Barry Sullivan found himself on the losing end of space exploration in Planet of the Vampires (1965). He also made appearances to the genre worlds of The Green Hornet Strikes Again (1940), Pyro ... The Thing Without A Face (1964), The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Immortal, Night Gallery, The Sixth Sense, The Invisible Man, and The Bionic Woman. Though he's no longer with us, Sullivan was born on this day in 1912. [Source: IMDB.com]
Hers was a rare appearance in the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy, but we've learned long ago to take what we can get: the lovely Ingrid Bergman joined Spencer Tracy aboard Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde (1941) for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Though she's no longer with us, Bergman was born on this day in 1915. [Source: IMDB.com]
Richard Attenborough was the mastermind scientist / capitalist / dreamer behind Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park (1993). He made you believe that the science was real, so much so that you weren't really all that concerned about how nature would always find a way to 'cheat.' Though he's no longer with us, Attenborough was born on this day back in 1923. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1995, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films honored Attenborough with a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in the Holiday/Classic Miracle On 34th Street.
For the record:
In 1995, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films honored Attenborough with a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in the Holiday/Classic Miracle On 34th Street.
AS Blofeld in 1971's Diamonds Are Forever, screen veteran Charles Gray did what he could to summon his own measure of menace against MI-6 super-agent James Bond, but alas it wasn't enough to spoil the day. And the truth is, the actor was no stranger to Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror as he can be seen in such entries as The Invisible Man, Danger Man, Out Of This World, You Only Live Twice (1967), The Devil Rides Out (1968), Theater Of Blood (1973), The Beast Must Die (1974), The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975), and Firestar: First Contact (1991).Though he's no longer with us, Gray was born on this day in 1928. [Source: IMDB.com]
One of her very last silver screen roles for actress Mary Ellen Kay was as 'Susan Gerard,' a woman trapped between Horror and Science Fiction in Voodoo Woman (1957) from Carmel Productions. According to IMDB.com, one of her earliest professional roles was in an uncredit appearance aboard Tarzan And The Slave Girl (1950) for Sol Lesser Productions. Though she's no longer with us, Kay was born on this day in 1929. [Source: IMDB.com]
The mid-1980's re-imagination of Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone was a mix of good and lesser stories, some of which were little more than short 'fluff' filling time between two longer 'chapters' that added up to the whole. However, renowned director William Friedkin handled "Nightcrawlers," arguably one of the program's most impressive installments. A few years later, he helmed an episode of a similarly-themed serial, Tales From The Crypt. For what it's worth, the guy knew how to create cinematic creepiness ... based on his bringing The Exorcist (1973) to life for Warner Bros. Friedkin was born on this day in 1935. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1974, Friedkin was nominated as 'Best Director' for his work behind The Exorcist for the Academy Awards, but he missed out on taking home the trophy. But in 2013, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films gave the man a much-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award.
For the record:
In 1974, Friedkin was nominated as 'Best Director' for his work behind The Exorcist for the Academy Awards, but he missed out on taking home the trophy. But in 2013, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films gave the man a much-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award.
An actor as fondly revered as Elliott Gould unfortunately doesn't appear all that often in SciFi properties, but he did appear in one of my personal favorites from the 1970's. Capricorn One saw the government faking a NASA Mars Mission with the astronauts duped by their bosses to participate, and Gould played the tough-as-nails reporter seeking to uncover the grand conspiracy. (If you haven't seen it, I give it an enthusiastic thumbs up for your enjoyment.) Gould was born on this day in 1938.
Ahem. There's good and there's bad when looking back at director Joel Schumacher's brief tenure in the Bat-universe (1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin): he bares the distinction of introducing 'nipples' to the world of superhero costumes. Though he's non longer with us, Schumacher was born on this day in 1939. [Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran Ellen Geer (pictured above from the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Silicon Avatar") has a resume highlighted by over five decades in the entertainment business. Genre fans might recognize her from her work in The Bionic Woman, Voyagers!, Creator, Crossworlds, Carnivale, and Supernatural. Geer was born on this day in 1941.
