Allison Utley's "A Traveller In Time" was published in 1939, but it wasn't until 1978 that the BBC adapted the popular Fantasy novel into a television program. (From what I've read, it did have a DVD release in England in 2015.) Emma Thompson's younger sister Sophie headlined the affair, bringing to life 'Penelope Taberner' who slipped back in time to the 1500's for this morality tale. The Fantasy elements are light (reviewed right here), but any program definitely is worth a mention in our pages.
Ah, for those of you who never had the chance to boldly explore Star Trek: The Experience, you'll never quite know what you missed. The Paramount Parks attraction opened on this day in 1998 at the Las Vegas Hilton, giving Trekkers, Trekkies, and general Trek enthusiasts who'd make the journey an up-close-and-personal experience in the greater world of the franchise. Part-museum and part-mini-theme park, The Experience had it all: gift shops, educational displays, and even a chance to save the galaxy (as we knew it) from certain destruction, all for a relatively reasonable price. And before you left, you could dine at Quark's! Sadly, it is no more, but oh the fun we had the many times we visited its lovely interiors!
Though she boasts an IMDB.com resume of over 150 credits, Rosalie Crutchley didn't appear in much Science Fiction. She did sign aboard a little something called The Gamma People (1956) and The Keep (1983) as well as a role in TV's Dark Season. And a visit to one of the seminal conspiracy yarns of all time like The Prisoner certainly deserves a mention. Though she's no longer with us, Crutchley was born on this day in 1920.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 1951, she watched mankind survive one of the earliest cinematic apocalypses in When Worlds Collide. In 1953, she found herself at odds with It Came From Outer Space. In 1964, she journeyed into The Outer Limits. She is actress Barbara Rush, and -- though she's no longer with us -- she was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Pin-up queen Marla English didn't have much of a cinema career, but she squeezed in performances in the kind of genre films SciFi junkies tend to love as guilty pleasures, including The She-Creature (1956) and Voodoo Woman (1957). Though she's no longer with us, English was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hats off to the beautiful and talented Dyan Cannon on her birthday. According to IMDB.com, the actress is the very first women in the history of motion pictures to be nominated for roles both in front of as well as behind the camera! That takes some moxie to break that glass ceiling, and I'm thrilled to pass along that wonderful little tidbit on the lady's behalf. As for genre work? Well, I'm afraid you'll have to settle for appearances aboard Heaven Can Wait (1978) and The Sender (1998) as that's about all you get. Cannon was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I've come to understand it, Scilla Gabel got started in the entertainment industry working as the stand-in to the voluptuous Sophia Loren, whom she allegedly matched in height and measurements. Fearful that she'd end up being typecast, she underwent a bit of plastic surgery just to change her features enough so that she could have her own identity. As a result, she was blessed with a career of sixty-four different screen credits. I had the good fortune of seeing her in Mill Of The Stone Women (1960), a solid Fantasy/Horror that received an impression restoration from Arrow Video in 2021. Gabel was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of Mill Of The Stone Women via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of Mill Of The Stone Women via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
As well as appearing on Star Trek: The Next Generation not once but twice as Albert Einstein, screen veteran Jim Norton enjoyed two appearances (in different roles, of course) on the cult hit, Babylon 5. Norton was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he was definitely known more for his work in bringing Action/Dramas to the silver screen, director George P. Cosmatos did helm 1989's Leviathan for SciFi audiences. Though he's no longer with us, Cosmatos was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Classic Star Trek had some of the most beautiful guest stars, no? The lovely Diana Ewing turned up in the third season outing, "The Cloud Miners," and she was essentially the only thing worth looking at! Ewing was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Kim Miyori 'captained' her way into a guest role aboard the fondly remembered Babylon 5 back in 1996. Miyori was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Ann Magnuson tends to gravitate more toward dramatic properties these days, but, back in 1987, she took the romantic lead opposite a young John Malkovich, in the SciFi Rom/Com Making Mr. Right. Magnuson was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Matt Frewer -- born on this day in 1958 -- has a long and storied history in the genre of science fiction. He's appeared in Star Trek: The Next Generation, though many folks might remember him from the cult TV hit, Max Headroom. He's also appeared in the BBC cloning drama, Orphan Black.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Gary Jones is certainly no stranger to the Stargate franchise. In fact, he's played 'Chief Master Sergeant Walter Harriman' in every single incarnation of the program! Jones was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I streamed The Outer Limits episode "A Stitch In Time" -- in which Jones played a small role -- for the purpose of penning a review for the site. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I streamed The Outer Limits episode "A Stitch In Time" -- in which Jones played a small role -- for the purpose of penning a review for the site. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
Actor Julian Sands has involved himself with many genre-related projects over the life of his career. He started out as part of the Warlock franchise, and since then he's enjoyed work in The Tomorrow Man, Stargate: SG-1, Stargate: The Ark of Truth, and Smallville. He's also done some voicework in the Star Wars universe of games. Though he's no longer with us, Sands was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I wrote a few words about the actor upon learning of his tragic passing. Interested readers can find it right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I wrote a few words about the actor upon learning of his tragic passing. Interested readers can find it right here.
