Well, well, well, fellow SciFi enthusiasts ... look what the Targ dragged in today!
Star Trek: Voyager was a bit of a red-headed stepchild to me. It never really set out to explore the strange new worlds it could've, and that may've been because as the flagship show for a new network perhaps the Paramount suits really wanted a bit more of the same winning Star Trek formula that had explored the Alpha Quadrant for years. But Voyager did a few things nicely, and one of them was introducing a former Borg convert to the mythology with Seven of Nine. Like her or hate her, Seven probably helped salvage Voyager's ratings -- or, at least, stabilized them -- among fandom by giving it something new, exciting, and attractive to watch. Today, Jeri Ryan celebrates her birthday. Ryan was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Star Trek: Voyager was a bit of a red-headed stepchild to me. It never really set out to explore the strange new worlds it could've, and that may've been because as the flagship show for a new network perhaps the Paramount suits really wanted a bit more of the same winning Star Trek formula that had explored the Alpha Quadrant for years. But Voyager did a few things nicely, and one of them was introducing a former Borg convert to the mythology with Seven of Nine. Like her or hate her, Seven probably helped salvage Voyager's ratings -- or, at least, stabilized them -- among fandom by giving it something new, exciting, and attractive to watch. Today, Jeri Ryan celebrates her birthday. Ryan was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- To the lady's credit, Jeri Ryan earned a 1999 Saturn Awards nominations in the category of 'Best Genre TV Actress' for her work aboard Star Trek: Voyager.
- In 2000, Ryan earned her second Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Genre TV Supporting Actress' for her work aboard Star Trek: Voyager.
- In 2001, the good lady finally took home top honors from the Saturn Awards in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress On Television' for Star Trek: Voyager.
- In 2021, Ryan's name returned to the forefront of the Saturn Awards with a nomination in the category of 'Best Guest Performance In A Television Series' for her work in Star Trek: Picard.
- In 2024, the good lady took home her second Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress In A Television Series' for her work in Star Trek: Picard.
I have to confess that I haven't seen all of the Frankenstein movies, but that's what 'Bucket Lists' are for, after all; and I'll have to find time to squeeze in The Bride Of Frankenstein (1935) so that I can fully appreciate Dwight Frye's work as 'Karl.' Though he's no longer with us, Frye was born on this day in 1899.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own, and Frye played a pretty significant role. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I purchased the latest Blu-ray Collection of Universal Monsters' Dracula for my very own, and Frye played a pretty significant role. Interested in my thoughts on the original bloodsucker from 1931? Readers can find them right here.
Sir John Mills was Prof. Bernard Quatermass for a generation of viewers as he took up the mantle of the professor seeking explanations for possible extraterrestrial contact in a series of the same name. Though he's no longer with us, Mills was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The great Paul Dooley enjoyed a few guest spots as a scheming Cardassian aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Dooley was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor James Hong has a face that's graced a whole lot of television and movies. I enjoyed his tidy little part in Blade Runner, one of my all-time favorite science fiction films. But -- wowza -- the guy has a resume that's nearly 500 different screen credits strong. To name a few is a serious undertaking, but I'll give it a go. You can see him work on display in such programs as Peter Gunn, One Step Beyond, The Human Vapor (1960), The Outer Limits, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., I Dream Of Jeannie, Destination Inner Space (1966), Earth 2 (1971), The Bionic Woman, Wonder Woman, Salvage 1, Manimal, Ninja III: The Domination (1984), Tales From The Darkside, Airwolf, The Golden Child (1986), Beauty And The Beast, War Of The Worlds, The Jitters (1989), The Rocket Boy (1989), Dragonfight (1990), Forever Knight, The Adventures of Brisco County Jr., The Shadow (1994), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Tank Girl (1995), Legend, The X-Files, The Pretender, Millennium ... and the list goes on and on and on! Today, Mr. Hong celebrates his birthday, born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Among her many acting accomplishments, Sheila Hancock was given the chance to play in the greater world of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Hancock was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I could miss my guess, I'm figuring that men and women of a certain generation will likely remember the lovely Karin Dor for her role aboard the James Bond adventure You Only Live Twice (1967) for Eon Productions. As most of her other IMDB.com citations are in German -- and my German is very, very rusty, at best -- I'm uncertain of how much other genre work she did. I do see roles aboard The Terrible People (1960), The Invisible Dr. Mabuse (1962), The Strangler Of Blackmoor Castle (1963), The Torture Chamber Of Dr. Sadism (1967), and Dark Echoes (1977) deserving of mention. Though she's no longer with us, Dor was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With nearly one hundred screen credits to her name, Judy Cornwell can also claim to have paid a visit to the wide, wide world of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Cornwell was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another familiar face that's surely had one impressive resume contributing to science fiction belongs to Tucker Smallwood. He's been afforded the opportunity to dabble in the universes of Star Trek: Enterprise, Seven Days, Star Trek: Voyager, The X-Files, Babylon 5, and the vastly under-appreciated Space: Above & Beyond. Smallwood was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I often point out, actors and actresses needn't have a resume long and rich in genre in order to get a mention in this space; and John Ashton