Unlike other fans, I'm willing to concede that Twin Peaks missed the target from time-to-time. But when it was good, it was damn great ... and there's still really been nothing at all like it on television. While some attempts at recreating its mesmerizing and mystifying magic have been good, nothing quite comes close to the original. It premiered on this day back in 1990 (though it did have a screening in 1989 at an arts festival, but I'm ignoring that in order to honor this date), and it forever changed the landscape that was broadcast television. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"An idiosyncratic FBI agent investigates the murder of a young woman in the even more idiosyncratic town of Twin Peaks."
"An idiosyncratic FBI agent investigates the murder of a young woman in the even more idiosyncratic town of Twin Peaks."
The late Edward Mulhare was one of the regulars aboard NBC TV's entertaining juggernaut Knight Rider during the program's run on the peacock network. Though he's no longer with us, Mulhare was born on this day in 1923.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Heck, I'll bet most of you young Turks don't even know who Douglas Trumbull is, and that's a downright low and dirty shame. Trumbull has been responsible for the special effects of so very many incredible science fiction films, including 2001: A Space Odyssey, Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and even the seminal Blade Runner, not to mention that he directed Silent Running and Brainstorm. Though he's no longer with us, Trumbull was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I penned a few words to commemorate Douglas Trumbull's passing in 2022. Interested readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I penned a few words to commemorate Douglas Trumbull's passing in 2022. Interested readers can find them right here.
That hulking Kryptonian behemoth squeezed in between the legendary Terence Stamp and the lovely Sarah Douglas is none other than actor Jack O'Halloran, better known as the villainous Non from Superman - The Movie and Superman II. O'Halloran was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You young sprites have a whole host of SciFi heroes to choose from, but -- back in the 80's -- our choices were pretty slim. We had to suffer through an awful lot of second rate sci-fi just to have heroes to celebrate ... which brings us to the birthday of Tim Thomerson of Trancers rather dubious fame. (But, hey, at least it had a sequel, right?) Happy birthday, Tim! He was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kane Hodder is probably best known as the hockey-mask-wearing slasher 'Jason Voorhees' from the popular Friday The 13th horror franchise, but he's been built an incredible career as an actor and stuntman resulting in well over one hundred different screen credits. I seriously encourage all to surf over to IMDB.com to check out his resume: though you may not known the face, you're no doubt familiar with his work. Hodder was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a complimentary Blu-ray of Hatchet (2006) -- in which Hodder played the central role -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a complimentary Blu-ray of Hatchet (2006) -- in which Hodder played the central role -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
And so long as we've already raised the subject of Superman, why not hop on over to the WB's Smallville? TV actor John Schneider made a name for himself by playing the macho Southern charmer Bo Duke in The Dukes of Hazzard, but genre fans know him best as Jonathan Kent (Superman's adoptive Earthbound father) in the teen drama, and he did a mighty fine job of it. Schneider was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his quest to adorn his palace with scantilly-clad dancers, Jabba the Hutt lusted -- albeit briefly -- after the lovely Oola, brought to life as only the fetching Femi Taylor could in 1983's Return Of The Jedi. Taylor was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Can we just agree on the statement: "You've come a long way, Dean!" Veteran character actor Dean Norris (pictured above under much make from 1990's Total Recall) has earned his stripes, toiling away in one project after another until finally becoming a household name thanks to his work in AMC's Breaking Bad. SciFi fans are thankful for his work in Gremlins 2: The New Batch, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, The Lawnmower Man, The X-Files, It Came From Outer Space II, Dark Skies, Gattaca, Starship Troopers, Millennium, The Cell, Tremors (the series), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Lost, and Under the Dome. Norris was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ouch! In 2023, The Wrap reported that producer, writer, and director Steven S. DeKnight (longtime Joss Whedon collaborator) recently took to Twitter to attack a Puerto Rican actress not even half his age, calling her "toxic," "entitled," and "unprofessional" ... and he hadn't ever even worked with her?!?! Not sure if that's ageist, sexist, or racist! (Sorry, folks, I can't keep up with social norms any longer!) As Hollywood types do, he apologized online only after being called out for his unprofessional behavior, but -- as they say -- such is life. So when he's not courting controversy of his own creation, DeKnight is a fabulous talent behind the scenes, having brought to the screen such intellectual properties as Buffy The Vampire Slayer (where it's looking like he learned plenty from Joss Whedon), Angel, Smallville, Dollhouse, Spartacus, Daredevil, Travel Boobs, and the massive Netflix superhero failure Jupiter's Legacy. DeKnight was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: Google.com]
Even more controversy:
Ach, it looks like the web's 'King Of Controversy' opened his mouth again recently, taking a full-handed swipe at both the Walt Disney Company and Marvel Entertainment, alledging that the companies are in the business of 'scamming artists' or some such nonsense. (Link) He again had to come out of the closet to "clarify" his comments so as to avoid some further embarassment to his career of riches. One would think that a writer would be a bit better with words, no?