Ms. Olympia winner Corinna Everson joined Kevin Sorbo for a few episodes aboard the Fantasy-themed Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. She also visited the worlds of The Adventures Of Brisco County Jr., Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Strange Luck, and Charmed. Everson was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Before he found (deserved) major genre-related success appearing in the Starz Network Outlander adaptation as well as Peter Jackson's The Hobbit trilogy, a younger Graham McTavish braved the world that was Red Dwarf back in 1999. McTavish was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Patrick Cassidy enjoyed a recurring role aboard the CW's popular Superman-in-waiting series, Smallville. Interesting trivia: the actor also had a recurring role aboard the earlier Superman incarnation, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. Cassidy was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Dave Foley brought his particular brand of mirth to a guest spot aboard Syfy's popular Eureka during its run. Foley was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Classy British actress Julia Ormond ventured into the realm of the SciFi Apocalypse with a role in Exploding Sun (2013). Ormond was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Jeremy Licht proved he could convey considerable menace aboard his particular segment of the silver screen adaptation of Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983). Licht was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I tend to be far more patient with 'found footage films' than are most watchers, so I did screen Area 407 (2012) on DVD when it was released. The lovely Samantha Sloyan had a role in that tale which dealt with plan crash survivors finding out just what science the United States government had hidden away. Sloyan was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Cindy Vela enjoyed some SciFi exposure for her part in Nuclear Family (2012), a tale of recovery from a nuclear apocalypse. Vela was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Easy on the eyes Erin Cahill helped save mankind from some really, really bad weather in a little something called Storm War. In 2013, she also took a cinematic visit to Skinwalker Ranch that might be worth your attention. Plus, rumor has it she dabbled in the realm of the Power Rangers. Cahill was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, I do have a soft spot for ladies who can make me laugh, and June Diane Raphael is right up there with the best of them. I don't always get to see her face, though, as a respectable portion of her work is voice-acting, but I'll take what I can get. Genre fans might know her from stops aboard Year One (2009), Star Trek: Lower Decks, and Little Demon. Raphael was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aaron Schwartz had a small role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe aboard 2017's Guardians Of The Galaxy, Volume 2 for good measure. Schwartz was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Pretty as a picture, Kerry Condon has kinda/sorta left a footprint on the Marvel movie universe ... erm, well, maybe it's more of a voiceprint as she's lending her voice to the artificial intelligence better known as 'F.R.I.D.A.Y.' Condon was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her acting career, Lenora Crichlow scored a guest spot on the BBC's Doctor Who, and it looks like it's all been uphill from there. She's also appeared on the original Being Human as well as Black Mirror. Crichlow was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Chelsey Reist was a somewhat late arrival to the world of The CW's The 100, stepping in to her role as 'Harper McIntyre' in episode 10 of its first season. But, wow, her character was allowed to blossom into something special on the program. Fans might also know her work from such programs as The Tomorrow People, Supernatural, Van Helsing, and NarcoLeap. Reist was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
The young Michelle Mylett turned in some great work aboard Syfy's Ascension, a miniseries that didn't have the ratings required for the network to pick it up to series. Mylett was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I'm the last person you should ask about the Power Rangers TV franchise. Any of them. I know absolutely nothing about them. I have seen a few episodes of different incarnations here and there, but mostly they never quite landed on my radar. I can say that the property has produced some truly gifted actors and actresses, such as the lovely Olivia Tennet, who appeared as a regular aboard Power Rangers R.P.M. Tennet was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Folks, I've never seen a single hour of Riverdale, but for a time this was one show that fans were constantly reaching out to me wanting to know if I was watching it. They assured me it was SciFi/Fantasy, but -- at my minimal inspection -- I passed on watching it. However, Charles Melton was apparently one of the regulars aboard that ensemble. Thankfully, he's been in other properties -- like American Horror Story and The Thinning: New World Order -- so that I'm comfortable featuring him in this space. Melton was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I gave up on Starz Network's adaptation of Outlander at the end of its first season. That type of time travel Romantic Fantasy just wasn't for me. But kudos to the channel for continuing it and giving Hannah James a role in that world. James was born on this day in 1993.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Maddie Hasson's star is still on the rise, and thankfully she's found work aboard NBC's Grimm and the TV series Impulse so we may feature her here. Hasson was born on this day in 1995.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he's relative new to the whole acting business, Gage Munroe is well on his way toward building a resume solid in SciFi appearances, including work aboard ReGenesis, Falling Skies, Alphas, and Dark Matter. Munroe was born on this day in 1999.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
