I realize that an awful lot of Star Wars fans were disappointed with the Prequel Trilogy, but my take on that is that each movie had something of merit -- however small or fleeting.
Actor Temuera Morrison was really one of the best things to come out of Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. In Clones, he was given the singular job of playing Jango Fett -- the father to a young Boba Fett -- and the genetic inspiration for an entire legion of clone troopers. In SITH, he can back in the guise of Commander Cody, the Republic-era kinda/sorta comrade-at-arms for Jedi Master Obi-wan Kenobi. Those are no insignificant contributions at all, and Morrison played both with deft conviction.
Morrison was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Temuera Morrison was really one of the best things to come out of Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. In Clones, he was given the singular job of playing Jango Fett -- the father to a young Boba Fett -- and the genetic inspiration for an entire legion of clone troopers. In SITH, he can back in the guise of Commander Cody, the Republic-era kinda/sorta comrade-at-arms for Jedi Master Obi-wan Kenobi. Those are no insignificant contributions at all, and Morrison played both with deft conviction.
Morrison was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
When the evidence appears as if the starship captain was negligent in the death of a crewman, Star Trek's Capt. James T. Kirk hires legal beagle Samuel T. Cogsley (played by Elisha Cook Jr.) to defend him in against the "Court Martial." Though he's no longer with us, Cook Jr. was born on this day in 1903.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Bernard Kates brought to life legendary analyst Sigmund Freud in the Star Trek: The Next Generation seventh season episode, "Phantasms." Though he's no longer with us, Kates was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor and stuntman Chuck Hicks has had a pretty amazing ride in the world of entertainment. Granted, he may not have had many lines, but he was nonetheless afforded to play in the realms of The Twilight Zone, The Time Tunnel, Batman, The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, The Beastmaster, The Powers of Matthew Star, Voyagers!, Manimal, Airwolf, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and The Flash (CBS). Though he's no longer with us, Hicks was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kathleen Crowley found herself on-the-run while being chased by invading killer robots in Target Earth (1954). Though she's no longer with us, Crowley was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Donald Moffat played the android 'Rem' in the short-lived TV series adaptation of Logan's Run. A few years later -- in 1982 -- he had a role in the John Carpenter classic, The Thing. Though he's no longer with us, Moffat was born on this day in 1930.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well, well, well ... not only was Joyce Jillson an accomplished actress with a handful of genre credits to her name, but also she was the official astrologer employed by 20th Century Fox Studios who was originally consulted over what would be the best days of the year 1977 in which George Lucas could release his little Science Fiction film -- Star Wars -- to the masses at large. Praise her lucky stars, am I right? Though she's no longer with us, Jillson was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Alec Murdock has popped up in the good handful of genre appearances, including work aboard such properties as Amazing Stories, Starman, Moon 44 (1990), The Flash, The Omega Code (1999), and S1m0ne. Murdock was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late 1970's and early 1980's delivered a host of mutation movies to theatres, and one of the more popular ones was Prophecy (1979). In it, Victoria Racimo played one of the residents terrorized by a mutated bear. Though she's no longer with us, Racimo was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Steve Bisley (above right) joined Mel Gibson in trying to maintain law and order in a lawless world aboard Mad Max (1979), the film that launched a franchise. Bisley was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Tahnee Welch is a dream to look at, and that's probably because she comes from good genes: she's the daughter of legendary screen siren Raquel Welch! Tahnee had a small but pretty significant role in the Cocoon pictures in the mid-80's, but, otherwise, she's had a fairly quiet career. She was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, John Lynch (above right) made an appearance as Shades in Hardware (1990), one of the more bizarre SciFi/Satires of its generation. Lynch was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Honestly, Tricia Leigh Fisher has only dabbled in the realm of Science Fiction witih appearances in C.H.U.D. II - Bud the Chud (1989) and No Ordinary Family. Fisher was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Amongst his many projects, Bill Lawrence served as the creator and producer to Clone High in both of its runs: 2002-2003 and 2023-2024. Lawrence was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In all honesty, Cleopatra 2525 remains one of the greatest SciFi/Camp odysseys of (perhaps) all time, and I encourage anyone who can find it to check out a few episodes. The lovely Danielle Cormack had a recurring part of the show, and -- for that -- I'm forever thankful. Cormack was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You want a genre performer? Then look no further than Graham Shiels. He's been a part of The X-Files, Charmed, True Blood, Hydra (2009), The Event, Alcatraz, Thor: The Dark World (2013), Arrow, Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), The 100, and Olympus. Shiels was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critical darling Jared Leto delivered a curious performance as the kinda/sorta source of evil behind Blade Runner 2049. Fans might also know him from work aboard Mr. Nobody (2009), Suicide Squad (2016), and Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021). Leto was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert
- In 2016, I caught a theatrical screening of Suicide Squad (2016) -- in which Leto played a role -- when it made the round through theaters. Interested readers can find my review right here.
