A rundown of her professional resume suggests that the bulk of Shirley O'Hara's work came in the form of guest spots to some of television's more mainstream fare throughout the 1950's, 1960's, and through the 1970's. Still, she begged for her life in the guise of 'Athena' aboard Tarzan And The Amazons (1945) for Sol Lesser Productions. Other stops along the way? You can count your lucky stars as she's visited The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Outer Limits, The Invisible Man, Future Cop, The Incredible Hulk, and Lucan. Though she's no longer with us, O'Hara was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Acclaimed director Nicolas Roeg has a few road stops on his professional career worthy of consideration for fans of genre entertainment. In 1976, his The Man Who Fell To Earth cast David Bowie as the alien trying to save his world with a visit to our own captivated audiences. In 1990, he marshaled the cinematic Fantasy The Witches to the silver screen. And in 1993 and 1999, he directed installments of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles. Though he's no longer with us, Roeg was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
For those who've followed film for some time, Roeg remains one of the screen's most decorated storytellers.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
For those who've followed film for some time, Roeg remains one of the screen's most decorated storytellers.
- In 1974, he received a BAFTA Award nomination in the category of 'Best Direction' for his work in bringing the emotional Horror/Mystery Don't Look Now (1973) to the screen.
- In 1977, he enjoyed a Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his work in bringing The Man Who Fell To Earth (1976) to the screen.
- In 1991, he received another Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his work in bringing The Witches (1990) to the screen.
Hailing from the great state of Ohio (in the U.S.), Janice Rule really only dabbled in the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Her versatile resume includes stops in such properties as The Twilight Zone, The Ambushers (1967), Shadow On The Land (1968), Journey To The Unknown, The Devil And Miss Sarah (1971), and The Ray Bradbury Theater. Though she's no longer with us, Rule was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Leaving behind a resume of forty-eight different screen credits, the late Abby Dalton certainly made an impression with viewers of a certain era. She found her first professional work in 1957 -- a busy year with four small(ish) roles -- including a break-out performance in the curiously titled The Saga Of The Viking Women And Their Voyage To The Waters Of The Great Sea Serpent for Roger Corman. Though she's no longer with us, Dalton was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Awwww! At the ripe young age of 4, the lovely Lori Nelson won the crown of Little Miss America in Hollywood, California. Who would've guessed that her future held in store the opportunity to rest in the arms of none other than the Creature from the Black Lagoon aboard Revenge Of The Creature (1955)? She also enjoyed some screen time aboard Day The World Ended (1955) and The Naked Monster (2005). Though she's no longer with us, Nelson was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
There are many seasoned Star Trek fans who hold the name Bjo Trimble in as high regard as they do Gene Roddenberry's. That's because -- in several respects -- without Bjo there likely may not have been a continuation of Star Trek when its ratings began to lag on television. It was Bjo who spearheaded a letter-writing campaign that brought the crew of the Enterprise back for its third season. Furthermore, it was Bjo who helped put together the campaign that encouraged President Gerald Ford to christen the space shuttle with the name 'Enterprise.' And she was one of the many fans who was rewarded by Roddenberry himself when he asked them to appear as extras aboard Star Trek: The Motion Picture. So many of us in fandom owe a debt to this powerful and influential lady we can never repay. Trimble was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
Comic-turned-actor Jim Dale leaves behind a resume of 51 different screen roles. Genre fans might know his face best from his appearance aboard 1979's Unidentified Flying Oddball from Walt Disney. Perhaps an even bigger contribution to Fantasy was the fact that he served as the narrator for the incredible Pushing Daisies during its run on television. Though he's no longer with us, Dale was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's probably more well known for her work as 'Marilyn Munster' aboard the long-running TV/Serial The Munsters, Pat Priest dipped her delicate toes into SciFi/Horror with an appearance in The Incredible 2-Headed Transplant (1971). Priest was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've no doubt that Mike Henry will always be remembered for his role as Sheriff Buford T. Justice's son 'Junior' aboard the classic 1970's comedy Smokey And The Bandit, but he did dabble elsewhere with roles in Soylent Green (1973) and TV's The Six Million Dollar Man. Plus, he played Tarzan a few times in the 1960's. Henry was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com is any indication, then it would seem that Miko Mayama gave up the profession of acting quite some time ago: her last screen credit is dated 1979 for a guest spot in an episode of M*A*S*H. In any event, her only real genre credit was as one of the Enterprise's crew aboard the exceptional first season episode of Star Trek, "A Taste Of Armageddon." Mayama was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her acting career, Barbara Bouchet brought her loveliness to the role of 'Kelinda' aboard Star Trek's second season episode "By Any Other Name." As for other adventures in the world of the fantastic? You can add to that list Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Agent For H.A.R.M. (1966), The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Casino Royale (1967), Tarzan, Black Belly Of The Tarantula (1971), Amuck (1972), Smile Before Death (1972), The French Sex Murders (1972), The Red Queen Kills Seven Times (1972), Don't Torture A Duckling (1972), and Darkside Witches (2015). Bouchet was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
