Folks will always make fun of SciFi from 1980's television, but, as much as they might malign or mock the second season of Buck Rogers In The 25th Century, I thought the program had some nice moments. After a mostly pulp and cheese-infused first season, writers came back with an all-new concept: Buck and the crew of the Searcher were tasked with seeking out the remnants of the human race who'd fled Earth as wars were ravaging our planet. And, despite whatever fun naysayers want to poke at the shortened second season, the program introduced one of the most interesting and complex characters to come along in TV SciFi since our beloved Mr. Spock: Hawk -- a vengeance-filled man/bird hybrid -- was wrecking havoc on an alien world responsible for slaughtering his kind.
Naturally, Buck was sent in to save the day, and, instead of beating the alien into submission, Capt. Rogers realized Hawk needed a purpose, a calling ... and the Searcher answered by making him a member of their crew. Sadly, audiences never got enough of Hawk, certainly not enough to get to know him as well as they would've liked, and whatever happened to that curious hybrid is now the stuff of legend ... or fan-fiction. "Time of the Hawk" was a stellar two-parter that premiered on this day back in 1981.
For the record:
I think it's also worthy of note that this episode's cinematography, Ben Colman, scored a 1981 Primetime Emmy nomination for 'Outstanding Cinematography for a Series.' He may have lost, but his work visually was singled out for such praise for the era.
Naturally, Buck was sent in to save the day, and, instead of beating the alien into submission, Capt. Rogers realized Hawk needed a purpose, a calling ... and the Searcher answered by making him a member of their crew. Sadly, audiences never got enough of Hawk, certainly not enough to get to know him as well as they would've liked, and whatever happened to that curious hybrid is now the stuff of legend ... or fan-fiction. "Time of the Hawk" was a stellar two-parter that premiered on this day back in 1981.
For the record:
I think it's also worthy of note that this episode's cinematography, Ben Colman, scored a 1981 Primetime Emmy nomination for 'Outstanding Cinematography for a Series.' He may have lost, but his work visually was singled out for such praise for the era.
In the role of 'Professor Pretorius,' the venerable Ernest Thesiger helped Universal Pictures bring to life the Bride Of Frankenstein (1935). Though he's no longer with us, Thesiger was born on this day in 1879.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Torin Thatcher chewed scenery with the best of them, turning in solid work aboard such properties as The 7th Voyage Of Sinbad (1958), One Step Beyond, Jack The Giant Killer (1962), Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Lost In Space, Star Trek, and Land Of The Giants. Though he's no longer with us, Thatcher was born on this day in 1905.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 1978, veteran actor Lloyd Bridges brought his considerable clout to a grand guest-starring role on TV's original Battlestar Galactica: he played the war hawk 'Commander Cain,' leader of a Battlestar that had also survived the original assault by the Cylons. Of course, this hawk understandably clashes with Adama's dove, so it wasn't exactly a match made in heaven but indeed one for the stars. But did he enjoy other adventures in the realms of the Fantastic? Why, yes, he did! The actor paid more than lip service to such properties as Rocketship X-M (1950), Around The World Under The Sea (1966), Stowaway To The Moon (1975), Tales Of The Unexpected, Airplane II: The Sequel (1982), Honey I Blew Up The Kid (1992), and The Outer Limits. Though he's no longer with us, Bridges was born on this day in 1913.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate to receive a promotional release of a new pressing of Rocketship X-M via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate to receive a promotional release of a new pressing of Rocketship X-M via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the production? Readers can find my review right here.
The lovely Maria Schell played alongside Marlon Brando as one of the Krypton elders in the Superhero epic, Superman: The Movie (1978). Though she's no longer with us, Schell was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Phyllis Coates played 'Lois Lane' opposite George Reeves aboard TV's Adventures Of Superman for the 1952-1953 season. She also appeared aboard Science Fiction Theatre, Invasion USA (1952), Panther Girl Of The Congo (1955), I Was A Teenage Frankenstein (1857), The Incredible Petrified World (1959), and Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman. Though she's no longer with us, Coates was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
There are several hours of Star Trek's third season that fans would wish were a bit better, but "The Enterprise Incident" isn't one of them. Much of the fondness is owed to Joanne Linville who played the Romulan commander in the episode. Still, kudos are extended to the lady for her appearances as well in such genre entries as One Step Beyond, The Twilight Zone, The Invaders, From The Dead Of Night (1989), and Starship Excelsior (podcast). Though she's no longer with us, Linville was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Readers of science fiction should recognize the name of Robert Silverberg. He's considered a Grand Master in the world of sci-fi, having won multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards as well as being a member of the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. And is anyone interested in knowing which of the man's works might've been transformed into film and television outings? Look no further than The Twilight Zone, Amanda & The Alien (1995), Bicentennial Man (1999), and Needle In A Timestack (2021). Silverberg was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
Richard Franklin lived a life of adventure while in the uniform for a fairly epic tour of duty aboard the BBC's long-running Doctor Who procedural. his career also allowed time for roles aboard The Saint, Blake's 7, The Tomorrow People (podcast), and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). Though he's no longer with us, Franklin was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, yes, and yes! I've seen 2016's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story when it played in theaters. Interested in my thoughts on the spectacle? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, yes, and yes! I've seen 2016's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story when it played in theaters. Interested in my thoughts on the spectacle? Readers can find my review right here.