certainly wasn't revered for his work in SciFi, Fantasy, and Horror. His career does boast contributions to such enterprises as Wonder Woman, The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai Across The 8th Dimension (1984), The Twilight Zone, King Kong Lives (1986), The Tommyknockers, and My Little Baby (2019). Though he's no longer with us, Ashton was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Julie Walters brought 'Molly Weasley' to life for the greater Harry Potter franchise. Walters was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, Heroes! So many talented players ... and so much wasted potential. Still, kudos for the venerable Ellen Greene for taking a stab at a significant guest role. Greene was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kyle Maclachlan has a most impressive resume in the field of genre entertainment. He's the alien star of one of my favorite sleeper SciFi hits from the 80's -- The Hidden. Plus ... who can forget his turn as 'FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper' in Twin Peaks? Of course, purists point to David Lynch's adaptation of Dune, but I found that more than a bit slow for my tastes. Maclachlan was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though if IMDB.com is any indication it looks like he's turned away from acting, Ethan Wayne did enjoy a few forays into Science Fiction: he guested aboard Knight Rider as well as had a supporting role in Bombshell (1997). Wayne was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Steve Speirs has been all over the genre entertainment map. He was Captain Tarpals in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace. He played Strickland in two episodes of the Doctor Who reboot. He's also appeared in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Eragon, and even Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire. Speirs was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Paul Lieberstein turned up in the role of an alien assassin aboard TBS's SciFi/Sitcom People Of Earth. Lieberstein was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fandom's favorite actor wished to land a big franchise -- Thomas Jane -- finally landed one aboard Syfy with the most recent outing of The Expanse. (As it turns out, Syfy cancelled the program after its third season, but the property was eventually picked up by Amazon.com for its streaming service.) Jane was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Holy. Moly. Seriously, you need to check out the IMDB.com resume of the great Nicole Oliver, where you'll find she has an incredible background of two hundred and fifty different screen credits in live and voice acting! That's incredible! Genre fans might recognize her face time from such projects as The Sentinel, Millennium, Stargate: SG-1, PSI Factor: Chronicles Of The Paranormal, Total Recall 2070, So Weird, and The Outer Limits ... and I can't even begin to summarize her voicework. Seriously! Go check it out! According to Wikipedia.org, Oliver was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
When he was but an urchin, Craig Warnock lit up the screen alongside a troupe of time-traveling little people in Terry Gilliam's most accessible film to date, Time Bandits. Warnock was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When she was but an urchin, Drew Barrymore lit up the silver screen in E.T. - The Extraterrestrial, arguably one of the most magical films of all time. Barrymore was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and producer Jessica Kiper continues to turn up here and there wherein genre fans can appreciate her talents of note. Feel free to check out her work in such properties as Teenage Alien Avengers (1999) and Angel. Kiper was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Comely Elodie Yung proved she was a force to be reckoned with, even in a property as tepid as G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and that's why the powers that be behind Netflix's Daredevil cast her to assume the role of Elektra in their upcoming season. Yung was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ahem. Adult film vixen Jenna Haze appeared in the SciFi/Sex spoof This Ain't Star Trek XXX for good measure. Haze was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I think by now everyone knows that I'm no huge Joss Whedon fan. In fact, I think the man's done more to fracture various fan franchises than he's done to strengthen them. I'm no hater, and I can respect good writing when I see it, and I enjoyed as much of his Dollhouse program on Fox TV that I could; I think the show just reached a point wherein it fell into its own formula, and there wasn't anything significantly enough 'new' each week to really excite casual TV viewers to tune in with greater regularity. However, Dollhouse did have a great character with Sierra, and she was played by the lovely Dichen Lachman. More recently, she turned up aboard Netflix's Altered Carbon. Lachman was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mimi Michaels has flexed her acting muscles in such genre properties as Meteor (2009), Gamer (2009), 666 Park Avenue, and Quantum Break. Michaels was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Zach Roerig enjoyed a guest role aboard Fox TV's Superhero/Fantasy drama The Gifted in its first season. Roerig was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Josh Helman did a masterful job bringing the character of Slit to life in the epic adventure, Mad Max: Fury Road. He's also a recurring character (William Stryker) in the X-Men universe. Helman was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mike Hughes has earned a few stripes in the realm of curious genre entertainment. He's enjoyed some screen time aboard such projects as Out Of This World, Natural Selection (1994), Spawn (1997), Roswell, and Clockstoppers (2002). Hughes was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1918 (in Denmark), audiences were treated to A Trip To Mars. Directed by Holger-Madsen and adapted by Ole Olsen from the Sophus Michaëlis novel ("Himmelskibet"), the silent era SciFi/Drama starred Gunnar Tolnæs, Zanny Petersen, and Nicolai Neiiendam. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of researchers from Earth travel in a spaceship to Mars, where, to big surprise, they find a peaceful vegetarian and pacifist civilization."
