Folks, the sad truth is that there are likely far more SciFi and Fantasy television series out there for us to absorb in a single lifetime; and here's one that completely slipped through the cracks. Gemini Division premiered on this day back in 2008, and it starred Rosario Dawson, Justin Hartley, and Daz Crawford in big roles. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the series' premise:
"Gemini Division features NYPD undercover Detective Anna Diaz as a street wise and tough-as-nails New York cop forced to live dual lives. Diaz's deep undercover persona drives her to keep people at a distance as a blown cover would mean death. Enter Nick Korda: After secreting herself away for so long, Diaz sees Korda as almost too good to be true. Anna finds a security in Nick she didn't believe possible, allowing her to lower her defenses and be herself. Though she has questions about Nick's life, after only a few months the couple travels to romantic Paris and get engaged. But, before her questions and his proposal are answered, Nick is murdered. Diaz vows to bring his murderers to justice and in doing so discovers the truth about Korda and a vast global conspiracy. Black bag genetic experiments, covert military operations, a mysterious organization called Gemini Division, and simulated humanoid life forms. Detective Anna Diaz will have to draw upon all her experience to find the truth and survive."
For the record:
By all accounts, it look like this was a streaming property exclusively. According also to IMDB.com, the project did earn some praise from the early days of the streaming business ... including a big win in the category of 'Best Female Actor In A Dramatic Web Series' from the 2009 The Streamy Awards.
"Gemini Division features NYPD undercover Detective Anna Diaz as a street wise and tough-as-nails New York cop forced to live dual lives. Diaz's deep undercover persona drives her to keep people at a distance as a blown cover would mean death. Enter Nick Korda: After secreting herself away for so long, Diaz sees Korda as almost too good to be true. Anna finds a security in Nick she didn't believe possible, allowing her to lower her defenses and be herself. Though she has questions about Nick's life, after only a few months the couple travels to romantic Paris and get engaged. But, before her questions and his proposal are answered, Nick is murdered. Diaz vows to bring his murderers to justice and in doing so discovers the truth about Korda and a vast global conspiracy. Black bag genetic experiments, covert military operations, a mysterious organization called Gemini Division, and simulated humanoid life forms. Detective Anna Diaz will have to draw upon all her experience to find the truth and survive."
For the record:
By all accounts, it look like this was a streaming property exclusively. According also to IMDB.com, the project did earn some praise from the early days of the streaming business ... including a big win in the category of 'Best Female Actor In A Dramatic Web Series' from the 2009 The Streamy Awards.
He's not only one of the most notable Science Fiction authors of a generation, but Brian Aldiss also serves as the Vice-President of the international H.G. Wells Society. In 2000, he was named a Grand Master by the Science Fiction Writers of America, and -- in 2004 -- he was inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. Though he's no longer with us, Aldiss was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
Important links:
The Official Brian Aldiss Website (here)
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
Important links:
The Official Brian Aldiss Website (here)
That pretty lady behind the wheel (no jokes, men!) is none other than Joan Taylor. Science Fiction fans know her best from the amazing two-fer: Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956) and 20 Millions Miles To Earth (1957). Though she's no longer with us, Taylor was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Grant Williams found himself with no small problem with his starring role aboard The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957). Though he's no longer with us, Williams was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of The Incredible Shrinking Man via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of The Incredible Shrinking Man via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Actor Budd Albright played the victim of a Salt Vampire in the Star Trek episode "The Man Trap." He also turned up in an uncredited appearance a bit later. Albright was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran and political activist Robert Redford made a rare mainstream appearance as Alexander Pierce, a behind-the-scenes foe for Cap and S.H.I.E.L.D. alike in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014). Redford was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not all that long after taking the lead in the alternative history tale of America's downfall in Red Dawn (1984), Patrick Swayze hung up his dancing shoes and showed us another look at an Apocalyptic tomorrow in the cryptic Steel Dawn (1987), basically a direct-to-DVD Mad Max knock-off. He played Nomad, a warrior still quick enough on his feet to beat back the forces of evil seeking to steal one small village's water supply. Though he's no longer with us, Swayze was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Those of you familiar with the Sweden SciFi series Real Humans will recognize Anki Larsson (above right) as the synthetic caregiver 'Vera' from the program. Larsson was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The absolutely delicious Carole Bouquet remains one of my favorite Bond girls (yeah, I realize it might be