When it came to Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, Ray Park had a tough job. He was cast to play the (sadly) one-off villain, Darth Maul, against Jedi veteran Qui Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson). Fortunately, he at least got to kill Neeson's character ... before he was hacked in half by Qui Gon's apprentice, Obi Wan Kenobi. Still, Park did the best he could with the material provided by Lucas, and no one should forget that menacing scowl of his in the years ahead. Mr. Park was born on this day back in 1974.
I realize that Xanadu (1980) isn't the kind of film most folks come to my site daily to hear about, but I'll be honest: I love Olivia Newton-John and I love ELO, so I must give a shout-out to one of the film's star -- cinema legend Gene Kelly -- who was born on this day in 1912. [Source: IMDB.com]
The great Peter Wyngarde certainly left his mark on the world of Science Fiction and Fantasy with roles aboard One Step Beyond, Out Of This World, The Avengers, The Prisoner, Flash Gordon (1980), and Doctor Who. Though he's no longer with us, Wyngarde was born on this day in 1927. [Source: IMDB.com]
Vera Miles has talent and beauty like few others in the glory days of Hollywood. Though she's probably best remembered for her appearance aboard Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho, genre fans enjoyed her work in Science Fiction Theatre, The Twilight Zone, The Unknown (1964), The Outer Limits, Journey to the Unknown, Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, and BrainWaves (1982). Miles was born on this day in 1929. [Source: IMDB.com]
Actor and voiceover artist Ronald Falk helped to bring to life the character of 'Dexter Jettster' aboard Star Wars: Episode II - Attack Of The Clones (2002). He also paid a visit to the world of Australian TV's Legacy Of The Silver Shadow during its single-season existence. Though he's no longer with us, Falk was born on this day in 1935. [Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's far more well known for bringing to sexy life 'Jeannie' on the comedy TV classic I Dream Of Jeannie, Barbara Eden played a role in the original Irwin Allen motion picture Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea (1961). Eden was born on this day in 1939. [Source: IMDB.com]
The original Jurassic Park featured a lot of truly gifted actors in some small but critical roles. One such talent was Bob Peck, who brought to life dinosaur wrangler 'Robert Muldoon.' But genre fans watching closely probably recognized him from 1989's SciFi/Cult feature Slipstream (SciFiHistory.Net's review here) which built up a small but strong fan following over the years. Though he's no longer with us, Peck was born on this day in 1945. [Source: IMDB.com]
Comedienne Shelley Long lent her ability to make people laugh to a guest spot aboard Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman during that program's run. Long was born on this day in 1949. [Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, what could've been, my friends! Thinking back on the original Battlestar Galactica, I find it chilling that it was the death of Lieutenant Zac -- Commander Adama's son and brother of Apollo -- that basically set the entire "Saga Of A Star World" in motion. For those who missed it, Zac (above left) was played by Rick Springfield. The actor also enjoyed guest spots aboard The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, and The Incredible Hulk. Springfield was born on this day in 1949. [Source: IMDB.com]
In the first season Buck Rogers in the 25th Century episode "Planet of the Slave Girls," Michael Mullins played Regis Saroyan, the young heir to a galactic fortune who was also training to be a star pilot for the Earth. He also had roles aboard cult favorites Ark II and Tales of the Gold Monkey. Mullins was born on this day in 1951. [Source: IMDB.com]
Standing an impressive six feet ten inches tall, Nigerian born actor Bolaji Badejo was what director Ridley Scott needed under the costume as the seminal Alien from his film of the same name. It's the man's single IMDB.com credit to his name, and it's one that put him in cinema's history books forever. Though he's no longer with us, Badejo was born on this day in 1953. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record: Not an awful lot has been written about Badejo (at least, not much that I've found), but I did stumbled across an effective CNN piece about his work in Alien. Interested readers can find it right here.
For the record: Not an awful lot has been written about Badejo (at least, not much that I've found), but I did stumbled across an effective CNN piece about his work in Alien. Interested readers can find it right here.
