Regardless of your feelings for the Star Wars franchise, there are a few unmistakable facts about it. First, it's made an awful lot of money. Second, it has some of the coolest droids in all of iilmdom. Arguably, one of the most recognizable voices in Science Fiction and Fantasy belongs to Anthony Daniels, the man under the gold mask as the prissy protocol droid, C3PO. Daniels was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Along with Star Trek's Leonard Nimoy and the great Mark Lenard, Celia Lovsky remains one of the most recognized Vulcans in the history of television. (Think what you will, but I find that no small feat.) Thankfully, this wasn't her only appearance in genre entertainment. The actress can be seen in such projects as One Step Beyond, The Twilight Zone, The Flying Nun, and Soylent Green (1973). Though she's no longer with us, Lovsky was born on this day in 1897.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Natalie Core enjoyed a great supporting role aboard the SciFi/Comedy The Ice Pirates (1984) for MGM. According to IMDB.com, one of her earliest roles of record was an appearance aboard the 1950's SciFi show Captain Video And His Video Rangers. Though she's no longer with us, Core was born on this day in 1919.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Important links:
I've had the good fortune of watching The Ice Pirates several times. Interesting in knowing what I thought of it? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Important links:
I've had the good fortune of watching The Ice Pirates several times. Interesting in knowing what I thought of it? Readers can find my review right here.
Golden Girl Rue McClanahan made a surprise appearance as a battle-scarred science teacher aboard Paul Verhoeven's big screen adaptation of Robert Heinlein's SciFi novel Starship Troopers (1997). Otherwise, her work in Science Fiction and Fantasy was extraordinarily light, so let's be thankful she admirably chewed scenery in this role. Though she's no longer with us McClanahan was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late Norma Bengell brought just a bit of black-clad sexiness to her work aboard Planet Of The Vampires (1965) for Italian International Film. Though she's no longer with us, Bengell was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
"Where No Man Has Gone Before" was Star Trek's second filmed pilot episode. Some say it's the better pilot, but I've always thought that it was just 'different' than the first filmed one, maybe even a bit -- erm -- dumbed down, though I don't mean any disrespect. Either way, actor Gary Lockwood put his indelible stamp on the Trek universe by playing 'Commander Gary Mitchell' in the hour, and it was great to have him aboard. FYI: for those who missed it, he also had a role in the classic 2001: A Space Odyssey. Lockwood was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning actress Tyne Daly stepped into the Marvel Movie Universe with a role aboard Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017). Daly was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The film Galaxy Quest (1999) is very near and dear to Star Trek fans, mostly b/c it -- in such a good-natured way -- pokes fun at while celebrating what makes fandom such a unique experience. Well, in what will be the most unique sentence I'll probably write today, hats off to Alan Rickman as 'Alexander Dane' playing Dr. Lazarus! Though he's no longer with us, Rickman was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Alan Rickman was definitely one of the more decorated talents to firmly dip his toes into the realm of genre entertainment, and fans rejoiced at his work at quite probably every opportunity. In his career, he enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1992), Galaxy Quest (1999), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street (2007), and Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Alan Rickman was definitely one of the more decorated talents to firmly dip his toes into the realm of genre entertainment, and fans rejoiced at his work at quite probably every opportunity. In his career, he enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1992), Galaxy Quest (1999), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street (2007), and Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011).
Larry Drake was a fabulous character actor who could play drama or comedy as any script required. Genre fans recognize him from appearances aboard Dark Night Of The Scarecrow (1981), Werewolf, Tales From The Crypt, Darkman (1990), Dr. Giggles (1992), Darkman II: The Return Of Durant (1995), The Outer Limits, The Beast (1996), Superman: The Animated Series (voicework), Prey, Batman Beyond (voicework), Star Trek: Voyager, Stargate: SG-1, Firefly, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (voicework), Green Lantern: First Flight (voicework), and The Secrets Of Emily Blair (2016) -- his final project of note. Though he's no longer with us, Drake was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1991, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized Drake's work in Darkman (1990) with a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.' A few years later -- in 1995 -- the man earned a CableACE Awards nomination in the category of 'Actor In A Dramatic Series' for his work aboard The Outer Limits' episode "The Message."
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1991, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized Drake's work in Darkman (1990) with a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.' A few years later -- in 1995 -- the man earned a CableACE Awards nomination in the category of 'Actor In A Dramatic Series' for his work aboard The Outer Limits' episode "The Message."
Though I suspect her acting pedigree leans heavily toward conventional work, the lovely Mimi Kuzyk has still given genre fans something to appreciate with appearances in Starman, Quantum Leap, The Ray Bradbury Theatre, Seaquest 2032, Total Recall 2070, Pegasus Vs. Chimera (2012), The Strain, Lost Girl, and Shadowhunters. Kuzyk was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Make no mistake: we Trek fans love our guest cameos. In fact, we love them so much that we often take up various fan-fiction campaigns to see some of the more memorable ones given greater exposure. Throughout the years, Star Trek has built a reputation for some terrific cameos, and one of the best was Kelsey Grammer appearing as Captain Morgan Bateson in the clever "Cause & Effect" episode from Star Trek: The Next Generation. Grammer was born on this day in 1955.
