovely Catherine McCormack was tasked with the chance of trying to right a reality that had gone terribly awry in 2005's A Sound Of Thunder. The actress also braved an apocalypse of another sort when she appeared with a bunch of rapid zombies in 2007's 28 Weeks Later. McCormack was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
It took me a while to get interested in the Battlestar Galactica reboot. To be perfectly honest, that was no fault to any of the players; rather it was that I thought the original miniseries was spliced up with way too many commercials to make it palatable. In any event, kudos to young Jamie Bamber for taking over the role of Capt. Apollo. He wore the uniform nicely. Bamber was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To his credit, Bamber's work aboard the Galactica didn't go unnoticed. In 2006, he enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor On Television.' In 2009, he (along with series stars James Callis and Mary McDonnell) took home an Achievement Awards from the Jules Verne Awards.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To his credit, Bamber's work aboard the Galactica didn't go unnoticed. In 2006, he enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor On Television.' In 2009, he (along with series stars James Callis and Mary McDonnell) took home an Achievement Awards from the Jules Verne Awards.
One of Adam Scott's earliest screen gigs was as a bridge officer aboard the Defiant in Star Trek: First Contact (1996). Oh, what could have been! Scott was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alice Lowe has been on my radar since she (and her costars) made me laugh aboard the fantastic Garth Marenghi's Darkplace, and she's been popping up ever since. Genre fans might know her from work in such projects as Hot Fuzz (2007), The World's End (2013), and Dark Encounter (2019). Lowe was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Zack Snyder's adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel Watchmen reached for the stars but really only found 'starstuff' (to borrow a term from the late Carl Sagan). Aboard the impressive flick, Matthew Goode helped bring Adrian Veidt aka Ozymandias to life. Goode was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If their mothers would let them, fanboys of every age would be signing up for action service in S.H.I.E.L.D. if for not better reason than to get close than this lovely lady -- actress Cobie Smulders. She plays agent Maria Hill, a force all of her own to be reckoned with. Smulders was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Algerian-born Sofia Boutella cracked into SciFi fandom in a very big way: she headlined Monsters 2: Dark Continent, a sequel to the sleeper hit Monsters from a few years back. Then, she upped her game with a big role aboard Star Trek Beyond (2016). Boutella was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
- Like so many Trek enthusiasts, I took in a screening of Star Trek Beyond when it was in its original theatrical run. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find them right here.
- In early 2024, I streamed Rebel Moon - Part 1: A Child Of Fire on Netflix. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find them right here.
I'm unsure as to what Amanda Bynes' status is these days. Is she retired? Is she insane? She had a relatively public meltdown via the tabloids a few years ago, but kudos she kept it together long enough to provide vocals to the SciFi/Comedy Robots back in 2005. SciFiHistory.Net continues to wish her well! Bynes was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Aeriél Miranda enjoyed a small guest appearance aboard the short-lived SciFi/Serial The Tomorrow People back in 2013. Miranda was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1953 (in London), the original SciFi/Classic The War Of The Worlds enjoyed its very first theatrical showing. Directed by Byron Haskin, the feature starred Gene Barry and Ann Robinson in a cinematic adaptation of the H.G. Wells' novel, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The residents of a small town in California are excited when a flaming meteor lands in the hills. Their joy is tempered somewhat when they discover that it has passengers who are not very friendly."
For the record:
Those who follow Science Fiction and Fantasy are well aware of The War Of The Worlds importance in the genre as it's been revisited countless times. There have been multiple film and television incarnations. As for the original? It won the 1954 Academy Award for 'Best Special Effects.' It won the 1954 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And in 2011 it was inducted into the National Film Registry so that it can be preserved for the ages.
"The residents of a small town in California are excited when a flaming meteor lands in the hills. Their joy is tempered somewhat when they discover that it has passengers who are not very friendly."
