Irwin Allen's Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea bought SciFi down to the Earth and under the water for a whole generation of TV viewers, and venerable Richard Basehart called the shots for the crew in role of Adm. Harriman Nelson. Though he's no longer with us, Basehart was born on this day in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
- In 2022, I was fortunate to receive a promotional copy of Repeat Performance (1947) -- in which Basehart played a role -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
- In 2024, I was fortunate to receive a promotional copy of The Good Die Young (1954) -- in which Basehart played a role -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
I'd imagine most of you young Turks wouldn't know who the legendary James Coburn is. For the record, the actor was all over the channels during the Golden Age of Television, and he scored a respectable 'James Bond'-style knock in the 60's with Our Man Flint and In Like Flint. In the 70's, he played Jack Dryden in the SciFi-themed sports film Goldengirl alongside the luscious Susan Anton. Though he's no longer with us, Coburn was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When your die-hard Trekkie friends try to convince you of how Star Trek: The Next Generation improved dramatically throughout its second season, remind them that the stinking gem better known as "The Royale" premiered almost smack dab in the middle of the season, for which the talented Noble Willingham (above right) is remembered. That should shut them up. Though he's no longer with us, Willingham was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a broadcast airing of The Howling (1981) -- in which Willingham played a role -- when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a broadcast airing of The Howling (1981) -- in which Willingham played a role -- when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Anthony Call answered the call to serve Starfleet even if it were for only a single episode back in 1966. His IMDB.com profile also notes he paid a visit to Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone as well. Call was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I'll give you that Larry Hankin doesn't have much Science Fiction to his credit, but doesn't he have one of the more recognizable faces in the entertainment industry? Hankin has appeared on Amazing Stories, ALF, Amazon Women on the Moon (1987), Nightfall (1988), Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Shadow (1994), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Star Trek: Voyager, and Weird Science. Hankin was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Star Wars: Episode II - Attack Of The Clones finally screened for the masses, fans were introduced to another member of the Lars family on Tatooine -- Cliegg Lars was plaed by Aussie actor Jack Thompson. Thompson was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lee Bryant (second from right, in the red dress) was one of the wives unwittingly co-opted into helping widen the conspiracy at the heart of the great SciFi thriller, Capricorn One (1977). Bryant was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record, Richard Gere is certainly not known for work in Science Fiction or Fantasy, but he did give Fantasy a try on for size with a leading role aboard The Mothman Prophecies (2002). Gere was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 2021, actor Stephen McKinley Henderson entered the world of Science Fiction in a big way with a part aboard the theatrical adaptation of Frank Herbert's Dune. Other stops to SciFi, Fantasy, and Horror include work in Devs and Civil War (2024). Henderson was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's been in nothing for quite some time, that won't stop SciFiHistory.Net from giving Hilary Farr a shout-out for work in The Greatest American Hero and The Return (1982). Farr was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funny lady and general yuckster Julie Brown joined Geena Davis in the cult SciFi comedy, Earth Girls Are Easy (1988). Brown was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
According to her professional resume, Melissa Prophet has been able to turn her great looks and talent into such opportunities as Miss Hollywood, Miss California, and the Miss USA Miss World titles; and she's also been able to crack the world of acting and producing. Genre fans might recognize her from quick stops to Quark, Looker (1981), and Time Walker (1982). Prophet was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Lisa Waltz definitely has a lingering association with genre projects, appearing in such properties as Monsters, Quantum Leap, Pet Cemetary II (1992), Lifepod (1993), The X-Files, Roswell (1994), Dark Skies, and Tru Calling. Waltz was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Those of you who missed the CGI version of Star Wars: The Clone Wars missed something that was largely truly epic. Granted, in its six season run (five on television and one available via streaming), there were some plotlines that didn't work as well as they were probably conceived; but the totality of the show proved that there were definitely stories still worth telling in that galaxy far, far away. One of its voice regulars -- Dee Bradley Baker -- did some amazing work bringing so very many iterations of the Clone Troopers to life, including Captain Rex himself. Baker was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The truth is, "You enter The Matrix, and you probably deserve a mention in SciFi History." While Agent Smith gets all of the credit, The Matrix Reloaded widened out the workforce, giving actor and stuntman Daniel Bernhardt the chance to play Agent Johnson. Bernhardt was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress-turned-producer Cheryl Pollak definitely left a few genre-related footprints in her professional career. Fans might remember her from such projects as My Best Friend Is A Vampire (1987), Date With An Angel (1987), Night Life (1989), Alien Nation, The Hidden Room, Quantum Leap, The Maze (1997), and Early Edition. Pollak was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Syfy's Riverworld adaptation keeps popping up these days on my research radar, so I guess I'm going to have to Bucket List that miniseries. In any event, actor Jonathan Cake (above center) made a prominent appearance in the piece, and Cake was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've mentioned before that one of the truly best programs to come out of that horrible experiment that was the UPN Network was a little program called 7 Days. Basically, it was a time travel show, but the conceit was the chrononaut -- played by actor Jonathan LaPaglia (pictured above) -- could only travel back seven days. This basically meant the plots were centralized around averting reasonable global catastrophes. LaPaglia was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Proving she was no longer "In Your Dreams," recovering pop superstar (and lovely blonde) Debbie Gibson slipped into the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy with a role aboard Mega Shark vs. Giant Octopus (2009) and its follow-ups, Mega Python vs. Gatoroid (2011) and Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark (2014). That means she can get "Lost In Your Eyes" on video any time you like! Gibson was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Zack Ward was part and parcel of the military ensemble fighting some evil space machinery aboard Michael Bay's big screen adaptation of Transformers. Ward was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Jason Presson (above center) participated in a handful of solid genre projects, yet he's all but disappeared these days if IMDB.com is to be trusted. He had roles aboard Explorers (1985), The Twilight Zone (1985), and Gremlins 2: The New Batch; and Presson was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Even today, I'm one of rare few die-hard SciFi fans who just didn't like The Fifth Element. It seemed a bit too pedestrian for my tastes, but it is what it is. Still, I can appreciate a good chuckle, and Chris Tucker's Ruby Rhod provided more share than any film deserves. Tucker was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Director Marc Webb swung into the big leagues of handling Superhero movies with his take on The Amazing Spider-man (2012) and The Amazing Spider-man 2 (2014). Webb was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
... and speaking of the greater Spider-man franchise (see Marc Webb above), the lovely Sara Ramirez had a small role aboard Sam Raimi's Spider-man (2002) as a police officer who manhandles Tobey Maguire for good measure. Otherwise her resume is filled with more conventional roles. Ramirez was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mike Erwin enjoys the distinction of voicing the DC Comics character 'Speedy' aboard both Teen Titans and Justice League Unlimited. He also paid a visit to the world of TV's SciFi/Thriller series Colony. Erwin was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Puerto Rican actress Yara Martinez brought her naturally electric personality to a fabulous screen role aboard The Tick during its run on television. Martinez was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Leo Bill had the role of an ill-fated starship captain cruising to disaster aboard Doctor Who's holiday episode, "A Christmas Carol." He also played a role in the stellar 28 Days Later (2002). Then, in 2006, he put in some solid work aboard the Horror/Drama The Living And The Dead for Giant Films. A bit more recently, he turned up in a role aboard the interesting War Of The Worlds adaptation. Bill was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It deserves to be mentioned that Bill's work in The Living And The Dead definitely caught attention of those in the critical community. Despite the film garnering an awful lot of praise and awards, the actor himself was nominated for 'Best Actor' at the 2009 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, no small feat indeed.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It deserves to be mentioned that Bill's work in The Living And The Dead definitely caught attention of those in the critical community. Despite the film garnering an awful lot of praise and awards, the actor himself was nominated for 'Best Actor' at the 2009 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, no small feat indeed.