a popular choice, but I'm sticking with it); and thankfully her career expanded beyond the spy franchise in such pictures like Dream One (1984) so that I can give her a proper shout from these corners of the Information Superhighway. And rumor has it she nearly made an appearance in the Harry Potter universe, though a contractual obligation inevitably kept her from the Fantasy franchise. Bouquet was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Diana Castle is not only an actress: while she's definitely racked up some genre credentials deserving of mention, her true life's pursuit is working with actors and actresses to help them achieve their fullest creative potential. She runs The Imagined Life in Los Angeles, a training studio where young and old came come together for classes and workshops to hone their professional acting skills in between their gigs. Castle was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com and TheImaginedLine.com]
[Source: IMDB.com and TheImaginedLine.com]
Comedic motormouth Denis Leary made a rare SciFi appearance as one of the leaders of the Underground of tomorrow as part of the Sylvester Stallone vehicle, Demolition Man (1993). He also had an uncredited appearance as Captain Stacy in 2014's The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Leary was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Madeleine Stowe has built a terrific career in big and small screen potboilers, but she did make an appearance in SciFi alongside screen star Bruce Willis in Terry Gilliam's Twelve Monkeys (1995). Stowe was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of 12 Monkeys via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of 12 Monkeys via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Without a doubt, one of the most prolific interpretations of mankind's impending doom (ever) remains Stephen King's The Stand, and this novel underwent a pretty solid TV miniseries adaptation in the mid-1990's. In it, Adam Storke played Larry Underwood, one of the survivors facing the ultimate battle of good versus evil in those wicked days. Storke was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talents of Max Wasa know no bounds. Artist. Musician. Writer. Actress. Model. Producer. Whatever she sets her sights on, she aims high ... and she's not known to miss. Genre fans might know her best from appearances aboard My Stepmother Is An Alien (1988) or Astro (2018). Want to know more? Then check out her official website right here. Wasa was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On or about the time that "virtual reality" became the "it thing," Hollywood immediately started turning out picture after picture exploring the possibilities. The problem was many of these just weren't very good, mostly because screenwriters didn't quite understand virtual reality yet. In any event, Craig Bierko played multiple roles in 1999's The Thirteenth Floor, an attempt that actually hit close to mark but just wasn't all that interesting. Bierko was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sarita Choudhury (pictured above right) enjoyed a small role in the uber-popular franchise spawned by The Hunger Games; she appeared as Egeria in Mockingjay -- Part 1. Choudhury was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If the facts and figures provided by the good people at IMDB.com are to be believed, then Julie K. Smith is a rare one, indeed: according to that auspicious site, Smith is one of the only actresses/models to work both with Playboy as well as Penthouse Magazine! How do you like them apples? Though it's easy to conclude that her professional gigs lean heartily toward projects with more Adult themes, fans can still seek out her ample goodness in such titles as The Wasp Woman (1995), Sorceress II: The Temptress (1997), The Bare Wench Project (2000), Wolfhound (2002), Baberellas (2003), and The Witches Of Breastwick (2005). Smith was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Griffin Drew got her cinematic start with a role aboard the Fantasy/Comedy Dinosaur Island (1994). Drew was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critical favorite Edward Norton had a bona fide shot at the Marvel screen universe when he played Dr. Bruce Banner in the 2008 kinda/sorta reboot of The Incredible Hulk. Depending upon whose story you believe, Norton shot himself in the foot by behaving too much like a cinema diva when it came to script, editing, and shooting procedures. Personally, I liked his flick quite well. Norton was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As of late, Christian Slater's luck on the big screen hasn't been all that grand, but he continues to churn out TV series and direct-to-DVD releases (2013's Stranded comes to mind) like the professional workhorse that he is. Star Trek fans remember his great li'l cameo from Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, and they wonder about what greater role there could've been for the man. Slater was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2013, I had the good fortunte of receiving a complimentary DVD of Stranded in exchange for a review. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2013, I had the good fortunte of receiving a complimentary DVD of Stranded in exchange for a review. