Ah, there wasn't a somewhat popular SciFi cinematic property that TV's great creator Glen A. Larson didn't try to emulate, and that's just what happened on this day in 1983 when the man brought a very TRON-looking concept known as Automan to evening television in the United States. (The comparisons really stopped there as TRON took place in a digital world while Automan took place in reality.) Alas, it lasted only a single season with a scant thirteen episodes, but here's the premise as provided by the good people at IMDB.com:
"Walter Nebicher is the police department's resident computer expert, although his immediate superior gives no respect as to his contribution to the force. To fix that, he creates a special program that creates Automan, an artificially intelligent computer construct that looks real, sounds reals and, given enough power, can have an actual physical presence outside the computer that feels real. Together, Walter and Automan along with Cursor, a small floating droid that can create any object Automan needs, battle the criminal elements of the city."
"Walter Nebicher is the police department's resident computer expert, although his immediate superior gives no respect as to his contribution to the force. To fix that, he creates a special program that creates Automan, an artificially intelligent computer construct that looks real, sounds reals and, given enough power, can have an actual physical presence outside the computer that feels real. Together, Walter and Automan along with Cursor, a small floating droid that can create any object Automan needs, battle the criminal elements of the city."
Ted Scott's brief acting career (IMDB.com shows only four citations) was given its grand birth in the third season of Star Trek's hour, "Plato's Stepchildren." Though he's no longer with us, Scott was born on this day in 1913.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kasey Rogers leaves behind a resume nearing one hundred different screen credits. Genre fans may remember her best from appearances aboard Two Lost Worlds (1951), When Worlds Collide (1951), or The Invisible Man. Though she's no longer with us, Rogers was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well, folks, if this is what our alien overlords truly look like, then you'll have to pardon me for defecting to their side once they show up. Perhaps that's exactly what Lorena Velázquez was expecting when she showed up on Earth as one of the hostile forces aboard Planet Of The Female Invaders (1966). No stranger to genre projects, the actress can be found in such other entries as The Ship Of Monsters (1960), Santo Vs. The Zombies (1962), Santo Vs. The Vampire Women (1962), Doctor Of Doom (1963), Wrestling Women Vs. The Aztec Mummy (1964), The Witches Attack (1968), Macabre Legends Of The Colony (1974), and The Mummies Of San Angel (1975). Velázquez was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kathy Kersh's resume may be a bit slim -- IMDB.com reports her professional acting career consisted of only thirteen different screen roles -- but thankfully she appeared in My Favorite Martian and TV's Batman so that we can feature her in this space. Kersh was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Morgan Paull had a relatively small but critical role in 1982's Science Fiction classic Blade Runner: it was his character (Holden) who had to die in order to set the plot in motion. The actor also did voice work on Challenge Of The GoBots TV series as well as logging guest star appearances on Beyond Westworld, The Fantastic Journey, and Stowaway to the Moon. Though he's no longer with us, Paull was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Cassandra Harris (above right) played a guest role aboard the SciFi/Cult series Space:1999 during its second season. (Trivia: not only was she a Bond girl in 1981's For Your Eyes Only but also she was married to Pierce Brosnan, who played the globetrotting spy on the silver screen.) Though she's no longer with us, Harris was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, Don Johnson shared the screen with man's best friend in the SciFi satire A Boy and His Dog (1975). Did he have other forays into the realms of the Fantastic? He certainly did! Fans can look for the popular actor in such properties as Revenge Of The Stepford Wives (1980), Tales Of The Unexpected, From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series, A Series Of Unfortunate Events, and HBO's Watchmen. Johnson was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1976 Saturn Awards (before they were actually called the Saturn Awards), Johnson tied with actor James Caan (Rollerball) for his work aboard A Boy And His Dog in the category of 'Best Actor.'
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1976 Saturn Awards (before they were actually called the Saturn Awards), Johnson tied with actor James Caan (Rollerball) for his work aboard A Boy And His Dog in the category of 'Best Actor.'
Gosh, the lovely Marta DuBois was in an awful lot of quality shows in the 1980's: Voyagers!, Tales of the Gold Monkey, Magnum P.I., and even the weekly Starman to name but a few. In 1991, she played 'Ardra' in in the "Devil's Due" episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Though she's no longer with us, DuBois was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
It's probably true that Actor/Writer/Director Alex Cox's work is an acquired taste. I know that I've seen his Cult flick -- Repo Man (1984) -- and I didn't much care for it, but -- as they say -- to each his own. Cox was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The totally fetching Ellie Cornell has really built a career out of solid roles in the Horror genre, but she did show up in a guest spot aboard NBC's short-lived SciFi series The Event, which gives me the ability to feature her lovely smile here. Cornell was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Helen Slater flew onto silver screens and into fanboys' hearts in 1984 she appeared as Supergirl. Sadly, the film was a pretty enormous flop of an entry into the Superman franchise. If you read up on the Super-history, then you'll find that there's a reason why the Salkinds pretty much mismanaged the property into such an unsalvageable mess. Slater was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, the lovely model-turned-actress Teresa May certainly knows a thing or two about turning heads, and she enjoyed a bit of genre-related exposure with a small part in Exterminator City (2005). May was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
