If you've never read anything by Ray Bradbury, well ... then ... for starters ... shame on you! Stop what you're doing right now, and get out to your local bookstore or library. At the very least, every science fiction fan should read "The Martian Chronicles." (I recently got after my nephew for not having yet read it!) Or maybe "Fahrenheit 451." One or the other. Go on. I'll wait.
Mr. Bradbury was born on this day back in 1920 in Waukegan, Illinois. Throughout his prolific lifetime, he penned scores of short stories and dozens of books, of which I've only mentioned two. It wasn't until the 1950's with the publication of "The Martian Chronicles" that he truly started received the recognition he deserved. In 2004, he received a National Medal of the Arts. He's one of the few sci-fi authors to have a star on the Walk of Fame. He also received the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Grand Master Award from Science Fiction Writers of America, as well as an Emmy Award for his work as a writer on "The Halloween Tree" and many other singular honors.
Though he's no longer with us, make sure you think nice thoughts of him today.
Mr. Bradbury was born on this day back in 1920 in Waukegan, Illinois. Throughout his prolific lifetime, he penned scores of short stories and dozens of books, of which I've only mentioned two. It wasn't until the 1950's with the publication of "The Martian Chronicles" that he truly started received the recognition he deserved. In 2004, he received a National Medal of the Arts. He's one of the few sci-fi authors to have a star on the Walk of Fame. He also received the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Grand Master Award from Science Fiction Writers of America, as well as an Emmy Award for his work as a writer on "The Halloween Tree" and many other singular honors.
Though he's no longer with us, make sure you think nice thoughts of him today.
When Kirk and company took a little "Shore Leave" during Star Trek's first season, little did they know that they were secretly at the whims of the mysterious planet's caretaker, a kindly gentleman played by Oliver McGowan. Though he's no longer with us, McGowan was born on this day in 1907. [Source: IMDB.com]
Throughout a career which spanned five decades, Lesley Woods managed to squeeze in a role or two in the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Fans might recognize her from work aboard Battlestar Galactica (ABC), World War III (TV miniseries), and The Greatest American Hero. Though she's no longer with us, Woods was born on this day in 1910. [Source: IMDB.com]
Sultry Honor Blackman found mainstream success in the role of Bond girl Pussy Galore in 1964's seminal Goldfinger. Since then, she's continued to generate fan interest with work on such projects as The Avengers, Doctor Who (1986), and Cockneys Vs. Zombies (2012). Though she's no longer with us, Blackman was born on this day in 1925.
Amongst the man's many accomplishments in the world of entertainment, Douglas S. Cramer was a Paramount Pictures executive who had a small hand in producing a little something called Star Trek during its third and final season. Cramer was born on this day in 1931. [Source: Memory Alpha]
How beautiful is Sylva Koscina? Well, she was beautiful enough to stir the heart of even Hercules (1958), cinematically anyway. Though she's no longer with us, Koscina was born on this day in 1933. [Source: IMDB.com]
Decades before he made history with bringing The Sopranos to life, storyteller David Chase was weaving even darker tales aboard the fondly-remembered Kolchak: The Night Stalker. Chase was born on this day in 1945. [Source: IMDB.com]
When I was a young'un, I just loved watching Cindy Williams on television. She was one of those rare comediennes who could always make me laugh. Thankfully, she's dabbled in a few genres so that I can give her a shout here for such projects as Beware The Blob (1972), The Creature Wasn't Nice (1981), UFOria (1985), Earth Angel (1991), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, and The Stepford Husbands (1996). Williams was born on this day in 1947. [Source: IMDB.com]
Hollywood producer Rick McCallum worked alongside the venerable George Lucas throughout the Star Wars Special Editions releases as well as all of the Prequel Trilogy. McCallum was born on this day in 1950. [Source: IMDB.com]
In 2004's The Chronicles of Riddick, Colm Feore (pictured) chewed scenery as the venomous Lord Marshal. The talented actor has also appeared in Battlestar Galactica (2006), WarGames: The Dead Code (2008), Revolution (2012), and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014). Feore was born on this day in 1958.
