As can happen from time-to-time, an interesting sounding genre show will come and go without any of us knowing it ... and that appears to have been the case with Death Valley, a comic procedural that kinda/sorta flipped the whole reality Cops programming on its head. Created by Curtis Gwinn and Eric Weinburg, this Mockumentary/Fantasy lasted for twelve fun-filled episodes, and I encourage readers to seek it out and explore if you can find it online. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mockumentary following a police force as they deal with various perpetrators who are mostly supernatural in nature."
"A mockumentary following a police force as they deal with various perpetrators who are mostly supernatural in nature."
Chalk this one up to the myths of history, folks: IMDB.com reports that Oscar-winning writer/director Preston Sturges actually worked on an early draft of 1933's groundbreaking Science Fiction Classic The Invisible Man for Universal Pictures. Still, I've read elsewhere on the world-wide-web that Sturges contributions may very well have been very minor as the resulting picture allegedly bears little resemblance to his work. Still, I'll give the guy the proper birthday shout on this day. Though he's no longer with us, Sturges was born on this day in 1898.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Lane Bradford is another one of the Hollywood heavyweights who leaves behind an incredible career -- his IMDB.com page boasts well over 250 screen credits -- but was relegated to mostly small(ish) and/or background roles. Still, genre fans love to watch closely, and they might see the actor stealing scenes in such properties as The Invisible Monster (1950), Zombies Of The Stratosphere (1952), Rocky Jones Space Ranger, Commando Cody: Sky Marshal Of The Universe, Adventures Of Superman, My Favorite Martian, The Girl From U.N.C.L.E., Lost In Space, Batman, and Land Of The Giants. Though he's no longer with us, Bradford was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[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.
[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.
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]
[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]
[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. Though he's no longer with us, 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.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I caught a broadcast of The Exorcist (1973) when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[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.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I caught a broadcast of The Exorcist (1973) when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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. One of the director's earliest features was the SciFi/Comedy The Incredible Shrinking Woman (1981) starring Lily Tomlin. As for other genre entries, he also helmed the Lost Boys (1987), Flatliners (1990), and 2004's The Phantom Of The Opera. Though he's non longer with us, Schumacher was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, Schumacher enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Director' for his work in bringing Batman & Robin (1997) to the silver screen.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1998 Razzie Awards, Schumacher enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Director' for his work in bringing Batman & Robin (1997) to the silver screen.
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 (1985), Beauty And The Beast, Phenomenon (1996), Crossworlds (1996), The Postman (1997), Practical Magic (1998), Carnivale, The Visitation (2006), Medium, and Supernatural. Geer was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Orestes Matacena played a character of respectable menace aboard The Mask (1994) for New Line Cinema and Dark Horse Entertainment. Matacena was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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). As for other genre entries? He found time and work aboard such properties as World On A Wire, Super (1984), Millennium, Asterix And Obelix Vs. Caesar (1999), and Ruby Red (2013). Though he's no longer with us, John was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Through his various writing and producing credits, the venerable Jon Povill has helped bring to life such SciFi adventures as Total Recall (1990), Sliders, Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Outer Limits, Total Recall 2070, and Total Recall (2012). IMDB.com also indicates that he served as an associate producer on Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979). Povill was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1991 Hugo Awards, Povill enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his work aboard Total Recall (1990).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I attended a theatrical screening of Star Trek: The Motion Picture celebrating the film's upgrade to 4K. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1991 Hugo Awards, Povill enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his work aboard Total Recall (1990).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I attended a theatrical screening of Star Trek: The Motion Picture celebrating the film's upgrade to 4K. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Her big screen debut was as a part of the one of the most revered cult films of the late 70's: The Warriors. After that, Deborah Van Valkenburgh worked her way through a variety of genres. She did dabble in the realm of the Fantastic with roles aboard Phantom Of The Ritz (1988), Monsters, Quantum Leap, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Sorcerers (1998) Firestarter: Rekindled, The Devil's Rejects (2005), The Event, Touch, The Messengers, and Helstrom. Van Valkenburgh was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2023, I was offered a complimentary Blu-ray of The Warriors (1979) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2023, I was offered a complimentary Blu-ray of The Warriors (1979) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Born in the big city of Chicago, Illinois, Jeff Austin spared no time making a name for himself in Hollywood. Genre fans might recognize the actor from his work aboard Freddy's Nightmares, Alien Nation, Fear (1990), Harry And The Hendersons, Doctor Mordrid (1992), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Babylon 5, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Alien Nation: Body And Soul (1995), Star Trek: Voyager, Armageddon (1998), 3rd Rock From The Sun, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, The X-Files, and Carnivale. Austin was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1979 Saturn Awards, Jackson received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work aboard The Wiz (1978).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1979 Saturn Awards, Jackson received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work aboard The Wiz (1978).