For the record:
If you're interested in knowing a bit more about this silent era Science Fiction film, Janne Wass (over at Scifist 2.0) has penned a wonderful report. You can find it right here.
"A group of researchers from Earth travel in a spaceship to Mars, where, to big surprise, they find a peaceful vegetarian and pacifist civilization."
For the record:
If you're interested in knowing a bit more about this silent era Science Fiction film, Janne Wass (over at Scifist 2.0) has penned a wonderful report. You can find it right here.
On this day in 1952 (in France), Weird Woman thrust out her arms and came for audiences. Reginald Le Borg directed this adaptation of the Fritz Leiber Jr. novel ("Conjure Wife"), and the Horror/Fantasy starred Lon Chaney Jr., Anne Gwynne, and Evelyn Ankers. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While on a South Seas trip, a professor falls in love and marries an exotic native woman. What he doesn't know is that she was raised by superstitious natives who believe her to be some kind of supernatural being."
"While on a South Seas trip, a professor falls in love and marries an exotic native woman. What he doesn't know is that she was raised by superstitious natives who believe her to be some kind of supernatural being."
A star is born! On this day in 1957 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to an exclusive theatrical premiere engagement of The Incredible Shrinking Man. Directed by Jack Arnold from a story by Richard Matheson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Grant Williams, Randy Stuart, and April Kent. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scott Carey and his wife Louise are sunning themselves on their cabin cruiser, the small craft adrift on a calm sea. While his wife is below deck, a low mist passes over him. Scott, lying in the sun, is sprinkled with glittery particles that quickly evaporate. Later he is accidentally sprayed with an insecticide while driving and, in the next few days, he finds that he has begun to shrink. First just a few inches, so that his clothes no longer fit, then a little more. Soon he is only three feet tall, and a national curiosity. At six inches tall he can only live in a doll's house and even that becomes impossible when his cat breaks in. Scott flees to the cellar, his wife thinks he has been eaten by the cat and the door to the cellar is closed, trapping him in the littered room where, menaced by a giant spider, he struggles to survive."
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of The Incredible Shrinking Man via a distributor in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find it right here.
"Scott Carey and his wife Louise are sunning themselves on their cabin cruiser, the small craft adrift on a calm sea. While his wife is below deck, a low mist passes over him. Scott, lying in the sun, is sprinkled with glittery particles that quickly evaporate. Later he is accidentally sprayed with an insecticide while driving and, in the next few days, he finds that he has begun to shrink. First just a few inches, so that his clothes no longer fit, then a little more. Soon he is only three feet tall, and a national curiosity. At six inches tall he can only live in a doll's house and even that becomes impossible when his cat breaks in. Scott flees to the cellar, his wife thinks he has been eaten by the cat and the door to the cellar is closed, trapping him in the littered room where, menaced by a giant spider, he struggles to survive."
For the record:
- At the 1958 Hugo Awards, The Incredible Shrinking Man took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation."
- In 2009, the film was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, the organization tasked with preserving pictures for their continuing legacy.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of The Incredible Shrinking Man via a distributor in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find it right here.
Some monsters just wanna play pattycake! On this day in 1957 (in Finland), The Mole People were unearthed. The SciFi feature starred John Agar and Cynthia Patrick, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A party of archaeologists discovers the remnants of a mutant five-millennia-old Sumerian civilization living beneath a glacier atop a mountain in Mesopotamia."
"A party of archaeologists discovers the remnants of a mutant five-millennia-old Sumerian civilization living beneath a glacier atop a mountain in Mesopotamia."