Screen veteran Mark Williams booked a few appearances aboard the BBC's Doctor Who (pictured) in its 2012 season. Williams was born on this day in 1959.
For shame! Who would've guessed that such an affable-looking fellow as voice actor Stephen Stanton could bring to life the animated version of 'Grand Moff Tarkin' aboard both Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels? Stanton was born on this day in 1961. [Source: IMDB.com]
Andrew Wilson found himself trapped between a rock and a chronological hard place in 2017's Time Trap (aka Synkhole). Wilson was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
Courtney Gains is one of those actors who has found stardom via small roles in many, many projects. He first dropped onto fandom's radar with a small role in 1985's Back to the Future, but he's since gone on to roles in such projects as Starman (1987), Superboy (1988), Tales from the Crypt (1993), Wing Commander III (1994), and Alien Encounter (2008). Gains was born on this day in 1965.
On ABC TV's seminal Lost program, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje played the mysterious Mr. Eko for all of twenty-eight episodes. The versatile actor has also appeared in G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, Thor: The Dark World, and was seen (under much make-up) in the DC live action feature Suicide Squad (2016). Akinnuoye-Agbaje was born on this day in 1967.
Funnyman Ty Burrell provides perhaps the most relatable character for me in the ensemble at the heart of ABC's Modern Family, but he has tinkered in genre work, appearing as Leonard in 2008's The Incredible Hulk. He's also booked roles aboard Dawn of the Dead (2004) and The Super Hero Squad Show (2010 - 2011). Burrell was born on this day in 1967.
SciFi fans certainly know Alfred Gough's name. In fact, he's been involved with several of TV's better genre properties as of late: Smallville, The Shannara Chronicles, and Into The Badlands. Gough was born on this day in 1967. [Source: IMDB.com]
Know it or not, Richard Armitage is pretty huge in genre entertainment. Most fans will know him as Thorin from Peter Jackson's second trilogy in Middle Earth -- The Hobbit films -- but he's also been involved in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (with an uncredited role), the BBC's Robin Hood series (2006 - 2009), and even a brief appearance in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger (pictured above). Armitage was born on this day in 1971.
No offense, but Kristen Wiig really ought to stick to comedies. I've seen her work in a few more quirky dramas, and I liked her in them quite a bit, but in The Martian (2015) it just seemed like she was always on the verge of cracking up. Meh. Wiig was born on this day in 1973.
Early in her career, blonde and sexy Melinda Page Hamilton gave fanboys something to get excited about with a role in Star Trek: Enterprise (pictured above at right). She's since gone on to plenty of work in more conventional dramas. Hamilton was born on this day in 1974.
Speaking of Lost, another of the popular program's latecomers, Paulo (as played by heartthrob Rodrigo Santoro), was not exactly what one might call a "fan favorite." In fact, if memory serves the character was killed off (along with another late arrival) due to the fact that fan outcry against them was so prominent on the web. Still, Santoro's star continues to rise, having gone on to work aboard 300: Rise of an Empire and the forthcoming HBO series Westworld. Santoro was born on this day in 1975.
James Corden had a few colorful appearances aboard the BBC's popular Doctor Who during Matt Smith's reign as the pivotal time traveler. Corden was born on this day in 1978.
The lovely Megan Duffy enjoyed a guest spot aboard Torchwood's Miracle Day series. She also had a role in the Fantasy/Horror hybrid Monsterland (2016). Duffy was born on this day in 1979. [Source: IMDB.com]
Dreamy Jennifer Finnigan hasn't made many appearances in Science Fiction, but she's young, lovely, and has plenty of time to squeeze in some quality work. She had a great recurring role aboard USA Network's The Dead Zone and continues to find characters in more mainstream fare. Finnigan was born on this day in 1979.