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Darren Pettie has tried to play a source for law and order aboard the television adaptation of Stephen King's The Mist. Pettie was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former Cosby kid Malcolm-Jamal Warner made the jump to Science Fiction with a coveted role aboard J. Michael Straczynski's Jeremiah. Warner was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Artine Brown (above left) continues to dabble in the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy with small roles aboard such entities as Sliders, The X-Files, Stargate: SG-1, The Outer Limits, Babylon 5, The Twilight Zone, Tru Calling, The Dead Zone, Stargate: Atlantis, Fringe, Once Upon A Time, Soldiers of the Apocalypse, Supernatural, The Tomorrow People, Arrow, The 100, Helix, and AMC's Fear The Walking Dead. Brown was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Before she found a bit of a home in the field of daytime soap operas, the lovely Daphne Duplaix had a career as a model (Playboy Magazine) as well as a budding acting career in small genre projects like Angel and The Invisible Man. Duplaix was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mizuo Peck will always have a cinematic home thanks for her work aboard the popular Night At The Museum franchise. Peck was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hers may not be a household name, but Rhonda Dent is no slouch. She shines in small roles aboard such properties as The Outer Limits, Tru Calling, The 4400, Blade: The Series, Supernatural, Almost Human, Helix (2015), and Syfy's Van Helsing. Dent was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Andrew Shim helped push back the Alien Uprising (a.k.a. U.F.O.) (2012) for Filmbox and Hawthorn Productions. Shim was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in her professional career, Brooke Harman paid visits to the worlds of TV's Beastmaster and Stepsister From Planet Weird (2000). Harman was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely and talented Anna Akana is exploring another possible look at tomorrow with a starring role aboard the SciFi/Comedy Miss 2059. Akana was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Turkish-born actress Yasmine Alice knew a thing or two about commanding attention with her work aboard 2023's Future Soldier. Alice was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing Future Soldier via a streaming opportunity offered by the film's writer/director. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing Future Soldier via a streaming opportunity offered by the film's writer/director. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Since launching an acting career in 2003, newcomer Richard Harmon has been all over Science Fiction television. He's appeared in Jeremiah, Smallville, Caprica, Fringe, The 100, and Syfy's Continuum. That's an impressive track record, indeed. Harmon was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fresh-faced Maia Mitchell had her day ruined with the untimely arrival of a nuclear Apocalypse in 2013's SciFi psychological drama After The Dark. Mitchell was born on this day in 1993.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Newcomer Max Charles plays 'Momma's boy' Zach Goodweather aboard FX's SciFi-lite The Strain for Guillermo del Toro. The talented young man has also had the good fortune of playing a younger version of Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man and The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Charles was born on this day in 2003.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1916 (in Germany), the people of Berlin were treated to the silver screen premiere of Homunculus. Directed by Otto Rippert from a script by Robert Reinert, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Olaf Fønss, Ernst Ludwig, and Adolf Paul; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Part of the artificial-creature series encompassing Der Golem (1914 and 1920), Alraune (1918, 1928, 1930) and Metropolis (1926), 'Homunculus' was the most popular serial in Germany during World War I even influencing the dress of the fashionableset in Berlin. Foenss, a Danish star, is the perfect creature manufactured in a laboratory by Kuehne. Having discovered his origins, that he has no 'soul' and is incapable of love, he revenges himself on mankind, instigating revolutions and becoming a monstruos but beautiful tyrant, relentlessly pursued by his creator-father who seeks to rectify his mistake."
"Part of the artificial-creature series encompassing Der Golem (1914 and 1920), Alraune (1918, 1928, 1930) and Metropolis (1926), 'Homunculus' was the most popular serial in Germany during World War I even influencing the dress of the fashionableset in Berlin. Foenss, a Danish star, is the perfect creature manufactured in a laboratory by Kuehne. Having discovered his origins, that he has no 'soul' and is incapable of love, he revenges himself on mankind, instigating revolutions and becoming a monstruos but beautiful tyrant, relentlessly pursued by his creator-father who seeks to rectify his mistake."
A star is born! On this day in 1933 (in the U.S.), it was the end of life as we knew it when mankind was treated to the ultimate Deluge! Directed by Felix E. Feist, this disaster movie starred Peggy Shannon, Lois Wilson, and Sidney Blackmer; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A massive earthquake strikes the United States, which destroys the West Coast and unleashes a massive flood that threatens to destroy the East Coast as well."
For the record:
In 2018, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized that year's DVD release of Deluge with a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-Ray Classic Film Release.'
"A massive earthquake strikes the United States, which destroys the West Coast and unleashes a massive flood that threatens to destroy the East Coast as well."
For the record:
In 2018, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized that year's DVD release of Deluge with a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-Ray Classic Film Release.'