- In 2017, I caught a theatrical screening of Blade Runner 2049 (2017) -- in which Leto played a role -- when it made the rounds through theaters near me. Interested readers can find my review right here.
As I've often said, Science Fiction comes in all shapes and sizes. Today's evidence: Tiffany Brissette played Vicki the Robot in the family friendly TV sitcom, Small Wonder. Brissette was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When he was but an urchin, Joshua John Miller saw what school could really be like in the SciFi/Horror hybrid, Class of 1999 (ironically made in 1990). Miller was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Hunter Carson found himself in awe of some unEarthly visitors in Invaders From Mars (1986), a remake of the 1953 original. Carson was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another day ... another Power Ranger! Nikolai Nikolaeff played Dominic Hargan -- aka the White Rhino Ranger -- aboard TV's Power Rangers Jungle Fury. He's also gone on to work on Marvel's Daredevil (Netflix). Nikolaeff was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Roxanne Pallett continues to turn in good work in some passable B-projects, including such properties as Lake Placid 3 (2010), Wrong Turn 6: Last Resort (2014), and Crystal Skulls (2014). Pallett was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jenny Shakeshaft (aka Jennifer Sipes) has built a career out of smaller roles in some relatively obscure pictures. She may have caught the eye of SciFi fans with an appearance in Earthling (2010). Shakeshaft was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kit Harington cemented his place in genre history with his work in the role of 'Jon Snow' aboard HBO's adaptation of George RR Martin's Fantasy epic Game Of Thrones. Harrington was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Proving she's more than a pretty face, Eden Sher lent her pipes to the character of 'Star' aboard Star Vs. The Forces Of Evil for the program's run. Sher was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ahh, what's a little death and bloodshed amongst friends? Well, it likely taught actress Samantha Boscarino not to mix danger with dance with her work aboard The Cheerleader Murders. As far as genre bits? She can be seen doing her stuff aboard Wizards Of Waverly Place and Ghosts. Boscarino was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's likely recognized more for her work aboard the historical Drama Vikings, actress Georgia Hirst continues to shine outside of that incredible project. Genre fans might know her from work aboard Ravers (2018). Hirst was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
2011's Super 8 was a film I just didn't much care for, but I did love its talented cast, including Zach Mills. Mills was born on this day in 1995.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1932 (in Scranton, Pennsylvania), audiences were treated to the very first theatrical engagement ever (of record) for Island Of Lost Souls. Waldemar Young and Philip Wylie adapted the H.G. Wells novel ('The Island Of Dr. Moreau), and Erle C. Kenton directed. The Horror/Fantasy starred Charles Laughton, Bela Lugosi, and Richard Arlen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After his ship goes down, Edward Parker is rescued at sea. Parker gets into a fight with Captain Davies of the Apia and the Captain tosses him overboard while making a delivery to the tiny tropical island of Dr. Moreau. Parker discovers that Moreau has good reason to be so secretive on his lonely island. The doctor is a whip-cracking task master to a growing population of his own gruesome human/animal experiments. He does have one prize result, Lota the beautiful panther woman. Parker's fortunes for escape look up after his fiancée Ruth finds him with the help of fearless Captain Donohue. However, when Moreau's tribe of near-humans rises up to rebel, no one is safe..."