Award-winning actress Margaret O'Brien has certainly dabbled in the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy with roles aboard such projects as Death In Space (1974), Tales From The Darkside, and Impact Event (2018). O'Brien was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Barbara Tarbuck leaves behind a legacy of over 100 different screen roles, including work in such properties as The Incredible Hulk, The Twilight Zone, Out of Time (1988), Star Trek: The Next Generation, Quantum Leap, Scanner Cop II (1995), The Burning Zone, Star Trek: Enterprise, Journeyman, and The Event. Though she's no longer with us, Tarbuck was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of 'Stella Warden,' the lovely Karen Carlson chewed scenery as a devious Femme Fatale for Buck Rogers In The 25th Century in the first season outing, "Planet of the Slave Girls." The actress got her start in an episode of The Man From U.N.C.L.E. and then went on to such entries as I Dream Of Jeannie, Matt Helm, It Happened One Christmas (1977), The Incredible Hulk, and Teen Vamp (1989). Carlson was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Andrea Martin has always been able to make me laugh. In fact, I've been laughing along with her all the way back to her days in the immortal SCTV. Thank goodness Star Trek: Deep Space Nine gave her a chance to play in a much larger universe. Though she only appeared as 'Ishka' once, she brought the Progressive version of a Ferengi woman to bold life. Martin was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Viewers will probably go to their graves arguing about whether or not the Syfy Channel's original programming really deserves to be on the dial, but I'm comfy with giving their shows a shout-out from time to time. Mario Van Peebles hides a town's darker secrets aboard the network's Superstition. Van Peebles was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor James Nesbitt made a splash playing Clem Donnelly in the BBC miniseries The Deep, the mystery of a research submarine uncovering secrets vital to Earth's survival. He followed that up playing the dwarf 'Bofur' in Peter Jackson's big screen adaptation of The Hobbit. Donnelly was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
TV veteran Chad Lowe (above left) joined Supergirl in a recurring role of a curious 'savior' who somehow knows more than the planet Krypton than any Earthling should. Lowe was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kellita Smith spends her days fighting back the Zombie hordes aboard Syfy's signature Z Nation. She's also appeared in the growing Sharknado universe of telefilms. Smith was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
There are some who say that 'Biblical Prophecy' projects have no business falling into the realm of Fantasy, but I've no problem mentioning them in this space: that said, Regina King braved the 'End Times' aboard HBO's lukewarm The Leftovers. She also made a solid appearance aboard FX Network's adaptation of The Strain. King was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in his professional career, Ernie Reyes Jr. enjoyed some screen time with the 'Turtles' aboard Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret Of The Ooze (1991). Incidentally, one of the actor's earliest screen roles was as the fledgling 'Prince Tarn' aboard the somewhat ill-fated Red Sonja (1985) that so many folks hate and yet I kinda/sorta love. Reyes Jr. was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the gentleman's credit, Reyes enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Young Actor Co-Starring In A Motion Picture' Award from the Young Artists Awards in 1992 for his work alongside the turtles. And -- in 2009 -- his stuntwork (along with his fellow stuntmen and stuntwomen) earned a nomimation in the category of 'Outstanding Performance By A Stunt Ensemble In A Motion Picture' from the Screen Actors Guild Awards for their work in Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the gentleman's credit, Reyes enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Young Actor Co-Starring In A Motion Picture' Award from the Young Artists Awards in 1992 for his work alongside the turtles. And -- in 2009 -- his stuntwork (along with his fellow stuntmen and stuntwomen) earned a nomimation in the category of 'Outstanding Performance By A Stunt Ensemble In A Motion Picture' from the Screen Actors Guild Awards for their work in Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull.
The lovely Jamie Clayton plays 'Nomi Marks' aboard the Wachowskis' elusive Netflix SciFi property, Sense8. The actress has also enjoyed a bit of screen exposure in such genre entries as The Neon Demon (2016), Mass Effect: Andromeda (video game), Roswell New Mexico, and Hellraiser (2022). Clayton was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2023 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Clayton earned a 'Best Supporting Performance' nomination for her work aboard the 2022 Hellraiser reboot.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2023 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Clayton earned a 'Best Supporting Performance' nomination for her work aboard the 2022 Hellraiser reboot.
