It's arguably one of Star Trek: The Next Generation's best episodes -- as I think most Trek fans agree -- and the second season outing titled "The Measure of a Man" premiered in TV syndication on this date back in 1989. The story saw Data being ordered to turn himself over for study so that a rather prude and obnoxious Starfleet scientist could go about understanding how the android worked; and I'd give it credit for being one of the first hours of an all-new Trek creatively going where no one had gone before. Kudos to all involved!
For the record:
I wrote a bit of a reflection about this particular episode for part of SciFiHistory.Net's SciFi Moment. Interested readers can check it out right here.
For the record:
I wrote a bit of a reflection about this particular episode for part of SciFiHistory.Net's SciFi Moment. Interested readers can check it out right here.
I would think it only natural to give a proper birthday shout to such a forward-thinking businessman and inventor like Thomas Edison on the day of his entry into our world. Certainly, his work on bringing the phonograph, motion pictures, and electric light to the work was forward-thinking; and -- as a capitalist -- he knew how to 'merchandise' these ideas for the world at large. But one little known contribution he specifically made to the realm of Science Fiction? His film company produced the very first known feature adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, a book which many claim is the first true literary work of SciFi. How cool is that? Though he's no longer with us, Edison was born on this day in 1847.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
The late Pat Welsh is only one of the two actresses who did uncredited voicework in order to create the vocalizations of E.T. in E.T. The Extraterrestrial (1982). She also provided the voice for the bounty hunter 'Boushh' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983). Though she's no longer with us, Welsh was born on this day in 1915.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, be still my heart ... Hollywood screen legend Eva Gabor gave SciFi fans a treat with a guest spot early in her career aboard Tales Of Tomorrow. Though she's no longer with us, Gabor was born on this day in 1919.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A certain generation of moviegoers only know Leslie Nielsen for his comedic work, but those of us with some experience with the Golden Age of Science Fiction recall him as one of the first great cinematic captains. He starred as Commander Adams in Forbidden Planet. Though he's no longer with us, Nielsen was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With exactly 100 different screen credits to his name, Conrad Janis is another one of Hollywood's bit players. Genre fans might recognize him from a guest spot aboard the mid-1980's SciFi series V, but he also enjoyed screen time aboard My Favorite Martian, The Invisible Man, Quark, and Mork & Mindy. Janis was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aboard the original Star Trek, the great Paul Comi played a helmsman who had a bit of an axe to grind with Mr. Spock in "Balance Of Terror," arguably one of the program's finest hours. The actor also enjoyed screen time in The Twilight Zone, Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, The Time Tunnel, The Killings At Outpost Zeta (1980), Voyagers!, Howard The Duck (1986), Werewolf, and Hard Time On Planet Earth. Though he's no longer with us, Comi was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Decades before Star Trek: Voyager had 'Seven of Nine' and the newfangled Battlestar Galactica had the sexually voluptuous Six, The Stepford Wives (1975) ruled the roost of robotic sexpots. Actress Tina Louise certainly fit the bill. Louise was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased a DVD of The Stepford Wives (1975) for my very own home video collection. Interested readers can find my review right here.
The breadth of storytelling possibilities on the original run of the Fox's stellar The X-Files gave showrunners the opportunity to go after all kinds of great guest stars, including screen legend Burt Reynolds who showed up for an hour. Though he's no longer with us, Reynolds was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To be perfectly honest, character-heavy Sonny Landham hasn't done nearly as much SciFi work as he's done action work ... but he was part of the incredible ensemble at the heart of the original Predator (1987). That earns him a mention in these parts, so far as this writer is concerned. Though he's no longer with us, Landham was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alexandra Isles dabbled in the realm of televised Fantasy with a role aboard the Fantasy/Cult favorite Dark Shadows. Isles was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning director Harley Cokeliss has some solid genre credentials under his belt. After working as a second unit director aboard Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, he went on to helm such projects as Battletruck (1982) and Black Moon Rising (1986) before heading into the world of television. Once transitioned over, he worked on such programs as Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Xena: Warrior Princess, The New Adventures Of Robin Hood, The Dark Knight, The Immortal, and Starhunter Transformation. Cokeliss was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Philip Anglim enjoyed a recurring role aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine during much of its run. He also paid a visit to Chris Carter's Millennium. Anglim was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Wesley Strick was one of the talented storytellers who helped bring Amazon's adaptation of The Man In The High Castle to life. Strick was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's certainly far more well known for her work in television soap operas, Catherine Hickland did give SciFi a respectable go-round in the 1980's. She appeared as a guest star on the original Knight Rider and Airwolf, and -- in 1988 -- she starred in the forgettable Robowar. Hickland was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Diane Franklin had the role of one of the romantic interests aboard the SciFi/Comedy Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989). She's also appeared in Amityville II: The Possession (1982) and TerrorVision (1986). Franklin was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The voluptuous Becky LeBeau turned heads with her work aboard such genre entries as Not Of This Earth (1988), Munchie (1992), Dinosaur Island (1994), and Munchie Strikes Back (1994). LeBeau was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Stephen Gregory paid a visit -- albeit briefly -- to the world of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Gregory was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