One of the things that the Adult film industry has been able to do quite fetchingly is that they've adapted to serve the (ahem) storytelling interests of both those in the business as well as their customer base. This is why audiences will occasionally see a mainstream property -- say, something like Xena: Warrior Princess -- adapted to fit the needs of something with greater (ahem) sensual proclivities. Think what you may, but I think Jasmine Jae fills out the costume quite nicely. Plus -- if IMDB.com is correct -- the actress also directs! Jae was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Joshua Close enjoyed a supporting role aboard Syfy's super-popular adaptation of 12 Monkeys during its run. In 2016, he also enjoyed a recurring role aboard the SciFi-lite Person Of Interest. Close was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Devan Chandler Long has left his mark on fandom by contributing to such enterprises as Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Last Ship, Teen Wolf, Runaways, Now Apocalypse, The Magicians, Doom Patrol, and Ghosts. Long was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adult film temptress Leah Jaye has performed in a title or two that might be of interest to genre fans, but that doesn't quite mean that I can show any pictures of them in such a -- ahem -- family-friendly site. Still, kudos for the lady's assets being put on display in such efforts as Porn Of The Dead (2008) and Apocalypse Angels (2009). Jaye was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ryan Kelley has been plugging away faithfully at this whole showbiz thing. In his time in the business, he's earned roles in such properties as Early Edition, Smallville, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, 2009's live action Ben 10: Alien Swarm telefilm, Teen Wolf. Kelley was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Some actors have the skills to work in practically any genre, and that's something that could be said of Johnny Wactor. While he probably gravitated a bit more toward conventional stuff, fans might recall his stops to the realms of the Fantastic with work aboard The OA, Westworld, and The Passenger. Though he's no longer with us, Wactor was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A young and vivacious Holly Earl cracked into the wide, wide world of Doctor Who with an appearance aboard one of the program's holiday adventures, "The Doctor, The Widow, and the Wardrobe," back in 2011. The actress has built a resume that shows some real genre potential; fans might recognize her from appearances aboard Red Dwarf, My Hero, Dracula: The Dark Prince (2013), Beowulf: Return To The Shieldlands, Humans, and Shark Bait. Earl was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1925 (in Finland), Black Oxen enjoyed a run in theaters. Directed by Frank Lloyd, the SciFi/Drama film starred Corinne Griffith, Conway Tearle, and Tom Ricketts. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi/Romance:
"A Manhattan playboy falls in love with a mysterious European woman, whom he notices as an exact double for a famous socialite who disappeared at the turn of the century. At first, he thinks it's just pure coincidence, as the beautiful young woman he's currently romancing is much younger than the woman who vanished years before, but soon, he begins to believe that maybe it's not such a coincidence after all."
"A Manhattan playboy falls in love with a mysterious European woman, whom he notices as an exact double for a famous socialite who disappeared at the turn of the century. At first, he thinks it's just pure coincidence, as the beautiful young woman he's currently romancing is much younger than the woman who vanished years before, but soon, he begins to believe that maybe it's not such a coincidence after all."
On this day in 1956 (in Ireland), Forbidden Planet arrived in Earth's theaters. Directed by Fred M. Wilcox, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Leslie Nielsen, Anne Francis, and Walter Pidgeon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When Adams and his crew are sent to investigate the silence from a planet inhabited by scientists, he finds all but two have died. Dr. Morbius and his daughter Altaira have somehow survived a hideous monster which roams the planet. Unknown to Adams, Morbius has made a discovery, and has no intention of sharing it (or his daughter!) with anyone."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
"When Adams and his crew are sent to investigate the silence from a planet inhabited by scientists, he finds all but two have died. Dr. Morbius and his daughter Altaira have somehow survived a hideous monster which roams the planet. Unknown to Adams, Morbius has made a discovery, and has no intention of sharing it (or his daughter!) with anyone."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
On this day in 1956 (in France), Revenge Of The Creature rose up from the murky depths to scare audiences silly. Directed by Jack Arnold, the film starred John Agar, Lori Nelson, and John Bromfield; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Men capture the Creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
"Men capture the Creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
Those nasty zombies were in for a world of pain now that they drew the attention of the ultimate Lucha Libre wrestler! On this day in 1964 (in Spain), the good people of Barcelona were treated to the incredible cinematic mash-up -- the definitive match-up -- of Santo Vs. The Zombies. Adapted for the screen and directed by Benito Alazraki, the Horror/Thriller starred Santo, Armando Silvestre, and Jaime Fernandez. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wrestling superhero Santo battles an evil scientist who has created a race of zombies."
"Wrestling superhero Santo battles an evil scientist who has created a race of zombies."
On this day in 1967 (in New Caledonia), it looks like some scientist never learned his lesson the first time as Frankenstein Created Woman played in theaters. Directed by Terence Fisher, the SciFi/Horror starred Peter Cushing, Susan Denberg, and Thorley Walters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After being reanimated, Baron Frankenstein transfers the soul of an executed young man into the body of his lover, prompting her to kill the men who wronged them."
"After being reanimated, Baron Frankenstein transfers the soul of an executed young man into the body of his lover, prompting her to kill the men who wronged them."
On this day in 1972 (in Argentina), audiences took a look inside the mind of novelist Kurt Vonnegut Jr. when his work Slaughterhouse-Five was adapted for the big screen. Directed by George Roy Hill, the film starred Michael Sacks, Ron Leibman, and Eugene Roche. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man tells his story of how he became unstuck in time and abducted by aliens."