Drama, Comedy, Science Fiction ... Denise Dowse has done it all. Genre fans might know her best from work featured aboard Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Starship Troopers (1997), Threshold, Charmed, and The X-Files. Though she's no longer with us, Dowse was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tough guy Kim Coates played a role in the popular Resident Evil franchise as well as filling out characters in the RoboCop TV series, Waterworld (1996), Total Recall 2070, Battlefield Earth (2000), and Earth: Final Conflict. But the magic doesn't stop there as he's also paid visits to such places as War Of The Worlds, The Amityville Curse (1990), Innocent Blood (1992), Unforgettable (1996), NightMan, The Outer Limits, The Island (2005), Skinwalkers (2006), The Dresden Files, Alien Agent (2007), Smallville, Level 9, Mutant World (2014), and Van Helsing. Coates was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1998, Coates enjoyed a Gemini Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Guest Role in a Dramatic Series' for his work aboard "Transference," an episode of the genre program Poltergeist: The Legacy.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1998, Coates enjoyed a Gemini Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Guest Role in a Dramatic Series' for his work aboard "Transference," an episode of the genre program Poltergeist: The Legacy.
As Noah Bennett aboard the Heroes franchise, Jack Coleman played a mysterious man working hard to keep the forces of good and evil under his control. Coleman was born on this day in 1958.
The lovely Patricia Healy enjoyed a pair of appearances to the greater world of J. Michael Straczynski's Babylon 5 during its run. Healy was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Were I being brutally honest with you, I'd confess that there's nothing I honestly love more as part of any sci-fi franchise than a great villain. Darth Vader. Khan. Scorpius. For all of its creative blemishes (and it had plenty), Star Trek: Voyager did have a fairly grand villain ... only, for my tastes, she vanishes much too soon. Her name was Seska. Not only was she a great villain, but she did what extremely well what great villains do: she betrayed her people. She did it, and, at every opportunity, she rubbed her former crewmates noses in it. Brilliant. The lovely Martha Hackett -- who helped bring Seska to life -- was born on this day back in 1961.
Though he'll always be remembered by a certain generation of moviegoers for the cinematic exploration of young love in Blue Lagoon, Christopher Atkins more recently faced down a rampaging dinosaur time-transported to modern day Los Angeles in 100 Million BC. Atkins was born on this day in 1961.
Actor and political activist William Baldwin lit up the screen with a role aboard Joel Schumacher's Flatliners (1990). He's also scored roles in such genre properties as Virus (1999), Aftermath (2014), Forever, The Purge, War Of The Worlds: Annihilation (2021), 20.0 Megaquake (2022), and Ice Storm (2023). Baldwin was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Huw Higginson boasted a few appearances aboard the Doctor Who spin-off -- The Sarah Jane Adventures -- back in 2008. Higginson was born on this day in 1964.
Clark Freeman played a character exploring the lines between life and death aboard the solid Horror/Fantasy We Go On (2016) for Filmed Imagination. Freeman was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional copy of We Go On (2016) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional copy of We Go On (2016) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
2016's TV return of The X-Files on Fox wasn't as 'eventful' as I'd hope it would've been. In six episodes, stories ranged from the comically bizarre to the moderately interesting, but kudos to showrunner Chris Carter for packing it full of talented guest stars, including Kumail Nanjiani as an animal control officer with a secret. Nanjiani was born on this day in 1978.
Sigh. Sadly, Jordan Peele's work traffics in a lot of hate -- new and old -- so I don't much partake of it. He did bring his particular brand of otherworldly social justice to CBS's streaming platform in a politically-driven revamp of Rod Serling's television classic The Twilight Zone and -- clunk! -- it lasted a scant twenty episodes. Maybe next time? Peele was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A dreamy Elize du Toit (above right) portrayed a 'Sinister Woman' aboard two episodes of Doctor Who in 2007. She also appeared briefly in Skyfall as M's Assistant. Du Toit was born on this day in 1980.
The delicious Ashley Greene trafficked in the realm of Fantasy with a premium role aboard the Twilight saga. Greene was born on this day in 1987.
Back before Elliot Page declared "himself," "he" was Ellen Page, a pretty talented female actress. In the guise of Ellen, Elliot took a bunch of employment opportunities away from women by actually starring as one in such features as Marvel's X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). Elliot continued taking roles away from women until finally declaring himself male. Will "he" be returning all of those coveted acting awards for females so that they can now be properly awarded to actresses? Only time will tell. Page was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tuppence Middleton (above left) joined Mila Kunis in one of the most critically-drubbed Science Fiction films of the 2000's when she appearance in the Wachowski's Jupiter Ascending. Middleton was born on this day in 1987.
In his youth, Corbin Bleu enjoyed a small part aboard Galaxy Quest (1999), arguably one of the best SciFi/Comedies of its generation. Bleu was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The X-Men film property is about to gain another powerful player as Game of Thrones' lovely Sophie Turner will be slipping into the spandex in the guise of Jean Grey in X-Men: Apocalypse. Turner was born on this day in 1996.
Newcomer Cat Cakmis did what she could for mankind aboard Interstellar Civil War: Shadows of the Empire (2017). Cakmis was born on this day in 1997.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1936 (in the United Kingdom), the good people of London, England were treated to the silver screen premiere of Things To Come. William Cameron Menzies directed this adaptation of the H.G. Wells novel, and the film starred Raymond Massey, Edward Chapman, and Ralph Richardson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The story of a century: a decades-long second World War leaves plague and anarchy, then a rational state rebuilds civilization and attempts space travel."
