For what it's worth, you can chalk up 1977's The Fantastic Journey -- which premiered on this day back then -- as another one of those short-lived programs that crept up on the television dial, failed to secure an audience, and disappeared mighty quickly. That's sad because it enjoyed a talented cast -- including Jared Martin and the young Ike Eisenmann -- and an interesting premise. Whatever the case -- be it undercooked stories or an unfortunate time slot -- it lasted a single half-season, and here's the premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"A scientific expedition in the Atlantic Ocean becomes lost in the Bermuda Triangle and washes up on an uncharted island. They meet up with travellers from other times, planets, and dimensions who have also become trapped, and together they "slide" through portals from one dimension to the next hoping to find the one that leads home."
"A scientific expedition in the Atlantic Ocean becomes lost in the Bermuda Triangle and washes up on an uncharted island. They meet up with travellers from other times, planets, and dimensions who have also become trapped, and together they "slide" through portals from one dimension to the next hoping to find the one that leads home."
Writer/Producer Leslie Stevens remains one of the great unsung heroes of genre television. During his time in the industry, he helped bring such properties to the screen as The Outer Limits, Search, The Invisible Man, Gemini Man, and Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. Though he's no longer with us, Stevens was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I did a retro review of "Demon With A Glass Hand," one of The Outer Limits best episodes and one in which Stevens penned some material along with Harlan Ellison. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I did a retro review of "Demon With A Glass Hand," one of The Outer Limits best episodes and one in which Stevens penned some material along with Harlan Ellison. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Character actor Shelley Berman (above center) enjoyed a single crowded trip deep inside Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone in 1961. Though he's no longer with us, Berman was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he spent the better part of his acting career playing misunderstood nice guys, John Fiedler did play the Jack-The-Ripper possessed villain in "Wolf In The Fold," a second season outing for the classic Star Trek. Though he's no longer with us, Fielder was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Writer/Director James Bridges only dabbled in Science Fiction. He penned scripts for The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970), and The China Syndrome (1979), which he also directed. Though he's no longer with us, Bridges was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Whenever he appeared onscreen, the great Victor Buono could chew scenery with the best of them, stealing moments of celluloid available on everything from the late 1960's campy Batman TV show all the way up to Beneath The Planet Of The Apes (1970) and beyond. Though he's no longer with us, Buono was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his brief career in the professional business, Stephen Mines managed to squeeze in a small role aboard Star Trek's memorable "Errand Of Mercy." Though he's no longer with us, Mines was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The award-winning Blythe Danner has given Science Fiction the occasional go-round: she had a role in Futureworld (1976) as well as great cameo-style bit in the first X-Files movie. Danner was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well before she lit up the silver screen with a small role aboard Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith, the lovely Trisha Noble lit up the small screen with a meatier role aboard Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. Though she's no longer with us, Noble was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Stephen McHattie is a brilliant character actor who has made terrific contributions to all kinds of dramatic projects theatrically and on television. Science Fiction fans may recognize him from roles in Tales from the Darkside, The Twilight Zone, Beauty and the Beast, Quantum Leap, M.A.N.T.I.S., The X-Files, The Outer Limits, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Lexx, Mutant X, Star Trek: Enterprise, The 4400, 2012, Haven, Fringe, and The Strain. McHattie was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of the most beautiful creatures known to man, the lovely Morgan Fairchild celebrates her birthday today. To be fair, she hasn't done all that much for Science Fiction (a crime!), but she has appeared aboard The Amazing Spider-Man, Mork & Mindy, Time Express, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Test Tube Teens From The Year 2000 (1994), Venus Rising (1996), and Roswell. Fairchild was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I received an all-new home video release of Phantom Of The Mall: Eric's Revenge (1989) -- in which Fairchild played a role -- 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 2021, I received an all-new home video release of Phantom Of The Mall: Eric's Revenge (1989) -- in which Fairchild played a role -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Though her most memorable role arguably remains playing Florence Tanner in The Legend of Hell House (1973), lovely Pamela Franklin did give greater genre glory a solid attempt, appearing in guest roles on Night Gallery, The Six Million Dollar Man, The Food Of The Gods, Gemini Man, Lucan, and Project U.F.O. Franklin was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With well over 100 entries on IMDB.com, Time Winters certainly has a career worth celebrating. SciFi fans recognize him best from work aboard Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990), Star Trek: The Next Generation, Intruders, the Josh Kirby franchise, Babylon 5, Carnivale, Time Trials (2012), and Lavalantula (2015). Winters was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Thomas Calabro has only dabbled in the realm of Science Fiction with roles in such projects as They Nest (2000), Ice Spiders (2007), and Fall Of Hyperion (2008). Calabro was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When you least expect him, that's when you should watch for Fredric Lehne to show up, steal a scene, or make some big impact on any number of your favorite genre programs. He's booked screen time on Time Trax, Babylon 5, Sliders, Men In Black, The X-Files, Firefly, Lost, and Supernatural. Lehne was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ach, that's gonna leave a mark! The lovely (or 'formerly lovely') Kathleen Kinmont vamped it up admirably as part of Bride Of Re-Animator (1989). She also appeared aboard Phoenix The Warrior (1988) and Roller Blade Warriors: Taken By Force (1989). Kinmont was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