Kids: no matter if its the Apocalypse or not, always look both ways before crossing the street! On this day in 1960 (in Denmark), The World, The Flesh, And The Devil enjoyed a visit to the silver screen. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A miner trapped in a cave-in resurfaces, and upon discovering mankind has been wiped out in a nuclear holocaust, sets out to find other survivors."
"A miner trapped in a cave-in resurfaces, and upon discovering mankind has been wiped out in a nuclear holocaust, sets out to find other survivors."
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in West Germany), The Noah's Ark Principle enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Berlin International Film Festival. Written and directed by Roland Emmerich, the SciFi/Thriller starred Richy Müller, Franz Buchrieser, and Aviva Joel; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Near the end of the 20th century, WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) are retired. However, certain factions plan to use a science space station as a weapon against each other. The astronauts inside will decide the world's fate."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Noah's Ark Principle enjoyed a wee amount of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Near the end of the 20th century, WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) are retired. However, certain factions plan to use a science space station as a weapon against each other. The astronauts inside will decide the world's fate."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Noah's Ark Principle enjoyed a wee amount of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born ... if not an entire franchise! If I'm being a purist, then the entire Babylon 5 universe truly began on this day in 1993 with the airing of the original SciFi/Telefilm, Babylon 5: The Gathering. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The opening of a crucial space station is put in jeopardy when the commanding officer is accused of the attempted murder of a diplomat."
"The opening of a crucial space station is put in jeopardy when the commanding officer is accused of the attempted murder of a diplomat."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in Germany), Velocity Trap enjoyed its initial release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Phillip J. Roth, the SciFi/Thriller starred Olivier Gruner, Alicia Coppola, and Ken Olandt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A cop framed for murder is the only one not in cryosleep when a team of thieves boards the armored treasury spaceship he's on to steal its load - 40 billion universal dollars - and then ram the ship into a comet to cover their tracks."
"A cop framed for murder is the only one not in cryosleep when a team of thieves boards the armored treasury spaceship he's on to steal its load - 40 billion universal dollars - and then ram the ship into a comet to cover their tracks."
On this day in 2008 (in Hungary), Tremors 4: The Legend Begins grabbed onto the audience's collective consciousness. Directed by S.S. Wilson, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Michael Gross, Billy Drago, and Sara Botsford; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A prequel to Tremors (1990), this movie tells us about how the town of Perfection, Nevada became founded and how they defended it against the Graboids with the help of Burt Gummer's ancestor, Hiram."
"A prequel to Tremors (1990), this movie tells us about how the town of Perfection, Nevada became founded and how they defended it against the Graboids with the help of Burt Gummer's ancestor, Hiram."
A star is born! On this day in 2009, the SciFi/Telefilm Hydra found its audience. The feature starred George Stults and Dawn Olivieri, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Former Marine Tim Nolan has been kidnapped with three convicts, transported to a deserted island and forced to participate in a deadly game. The super rich pay a fortune to hunt human prey. But the island isn't deserted - it's home to Hydra the Beast!"
"Former Marine Tim Nolan has been kidnapped with three convicts, transported to a deserted island and forced to participate in a deadly game. The super rich pay a fortune to hunt human prey. But the island isn't deserted - it's home to Hydra the Beast!"
A star is born! On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), Walt Disney's John Carter took to the silver screen for its theatrical premiere in Los Angeles, California! Directed by Andrew Stanton, the SciFi/Fantasy film starred Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, and Willem Dafoe; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Transported to Barsoom, a Civil War vet discovers a barren planet seemingly inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians. Finding himself prisoner of these creatures, he escapes, only to encounter Woola and a princess in desperate need of a savior."
"Transported to Barsoom, a Civil War vet discovers a barren planet seemingly inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians. Finding himself prisoner of these creatures, he escapes, only to encounter Woola and a princess in desperate need of a savior."
On this day in 2013, the Horror/SciFi film Dark Skies enjoyed its theatrical release. The feature starred Keri Russell and Jake Brennan, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"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."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in Germany), Rise Of The Dinosaurs (aka Jurassic Attack) enjoyed its very first release on home video. Directed by Anthony Fankhauser, the SciFi/Thriller starred Gary Stretch, Corin Nemec, and Vernon Wells; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A group of soldiers attempting to rescue a hostage from a terrorist crash land into unfamiliar jungles which are inhabited by a group of long hidden dinosaurs."
"A group of soldiers attempting to rescue a hostage from a terrorist crash land into unfamiliar jungles which are inhabited by a group of long hidden dinosaurs."
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in Germany), Operation Naked was unveiled to the masses via its original television broadcast. Written and directed by Mario Sixtus, the SciFi feature starred Sarah-Rebecca Gerstner, Gabor Biedermann, and Olaf Burmeister. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Michelle Spark develops a new technology: data glasses. The device can recognize faces and connect them with online information. The impact of this invention becomes evident when a private secret of one citizen is broadcast to the public."
