The Golden Age of Science Fiction owes much of its success and popularity to the cinematic wizardry of producer/director George Pal. As a producer, fans are more than familiar with his name as he was responsible for bringing such projects to the silver screen as Destination Moon, When Worlds Collide, The War of the Worlds, and Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze. As a director, Pal wowwed audiences with The Time Machine and Atlantis, The Lost Continent.
Though he's no longer with us, Pal was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Though he's no longer with us, Pal was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- In 1961, Pal earned a Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his delivering The Time Machine to the silver screen.
- In 1965, Pal earned his second Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for his work in bringing '7 Faces Of Dr. Lao' to theaters.
- In 1975, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films created a Special Award in his name -- the George Pal Memorial Award -- the could be given to people in the entertainment industry who've displayed exemplary work in the respective film genres.
- In 1978 -- on the 25th anniversary of his 1953 film The War Of The Worlds -- the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films inducted the motion picture into their Hall Of Fame.
English born and raised, Joan Young made an appearance in the realm of Doctor Who (pictured above as Catherine de Medici from "Bell of Doom" and "Priest of Death"). Late in life, she also showed up aboard Salvage 1 for two spots. Though she's no longer with us, Young was born on this day in 1900.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Helen Chandler stepped into film history with a big role aboard Universal Pictures' groundbreaking Dracula (1931) for the silver screen. Though she's no longer with us, Chandler was born on this day in 1906.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
Andrea King joined Peter Graves aboard 1952's Red Planet Mars, a cautionary tale exploring 'What If' mankind made contact with a race from another world. Though she's no longer with us, King was born on this day in 1919.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Today's animation-savvy audiences know Peter Sallis as the voice of 'Wallace' in the superb Wallace & Gromit adventures, but in the late 1960's he played 'Penley' in Doctor Who's "The Ice Warriors" storyline. Though he's no longer with us, Sallis was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A few years before Rod Taylor starred in The Time Machine, Nancy Gates joined him aboard World Without End (1956), the tale of a mutant-infested Earth. Gates was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Richard Roat has enjoyed five decades of work in the entertainment industry, and SciFi fans have seen him flesh out roles in such properties as Westworld (1973), Logan's Run (TV), ALF, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, and NBC's popular 3rd Rock from the Sun. Though he's no longer with us, Roat was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You say you've driven the Starship Enterprise? Then you deserve a mention! Paul Carr appeared in the classic Star Trek episode, "Where No Man Has Gone Before." He's also been aboard The Time Tunnel, Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, The Six Million Dollar Man, Time Express, and much, much more. Though he's no longer with us, Carr was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Little known piece of SciFi trivia: Paul Rudd was not the first actor to bring Ant-Man to life. That was funnyman Garrett Morris (above right), who did so in a sketch for Saturday Night Live. However, in the 2015 big screen adaptation, Morris was brought aboard to play a cab driver in a celebrity cameo. Morris was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I had absolutely no problem accepting that the brainy, blonde bombshell that was actress Bibi Besch -- better known to classic Trek aficionados as the original Dr. Carol Marcus (from Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan) -- would be the only gal woman enough in all of the galaxy to tame the wild James T. Kirk! Sadly, the JJ Universe dumbed the character down to a silly bra-baring moment, but Besch knew and played the scientist best. She also had an appearance in the 1990's SciFi comedy sleeper, Tremors. Though she's no longer with us, Besch was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
1973's Westworld gave a host of actors and actresses the opportunity to play in the realm of Science Fiction, but few of them were as dreamy as Linda Gaye Scott. Scott was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fandom lost one of its brightest lights in 2011 when the lovely Elisabeth Sladen left us. She'd been around the world of the BBC's long-running time travel serial Doctor Who for decades, and her character of 'Sarah Jane Smith' even enjoyed a popular spin-off by way of The Sarah Jane Adventures. Sladen was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Bill Mumy had the good fortune to go into space as Will Robinson, the youngest member of the family of space explorers on the CBS SciFi program, Lost In Space. A few decades later, the actor was given the chance to set fandom on fire again in the role of Lennier aboard the Michael J. Straczynski cult favorite, Babylon 5. Mumy was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented J.B. Bivens knows more than a thing or two about the world of quality genre entertainment. In his time in the biz, he's scored roles aboard such properties as Highlander, The Outer Limits, Millennium, Stargate: SG-1, The X-Files, First Wave, Smallville, The Twilight Zone, and The Dead Zone. Bivens was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
By now all of you should know how much I love the ladies who play dress-up, and Kaitlin Hopkins played a Vorta as part of a guest spot aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Hopkins was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Character actor Steve Larson played a role (under heavy prosthetics) aboard "Rajiin," an episode of Star Trek: Enterprise. Larson was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran Linus Roache had a small but significant role in The Chronicles of Riddick (2004). Otherwise the actor has stuck to far more conventional dramas. Roache was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sherilyn Fenn found herself in pursuit of Bigfoot -- a tele-film starring herself, Danny Bonaduce and Barry Williams -- back in 2012. Fenn was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hollywood lost a star-in-the-making when Brandon Lee was tragically cut down by an accident on-set while filming The Crow. While that film is far more Fantasy than it is SciFi, I think most genre fans appreciate being reminded of Lee's greatness despite his short life and even shorter career. Lee was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
HubbaHubba Alert! The lovely Gabrielle Fitzpatrick steamed up things in the role of Dulcea aboard Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie (1995). She also put in a few guest appearances aboard ABC TV's popular Lost during its run. Fitzpatrick was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