Gottfried John appeared as a regular as part of Space Rangers only season on television before he matched up against no less than James Bond himself in GoldenEye (1995). Though he's no longer with us, John was born on this day in 1942.
The History Channel's series exploring events tied to Project Blue Book takes so many 'artistic liberties' with established facts of UFO incidents that many consider it more Science Fiction than Science Fact; whatever the case may be, kudos on the casting of Michael Harney in the role of 'General Hugh Valentine,' one of the possible movers and shakers behind the growing conspiracy. The actor has also served time aboard Space: Above And Beyond, The Burning Zone, Viper, NightMan, The Visitor, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Brimstone, Seven Days, The Invisible Man, and Tremors. Furthermore, he's also voiced the character of 'Darth Marr' in a series of Star Wars related video games. Harney was born on this day in 1946. [Source: IMDB.com]
Through his various writing and producing credits, the venerable Jon Povill has helped bring to life such SciFi adventures as Sliders, Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), and Total Recall (2012). Povill was born on this day in 1946.
Her big screen debut was as a part of the one of the most revered cult films of the late 70's: The Warriors (pictured above right). After that, Deborah Van Valkenburgh worked her way through a variety of genres. She did dabble in the realm of Science Fiction with roles aboard Quantum Leap, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Sorcerers, and The Event. Van Valkenburgh was born on this day in 1952.
Back in the days before his life and career grew weirder than any of us can possibly imagine, the King of Pop himself Michael Jackson had a self-professed love for the worlds of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and general magic. He was rumored for quite some time to be interested in pursuing film properties that would give him an opportunity to blend his music with images, but the only one that truly came to life was the 3D dance, music, and special effects spectacular Captain Eo. Written (in part) by George Lucas and directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Eo (played by Jackson) and his Muppetty friends saved the universe (in song and dance) from an evil galactic queen. Though he's no longer with us, Jackson was born on this day in 1958.
The incomparable and maddeningly sexy Rebecca de Mornay joined Frank Whaley, John Savage, and Roger Cross in a 1995 episode of The Outer Limits. De Mornay was born on this day in 1959.
Lycia Naff had a couple of great guest appearances aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation, though I'm willing the bet male fanboys probably remember her more for her (ahem) brief role in 1990's version of Total Recall. (Interested parties can Google those images for the -- ahem -- finer points.) More recently, she reprised her Trek nole of 'Sonya Gomez' -- this time in animated fashion -- aboard an episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks. As for other genre forays? You can chalk up roles in Max Headroom, Hard Time On Planet Earth, Chopper Chicks In Zombietown (1989), The Flash, and Ghost Whisperer all for good measure. Naff was born on this day in 1962. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her career, Stacey Travis took on the role of Jill in one of the most curious cult flicks (for a lot of reasons) ever, Hardware. Since launching her career as an actress, she's built an impressive resume in genre properties, garnering roles aboard Phantasm II (1988), Earth Girls Are Easy (1988), Dracula Rising (1993), Suspect Device (1995), Highlander, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Mystery Men (1999), What Planet Are You From (2000), Angel, and Venom (2005). Travis was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
Dina Spybey-Waters found herself smack dab in the middle of some frights with her role aboard The Haunted Mansion (2003) for Walt Disney Pictures. Spybey-Waters was born on this day in 1965. [Source: IMDB.com]
If you missed CBS's SciFi series Threshold (from the 2005-2006 season), then you missed some of Carla Gugino's best work. As 'Dr. Molly Anne Caffrey,' she was tasked with heading up a team of experts trying to unravel one of the most unusual alien infiltration schemes in the history of mankind. Some thought the program was a bit overrated, but I found it quite interesting. Thankfully, that's not her only appearance in the realm of genre entertainment: fans might recognize her from ALF, Quantum Leap, Spy Kids (2001), She Creature (2001), The One (2001), Spy Kids 2: Island Of Lost Dreams (2002), Spy Kids 3: Game Over (2003), Sin City (2005), Night At The Museum (2006), The Unborn (2009), Watchmen (2009), Race To Witch Mountain (2009), Sucker Punch (2011), Man Of Steel (2013), Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016), Wayward Pines, The Haunting Of Bly Manor, and Midnight Mass. The lovely Ms. Gugino was born on this day back in 1971. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I'd be remiss in my duties if I failed to mention a few other noteworthy benchmarks to Gugino's career as it relates to the world of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror. In 2009, she received a Scream Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in Watchmen. In 2019, the Online Film & Television Association nomination the ensemble of The Haunting Of Hill House in the category of 'Best Ensemble In A Motion Picture Or Limited Series.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror gave her a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress In A Streaming Presentation' for her work in The Haunting Of Hill House.