This may sound a bit snobbish of me, but as much as I like the actor Garrett Wang I just didn't honestly care all that much for his character, Harry Kim, aboard Star Trek: Voyager. It isn't his fault -- rather, it was the fault of some really underwhelming writing. They never quite gave Harry anything all that significant to do, with the exception of a couple of episodes, and he just never quite developed into the budding young leader methinks he should've become. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. Wang was born on this day back in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've mentioned before that I'm no huge fan of the whole Stargate: SG-1 program, but I can appreciate how any franchise plants its hooks into our culture and hangs on for dear life. One of its regulars -- Michael Shanks -- has had a tremendous ride with the property, making appearances as the brainy scientist Daniel Jackson in every incarnation. And that takes talent! Shanks was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the Disney Star Wars streaming series The Acolyte, actor Lee Jung-jae played a Jedi Knight who was stricken with what some suggest turned out to be a bad case of pedophilia. Jung-jae was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aeon Flux (2005) is a bizarre movie. Honestly, I didn't much 'get it,' nor did I really 'get into' the MTV cartoon upon which all of it was based. Still, that's no fault of actor Stuart Townsend who appeared in the movie along with Charlize Theron. Townsend was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in his acting career, Adam Brody had a guest spot opposite Tom Welling aboard the WB's signature Superhero/Drama, Smallville. Brody was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Michelle Dockery joined Ryan Reynolds into the box office poison that was Self/Less (2015), a SciFi-themed thriller about manufactured immortality. Dockery was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
HubbaHubba Alert! The lovely Victoria Summer has found big screen happiness in such properties as Dracula: Reborn (2012), Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014), Ratpocalypse (2015), and Terrordactyl (2016). Look for her reign to continue! Summer was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In little over two decades, Brendan Fletcher has managed to build an incredibly impressive resume: currently he boasts over 100 different roles on his IMDB.com profiles. SciFi fans might recognize him from appearances in Millennium, Welcome to Paradox, Night Visions, Jake 2.0, Tru Calling, Smallville, Defying Gravity, and Alcatraz. Fletcher was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To be fair, Netflix's Daredevil isn't Science Fiction. It's much more Fantasy/Adventure than anything else. Still, it definitely resides within the greater Marvel Universe, so I'm comfortable giving the incredibly talented Charlie Cox a birthday shout. (Plus, he did incredible work aboard HBO's Boardwalk Empire, and I'm also a Prohibition junkie.) He did appear aboard A for Andromeda (2006), so he's earned some SciFi props. Cox was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Camilla Luddington has done voicework bringing to life both Lara Croft (Tomb Raider video game) and Supergirl (Infinite Crisis video game). That's one tough lady! Luddington was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
California native Amy Holt dabbled in the realm of genre entertainment with a role aboard Dinocroc Vs Supergator (2010) and Miss 2059. Hopefully we'll be seeing more of her in the years ahead. Holt was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Chandler Canterbury's star is only starting to rise, and yet he's already managed to squeeze in solid roles aboard some very impressive SciFi properties, including Knowing (2009), Repo Men (2010), TV's Fringe, and The Host (2013). Canterbury was born on this day in 1998.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actor's credit, young Canterbury earned a 2010 Young Artist Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Performance In A Feature Film - Supporting Young Actor Under Ten' for his work in 2009's Knowing.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actor's credit, young Canterbury earned a 2010 Young Artist Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Performance In A Feature Film - Supporting Young Actor Under Ten' for his work in 2009's Knowing.
A star is born! On this day in 1933 (in France), The Tunnel was first opened for business ... cinematically, that is. Written (in part) and directed by Curtis Bernhardt, the SciFi/Drama starred Madeleine Renaud, Jean Gabin, and Edmond Van Daële. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An engineer is hired to plan the construction of a undersea tunnel between Europe and the US. However, certain interests don't want to see the tunnel built and use every means at their disposal, including sabotage and murder, to stop its construction."
"An engineer is hired to plan the construction of a undersea tunnel between Europe and the US. However, certain interests don't want to see the tunnel built and use every means at their disposal, including sabotage and murder, to stop its construction."
On this day in 1952 (in Uruguay), Superman took flight in serial format for interested audiences. Directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet and Thomas Carr, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Kirk Alyn, Noel Neill, and Tommy Bond. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Superman comes to Earth as a child and grows up to be his home's first superhero with his first major challenge being to oppose The Spider Lady."
"Superman comes to Earth as a child and grows up to be his home's first superhero with his first major challenge being to oppose The Spider Lady."
Oy! Talk about your overbite! On this day in 1958, Frankenstein's Daughter put yet another face on (ahem) womankind. The feature starred John Ashley and Sandra Knight, and here's the premise as cited on IMDB.com:
"Dr. Frankenstein's insane grandson attempts to create horrible monsters in modern day L.A."
"Dr. Frankenstein's insane grandson attempts to create horrible monsters in modern day L.A."
Ah, I grew up on a steady diet of monster movies. The bigger, the better ... and few were ever as big as Gammera. On this day in 1966, Gammera the Invincible premiered in theatres, making cinema history by introducing mankind to giant flying turtles. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An atomic explosion awakens Gammera--a giant, fire-breathing turtle monster--from his millions of years of hibernation. Enraged at being roused from such a sound sleep, he takes it out on Tokyo."
"An atomic explosion awakens Gammera--a giant, fire-breathing turtle monster--from his millions of years of hibernation. Enraged at being roused from such a sound sleep, he takes it out on Tokyo."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in Italy), Superargo Vs. Diabolicus shockingly came to life on the silver screen. Directed by Nick Nostro, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Giovanni Cianfriglia, Gérard Tichy, and Loredana Nusciak. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A superhero battles a madman who is plotting to steal uranium in order to take over the world."
"A superhero battles a madman who is plotting to steal uranium in order to take over the world."
On this day in 1967 (in West Germany), The Human Duplicators set up their theatrical cloning business. Directed by Hugo Grimaldi and Arthur C. Pierce, the SciFi/Fantasy starred George Nader, Barbara Nichols, and George Macready. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien is dispatched from a faraway galaxy to take over the Earth by duplicating humans and creating a race of zombies. But the alien's heart is softened by the persevering goodness of a beautiful blind woman."
"An alien is dispatched from a faraway galaxy to take over the Earth by duplicating humans and creating a race of zombies. But the alien's heart is softened by the persevering goodness of a beautiful blind woman."