On this day in 1950 (in the United Kingdom), Destination Moon saw that the eagle had landed in theaters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
On this day in 1960 (in West Germany), The Two Faces Of Dr. Jekyll gave audiences another look at a visual interpretation of the Robert Louis Stevenson Horror classic novel. Directed by Terence Fisher, the feature film starred Paul Massie, Dawn Addams, and Christopher Lee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with scientific means of revealing the hidden, dark side of man and releases a murderer from within himself."
"Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with scientific means of revealing the hidden, dark side of man and releases a murderer from within himself."
On this day in 1961 (in Italy), Walt Disney released The Absent Minded Professor. The SciFi/Comedy feature starred Fred MacMurray and Keenan Wynn, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A college professor invents an anti-gravity substance which a corrupt businessman wants for himself."
"A college professor invents an anti-gravity substance which a corrupt businessman wants for himself."
On this day in 1962 (in Italy), The Day The Earth Caught Fire delivered a Cold War message via its SciFi construct. Written (in part) and directed by Val Guest, the feature film starred Edward Judd, Janet Munro, and Leo McKern; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When the U.S. and Russia unwittingly test atomic bombs at the same time, it alters the nutation (axis of rotation) of the Earth."
"When the U.S. and Russia unwittingly test atomic bombs at the same time, it alters the nutation (axis of rotation) of the Earth."
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in Italy), The Night Evelyn Came Out Of The Grave enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation of note. Written (in part) and directed by Emilio Miraglia, the Fantasy/Horror starred Anthony Steffan, Marina Malfatti, and Enzo Tarascio. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rich, mentally-unstable man - with a penchant for playing deadly S&M games with women who resemble his dead wife - sparks off a chain of bizarre events after getting remarried."
"A rich, mentally-unstable man - with a penchant for playing deadly S&M games with women who resemble his dead wife - sparks off a chain of bizarre events after getting remarried."
On this day in 1972 (in Finland), conquest was on the simians' mind with the silver screen release of Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Roddy McDowall, Don Murray, and Ricardo Montalban; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
On this day in 1975 (in Spain), beauty and brawn were in ample supply with the cinematic release of Super Stooges Vs. The Wonder Women. Directed by Alfonso Brescia, the Italian-language Fantasy/Comedy starred Aldo Canti, Marc Hannibal, and Hua Yueh; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Three men with supernatural powers interfere in a tribal warfare to prevent evil Amazons destroying the inhabitants of a village."
"Three men with supernatural powers interfere in a tribal warfare to prevent evil Amazons destroying the inhabitants of a village."
On this day in 1978 (in East Germany), the Czech-language Family Fantasy titled Long Live Ghosts enjoyed scaring up a little green at the box office. Written (in part) and directed by Oldrich Lipský, the film starred Dana Vávrová, Jirí Procházka, and Jirí Sovák. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Trespassing gang of boys encounter a ghost in the ruins of a castle. When they rescue the ghost who is caught in a trapset, they become allies in a fight to prevent ruins from being turned into mushroom farm by the city authorities."
"Trespassing gang of boys encounter a ghost in the ruins of a castle. When they rescue the ghost who is caught in a trapset, they become allies in a fight to prevent ruins from being turned into mushroom farm by the city authorities."
On this day in 1979 (in Sweden), James Bond took to outer space to save life as we know it with the big screen premiere of Moonraker. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, the film starred Roger Moore, Lois Chiles, and Michael Lonsdale; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
On this day in 1980 (in Sweden), Ravagers showed audiences one more look at mankind's bleak future. The feature starred Richard Harris and Ann Turkel, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic world divided between two groups called the Flockers and the Ravagers, an adventurer and his "pleasure girl" try to find their way to a rumored safe haven called the Land of Genesis."
"In a post-apocalyptic world divided between two groups called the Flockers and the Ravagers, an adventurer and his "pleasure girl" try to find their way to a rumored safe haven called the Land of Genesis."
On this day in 1983 (in Australia), Krull enjoyed its theatrical premiere. Directed by Peter Yates, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ken Marshall and Lysette Anthony, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
"A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
On this day in 1989 (in Spain and Finland), Leviathan proved that there were still things to be afraid of in the murky depths. Directed by George P. Cosmatos, the SciFi/Horror starred Peter Weller, Richard Crenna, and Amanda Pays. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Perched on the hull of a wrecked Soviet freighter, a team of deep-sea miners led by head oceanographer Steven Beck comes face to face with a mutant creature that's the product of a failed genetic experiment."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Leviathan enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"Perched on the hull of a wrecked Soviet freighter, a team of deep-sea miners led by head oceanographer Steven Beck comes face to face with a mutant creature that's the product of a failed genetic experiment."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Leviathan enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1989, the SciFi/Comedy Mutant On The Bounty did wonders with a little wordplay. The feature starred Kyle T. Heffner and Deborah Benson, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew of a space freighter picks up a mutated jazz musician who got lost in space. What they don't know is that two dangerous criminals are after him. They hijack the ship and take the crew hostage. The crew comes up with a plan."