"After his ship goes down, Edward Parker is rescued at sea. Parker gets into a fight with Captain Davies of the Apia and the Captain tosses him overboard while making a delivery to the tiny tropical island of Dr. Moreau. Parker discovers that Moreau has good reason to be so secretive on his lonely island. The doctor is a whip-cracking task master to a growing population of his own gruesome human/animal experiments. He does have one prize result, Lota the beautiful panther woman. Parker's fortunes for escape look up after his fiancée Ruth finds him with the help of fearless Captain Donohue. However, when Moreau's tribe of near-humans rises up to rebel, no one is safe..."
On this day in 1952 (in Australia), Unknown World sent audiences on a trip inside our planet. Directed by Terry O. Morse from a story by Millard Kaufman and Dalton Trumbo, the film starred Bruce Kellogg, Otto Waldis, and Jim Bannon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists use a gigantic drilling machine for an expedition to the center of the earth."
"Scientists use a gigantic drilling machine for an expedition to the center of the earth."
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in Japan), Battle In Outer Space enjoyed its original theatrical premiere. Directed by Inoshiro Honda, the SciFi feature starred Ryô Ikebe, Kyôko Anzai, and Minoru Takada. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Munchkin-like aliens invade Earth full force with their flying saucers and laser weapons, rendering cities helpless. All eyes turn to the most powerful nations on Earth as they unite to concoct a plan to vanquish the aliens and return Earth to the hands of humans, thus, resulting in the most fierce and ultimate battle royale in outer space the galaxy as ever seen."
For the record:
In 2010, Battle In Outer Space was inclued as part of the 'Icons Of Sci-Fi: Toho Collection' that enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"Munchkin-like aliens invade Earth full force with their flying saucers and laser weapons, rendering cities helpless. All eyes turn to the most powerful nations on Earth as they unite to concoct a plan to vanquish the aliens and return Earth to the hands of humans, thus, resulting in the most fierce and ultimate battle royale in outer space the galaxy as ever seen."
For the record:
In 2010, Battle In Outer Space was inclued as part of the 'Icons Of Sci-Fi: Toho Collection' that enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
On this day in 1962 (in Turkey), the Apocalypse-themed Panic In Year Zero! enjoyed a theatrical release exploring our cultural doom. Directed by and starring the great Ray Milland along with Jean Hagen, Frankie Avalon, and Mary Mitchel, here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A family leaves L.A. for a camping trip - just before a nuclear bomb destroys the city. As the city descends into chaos, the father must fight to keep his family alive."
"A family leaves L.A. for a camping trip - just before a nuclear bomb destroys the city. As the city descends into chaos, the father must fight to keep his family alive."
A star is born ... but this one looks like it was raised from the dead!
On this day in 1973 (in the U.S.), Horror got an upgrade when audiences were treated to the groundbreaking vision that was The Exorcist. Directed by William Friedkin from a story by William Peter Blatty, the film starred Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, and Linda Blair. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a mysterious entity possesses a young girl, her mother seeks the help of two Catholic priests to save her life."
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I caught a broadcast airing of The Exorcist on a pay cable channel I subscribe to. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"When a mysterious entity possesses a young girl, her mother seeks the help of two Catholic priests to save her life."
For the record:
- At the 1974 Academy Awards, The Exorcist earned an incredible ten nominations in the categories of 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Cinematography,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Actor In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Actress In A Leading Role,' and 'Best Picture.' At the end of the evening, it only took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Writing' and 'Best Sound.'
- At the 1975 Saturn Awards, the film received nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Writer,' and 'Best Horror Film,' and it took home trophies in all of those wins.
- In 2010, The Exorcist was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registery, that organization that seeks to preserve films that have made a lasting contribution to the form of art.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I caught a broadcast airing of The Exorcist on a pay cable channel I subscribe to. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1977 (in Denmark and Norway), audiences were treated to the theatrical release of Star Wars. Written and directed by George Lucas, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, and here's the plot summary as provided by the reliable IMDB.com:
"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 1978 (in the Philippines), the theatrical edition of the original Battlestar Galactica sailed onto the silver screen. Directed by Richard A. Colla and Alan J. Levi, the film starred Lorne Greene, Richard Hatch, and Dirk Benedict. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the destruction of the Twelve Colonies of Mankind, the last major fighter carrier leads a makeshift fugitive fleet in a desperate search for the legendary planet Earth."