On this day in 1972 (in Ireland), Z.P.G. (it stands for Zero Population Growth) found its way into theatres. Directed by Michael Campus from a script by Max Ehrlich Frank De Felitta, the SciFi/Drama starred Oliver Reed, Geraldine Chapman, and Don Gordon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Concerned with population over-growth, the Earth government bans, under the penalty of death, all pregnancies but one couple decides to risk having a real baby rather than legally adopt a cyborg child."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Z.P.G. created a bit of a buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've had the good fortune of watching and thinking about Z.P.G. Interested in knowing my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
"Concerned with population over-growth, the Earth government bans, under the penalty of death, all pregnancies but one couple decides to risk having a real baby rather than legally adopt a cyborg child."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Z.P.G. created a bit of a buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've had the good fortune of watching and thinking about Z.P.G. Interested in knowing my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1973 (in the U.S.), the groundbreaking 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a special screening for audiences in attendance of the Flimex Festival. Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke, the feature starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
A star is born ... and it's alive! It's alive! On this day in 1974 (in Canada and the U.S.), laughs were served at everyone's expense with the theatrical release of Young Frankenstein. Written (in part) and directed by Mel Brooks, the Horror/Comedy starred Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, and Marty Feldman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An American grandson of the infamous scientist, struggling to prove that his grandfather was not as insane as people believe, is invited to Transylvania, where he discovers the process that reanimates a dead body."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Young Frankenstein was a hit with critics and audiences alike, and the film continues to resonate strongly with those who discover it decades later. As for its accolades?
"An American grandson of the infamous scientist, struggling to prove that his grandfather was not as insane as people believe, is invited to Transylvania, where he discovers the process that reanimates a dead body."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Young Frankenstein was a hit with critics and audiences alike, and the film continues to resonate strongly with those who discover it decades later. As for its accolades?
- At the 1975 Academy Awards, Young Frankenstein enjoyed two nominations but no wins: 'Best Sound' and 'Best Writing, Screenplay Adapted From Other Material.'
- The picture won the highly coveted 'Best Dramatic Presentation' at the 1975 Hugo Awards.
- At the 1976 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Young Frankenstein raised the dead with a solid five wins: 'Best Set Decoration,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
- In 2003, the film was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, the organization that seeks to retain features for their ongoing contributions to film history.
A star is born! On this day in 1975 (in the Soviet Union) Begstvo mistera Mak-Kinli (aka Escape Of Mr. McKinley) enjoyed its theatrical unveiling to the masses. Directed by Mikhail Shvejtser from a story by Leonid Leonov, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Donatas Banionis, Zhanna Bolotova, and Angelina Stepanova. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A science fiction fantasy about a guy who decides to escape into the future by the way of hibernation. When he wakes up, feeling lucky that the experiment worked out well, the staff of the hibernation company politely walks him to the outside were he finds a post atomic war desert.. He wakes up! Thank God it was just a dream! Or was it?."
"A science fiction fantasy about a guy who decides to escape into the future by the way of hibernation. When he wakes up, feeling lucky that the experiment worked out well, the staff of the hibernation company politely walks him to the outside were he finds a post atomic war desert.. He wakes up! Thank God it was just a dream! Or was it?."
A star is born! On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), The Pink Panther Strikes Again introduces a heavy dose of Science Fiction into the popular mainstream comic franchise. Written (in part) and directed by Blake Edwards, the film starred Peter Sellers, Herbert Lom, and Lesley Anne-Down. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After escaping from an insane asylum, the bonkers Charles Dreyfus sends 26 assassins on the trail of the forever bumbling Inspector Clouseau."
"After escaping from an insane asylum, the bonkers Charles Dreyfus sends 26 assassins on the trail of the forever bumbling Inspector Clouseau."
On this day in 1977 (in the Netherlands), George Lucas's legendary Star Wars took to the silver screen. Written and directed by George Lucas, the Space/Fantasy starred Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1977 (in Argentina), audiences were afraid to go back into the water again with the theatrical release of Tentacles. Directed by Ovidio G. Assonitis, the Fantasy feature starred John Huston, Shelley Winters, and Bo Hopkins; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mutated giant octopus wreaks havoc on a California seaside community."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I received a complimentary new home video release of Tentacles (1977) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"A mutated giant octopus wreaks havoc on a California seaside community."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I received a complimentary new home video release of Tentacles (1977) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1978 (in Finland), the original theatrical cut of Battlestar Galactica raced to save the remnants of humanity from annihilation of the Cylon Empire. This big screen presentation starred Lorne Greene, Richard Hatch, and Dirk Benedict, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After 1,000 years of war, the humans from the Twelve Colonies are near to celebrate an armistice with the evil Cylon Empire. Out of the blue, the Cylons betray the pact and destroy the Colonies and their entire fleet, except the Battlestar Galactica. Commander Adama summons the few survivors from all the Colonies to follow him on a journey to find the mythical planet Earth. However, they are short of water, supplies and fuel and they head to the planet Carillon to replenish the fleet and get the supplies. Adama's son, the warrior Captain Apollo, and his partners Lieutenants Starbuck and Boomer destroy the mines left by the Cylons and they reach the planet. They are welcomed by the inhabitants and find the paradise. Meanwhile, the self-serving human leader Sire Uri wants to destroy their arms and live in the Cylon Empire despite the contempt of Adama. Sire Uri decides to give medals to Apollo, Starbuck and Boomer for their bravery on Carillon and invites the warriors to come to the party. However, Adama believes that it is a trap for the Galactica. What can he do?"