[Source: Google.com]
Even more controversy:
Ach, it looks like the web's 'King Of Controversy' opened his mouth again recently, taking a full-handed swipe at both the Walt Disney Company and Marvel Entertainment, alledging that the companies are in the business of 'scamming artists' or some such nonsense. (Link) He again had to come out of the closet to "clarify" his comments so as to avoid some further embarassment to his career of riches. One would think that a writer would be a bit better with words, no?
Actress Robin Wright took a break from mainstream dramas in 2013 to headline the mildly controversial The Congress, a SciFi drama about identity and the entertainment industry. More recently, she turned up as a police force to be reckoned with aboard Blade Runner 2049 (2017). Wright was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, the great JR Bourne can chew scenery with the best actors. Genre fans might recognize the man for his contributions to Strange Luck, The Sentinel, Millennium, Futuresport (1998), Viper, The Outer Limits, Jeremiah, Andromeda, Stargate SG-1, The Dead Zone, The Butterfly Effect 2 (2006), Superstorm, Odysseus: Voyage To The Underworld (2008), Fringe, Arrow, Somewhere Between, Teen Wolf, Falling Water, and The 100. Bourne was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The very capable Emma Caulfield filled in the shoes on Supergirl as FBI Agent Cameron Chase during the CBS program's inaugural season. She's also been given screen time aboard Weird Science, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Once Upon A Time, and Fear The Walking Dead. Caulfield was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She had a small but crucial role in 2011's underperforming Cowboys & Aliens, and looking at her lovely face it isn't hard to imagine that those pesky aliens wanted her all for themselves! She is Ana de la Reguera, and she was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Paola Nuñez braved the man-made Apocalypse at the heart of the TV incarnation of The Purge. Nunez was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Still, you young Turks get sci-fi all over the place. On TV. In movies. In young adult novels. And that brings us to celebrating the birthday of Rachel Roberts. She's played in FlashForward, In Time, and -- more recently -- The Host. Happy birthday, Rachel! Love those gams! She was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The fetching Dorian Brown-Pham has trafficked more in mainstream fare than anything else, but genre fans always appreciate an appearance in Supernatural for good measure. Brown-Pham was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
New York-born Jacqueline Pinol continues to seek out and explore quality work across all genres, but fans might know her name from her work in such properties as The Pretender, Runaway Virus (2000), Heroes, Transformers: The Game (2007), Monster Mutt (2011), and Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018). Pinol was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've mentioned before that I wasn't one of the many fans who went gaga over all things new-fangled Battlestar Galactica. When all is said and done, I do still prefer the simplicity of the original over Ron Moore's reboot, and -- despite preferring Dirk Benedict in the role as "Starbuck" -- I did grow to appreciate what the lovely Katee Sackhoff did with the role. I didn't like her character's twist late in the program, but it is what it is. Plus, Ms. Sackhoff cleans up real nice in the modern-day cop drama Longmire in case anyone's watching. (I am.) Sackhoff was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Carrie Savage has provided the voices to a whole host of incredible characters: her portfolio over on IMDB.com is fast-approaching two hundred different screen credits. My friends, that is an incredible talent! Savage was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I realize that the Walt Disney Company expected greater success out of John Carter, but I thought they crammed too much story too quickly into too little film. Instead, they should've broken it up into a two- or maybe even a three-parter tale, and maybe that would've given storytellers suitable time to flesh out one of SciFi's greatest unexplored properties. Taylor Kitsch played the lead with respectable machismo. Kitsch was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Never forget, peeps: the beauty of Science Fiction is that it comes in all shapes, sizes, and ages. Even the Walt Disney Corporation can't escape tinkering the realm of our beloved genre with such programs as Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century of which the lovely Kirsten Storms was the titular teenager. Storms was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Faith