English-born Jill Haworth enjoyed a Golden Globe nomination in 1961 in the category of 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female' for her work in the drama Exodus, but genre fans will likely remember her much better for visits to The Outer Limits, It! (1967), and The Freakmaker (1974). Though she's no longer with us, Haworth was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Nigel Terry (pictured above center) played General Cobb alongside David Tennant in a 2007 episode of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Though he's no longer with us, Terry was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, Phyllis Smith! You made audiences laugh as the somewhat tortured saleswoman aboard NBC's long-running TV/Sitcom The Office, but you gave fans a bit more drama with your work aboard The OA for Netflix. Smith was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record, I've been a fan of Zeljko Ivanek's work all the way back to when he shared the silver screen with Jack Lemmon in the theatrical adaptation of Mass Appeal, but I digress ... Ivanek has had the good fortune of many terrific appearances across all genres, but SciFi fans no doubt known him best from The X-Files, Millennium, The Twilight Zone, Lost, Heroes, The Event (pictured), Revolution, and (most recently) Syfy's 12 Monkeys. More recently, he's turned up in a villainous role aboard The Walking Dead: Dead City. Ivanek was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of 'Sal Maroni,' David Zayas (above left, seated) has had the opportunity to toy in the realm of Fantasy that is Fox TV's Gotham. Zayas was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Vaitiare Hirshon dabbled in the realm of Stargate with appearances on the popular television program and one of the direct-to-DVD releases. Hirshon was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Peter Hermann enjoyed a guest spot aboard Fox TV's popular Fringe during its run. Otherwise, it appears that the man sticks to more conventional dramas. Hermann was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely but surprisingly hate-filled politico Debra Messing had a small but critical role in setting the events in motion for the theatrical adaptation of The Mothman Prophecies (2002). Messing was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
These days one can expect the versatile Anthony Anderson to show up in just about anything drama or comedy related, and I thought he made a nice foray into SciFi with his appearance in the Transformers franchise. Anderson was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sorry, ladies. I get that maybe some of you think that dreamy Ben Affleck (pictured above, at left, with the late Michael Clarke Duncan) is so so hunky, but -- so far as I and fanboys worldwide are concerned -- he couldn't act his way out of a paper bag even if the paper bag didn't show on the set that day. Besides, he stills owes us an apology for starring in Armageddon now that director Michael Bay has started that chorus. Affleck was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sound engineer Matthew Wood was given the chance of a lifetime when offered the chance to voice 'General Grievous' for the greater Star Wars universe. Wood was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She played the lovely, conquering Sil -- an alien sent to Earth with a scheme to mate with mankind -- in 1995's deliciously macabre Species (also appearing in both Species II and III), when she won the hearts of fanboys everywhere. The ever-lovely Natasha Henstridge was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Samuel Roukin played the role of 'Snatcher' in the greater world of the Harry Potter universe. He's also garnered some screen time aboard Salem and The Magicians. Roukin was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I really do miss Fox TV's Almost Human ... and I'm not saying that because I have this publicity still of Ella Thomas in a fetching black nighty in front of me. No, I thought Almost Human was one of the smartest SciFi procedurals to come onto the television in quite some time. The fact that the lovely Ms. Thomas had a guest starring appearance on it is entirely circumstantial. Thomas was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Following up his break-out performance in The Blind Side, Quinton Aaron has been able to explore other genres, including SciFi and Fantasy with work in Left Behind (2014). Aaron was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, Emily Kinney, how our hearts broke when you met your make on AMC's classic horror program, The Walking Dead, but thank goodness you're still gainfully employed in genre entertainment as your appearances aboard The Flash and Arrow will tide us over 'til we meet again! Kinney was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Courtney Hope has a few strong connections to Science Fiction. Aside from some voicework aboard both the Quantum Break and Star Wars: The Old Republic - Knights of the Eternal Throne video games, she appeared briefly in Allegiant (2016). Hope was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Most folks know her as 'Katniss Everdeen,' but, to the rest of us, she's regular ol' Jennifer Lawrence, actress headlining the popular Hunger Games trilogy. Plus, she's done a terrific turn as Mystique in the X-Men: First Class movies. Ms. Lawrence was born on this day back in 1990, and she continues to impress us even today. Happy birthday!