Ross Marquand is locked, loaded, and ready for hunting aboard AMC's uber-popular The Walking Dead. Marquand was born on this day in 1981. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Jasmine Waltz continues to dabble in some smaller genre projects, including roles aboard Femme Fatales, Demon (2013), and Blade Of Honor. Waltz was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
Young Israel Broussard dipped his toes into the realm of Science Fiction with a role aboard Netflix's Extinction (2018). He's also paid a pair of visits to the world of AMC TV's Fear The Walking Dead. Broussard was born on this day in 1994. [Source: IMDB.com]
Newcomer Dakota Goyo has embraced some quality genre projects in a big way. In 2011, he had a great double-hitter, appearing in both Real Steel (pictured above) and Thor on the silver screen. In 2013, he starred in the SciFi horror flick Dark Skies. Goyo was born on this day in 1999.
On this day in 1956 (in France), the SciFi/Classic Forbidden Planet took audiences on a trip deep, deep into the Final Frontier. Directed by Fred M. Wilcox, the film starred Leslie Nielsen, Anne Francis, and Walter Pidgeon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
On this day in 1966 (in Spain), City In The Sea (aka War Gods Of The Deep) submerged from the depths for a run on the silver screen. Based on the story -- "City In The Sea" -- by Edgar Allan Poe, the feature film was directed by Jacques Tourneur and Ishirô Honda. The Horror/Fantasy starred Vincent Price, Tab Hunter, and Susan Hart. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1903, in Cornwall, a group of locals discover an underwater city, dating back to 1803, that hides a society of smugglers and aquatic creatures."
"In 1903, in Cornwall, a group of locals discover an underwater city, dating back to 1803, that hides a society of smugglers and aquatic creatures."
On this day in 1979 (in France), the SciFi/Horror hybrid Prophecy sunk its mutated teeth into mankind. Directed by John Frankenheimer, the Horror/Fantasy feature starred Talia Shire, Armand Assante, and Robert Foxworth; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A log company's waste mutates the environment, creating a giant killer bear-monster."
"A log company's waste mutates the environment, creating a giant killer bear-monster."
May the Force be with us! On this day in 1980 (in Finland), the original Star Wars enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Written and directed by George Lucas, the feature starred Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher; and here's the plot summary provided by Amazon.com:
"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.'
On this day in 1980 (in Ireland), The Final Countdown ticked down to reality in theatres. Directed by Don Taylor, the SciFi feature starred Kirk Douglas, Katharine Ross, and Martin Sheen; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A modern aircraft carrier is thrown back in time to 1941 near Hawaii, just hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor."
For the record:
The Final Countdown received a bit of extra love from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films as it was nominated for 'Best Actor' and 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the 1981 Saturn Awards ceremony.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary Blu-ray from the folks at Blue Underground, so I penned a review of the film. Interested readers can find it right here.
"A modern aircraft carrier is thrown back in time to 1941 near Hawaii, just hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor."
For the record:
The Final Countdown received a bit of extra love from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films as it was nominated for 'Best Actor' and 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the 1981 Saturn Awards ceremony.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary Blu-ray from the folks at Blue Underground, so I penned a review of the film. Interested readers can find it right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1982, the SciFi/Telefilm 984: Prisoner Of The Future was broadcast. Written (in part) and directed by Tibor Takács, the feature starred Stephen Markle, Stan Wilson, and Don Francks; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A corporate executive is taken prisoner by an underground organization known as The Movement, and is turned over to a ruthless interrogator."
"A corporate executive is taken prisoner by an underground organization known as The Movement, and is turned over to a ruthless interrogator."
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in Japan), the SciFi/Telefilm Andromeda Stories aired on the boob tube. Directed by Masamitsu Sasaki, the project starred the voices of Toshiko Fujita, Miyoko Asô, and Tôru Furuya. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the Andromeda galaxy there's a planet of a highly developed human civilization. The gentle Prince Itaka and another kingdom's beautiful Princess Lilia are about to enter a love-marriage and take over the throne, when they discover a strange object on the night sky. Later it lands on the planet, and an alien, mechanic civilization invades King Itaka's peaceful country making nearly everybody their slave. On a fateful night Queen Lilia gives birth to twins, and to avoid misfortune, the nanny Tarama takes one of the babies away, and entrusts it to the gladiator Balga. They still don't know, that the children were born with strong powers, and hold the key to the fight against the enemy that's searching to destroy every human civilization on the planet."