No doubt fans of 70's and 80's television will recognize Jennifer Holmes' lovely face. During those decades alone, she enjoyed appearances on such genre staples as The Incredible Hulk, Voyagers, Knight Rider, and Misfits Of Science. Holmes was born on this day in 1955. [Source: IMDB.com]
Chris Potter has left a mark on several genre-related projects, both as a live actor as well as related voicework. He's been involved with War of the Worlds (1988), the X-Men video games, the X-Men animated series, The Outer Limits (1999), Arachnid (2001), Andromeda (2003), and the TV miniseries Superstorm. Potter was born on this day in 1960. [Source: IMDB.com]
Composer Alexandre Desplat has penned scores for such genre projects as Rise Of The Guardians (2012), Godzilla (2014), The Shape Of Water (2017), and Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets (2017). Desplat was born on this day in 1961. [Source: IMDB.com]
Hunky Deron McBee lent his considerable brawn to the role of 'Doran' for the Fantasy film Time Barbarians (1990). McBee was born on this day in 1961. [Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Ed Gale had the daunting challenge of trying to breathe life into the lifeless Howard The Duck (1986). (George Lucas, what were you thinking?!) Gale persevered after Howard's failure, securing work aboard Spaceballs (1987), Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991), Land of the Lost (1990's), Lifepod (1993), Weird Science, and Fairie (2002). Gale was born on this day in 1963. [Source: IMDB.com]
As a young man, Charley Boorman had some big shoes to fill (as Mordred) aboard Excalibur (1981), the Arthurian legend adapted for the silver screen by Charley's father, John Boorman. Boorman was born on this day in 1966. [Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Jay Mohr joined funnyman Eddie Murphy in the box office dud The Adventures of Pluto Nash (2002). Mohr was born on this day in 1970. [Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, River Phoenix joined Ethan Hawke in 1985's Joe Dante directed Explorers. A few years later, the actor played a young version of a famed archaeologist in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Though he's no longer with us, Phoenix was born on this day in 1970. [Source: IMDB.com]
Aaron Douglas signed aboard Battlestar Galactica never really knowing what the fate of his character -- Chief Galen Tyrol -- would be. Then again, I don't think anyone on the writing staff knew either as it appeared as the show wore on that they were making it all up as they went. But Douglas's portrayal of the blue-collar working stiff aboard the Galactica's crew gave the show much of its heart. Mr. Douglas was born on this day back in 1971. [Source: IMDB.com]
When he was a boy, young Joey Cramer got to do onscreen what every young SciFi fan dreams about: he got to pilot an alien spacecraft! Granted, it was all theatrical, seeing as how it was part of the plot of Walt Disney's Flight of the Navigator, but that made it no less cool. Cramer was born on this day in 1973. [Source: IMDB.com]
Director Lexi Alexander is no stranger to genre projects. Not only did she bring Punisher: War Zone (2008) to the silver screen but also she went on to direct episodes of Arrow, Supergirl, and the short-lived TV incarnation of Limitless. Alexander was born on this day in 1974. [Source: IMDB.com]
The fetching young lass in costume (above right) is none other than self-professed Star Wars nerd Clare Grant. For those who know Team Unicorn, she remains a member in good standing. She's done voice work for Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Robot Chicken, Hulk and Agents of S.M.A.S.H., and Marvels Avengers Assemble. Grant was born on this day in 1979. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Joanne Froggatt hasn't done much by way of Fantasy, but a terrific role as 'Ruth Tyler' aboard the BBC original Life On Mars is good enough for my records. Froggatt was born on this day in 1980. [Source: IMDB.com]
The very pretty Annie Ilonzeh enjoyed a recurring role aboard early episodes of The CW's long-running Arrow. Ilonzeh was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
In the guise of 'Officer Boyd,' the fetching Kristine Cofsky served and protected the SciFi and Fantasy world of Travelers for its run. She's also paid visits to the universes of Primeval: New World and Fox TV's short-lived Almost Human. Cofsky was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
English-born Ruta Gedmintas is heating up the small screen as part of the ensemble fighting against the impending vampire apocalyspe on FX's The Strain. She followed that up with a recurring role aboard the Fantasy-themed His Dark Materials for HBO. Gedmintas was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
Kim Matula faced fears somewhat 'jurassic' with her work aboard Raptor Ranch (2013) for Nu Imagination. Matula was born on this day in 1988. [Source: IMDB.com]
The delightful Jessica Lee Keller enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard the SciFi/Thriller The Adjustment Bureau (2011) for Universal Pictures. Keller was born on this day in 1990. [Source: IMDB.com]
Adult Film actress August Ames gave her fans something 'Fantasy' to think about with roles aboard such porn parodies as Deadpool XXX, Beauty And The Beast XXX, and Justice League XXX. Though she's no longer with us, Ames was born on this day in 1994. [Source: IMDB.com]
[NOTE: Sadly, August struggled with online bullying and took her own life. So if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.]
[NOTE: Sadly, August struggled with online bullying and took her own life. So if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.]
The fresh-faced Alana Mansour traveled to the future and the past with her work aboard Fox TV's short-lived Terra Nova. Mansour was born on this day in 2003. [Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1954 (in the U.S.), The Venusian (aka Stranger From Venus) hung his head in shame with its theatrical debut. (There's no shame in being Venusian, my friends.) Directed by Burt Balaban, the SciFi/Drama starred Patricia Neal, Helmut Dantine, and Derek Bond. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A stranger from Venus lands in Britain and forms a bond with a young American woman. He comes with a warning to Earth's leaders that they must eliminate all nuclear weapons if the peoples of the solar system are to survive."
"A stranger from Venus lands in Britain and forms a bond with a young American woman. He comes with a warning to Earth's leaders that they must eliminate all nuclear weapons if the peoples of the solar system are to survive."