Though Eddie Cahill is probably recognized more often for his work on CBS's long-running CSI:New York, he also played a regular aboard CBS's Under The Dome adaptation. Cahill was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in the mid-80's, George Lucas decided he wanted to play a bit more with the Ewoks and the world of Endor, and he launched two tele-films in which to do so. To be fair, they weren't awful, but they weren't all that memorable, either. Seems to me I enjoyed "The Battle for Endor" more than "Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure." The human component was a little girl named 'Cindel' whose family was shipwrecked on the planet, and the li'l sprite was played by Aubree Miller. Miller was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
During his time in the entertainment industry, Trent Ford has enjoyed appearances in such genre projects as Smallville, The Island (2005), and The Vampire Diaries. Ford was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Charleene Closshey enjoyed a small role aboard the SciFi/Comedy better known as Robodoc (2009) for Gordon-Tynes Productions. Closshey was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Cynthia Kaye McWilliams has provided voice tracks to such video properties as Marvel Heroes, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 video game, and Halo 5: Guardians. McWilliams was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Victor Rasuk helped face down the colossal terror that was Godzilla at the box office in 2014. He also enjoyed a 4-episode run aboard the SciFi/Fantasy series Colony for good measure. Rasuk was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely and tough Jessy Schram plays a good-girl/bad-girl warrior 'Karen Nadler' on TNT's Falling Skies. She's also been seen on ABC TV's Once Upon A Time. Schram was born on this day back in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ahem. Adult film temptress Kleio Valentien has dabbled in the realm of cosplay for the purposes of completing some of her -- ahem -- more enduring roles, and she's graced the small screen in such fare as Captain America XXX: An Axel Braun Parody (2014), Batman V Superman XXX: An Axel Braun Parody (2015), and Star Wars: One Sith-XXX (2016). What can I say other than "hubba hubba"? Valentien was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of Ryan Corr's earliest roles was as 'Sheng Zammett' aboard the Australian SciFi program Silversun. Corr was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've been told by some online that the lovely Dove Cameron made the dreams of fanboys come true when she joined the cast of ABC TV's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. for a recurring role in 2018. Cameron was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1943 (in the U.S.), audiences were treated to the premiere of London Blackout Murders. Directed by George Sherman from a story by Curt Siodmak, the Horror/Drama starred John Abbott, Mary McLeod, and Lloyd Corrigan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During the dark days of World War II, young Mary Tillet is bombed out of her home and forced to seek lodgings upstairs from a tobacconist. Her kindly but mysterious landlord, Jack Rawlings, attempts to transform the empty, web-strewn apartment into a home. After reading newspaper accounts of the "London Blackout Murders," Mary is plagued by dread. Is her landlord a hero, or a sinister assassin? Taken as a period piece, the movie is a gem that briskly portrays the effects of wartime shortages, women in the workplace, and the moral ambiguity inherent in life-or-death situations."
"During the dark days of World War II, young Mary Tillet is bombed out of her home and forced to seek lodgings upstairs from a tobacconist. Her kindly but mysterious landlord, Jack Rawlings, attempts to transform the empty, web-strewn apartment into a home. After reading newspaper accounts of the "London Blackout Murders," Mary is plagued by dread. Is her landlord a hero, or a sinister assassin? Taken as a period piece, the movie is a gem that briskly portrays the effects of wartime shortages, women in the workplace, and the moral ambiguity inherent in life-or-death situations."
Can't a girl get some privacy on the toilet any more? I kid, I kid! On this day in 1951 (in Portugal), the SciFi/Serial Brick Bradford enjoyed its theatrical release. The feature starred Kane Richmond and Linda Leighton, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"An adventurer travels to the moon to stop a madman from getting hold of the Interceptor Ray, a weapon that could destroy Earth."
"An adventurer travels to the moon to stop a madman from getting hold of the Interceptor Ray, a weapon that could destroy Earth."
On this day in 1966 (in France), The Mistresses Of Dr. Jekyll enjoyed its theatrical release. (FYI: This Horror/SciFi film is also known under the name of Dr. Orloff's Monster.) Written and directed by Jesus Franco, the feature starred Hugo Blanco and Agnès Spaak, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mad scientist creates a hideous monster to carry out his murderous plans."
"A mad scientist creates a hideous monster to carry out his murderous plans."
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in Czechoslovaki), the SciFi/Comedy You Are A Widow, Sir found cinematic life. The feature starred Iva Janzurova and Olga Schoberova, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"After a soldier cuts off the arm of king's cousin, king decides to deactivate the army. Of course, generals don't like it at all and they try to kill the king. The assassin should be artificial body in the shape of actress Evelina Keleti and with brain of psychotic serial killer Fany Stubová. They also manage to kill king's astrologer Stuart Hampl, who warns the king. Accidentally, Hampl's brain is implanted into assassin's body, actress Keleti is killed and chaos begins..."
"After a soldier cuts off the arm of king's cousin, king decides to deactivate the army. Of course, generals don't like it at all and they try to kill the king. The assassin should be artificial body in the shape of actress Evelina Keleti and with brain of psychotic serial killer Fany Stubová. They also manage to kill king's astrologer Stuart Hampl, who warns the king. Accidentally, Hampl's brain is implanted into assassin's body, actress Keleti is killed and chaos begins..."