"The crew of a space freighter picks up a mutated jazz musician who got lost in space. What they don't know is that two dangerous criminals are after him. They hijack the ship and take the crew hostage. The crew comes up with a plan."
A star is born! On this day in 1993, Dark Vengeance (aka WarForce 3000) enjoyed its release on U.S. home video. Written and directed by Faruque Ahmed, the Apocalypse feature starred Jay Roberts Jr. and Denice Duff, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Set in a distant post-apocalyptic future when the environment has been blasted into a poisoned wasteland and society has degenerated to rule by competing hordes of marauding gangs. There is one warrior, though, who fights to bring some semblance of peace and order to the land. When his family is brutally murdered, however, he becomes obsessed with seeking out their killer and taking his revenge."
"Set in a distant post-apocalyptic future when the environment has been blasted into a poisoned wasteland and society has degenerated to rule by competing hordes of marauding gangs. There is one warrior, though, who fights to bring some semblance of peace and order to the land. When his family is brutally murdered, however, he becomes obsessed with seeking out their killer and taking his revenge."
A star is born! On this day in 1993, the curiously-named Mandroid enjoyed its home video release. Here's the plot synopsis as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"In his hidden laboratory deep in Russia, Dr. Karl Zimmer has invented the Mandroid, a humanoid robot which follows the motions of a man in a special control suit. He has offered the invention to the USA, who have sent Smith and Wait from the CIA for inspection. However Zimmer's partner Drago has different plans, wants to sell Mandroid to the military. The night he tries to steal Mandroid, he becomes exposed to the highly toxic Superconn. But he can flee and won't give up on Mandroid, even though he's terribly disfigured."
"In his hidden laboratory deep in Russia, Dr. Karl Zimmer has invented the Mandroid, a humanoid robot which follows the motions of a man in a special control suit. He has offered the invention to the USA, who have sent Smith and Wait from the CIA for inspection. However Zimmer's partner Drago has different plans, wants to sell Mandroid to the military. The night he tries to steal Mandroid, he becomes exposed to the highly toxic Superconn. But he can flee and won't give up on Mandroid, even though he's terribly disfigured."
A star is born! On this day in 1993, the SciFi/Action flick TC 2000 threw a few cinematic punches. The feature starred Billy Blanks and Bolo Yeung, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Somewhere in the future the environmental overkill had come. Many people had died. The rich were able to build the underworld, the poor had to stay on the surface building gangs to survive. Jason Storm, an underworld guard gets knowledge of a conspiracy to kill all people on the surface. He needs to flee to the surface, and wins Sumai, a respected martial arts master, as his ally to stop the dirty plot."
"Somewhere in the future the environmental overkill had come. Many people had died. The rich were able to build the underworld, the poor had to stay on the surface building gangs to survive. Jason Storm, an underworld guard gets knowledge of a conspiracy to kill all people on the surface. He needs to flee to the surface, and wins Sumai, a respected martial arts master, as his ally to stop the dirty plot."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to a special theatrical engagement of Blue Flame. Written and directed by Cassian Elwes, the SciFi/Thriller starred Charley Hayward, Jad Mager, and Kerri Green. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A cop has to fight two Aliens which he himself created."
"A cop has to fight two Aliens which he himself created."
On this day in 1995 (in Canada), Mortal Kombat took to blows very, very quickly. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and based on the popular video game of the era, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Christopher Lambert, Robin Shou, and Linden Ashby. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three unknowing martial artists are summoned to a mysterious island to compete in a tournament whose outcome will decide the fate of the world."
"Three unknowing martial artists are summoned to a mysterious island to compete in a tournament whose outcome will decide the fate of the world."
On this day in 1998, the SciFi/Thriller Darkdrive turned up the heat virtually. The feature starred Gian-Carlo Scandiuzzi and Claire Stansfield, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Set in the near future, one man must restore order when a mainframe system crashes in a virtual reality prison where computers control the inmates' thoughts."
"Set in the near future, one man must restore order when a mainframe system crashes in a virtual reality prison where computers control the inmates' thoughts."