So often seen (and sometimes hidden under make-up!) in science fiction and fantasy is Warwick Davis. He had his big screen debut in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi, and he's been embraced by fandom ever since. He's been a part of such projects at The Ewok Adventure, Ewoks: The Battle For Endor, Labyrinth, Willow, the Harry Potter films, Doctor Who, and so much more! Davis was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you may but Star Trek: Enterprise just wasn't my cup of tea. When it premiered, it featured this kinda/sorta half-baked idea of a 'Temporal Cold war' that was never quite clearly enough defined to the point where viewers understood the specific threat to humanity and the universe, so it sputtered along all well and good. In any event, actor Matt Winston played a temporal agent trying to help the crew of the fabled ship right what had gone wrong, and I appreciate his efforts. Winston was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Terry Chen has traveled far and wide into the realm of Science Fiction. boasting roles in such properties as Stargate: SG-1, Dark Angel, The Twilight Zone, Jake 2.0, The Chronicles Of Riddick, The 4400, I Robot, Battlestar Galactica, and Defying Gravity, just to name a few. Chen was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Director Mat King is accomplished in both Science Fiction and Fantasy. He's directed such projects as Star Runners (2009), Spirit Warriors (TV), and the "Journey To The Center Of The TARDIS" episode of Doctor Who. King was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's certainly far more well-known for her work in daytime television, the lovely Kelly Sullivan did dabble in the realm of SciFi with a prominent role in Found In Time (2012). Sullivan was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The great Costa Ronin continues to impress even in the smallest of roles. Genre fans have long known of his skills as part of Extant, Agent Carter, and The Strain. Ronin was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of 'King Louis,' Ben Turner joined the BBC's Doctor Who for the popular "The Girl In The Fireplace" episode. Turner was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lovely Bridget Regan first came onto my genre radar for her work in the short-lived Legend of the Seeker. More recently, she's signed for multiple appearances aboard ABC TV's Agent Carter. She also turned up in a fabulous role aboard TNT's The Last Ship for good measure. Personally, I think this young talent deserves her own franchise. Regan was born on this day in 1982.
[IMDB.com]
[IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1921 (in Germany), Die Blitzzentrale enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever. (FYI: the German titled translates to "The Lightning Center.") Directed and starring Valy Arnheim, the SciFi/Thriller also brought Victor Colani and Adalbert Lenz to the silver screen, and here's the plot summary as provided by LinkCatch.Org:
"On behalf of a large industrial company, the agent Giona da Conre is supposed to steal an invention from the inventor that is supposed to make the electrical power of lightning usable. But detective Harry Hill wants to prevent that. A life and death struggle ensues."
"On behalf of a large industrial company, the agent Giona da Conre is supposed to steal an invention from the inventor that is supposed to make the electrical power of lightning usable. But detective Harry Hill wants to prevent that. A life and death struggle ensues."
A star is born! On this day in 1941 (in the U.S.), The Devil Commands enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever. Directed by Edward Dmytryk, the SciFi/Horror starred Boris Karloff, Anne Revere, and Amanda Duff; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scientist becomes obsessed with the idea of communicating with his dead wife."
"Scientist becomes obsessed with the idea of communicating with his dead wife."
On this day in 1941 (in Portugal), The Phantom Empire premiered the first chapter of its 12-part serial for audiences hungry for a cowboy/SciFi crossover. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the ancient continent of Mu sank beneath the ocean, some of its inhabitant survived in caverns beneath the sea. Cowboy singer Gene Autry stumbles upon the civilization, now buried beneath his own Radio Ranch. The Muranians have developed technology and weaponry such as television and ray guns. Their rich supply of radium draws unscrupulous speculators from the surface. The peaceful civilization of the Muranians is corrupted by the greed from above, and it becomes Autry's task to prevent all-out war, ideally without disrupting his regular radio show."
"When the ancient continent of Mu sank beneath the ocean, some of its inhabitant survived in caverns beneath the sea. Cowboy singer Gene Autry stumbles upon the civilization, now buried beneath his own Radio Ranch. The Muranians have developed technology and weaponry such as television and ray guns. Their rich supply of radium draws unscrupulous speculators from the surface. The peaceful civilization of the Muranians is corrupted by the greed from above, and it becomes Autry's task to prevent all-out war, ideally without disrupting his regular radio show."