For the record:
it's worth noting that Slaughterhouse-Five was no slouch when it came to critical and cultural acclaim. In the inaugural year of Saturn Awards being issued for Best Science Fiction Film, it took home 1973's top honor. The film also took the Jury Prize for the 1972 Cannes Film Festival, with director Hill being nominated for the Palm d'Or. In 1973, it won the Hugo Award for the Best Dramatic Presentation.
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of Arrow Films 2019 Blu-ray release of the feature, and I penned a review of it. Those interested can access my thoughts right here.
"A man tells his story of how he became unstuck in time and abducted by aliens."
For the record:
it's worth noting that Slaughterhouse-Five was no slouch when it came to critical and cultural acclaim. In the inaugural year of Saturn Awards being issued for Best Science Fiction Film, it took home 1973's top honor. The film also took the Jury Prize for the 1972 Cannes Film Festival, with director Hill being nominated for the Palm d'Or. In 1973, it won the Hugo Award for the Best Dramatic Presentation.
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of Arrow Films 2019 Blu-ray release of the feature, and I penned a review of it. Those interested can access my thoughts right here.
On this day in 1972 (in Argentina), The Light At The End Of The World shone through cinematically. Directed by Kevin Billington, the SciFi/Thriller starred Kirk Douglas, Yul Brynner, and Samantha Eggar. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Pirates take over a lighthouse on a rocky island. They then execute a devious plan to cause ships to run aground, pillaging their wrecks. A lone member of the lighthouse crew survives, and he deperately fights their plot. A shipwrecked maiden that avoids the pirates slaughter soon complicates the situation."
"Pirates take over a lighthouse on a rocky island. They then execute a devious plan to cause ships to run aground, pillaging their wrecks. A lone member of the lighthouse crew survives, and he deperately fights their plot. A shipwrecked maiden that avoids the pirates slaughter soon complicates the situation."
On this day in 1977, George Pal's original Science Fiction classic The War Of The Worlds (1953) enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release in the city of San Francisco, California. Directed by Byron Haskin, the feature starred Gene Barry, Ann Robinson, and Les Tremayne in a cinematic adaptation of the H.G. Wells' novel. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The residents of a small town in California are excited when a flaming meteor lands in the hills. Their joy is tempered somewhat when they discover that it has passengers who are not very friendly."
For the record:
Those who follow Science Fiction and Fantasy are well aware of The War Of The Worlds importance in the genre as it's been revisited countless times. There have been multiple film and television incarnations. As for the original? It won the 1954 Academy Award for 'Best Special Effects.' It won the 1954 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And in 2011 it was inducted into the National Film Registry so that it can be preserved for the ages.
"The residents of a small town in California are excited when a flaming meteor lands in the hills. Their joy is tempered somewhat when they discover that it has passengers who are not very friendly."
For the record:
Those who follow Science Fiction and Fantasy are well aware of The War Of The Worlds importance in the genre as it's been revisited countless times. There have been multiple film and television incarnations. As for the original? It won the 1954 Academy Award for 'Best Special Effects.' It won the 1954 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And in 2011 it was inducted into the National Film Registry so that it can be preserved for the ages.
On this day in 1977, the 1951-produced When Worlds Collide enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release in San Francisco, California. Directed by Rudolph Mate and produced by the legendary George Pal, the SciFi/Drama starred Richard Derr, Barbara Rush, and Peter Hansen; and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"As a new star and planet hurtle toward a doomed Earth, a small group of survivalists frantically work to complete the rocket which will take them to their new home."
For the record:
Without a doubt, When Worlds Collide remains one of the best regarded films of the 1950's, a period when Science Fiction films were truly introduced as part of the Hollywood studio process. It's been said that this film was somewhat rushed into production based on the success of Pal's earlier Destination Moon (1950). At the 1952 Oscars Awards, When Worlds Collide took home the trophy for 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' It was also nominated for (but loss) the award for 'Best Cinematography, Color.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of When Worlds Collide from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"As a new star and planet hurtle toward a doomed Earth, a small group of survivalists frantically work to complete the rocket which will take them to their new home."
For the record:
Without a doubt, When Worlds Collide remains one of the best regarded films of the 1950's, a period when Science Fiction films were truly introduced as part of the Hollywood studio process. It's been said that this film was somewhat rushed into production based on the success of Pal's earlier Destination Moon (1950). At the 1952 Oscars Awards, When Worlds Collide took home the trophy for 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' It was also nominated for (but loss) the award for 'Best Cinematography, Color.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of When Worlds Collide from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1979 (in Finland), our fabled astronaut took a cryo-nap and woke up in the future when Buck Rogers In The 25th Century enjoyed a release in theaters. Directed by Daniel Haller, the SciFi feature starred Gil Gerard, Erin Gray, and Pamela Hensley. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1987, Captain William "Buck" Rogers pilots his space shuttle Ranger 3 on a mission but a meteor storm freezes him into an orbit that returns him to Earth - 500 years later. In 2491, his shuttle is found and captured by the Draconian flagship, under the command of Princess Ardala and her second-in-command Kane. Reviving him, they return him to Earth after secretly planting a homing beacon aboard his shuttle to track a path through Earth's defense barrier. Buck is under arrest and learns that Earth has been rebuilt over the centuries in his absence following a nuclear holocaust. Buck Rogers must adjust to the 25th century, and convince the Terrans that the Draconians are secretly planning to conquer Earth."
For the record:
Thankfully, there are a few nuggets of gold found in this curiously-dated version of the Buck Rogers saga. At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Buck took hold the statue in the category of 'Best Costumes' but missed out in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' (for Pamela Hensley). However, at the 1979 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, genre favorite Erin Gray had to endure a nomination for 'Worst Actress.' Ouch.
"In 1987, Captain William "Buck" Rogers pilots his space shuttle Ranger 3 on a mission but a meteor storm freezes him into an orbit that returns him to Earth - 500 years later. In 2491, his shuttle is found and captured by the Draconian flagship, under the command of Princess Ardala and her second-in-command Kane. Reviving him, they return him to Earth after secretly planting a homing beacon aboard his shuttle to track a path through Earth's defense barrier. Buck is under arrest and learns that Earth has been rebuilt over the centuries in his absence following a nuclear holocaust. Buck Rogers must adjust to the 25th century, and convince the Terrans that the Draconians are secretly planning to conquer Earth."
