I've often read that many credit Hollywood heavyweight Cecil B. DeMille for putting Tinseltown truly on the artistic map. He's often credited with creating the big budget, lavishly decorated motion pictures, and -- little did I know -- very late in his life he made some incredible contributions to genre entertainment by doing some uncredited production work to standouts like When Worlds Collide (1951) and The War Of The Worlds (1953). Huh. I guess you do learn something new every day ... if you're looking for it. Though he's no longer with us, DeMille was born on this day in 1881.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional release of When Worlds Collide (1951) 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 promotional release of When Worlds Collide (1951) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Acting legend Jane Wyatt played Mr. Spock's human mother Amanda on the small screen and thankfully producers sought her out to reprise the role briefly on the big screen in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. Though she's no longer with us, Wyatt was born on this day in 1910.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Samuel Fuller is revered is certain circles for his contribution to the great noir films of the 1940's and 1950's, and late in his life -- I'm supposing because one wants to keep busy as well as pay the bills -- he turned his attention toward acting in some small roles. Genre fans might be able to catch glimpses of this genius in such projects as Slapstick Of Another Kind (1982) and A Return To Salem's Lot (1987). Though he's no longer with us, Fuller was born on this day in 1912.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Amongst the diehard Trek enthusiasts, the name of Matt Jefferies is a bit of a legend ... and that's deservedly so. According to IMDB.com, Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry approached the artist with the hope for him to design a little something-something called the U.S.S. Enterprise for his forthcoming 'wagon train to the stars' show; and the iconic drawing certainly set the stage for so much of what was to follow in one of entertainment's most beloved franchises. He served as the original program's art direction for the duration of its run on television. Though he's no longer with us, Jefferies was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1969, Jefferies enjoyed a Primetime Emmys Award nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Achievement In Art Direction And Scenic Design' for his work aboard the Star Trek Episode "All Our Yesterdays."
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1969, Jefferies enjoyed a Primetime Emmys Award nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Achievement In Art Direction And Scenic Design' for his work aboard the Star Trek Episode "All Our Yesterdays."
Douglas Croft was the first actor given the opportunity to suit up in the guise of 'Dick Grayson' (aka Robin) for his work aboard the 1943 cinematic serial incarnation of DC Comics' legendary Batman. Though he's no longer with us, Croft was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The very talented writer, director, and producer Dan Curtis is another name that is kinda/sorta lost to history at this point, and that's very sad. Under the man's leadership, audiences were treated to such properties as Dark Shadows, The Night Stalker, and Supertrain, along with an incredible handful of other frightening screen journeys. Though he's no longer with us, Curtis was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1977 Saturn Awards, Curtis took home top honors in the category of 'Best Director' for his work in bringing Burnt Offerings (1976) to life on the big screen.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Burnt Offerings from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1977 Saturn Awards, Curtis took home top honors in the category of 'Best Director' for his work in bringing Burnt Offerings (1976) to life on the big screen.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Burnt Offerings from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Oy vey: I've suffered a lot of grief over the years thanks to my less-than-impressed opinion of Luc Besson's SciFi flick, The Fifth Element. The best I can honestly say of the film is that Besson once said in an interview that he originally wrote the film in high school and I replied that "it plays like a film written by a high schooler." Ahem. In any event, I did appreciate some of the performances, including John Bluthal's turn as Professor Pacoli. Though he's no longer with us, Bluthal was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I'm always apt to warn new readers: don't always look for my personal tastes in movies to align with yours. For instance, mankind seems to have fallen head-over-heels in love with 1987's The Princess Bride, the comic Fantasy originally penned and adapted for the screen by William Goldman. I didn't hate it, but it never quite tickled my fancy the way it has others. I'm far more inclined to remember him for his earlier foray into an examination of womanhood, namely The Stepford Wives (1975) adaptation of the Ira Levin novel. For the record, he does share a Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' with Rob Reiner for their Bride script, but I still prefer Stepford. It's much more incisive. Though he's no longer with us, Goldman was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD copy of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD copy of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Apparently, Carol Eve Rossen discovered that powers of the human mind were nothing to be monkeyed around with for her work aboard Brian De Palma's The Fury (1978). As for other appearances in the realms of the Fantastic? Fans might catch glimpses of the lady at work in such projects as The Twilight Zone, The Invaders, and The Stepford Wives (1975). Rossen was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
The venerable Oliver Ford Davies delivered some much needed gravitats to Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace in the role of Sio Bibble, the governor of Naboo. Davies was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, God bless our gingers! The lovely Deborah Walley was not only an actress but also dabbled as an author and producer. Though she's probably remembered by a certain generation for her work in a Gidget film, genre fans might recognize her for appearances in Dr. Goldfoot And The Bikini Machine (1965) and The Ghost In The Invisible Bikini (1966). Though she's no longer with us, Walley was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Star Trek's third season wasn't its best, but producers still managed to cast some of Hollywood's loveliest ladies in its guest and supporting roles. Chalk up one more vote for Lezlie Dalton as she took the wheel of the Enterprise itself for a single outing titled "By Any Other Name." Dalton was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alas, I can't tell you all that much about international actress Iris Berben. Her IMDB.com looks pretty vast, but much of it is written in German; though I took a few semesters of it in college, I'm hardly that advanced to read most of it. In any event, I do know that early in her professional career, one of the first gigs she enjoyed was as a wandering maiden with a perhaps mystical past aboard Supergirl - The Girl From The Stars (1971). Just so you know, the property has absolutely nothing to do with the comic book property. Berben was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Never ever underestimate Jim Beaver. He's a phenomenal character actor who has an impressive career in all kinds of quality projects on television and beyond. Though he's built a huge following from appearances on Supernatural, SciFi fans might know him more from Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, The X-Files, 3rd Rock From The Sun, Star Trek: Enterprise, Tremors, Day Break, and The Boys. Beaver was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com has it correctly, then it would appear that Teddi Siddall got her professional start in a first season episode of the fondly remembered Buck Rogers In The 25th Century. Though she's no longer with us, Siddall was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've said it before, and here I am saying it again: I'm one of the rare few that actually thinks 1980's Flash Gordon remains a work of unbridled camp genius, and Sam J. Jones ruled that flick. For a generation of viewers, he's as much a diehard space hero as is Luke Skywalker, and that's no mistake. Jones was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards, Jones was awarded a special trophy in the category of 'Best New Star Award.'