ExtraExtra Alert:
At some point in the early 2000's, I had an opportunity to watch and review Things To Come with a new home video release. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
"The story of a century: a decades-long second World War leaves plague and anarchy, then a rational state rebuilds civilization and attempts space travel."
ExtraExtra Alert:
At some point in the early 2000's, I had an opportunity to watch and review Things To Come with a new home video release. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1944 (in the U.S.), Voodoo Man enjoyed its only theatrical exhibition of record! Directed by William Beaudine, the Fantasy/Horror starred Bela Lugosi, John Carradine, and George Zucco; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Richard Marlowe uses a combination of voodoo rite and hypnotic suggestion, attempting to revive his beautiful, but long-dead, wife, by transferring the life essences of several hapless young girls he has kidnapped and imprisoned in the dungeon beneath his mansion."
"Dr. Richard Marlowe uses a combination of voodoo rite and hypnotic suggestion, attempting to revive his beautiful, but long-dead, wife, by transferring the life essences of several hapless young girls he has kidnapped and imprisoned in the dungeon beneath his mansion."
On this day in 1957 (in Hong Kong), the original SciFi/Classic Forbidden Planet enjoyed a run through theaters. Directed by Fred M. Wilcox, the feature film starred Leslie Nielsen, Anne Francis, and Walter Pidgeon; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments. In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.' And in 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
On this day in 1958 (in West Germany), the SciFi/Thriller Day The World Ended enjoyed its theatrical premiere. Directed by the master himself -- Roger Corman -- the feature starred Richard Denning, Lori Nelson, and Adele Jergens; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-Apocalyptic world after an atomic war seven disparate people find themselves in a protected valley in the home of a survivalist and his beautiful daughter."
"In a post-Apocalyptic world after an atomic war seven disparate people find themselves in a protected valley in the home of a survivalist and his beautiful daughter."
On this day in 1963 (in Denmark), audiences were made to feel the terror of Night Of The Eagle. Directed by Sidney Hayers and coming from the work of Richard Matheson, the film starred Peter Wyngarde, Janet Blair, and Margaret Johnston. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A skeptical college professor discovers that his wife has been practicing magic for years. Like the learned, rational fellow he is, he forces her to destroy all her magical charms and protective devices, and stop that foolishness. He isn't put off by her insistence that his professional rivals are working magic against him, and her protections are necessary to his career and life."
For the record:
At the 1963 Hugo Awards, Night Of The Eagle was nominated in the much coveted 'Best Dramatic Presentation' category.
"A skeptical college professor discovers that his wife has been practicing magic for years. Like the learned, rational fellow he is, he forces her to destroy all her magical charms and protective devices, and stop that foolishness. He isn't put off by her insistence that his professional rivals are working magic against him, and her protections are necessary to his career and life."
For the record:
At the 1963 Hugo Awards, Night Of The Eagle was nominated in the much coveted 'Best Dramatic Presentation' category.
A star is born! On this day in 1963 (in London), The Mind Benders enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever for its box office premiere in the United Kingdom. Directed by Basil Dearden, the SciFi/Drama starred Dirk Bogarde, Mary Ure, and John Clements; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dedicated British scientist Dr. Henry Laidlaw Longman tests the possibility of brainwashing. If the experiment succeeds, he will stop loving his wife Oonagh."
"Dedicated British scientist Dr. Henry Laidlaw Longman tests the possibility of brainwashing. If the experiment succeeds, he will stop loving his wife Oonagh."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), mankind said hello to Raquel Welch in a Stone Age bikini when One Million Years B.C. premiered theatrically. Directed by Don Chaffey, the Fantasy feature also starred John Richardson, Percy Herbert, and Robert Brown; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Caveman Tumak is banished from his savage tribe. He finds a brief home among a group of gentle seacoast dwelling cave people until he is banished from them as well. Missing him, one of their women, Loana leaves with him, deciding to face the harsh prehistoric world with its monsters and volcanos as a couple."
"Caveman Tumak is banished from his savage tribe. He finds a brief home among a group of gentle seacoast dwelling cave people until he is banished from them as well. Missing him, one of their women, Loana leaves with him, deciding to face the harsh prehistoric world with its monsters and volcanos as a couple."
A star is born! On this day in 1968 (in France), Coplan Saves His Skin (aka Coplan sauve sa peau) enjoyed its silver screen debut. Written (in part) and directed by Yves Boisset, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Claudio Brook, Margaret Lee, and Klaus Kinski. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In Istanbul, a young woman is attacked by six thugs and the agent Frank Milland who had set a rendez-vous with her, is outnumbered, and she dies. Frank is menaced later in order to stop his inquiry about the thugs identities. Each clue he follows leads to more and more danger. Then he comes across Eva, a young woman who is the dead girl's spitting image; either she is her twin sister, or the woman who died in his arms. Eventually he encounters a mad sculptor, who is more than he pretends to be. Frank ends up a prisoner is an abandoned castle hidden in Turkey's mountainous hinterland, trying to save his own life and to prevent the development of a mysterious weapon that would put an end to civilization as we know it."
"In Istanbul, a young woman is attacked by six thugs and the agent Frank Milland who had set a rendez-vous with her, is outnumbered, and she dies. Frank is menaced later in order to stop his inquiry about the thugs identities. Each clue he follows leads to more and more danger. Then he comes across Eva, a young woman who is the dead girl's spitting image; either she is her twin sister, or the woman who died in his arms. Eventually he encounters a mad sculptor, who is more than he pretends to be. Frank ends up a prisoner is an abandoned castle hidden in Turkey's mountainous hinterland, trying to save his own life and to prevent the development of a mysterious weapon that would put an end to civilization as we know it."