For the record:
I'd be remiss in my duties if I failed to mention a few other noteworthy benchmarks to Gugino's career as it relates to the world of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror. In 2009, she received a Scream Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in Watchmen. In 2019, the Online Film & Television Association nomination the ensemble of The Haunting Of Hill House in the category of 'Best Ensemble In A Motion Picture Or Limited Series.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror gave her a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress In A Streaming Presentation' for her work in The Haunting Of Hill House.
2014's Time Lapse is a nifty li'l SciFi thriller that involves a camera with the curious ability to snap pictures from 24 hours into the future, giving its users the ability to know what tomorrow will bring. Jason Spisak was one of the players in the flick, and Spisak was born on this day in 1973.
In the animated world of Walt Disney's Star Wars: Rebels, actor Dante Basco was gifted with the opportunity to bring to life vocally the character of 'Jai Kell.' He's also voiced characters for Avatar: The Last Airbender, the Terminator Salvation video game, Zevo-3, and several others. Basco was born on this day in 1975. [Source: IMDB.com]
One of John Hensley's earliest adventures in the realm of televised Fantasy was the role of 'Gabriel Bowman' in the TV adaptation of Witchblade. He's also appeared in Teeth (2007), Dead Space 3 (video game), and NBC's Timeless. Hensley was born on this day in 1977. [Source: IMDB.com]
Jovanna Burke enjoyed small screen success with a role aboard the WB's popular Smallville program. She's also booked roles on Supernatural, Blade: The Series, Fringe, Percy Jackson And The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010), and The True Heroines. Burke was born on this day in 1980. [Source: IMDB.com]
When Warner Roadshow Studios decided to bow out of the Apocalypse business with the production of Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016), suits cast the hunky William Levy in the role of 'Christian' for the cinematic swan song. Levy was born on this day in 1980. [Source: IMDB.com]
Sexy Emily Hampshire does an affable job conveying fifty shades of crazy as part of the ensemble at the core of Syfy's latest TV adaptation of 12 Monkeys. She's also enjoyed exposure aboard such properties as Earth: Final Conflict, PSI Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal, Mutant X, and Earthsea. Hampshire was born on this day in 1981.
Young Jay Ryan made a go of saving the future by way of the past in Fox TV's dinosaurific Terra Nova (pictured above) in 2011. Ryan was born on this day in 1981.
Jen Landon paid a visit to the world of TV's The Orville during the show's second season. Otherwise, her career has been invested in more mainstream fare. Landon was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
Lauren Collins certainly has no long track record in genre-specific projects. Essentially, her career has concentrated in family-friendly comedies and dramas. However, she did make appearances aboard My Best Friend Is An Alien, Mutant X, and will be featured in the forthcoming Farhope Tower. Collins was born on this day in 1986.
A striking Michelle Molineux used her natural sexiness on behalf of an alien species aboard Decoys 2: Alien Seduction (2007) for Decoys Production. Molineux was born on this day in 1986. [Source: IMDB.com]
UK actress Charlotte Ritchie dipped her toes into the growing universe of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who with a guest appearance on the program in 2019. Ritchie was born on this day in 1989. [Source: IMDB.com]
Voice actress Erika Harlacher has used her pipes to bring life to an incredible assortment of characters in such properties as God Eater, Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga, A.I.C.O. Incarnation, Record Of Grancrest War, Dragon Pilot: Hisone And Masotan, Persona 5: The Animation, Revisions, The Idhun Chronicles, and many many more. Be sure to check out her resume on IMDB.com. Harlacher was born on this day in 1990. [Source: IMDB.com]
Relative newcomer Laura Ashley Samuels had a small role in 2011's underwhelming In Time. Let's hope she finds an opportunity within genre entertainment with a bit more teeth soon. Samuels was born on this day in 1990.