On this day in 1972 (in Spain), Queen Of Blood enjoyed a run on broadcast television. Written (in part) and directed by Curtis Harrington, the SciFi/Horror starred John Saxon, Dennis Hopper, and Basil Rathbone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The year is 1990. An alien species makes contact with Earth through radio transmissions. After astronauts from earth venture to the planet, they find one - a female, who's mute. As they transport her back to earth, one by one, the male crew members die. It's too late when they realise she needs their blood to survive."
"The year is 1990. An alien species makes contact with Earth through radio transmissions. After astronauts from earth venture to the planet, they find one - a female, who's mute. As they transport her back to earth, one by one, the male crew members die. It's too late when they realise she needs their blood to survive."
On this day in 1975, the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagement of Dark Star. Written (in part) and directed by John Carpenter, the SciFi/Comedy starred Dan O'Bannon (who also worked on the script), Dre Pahich, and Brian Narelle. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the far reaches of space, a small crew, 20 years into their solitary mission, find things beginning to go hilariously wrong."
"In the far reaches of space, a small crew, 20 years into their solitary mission, find things beginning to go hilariously wrong."
On this day in 1981 (in Hungary), Ridley Scott's original Alien enjoyed its theatrical release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a space merchant vessel receives an unknown transmission as a distress call, one of the crew is attacked by a mysterious life form and they soon realize that its life cycle has merely begun."
"After a space merchant vessel receives an unknown transmission as a distress call, one of the crew is attacked by a mysterious life form and they soon realize that its life cycle has merely begun."
On this day in 1988 (in Italy), Mel Brooks' Spaceballs enjoyed its run at the box office. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi/Comedy:
"A rogue star pilot and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a Princess and save the galaxy from a ruthless race of beings known as Spaceballs."
"A rogue star pilot and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a Princess and save the galaxy from a ruthless race of beings known as Spaceballs."
A star is born! On this day in 1992 (in Germany), Eternal Fist brought its bloody knuckles to the home video marketplace. Directed by Teddy Page from a story by Anthony Jesu, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Cynthia Khan, Dale Cook, and Don Nakaya Nielsen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a man helps a beautiful young girl get revenge against a roving gang of renegades that destroyed her village."
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a man helps a beautiful young girl get revenge against a roving gang of renegades that destroyed her village."
On this day in 1997 (in Australia), Robo Warriors took up their pursuit of 'robo justice' with a release on home video. Directed by Ian Barry from a story by Stuart Gordon and Michael Berlin, the SciFi/Fantasy starred James Remar, Kyle Howard, and James Tolkan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The year is 2036 and Earth has been invaded: hope lies with the last Robo Warrior - a towering fighting machine."
"The year is 2036 and Earth has been invaded: hope lies with the last Robo Warrior - a towering fighting machine."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in Canada and the U.S.), audiences were exposed to a real nasty Virus. (Cinematically, that is.) Directed by John Bruno, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Donald Sutherland, William Baldwin, and Jamie Lee Curtis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After outrunning a typhoon at sea, a strong-willed tugboat navigator and her crew discover a high-tech alien life form that's taken control of a Russian research vessel and aims to destroy on a massive scale."
"After outrunning a typhoon at sea, a strong-willed tugboat navigator and her crew discover a high-tech alien life form that's taken control of a Russian research vessel and aims to destroy on a massive scale."
A star is born! On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Killer Rats (aka Rats) tried to take a bit out of the audience. Directed by Tibor Takács, the Fantasy/Horror starred Sara Downing, Amy Parks, and Bailey Chase. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Tabloid reporter Samantha (Sara Downing, "Never Been Kissed") goes undercover at the Brookdale Institute to break a story about celebrity drug addicts, but she soon discovers that the real scoop is far more terrifying."
"Tabloid reporter Samantha (Sara Downing, "Never Been Kissed") goes undercover at the Brookdale Institute to break a story about celebrity drug addicts, but she soon discovers that the real scoop is far more terrifying."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the United Kingdom), Monster turned up during its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Eric Forsberg, the SciFi/Horror starred Erin Evans, Sarah Lieving, and Justin L. Jones. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a massive earthquake in Tokyo, two American filmmakers document the true cause of the destruction."
"After a massive earthquake in Tokyo, two American filmmakers document the true cause of the destruction."
On this day in 2010 (in Germany), Outlander brought together fans of Science Fiction and Fantasy with its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Howard McCain, the feature starred Jim Caviezel, Sophia Myles, and Jack Huston. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During the reign of the Vikings, Kainan, a man from a far-off world, crash lands on Earth, bringing with him an alien predator known as the Moorwen. Though both man and monster are seeking revenge for violence committed against them, Kainan leads the alliance to kill the Moorwen by fusing his advanced technology with the Viking's Iron Age weaponry."
"During the reign of the Vikings, Kainan, a man from a far-off world, crash lands on Earth, bringing with him an alien predator known as the Moorwen. Though both man and monster are seeking revenge for violence committed against them, Kainan leads the alliance to kill the Moorwen by fusing his advanced technology with the Viking's Iron Age weaponry."