"In the Andromeda galaxy there's a planet of a highly developed human civilization. The gentle Prince Itaka and another kingdom's beautiful Princess Lilia are about to enter a love-marriage and take over the throne, when they discover a strange object on the night sky. Later it lands on the planet, and an alien, mechanic civilization invades King Itaka's peaceful country making nearly everybody their slave. On a fateful night Queen Lilia gives birth to twins, and to avoid misfortune, the nanny Tarama takes one of the babies away, and entrusts it to the gladiator Balga. They still don't know, that the children were born with strong powers, and hold the key to the fight against the enemy that's searching to destroy every human civilization on the planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), Human Highway enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Benefit for the National Academy of Child Development held in Los Angeles, California. Written and directed by the team of Dean Stockwell and rocker Neil Young (along with others providing assistance), the SciFi/Comedy starred Stockwell and Young along with Dennis Hopper, Sally Kirkland, and Russ Tamblyn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The new owner of a roadside diner stuck in a town built around an always leaking nuclear power plant plans to torch the place to collect insurance. However, an assortment of bizare characters and weird events (such as spaceships flying around) gets in his way."
"The new owner of a roadside diner stuck in a town built around an always leaking nuclear power plant plans to torch the place to collect insurance. However, an assortment of bizare characters and weird events (such as spaceships flying around) gets in his way."
On this day in 1985 (in Australia), Walt Disney's Baby: Secret Of The Lost Legend enjoyed a run at the theatres. Directed by Bill Norton, the SciFi feature starred William Katt, Patrick McGoohan, and Sean Young; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
On this day in 1985 (in West Germany), the world went to the rats with the release of Deadly Eyes. Directed by Robert Clouse, the Horror/Fantasy starred Sam Groom, Sara Botsford, and Scatman Crothers. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Corn grain contaminated with steroids produces large rats the size of small dogs who begin feeding on the residents of Toronto. Paul, a college basketball coach, teams up with Kelly, a local health inspector, to uncover the source of the mysterious rat attacks and they eventually try to prevent the opening of a new subway line as well as find the mutant rats nest quickly, or there will be a huge massacre of the entire city!"
"Corn grain contaminated with steroids produces large rats the size of small dogs who begin feeding on the residents of Toronto. Paul, a college basketball coach, teams up with Kelly, a local health inspector, to uncover the source of the mysterious rat attacks and they eventually try to prevent the opening of a new subway line as well as find the mutant rats nest quickly, or there will be a huge massacre of the entire city!"
On this day in 1985 (in Belgium), Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by George Miller, the SciFi/Thriller starred Mel Gibson as Max himself along with rockstar Tina Turner; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
For the record:
The third film in the Mad Max saga was not without its praises. At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed four nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
For the record:
The third film in the Mad Max saga was not without its praises. At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed four nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
Dead End Drive-In reaps the benefit of being considered SciFi-lite essentially because it takes place chronologically just around the temporal corner in tomorrow. It opened on this day in 1986 (in the U.S.) and starred Ned Manning and Peter Whitford. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's what tomorrow brought us:
"In the near future, a teenage couple are trapped in a drive-in theater which has become a concentration camp for social outcasts. The inmates are treated to drugs, exploitation films, junk food, and new wave music."
"In the near future, a teenage couple are trapped in a drive-in theater which has become a concentration camp for social outcasts. The inmates are treated to drugs, exploitation films, junk food, and new wave music."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Comedy Night of the Creeps found a little daylight. Written and directed by Fred Dekker, the SciFi/Horror feature starred Jason Lively, Steve Marshall,and Tom Atkins; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Alien brain parasites, entering humans through the mouth, turn their host into a killing zombie. Some teenagers start to fight against them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Night Of The Creep enjoyed a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Still want to know more? Then check out the film's trailer as listed on YouTube.com right here.