On this day in 1957 (in Finland), The 27th Day finally reached audiences anxiously waiting. Directed by William Asher, the SciFi/Thriller starred Gene Barry, Valerie French, and George Voskovec. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Aliens take five people, give them small capsules which can kill mankind without additional damage, with the understanding they will colonize Earth only if they use the weapons."
"Aliens take five people, give them small capsules which can kill mankind without additional damage, with the understanding they will colonize Earth only if they use the weapons."
On this day in 1957 (in Finland), The Atomic Man enjoyed a visit to theaters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi/Drama:
"An atomic scientist is found floating in a river with a bullet in his back and a radioactive halo around his body. The radioactivity has put him seven-and-a-half seconds ahead of us in time. He teams up with a reporter to stop his evil double from destroying his experiments in artificial tungsten."
"An atomic scientist is found floating in a river with a bullet in his back and a radioactive halo around his body. The radioactivity has put him seven-and-a-half seconds ahead of us in time. He teams up with a reporter to stop his evil double from destroying his experiments in artificial tungsten."
On this day in 1962 (in Mexico), audiences were taken on a Journey To The Seventh Planet. Written (in part) and directed by Sidney W. Pink, the SciFi/Fantasy starred John Agar, Carl Ottosen, and Ove Sprogøe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Earth sends a five-man team to explore the frozen planet Uranus, only to find a temperate forest and sultry women from their past on it, courtesy of an alien brain with evil designs."
"Earth sends a five-man team to explore the frozen planet Uranus, only to find a temperate forest and sultry women from their past on it, courtesy of an alien brain with evil designs."
On this day in 1965 (in South Africa), a major motion picture opened up the Crack In The World. Directed by Andrew Marton, the film starred Dana Andrews, Janette Scott, and Kieron Moore; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A dying scientist pushes forward his project to tap through to the Earth's magma layer, with results that threaten to destroy the Earth as we know it."
"A dying scientist pushes forward his project to tap through to the Earth's magma layer, with results that threaten to destroy the Earth as we know it."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Dr. Who And The Daleks brought Who action to the silver screen. The feature starred Peter Cushing as the Time Lord from Gallifrey, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"An eccentric inventor and his companions travel in his TARDIS to the Planet Skaro and battle the evil menace of the Daleks."
"An eccentric inventor and his companions travel in his TARDIS to the Planet Skaro and battle the evil menace of the Daleks."
On this day in 1974 (in West Germany), SciFi turned sexy with the release of 2069: A Sex Odyssey. This Adult-themed SciFi/Comedy starred Nina Frederik and Catharina Conti, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Five sexy females from the planet Venus are sent to Earth to bring back sperm samples to their planet, which is dying out because there are no men left on it. After the land they find that it's not all that difficult persuading Earthmen to help them in their quest."
"Five sexy females from the planet Venus are sent to Earth to bring back sperm samples to their planet, which is dying out because there are no men left on it. After the land they find that it's not all that difficult persuading Earthmen to help them in their quest."
- Those interested are encouraged to check out SciFiHistory.Net's screencaps of the film right here.
On this day in 1977 (in the Philippines), the original Star Wars enjoyed its theatrical debut. The film starred Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.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."
"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."
On this day in 1977 (in Canada), Welcome To Blood City played for audiences in attendance of the Montréal Film Festival. Directed by Peter Sasdy, the SciFi/Drama starred Jack Palance, Keir Dullea, and Samantha Eggar. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of people find themselves as slaves in what looks like a Wild West town, but with no memory of who they are or how they got there. In this town, people advance through killing others. One of the people decides to go for the top position."
"A group of people find themselves as slaves in what looks like a Wild West town, but with no memory of who they are or how they got there. In this town, people advance through killing others. One of the people decides to go for the top position."
On this day in 1979 (in Mexico), it looks like the kids aren't all right (again) with the release of Return From Witch Mountain, the sequel to Escape To Witch Mountain. Directed by John Hough, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Ike Eisenmann, Kim Richards, and Christopher Lee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Tia and Tony visit Los Angeles, but he's quickly kidnapped by an evil scientist, leaving her to desperately search for him."
"Tia and Tony visit Los Angeles, but he's quickly kidnapped by an evil scientist, leaving her to desperately search for him."
On this day in 1982 (in Spain), Megaforce blazed a trail unlike few would follow ... but maybe that's a good thing. Directed by Hal Needham, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Barry Bostwick, Michael Beck, and Persis Khambatta. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Story about a rapid deployment defense unit that is called into action whenever freedom is threatened."
For the record:
I guess it can't be all that bad ... or can it? At the 1983 Razzie Awards, Megaforce enjoyed three nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' and 'Worst Picture.'
"Story about a rapid deployment defense unit that is called into action whenever freedom is threatened."
For the record:
I guess it can't be all that bad ... or can it? At the 1983 Razzie Awards, Megaforce enjoyed three nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' and 'Worst Picture.'