Fay made her professional debut as one of the many survivors trapped on a somewhat dangerous, deserted island aboard ABC TV's popular Fantasy-series Lost. Fay was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, sweet, sweet Gabriella Wilde! Did you think you were going to escape fandom's clutches? Never! I say, "Never!" This lovely morsel -- fangs and all -- made an appearances as one of "The Vampires of Venice" (above left) plaguing Matt Smith as Doctor Who in the BBC's popular fifth (restarted) season. Wilde was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I've yet to partake of any of the animated Star Wars: Forces Of Destiny, that won't stop me from giving a hearty birthday shout to Shelby Young. She voices Princess Leia on the property. Young was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1915 (in Denmark), the Horror/Fantasy The Golem enjoyed its theatrical presentation. Written and directed by the team of Paul Wegener and Henrik Galeen (who also starred in it), the silent era Fantasy feature also starred such names as Lyda Samonova, Rudolf Blümner, and Jakob Tiedtke. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In this version of the golem legend, the golem, a clay statue brought to life by Rabbi Loew in 16th century Prague to save the Jews from the ongoing brutal persecution by the city's rulers, is found in the rubble of an old synagogue in the 20th century. Brought to life by an antique dealer, the golem is used as a menial servant. Eventually falling in love with the dealer's wife, it goes on a murderous rampage when its love for her goes unanswered."
For the record:
Alas, it would appear that a complete version of this film is lost to history. I have read (on IMDB.com) that perhaps a small section of the original film has been found.
"In this version of the golem legend, the golem, a clay statue brought to life by Rabbi Loew in 16th century Prague to save the Jews from the ongoing brutal persecution by the city's rulers, is found in the rubble of an old synagogue in the 20th century. Brought to life by an antique dealer, the golem is used as a menial servant. Eventually falling in love with the dealer's wife, it goes on a murderous rampage when its love for her goes unanswered."
For the record:
Alas, it would appear that a complete version of this film is lost to history. I have read (on IMDB.com) that perhaps a small section of the original film has been found.
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in the United Kingdom), the Big Top was opened for business with the theatrical release of Circus Of Horrors. Directed by Sidney Hayers from a story by George Baxt, the Horror/Fantasy starred Anton Diffring, Erika Remberg, and Yvonne Monlaur. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Rossiter, a plastic surgeon wanted by the police, flees to France and under an assumed name acquires, by murder, a run-down circus. His first recruit is a woman criminal. He transforms her face by surgery and trains her."
"Dr. Rossiter, a plastic surgeon wanted by the police, flees to France and under an assumed name acquires, by murder, a run-down circus. His first recruit is a woman criminal. He transforms her face by surgery and trains her."
On this day in 1964 (in France), Panic In Year Zero struck theatrically. Screenwriters Jay Simms and John Morton adapted stories from writer Ward Moore for the script, and the project was directed by star Ray Miilland. The Apocalypse/Drama also starred Jean Hagen, Mary Mitchel, and Frankie Avalon; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A family leaves L.A. for a camping trip - just before a nuclear bomb destroys the city. As the city descends into chaos, the father must fight to keep his family alive."
"A family leaves L.A. for a camping trip - just before a nuclear bomb destroys the city. As the city descends into chaos, the father must fight to keep his family alive."
A star is born! On this day in 1970 (in the U.S.), audiences were taken to the ultimate briefing involving Colossus: The Forbin Project. Directed by Joseph Sargent from a script by James Bridges and D.F. Jones, the SciFi/Thriller starred Eric Braeden, Susan Clark, and Gordon Pinsent. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Thinking this will prevent war, the US government gives an impenetrable supercomputer total control over launching nuclear missiles. But what the computer does with the power is unimaginable to its creators."
For the record:
For the 1971 Hugo Awards, Colossus was colossal as it scored an award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Thinking this will prevent war, the US government gives an impenetrable supercomputer total control over launching nuclear missiles. But what the computer does with the power is unimaginable to its creators."