On this day in 1961 (in France), The Atomic Submarine went down under ... the sea, that is. (FYI: IMDB.com reports this was a limited theatrical release.) Spencer Gordon Bennet directed this story from Irving Block and Jack Rabin, and the feature starred such names as Arthur Franz, Dick Foran, and Brett Halsey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Ships mysteriously disappear on route across the Arctic Sea, and a specially-equipped submarine is sent to investigate."
"Ships mysteriously disappear on route across the Arctic Sea, and a specially-equipped submarine is sent to investigate."
A star is born! On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), home audiences were treated to a deadly Cruise Into Terror. Directed by Bruce Kessler from a story by Michael Braverman, the Horror/Thriller starred John Forsythe, Dirk Benedict, and Lynda Day George. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An Egyptian sarcophagus that is cargo on a pleasure cruise ship has a secret - it contains the son of Satan, and its effects start to make the ship's passengers behave strangely."
"An Egyptian sarcophagus that is cargo on a pleasure cruise ship has a secret - it contains the son of Satan, and its effects start to make the ship's passengers behave strangely."
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), filmmaker David Lynch served up another slice of the macabre with the release of his Eraserhead. Starring Jack Nance, Charlotte Stewart, and Allen Joseph, the Fantasy/Horror feature was shot in piecemeal fashion over the course of five years; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Henry Spencer tries to survive his industrial environment, his angry girlfriend, and the unbearable screams of his newly born mutant child."
For the record:
In 2004, Eraserhead was officially entered into the National Film Registry. For those unaware, here's the description of the National Film Registry from Google: "The National Film Registry (or NFR for short) is the United States National Film Preservation Board's (NFPB) collection of films selected for both preservation, together with and each selected for their historical, cultural and aesthetical contributions since its inception in 1988."
"Henry Spencer tries to survive his industrial environment, his angry girlfriend, and the unbearable screams of his newly born mutant child."
For the record:
In 2004, Eraserhead was officially entered into the National Film Registry. For those unaware, here's the description of the National Film Registry from Google: "The National Film Registry (or NFR for short) is the United States National Film Preservation Board's (NFPB) collection of films selected for both preservation, together with and each selected for their historical, cultural and aesthetical contributions since its inception in 1988."
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in Mexico), audiences were given a look into tomorrow with the theatrical release of Mexico 2000. Directed by Rogelio A. González, the SciFi/Comedy starred Chucho Salinas, Rojo Grau, and Elizabeth Aguilar. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Humor approach of a futuristic view and Mexican political satire of what the year 2000 could look like from the 80s viewpoint."
"Humor approach of a futuristic view and Mexican political satire of what the year 2000 could look like from the 80s viewpoint."
On this day in 1984 (in Denmark), 1990: The Bronx Warriors showed audiences the Apocalypse that awaited them only a few short years into tomorrow. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the Fantasy/Drama starred Mark Gregory, Fred Williamson, and Vic Morrow; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
On this day in 1984 (in Mexico), The House With Laughing Windows opened its doors ... well, cinematically, that is. Written (in part) and directed by Pupi Avati, the Horror/Fantasy starred Lino Capolicchio, Francesca Marciano, and Gianni Cavina. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Stefano, a young restorer, is commissioned to save a controversial mural located in the church of a small, isolated village."
"Stefano, a young restorer, is commissioned to save a controversial mural located in the church of a small, isolated village."
On this day in 1984 (in Finland), Timerider: The Adventure Of Lyle Swann traveled back through the ages on the silver screen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
"A maverick motorbike racer wanders into a top-secret time-travel research test site which unintentionally teleports him to the mid-1800s and ends up having to fight violent outlaws for his survival."
On this day in 1981 (in the Netherlands), Trashi enjoyed bringing a bit of eroticism to the world of Fantasy and Science Fiction. Directed by Ken Gibb, the Adult/Comedy starred Lisa De Leeuw, Joey Silvera, and Carol Doda. According to our friends at Letterboxd.com, here's the plot summary:
"In this hilarious spoof, the perfect woman is Lisa de Leeuw, who has all the best parts of womankind. This sexually erotic comedy is packed with sweet, slick sexual action of the most bizarre kind, including a mad scientist, and horny lusty robots created to perform only one function."
"In this hilarious spoof, the perfect woman is Lisa de Leeuw, who has all the best parts of womankind. This sexually erotic comedy is packed with sweet, slick sexual action of the most bizarre kind, including a mad scientist, and horny lusty robots created to perform only one function."
On this day in 1989 (in Italy and Sweden), it was a SciFi-themed clash of cultures when audiences were treated to the theatrical release of Alien Nation. Directed by Graham Baker from a script by Rockne S. O'Bannon, the SciFi/Fantasy starred James Caan, Mandy Patinkin, and Terence Stamp. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), family relations grew a bit more devious with the theatrical release of Wicked Stepmother. Written and directed by Larry Cohen, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Bette Davis, Barbara Carrera, and Colleen Camp. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mother/daughter pair of witches descend on a yuppie family's home and cause havoc, one at a time since they share one body, and the other must live in a cat the rest of the time. Now it's up to the family's mother, a private detective and a suspended police officer to try and stop the witches."