On this day in 1984 (in Australia), 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke, the feature was directed by Hollywood legend Stanley Kubrick and starred Keir Dullea, William Sylvester, and Gary Lockwood. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1984 (in the Netherlands), Prisoners Of The Lost Universe broke through into our cinematic dimension. Written (in part) and directed by Terry Marcel, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Richard Hatch, Kay Lenz, and John Saxon; and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Three people are transported into a parallel reality, where they find they must use modern technology, but medieval weapons, in order to save the citizenry from a murderous warlord."
"Three people are transported into a parallel reality, where they find they must use modern technology, but medieval weapons, in order to save the citizenry from a murderous warlord."
On this day in 1985, Godzilla 1985 broughth one of cinema's biggest antiheroes back from the dead. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Thirty years after the original monster's rampage, a new Godzilla emerges and attacks Japan."
"Thirty years after the original monster's rampage, a new Godzilla emerges and attacks Japan."
A star is born! On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), audiences were treated to the ultimate Warning Sign. Written (in part) and directed by Hal Barwood, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sam Waterston, Kathleen Quinlan, and Yaphet Kotto. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A woman working as a security guard in an agricultural research facility finds herself and her co-worker Schmidt fighting to survive against their former friends."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Warning Sign enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"A woman working as a security guard in an agricultural research facility finds herself and her co-worker Schmidt fighting to survive against their former friends."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Warning Sign enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1986 (in Taiwan), Eliminators went to eliminate its theatrical competition. Peter Manoogian directed from a script provided by Paul De Meo and Danny Bilson. The feature film starred Andrew Prine, Denise Crosby, and Patrick Reynolds. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A former pilot rebels against his creator, teaming up with the scientist responsible for android technology, her pet robot Spot, a rough-and-tumble riverboat guide, and a martial arts warrior."
"A former pilot rebels against his creator, teaming up with the scientist responsible for android technology, her pet robot Spot, a rough-and-tumble riverboat guide, and a martial arts warrior."
On this day in 1987, the SciFi/Telefilm The Man Who Fell To Earth revisited the spaceman's story via the Boob Tube. The feature starred Lewis Smith and Robert Picardo, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An alien lands on earth, and decides that he needs to take a job in order to raise money to build a spaceship so he can get back to his home planet."
"An alien lands on earth, and decides that he needs to take a job in order to raise money to build a spaceship so he can get back to his home planet."
On this day in 1988 (in the Philippines), Steel Dawn emerged from the aftermath of the apocalypse. Directed by Lance Hool, the feature film starred Patrick Swayze, Lisa Niemi, and Anthony Zerbe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a warrior wandering through the desert comes upon a group of settlers who are being menaced by the leader of a murderous gang who's after the water they control."
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a warrior wandering through the desert comes upon a group of settlers who are being menaced by the leader of a murderous gang who's after the water they control."
On this day in 1990 (in Hungary), Total Recall took audiences on a mind trip that may've also included a stop on Mars. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Douglas Quaid is haunted by a recurring dream about a journey to Mars. He hopes to find out more about this dream and buys a holiday at Rekall Inc. where they sell implanted memories. But something goes wrong with the memory implantation and he remembers being a secret agent fighting against the evil Mars administrator Cohaagen."
"Douglas Quaid is haunted by a recurring dream about a journey to Mars. He hopes to find out more about this dream and buys a holiday at Rekall Inc. where they sell implanted memories. But something goes wrong with the memory implantation and he remembers being a secret agent fighting against the evil Mars administrator Cohaagen."
On this day in 1995 (in France), Judge Dredd lumbered (at best) onto the silver screen. Directed by Danny Cannon, the feature film adaptation of the comic book property starred Sylvester Stallone, Rob Schneider, and Armand Assante. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2139, the Earth has changed into a virtually uninhabitable place called the Cursed Earth. All of the Earth's population have crowded into the cities across the planet, now known as Mega-Cities. The crimes in these Mega-Cities became so violent and so powerful, that the regular justice system was powerless to contain, then it collapsed completely. However, a new justice system came from the ashes, there were three justice systems in one (police, jury and executioner), they were called Judges. In Mega-City One (formerly, New York City), there was a Judge, named Joseph Dredd, who was the toughest and most stringent Judge in history. One day, he was charged with murder, and was tried and sentenced to life in prison because of it."
For the record:
Erm ... I guess the best I can say -- if I'm being kind -- is that this incarnation of Judge Dredd just wasn't meant to be. Stallone is a marquee actor, and I have to wonder if the script wasn't crafted to keep his face out from under Dredd's signature helmet, but it is what it is. Still, the film was technically proficient and definitely looked good. It garnered Saturn Award nominations for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-up,' and 'Best Special Effects,' yet lost in all categories. Stallone and Schneider did have solid chemistry in this buddy picture, so I guess we have to be thankful for small favors.