A star is born! On this day in 1968, The Power turned up the heat in theatres. Directed by Byron Haskin from a screen adaptation of the Frank M. Robinson novel, the SciFi/Drama starred George Hamilton, Richard Carlson, and Suzanne Pleshette; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"One by one members of a special project team are being killed by telekinesis - the ability to move things with the power of the mind alone. The race is to determine which of the remaining team members is the murderer and how to stop them."
"One by one members of a special project team are being killed by telekinesis - the ability to move things with the power of the mind alone. The race is to determine which of the remaining team members is the murderer and how to stop them."
A star is born! On this day in 1977 (in Denmark), Aftenlandet (aka Evening Land) took another spin at the whole mockumentary format, this time with a Science Fiction angle. Written (in part) and directed by Peter Watkins, the SciFi/Drama starred Bent Andersen, Kai Schøning Andersen, and Mogens Andersen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dystopian presentation of a Denmark in imminent risk of sinking into police violence and a military coup."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Aftenlandet enjoyed a small amount of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"Dystopian presentation of a Denmark in imminent risk of sinking into police violence and a military coup."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Aftenlandet enjoyed a small amount of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1978 (in Italy), Eyes Behind The Stars premiered, delivering audiences one more look at potential contact from alien intelligences. Written and directed by Mario Gariazzo, it starred Robert Hoffman, Martin Balsam, and Nathalie Delon; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A photographer and his model are on a photo shoot in a forest when they get the feeling they are being watched. The feeling becomes so strong that they decide to cut their session short and leave. Later, when they develop the photos they took, they discover what looks like alien creatures in the background."
"A photographer and his model are on a photo shoot in a forest when they get the feeling they are being watched. The feeling becomes so strong that they decide to cut their session short and leave. Later, when they develop the photos they took, they discover what looks like alien creatures in the background."
On this day in 1981 (in Portugal), the 1925-produced Silent/Fantasy film At 3:25 (aka Paris qui dort) played for audiences in attendance of the Cineclube do Norte. Written and directed by René Clair, this SciFi/Fantasy starred Charles Martinelli, Louis Pré Fils, and Albert Préjean; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist's invisible ray freezes Paris into immobility."
"A scientist's invisible ray freezes Paris into immobility."
On this day in 1982 (in Portugal), The Rat Savior played for audiences in attendance of the Fantasporto Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Krsto Papic, the SciFi/Horror starred Ivica Vidovic, Mirjana Majurec, and Relja Basic; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A poor writer discovers that a species of rats has banded together to impersonate humans and supplant them unnoticed, in a manner reminiscent of the transformations in Eugene Ionesco's Rhinoceros, or the covert conspiracy of pod-people in The Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
For the record:
At the 1978 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, director Krsto Papic was nominated for the 'Grand Prize' for work on the film. Also -- at the 1982 Fantasporto Film Festival -- Papic took hom the trophy for 'Best Film' in the International Fantasy Film category.
"A poor writer discovers that a species of rats has banded together to impersonate humans and supplant them unnoticed, in a manner reminiscent of the transformations in Eugene Ionesco's Rhinoceros, or the covert conspiracy of pod-people in The Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
For the record:
At the 1978 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, director Krsto Papic was nominated for the 'Grand Prize' for work on the film. Also -- at the 1982 Fantasporto Film Festival -- Papic took hom the trophy for 'Best Film' in the International Fantasy Film category.
On this day in 1985 (in the Netherlands), The Terminator came from the future to destroy the past. Written (in part) and directed by James Cameron, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Biehn, and Linda Hamilton. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A human soldier is sent from 2029 to 1984 to stop an almost indestructible cyborg killing machine, sent from the same year, which has been programmed to execute a young woman whose unborn son is the key to humanity's future salvation."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
"A human soldier is sent from 2029 to 1984 to stop an almost indestructible cyborg killing machine, sent from the same year, which has been programmed to execute a young woman whose unborn son is the key to humanity's future salvation."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
On this day in 1986 (in Mexico), Stryker blazed a trail across the Apocalypse. Written (in part) and directed by Cirio H. Santiago, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Steve Sandor, Andria Savio, and William Ostrander; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The world's water supply has dried up due to some sort of apocalypse. A beautiful woman holds the secret to where one of the last springs being guarded by a group of Amazons. A "Road Warrior" like crew captures her and tries to make her talk through brutal torture. The hero (Styrker) unites with some of the remaining "good guys" and the Amazons and frees the woman. They go on to a "Road Warrior" type of concluding battle with the bad guys."
"The world's water supply has dried up due to some sort of apocalypse. A beautiful woman holds the secret to where one of the last springs being guarded by a group of Amazons. A "Road Warrior" like crew captures her and tries to make her talk through brutal torture. The hero (Styrker) unites with some of the remaining "good guys" and the Amazons and frees the woman. They go on to a "Road Warrior" type of concluding battle with the bad guys."
On this day in 1988 (in Japan), Deadly Eyes enjoyed a release on home video. Directed by Robert Clouse, the Horror/Fantasy starred Sam Groom, Sara Botsford, and Scatman Crothers. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Contaminated grain breeds overgrown, killer rats in this Golden Harvest production. Dachshunds were dressed up as rats for the special effects."