God bless the fresh-faced Addy Miller for being brave enough to join the remake of what's been called the worst film made in the history of cinema, Plan 9 (2015) from the earlier Plan 9 From Outer Space. Miller was born on this day in 2000.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lovable urchin Rhiannon Leigh Wryn dabbled deep in the realm of Fantasy with a prominent role aboard The Last Mimzy (2007). She's also appeared aboard Hulk (2003) and Monster Mutt (2011). Wryn was born on this day in 2000.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the world of Horror, can Stephen King's fascination with terrorizing young boys get any creepier than it does in the seminal It? I don't think so, and actor Jaeden Martell likely agrees ... well, at least for his work in the franchise. Martell was born on this day in 2003.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received complimentary streaming access to Arcadian (2024) -- a SciFi/Fantasy in which Martell stars -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received complimentary streaming access to Arcadian (2024) -- a SciFi/Fantasy in which Martell stars -- from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Up'n'comer Peyton Kennedy put in a guest role aboard Syfy's signature SciFi/Drama Killjoys in 2016. Kennedy was born on this day in 2004.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Nah, I wasn't all that crazy about Logan. Though I've never been much of a Marvel guy, I did think that the picture was a wonderful swan song for the character of Wolverine, but you know what? I'd love to see more from the young Dafne Keen, maybe bring her back into the whole Marvel Universe to show us where 'Laura' is now. I've read that she might be making a return to the franchise, and that would be grand, indeed. Keen was born on this day in 2005.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2018 Saturn Awards, Keen enjoyed a much deserved nomination in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' for her work in Logan (2017).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2018 Saturn Awards, Keen enjoyed a much deserved nomination in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' for her work in Logan (2017).
A star is born!
On this day in 1949 (in the U.S.), the good people of Livingston, Montana were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Siren Of Atlantis. Directed by Gregg G. Tallas, John Brahm, and Arthur Ripley, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Maria Montez, Jean-Pierre Aumont, and Dennis O'Keefe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A pair of explorers stumble across a lost city in the desert ruled by a mysterious queen."
"A pair of explorers stumble across a lost city in the desert ruled by a mysterious queen."
A star is born!
On this day in 1950 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were searching the skies for ... The Flying Saucer! (Lucky for them, it landed in theaters so they could get a real good look at it.) Written (in part) and directed by Mikel Conrad, the SciFi/Thriller starred Pat Garrison, Hantz von Teuffen, and Earle Lyon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Both the CIA and KGB investigate UFOs in Alaska: friend or foe?"
"Both the CIA and KGB investigate UFOs in Alaska: friend or foe?"
A star is born!
On this day in 1952 (in Czechoslovakia), The Emperor And The Golem enjoyed its first theatrical screening ever. Written (in part) and directed by Martin Fric, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Jan Werich, Marie Vásová, and Natasa Gollová. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Emperors baker and Bakers emperor - it refers to the fact that in movie just a regular young baker gets switched with real old Emperor which leaves everyone thinking that emperor did get younger by drinking the potion of youth."
"Emperors baker and Bakers emperor - it refers to the fact that in movie just a regular young baker gets switched with real old Emperor which leaves everyone thinking that emperor did get younger by drinking the potion of youth."
A star is born!
On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen premiere of Day The World Ended. Directed by genre legend Roger Corman, the film starred Richard Denning, Lori Nelson, and Adele Jergens. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-Apocalyptic world after an atomic war seven disparate people find themselves in a protected valley in the home of a survivalist and his beautiful daughter."
"In a post-Apocalyptic world after an atomic war seven disparate people find themselves in a protected valley in the home of a survivalist and his beautiful daughter."
A star is born!