For the record:
Those who follow Science Fiction and Fantasy are well aware of The War Of The Worlds importance in the genre as it's been revisited countless times. There have been multiple film and television incarnations. As for the original? It won the 1954 Academy Award for 'Best Special Effects.' It won the 1954 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And in 2011 it was inducted into the National Film Registry so that it can be preserved for the ages.
On this day in 1968, Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a limited theatrical opening in New York and select locations around the United States. 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 1968, Planet Of The Apes enjoyed a full U.S. theatrical release after several smaller, city-specific openings. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and based on the novel by Pierre Boulle (with the adaptation in part completed by The Twilight Zone master Rod Serling), the feature starred Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, and Roddy McDowall, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
On this day in 1970 (in West Germany), Latitude Zero enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Ishiro Honda, the SciFi/Fantasy feature starred Joseph Cotten, Akira Takarada, and Cesar Romero. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A journalist is saved by a giant submarine captained by a 200 year old man who takes him to an underwater paradise city where no one ages. That's when monsters and mutants sent by the captain's rival, a 200 year old scientist, attack."
Editor's Note:
From what I've read (on IMDB.com), it looks like Latitude Zero was originally intended to be an American and Japanese co-production, except the American backers declared bankrupty just as production was set to begin. Toho Studios opted to go ahead and finance the picture on their own. The film's screenwriter -- Ted Sherdeman -- based the script on stories he had crafted under the name 'Latitude Zero' for a popular radio serial of the same name. And Sherdeman has a solid screenwriting record, having penned scripts for such properties as Them! (1954), Men Into Space, My Favorite Martian, and Bewitched.
"A journalist is saved by a giant submarine captained by a 200 year old man who takes him to an underwater paradise city where no one ages. That's when monsters and mutants sent by the captain's rival, a 200 year old scientist, attack."
Editor's Note:
From what I've read (on IMDB.com), it looks like Latitude Zero was originally intended to be an American and Japanese co-production, except the American backers declared bankrupty just as production was set to begin. Toho Studios opted to go ahead and finance the picture on their own. The film's screenwriter -- Ted Sherdeman -- based the script on stories he had crafted under the name 'Latitude Zero' for a popular radio serial of the same name. And Sherdeman has a solid screenwriting record, having penned scripts for such properties as Them! (1954), Men Into Space, My Favorite Martian, and Bewitched.
On this day in 1980 (in Italy), Star Trek: The Motion Picture premiered in theaters. 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.
A star is born! On this day in 1981 (in Spain), Mystery On Monster Island enjoyed its small screen debut. Written (in part) and directed by Juan Piquer Simon, the Horror/Comedy starred Terence Stamp, Peter Cushing, and Ian Serra. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young European boy living in San Francisco is reluctant to marry his long-term girlfriend because he wants to travel around the world first. His wealthy uncle agrees to send him on a global expedition aboard his ship, but en route the boy and his travelling companion are shipwrecked on a remote island, populated by countless prehistoric creatures as well as gold-hunting bandits."
"A young European boy living in San Francisco is reluctant to marry his long-term girlfriend because he wants to travel around the world first. His wealthy uncle agrees to send him on a global expedition aboard his ship, but en route the boy and his travelling companion are shipwrecked on a remote island, populated by countless prehistoric creatures as well as gold-hunting bandits."
On this day in 1987, Making Mr. Right premiered theatrically, telling the story about one woman's pursuit to 'manufacture' the perfect mate. Directed by Susan Seidelman from a story by Floyd Byars and Laurie Frank, the SciFi/Fantasy starred John Malkovich, Ann Magnuson, and Glenne Headly. Here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"A reclusive scientist builds a robot that looks exactly like him to go on a long term space mission. Since the scientist seems to lack all human emotion he is unable to program them into his android and an eccentric woman is hired to "educate" the robot on human behavior. In the end she falls in love ... but is the robot or the Dr. Mr Right?"