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards, Jones was awarded a special trophy in the category of 'Best New Star Award.'
In the original Star Trek (the television series), the character of Christopher Pike was basically reduced to that of a legend without all of the accompanying gravitas: bound to a high-tech wheelchair and only legitimately appearing in TAS's only two-parter ("The Menagerie"), Pike was an earlier captain of the USS Enterprise who earned the loyalty and respect of his Science Officer, a young Mr. Spock.
However, Pike was given very good (for the most part) big screen treatment with the JJ Abrams' reboot of our beloved franchise. Veteran character actor Bruce Greenwood was brought in, and, with his performance, Pike came to life for a whole new generation of fans even if it meant kinda/sorta tweaking long-time Trek enthusiasts in favor of the new timeline.
Greenwood was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
However, Pike was given very good (for the most part) big screen treatment with the JJ Abrams' reboot of our beloved franchise. Veteran character actor Bruce Greenwood was brought in, and, with his performance, Pike came to life for a whole new generation of fans even if it meant kinda/sorta tweaking long-time Trek enthusiasts in favor of the new timeline.
Greenwood was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning international actor Isaach De Bankolé enjoyed a bit of superhero exposure with a small role aboard Marvel's Black Panther (2018). Bankolé was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he's known far more for his work in more mainstream dramas and comedies, Peter Krause dabbled in the realm of SciFi and Fantasy with a prominent role in the Syfy Channel miniseries, The Lost Room. Krause was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Brent Sexton is one of those fabulous character actors who does an amazing job in every genre. He hasn't done much in the realm of Science Fiction, but appearances aboard The X-Files, A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001), and NBC's short-lived Surface definitely qualify him for a birthday shout-out today. Sexton was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Katherine Kendall has dabbled in the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy with roles aboard such projects as Firefly and Flatland. Kendall was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Seriously, I was all in favor of ABC TV's reboot/continuation of the V SciFi franchise, but what they came up with just wasn't for me, I guess. I liked the characters all well and good, but the storylines just never caught fire, not in the same way that the original mini-series and series did. Charles Mesure was one of the regulars, and Mesure was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in her acting career, Rebecca Gayheart joined Luke Perry and Kim Cattrall in the SciFi TV miniseries, Invasion. Still, diehard SciFi fans probably remember her most for her role aboard the short-lived Earth 2. Gayheart was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critical darling Casey Affleck joined similar critical darling Matthew McConaughey in Christopher Nolan's Interstellar (2014). Affleck was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The dreamily sexy Maggie Lawson got something nefarious on her hand when she joined the WB's Smallville for an episode back in that program's second season. Lawson was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mind you, Dominique Swain is definitely not known for Science Fiction. Rather, she's typically cast more in the sultry young woman role, but -- every now and then -- even those types end up in a good or at least interesting SciFi program. That said, the lovely lady popped up in 2012's thriller that sought to answer what really happened after World War II ended in the aptly titled Nazis at the Center of the Earth. Swain was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The multi-talented Carrie Jo Crosby never lets an opportunity go to waste. Though her genre credentials might be a bit slim, she continues to impress whenever given the chance. Also, she's provided voicework for a few projects that definitely fall into the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy, and Crosby was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Steve Talley brought a measure of scientific maturity to his portrayal of 'Kyle Wick' on the CW's The 100, a teen-filled tale of Earth's Apocalyptic future tht was one of the best guilty pleasures on television for a time. Talley was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Georgia-born Erin Bethea took to the Final Frontier for a small role aboard the Indie/SciFi feature Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter (2016) for Empire Motion Pictures. Bethea was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter (2016) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter (2016) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
If IMDB.com is correct, then it would seem that actress and artist Elisabetta Fantone enjoyed her silver screen debut in a small background role aboard The Adventures Of Pluto Nash (2002) for Warner Bros. Fantone was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and activist Jade Tailor left her mark on fandom with a top role aboard The Magicians durings its run on television. Tailor was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Just a few short years before COVID unleashed a real pandemic on mankind, the lovely Electra Avellan braved her own (albeit fictional) one aboard the web-based SciFi serial Day 5. She also enjoyed a bit of screen time in Planet Terror (2007) for good measure. Avellan was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Russian actress Sofya Skya continues to impress men and women alike with her ability to assume almost any identity. Genre fans might recognize her from such projects as The Tomb (2009), Coven (2020), and The Challenge (2023). Skya was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Singer and actress Ashley Cordelia's resume continues to grow. With a professional debut back in 2012, she's quickly dabbled in a variety of projects big and small, many of them with some strong genre leanings. Fans might recognize her from an appearance in Mermaid Down (2019) for Grellman Film. Cordelia was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sassy and she knows it Leah Pipes joined Summer Glau for a few episodes of Fox TV's interesting Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles back in 2008. Pipes was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aisling Knight found herself in a world of darkness, it would seem, with her work aboard the Horror/Fantasy The Sitter (2019) for Sinister House Films. IMDB.com also indicates that she's dabbled in a bit of Special Effects work for the Steven Spielberg opus Ready Player One (2018). Knight was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
It's yet to be proven that Cara Delevingne can be a driving force in the modern age of Science Fiction, but the odds are certainly looking promising: she's currently hard at work filming the big budget serial -- Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets -- for famed director Luc Besson. She also had a central role aboard the 2016 version of Suicide Squad. Delevingne was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actress' credit, Delevingne enjoyed a pair of nominations from the Teen Choice Awards -- in the category of 'Choice Movie Actress' -- for her work in both Suicide Squad and Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actress' credit, Delevingne enjoyed a pair of nominations from the Teen Choice Awards -- in the category of 'Choice Movie Actress' -- for her work in both Suicide Squad and Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets.