America's sweetheart (a dubious title, at best) Jennifer Aniston provided the voice for 'Annie Hughes,' the mother aboard the animated SciFi classic The Iron Giant (1999). Aniston was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in the career of critical darling Damian Lewis, he enjoyed a solid performance in the SciFi/Horror Dreamcatcher (2003) from Castle Rock Entertainment. He's also found employment in the short-lived SciFi series Life Force in the United Kingdom. Lewis was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The fetching Marisa Petroro certainly gravitates more toward conventional properties, but she did enjoy a guest visit to the world of Fox TV's Touch during its run on television. Petroro was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Albeit briefly, Lymari Nadal got to play in Syfy's rebooted Battlestar Galactica, appearing in both the regular series as well as Battlestar Galactica: The Plan telefilm. Nadal was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his resume is full of mostly conventional work, Matthew Lawrence took on the alien menace at the heart of Creature Of Darkness (2009) for Stouffer Entertainment LLC. Lawrence was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The stunningly hot Natalie Dormer plays a pretty significant role as part of HBO's stellar Game of Thrones adaptation, but she's also part of a SciFi adaptation: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 & 2. Plus, she had a pretty sweet small role in Captain America: The First Avenger that brought her some modest attention. Dormer was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Nicki Clyne spirited her way through a rather sad character arc with her work aboard Syfy's rebooted Battlestar Galactica. Clyne was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Sarah Butler did business with the Final Frontier with a top role aboard Moontrap: Target Earth (2017) for MT2 Productions. Butler was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You want to see what an Arabian Princess looks like? Well, there she is: the lovely Shanina Shaik played the part to perfection aboard the poorly-received The Mummy (2017) for Universal Pictures. Shaik was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, the things we do for art! Hunky Taylor Lautner bared his soul (and his abs) for his work aboard the greater Fantasy franchise Twilight. Lautner was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
German-born lovely Lisa Vicari shines with her work aboard the small screen serial Fantasy, Dark, on Netflix. Vicari was born on this day in 1997.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning actress Garance Marillier headlined the French-language SciFi series Ad Vitam, a dark look into one of Earth's possible futures. Marillier was born on this day in 1998.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1934 (in Finland), It's Great To Be Alive showed audiences -- in its own way -- that it's great to be alive. Directed by Alfred L. Werker, the SciFi/Comedy starred Raul Roulien, Gloria Stuart, and Edna May Oliver. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An aviator who crash-landed on an island in the South Pacific returns home to find that he is the last fertile man left on Earth after an epidemic of masculitus."
"An aviator who crash-landed on an island in the South Pacific returns home to find that he is the last fertile man left on Earth after an epidemic of masculitus."
On this day in 1963 (in Sweden), The Atomic Submarine made its big submergence ... well, on the silver screen, that is. This one was an entry from genre greats Irving Block and Rabin, and the feature was directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet. The cast included ARthur Franz, Dick Foran, and Brett Halsey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Ships mysteriously disappear on route across the Arctic Sea, and a specially-equipped submarine is sent to investigate."
"Ships mysteriously disappear on route across the Arctic Sea, and a specially-equipped submarine is sent to investigate."
A star is born!
On this day in 1967 (in Japan), The Killing Bottle (aka Kokusai himitsu keisatsu: Zettai zetsumei) enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Senkichi Taniguchi, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tatsuya Mihashi, Nick Adams, and Kimi Mizuno. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two agents of the International Secret Police must prevent a crime organization from assassinating the President of Buddabai and his General."
"Two agents of the International Secret Police must prevent a crime organization from assassinating the President of Buddabai and his General."
On this day in 1970, the U.S. enjoyed a theatrical run of Hammer Films' Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed. The feature starred Peter Cushing and Veronica Carlson, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
A star is born!
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), The Last Dinosaur roared onto the silver screen. Directed by Alexander Grasshoff and Tsugunobu Kotani from a story by William Overgard, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Richard Boone, Joan Van Ark, and Steven Keats. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A wealthy big game hunter and his group become trapped in prehistoric times where they are stalked by a ferocious dinosaur."
"A wealthy big game hunter and his group become trapped in prehistoric times where they are stalked by a ferocious dinosaur."
On this day in 1979 (in Sweden), the SciFi/Drama Jubilee played for audiences in attendance of the Gothenburg Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Queen Elisabeth I travels 400 years into the future to witness the appalling revelation of a dystopian London overrun by corruption and a vicious gang of punk guerrilla girls led by the new Monarch of Punk."
"Queen Elisabeth I travels 400 years into the future to witness the appalling revelation of a dystopian London overrun by corruption and a vicious gang of punk guerrilla girls led by the new Monarch of Punk."
On this day in 1980 (in Spain), audiences were delivered some Encounters In The Deep. Directed by Tonino Ricci, the Fantasy feature starred Andrés García, Gianni Garko, and Gabrielle Ferzetti; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An oceanographer diving in the Bermuda Triangle discovers an undersea world."