"A reclusive scientist builds a robot that looks exactly like him to go on a long term space mission. Since the scientist seems to lack all human emotion he is unable to program them into his android and an eccentric woman is hired to "educate" the robot on human behavior. In the end she falls in love ... but is the robot or the Dr. Mr Right?"
A star is born! On this day in 1998 (in Canada and the U.S.), the Robinsons family were back in action -- this time on the silver screen -- with the theatrical release of Lost In Space. Directed by Stephen Hopkins and based on the Irwin Allen original, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Gary Oldman, William Hurt, and Matt LeBlanc. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2058, the Earth will soon be uninhabitable after the irreversible effects of pollution and global warming! Professor John Robinson, lead scientist of the Jupiter 2 Mission, will lead his family to the habitable planet Alpha Prime to prep it for colonization. The Jupiter 2 is equipped with a hyperdrive that allows faster-than-light travel, which will eventually be employed to evacuate the citizens of Earth. However hypergates must be constructed on Earth and Alpha Prime to provide stable points of departure and arrival. Dr. Zachary Smith is bribed by a terrorist organization to sabotage the mission, and ends up an unwilling stowaway as the ship blasts off."
For the record:
At the 1999 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lost In Space earned a solid six nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"In the year 2058, the Earth will soon be uninhabitable after the irreversible effects of pollution and global warming! Professor John Robinson, lead scientist of the Jupiter 2 Mission, will lead his family to the habitable planet Alpha Prime to prep it for colonization. The Jupiter 2 is equipped with a hyperdrive that allows faster-than-light travel, which will eventually be employed to evacuate the citizens of Earth. However hypergates must be constructed on Earth and Alpha Prime to provide stable points of departure and arrival. Dr. Zachary Smith is bribed by a terrorist organization to sabotage the mission, and ends up an unwilling stowaway as the ship blasts off."
For the record:
At the 1999 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lost In Space earned a solid six nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2002 (in France), Teenage Caveman was released to the masses via a home video launch. Directed by Larry Clark from a story by Christos N. Gage, the SciFi/Horror starred Andrew Keegan, Tara Subkoff, and Richard Hillman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Teens encounter people, who, after being used as guinea pigs for the experimental testing of a virus can live forever in a post apocalyptic world."
For the record:
At the 2002 Saturn Awards, Teenage Caveman earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Single Television Presentation.'
"Teens encounter people, who, after being used as guinea pigs for the experimental testing of a virus can live forever in a post apocalyptic world."
For the record:
At the 2002 Saturn Awards, Teenage Caveman earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Single Television Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Supercroc tried to take a bite out of consumers with a release on home video. Directed by Scott Harper from a story by Steve Bevilacqua and David Michael Latt, the SciFi/Horror starred Cynthia Rose Hall, Matt Blashaw, and Kim Little. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A team of soldiers must stop a giant, bloodthirsty crocodile from reaching a nearby city, while trying to avoid being a meal for the beast themselves."
"A team of soldiers must stop a giant, bloodthirsty crocodile from reaching a nearby city, while trying to avoid being a meal for the beast themselves."
On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), Alien Trespass enjoyed a limited theatrical run. Directed by R.W. Goodwin from a story by Steven P. Fisher and Jim Swift, the SciFi/Comedy starred Eric McCormack, Jenni Baird, and Robert Patrick. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After crash landing near a desert town, an alien enlists the help of a local waitress to re-capture a monster that escaped from the wreckage of his space ship."
For the record:
At the 2009 Leo Awards (recognizing excellence in film and TV production in British Columbia), Alien Trespass enjoyed a solid seven nominations in the categories of 'Best Production Design In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Sound Editing In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Overall Sound In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Make-Up In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Costume Design In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Cinematography In A Feature Length Drama,' and 'Best Supporting Performance By A Female In A Feature Length Drama.'
"After crash landing near a desert town, an alien enlists the help of a local waitress to re-capture a monster that escaped from the wreckage of his space ship."
