For what it's worth, The Bionic Woman wasn't as occasionally campy as its predecessor -- The Six Million Dollar Man -- giving its writers the chance to further explore the bionic-fueled adventures of Steve Austin's great love, Jaime Sommers (played by the fetching Lindsay Wagner). The popular spinoff premiered on this day in 1976 and last for three seasons on television, and it's so fondly remembered by viewers that NBC tried to reboot the property, albeit with a younger cast and a more contemporary feel. Still, I've no doubt that fans of the collective bionic franchise like to think of Steve and Jaime still pushing the boundaries of action even into their golden years ... yet no one ever dies in Science Fiction, do they? Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"After fully recovering from her nearly fatal bout of bionic rejection, Jaime Sommers, the first female cyborg, is assigned to spy missions of her own."
For the record:
In 1977, the series' star Lindsay Wagner was rewarded for her work with the Primetime Emmy for 'Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series' from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
"After fully recovering from her nearly fatal bout of bionic rejection, Jaime Sommers, the first female cyborg, is assigned to spy missions of her own."
For the record:
In 1977, the series' star Lindsay Wagner was rewarded for her work with the Primetime Emmy for 'Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series' from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Premiering on this day in 2016, USA Network's SciFi entry Colony did exactly what most Carlton Cuse programs do right out of the gate: it promised big ideas against the backdrop of quality Science Fiction ideas but then -- somewhat predictably -- ignored answering the questions it raised in favor of deepening whatever mystery was at the show's core. (Did we ever truly know?) Still, a strong cast and interesting writing (along with an eventual move from US production to Canada) carried the premise for three seasons, but -- in the end -- methinks viewers fled elsewhere in favor of less big box mysteries and more narrative development. In the end, answers were nowhere to be found ... but didn't it look great along the way? Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the wake of a mysterious alien invasion, a family fights to stay together in a new world order."
For the record:
Though the show never went home with the trophy, Colony was nominated for 'Best Science Fiction Television Series' three years consecutive -- 2016, 2017, and 2018 -- by the Saturn Awards.
"In the wake of a mysterious alien invasion, a family fights to stay together in a new world order."
For the record:
Though the show never went home with the trophy, Colony was nominated for 'Best Science Fiction Television Series' three years consecutive -- 2016, 2017, and 2018 -- by the Saturn Awards.
The late Joe Seneca enjoyed a bit of screen time -- though it's looking like he may not have made it out alive -- in the 1988 remake of The Blob. Though he's no longer with us, Seneca was born on this day in 1919.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you're ever going to find yourself lost in space, then I suppose it's probably good to have your dad along, especially if your dad is Guy Williams who played 'John Robinson' aboard Irwin Allen's SciFi original Lost In Space. Though he's no longer with us, Williams was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tom Tryon braved the Final Frontier as the lead to Walt Disney's SciFi/Comedy Moon Pilot (1962). Though he's no longer with us, Tryon was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you've seen it, then you know there's not all that much to look forward to with Supergirl. It did, however, give screen legend Faye Dunaway the chance to chew scenery as the villainous Selena. Thankfully, she's done a bit more, with appearances in such forays as Eyes Of Laura Mars (1978), The Handmaid's Tale (1990), Touched By An Angel, Anonymous Rex (2004), Pandemic (2007), The Gene Generation (2007), and The Seduction Of Dr. Fugazzi (2009). Dunaway was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A veteran of an incredible number of television productions, Barry Jenner suited up on behalf of Starfleet for a visit to the world of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Though he's no longer with us, Jenner was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Emmy-winning actress Holland Taylor enjoyed a guest spot aboard Fox TV's popular SciFi/Comedy The Orville. Taylor was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Marjoe Gortner certainly left his mark on Cult/SciFi with work aboard such projects as The Food Of The Gods (1976) and Starcrash (1978). Gortner was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Carl Weathers was a force to be reckoned with whenever he was called upon, be it the squared circle opposite Rocky Balboa or the deep jungles of South America with Arnold Schwarzenegger in Predator (1987). Because he was always surrounded by tough men, he knew what it truly meant to be among the toughest. Though he's no longer with us, Weathers was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kudos to the lovely Christine Belford for making being an outlaw aboard a program like the original Battlestar Galactica look so very good. Alas, she met a grisly fate -- the way many outlaws do -- when the "Gun on Ice Planet Zero" came to its finale. Belford was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan has an excellent track record with Science Fiction and Fantasy. He worked with George Lucas on Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi, and even Raiders of the Lost Ark. A few decades later, Walt Disney found that the Force was still strong with the man, and they brought him aboard to craft Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018). Kasdan was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Born on this day in 1957, the lovely Suzanne Danielle played a critical role back in 1979 when she was cast as 'Agella' to appear alongside Tom Baker in Doctor Who's "Destiny of the Daleks." She also had a small role in 1980's Flash Gordon.