"A mother/daughter pair of witches descend on a yuppie family's home and cause havoc, one at a time since they share one body, and the other must live in a cat the rest of the time. Now it's up to the family's mother, a private detective and a suspended police officer to try and stop the witches."
On this day in 1993 (in Spain), Mutant Action delivered a degree of mutant alongside its action to audiences. Written (in part) and directed by Álex de la Iglesia, the SciFi/Comedy starred Antonio Resines, Álex Angulo, and Frédérique Feder. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future ruled by attractive people, mutant terrorists kidnap a rich man's daughter to claim rights for the ugly. Escaping police, the mutant leader crashes into a planet of crazy miners where no women live."
For the record:
As well as some positive attention garnered at film festivals, Mutant Action enjoyed some praise from the Goya Awards, Spain's national film awards. Though having to settle for nominations alone in three categories ('Best Production Design,' 'Best Editing,' and 'Best New Director'), the film took home top honors in three other groups ('Best Special Effects,' 'Best Production Manager,' and 'Best Makeup And Hairstyles').
"In a future ruled by attractive people, mutant terrorists kidnap a rich man's daughter to claim rights for the ugly. Escaping police, the mutant leader crashes into a planet of crazy miners where no women live."
For the record:
As well as some positive attention garnered at film festivals, Mutant Action enjoyed some praise from the Goya Awards, Spain's national film awards. Though having to settle for nominations alone in three categories ('Best Production Design,' 'Best Editing,' and 'Best New Director'), the film took home top honors in three other groups ('Best Special Effects,' 'Best Production Manager,' and 'Best Makeup And Hairstyles').
On this day in 1995 (in Canada and the U.S.), In The Mouth Of Madness enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by John Carpenter from a story by Michael De Luca, the Horror/Fantasy starred Sam Neill, Julie Carmen, and John Glover. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"With the disappearance of hack horror writer Sutter Cane, all Hell is breaking loose...literally! Author Cane, it seems, has a knack for description that really brings his evil creepy-crawlies to life. Insurance investigator John Trent is sent to investigate Cane's mysterious vanishing act and ends up in the sleepy little East Coast town of Hobb's End. The fact that this town exists as a figment of Cane's twisted imagination is only the beginning of Trent's problems."
For the record:
At the 1996 Saturn Awards, In The Mouth Of Madness earned two big nominations in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"With the disappearance of hack horror writer Sutter Cane, all Hell is breaking loose...literally! Author Cane, it seems, has a knack for description that really brings his evil creepy-crawlies to life. Insurance investigator John Trent is sent to investigate Cane's mysterious vanishing act and ends up in the sleepy little East Coast town of Hobb's End. The fact that this town exists as a figment of Cane's twisted imagination is only the beginning of Trent's problems."
For the record:
At the 1996 Saturn Awards, In The Mouth Of Madness earned two big nominations in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Horror Film.'
A star is born ... or is that porn? On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Lolita 2000 brought some -- ahem -- adult proclivities to a classic tale of seduction. Written (in part) and directed by Cybil Richards, the SciFi/Drama starred Jacqueline Lovell, David Squires, and Gabriella Hall. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Lolita 2000 is a modern adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's novel from exotic and sci-fi perspective."
"Lolita 2000 is a modern adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's novel from exotic and sci-fi perspective."
A star is born! On this day in 2001 (in Japan), Pulse (aka Kairo) pulsed to life on the silver screen. Written and directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, the SciFi/Horror starred Haruhiko Katô, Kumiko Aso, and Koyuki. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After one of their friends commits suicide, strange things begin happening to a group of young Tokyo residents. One of them sees visions of his dead friend in the shadows on the wall, while another's computer keeps showing strange, ghostly images. Is their friend trying to contact them from beyond the grave, or is there something much more sinister going on?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Pulse earned a nice bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"After one of their friends commits suicide, strange things begin happening to a group of young Tokyo residents. One of them sees visions of his dead friend in the shadows on the wall, while another's computer keeps showing strange, ghostly images. Is their friend trying to contact them from beyond the grave, or is there something much more sinister going on?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Pulse earned a nice bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2001 (in Japan), Supernova exploded on the silver screen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi feature:
"A deep space rescue and recovery spaceship with a crew of 6 receives a distress call from a mining operation 3432 light years away. A rescue operation via dimension jump is made. Bad idea."
"A deep space rescue and recovery spaceship with a crew of 6 receives a distress call from a mining operation 3432 light years away. A rescue operation via dimension jump is made. Bad idea."