For the record:
At the 2009 Leo Awards (recognizing excellence in film and TV production in British Columbia), Alien Trespass enjoyed a solid seven nominations in the categories of 'Best Production Design In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Sound Editing In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Overall Sound In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Make-Up In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Costume Design In A Feature Length Drama,' 'Best Cinematography In A Feature Length Drama,' and 'Best Supporting Performance By A Female In A Feature Length Drama.'
On this day in 2009 (in Turkey), Splinter stuck itself into the eyes of moviegoers. Directed by Toby Wilkins, the SciFi/Horror starred Ian Shorr and Kai Barry, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Trapped in an isolated gas station by a voracious Splinter parasite that transforms its still-living victims into deadly hosts, a young couple and an escaped convict must find a way to work together to survive this primal terror."
"Trapped in an isolated gas station by a voracious Splinter parasite that transforms its still-living victims into deadly hosts, a young couple and an escaped convict must find a way to work together to survive this primal terror."
On this day in 2009 (in France), the 1966-produced The Diabolical Dr. Z played for audiences in attendance of the Lyon L'Étrange Festival. Written and directed by Jesús Franco, the SciFi/Horror has long enjoyed a bit of a cult following. Starring Estella Blain and Mabel Karr, here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Woman seeks to avenge her father's death by using a local dancer, with long poisonous fingernails, to do her bidding."
"Woman seeks to avenge her father's death by using a local dancer, with long poisonous fingernails, to do her bidding."
A star is born! On this day in 2012 (in Japan), the good people of Tokyo enjoyed an exclusive silver screen engagement of Battleship. Directed by Peter Berg from a story by Jon Hoeber and Erich Hoeber, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker, and Liam Neeson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An international fleet of naval warships encounters an alien armada while on a Naval war games exercise and faces the biggest threat mankind has ever faced. An intense battle is fought on sea, land and air. If they lose, the world could face a major extinction event and an alien invasion. Will humans win this alien war, what are the aliens doing here, and what do they want?"
For the record:
At the 2013 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Battleship earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
At the 2013 Razzie Awards, the film enjoyed an impressive seven nominations in such categories as 'Worst Screen Ensemble,' 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Director,' 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Supporting Actress' (both Brooklyn Decker and Rihanna), and 'Worst Picture.' The only trophy they went home with was for Rihanna.
"An international fleet of naval warships encounters an alien armada while on a Naval war games exercise and faces the biggest threat mankind has ever faced. An intense battle is fought on sea, land and air. If they lose, the world could face a major extinction event and an alien invasion. Will humans win this alien war, what are the aliens doing here, and what do they want?"
For the record:
At the 2013 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Battleship earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
At the 2013 Razzie Awards, the film enjoyed an impressive seven nominations in such categories as 'Worst Screen Ensemble,' 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Director,' 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Supporting Actress' (both Brooklyn Decker and Rihanna), and 'Worst Picture.' The only trophy they went home with was for Rihanna.
On this day in 2014 (in Denmark), Blood Glacier played for audiences in attendance of the CPH:PIX. Written (in part) and directed by Marvin Kren, the SciFi/Horror starred Gerhard Liebmann, Edita Malovcic, and Hille Beseler. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists working in the Austrian Alps discover that a glacier is leaking a liquid that appears to be affecting local wildlife."
For the record:
At the 2014 Austrian Film Awards (the organization recognizing film excellence in Austria), Blood Glacier earned three big wins in the categories of 'Best Sound Editing,' 'Best Makeup,' and 'Best Actor.' Also, the film enjoyed a nomination but no win in the category of 'Best Film Editing.'
"Scientists working in the Austrian Alps discover that a glacier is leaking a liquid that appears to be affecting local wildlife."