For the record:
Thankfully, there are a few nuggets of gold found in this curiously-dated version of the Buck Rogers saga. At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Buck took hold the statue in the category of 'Best Costumes' but missed out in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' (for Pamela Hensley). However, at the 1979 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, genre favorite Erin Gray had to endure a nomination for 'Worst Actress.' Ouch.
A star is born! On this day in 1979 (in Italy), an old Fantasy fable was made new again -- with a decidedly Italian twist -- with the theatrical release of Dr. Jekyll Likes Them Hot. Directed by Steno, the film starred Paolo Villaggio, Edwige Fenech, and Gianrico Tedeschi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lusty young woman decides to use her sexual powers to "tame" the evil and murderous Dr. Jekyll."
"A lusty young woman decides to use her sexual powers to "tame" the evil and murderous Dr. Jekyll."
On this day in 1979 (in Austria and West Germany), James Bond took to the heavens with the silver screen release of Moonraker. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, the SciFi/Thriller starred Roger Moore, Lois Chiles, and Michael Lonsdale. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"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 1979 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to the very first theatrical presentation of Time After Time. Prepared for the screen and directed by Nicholas Meyer, the SciFi/Thriller starred Malcolm McDowell, Mary Steenbergen, and David Warner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"H.G. Wells pursues Jack the Ripper to the 20th Century when the serial murderer uses the future writer's time machine to escape his time period."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Time After Time was a hit with the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At their 1980 Saturn Awards ceremony, it brought home three trophies (in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Actress') while missing out on top honors in the categories of 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The film was also a nominee for a 1980 Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Time After Time remains one of the great movies of my younger days. I love it so much I spent a fair amount of time with it recently so that I could pull some screencaps from it for posterity's sake. Interested readers can look them over right here.
"H.G. Wells pursues Jack the Ripper to the 20th Century when the serial murderer uses the future writer's time machine to escape his time period."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Time After Time was a hit with the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At their 1980 Saturn Awards ceremony, it brought home three trophies (in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Actress') while missing out on top honors in the categories of 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The film was also a nominee for a 1980 Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Time After Time remains one of the great movies of my younger days. I love it so much I spent a fair amount of time with it recently so that I could pull some screencaps from it for posterity's sake. Interested readers can look them over right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), C.H.U.D. emerged from beneath the streets and took its rightful place on the silver screen. Directed by Douglas Cheek, the SciFi/Horror starred John Heard, Daniel Stern, and Christopher Curry. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A bizarre series of sudden disappearances on the streets of New York City seems to point toward something unsavory living in the sewers."
For the record:
1984's C.H.U.D. was the start of one of Science Fiction's smaller franchise as the film did spawn a sequel -- C.H.U.D. II: Bud The Chud -- in 1989. For those unaware of its meaning, C.H.U.D. is the created acronym for 'Cannabalistic Humanoid Underground Dweller,' so let's be thankful for the feature giving us another word for our theatrical vocabulary. Lastly, the first did enjoy a wee bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"A bizarre series of sudden disappearances on the streets of New York City seems to point toward something unsavory living in the sewers."
For the record:
1984's C.H.U.D. was the start of one of Science Fiction's smaller franchise as the film did spawn a sequel -- C.H.U.D. II: Bud The Chud -- in 1989. For those unaware of its meaning, C.H.U.D. is the created acronym for 'Cannabalistic Humanoid Underground Dweller,' so let's be thankful for the feature giving us another word for our theatrical vocabulary. Lastly, the first did enjoy a wee bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1984 (in Ireland), audiences learned where there's smoke there's fire with the theatrical release of Firestarter. Directed by Mark L. Lester, the SciFi/Horror starred young Drew Barrymore, David Keith, and George C. Scott. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A couple who participated in a potent medical experiment gain telepathic ability and then have a child who is pyrokinetic."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Firestarter enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"A couple who participated in a potent medical experiment gain telepathic ability and then have a child who is pyrokinetic."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Firestarter enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' and 'Best Horror Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), Night Of The Comet enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written and directed by Thom Eberhardt, the SciFi/Comedy starred Catherine Mary Stewart, Kelli Maroney, and Robert Beltran. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A comet wipes out most of life on Earth, leaving two Valley Girls fighting against cannibal zombies and a sinister group of scientists."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards, Mary Woronov earned a 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in the picture.
"A comet wipes out most of life on Earth, leaving two Valley Girls fighting against cannibal zombies and a sinister group of scientists."
For the record:
At the 1985 Saturn Awards, Mary Woronov earned a 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in the picture.
On this day in 1984 (in West Germany), Repo Man showed us one curious take on alien contact. Written and directed by Alex Cox, the SciFi/Comedy starred Emilio Estevez, Harry Dean Stanton, and Tracey Walter. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young punk recruited by a car repossession agency finds himself in pursuit of a Chevrolet Malibu that is wanted for a $20,000 bounty - and has something otherworldly stashed in its trunk."
For the record:
To the film's credit, it created a bit of buzz on the film festival circuit. At the 1985 Saturn Awards, actress Tracey Walter won the statue for the 'Best Supporting Actor' category while writer/director Alex Cox lost out on the 'Best Writing' win.
"A young punk recruited by a car repossession agency finds himself in pursuit of a Chevrolet Malibu that is wanted for a $20,000 bounty - and has something otherworldly stashed in its trunk."
For the record:
To the film's credit, it created a bit of buzz on the film festival circuit. At the 1985 Saturn Awards, actress Tracey Walter won the statue for the 'Best Supporting Actor' category while writer/director Alex Cox lost out on the 'Best Writing' win.
On this day in 1985 (in the Philippines), the 1985-produced A Boy And His Dog played for the masses-at-large. Based on a novella by SciFi giant Harlan Ellison, the story was adapted for the screen and directed by L.Q. Jones. The feature starred Don Johnson, Jason Robards, and Susanne Benton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A boy communicates telepathically with his dog as they scavenge for food and sex, and they stumble into an underground society where the old society is preserved. The daughter of one of the leaders of the community seduces and lures him below, where the citizens have become unable to reproduce because of being underground so long. They use him for impregnation purposes, and then plan to be rid of him."
For the record:
It's safe to say that -- if it came from the mind of Harlan Ellison -- then it was bound to capture the attention of the greater Science Fiction community.
"A boy communicates telepathically with his dog as they scavenge for food and sex, and they stumble into an underground society where the old society is preserved. The daughter of one of the leaders of the community seduces and lures him below, where the citizens have become unable to reproduce because of being underground so long. They use him for impregnation purposes, and then plan to be rid of him."