A star is born! On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Dead & Rotting enjoyed its home video release. Written (in part) and directed by David P. Barton, the Horror/Fantasy starred Stephen O'Mahoney, Debbie Rochon, and Trent Haaga. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three prankster buddies release the wrath of an aged witch, Abigail, when they unwittingly become accomplices to the murder of her son. Scheming in anger, the witch seduces the three friends and then uses the men's own ill-born spawn to destroy them. Death and rot are left in the wake..."
"Three prankster buddies release the wrath of an aged witch, Abigail, when they unwittingly become accomplices to the murder of her son. Scheming in anger, the witch seduces the three friends and then uses the men's own ill-born spawn to destroy them. Death and rot are left in the wake..."
A star is born! On this day in 2002 (in the United Kingdom), The Fall Of The House Of Usher: A Gothic Tale For The 21st Century enjoyed its big screen debut. Ken Russell both directed and adapted the story by Edgar Allan Poe, and the film starred James Johnston, Elize Tribble Russell, and Marie Findley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When rock star Roddy Usher's wife is murdered, he's sent to the county lunatic asylum, where the therapy is far more insane than the inmates. An amalgam of several Edgar Allan Poe stories, and a mixture of comedy, horror, and musical genres."
"When rock star Roddy Usher's wife is murdered, he's sent to the county lunatic asylum, where the therapy is far more insane than the inmates. An amalgam of several Edgar Allan Poe stories, and a mixture of comedy, horror, and musical genres."
On this day in 2003 (in France), Cyberella: Forbidden Passions took eroticism into the realm of virtual reality. Directed by Jackie Garth from a story by Randall Fontana, the Adult/Fantasy starred Debra K. Beatty, Marshall Hilliard, and Landon Hall. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mara's soul is left in her computer when she dies while using a virtual reality program. She is given four chances to learn the "lesson" of life so she can move on to heaven. Each lesson involves a member of the opposite, or same, sex who is using another virtual reality program."
"Mara's soul is left in her computer when she dies while using a virtual reality program. She is given four chances to learn the "lesson" of life so she can move on to heaven. Each lesson involves a member of the opposite, or same, sex who is using another virtual reality program."
On this day in 2004 (in Greece), the 1931-produced Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde enjoyed its release on home video (DVD). According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Jekyll faces horrible consequences when he lets his dark side run wild with a potion that transforms him into the animalistic Mr. Hyde."
"Dr. Jekyll faces horrible consequences when he lets his dark side run wild with a potion that transforms him into the animalistic Mr. Hyde."
A star is born! On this day in 2005 (in the United Kingdom), Slipstream enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation ever for audiences in attendance of the London SciFi and Fantasy Film Festival. Directed by David van Eyssen, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sean Astin and Vinnie Jones, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist goes to a bank to meet a pretty bank-teller. His time-machine allows him to go 10 minutes back in time and correct his approaches to her. He's shadowed by 2 FBI agents and the bank gets robbed."
"A scientist goes to a bank to meet a pretty bank-teller. His time-machine allows him to go 10 minutes back in time and correct his approaches to her. He's shadowed by 2 FBI agents and the bank gets robbed."
On this day in 2011 (in Israel), Avalon High enjoyed its unveiling. Directed by Stuart Gillard, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Britt Robertson, Gregg Sulkin, and Joey Pollari. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A teenage girl moves to a new high school where she slowly discovers herself involved in the reincarnation of King Arthur."
"A teenage girl moves to a new high school where she slowly discovers herself involved in the reincarnation of King Arthur."
On this day in 2012 (in Japan), history got a bit randy with the home video release of Bikini Time Machine. Written and directed by Fred Olen Ray, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Joslyn James, Kylee Nash, and Jenna Presley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two down-on-their-luck waitresses become paid guinea pigs in a wacky doctor's time travel experiments in this erotic adult comedy. Traveling back and forth through History has a peculiar side effect - it makes the girls lose control of themselves and become very frisky!"
"Two down-on-their-luck waitresses become paid guinea pigs in a wacky doctor's time travel experiments in this erotic adult comedy. Traveling back and forth through History has a peculiar side effect - it makes the girls lose control of themselves and become very frisky!"
On this day in 2012 (in Canada), the 1984-produced The Terminator played for audiences in attendance of the Digital Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"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."
"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."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), Zombie Killers: Elephant's Graveyard turned up the heat on the looming apocalypse. Written (in part) and directed by B. Harrison Smith, the Horror/Fantasy starred Billy Zane, Dee Wallace, and Mischa Barton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young militia is all that stands between a coming dead horde and their rural town decimated by the fracking industry."