To be fair, Steven Soderbergh doesn't direct much Science Fiction; he's far more a mainstream dramatic director than anything else. Still, he did bring George Clooney to work in the Americanized adaptation of Solaris (2002). Soderbergh was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mark Addy will probably remain best known for his work in A Knight's Tale and The Full Monty; both pictures gave the funnyman an opportunity to flex his creative muscles alongside terrific ensembles. He did appear in 2002's The Time Machine as well as HBO's stellar Game of Thrones adaptation. Addy was born on this day in 1964.
Lovely Jemma Redgrave has enjoyed some small screen success in a recurring role as 'Kate Lethbridge-Stewart' on the current incarnation of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Redgrave was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I'm one of those rare products of the 1980's who actually didn't go gaga over The Goonies (1985). Actually, I found it quite dumb and disappointing, but that was no fault of its stars, of which the lovely Kerri Green claims some of her fame. Green was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Born and raised in London, Emily Watson has an impressive track record in dramatic material. She did bless Equilibrium with her presence back in 2002, so there's something to be said for small favors. Watson was born on this day in 1967.
You've probably seen character actor Kevin Durand in a whole host of productions relating to action and sci-fi where he tends to play 'the heavy.' To name a few, he's been a part of I Am Number Four (2011), Real Steel (2011), X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009), and even ABC TV's Lost in a recurring role. Most recently, he's been seen in FX Networks' adaptation of Guillermo del Toro's The Strain. Durand was born on this day in 1974.
Juan Pablo Raba served time aboard the Marvel Television Universe with a recurring role aboard ABC TV's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. Raba was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
OMG, the wifey and I absolutely fell in love with Trieste Kelly Dunn with her work on the serial Banshee (not SciFi or Fantasy). What a tragic, tragic end to a fabulous character played so well by the actress. Thankfully, she's got some genre credentials so I can feature her here. Fans might know her from work aboard Fringe, Cupid, Futurestates, Plato's Reality Machine (2013), Believe, or The Passage. Dunn was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You'll pardon me if this sounds remotely sexist, but one of the best reasons to invest any time whatsoever with the Resident Evil franchise is to check out truly hot women kicking extreme zombie-style butt. Case in point: Kacey Barnfield (above left) joined Milla Jovovich in Resident Evil: Afterlife. That's a good enough reason for me to tune in. The young actress has also shared screen time in Lake Placid 3. Barnfield was born on this day in 1988.
Think what you may, but I've always believed Grant Gustin's lead performance aboard The CW's adaptation of DC Comics The Flash is what keeps the show grounded both in reality and fantasy. He makes a pitch perfect 'Barry Allen.' Gustin was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1954, Riders To The Stars took audiences on a ride into outer space. Directed by Richard Carlson (who also played a role), the feature starred William Lundigan, Herbert Marshall, and Martha Hyer; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In an attempt to discover the composition of meteors, three astronauts are sent out into space in three specially designed rockets. Their mission is to capture a meteor and bring it to Earth."
"In an attempt to discover the composition of meteors, three astronauts are sent out into space in three specially designed rockets. Their mission is to capture a meteor and bring it to Earth."
The author Jules Verne was responsible for creating so much quality science fiction for his time, and Hollywood has never tired of adapting his works for the movie houses. On this day in 1959 (in Sweden), audiences were thrilled to Journey to the Center of the Earth, a G-rated spectacle that treated families to the story of professors finding their way down to our planet's core. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Edinburgh university professor Sir Oliver Lindenbrook believes he has found an very old message from a long lost scientist who may have found the way to journey to the center of the Earth. With his assistant, student Alec McKuen, he sets off for Iceland where an entrance in a volcanic range is to be found. They are soon joined by Carla Goetabaug, whose scientist-husband was recently murdered, and Icelander Hans Belker as they descend into the bowels of the Earth. There they will find fantastic creatures, exotic plants, the lost city of Atlantis and a foe who wants to keep knowledge of this underworld to himself."
"Edinburgh university professor Sir Oliver Lindenbrook believes he has found an very old message from a long lost scientist who may have found the way to journey to the center of the Earth. With his assistant, student Alec McKuen, he sets off for Iceland where an entrance in a volcanic range is to be found. They are soon joined by Carla Goetabaug, whose scientist-husband was recently murdered, and Icelander Hans Belker as they descend into the bowels of the Earth. There they will find fantastic creatures, exotic plants, the lost city of Atlantis and a foe who wants to keep knowledge of this underworld to himself."