"An oceanographer diving in the Bermuda Triangle discovers an undersea world."
On this day in 1980 (in Sweden), Sensual Encounters Of Every Kind delivered a degree of eroticism alongside its Fantasy idea. Written (in part) and directed by Richard Kanter, the Adult film starred Leslie Bovee, Serena, and John Leslie. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A magic talisman turns its possessors into sex maniacs."
"A magic talisman turns its possessors into sex maniacs."
A star is born!
On this day in 1983 (in Japan), Uruseu Yatsura 1: Onri yû (aka Uruseu Yatsura: Only You) enjoyed its first screening ever. Written (in part) and directed by Mamoru Oshii, the Fantasy/Anime featured the voices of Fumi Hirano, Toshio Furukawa, and Saeko Shimazu. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When everyone in town receives invitations to Ataru's wedding, they are shocked to see that his sweetheart Lum is not the bride. Eventually they learn that when Ataru was playing games as a little boy, he stepped on a girl's shadow. Unbeknownst to him, the girl was from extraterrestrial culture where stepping on one's shadow is a form of marriage proposal, and now she and her family have come back to see that Ataru keeps his promise. If he manages to get out of this without being killed by her folks, he'll still have to avoid being torn apart by the hands of Lum."
"When everyone in town receives invitations to Ataru's wedding, they are shocked to see that his sweetheart Lum is not the bride. Eventually they learn that when Ataru was playing games as a little boy, he stepped on a girl's shadow. Unbeknownst to him, the girl was from extraterrestrial culture where stepping on one's shadow is a form of marriage proposal, and now she and her family have come back to see that Ataru keeps his promise. If he manages to get out of this without being killed by her folks, he'll still have to avoid being torn apart by the hands of Lum."
A star is born!
On this day in 1984 (in Japan), Urusei Yatsura 2: Byûtifuru dorîmâ (aka Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer) enjoyed its first unveiling. Written (in part) and directed by Mamoru Oshii, the Fantasy/Anime featured the voice talents of Fumi Hirano, Toshio Furukawa, and Saeko Shimazu. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Lum is a cheerful alien who now lives with her human fiancée, Ataru and her goods friends on earth. The night before the school festival, the world begins to change, things seem to be repeating themselves. Gradually, all necessary functions come to a stop, people disappearing, streets deserting, buildings decaying except Lum and her friends who live ever happier. When they begin to probe the truth, they find out it's somebody's dream that is changing the world..."
"Lum is a cheerful alien who now lives with her human fiancée, Ataru and her goods friends on earth. The night before the school festival, the world begins to change, things seem to be repeating themselves. Gradually, all necessary functions come to a stop, people disappearing, streets deserting, buildings decaying except Lum and her friends who live ever happier. When they begin to probe the truth, they find out it's somebody's dream that is changing the world..."
A star is born!
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Sphere. Directed by Barry Levinson and adapted from the novel by Michael Crichton, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone, and Huey Lewis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship is discovered under three hundred years' worth of coral growth at the bottom of the ocean."
For the record:
At the 1998 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, actress Sharon Stone enjoyed two big nominations in such categories as 'Worst Actress' and 'Worst On-Screen Hairstyle.'
"A spaceship is discovered under three hundred years' worth of coral growth at the bottom of the ocean."
For the record:
At the 1998 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, actress Sharon Stone enjoyed two big nominations in such categories as 'Worst Actress' and 'Worst On-Screen Hairstyle.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1998 (in France and Switzerland), The Visitors II: The Corridors Of Time (aka Les couloirs du temps: Les visiteurs II) took audiences on a trip from the past into the present for comical reasons. Written (in part) and directed by Jean-Marie Poiré, the SciFi/Comedy starred Christian Clavier, Jean Reno, and Muriel Robin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The sequel to The Visitors reunites us with those lovable ruffians from the French Medieval ages who - through magic - are transported into the present, with often drastic consequences. Godefroy de Montmirail travels to today to recover the missing family jewels and a sacred relic, guarantor of his wife-to-be's fertility. The confrontation between Godefroy's repellent servant Jack the Crack and his descendent, the effete Jacquart, present-day owner of the chateau, further complicates the matter."
"The sequel to The Visitors reunites us with those lovable ruffians from the French Medieval ages who - through magic - are transported into the present, with often drastic consequences. Godefroy de Montmirail travels to today to recover the missing family jewels and a sacred relic, guarantor of his wife-to-be's fertility. The confrontation between Godefroy's repellent servant Jack the Crack and his descendent, the effete Jacquart, present-day owner of the chateau, further complicates the matter."