For the record:
At the 2014 Austrian Film Awards (the organization recognizing film excellence in Austria), Blood Glacier earned three big wins in the categories of 'Best Sound Editing,' 'Best Makeup,' and 'Best Actor.' Also, the film enjoyed a nomination but no win in the category of 'Best Film Editing.'
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Past Tense." Officially, this served as the thirty-third episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A physician invents a time machine to go back in time and make a fortune by selling penicillin to a pharmaceutical firm. His wife is more concerned about paying bills because he's neglecting his practice, so she threatens to destroy the device. If she does, could he be trapped in the past?"
"A physician invents a time machine to go back in time and make a fortune by selling penicillin to a pharmaceutical firm. His wife is more concerned about paying bills because he's neglecting his practice, so she threatens to destroy the device. If she does, could he be trapped in the past?"
On this day in 1954 (in the U.S.), Space Patrol aired "The Capture Of Mr. Proteus." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Solarguard.com:
"Buzz and Happy follow Mr. Proteus to Mercury, where he has escaped with Carol as a hostage. Yet another trap has been set by the wiley villain, but this time the tables are turned for the last time. The Space Patrollers finally bring an end to the devilish misadventures of Mr. Proteus."
"Buzz and Happy follow Mr. Proteus to Mercury, where he has escaped with Carol as a hostage. Yet another trap has been set by the wiley villain, but this time the tables are turned for the last time. The Space Patrollers finally bring an end to the devilish misadventures of Mr. Proteus."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Mr. Terrific aired "Has Mr. Terrific Sold Out?" Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Stanley is abducted by known enemy agents, Reed and Trent are concerned that he may actually be willing to betray the U. S. and its allies for financial gain."
"When Stanley is abducted by known enemy agents, Reed and Trent are concerned that he may actually be willing to betray the U. S. and its allies for financial gain."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), The Space Giants aired "The Clutch Of Claw." Officially, this served as the fortieth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by The Space Giants Series Guide:
"Rodak attacks a false image of Goldar, an illusion caused by a special projector. With Rodak distracted, Goldar drops the second H-Bomb into the Atlantic Ocean. There is still one more bomb to be located. Rodak plans to explode the third H-Bomb over New York. Rodak also works with Horonda on a new plan to spread poison gas from a factory smokestack. The factory is attacked by troops wearing gas masks. Horonda counterattacks and Goldar is called to help. Horonda is killed in the battle, and the poison gas is shut off. The last H-Bomb is attached to the back of Dilas. As Goldar confronts the creature the bomb is released into the air towards New York. Goldar defeats Dilas and then uses all of his incredible speed to overtake the bomb. Attaching himself to the H-Bomb, he flies it into space and sends it hurtling towards Rodak’s ship! Rodak sees the bomb approaching and orders it detonated in mid-air. Rodak is beaten again."
"Rodak attacks a false image of Goldar, an illusion caused by a special projector. With Rodak distracted, Goldar drops the second H-Bomb into the Atlantic Ocean. There is still one more bomb to be located. Rodak plans to explode the third H-Bomb over New York. Rodak also works with Horonda on a new plan to spread poison gas from a factory smokestack. The factory is attacked by troops wearing gas masks. Horonda counterattacks and Goldar is called to help. Horonda is killed in the battle, and the poison gas is shut off. The last H-Bomb is attached to the back of Dilas. As Goldar confronts the creature the bomb is released into the air towards New York. Goldar defeats Dilas and then uses all of his incredible speed to overtake the bomb. Attaching himself to the H-Bomb, he flies it into space and sends it hurtling towards Rodak’s ship! Rodak sees the bomb approaching and orders it detonated in mid-air. Rodak is beaten again."
On this day in 1976 (in France), Gerry Anderson's Space:1999 aired "Earthbound." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A vessel of alien pacifists, bound for Earth, lands on the moon. They are greeted as friends by all- except Commissioner Simmons who sees their vessel as way to return home."
