A star is born! I see a lot of movies. I really do. And, even with all I see, it's pretty rare for me to find one that I think is just downright perfect. Just ask around. Anyway, one of the rare ones is 1987's RoboCop, released on this day back then. Seriously, it just doesn't get any better than that. Part man. Part machine. All cop. You couldn't ask for more. "I'd buy that for a dollar!" It begat a franchise that produced two sequels, a TV miniseries, a TV series, an animated program, and an eventual reboot.
Directed by Paul Verhoeven, the SciFi/Thriller starred Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, and Kurtwood Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a dystopic and crime-ridden Detroit, a terminally wounded cop returns to the force as a powerful cyborg haunted by submerged memories."
For the record:
Indeed, RoboCop proved to be a theatrical force to be reckoned with. Audiences loved it, and -- during the awards season -- citations were rolling in respectfully.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate to receive an all-new 4k UltraHD release of RoboCop via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
Directed by Paul Verhoeven, the SciFi/Thriller starred Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, and Kurtwood Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a dystopic and crime-ridden Detroit, a terminally wounded cop returns to the force as a powerful cyborg haunted by submerged memories."
For the record:
Indeed, RoboCop proved to be a theatrical force to be reckoned with. Audiences loved it, and -- during the awards season -- citations were rolling in respectfully.
- At the 1988 Academy Awards, the film enjoyed two nominations -- 'Best Sound' and 'Best Film Editing.' Though it lost out in both cases, the flick did take home a 'Special Achievement Award' for its work in 'Sound Effects Editing.'
- At the 1988 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), RoboCop enjoyed an incredible eight nominations. It took home trophies in five categories: 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 1988 Hugo Awards, the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was fortunate to receive an all-new 4k UltraHD release of RoboCop via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
God bless the screen sirens of another era! The lovely Acquanetta -- born under the name of Mildred Davenport -- certainly turned more than a few heads with her work aboard Captive Wild Woman for Universal Pictures where she played a female gorilla transformed into a lovely human. It was a role she reprised in Jungle Woman (1944). From there, she went on to work in Tarzan And The Leopard Woman (1946) and an appearance in Lost Continent (1951). Though she's no longer with us, Acquanetta was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Singer and actress Diahann Carroll was one of the unfortunate souls somehow coerced into appearing aboard the ill-conceived and best forgotten Star Wars Holiday Special, the red-headed stepchild of the entire Star Wars universe almost as reviled as JarJar Binks. No word yet on whether or not Disney has dismissed it from canon. Carroll was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran Donald Sutherland has recently lent his over five decades of acting gravitas to the world of The Hunger Games, serving (with distinction) as President Snow. Otherwise, he's only dabbled in the world of SciFi, the Invasion of the Body Snatchers remake notwithstanding, but we're all too happy to see him when he shows on the scene. The actor has also been a part of such projects as The Castle Of The Living Dead (1964), Dr. Terror's House Of Horrors (1965), Die! Die! My Darling! (1965), Don't Look Now (1973), Threshold (1981), Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1992), The Lifeforce Experiment (1994), Outbreak (1995), Virus (1999), Space Cowboys (2000), Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2001), Salem's Lot, Frankenstein (2004), and Moonfall (2022). Sutherland was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Donald Sutherland is one of the most decorated actors of his generation. While a great deal of this praise comes from his work in more mainstream fare, there are a few genre citations that deserve mention in this space.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I had the good fortune of receiving an all-new release of Kino Lorber's Invasion Of The Body Snatchers via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Donald Sutherland is one of the most decorated actors of his generation. While a great deal of this praise comes from his work in more mainstream fare, there are a few genre citations that deserve mention in this space.
- In 1974, Sutherland enjoyed a BAFTA Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work in the Horror/Fantasy Don't Look Now (1973).
- In 1979, the actor earned a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work in the SciFi/Fantasy Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1978).
- In 1983, he took home the trophy for a Genie Award in the category of 'Best Performance By An Actor In A Leading Role' for his work in the SciFi/Drama Threshold (1981).