"A young militia is all that stands between a coming dead horde and their rural town decimated by the fracking industry."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Santa Barbera International Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Bokeh. Written and directed by the team of Geoffrey Orthwein and Andrew Sullivan, the SciFi/Drama starred Maika Monroe, Matt O'Leary, and Gunnar Helgason. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On a romantic getaway to Iceland, a young American couple wake up one morning to discover every person on earth has disappeared."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Bokeh earned a wee bit of extra attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"On a romantic getaway to Iceland, a young American couple wake up one morning to discover every person on earth has disappeared."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Bokeh earned a wee bit of extra attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2017, the tweencentric SciFi/Romance The Space Between Us found its way into the hearts and minds of tweens everywhere. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"The first human born on Mars travels to Earth for the first time, experiencing the wonders of the planet through fresh eyes. He embarks on an adventure with a street smart girl to discover how he came to be."
"The first human born on Mars travels to Earth for the first time, experiencing the wonders of the planet through fresh eyes. He embarks on an adventure with a street smart girl to discover how he came to be."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in France), The Titan enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever playing for audiences in attendance of the Gerardmer International Fantastic Film Festival. Directed by Lennart Ruff, the SciFi/Drama starred Sam Worthington, Taylor Schilling, and Tom Wilkinson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A military family takes part in a ground-breaking experiment of genetic evolution and space exploration."
"A military family takes part in a ground-breaking experiment of genetic evolution and space exploration."
On this day in 1958 (in the U.S.), the sixth and final season of Adventures Of Superman premiered with an episode titled, "The Last Knight." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's what all the fuss was about:
"A man wearing armor kidnaps Lois and Jimmy."
"A man wearing armor kidnaps Lois and Jimmy."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), Men Into Space aired "Caves of the Moon." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A mission is sent to explore a cave system on the Moon in the hope of finding ice. Having a source of water available would enable the colonization of the Moon."
"A mission is sent to explore a cave system on the Moon in the hope of finding ice. Having a source of water available would enable the colonization of the Moon."
On this day in 1961 (in the U.S.), The Twilight Zone aired "A Penny For Your Thoughts." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Gaining telepathic abilities when his coin lands on its edge bank clerk Hector B. Poole learns about the difference between other people's plans and fantasies."
"Gaining telepathic abilities when his coin lands on its edge bank clerk Hector B. Poole learns about the difference between other people's plans and fantasies."
On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), The Outer Limits aired "The Invisibles." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Aliens plan to take over the U.S. by recruiting disaffected loners who are themselves "invisible" to normal society. The alien crab-like creatures attach themselves to human hosts and control them. The recruits are assigned low-level jobs of highly appointed government officials so they can get the alien in close proximity to them. A U.S intelligence agent infiltrates the alien organization, but it may be too late."
"Aliens plan to take over the U.S. by recruiting disaffected loners who are themselves "invisible" to normal society. The alien crab-like creatures attach themselves to human hosts and control them. The recruits are assigned low-level jobs of highly appointed government officials so they can get the alien in close proximity to them. A U.S intelligence agent infiltrates the alien organization, but it may be too late."
On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), Thunderbirds aired "Danger At Ocean Deep." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A new tanker, the Ocean Pioneer is lost under mysterious circumstances. The team at International Rescue work to understand the reasons behind the loss. They discover the tragic truth behind the loss just as the latest Ocean Pioneer begins the same fatal voyage."
"A new tanker, the Ocean Pioneer is lost under mysterious circumstances. The team at International Rescue work to understand the reasons behind the loss. They discover the tragic truth behind the loss just as the latest Ocean Pioneer begins the same fatal voyage."
On this day in 1968 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Web Of Fear: Part 1." Officially, this served as the twenty-third episode of the program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by the online Doctor Who Guide:
"The TARDIS lands in the London Underground, which is deserted. Jamie and Victoria are captured by the military. The Doctor is amazed to discover that Yetis are in the tunnels."
"The TARDIS lands in the London Underground, which is deserted. Jamie and Victoria are captured by the military. The Doctor is amazed to discover that Yetis are in the tunnels."
On this day in 1973 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Carnival Of Monsters: Part 2." Officially, this served as the sixth episode of the program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary form the online Doctor Who Guide:
"The Doctor and Jo have been miniaturised and trapped inside a Miniscope, the property of showman Vorg. The Scope has been impounded on the planet Inter Minor and may be destroyed."
"The Doctor and Jo have been miniaturised and trapped inside a Miniscope, the property of showman Vorg. The Scope has been impounded on the planet Inter Minor and may be destroyed."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), The Fantastic Journey premiered with the airing of its very first episode titled "Vortex." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of passengers on their way to have a vacation become shipwrecked on a strange island where people from all times and dimensions are trapped."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), The Fantastic Journey premiered with the airing of its very first episode titled "Vortex." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of passengers on their way to have a vacation become shipwrecked on a strange island where people from all times and dimensions are trapped."
On this day in 1979 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Armageddon Factor: Part 3." Officially, this served as the twenty-third episode of the program's sixteenth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Shadow kidnaps the Doctor and tries to secure the Key to Time, while the Marshal prepares for an all-out assault against Zeos. Meanwhile, the Doctor's companions try to locate the missing TARDIS."