"Michelle Spark develops a new technology: data glasses. The device can recognize faces and connect them with online information. The impact of this invention becomes evident when a private secret of one citizen is broadcast to the public."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Russia), Ghouls dished out some cinematic frights on the silver screen. Directed by Sergey Ginzburg, the Fantasy/Horror starred Lera Arefyeva, Anna Arlanova, and Yuliya Aug; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the distant part of the Carpathian Mountains, near the border with the Ottoman Empire, there is an old monastery. The monk lives in it, the exiled confessor of Empress Elizabeth, an expert on mysterious powers. A tsarist official comes from St. Petersburg to bring him back to the city. Mission ends with fiasco, the monk refuses. The messenger, along with his servant, stops in a nearby settlement. He meets a beautiful girl there, in which he falls in love at first sight. Soon, the heroes are witnesses of unusual, terrifying events that they can not understand. Villagers disfavor about the revival of ancient Evil - Ghouls are made of graves - Soon, with the help of a monk, they will face an army of undead and save a girl who plays a key role in the plans of the awakened Lord of Darkness."
"In the distant part of the Carpathian Mountains, near the border with the Ottoman Empire, there is an old monastery. The monk lives in it, the exiled confessor of Empress Elizabeth, an expert on mysterious powers. A tsarist official comes from St. Petersburg to bring him back to the city. Mission ends with fiasco, the monk refuses. The messenger, along with his servant, stops in a nearby settlement. He meets a beautiful girl there, in which he falls in love at first sight. Soon, the heroes are witnesses of unusual, terrifying events that they can not understand. Villagers disfavor about the revival of ancient Evil - Ghouls are made of graves - Soon, with the help of a monk, they will face an army of undead and save a girl who plays a key role in the plans of the awakened Lord of Darkness."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in Russia), Frontier enjoyed its silver screen debut. Directed by Dmitriy Tyurin, the SciFi/Drama starred Stanislav Duzhnikov, Sergey Chirkov, and Viktor Dobronravov; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Michael's perfect life changes dramatically when he discovers a portal which allows him to travel in time. He travels back to the World War II to go through the quest of time and find his one and only beloved."
"Michael's perfect life changes dramatically when he discovers a portal which allows him to travel in time. He travels back to the World War II to go through the quest of time and find his one and only beloved."
On this day in 1952, Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Memento." This served as the twenty-first episode of the program's first season, and -- despite searching -- I've been unable to find a plot summary anywhere on the world wide web.
On this day in 1964, Doctor Who aired "The Roof Of The World" as part of its first season. (For purists, this was part of the Doctor's early Marco Polo storyline.) Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS arrives on Earth in the 13th century, where it is claimed by famed explorer Marco Polo as a gift for his employer, Kublai Khan. Polo hopes to finally buy his way out of the Khan's service - but if he succeeds, the Doctor and his friends will never be able to get back to their Ship ever again..."
"The TARDIS arrives on Earth in the 13th century, where it is claimed by famed explorer Marco Polo as a gift for his employer, Kublai Khan. Polo hopes to finally buy his way out of the Khan's service - but if he succeeds, the Doctor and his friends will never be able to get back to their Ship ever again..."
On this day in 1967, Lost In Space aired "The Cave Of The Wizards." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Shortly before lift-off, Dr. Smith discovers a cave inhabited by devices, which are the remnants of a once-mighty civilization; the Draconians. As the countdown draws near, Dr. Smith falls ever-more-so under the influence of the Draconians."
"Shortly before lift-off, Dr. Smith discovers a cave inhabited by devices, which are the remnants of a once-mighty civilization; the Draconians. As the countdown draws near, Dr. Smith falls ever-more-so under the influence of the Draconians."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Doomwatch aired "The Human Time Bomb." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The government wants direction for the possible construction of more high-rise apartment buildings. Fay Chantry is asked to live in one and supply a report based on her experiences."
"The government wants direction for the possible construction of more high-rise apartment buildings. Fay Chantry is asked to live in one and supply a report based on her experiences."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Timeslip aired "The Day Of The Clone: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After Simon rescues Liz from R1, they are chased by Trainor. They Liz escape through the barrier and end up in Simon's living room in 1965."
"After Simon rescues Liz from R1, they are chased by Trainor. They Liz escape through the barrier and end up in Simon's living room in 1965."