On this day in 2000 (in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.), The Cell enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Tarsem Singh, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jennifer Lopez, Vince Vaughn, and Vincent D'Onofrio. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An F.B.I. Agent persuades a social worker, who is adept with a new experimental technology, to enter the mind of a comatose serial killer in order to learn where he has hidden his latest kidnap victim."
"An F.B.I. Agent persuades a social worker, who is adept with a new experimental technology, to enter the mind of a comatose serial killer in order to learn where he has hidden his latest kidnap victim."
A star is born! On this day in 2001 (in Japan), Stacy: Attack Of The Schoolgirl Zombies went into the theatrical business of protecting mankind from the undead. Directed by Naoyuki Tomomatsu, the Horror/Comedy starred Norman England, Tomoka Hayashi, and Yukijiro Hotaru. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Girls surrounding 17 years old are affected by an illness that make her to be 'Stacies': they feel a strange and momentary happiness until they become zombies."
"Girls surrounding 17 years old are affected by an illness that make her to be 'Stacies': they feel a strange and momentary happiness until they become zombies."
On this day in 2004 (in the Phillipines, Trinidad and Tobago), the cinematic showdown that was AVP: Alien Vs. Predator launched onto the silver screen. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi film starred Sanaa Lathan, Lance Henriksen, and Raoul Bova. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"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 2007 (in Japan), Vexville opened up to the masses-at-large. Written (in part) and directed by Fumihiko Sori, the animated SciFi/Fantasy starred the voices of Meisa Kuroki, Shôsuke Tanihara, and Yasuko Matsuyuki. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Japan, 2077: A female agent named Vexille is dispatched to Tokyo to investigate whether Japanese are developing robotic technology, which has been banned by the U.N. due to its potential threat to humankind."
"Japan, 2077: A female agent named Vexille is dispatched to Tokyo to investigate whether Japanese are developing robotic technology, which has been banned by the U.N. due to its potential threat to humankind."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Germany), Carriers enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Fantasy Filmfest. Written and directed by the team of David and Alex Pastor, the SciFi/Horror starred Chris Pine, Piper Perabo, and Lou Taylor Pucci. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As a lethal virus spreads globally, four friends seek a reputed plague-free haven. But while avoiding the infected, the travelers turn on one another."
"As a lethal virus spreads globally, four friends seek a reputed plague-free haven. But while avoiding the infected, the travelers turn on one another."
On this day in 2009 (in Argentina), the 1996-produced SciFi/Thriller The Arrival enjoyed a release on home video. Written and directed by David Twohy, the feature film starred Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Crouse, and Richard Schiff; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Zane, an astronomer, discovers intelligent alien life. But the aliens are keeping a deadly secret, and will do anything to stop Zane from learning it."
"Zane, an astronomer, discovers intelligent alien life. But the aliens are keeping a deadly secret, and will do anything to stop Zane from learning it."
On this day in 2010 (in Finland), storms were all the rage when Category 6: Day Of Destruction enjoyed its release on home video. Directed by Dick Lowry, the SciFi/Drama starred Thomas Gibson, Nancy McKeon, and Chandra West; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Three tornadoes converge to wreak havoc on Chicago, disrupting the power grid and creating the worst super-storm in history: a category 6 twister."
"Three tornadoes converge to wreak havoc on Chicago, disrupting the power grid and creating the worst super-storm in history: a category 6 twister."
A star is born ... but these four are dead! On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), 4 Dead Girls: The Soul Taker (aka The Rental) enjoyed its first theatrical screening ever when it was unleashed on audiences in attendance of the Action On Film International Film Festival. Written and directed by the team of Mike Campbell and Todd Johnson, the Fantasy/Horror starred Katherine Browning, Leah Verrill, and Tiffany S. Walker. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Rental is a horror feature film about 4 girls who move into their first off-campus house only to find that the owner is a soul-eater."
ExtraExtra Alert:
At some time in the past, I was offered a copy of 4 Dead Girls to view on DVD in exchange for a review on the internet. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my take right here.
"The Rental is a horror feature film about 4 girls who move into their first off-campus house only to find that the owner is a soul-eater."
ExtraExtra Alert:
At some time in the past, I was offered a copy of 4 Dead Girls to view on DVD in exchange for a review on the internet. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my take right here.
On this day in 2016 (in Belgium), guns were blazin' with the release of Rage Of The Yeti. Directed by David Hewlett from a story by Craig Engler and Brooks Peck, the Horror/Fantasy starred Yancy Butler, David Chokachi, and Laura Haddock. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A quest for riches becomes a fight for survival after treasure hunters find snow monsters on a mountain in the Arctic."