"Alien brain parasites, entering humans through the mouth, turn their host into a killing zombie. Some teenagers start to fight against them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Night Of The Creep enjoyed a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Still want to know more? Then check out the film's trailer as listed on YouTube.com right here.
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), some of the same talented technicians who brought you Ridley Scott's Alien (1979) now served up Invasion Earth: The Aliens Are Here, a SciFi/Comedy. Directed by Robert Skotak, the feature starred Janice Fabian, Larry Bagby, and Christian Lee; and here's the plot summary that's been written up at IMDB.com:
"Insect-like aliens invade a small town. The local teenagers have been watching a sci-fi marathon in the local theater, and from those films they get ideas on how to fight the creatures."
"Insect-like aliens invade a small town. The local teenagers have been watching a sci-fi marathon in the local theater, and from those films they get ideas on how to fight the creatures."
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Laser Mission enjoyed its release on home video. Directed by BJ Davis, the SciFi/Thriller starred Brandon Lee, Debi Monahan, and Ernest Borgnine. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Action superstar Brandon Lee portrays rebellious government agent Michael Gold who is sent on a desperate mission to a Soviet-controlled African nation in order to uncover a top-secret laser weapons operation and destroy it."
"Action superstar Brandon Lee portrays rebellious government agent Michael Gold who is sent on a desperate mission to a Soviet-controlled African nation in order to uncover a top-secret laser weapons operation and destroy it."
On this day in 1990 (in Italy), Shocking Dark (aka Terminator II) opened in cinemas. Directed by Bruno Mattei, the feature starred Christopher Ahrens, Geretta Geretta, and Haven Tyler; and here's the premise that's been provided via IMDB.com:
"In a polluted future Venice researchers work to improve the situation. One day, unknown forces start killing them. A team of soldiers and a couple of civilians is sent to investigate. Soon, they encounter strange murderous creatures."
"In a polluted future Venice researchers work to improve the situation. One day, unknown forces start killing them. A team of soldiers and a couple of civilians is sent to investigate. Soon, they encounter strange murderous creatures."
On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), Trancers II brought the inimitable Jack Deth back as the ultimate 'Future Cop,' and this time he brought along Academy Award winning actress Helen Hunt for the adventure. According to our friends at the reliable IMDB.com, here's what all of the excitement was about for the sequel:
"It is Los Angeles, 1991. Jack Deth has become accustomed to life with his new wife, Lena, in the six years since they singed Whistler. Hap Ashby, a former pitcher for the California Angels, had gotten his life out of the gutter and made quite a fortune investing, which he uses to finance his collection of fire trucks, among other things. But life is about to become a little more difficult for Jack and the gang. Whistler's brother, E.D. Wardo, has gome back in time and has started a trancer farm under the organization known as GreenWorld. GreenWorld strives to 'clean up the world', but in reality they are kidnapping homeless people and mental patients to become 'tranced'. And they're after Hap, the ancestor of a future Council Member. Jack's quite ready to singe a few trancers, but he isn't expecting his dead wife to show up. Through the power of technology, Alice has been saved from death and sent back to 1991 to help Jack and stop Wardo. The tension mounts as Lena becomes more distraught by the thought of Jack leaving her for another woman, Hap slips back into his alcoholic habits to deal with the stress, and Jack realizes that when Alice returns to the future, she'll die the next day. But somehow, Jack'll find a way to fix everything. He always does."
"It is Los Angeles, 1991. Jack Deth has become accustomed to life with his new wife, Lena, in the six years since they singed Whistler. Hap Ashby, a former pitcher for the California Angels, had gotten his life out of the gutter and made quite a fortune investing, which he uses to finance his collection of fire trucks, among other things. But life is about to become a little more difficult for Jack and the gang. Whistler's brother, E.D. Wardo, has gome back in time and has started a trancer farm under the organization known as GreenWorld. GreenWorld strives to 'clean up the world', but in reality they are kidnapping homeless people and mental patients to become 'tranced'. And they're after Hap, the ancestor of a future Council Member. Jack's quite ready to singe a few trancers, but he isn't expecting his dead wife to show up. Through the power of technology, Alice has been saved from death and sent back to 1991 to help Jack and stop Wardo. The tension mounts as Lena becomes more distraught by the thought of Jack leaving her for another woman, Hap slips back into his alcoholic habits to deal with the stress, and Jack realizes that when Alice returns to the future, she'll die the next day. But somehow, Jack'll find a way to fix everything. He always does."