A star is born! On this day in 1941 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagement of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde. Directed by Victor Fleming and based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, the Horror/Fantasy starred Spencer Tracy, Ingrid Bergman, and Lana Turner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Jekyll allows his dark side to run wild after he drinks a potion that turns him into the evil Mr. Hyde."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde enjoyed three 1942 Academy Awards nominations: "Best Music," "Best Editing," and "Best Cinematography - Black And White."
"Dr. Jekyll allows his dark side to run wild after he drinks a potion that turns him into the evil Mr. Hyde."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde enjoyed three 1942 Academy Awards nominations: "Best Music," "Best Editing," and "Best Cinematography - Black And White."
A star is born ... and this one was Back From The Dead! On this day in 1957 (in the U.S.), Back From The Dead came crawling back from a condition known as death. Directed by Charles Marquis Warren from a story by Catherine Turney, the Horror/Fantasy starred Peggie Castle, Arthur Franz, and Marsha Hunt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A newly married young woman is possessed by the evil spirt of her husband's deceased first wife. The possession turns her into a scheming killer who will stop at nothing to get what she wants."
"A newly married young woman is possessed by the evil spirt of her husband's deceased first wife. The possession turns her into a scheming killer who will stop at nothing to get what she wants."
A star is born ... and look out behind you! On this day in 1957, The Unknown Terror made itself known, theatrically. Directed by Charles Marquis Warren from a story by Kenneth Higgins, the SciFi/Horror feature starred Mala Powers, John Howard, and Paul Richards. Here's the plot summary as provided on IMDB.com:
"A woman leads an expedition into a remote jungle to find her long-lost brother, but instead finds a mad scientist who has created a fungus monster that feeds on the local inhabitants."
"A woman leads an expedition into a remote jungle to find her long-lost brother, but instead finds a mad scientist who has created a fungus monster that feeds on the local inhabitants."
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in Italy), Black Sunday enjoyed its unveiling to the masses with an exclusive theatrical premiere. Directed by Mario Bava, the Horror/Fantasy starred Barbara Steele, John Richardson, and Ivo Garrani. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Decades after being executed for witchcraft, vengeful Princess Asa Vajda and her fiendish servant are resurrected and begin a bloody campaign to possess the body of Asa Vajda's beautiful look-alike descendant Princess Katia."
For the record:
At the 2008 Saturn Awards, Black Sunday was part of 'The Mario Bava Collection' -- an all-new home video release -- that took home top honors in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"Decades after being executed for witchcraft, vengeful Princess Asa Vajda and her fiendish servant are resurrected and begin a bloody campaign to possess the body of Asa Vajda's beautiful look-alike descendant Princess Katia."
For the record:
At the 2008 Saturn Awards, Black Sunday was part of 'The Mario Bava Collection' -- an all-new home video release -- that took home top honors in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in Italy), Goliath And The Dragon first roared ... well, cinematically, that is. Directed by Vittorio Cottafavi, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Mark Forest, Broderick Crawford, and Gaby Andre. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A warrior returning home to his country must battle giant bats, three-headed dogs and a vicious dragon to save his wife, and his people, from the machinations of an evil ruler."
"A warrior returning home to his country must battle giant bats, three-headed dogs and a vicious dragon to save his wife, and his people, from the machinations of an evil ruler."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in Italy), audiences were taken on another spy mission with the theatrical release of The Spy Who Loved Flowers (aka Le spie amano i fiori). Written and directed by Umberto Lenzi, the SciFi/Thriller starred Roger Browne, Emma Danieli, and Daniele Vargas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After retrieving an electronic device that can shut off the power of entire cities, secret agent SuperSeven is assigned to eliminate the only 3 remaining persons who have knowledge of the device."