- In 2001, he shared a nomination -- along with Clint Eastwood, Tommy Lee Jones, and James Garner -- at the Blockbuster Entertainment Awards in the category of 'Favorite Action Team' for work aboard the SciFi/Thriller Space Cowboys (2000).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I had the good fortune of receiving an all-new release of Kino Lorber's Invasion Of The Body Snatchers via a distributor relationship. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
When the original Knight Rider premiered on television with a big two-part storyline, producers entrusted the requisite villainy to the lovely Phyllis Davis. She also enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard The Girl From U.N.C.L.E., Captain Nice, The Wild Wild West, Terminal Island (1973), and Fantasy Island. Though she's no longer with us, Davis was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
For all intents & purposes, the character of Maya -- as portrayed by actress Catherine Schell -- from Space: 1999 was intended to be a female version of Trek's wildly popular Mr. Spock. She even served as Sciences Officer aboard Moonbase Alpha! Rumor has it that she would've taken a bigger role had the show continued into a third season. Producer Fred Freiberger even worked to launch a Maya-centric spin-off that never came to life. So sad. Also, IMDB.com indicates that the lady got her acting break in a little something called Lana, Queen Of The Amazons (1964) that looks a little cheesy ... but in a good way. She also scored screen time in such projects as Moon Zero Two (1969), On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969), Supernatural, Doctor Who, Tales Of Mystery And Imagination, Dracula, and The Munsters (2022). Schell was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran actor Alun Armstrong has been acting for over four decades. SciFi fans probably recall him in the role of 'Torquil' in 1983's space fantasy Krull. To the actor's credit, he also scored roles in such properties as The New Avengers, Billy The Kid And The Green Baize Vampire (1985), Tales From The Crypt, The Saint (1997), Sleepy Hollow (1999), The Mummy Returns (2001), Van Helsing (2004), Eragon (2006), and Penny Dreadful. Armstrong was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely P.J. Soles -- probably known as Bill Murray's best reason to stay in the Army in the classic comedy, Stripes -- ventured into the realm of SciFi camp with a role in Alienator (1990). The lady also managed to steal scenes and break hearts with time served aboard such genre entities as The Possessed (1977), Halloween (1978), Airwolf, Knight Rider, B.O.R.N. (1989), Out There (1995), Little Bigfoot (1997), Mirror Mirror 4: Reflections (2000), The Devil's Rejects (2005), Mil Mascaras Vs. The Aztec Mummy (2007), Alone In The Dark 2 (2008), The Butterfly Room (2012), and Halloween (2018). Soles was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I gave up a long time ago trying to explain to folks how NBC's popular action series Knight Rider isn't Science Fiction, but there's no changing the minds of some folks. They argue that KITT was the first 'Apple Car' and should be recognized as such. So be it. Consider this my unofficial surrender as Knight Rider's real star -- David Hasselhoff (pictured with his famed auto) -- celebrates his birthday today. He was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
J. Michael Straczynski has a long, distinguished career at crafting compelling stories for some of today's most dynamic characters. So far as Sci-Fi fans are concerned, his biggest claim to fame remains Babylon 5, but he's also dabbled in the world of Marvel Comics and adapted World War Z for the big screen. As a screenwriter, he's also penned episodes of He-Man And The Masters Of The Universe, She-Ra: Princess Of Power, Captain Power And The Soldiers Of The Future, The Twilight Zone, and The Real Ghostbusters. Straczynski was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the man's credit, Straczynski took home a 1999 Bradbury Award (from the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America) for his work on Babylon 5, a SciFi/Fantasy that also garnered two Hugo Awards during its run.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the man's credit, Straczynski took home a 1999 Bradbury Award (from the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America) for his work on Babylon 5, a SciFi/Fantasy that also garnered two Hugo Awards during its run.
"The Inner Light" remains one of the very best episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, and the lovely Margot Rose played the part of a young woman whose planet has been lost to history aboard this touching hour. As for other adventures in the worlds of the fantastic? Fans might recognize her from work aboard Starman, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Pretender, and Hollow Man (2000). Rose was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you've played one of the most beloved secondary characters in the history of Star Wars, then you're going to earn a citation here. Tim Rose helped bring to life 'Admiral Ackbar' in the Original Trilogy, sadly to only see the military legend unceremoniously killed off the JJ Trilogy of the mid-20Teens. Shameful, Disney. Just shameful. Rose was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former Playboy Playmate Jodie Fisher lent her pipes to a character aboard the Star Trek: Starfleet Academy (1997) video game from Interplay Entertainment. Fisher was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the late 1990's, the video game Mortal Kombat inspired a pair of major motion pictures, giving the hunky and talented Robin Shou the chance to strut his stuff on the silver screen as 'Liu Kang.' Shou was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Years after being menaced onscreen by none other than Freddy Krueger in the Nightmare on Elm Street series, the luminous Heather Langenkamp enjoys a kinder, gentler career in the realm behind-the-screen with make-up and special effects. However, she did suit up admirably for a background role in JJ Abrams' Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) for good measure ... and I'm guessing not even Mr. Krueger would've had anything to do