John Harrington Bland (above right) played the alien 'Kov' aboard "Fusion," a first season episode for Star Trek: Enterprise. Bland was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former Canadian Football League fullback Sean Millington has turned in a handful of performances across several popular SciFi properties, including roles aboard Strange Luck, Millennium, The Outer Limits, The 4400, Stargate: SG-1, Smallville, Eureka, Stargate: Atlantis, Flash Gordon, and The 100. Millington was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Watch out there, Brian Krause! That little critter is hungry! That's a shot from the direct-to-DVD release, Poseidon Rex (2013). I saw it, and -- to be fair -- it wasn't all that bad. Kinda fun. And it did have Brian pairing up with the lovely Anne McDaniels to fight the seaborne dinosaurs. Krause was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rebecca Creskoff continues to impress whenever she's given the opportunity. So far as genre projects go, her resume is a bit thin, but she did enjoy a guest spot aboard Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Creskoff was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Vocally talented Hynden Walch has brought to life a handful of SciFi-related characters for such franchises as Teen Titans, Avengers Assemble, Halo: The Fall of Reach, Marvels' Guardians of the Galaxy, and Teen Titans Go to name but a few. Walch was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critical darling Michael C. Hall (above right) joined Gerard Butler in Gamer (2009), a SciFi actioner that explored the future of incarceration via virtual reality. Hall was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though her acting career has seen the lovely Candace Smith gravitating toward more conventional fare, she did give fans a peek at her potential in a guest spot aboard NBC''s Heroes back in 2009. Smith was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Amongst the screen credits for the talented Bryan Dick are performances in such franchises as Earthfasts, Torchwood, Being Human, and Syfy's Haven. Dick was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The yummy (and ginger!) Rachelle Lefevre found herself trapped Under The Dome for CBS in their adaptation of the Stephen King novel. Lefevre was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Stuntwoman and actress Lauren Mary Kim (above right) pops up when you least expect her, including an uncredited role in JJ Abrams' Star Trek reboot in 2009. She maintains a massively impressive resume on IMDB.com (check it out for all of her citations), and Kim was born on this day in 1981.
Oh, nurse! Nurse! I'm still waiting for my treatment! Meh. It may not be Star Trek proper, but it was after all titled This Ain't Star Trek XXX (2009), and that lovely nurse is none other than Adult actress Codi Carmichael locking lips with the Doctor, for shame. Carmichael was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sara Malukul Lane continues to seek out and explore stardom in roles each more curious than the last. She's enjoyed screen time aboard Sharktopus (2010), 100 Degrees Below Zero (2013), Jurassic City (2015), and Cowboys Vs. Dinosaurs (2015) to name but a few. Lane was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sadly, his is one of those stories of an actor gone long before his time, but Smallville's semi-regular Lee Thompson Young had been battling depression for some time when he eventually took his own life. So far as our genre goes, he had also turned in work aboard Jake 2.0, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, FlashForward, and The Event. Though he's no longer with us, Young was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Voiceover actress Brittani Johnson has lent her 'pipes' to such gaming properties as Borderlands (2009), Borderlands 2 (2012), and Oxenfree (2016). She also had an uncredited role in Star Trek Into Darkness (2013). Johnson was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, the young Davi Santos played a role aboard Power Rangers Dino Charge during the 2015-2016 television season. Santos was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born!
On this day in 1946 (in the U.S.), The Flying Serpent soared onto the silver screen! Directed by Sam Newfield with a script from John T. Neville, the Fantasy/Horror starred George Zucco, Ralph Lewis, and Hope Kramer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The demented archaeologist Dr. Andrew Forbes discovers a living, breathing serpent-creature known to the Aztecs as Quetzalcoatl, the Killer Bird God. Tragically, he causes his wife's death by giving her one of the beast's feathers, causing the creature to track her down and slaughter her. Now, Dr. Forbes uses this twisted knowledge to exact revenge upon his enemies by placing one of the serpent's feathers on each of his intended victims and letting the beast loose to wreak havoc."
For the record:
Alas, I'm unable to find much written about The Flying Serpent. What I have found hasn't been all that -- ahem -- complimentary. Interestingly enough, it would appear to have been a fairly short theatrical feature as IMDB.com reports that it clocks in at a short 59 minutes.
"The demented archaeologist Dr. Andrew Forbes discovers a living, breathing serpent-creature known to the Aztecs as Quetzalcoatl, the Killer Bird God. Tragically, he causes his wife's death by giving her one of the beast's feathers, causing the creature to track her down and slaughter her. Now, Dr. Forbes uses this twisted knowledge to exact revenge upon his enemies by placing one of the serpent's feathers on each of his intended victims and letting the beast loose to wreak havoc."
For the record:
Alas, I'm unable to find much written about The Flying Serpent. What I have found hasn't been all that -- ahem -- complimentary. Interestingly enough, it would appear to have been a fairly short theatrical feature as IMDB.com reports that it clocks in at a short 59 minutes.
On this day in 1949 (in the U.S.), the 1936-produced The Invisible Ray enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by Lambert Hillyer, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, and Frances Drake; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist becomes murderous after discovering, and being exposed to the radiation of, a powerful new element called Radium X."
"A scientist becomes murderous after discovering, and being exposed to the radiation of, a powerful new element called Radium X."
A star is born!
On this day in 1961 (in Italy), The Mighty Ursus enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever! Directed by Carlo Campogalliani, the Fantasy feature starred Ed Fury, Cristina Gaioni, and Moira Orfei; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ursus returns from war to find his fiancée, Attea, has been kidnapped by a mysterious sect which sacrifices virgins to its patron goddess. Ursus faces much treachery and is forced to display much courage and strength as he and the blind girl Doreide embark upon a quest to retrieve Attea."
"Ursus returns from war to find his fiancée, Attea, has been kidnapped by a mysterious sect which sacrifices virgins to its patron goddess. Ursus faces much treachery and is forced to display much courage and strength as he and the blind girl Doreide embark upon a quest to retrieve Attea."
A star is born!