On this day in 2009 (in Canada), The Coming enjoyed its theatrical release. Written and directed by Chad Costen, the SciFi/Drama starred Daniel Leone and Kimara Brilling, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Tom's protective older sister, Samantha, goes missing and the strange events surrounding her disappearance become a match that sets aflame a small town's racial mistrust and mass hysteria eleven years later. In 1997, when tension in the Middle-East is prominent, the future of our world remains uncertain. Tom begins to have terrifying dream memories and finally decides to uncover the truth behind his sister's disappearance. Tom attempts to confront Ezzedine, an old Arabic recluse who harbors the answers to all of his questions concerning Samantha's vanishing. But the suspicious hermit is being viciously pursued by a police officer whose sanity spins wildly out of control. A last desperate act sends Tom home to protect his family and it is there that the greatest secret is revealed. For Tom's story is that of a witness to the tragedy of our world."
"Tom's protective older sister, Samantha, goes missing and the strange events surrounding her disappearance become a match that sets aflame a small town's racial mistrust and mass hysteria eleven years later. In 1997, when tension in the Middle-East is prominent, the future of our world remains uncertain. Tom begins to have terrifying dream memories and finally decides to uncover the truth behind his sister's disappearance. Tom attempts to confront Ezzedine, an old Arabic recluse who harbors the answers to all of his questions concerning Samantha's vanishing. But the suspicious hermit is being viciously pursued by a police officer whose sanity spins wildly out of control. A last desperate act sends Tom home to protect his family and it is there that the greatest secret is revealed. For Tom's story is that of a witness to the tragedy of our world."
A star is born ... and a Reich has returned! On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Iron Sky enjoyed its exclusive theatrical premiere for audiences in attendance of the Berlin International Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Timo Vuorensola, the SciFi/Comedy starred Julia Dietze, Udo Kier, and Christopher Kirby. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Nazis set up a secret base on the dark side of the moon in 1945 where they hide out and plan to return to power in 2018."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Iron Sky earned an extra bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"The Nazis set up a secret base on the dark side of the moon in 1945 where they hide out and plan to return to power in 2018."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Iron Sky earned an extra bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2012, Mysterious Island enjoyed a limited U.S. theatrical release. Directed by Mark Sheppard, the Fantasy film starred Gina Holden and Lochlyn Munro, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Five northern POWs make the decision to escape the war by hijacking a hot air balloon! Drifting through the night, they wake to find themselves marooned on a desert island, but they aren't alone... Littered with wreckage, the island is home to cast of survivors who have been lost in space and time, including Jules and Abby Fogg, two young women from modern times who become stranded while flying over the Bermuda Triangle. Faced with defending themselves against vicious pirates, terrifying creatures, and an active volcano that's ready to blow, they must find a way to survive and escape the island. Hope only comes when they encounter the island's oldest resident, Captain Nemo himself. With his help, they set to work crafting an escape... but will they make it in time before the island claims them forever?"
"Five northern POWs make the decision to escape the war by hijacking a hot air balloon! Drifting through the night, they wake to find themselves marooned on a desert island, but they aren't alone... Littered with wreckage, the island is home to cast of survivors who have been lost in space and time, including Jules and Abby Fogg, two young women from modern times who become stranded while flying over the Bermuda Triangle. Faced with defending themselves against vicious pirates, terrifying creatures, and an active volcano that's ready to blow, they must find a way to survive and escape the island. Hope only comes when they encounter the island's oldest resident, Captain Nemo himself. With his help, they set to work crafting an escape... but will they make it in time before the island claims them forever?"
On this day in 2015 (in Finland), Asteroid Vs. Earth crashed down into homes via the Internet. Directed by Christopher Rey, the SciFi feature starred Tia Carrere and Jason Brooks, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a shower of massive meteors threatens an extinction level event on Earth, the world's greatest minds devise a dangerous plan that will take the planet off its axis in order to avoid the impact."
"When a shower of massive meteors threatens an extinction level event on Earth, the world's greatest minds devise a dangerous plan that will take the planet off its axis in order to avoid the impact."
On this day in 2016 (in Denmark), the family-friendly SciFi/Comedy Antboy 3 crawled onto the silver screen. The feature starred Oscar Dietz and Amalie Kruse Jensen, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Exofarm has a new CEO. The new CEO wants to control the world. Antboy tries to stop her with a new unnamed hero with skateboard."
"Exofarm has a new CEO. The new CEO wants to control the world. Antboy tries to stop her with a new unnamed hero with skateboard."
A star is born!