For the record:
For the 1971 Hugo Awards, Colossus was colossal as it scored an award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1977, audiences in New York City were treated to the big screen premiere of Demon Seed. Robert Jaffe and Roger O. Hirson adapted the novel from Dean R. Koontz, and the feature was directed by Donald Cammell. The Horror/SciFi starred Julie Christie, Fritz Weaver, and Gerrit Graham; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist creates Proteus--an organic super computer with artificial intelligence which becomes obsessed with human beings, and in particular the creators wife."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film received nominations for 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Alas, it didn't go home with any trophies.
"A scientist creates Proteus--an organic super computer with artificial intelligence which becomes obsessed with human beings, and in particular the creators wife."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film received nominations for 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Alas, it didn't go home with any trophies.
A star is born! On this day in 1977 (in Canada and the U.S.), Rabid tried to take a bite out of the box office. Written and directed by David Cronenberg, the Horror/Fantasy starred Marilyn Chambers, Frank Moore, and Joe Silver. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman develops a taste for human blood after experimental plastic surgery, and her victims turn into blood-thirsty zombies, leading into a city-wide epidemic."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rabid earned an extra bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A young woman develops a taste for human blood after experimental plastic surgery, and her victims turn into blood-thirsty zombies, leading into a city-wide epidemic."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rabid earned an extra bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1981 (in France), the Roger Corman produced Battle Beyond The Stars enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Corman and Jimmy T. Murakami, the feature starred Richard Thomas, John Saxon, and Robert Vaughn; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A young farmer sets out to recruit mercenaries to defend his peaceful planet, which is under threat of invasion by the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
"A young farmer sets out to recruit mercenaries to defend his peaceful planet, which is under threat of invasion by the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
A star is born ... but this one looks a little dead! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Bad Dreams came awake ... well, theatrically, that is. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Fleming, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jennifer Rubin, Bruce Abbott, and Richard Lynch. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The lone survivor of a suicide cult wakes from a thirteen-year coma in a psychiatric ward, where other patients suddenly start dying under mysterious and gruesome circumstances."
"The lone survivor of a suicide cult wakes from a thirteen-year coma in a psychiatric ward, where other patients suddenly start dying under mysterious and gruesome circumstances."
On this day in 1988 (in Mobile, Alabama), Uninvited showed up without any invite from moviegoers. Written and directed by Greydon Clark, the feature starred Alex Cord, George Kennedy, and Toni Hudson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A sinister corporation loses control of a house cat infected with a genetically engineered virus. The death toll rises during the mutant feline's rampage and, eventually, it finds its way on board the yacht of a criminal kingpin."
For the record:
I'm not entirely certain when Uninvited may have had its first theatrical engagement. IMDB.com cites 1987 as its original year of release, but the citation lacks a specific date. Nevertheless, I'll keep searching ...
"A sinister corporation loses control of a house cat infected with a genetically engineered virus. The death toll rises during the mutant feline's rampage and, eventually, it finds its way on board the yacht of a criminal kingpin."
For the record:
I'm not entirely certain when Uninvited may have had its first theatrical engagement. IMDB.com cites 1987 as its original year of release, but the citation lacks a specific date. Nevertheless, I'll keep searching ...
On this day in 1989 (in Taiwan), the SciFi/Comedy My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed its theatrical release. The feature starred Dan Aykroyd and Kim Basinger, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"An alien is sent on a secret mission to Earth, where she appears as a gorgeous, attractive, and single lady. Her mission is to make contact with a rather nerdy young scientist, who's quite overwhelmed by her attentions, and isn't aware of the connection between her arrival and his work."
For the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of being provided a complimentary Blu-ray copy of the film by the folks at Arrow Video. Interested in what I thought of the film? You can check out my review right here.
"An alien is sent on a secret mission to Earth, where she appears as a gorgeous, attractive, and single lady. Her mission is to make contact with a rather nerdy young scientist, who's quite overwhelmed by her attentions, and isn't aware of the connection between her arrival and his work."
For the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of being provided a complimentary Blu-ray copy of the film by the folks at Arrow Video. Interested in what I thought of the film? You can check out my review right here.
On this day in 1994 (in Spain), Contamination 7 (aka The Crawlers) crawled into theatres. The SciFi/Horror feature starred Mary Sellers and Bubba Reeves, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"People from a small town are attacked by evil radioactive tree roots growing in the forest."
"People from a small town are attacked by evil radioactive tree roots growing in the forest."