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Oh, you young skulls full of mush! In late 2022, actress Lawrence essentially claimed to have (cough cough) invented the role of the female action hero (link), a huge, huge, huge misstatement that'll likely follow her around for the rest of her storied career. Still, the actress has found a good deal of acclaim with her work on the silver screen (though many women have had action roles long before even her birth). Below I'm happy to name but a few.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Oh, you young skulls full of mush! In late 2022, actress Lawrence essentially claimed to have (cough cough) invented the role of the female action hero (link), a huge, huge, huge misstatement that'll likely follow her around for the rest of her storied career. Still, the actress has found a good deal of acclaim with her work on the silver screen (though many women have had action roles long before even her birth). Below I'm happy to name but a few.
- For the 2013 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the young lady took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in The Hunger Games (2012).
- In 2016, the actress and her co-star Chris Pratt were nominated by the Golden Schmoes Awards in the category of 'Best T&A Of The Year.'
- At the 2017 Saturn Awards, Lawrence enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in Passengers (2016).
- At the 2018 Razzie Awards, Lawrence enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Actress' for her work in the Horror/Drama Mother! (2017).
On this day in 1952 (in Finland), the original Science Fiction classic The Day The Earth Stood Still enjoyed its theatrical run. The feature starred Michael Rennie and Patricia Neal, and here's the plot as provided by IMDB.com:
"An alien lands and tells the people of Earth that they must live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets."
For the record:
In all honesty, The Day The Earth Stood Still didn't really catch much attention so far as awards ceremonies go back in the 1950's. It's greatest claim to fame, however, is that it's grown increasingly well-regarded in the years since, so much so that, in 1995, it was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve pictures for their lasting artistic and aesthetic contribution.
"An alien lands and tells the people of Earth that they must live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets."
For the record:
In all honesty, The Day The Earth Stood Still didn't really catch much attention so far as awards ceremonies go back in the 1950's. It's greatest claim to fame, however, is that it's grown increasingly well-regarded in the years since, so much so that, in 1995, it was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve pictures for their lasting artistic and aesthetic contribution.
A star is born! On this day in 1963 (in Italy), viewers were allowed to check into the Horror Castle ... but they were never allowed to check out! Written (in part) and directed by Antonio Margheriti, the Horror/Fantasy starred Rossana Podestà, Georges Aristide Claude Félix Rivière, and Christopher Lee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Women are being tortured to death with various torture devices in the dungeon of an old castle by a deformed, hooded, holocaust survivor."
"Women are being tortured to death with various torture devices in the dungeon of an old castle by a deformed, hooded, holocaust survivor."
On this day in 1969 (in Mexico), the doctor will see you now ... well, The Diabolical Dr. Z, that is. Written (in part) and directed by Jesus Franco, the Horror/Thriller starred Estella Blain, Mabel Karr, and Howard Vernon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Woman seeks to avenge her father's death by using a local dancer, with long poisonous fingernails, to do her bidding."
"Woman seeks to avenge her father's death by using a local dancer, with long poisonous fingernails, to do her bidding."
On this day in 1977 (in Spain), Where Time Began (aka Viaje al centro de la Tierra) enjoyed a theatrical run. Written (in part) and directed by Juan Piquer Simon, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Kenneth More, Pep Munne, and Ivonne Sentis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Like in the novel of Jules Verne four persons try to get to the centre of the world by entering into a world of caves by a volcano. On their way they discover among other things also prehistoric animals like some dinosaurs."
"Like in the novel of Jules Verne four persons try to get to the centre of the world by entering into a world of caves by a volcano. On their way they discover among other things also prehistoric animals like some dinosaurs."
On this day in 1979, the original Star Wars enjoyed one of its earliest theatrical re-releases in the United States, mostly likely a marketing push on behalf of 20th Century Fox to ramp up efforts in promoting its impending sequel, The Empire Strikes Back. If I remember correctly, this was most likely the release that promised audiences to stay after the credits in order to enjoy a special sneak-peak-first-look at Empire. In any event, here's the plot summary from Amazon.com for Star Wars:
"Young farm boy Luke Skywalker is thrust into a galaxy of adventure when he intercepts a distress call from the captive Princess Leia. The event launches him on a daring mission to rescue her from the clutches of Darth Vader and the Evil Empire."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Young farm boy Luke Skywalker is thrust into a galaxy of adventure when he intercepts a distress call from the captive Princess Leia. The event launches him on a daring mission to rescue her from the clutches of Darth Vader and the Evil Empire."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born ... and this one's packin' heat! On this day in 1983 (in Italy), it was the end of the world as we know it when Escape From The Bronx enjoyed its foray through our collective apocalypse. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Gregory, Henry Silva, and Valeria D'Obici. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rag-tag group of people must fight extermination squads amid their ruined city."
"A rag-tag group of people must fight extermination squads amid their ruined city."