Spanish actress Elena Rivera paid a pair of visits to the world of The Ministry Of Time in 2017. Otherwise, she's spent her career in much more traditional fare. Rivera was born on this day in 1992. [Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1928 (in Denmark), Alraune (aka A Daughter Of Destiny) enjoyed a look in the cinematic mirror. Adapted for the screen and directed by Henrik Galeen, the Fantasy/Horror film starred Brigitte Helm, Paul Wegener, and Iván Petrovich. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist, Professor Jakob ten Brinken, interested in the laws of heredity, impregnates a prostitute in a laboratory with the semen of a hanged murderer. The prostitute conceives a female child who has no concept of love, whom the professor adopts. The girl, Alraune, suffers from obsessive sexuality and perverse relationships throughout her life. She learns of her unnatural origins and she avenges herself against the professor."
"A scientist, Professor Jakob ten Brinken, interested in the laws of heredity, impregnates a prostitute in a laboratory with the semen of a hanged murderer. The prostitute conceives a female child who has no concept of love, whom the professor adopts. The girl, Alraune, suffers from obsessive sexuality and perverse relationships throughout her life. She learns of her unnatural origins and she avenges herself against the professor."
On this day in 1947 (in Mexico), The Catman Of Paris slinked its way onto the silver screen. Directed by Lesley Selander, the Fantasy/Horror starred Carl Esmond, Lenore Aubert, and Adele Mara. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Author Charles Regnier returns to 1896 Paris after exotic travels, having written a bestseller which the Ministry of Justice would like to ban. That very night, an official is killed in the dark streets... clawed to death! The prefect of police suspects some sort of "were-cat" but Inspector Severen thinks there's nothing supernatural about Regnier's motive. And Regnier has increasing doubts about himself when he has another hallucinatory blackout during the second killing..."
"Author Charles Regnier returns to 1896 Paris after exotic travels, having written a bestseller which the Ministry of Justice would like to ban. That very night, an official is killed in the dark streets... clawed to death! The prefect of police suspects some sort of "were-cat" but Inspector Severen thinks there's nothing supernatural about Regnier's motive. And Regnier has increasing doubts about himself when he has another hallucinatory blackout during the second killing..."
A star is born! On this day in 1958 (in Amarillo, Texas), The Hideous Sun Demon came to full cinematic light! Directed by Robert Clarke and Tom Boutross, the SciFi/Horror feature starred Patricia Manning, Nan Peterson, and Patrick Whyte; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist, Gilbert McKenna has an accident where he is exposed to high levels of radiation. Surprisingly this does not kill him but instead leaves him unable to be exposed to sunlight. Whenever exposed to sunlight, McKenna devolves into a lizard man with homicidal tendencies. After having a brief fling with a nightclub singer, and killing her boyfriend, McKenna is on the lam from the police which culminates in a one on one battle on top of a tower."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary DVD of The Hideous Sun Demon in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing what I thought? You can find my review right here.
"A scientist, Gilbert McKenna has an accident where he is exposed to high levels of radiation. Surprisingly this does not kill him but instead leaves him unable to be exposed to sunlight. Whenever exposed to sunlight, McKenna devolves into a lizard man with homicidal tendencies. After having a brief fling with a nightclub singer, and killing her boyfriend, McKenna is on the lam from the police which culminates in a one on one battle on top of a tower."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary DVD of The Hideous Sun Demon in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing what I thought? You can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1961 (in Italy), Last Year At Marienbad enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Directed by Alain Resnais, the Fantasy/Drama starred Delphine Seyrig, Giorgio Albertazzi, and Sacha Pitoëff. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a strange and isolated chateau, a man becomes acquainted with a woman and insists that they have met before."