"After retrieving an electronic device that can shut off the power of entire cities, secret agent SuperSeven is assigned to eliminate the only 3 remaining persons who have knowledge of the device."
On this day in 1977 (in Canada), someone had been very, very bad, it would seem, with the theatrical release of Lisa And The Devil. Written (in part) and directed by Mario Bava, the Horror/Thriller starred Telly Savalas, Elke Sommer, and Sylva Koscina. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A tourist spends the night in a derelict Spanish villa seemingly held in the supernatural grip of an eccentric butler, who resembles a depiction of the Devil she had seen on an ancient fresco."
For the record:
To the film's credit, the film earned a bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A tourist spends the night in a derelict Spanish villa seemingly held in the supernatural grip of an eccentric butler, who resembles a depiction of the Devil she had seen on an ancient fresco."
For the record:
To the film's credit, the film earned a bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1978 (in Finland), audiences felt a Crash! (Cinematically, that is.) Directed by genre legend Charles Band, the Horror/Fantasy starred José Ferrer, Sue Lyon, and John Ericson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a woman is nearly killed in a car accident, a doctor investigates the collision, which points toward revenge, destruction, and occult."
"After a woman is nearly killed in a car accident, a doctor investigates the collision, which points toward revenge, destruction, and occult."
On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), Funeral Home first opened its door for theatrical business. Directed by William Fruet from a story by Ida Nelson, the Horror/Thriller starred Kay Hawtrey, Lesleh Donaldson, and Barry Morse. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman arrives at her grandmother's house, which used to be a funeral home, to help her turn the place into a bed-and-breakfast inn. After they open, however, guests begin disappearing or turning up dead."
"A young woman arrives at her grandmother's house, which used to be a funeral home, to help her turn the place into a bed-and-breakfast inn. After they open, however, guests begin disappearing or turning up dead."
On this day in 1982 (in Argentina), Capt. Kirk and company returned to the silver screen with the incredible Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan. Directed by Nicholas Meyer from a story by Gene Roddenberry, Jack B. Sowards, and Harve Bennett, the film starred William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and Ricardo Montalban. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
For the record:
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
For the record:
- At the 1983 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films), actor William Shatner took home the Saturn Award trophy in the category of 'Best Actor.' Walter Koenig enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.' Lastly, the film also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 1983 Hugo Awards, the film received a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
Continuing cinema's love affair with 'Jack The Ripper' style violence ... on this day in 1982 (in the Netherlands), The New York Ripper took audiences to the edge of a razor blade. Written (in part) and directed by Lucio Fulci, the Horror/Thriller starred Jack Hedley, Almanta Suska, and Howard Ross. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
On this day in 1983 (in Canada, the Philippines, and the U.S.), Cujo tried to take his bite out of the box office. Based on the novel by Stephen King, the film was directed by Lewis Teague and starred Dee Wallace, Daniel Hugh Kelly, and Danny Pintauro. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Cujo, a friendly St. Bernard, contracts rabies and conducts a reign of terror on a small American town."
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Cujo (1983) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Cujo, a friendly St. Bernard, contracts rabies and conducts a reign of terror on a small American town."
For the record:
- At the 1984 Saturn Awards, Cujo earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film.'
- At the 2024 Saturn Awards, an all-new home video release of Cujo earned a nomination in the category of 'Best 4K Home Video Release.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Cujo (1983) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born ... from mythology! On this day in 1983 (in Italy and West Germany), Hercules threw off his chains in lavish, cinematic spectacle. Written and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the Fantasy feature starred Lou Ferrigno, Sybil Danning, and Brad Harris. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... perhaps Mr. Ferrigno should've stayed content playing none other than the TV incarnation of The Incredible Hulk as opposed to signing aboard Cozzi's adaptation of one of the seminal strongmen from literature. The 1984 Razzie Awards christened him with the winning title of 'Worst New Star' for the effort. His co-star Danning didn't fare much better, taking home their coveted 'Worst Supporting Actress' (not for this film, however) in the same ceremony. Alas, the entire project had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Actor,' and 'Worst Picture.'
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... perhaps Mr. Ferrigno should've stayed content playing none other than the TV incarnation of The Incredible Hulk as opposed to signing aboard Cozzi's adaptation of one of the seminal strongmen from literature. The 1984 Razzie Awards christened him with the winning title of 'Worst New Star' for the effort. His co-star Danning didn't fare much better, taking home their coveted 'Worst Supporting Actress' (not for this film, however) in the same ceremony. Alas, the entire project had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Actor,' and 'Worst Picture.'
On this day in 1983 (in Ireland), The Beastmaster took his battle to the world of cinematic Fantasy. Written (in part) and directed by Don Coscarelli, the Fantasy featured starred Marc Singer, Tanya Roberts, and Rip Torn. (FYI: The screenplay was based on the novel by Andre Norton.) According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A sword-and-sorcery fantasy about a young man's search for revenge. Armed with supernatural powers, the handsome hero and his animal allies wage war against marauding forces."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beastmaster enjoyed a modest bit of praise on the film festival circuit. It was also the birth of a Fantasy franchise as two sequels would follow along with a somewhat rebooted TV series.
"A sword-and-sorcery fantasy about a young man's search for revenge. Armed with supernatural powers, the handsome hero and his animal allies wage war against marauding forces."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beastmaster enjoyed a modest bit of praise on the film festival circuit. It was also the birth of a Fantasy franchise as two sequels would follow along with a somewhat rebooted TV series.