A star is born! On this day in 1970 (in the U.S.), Fantasy and Horror swirled together in a heady mix of suspense when The Dunwich Horror enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever. Directed by Daniel Haller from a scripted adaptation of the H.P. Lovecraft novella, the film starred Sandra Dee, Dean Stockwell, and Ed Begley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wilbur Whateley travels to the Arkham Miskatonic University to borrow the legendary Necronomicon. But, little does anyone know, Whateley isn't quite human..."
For the record:
At the 1973 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, The Dunwich Horror enjoyed a nomination for the festival's Grand Prize. Alas, the Fantasy picture lost out to Steven Spielberg's Duel (1971).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a complimentary screener of the Arrow Films remastering of The Dunwich Horror. Readers interested in finding out what I thought of the film can find my review right here.
"Wilbur Whateley travels to the Arkham Miskatonic University to borrow the legendary Necronomicon. But, little does anyone know, Whateley isn't quite human..."
For the record:
At the 1973 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, The Dunwich Horror enjoyed a nomination for the festival's Grand Prize. Alas, the Fantasy picture lost out to Steven Spielberg's Duel (1971).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a complimentary screener of the Arrow Films remastering of The Dunwich Horror. Readers interested in finding out what I thought of the film can find my review right here.
On this day in 1971 (in Mexico), that dreaded amalgam of body parts was at it once again with the release of Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed. Directed by Terence Fisher, the Horror/Fantasy starred Peter Cushing, Veronica Carlson, and Freddie Jones. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
On this day in 1980 (in Portugal), mankind began to lose its identity via the Invasion Of The Body Snatchers. Directed by Philip Kaufman, the SciFi/Horror starred Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, and Jeff Goldblum; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When strange seeds drift to earth from space, mysterious pods begin to grow and invade San Francisco, California, where they replicate the residents into emotionless automatons one body at a time."
For the record:
The 1978 remake of Invasion Of The Body Snatchers was no creative slouch as the film received a nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1979 Hugo Awards. Also, the film received an incredible eight nominations from the 1979 Saturn Awards but only took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Sound' and 'Best Director.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of the film's 2022 re-release from Kino Lorber. Folks interested in reading what I thought of the release can find my review right here.
"When strange seeds drift to earth from space, mysterious pods begin to grow and invade San Francisco, California, where they replicate the residents into emotionless automatons one body at a time."
For the record:
The 1978 remake of Invasion Of The Body Snatchers was no creative slouch as the film received a nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1979 Hugo Awards. Also, the film received an incredible eight nominations from the 1979 Saturn Awards but only took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Sound' and 'Best Director.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of the film's 2022 re-release from Kino Lorber. Folks interested in reading what I thought of the release can find my review right here.
A star is born! Talk about a bad hair day! Premiering in theatres on this day back in 1981, David Cronenberg's Scanners created quite a stir amongst SciFi/Horror fans. Even as of today, the film enjoys a wonderful cult reputation for its violent, mind-blowing tendencies. The feature starred Jennifer O'Neill, Stephen Lack, and Patrick McGoohan. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A scientist sends a man with extraordinary psychic powers to hunt others like him."
For the record:
Scanners was the birth of a franchise, spawning (to date) two sequels with mixed financial results. In 1981, the first film won two Saturn Awards -- 'Best Make-up' and 'Best International Film' -- while losing the trophy for a third nomination for 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've seen Scanners. I purchased a copy in 2022 solely for the purpose of sitting down and watching it from start-to-finish as I'd only seen sections of it over the years. Interested in knowing my thoughts? You can check out my review right here.
"A scientist sends a man with extraordinary psychic powers to hunt others like him."
For the record:
Scanners was the birth of a franchise, spawning (to date) two sequels with mixed financial results. In 1981, the first film won two Saturn Awards -- 'Best Make-up' and 'Best International Film' -- while losing the trophy for a third nomination for 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've seen Scanners. I purchased a copy in 2022 solely for the purpose of sitting down and watching it from start-to-finish as I'd only seen sections of it over the years. Interested in knowing my thoughts? You can check out my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), The Howling enjoyed its silver screen premiere when it was first screened for audiences in attendance of the Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival. Directed by Joe Dante, the Horror/Fantasy starred Dee Wallace, Patrick Macnee, and Dennis Dugan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a red light district, newswoman Karen White is bugged by the police, investigating serial killer Eddie Quist, who has been molesting her through phone calls. After police officers find them in a peep-show cabin and shoot Eddie, Karen becomes emotionally disturbed and loses her memory. Hoping to conquer her inner demons, she heads for the Colony, a secluded retreat where the creepy residents are rather too eager to make her feel at home. There also seems to be a bizarre connection between Eddie Quist and this supposedly safe haven. And when, after nights of being tormented by unearthly cries, Karen ventures into the forest and makes a terrifying discovery."