"In the year 2139, the Earth has changed into a virtually uninhabitable place called the Cursed Earth. All of the Earth's population have crowded into the cities across the planet, now known as Mega-Cities. The crimes in these Mega-Cities became so violent and so powerful, that the regular justice system was powerless to contain, then it collapsed completely. However, a new justice system came from the ashes, there were three justice systems in one (police, jury and executioner), they were called Judges. In Mega-City One (formerly, New York City), there was a Judge, named Joseph Dredd, who was the toughest and most stringent Judge in history. One day, he was charged with murder, and was tried and sentenced to life in prison because of it."
For the record:
Erm ... I guess the best I can say -- if I'm being kind -- is that this incarnation of Judge Dredd just wasn't meant to be. Stallone is a marquee actor, and I have to wonder if the script wasn't crafted to keep his face out from under Dredd's signature helmet, but it is what it is. Still, the film was technically proficient and definitely looked good. It garnered Saturn Award nominations for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-up,' and 'Best Special Effects,' yet lost in all categories. Stallone and Schneider did have solid chemistry in this buddy picture, so I guess we have to be thankful for small favors.
A star is born! On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Solo was -- as advertised -- part man, part machine, all weapon! Norberto Barba directed David L. Corley's adaptation of the Robert Mason novel ("Weapon"), and the feature film starred Mario Van Peebles, William Sadler, and Barry Corbin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A robot soldier named Solo escapes after learning he will be deprogrammed and helps a village who are under attack by rebels."
"A robot soldier named Solo escapes after learning he will be deprogrammed and helps a village who are under attack by rebels."
A star is born? (Or is that re-born? Or is that ... engineered?!?!) On this day in 1996, yet another version of H.G. Wells' visionary The Island of Dr. Moreau premiered theatrically. This one starred Val Kilmer and Marlon Brando, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After being rescued and brought to an island, a man discovers that it's inhabitants are experimental animals being turned into strange looking humans, all of it the work of a visionary doctor."
For the record: This particular version of Moreau created a bit of a stir amongst organizations that recognize cinematic highs and lows. While the picture did receive a nomination for 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the 1997 Saturn Awards, it received the 'Worst Picture' nomination from the 1997 Razzie Awards ... along with noms for 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' 'Worst Screenplay,' and more. Ouch. To be fair, the film shoot has achieved a bit of legendary status these days, and fans who want to know a bit more about the melee can read about it in an article right here.
"After being rescued and brought to an island, a man discovers that it's inhabitants are experimental animals being turned into strange looking humans, all of it the work of a visionary doctor."
For the record: This particular version of Moreau created a bit of a stir amongst organizations that recognize cinematic highs and lows. While the picture did receive a nomination for 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the 1997 Saturn Awards, it received the 'Worst Picture' nomination from the 1997 Razzie Awards ... along with noms for 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' 'Worst Screenplay,' and more. Ouch. To be fair, the film shoot has achieved a bit of legendary status these days, and fans who want to know a bit more about the melee can read about it in an article right here.
On this day in 2001 (in Greece), the 1968-produced SciFi/Classic 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a release on home video. Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke, the feature starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
On this day in 2001 (in Germany, Finland, and Hungary), Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within enjoyed its run through theaters. Co-directed by Hironobu Sakaguchi and Motonori Sakakibara, the animated Fantasy starred the voices of Steve Buscemi, Ming-Na Wen, and James Woods. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist makes a last stand on Earth with the help of a ragtag team of soldiers against an invasion of alien phantoms."
"A scientist makes a last stand on Earth with the help of a ragtag team of soldiers against an invasion of alien phantoms."
A star is born! On this day in 2002, S1m0ne (aka Simone) gave Al Pacino a rare appearance in the realm of Science Fiction. Written and directed by Andrew Niccol, the feature also starred Catherine Keener and Rachel Roberts; and, according to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A producer's film is endangered when his star walks off, so he decides to digitally create an actress to substitute for the star, becoming an overnight sensation that everyone thinks is a real person."
For the record: In 2003, The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did recognize Rachel Roberts' performance with a nomination for the Saturn's 'Best Supporting Actress,' but the actress lost the honor that year to Samantha Morton (for her work in Steven Spielberg's Minority Report).
"A producer's film is endangered when his star walks off, so he decides to digitally create an actress to substitute for the star, becoming an overnight sensation that everyone thinks is a real person."
For the record: In 2003, The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did recognize Rachel Roberts' performance with a nomination for the Saturn's 'Best Supporting Actress,' but the actress lost the honor that year to Samantha Morton (for her work in Steven Spielberg's Minority Report).
On this day in 2002 (in Italy), it all came to blows -- Fantastically, I recall -- with the release of The One. Written (in part) and directed by James Wong, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jet Li, Jason Statham, and Carla Gugino. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rogue Multiverse agent goes on a manhunt for versions of himself, getting stronger with each kill. With only one version remaining, he races against the clock to finish him and become "The One.""
For the record:
To the film's credit, The One did receive a nomination for 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films but missed out on the win.