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in Canada and the U.S.), The Man Who Wasn't There magically appeared in theaters. Directed by Bruce Malmuth, the SciFi/Comedy starred Steve Guttenberg, Jeffrey Tambor, and Lisa Langlois. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A State Department employee finds an egg-shaped device with a green fluid inside that makes the person who drinks it invisible. He finds himself being chased by foreign agents who want the substance."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of The Man Who Wasn't There from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"A State Department employee finds an egg-shaped device with a green fluid inside that makes the person who drinks it invisible. He finds himself being chased by foreign agents who want the substance."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of The Man Who Wasn't There from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Clean-up on aisle dead! Can I get a clean-up on aisle dead, please?" On this day in 1983 (in Portugal), The New York Ripper delivered yet one more dose of bloody violence for audiences to lap up. Written (in part) and directed by Lucio Fulci, the Horror/Thriller starred Jack Hedley, Almanta Suska, and Howard Ross. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
On this day in 1983 (in West Germany), Timerider: The Adventure Of Lyle Swann took audiences on a trip through time back to the Old West. Written (in part) and directed by William Dear, the SciFi/Comedy starred Fred Ward and Belinda Bauer, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Timerider earned a wee bit of praisie from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Timerider earned a wee bit of praisie from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Mac And Me brought another extraterrestrial visitor to cinematic life. Written (in part) and directed by Stewart Raffill, the SciFi/Comedy starred Christine Ebersole, Jonathan Ward, and Tina Caspary. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien trying to escape from NASA is befriended by a wheelchair-bound boy."
"An alien trying to escape from NASA is befriended by a wheelchair-bound boy."
On this day in 1991 (in Germany), critical darling Tom Hanks made a foray into the world of Fantasy with the release of Mazes And Monsters. Directed by Steven Hilliard Stern, the film also starred Wendy Crewson, David Wysocki, and Chris Makepeace. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Bound together by a desire to play 'Mazes and Monsters,' Robbie and his three college classmates decide to move the board game into the local legendary cavern."
"Bound together by a desire to play 'Mazes and Monsters,' Robbie and his three college classmates decide to move the board game into the local legendary cavern."
I personally know absolutely nothing about this movie, Mindwarp. There, I said it. But I wouldn't be doing my job as a steward of all things SciFi if I failed to report on it so here you go: it premiered on home video on this day back in 1992 (in the U.S.). Directed by Steve Barnett, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Bruce Campbell, Angus Scrimm, and Marta Martin. Here's a plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"In 2037, after a nuclear disaster has just about destroyed the Earth, the planet's remaining dwellers retreat to Inworld, an enclosed biosphere where computers control all aspects of life. But a beautiful young woman rebels against the Inworld's pre-fabricated existence and demands the right to experience "real" life. So the biosphere's System Operator exiles Judy to the mutant-ridden outside world. Once there, she is kidnapped by deformed cannibals who want her to breed with their evil leader. Will Judy be able to escape the horrors of this futuristic, toxic wasteland?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mindwarp enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"In 2037, after a nuclear disaster has just about destroyed the Earth, the planet's remaining dwellers retreat to Inworld, an enclosed biosphere where computers control all aspects of life. But a beautiful young woman rebels against the Inworld's pre-fabricated existence and demands the right to experience "real" life. So the biosphere's System Operator exiles Judy to the mutant-ridden outside world. Once there, she is kidnapped by deformed cannibals who want her to breed with their evil leader. Will Judy be able to escape the horrors of this futuristic, toxic wasteland?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mindwarp enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1994 (in Israel), RoboCop 3 went back into service protecting the good people of Detroit. Directed by Fred Dekker who collaborated with comics giant Frank Miller on the story and screenplay, the feature film starred Robert John Burke, Nancy Allen, and Mario Machado. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"RoboCop saves the day once more. This time the half man/half robot takes on ruthless developers who want to evict some people on 'their' land."
For the record:
I wouldn't exactly say that 'the third times a charm' for RoboCop as audiences and critics were largely disappointed with this outing. Not only did we lose the greater Peter Weller in the central role, but the script also kills off Murphy's parter, Anne Lewis (Nancy Allen). Still, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films gave it nominations (in 1994) for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"RoboCop saves the day once more. This time the half man/half robot takes on ruthless developers who want to evict some people on 'their' land."
For the record:
I wouldn't exactly say that 'the third times a charm' for RoboCop as audiences and critics were largely disappointed with this outing. Not only did we lose the greater Peter Weller in the central role, but the script also kills off Murphy's parter, Anne Lewis (Nancy Allen). Still, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films gave it nominations (in 1994) for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 1998 (in Italy), the good people of Florence were treated to their country's theatrical debut of the critically-acclaimed Open Your Eyes. Written (in part) and directed by Alejandro Amenábar, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Eduardo Noriega, Penélope Cruz, and Chete Lera. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A very handsome man finds the love of his life, but he suffers an accident and needs to have his face rebuilt by surgery after it is severely disfigured."
"A very handsome man finds the love of his life, but he suffers an accident and needs to have his face rebuilt by surgery after it is severely disfigured."