Editor's Note:
Technically, I'm uncertain as to The Howling's original premiere date. What I can say is that IMDB.com reports that it premiered at the listed film festival -- which lasted from January 14 through the 18th -- so I'm using the festival start date in lieu of greater specificity. Suck it, haters.
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Howling took home the big win in the category of 'Best Horror Film.' The production had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a special streaming of The Howling when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
"In a red light district, newswoman Karen White is bugged by the police, investigating serial killer Eddie Quist, who has been molesting her through phone calls. After police officers find them in a peep-show cabin and shoot Eddie, Karen becomes emotionally disturbed and loses her memory. Hoping to conquer her inner demons, she heads for the Colony, a secluded retreat where the creepy residents are rather too eager to make her feel at home. There also seems to be a bizarre connection between Eddie Quist and this supposedly safe haven. And when, after nights of being tormented by unearthly cries, Karen ventures into the forest and makes a terrifying discovery."
Editor's Note:
Technically, I'm uncertain as to The Howling's original premiere date. What I can say is that IMDB.com reports that it premiered at the listed film festival -- which lasted from January 14 through the 18th -- so I'm using the festival start date in lieu of greater specificity. Suck it, haters.
For the record:
At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Howling took home the big win in the category of 'Best Horror Film.' The production had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Special Effects.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I caught a special streaming of The Howling when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1984 (in Hungary), Computercide was committed! Directed by Robert Michael Lewis from a script by Robert Foster and Anthony Wilson, the SciFi/Mystery starred Joe Cortese, Susan George, and Tom Clancy. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The year is 1996 and Michael Stringer is the only private eye left on Earth. One day, he is hired by a woman to investigate Eden Isle, a complex for people who want a perfect life started by her industrialist father named Korter. Interestingly, Korter was found on a beach and is 20 years younger than he was before. When Stringer gets into the complex, he is caught in a web of mystery that he might not get out of."
"The year is 1996 and Michael Stringer is the only private eye left on Earth. One day, he is hired by a woman to investigate Eden Isle, a complex for people who want a perfect life started by her industrialist father named Korter. Interestingly, Korter was found on a beach and is 20 years younger than he was before. When Stringer gets into the complex, he is caught in a web of mystery that he might not get out of."
On this day in 1989 (in Japan), Top Line (aka Alien Terminator) enjoyed a run through theaters. Written (in part) and directed by Nello Rossati, the SciFi/Thriller starred Franco Nero, Deborah Moore, and Mary Stavin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Author Ted Angelo discovers a U.F.O. in the Colombian jungle. When he tries to spread the word, he earns more than the usual disbelief. Suddenly he's hunted by almost every organization, like the C.I.A., the K.G.B., the mob, Nazis, and even extra-terrestrials. Those E.T.s obviously do not want to phone home."
"Author Ted Angelo discovers a U.F.O. in the Colombian jungle. When he tries to spread the word, he earns more than the usual disbelief. Suddenly he's hunted by almost every organization, like the C.I.A., the K.G.B., the mob, Nazis, and even extra-terrestrials. Those E.T.s obviously do not want to phone home."
On this day in 1997 (in Russia), Screamers screamed its way onto the silver screen. Christian Duguay directed this adaptation of a Philip K. Dick story, and the film starred Peter Weller, Roy Dupuis, and Jennifer Rubin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A military commander stationed off planet during an interplanetary war travels through the devastated landscape to negotiate a peace treaty, but discovers that the primitive robots they built to kill enemy combatants have gained sentience."
"A military commander stationed off planet during an interplanetary war travels through the devastated landscape to negotiate a peace treaty, but discovers that the primitive robots they built to kill enemy combatants have gained sentience."
On this day in 1997 (in Spain), Space Truckers put the pedal to the metal ... in the Final Frontier! Written (in part) and directed by Stuart Gordon, the SciFi/Comedy starred Dennis Hopper, Debi Mazar, and Stephen Dorff. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A space trucker and his cute fiancee are on their way from a space station to Earth with an unknown cargo. When space pirates hijack them, 5000 disintegrator robots are found in the cargo."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Space Truckers was nominated as 'Best Film' at the 1996 Sitges - Catalonian International Film Festival.