"A quest for riches becomes a fight for survival after treasure hunters find snow monsters on a mountain in the Arctic."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), audiences learned it was not yet safe to go back into the water with the broadcast television premiere of 6-Headed Shark Attack! Written (in part) and directed by Mark Atkins, the Horror/Fantasy starred Brandon Auret, Thandi Sebe, and Cord Newman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Attendees of a marriage boot camp on a remote island have to fight a 6-headed shark that attacks the beach."
"Attendees of a marriage boot camp on a remote island have to fight a 6-headed shark that attacks the beach."
A star is born! On this day in 2023 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Popcorn Frights Film Festival were treated to the big screen premiere of That's A Wrap. Directed by Marcel Walz from a story by Joe Knetter and Robert L. Lucas, the Horror/Fantasy starred Cerina Vincent, Monique Parent, and Sarah French. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mason Maestro has just directed what he considers to be his masterpiece, a film titled 'That's a Wrap.' The cast arrive to the studio excited to celebrate what they just created. But they aren't the only ones there. Someone has dressed up as Mistress, the slasher in the film, and has decided to make the art real by staging their own highly stylized kill scenes. One by one, the cast disappear until the true nature of the evening is revealed."
"Mason Maestro has just directed what he considers to be his masterpiece, a film titled 'That's a Wrap.' The cast arrive to the studio excited to celebrate what they just created. But they aren't the only ones there. Someone has dressed up as Mistress, the slasher in the film, and has decided to make the art real by staging their own highly stylized kill scenes. One by one, the cast disappear until the true nature of the evening is revealed."
On this day in 1951, Space Patrol aired "The Underwater Hideout." Officially, this served as the thirty-fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Solarguard.com:
"The two accomplices of the captured payroll robber, Sobia, try to force Buzz to order Sobial's release. What started as a routine flight to Earth for Commander Corry, Cadet Happy and Major Robertson turns into terrifying adventure when the two criminals nearly ram the Commanders ship in space. They lead Buzz and his comrades to their hideout at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, where they attempt to force Buzz, by a brutal attack on Happy, to order Sobia's release."
"The two accomplices of the captured payroll robber, Sobia, try to force Buzz to order Sobial's release. What started as a routine flight to Earth for Commander Corry, Cadet Happy and Major Robertson turns into terrifying adventure when the two criminals nearly ram the Commanders ship in space. They lead Buzz and his comrades to their hideout at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, where they attempt to force Buzz, by a brutal attack on Happy, to order Sobia's release."
On this day in 1962 (in the United Kingdom), Out Of This World aired "Vanishing Act." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Edgar Brocklebank, a third rate conjurer, becomes a sensation after buying the vanishing trick box from the estate of the 'Great Vorg' a once famous magician. However, what Edgar can't explain is exactly where his assistants or objects are going once they have entered the box - as they don't return."
"Edgar Brocklebank, a third rate conjurer, becomes a sensation after buying the vanishing trick box from the estate of the 'Great Vorg' a once famous magician. However, what Edgar can't explain is exactly where his assistants or objects are going once they have entered the box - as they don't return."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Ace Of Wands aired "Joker: Part 2." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Investigating why normally well-behaved children suddenly go berserk and wreck their school classrooms, Tarot and his companions find themselves up against the fiendish Uncle Harry and his strange troupe of travelling entertainers."
"Investigating why normally well-behaved children suddenly go berserk and wreck their school classrooms, Tarot and his companions find themselves up against the fiendish Uncle Harry and his strange troupe of travelling entertainers."
On this day in 1976 (in the United Kingdom), Shadows aired "Dark Encounter." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A middle-aged Londoner returns to the remote village that sheltered him as a child from the London blitz. He realizes that he's afraid of the woods around the village, but can't remember why."
"A middle-aged Londoner returns to the remote village that sheltered him as a child from the London blitz. He realizes that he's afraid of the woods around the village, but can't remember why."
On this day in 1993 (in Australia), The Girl From Tomorrow aired "The Grandmother Of Invention." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's second (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When going back to Nik's place they see the Modded Lorien and they follow her to a waste disposal site."
"When going back to Nik's place they see the Modded Lorien and they follow her to a waste disposal site."
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Crusade aired "The Needs Of Earth." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Gideon conducts an illegal raid to free a fugitive with information that could save Earth."