On this day in 2003 (in Oman), Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines charted a course no one quite saw coming in the Terminator universe. Directed by Jonathan Mostow, the film starred Arnold 'Screw Your Freedoms' Schwarzenegger, Kristanna Loken, Claire Danes, and Nick Stahl. Here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in Thailand and Puerto Rico), two of Science Fiction's biggest names came together with the release of AVP: Alien Vs Predator. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sanaa Lathan, Lance Henriksen, and Raoul Bova; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"During an archaeological expedition on Bouvetøya Island in Antarctica, a team of archaeologists and other scientists find themselves caught up in a battle between the two legends. Soon, the team realize that only one species can win."
For the record:
Talk about your open wounds? The 2005 Razzie Awards nominated AVP: Alien Vs Predator in the category of 'Worst Remake Or Sequel.' And the 2005 Fangoria Awards also nominated it for 'Worst Film.' And the 2004 Golden Schmoes Awards nominated it in their categories of 'Worst Movie Of The Year' and 'Biggest Disappointment Of The Year.' Ouch. That's gonna leave a mark!
"During an archaeological expedition on Bouvetøya Island in Antarctica, a team of archaeologists and other scientists find themselves caught up in a battle between the two legends. Soon, the team realize that only one species can win."
For the record:
Talk about your open wounds? The 2005 Razzie Awards nominated AVP: Alien Vs Predator in the category of 'Worst Remake Or Sequel.' And the 2005 Fangoria Awards also nominated it for 'Worst Film.' And the 2004 Golden Schmoes Awards nominated it in their categories of 'Worst Movie Of The Year' and 'Biggest Disappointment Of The Year.' Ouch. That's gonna leave a mark!
On this day in 2004 (in the Czech Republic), The Stepford Wives enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Frank Oz, the SciFi/Comedy starred Nicole Kidman and Matthew Broderick, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The secret to a Stepford wife lies behind the doors of the Men's Association."
"The secret to a Stepford wife lies behind the doors of the Men's Association."
On this day in 2005 (in Canada, Denmark, Taiwan, and the U.S.), The Skeleton Key was used to open the door ... to horror! Directed by Iain Softley from a story by Ehren Kruger, the feature film starred Kate Hudson, Peter Sarsgaard, and Joy Bryant. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A hospice nurse working at a spooky New Orleans plantation home finds herself entangled in a mystery involving the house's dark past."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards, actress Gena Rowland earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in the film. Also, the flick earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film.'
"A hospice nurse working at a spooky New Orleans plantation home finds herself entangled in a mystery involving the house's dark past."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards, actress Gena Rowland earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in the film. Also, the flick earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2010 (in Brazil, Indonesia, Poland, and South Korea), I Saw The Devil (aka Akmareul boatda) took audiences on a journey into Horror. Written (in part) and directed by Kim Jee-woon, the Slasher/Drama starred Lee Byung-hun, Choi Min-Sik, and Jeon Gook-hwan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On a dark road, taxi driver Kyung-chul (Min-sik Choi) comes across a scared female motorist stranded in a broken-down vehicle. He pulls over -- but not to help her. When the woman's head is discovered in a local river, her devastated fiancé, Kim Soo-hyeon (Byung-hun Lee), a trained secret agent, becomes obsessed with hunting down her killer. Once he finds Kyung-chul, things get twisted. After brutally beating the murderer, Kim lets him go free, and a demented game of cat and mouse begins."
"On a dark road, taxi driver Kyung-chul (Min-sik Choi) comes across a scared female motorist stranded in a broken-down vehicle. He pulls over -- but not to help her. When the woman's head is discovered in a local river, her devastated fiancé, Kim Soo-hyeon (Byung-hun Lee), a trained secret agent, becomes obsessed with hunting down her killer. Once he finds Kyung-chul, things get twisted. After brutally beating the murderer, Kim lets him go free, and a demented game of cat and mouse begins."
On this day in 2010 (in Argentina), the battle was on (again) with the theatrical release of Predators. Directed by Nimrod Antal, the SciFi feature starred Adrien Brody, Laurence Fishburne, and Topher Grace; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a group of elite warriors find themselves in a jungle they realize that they are on a completely different planet and it's home to a race of extraterrestrial hunters. The group consists of a mercenary known as Royce, an IDF sniper known as Isabelle, a Russian Spetsnaz known as Nikolai, a drug cartel enforcer known as Cuchillo, an RUF officer known as Mombasa, a death row inmate known as Stans, a Yakuza assassin known as Hanzo, and an American doctor known as Edwin. It's up to these 8 individuals to stop their hunters and get off the planet."
"When a group of elite warriors find themselves in a jungle they realize that they are on a completely different planet and it's home to a race of extraterrestrial hunters. The group consists of a mercenary known as Royce, an IDF sniper known as Isabelle, a Russian Spetsnaz known as Nikolai, a drug cartel enforcer known as Cuchillo, an RUF officer known as Mombasa, a death row inmate known as Stans, a Yakuza assassin known as Hanzo, and an American doctor known as Edwin. It's up to these 8 individuals to stop their hunters and get off the planet."