On this day in 2017 (in Germany), audiences in attendance of the European Film Market in Berlin were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Molly. Written and directed (in part) by Thijs Meuwese, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Julia Batelaan, Emma de Paauw, and Joost Bolt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post apocalyptic world where bullets have become currency and medicine is rare, a clan of marauders uses a home brewed drug to turn innocent people into rabid beasts to have them fight each other in their fighting pits for their entertainment. When their leader discovers rumors of a girl with superpowers roaming the beach near their fort, he sends his best people out to capture her. Meanwhile, the girl, Molly, has discovered a young child, living alone in a cabin in the wasteland, waiting for the return of her parents, who are probably dead. Molly has to protect the child and fight of the marauders at the same time."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Molly earned a wee bit of extra attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2018, I received a complimentary DVD of Molly from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"In a post apocalyptic world where bullets have become currency and medicine is rare, a clan of marauders uses a home brewed drug to turn innocent people into rabid beasts to have them fight each other in their fighting pits for their entertainment. When their leader discovers rumors of a girl with superpowers roaming the beach near their fort, he sends his best people out to capture her. Meanwhile, the girl, Molly, has discovered a young child, living alone in a cabin in the wasteland, waiting for the return of her parents, who are probably dead. Molly has to protect the child and fight of the marauders at the same time."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Molly earned a wee bit of extra attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2018, I received a complimentary DVD of Molly from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2022 (in Germany), audiences of the Berlin International Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Dark Glasses. Written (in part) and directed by Dario Argento, the Horror/Thriller starred Ilenia Pastorelli, Asia Argento, and Andrea Gherpelli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In Rome, a serial killer has strangled three prostitutes with cello rope. "The Cellist's"'s last rope is destined for Diana, a luxury escort who frequents the hotels of Via Veneto. One night, the maniac chases driving a van and rams her, sending her crashing into another car. She awakens in the hospital, shrouded in darkness. The diagnosis is final: she lost her sight in the crash. Rita, a young woman from the Blind Society, helps Diana with her first steps in the darkness and in her new life; in the meantime, the police investigate, unsuccessfully. But it won't stop there. The Cellist must finish his work. Diana, helped by Chinese orphan Chin, can only try to escape. The cat and mouse game has just begun."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was offered a complimentary streaming of Dark Glasses (2022) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"In Rome, a serial killer has strangled three prostitutes with cello rope. "The Cellist's"'s last rope is destined for Diana, a luxury escort who frequents the hotels of Via Veneto. One night, the maniac chases driving a van and rams her, sending her crashing into another car. She awakens in the hospital, shrouded in darkness. The diagnosis is final: she lost her sight in the crash. Rita, a young woman from the Blind Society, helps Diana with her first steps in the darkness and in her new life; in the meantime, the police investigate, unsuccessfully. But it won't stop there. The Cellist must finish his work. Diana, helped by Chinese orphan Chin, can only try to escape. The cat and mouse game has just begun."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was offered a complimentary streaming of Dark Glasses (2022) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1965 (in the U.S.), Jonny Quest aired "The Quetong Missile Mystery." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Someone goes to great lengths to keep activities in the Quetong swamp lake area private. Dr. Quest gets involved when asked to determine why local fish are suddenly starting to make area fishermen sick."
"Someone goes to great lengths to keep activities in the Quetong swamp lake area private. Dr. Quest gets involved when asked to determine why local fish are suddenly starting to make area fishermen sick."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Moonbase: Part 1." Officially, this served as the twenty-third episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS arrives on the Moon in the year 2070. When Jamie is injured, the other travellers are forced to seek the help of a moonbase afflicted with a space plague."
"The TARDIS arrives on the Moon in the year 2070. When Jamie is injured, the other travellers are forced to seek the help of a moonbase afflicted with a space plague."
On this day in 1978 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Invasion Of Time: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's fifteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor orders Leela exiled from the Capitol, then orders K9 to sabotage Gallifrey's defences."
"The Doctor orders Leela exiled from the Capitol, then orders K9 to sabotage Gallifrey's defences."
On this day in 1980 (in the United Kingdom), Blake's 7 aired "City At The Edge Of The World." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Liberator crew makes a deal with a outlaw known as Bayban the Berserker to exchange for crystals need for the Liberator's weapons system. Bayban the Berserker in return requires Vila's help to find a treasure on the distant planet Keezar and Vila falls in love with Kerril, one of Bayban the Berserker's gang members."
"The Liberator crew makes a deal with a outlaw known as Bayban the Berserker to exchange for crystals need for the Liberator's weapons system. Bayban the Berserker in return requires Vila's help to find a treasure on the distant planet Keezar and Vila falls in love with Kerril, one of Bayban the Berserker's gang members."
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), The Powers of Matthew Star aired "Dead Man's Hand." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Matthew and Walt go to Las Vegas to investigate the Golden Harvest casino for rigging games."
"Matthew and Walt go to Las Vegas to investigate the Golden Harvest casino for rigging games."
On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), Airwolf aired "Proof Through The Night." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Russian mole discovers that scientists in the U.S.S.R. have developed a lethal serum that instantly kills anyone exposed to it. He steals a vial of the serum and contacts his friend Archangel for help in escaping the country with his family. Archangel dispatches Hawke and Santini for the rescue effort, but Airwolf can't handle that much passenger weight -- unless all her armaments are stripped leaving the supercopter defenseless."
"A Russian mole discovers that scientists in the U.S.S.R. have developed a lethal serum that instantly kills anyone exposed to it. He steals a vial of the serum and contacts his friend Archangel for help in escaping the country with his family. Archangel dispatches Hawke and Santini for the rescue effort, but Airwolf can't handle that much passenger weight -- unless all her armaments are stripped leaving the supercopter defenseless."
On this day in 1985, the United Kingdom was treated to the sixth (and final) episode of Chocky's Children, the second season of the Chocky franchise. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Matthew finds Albertine, but Deacon discovers them both together. Matthew's father returns and goes to see Dr Landis with Meyer to seek help. Using telepathy, Matthew and Albertine make their escape from the clinic and are found by their parents. Chocky tells them both that right across the globe, there are others just like them."