On this day in 1958 (in the U.S.), Satan's Satellites launched itself into a cinematic orbit. Directed by Fred C. Brannon, the SciFi/Thriller starred Judd Holdren, Aline Towne, and Wilson Wood. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Feature version of the 1952 serial "Zombies of the Stratosphere. " Alien invaders plan to use a Hydrogen bomb to blast Earth out its orbit so Mars can replace it."
"Feature version of the 1952 serial "Zombies of the Stratosphere. " Alien invaders plan to use a Hydrogen bomb to blast Earth out its orbit so Mars can replace it."
Valley of the Dragons enjoyed its U.S. premiere some time in 1961, but on this day in 1962 it opened theatrically in Mexico. Written (in part) and directed by Edward Berns, the feature starred Cesare Danova, Sean McClory, and Joan Staley; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1881, in Algeria, Michael Denning and Hector Servadac are fighting a duel when a comet brushing Earth takes the two men to the Moon where they discover a prehistoric civilization."
For the record:
Presently, that U.S. premiere date appears lost to history, making this release in 1962 the film's only IMDB.com citation. Ouch.
"In 1881, in Algeria, Michael Denning and Hector Servadac are fighting a duel when a comet brushing Earth takes the two men to the Moon where they discover a prehistoric civilization."
For the record:
Presently, that U.S. premiere date appears lost to history, making this release in 1962 the film's only IMDB.com citation. Ouch.
On this day in 1981 (in Turkey), Saturn 3 enjoyed its theatrical release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi film:
"Two lovers stationed at a remote base in the asteroid fields of Saturn are intruded upon by a retentive technocrat from Earth and his charge: a malevolent eight foot robot."
For the record:
Well, I guess we can chalk this little tidbit of knowledge up to 'Dubious Achievements,' but Saturn 3 does have the distinction of being nomination for three Razzie Awards: Worst Picture, Worst Actor, and -- ahem -- Worst Actress.
"Two lovers stationed at a remote base in the asteroid fields of Saturn are intruded upon by a retentive technocrat from Earth and his charge: a malevolent eight foot robot."
For the record:
Well, I guess we can chalk this little tidbit of knowledge up to 'Dubious Achievements,' but Saturn 3 does have the distinction of being nomination for three Razzie Awards: Worst Picture, Worst Actor, and -- ahem -- Worst Actress.
On this day in 1985 (in Brazil), the Fantasy-themed Sword of the Valiant opened theatrically. (It opened last year in the United States and beyond.) The feature starred Miles O'Keeffe and Sean Connery, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Gawain was a squire in King Arthur's court when the Green Knight burst in and offered to play a game with a brave knight. No knights stand to defend their king's honor. Except for the valiant Gawain. After being quickly knighted Gawain plays the game, but learns that it's all a trick, and he has lost. But the Green Knight shows mercy, letting Gawain grow a year older before having to face the consequences. Gawain journeys across the land, learning about life, saving damsels, and solving the Green Knight's riddle."
"Gawain was a squire in King Arthur's court when the Green Knight burst in and offered to play a game with a brave knight. No knights stand to defend their king's honor. Except for the valiant Gawain. After being quickly knighted Gawain plays the game, but learns that it's all a trick, and he has lost. But the Green Knight shows mercy, letting Gawain grow a year older before having to face the consequences. Gawain journeys across the land, learning about life, saving damsels, and solving the Green Knight's riddle."
On this day in 1985 (in East Germany), Close Encounters Of The Third Kind challenged audiences to think about the fact that we might not be alone in the universe. Written (in part) and directed by Steven Spielberg, the SciFi/Drama starred Richard Dreyfuss, Teri Garr, and François Truffaut; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1988 (in Portugal), the 1987-filmed Equalizer 2000 made its theatrical debut. It starred Richard Norton and Corinne Wahl, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In a bleak, postnuclear future world, warring factions struggle to claim the Equalizer 2000, the one weapon powerful enough to guarantee survival."
"In a bleak, postnuclear future world, warring factions struggle to claim the Equalizer 2000, the one weapon powerful enough to guarantee survival."
On this day in 1990 (in Hungary), terror knew no limits and could stretch to the bottom of the ocean ... and it did with the theatrical release of DeepStar Six. Directed by Sean S. Cunningham from a script by Lewis Abernathy and Geof Miller, the SciFi/Horror starred Greg Evigan, Nancy Everhard, and Taurean Blacque. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"At the bottom of the ocean, the DeepStar Six has just discovered a new and deadly alien menace."
"At the bottom of the ocean, the DeepStar Six has just discovered a new and deadly alien menace."