"Contaminated grain breeds overgrown, killer rats in this Golden Harvest production. Dachshunds were dressed up as rats for the special effects."
On this day in 1988 (in Japan), Voyage Of The Rock Aliens turned up the music with its debut on home video. Directed by James Fargo, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Pia Zadora, Craig Sheffer, and Tom Nolan; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Aliens land in the town of "Speelburgh" searching for the source of rock & roll. They find trouble with Dee Dee, Frankie and the pack."
"Aliens land in the town of "Speelburgh" searching for the source of rock & roll. They find trouble with Dee Dee, Frankie and the pack."
On this day in 1991 (in Japan), the Trolls were back in the business of trolling with the home video release of Troll 2. Written (in part) and directed by Claudio Fragasso, the Fantasy film starred Michael Paul Stephenson, George Hardy, and Margo Prey; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A vacationing family discovers that the entire town they're visiting is inhabited by goblins, disguised as humans, who plan to eat them."
"A vacationing family discovers that the entire town they're visiting is inhabited by goblins, disguised as humans, who plan to eat them."
A star is born ... and isn't it ugly?!?! On this day in 1995 (in Germany), Project: Metalbeast first roared for the cameras. Written (in part) and directed by Alessandro De Gaetano, the SciFi/Horror starred Kim Delaney, Barry Bostwick, and Kane Hodder. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1974, an unhinged CIA agent injects himself with the werewolf blood he found. After a killing spree, his body is put in suspended animation, then thawed out 20 years later by his crazy boss and a team of unsuspecting doctors."
For the record:
Technically, this is not Project: Metalbeast's original premiere date. IMDB.com reports that the feature enjoyed a U.S. home video release some time in January, 1995. However, as I've been unable to locate a specific date for that release, I will be using this date in lieu of it. Should I locate more specific information in the future, I'll update the citation.
"In 1974, an unhinged CIA agent injects himself with the werewolf blood he found. After a killing spree, his body is put in suspended animation, then thawed out 20 years later by his crazy boss and a team of unsuspecting doctors."
For the record:
Technically, this is not Project: Metalbeast's original premiere date. IMDB.com reports that the feature enjoyed a U.S. home video release some time in January, 1995. However, as I've been unable to locate a specific date for that release, I will be using this date in lieu of it. Should I locate more specific information in the future, I'll update the citation.
On this day in 1997 (in Brazil), Captain Picard and company went into the past to save the future in Star Trek: First Contact. Directed by Jonathan Frakes, the SciFi/Thriller starred Patrick Stewart, Brent Spiner, and Michael Dorn; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Borg travel back in time intent on preventing Earth's first contact with an alien species. Captain Picard and his crew pursue them to ensure that Zefram Cochrane makes his maiden flight reaching warp speed."
For the record:
At the 1997 Academy Awards, the great Michael Westmore enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Makeup' for his work in the film. At the 1997 Saturn Awards, First Contact enjoyed wins in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Costumes' while missing out on trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"The Borg travel back in time intent on preventing Earth's first contact with an alien species. Captain Picard and his crew pursue them to ensure that Zefram Cochrane makes his maiden flight reaching warp speed."
For the record:
At the 1997 Academy Awards, the great Michael Westmore enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Makeup' for his work in the film. At the 1997 Saturn Awards, First Contact enjoyed wins in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Costumes' while missing out on trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (Special Edition) enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Irvin Kershner, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After the Rebels are brutally overpowered by the Empire on the ice planet Hoth, Luke Skywalker begins Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued across the galaxy by Darth Vader and bounty hunter Boba Fett."
For the record:
At the 1981 Academy Awards, The Empire Strikes Back took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Sound' along with a Special Achievement Oscar for 'Visual Effects.' At the 1981 Saturn Awards, the film took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also in 1981, it took home the Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"After the Rebels are brutally overpowered by the Empire on the ice planet Hoth, Luke Skywalker begins Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued across the galaxy by Darth Vader and bounty hunter Boba Fett."
For the record:
At the 1981 Academy Awards, The Empire Strikes Back took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Sound' along with a Special Achievement Oscar for 'Visual Effects.' At the 1981 Saturn Awards, the film took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also in 1981, it took home the Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1997 (in Germany), The Demolitionist enjoyed a release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Robert Kurtzman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Nicole Eggert, Bruce Abbott, and Susan Tyrrell; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A murdered police officer is brought back to life by a cold-hearted scientist to serve as "The Demolitionist", the ultimate crime-fighting weapon in a city overrun by criminals and internal corruption."
"A murdered police officer is brought back to life by a cold-hearted scientist to serve as "The Demolitionist", the ultimate crime-fighting weapon in a city overrun by criminals and internal corruption."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Falling Fire (aka The Cusp) enjoyed its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Daniel D'Or, the SciFi/Drama starred Michael Paré, Heidi von Palleske, and Mackenzie Gray; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An asteroid is brought by spaceship to lunar orbit to be mined for resources for dying Earth. Sabotage to the ship's navigation system guides the asteroid into collision orbit with Earth."
For the record:
At the 1998 WorldFest Houston, the film was given the Gold Award in the category of 'Theatrical Feature Films And Videos.'
"An asteroid is brought by spaceship to lunar orbit to be mined for resources for dying Earth. Sabotage to the ship's navigation system guides the asteroid into collision orbit with Earth."