On this day in 1994 (in West Germany), Cyber Tracker enjoyed its debut on home video. Directed by Richard Pepin, the SciFi/Thriller starred Don Wilson, Richard Norton, and Stacie Foster. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"This is the future. A secret service agent is framed by his own and becomes the target of the seemingly indestructible Cyborg-Executioners."
"This is the future. A secret service agent is framed by his own and becomes the target of the seemingly indestructible Cyborg-Executioners."
On this day in 1996 (in Australia), both barrels were blazing in immaculate cinematic glory when Pamela Anderson came to the silver screen in the silver screen adaptation of Dark Horse Comics' Barb Wire. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"During the Second American Civil War in 2017, Barb Wire owns a nightclub called the Hammerhead. Things become complicated when her ex-lover Axel Hood, who is married to the fugitive Corrina Devonshire, re-enters her life."
For the record:
Woof. Though I suspect Barb Wire is not without its merits, the feature film did manage to draw the attention of the Razzie Awards ... which recognized the effort with an incredible six nominations. Star Pamela Anderson took home top honors in the category of 'Worst New Star,' but the film missed out of statues in the categories of 'Worst Original Song,' 'Worst Screen Couple,' 'Worst Actress,' 'Worst Screenplay,' and 'Worst Picture.'
"During the Second American Civil War in 2017, Barb Wire owns a nightclub called the Hammerhead. Things become complicated when her ex-lover Axel Hood, who is married to the fugitive Corrina Devonshire, re-enters her life."
For the record:
Woof. Though I suspect Barb Wire is not without its merits, the feature film did manage to draw the attention of the Razzie Awards ... which recognized the effort with an incredible six nominations. Star Pamela Anderson took home top honors in the category of 'Worst New Star,' but the film missed out of statues in the categories of 'Worst Original Song,' 'Worst Screen Couple,' 'Worst Actress,' 'Worst Screenplay,' and 'Worst Picture.'
Disaster! In space! On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Scorpio One (aka Mission Scorpio One) gave a list of B-players the chance to 'investigate' the Final Frontier. (All citations appear to indicate this premiered on the SciFi Channel.) Directed by Worth Keeter, the SciFi/Drama feature starred Robert Carradine, Robin Curtis, and Jeff Speakman; and here's the premise provided by IMDB.com:
"A disaster on space station Scorpio One leaves all the crewmembers dead. The CIA sends one of its crack agents, Jared Stone into space with a team five elite Rangers to investigate."
"A disaster on space station Scorpio One leaves all the crewmembers dead. The CIA sends one of its crack agents, Jared Stone into space with a team five elite Rangers to investigate."
On this day in 2000 (in Argentina), the old was new once again with the home video release of The Lost World. Yes, yes, and yes: this was yet one more adaptation of the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle tale, this one adapted for the screen by Léopold St-Pierre, Jean LaFleur, and Vince Di Clemente. The film was directed by Bob Keen, and it starred Patrick Bergin, Jayne Heitmeyer, and Julian Casey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist discovers dinosaurs on a remote plateau in Mongolia."
"A scientist discovers dinosaurs on a remote plateau in Mongolia."