"A space trucker and his cute fiancee are on their way from a space station to Earth with an unknown cargo. When space pirates hijack them, 5000 disintegrator robots are found in the cargo."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Space Truckers was nominated as 'Best Film' at the 1996 Sitges - Catalonian International Film Festival.
A star is born! On this day in 1998, the SciFi/Telefilm Atomic Dog took a bite out of TV audiences. The feature starred Daniel Hugh Kelly and Cindy Pickett, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a pooch is irradiated by a nuclear plant and threatens the town, only a teenage boy can redeem him."
"When a pooch is irradiated by a nuclear plant and threatens the town, only a teenage boy can redeem him."
On this day in 1998 (in Belgium), the bugs were waged war on us with the theatrical release of Starship Troopers! Paul Verhoeven directed this adaptation of the Robert A. Heinlein novel, and it starred Casper Van Dien, Denise Richards, and Dina Meyer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Humans in a fascist, militaristic future wage war with giant alien bugs."
For the record:
Though the film wasn't quite a hit with fans of director Verhoeven or author Heinlein's, Starship Troopers still garnered a reasonable amount of acclaim from the usual suspects. The feature enjoyed a single Academy Awards nomination in 1998 for the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.' At the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the picture took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Special Effects' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it received a 1998 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Humans in a fascist, militaristic future wage war with giant alien bugs."
For the record:
Though the film wasn't quite a hit with fans of director Verhoeven or author Heinlein's, Starship Troopers still garnered a reasonable amount of acclaim from the usual suspects. The feature enjoyed a single Academy Awards nomination in 1998 for the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.' At the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the picture took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Special Effects' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it received a 1998 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1999 (in Germany), audiences were treated to a Special Report: Journey To Mars. Directed by Robert Mandel, the SciFi/Drama starred Keith Carradine, Rosalind Chao, and Judge Reinhold. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The last two hours before a manned spaceship's landing on Mars are transmitted on a TV news channel on Earth. Problems arise."
"The last two hours before a manned spaceship's landing on Mars are transmitted on a TV news channel on Earth. Problems arise."
A star is born! Sometimes the Universe just has to go BOOM! On this day in 2000, Supernova exploded theatrically. Directed by Walter Hill, the SciFi feature starred Angela Bassett and James Spader, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
On this day in 2005 (in Hungary), audiences were exposed to a little Contagion with its broadcast on television. Directed by John Murlowski from a script by Russell V. Manzatt, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Bruce Boxleitner, Megan Gallagher, and Lin Shaye. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A pair of criminals infect the president of the United States with a deadly virus. His only hope is to give in to their demands, but he refuses to cooperate with terrorists. Now it is up to Dr. Diane Landis to save his life."
"A pair of criminals infect the president of the United States with a deadly virus. His only hope is to give in to their demands, but he refuses to cooperate with terrorists. Now it is up to Dr. Diane Landis to save his life."
A star is born! On this day in 2007, Flatland enjoyed a special home video release to the U.S. consumer marketplace. Directed by Ladd Ehlinger Jr., the animated feature is an adaptation of the popular Edwin A. Abbott novel, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Flatland is a two-dimensional universe occupied by living geometric figures - squares, triangles, circles, etc. A Square, Attorney At Law, finds himself in the middle of two upheavals: the rise of martial law by the circular leadership of Flatland, and the arrival of A Sphere, CEO Of Messiah, Incorporated, a creature from a hitherto-unknown third dimensional world."
"Flatland is a two-dimensional universe occupied by living geometric figures - squares, triangles, circles, etc. A Square, Attorney At Law, finds himself in the middle of two upheavals: the rise of martial law by the circular leadership of Flatland, and the arrival of A Sphere, CEO Of Messiah, Incorporated, a creature from a hitherto-unknown third dimensional world."
This is all very 'sci-fi-lite' but methinks it deserves a mention. On this day in 2014, IFC Pictures released Plus One (aka +1) onto home video -- I've done some research, and I can't find that it ever had an official theatrical release in the U.S., though IMDB.com does indicate a pending release in Greece (for some strange reason). I've watched it and, while I found it an interesting idea, I didn't find it as original an idea as some of the other critics who've lavished it with some praise. It's basically a story that mashes together the time-travel-idea with a modern-day teen comedy, but trust me when I warn you that it gets all dark and gritty in the conclusion. Still, I found it definitely worth a view, which is why I'm doing my part in mentioning it here.
Trailer
Trailer
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in Singapore), After Darkness shone a little light with its release on home video. Directed by Batan Silva from a script by Fernando Diez Barroso, the SciFi/Thriller starred Natalia Dyer, Kyra Sedgwick, and Tim Daly. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As the SUN burns out, an American family gathers at the end of the world, their hopes for rescue slowly crumbling as they also confront long lasting divides amongst each other."