For the record:
Back in the day -- way before streaming and home video options -- one of the tricks that producers could employ to convince major studios to invest in expensive projects was to shoot a property for U.S. television broadcast but also make plans to release it theatrically. Sometimes this was done domestically (typically with a limited release so as to not eliminate prospects for a solid homegrown audience) but more often than not it was done outside the country wherein weekly TV broadcasts relied on syndication deals or other agreements. Popular TV producer Glen Larson did this with Battlestar Galactica on a few occasions (in unique and creative ways), and this was BSG's first theatrical presentation ever ... and it was behind the Maple Curtain up north of the U.S. in Canada. Frak!
"After 1,000 years of war, the humans from the Twelve Colonies are near to celebrate an armistice with the evil Cylon Empire. Out of the blue, the Cylons betray the pact and destroy the Colonies and their entire fleet, except the Battlestar Galactica. Commander Adama summons the few survivors from all the Colonies to follow him on a journey to find the mythical planet Earth. However, they are short of water, supplies and fuel and they head to the planet Carillon to replenish the fleet and get the supplies. Adama's son, the warrior Captain Apollo, and his partners Lieutenants Starbuck and Boomer destroy the mines left by the Cylons and they reach the planet. They are welcomed by the inhabitants and find the paradise. Meanwhile, the self-serving human leader Sire Uri wants to destroy their arms and live in the Cylon Empire despite the contempt of Adama. Sire Uri decides to give medals to Apollo, Starbuck and Boomer for their bravery on Carillon and invites the warriors to come to the party. However, Adama believes that it is a trap for the Galactica. What can he do?"
For the record:
Back in the day -- way before streaming and home video options -- one of the tricks that producers could employ to convince major studios to invest in expensive projects was to shoot a property for U.S. television broadcast but also make plans to release it theatrically. Sometimes this was done domestically (typically with a limited release so as to not eliminate prospects for a solid homegrown audience) but more often than not it was done outside the country wherein weekly TV broadcasts relied on syndication deals or other agreements. Popular TV producer Glen Larson did this with Battlestar Galactica on a few occasions (in unique and creative ways), and this was BSG's first theatrical presentation ever ... and it was behind the Maple Curtain up north of the U.S. in Canada. Frak!
On this day in 1978 (in Canada, Cameroon, Lesotho, and the U.S.), Superman soared onto the silver screen. Directed by Richard Donner, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Christopher Reeve as the Man of Steel, Gene Hackman as his nemesis 'Lex Luthor,' and Margot Kidder as 'Lois Lane.' According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero."
For the record:
At the 1979 Academy Awards, Superman failed to take home the trophy for 'Best Music, Original Score,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Sound' ... but it was awarded a Special Achievement Award for its pioneering visual effects work. Thankfully, the 1979 Saturn Awards corrected any critical oversight when it awarded the film recognition in the categories of 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The feature film also took home the 1979 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"An alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero."
For the record:
At the 1979 Academy Awards, Superman failed to take home the trophy for 'Best Music, Original Score,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Sound' ... but it was awarded a Special Achievement Award for its pioneering visual effects work. Thankfully, the 1979 Saturn Awards corrected any critical oversight when it awarded the film recognition in the categories of 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The feature film also took home the 1979 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1979 (in the United Kingdom), Star Trek: The Motion Picture enjoyed its theatrical debut, bringing Capt. Kirk, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy, and others into the cinematic realm. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When an alien spacecraft of enormous power is spotted approaching Earth, Admiral James T. Kirk resumes command of the overhauled USS Enterprise in order to intercept it."
"When an alien spacecraft of enormous power is spotted approaching Earth, Admiral James T. Kirk resumes command of the overhauled USS Enterprise in order to intercept it."
On this day in 1981 (in Spain), Time Bandits stepped through a portal for its run on the silver screen. Written by Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin (and directed by Gilliam himself), the Fantasy feature starred Sean Connery, John Cleese, and Shelley Duvall; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Intrigued by history but neglected by his parents, Kevin, an eleven-year-old schoolboy, gets the chance to make his dream come true when a band of six time-travelling dwarfs appears out of thin air in his bedroom. Having stolen the Supreme Being's one-of-a-kind map of time and space, the audacious time-bandits whisk Kevin off on an exciting journey to the depths of history, skipping from one era to another. Now, to further complicate matters, the dangerous arch-rival known as the Evil Genius is hot on their trail, bent on getting his hands on the precious map. But, who would have thought that Kevin's seemingly unexceptional room was the entrance to a mysterious wormhole and the portal to a marvelous world of adventure?"
For the record:
Time Bandits proved itself a worthy competitor at the international box office, and there's even been talk of rebooting the franchise in the modern era.
"Intrigued by history but neglected by his parents, Kevin, an eleven-year-old schoolboy, gets the chance to make his dream come true when a band of six time-travelling dwarfs appears out of thin air in his bedroom. Having stolen the Supreme Being's one-of-a-kind map of time and space, the audacious time-bandits whisk Kevin off on an exciting journey to the depths of history, skipping from one era to another. Now, to further complicate matters, the dangerous arch-rival known as the Evil Genius is hot on their trail, bent on getting his hands on the precious map. But, who would have thought that Kevin's seemingly unexceptional room was the entrance to a mysterious wormhole and the portal to a marvelous world of adventure?"
For the record:
Time Bandits proved itself a worthy competitor at the international box office, and there's even been talk of rebooting the franchise in the modern era.
- At the 1982 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Time Bandits was presented with the President's Award -- the very first given by the organization -- a title bestowed for quality genre entertainment that's given in honor of one of the Academy's founder, Dr. Donald A. Reed. The film was also nominated for trophies in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best International Film.'
- At the 1982 Hugo Awards, Time Bandits received a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1982 (in France), the original TRON delivered audiences to a new age of digital effects in storytelling. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A computer hacker is abducted into the digital world and forced to participate in gladiatorial games where his only chance of escape is with the help of a heroic security program."
"A computer hacker is abducted into the digital world and forced to participate in gladiatorial games where his only chance of escape is with the help of a heroic security program."