"A vessel of alien pacifists, bound for Earth, lands on the moon. They are greeted as friends by all- except Commissioner Simmons who sees their vessel as way to return home."
On this day in 1979 (in the United Kingdom), Blake's 7 aired "Star One." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Blake leads the apprehensive crew of the Liberator out into intergalactic space to find and destroy Star One and cripple the Federation. What none of them realize is that Star One is already showing signs of sabotage. But since nobody but Blake's crew know the location of Star One, who could be causing it, and why?"
"Blake leads the apprehensive crew of the Liberator out into intergalactic space to find and destroy Star One and cripple the Federation. What none of them realize is that Star One is already showing signs of sabotage. But since nobody but Blake's crew know the location of Star One, who could be causing it, and why?"
On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), The Incredible Hulk aired "Interview With The Hulk." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Emerson Fletcher, a colleague of Jack McGee at the Register steals a lead on the Hulk. Recognising David 'Butler' for who he really is, Fletcher blackmails Banner into giving him an interview."
"Emerson Fletcher, a colleague of Jack McGee at the Register steals a lead on the Hulk. Recognising David 'Butler' for who he really is, Fletcher blackmails Banner into giving him an interview."
On this day in 1993 (in U.S. TV syndication), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Lessons." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Wondering why an experiment at stellar cartography has most of the ship's resources reserved for hours, Picard goes see the stellar sciences section's obnoxiously assertive new head, Lieutenant Commander Nella Daren. Spending some time together they find they share several interests and enjoy playing music together. The relationship gets tested by balancing his authority and her tendency to sort of abuse his feelings for her. Then she suggests a way to help colonists about to suffer a severe stellar storm, and joins one of the rescue teams, which is badly hit..."
"Wondering why an experiment at stellar cartography has most of the ship's resources reserved for hours, Picard goes see the stellar sciences section's obnoxiously assertive new head, Lieutenant Commander Nella Daren. Spending some time together they find they share several interests and enjoy playing music together. The relationship gets tested by balancing his authority and her tendency to sort of abuse his feelings for her. Then she suggests a way to help colonists about to suffer a severe stellar storm, and joins one of the rescue teams, which is badly hit..."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Power Rangers In Space aired "The Craterite Invasion." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A malfunction with the Megaship's Simudeck releases hundreds of real Craterites into Angel Grove."
"A malfunction with the Megaship's Simudeck releases hundreds of real Craterites into Angel Grove."
On this day in 1999 (in Hungary), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Peak Performance." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Enterprise is to engage in war gaming exercise with a master strategist, Sirna Kolrami, on board. As part of the exercise, Riker will command an old vessel, the USS Hathaway, and act as the 'enemy'. Riker takes along Laforge, Worf, Wesley Cusher and several others as his crew and their first task is to get the vessel operational. Kolrami is supremely confident and arrogant, convinced that his superior skills will result in an easy victory over Riker. When they are attacked by the Ferengi who want the Hathaway as their prize, Picard and the crew stage a clever deception."
"The Enterprise is to engage in war gaming exercise with a master strategist, Sirna Kolrami, on board. As part of the exercise, Riker will command an old vessel, the USS Hathaway, and act as the 'enemy'. Riker takes along Laforge, Worf, Wesley Cusher and several others as his crew and their first task is to get the vessel operational. Kolrami is supremely confident and arrogant, convinced that his superior skills will result in an easy victory over Riker. When they are attacked by the Ferengi who want the Hathaway as their prize, Picard and the crew stage a clever deception."
It all began right here! It was on this day back in 1999 (in Australia) that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The Lost World first sprang to life in television syndication. The first two episodes were broadcast together into one two-hour event, and here are the plot summaries as provided by IMDB.com:
Part 1: "A band of adventurers set off for the journey of their lives. Led by Professor George Challenger, deep within the Amazonian jungle they find proof of a world nobody knew existed."