On this day in 1970, Horror Of The Blood Monsters dished out some of the usual SciFi/Horror schlock too often damaging genre flicks. The feature starred John Carradine and Robert Dix, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future with a intergalactic vampire plague threatening earth, an expedition is sent to a distant galaxy in hopes of discovering the plague's source. Landing on a mysterious planet they discover that Spectrum radiation has turned the atmosphere into a one-color tint. Exploring further, the group discovers living dinosaurs, a race of vampire cavemen, and other strange creatures."
"In the near future with a intergalactic vampire plague threatening earth, an expedition is sent to a distant galaxy in hopes of discovering the plague's source. Landing on a mysterious planet they discover that Spectrum radiation has turned the atmosphere into a one-color tint. Exploring further, the group discovers living dinosaurs, a race of vampire cavemen, and other strange creatures."
On this day in 1973 (in Norway), the 1951-produced SciFi/Classic The Thing From Another World enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. With a screenplay by Charles Lederer adapted from a story by John W. Campbell Jr., the SciFi/Classic starred Kenneth Tobey, Margaret Sheridan, and James Arness. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scientists at an Arctic research station discover a spacecraft buried in the ice. Upon closer examination, they discover the frozen pilot. All hell breaks loose when they take him back to their station and he is accidentally thawed out!"
For the record:
The Thing From Another World was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry in 2001 so that its greatness can be preserved for the ages, and that's certainly no small feat for a Science Fiction release of the era. The story was adapted in 1982 by Horror expert John Carpenter (with Kurt Russell in the lead), and his version perhaps maintains greater popularity than the original.
"Scientists at an Arctic research station discover a spacecraft buried in the ice. Upon closer examination, they discover the frozen pilot. All hell breaks loose when they take him back to their station and he is accidentally thawed out!"
For the record:
The Thing From Another World was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry in 2001 so that its greatness can be preserved for the ages, and that's certainly no small feat for a Science Fiction release of the era. The story was adapted in 1982 by Horror expert John Carpenter (with Kurt Russell in the lead), and his version perhaps maintains greater popularity than the original.
A star is born!
Primal Impulse (aka Footprints On The Moon) -- which premiered theatrically on this day in 1975 in Italy) -- in one of those films that I've never seen but occasionally pops up in my research. While the premise doesn't quite "sound" like Science Fiction, it obviously contains some elements popularly associated to the genre, so I'm ok featuring it here. Written and directed by the team of Luigi Bazzoni and Mario Fanelli, the film starred Florinda Bolkan, Peter McEnery, and Nicoletta Elmi. According to IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"A woman is tormented by strange dreams of astronauts on the moon. She visits a deserted seaside town whose inhabitants know her even though she does not know them."
"A woman is tormented by strange dreams of astronauts on the moon. She visits a deserted seaside town whose inhabitants know her even though she does not know them."
A star is born!
On this day in 1977 (in Italy), one of the finest examples of Giallo Horror came to life when audiences were treated to the theatrical debut of Suspiria. Written (in part) and directed by Dario Argento, the film starred Jessica Harper, Stefania Casini, and Flavio Bucci. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An American newcomer to a prestigious German ballet academy comes to realize that the school is a front for something sinister amid a series of grisly murders."
For the record:
"An American newcomer to a prestigious German ballet academy comes to realize that the school is a front for something sinister amid a series of grisly murders."
For the record:
- At the 1978 Saturn Awards, actress Joan Bennett earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in the film.
- At the 2002 Saturn Awards, a new home video release of Suspiria was nominated in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.'
- At the 2018 Saturn Awards, a new home video release of Suspiria was nominated in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-ray Special Edition Release.'
A star is born!
Uhoh. Somebody's off her meds again. On this day in 1978, The Astral Factor was served up as a SciFi/Horror hybrid. Directed by John Florea, Gene Fowler Jr., and Arthur C. Pierce, the film starred Robert Foxworth, Stefanie Powers, and Sue Lyon. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A convicted strangler, studying the paranormal in his jail cell, learns to make himself invisible. As an invisible man, he escapes from prison to stalk and strangle the five women who testified against him at his trial. Robert Foxworth plays the police lieutenant assigned to protect them, and to catch the invisible strangler."
"A convicted strangler, studying the paranormal in his jail cell, learns to make himself invisible. As an invisible man, he escapes from prison to stalk and strangle the five women who testified against him at his trial. Robert Foxworth plays the police lieutenant assigned to protect them, and to catch the invisible strangler."
A star is born!
On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Miami Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of The Enchanted. Directed by Carter Lord from a story by Charne Porter, the Fantasy starred Julius Harris, Will Sennett, and Casey Blanton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
Sailor Royce Hagan returns from the sea and occupies his deserted family ranch in a remote part of backwoods Florida. A strange family is living in the woods on his property. A Florida Folk Mystery hangs over the ranch.
Editor's Note:
Technically, I've no record of The Enchanted's first premiere date. What I do know from IMDB.com is that the Miami Film Festival was held in the month of February in 1984, so I am using this date in lieu of greater specificity.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received a complimentary Blu-ray of The Enchanged (1984) via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Sailor Royce Hagan returns from the sea and occupies his deserted family ranch in a remote part of backwoods Florida. A strange family is living in the woods on his property. A Florida Folk Mystery hangs over the ranch.
Editor's Note:
Technically, I've no record of The Enchanted's first premiere date. What I do know from IMDB.com is that the Miami Film Festival was held in the month of February in 1984, so I am using this date in lieu of greater specificity.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received a complimentary Blu-ray of The Enchanged (1984) via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1984 (in France), the silver screen incarnation of Twilight Zone: The Movie took audiences on a few short films into the imagination. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Prologue: a driver has a big surprise with his passenger. Segment 1 ("Time Out"): a bigot hates Jews, Black and Asians. One day he will live in World War II, be hunted down by the KKK and get attacked in the Vietnam War and feel the effects of his hatred. Segment 2 ("Kick the Can"): In a nursing home, the elder inhabitants learn that their minds can keep them young. Segment 3 ("It's a Good Life"): a traveler hits a boy in a bicycle with her car and takes the boy home. Soon she learns that the powerful boy brought her home indeed. Segment 4 ("Nightmare at 20,000 feet"): a writer is scared to fly and soon he sees a monstrous creature destroying the airplane engines during a stormy night."