For the record:
At the 1998 WorldFest Houston, the film was given the Gold Award in the category of 'Theatrical Feature Films And Videos.'
On this day in 2002 (in Argentina), the body count was climbing higher with the release of Jason X. Directed by James Isacc, the feature film starred Kane Hodder, Lexa Doig, and Jeff Geddis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in Canada), Corpses Are Forever enjoyed its original release. Written and directed by Jose Prendes, the Horror/Comedy starred Richard Lynch, Brinke Stevens, and Linnea Quigley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Malcolm Grant, a government secret agent wakes up with amnesia in a post-apocalyptic world in permanent darkness and overrun by the living dead. Malcolm teams up with an army contingent led by General Morton to find answers hidden in his consious to find a solution to stop the zombies and find the source."
"Malcolm Grant, a government secret agent wakes up with amnesia in a post-apocalyptic world in permanent darkness and overrun by the living dead. Malcolm teams up with an army contingent led by General Morton to find answers hidden in his consious to find a solution to stop the zombies and find the source."
On this day in 2006 (in Hungary), Endangered Species enjoyed its premiere on home video. Written and directed by Kevin Tenney, the SciFi/Horror starred Eric Roberts, Arnold Vosloo, and John Rhys-Davies; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A killing machine from another world comes to Earth to kill humans."
"A killing machine from another world comes to Earth to kill humans."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in Russia), the Fantasy We Are From The Future dropped onto television as a miniseries event. The feature starred Danila Kozlovsky and Andrey Terentev, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"We Are from the Future is a movie about time travel. Four 21st century treasure seekers are transported back into the middle of a WWII battle in Russia. The movie's genres are action, drama, fantasy, and romance. The movie will leave you captivated."
"We Are from the Future is a movie about time travel. Four 21st century treasure seekers are transported back into the middle of a WWII battle in Russia. The movie's genres are action, drama, fantasy, and romance. The movie will leave you captivated."
On this day in 2009 (in the United Kingdom), One-Eyed Monster played for audiences in attendance of the Glasgow Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Adam Fields, the SciFi/Horror starred Amber Benson, Jason Graham, and Charles Napier; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A hostile alien wreaks havoc on the cast and crew of an adult movie."
"A hostile alien wreaks havoc on the cast and crew of an adult movie."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in Russia), Dark Skies were loomed overhead ... well, cinematically, that is. Written and directed by Scott Stewart, the SciFi/Horror starred Keri Russell, Jake Brennan, and Josh Hamilton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As the Barrett family's peaceful suburban life is rocked by an escalating series of disturbing events, they come to learn that a terrifying and deadly force is after them, one which may have arrived from beyond the stars."
"As the Barrett family's peaceful suburban life is rocked by an escalating series of disturbing events, they come to learn that a terrifying and deadly force is after them, one which may have arrived from beyond the stars."
On this day in 2013 (in Malaysia), Spiders 3D crawled into theatres. Directed by Tibor Takács, the SciFi feature starred William Hope and Shelly Varod, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a Soviet space station crashes into a New York City subway tunnel, a species of venomous spiders is discovered, and soon they mutate to gigantic proportions and wreak havoc on the city."
"After a Soviet space station crashes into a New York City subway tunnel, a species of venomous spiders is discovered, and soon they mutate to gigantic proportions and wreak havoc on the city."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in Canada), Anger Of The Dead enjoyed its first theatrical screening of note when it was featured at the Granite Planet International Film Festival. Written and directed by the silver screen by Francesco Picone, the Horror/Fantasy starred Aaron Stielstra, Michael Segal, and Marius Bizau. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a world ravaged by a virus that turns people into cannibals, a pregnant woman (Alice) manages to survive. Alice, in the company of two other men, strives to reach an island untouched by the plague. Meanwhile, a dangerous individual is on the trail of a mysterious girl, which causes Alice to realize that the Zombies are not her biggest and only threat."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Anger Of The Dead earned an extra bit of attention from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"In a world ravaged by a virus that turns people into cannibals, a pregnant woman (Alice) manages to survive. Alice, in the company of two other men, strives to reach an island untouched by the plague. Meanwhile, a dangerous individual is on the trail of a mysterious girl, which causes Alice to realize that the Zombies are not her biggest and only threat."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Anger Of The Dead earned an extra bit of attention from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Needlestick pricked the audience's attention. Written and directed by Steven Karageanes, the Horror/Thriller starred Lance Henriksen, Harry Lennix, and Michael Traynor. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A desperate doctor locks down South Union Cardiac Hospital to keep the greatest discovery in human history to himself, while a young intern races to save a dying young dancer, his ex-girlfriend, and his best friend, and stop his mentor."
"A desperate doctor locks down South Union Cardiac Hospital to keep the greatest discovery in human history to himself, while a young intern races to save a dying young dancer, his ex-girlfriend, and his best friend, and stop his mentor."
A star is born! On this day in 2019 (in Indonesia), Foxtrot Six went into action! (Well ... cinematically, that is.) Written and directed for the screen by Randy Korompis, the SciFi/Thriller starred Oka Antara, Verdi Solaiman, and Chicco Jerikho. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Escalating climate change is turning the world economy upside down. With crops dying and food price spiking, FOOD has replaced oil as the world's most valuable commodity. Among the very few lands still left fertile, Indonesia is quickly rising as the next economic superpower, when its government is suddenly and ruthlessly overtaken by a popular rogue political party. In just three days, six former Marines must work together, find their long-lost brotherhood, stop a nationwide government- sanctioned genocide, and save millions of lives, for one last shot at redemption. Or die trying."