"Matthew finds Albertine, but Deacon discovers them both together. Matthew's father returns and goes to see Dr Landis with Meyer to seek help. Using telepathy, Matthew and Albertine make their escape from the clinic and are found by their parents. Chocky tells them both that right across the globe, there are others just like them."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Super Force aired "The Viral Staircase: Part 2." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Super Force officers hunt for Biggs and Megan while F.X. and Hungerford search for an antidote to the deadly virus."
"Super Force officers hunt for Biggs and Megan while F.X. and Hungerford search for an antidote to the deadly virus."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), The Adventures Of Brisco County, Jr. aired "Brooklyn Dodgers." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two orphans from Brooklyn are on their way to San Francisco so they can inherit three million dollars, but there are those who want to prevent them from getting there on time-luckily Brisco and Lord Bowler are there to help out."
"Two orphans from Brooklyn are on their way to San Francisco so they can inherit three million dollars, but there are those who want to prevent them from getting there on time-luckily Brisco and Lord Bowler are there to help out."
On this day in 1994, "Young at Heart" aired as the sixteenth hour of The X-Files' first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A criminal believed to have died in a prison years earlier wages a vendetta against Mulder."
"A criminal believed to have died in a prison years earlier wages a vendetta against Mulder."
On this day in 1996, Lois And Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman aired "I Now Pronounce You ..." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After all the obstacles, it finally seems like Lois and Clark can finally tie the knot. However, Lois, being the neurotic Lois Clark dearly loves, can't stand around doing nothing while waiting for her big day. She asks Perry for a simple assignment to take her mind off of the wedding. Together with Clark, the dynamic duo investigate the stealing of a type of exotic frogs from a pet store. These frogs have been known to be used for cloning. At the same time, the president is in town so all the hotels in Metropolis are fully booked. Lois's parents have to stay at her place."
"After all the obstacles, it finally seems like Lois and Clark can finally tie the knot. However, Lois, being the neurotic Lois Clark dearly loves, can't stand around doing nothing while waiting for her big day. She asks Perry for a simple assignment to take her mind off of the wedding. Together with Clark, the dynamic duo investigate the stealing of a type of exotic frogs from a pet store. These frogs have been known to be used for cloning. At the same time, the president is in town so all the hotels in Metropolis are fully booked. Lois's parents have to stay at her place."
There it is: my favorite hour of Space: Above and Beyond. "The Angriest Angel" features T.C. McQueen defying his commander in order to dispense his own brand of justice in the ultimate stellar showdown: two ships enter, one ship leaves. It's a brilliantly staged conclusion to events set up in the previous hour -- "Never No More" -- and it certainly showed the heights this show was willing to climb. It first aired on this day back in 1996.
On this day in 1997, The Burning Zone aired "The Last Endless Summer." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by TV.com:
"The team is called in when several cases of massive organ failure are reported among surfers in California."
"The team is called in when several cases of massive organ failure are reported among surfers in California."
On this day in 1998, Babylon 5 aired "A View From The Gallery." This served as the fourth episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"A day in the life of 2 maintenance workers on Babylon 5. As crisis arises, they encounter the command staff, and the ambassadors each dealing with the crisis."
"A day in the life of 2 maintenance workers on Babylon 5. As crisis arises, they encounter the command staff, and the ambassadors each dealing with the crisis."
On this day in 1998 (in the United Kingdom), Space Island One aired "Crew Test." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Space Island One:
"A group dynamics expert exposes cracks and resentments in the crew by purposely digging into their privacy and provoking arguments and confrontations."
"A group dynamics expert exposes cracks and resentments in the crew by purposely digging into their privacy and provoking arguments and confrontations."
When it comes to some quality Star Trek, rarely does the opinions of the majority and myself differ all that much. Sure, the majority tends to flatten out the curve in any equation, but that's what being a part of the majority means. One time where we do differ, though, is with the airing of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's "Far Beyond the Stars" episode. (NOTE: it first aired on this date in 1998.) I know many folks who call this hour the best in the entire seven seasons; in fact, I know many who do. But to me it was interesting, yes. Why didn't I care about it more deeply than others? I tend to think because -- when measured against the greater context of things DS9 spent much of its time talking about -- this was only a single note played in a much broader composition. As such, I can only say it didn't strike me as 'personally' as it did so many others.
On this day in 1998, Star Trek: Voyager aired "Hunters." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Voyager starts to receive news from home both good and bad. They also encounter the Hirogen race who only live to hunt and have their sights on Voyager."
"Voyager starts to receive news from home both good and bad. They also encounter the Hirogen race who only live to hunt and have their sights on Voyager."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), The Sentinel aired "Mirror Image." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's third season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Someone is beating then killing criminals who got off on technicalities. The MO is identical to that of the killer who shot Cassie in her previous post. But he's in a maximum security prison. It can't be him - can it?"