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 the destruction of the Twelve Colonies of Mankind, the last major fighter carrier leads a makeshift fugitive fleet in a desperate search for the legendary planet Earth."
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!
A star is born! On this day in 1978, Terror Out Of The Sky came down out of the blue and landed on American television sets. This SciFi/Horror telefilm was directed by Lee H. Katzin and starred Efrem Zimbalist Jr., Dan Haggerty, and Tovah Feldshuh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"This TV sequel to "The Savage Bees" features more rampaging insects. This time a marching band and a school bus get in the path of the bees."
"This TV sequel to "The Savage Bees" features more rampaging insects. This time a marching band and a school bus get in the path of the bees."
On this day in 1980 (in Australian), Roger Corman's Battle Beyond The Stars enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Jimmy T. Murakami and Roger Corman, the feature starred Richard Thomas, Darlanne Fluegel, and Sybil Danning; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Shad, a young farmer, assembles a band of diverse mercenaries in outer space to defend his peaceful planet from the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors. Among the mercenaries are Space Cowboy, a spacegoing truck driver from Earth; Gelt, a wealthy but experienced assassin looking for a place to hide; and Saint-Exmin, a Valkyrie warrior looking to prove herself in battle."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
"Shad, a young farmer, assembles a band of diverse mercenaries in outer space to defend his peaceful planet from the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors. Among the mercenaries are Space Cowboy, a spacegoing truck driver from Earth; Gelt, a wealthy but experienced assassin looking for a place to hide; and Saint-Exmin, a Valkyrie warrior looking to prove herself in battle."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
On this day in 1980 (in Australia), Contamination brought an alien menace down to Earth. Written (in part) and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the SciFi/Horror starred Ian McCulloch, Louise Marleau, and Marino Masé. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A former astronaut helps a government agent and a police detective track the source of mysterious alien pod spores, filled with lethal flesh-dissolving acid, to a South American coffee plantation controlled by alien pod clones."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of reviewing an all-new re-release of Contamination sometime back in 2012 or 2013 via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing what I thought? Readers can find my review right here.
"A former astronaut helps a government agent and a police detective track the source of mysterious alien pod spores, filled with lethal flesh-dissolving acid, to a South American coffee plantation controlled by alien pod clones."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of reviewing an all-new re-release of Contamination sometime back in 2012 or 2013 via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing what I thought? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1981 (in Norway), Escape From New York turned the Big Apple into the world's biggest prison. Written (in part) and directed by John Carpenter, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Kurt Russell, Harry Dean Stanton, and Adrienne Barbeau. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the future, crime is out of control and New York City's Manhattan is a maximum security prison. Grabbing a bargaining chip right out of the air, convicts bring down the President's plane in bad old Gotham. Gruff Snake Plissken, a one-eyed lone warrior new to prison life, is coerced into bringing the President, and his cargo, out of this land of undesirables."
For the record:
At the 1982 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Escape From New York enjoyed four nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"In the future, crime is out of control and New York City's Manhattan is a maximum security prison. Grabbing a bargaining chip right out of the air, convicts bring down the President's plane in bad old Gotham. Gruff Snake Plissken, a one-eyed lone warrior new to prison life, is coerced into bringing the President, and his cargo, out of this land of undesirables."
For the record:
At the 1982 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Escape From New York enjoyed four nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 1985 (in Argentina), Back To The Future went 88 miles per hours onto the silver screen! Starring Michael J. Fox as the young Marty McFly and the ever-zany Christopher Lloyd as Dr. Emmett Brown, Back to the Future made audiences laugh in droves, and the film helped cement director Robert Zemeckis as one of the 'go to' guys for a generation. It was first released theatrically on this day back in 1985. Here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after.
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after.
- At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.'
- The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1987 (in Denmark), the Mel Brooks' SciFi/Spoof Spaceballs enjoyed a theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Mel Brooks, the film starred Bill Pullman, John Candy, and Daphne Zuniga, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A star-pilot for hire and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a princess and save Planet Druidia from the clutches of the evil Spaceballs."