"The Shadow kidnaps the Doctor and tries to secure the Key to Time, while the Marshal prepares for an all-out assault against Zeos. Meanwhile, the Doctor's companions try to locate the missing TARDIS."
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), Galactica 1980 aired "Galactica Discovers Earth: Part 2." Officially, this served as the second episode to the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The thrilling adventures of "BATTLESTAR GALACTICA" continue in Part Two of "Galactica Discovers Earth, " when Commander Adama (Lorne Greene) dispatches two young pilots, Capt. Troy (Kent McCord) and Lieut. Dillon (Barry Van Dyke) to the planet Earth."
"The thrilling adventures of "BATTLESTAR GALACTICA" continue in Part Two of "Galactica Discovers Earth, " when Commander Adama (Lorne Greene) dispatches two young pilots, Capt. Troy (Kent McCord) and Lieut. Dillon (Barry Van Dyke) to the planet Earth."
On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), The Greatest American Hero aired "Just Another Three Ring Circus." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Bill is assigned to locate a missing circus clown. Ralph is recruited to infiltrate the circus as a human cannonball act."
"Bill is assigned to locate a missing circus clown. Ralph is recruited to infiltrate the circus as a human cannonball act."
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), The Greatest American Hero aired "Thirty Seconds Over Little Tokyo." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's third (and final) season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ralph and Bill find themselves trying to protect a Japanese man after a gang tries to kidnap him."
"Ralph and Bill find themselves trying to protect a Japanese man after a gang tries to kidnap him."
On this day in 1984 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Frontios: Part 4." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's twenty-first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Doctor tries to deal with the Tractator's cunning plan, despite Turlough's best intervention. They discover the splintered TARDIS in the tunnels beneath the planet's surface, but how will they put it together again?"
"The Doctor tries to deal with the Tractator's cunning plan, despite Turlough's best intervention. They discover the splintered TARDIS in the tunnels beneath the planet's surface, but how will they put it together again?"
On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), Knight Rider aired "Junk Yard Dog." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's third season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While on the trail of toxic polluter "Acid" John Birock, K.I.T.T. ends up in a pit filled with acid and is all but destroyed. The car has to be rebuilt from scratch by the original design team consisting of Dr. Von Voorman, Dr Breland and Dr. Numata. But once reassembled, the world's most sophisticated car seems to have lost it's nerves."
"While on the trail of toxic polluter "Acid" John Birock, K.I.T.T. ends up in a pit filled with acid and is all but destroyed. The car has to be rebuilt from scratch by the original design team consisting of Dr. Von Voorman, Dr Breland and Dr. Numata. But once reassembled, the world's most sophisticated car seems to have lost it's nerves."
One of the better uses writers made of involving Q in a plot took place on this day in 1990 when, as part of Star Trek: The Next Generation's third season, viewers found the omnipotent immortal stripped of his God-like powers and made into an ordinary human being. It was the perfect blend of humor and dramatic pathos, brought to life as only John de Lancie could!
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Superboy aired "Run, Dracula, Run." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Byron Shelly is mugged and loses the serum that keeps his vampire cravings at bay. When Lana and Andy go to help, Byron preys on Lana and they join forces to subdue Superboy. A race ensues to get the serum to the three of them, before Lana and the Boy of Steel become forever undead."
"Byron Shelly is mugged and loses the serum that keeps his vampire cravings at bay. When Lana and Andy go to help, Byron preys on Lana and they join forces to subdue Superboy. A race ensues to get the serum to the three of them, before Lana and the Boy of Steel become forever undead."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Fresh Bones." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The death of a Marine, who allegedly committed suicide, unearths a disturbing truth at a Haitian refugee camp."
"The death of a Marine, who allegedly committed suicide, unearths a disturbing truth at a Haitian refugee camp."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine boldly continued on its War with the Dominion in the fifth season as they aired "For the Uniform." Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"When the traitorous Eddington returns, Sisko will go to any lengths to capture him."
"When the traitorous Eddington returns, Sisko will go to any lengths to capture him."
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), UPN's Seven Days aired "Last Card Up." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"After a disastrous confrontation between a religious cult and the U.S. government, Parker is sent back in time to undo the event."
"After a disastrous confrontation between a religious cult and the U.S. government, Parker is sent back in time to undo the event."
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "The Emperor's New Cloak." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Quark and Rom have to rescue Grand Nagus Zek who's being held captive in the alternate universe."
"Quark and Rom have to rescue Grand Nagus Zek who's being held captive in the alternate universe."
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Voyager aired "Gravity." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's fifth season. The hour guest-starred the always interesting Lori Petty, and here's the plot summary as detailed by Memory Alpha online:
"Tom Paris, Tuvok, and The Doctor's shuttle crashes on a deserted planet within a temporally-distorted area of space, stranding the two with an alien woman who falls in love with Tuvok."