For the record:
It's safe to say that -- if it came from the mind of Harlan Ellison -- then it was bound to capture the attention of the greater Science Fiction community.
- At the 1976 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actor Don Johnson tied in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work on the picture. The film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 1976 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
- At the 1976 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), the flick enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Writing.'
On this day in 1985 (in the Philippines), Golok Setan (aka The Devil's Sword) was released upon the unsuspecting people of Davao. Directed by Ratno Timoer from a story by Imam Tantowi, the Fantasy/Horror starred Barry Prima, Gudi Sintara, and Advent Bangun. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Devil's Sword lies hidden in a secret cave inside Devils Mountain, everything evil will fight to the death for it. "For whoever possesses the sword, will rule the kingdom!" Four warriors attack the keeper of the mountain and try to force him to hand over the map that will lead them to the sword. The tortured keeper escapes and runs to Mandala, his master, who after hearing of the attempt, sets off on his own journey to save the Devil's Sword. He has many blood-curdling battles along the way, he is attacked by the evil crocodile men and encounters many fiendish traps set for intruders entering the mountain. At last, Mandala captures his prize - can he call upon the Gods and use the mystical sword against the raging warriors with their awesome magical power? Will he win the fight with the crocodile queen who craves the Devil's Sword at any cost?"
"The Devil's Sword lies hidden in a secret cave inside Devils Mountain, everything evil will fight to the death for it. "For whoever possesses the sword, will rule the kingdom!" Four warriors attack the keeper of the mountain and try to force him to hand over the map that will lead them to the sword. The tortured keeper escapes and runs to Mandala, his master, who after hearing of the attempt, sets off on his own journey to save the Devil's Sword. He has many blood-curdling battles along the way, he is attacked by the evil crocodile men and encounters many fiendish traps set for intruders entering the mountain. At last, Mandala captures his prize - can he call upon the Gods and use the mystical sword against the raging warriors with their awesome magical power? Will he win the fight with the crocodile queen who craves the Devil's Sword at any cost?"
On this day in 1988 (in France), Pulse sent electricity-fueled shocks through the box office. Written and directed by Paul Golding, the SciFi/Fantasy film starred Cliff De Young, Roxanne Hart, and Joey Lawrence; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An intelligent pulse of electricity is moving from house to house. It terrorizes the occupants by taking control of the appliances, either killing them or causing them to wreck the house in an effort to destroy it. Then it travels along the power lines to the next house, and the terror restarts. Having thus wrecked one household in a quiet neighbourhood, the pulse finds itself in the home of a boy's divorced father whom he is visiting. It gradually takes control of everything, badly injures the stepmother, and traps father and son, who must fight their way out."
"An intelligent pulse of electricity is moving from house to house. It terrorizes the occupants by taking control of the appliances, either killing them or causing them to wreck the house in an effort to destroy it. Then it travels along the power lines to the next house, and the terror restarts. Having thus wrecked one household in a quiet neighbourhood, the pulse finds itself in the home of a boy's divorced father whom he is visiting. It gradually takes control of everything, badly injures the stepmother, and traps father and son, who must fight their way out."
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in Canada), Quarantine played for audiences in attendance of the Montréal World Film Festival. Written and directed by Charles Wilkinson, the SciFi/Drama starred Beatrice Boepple, Garwin Sanford, andn Jerry Wasserman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a futuristic society being decimated by plague, a fascist movement seizes power and quarantines not only the plague victims, but anyone related to them. Rebels trying to assassinate a particularly reactionary senator stumble onto a computer programmer trying to track and eradicate the disease."
"In a futuristic society being decimated by plague, a fascist movement seizes power and quarantines not only the plague victims, but anyone related to them. Rebels trying to assassinate a particularly reactionary senator stumble onto a computer programmer trying to track and eradicate the disease."
On this day in 1989 (in Spain), the good people of Madrid were treated to some cult movie heaven with the big screen release of Slipstream. Directed by Steven Lisberger (the writer/director for the original SciFi/Classic Tron), the feature starred Bob Peck, Mark Hamill, and Bill Paxton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
Looks like somebody's hungry again! At least, that was the case cinematically as on this day in 1990 (in Brazil) Critters 2: The Main Course was served. Written (in part) and directed by Mick Garris, the SciFi/Horror starred Scott Grimes, Laine Curtis, and Terrence Mann. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Eggs of the small but voracious alien creatures called Crites are left behind on earth and, after hatching, set their appetites on the small farm town of Grover's Bend."
For the record:
On top of enjoying a bit of praise on the film festival circuit, Critters 2: The Main Course was nominated for a Saturn Award in 1990 in the category of 'Best Make-Up.'
"Eggs of the small but voracious alien creatures called Crites are left behind on earth and, after hatching, set their appetites on the small farm town of Grover's Bend."
For the record:
On top of enjoying a bit of praise on the film festival circuit, Critters 2: The Main Course was nominated for a Saturn Award in 1990 in the category of 'Best Make-Up.'
On this day in 1990, Lensmen (produced in 1984) enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Directed by Shûichi Hirokawa and Yoshiaki Kawajirk, the project featured the voices of Toshio Furukawa, Mami Koyama, and Nachi Nozawa. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the Japanese anime:
"Kimball Kinnison, a young man from the agricultural planet Mquie and his Valerian companinon, Buscirk find a dying man with a legendary crystal lens embedded in his hand. As the man was dying, he mysteriously passed on the Lens to Kim. With more companions to come by, Kim must find out the purpose of the Lens before the Boskone dynasty does."
"Kimball Kinnison, a young man from the agricultural planet Mquie and his Valerian companinon, Buscirk find a dying man with a legendary crystal lens embedded in his hand. As the man was dying, he mysteriously passed on the Lens to Kim. With more companions to come by, Kim must find out the purpose of the Lens before the Boskone dynasty does."
On this day in 1990 (in Brazil), RoboCop 2 returned to duty cinematically. Directed by Irvin Kershner, the feature starred Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, and Belinda Bauer. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a successful deployment of the Robocop Law Enforcement unit, OCP sees its goal of urban pacification come closer and closer, but as this develops, a new narcotic known as "Nuke" invades the streets led by God-delirious leader Cane. As this menace grows, it may prove to be too much for Murphy to handle. OCP tries to replicate the success of the first unit, but ends up with failed prototypes with suicidal issues... until Dr. Faxx, a scientist straying away from OCP's path, uses Cane as the new subject for the Robocop 2 project, a living God."
For the record:
Despite an underwhelming story, RoboCop 2 did score three impressive nominations from the 1991 Saturn Awards: Best Science Fiction Film, Best Performance By A Younger Actor, and Best Special Effects. It lost in all three categories.