For the record:
It's hard to say why the Twilight Zone movie isn't remembered by a wider audience years later, but I suspect that the negative press surrounding the death of actor Vic Morrow and two children (from the Segment 1 story) certainly had an impact on Hollywood and beyond. It did score some impressive nominations (1984 Saturn Award nominee for 'Best Horror Film;' 1984 Fantasporto nominee for 'Best Film;' etc.), but its only win of record (that I'm award of) is John Lithgow securing the 1984 Saturn Award for 'Best Supporting Actor' in what was the film's biggest performance.
"Prologue: a driver has a big surprise with his passenger. Segment 1 ("Time Out"): a bigot hates Jews, Black and Asians. One day he will live in World War II, be hunted down by the KKK and get attacked in the Vietnam War and feel the effects of his hatred. Segment 2 ("Kick the Can"): In a nursing home, the elder inhabitants learn that their minds can keep them young. Segment 3 ("It's a Good Life"): a traveler hits a boy in a bicycle with her car and takes the boy home. Soon she learns that the powerful boy brought her home indeed. Segment 4 ("Nightmare at 20,000 feet"): a writer is scared to fly and soon he sees a monstrous creature destroying the airplane engines during a stormy night."
For the record:
It's hard to say why the Twilight Zone movie isn't remembered by a wider audience years later, but I suspect that the negative press surrounding the death of actor Vic Morrow and two children (from the Segment 1 story) certainly had an impact on Hollywood and beyond. It did score some impressive nominations (1984 Saturn Award nominee for 'Best Horror Film;' 1984 Fantasporto nominee for 'Best Film;' etc.), but its only win of record (that I'm award of) is John Lithgow securing the 1984 Saturn Award for 'Best Supporting Actor' in what was the film's biggest performance.
On this day in 1985 (in Denmark), The Last Starfighter soared onto the silver screen. Directed by Nick Castle from a story by Jonathan R. Beteul, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Lance Guest, Catherine Mary Stewart, and Robert Preston. Here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I was privileged to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of Arrow Video's release in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Folks interested in checking out what I thought can do so right here.
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
For the record:
- At the 1985 Saturn Awards, actor Robert Preston received a nomination for 'Best Supporting Actor.'
- At the 1985 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, director Nick Castle received a nomination for their 'Grand Prize' for his work on the film.
- Lastly, the feature was nominated for the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1985 Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I was privileged to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of Arrow Video's release in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Folks interested in checking out what I thought can do so right here.
On this day in 1988 (in Portugal), Cherry 2000 played for audiences in attendance of the Fantasporto Film Festival. Directed by Steve De Jarnatt from a script by Michael Almereyda (adapted from a story by Lloyd Fonvielle), the feature starred a young and tough Melanie Griffith teamed up with the always likeable David Andrews, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 2017, a successful businessman travels to the ends of the earth to find that the perfect woman is always under his nose. He hires a sexy renegade tracker to find an exact duplicate of his android wife."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cherry 2000 earned a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"In 2017, a successful businessman travels to the ends of the earth to find that the perfect woman is always under his nose. He hires a sexy renegade tracker to find an exact duplicate of his android wife."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cherry 2000 earned a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Gor sweated its way toward box office glory. Directed by Fritz Kiersch, the Fantasy film starred Urbano Barberini, Rebecca Ferratti, and Jack Palance; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"American professor Tarl Cabot is transported via a magical ring to planet Gor, where he must help an oppressed country overthrow its evil king and his barbarian henchmen."
For the record:
Presently, Gor's official U.S. premiere date appears lost to history as IMDB.com only indicates that it was released in February, 1988. In order to give some of these older and obscure titles, I'm using the first of the month as a substitute date until such a time as I can find more definitive information.
"American professor Tarl Cabot is transported via a magical ring to planet Gor, where he must help an oppressed country overthrow its evil king and his barbarian henchmen."
For the record:
Presently, Gor's official U.S. premiere date appears lost to history as IMDB.com only indicates that it was released in February, 1988. In order to give some of these older and obscure titles, I'm using the first of the month as a substitute date until such a time as I can find more definitive information.
On this day in 1995 (in Italy), Trapped In Space enjoyed its premiere on home video. Directed by Arthur Allan Seidelman, the SciFi/Drama starred Jack Wagner, Jack Coleman, and Craig Wasson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After an accident during a routine trip to Venus, a spaceship has only enough oxygen left for three people... out of five on board."
"After an accident during a routine trip to Venus, a spaceship has only enough oxygen left for three people... out of five on board."
A star is born!
On this day in 1998, The Lake premiered on television, delivering up SciFi/Horror thrills to those who waded in. Directed by David Jackson from a story by J.D. Feilgelson and Alan Brennert, the film starred Yasmin Bleeth, Linden Ashby, and Susanna Thompson. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A nurse returns to her home town to care for her dying father, and finds everyone she knows there has undergone a bizarre personality change."
"A nurse returns to her home town to care for her dying father, and finds everyone she knows there has undergone a bizarre personality change."
On this day in 1999 (in Norway), Screamers enjoyed a release on home video. Adapted from a work by Philip K. Dick, the film was directed by Christian Duguay and starred Peter Weller, Jennifer Rubin, and Roy Dupuis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A military commander stationed off planet during an interplanetary war travels through the devastated landscape to negotiate a peace treaty, but discovers that the primitive robots they built to kill enemy combatants have gained sentience."