On this day in 1974 (in the U.S.), The Six Million Dollar Man aired "Little Orphan Airplane." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Col. Steve Austin is dispatched to Africa to find and rescue U.S. pilot Josh Perkins who recently made a crash landing there and carries a valuable roll of film."
"Col. Steve Austin is dispatched to Africa to find and rescue U.S. pilot Josh Perkins who recently made a crash landing there and carries a valuable roll of film."
On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), The Six Million Dollar Man aired "The Bionic Badge." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Atomic bomb components have been stolen over a series of thefts and Oscar suspects one old cop, Officer Banner of being involved. Steve goes undercover as a rookie cop named Aimry to investigate."
"Atomic bomb components have been stolen over a series of thefts and Oscar suspects one old cop, Officer Banner of being involved. Steve goes undercover as a rookie cop named Aimry to investigate."
On this day in 1980, The Incredible Hulk aired "The Psychic." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After meeting a kindred soul in Annie, a young psychic who learns his secret just by touching him, David is devastated when the creature appears to have caused the death of a young man. He resolves to take drastic measures, until Annie foresees the death of Jack McGee."
"After meeting a kindred soul in Annie, a young psychic who learns his secret just by touching him, David is devastated when the creature appears to have caused the death of a young man. He resolves to take drastic measures, until Annie foresees the death of Jack McGee."
Good grief! I hope that thing doesn't breast feed! On this day in 1985, "The Littlest Dragon" took V in a bold new direction, positing the birth of any alien/human hybrid, one that had been teased for some time in the show. Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Anxious to settle a personal vendetta, Philip trails a Fifth Columnist, hoping he will lead him to the Resistance and Donovan."
"Anxious to settle a personal vendetta, Philip trails a Fifth Columnist, hoping he will lead him to the Resistance and Donovan."
On this day in 1986, Airwolf aired "Break-In At Santa Paula." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hawke, Dominic and Caitlin are asked to help to break an innocent man out of prison, during wish Hawke gets captured in the process."
"Hawke, Dominic and Caitlin are asked to help to break an innocent man out of prison, during wish Hawke gets captured in the process."
On this day in 1986 (in France), The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "The Town Where No One Got Off." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Provoked by the snobbish attitude of a city slicker towards the people from the countryside, a man gets off his train at a random village to confirm his positive attitude about the country folk. He's in for a surprise - but so are they."
"Provoked by the snobbish attitude of a city slicker towards the people from the countryside, a man gets off his train at a random village to confirm his positive attitude about the country folk. He's in for a surprise - but so are they."
On this day in 1988 (in the United Kingdom), Red Dwarf aired "Future Echoes." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Holly navigates Red Dwarf during light speed. But when Red Dwarf goes through light speed 24-hours early, the crew witnesses strange events and they find they are witnessing "Future Echoes" images of events that will happen in the future."
"Holly navigates Red Dwarf during light speed. But when Red Dwarf goes through light speed 24-hours early, the crew witnesses strange events and they find they are witnessing "Future Echoes" images of events that will happen in the future."
On this day in 1992, Star Trek: The Next Generation boldly continued airing adventures through its fifth season. "Power Play" pitted several of the senior officers against their shipmates, and here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"A long-lost ship is found on a planet where cosmic storms prevented detection for 200 years. When a surface landing goes wrong, the away team is beamed back...with a few extra surprises."
"A long-lost ship is found on a planet where cosmic storms prevented detection for 200 years. When a surface landing goes wrong, the away team is beamed back...with a few extra surprises."
On this day in 1993, Time Trax aired "The Prodigy" as the fifth episode of the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a boy displays skills that makes Darien think he is from the future, he goes to investigate. He looks at his father and wonders if he is also from the future."
"When a boy displays skills that makes Darien think he is from the future, he goes to investigate. He looks at his father and wonders if he is also from the future."
On this day in 1993, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine continued airing hours of its largely forgettable first season. (Sorry, Trek enthusiasts, but the truth sometimes hurts!) Its eighth episode was an adventure titled "The Passenger," and here's the episode summary, compliments of IMDB.com:
"Rao Vantika, a captured criminal, is badly burned and dies in Bashir's arms. . .but the criminal's captor believes he is still alive."
"Rao Vantika, a captured criminal, is badly burned and dies in Bashir's arms. . .but the criminal's captor believes he is still alive."
On this day in 1994 (in the United Kingdom), The Tomorrow People aired "The Monsoon Man: Part 3." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ami realises that the Cobb Cereal Company were behind Lucy's kidnapping. Ami and Megabyte travel to America to investigate Cobb. Meanwhile, Adam and Lucy check out the warehouse where she was held prisoner."