On this day in 1991 (in Mexico), Aenigma did what it could to get ahead of the cinematic Horror game. Written (in part) and directed by Lucio Fulci, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jared Martin, Lara Lamberti, and Ulli Reinthaler. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The spirit of a comatose teenage girl possesses the body of a newcomer to her girls boarding school to enact bloody revenge against the elitist, lingerie-clad coeds responsible for her condition."
"The spirit of a comatose teenage girl possesses the body of a newcomer to her girls boarding school to enact bloody revenge against the elitist, lingerie-clad coeds responsible for her condition."
On this day in 1995 (in the Philippines), Timecop blazed through the ages up on the silver screen. Directed by Peter Hyams, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jean-Claude Van Damme, Mia Sara, and Ron Silver. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
For the record:
Despite my finding Timecop lukewarm, I can appreciate that the flick earned a few honors. At the 1995 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mia Sara took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.' The film, however, had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
For the record:
Despite my finding Timecop lukewarm, I can appreciate that the flick earned a few honors. At the 1995 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Mia Sara took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress.' The film, however, had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5: In The Beginning took audiences back to the world of Babylon 5 ... in the beginning. Michael Vejar directed the script from J. Michael Straczynski, and the telefilm starred Bruce Boxleitner, Mira Furlan, and Peter Jurasik. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Emperor Londo Mollari of the Centauri Republic tells the story of the Earth-Minbari War that almost destroyed humanity and later inspired its last best, hope for peace."
"Emperor Londo Mollari of the Centauri Republic tells the story of the Earth-Minbari War that almost destroyed humanity and later inspired its last best, hope for peace."
On this day in 2002, Impostor found its way into theatres. Directed by Gary Fleder and based on a Philip K. Dick story, the SciFi/Thriller starred Gary Sinise, Madeleine Stowe, and Shane Brolly; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"In the future, an alien race uses androids as bombs to attack Earth. A government weapons specialist is accused of being one such android and sets out to prove his innocence."
"In the future, an alien race uses androids as bombs to attack Earth. A government weapons specialist is accused of being one such android and sets out to prove his innocence."
A star is born!
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Dragon Fighter roared with its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Phillip J. Roth, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Dean Cain, Kristine Byers, and Robert Zachar. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Workers in an underground lab fight for their lives against a cloned dragon they created."
"Workers in an underground lab fight for their lives against a cloned dragon they created."
On this day in 2008 (in Germany), the 1971-produced Haytabo enjoyed a release on home video. Written and directed by the team of Ulli Lommel and Peter Moland, the SciFi/Drama starred Eddie Constantine, Katrin Schaake, and Uschi Obermaier. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A biochemistry professor finds an old manuscript with structure and formula of immortality drug."
"A biochemistry professor finds an old manuscript with structure and formula of immortality drug."
On this day in 2010 (in Canada), the good people behind the Maple Curtain were treated to a new home video release of the 1954-produced SciFi/Fantasy classic Godzilla. Directed by Ishirô Honda, the film starred Takashi Shimura, Akihiko Hirata, and Akira Takarada. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When seventeen vessels blow-up and sink nearby Odo Island, Professor Kyohei Yamane, his daughter Emiko Yamane and the marine Hideto Ogata head to the island to investigate. Soon they witness a giant monster called Gojira by the locals destroying the spot. Meanwhile Emiko meets her boyfriend, the secluded scientist Serizawa, and he makes she promise to keep a secret about his research with oxygen. She agrees and he discloses the lethal weapon Oxygen Destroyer that he had developed. When Gojira threatens Tokyo and other Japanese cities and the army and the navy are incapable to stop the monster, Emiko discloses Serizawa's secret to her lover Ogata. Now they want to convince Serizawa to use the Oxygen Destroyer to stop Gojira."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... it certainly goes without saying that Godzilla should be honored for established one of the silver screen's biggest monster franchises. It has lasted decades, and the singular lumbering creature has destroyed cities in countless sequels, spin-offs, and reboots. The truth is that Godzilla will probably outlive us all, even with his continuing exposure to lethal radiation.