"As the SUN burns out, an American family gathers at the end of the world, their hopes for rescue slowly crumbling as they also confront long lasting divides amongst each other."
A star is born! On this day in 2017, Space Detective played for audiences in attendance of the Miami Science Fiction Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Antonio Llapur, the SciFi/Animated project featured the vocal talents of Matt Sjafiroeddin and Angela Rysk, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An exiled space detective returns to help an old flame but finds himself tangled in a web of interstellar intrigue, galactic gangsters, and a sinister scheme that threatens the very fate of the entire galaxy!"
"An exiled space detective returns to help an old flame but finds himself tangled in a web of interstellar intrigue, galactic gangsters, and a sinister scheme that threatens the very fate of the entire galaxy!"
On this day in 2020 (in Canada), there was murder in space with the home video release of 3022. Directed by John Suits from a script from Ryan Binaco, the SciFi/Thriller starred Omar Epps, Kate Walsh, and Angus Macfadyen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of astronauts living in the haunting emptiness of deep space awake to find earth has suffered an extinction level event."
"A group of astronauts living in the haunting emptiness of deep space awake to find earth has suffered an extinction level event."
On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), Science Fiction Theatre aired "Operation Flypaper." Officially, this served as the thirty-eighth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The theft of a series of scientific documents and equipment become perplexing with the only clue being unexplained time shifts that occur at the time the items went missing."
"The theft of a series of scientific documents and equipment become perplexing with the only clue being unexplained time shifts that occur at the time the items went missing."
On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), Captain Midnight aired "Million Dollar Diamond." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"A young boy tells Captain Midnight about the strange and abusive behavior of his father, a gem expert preparing to cut a million dollar diamond. With the aid of Tut's new invention, a miniature television camera and transmitter, Captain Midnight learns that the boy's father has been kidnapped and a double has been put in his place. The plan is to steal the diamond when it is delivered for cutting. Captain Midnight arranges for the release of the boy's father and the apprehension of the criminals behind the proposed theft."
"A young boy tells Captain Midnight about the strange and abusive behavior of his father, a gem expert preparing to cut a million dollar diamond. With the aid of Tut's new invention, a miniature television camera and transmitter, Captain Midnight learns that the boy's father has been kidnapped and a double has been put in his place. The plan is to steal the diamond when it is delivered for cutting. Captain Midnight arranges for the release of the boy's father and the apprehension of the criminals behind the proposed theft."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Adam Ant Lives aired "Conspiracy Of Death." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Adam investigates the murder of an old wartime friend."
"Adam investigates the murder of an old wartime friend."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Underwater Menace: Part 1." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS materialises on a deserted beach where the Doctor and his friends are captured by primitive warriors and taken to the fabled city of Atlantis."
"The TARDIS materialises on a deserted beach where the Doctor and his friends are captured by primitive warriors and taken to the fabled city of Atlantis."
It all began right here! On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), a spin-off was fully realized when The Bionic Woman aired its first episode. The title was "Welcome Home, Jaime: Part 1," and here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Coming to terms with her memory loss, Jaime decides to move to Ojai to live with Steve's Parents, and settle down. She takes an apartment at their ranch and also gets a job as a schoolteacher. During a car accident, she uses her bionic abilities to get her out of trouble, but someone is watching."
"Coming to terms with her memory loss, Jaime decides to move to Ojai to live with Steve's Parents, and settle down. She takes an apartment at their ranch and also gets a job as a schoolteacher. During a car accident, she uses her bionic abilities to get her out of trouble, but someone is watching."
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), The Bionic Woman aired "The Pyramid" as part of its third and final season. Here's the episode summary, compliments of IMDB.com:
"While Oscar is overseeing an attempt to save the ozone layer, OSI agent Chris Williams goes on a dinner date with Jaime Sommers. They both end up caught in a mysterious underground pyramid made by intelligent aliens ages ago. The sentinel has just awoken because Oscar's experiment could be harmful to his people and they in turn might retaliate against Earth."
"While Oscar is overseeing an attempt to save the ozone layer, OSI agent Chris Williams goes on a dinner date with Jaime Sommers. They both end up caught in a mysterious underground pyramid made by intelligent aliens ages ago. The sentinel has just awoken because Oscar's experiment could be harmful to his people and they in turn might retaliate against Earth."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), the plot truly started to thicken on Battlestar Galactica. Here's the episode summary for "War of the Gods, Part 1" from IMDB.com:
"Silver Spar Squadron is overtaken by a Ship of Lights and subsequently disappears. Investigating a red planet, Apollo, Starbuck and Sheba find a crashed starship and a lone survivor, the mysterious Count Iblis. After Sheba takes him on a tour of the Galactica and other ships in the fleet, the charismatic Count offers to perform three miracles of the Colonial's choosing if they will surrender leadership of the fleet to him."