For the record:
At the 1963 Academy Awards (in the U.S.), Last Year At Marienbad was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen.' Also, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' at the 1963 Hugo Awards.
"In a strange and isolated chateau, a man becomes acquainted with a woman and insists that they have met before."
For the record:
At the 1963 Academy Awards (in the U.S.), Last Year At Marienbad was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen.' Also, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' at the 1963 Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1974 (in the Netherlands), Zardoz thrilled audiences who could figure out what it was all about. Written and directed by John Boorman, the SciFi feature starred Sean Connery, Charlotte Rampling, and Sara Kestelman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"In the distant future, a savage trained only to kill finds a way into the community of bored immortals that alone preserves humanity's achievements."
For the record:
Ay carumba! It's hard to make something of the curious oddity that is so much of Zardoz. Boorman's script kinda/sorta rambles through this bizarre Dystopian setting, and the film's visuals never quite suggested anything that would smooth the narrative out for viewers. Perhaps it's best to just point out that the film -- despite its flaws -- was nominated for the Best Dramatic Presentation for the 1975 Hugo Awards.
"In the distant future, a savage trained only to kill finds a way into the community of bored immortals that alone preserves humanity's achievements."
For the record:
Ay carumba! It's hard to make something of the curious oddity that is so much of Zardoz. Boorman's script kinda/sorta rambles through this bizarre Dystopian setting, and the film's visuals never quite suggested anything that would smooth the narrative out for viewers. Perhaps it's best to just point out that the film -- despite its flaws -- was nominated for the Best Dramatic Presentation for the 1975 Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1979 (in Colombia), Death Dimension opened its doors cinematically for business. Directed by Al Adamson, the SciFi feature starred Jim Kelly, Harold Sakata, and George Lazenby; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Pig has a plan to eradicate some people with a freeze bomb that instantly freezes people to death. It is up to Detective Ash to stop him and protect the woman with the secret to the ice bomb embedded in a microdot under the skin of her forehead."
"The Pig has a plan to eradicate some people with a freeze bomb that instantly freezes people to death. It is up to Detective Ash to stop him and protect the woman with the secret to the ice bomb embedded in a microdot under the skin of her forehead."
On this day in 1985 (in Italy), Back To The Future played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Robert Zemeckis, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and Lea Thompson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1986 (in the United Kingdom), Aliens enjoyed its theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by James Cameron, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, and Carrie Henn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
For the record:
Simply put, Aliens was then and remains today nothing short of phenomenal. While the original established the property, I'd argue that it took the sequel to firmly establish it as a proper Science Fiction franchise. Multiple films have explored the growing mythology behind the Xenomorphs, and 20th Century Fox even paired the aliens up with the Predator for a picture or two. Still, Aliens won the Oscars for 'Best Sound Editing' and 'Best Special Effects' at the 1987 Academy Awards, and the picture even garnered an acting nomination for Weaver -- a rarity for a SciFi film.
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
For the record:
Simply put, Aliens was then and remains today nothing short of phenomenal. While the original established the property, I'd argue that it took the sequel to firmly establish it as a proper Science Fiction franchise. Multiple films have explored the growing mythology behind the Xenomorphs, and 20th Century Fox even paired the aliens up with the Predator for a picture or two. Still, Aliens won the Oscars for 'Best Sound Editing' and 'Best Special Effects' at the 1987 Academy Awards, and the picture even garnered an acting nomination for Weaver -- a rarity for a SciFi film.
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Hands of Steel (aka Atomic Cyborg) released all of its one hour and thirty-four minutes of greatness on an unsuspecting mankind. (Sorry, peeps, but I've never seen nor heard of this one 'til it dropped on my radar.) Directed by Sergio Martino, the film starred Daniel Greene, Janet Agren, and Claudio Cassinelli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A cyborg is programmed to kill a scientist who holds the fate of mankind in his hands. He fails and hides in a diner in a desert run by a woman who likes him. The people who sent him are after him and so is the local arm wrestling champ."
"A cyborg is programmed to kill a scientist who holds the fate of mankind in his hands. He fails and hides in a diner in a desert run by a woman who likes him. The people who sent him are after him and so is the local arm wrestling champ."