On this day in 1985 (in West Germany), the Fantasy-themed Sword of the Valiant had its premiere on home video. (It premiered theatrically throughout 1984 in various parts of the world.) The feature starred Miles O'Keeffe and Sean Connery, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Gawain was a squire in King Arthur's court when the Green Knight burst in and offered to play a game with a brave knight. No knights stand to defend their king's honor. Except for the valiant Gawain. After being quickly knighted Gawain plays the game, but learns that it's all a trick, and he has lost. But the Green Knight shows mercy, letting Gawain grow a year older before having to face the consequences. Gawain journeys across the land, learning about life, saving damsels, and solving the Green Knight's riddle."
"Gawain was a squire in King Arthur's court when the Green Knight burst in and offered to play a game with a brave knight. No knights stand to defend their king's honor. Except for the valiant Gawain. After being quickly knighted Gawain plays the game, but learns that it's all a trick, and he has lost. But the Green Knight shows mercy, letting Gawain grow a year older before having to face the consequences. Gawain journeys across the land, learning about life, saving damsels, and solving the Green Knight's riddle."
On this day in 1985 (in Japan), Timerider: The Adventure Of Lyle Swann enjoyed its release on home video. Written and directed by William Gear (with some assistance from Michael Nesmith of The Monkees' music fame), the SciFi/Comedy starred Fred Ward and Belinda Bauer, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Timerider earned a wee bit of praisie from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Timerider earned a wee bit of praisie from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1989 (in Austria), Back To The Future Part II enjoyed its theatrical release. 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:
"After visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip."
"After visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip."
On this day in 1991 (in the United Kingdom), Trancers II enjoyed its debut on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Charles Band, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tim Thomerson, Helen Hunt, and Megan Ward. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"6 years after a time cop returns home from battling future alien zombies, his settled life is turned upside down when a mad scientists creates more."
"6 years after a time cop returns home from battling future alien zombies, his settled life is turned upside down when a mad scientists creates more."
On this day in 1994 (in Colombia), Star Trek: Generations catapulted Captain Picard and his crew onto the big screen for their first cinematic adventure. Written by Rick Berman, Brannon Braga, and Ronald D. Moore, the first cinema adventure for the crew of the Starship Enterprise-D was directed by David Carson. It starred Patrick Stewart, William Shatner, and Malcolm McDowell; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
A star is born! On this day in 1995 (in Spain), the kids were alright -- again -- with the theatrical release of El niño invisible. Directed by Rafael Moleón from a story by Aurora Guerra and Manolo Matji, the Family/Fantasy starred Bom Bom Chip, Sergio Martin, and Estela Sala. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of children find a magic stone that transports them back in time to the 12th Century."
For the record:
At the 1996 Goya Awards (recognizing excellence in film production of Spain), the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
"A group of children find a magic stone that transports them back in time to the 12th Century."
For the record:
At the 1996 Goya Awards (recognizing excellence in film production of Spain), the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
A star is born! On this day in 1995 (in Canada and the U.S.), the Fantasy-themed Jumanji enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Joe Johnston, the motion picture starred Robin Williams, Bonnie Hunt, and Kirsten Dunst. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When two kids find and play a magical board game, they release a man trapped in it for decades - and a host of dangers that can only be stopped by finishing the game."
For the record:
At the 1996 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Jumanji enjoyed two big wins -- actress Bonnie Hunt took home the trophy in 'Best Supporting Actress' and the film garnered the 'Best Special Effects' trophy -- while missing out in the categories of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
"When two kids find and play a magical board game, they release a man trapped in it for decades - and a host of dangers that can only be stopped by finishing the game."
For the record:
At the 1996 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Jumanji enjoyed two big wins -- actress Bonnie Hunt took home the trophy in 'Best Supporting Actress' and the film garnered the 'Best Special Effects' trophy -- while missing out in the categories of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
On this day in 1997 (in Sweden), Subspecies enjoyed its debut on broadcast television. Directed by Ted Nicolaou, the Fantasy/Horror starred Angus Scrimm, Anders Hove, and Irina Movila. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three students get caught in the struggle between a good vampire and his evil brother in the Transylvanian mountains."
"Three students get caught in the struggle between a good vampire and his evil brother in the Transylvanian mountains."
On this day in 1999 (in Spain), Watchers Reborn (aka Watchers 4) enjoyed a release on home video. Directed by John Carl Buechler from a story by Dean R. Koontz and Sean Dash, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Hamill, Lisa Wilcox, and Stephen Macht. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An extra-smart dog and detective team up to stop a DNA enhanced killer."
"An extra-smart dog and detective team up to stop a DNA enhanced killer."
On this day in 2001 (in Japan), The Princess Blade premiered theatrically. (Note: This release is available on home video in the United States, and it's quite good.) Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, Japan is ruled once more by a monarchy. But, rebels opposed to this rule seek to overthrow the government. The House of Takemikazuchi, a band of assassins is hired by the government to suppress the rebels. As a conspiracy from within signals the shadowy organization's impending demise, Yuki, the last of the Takemikazuchi bloodline befriends one of the rebels and seeks revenge against the group's leader."
"In the near future, Japan is ruled once more by a monarchy. But, rebels opposed to this rule seek to overthrow the government. The House of Takemikazuchi, a band of assassins is hired by the government to suppress the rebels. As a conspiracy from within signals the shadowy organization's impending demise, Yuki, the last of the Takemikazuchi bloodline befriends one of the rebels and seeks revenge against the group's leader."
A star is born! On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), The Shadowlands enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written and directed by Matthew Kilburn, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Gary Busey, Glenn Heath, and April Bay. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An independent sci-fi drama in which a planet at the far reaches of space struggles between the supreme dominance of a maniacal dictator (played by Oscar-nominee Gary Busey) and basic survival. This struggle rests in the power of an ancient mysticism which has been outlawed. Those who live in the light are rich and free. Those below are doomed to a desperate existence in the depths of the Shadowlands."