On this day back in 2010, Denzel Washington put on his dancin' -- erm -- fightin' shoes and headlined yet one more look into our bleak future when he starred in The Book of Eli. The film's twist ending (of sorts) generated a lot of buzz, but that dismisses the great performance by Washington along with the reliable Gary Oldman (who was only reliable this time out by serving up a character he's played plenty of times before). If you haven't seen it, how can you call yourself a sci-fi fan?
On this day in 2010, Peter Jackson's adaptation of the Fantasy-themed The Lovely Bones enjoyed its full U.S. and Canadian theatrical engagement. The feature starred Saoirse Ronan and Rachel Weisz, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A 14-year-old girl in suburban 1970's Pennsylvania is murdered by her neighbor. She tells the story from the place between Heaven and Earth, showing the lives of the people around her and how they have changed all while attempting to get someone to find her lost body."
"A 14-year-old girl in suburban 1970's Pennsylvania is murdered by her neighbor. She tells the story from the place between Heaven and Earth, showing the lives of the people around her and how they have changed all while attempting to get someone to find her lost body."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), home audiences were chilled and thrilled with the broadcast of Behemoth. Directed by W.D. Hogan from a script by Rachelle S. Howie, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Ed Quinn, Pascale Hutton, and Cindy Busby. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists discover a giant creature under the Earth that is wrapped around the entire planet. When the creature wakes all grumpy, it causes worldwide destruction."
"Scientists discover a giant creature under the Earth that is wrapped around the entire planet. When the creature wakes all grumpy, it causes worldwide destruction."
A star is born! On this day in 2012, Dystopia: 2013 gave audiences yet one more look at mankind's bleak future. The feature starred Cody Brown and Steve Arvig, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A film about the mythical and mysterious cataclysm which befalls mankind on December 21st, 2012 and what happens next. Centered around 4 characters, each with a back story of what their life was like before it all came crashing down, the film depicts life for these characters as they struggle for survival and strive to discover the cause of the end of civilization as we presently know it."
"A film about the mythical and mysterious cataclysm which befalls mankind on December 21st, 2012 and what happens next. Centered around 4 characters, each with a back story of what their life was like before it all came crashing down, the film depicts life for these characters as they struggle for survival and strive to discover the cause of the end of civilization as we presently know it."
On this day in 2015 (in Hungary), the 1986-produced spectacular Aliens enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by James Cameron, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, and Bill Paxton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
On this day in 2015, Found In Time created a paradox all of its own. The feature starred MacLeod Andrews and Kelly Sullivan, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Chris is a psychic who lives his life out of order - experiencing past, present and future as a jigsaw puzzle. But when he commits a murder in the future, he has to change his past and present in order to prevent it from happening."
"Chris is a psychic who lives his life out of order - experiencing past, present and future as a jigsaw puzzle. But when he commits a murder in the future, he has to change his past and present in order to prevent it from happening."
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), They Call Me Superseven soared onto the silver screen. Written (in part) and directed by Scott Rhodes, the SciFi/Comedy starred Jerry Kokich, Olivia Dunkley, and Anne Leighton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The evil T.H.E.Y. organization is out to stop ex T.H.E.M. agent, Sandra West. Can Superseven thwart Their, (T.H.E.Y.'s) master plan?"
"The evil T.H.E.Y. organization is out to stop ex T.H.E.M. agent, Sandra West. Can Superseven thwart Their, (T.H.E.Y.'s) master plan?"
A star is born ... and this one can rock! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Moon Rock City came into its cinematic beat! Written (in part) and directed by Kevin Carrico, the SciFi/Musical starred Dennis North, Mike Kraft, and Tracee Mae Miller. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the future, a band of misfits uncover the saga of an infamous rock star. Their journey takes them deep into the legend surrounding the destruction of mankind's first colony on the Moon. They wonder, can rock 'n' roll save the world?"
"In the future, a band of misfits uncover the saga of an infamous rock star. Their journey takes them deep into the legend surrounding the destruction of mankind's first colony on the Moon. They wonder, can rock 'n' roll save the world?"
A star is born ... again ... in sequel! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to the theatrical premiere of the extravaganza better known as Return To Nuke 'Em High Volume 2! Written (in part) and directed by Lloyd Kaufman, the SciFi/Comedy starred Asta Paredes, Catherine Corcoran, and Zac Amico. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Following the events of the previous film, a lesbian couple are determined to eliminate the most corrupt, evil forces of Tromaville and the world."
"Following the events of the previous film, a lesbian couple are determined to eliminate the most corrupt, evil forces of Tromaville and the world."
On this day in 2018, The Man From Earth: Holocene enjoyed release via the World Wide Web. Directed by Richard Schenkman, the Fantasy feature starred David Lee Smith and John Billingsley, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"14,000 year-old 'Man from Earth' John Oldman is now comfortably hiding in plain sight as a college professor in Northern California. But his existence comes crashing down when four students discover his deepest secret, putting his life in grave danger and potentially shaking mankind to its very soul."