A star is born! On this day in 1983, Prisoners of the Lost Universe enjoyed its U.S. premiere. (If I remember this correctly, PotLU was a telefilm which enjoyed its premiere on Showtime to an awful lot of TV fanfare. It wasn't all that grand, but back in those days genre fans would take what we got more often than not.) The SciFi feature starred Richard Hatch and John Saxon, and here's the premise that's provided via IMDB.com:
"Three people are transported into a parallel reality, where they find they must use modern technology, but medieval weapons, in order to save the citizenry from a murderous warlord."
"Three people are transported into a parallel reality, where they find they must use modern technology, but medieval weapons, in order to save the citizenry from a murderous warlord."
Honesty is the best policy: I've tried three times (thus far) to sit through The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension in this lifetime, and each and every time I get only far enough to fall asleep. I don't understand anyone's fascination with this film, as it disengages me with every opportunity I've given it. Go figure. It first screened in theatres on this day in 1984 (per Wikipedia.org). Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Brain surgeon, rock musician, adventurer Buckaroo Banzai is a modern renaissance man and has made scientific history. He perfected the Oscillation Overthruster, which allows him to travel through solid matter by using the eighth dimension. But when his sworn enemy Dr. Emilio Lizardo devises a plot to steal the device and bring an evil army back to destroy Earth, Buckaroo goes cranium to cranium with the madman in a battle that could spell doom for the universe. Along with his crime-fighting team, the Hong Kong Cavaliers, Buckaroo must stop the evil alien invaders from the eighth dimension who are planning to conquer our dimension. He is helped by Penny Pretty, the long-lost twin sister of his late wife, and some good extra-dimensional beings who look and talk like they are from Jamaica."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Buckaroo Banzai enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor' and 'Best Writing.'
"Brain surgeon, rock musician, adventurer Buckaroo Banzai is a modern renaissance man and has made scientific history. He perfected the Oscillation Overthruster, which allows him to travel through solid matter by using the eighth dimension. But when his sworn enemy Dr. Emilio Lizardo devises a plot to steal the device and bring an evil army back to destroy Earth, Buckaroo goes cranium to cranium with the madman in a battle that could spell doom for the universe. Along with his crime-fighting team, the Hong Kong Cavaliers, Buckaroo must stop the evil alien invaders from the eighth dimension who are planning to conquer our dimension. He is helped by Penny Pretty, the long-lost twin sister of his late wife, and some good extra-dimensional beings who look and talk like they are from Jamaica."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Buckaroo Banzai enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor' and 'Best Writing.'
On this day back in 1984 (in the U.S. though it had screened as Cannes months earlier), the Dennis Quaid flick, Dreamscape, enjoyed its release. In several ways, the film kinda/sorta reminds me of Fox TV's stellar program Fringe in that it featured scientists dabbling in areas of fringe science to use a psychic ability to access another person's dreams to help them overcome their personal demons. Neat little flick -- not great -- though a bit dated. Check it out on home video. (FYI: this U.S. launch date is attributed to Google.com and not our usual source, IMDB.com.) Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A government funded project looks into using psychics to enter people's dreams, with some mechanical help. When a subject dies in his sleep from a heart attack Alex Gardner becomes suspicious that another of the psychics is killing people in the dreams somehow and that is causing them to die in real life. He must find a way to stop the abuse of the power to enter dreams."
For the record:
Along with some praise earned on the film festival circuit, Dreamscape did enjoy a 1985 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film.'
"A government funded project looks into using psychics to enter people's dreams, with some mechanical help. When a subject dies in his sleep from a heart attack Alex Gardner becomes suspicious that another of the psychics is killing people in the dreams somehow and that is causing them to die in real life. He must find a way to stop the abuse of the power to enter dreams."
For the record:
Along with some praise earned on the film festival circuit, Dreamscape did enjoy a 1985 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film.'
On this day in 1985 (in Australia), Back To The Future roared through time and ended up in the hearts of viewers worldwide. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and Lea Thompson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Marty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent thirty years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Marty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent thirty years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1985 (in Australia), Lifeforce took to the silver screen. Directed by Tobe Hooper, the script by Dan O'Bannon and Don Jakoby was an adaptation of the Colin Wilson novel ("The Space Vampires"). The SciFi/Thriller starred Steve Railsback, Mathilda May, and Colin Firth. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1985 (in Australia), Red Sonja delivered a bit of Fantasy with a huge helping of camp. Directed by Richard Fleischer, the feature film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Brigitte Nielsen, and Sandahl Bergman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The fearless warrior Red Sonja sets out to avenge her family's murder and rid her kingdom from the tyrannical rule of evil Queen Gedren."