A star is born! On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Quest For The Mighty Sword took a swing at success with its release in the home video marketplace. Written and directed by Joe D'Amato, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Eric Allan Kramer, Margaret Lenzey, and Donald O'Brien. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Once upon a time a god gave a mighty sword to the king of Aquiles to bring justice to his people. Now he wants it back - but the king rather gives his life than the sword."
"Once upon a time a god gave a mighty sword to the king of Aquiles to bring justice to his people. Now he wants it back - but the king rather gives his life than the sword."
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), The Immortalizer was fundamentally immortalized with its release in the U.S. home video market. Directed by Joel Bender, the SciFi film starred Ron Ray, Chris Crone, and Melody Patterson; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A crazed scientist sends out his mutant creations to kidnap young, beautiful men and women to bring back to his lab so he can replace their brains with those of old, wealthy people."
"A crazed scientist sends out his mutant creations to kidnap young, beautiful men and women to bring back to his lab so he can replace their brains with those of old, wealthy people."
On this day in 1991 (in Czechoslovakia), the SciFi/Comedy My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed its theatrical release. The feature starred Dan Aykroyd and Kim Basinger, and here’s the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
“An alien is sent on a secret mission to Earth, where she appears as a gorgeous, attractive, and single lady. Her mission is to make contact with a rather nerdy young scientist, who's quite overwhelmed by her attentions, and isn't aware of the connection between her arrival and his work.”
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
“An alien is sent on a secret mission to Earth, where she appears as a gorgeous, attractive, and single lady. Her mission is to make contact with a rather nerdy young scientist, who's quite overwhelmed by her attentions, and isn't aware of the connection between her arrival and his work.”
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
On this day in 1991 (in Germany), James Cameron's groundbreaking SciFi film The Terminator enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the future, Skynet, a computer system fights a losing war against the humans who built it and who it nearly exterminated. Just before being destroyed, Skynet sends a Terminator back in time to kill Sarah. The terminator can pass for human, is nearly indestructible, and has only one mission. One soldier is sent back to protect her from the killing machine. He must find Sarah before the Terminator can carry out it's mission."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
"In the future, Skynet, a computer system fights a losing war against the humans who built it and who it nearly exterminated. Just before being destroyed, Skynet sends a Terminator back in time to kill Sarah. The terminator can pass for human, is nearly indestructible, and has only one mission. One soldier is sent back to protect her from the killing machine. He must find Sarah before the Terminator can carry out it's mission."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
A star is born! On this day in 1992 (in Japan), Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: The Afterglow Of Zeon enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever. Directed by Takashi Imanishi, the animated SciFi/Thriller starred the voices of Yôsuke Akimoto, Shin Aomori, and Kae Araki. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the One Year War, peace was signed between Zeon and the Earth Federation. Three years later, however, some remaining forces of Zeon who never gave up steal the new Federation mobile suit Gundam Unit 2, capable of Nuclear Strike and use it as its primary weapon in their Operation Stardust. Can Federation rookie pilot Kou Uraki and his Gundam Unit 1 match up against Zeon's Anavel Gato, the Nightmare of Solomon, and still be albe to stop Zeon before it's too late? This is movie is the compilation of the 13-episode made-for-video series "Kidô senshi Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory" (1991)"
"After the One Year War, peace was signed between Zeon and the Earth Federation. Three years later, however, some remaining forces of Zeon who never gave up steal the new Federation mobile suit Gundam Unit 2, capable of Nuclear Strike and use it as its primary weapon in their Operation Stardust. Can Federation rookie pilot Kou Uraki and his Gundam Unit 1 match up against Zeon's Anavel Gato, the Nightmare of Solomon, and still be albe to stop Zeon before it's too late? This is movie is the compilation of the 13-episode made-for-video series "Kidô senshi Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory" (1991)"
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in Italy), the Spanish-language 'found footage' chiller REC first played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Directed by Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza, the film starred Manuela Velasco, Ferran Terraza, and Jorge-Yamam Serrano. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A television reporter and cameraman follow emergency workers into a dark apartment building and are quickly locked inside with something terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, REC enjoyed a wealth of praise from the film festival circuit.