"After a successful deployment of the Robocop Law Enforcement unit, OCP sees its goal of urban pacification come closer and closer, but as this develops, a new narcotic known as "Nuke" invades the streets led by God-delirious leader Cane. As this menace grows, it may prove to be too much for Murphy to handle. OCP tries to replicate the success of the first unit, but ends up with failed prototypes with suicidal issues... until Dr. Faxx, a scientist straying away from OCP's path, uses Cane as the new subject for the Robocop 2 project, a living God."
For the record:
Despite an underwhelming story, RoboCop 2 did score three impressive nominations from the 1991 Saturn Awards: Best Science Fiction Film, Best Performance By A Younger Actor, and Best Special Effects. It lost in all three categories.
On this day in 1991 (in the Soviet Union), the 1977-produced Close Encounters Of The Third Kind enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by Steven Spielberg, the SciFi/Drama starred Richard Dreyfuss, Teri Garr, and François Truffaut; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1995 (on home video in Germany), Project Shadowchaser III served up SciFi thrills and chills. Directed by John Eyres from a story by Nick Davis, the feature starred Sam Bottoms, Musetta Vander, and Christopher Atkins. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"It has been 25 years since the ore spaceship Siberia was last heard from. Unfortunately, it is now on a collision course with the communications station Comstat 5 which is orbiting Mars. After one successful maneuver to avoid the Siberia, it rams Comstat 5 and the crew soon finds that the Siberia crew is dead and the reason that it has been missing for 25 years. But that reason is trying to destroy them all as it destroyed the Siberia crew."
"It has been 25 years since the ore spaceship Siberia was last heard from. Unfortunately, it is now on a collision course with the communications station Comstat 5 which is orbiting Mars. After one successful maneuver to avoid the Siberia, it rams Comstat 5 and the crew soon finds that the Siberia crew is dead and the reason that it has been missing for 25 years. But that reason is trying to destroy them all as it destroyed the Siberia crew."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Blood Dolls enjoyed its release on home video. Written and directed by Charles Band, the Horror/Comedy starred Kristopher Logan, Debra Mayer, and William Paul Burns. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Virgil, an eccentric freak billionaire, spends his days being a 'biological inventor.' The 'blood dolls,' his newest creation, aid him in getting revenge on those who betrayed him."
"Virgil, an eccentric freak billionaire, spends his days being a 'biological inventor.' The 'blood dolls,' his newest creation, aid him in getting revenge on those who betrayed him."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Invisible Mom II premiered on home video. Directed by Fred Olen Ray from a story by Sean O'Bannon, this SciFi/Comedy starred the lovely Dee Wallace, Trenton Knight, and Mary Woronov. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young orphan, heir to a vast fortune, is fostered into a somewhat bizarre family, primarily due to the fact that his foster mom can become invisible. When the child's cousins show up to get a bit of the youngster's fortune, his foster mom saves the day."
"A young orphan, heir to a vast fortune, is fostered into a somewhat bizarre family, primarily due to the fact that his foster mom can become invisible. When the child's cousins show up to get a bit of the youngster's fortune, his foster mom saves the day."
On this day in 2002 (in Japan), Resident Evil brought a zombie clusterhump to the masses willing to partake of it. Written and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi/Horror starred Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, and Anna Bolt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
At the 2003 Saturn Awards, the film earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film' and actress Jovovich earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress.'
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
At the 2003 Saturn Awards, the film earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Horror Film' and actress Jovovich earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress.'
A star is born! What? You say you've never seen Returner? Well, I can't say as I'd be all that surprised. It's a Japanese time travel flick -- pretty cool, if I don't say so myself -- that opened over there on this day back in 2002. It's a lot of flash and glam, that way most comic book films are, and the story involves a young woman from the future going back in time in order to stop an alien invasion from wiping out all of humanity. Written (in part) and directed by Takashi Yamazaki, the film starred Takeshi Kaneshiro, Anne Suzuki, and Goro Kishitani. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 2084, the mankind is near total annihilation by alien invaders. Milly, a young woman from the Earth resistance, uses a time machine and returns to October, 2002, trying to avoid the beginning of alien invasion and the war. In her arrival in a ship, she is rescued and saved from the Yakuza evil boss Mizoguchi by a hit-man called Miyamot. Using unconventional methods, Milly forces Miyamoto to help her to save the human race."
"In 2084, the mankind is near total annihilation by alien invaders. Milly, a young woman from the Earth resistance, uses a time machine and returns to October, 2002, trying to avoid the beginning of alien invasion and the war. In her arrival in a ship, she is rescued and saved from the Yakuza evil boss Mizoguchi by a hit-man called Miyamot. Using unconventional methods, Milly forces Miyamoto to help her to save the human race."
On this day in 2006 (in Singapore), Frostbitten look to take a bite out of its box office competition. Directed by Anders Banke, the Horror/Comedy starred Petra Nielsen, Carl-Åke Eriksson, and Grete Havnesköld. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After Annika, a medical doctor, gets work at the local hospital, she and her 17-year old daughter Saga move to a small town in northern Sweden. Annika is keen to work with her idol, geneticist Professor Gerhard Beckert. However Beckert's sinister past in the Waffen-SS soon catches up with him when a couple of pill-popping interns mistake an experimental vaccine for party drugs. Mayhem ensues as the town's teenagers succumb one by one to the mysterious virus."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Frostbitten scored a good amount of praise on the film festival circuit.
"After Annika, a medical doctor, gets work at the local hospital, she and her 17-year old daughter Saga move to a small town in northern Sweden. Annika is keen to work with her idol, geneticist Professor Gerhard Beckert. However Beckert's sinister past in the Waffen-SS soon catches up with him when a couple of pill-popping interns mistake an experimental vaccine for party drugs. Mayhem ensues as the town's teenagers succumb one by one to the mysterious virus."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Frostbitten scored a good amount of praise on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! ... but I'm told she cleans up nicely! On this day in 2009 (in the United Kingdom), the doors of Hell opened up for the Zombie Women Of Satan! Directed by Steve O'Brien and Warren Speed, the Horror/Comedy starred Victoria Hopkins, Christian Steel, and Peter Bonner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A travelling group of freaks, headed up by Pervo the Clown, go to a rural farm to take part in a webcast interview to help them gain more followers and make the public aware of their awesome freakishness. Unbeknownest to our little group, however, this same rural farm is also home to a combined cult for women / zombie research laboratory. When the zombie virus is mistakenly added to a bowl of punch women, with breasts flying, are sent on a murderous, cannibalistic rampage that only this little band of circus freaks can stop."