"A rogue Multiverse agent goes on a manhunt for versions of himself, getting stronger with each kill. With only one version remaining, he races against the clock to finish him and become "The One.""
For the record:
To the film's credit, The One did receive a nomination for 'Best Science Fiction Film' from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films but missed out on the win.
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in Japan), the Resident Evil cinematic universe grew by one with the release of Resident Evil: Apocalypse. Directed by Alexander Witt, the SciFi/Horror starred Milla Jovovich, Sienna Guillory, and Oded Fehr. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Alice wakes up in the Raccoon City hospital after the area has been overrun by zombies, and must now make it out of the city before a nuclear bomb is dropped."
For the record:
At the 2005 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Resident Evil: Apocalypse enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Make-Up.'
"Alice wakes up in the Raccoon City hospital after the area has been overrun by zombies, and must now make it out of the city before a nuclear bomb is dropped."
For the record:
At the 2005 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Resident Evil: Apocalypse enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Make-Up.'
On this day in 2008 (in Japan), the Force was with us again with the silver screen release of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Directed by Dave Filoni, the animated Fantasy starred the voices of Matt Lanter, Ashley Eckstein, and Nika Futterman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As the Clone Wars sweep through the galaxy, the heroic Jedi Knights struggle to maintain order and restore peace. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further and further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano find themselves on a mission with far-reaching consequences, one that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. But Count Dooku and his sinister agents, including the nefarious Asajj Ventress, will stop at nothing to ensure that Anakin and Ahsoka fail at their quest. Meanwhile, on the front lines of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda lead the massive clone army in a valiant effort to resist the forces of the dark side ..."
For the record:
Always keep in mind, my young padawans, that we must accept the Dark with the Light. Though the film opened to somewhat middling reviews, I fell in love with that galaxy far, far away when I enjoyed it on the silver screen. But about that Dark and Light? It received a nomination for 'Best Animated Film' for the 2009 Saturn Awards as well as a nod as the 'Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off, Or Sequel' from the 2009 Razzie Awards. (Ahem: it lost both ... so there's that.)
"As the Clone Wars sweep through the galaxy, the heroic Jedi Knights struggle to maintain order and restore peace. More and more systems are falling prey to the forces of the dark side as the Galactic Republic slips further and further under the sway of the Separatists and their never-ending droid army. Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano find themselves on a mission with far-reaching consequences, one that brings them face-to-face with crime lord Jabba the Hutt. But Count Dooku and his sinister agents, including the nefarious Asajj Ventress, will stop at nothing to ensure that Anakin and Ahsoka fail at their quest. Meanwhile, on the front lines of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda lead the massive clone army in a valiant effort to resist the forces of the dark side ..."
For the record:
Always keep in mind, my young padawans, that we must accept the Dark with the Light. Though the film opened to somewhat middling reviews, I fell in love with that galaxy far, far away when I enjoyed it on the silver screen. But about that Dark and Light? It received a nomination for 'Best Animated Film' for the 2009 Saturn Awards as well as a nod as the 'Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off, Or Sequel' from the 2009 Razzie Awards. (Ahem: it lost both ... so there's that.)
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), The Ghostmaker played for audiences in attendance of Fantasy FilmFest. Written (in part) and directed by Mauro Borrelli, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Aaron Dean Eisenberg, Liz Fenning, and J. Walter Holland. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of friends use an ancient coffin to experience the world as ghosts. Inspired by true events."
"A group of friends use an ancient coffin to experience the world as ghosts. Inspired by true events."
On this day in 2012 (in Australia, Germany, and New Zealand), Total Recall gave viewers another interpretation of a Philip K. Dick story. Directed by Len Wiseman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Colin Farrell, Bokeem Woodbine, and Bryan Cranston. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A factory worker, Douglas Quaid, begins to suspect that he is a spy after visiting Rekall - a company that provides its clients with implanted fake memories of a life they would like to have led - goes wrong and he finds himself on the run."
For the record:
This incarnation of Total Recall enjoyed a bit of attention from Hollywood-themed organizations -- some of it centered around the feature's marketing -- but nothing of great significance.
"A factory worker, Douglas Quaid, begins to suspect that he is a spy after visiting Rekall - a company that provides its clients with implanted fake memories of a life they would like to have led - goes wrong and he finds himself on the run."
For the record:
This incarnation of Total Recall enjoyed a bit of attention from Hollywood-themed organizations -- some of it centered around the feature's marketing -- but nothing of great significance.
A star is born! On this day in 2012 (in Germany), the Universal Soldier franchise got just a bit bigger with the release of Universal Soldier: Day Of Reckoning which played for audiences in attendance of the Fantasy FilmFest in Hamburg. Written (in part) and directed by John Hyams, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren, and Scott Adkins. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"John looks to take down Luc Deveraux after a home invasion claims his wife and daughter. The fight pits John against Andrew Scott and an army of genetically enhanced warriors; meanwhile, he must contend with a UniSol in relentless pursuit."