On this day in 2011 (in Canada, Lithuania, Poland, and the U.S.), Final Destination 5 brought back the quandary between life and death. Directed by Steven Quale from a story by Eric Heisserer and Jeffrey Reddick, the Horror/Fantasy starred Nicholas D'Agosto, Emma Bell, and Arlen Escarpeta. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Death returns to claim the lucky survivors of a deadly bridge collapse in this fifth frightening installment in the series."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Final Destination 5 enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Wide-Release Film.'
"Death returns to claim the lucky survivors of a deadly bridge collapse in this fifth frightening installment in the series."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Final Destination 5 enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Wide-Release Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), the good people of Hollywood, California were treated to the first theatrical exhibition ever of the silver screen adaptation to The Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones. Screenwriter Jessica Postigo adapted the Cassandra Clare novel, and Harald Zwart directed the cast including Lily Collins, Jamie Campbell Bower, and Robert Sheehan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When her mother disappears, Clary Fray learns that she descends from a line of warriors who protect our world from demons. She joins forces with others like her and heads into a dangerous alternate New York called the Shadow World."
For the record:
Produced behind the Maple Curtain in Canada, The Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones actually fared very well at the 2014 Canadian Screen Awards. The film took home the trophies in the categories of 'Achievement In Sound Editing,' 'Achievement In Make-Up,' 'Achievement In Overall Sound,' and 'Achievement In Visual Effects.'
"When her mother disappears, Clary Fray learns that she descends from a line of warriors who protect our world from demons. She joins forces with others like her and heads into a dangerous alternate New York called the Shadow World."
For the record:
Produced behind the Maple Curtain in Canada, The Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones actually fared very well at the 2014 Canadian Screen Awards. The film took home the trophies in the categories of 'Achievement In Sound Editing,' 'Achievement In Make-Up,' 'Achievement In Overall Sound,' and 'Achievement In Visual Effects.'
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the Netherlands), De Film Van Dylan Haegens enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by the team of Dylan Haegens and Bas van Teylingen, the SciFi/Comedy starred Haegens alongside Nick Golterman, Teun Peters, and Marit Brugman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dylan is very successful at running his own lunchroom and YouTube channel. Then IJsbrand comes into his life and copies everything he does. Dylan decides to get to the bottom of this and puts fame and friendship at risk."
"Dylan is very successful at running his own lunchroom and YouTube channel. Then IJsbrand comes into his life and copies everything he does. Dylan decides to get to the bottom of this and puts fame and friendship at risk."
On this day in 2021 (in Germany), A.I. Rising (aka Ederlezi Rising) enjoyed a new release via streaming. Directed by Lazar Bodroza, the SciFi/Drama starred Sebastian Cavazza, Marusa Majer, and Stoya. Here's the premise that's provided on IMDB.com:
"An intimate relationship between a human and an android tests the boundaries of human nature."
For the record:
I think there may be a set of critics that've largely dismissed Ederlezi Rising as a kinda/sorta bloated sex film mainly because Stoya -- one of its stars -- has worked in visual sexual therapy (ahem) for years. I'd argue that's a dissservice because intimacy is certainly a component of the tale the film doesn't revel in excess the way other adult-themed flicks do. On the festival circuit, the film has been warmly received, winning a handful of statues, including a 'Best Film' category twice while missing out on a few other nominations.
"An intimate relationship between a human and an android tests the boundaries of human nature."
For the record:
I think there may be a set of critics that've largely dismissed Ederlezi Rising as a kinda/sorta bloated sex film mainly because Stoya -- one of its stars -- has worked in visual sexual therapy (ahem) for years. I'd argue that's a dissservice because intimacy is certainly a component of the tale the film doesn't revel in excess the way other adult-themed flicks do. On the festival circuit, the film has been warmly received, winning a handful of statues, including a 'Best Film' category twice while missing out on a few other nominations.
A star is born! On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), Baby Oopsie 2: Murder Dolls brought that lovable face back to screens with a home streaming release. Written and directed by William Butler, the Horror/Fantasy starred Libbie Higgins, Justin Armistead, and LeJon Woods. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sybil creates two companions for her demonic doll before deciding to break free from Baby Oopsie's spell."
"Sybil creates two companions for her demonic doll before deciding to break free from Baby Oopsie's spell."
On this day in 1970 (in the United Kingdom), Ace Of Wands aired "One and One and One are Four: Part 3." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Tarot, now the captive of Madame Midnight, must sabotage the nerve stimulator device before Madame Midnight is able to sell it to the highest bidder."
"Tarot, now the captive of Madame Midnight, must sabotage the nerve stimulator device before Madame Midnight is able to sell it to the highest bidder."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Weird Science aired "The Legend Of Red Brick Wallace." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The boys go back to the Wild West to meet a family folk hero."
"The boys go back to the Wild West to meet a family folk hero."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Witchblade aired "Parabolic." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A link to unusual circumstances and the mysterious tattoos on the murder victims lead Sara and Jake to investigate other hate crimes that have been interrupted but are occurring across the city. It becomes apparent that a vigilante is trying to thwart the efforts of the hate crime perps. Sara goes undercover to find out more about the tattoos that are traced to the Lupo Organization and its mysterious leader, but when her disguise is blown, she must use the Witchblade to escape."
"A link to unusual circumstances and the mysterious tattoos on the murder victims lead Sara and Jake to investigate other hate crimes that have been interrupted but are occurring across the city. It becomes apparent that a vigilante is trying to thwart the efforts of the hate crime perps. Sara goes undercover to find out more about the tattoos that are traced to the Lupo Organization and its mysterious leader, but when her disguise is blown, she must use the Witchblade to escape."