A star is born ... or is that reborn? On this day in 2005 (in the United Kingdom), failed-TV-show-turned-motion-picture-sequel Serenity blasted through all of the noise, most of which was provided by its loyal 'Browncoats' fanboys and girls anyway; it played on this day in 2005 for the good people attending the Edinburgh International Film Festival. Written and directed by the somewhat controversial Joss Whedon, the film brought back the cast from the original Firefly; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew of the ship Serenity try to evade an assassin sent to recapture telepath River."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Summer Glau took home top honors in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' while the film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 2006 Hugo Awards, writer/director Whedon was awarded the 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' trophy. Also, at the 2006 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), Whedon also took home the trophy for 'Best Script.'
"The crew of the ship Serenity try to evade an assassin sent to recapture telepath River."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Summer Glau took home top honors in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' while the film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 2006 Hugo Awards, writer/director Whedon was awarded the 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' trophy. Also, at the 2006 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), Whedon also took home the trophy for 'Best Script.'
On this day in 2008, Stag Films' Sex Galaxy enjoyed its first release ever to audiences in attendance of the Atlanta Underground Film Festival. Written and directed by Mike Davis, the feature starred Ben Phillips, Casey Robinson, and Puma Swede; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"One hundred years in the future... Due to overpopulation and the effects of global warming, sex has been declared illegal on Earth. When a crew of astronauts hear of a distant planet inhabited by insatiable female creatures who exist only to satisfy man's desires, they decide to take a detour from their routine mission in search of the mythical star system known as the Sex Galaxy. But like all expeditions fueled solely by lust and carnality, risk lurks around every corner, danger and regret at every turn."
"One hundred years in the future... Due to overpopulation and the effects of global warming, sex has been declared illegal on Earth. When a crew of astronauts hear of a distant planet inhabited by insatiable female creatures who exist only to satisfy man's desires, they decide to take a detour from their routine mission in search of the mythical star system known as the Sex Galaxy. But like all expeditions fueled solely by lust and carnality, risk lurks around every corner, danger and regret at every turn."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in the United Kingdom), The Dead 2: India rose from the dead and walked again on the silver screen when the film played for audiences in attendance of the Film4 FrightFest. Written and directed by the team of Howard J. Ford and Jonathan Ford, the feature starred Joseph Millson, Meenu Mishra, and Anand Krishna Goyal. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An infectious epidemic spreads through India as an American turbine engineer learns that his pregnant girlfriend is trapped near the slums of Mumbai. Now he must battle his way across a 300mile wasteland of the ravenous undead."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Dead 2: India scored a bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"An infectious epidemic spreads through India as an American turbine engineer learns that his pregnant girlfriend is trapped near the slums of Mumbai. Now he must battle his way across a 300mile wasteland of the ravenous undead."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Dead 2: India scored a bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2014 (in the United Kingdom), Shockwave Darkside delivered up SciFi/Adventure via the moon. Written and directed by Jay Weisman, the feature starred Bill Sage, Meiling Melançon, and Sonequa Martin-Green, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"It is the last, great war. Out of the wreckage of a troop transport, five soldiers on the way to battle find themselves stranded on the dark side of the moon. Cut off and behind enemy lines, they start a dangerous journey through snipers and minefields back to their home territory. As their numbers dwindle and nerves fray, they make an amazing discovery about the moon that just might save their lives."
"It is the last, great war. Out of the wreckage of a troop transport, five soldiers on the way to battle find themselves stranded on the dark side of the moon. Cut off and behind enemy lines, they start a dangerous journey through snipers and minefields back to their home territory. As their numbers dwindle and nerves fray, they make an amazing discovery about the moon that just might save their lives."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), The Wind Is Watching enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever when it played for the good people of Cleveland, Ohio. Written (in part) and directed by Conrad Faraj, the SciFi/Drama starred Nicole Ann Hicks, Rick Montgomery Jr., and Logan Roberts. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the midst of America's Second Civil War, a young woman named Cara Gardner must journey across the colonized 'Blue' states in hopes of finding her only remaining family."
"In the midst of America's Second Civil War, a young woman named Cara Gardner must journey across the colonized 'Blue' states in hopes of finding her only remaining family."