For the record:
Ahem. The Mel Brooks' comedy did win the 1987 'Worst Picture' Award from The Stinkers Bad Movie Awards ... so that's got to count for something, eh?
"A star-pilot for hire and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a princess and save Planet Druidia from the clutches of the evil Spaceballs."
For the record:
Ahem. The Mel Brooks' comedy did win the 1987 'Worst Picture' Award from The Stinkers Bad Movie Awards ... so that's got to count for something, eh?
On this day in 1988 (in Australia), My Stepmother Is An Alien opened in theatres. Written by the team of Jerico Stone, Herschel Weingrod, and Timothy Harris, the SciFi/ Comedy was directed by Richard Benjamin and starred Dan Aykroyd, Kim Basinger, and Alyson Hannigan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A creature from another planet tries to seduce a shy Earth physicist to gain control over his researches. The result of this important mission much exceeded her expectations."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
"A creature from another planet tries to seduce a shy Earth physicist to gain control over his researches. The result of this important mission much exceeded her expectations."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
On this day in 1989 (in Denmark), Back To The Future II sent Marty McFly through his own 'rerun' of sorts. 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."
For the record:
"After visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip."
For the record:
- At the 1990 Academy Awards, Back To The Future II enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.'
- At the 1991 Saturn Awards, Back To The Future II took home one big win in the category of 'Best Special Effects.' The film had to settle for the honor of a nomination alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Costumes,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1992 (in Japan), Nemesis enjoyed its very first theatrical engagement ever! Scripted by Rebecca Charles and directed by genre-favorite Albert Pyun, the SciFi/Thriller starred Olivier Gruner, Tim Thomerson, and Cary Hiroyuki-Tagawa; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Alex, a burned out LA cyborg cop, is forced by commissioner Farnsworth to find his former cyborg partner and lover Jared who's about to deliver sensitive data to cyborg terrorists who wish to wage war against humans. Is he being played?"
"Alex, a burned out LA cyborg cop, is forced by commissioner Farnsworth to find his former cyborg partner and lover Jared who's about to deliver sensitive data to cyborg terrorists who wish to wage war against humans. Is he being played?"
On this day in 1994 (in Norway), Timecop threw itself across time and space to land in theatres. Directed by Peter Hyams from a script by Mike Richardson and Mark Verheiden, the film starred Van Damme, Mia Sara, and Ron Silver. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
For the record:
Despite my finding Timecop lukewarm, I can appreciate that the flick earned a few honors. At the 1995 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mia Sara took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.' The film, however, had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I wrote a little something something to celebrate the film's 28th anniversary. Interested readers can check it out right here.
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
For the record:
Despite my finding Timecop lukewarm, I can appreciate that the flick earned a few honors. At the 1995 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mia Sara took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.' The film, however, had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I wrote a little something something to celebrate the film's 28th anniversary. Interested readers can check it out right here.
On this day in 1997 (in Cameroon and Iceland), Starship Troopers took the fight to some evil alien bugs. Paul Verhoeven directed this adaptation of the Robert A. Heinlein novel, and it starred Casper Van Dien, Denise Richards, and Dina Meyer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Humans in a fascist, militaristic future wage war with giant alien bugs."
For the record:
Though the film wasn't quite a hit with fans of director Verhoeven or author Heinlein's, Starship Troopers still garnered a reasonable amount of acclaim from the usual suspects. The feature enjoyed a single Academy Awards nomination in 1998 for the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.' At the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the picture took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Special Effects' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it received a 1998 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Humans in a fascist, militaristic future wage war with giant alien bugs."
For the record:
Though the film wasn't quite a hit with fans of director Verhoeven or author Heinlein's, Starship Troopers still garnered a reasonable amount of acclaim from the usual suspects. The feature enjoyed a single Academy Awards nomination in 1998 for the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.' At the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the picture took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Special Effects' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it received a 1998 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 2011 (in France), the 1958-produced The Brain Eaters enjoyed a release on home video. Directed by Bruno VeSota from a story adapted from a Robert Heinlein work, the film starred Ed Nelson, Alan Jay Factor, and Cornelius Keefe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The inhabitants of a small Illinois town begin disappearing after a strange cone is found sticking out of the ground nearby."