"Ami realises that the Cobb Cereal Company were behind Lucy's kidnapping. Ami and Megabyte travel to America to investigate Cobb. Meanwhile, Adam and Lucy check out the warehouse where she was held prisoner."
On this day in 1995, Babylon 5 aired "Acts Of Sacrifice." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"G'Kar asks Sheridan and Delenn for help from their respective governments in the Narn-Centauri War, which the Narn are losing. Ivanova shows a representative from a new species around the station."
"G'Kar asks Sheridan and Delenn for help from their respective governments in the Narn-Centauri War, which the Narn are losing. Ivanova shows a representative from a new species around the station."
On this day in 1995 (in the United Kingdom), The Tomorrow People aired "The Living Stones: Part 3." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's third (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Adam and Megabyte team up with Jade to find out what the Nghara want. Meanwhile, the zombies recruit Lucifer to their cause and one of their spores gets loose in Worldex."
"Adam and Megabyte team up with Jade to find out what the Nghara want. Meanwhile, the zombies recruit Lucifer to their cause and one of their spores gets loose in Worldex."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Bad Blood." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scully and Mulder each recount their version of events that led Mulder to drive a stake through the heart of a Texas teenager he claims was a vampire."
"Scully and Mulder each recount their version of events that led Mulder to drive a stake through the heart of a Texas teenager he claims was a vampire."
On this day in 2000, Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles aired an episode titled "Marooned." This installment served as the forty-third episode of its only season, and according to our friends at TV.com here's the plot summary:
"Rico is left floating in space after his pod malfunctions during a drop."
"Rico is left floating in space after his pod malfunctions during a drop."
On this day in 2000 (in the United Kingdom), The Strangerers aired "Vegetables." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season. I've been unable to locate a specific plot summary for the episode, so I'm placing the series' premise in this place instead:
"Aliens in human form land on Earth to carry out a secret mission, and when the Supervisor is decapitated, the two bumbling Cadets have no idea what the mission entails. With a mixture of their of own language, and mannerisms taken from old 50s movies, they try and get through the crazy world we live in, without trying to get caught by the various shady organisations after them."
"Aliens in human form land on Earth to carry out a secret mission, and when the Supervisor is decapitated, the two bumbling Cadets have no idea what the mission entails. With a mixture of their of own language, and mannerisms taken from old 50s movies, they try and get through the crazy world we live in, without trying to get caught by the various shady organisations after them."
On this day in 2002, Lexx aired "Mort." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Now wanted as fugitives for the massacre at Prime Ridge, they take refuge in the home belonging to Mort, a mortician with a bizarre obsession. Stan and Xev commit a serious faux pas during a viewing."
"Now wanted as fugitives for the massacre at Prime Ridge, they take refuge in the home belonging to Mort, a mortician with a bizarre obsession. Stan and Xev commit a serious faux pas during a viewing."
On this day in 2003, Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "Beyond the Clouds of Sand." This served as the twenty-first episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2008, Stargate: Atlantis aired "The Kindred: Part 1." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A plague of sorts is spreading across the Pegasus galaxy and Dr. Keller estimates that hundreds of thousands will die if they don't don't find a way to stop it. Her research shows however that the disease's origin is with the Hoff, who had been working on a way to kill the Wraith. Sheppard and the others think they know who might be spreading the virus and why. Teyla meanwhile believes she is receiving messages from Kanaan, the father of her child. She's getting his messages while sleeping and most think she's just dreaming. She follows the clues he gives her but she is taken prisoner by an old enemy who has very specific plans for her. In their search for Teyla however, Sheppard and McKay find someone completely unexpected."
"A plague of sorts is spreading across the Pegasus galaxy and Dr. Keller estimates that hundreds of thousands will die if they don't don't find a way to stop it. Her research shows however that the disease's origin is with the Hoff, who had been working on a way to kill the Wraith. Sheppard and the others think they know who might be spreading the virus and why. Teyla meanwhile believes she is receiving messages from Kanaan, the father of her child. She's getting his messages while sleeping and most think she's just dreaming. She follows the clues he gives her but she is taken prisoner by an old enemy who has very specific plans for her. In their search for Teyla however, Sheppard and McKay find someone completely unexpected."