"Tom Paris, Tuvok, and The Doctor's shuttle crashes on a deserted planet within a temporally-distorted area of space, stranding the two with an alien woman who falls in love with Tuvok."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Batman Beyond aired "The Curse of the Kobra, Part 1." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Terry goes for advanced martial arts training at a special dojo, but there is far more to one of his fellow students than he realizes."
"Terry goes for advanced martial arts training at a special dojo, but there is far more to one of his fellow students than he realizes."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "The Dark Backward." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Trance sees a probable future that results in the deaths of the entire crew and the destruction of the Andromeda. She trims a bonsai tree, resetting the scenario to try a different approach. An object approaches the Andromeda and is not swayed from its intended target, even by the Andromeda's defenses. A mysterious man in black armor appears before Harper, damaging systems he had just finished repairing then disappearing. He reappears on the bridge and kills Beka before disappearing again. Trance again trims her bonsai, again resetting the incident."
"Trance sees a probable future that results in the deaths of the entire crew and the destruction of the Andromeda. She trims a bonsai tree, resetting the scenario to try a different approach. An object approaches the Andromeda and is not swayed from its intended target, even by the Andromeda's defenses. A mysterious man in black armor appears before Harper, damaging systems he had just finished repairing then disappearing. He reappears on the bridge and kills Beka before disappearing again. Trance again trims her bonsai, again resetting the incident."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Mutant X aired "Within These Walls." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Adam's sends them on a mission but doesn't give them much information. They're following a prisoner being transported in a van. Someone stops the van and releases the prisoner. When they arrive, they learn that the man is a mutant and tried to kill them. Later Brennan's upset with Adam but Adam tells him that he was entrusted to keep a secret and leaves after talking to that person. The man is looking for someone and is willing to kill anyone to get to that person. It turns out to be the same person Adam was talking to."
"Adam's sends them on a mission but doesn't give them much information. They're following a prisoner being transported in a van. Someone stops the van and releases the prisoner. When they arrive, they learn that the man is a mutant and tried to kill them. Later Brennan's upset with Adam but Adam tells him that he was entrusted to keep a secret and leaves after talking to that person. The man is looking for someone and is willing to kill anyone to get to that person. It turns out to be the same person Adam was talking to."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Stargate: SG-1 aired "Ethon." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode of the program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A contact within the Rand Protectorate comes to Earth with news that the Ori have given his people a superweapon to use against the Caledonian Federation in exchange for their conversion to Origin. SG-1 plans to turn the people from their newfound religion and destroy the superweapon."
"A contact within the Rand Protectorate comes to Earth with news that the Ori have given his people a superweapon to use against the Caledonian Federation in exchange for their conversion to Origin. SG-1 plans to turn the people from their newfound religion and destroy the superweapon."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Stargate: Atlantis aired "The Tower." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Stargate Atlantis team finds a world where the leader lives in a tower who possesses the power to stop the Wraith attacks."
"The Stargate Atlantis team finds a world where the leader lives in a tower who possesses the power to stop the Wraith attacks."
On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "The Box." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Count Dooku challenges eleven bounty hunters to survive several deadly levels devised by Moralo Eval. The winners will participate in the plot to kidnap Chancellor Palpatine on Naboo..."
"Count Dooku challenges eleven bounty hunters to survive several deadly levels devised by Moralo Eval. The winners will participate in the plot to kidnap Chancellor Palpatine on Naboo..."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), one of the best hours in the short-lived run of Fox TV's Almost Human aired "Unbound", and it brought the big guns! Lovely Gina Carano's big guns! (I'm talking about her arms, people! Get your minds out of the gutter!) Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The mystery item stored in police evidence is revealed, and an action packed bot hunt ensues, with John and Dorian pulling off some enthusiastic moves in an effort to reel in the rampaging renegade. The resulting adventure prompts Dorian to question the stability of his own personality and his reliability within the force, as he literally gets to meet his maker."
"The mystery item stored in police evidence is revealed, and an action packed bot hunt ensues, with John and Dorian pulling off some enthusiastic moves in an effort to reel in the rampaging renegade. The resulting adventure prompts Dorian to question the stability of his own personality and his reliability within the force, as he literally gets to meet his maker."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), The Flash (CW) aired "Crazy For You." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Caitlin brings Barry out to a karaoke bar, hoping they both meet someone new; Cisco thinks about Hartley's dangerous proposition; Henry's snooping gets him into trouble."
"Caitlin brings Barry out to a karaoke bar, hoping they both meet someone new; Cisco thinks about Hartley's dangerous proposition; Henry's snooping gets him into trouble."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: Rebels aired "Legends of the Lasat." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"The rebels are stunned to discover two Lasat refugees, and together they must evade the Empire to get the Lasat to their prophesized new home planet."
"The rebels are stunned to discover two Lasat refugees, and together they must evade the Empire to get the Lasat to their prophesized new home planet."