Part 1: "A band of adventurers set off for the journey of their lives. Led by Professor George Challenger, deep within the Amazonian jungle they find proof of a world nobody knew existed."
On this day in 1999 (in Australia), TV's The Lost World continued its premiere event with the airing of "Stranded," its second episode. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Marguerite trades in Veronica to Assai's father for the secret path out of the Lost World plateau. All hope is lost after their way out is destroyed by Marguerite's greed."
"Marguerite trades in Veronica to Assai's father for the secret path out of the Lost World plateau. All hope is lost after their way out is destroyed by Marguerite's greed."
Huh. Funny. Trip Tucker's face above? That's pretty much the face I made while trying to stay awake through so very much of Star Trek: Enterprise's lackluster first season. But I digress ... for on this day in 2002, showrunners aired "Oasis." It was the twentieth episode of the program's inaugural go-round, and here's the plot summary compliments of TrekCore.com:
"The crew is directed to a derelict ship on a barren planet that they can salvage for supplies, and learn that rumors the shipwreck is haunted may not be unfounded."
"The crew is directed to a derelict ship on a barren planet that they can salvage for supplies, and learn that rumors the shipwreck is haunted may not be unfounded."
It all came down to this! As has been known to happen in the history of television, some shows are never given the opportunity to tie up their loose ends: such was the case with the series finale to Starhunter 2300 -- titled "Hyperspace, Part II" -- which closed out the series on a massive cliffhanger. It aired on this day in 2004, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at Wikipedia.org:
"Having fled from The Orchard into hyperspace, each Tulip crew member finds themselves in their own pocket reality, but a problem in all realities is that the ship's molecules are destabilizing due to a warp bubble imbalance. Elsewhere in hyperspace, Travis finds Xeylon, who explains how to activate his Divinity Cluster power. Travis only wishes to return to the point in time where Callie is shot and try to stop it. Meanwhile, Catchpole lurks aboard the Tulip jumping from each reality and observing the crew as they establish a way to stabilize the ship. Once they do, he steals the horizon generator and returns to the Orchard HQ on Mars, but he kills Murchison and takes over the Hyperspace project. Travis eventually alters time and saves Callie's life. They all return to the Tulip but without the horizon generator the ship remains stuck in hyperspace. Xeylon has a theory on getting back but risks destroying the ship if it fails. The series ends there in a cliffhanger."
"Having fled from The Orchard into hyperspace, each Tulip crew member finds themselves in their own pocket reality, but a problem in all realities is that the ship's molecules are destabilizing due to a warp bubble imbalance. Elsewhere in hyperspace, Travis finds Xeylon, who explains how to activate his Divinity Cluster power. Travis only wishes to return to the point in time where Callie is shot and try to stop it. Meanwhile, Catchpole lurks aboard the Tulip jumping from each reality and observing the crew as they establish a way to stabilize the ship. Once they do, he steals the horizon generator and returns to the Orchard HQ on Mars, but he kills Murchison and takes over the Hyperspace project. Travis eventually alters time and saves Callie's life. They all return to the Tulip but without the horizon generator the ship remains stuck in hyperspace. Xeylon has a theory on getting back but risks destroying the ship if it fails. The series ends there in a cliffhanger."
Definitely deserving a mention is the fact that on this day in history Doctor Who's fifth season (in the current incarnation of the show) premiered its first episode, "The Eleventh Hour," which introduced the wonderful Matt Smith to the world as everyone's famous time-traveling do-gooder! Although Matt's tenure as the Timelord came to an end, I'll always remember his first few hours here because they had the right mix of wit and whimsy. It happened on this day in 2010 (in the United Kingdom).
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), the action was winding down -- but the tension was building up! -- for the first season of Syfy's 12 Monkeys! "Paradox" was the twelfth episode, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With Cole dying from the effects of time-travel, Railly must find the one person who can save him."
"With Cole dying from the effects of time-travel, Railly must find the one person who can save him."