For the record:
At the 1996 Genie Awards (which recognized excellence in Canadian television and film production), Screamers enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role,' 'Best Achievement in Art Direction/Production Design,' and 'Best Achievement in Music - Original Score.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I purchased the Shout Factory release of the Science Fiction film. If you're interested in knowing what I thought, then you can check out my review right here.
"A military commander stationed off planet during an interplanetary war travels through the devastated landscape to negotiate a peace treaty, but discovers that the primitive robots they built to kill enemy combatants have gained sentience."
For the record:
At the 1996 Genie Awards (which recognized excellence in Canadian television and film production), Screamers enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role,' 'Best Achievement in Art Direction/Production Design,' and 'Best Achievement in Music - Original Score.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I purchased the Shout Factory release of the Science Fiction film. If you're interested in knowing what I thought, then you can check out my review right here.
On this day in 2006 (in Greece), Category 7: The End Of The World enjoyed its release on home video. This television miniseries starred Gina Gershon, Cameron Daddo, and Shannen Doherty; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A deadly category 7 storm wreaks havoc on the world. Meanwhile, kidnappers threaten to make matters even worse."
For the record:
Category 7 enjoyed a respectable bit of critical praise including the nomination for 'Outstanding Sound Editing For A Miniseries, Movie, Or A Special' from the 2006 Primetime Emmys as well as a nomination for 'Best Television Presentation' from the 2006 Saturn Awards.
"A deadly category 7 storm wreaks havoc on the world. Meanwhile, kidnappers threaten to make matters even worse."
For the record:
Category 7 enjoyed a respectable bit of critical praise including the nomination for 'Outstanding Sound Editing For A Miniseries, Movie, Or A Special' from the 2006 Primetime Emmys as well as a nomination for 'Best Television Presentation' from the 2006 Saturn Awards.
A star is born ... or is that hatched?
On this day in 2007 (in France), Kaw enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Festival du Film Fantastique de Gérardmer. Directed by Sheldon Wilson from a script by Ben Sztajnkrycer, the SciFi/Horror starred Sean Patrick Flanery, Stephen McHattie, and Kristin Booth. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On the last working day of Sheriff Wayne, his small town is attacked by blood thirsty ravens that eat human flesh. Meanwhile his wife Cynthia visits a farm where a Mennonite family lives to say farewell to her friend Gretchen and discloses a dark secret about the origin of the fierce ravens."
"On the last working day of Sheriff Wayne, his small town is attacked by blood thirsty ravens that eat human flesh. Meanwhile his wife Cynthia visits a farm where a Mennonite family lives to say farewell to her friend Gretchen and discloses a dark secret about the origin of the fierce ravens."
A star is born!
On this day in 2011 (in New Zealand), yet another catastrophe -- Panic At Rock Island -- aired as a SciFi telefilm. Directed by Tony Tilse from a story by Matt Ford, the film starred Grant Bowler, Zoe Cramond, and Eli Kent. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An island on spectacular Sydney Harbour. Summer sun Top international artists. Tens of thousands of music fans from across the world Idyllic... Until unimaginable disaster strikes."
"An island on spectacular Sydney Harbour. Summer sun Top international artists. Tens of thousands of music fans from across the world Idyllic... Until unimaginable disaster strikes."
On this day in 2011, Zenith enjoyed a general release via the Internet. Written and directed by Vladan Nikolic, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Peter Scanavino, Jason Robards III, and Ana Asensio; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A retro-futuristic steam-punk thriller, about two men in two time periods, whose search for the same grand conspiracy leads them to question their own humanity."
"A retro-futuristic steam-punk thriller, about two men in two time periods, whose search for the same grand conspiracy leads them to question their own humanity."
On this day in 2012, it looks like it's the end of life as we knew it when Earth's Final Hours aired on television. Directed by W.D. Hogan, the SciFi/Thriller starred Robert Knepper, Julia Benson, and Cameron Bright. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After dense matter from an imploded white hole hits Earth, the planet's rotation is devastated. A group of government agents must locate a lost satellite network that is the world's only hope for survival."
"After dense matter from an imploded white hole hits Earth, the planet's rotation is devastated. A group of government agents must locate a lost satellite network that is the world's only hope for survival."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013, Hyperfutura gave audiences another look at the dangers of science. Written (in part) and directed by James O'Brien, the feature starred Eric Kopatz, Karen Corona, and Gregory Kiem. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Adam Leben is a laid off factory worker. To save his life, he answers an ad for a medical test experiment, plunging down a rabbit hole of genetic engineering, mind control and time travel."
"Adam Leben is a laid off factory worker. To save his life, he answers an ad for a medical test experiment, plunging down a rabbit hole of genetic engineering, mind control and time travel."
A star is born!
A star is born! On this day in 2014, the animated SciFi/Telefilm Stan Lee's Mighty 7 gave audiences a look at one more Stan Lee project. Directed by Ningning Lee, the project featured the voices of Stan Lee, Armie Hammer, and Teri Hatcher. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Stan Lee encounters a group of actual aliens and teaches them to be a team of superheroes, using their "actual" exploits as comic book stories."
"Stan Lee encounters a group of actual aliens and teaches them to be a team of superheroes, using their "actual" exploits as comic book stories."
On this day in 2015 (in Germany), Animal sunk its teeth into internet audiences. Directed by Brett Simmons, the SciFi/Horror starred Joey Lauren Adams, Elizabeth Gillies, and Paul Iacono; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When plans for a weekend vacation hit a dead end, a group of close-knit friends find themselves stranded in unfamiliar territory, pursued by a menacing, blood thirsty predator."
"When plans for a weekend vacation hit a dead end, a group of close-knit friends find themselves stranded in unfamiliar territory, pursued by a menacing, blood thirsty predator."