"When seventeen vessels blow-up and sink nearby Odo Island, Professor Kyohei Yamane, his daughter Emiko Yamane and the marine Hideto Ogata head to the island to investigate. Soon they witness a giant monster called Gojira by the locals destroying the spot. Meanwhile Emiko meets her boyfriend, the secluded scientist Serizawa, and he makes she promise to keep a secret about his research with oxygen. She agrees and he discloses the lethal weapon Oxygen Destroyer that he had developed. When Gojira threatens Tokyo and other Japanese cities and the army and the navy are incapable to stop the monster, Emiko discloses Serizawa's secret to her lover Ogata. Now they want to convince Serizawa to use the Oxygen Destroyer to stop Gojira."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... it certainly goes without saying that Godzilla should be honored for established one of the silver screen's biggest monster franchises. It has lasted decades, and the singular lumbering creature has destroyed cities in countless sequels, spin-offs, and reboots. The truth is that Godzilla will probably outlive us all, even with his continuing exposure to lethal radiation.
A star is born!
On this day in 2011, the SciFi/Family-friendly Monster Mutt roared its way into the hearts of audiences. The feature starred Rhiannon Leigh Wryn and Bart Johnson, and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"The Taylor's family dog, Max, is kidnapped by the evil Sirus Caldwell, (Zack Ward) CEO of mega corporation Envigormax, to be used as a test subject for a new super energy drink. When trials go terribly wrong, Max escapes only to be transformed from his lovable self into... "Monster Mutt"!"
"The Taylor's family dog, Max, is kidnapped by the evil Sirus Caldwell, (Zack Ward) CEO of mega corporation Envigormax, to be used as a test subject for a new super energy drink. When trials go terribly wrong, Max escapes only to be transformed from his lovable self into... "Monster Mutt"!"
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), the 2009-produced Dark Planet enjoyed its release on home video. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A space traveler from the Earth of the 22th century - without wars, poverty and oppression - crashes on an unknown planet. Politically and economically that planet similar to the totalitarian human states of the 20th century."
"A space traveler from the Earth of the 22th century - without wars, poverty and oppression - crashes on an unknown planet. Politically and economically that planet similar to the totalitarian human states of the 20th century."
On this day in 2016, The Giant Scorpion was released to the public via the World Wide Web. The feature came from the mind of Andrea Ricca, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"THE GIANT SCORPION" is an independent science fiction horror short movie, with 3D graphic special effects, about a scorpion that became giant after the fall of a meteor."
For those who'd like to know more, check out the film via YouTube.com right here.
"THE GIANT SCORPION" is an independent science fiction horror short movie, with 3D graphic special effects, about a scorpion that became giant after the fall of a meteor."
For those who'd like to know more, check out the film via YouTube.com right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in the Czech Republic), Certoviny (aka Pure Devilry) enjoyed its very first theatrical engagement. Written (in part) and directed by Zdenek Troska, the Fantasy feature starred Jakub Prachar and Dominick Benedikt, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two clumsy devils are punished by Lucifer, who sends them to human world for two sinners."
"Two clumsy devils are punished by Lucifer, who sends them to human world for two sinners."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in Italy), The Invisible Boy: Second Generation magically appeared on the silver screen. Directed by Gabriele Salvatores, the SciFi/Comedy starred Ludovico Girardello and Kseniya Rappoport, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Three years later Michele (The Invisible boy) meets his mother and his twin sister. Both have stories and superpowers but their intentions may not be what Michele thinks."
For the record:
The film serves as a sequel to 2014's The Invisible Boy. Reviews for the follow-up don't appear to be nearly as complementary as the original. Still, the feature scored some modest wins and nominations for the director as well as the production design and special effects.
"Three years later Michele (The Invisible boy) meets his mother and his twin sister. Both have stories and superpowers but their intentions may not be what Michele thinks."
For the record:
The film serves as a sequel to 2014's The Invisible Boy. Reviews for the follow-up don't appear to be nearly as complementary as the original. Still, the feature scored some modest wins and nominations for the director as well as the production design and special effects.
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Dune Roller." This served as the fifteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"On isolated Lightning Island, a rock mysteriously crashes out of a house after pebbles combine and grow. Scientists discover the rocks consist of an unknown mineral. But long-time resident Cap Zanse believes it's an Ouroboros or hoop snake, a legendary creature which rolls with tail in mouth, and is blamed for the mysterious extermination of local animals on the Lake Michigan isle."
"On isolated Lightning Island, a rock mysteriously crashes out of a house after pebbles combine and grow. Scientists discover the rocks consist of an unknown mineral. But long-time resident Cap Zanse believes it's an Ouroboros or hoop snake, a legendary creature which rolls with tail in mouth, and is blamed for the mysterious extermination of local animals on the Lake Michigan isle."
On this day in 1957 (in the U.S.), Science Fiction Theatre aired "Killer Tree." This served as the thirty-fifth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist investigates claims that a tree kills passersby by emitting a deadly gas."