"Silver Spar Squadron is overtaken by a Ship of Lights and subsequently disappears. Investigating a red planet, Apollo, Starbuck and Sheba find a crashed starship and a lone survivor, the mysterious Count Iblis. After Sheba takes him on a tour of the Galactica and other ships in the fleet, the charismatic Count offers to perform three miracles of the Colonial's choosing if they will surrender leadership of the fleet to him."
On this day in 1980 (in the United Kingdom), Blake's 7 aired "Powerplay." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Avon and Dayna return to the Liberator only to find it has been taken over by a Federation death-squad led by Captain Del Tarrant. Vila is rescued from the jungle planet Chenga where he finds Cally and Servalan in a hospital, only to find the hospital in reality is a slaughterhouse, where human organs are stored in banks."
"Avon and Dayna return to the Liberator only to find it has been taken over by a Federation death-squad led by Captain Del Tarrant. Vila is rescued from the jungle planet Chenga where he finds Cally and Servalan in a hospital, only to find the hospital in reality is a slaughterhouse, where human organs are stored in banks."
On this day in 1985 (in the United Kingdom), audiences were treated to the second episode of Chocky's Children. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Matthew and Albertine become friends and Albertine begins to hear sounds in her mind. Arnold Meyer, her father, tries to keep her and Matthew apart, but without success. He fears that she will be distracted from her studies. They make models out of clay together and Albertine creates a model of Chocky without knowing it. It mirrors a painting done by Matthew a year earlier."
"Matthew and Albertine become friends and Albertine begins to hear sounds in her mind. Arnold Meyer, her father, tries to keep her and Matthew apart, but without success. He fears that she will be distracted from her studies. They make models out of clay together and Albertine creates a model of Chocky without knowing it. It mirrors a painting done by Matthew a year earlier."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Time Trax aired "A Close Encounter." This served as the fourth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"An alien crash lands in a town and accidentally injures a man in self defense, triggering a search for him. Darien attempts to help the alien, but the alien won't leave until he finds his mate, whom was left behind on an earlier visit."
"An alien crash lands in a town and accidentally injures a man in self defense, triggering a search for him. Darien attempts to help the alien, but the alien won't leave until he finds his mate, whom was left behind on an earlier visit."
Lt. Vanessa Damphousse (played by Lanei Chapman) begins experiencing premonitions of his fellow troopers suffering tragic ends in "Level of Necessity," an episode of Space Above and Beyond that aired on this day in 1996.
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The Outer Limits aired "A Stitch In Time." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"At least 17 men have been executed in the last two decades without a clear motive, with the same gun. FBI Special Agent Jamie Pratt has to find how some of those murders were carried out when the gun had not yet been made."
For the record:
"A Stitch In Time" appears to be crafted from a script uncredited to The Outer Limits' (1963-1965) scribe Leslie Stevens (IMDB.com shows this version credited to Steven Barnes), or perhaps that information is merely mischaracterized. In any event, the hour was directed by Mario Azzopardi and starred Amanda Plummer, Michelle Forbes, and Andrew Airlie. In 1996, Plummer's performance garnered her the trophy for 'Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series' from the Primetime Emmy Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I streamed the episode via my very own subscription to MGM+ for the purposes of penning a review for the site. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
"At least 17 men have been executed in the last two decades without a clear motive, with the same gun. FBI Special Agent Jamie Pratt has to find how some of those murders were carried out when the gun had not yet been made."
For the record:
"A Stitch In Time" appears to be crafted from a script uncredited to The Outer Limits' (1963-1965) scribe Leslie Stevens (IMDB.com shows this version credited to Steven Barnes), or perhaps that information is merely mischaracterized. In any event, the hour was directed by Mario Azzopardi and starred Amanda Plummer, Michelle Forbes, and Andrew Airlie. In 1996, Plummer's performance garnered her the trophy for 'Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series' from the Primetime Emmy Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I streamed the episode via my very own subscription to MGM+ for the purposes of penning a review for the site. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
On this day in 1998 (in the United Kingdom), Space Island One aired "All The News That Fits." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Wikipedia.org:
"A visiting journalist uncovers information regarding a secret space mission. Paula Hernadez begins her sexual pursuit of Dusan Kashkavian."