On this day in 2015 (in the Netherlands), Avalon High took audiences kinda/sorta into the mythology of King Arthur. Directed by Stuart Gillard, the Fantasy feature starred Britt Robertson, Gregg Sulkin, and Joey Pollari; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A teenage girl moves to a new high school where she slowly discovers herself involved in the reincarnation of King Arthur."
For the record:
In 2010, the film's screenwriters were recognized as winners for 'Children's Script' from the Writers Guild of America.
"A teenage girl moves to a new high school where she slowly discovers herself involved in the reincarnation of King Arthur."
For the record:
In 2010, the film's screenwriters were recognized as winners for 'Children's Script' from the Writers Guild of America.
A star is born!
On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), a chunk of the moon came crashing down to Earth with the release of Moon Crash! Directed by Noah Luke from a script by Lauren Pritchard and Joe Roche, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jeremy London, Tyler Christopher, and Jamison Jones. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A global steel company is working with an aerospace partner to extract lunar material. When a drilling accident causes a giant piece of the moon to break off, it goes on a collision course with Earth."
"A global steel company is working with an aerospace partner to extract lunar material. When a drilling accident causes a giant piece of the moon to break off, it goes on a collision course with Earth."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea: Part 2 - The Escape." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Captain Nemo's daughter falls in love with Farragaut, a captive in her father's underwater vessel, only to realize she is being held a prisoner too."
"Captain Nemo's daughter falls in love with Farragaut, a captive in her father's underwater vessel, only to realize she is being held a prisoner too."
On this day in 1964 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired the episode titled "The Rescue." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode to the program's first season, and it was the climax to the very first story dealing with those dastardly Daleks! Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Ian, Barbara and the surviving members of their party try to find a way into the Dalek City whilst Alydon prepares the other Thals for an attack. But only the Doctor and Susan are aware of the full extent of the threat the Daleks pose."
"Ian, Barbara and the surviving members of their party try to find a way into the Dalek City whilst Alydon prepares the other Thals for an attack. But only the Doctor and Susan are aware of the full extent of the threat the Daleks pose."
It all came down to this ...
On this day in 1968 (in the United Kingdom), The Prisoner aired "Fall Out." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After witnessing the trials of Number Two and Number Forty-Eight and meeting the President of the Assembly, Number Six escapes during the chaos that follows."
On this day in 1968 (in the United Kingdom), The Prisoner aired "Fall Out." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After witnessing the trials of Number Two and Number Forty-Eight and meeting the President of the Assembly, Number Six escapes during the chaos that follows."
On this day in 1969 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Seeds of Death: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-fourth episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Eldred agrees to supply a rocket for travel to the moon and the Doctor, Jamie and Zoe volunteer to crew it."
"Eldred agrees to supply a rocket for travel to the moon and the Doctor, Jamie and Zoe volunteer to crew it."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Doomwatch aired "Flight Into Yesterday." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's second season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a long-haul flight Dr Quist's reputation is put seriously in doubt when he arrives drunk to a meeting with the Prime Minister. Is it a simple case of jet-lag, or sabotage?"
"After a long-haul flight Dr Quist's reputation is put seriously in doubt when he arrives drunk to a meeting with the Prime Minister. Is it a simple case of jet-lag, or sabotage?"
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Timeslip aired "The Year Of The Burn Up: Part 7." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Escaping from the dying Ice Box, Simon and Liz are transported by the time barrier to an alternate 1990 where a technocratic society's misuse of scientific progress has resulted in the breakdown of the planet's climate."
"Escaping from the dying Ice Box, Simon and Liz are transported by the time barrier to an alternate 1990 where a technocratic society's misuse of scientific progress has resulted in the breakdown of the planet's climate."
On this day in 1975 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Ark In Space: Part 2." Officially, this served as the sixth episode of the program's twelfth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Harry revive the Ark's medtech, Vira, to help Sarah.But when station commander Noah is revived, he becomes suspicious of the newcomers."
"The Doctor and Harry revive the Ark's medtech, Vira, to help Sarah.But when station commander Noah is revived, he becomes suspicious of the newcomers."
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), The Incredible Hulk aired "Long Run Home." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"David hooks up with a lone biker who's wanted by the police for questioning and by his club for deserting them."
"David hooks up with a lone biker who's wanted by the police for questioning and by his club for deserting them."
On this day in 1982 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Kinda: Part 1." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's nineteenth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"On Deva Loka, a sylvan paradise planet with no predators, diseases or civilized roadways, Nyssa (due to Monarch's two attempts to turn her into an android) stays in the TARDIS to fully recover from mild mental disorientation, under the Doctor's Delta Wave Augmenter while the others go exploring. The Doctor and Adric find a survey team assessing the planet for colonization, and cracking under the stress of three fellow members (half the crew) disappearing without a trace. There's also a primitive and almost entirely speechless native culture on hand who curiously have about them a few items of technically advanced skill and knowledge. Meanwhile Tegan succumbs to a dreaming tree where an evil entity awaits a catalyst for entering the real world."
"On Deva Loka, a sylvan paradise planet with no predators, diseases or civilized roadways, Nyssa (due to Monarch's two attempts to turn her into an android) stays in the TARDIS to fully recover from mild mental disorientation, under the Doctor's Delta Wave Augmenter while the others go exploring. The Doctor and Adric find a survey team assessing the planet for colonization, and cracking under the stress of three fellow members (half the crew) disappearing without a trace. There's also a primitive and almost entirely speechless native culture on hand who curiously have about them a few items of technically advanced skill and knowledge. Meanwhile Tegan succumbs to a dreaming tree where an evil entity awaits a catalyst for entering the real world."