"A scientist investigates claims that a tree kills passersby by emitting a deadly gas."
The BBC's Doctor Who program rang in the new year of 1964 with an episode titled "The Escape." Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Susan meets Alydon of the Thals and agrees to try and arrange a treaty between his people and the Daleks. But the Daleks only see it as an opportunity to wipe the Thals out."
"Susan meets Alydon of the Thals and agrees to try and arrange a treaty between his people and the Daleks. But the Daleks only see it as an opportunity to wipe the Thals out."
On this day in 1969 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Krotons: Part 2." This served as the twentieth episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Zoe is selected as a companion for the Krotons and the Doctor insists on joining her."
"Zoe is selected as a companion for the Krotons and the Doctor insists on joining her."
On this day in 1975 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Robot: Part 2." This served as the second episode of the program's twelfth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Sarah become convinced Think Tank are behind the electronic component thefts but are unable to stop them carrying out another raid."
"The Doctor and Sarah become convinced Think Tank are behind the electronic component thefts but are unable to stop them carrying out another raid."
It all began right here: on this day in 1978 (in the United Kingdom), A Traveller In Time aired "The Door." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Penelope arrives from London to stay with her uncle and aunt in their farmhouse in Derbyshire. It was once the home of an Elizabethan family-and when strange things start happening Penelope begins to think they may still be there."
"Penelope arrives from London to stay with her uncle and aunt in their farmhouse in Derbyshire. It was once the home of an Elizabethan family-and when strange things start happening Penelope begins to think they may still be there."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Project U.F.O. aired "Sighting 4024: The Scoutmaster Incident." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A scoutmaster witnesses a UFO while out camping with his troop in the wilderness of Mississippi. Captain Ryan and S Sgt. Fritz fly south to the Magnolia State to investigate for Project Blue Book and discover another witness."
"A scoutmaster witnesses a UFO while out camping with his troop in the wilderness of Mississippi. Captain Ryan and S Sgt. Fritz fly south to the Magnolia State to investigate for Project Blue Book and discover another witness."
On this day in 1982 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Castrovalva: Part 1." This served as the premiere episode for the program's nineteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor has regenerated but it hasn't gone well. He's mentally unraveling and needs a place to rest beyond outside influences. Unfortunately the Master has laid a trap for the TARDIS that denies the Doctor undisturbed recovery time."
"The Doctor has regenerated but it hasn't gone well. He's mentally unraveling and needs a place to rest beyond outside influences. Unfortunately the Master has laid a trap for the TARDIS that denies the Doctor undisturbed recovery time."
NBC's kinda/sorta hit series V rang in its first episode of the New Year -- it aired on this day in 1985 -- and things weren't looking all that hot for the Resistance. Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Ham and Kyle are captured by Visitors, and Charles, the Leader's special envoy, assumes command of the alien forces."
"Ham and Kyle are captured by Visitors, and Charles, the Leader's special envoy, assumes command of the alien forces."
On this day in 1989 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Greatest Show In The Galaxy: Part 4." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's twenty-fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor goes into the Dark Circus and defeats the Gods Of Ragnarok, helped by Ace, Kingpin and Mags. Captain Cook, the clowns and the Chief Clown are killed. The circuses are destroyed."
"The Doctor goes into the Dark Circus and defeats the Gods Of Ragnarok, helped by Ace, Kingpin and Mags. Captain Cook, the clowns and the Chief Clown are killed. The circuses are destroyed."
On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), Quantum Leap aired "Runaway," the eleventh episode of the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sam must put up with a bratty older sister and keep the family together while saving his mother who disappears."
"Sam must put up with a bratty older sister and keep the family together while saving his mother who disappears."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), an episode titled "New Ground" aired as part of Star Trek: The Next Generation's fifth season. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Geordi can barely curtail his enthusiasm at being able to test out a new theory of transportation, as Worf's mother boards the Enterprise with his son and news that Worf's Earthly parents can no longer care for him."
"Geordi can barely curtail his enthusiasm at being able to test out a new theory of transportation, as Worf's mother boards the Enterprise with his son and news that Worf's Earthly parents can no longer care for him."
On this day in 1994 (in the United Kingdom), The Tomorrow People aired "The Culex Experiment: Part 01." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Kevin witnesses a man being kidnapped but before he can inform the police he is stung by a mosquito and falls into a coma. At the hospital, Adam and Megabyte meet Ami Jackson, a girl who has been having visions of Kevin."