The incomparable and maddeningly sexy Rebecca De Mornay joined Frank Whaley, John Savage, and Roger Cross in a 1995 episode of The Outer Limits. More recently, she dipped into the realms of Fantasy and Science Fiction with work aboard Marvel's Jessica Jones and TV's Lucifer. De Mornay was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1993 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), De Mornay earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work aboard The Hand That Rocks The Cradle (1992).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1993 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), De Mornay earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work aboard The Hand That Rocks The Cradle (1992).
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]
[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]
[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]
[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.
[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.
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well, well, well ... it certainly looks like David Ury was on the receiving end of an electric performance for his work aboard the family-friendly The Thundermans during its run on television. Other appearances in the world of genre entertainment include stops to such properties as Charmed, Heroes, American Horror Story, Touch, Grimm, The Librarians, Powers, The Outpost, The Walking Dead, 3 From Hell (2019), and Birds Of Prey (2020). Ury was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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]
[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]
[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]
[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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I think it goes without saying that Hampshire is probably best known for her work in the delightful ensemble comedy Schitt's Creek (2015-2020) that made a stir on television during its run, but I'll always choose to recall her work in Syfy's 12 Monkeys adaptation. Her wackadoodle-take on 'Jennifer Goines' was spot-on nearly every chance the actress hit the screen, and kudos for the good folks at the Golden Maple Awards for honoring her work in 2015 with the trophy in the category of 'Newcomer of the Year in a TV Series Broadcasted in the US.' It was much deserved.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I think it goes without saying that Hampshire is probably best known for her work in the delightful ensemble comedy Schitt's Creek (2015-2020) that made a stir on television during its run, but I'll always choose to recall her work in Syfy's 12 Monkeys adaptation. Her wackadoodle-take on 'Jennifer Goines' was spot-on nearly every chance the actress hit the screen, and kudos for the good folks at the Golden Maple Awards for honoring her work in 2015 with the trophy in the category of 'Newcomer of the Year in a TV Series Broadcasted in the US.' It was much deserved.
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Over the course of 70+ episodes, Echo Kellum filled in whatever superhero shoes were necessary as part of the cast for The CW's Arrow universe. Kellum was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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. In 2021, she dipped her toes back into Science Fiction with a role aboard Repeat. Ritchie was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
From 2012 through 2016, Nicole Gale Anderson rode the wild and sometimes romantic ride that was TV's incarnation of Beauty And The Beast. Anderson was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[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]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Relative newcomer Laura Ashley Samuels had a small role in 2011's underwhelming In Time. In 2013, she enjoyed a bit of time with a small role aboard April Apocalypse for Tarnol Group Pictures. Also, she also paid a visit to the Horror-filled world of Kill Game (2018). Samuels was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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. Hopefully this lovely lady will delve into the realms of the Fantastic at some point in her professional future. Rivera was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Proving that she's much more than a pretty face, Kinsey Wolanski put her acting chops to good work in the world of Horror with a small role aboard Slasher Party (2019) for LookHu. Wolanski was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[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 1952 (in the U.S.), Monkey Business enjoyed its exclusive theatrical premiere event when it was first screened in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Directed by Howard Hawks, the SciFi/Comedy starred Cary Grant, Ginger Rogers, and Marilyn Monroe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A chemist finds his personal and professional life turned upside down when one of his chimpanzees finds the fountain of youth."