"14,000 year-old 'Man from Earth' John Oldman is now comfortably hiding in plain sight as a college professor in Northern California. But his existence comes crashing down when four students discover his deepest secret, putting his life in grave danger and potentially shaking mankind to its very soul."
A star is born! On this day in 2019 (in Germany), Final Voyage (aka Das Letzte Land) enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever when it was screened for audiendes in attendance of the Filmfestival Max Ophüls Preis. Written and directed by Marcel Barion, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Torben Föllmer, Milan Pesl, and Vincenz Türpe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two dissimilar men flee from a desolate planet and search in space for a new home."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Final Voyage earned a good deal of extra attention from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Two dissimilar men flee from a desolate planet and search in space for a new home."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Final Voyage earned a good deal of extra attention from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2021 (in a whole host of countries around the world), Outside The Wire enjoyed its broadcast television premiere with its release on the streaming giant Netflix. Directed by Mikael Håfström, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Anthony Mackie, Damson Idris, and Enzo Cilenti. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the near future, a drone pilot sent into a war zone finds himself paired with a top-secret android officer on a mission to stop a nuclear attack."
"In the near future, a drone pilot sent into a war zone finds himself paired with a top-secret android officer on a mission to stop a nuclear attack."
On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), Captain Midnight aired "The Human Bomb." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"At HQ Jackson and Tut discuss the research needed to develop a new conventional explosive. Suddenly a former criminal and explosives expert that Jackson captured 'Vulmer' calls Jackson and threatens terrorist action. Jackson calls on members of Secret Squadron to report any sightings of the man. Vulmers first target is Judge Bell, the man who put him behind bars. Jackson through his Secret Squadron network tracks Vulmer down. Vulmer appears to have left the location, but Jackson's suspicions are raised and he decides to sneak back to the apartment and investigate. He finds a clue that suggests a pen given to the judge may be a bomb. Jackson gives chase unaware Ikkie also has one of the pens. Jackson intercepts the judge's car on the way home and destroys both pens. Not realizing the plan failed Vulmer arranges his next attack, Jackson himself. Jackson returns to the apartment and is knocked unconscious. Vulmer then replaces his money clip with one containing explosives before he wakes up. Unwittingly Jackson continues his investigation, completely ignorant he is carrying a bomb. He eventually tracks down Vukmer and his gang and attacks them. During the fight that breaks out Jackson discovers the danger in his money clip and disposes the bomb at the last second."
"At HQ Jackson and Tut discuss the research needed to develop a new conventional explosive. Suddenly a former criminal and explosives expert that Jackson captured 'Vulmer' calls Jackson and threatens terrorist action. Jackson calls on members of Secret Squadron to report any sightings of the man. Vulmers first target is Judge Bell, the man who put him behind bars. Jackson through his Secret Squadron network tracks Vulmer down. Vulmer appears to have left the location, but Jackson's suspicions are raised and he decides to sneak back to the apartment and investigate. He finds a clue that suggests a pen given to the judge may be a bomb. Jackson gives chase unaware Ikkie also has one of the pens. Jackson intercepts the judge's car on the way home and destroys both pens. Not realizing the plan failed Vulmer arranges his next attack, Jackson himself. Jackson returns to the apartment and is knocked unconscious. Vulmer then replaces his money clip with one containing explosives before he wakes up. Unwittingly Jackson continues his investigation, completely ignorant he is carrying a bomb. He eventually tracks down Vukmer and his gang and attacks them. During the fight that breaks out Jackson discovers the danger in his money clip and disposes the bomb at the last second."
On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), Tom Corbett, Space Cadet launched "The Mystery of the Mothball Fleet." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's that adventure's plot summary:
"Tom and the crew of the Polaris are assigned the tedious job of guarding the Solar Guard's fleet of mothballed spaceships. The task soon changes from boring to terrifying when one of the crew members is found mysteriously murdered."
"Tom and the crew of the Polaris are assigned the tedious job of guarding the Solar Guard's fleet of mothballed spaceships. The task soon changes from boring to terrifying when one of the crew members is found mysteriously murdered."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), The Twilight Zone aired the curiously titled "I Shot An Arrow Into the Air." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's what all of the action was about:
"Orders break down between three surviving crewmen whose rocket ship crashes on an unknown world with limited water and supplies."
"Orders break down between three surviving crewmen whose rocket ship crashes on an unknown world with limited water and supplies."
On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Escape Switch" as part of the greater The Daleks Masterplan storyline. Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Steven, Sara and the Monk are captured by the Daleks in order to force the Doctor to hand over the Taranium Core."
"Steven, Sara and the Monk are captured by the Daleks in order to force the Doctor to hand over the Taranium Core."
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who continued with its "Day of the Daleks" storyline by airing the third installment. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Doctor forces the guerrillas to take him to the 22nd century where he is soon captured by the Controller."
"The Doctor forces the guerrillas to take him to the 22nd century where he is soon captured by the Controller."