On this day in 1983 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Mawdryn Undead: Part 1." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's twentieth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"With the TARDIS trapped on a collision course with a strange, orbiting spaceship, locked in time as well as space, the Black Guardian recruits a deceitful and ill-natured British student to kill the Doctor."
"With the TARDIS trapped on a collision course with a strange, orbiting spaceship, locked in time as well as space, the Black Guardian recruits a deceitful and ill-natured British student to kill the Doctor."
The Resistance kept taking the fight to the Visitors on this day in 1985 when NBC aired "The Rescue" as part of its line-up. Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Feeling Diana's presence threatens his power, Charles forces her to marry him, after which Alien law requires she return home."
"Feeling Diana's presence threatens his power, Charles forces her to marry him, after which Alien law requires she return home."
On this day in 1986 (in France), The Twilight Zone aired "The Obsolete Man." Officially, this served as the twenty-ninth episode in the program's second season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a future totalitarian society, a librarian is declared obsolete and sentenced to death."
"In a future totalitarian society, a librarian is declared obsolete and sentenced to death."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Counselor Deanna Troi had to come to terms with some very curious visions she was having as part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation fifth season outing, "Violations." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's fifth season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Transporting three Ullian mind-probing historians, the Enterprise crew is stymied when some of its members fall into a coma. Deanna Troi, the first crew member to come through it, cannot recall anything surrounding the incident."
"Transporting three Ullian mind-probing historians, the Enterprise crew is stymied when some of its members fall into a coma. Deanna Troi, the first crew member to come through it, cannot recall anything surrounding the incident."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), the UPN aired "To Kill A Billionaire," the second episode in Time Trax's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Sahmbi launches a new business with the technology to eliminate nuclear waste in a safe manner. Darien discovers he is really sending the material into the future, and must stop him at all costs."
"Dr. Sahmbi launches a new business with the technology to eliminate nuclear waste in a safe manner. Darien discovers he is really sending the material into the future, and must stop him at all costs."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "The Coming Of Shadows." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Centauri emperor visits the station, leading G'Kar to attempt to assassinate him. Lord Refa and Londo conspire to expand their power on Centauri Prime."
For the record:
I'd be remiss in my duties as Editor-In-Chief if I failed to mention that "The Coming Of Shadows" took home a 1996 Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"The Centauri emperor visits the station, leading G'Kar to attempt to assassinate him. Lord Refa and Londo conspire to expand their power on Centauri Prime."
For the record:
I'd be remiss in my duties as Editor-In-Chief if I failed to mention that "The Coming Of Shadows" took home a 1996 Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Dark Skies aired "White Rabbit." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the cult program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Bach's pursuit of the wreckage of an alien ship helps start US involvement in the Vietnam War."
"Bach's pursuit of the wreckage of an alien ship helps start US involvement in the Vietnam War."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Superman: The Animated Series aired "Tools Of The Trade." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Intergang boss Bruno Mannheim receives powerful alien weapons from a mysterious benefactor."
"Intergang boss Bruno Mannheim receives powerful alien weapons from a mysterious benefactor."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "Payback." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2006 (in the United Kingdom), Hyperdrive aired "Asteroid." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Henderson has his eye on a Nobel Peace Prize when the Bulaah and the Lallakiss arrive at the Camden Lock for negotiations over the rights to an asteroid. Discarding Teal's complex agendas in favour of a 'man-to-thing' chat, Henderson raises the stakes of the negotiation by threatening to blow up the disputed rock if they don't agree to share it."
"Henderson has his eye on a Nobel Peace Prize when the Bulaah and the Lallakiss arrive at the Camden Lock for negotiations over the rights to an asteroid. Discarding Teal's complex agendas in favour of a 'man-to-thing' chat, Henderson raises the stakes of the negotiation by threatening to blow up the disputed rock if they don't agree to share it."
On this day in 2007 (in Spain), Heroes aired "Chapter 01 - Genesis." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In this episode, we are introduced to Peter Petrelli, a young man who dreams of flying, and his brother Nathan, a ruthless politician who thinks that Peter is dreaming his life away. Meanwhile, ordinary people from all around the world are starting to suspect that they have abilities beyond those of normal humans. Artist Isaac Mendez believes that he is painting the future, high school cheerleader Claire Bennet is suddenly able to recover from any wound almost instantly, Japanese businessman Hiro Nakamura tries to convince a friend that he can bend space and time, and single mother Niki Sanders starts seeing strange things in mirrors. Upon learning of his father's death, genetics Professor Mohinder Suresh begins to look into his research for a clue to why he was killed. When he follows his father's trail to New York City, however, Mohinder learns that someone else is on the trail of the same research. Someone who may kill to protect the secrets of the next step in human evolution."
"In this episode, we are introduced to Peter Petrelli, a young man who dreams of flying, and his brother Nathan, a ruthless politician who thinks that Peter is dreaming his life away. Meanwhile, ordinary people from all around the world are starting to suspect that they have abilities beyond those of normal humans. Artist Isaac Mendez believes that he is painting the future, high school cheerleader Claire Bennet is suddenly able to recover from any wound almost instantly, Japanese businessman Hiro Nakamura tries to convince a friend that he can bend space and time, and single mother Niki Sanders starts seeing strange things in mirrors. Upon learning of his father's death, genetics Professor Mohinder Suresh begins to look into his research for a clue to why he was killed. When he follows his father's trail to New York City, however, Mohinder learns that someone else is on the trail of the same research. Someone who may kill to protect the secrets of the next step in human evolution."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Mulder & Scully Meet The Were-Monster." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mulder questions his faith in the unexplained. He attempts to gather proof of the existence of the new creature he and Scully investigate before jumping to conclusions."
"Mulder questions his faith in the unexplained. He attempts to gather proof of the existence of the new creature he and Scully investigate before jumping to conclusions."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), The 100 aired "Echoes." Officially, this served as the first episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clarke and her friends struggle with how to proceed after the fate of the world is revealed."