"Escalating climate change is turning the world economy upside down. With crops dying and food price spiking, FOOD has replaced oil as the world's most valuable commodity. Among the very few lands still left fertile, Indonesia is quickly rising as the next economic superpower, when its government is suddenly and ruthlessly overtaken by a popular rogue political party. In just three days, six former Marines must work together, find their long-lost brotherhood, stop a nationwide government- sanctioned genocide, and save millions of lives, for one last shot at redemption. Or die trying."
On this day in 2019 (in Russia), the 2006-produced The Ugly Swans enjoyed a release via the Internet. Written (in part) and directed by Konstantin Lopushanskiy, the SciFi/Drama starred Gregory Hlady, Leonid Mozgovoy, and Aleksey Kortnev; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The writer is invited to the town of Tashlinsk by the mutants who emerged after an unnatural and constant rain causing the evacuation of the city, and by the children who are studying the unearthly knowledge of mutants."
"The writer is invited to the town of Tashlinsk by the mutants who emerged after an unnatural and constant rain causing the evacuation of the city, and by the children who are studying the unearthly knowledge of mutants."
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), I Am Fear enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Kevin Shulman, the Horror/Thriller starred Kristina Klebe, Faran Tahir, and Said Faraj. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Held captive by terrorists, celebrity reporter, Sara Brown, sits in a cell awaiting her filmed beheading. Sara's captors wish to show the world the true face of terror but how can they, when even they have not seen it yet?"
"Held captive by terrorists, celebrity reporter, Sara Brown, sits in a cell awaiting her filmed beheading. Sara's captors wish to show the world the true face of terror but how can they, when even they have not seen it yet?"
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired an episode titled "Ice Caves Of Pluto." If IMDB.com is any indication, then it appears that (sadly) the plot summary of this adventure has been lost to history.
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), Space Patrol aired "Operation Rescue." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A spacecraft attempts a short cut through the asteroid belt. When the craft is damaged it is up to the Space Patrol to launch a rescue. But when they arrive everyone suffers an unexpected surprise."
"A spacecraft attempts a short cut through the asteroid belt. When the craft is damaged it is up to the Space Patrol to launch a rescue. But when they arrive everyone suffers an unexpected surprise."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Stingray aired "Invisible Enemy." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Troy and Phones rescue a comatose man and take him back to Marineville for treatment."
"Troy and Phones rescue a comatose man and take him back to Marineville for treatment."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), The Invaders aired "Nightmare." This served as the seventh hour to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"David Vincent visits a small Kansas town, resentful of strangers, and uncovers an alien plot to control locusts and other insects."
"David Vincent visits a small Kansas town, resentful of strangers, and uncovers an alien plot to control locusts and other insects."
On this day in 1968 (in the U.S.), Lost In Space aired "The Flaming Planet." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Doctor Smith disposes of a plant which has grow to an intense size, and becomes attached to the hull of Jupiter 2."
"Doctor Smith disposes of a plant which has grow to an intense size, and becomes attached to the hull of Jupiter 2."
OMG, "The Way To Eden" ... Get off my starship, you lowdown dirty space hippie ... and take that newfangled guitar with you! Ahem. Season 3 of the otherwise classic SciFi program Star Trek demonstrated fairly consistently how far the show had gone off the rails when airing such dated stinkers like this one, but that's what happens when networks shenanigans get the best of you. The episode first aired on this day in 1969 (in the U.S.), and -- according to our friends at IMDB.com -- here's the plot summary:
"A group of idealistic hippies, led by an irrational leader, come aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise."
"A group of idealistic hippies, led by an irrational leader, come aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise."
On this day in 1970 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Doctor Who and the Silurians: Part 4." This served as the eighth episode of the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With Quinn dead, the Brigadier decides to take an armed party into the caves, prompting the Doctor to contact the Silurians himself."
"With Quinn dead, the Brigadier decides to take an armed party into the caves, prompting the Doctor to contact the Silurians himself."
On this day in 1976 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Seeds of Doom: Part 4." This served as the twenty-fourth episode of the program's thirteenth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Sarah is saved from a Krynoid fate and runs off, but the same can't be said for one of Chase's men. Not only is he simultaneously devoured and transformed, his fascinated employer will do all he can to encourage the process. The Doctor gets introduced to Chase's grinder and compost acceleration chamber, which promises him a painful yet swift death en route to making him one with nature, via the garden's nutrient pump. The situation has finally gone too far for Dunbar, who outs his own involvement in this matter and stands up to Chase, only to come face to face with a fully developed Krynoid."
"Sarah is saved from a Krynoid fate and runs off, but the same can't be said for one of Chase's men. Not only is he simultaneously devoured and transformed, his fascinated employer will do all he can to encourage the process. The Doctor gets introduced to Chase's grinder and compost acceleration chamber, which promises him a painful yet swift death en route to making him one with nature, via the garden's nutrient pump. The situation has finally gone too far for Dunbar, who outs his own involvement in this matter and stands up to Chase, only to come face to face with a fully developed Krynoid."
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century aired "Space Rockers." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an evil rock impresario devises a means to implant a hypnotic signal into a rock band's music to drive their young audience berserk, Buck must thwart his schemes of conquest."