For the record:
Some days, you have to take the good with the bad, and such is the film history of the kinda/sorta beloved character of Red Sonja. This particular incarnation, however, never quite fared well with critics or audiences. In fact, the 1986 Razzie Awards gave its lead the 'Worst New Star' honor at its annual ceremony. Ouch.
"The fearless warrior Red Sonja sets out to avenge her family's murder and rid her kingdom from the tyrannical rule of evil Queen Gedren."
For the record:
Some days, you have to take the good with the bad, and such is the film history of the kinda/sorta beloved character of Red Sonja. This particular incarnation, however, never quite fared well with critics or audiences. In fact, the 1986 Razzie Awards gave its lead the 'Worst New Star' honor at its annual ceremony. Ouch.
A star is born! On this day back in 1986 (in the U.S. and Canada), David Cronenberg -- along with his stars Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis -- showed audiences what intelligent and heart-breaking sci-fi could look like on the silver screen: his version of The Fly made audiences "afraid" with such tremendous effect it became a modest box office sensation. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Seth Brundle, a brilliant but eccentric scientist attempts to woo investigative journalist Veronica Quaife by offering her a scoop on his latest research in the field of matter transportation, which against all the expectations of the scientific establishment have proved successful. Up to a point. Brundle thinks he has ironed out the last problem when he successfully transports a living creature, but when he attempts to teleport himself a fly enters one of the transmission booths, and Brundle finds he is a changed man."
For the record:
Cronenberg's version of the classic SciFi/Horror story enjoyed a wealth of critical and commercial success during its original run. At the 1987 Saturn Awards, the feature took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Horror Film' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Actress.' At the 1987 Academy Awards, the film scored top honors in the category of 'Best Make-Up." Lastly, it also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1987 Hugo Awards.
"Seth Brundle, a brilliant but eccentric scientist attempts to woo investigative journalist Veronica Quaife by offering her a scoop on his latest research in the field of matter transportation, which against all the expectations of the scientific establishment have proved successful. Up to a point. Brundle thinks he has ironed out the last problem when he successfully transports a living creature, but when he attempts to teleport himself a fly enters one of the transmission booths, and Brundle finds he is a changed man."
For the record:
Cronenberg's version of the classic SciFi/Horror story enjoyed a wealth of critical and commercial success during its original run. At the 1987 Saturn Awards, the feature took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Horror Film' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Actress.' At the 1987 Academy Awards, the film scored top honors in the category of 'Best Make-Up." Lastly, it also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1987 Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), Deadly Weapon added to the cinematic body count in SciFi with its release in the U.S. home video marketplace. Directed by Michael Miner, the feature starred Rodney Eastman, Arell Blanton, and Gary Frank; and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"A teenage boy who's bullied both at school by the seniors and at his home by his abusive father finds an experimental laser weapon in a river and ponders revenge. The army general who lost the gun sends his units after the kid."
For the record:
To the film's credit, actor Rodney Eastman enjoyed a 1990 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor.'
"A teenage boy who's bullied both at school by the seniors and at his home by his abusive father finds an experimental laser weapon in a river and ponders revenge. The army general who lost the gun sends his units after the kid."
For the record:
To the film's credit, actor Rodney Eastman enjoyed a 1990 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor.'
A star is born! On this day in 1990 (in South Korea), the silver screen came alive with the theatrical release of Star Jjangga II: Super Betaman, Majingga V (aka Golden Bat Vs Mazinger V). Written and directed by Yeong-han Kim, the family-friendly SciFi/Fantasy starred Hyeon-gon Kim, Hie-Ju Lee, and Yu-seong Jeon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The witch Rinke rules over the plant Astro with an iron fist. She decides that she needs the super-powered robot, Zangga, to spread her rule to other planets. She learns that Zangga is lying dormant somewhere on Earth and sends her agents, Kats and Kobra, to find and collect him. However, she did not count on the intervention of Betaman and some Earth children who are also looking for Zangga."
"The witch Rinke rules over the plant Astro with an iron fist. She decides that she needs the super-powered robot, Zangga, to spread her rule to other planets. She learns that Zangga is lying dormant somewhere on Earth and sends her agents, Kats and Kobra, to find and collect him. However, she did not count on the intervention of Betaman and some Earth children who are also looking for Zangga."
On this day in 1991 (in Germany), boobs and butts went intergalactic with the release of -- ahem -- Flesh Gordon Meets The Cosmic Cheerleaders. Written (in part) and directed by Howard Ziehm, this Adult-themed SciFi/Comedy starred Vince Murdocco, Robyn Kelly, and Tony Travis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Flesh Gordon is kidnapped by a group of space cheerleaders hoping to use him to save their planet."