On this day in 1995 (in South Korea), the SciFi/Action film Automatic opened theatrically. The feature starred Olivier Gruner and Daphne Ashbrook, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Robgen industries newest security system is "The J Series Automatic", an android model designed and programmed to protect humans from violent attacks. But one night, an Automatic named J269 discovers a Robgen executive trying to rape a female employee named Nora Rochester. While trying to stop the crime, he inadvertently kills the executive. At this point, J269 then calls Goddard Marx (his creator and a Robgen chairman) to inform him of the incident. Marx tells the android to stay there with Rochester until help arrives, but Marx is intent on sweeping the fiasco under the rug by sending mercenaries to eliminate both J269 and Rochester. Now the two are fugitives on the run from a para-military hit squad."
"Robgen industries newest security system is "The J Series Automatic", an android model designed and programmed to protect humans from violent attacks. But one night, an Automatic named J269 discovers a Robgen executive trying to rape a female employee named Nora Rochester. While trying to stop the crime, he inadvertently kills the executive. At this point, J269 then calls Goddard Marx (his creator and a Robgen chairman) to inform him of the incident. Marx tells the android to stay there with Rochester until help arrives, but Marx is intent on sweeping the fiasco under the rug by sending mercenaries to eliminate both J269 and Rochester. Now the two are fugitives on the run from a para-military hit squad."
A star is born! On this day in 1996 (in Greece), The Silencers made some noise with its release in the home video marketplace. Directed by Richard Pepin, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jack Scalia, Dennis Christopher, and Carlos Lauchu; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Special Agent Rafferty is thrown into a maelstrom of action and intrigue when he identifies a mysterious alien race who are on a mission to invade Earth."
"Special Agent Rafferty is thrown into a maelstrom of action and intrigue when he identifies a mysterious alien race who are on a mission to invade Earth."
It's hard to get more Fantasy-focused than any of the variations on Arthurian legends, and on this day in 2001 (in Germany) the Fantasy-themed telefilm Arthur's Quest churned out yet another exploration of them. This incarnation starred Eric Christian Olsen and Catherine Oxenburg, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"To escape the clutches of the evil warrior and sorceress Morgana, Merlin transports young King Arthur into modern day America. When Merlin comes back ten years later to retrieve him, he finds a hip 15 year-old Arthur who does not believe Merlin, nor does he want to return to the past. Merlin must convince Arthur of his true identity, before Morgana can retrieve Excalibur and allow the Dark Forces to take over the world."
"To escape the clutches of the evil warrior and sorceress Morgana, Merlin transports young King Arthur into modern day America. When Merlin comes back ten years later to retrieve him, he finds a hip 15 year-old Arthur who does not believe Merlin, nor does he want to return to the past. Merlin must convince Arthur of his true identity, before Morgana can retrieve Excalibur and allow the Dark Forces to take over the world."
On this day in 2008, Alien Agent enjoyed its U.S. home video debut. Directed by Jesse V. Johnson, the SciFi feature starred Mark Dacascos and Amelia Cooke, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a group of alien agents from a dying planet come to Earth under the leadership of Isis to build a portal to connect both worlds, the warrior Rykker opposes the invaders and defends the earthlings. He rescues the teenager Julie, whose family was murdered by the invaders, and together they try to destroy the portal and avoid the invasion commanded by the cruel Saylon."
"When a group of alien agents from a dying planet come to Earth under the leadership of Isis to build a portal to connect both worlds, the warrior Rykker opposes the invaders and defends the earthlings. He rescues the teenager Julie, whose family was murdered by the invaders, and together they try to destroy the portal and avoid the invasion commanded by the cruel Saylon."
On this day in 2011 (in Norway), the Alien Invasion flick Battle Los Angeles enjoyed a run at the theatres. The feature starred Aaron Eckhart and Michelle Rodriguez, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A squad of U.S. Marines becomes the last line of defense against a global invasion."
For the record:
The film enjoyed a handful of screen nominations as well as a single win (for composer Brian Tyler). Talk was strong for some time promising a sequel, but to date there's been no follow-up.
"A squad of U.S. Marines becomes the last line of defense against a global invasion."
For the record:
The film enjoyed a handful of screen nominations as well as a single win (for composer Brian Tyler). Talk was strong for some time promising a sequel, but to date there's been no follow-up.