"The inhabitants of a small Illinois town begin disappearing after a strange cone is found sticking out of the ground nearby."
On this day in 2017, the 1973-produced SciFi/Horror film The Crazies was screened for audiences of the University Cinema of Uruguay, a cultural heritage center. Directed by and written (in part) by the late George A. Romero, the feature starred Lane Carroll and Will MacMillan, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The military attempts to contain a manmade combat virus that causes death and permanent insanity in those infected, as it overtakes a small Pennsylvania town."
"The military attempts to contain a manmade combat virus that causes death and permanent insanity in those infected, as it overtakes a small Pennsylvania town."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Adventures of Superman aired "Double Trouble." This served as the fifteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A man aboard a ship to Metropolis is smuggling something valuable into the country, but when one of his partner's henchmen shows up to help him get the item through customs, the passenger kills the other man. The passenger then dresses up as a woman, and, in an attempt to give his partner the slip, he gives Jimmy, who is at the dock to interview an actress, an empty box and tells him to give it to the men who are waiting or him. When Jimmy is kidnapped by the men, Superman must save him--but in order to do that, he first must figure out why he was kidnapped, solve the murder, track down the passenger, find out what is being smuggled, and find the passenger's partner."
"A man aboard a ship to Metropolis is smuggling something valuable into the country, but when one of his partner's henchmen shows up to help him get the item through customs, the passenger kills the other man. The passenger then dresses up as a woman, and, in an attempt to give his partner the slip, he gives Jimmy, who is at the dock to interview an actress, an empty box and tells him to give it to the men who are waiting or him. When Jimmy is kidnapped by the men, Superman must save him--but in order to do that, he first must figure out why he was kidnapped, solve the murder, track down the passenger, find out what is being smuggled, and find the passenger's partner."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Bitter Storm." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by IMDB.com:
"An embittered scientist secretly invents a receiver which picks up sounds from anytime in the past. As a savage hurricane closes in on the island where he lives, his family press him to demonstrate the instrument, and overcome the hatred which paralyzes him into staying in isolation on the otherwise-abandoned island."
"An embittered scientist secretly invents a receiver which picks up sounds from anytime in the past. As a savage hurricane closes in on the island where he lives, his family press him to demonstrate the instrument, and overcome the hatred which paralyzes him into staying in isolation on the otherwise-abandoned island."
On this day in 1964 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Flashpoint." This served as the ninth episode of the popular program's second season, and here's the plot summary compliments of our friends at IMDB.com:
"The Daleks' plan to transform Earth into a giant spaceship and wipe out its inhabitants is nearing completion and the Doctor and his friends face a race against time to prevent them from destroying the planet's core."
"The Daleks' plan to transform Earth into a giant spaceship and wipe out its inhabitants is nearing completion and the Doctor and his friends face a race against time to prevent them from destroying the planet's core."
On this day in 1965 (in the U.S.), Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea aired "Terror on Dinosaur Island." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Admiral Nelson and Chief Starkey are marooned on an island with prehistoric creatures. The Seaview is trying to rescue them but they have an undersea monster of their own to contend with."
"Admiral Nelson and Chief Starkey are marooned on an island with prehistoric creatures. The Seaview is trying to rescue them but they have an undersea monster of their own to contend with."
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), TV's War of the Worlds aired "The Good Samaritan." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as revealed on IMDB.com:
"Suzanne does some unauthorized research on a new kind of grain that will grow in any climate. The billionaire who invented wants to sell it to the world. Thinking poorer countries will be given money by richer countries. But the aliens have their own plans for the grain, after placing a new deadly poison in the grain, they take over the body of the billionaire who suddenly offers it free to the world."
"Suzanne does some unauthorized research on a new kind of grain that will grow in any climate. The billionaire who invented wants to sell it to the world. Thinking poorer countries will be given money by richer countries. But the aliens have their own plans for the grain, after placing a new deadly poison in the grain, they take over the body of the billionaire who suddenly offers it free to the world."