"John looks to take down Luc Deveraux after a home invasion claims his wife and daughter. The fight pits John against Andrew Scott and an army of genetically enhanced warriors; meanwhile, he must contend with a UniSol in relentless pursuit."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (at the Black Harvest Film Festival), Destination Planet Negro launched as a SciFi/Comedy. Written by, directed by, and starring Kevin Willmott, the feature also starred Tosin Morohunfola and Danielle Cooper; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In 1939, African American leaders respond to Jim Crow segregation by building a rocket to colonize Mars. The three person crew blasts off, but time travel instead, arriving in present-day America revealing much about race today."
"In 1939, African American leaders respond to Jim Crow segregation by building a rocket to colonize Mars. The three person crew blasts off, but time travel instead, arriving in present-day America revealing much about race today."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the United Kingdom), Dead Within (aka This Is What Remains) enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of FrightFest. Directed by Ben Wagner, the Horror/Fantasy starred Dean Chekvala, J. Claude Deering, and Rick Federman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Six months after the outbreak, a man and woman have survived by isolating themselves in a remote cabin. Starved for resources, they must confront the horrors that threaten them from outside and from within."
"Six months after the outbreak, a man and woman have survived by isolating themselves in a remote cabin. Starved for resources, they must confront the horrors that threaten them from outside and from within."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the United Kingdom), the SciFi/Short-Film The Last Man played for audiences in attendance of the London FrightFest Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A Deep Reserve soldier is awoken from stasis and finds the world ruined by war."
"A Deep Reserve soldier is awoken from stasis and finds the world ruined by war."
On this day in 2019 (in the United Kingdom), Mutant Blast blasted its way into our cosmic consciousness when it played for audiences in attendance of FrightFest. Written (in part) and directed by Fernando Alle, the SciFi/Comedy starred Pedro Barão Dias, Maria Leite, and João Vilas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast has enjoyed a wealth of praise on the film festival circuit.
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast has enjoyed a wealth of praise on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2020 (in Spain and Norway), Time Trap trapped audiences within its temporal conundrum. Directed by the team of Mark Dennis and Ben Foster, the film starred Reiley McClendon, Cassidy Gifford, and Brianne Howey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of students become trapped inside a mysterious cave where they discover time passes differently underground than on the surface."
For the record:
To Time Trap's credit, the film was the recipient of the Jury Prize winner for the 'Most Innovative Narrative Feature' at the 2017 Hollywood Film Festival.
"A group of students become trapped inside a mysterious cave where they discover time passes differently underground than on the surface."
For the record:
To Time Trap's credit, the film was the recipient of the Jury Prize winner for the 'Most Innovative Narrative Feature' at the 2017 Hollywood Film Festival.
On this day in 1972, Ace Of Wands aired "The Power Of Atep: Part 3." This served as the sixth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A strange dream about Egypt, shared by Tarot and Mikki, and a powerful voice at a séance, lead Tarot and friends to the tomb of Atep in Egypt's Valley of the Kings. There Tarot confronts his former stage partner and double. Quabal."
"A strange dream about Egypt, shared by Tarot and Mikki, and a powerful voice at a séance, lead Tarot and friends to the tomb of Atep in Egypt's Valley of the Kings. There Tarot confronts his former stage partner and double. Quabal."
On this day in 1976 (in the Netherlands), Doctor Who aired "The Seeds Of Doom: Part 4." Officially, this served as the twenty-fourth episode in the program's thirteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sarah is saved from a Krynoid fate and runs off, but the same can't be said for one of Chase's men. Not only is he simultaneously devoured and transformed, his fascinated employer will do all he can to encourage the process. The Doctor gets introduced to Chase's grinder and compost acceleration chamber, which promises him a painful yet swift death en route to making him one with nature, via the garden's nutrient pump. The situation has finally gone too far for Dunbar, who outs his own involvement in this matter and stands up to Chase, only to come face to face with a fully developed Krynoid."
"Sarah is saved from a Krynoid fate and runs off, but the same can't be said for one of Chase's men. Not only is he simultaneously devoured and transformed, his fascinated employer will do all he can to encourage the process. The Doctor gets introduced to Chase's grinder and compost acceleration chamber, which promises him a painful yet swift death en route to making him one with nature, via the garden's nutrient pump. The situation has finally gone too far for Dunbar, who outs his own involvement in this matter and stands up to Chase, only to come face to face with a fully developed Krynoid."
On this day in 2002, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Prometheus." This served as the eleventh episode of the long-running program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"A television news crew has unearthed information about an Air Force project called "Prometheus". They believe it to be a generator, but know it uses Trinium, an element not found on Earth. In order to keep them quiet the Air Force allows them to film the X-303, a spaceship based on Asgard technologies, otherwise known as Prometheus. Things turn south when the news crew arm themselves and hold the Prometheus, as well as Sam and Jonas, hostage."