"A travelling group of freaks, headed up by Pervo the Clown, go to a rural farm to take part in a webcast interview to help them gain more followers and make the public aware of their awesome freakishness. Unbeknownest to our little group, however, this same rural farm is also home to a combined cult for women / zombie research laboratory. When the zombie virus is mistakenly added to a bowl of punch women, with breasts flying, are sent on a murderous, cannibalistic rampage that only this little band of circus freaks can stop."
On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), Brainjacked enjoyed its release on video. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Allan, the SciFi/Horror starred Andrew Allan Jr., Stephen Biro, and Kevin Anthony Brooks. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A teen runaway discovers a sinister mind control plot."
"A teen runaway discovers a sinister mind control plot."
On this day in 2011 (in Germany), audiences went deep -- real deep -- with the release of Journey To The Center Of The Earth. Directed by David Jones and Scott Wheeler, the SciFi/Thriller starred Greg Evigan, DeeDee Pfeiffer, and Sara Tomko. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"From the Jules Verne classic, a hi-tech drilling rig must rescue a research team trapped deep below the Earth's surface. There they discover an exotic world -- rich with spectacular flora and fantastical creatures."
"From the Jules Verne classic, a hi-tech drilling rig must rescue a research team trapped deep below the Earth's surface. There they discover an exotic world -- rich with spectacular flora and fantastical creatures."
A star is born ... and this one could swim! On this day in 2011 (in the Philippines), Shark Night submerged from the theatrical depths. Directed by David R. Ellis from a story by Will Hayes and Jesse Studenberg, the Horror/Thriller starred Sara Paxton, Dustin Milligan, and Chris Carmack. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A weekend at a lake house in the Louisiana Gulf turns into a nightmare for seven vacationers as they are subjected to shark attacks."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Shark Night earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
"A weekend at a lake house in the Louisiana Gulf turns into a nightmare for seven vacationers as they are subjected to shark attacks."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Shark Night earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
On this day in 2012, Area 51 Confidential offered up its fictional expose with its first airing on broadcast television. Written (in part) and directed by Brandon Slagle, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Adrian Quihuis, Devanny Pinn, and Matthew Landon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"People from various walks of life find themselves held captive in a desolate area surrounding a secret government installation rumored to contain extraterrestrial life."
"People from various walks of life find themselves held captive in a desolate area surrounding a secret government installation rumored to contain extraterrestrial life."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom), The Gateway (aka Curtain) first played theatrically for audiences in attendance of the Film4 FrightFest. Written (in part) and directed by Jaron Henrie-McCrea, the SciFi/Horror starred Danni Smith, Tim Lueke, and Martin Monahan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A burnt-out ex-nurse in search of a new life moves into a new apartment, but a strange portal in her bathroom wall threatens to destroy any sense of normality."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Gateway enjoyed a modest bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"A burnt-out ex-nurse in search of a new life moves into a new apartment, but a strange portal in her bathroom wall threatens to destroy any sense of normality."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Gateway enjoyed a modest bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Germany), Godless Youth took audiences on another look at mankind's dystopian tomorrow. Directed by Alain Gsponer, the SciFi/Drama starred Jannis Niewöhner, Fahri Yardim, and Emilia Schule; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"German students compete to enter one of the country's elite schools."
For the record:
The film's lead -- Jannis Niewöhner -- won the coveted 'Best Young Actor' Award from the 2017 Bavarian Film Awards.
"German students compete to enter one of the country's elite schools."
For the record:
The film's lead -- Jannis Niewöhner -- won the coveted 'Best Young Actor' Award from the 2017 Bavarian Film Awards.
On this day in 2017 (in Uruguay), Guardians (aka The Guardians) took to the silver screen in pursuit of protecting humanity from evil. Written (in part) and directed by Sarik Andreasyan, the SciFi/Superhero film starred Anton Pampushnyy and Sanjar Madi, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"During the Cold War, an organization called "Patriot" created a super-hero squad, which includes members of multiple Soviet republics. For years, the heroes had to hide their identities, but in hard times they must show themselves again."
"During the Cold War, an organization called "Patriot" created a super-hero squad, which includes members of multiple Soviet republics. For years, the heroes had to hide their identities, but in hard times they must show themselves again."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Italy), audiences in attendance of the Venice International Film Festival were treated to the very first theatrical engagement of The Shape Of Water. Written (in part) and directed by Guillermo del Toro, the Fantasy feature starred Sally Hawkins, Doug Jones, and Octavia Spencer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"At a top secret research facility in the 1960s, a lonely janitor forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature that is being held in captivity."
For the record:
It goes without saying that del Toro's The Shape Of Water grew into its own little critical phenomenon.
"At a top secret research facility in the 1960s, a lonely janitor forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature that is being held in captivity."
For the record:
It goes without saying that del Toro's The Shape Of Water grew into its own little critical phenomenon.
- At the 2018 Academy Awards, the film enjoyed an incredible 13 nominations. It took home the statues in the categories of 'Best Achievement In Production Design,' 'Best Achievement In Music Written For Motion Pictures,' 'Best Motion Picture Of The Year,' and 'Best Achievement In Direction.'
- At the 2018 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the film took home top honors in 'Best Fantasy Film' while missing out on a small handful of other categories.
- At the 2018 Hugo Awards, it enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.'
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), a Hollow Scream was heard ... well ... seen, that is. Directed by Jose Barajas from a story by David L. Carter, the SciFi/Horror starred Elizabeth Maxwell, Brian Beacock, and Ariana Guerra. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A narcissistic playboy entrepreneur with a dark past plays a new virtual reality game where he gets to be a serial killer. His genius brother discovers the dangerous truth behind the game and its creators."
"A narcissistic playboy entrepreneur with a dark past plays a new virtual reality game where he gets to be a serial killer. His genius brother discovers the dangerous truth behind the game and its creators."
On this day in 2018, the 1933-produced SciFi/Musical It's Great To Be Alive played for audiences in attendance of the Cinecon Film Festival. Directed by Alfred L. Werker, the film starred Gloria Stuart, Raul Roulien, and Edna May Oliver. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An aviator who crash landed on an island in the South Pacific returns home to find that he is the last fertile man left on Earth after an epidemic of masculitus."
"An aviator who crash landed on an island in the South Pacific returns home to find that he is the last fertile man left on Earth after an epidemic of masculitus."