"A television reporter and cameraman follow emergency workers into a dark apartment building and are quickly locked inside with something terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, REC enjoyed a wealth of praise from the film festival circuit.
I love dystopian-type Science Fiction films as much as the next fan, but honestly I prefer that it be done right. Show me a blown-out world of tomorrow that actually looks like a blown-out world of tomorrow or why bother? I mean, "What's the sense in showing me downtown Prague of tomorrow especially if it looks just like downtown Prague of today?" That's the sense of my recollections regarding Vin Diesel's Babylon A.D. which opened on this day theatrically in 2008. I recall not being much impressed with the flick, and that's about it. Here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Veteran-turned-mercenary Toorop takes the high-risk job of escorting a woman from Russia to America. Little does he know that she is host to an organism that a cult wants to harvest in order to produce a genetically modified Messiah."
"Veteran-turned-mercenary Toorop takes the high-risk job of escorting a woman from Russia to America. Little does he know that she is host to an organism that a cult wants to harvest in order to produce a genetically modified Messiah."
On this day in 2017, Statis enjoyed its debut on the U.S. home video market. Written and directed by Nicole Jones-Dion, the feature starred Anna Harr, Phyllis Spielman, and Mark Grossman. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a night out of partying Ava wakes up and sneaks back home only to find that somebody's already in her bed and they look exactly like her. Ava learns that a time-traveling fugitive has stolen her body and she is now a ghost and invisible to everyone."
"After a night out of partying Ava wakes up and sneaks back home only to find that somebody's already in her bed and they look exactly like her. Ava learns that a time-traveling fugitive has stolen her body and she is now a ghost and invisible to everyone."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in France and the Philippines), Kin showed up packing alien heat! Directed by Jonathan Baker and Josh Baker, the SciFi/Thriller starred Myles Truitt, Jack Reynor, and Dennis Quaid. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Chased by a vengeful criminal, the feds and a gang of otherworldly soldiers, an ex-con and his adopted teenage brother go on the run with a weapon of mysterious origin as their only protection."
For the record:
At the 2019 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Kin enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-ray Release.'
"Chased by a vengeful criminal, the feds and a gang of otherworldly soldiers, an ex-con and his adopted teenage brother go on the run with a weapon of mysterious origin as their only protection."
For the record:
At the 2019 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Kin enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-ray Release.'
A star is born! On this day in 2019 (in Italy), Ad Astra enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by James Gray, the SciFi/Drama starred Brad Pitt, Tommy Lee Jones, and Ruth Negga. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Astronaut Roy McBride undertakes a mission across an unforgiving solar system to uncover the truth about his missing father and his doomed expedition that now, 30 years later, threatens the universe."
For the record:
To be perfectly fair, Ad Astra enjoyed a wealth of praise from organizations and festivals largely for the film's technical prowess. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 2020 in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the film with three nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costume,' 'Best Special Effects,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I wasn't all that impressed with Ad Astra, most of my disappointment owed to what I felt was just an unengaging storyline. In any event, interested readers can find out what I thought of it right here.
"Astronaut Roy McBride undertakes a mission across an unforgiving solar system to uncover the truth about his missing father and his doomed expedition that now, 30 years later, threatens the universe."
For the record:
To be perfectly fair, Ad Astra enjoyed a wealth of praise from organizations and festivals largely for the film's technical prowess. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 2020 in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the film with three nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costume,' 'Best Special Effects,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I wasn't all that impressed with Ad Astra, most of my disappointment owed to what I felt was just an unengaging storyline. In any event, interested readers can find out what I thought of it right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in Canada), Minor Premise enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Fantasia International Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Eric Schultz, the SciFi/Drama starred Sathya Sridharan, Paton Ashbrook, and Dana Ashbrook. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Attempting to surpass his father's legacy, a reclusive neuroscientist becomes entangled in his own experiment, pitting ten fragments of his consciousness against each other."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Minor Premise enjoyed a bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"Attempting to surpass his father's legacy, a reclusive neuroscientist becomes entangled in his own experiment, pitting ten fragments of his consciousness against each other."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Minor Premise enjoyed a bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Thanks." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by CTVA:
"A story of a crack-pot scientist invention which brings glory to a mediocre violinist and causes him to commit murder. A young violinist despairs that he lacks the deft hands necessary for violin. But he meets an aged doctor with a 'time cabinet.'"