On this day in 2007 (in France), Doctor Who aired "The Runaway Bride." Officially, this served as a stand-alone special installment in the (rebooted) Doctor Who's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Donna, a middle aged woman who is on the verge of marrying her fiancé; Lance finds herself transported within the confines of an immense spaceship. That spaceship being the TARDIS. Much to the shock of the obnoxious Bride as well as the Doctor who has just recently had to get over the departure of Rose Tyler. The Time Lord learns that Donna is in some way linked to an alien plot to destroy the planet Earth. With time ticking away and the Doctor having to face off against a small army of robotic Santa's once again. Can he prevent the evil Empress of the Racnoss's plot to eradicate the world?"
"Donna, a middle aged woman who is on the verge of marrying her fiancé; Lance finds herself transported within the confines of an immense spaceship. That spaceship being the TARDIS. Much to the shock of the obnoxious Bride as well as the Doctor who has just recently had to get over the departure of Rose Tyler. The Time Lord learns that Donna is in some way linked to an alien plot to destroy the planet Earth. With time ticking away and the Doctor having to face off against a small army of robotic Santa's once again. Can he prevent the evil Empress of the Racnoss's plot to eradicate the world?"
On this day in 2007 (in France), Doctor Who aired "Smith And Jones." Officially, this served as the first episode in the (rebooted) Doctor Who's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the Doctor says goodbye to Donna Noble, he goes undercover at the Royal Hope Hospital in London, where he meets medical student and future companion Martha Jones. The duo are whisked away with the entire hospital to the moon by an alien courier connected with the Judoon, a brutal mercenary police force, and only the Doctor can defeat them."
"As the Doctor says goodbye to Donna Noble, he goes undercover at the Royal Hope Hospital in London, where he meets medical student and future companion Martha Jones. The duo are whisked away with the entire hospital to the moon by an alien courier connected with the Judoon, a brutal mercenary police force, and only the Doctor can defeat them."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S. and Canada), Space Riders: Division Earth aired "The Forest For Rest." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ken, Philip and Scarlet re-group in a cabin from Scarlet's troubled past where they're holding Ooze and Moon Monster prisoner. Deb 3 meets them to deliver horrific news from the Galactic Ministry."
"Ken, Philip and Scarlet re-group in a cabin from Scarlet's troubled past where they're holding Ooze and Moon Monster prisoner. Deb 3 meets them to deliver horrific news from the Galactic Ministry."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S. and Canada), Space Riders: Division Earth aired "They're Here." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tensions rise between Ken and Philip, who may not be true partners after all."
"Tensions rise between Ken and Philip, who may not be true partners after all."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S. and Canada), Space Riders: Division Earth aired "The Return Of Snakor." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With The Vicious Mist's horde about to descend on the cabin, Scarlet rips out her Emotional Regulator Chip and thirsts for blood. Ooze escapes and makes a devastating gadget with Moony, and Ken and Philip's feud reaches a fever pitch."
"With The Vicious Mist's horde about to descend on the cabin, Scarlet rips out her Emotional Regulator Chip and thirsts for blood. Ooze escapes and makes a devastating gadget with Moony, and Ken and Philip's feud reaches a fever pitch."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2017 (in the U.S. and Canada), Space Riders: Division Earth aired "The Double Zoid." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scarlet finally confronts Snakor, the murderer of her partner, while Ooze and The Vicious Myst face-off, and the only way to stop the incoming horde requires Ken and Philip to reconcile and learn the Double-Zoid."
"Scarlet finally confronts Snakor, the murderer of her partner, while Ooze and The Vicious Myst face-off, and the only way to stop the incoming horde requires Ken and Philip to reconcile and learn the Double-Zoid."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1954, the very last episode of The Shadow radio serial aired. This was the program's 665th installment -- an astonishing feat in and of itself -- and here's the plot summary for "Murder By The Sea":
"Cranston and Margot Lane, returning from a car trip, take a wrong turn and become lost. They take refuge in Dunmor Manor and stumble upon an inner-family murder -- or is it the work of a witch?"
"Cranston and Margot Lane, returning from a car trip, take a wrong turn and become lost. They take refuge in Dunmor Manor and stumble upon an inner-family murder -- or is it the work of a witch?"