On this day in 2015 (in Japan), The Diabolical enjoyed showing its diabolical ways to the audience. Written (in part) and directed by Alistair Legend, the SciFi/Horror starred Ali Larter, Arjun Gupta, and Max Rose. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A single mother, and her children, are awoken nightly by an intense presence. She asks her scientist boyfriend to destroy the violent spirit, that paranormal experts are too frightened to take on."
"A single mother, and her children, are awoken nightly by an intense presence. She asks her scientist boyfriend to destroy the violent spirit, that paranormal experts are too frightened to take on."
On this day in 1964, "A Change of Identity" aired as part of Doctor Who's first season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Susan and Barbara are rescued by Jules and Jean, two members of the escape chain, while the Doctor gains access to the prison by posing as a revolution official."
"Susan and Barbara are rescued by Jules and Jean, two members of the escape chain, while the Doctor gains access to the prison by posing as a revolution official."
On this day in 1997, Stargate: SG-1 aired "The First Commandment." This served as the fifth episode to the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"The SG-1 team is sent after the SG-9 team that has failed to return. They find that SG-9's captain, having been treated like a god by planetary inhabitants, is drunk with power and is tyrannizing them. Can they overcome him?"
"The SG-1 team is sent after the SG-9 team that has failed to return. They find that SG-9's captain, having been treated like a god by planetary inhabitants, is drunk with power and is tyrannizing them. Can they overcome him?"
On this day in 1999, GvsE (aka Good vs Evil) aired "Evilator." This served as the sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Morlocks have invented a cloaking pill that will render then undetectable by Corps Agents. A deep undercover agent is sent in to find out more but her cover is blown. To attempt to rescue her, and discover what she has learnt, is tantamount to a suicide mission, so Decker and Ford choose Henry, Chandler and Esmerelda as the team to be cannon fodder."
"The Morlocks have invented a cloaking pill that will render then undetectable by Corps Agents. A deep undercover agent is sent in to find out more but her cover is blown. To attempt to rescue her, and discover what she has learnt, is tantamount to a suicide mission, so Decker and Ford choose Henry, Chandler and Esmerelda as the team to be cannon fodder."
On this day in 2003, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Evolution, Part 1." This served as the eleventh episode of the long-running program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Bra'tac and Teal'c encounter a heavily armed enemy with shielding protecting him from Goa'uld weaponry who took out two Goa'uld's personal guards. They barely manage to defeat him and bring him back to SGC for study, but this new threat poses a greater problem for the Tau'ri."
"Bra'tac and Teal'c encounter a heavily armed enemy with shielding protecting him from Goa'uld weaponry who took out two Goa'uld's personal guards. They barely manage to defeat him and bring him back to SGC for study, but this new threat poses a greater problem for the Tau'ri."
On this day in 2005 (in Germany), Stargate: SG-1 aired "Moebius: Part 1." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's eighth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
On this day in 2011, Alphas aired "Catch and Release." This served as the seventh episode to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The alpha team rescues an alpha from a group of hooded thugs, then discover she is a former associate of Dr. Rosen who wants nothing to do with him."
"The alpha team rescues an alpha from a group of hooded thugs, then discover she is a former associate of Dr. Rosen who wants nothing to do with him."
On this day in 2017, Somewhere Between aired "Madness." This served as the sixth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Nico and Laura learn the police are looking for them. Disguised, they go back to Spanish Harbor and learn the identity of one of the men in the tattoo photo, Jason Rydell -- though he's currently locked up in a psychiatric facility and impossible to reach. But Laura has a surprising contact within the institution, and manages to question Jason.... until she and Nico are attacked by military muscle. As they fight for their lives, Jason gives them a clue that leads to a shocking truth about who really killed Susanna."
"Nico and Laura learn the police are looking for them. Disguised, they go back to Spanish Harbor and learn the identity of one of the men in the tattoo photo, Jason Rydell -- though he's currently locked up in a psychiatric facility and impossible to reach. But Laura has a surprising contact within the institution, and manages to question Jason.... until she and Nico are attacked by military muscle. As they fight for their lives, Jason gives them a clue that leads to a shocking truth about who really killed Susanna."