"Flesh Gordon is kidnapped by a group of space cheerleaders hoping to use him to save their planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in the U.S. and Canada), Event Horizon took one crew to the edge of sanity in outer space. Scripted by Philip Eisner and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi feature starred Sam Neill, Laurence Fishburne, and Kathleen Quinlan; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the year 2047 a group of astronauts are sent to investigate and salvage the long lost starship "Event Horizon". The ship disappeared mysteriously 7 years before on its maiden voyage and with its return comes even more mystery as the crew of the "Lewis and Clark" discover the real truth behind its disappearance and something even more terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Event Horizon enjoyed a modest bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"In the year 2047 a group of astronauts are sent to investigate and salvage the long lost starship "Event Horizon". The ship disappeared mysteriously 7 years before on its maiden voyage and with its return comes even more mystery as the crew of the "Lewis and Clark" discover the real truth behind its disappearance and something even more terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Event Horizon enjoyed a modest bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in Turkey and the U.S.), Steel took the silver screen with his superhero debut. Written (in part) and directed by Kenneth Johnson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Shaquille O'Neal, Annabeth Gish, and Judd Nelson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist for the military turns himself into a cartoon-like superhero when a version of one of his own weapons is being used against enemies."
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, O'Neal received a nomination for his work in the picture in the category of 'Worst Actor.' Ouch.
"A scientist for the military turns himself into a cartoon-like superhero when a version of one of his own weapons is being used against enemies."
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, O'Neal received a nomination for his work in the picture in the category of 'Worst Actor.' Ouch.
On this day in 2001 (in France), Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within pitted mankind against a force of invading alien phantoms. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2065, the next great assault against an invading race of phantom-like aliens is about to be launched. Dr. Aki Ross, a brilliant young scientist, races to find the invaders' secrets, not only to save the planet, but herself as well after her body is infected by alien particles. She teams up with the prestigious Deep Eyes military squadron, led by her old friend Grey Edwards. But as Aki, her mentor Dr. Sid, and Grey work toward a peaceful end, the scheming General Hein devises a plot to eradicate the aliens in one swift, destructive blow...even if it destroys the Earth right along with them."
"In the year 2065, the next great assault against an invading race of phantom-like aliens is about to be launched. Dr. Aki Ross, a brilliant young scientist, races to find the invaders' secrets, not only to save the planet, but herself as well after her body is infected by alien particles. She teams up with the prestigious Deep Eyes military squadron, led by her old friend Grey Edwards. But as Aki, her mentor Dr. Sid, and Grey work toward a peaceful end, the scheming General Hein devises a plot to eradicate the aliens in one swift, destructive blow...even if it destroys the Earth right along with them."
On this day in 2002 (in the Czech Republic), Resident Evil brought out the big guns for the zombie aftermath. Written and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, and Ryan McCluskey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
This day marked the film's full U.S. (and Canada) theatrical release, though it actually enjoyed its first theatrical screening in Los Angeles on March 12, 2002. At the 2003 Saturn Awards, Resident Evil enjoyed a pair of nominations -- 'Best Actress' and 'Best Horror Film' -- but missed out on the trophy in both cases.
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
This day marked the film's full U.S. (and Canada) theatrical release, though it actually enjoyed its first theatrical screening in Los Angeles on March 12, 2002. At the 2003 Saturn Awards, Resident Evil enjoyed a pair of nominations -- 'Best Actress' and 'Best Horror Film' -- but missed out on the trophy in both cases.
It was the throwdown to end all throwdowns on the silver screen around the world Freddy Vs Jason enjoyed its big screen premiere. Directed by Ronny Yu from a story by Wes Craven, Victor Miller, Damian Shannon, and Mark Swift, the Horror/Fantasy starred Robert Englund, Ken Kirzinger, and Monica Keena. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees return to terrorize the teenagers of Elm Street. Only this time, they're out to get each other, too."
"Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees return to terrorize the teenagers of Elm Street. Only this time, they're out to get each other, too."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer enjoyed a limited theatrical run. Written (in part) and directed by Jon Knautz, the Horror/Comedy starred Robert Englund, Trevor Matthews, and Daniel Kash. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A troubled young man still mourning the childhood loss of his family now has to deal with his professor being turned into a monster."
For the record:
"A troubled young man still mourning the childhood loss of his family now has to deal with his professor being turned into a monster."
For the record:
- At the 2009 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, the film enjoyed an incredible six nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Makeup / Creature FX,' 'Best Score,' 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Actor,' and Best Limited-Release / Direct-To-Video Film.'
- At the 2009 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Jack Brooks took home the big win in the category of 'Best DVD Release.'
On this day in 2008 (in Switzerland), the folks in attendance of the Locarno Film Festival were treated to a special screening of Outlander. Written (in part) and directed by Howard McCain, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jim Caviezel, Sophia Myles, and Jack Huston. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During the reign of the Vikings, Kainan, a man from a far-off world, crash lands on Earth, bringing with him an alien predator known as the Moorwen. Though both man and monster are seeking revenge for violence committed against them, Kainan leads the alliance to kill the Moorwen by fusing his advanced technology with the Viking's Iron Age weaponry."