"Someone is beating then killing criminals who got off on technicalities. The MO is identical to that of the killer who shot Cassie in her previous post. But he's in a maximum security prison. It can't be him - can it?"
On this day in 2000, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Shades Of Grey." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Col. O'Neill is dismissed from the SGC for stealing alien technology, and is subsequently approached to participate in an even more covert Stargate operation."
"Col. O'Neill is dismissed from the SGC for stealing alien technology, and is subsequently approached to participate in an even more covert Stargate operation."
On this day in 2002, Andromeda aired "Be All My Sins Remembered." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Beka receives news of a former crew-member's death and that she was named as his next-of-kin in his will. As they travel to claim his belongings, Harper and Beka tell Dylan more about their comrade."
"Beka receives news of a former crew-member's death and that she was named as his next-of-kin in his will. As they travel to claim his belongings, Harper and Beka tell Dylan more about their comrade."
On this day in 2002, Mutant X aired "Altered Ego." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young New Mutant from Adam's past shows up, seeking revenge for her father's death."
"A young New Mutant from Adam's past shows up, seeking revenge for her father's death."
On this day in 2003, Smallville aired "Prodigal." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lex Luthor rescues his gambler, estranged, half-brother Lucas from a dangerous situation involving Chinese triad gangsters, and brings him to Smallville to help him in a commercial dispute against their father, Lionel. However, Lucas stays side by side with Lionel in his plans of getting his hands on all of Lex's money to feed his gambling habit. The homeless Lex is lodged by Jonathan and his family, while Clark Kent tries to fix the situation with the crafty Lucas before he can carry out his plan to rip off the Luther fortune. But who is playing who? Meanwhile, Clark asks Chloe to put a good word for him to get a job at The Talon which is then bought by Lucas, and Lional reveals that he has regained his eyesight but does not inform anyone."
"Lex Luthor rescues his gambler, estranged, half-brother Lucas from a dangerous situation involving Chinese triad gangsters, and brings him to Smallville to help him in a commercial dispute against their father, Lionel. However, Lucas stays side by side with Lionel in his plans of getting his hands on all of Lex's money to feed his gambling habit. The homeless Lex is lodged by Jonathan and his family, while Clark Kent tries to fix the situation with the crafty Lucas before he can carry out his plan to rip off the Luther fortune. But who is playing who? Meanwhile, Clark asks Chloe to put a good word for him to get a job at The Talon which is then bought by Lucas, and Lional reveals that he has regained his eyesight but does not inform anyone."
On this day in 2004, Smallville aired "Velocity." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While returning home after leaving Jonathan Kent in the hospital recovering from a heart attack, the truck of Martha and Clark is almost hit by two cars racing in the road. For the greatest surprise and deception of Clark, one of the drivers is Pete Ross, who has become the friend of the bad element Jason Dante whom is using meteor-rock synthetic fuel to win at drag races. Pete does not accept Clark's advice and gets into serious trouble when Dante wants $20,000 of losses after thinking Pete betrayed him to the police. Meanwhile, Lex investigates the prominent Dr. Lia Teng about her research of blood platelet with Adam Knight, and Lana feels threatened by the mysterious dark secret of Adam after finding out that he "died" of a rare liver disease and learns about the mysterious blood platelet drug he is taking to keep himself alive."
"While returning home after leaving Jonathan Kent in the hospital recovering from a heart attack, the truck of Martha and Clark is almost hit by two cars racing in the road. For the greatest surprise and deception of Clark, one of the drivers is Pete Ross, who has become the friend of the bad element Jason Dante whom is using meteor-rock synthetic fuel to win at drag races. Pete does not accept Clark's advice and gets into serious trouble when Dante wants $20,000 of losses after thinking Pete betrayed him to the police. Meanwhile, Lex investigates the prominent Dr. Lia Teng about her research of blood platelet with Adam Knight, and Lana feels threatened by the mysterious dark secret of Adam after finding out that he "died" of a rare liver disease and learns about the mysterious blood platelet drug he is taking to keep himself alive."
On this day in 2004, Star Trek: Enterprise aired "Harbinger." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With Reed and Hayes fighting over a training program and Trip seemingly making T'Pol jealous, Enterprise discovers a dying alien in a pod with technology similar to the Spheres."
"With Reed and Hayes fighting over a training program and Trip seemingly making T'Pol jealous, Enterprise discovers a dying alien in a pod with technology similar to the Spheres."
On this day in 2005, Andromeda aired "The Opposites Of Attraction." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While Harper develops a way to save the Seefra system from its impending doom, a spy has slipped on board the Andromeda. Dylan, Rhade, and Trance all feel that someone who should not be aboard is, but cannot confirm their suspicions. Things turn south when the spy attacks Beka by opening a portal to open space inside the ship."
"While Harper develops a way to save the Seefra system from its impending doom, a spy has slipped on board the Andromeda. Dylan, Rhade, and Trance all feel that someone who should not be aboard is, but cannot confirm their suspicions. Things turn south when the spy attacks Beka by opening a portal to open space inside the ship."