On this day in 2014, Apocalypse Kiss planted a big wet one on moviegoers. Written and directed by Christian Grillo, the SciFi feature starred D.C. Douglas and Carmela Hayslett, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In this futuristic science fiction thriller, government security agent Jerry Hipple has been unsuccessfully tracking the city's most infamous criminal The Red Harvest Killer. When two nomadic lovers, Katia and Gladys enter the city the death count rises and are being credited as Red Harvest killings. Obsessive compulsive Adrian, the actual Red Harvest Killer becomes furious that the sexy serial killing duo are grabbing media attention under his alias. Not only does Adrian attempt to reclaim his rightful reputation but he also decides to cleverly aid his detective counterpart through the case. All the while, killers and victims alike are unaware the world is about to reach an abrupt catastrophic ending."
"In this futuristic science fiction thriller, government security agent Jerry Hipple has been unsuccessfully tracking the city's most infamous criminal The Red Harvest Killer. When two nomadic lovers, Katia and Gladys enter the city the death count rises and are being credited as Red Harvest killings. Obsessive compulsive Adrian, the actual Red Harvest Killer becomes furious that the sexy serial killing duo are grabbing media attention under his alias. Not only does Adrian attempt to reclaim his rightful reputation but he also decides to cleverly aid his detective counterpart through the case. All the while, killers and victims alike are unaware the world is about to reach an abrupt catastrophic ending."
On this day in 2016, Prisoner X escaped its confines and startled audiences, playing for folks in attendance of the Palm Beach International Film Festival. The feature starred Michelle Nolden and Julian Richings, and here's the plot summary compliments of our friends at IMDB.com:
"As the world rages in war and civil strife, a CIA agent arrives at a secret underground prison to interrogate a time-traveling terrorist, who she believes is responsible for the unfolding catastrophe."
ExtraExtra Alert:
If you'd like to know more, then check out E. Lee Zimmerman's exclusive review on SciFiHistory.Net right here.
"As the world rages in war and civil strife, a CIA agent arrives at a secret underground prison to interrogate a time-traveling terrorist, who she believes is responsible for the unfolding catastrophe."
ExtraExtra Alert:
If you'd like to know more, then check out E. Lee Zimmerman's exclusive review on SciFiHistory.Net right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Canada), the Family/Fantasy Into The Rainbow played for audiences as the TIFF KIDS film festival. Directed by Norman Stone and Gary Wing-Lun Mak, the feature starred Willow Shields, Archie Kao, and Chelsie Florence. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When teenagers Rachel and Grace travel inside a super-powered rainbow to China, they disturb nature's balance. Using Rachel's connection to the energy of the rainbow and with help from their new friend Xiao Cheng, they must race against time to save the Earth."
"When teenagers Rachel and Grace travel inside a super-powered rainbow to China, they disturb nature's balance. Using Rachel's connection to the energy of the rainbow and with help from their new friend Xiao Cheng, they must race against time to save the Earth."
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), Axcellerator enjoyed bold, new life with an internet streaming release. Written (in part) and directed by David Giancola, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ryan Wesen, Mark Keppel, and John James. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a young car thief stumbles on the invention of the century (and the various government agencies that want to kill him), he and a sassy checkout clerk named Kate have the adventure of a lifetime."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Axcellerator earned a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"When a young car thief stumbles on the invention of the century (and the various government agencies that want to kill him), he and a sassy checkout clerk named Kate have the adventure of a lifetime."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Axcellerator earned a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2021 (in Brazil, Spain, and the United Kingdom), The Power served up a dose of social justice by way of its Horror/Fantasy mix. Written and directed by Corinna Faith, the feature starred Rose Williams, Marley Chesham, and Diveen Henry; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"1974: a young nurse is forced to work the night shift in a crumbling hospital as striking miners switch off the power across Britain. But inside the walls lurks a terrifying presence that threatens to consume her and everyone around her."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Power enjoyed a 2022 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Streaming Movie Premiere.' Also, producer Rob Watson enjoyed a 2021 British Independent Film Awards nomination in the category of 'Breakthrough Producer.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
If you're interested in knowing a bit more, then check out my review of the feature film right here.