"During the reign of the Vikings, Kainan, a man from a far-off world, crash lands on Earth, bringing with him an alien predator known as the Moorwen. Though both man and monster are seeking revenge for violence committed against them, Kainan leads the alliance to kill the Moorwen by fusing his advanced technology with the Viking's Iron Age weaponry."
I'm one of the few and the proud who actually saw Star Wars: The Clone Wars when it premiered theatrically in theatres on this day back in 2008. As I've often waxed on, I think The Clone Wars period of the Star Wars greater mythology is fascinating because it gives longtime fans a chance to see what it was that made Anakin Skywalker such a compelling creation in the mind of George Lucas. Granted, it took more than a few grains of salt to choke down the creation of Ahsoka Tano from these early moments: I've argued that she was a character who grew on you as the television program progressed but I didn't think she was designed all that well initially, mostly since she was clearly depicted so 'kid-friendly.' In any event, as for what happened a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"As the Clone Wars sweep through the galaxy, the heroic Jedi Knights struggle to maintain order and restore peace. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further and further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano find themselves on a mission with far-reaching consequences, one that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. But Count Dooku and his sinister agents, including the nefarious Asajj Ventress, will stop at nothing to ensure that Anakin and Ahsoka fail at their quest. Meanwhile, on the front lines of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda lead the massive clone army in a valiant effort to resist the forces of the dark side ..."
For the record:
Always keep in mind, my young padawans, that we must accept the Dark with the Light. Though the film opened to somewhat middling reviews, I fell in love with that galaxy far, far away when I enjoyed it on the silver screen. But about that Dark and Light? It received a nomination for 'Best Animated Film' for the 2009 Saturn Awards as well as a nod as the 'Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off, Or Sequel' from the 2009 Razzie Awards. (Ahem: it lost both ... so there's that.)
"As the Clone Wars sweep through the galaxy, the heroic Jedi Knights struggle to maintain order and restore peace. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further and further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano find themselves on a mission with far-reaching consequences, one that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. But Count Dooku and his sinister agents, including the nefarious Asajj Ventress, will stop at nothing to ensure that Anakin and Ahsoka fail at their quest. Meanwhile, on the front lines of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda lead the massive clone army in a valiant effort to resist the forces of the dark side ..."
For the record:
Always keep in mind, my young padawans, that we must accept the Dark with the Light. Though the film opened to somewhat middling reviews, I fell in love with that galaxy far, far away when I enjoyed it on the silver screen. But about that Dark and Light? It received a nomination for 'Best Animated Film' for the 2009 Saturn Awards as well as a nod as the 'Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off, Or Sequel' from the 2009 Razzie Awards. (Ahem: it lost both ... so there's that.)
A star is born! Truth to be, the Mouse House (aka Walt Disney) really has a long history in the realm of Science Fiction, albeit more SciFi-Lite to be perfectly accurate. Today's evidence: on this day in 2014, How To Build A Better Boy enjoyed its premiere as a U.S. telefilm. Directed by Paul Hoen, the feature starred China Anne McClain, Kelli Berglund, and Marshall Williams. Here's the scuttlebutt regarding its plot compliments of IMDB.com:
"Teenage tech whizzes unwittingly use military software to program a robotic boyfriend."
For the record:
At the 2015 Directors Guild Of America ceremony, director Paul Hoen received a nomination for the DGA Award in the category of 'Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Children's Programs.' Also in the same year, actress China Anne McClain was nominated for a NAACP Image Award in the category of 'Outstanding Performance in a Youth/Children's Program (Series or Special).'
"Teenage tech whizzes unwittingly use military software to program a robotic boyfriend."
For the record:
At the 2015 Directors Guild Of America ceremony, director Paul Hoen received a nomination for the DGA Award in the category of 'Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Children's Programs.' Also in the same year, actress China Anne McClain was nominated for a NAACP Image Award in the category of 'Outstanding Performance in a Youth/Children's Program (Series or Special).'
On this day in 2015 (in Poland), the 1974-produced Dark Star enjoyed a special airing on broadcast television. Written (in part) and directed by John Carpenter, the SciFi/Comedy starred Dan O'Bannon, Dre Pahich, and Brian Narelle. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the far reaches of space, a small crew, 20 years into their solitary mission, find things beginning to go hilariously wrong."
For the record:
"In the far reaches of space, a small crew, 20 years into their solitary mission, find things beginning to go hilariously wrong."
For the record:
- At the 1976 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Dark Star took home the Golden Scroll in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
- At the 1976 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), the flick enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Writing.'