"Kevin witnesses a man being kidnapped but before he can inform the police he is stung by a mosquito and falls into a coma. At the hospital, Adam and Megabyte meet Ami Jackson, a girl who has been having visions of Kevin."
On this day in 1995 (in the United Kingdom), The Tomorrow People aired "The Rameses Connection: Part 01." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Tomorrow People all have visions of an Egyptian boy at the same time as a robbery is committed at the British Museum. Investigating a lead at Cleopatra's Needle, they meet the mysterious Milicent Rutherford who warns them of coming danger."
"The Tomorrow People all have visions of an Egyptian boy at the same time as a robbery is committed at the British Museum. Investigating a lead at Cleopatra's Needle, they meet the mysterious Milicent Rutherford who warns them of coming danger."
On this day in 1996 (in the United Kingdom), The Demon Headmaster aired the second episode of its first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Harvey and Lloyd are ignoring Dinah - she is one of 'them'. Sensing the tension in the air, Dinah tries to find out what exactly is going on at the school..."
"Harvey and Lloyd are ignoring Dinah - she is one of 'them'. Sensing the tension in the air, Dinah tries to find out what exactly is going on at the school..."
On this day in 1996 (in Germany), The X-Files aired "Fearful Symmetry." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a small town in Idaho, a man is killed by what seems to be an invisible elephant. Mulder's investigation into the local zoo, its owners and a local animal rights group uncovers evidence of insidious alien experiments."
"In a small town in Idaho, a man is killed by what seems to be an invisible elephant. Mulder's investigation into the local zoo, its owners and a local animal rights group uncovers evidence of insidious alien experiments."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Dark Skies broke in its New Years with the airing of an episode titled "The Last Wave." This served as the tenth episode of the cult program's only season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"John and Kim rely on a young Jim Morrison to help stop a bacteria being bred by the Hive."
"John and Kim rely on a young Jim Morrison to help stop a bacteria being bred by the Hive."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Flash Gordon aired "Revenge Of The Dragon!" Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sulpha finds a cache of what seem to be dragon eggs, and asks Flash to stall Ming while she searches for the secret to her lost race."
"Sulpha finds a cache of what seem to be dragon eggs, and asks Flash to stall Ming while she searches for the secret to her lost race."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Kitsunegari." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Robert Patrick Modell, aka "Pusher," has recovered from his injuries and escaped from a prison hospital. Mulder and Scully lead the manhunt even as Modell may be using his powerful mind-control capabilities to target Fox for revenge."
"Robert Patrick Modell, aka "Pusher," has recovered from his injuries and escaped from a prison hospital. Mulder and Scully lead the manhunt even as Modell may be using his powerful mind-control capabilities to target Fox for revenge."
On this day in 2001 (in Canada), television audiences were treated to an all-new RoboCop miniseries titled RoboCop: Prime Directives. Essentially, this was broken up into four telefilms, the first of which premiered on this day back then. It was titled "Dark Justice," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"RoboCop stumbles across information uncovering an evil group of government officials that must be stopped."
"RoboCop stumbles across information uncovering an evil group of government officials that must be stopped."
On this day in 2002 (in Canada), The Outer Limits aired "Dark Child." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A single mother's memories of being abducted by aliens resurface when her story appears in a newspaper article. Her moody teenage daughter has an English teacher that is helping her, but also seems familiar to her mother."
"A single mother's memories of being abducted by aliens resurface when her story appears in a newspaper article. Her moody teenage daughter has an English teacher that is helping her, but also seems familiar to her mother."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "Within Endless Time." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Flash Gordon aired "Thicker Than Water." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Flash intercepts a baby who's been marked for death, which leads him and Aura to the Deviates' lair, where they learn a shocking secret. Meanwhile, Zarkov & Baylin search for the lost rift blaster; and Joe ends up aligned with the enemies."
"Flash intercepts a baby who's been marked for death, which leads him and Aura to the Deviates' lair, where they learn a shocking secret. Meanwhile, Zarkov & Baylin search for the lost rift blaster; and Joe ends up aligned with the enemies."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Philip K. Dick's Electric Dreams hosted a special screening of its episode, "The Father Thing," for an audience at LACMA, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The world is under attack from aliens. Charlie must make difficult decisions to protect his mother and the human race, as he is among the first to realize that humans are being replaced by dangerous monsters."
"The world is under attack from aliens. Charlie must make difficult decisions to protect his mother and the human race, as he is among the first to realize that humans are being replaced by dangerous monsters."