On this day in 2013, Touch aired "Perfect Storm." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Calvin hands the Aster Corps access card over to Martin, who is tasked with retrieving all Calvin's computer files from Aster Corps. Calvin warns Martin to avoid his old partner, Tony Rigby, as Tony, who did not appreciate Calvin's public departure, would exact some form of retribution if he found that Martin was there helping Calvin. Once at Aster Corps, Martin makes a last minute decision to take a different tack--to not only get Calvin's files, but, also, any files related to Amelia. Lucy pieces together the seemingly random murders, similar to Claudia Corliss', which she is sure are linked to the mystery-man in her photograph. But, she does not yet know the connection to Amelia, not the identity of the man. The Bohm's old friend, Avram, receives a visit in New York from Guillermo Ortiz, who Avram can tell is an enemy of the thirty-six. With only Jake's cell phone number as a means by which to contact them, Avram tries to warn Martin and Jake that Ortiz is probably on his way. Jake, now attending public school, slowly begins to open up to those around him, especially Soleil. Kase decides to do his own experiments with Amelia. Martin and Calvin each arrive individually at a major discovery, and have to figure out what to do with the information. Martin's decision could affect his relationship with Lucy."
"Calvin hands the Aster Corps access card over to Martin, who is tasked with retrieving all Calvin's computer files from Aster Corps. Calvin warns Martin to avoid his old partner, Tony Rigby, as Tony, who did not appreciate Calvin's public departure, would exact some form of retribution if he found that Martin was there helping Calvin. Once at Aster Corps, Martin makes a last minute decision to take a different tack--to not only get Calvin's files, but, also, any files related to Amelia. Lucy pieces together the seemingly random murders, similar to Claudia Corliss', which she is sure are linked to the mystery-man in her photograph. But, she does not yet know the connection to Amelia, not the identity of the man. The Bohm's old friend, Avram, receives a visit in New York from Guillermo Ortiz, who Avram can tell is an enemy of the thirty-six. With only Jake's cell phone number as a means by which to contact them, Avram tries to warn Martin and Jake that Ortiz is probably on his way. Jake, now attending public school, slowly begins to open up to those around him, especially Soleil. Kase decides to do his own experiments with Amelia. Martin and Calvin each arrive individually at a major discovery, and have to figure out what to do with the information. Martin's decision could affect his relationship with Lucy."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), World Trigger aired "Osamu Mikumo Versus Soya Kazamat." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Osamu fought against Kazama in over 20 solo matches, but never won a single one. What Kazama said motivates him, and they fight a match again."
"Osamu fought against Kazama in over 20 solo matches, but never won a single one. What Kazama said motivates him, and they fight a match again."
On this day in 2016, The Department Of Time aired "El tiempo en sus manos." This served as the second episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Pacino, a tough cop in 1981 Madrid, is arrested in 2016 after following a murderer into a closet. Pacino's father, also a cop, saw the same murderer disappearing into the same closet in 1946."
"Pacino, a tough cop in 1981 Madrid, is arrested in 2016 after following a murderer into a closet. Pacino's father, also a cop, saw the same murderer disappearing into the same closet in 1946."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S., Argentina, and Chile), The X-Files closed out its tenth season with the airing of "My Struggle II." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mulder and Scully uncover a shocking truth with global ramifications."
"Mulder and Scully uncover a shocking truth with global ramifications."
On this day in 2017, The CW's Apocalypse drama The 100 aired "A Lie Guarded." This served as the fourth episode of the fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clarke's decision on who gets to live causes tension in Arcadia. Jasper loses his sanity when the Black Rain falls. Bellamy and his friends face judgement for their crimes against the Ice Nation."
"Clarke's decision on who gets to live causes tension in Arcadia. Jasper loses his sanity when the Black Rain falls. Bellamy and his friends face judgement for their crimes against the Ice Nation."
On this day in 2017, Syfy's The Expanse aired "Home." This served as the fifth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The asteroid Eros takes direct collision course towards Earth. The Rocinante chases it. As last defense Earth launches missiles against Eros. Miller went inside Eros and makes a surprising discovery."
"The asteroid Eros takes direct collision course towards Earth. The Rocinante chases it. As last defense Earth launches missiles against Eros. Miller went inside Eros and makes a surprising discovery."
On this day in 2018, Stargate Origins aired the fourth episode in its only season of original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Catherine, Beal and Wasif quickly find themselves in over their heads after they arrive on another world, where they encounter a powerful alien warrior."
"Catherine, Beal and Wasif quickly find themselves in over their heads after they arrive on another world, where they encounter a powerful alien warrior."
On this day in 2018, Stargate Origins aired the fifth episode in its only season of original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hoping to lie low, the team follows their new guide to a native settlement while the Germans plot to forge an alliance with the planet's alien masters."
"Hoping to lie low, the team follows their new guide to a native settlement while the Germans plot to forge an alliance with the planet's alien masters."