On this day in 2003 (in Canada), Alienated aired "Separation Anxiety." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The family visits a support group where they're encouraged to reveal their secret to the people in their lives."
"The family visits a support group where they're encouraged to reveal their secret to the people in their lives."
On this day in 2003 (in Canada), Alienated aired "Unfit Parents." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sarah panics when child protective services show up at the door, and her paranoia increases when she later discovers the house is bugged."
"Sarah panics when child protective services show up at the door, and her paranoia increases when she later discovers the house is bugged."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Stargate: Atlantis aired "Condemned." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team discovers a planet where the Stargate is kept on a prison island to keep the Wraith satisfied. Their magistrate is willing to trade a rare mineral."
"The team discovers a planet where the Stargate is kept on a prison island to keep the Wraith satisfied. Their magistrate is willing to trade a rare mineral."
On this day in 2005 (in France), Stargate SG-1 aired "Moebius: Part 1." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Stargate: SG-1 aired the fifth episode of its ninth season, an hour titled, "The Powers That Be." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Vala leads SG-1 to a planet where the priors have visited with a plan to keep them from worshiping the Ori. Once there she reveals that the symbiote that once held her ruled over this planet. She feels that keeping them in allegiance to her will hinder the spread of Origin to this world."
"Vala leads SG-1 to a planet where the priors have visited with a plan to keep them from worshiping the Ori. Once there she reveals that the symbiote that once held her ruled over this planet. She feels that keeping them in allegiance to her will hinder the spread of Origin to this world."
On this day in 2007 (in Hungary), Firefly aired "Ariel." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's only season on broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Serenity travels to the core world Ariel and Simon comes up with a plan to steal drugs from the hospital."
"Serenity travels to the core world Ariel and Simon comes up with a plan to steal drugs from the hospital."
On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), The 4400 aired "Daddy's Little Girl." This served as the ninth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tess's schizophrenia gets out of control, and Shawn is asked to lend a hand. Richard Taylor tries to get his daughter back, and he has a surprise for her."
"Tess's schizophrenia gets out of control, and Shawn is asked to lend a hand. Richard Taylor tries to get his daughter back, and he has a surprise for her."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Torchwood: Miracle Day aired "The Middle Men." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jack confronts Stuart Owens, PhiCorp's chief executive, who admits that he is as ignorant as everybody else as to the reason for Miracle Day. All he can tell Jack is that the answer should be in a cryptic document, the Blessing, which originated in Italy. Rex learns that the California overflow camp incinerates the 'undesirable' sick - illegal immigrants, criminals - and Vera. Rex and Esther are caught by Maloney but are saved by Maloney's appalled aide, Ralph, who shoots his boss and helps them escape. Gwen springs her father from Cowbridge but on return to America gets a call to say that her whole family has been captured and will only be released if she helps trap Jack."
"Jack confronts Stuart Owens, PhiCorp's chief executive, who admits that he is as ignorant as everybody else as to the reason for Miracle Day. All he can tell Jack is that the answer should be in a cryptic document, the Blessing, which originated in Italy. Rex learns that the California overflow camp incinerates the 'undesirable' sick - illegal immigrants, criminals - and Vera. Rex and Esther are caught by Maloney but are saved by Maloney's appalled aide, Ralph, who shoots his boss and helps them escape. Gwen springs her father from Cowbridge but on return to America gets a call to say that her whole family has been captured and will only be released if she helps trap Jack."
On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), Falling Skies aired "The Price of Greatness." This served as the ninth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The 2nd Mass meets new faces, while Tom comes across his former mentor and professor Arthur Manchester (guest star Terry O'Quinn). But it's difficult to know whom to trust."
"The 2nd Mass meets new faces, while Tom comes across his former mentor and professor Arthur Manchester (guest star Terry O'Quinn). But it's difficult to know whom to trust."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Under The Dome aired "Thicker Than Water." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Norrie grieves over her mom's death. Joe shows Julia the mini-dome. Big Jim makes a plan of action when Ollie takes control of food and water."
"Norrie grieves over her mom's death. Joe shows Julia the mini-dome. Big Jim makes a plan of action when Ollie takes control of food and water."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Killjoys aired "Heart-Shaped Box." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team are tested to the core as tensions rise while Dutch interrogates a lethal Level Six agent he captured and Johnny secretly investigates Jelco's wall for Pawter."
"The team are tested to the core as tensions rise while Dutch interrogates a lethal Level Six agent he captured and Johnny secretly investigates Jelco's wall for Pawter."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Orphan Black bowed out of its original broadcast existence with the airing of "To Right The Wrongs Of Many." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's fifth and final season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Now in labor, Helena is forced to hunker down in the basement of Old Dyad for the delivery. It's a cage match for survival as Sarah and Art struggle to protect her in a desperate last stand against Neolution."
"Now in labor, Helena is forced to hunker down in the basement of Old Dyad for the delivery. It's a cage match for survival as Sarah and Art struggle to protect her in a desperate last stand against Neolution."
On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), The 100 aired "Etherea." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Where in the universe is Bellamy Blake?"
"Where in the universe is Bellamy Blake?"