"A chemist finds his personal and professional life turned upside down when one of his chimpanzees finds the fountain of youth."
A star is born! On this day in 1952 (in Mexico), The Beautiful Dreamer enjoyed its theatrical debut. Written (in part) and directed by Gilberto Martinez Solares, the SciFi/Comedy starred German Valdes, Lilia del Valle, and Wolf Ruvinskis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A Mexican comedy of a caveman that wakes up after a beautiful 1,000 year slumber."
"A Mexican comedy of a caveman that wakes up after a beautiful 1,000 year slumber."
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.
A star is born ... or is that porn? On this day in 1969 (in West Germany), fantasy of more than a single variety combined for the theatrical birth of Grimm's Fairy Tales For Adults (aka The New Adventures Of Snow White). Written (in part) and directed by Rolf Thiele, the Comedy/Fantasy starred Norbert Gastell, Wolfgang Hess, and Thomas Piper. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The characters from the classic Grimm's Fairy Tales (Mother Goose, etc.) engaged in activities the Grimm Brothers probably wouldn't approve of."
"The characters from the classic Grimm's Fairy Tales (Mother Goose, etc.) engaged in activities the Grimm Brothers probably wouldn't approve of."
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 1979 (in Kenya), secret agent James Bond rocketed into space with the theatrical release of Moonraker. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, the SciFi/Thriller starred Roger Moore, Lois Chiles, and Michael Lonsdale; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
For the record:
Moonraker enjoyed a bit of recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects' but failed to take home the trophy. For the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
For the record:
Moonraker enjoyed a bit of recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects' but failed to take home the trophy. For the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), the good people of Seattle, Washington were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Nothing Lasts Forever. Written and directed by Tom Schiller, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Zach Galligan, Lauren Tom, and Bill Murray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An artist fails a test and is required to direct traffic in New York City's Holland Tunnel. He winds up falling in love with a beautiful woman, after he takes a trip to the moon on a Lunar Cruiser."
"An artist fails a test and is required to direct traffic in New York City's Holland Tunnel. He winds up falling in love with a beautiful woman, after he takes a trip to the moon on a Lunar Cruiser."
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."
On this day in 1987 (in Canada and the U.S.), the Japanese people were cursed with a Tokyo Blackout (aka Shuto shôshitsu). Written (in part) and directed by Toshio Masuda, the SciFi/Thriller starred Midori Ebina, Eimei Esumi, and Dennis Falt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Based on a science-fiction novel by Sakyo Komatsu. Tokyo is suddendly covered by a dome shaped electromagantic cloud for an unknown reason and is totally blocked and isolated from other parts of the world. The temperature inside the cloud is slowly increasing. The Soviet Pacific fleet is getting closer. The U.S. is forcing Japan to form a new governmemt. Scientists and research workers outside Tokyo have to race against time to find out how to get through the cloud in order to rescue the 12,000,000+ lives in Tokyo and the fate of the country."
"Based on a science-fiction novel by Sakyo Komatsu. Tokyo is suddendly covered by a dome shaped electromagantic cloud for an unknown reason and is totally blocked and isolated from other parts of the world. The temperature inside the cloud is slowly increasing. The Soviet Pacific fleet is getting closer. The U.S. is forcing Japan to form a new governmemt. Scientists and research workers outside Tokyo have to race against time to find out how to get through the cloud in order to rescue the 12,000,000+ lives in Tokyo and the fate of the country."
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), TV went to the wastelands when the failed series' pilot Badlands 2005 aired as a standalone telefilm. Directed by George Miller from a story by Reuben Leder, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Lewis Smith, Miguel Ferrer, and Sharon Stone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1995, a severe drought forced Americans to flee the West for the cities. Water became more precious than gold. Now in 2005, settlers are coming back, meeting new challenges, and age-old adversaries. A U.S. Marshal and his cyborg partner patrol the American West. A hard-as-nails female boss heads two U.S. Marshals (one human, one bionic) in Badlands 2005, a concept where the near future sees water as a more precious commodity than gold. The West of America has been deserted after droughts a decade earlier, and now a re-population program is underway."