"1974: a young nurse is forced to work the night shift in a crumbling hospital as striking miners switch off the power across Britain. But inside the walls lurks a terrifying presence that threatens to consume her and everyone around her."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Power enjoyed a 2022 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Streaming Movie Premiere.' Also, producer Rob Watson enjoyed a 2021 British Independent Film Awards nomination in the category of 'Breakthrough Producer.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
If you're interested in knowing a bit more, then check out my review of the feature film right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), Alien Sniperess took a shot at greatness with its release via streaming. Written and directed by Joseph Mbah, the SciFi/Thriller starred Olivia Okoro, Sean Laguna, and Doug Savage. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Follows a female sniper on military leave who encounters a hostile alien invasion and must save countless lives."
"Follows a female sniper on military leave who encounters a hostile alien invasion and must save countless lives."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Faceless Ones: Part 1." Officially, this served as the thirty-first episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS materialises on the runway of Gatwick Airport, where Polly witnesses a murder only to be kidnapped before she can report it."
"The TARDIS materialises on the runway of Gatwick Airport, where Polly witnesses a murder only to be kidnapped before she can report it."
On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), The Greatest American Hero aired "Saturday Night On Sunset Boulevard." This served as the fourth episode to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"FBI agents and Russian killers pursue a man and woman, Ralph's students are disillusioned and preparing to drop out of school, and Bill is given a lie detector test where he is caught covering for his extra-terrestrial and super-suit escapades, causing him to be suspended from the FBI until he takes a follow-up test. Bill comes up with a plan to resolve the high-profile FBI case in order to buy himself out of the failed test predicament, enlisting Ralph and Pam to help him."
"FBI agents and Russian killers pursue a man and woman, Ralph's students are disillusioned and preparing to drop out of school, and Bill is given a lie detector test where he is caught covering for his extra-terrestrial and super-suit escapades, causing him to be suspended from the FBI until he takes a follow-up test. Bill comes up with a plan to resolve the high-profile FBI case in order to buy himself out of the failed test predicament, enlisting Ralph and Pam to help him."
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), The Powers of Matthew Star aired "Swords and Quests." This served as the twenty-first episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Walt looks for Matthew, who's busy playing a fantasy game that could kill him."
"Walt looks for Matthew, who's busy playing a fantasy game that could kill him."
It all began right here: on this day in 1990 (in Canada, Turkey, the Philippines, and the U.S.), David Lynch and Mark Frost's groundbreaking television ensemble Twin Peaks enjoyed its premiere on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The small northwest town of Twin Peaks, Washington is shaken up when the body of the Homecoming Queen, Laura Palmer, is discovered washed up on a riverbank, wrapped in plastic."
"The small northwest town of Twin Peaks, Washington is shaken up when the body of the Homecoming Queen, Laura Palmer, is discovered washed up on a riverbank, wrapped in plastic."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Quantum Leap aired "Moments to Live." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sam is kidnapped by an obsessed soap opera fan."
"Sam is kidnapped by an obsessed soap opera fan."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "Ceremonies of Light and Dark." This hour served as the eleventh episode to the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"After severing ties with Earth, the command staff must deal with some unexpected issues. Delenn suggests they go through a Minbari rebirth ceremony. Secrets are revealed, and hidden dangers are revealed as a group loyal to Clark takes Delenn hostage."
"After severing ties with Earth, the command staff must deal with some unexpected issues. Delenn suggests they go through a Minbari rebirth ceremony. Secrets are revealed, and hidden dangers are revealed as a group loyal to Clark takes Delenn hostage."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Tuvok crashlands on an alien world where he got to play 'dad' to three youngsters who seem very aware of their impending doom. The hour of Star Trek: Voyager was appropriately called "Innocence," and it served as the twenty-second episode to the second season.
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Rules of Engagement." This was the seventeenth episode of the show's fourth season, and here's the plot summary, compliments of our friends at TrekCore.com:
"While commanding the Defiant on a mission to escort a relief convoy to a plague-stricken Cardassian colony, Worf apparently destroyed a Klingon civilian transport which decloaked in the middle of a battle with two other Klingon ships. Now an extradition hearing is taking place on DS9, with Sisko defending Worf."
"While commanding the Defiant on a mission to escort a relief convoy to a plague-stricken Cardassian colony, Worf apparently destroyed a Klingon civilian transport which decloaked in the middle of a battle with two other Klingon ships. Now an extradition hearing is taking place on DS9, with Sisko defending Worf."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "The Ragged Edge." This served as the twelfth episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Garibaldi is sent to retrieve a witness to the shipping line attacks from the Drazi homeworld."