On this day in 2005, Stargate: Atlantis aired the 13th episode of its inaugural season. It was called "Sanctuary," and here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Sheppard invites a priestess, who claims to not know about a weapon protecting her planet from the Wraith, to Atlantis to discuss asylum for refugees."
"Sheppard invites a priestess, who claims to not know about a weapon protecting her planet from the Wraith, to Atlantis to discuss asylum for refugees."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles aired "Queen's Gambit." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by IMDB.com:
"Sarah reevaluates the capabilities of her friend Andy Goode's computer, the Turk II, after he enters it in a major chess competition. During the competition, Sarah meets a stranger with a history similar to hers, and who is being pursued by another terminator. At school, John meets a new friend in shop class and becomes curious about the attractive and mysterious Cheri, who is possibly being abused at home. Cameron continues to try to fit in at school, but struggles to act "normal" in her session with the grief counselor. Agent Ellison finds remnants from a past terminator confrontation, leading him closer to both Sarah and the terminator Cromartie. Meanwhile, Cromartie has assumed the identity of the late George Laszlo. Posing as an FBI agent, he continues looking for Sarah and John, and has a conversation with Charley Dixon."
"Sarah reevaluates the capabilities of her friend Andy Goode's computer, the Turk II, after he enters it in a major chess competition. During the competition, Sarah meets a stranger with a history similar to hers, and who is being pursued by another terminator. At school, John meets a new friend in shop class and becomes curious about the attractive and mysterious Cheri, who is possibly being abused at home. Cameron continues to try to fit in at school, but struggles to act "normal" in her session with the grief counselor. Agent Ellison finds remnants from a past terminator confrontation, leading him closer to both Sarah and the terminator Cromartie. Meanwhile, Cromartie has assumed the identity of the late George Laszlo. Posing as an FBI agent, he continues looking for Sarah and John, and has a conversation with Charley Dixon."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Smallville aired "Beacon." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's tenth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clark is surprised to see Martha on the news speaking at a pro-vigilante rally. However, surprise quickly turns to horror when he and Lois watch as Martha is injured in an attack on national television. Meanwhile, Lionel reveals himself to the world and reclaims LuthorCorp from Tess and Oliver. Lois and Chloe decide to cheer Clark up by showing him videos from thousands of vigilante supporters professing their support for The Blur."
"Clark is surprised to see Martha on the news speaking at a pro-vigilante rally. However, surprise quickly turns to horror when he and Lois watch as Martha is injured in an attack on national television. Meanwhile, Lionel reveals himself to the world and reclaims LuthorCorp from Tess and Oliver. Lois and Chloe decide to cheer Clark up by showing him videos from thousands of vigilante supporters professing their support for The Blur."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Colony aired "Geronimo." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Geronimo's identity is revealed. Will begins to question his wife's loyalties. Katie struggles with the weight of her choices. Bram finds his way into a secret world. Snyder sees an opporunity to improve his standing in the colony."
"Geronimo's identity is revealed. Will begins to question his wife's loyalties. Katie struggles with the weight of her choices. Bram finds his way into a secret world. Snyder sees an opporunity to improve his standing in the colony."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), DC's Legends Of Tomorrow aired "White Knights." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Stein sneaks into a lab and finds out that Savage is trying to create Firestorm."
"Dr. Stein sneaks into a lab and finds out that Savage is trying to create Firestorm."
On this day in 2016 (in France and Germany), Trepalium aired the first, second, and third episodes in the program's only season on television. (For those unaware, this was a French-language Science Fiction miniseries.) According to our friends at Wikipedia.org, here are the various plot summaries:
Episode 1: "In the near future, the population is split in two by a wall. On the one hand, the “Zone”, with 80% of the unemployed, on the other, the “City” hosting the 20% of active workers. Izia Katell lives in the Zone where she is raising her son alone. She is selected by the government to become a “solidarity employee” in Aquaville, on the asset side. She goes to work at Ruben Garcia, a depollution engineer devoted to his work, who lives with his wife Thaïs and his daughter who has become mutic."
Episode 2: "Ruben orders Izia, his solidarity who looks like two drops of water to his wife, to accompany him to a cocktail at which the general manager of Aquaville is present. He formalizes his candidacy for the position."
Episode 3: "Double agent, Izia is caught in a vicious circle. Her worst fear is to be discovered."
Episode 1: "In the near future, the population is split in two by a wall. On the one hand, the “Zone”, with 80% of the unemployed, on the other, the “City” hosting the 20% of active workers. Izia Katell lives in the Zone where she is raising her son alone. She is selected by the government to become a “solidarity employee” in Aquaville, on the asset side. She goes to work at Ruben Garcia, a depollution engineer devoted to his work, who lives with his wife Thaïs and his daughter who has become mutic."
Episode 2: "Ruben orders Izia, his solidarity who looks like two drops of water to his wife, to accompany him to a cocktail at which the general manager of Aquaville is present. He formalizes his candidacy for the position."
Episode 3: "Double agent, Izia is caught in a vicious circle. Her worst fear is to be discovered."