"In 1995, a severe drought forced Americans to flee the West for the cities. Water became more precious than gold. Now in 2005, settlers are coming back, meeting new challenges, and age-old adversaries. A U.S. Marshal and his cyborg partner patrol the American West. A hard-as-nails female boss heads two U.S. Marshals (one human, one bionic) in Badlands 2005, a concept where the near future sees water as a more precious commodity than gold. The West of America has been deserted after droughts a decade earlier, and now a re-population program is underway."
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 1997 (in the U.S.), Kull The Conqueror rushed into cinematic history with its theatrical release. Based on the character by Robert E. Howard and directed by John Nicolella, the Fantasy feature starred Kevin Sorbo, Tia Carrere, and Thomas Ian Griffith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A barbarian warrior becomes a king when he defeats a king in armed combat and the king's heir conspire to overthrow him and reclaim the throne by resurrecting an evil sorceress."
"A barbarian warrior becomes a king when he defeats a king in armed combat and the king's heir conspire to overthrow him and reclaim the throne by resurrecting an evil sorceress."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation enjoyed a theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by Kim Kenkel, the Horror/Comedy starred Renee Zellweger, Matthew McConaughey, and Robert Jacks. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of teenagers get into a car crash in the Texas woods on prom night, and then wander into an old farmhouse that is home to Leatherface (Robert Jacks) and his insane family of cannibalistic psychopaths."
"A group of teenagers get into a car crash in the Texas woods on prom night, and then wander into an old farmhouse that is home to Leatherface (Robert Jacks) and his insane family of cannibalistic psychopaths."
Ach! That's gonna leave a mark! On this day in 2003 (in the United Kingdom), Jeepers Creepers 2 brought the Creeper back for another meal. Written and directed by Victor Salva, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jonathan Breck, Ray Wise, and Nicki Aycox. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set a few days after the original, a championship basketball team's bus is attacked by The Creeper, the winged, flesh-eating terror, on the last day of his 23-day feeding frenzy."
"Set a few days after the original, a championship basketball team's bus is attacked by The Creeper, the winged, flesh-eating terror, on the last day of his 23-day feeding frenzy."
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."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Under The Skin enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Telluride Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Jonathan Glazer, the SciFi/Drama starred Scarlet Johansson, Jeremy McWilliams, and Lynsey Taylor Mackay. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mysterious young woman seduces lonely men in the evening hours in Scotland. However, events lead her to begin a process of self-discovery."
"A mysterious young woman seduces lonely men in the evening hours in Scotland. However, events lead her to begin a process of self-discovery."
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 2019 (in Indonesia), Gundala first suited up in the pursuit of justice. Written (in part) and directed by Joko Anwar, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Abimana Aryasatya, Tara Basro, and and Bront Palarae. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Indonesia's preeminent comic book superhero and his alter ego Sancaka enter the cinematic universe to battle the wicked Pengkor and his diabolical squad of orphan assassins."
"Indonesia's preeminent comic book superhero and his alter ego Sancaka enter the cinematic universe to battle the wicked Pengkor and his diabolical squad of orphan assassins."
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 (in the U.S.), 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 (in the United Kingdom), "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 (in the U.S.), 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 (in the U.S.), GvsE (aka Good vs Evil) aired "To Be Or Not To Be Evil." Officially, 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 (in the U.S.), Alphas aired "A Short Time In Paradise." Officially, 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."
It all began right here: on this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Death Valley took the Cops reality format and applied it to the macabre. The first episode was simply called its pilot, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a vampire is killed in a prostitution sting, Billy is kidnapped. And a seemingly routine zombie kill in a doughnut shop leads to a death among the TV crew."
"After a vampire is killed in a prostitution sting, Billy is kidnapped. And a seemingly routine zombie kill in a doughnut shop leads to a death among the TV crew."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Somewhere Between aired "The Fourth Man." Officially, 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."