Well, looks like somebody forget where they parked the spaceship! On this day in 1976 (in the United Kingdom), "Ring Around the Moon" aired as a part of Space: 1999's first season. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Maintenance technician Fred Clifford is possessed by an eerie yellow glow, which ultimately kills him. It transpires that it is coming from a planet called Triton, which captures the Alphans and insists that Helena should become the Eyes of Triton. Before long she is acting just as Fred Clifford did before his death..."
"Maintenance technician Fred Clifford is possessed by an eerie yellow glow, which ultimately kills him. It transpires that it is coming from a planet called Triton, which captures the Alphans and insists that Helena should become the Eyes of Triton. Before long she is acting just as Fred Clifford did before his death..."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Battle Of The Giants aired "The Alien Beetles." This served as the sixteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Spectra sends their latest Mecha to Earth-the Beetles! The Beetles are powered by human life energy and 4 boys (one is Keyop! ), are captured by Spectra to power the Mechas. G-Force must find a way to rescue Keyop and the others and stop the Beetles before Earth is destroyed!"
"Spectra sends their latest Mecha to Earth-the Beetles! The Beetles are powered by human life energy and 4 boys (one is Keyop! ), are captured by Spectra to power the Mechas. G-Force must find a way to rescue Keyop and the others and stop the Beetles before Earth is destroyed!"
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Fox TV aired "Spirit of '95" as part of Alien Nation's first season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"As Susan and Buck campaign for Tenctonese suffrage, bombings and kidnappings are linked to the anti-Newcomer "Purist" organization."
"As Susan and Buck campaign for Tenctonese suffrage, bombings and kidnappings are linked to the anti-Newcomer "Purist" organization."
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), War of the Worlds aired "Synthetic Love." This served as the ninth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on TV.com:
"Kincaid runs into an old friend named Johnny, only to discover that his friend is dangerously addicted to drugs. Kincaid takes him to one of the well-known Laporte Rehabilitation Centers, which has just started using a new miracle drug called Krebulax. But something strange is going on at the clinic, and there's something even stranger about the man supplying the drug...a Mister Malcolm."
"Kincaid runs into an old friend named Johnny, only to discover that his friend is dangerously addicted to drugs. Kincaid takes him to one of the well-known Laporte Rehabilitation Centers, which has just started using a new miracle drug called Krebulax. But something strange is going on at the clinic, and there's something even stranger about the man supplying the drug...a Mister Malcolm."
On this day back in 1994 (in the U.S.), "Homeward" aired as part of Star Trek: The Next Generation's seventh season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"In an effort to preserve a race of people on a planet being bombarded by storms that would kill them, Worf's foster brother violates the Prime Directive, leaving the Enterprise crew in a difficult position."
"In an effort to preserve a race of people on a planet being bombarded by storms that would kill them, Worf's foster brother violates the Prime Directive, leaving the Enterprise crew in a difficult position."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Seaquest DSV aired the 12th episode of its 2nd season, an adventure called "Lostland." Here's the episode summary from TVGuide.com:
"Ford (Don Franklin) discovers evidence, in the form of an ancient warrior's helmet, that the lost continent of Atlantis actually existed."
"Ford (Don Franklin) discovers evidence, in the form of an ancient warrior's helmet, that the lost continent of Atlantis actually existed."
Well, domo arigato, Mr. Roboto! On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Voyager aired "Prototype" as part of its second season. Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Voyager finds an automated life-form adrift in space. When B'Elanna Torres reactivates it, the unit realizes she may be able to help build more of its kind. The robot kidnaps Torres and gives her an ultimatum: build a working prototype or Voyager will be destroyed."
"Voyager finds an automated life-form adrift in space. When B'Elanna Torres reactivates it, the unit realizes she may be able to help build more of its kind. The robot kidnaps Torres and gives her an ultimatum: build a working prototype or Voyager will be destroyed."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.) and as part of its third season, Star Trek: Voyager aired "Alter Ego." Here's what IMDB.com had to say about the plot:
"Harry Kim finds himself in love with Marayna, a character from Neelix's Polynesian resort holodeck program. Seeking to eliminate the emotion, Harry turns to Tuvok, who interacts with the woman and finds himself falling for her as well. While Harry is overwhelmed with feelings of jealousy and betrayal, Tuvok realizes the persona is too real and discovers she is actually a lonely alien who can interact with passing ships through their computers."
"Harry Kim finds himself in love with Marayna, a character from Neelix's Polynesian resort holodeck program. Seeking to eliminate the emotion, Harry turns to Tuvok, who interacts with the woman and finds himself falling for her as well. While Harry is overwhelmed with feelings of jealousy and betrayal, Tuvok realizes the persona is too real and discovers she is actually a lonely alien who can interact with passing ships through their computers."
Lexx is another one of those rare TV shows that I honestly could tell you very little about. I tried watching it once or twice, but -- joining it in progress -- I was completely and utterly lost. On this day in 1999 (in Canada) as part of its second season, "Stan's Trial" aired. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Stanley is tempted by a pleasure ship, however when he arrives he is arrested in a sting operation for crimes involving the death of billions of people. As the trial progresses Kai becomes concerned about the actions of the prosecutor and agrees to defend Kai in a last ditch attempt to save Stanley from the death sentence."