For the record:
To the film's credit, an early cut of the project -- from 2002 -- earned a bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"An independent sci-fi drama in which a planet at the far reaches of space struggles between the supreme dominance of a maniacal dictator (played by Oscar-nominee Gary Busey) and basic survival. This struggle rests in the power of an ancient mysticism which has been outlawed. Those who live in the light are rich and free. Those below are doomed to a desperate existence in the depths of the Shadowlands."
For the record:
To the film's credit, an early cut of the project -- from 2002 -- earned a bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2006 (in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Italy, and Lithuania), Deja Vu gave audiences a smart Science Fiction flick that seemed all too familiar. Directed by Tony Scott from a story by Bill Marsilii and Terry Rossio, the SciFi/Thriller starred Denzel Washington, Jim Caviezel, and Paula Patton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a ferry is bombed in New Orleans, an A.T.F. agent joins a unique investigation using experimental surveillance technology to find the bomber, but soon finds himself becoming obsessed with one of the victims."
For the record:
At the 2007 Saturn Awards, Deja Vu earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"After a ferry is bombed in New Orleans, an A.T.F. agent joins a unique investigation using experimental surveillance technology to find the bomber, but soon finds himself becoming obsessed with one of the victims."
For the record:
At the 2007 Saturn Awards, Deja Vu earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Showdown At Area 51 enjoyed its U.S. television broadcast premiere. Directed by C. Roma, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jason London, Gigi Edgley, and Christa Campbell. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two aliens who crash on Earth must find a buried weapon that will destroy the planet and their own society if not stopped."
"Two aliens who crash on Earth must find a buried weapon that will destroy the planet and their own society if not stopped."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), UFO Phil: The Movie enjoyed its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Eric Lee Huffman, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Huffman along with Raymond Biddle, Ron Ford, and Jhon Goodwin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Armed with the crappiest camera equipment ever made, a documentary film crew follows cult celebrity UFO Phil as he experiments with time travel & sings about his alien abduction experiences."
"Armed with the crappiest camera equipment ever made, a documentary film crew follows cult celebrity UFO Phil as he experiments with time travel & sings about his alien abduction experiences."
On this day in 2010 (in Australia), Nine Miles Down enjoyed a release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Anthony Waller, the SciFi/Horror starred Adrian Paul, Amanda Douge, and Waller himself. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A security expert is sent to a remote scientific camp to investigate strange things that are happening."
"A security expert is sent to a remote scientific camp to investigate strange things that are happening."
On this day in 2012 (in Sweden), Mongolian Death Worm wrapped its filthy paws ... erm ... feet ... erm ... muscles ... around the unsuspecting viewers. Written (in part) and directed by Steven R. Monroe, the Fantasy/Horror starred Sean Patrick Flanery, Victoria Pratt, and George Cheung. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When an American oil company sets up an experimental drilling plant out in the vast deserts of Mongolia, they awaken a nest. The deadly creatures begin to breed and spread, devouring everyone in their path."
"When an American oil company sets up an experimental drilling plant out in the vast deserts of Mongolia, they awaken a nest. The deadly creatures begin to breed and spread, devouring everyone in their path."
On this day in 2017, Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi delivered Luke Skywalker's swan song in the greater Star Wars universe, and the film perhaps fractured Star Wars fandom unlike anything that had come down the pike since ... well ... Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. Written and directed by Rian Johnson, the Fantasy feature starred Daisy Ridley and Mark Hamill, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jedi Master-in-hiding Luke Skywalker unwillingly attempts to guide young hopeful Rey in the ways of the force, while Leia, former princess turned general, attempts to lead what is left of the Resistance away from the ruthless tyrannical grip of the First Order."
For the record:
With all of his self-promoting praise for the direction he took the franchise, why is it that Rian Johnson's story missed out on a script award from the Academy Awards? Even franchise star Mark Hamill -- for a time, until he was reined back in -- spoke up against Johnson's mishandling of characters, but -- in the end the film still garnered Academy Award nominations in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Mixing,' 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing,' 'Best Achievement In Music Written For Motion Pictures,' and 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.' Truth be told, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films was much more enamored with Johnson's film, giving it an incredible thirteen nominations (only four wins). Also, the 2018 Hugo Awards nominated it in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.' In the end, maybe the Force was strong with it.
"Jedi Master-in-hiding Luke Skywalker unwillingly attempts to guide young hopeful Rey in the ways of the force, while Leia, former princess turned general, attempts to lead what is left of the Resistance away from the ruthless tyrannical grip of the First Order."
For the record:
With all of his self-promoting praise for the direction he took the franchise, why is it that Rian Johnson's story missed out on a script award from the Academy Awards? Even franchise star Mark Hamill -- for a time, until he was reined back in -- spoke up against Johnson's mishandling of characters, but -- in the end the film still garnered Academy Award nominations in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Mixing,' 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing,' 'Best Achievement In Music Written For Motion Pictures,' and 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.' Truth be told, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films was much more enamored with Johnson's film, giving it an incredible thirteen nominations (only four wins). Also, the 2018 Hugo Awards nominated it in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.' In the end, maybe the Force was strong with it.
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), magic was in the air with the release of Throwback Holiday. Directed by Trey Haley from a story by Gabrielle Collins, the Family/Fantasy starred Jennifer Freeman, Robert Ri'chard, and Rhyon Nicole Brown. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jacqueline is living an unfulfilled life in a doomed marriage. After a chance encounter with a former classmate, she rethinks her life's choices and wishes she could go back to high school for a do-over. Like a Christmas miracle, Jacqueline awakens to find herself as a high school senior again with the ability to change everything."