"A visiting journalist uncovers information regarding a secret space mission. Paula Hernadez begins her sexual pursuit of Dusan Kashkavian."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Voyager aired "Waking Moments" as part of its fourth season on the UPN. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"The Voyager crew are assaulted in the form of nightmares. An alien species, functioning only in a dream world, disables the crew and traps them in a shared dream. Chakotay strives to stay awake and help The Doctor disable the aliens' hold on the crew, all while wondering if he is still dreaming."
"The Voyager crew are assaulted in the form of nightmares. An alien species, functioning only in a dream world, disables the crew and traps them in a shared dream. Chakotay strives to stay awake and help The Doctor disable the aliens' hold on the crew, all while wondering if he is still dreaming."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles aired an episode titled "Propaganda Machine." According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Higgins is ordered to make a good Fed-Net report hiding the horrors of war and showing something positive about the Bug Campaign."
"Higgins is ordered to make a good Fed-Net report hiding the horrors of war and showing something positive about the Bug Campaign."
On this day in the year 2000 (in the U.S.), Farscape continued through its first season, airing an episode titled "The Hidden Memory." Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Aeryn is cured, but Crichton has been captured. Now the crew struggles to find a way to rescue him. Scorpius probes Crichton for wormhole knowledge, and discovers something left behind by the Ancients. Crais arrives he wants Crichton. Aeryn will arrive and confront her former Captain, the person who deemed her irreversibly contaminated."
"Aeryn is cured, but Crichton has been captured. Now the crew struggles to find a way to rescue him. Scorpius probes Crichton for wormhole knowledge, and discovers something left behind by the Ancients. Crais arrives he wants Crichton. Aeryn will arrive and confront her former Captain, the person who deemed her irreversibly contaminated."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Earth: Final Conflict aired "Legacy." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An archaeologist uncover an ancient tomb and portal where a female Atavus appears. Renee chases it through a portal to a monastery back in time. A monk follows Renee back to the present."
"An archaeologist uncover an ancient tomb and portal where a female Atavus appears. Renee chases it through a portal to a monastery back in time. A monk follows Renee back to the present."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Mutant X continued its journey through its inaugural season with an adventure titled "Dark Star Rising." Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"The team encounters some people trying to break into a Genomex lab and discover that they're ferals. They learn that they're military and that they're entire unit was experimented on which led to their becoming ferals. And most of them died. They're now going after who did this to them."
"The team encounters some people trying to break into a Genomex lab and discover that they're ferals. They learn that they're military and that they're entire unit was experimented on which led to their becoming ferals. And most of them died. They're now going after who did this to them."
On this day in 2005 (in Sweden), Firefly aired "Serenity." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Malcolm Reynolds is a veteran and the captain of Serenity. He and his crew are smuggling goods, but they need to pick up some passengers for extra money. However, not all the passengers are what they seem."
"Malcolm Reynolds is a veteran and the captain of Serenity. He and his crew are smuggling goods, but they need to pick up some passengers for extra money. However, not all the passengers are what they seem."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Enterprise aired the tenth episode of its fourth and final season. The hour was titled "Daedalus," and here's the plot summary from TrekCore.com:
"The inventor of the transporter, Doctor Emory Erickson - a friend of Archer's father - boards Enterprise with his daughter in order to test a new form of subquantum transport that would make starships and warp drive obsolete. The risky experiment has deadly consequences though, and is far from what it seems."
"The inventor of the transporter, Doctor Emory Erickson - a friend of Archer's father - boards Enterprise with his daughter in order to test a new form of subquantum transport that would make starships and warp drive obsolete. The risky experiment has deadly consequences though, and is far from what it seems."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles aired "Gnothi Seauton." This served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"John goes stir crazy when he's confined to the house, Sarah looks up an old friend for some help, but she may face betrayal, and Cromartie begins reassembling himself."
"John goes stir crazy when he's confined to the house, Sarah looks up an old friend for some help, but she may face betrayal, and Cromartie begins reassembling himself."
It all began right here: on this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), USA Network launched Colony, a SciFi/Drama from longtime TV producer Carlton Cuse. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In near-future Los Angeles, Will Bowman attempts a daring rescue. His wife Katie tries to help a relative in need. A job opportunity threatens to divide the family."
"In near-future Los Angeles, Will Bowman attempts a daring rescue. His wife Katie tries to help a relative in need. A job opportunity threatens to divide the family."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Discovery aired "The Wolf Inside." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the crew continues their guise, Burnham undergoes a merciless mission in hopes of helping the U.S.S. Discovery return home. Tilly works on restoring Stamets' neurofunction."
"As the crew continues their guise, Burnham undergoes a merciless mission in hopes of helping the U.S.S. Discovery return home. Tilly works on restoring Stamets' neurofunction."