"Stanley is tempted by a pleasure ship, however when he arrives he is arrested in a sting operation for crimes involving the death of billions of people. As the trial progresses Kai becomes concerned about the actions of the prosecutor and agrees to defend Kai in a last ditch attempt to save Stanley from the death sentence."
On this day in 2000 (in Australia), Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The Lost World finally rang in its New Year with the airing of "Tribute." This served as the twelfth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Roxton saves Tayra from a Hikari warrior who is chasing her. Roxton discovers that the Tintas live in fear of the fierce Hikari, and pay them a human tribute to ensure the Hikari leave them in peace and protect them from other dangers. Roxton and Veronica teach them some fighting fundamentals and how to set up trap in an attempt to gain their independence. While Roxton, Veronica and Challenger are helping the Tintas, Summerlee, Malone and Marguerite are taken prisoner by a World War I pilot, Hans Dressler, who's still fighting the war after finding his downed plane. Malone fixes the plane while Marguerite nurses Dressler. Once Dressler wakes, he takes the explorers prisoner with the intention of killing Marguerite and escaping in his plane. Will the Tintas win their freedom and will Marguerite live?"
"Roxton saves Tayra from a Hikari warrior who is chasing her. Roxton discovers that the Tintas live in fear of the fierce Hikari, and pay them a human tribute to ensure the Hikari leave them in peace and protect them from other dangers. Roxton and Veronica teach them some fighting fundamentals and how to set up trap in an attempt to gain their independence. While Roxton, Veronica and Challenger are helping the Tintas, Summerlee, Malone and Marguerite are taken prisoner by a World War I pilot, Hans Dressler, who's still fighting the war after finding his downed plane. Malone fixes the plane while Marguerite nurses Dressler. Once Dressler wakes, he takes the explorers prisoner with the intention of killing Marguerite and escaping in his plane. Will the Tintas win their freedom and will Marguerite live?"
On this day in 2001 (in Canada), Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda aired "All Great Neptune's Ocean." This served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A chancellor visits the Andromeda, Tyr disrupts his visit by bringing up some past deeds the chancellor committed against Nietzscheans. Dylan orders Tyr to apologize, as Tyr visits the chancellor, the chancellor is killed and Try is found unconscious. Andromeda's crew must find the culprit."
"A chancellor visits the Andromeda, Tyr disrupts his visit by bringing up some past deeds the chancellor committed against Nietzscheans. Dylan orders Tyr to apologize, as Tyr visits the chancellor, the chancellor is killed and Try is found unconscious. Andromeda's crew must find the culprit."
On this day in 2003 (in the United Kingdom), Odyssey 5 continued its journey through its only season by airing "Begotten." Here's the episode summary from TV.com:
"With the still-grieving Chuck having taken off on a road trip, the rest of the crew have to deal with the synthetic that Kurt has created."
"With the still-grieving Chuck having taken off on a road trip, the rest of the crew have to deal with the synthetic that Kurt has created."
On this day in 2008 (in Bulgaria), The 4400 aired "Audrey Parker's Come And Gone." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's fourth (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After taking promicin, an old lady named Audrey Parker develops the ability to astral project from her body. When she's murdered, her spirit tries to reach Tom and Diana to help them find her killer. Shawn decides to re-open the 4400 center and start healing again despite the government's warnings. Ben and Maia come to Seattle to visit Diana. Cassie leads Kyle to some interesting information."
"After taking promicin, an old lady named Audrey Parker develops the ability to astral project from her body. When she's murdered, her spirit tries to reach Tom and Diana to help them find her killer. Shawn decides to re-open the 4400 center and start healing again despite the government's warnings. Ben and Maia come to Seattle to visit Diana. Cassie leads Kyle to some interesting information."
On this day in 2011 (in Germany), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "ARC Troopers." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"General Grievous and Asajj Ventress combine forces in an attack on Kamino. As Anakin and Obi-Wan rush to aid Tipoca City, the clones prepare to defend their home planet."
"General Grievous and Asajj Ventress combine forces in an attack on Kamino. As Anakin and Obi-Wan rush to aid Tipoca City, the clones prepare to defend their home planet."
On this day in 2015 (in Brazil, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, South Korea, and a whole host of countries around the world), The Man In The High Castle aired "The New World." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Joe Blake, a resistance fighter, leaves German New York with cargo for neutral Colorado. In Japanese San Francisco, Juliana Crane receives footage of the Allies winning the war and a bus ticket to Colorado from her sister. There, she meets Joe. Joe reveals a dark secret."
"Joe Blake, a resistance fighter, leaves German New York with cargo for neutral Colorado. In Japanese San Francisco, Juliana Crane receives footage of the Allies winning the war and a bus ticket to Colorado from her sister. There, she meets Joe. Joe reveals a dark secret."