"A television news crew has unearthed information about an Air Force project called "Prometheus". They believe it to be a generator, but know it uses Trinium, an element not found on Earth. In order to keep them quiet the Air Force allows them to film the X-303, a spaceship based on Asgard technologies, otherwise known as Prometheus. Things turn south when the news crew arm themselves and hold the Prometheus, as well as Sam and Jonas, hostage."
On this day in 2002, Farscape aired "Unrealized Reality." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Crichton finds a wormhole, and studies with interest in his space suit, and gets pulled inside. He meets Einstein, and exposes Crichton to different realities to showcase the full potential of wormholes. Crichton realizes even his limited knowledge of wormholes is dangerous."
"Crichton finds a wormhole, and studies with interest in his space suit, and gets pulled inside. He meets Einstein, and exposes Crichton to different realities to showcase the full potential of wormholes. Crichton realizes even his limited knowledge of wormholes is dangerous."
On this day in 2003, the mildly revamped Starhunter aired "Bio Crime." This was the third episode of the second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at TVGuide.com:
"The crew finds evidence of genetic tampering, resulting in horrible mutations, committed in an effort to please those with money and aberrant taste."
"The crew finds evidence of genetic tampering, resulting in horrible mutations, committed in an effort to please those with money and aberrant taste."
On this day in 2007 (in Denmark), Heroes aired "Chapter 01 - Genesis." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Different characters are introduced as they find out their individual abilities, including a man who paints pictures of the future, a woman who sees a different side of her in the mirror, a teen-aged girl who can not die, a man who thinks he can alter the time/space continuum and a man running for congress, who has a brother that believes he can fly."
"Different characters are introduced as they find out their individual abilities, including a man who paints pictures of the future, a woman who sees a different side of her in the mirror, a teen-aged girl who can not die, a man who thinks he can alter the time/space continuum and a man running for congress, who has a brother that believes he can fly."
On this day in 2009, Defying Gravity aired "Rubicon." This served as the fifth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Antares and the crew approach their Rubicon - the point of no return at which they can longer return to Earth without first going all the way to Venus. Donner is tasked with ensuring all systems are nominal but is having difficulty with one particular system. He finds the problem, but it leaves Ted wondering just how he did it. Ted tells the crew that they are all to put an item of personal value into a time capsule and several have difficulty parting with the items they have selected. In flashbacks we continue to follow the crew through training and they receive their first performance report. Zoe still hasn't decided what to do about her pregnancy but is considering her options. An unexpected visit from her mother doesn't make her life any less complicated."
"The Antares and the crew approach their Rubicon - the point of no return at which they can longer return to Earth without first going all the way to Venus. Donner is tasked with ensuring all systems are nominal but is having difficulty with one particular system. He finds the problem, but it leaves Ted wondering just how he did it. Ted tells the crew that they are all to put an item of personal value into a time capsule and several have difficulty parting with the items they have selected. In flashbacks we continue to follow the crew through training and they receive their first performance report. Zoe still hasn't decided what to do about her pregnancy but is considering her options. An unexpected visit from her mother doesn't make her life any less complicated."
On this day in 2014, audiences were introduced to yet another regeneration of the seemingly immortal Doctor Who with the airing of the eighth season opener, "Deep Breath." According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the newly-regenerated doctor arrives in Victorian London, he finds a dinosaur rampant in the Thames and a spate of deadly spontaneous combustions."
"When the newly-regenerated doctor arrives in Victorian London, he finds a dinosaur rampant in the Thames and a spate of deadly spontaneous combustions."
On this day in 2015, Falling Skies aired "Reunion." This served as the ninth episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Tom gains a powerful new weapon against the Espheni. Ben puts his life on the line to extract enemy plans. Pope discovers that Tom is alive, and launches a final attack. Meanwhile, the 2nd Mass must reassess their situation when an unexpected visitor appears."
"Tom gains a powerful new weapon against the Espheni. Ben puts his life on the line to extract enemy plans. Pope discovers that Tom is alive, and launches a final attack. Meanwhile, the 2nd Mass must reassess their situation when an unexpected visitor appears."
On this day in 2016, Zoo aired "The Yellow Brick Road." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With Jackson missing, Mitch and Abraham race to find him before General Davies and the International Animal Defense Group can locate him and prevent the team from making a cure. Also, Jamie, Dariela and Allison make a last-ditch effort to convince the Russian government to drop out of the Noah Objective."
"With Jackson missing, Mitch and Abraham race to find him before General Davies and the International Animal Defense Group can locate him and prevent the team from making a cure. Also, Jamie, Dariela and Allison make a last-ditch effort to convince the Russian government to drop out of the Noah Objective."
On this day in 2017, Salvation aired "Patriot Games." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An assassin threatens Grace's life. Unlikely alliances are forged."
"An assassin threatens Grace's life. Unlikely alliances are forged."