"When an evil rock impresario devises a means to implant a hypnotic signal into a rock band's music to drive their young audience berserk, Buck must thwart his schemes of conquest."
On this day in 1981 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Keeper of Traken: Part 4." This served as the twenty-fourth episode of the program's eighteenth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"With the merciless Melkur in control of The Source, the Doctor and his allies have only a slim chance of deposing him, which also puts the peace of the Traken Union in severe jeopardy."
"With the merciless Melkur in control of The Source, the Doctor and his allies have only a slim chance of deposing him, which also puts the peace of the Traken Union in severe jeopardy."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Misfits of Science aired "The Avenging Angel." This served as the fifteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lovable loser Mort believes he can wrestle when Gloria helps him save an elderly couple from being attacked. Unfortunately, it's a Mob-controlled protection racket, making things dangerous for Mort and Gloria."
"Lovable loser Mort believes he can wrestle when Gloria helps him save an elderly couple from being attacked. Unfortunately, it's a Mob-controlled protection racket, making things dangerous for Mort and Gloria."
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future aired "The Eden Road." This served as the seventeenth episode of the program's first (and only) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Cypher tells Captain Power that he and his team have been asked to make contact with a representative from the mythical sanctuary Eden II in one of the harshest places on Earth: the acid-ridden Dark Town."
"Cypher tells Captain Power that he and his team have been asked to make contact with a representative from the mythical sanctuary Eden II in one of the harshest places on Earth: the acid-ridden Dark Town."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Time Trax aired "The Gravity Of It All." This served as the fifth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"While taking a vacation, Darien stumbled upon the brilliant future scientist Dr. Carter Bach. Being that Bach is not a fugitive, Darien must decide whether or not to send him back to the future, but other more evil plans are afoot."
"While taking a vacation, Darien stumbled upon the brilliant future scientist Dr. Carter Bach. Being that Bach is not a fugitive, Darien must decide whether or not to send him back to the future, but other more evil plans are afoot."
On this day in 2001 (in Canada), Starhunter continued on its march through its first season, airing its seventeenth hour. It was titled "A Twist in Time," and here's the plot summary as provided by Wikipedia.org:
"While transporting a demented convict called Five, Dante diverts course to answer a distress call from a graviton research station on Triton. Once there, the Tulip'encounters a spacial anomaly and the reactors go critical. Instead of abandoning ship, Percy races to conduct repairs, but is injured and becomes trapped. Dante tries to find her but fails to get there in time. He then experiences a series of warps in space/time that give him multiple chances to change the course of events and eventually save his niece."
"While transporting a demented convict called Five, Dante diverts course to answer a distress call from a graviton research station on Triton. Once there, the Tulip'encounters a spacial anomaly and the reactors go critical. Instead of abandoning ship, Percy races to conduct repairs, but is injured and becomes trapped. Dante tries to find her but fails to get there in time. He then experiences a series of warps in space/time that give him multiple chances to change the course of events and eventually save his niece."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), "Workforce" aired as part of Star Trek: Voyager's final season (the sixteenth episode of season seven). Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Upon returning from a mission, Chakotay, Kim and Neelix find Voyager abandoned and the Doctor the only crew member aboard. The entire crew have been kidnapped, their memories erased and they are now working in an alien industrial complex. Chakotay and Neelix infiltrate the complex and have to make Captain Janeway remember."
"Upon returning from a mission, Chakotay, Kim and Neelix find Voyager abandoned and the Doctor the only crew member aboard. The entire crew have been kidnapped, their memories erased and they are now working in an alien industrial complex. Chakotay and Neelix infiltrate the complex and have to make Captain Janeway remember."
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S. and Canada), Starhunter 2300 aired the sixteenth episode of its second season. The hour was titled "Rivals," and here's the plot summary as provided by Wikipedia.org:
"After dealing with a series of malfunctions, and a psychotic prisoner who gets loose, the crew of the Tulip is helped by Captain Judson of Fugitive Containment Systems - a corporate-backed bounty hunting team equipped with a state-of-the-art ship and the latest resources. Judson becomes interested in Callie and offers her a job with the FCS. Despite Travis urging her to stay, Callie accepts the offer and leaves the Tulip. Afterward, Travis decides to show the FCS who is a more efficient hunter and goes after a dangerous assassin hiding on Clarke Station named Vendal, but the killer's target is uncertain - that is until Travis learns Vendal's mark is Judson himself and he's laid a trap for Callie and the FCS team."
"After dealing with a series of malfunctions, and a psychotic prisoner who gets loose, the crew of the Tulip is helped by Captain Judson of Fugitive Containment Systems - a corporate-backed bounty hunting team equipped with a state-of-the-art ship and the latest resources. Judson becomes interested in Callie and offers her a job with the FCS. Despite Travis urging her to stay, Callie accepts the offer and leaves the Tulip. Afterward, Travis decides to show the FCS who is a more efficient hunter and goes after a dangerous assassin hiding on Clarke Station named Vendal, but the killer's target is uncertain - that is until Travis learns Vendal's mark is Judson himself and he's laid a trap for Callie and the FCS team."
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), The Orville aired "Identity: Part 1." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Issac shuts down, the crew head to his home planet to fix him, and uncover a shocking secret that was better off hidden."
"When Issac shuts down, the crew head to his home planet to fix him, and uncover a shocking secret that was better off hidden."