"A story of a crack-pot scientist invention which brings glory to a mediocre violinist and causes him to commit murder. A young violinist despairs that he lacks the deft hands necessary for violin. But he meets an aged doctor with a 'time cabinet.'"
On this day in 1953, Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired "The Million Dollar Patrol." According to our friends at the reliable IMDB.com, here's the adventure's plot summary:
"Tom, Roger and Astro proof the value of Space Academy training when they race to the rescue of a crippled space liner."
"Tom, Roger and Astro proof the value of Space Academy training when they race to the rescue of a crippled space liner."
On this day in 1964, "The Tyrant of France" aired as part (Episode 40) of Doctor Who's first season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"The Doctor is forced into a meeting with Robespierre while Barbara's attempts to find a physician for Susan result in them being betrayed."
"The Doctor is forced into a meeting with Robespierre while Barbara's attempts to find a physician for Susan result in them being betrayed."
On this day in 1997, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Cold Lazarus." Offically, this served as the sixth episode to the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"A strange crystal strikes down O'Neill, replacing him with a double that returns with the team to Earth to find the cause of O'Neill's private grief - his son's death. But the double is dangerously unstable. Can O'Neill return home to save everyone and prevent chaos?"
"A strange crystal strikes down O'Neill, replacing him with a double that returns with the team to Earth to find the cause of O'Neill's private grief - his son's death. But the double is dangerously unstable. Can O'Neill return home to save everyone and prevent chaos?"
On this day in 1999, GvsE (aka Good vs Evil) aired "To Be Or Not To Be Evil." This served as the seventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While watching TV, Henry and Chandler spot the same actor on every channel. They deduce that he must have signed a Faustian deal to be on so often. Decker and Ford agree that this is a possibility and decide that the two of them should go undercover to try and penetrate the Morlock underworld in Hollywood. Henry becomes enamoured of the whole actor's lifestyle and becomes caught up in the irresistible glamour of celebrity. Soon he is signing a Faustian deal himself and Chandler has to find a way to make him renounce it."
"While watching TV, Henry and Chandler spot the same actor on every channel. They deduce that he must have signed a Faustian deal to be on so often. Decker and Ford agree that this is a possibility and decide that the two of them should go undercover to try and penetrate the Morlock underworld in Hollywood. Henry becomes enamoured of the whole actor's lifestyle and becomes caught up in the irresistible glamour of celebrity. Soon he is signing a Faustian deal himself and Chandler has to find a way to make him renounce it."
On this day in 2011, Alphas aired "A Short Time In Paradise." This served as the eighth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Rosen is forced to challenge his most cherished values when he encounters an alpha leading a personality cult who sincerely wants to create a paradise for all humanity, a dream his alpha ability may make possible. But as members of the alpha group fall under the cult leaders and he refuses to recognize he may be responsible for the illnesses among the cult members Dr. Rosen is forced to act... if he can."
"Dr. Rosen is forced to challenge his most cherished values when he encounters an alpha leading a personality cult who sincerely wants to create a paradise for all humanity, a dream his alpha ability may make possible. But as members of the alpha group fall under the cult leaders and he refuses to recognize he may be responsible for the illnesses among the cult members Dr. Rosen is forced to act... if he can."
On this day in 2017, Somewhere Between aired "The Fourth Man." This served as the seventh episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While searching for the tattooed fourth man in the photo, Laura and Nico learn about a 10 year old case against Danny. Laura gives Tom a chance to come clean."
"While searching for the tattooed fourth man in the photo, Laura and Nico learn about a 10 year old case against Danny. Laura gives Tom a chance to come clean."