"Garibaldi is sent to retrieve a witness to the shipping line attacks from the Drazi homeworld."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), the nefarious Sloan was up to no good on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine with the airing of "Inquisition." This was the eighteenth episode of the show's sixth season, and here's the plot summary from TrekCore.com:
"Internal Affairs Officer Sloan arrives on the station, announcing that there has been a possible security breach. He believes an officer may be passing information to the Dominion. The crew soon realise that the object of Sloan's suspicion is Doctor Bashir."
"Internal Affairs Officer Sloan arrives on the station, announcing that there has been a possible security breach. He believes an officer may be passing information to the Dominion. The crew soon realise that the object of Sloan's suspicion is Doctor Bashir."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Three Words." This was the sixteenth episode of the program's eighth season, and it guest starred Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan's Judson Scott in a key role. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man is shot on the White House lawn with a disk titled "Fight the Future"; Mulder, on the brink of expulsion from the X-Files, investigates while Doggett uses an old friend from the military, Knowle Rohrer, as an insider to the possibility of a conspiracy."
"A man is shot on the White House lawn with a disk titled "Fight the Future"; Mulder, on the brink of expulsion from the X-Files, investigates while Doggett uses an old friend from the military, Knowle Rohrer, as an insider to the possibility of a conspiracy."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "The Things We Cannot Change." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While investigating a black hole, the Maru suffers a hull breach with Dylan on board. He wakes up to find himself in bed with his wife, his son charging into the room excited about his ballgame. Meanwhile, the crew of the Andromeda attempt to recover Dylan and the Maru. Dylan has flashbacks to his time on the Andromeda, while his wife pressures him to retire from the High Guard."
"While investigating a black hole, the Maru suffers a hull breach with Dylan on board. He wakes up to find himself in bed with his wife, his son charging into the room excited about his ballgame. Meanwhile, the crew of the Andromeda attempt to recover Dylan and the Maru. Dylan has flashbacks to his time on the Andromeda, while his wife pressures him to retire from the High Guard."
On this day in 2002 (in Australia), The Lost World aired "The Imposters." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"New characters enter the plateau and it would appear that one of Challengers team now might be possessed by the Devil."
"New characters enter the plateau and it would appear that one of Challengers team now might be possessed by the Devil."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "Totaled Recall." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dylan is gravely wounded in a lab accident, but wakes up in the bar with Harper telling bad jokes. He is confronted by a man who is wielding Dylan's force-lances and delivers a cryptic message. After a quick fight with Dylan, the man drops to the floor without apparent cause, but returns in the guise of Rhade to catch Dylan off guard, killing him swiftly. Dylan awakens on med-deck but finds that he has returned just after the accident and does not remember Trance."
"Dylan is gravely wounded in a lab accident, but wakes up in the bar with Harper telling bad jokes. He is confronted by a man who is wielding Dylan's force-lances and delivers a cryptic message. After a quick fight with Dylan, the man drops to the floor without apparent cause, but returns in the guise of Rhade to catch Dylan off guard, killing him swiftly. Dylan awakens on med-deck but finds that he has returned just after the accident and does not remember Trance."
On this day in 2009 (in Australia), Stormworld aired "Callaghan." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"The boys have to hide the Cougar from the searching Drogue. Jason hits upon a brilliant idea. Scuttle the Cougar. While going about this idea, they discover a man named Callaghan, another access crasher."
"The boys have to hide the Cougar from the searching Drogue. Jason hits upon a brilliant idea. Scuttle the Cougar. While going about this idea, they discover a man named Callaghan, another access crasher."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Turn, Turn, Turn." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"S.H.I.E.L.D. has been compromised by an old enemy. The team doesn't know whom to trust."
"S.H.I.E.L.D. has been compromised by an old enemy. The team doesn't know whom to trust."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Timeless aired "The Salem Witch Hunt." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While Wyatt sneaks away from the bunker to face an unbelievable truth, Lucy, Rufus and their former enemy-turned- teammate, Garcia Flynn, chase the Mothership to the Salem Witch Trials."
"While Wyatt sneaks away from the bunker to face an unbelievable truth, Lucy, Rufus and their former enemy-turned- teammate, Garcia Flynn, chase the Mothership to the Salem Witch Trials."