"Gideon conducts an illegal raid to free a fugitive with information that could save Earth."
On this day in 2000, Farscape aired the episode "Won't Get Fooled Again." It was the fifteenth hour of their second season, and here's the plot summary as described by IMDB.com:
"Crichton has returned to Earth. Or has he always been on Earth all this time? People from his past and present appear. Is this some trick, if so who is behind it and why."
"Crichton has returned to Earth. Or has he always been on Earth all this time? People from his past and present appear. Is this some trick, if so who is behind it and why."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Lexx aired "Fire And Water." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The LEXX crew is awakened after four thousand years of cryo-sleep to find their non-functioning ship caught in the orbit of a binary planet system. The crew is soon drawn into the never-ending war between the two planets."
"The LEXX crew is awakened after four thousand years of cryo-sleep to find their non-functioning ship caught in the orbit of a binary planet system. The crew is soon drawn into the never-ending war between the two planets."
On this day in 2000, Stargate: SG-1 aired "The First Ones." This served as the eighth episode to the long-running program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Whilst on an archaeological dig at the original Goa'uld home world, Jackson is captured by a young Unas. He tries to communicate with it and slowly builds a rapport. Meanwhile, SG1 comes to the planet to find Jackson and they soon realise that some of the SG members there may have been taken over by Goa'uld. Will they be able to discover which ones in time to rescue Daniel."
"Whilst on an archaeological dig at the original Goa'uld home world, Jackson is captured by a young Unas. He tries to communicate with it and slowly builds a rapport. Meanwhile, SG1 comes to the planet to find Jackson and they soon realise that some of the SG members there may have been taken over by Goa'uld. Will they be able to discover which ones in time to rescue Daniel."
On this day in 2001 (in Canada), The Outer Limits aired "Time To Time." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's seventh (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"A 60s radical's daughter ventures back in time to undo the bombing which killed him. But the time travel institute who recruited her as a trainee races to stop her before she irreparably damages the future. The institute plucked Lorelle out of a fatal car wreck, so she can't return to 1989, but her mother is devastated by her husband's death, so Lorelle hopes to affect the past to improve her mother's life."
"A 60s radical's daughter ventures back in time to undo the bombing which killed him. But the time travel institute who recruited her as a trainee races to stop her before she irreparably damages the future. The institute plucked Lorelle out of a fatal car wreck, so she can't return to 1989, but her mother is devastated by her husband's death, so Lorelle hopes to affect the past to improve her mother's life."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Stargate: Atlantis aired "The Real World." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr Weir finds herself on Earth where, to everyone else, the Atlantis Expedition was just her delusion."
"Dr Weir finds herself on Earth where, to everyone else, the Atlantis Expedition was just her delusion."
On this day in 2006, Stargate: SG-1 aired "200." This served as the sixth episode to the program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Martin Lloyd seeks out SG-1 for assistance when his failed TV show based on the real Stargate program becomes a feature film."
"Martin Lloyd seeks out SG-1 for assistance when his failed TV show based on the real Stargate program becomes a feature film."
It all began right here: on this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Gemini Division aired its first episode ever. The pilot installment was titled "Eyes Wide Open," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Detective Anna Diaz goes to Paris with her new boyfriend Nick, she cannot escape a nagging feeling that he's hiding something."
"When Detective Anna Diaz goes to Paris with her new boyfriend Nick, she cannot escape a nagging feeling that he's hiding something."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Under The Dome aired "Awakening." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Barbie realizes Don knows more about the dome than he is letting on when he asks him to help get a message to Julia. Back in Chester's Mill, Big Jim appoints himself sheriff of the town."
"Barbie realizes Don knows more about the dome than he is letting on when he asks him to help get a message to Julia. Back in Chester's Mill, Big Jim appoints himself sheriff of the town."
On this day in 2015, Zoo aired "The Cheese Stands Alone." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a cargo ship comes to shore in Massachusetts, rats invade the island; Mitch makes a visit to his daughter and prepares to get the cure to her terminal illness."
"After a cargo ship comes to shore in Massachusetts, rats invade the island; Mitch makes a visit to his daughter and prepares to get the cure to her terminal illness."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Killjoys aired "Heist, Heist Baby." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the Killjoys plan a theft on an armored convoy, Aneela finds herself on a desperate search for Delle Seyah."
"As the Killjoys plan a theft on an armored convoy, Aneela finds herself on a desperate search for Delle Seyah."