- At the 1976 Hugo Awards, the feature enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 2015 (in Spain), the 1963-produced X: The Man With X-Ray Eyes enjoyed an all-new home video release. Directed by Roger Corman from a story by Robert Dillon and Ray Russell, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ray Milland, Diana Van der Vlis, and Harold J. Stone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plots summary:
"A doctor uses special eye drops to give himself x-ray vision, but the new power has disastrous consequences."
"A doctor uses special eye drops to give himself x-ray vision, but the new power has disastrous consequences."
On this day in 2020 (in Spain), the 1984-produced SciFi/Comedy Night Of The Comet played for audiences in attendance of the Madrid - Artistic Metropol film festival. Written and directed by Thom Eberhardt, the feature film starred Catherine Mary Stewart, Kelli Maroney, and Robert Beltran; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A comet wipes out most of life on Earth, leaving two Valley Girls fighting against cannibal zombies and a sinister group of scientists."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mary Woronov received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.'
"A comet wipes out most of life on Earth, leaving two Valley Girls fighting against cannibal zombies and a sinister group of scientists."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mary Woronov received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.'
On this day in 1964, "Guests of Madame Guillotine" aired as part of Doctor Who's first season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Susan, Ian and Barbara are sentenced to be guillotined but an encounter with a dying English prisoner may offer Ian a chance of survival."
"Susan, Ian and Barbara are sentenced to be guillotined but an encounter with a dying English prisoner may offer Ian a chance of survival."
On this day in 1997, Stargate: SG-1 aired "The Broca Divide." This served as the fourth episode to the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"The Stargate base is put in deadly peril when it is contaminated with a dangerous infection which causes its victims to become mindlessly animalistic brutes."
"The Stargate base is put in deadly peril when it is contaminated with a dangerous infection which causes its victims to become mindlessly animalistic brutes."
On this day in 1999, GvsE (aka Good vs Evil) aired "Airplane." This served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Morlock assassin whom Chandler and Henry are escorting via plane to Corps Headquarters manages to slip out of his restraints and kills the pilots, leaving Chandler, Smythe and Esmerelda (a Spanish Corps agent) helplessly plummeting to Earth."
"A Morlock assassin whom Chandler and Henry are escorting via plane to Corps Headquarters manages to slip out of his restraints and kills the pilots, leaving Chandler, Smythe and Esmerelda (a Spanish Corps agent) helplessly plummeting to Earth."
On this day in 2003, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Birthright." This served as the tenth episode of the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After being saved by a group of free female Jaffa, SG-1 is taken to the females' homeworld to meet their leader, Ishta. Ishta proposes an alliance between her all-female rebel group, Haktil, and the Tau'ri. The Tau'ri offer her Tritonin to supplant their practice of taking the symbiotes from defeated Jaffa in the service of the Goa'uld. However, since Tritonin has only had two test subjects, Teal'c and Bra'tac, they are cautious to spread it among their ranks."
"After being saved by a group of free female Jaffa, SG-1 is taken to the females' homeworld to meet their leader, Ishta. Ishta proposes an alliance between her all-female rebel group, Haktil, and the Tau'ri. The Tau'ri offer her Tritonin to supplant their practice of taking the symbiotes from defeated Jaffa in the service of the Goa'uld. However, since Tritonin has only had two test subjects, Teal'c and Bra'tac, they are cautious to spread it among their ranks."
On this day in 2011, Alphas aired "Bill and Gary's Excellent Adventure." This served as the sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Bill and Gary pursue an outside case, putting their Alpha powers to the ultimate test."
"Bill and Gary pursue an outside case, putting their Alpha powers to the ultimate test."
On this day in 2017, Somewhere Between aired "Into the Fire." This served as the fifth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Suspicious that her husband is lying to her, Laura enlists Nico's help to follow Tom, when he goes to a secret rendezvous with a woman who harbors dark intentions towards Laura and her family. After a tense standoff, Laura and Nico also discover that Tom is being blackmailed by the mysterious killer with a wrist tattoo. An old photograph turns up, showing Nico's murdered girlfriend posing with four men -- all with the same tattoo -- but which one is the killer? Nico and Laura decide to go back to Spanish Harbor to investigate how their fates are intertwined."
"Suspicious that her husband is lying to her, Laura enlists Nico's help to follow Tom, when he goes to a secret rendezvous with a woman who harbors dark intentions towards Laura and her family. After a tense standoff, Laura and Nico also discover that Tom is being blackmailed by the mysterious killer with a wrist tattoo. An old photograph turns up, showing Nico's murdered girlfriend posing with four men -- all with the same tattoo -- but which one is the killer? Nico and Laura decide to go back to Spanish Harbor to investigate how their fates are intertwined."