"Clarke and her friends struggle with how to proceed after the fate of the world is revealed."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Syfy's SciFi/Drama The Expanse launched its second season with the airing of "Safe." Officially, this served as the first episode of Season 2, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Unlikely allies Joe Miller and the crew of the Rocinante led by Jim Holden uncover more about the conspiracy to release the proto-molecule on Eros station."
"Unlikely allies Joe Miller and the crew of the Rocinante led by Jim Holden uncover more about the conspiracy to release the proto-molecule on Eros station."
Giving its fans something extra to crow about, Syfy aired a second installment of The Expanse as part of a premiere event for Season Two. It was titled "Doors & Corners," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Holden and crew stage a dangerous raid in search of information about the protomolecule."
"Holden and crew stage a dangerous raid in search of information about the protomolecule."
On this day in 1993, the Star Trek: Deep Space novel "Emissary" was released for sell-thru. The book was written by J.M Dillard (though adapted chiefly from a teleplay by Michael Piller), and here's the plot summary from Amazon.com:
"In an immense space station with instant access to the galaxy's farthest reaches, an embittered Starfleet officer guides his crew--once sworn enemies, now partners in space exploration and discovery."
"In an immense space station with instant access to the galaxy's farthest reaches, an embittered Starfleet officer guides his crew--once sworn enemies, now partners in space exploration and discovery."
On this day in 1995, the novelization for the pilot movie of Star Trek: Voyager was released to the marketplace. Like the episode, the novel was simply called "Caretaker," and here's the plot summary from Amazon.com:
"Captain Kathryn Janeway and the crew of the Starship Voyager are transported by alien technology to the other side of the galaxy, years away from the Federation and everything they call home. There an enigmatic being known as the Caretaker kidnaps two crew members and transports them to a people known as the Ocampa. Captain Janeway must rescue her crew members, battle a hostile race called the Kazon-Ogla, and solve the mystery which surrounds the Caretaker, only to begin the fantastic voyage back to Earth."
"Captain Kathryn Janeway and the crew of the Starship Voyager are transported by alien technology to the other side of the galaxy, years away from the Federation and everything they call home. There an enigmatic being known as the Caretaker kidnaps two crew members and transports them to a people known as the Ocampa. Captain Janeway must rescue her crew members, battle a hostile race called the Kazon-Ogla, and solve the mystery which surrounds the Caretaker, only to begin the fantastic voyage back to Earth."
On this day in 1995, the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine novel titled "Proud Helios" was released to the marketplace. This book was written by Melissa Scott, and here's the plot summary compliments of Amazon.com:
"The free flow of traffic to the Gamma Quadrant is vital to the recovery and survival of the planet Bajor and to Federation interests as well, so when a mysterious cloaked ship begins raiding wormhole shipping, cleaning out holds and killing whole crews, Commander Sisko of "Deep Space Nine" TM acts at once to the stop the piracy. He soon finds he has unlikely help, since the cloaked ship has been preying on Cardassian ships as well, and the convenient alliance goes well until two of Sisko's personnel are captured by the pirates. The Cardassian commander will not hesitate to destroy the pirate ship if he can, even if Sisko's people are still aboard, and Sisko must find the pirates first and hold off the Cardassians at least long enough to bring his crewmen to safety."
"The free flow of traffic to the Gamma Quadrant is vital to the recovery and survival of the planet Bajor and to Federation interests as well, so when a mysterious cloaked ship begins raiding wormhole shipping, cleaning out holds and killing whole crews, Commander Sisko of "Deep Space Nine" TM acts at once to the stop the piracy. He soon finds he has unlikely help, since the cloaked ship has been preying on Cardassian ships as well, and the convenient alliance goes well until two of Sisko's personnel are captured by the pirates. The Cardassian commander will not hesitate to destroy the pirate ship if he can, even if Sisko's people are still aboard, and Sisko must find the pirates first and hold off the Cardassians at least long enough to bring his crewmen to safety."
On this day in 1994, Star Trek fans who had been clamoring for a stand-alone Captain Sulu project were given Star Trek: Transformations, an original audio production starring Sulu himself, actor George Takei. According to our friends at Amazon.com, here's the (edited) premise behind the fully-realized adventure:
"As Starfleet diplomat Captain Hikaru Sulu speeds alone across the galaxy in his state-of-the-art shuttlecraft, he is abducted by powerful, frightening dreams that return him to the once desolate, desert world of Sigma Cameron Four. It was here as Commander of the U.S.S. Excelsior twenty years earlier, that he discovered traces of the ancient Shalakai -- a ruthless culture who, legend held, had once uncovered the secret to eternal life. Driven to find that secret, Sulu's brilliant science officer, Commander Flynn Konner launched a fateful mission whose outcome would forever haunt the Excelsior crew. Now, twenty years later, as the distinguished archeologist Dr. Constance Allenwood moves closer to uncovering the Shalakai's secrets on Sigma Cameron Four, Sulu must race to stop her before she unleashes a disastrous chain of events."
"As Starfleet diplomat Captain Hikaru Sulu speeds alone across the galaxy in his state-of-the-art shuttlecraft, he is abducted by powerful, frightening dreams that return him to the once desolate, desert world of Sigma Cameron Four. It was here as Commander of the U.S.S. Excelsior twenty years earlier, that he discovered traces of the ancient Shalakai -- a ruthless culture who, legend held, had once uncovered the secret to eternal life. Driven to find that secret, Sulu's brilliant science officer, Commander Flynn Konner launched a fateful mission whose outcome would forever haunt the Excelsior crew. Now, twenty years later, as the distinguished archeologist Dr. Constance Allenwood moves closer to uncovering the Shalakai's secrets on Sigma Cameron Four, Sulu must race to stop her before she unleashes a disastrous chain of events."