On this day in 2019 (in Spain), the 1953-produced It Came From Outer Space enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Based on a story from Ray Bradbury, the SciFi feature was directed by Jack Arnold and starred Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, and Charles Drake. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
On this day in 2019 (in Spain), the 1955-produced Tarantula played for audiences in attendance of the Phenomena Film Festival in Barcelona. Written (in part) and directed by Jack Arnold, the SciFi/Horror starred John Agar, Mara Corday, and Leo G. Carroll. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spider escapes from an isolated Arizona desert laboratory experimenting in giantism and grows to tremendous size as it wreaks havoc on the local inhabitants."
"A spider escapes from an isolated Arizona desert laboratory experimenting in giantism and grows to tremendous size as it wreaks havoc on the local inhabitants."
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in the United Kingdom and Italy), Solitary enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever. Written and directed by Luke Armstrong, the SciFi/Thriller starred Johnny Sachon, Lottie Tolhurst, and Michael Condron. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When Issac wakes up inside a room with no memory of how he got there, he discovers he's a prisoner sent into space to form Earth's first colony on another planet. The only thing worse than his fate is his unpredictable and ruinous cellmate, Alana, who is determined to destroy everything, including Issac."
"When Issac wakes up inside a room with no memory of how he got there, he discovers he's a prisoner sent into space to form Earth's first colony on another planet. The only thing worse than his fate is his unpredictable and ruinous cellmate, Alana, who is determined to destroy everything, including Issac."
A star is born! On this day in 2021 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Dance With Films Festival enjoyed the silver screen debut of Alpha Rift. Written and directed by Dan Lantz, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Lance Henriksen, Aaron Dalla Villa, and Rachel Nielsen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a magic helmet thrusts Nolan Parthmore into a world of modern-day knights fighting supernatural evil, he's forced to become the hero he was destined to be."
"When a magic helmet thrusts Nolan Parthmore into a world of modern-day knights fighting supernatural evil, he's forced to become the hero he was destined to be."
On this day in 1951 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Last Man On Earth." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Martians have landed all over the world and they've left just two human beings alive, but only so they can experiment on them."
"Martians have landed all over the world and they've left just two human beings alive, but only so they can experiment on them."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), Men Into Space aired "The Sun Never Sets." Officially, this served as the thirty-sixth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Colonel McCauley is assigned to observe and assist the British space program. Their Vega Project will use a more powerful second-stage rocket engine. McCauley has to express the US concerns about the reliability of this engine."
"Colonel McCauley is assigned to observe and assist the British space program. Their Vega Project will use a more powerful second-stage rocket engine. McCauley has to express the US concerns about the reliability of this engine."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1987 (in the United Kingdom), Star Cops aired its series finale titled "Little Green Men And Other Martians." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Rumours swell of alien artefacts discovered on Mars. An attempt is made to kill Nathan Spring as he investigates drug smuggling and the deaths of two pilots."
"Rumours swell of alien artefacts discovered on Mars. An attempt is made to kill Nathan Spring as he investigates drug smuggling and the deaths of two pilots."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Stargate: SG-1 aired "2001." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the long-running program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"SG-1 makes contact with the Aschen, unaware of that their homeworld is one they were warned previously from the future to be considered off-limits."
"SG-1 makes contact with the Aschen, unaware of that their homeworld is one they were warned previously from the future to be considered off-limits."
On this day in 2008 (in Germany), Doctor Who aired "Doomsday." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Earth becomes the battlefield for the greatest and deadliest war of all time, as the Daleks and the Cybermen clash with the whole universe at stake. The Doctor and Rose, reunited with old friends and Cybermen experts Mickey and Jake, race to find a way to bring the war to an end before it brings about the destruction of the whole of space and time. But the Doctor soon faces an even bigger dilemma - could ending the war mean the death of Rose?"
"Earth becomes the battlefield for the greatest and deadliest war of all time, as the Daleks and the Cybermen clash with the whole universe at stake. The Doctor and Rose, reunited with old friends and Cybermen experts Mickey and Jake, race to find a way to bring the war to an end before it brings about the destruction of the whole of space and time. But the Doctor soon faces an even bigger dilemma - could ending the war mean the death of Rose?"
Like any good television program should, Falling Skies used the bulk of its (fourth) season to establish some major character arcs for all of the main players; and it went out with a pretty respectable bang. The showrunners delivered a two-part, two-hour season finale on this day in 2014 which answered most of the questions raised throughout several episodes, and it even even asked one or two more to keep them thinking throughout the hiatus. The first hour was called "Space Oddity," and here's the plot summary provided by our friends at the Falling Skies Wiki:
"Tom's mission to destroy the Espheni Power Core is complicated by Lexi's return. Lexi is forced to take extreme measures to save her father’s life – and her own – after a Beamer malfunction. Meanwhile, the 2nd Mass fears an impending Espheni strike by Scorch."
"Tom's mission to destroy the Espheni Power Core is complicated by Lexi's return. Lexi is forced to take extreme measures to save her father’s life – and her own – after a Beamer malfunction. Meanwhile, the 2nd Mass fears an impending Espheni strike by Scorch."
And Falling Skies' fourth season finale (from 2014) was an hour aptly titled "Shoot the Moon." Here's the episode's plot summary also obtained from the Falling Skies Wiki:
"With the weight of humanity’s survival on Tom and Lexi's shoulders, they must defeat Tom’s mortal enemy and find a way to destroy the omnipotent Espheni Power Core. Meanwhile, a new, terrifying Espheni Bomb is dropped onto Chinatown, immobilizing the 2nd Mass and preparing them for Human Skitterizaton."
"With the weight of humanity’s survival on Tom and Lexi's shoulders, they must defeat Tom’s mortal enemy and find a way to destroy the omnipotent Espheni Power Core. Meanwhile, a new, terrifying Espheni Bomb is dropped onto Chinatown, immobilizing the 2nd Mass and preparing them for Human Skitterizaton."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), The Strain aired "Creatures Of The Night." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering the potency of ultraviolet light against the strigoi, Setrakian gains a new and unlikely disciple. A quick trip to a Brooklyn convenience store turns into a deadly all-night siege."
"After discovering the potency of ultraviolet light against the strigoi, Setrakian gains a new and unlikely disciple. A quick trip to a Brooklyn convenience store turns into a deadly all-night siege."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Zoo aired "Once Upon A Time In The Nest." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Logan tries to destroy the hybrid nests before they activate. Clem's pregnancy undergoes a surprising development. The team tries to perfect the cure using Abigail and the hybrids."
"Logan tries to destroy the hybrid nests before they activate. Clem's pregnancy undergoes a surprising development. The team tries to perfect the cure using Abigail and the hybrids."