"Jacqueline is living an unfulfilled life in a doomed marriage. After a chance encounter with a former classmate, she rethinks her life's choices and wishes she could go back to high school for a do-over. Like a Christmas miracle, Jacqueline awakens to find herself as a high school senior again with the ability to change everything."
On this day in 2020 (in Bulgaria), Lego DC Super Heroes: Justice League - Attack Of The Legion Of Doom! enjoyed an airing on television. Directed by Rick Morales, the feature starred the voices of Dee Bradley Baker, Troy Baker, and John DiMaggio. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Get ready for the bricks to fly when Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the rest of the Justice League face off against the world's greatest super villains!"
"Get ready for the bricks to fly when Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the rest of the Justice League face off against the world's greatest super villains!"
On this day in 1961 (in the U.S.), The Twilight Zone aired "Once Upon A Time." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1890, janitor Woodrow Mulligan uses his employers' invention to transport himself to the future. He imagines an Eden but finds a polluted, busy world that he doesn't find at all attractive. He meets Rollo who is also disgusted with the world he lives imagining life in the 1890s as idyllic. When Woodrow goes back to his own time Rollo goes with him but he is soon bored without any of the conveniences of modern life."
"In 1890, janitor Woodrow Mulligan uses his employers' invention to transport himself to the future. He imagines an Eden but finds a polluted, busy world that he doesn't find at all attractive. He meets Rollo who is also disgusted with the world he lives imagining life in the 1890s as idyllic. When Woodrow goes back to his own time Rollo goes with him but he is soon bored without any of the conveniences of modern life."
On this day in 1965 (in the U.S.), Lost In Space aired "Attack Of The Monster Plants." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Banished from camp for his latest endangering behavior, Dr. Smith discovers alien plants that can duplicate things (including people), which he uses to his advantage."
"Banished from camp for his latest endangering behavior, Dr. Smith discovers alien plants that can duplicate things (including people), which he uses to his advantage."
On this day back in 1966 (in the U.S.), the absolutely stunningly stellar Star Trek (TOS) episode, "Balance of Terror," debuted to audiences. Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Enterprise answers a distress call from Federation Outpost #4, a monitoring station on the Federation side of the neutral zone with the Romulan Empire. The outposts were established over a century ago and no one has actually seen a Romulan. The Romulan vessel seems to have some type of high energy explosive device as well as a cloaking device to make the ship invisible. When it appears that Romulans bear a strong resemblance to Vulcans, Kirk must deal with a rebellious crew member. He must also engage in a dangerous cat and mouse game with a very intelligent Romulan commander."
"The Enterprise answers a distress call from Federation Outpost #4, a monitoring station on the Federation side of the neutral zone with the Romulan Empire. The outposts were established over a century ago and no one has actually seen a Romulan. The Romulan vessel seems to have some type of high energy explosive device as well as a cloaking device to make the ship invisible. When it appears that Romulans bear a strong resemblance to Vulcans, Kirk must deal with a rebellious crew member. He must also engage in a dangerous cat and mouse game with a very intelligent Romulan commander."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Star Trek aired "Obsession." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Captain Kirk is haunted by a creature from his past when conducting a mining survey on a planet. He first encountered it as a lieutenant aboard the U.S.S. Farragut and blames himself for freezing in a moment of crisis, causing the death of many crewmen. The creature is a cloud-like, gaseous being that lives on the red blood cells found in humans. Obsessed by his desire for revenge and to erase the memory of 11 years ago, he pursues the creature relentlessly, putting in jeopardy an assignment to collect essential medical supplies."
"Captain Kirk is haunted by a creature from his past when conducting a mining survey on a planet. He first encountered it as a lieutenant aboard the U.S.S. Farragut and blames himself for freezing in a moment of crisis, causing the death of many crewmen. The creature is a cloud-like, gaseous being that lives on the red blood cells found in humans. Obsessed by his desire for revenge and to erase the memory of 11 years ago, he pursues the creature relentlessly, putting in jeopardy an assignment to collect essential medical supplies."
On this day in 1973 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: The Animated Series continued going boldly where only the animated adventures could take man. "The Slaver Weapon" was the fourteenth episode of its first season, and here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Spock, Uhura, and Sulu are en-route on a shuttlecraft to deliver a Slaver Stasis box - an artifact from a long-dead civilization inside of which time stands still - to Starbase 25. On their way, the box gives off a signal that another box is nearby. Investigating, they determine that the 2nd box is on a ice world. Once there, they are captured by the Kzinti, a feline race that wish to return to their dominance they once had. The Kzinti hope that the others' stasis box holds a means to do that. One thing in that box is a device of sorts that transforms into various devices: a Slaver Weapon. Knowing that in the wrong hands, the Slaver Weapon could bring havoc to the galaxy, Spock and his team escape and try to get the weapon back. While attempting to activate a computer form of the weapon, the Kzinti Captain unwittingly activates a self-destruct bomb which destroys itself and the Kzinti's ship. Once Enterprise officers resume their journey to Starbase 25, Sulu expresses regret that the Slaver Weapon couldn't have been salvaged. Spock surmises that the device may have been too dangerous for anyone to keep."
"Spock, Uhura, and Sulu are en-route on a shuttlecraft to deliver a Slaver Stasis box - an artifact from a long-dead civilization inside of which time stands still - to Starbase 25. On their way, the box gives off a signal that another box is nearby. Investigating, they determine that the 2nd box is on a ice world. Once there, they are captured by the Kzinti, a feline race that wish to return to their dominance they once had. The Kzinti hope that the others' stasis box holds a means to do that. One thing in that box is a device of sorts that transforms into various devices: a Slaver Weapon. Knowing that in the wrong hands, the Slaver Weapon could bring havoc to the galaxy, Spock and his team escape and try to get the weapon back. While attempting to activate a computer form of the weapon, the Kzinti Captain unwittingly activates a self-destruct bomb which destroys itself and the Kzinti's ship. Once Enterprise officers resume their journey to Starbase 25, Sulu expresses regret that the Slaver Weapon couldn't have been salvaged. Spock surmises that the device may have been too dangerous for anyone to keep."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Flash Gordon aired "Chapter 13: Castaways In Tropica." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Zarkov fixes the rocket, but they run out of fuel and are forced to land in Tropica, where they meet Queen Desira and her cousin Braznor, who's plotting to overthrow her. Meanwhile, Barin & Aura finally profess their love for one another."
"Zarkov fixes the rocket, but they run out of fuel and are forced to land in Tropica, where they meet Queen Desira and her cousin Braznor, who's plotting to overthrow her. Meanwhile, Barin & Aura finally profess their love for one another."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), Automan premiered on network television, giving legendary TV creator Glen Larson another dubious feather in his cap. The show lasted only a single truncated season, and here's the plot summary of the pilot hour from IMDB.com:
"A computer nerd creates a holographic "man" called "Automan" (AutomaticMan) and uses him (and his holographic car and a talking cursor) to help solve crimes."
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), Automan premiered on network television, giving legendary TV creator Glen Larson another dubious feather in his cap. The show lasted only a single truncated season, and here's the plot summary of the pilot hour from IMDB.com:
"A computer nerd creates a holographic "man" called "Automan" (AutomaticMan) and uses him (and his holographic car and a talking cursor) to help solve crimes."
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Super Force aired "Gravity's Rainbow: Part 1." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Zach learns that his brother isn't dead, but that he's being controlled by the evil Satori."
"Zach learns that his brother isn't dead, but that he's being controlled by the evil Satori."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Quantum Leap aired "Promised Land." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's fifth (and final) season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sam finds himself back in his hometown at Christmas time to save the farm of a neighbor."
"Sam finds himself back in his hometown at Christmas time to save the farm of a neighbor."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman aired "Twas The Night Before Myxmas." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mischievous imp with plans to conquer the world puts a spell on the people of Metropolis on Christmas Eve."
"A mischievous imp with plans to conquer the world puts a spell on the people of Metropolis on Christmas Eve."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Deepwater Black aired its twelfth episode -- one titled "Infestation" -- on the SyFy Channel. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"When repairing an engine, Reb and Yuna retrieve a damage piece of metal that appears to have been chewed. What they discover is a highly adaptive, self-replicating organism that lives on a diet of metal -- and it's now loose on the ship!"
"When repairing an engine, Reb and Yuna retrieve a damage piece of metal that appears to have been chewed. What they discover is a highly adaptive, self-replicating organism that lives on a diet of metal -- and it's now loose on the ship!"
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), UPN's time-travel drama Seven Days aired "Love and Other Disasters." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Olga and Ballard attend a royal wedding. While there, there's an explosion so Frank is sent to stop it. They assume that it was an accident. But what they don't know is that someone is trying to stop the wedding. Frank goes there and neutralizes the threat. The ones who did it then pull guns and take everyone there captive and the leader demands the Princess but Frank saves her and they hide. That's when Frank learns how she feels about her marriage."
"Olga and Ballard attend a royal wedding. While there, there's an explosion so Frank is sent to stop it. They assume that it was an accident. But what they don't know is that someone is trying to stop the wedding. Frank goes there and neutralizes the threat. The ones who did it then pull guns and take everyone there captive and the leader demands the Princess but Frank saves her and they hide. That's when Frank learns how she feels about her marriage."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Level 9 aired "Eat Flaming Death." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Level 9 team suspects that a dangerous mercenary hacker is targeting a high-level peace conference that the President of the United States is scheduled to attend."
"The Level 9 team suspects that a dangerous mercenary hacker is targeting a high-level peace conference that the President of the United States is scheduled to attend."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Battlestar Galactica (Syfy) aired "The Eye Of Jupiter." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The crew of Galactica makes a stop at the barren Algae planet."
"The crew of Galactica makes a stop at the barren Algae planet."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles aired "Earthlings Welcome Here." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Sarah turns to a UFO convention for answers about the "three dots," more details about Riley's mission are revealed, and Ellison begins working with Catherine Weaver's AI prototype, "John Henry.""
"Sarah turns to a UFO convention for answers about the "three dots," more details about Riley's mission are revealed, and Ellison begins working with Catherine Weaver's AI prototype, "John Henry.""
It all began right here ...
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Syfy aired Part 1 of its 3-part miniseries titled Ascension. It was hoped that the premise would translate into ratings and, thus, the ratings would warrant greenlighting a weekly series (much like what had happened previously with the retooled Battlestar Galactica) ... but, alas, it wasn't meant to be. Here's the plot summary for Part 1 as provided by IMDB.com:
"The setting is 51 years in since the launch into space. A murder of a young lady has occurred and its the first time on the ship. As the plot thickens we find that the avenue behind the murder could be the truth to the mission."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Syfy aired Part 1 of its 3-part miniseries titled Ascension. It was hoped that the premise would translate into ratings and, thus, the ratings would warrant greenlighting a weekly series (much like what had happened previously with the retooled Battlestar Galactica) ... but, alas, it wasn't meant to be. Here's the plot summary for Part 1 as provided by IMDB.com:
"The setting is 51 years in since the launch into space. A murder of a young lady has occurred and its the first time on the ship. As the plot thickens we find that the avenue behind the murder could be the truth to the mission."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), The Expanse aired "The Big Empty." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Holden and crew are trapped in a badly damaged shuttle. On Ceres, Miller uncovers clues about Julie Mao. On Earth, Chrisjen Avasarala questions a terrorist."
"Holden and crew are trapped in a badly damaged shuttle. On Ceres, Miller uncovers clues about Julie Mao. On Earth, Chrisjen Avasarala questions a terrorist."