with her at that point! Langenkamp was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alex Winter is only one-half of the famous screen comedy duo Bill and Ted -- most notably from Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure -- two nitwits sent traveling through time in order to save the future as well as finish a killer book report. Winter was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alexandra Wilson was one of the space doctors dispensing space medicines on the edge of the Final Frontier aboard the short-lived Mercy Point for UPN. Wilson was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Methinks the star of actor Jason Clarke is on the rise! He's done some terrific work in mainstream dramas -- both on television and in the movies -- but his star turn in 2014's blockbuster Dawn of the Planet of the Apes certainly bodes well for his future. Plus, he took on the role of John Connor in the Terminator revisioning, Terminator: Genisys. Clarke was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Elena Anaya catapulted herself into the league of Fantasy with a villainous role aboard DC Comics' Wonder Woman (2017). Anaya was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Eddie Shin has effortlessly been slipping in and out of some quality genre projects including work aboard Agent Carter, Lucifer, Westworld, and The Man In The High Castle. Shin was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mike Vogel (pictured) played a part in 2008's break-out sleeper monster hit Cloverfield coming from producer JJ Abrams and director Matt Reeves. Furthermore, he did a terrific job as the American farmer who makes first contact with an alien intellect aboard Syfy's adaptation of Childhood's End. Vogel was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 2008, actress Melanie Thierry shared the screen alongside Vin Diesel in the passable Sci-Fi flick, Babylon A.D. In it, she played the mysterious Aurora, a young woman in the post-Apocalyptic future who may've been carrying the genetic material to create an all-new Messiah. Thierry was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lovely Sarah Jones did all she could to help elevate Fox TV's Alcatraz to the heights a JJ Abrams production usually enjoys. However, the writing ended up only toying with the central mystery circumstantially, and methinks viewers thought they were in store for another debacle that was ABC TV's Lost (also a JJ Abrams entity). Still, here's hoping she lands in another SciFi property real soon as the lady can turn heads. Jones was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tom Cullen played a role in 2013's somewhat critically maligned The Last Days On Mars (pictured above). The actor has also visited such realms as Black Mirror and Orphan Black. Cullen was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another day, another Power Rangers citation! The fetching Meghan Camarena suited up for justice in the guise of the Pink Ranger aboard Power Rangers HyperForce for Saban. Camarena was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Summer Bishil has turned in some downright fanciful work aboard the popular Fantasy TV series The Magicians. She's also benefitted with a bit of exposure in such properties as Return To Halloweentown (2005), The Last Airbender (2005), and iZombie. Bishil was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Billie Lourd joined her mother Carrie Fisher on the silver screen with roles aboard Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015) and Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017). She filled out the Sequel Trilogy with some work in Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise Of Skywalker, as well. Lourd was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Relative newcomer Jessica Amlee is well on her way to building an impressive resume in genre entertainment. Thus far, she's boasted guest roles in such properties as The Outer Limits, Dark Angel, Smallville, Andromeda, The Twilight Zone, Jeremiah, Stargate: Atlantis, and The Dead Zone. Amlee was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Grace Fulton stepped into the world of the DC Cinematic Universe with a top role aboard Shazam! (2019) for Warner Bros. And she returned to service in the family and in superhero form aboard the sequel Shazam! Fury Of The Gods (2023). Fulton was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born!
On this day in 1944 (in the U.S.), Return Of The Ape Man enjoyed its big screen theatrical debut. Directed by Phil Rosen from a story by Robert Charles, the Horror/Fantasy starred Bela Lugosi, John Carradine, and George Zucco. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist seeks to transplant a brain into the body of a thawed caveman in order to get it to do his bidding."
"A scientist seeks to transplant a brain into the body of a thawed caveman in order to get it to do his bidding."
On this day in 1961 (in Argentina), Ed Wood Jr's Bride Of The Monster scared up what box office it could. The SciFi feature starred Bela Lugosi and Tor Johnson, and here's the plot summary that's provided via IMDB.com:
"A mad doctor attempts to create atomic supermen."
"A mad doctor attempts to create atomic supermen."
On this day in 1978 (in Denmark), Eyes Behind The Stars took audiences aboard an alien spacecraft! Written and directed by Mario Gariazzo, the SciFi/Thriller starred Robert Hoffmann, Nathalie Delon, and Martin Balsam. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A photographer and his model are on a photo shoot in a forest when they get the feeling they are being watched. The feeling becomes so strong that they decide to cut their session short and leave."
"A photographer and his model are on a photo shoot in a forest when they get the feeling they are being watched. The feeling becomes so strong that they decide to cut their session short and leave."
A star is born!
On this day in 1987 (in Turkey, Canada, and the U.S.), Jaws: The Revenge brought a degree of vengeance to the 'fish outta the water' Horror. Directed by Joseph Sargent from a story by Peter Benchley and Michael De Guzman, the Fantasy film starred Lorraine Gary, Lance Guest, and Michael Caine. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Chief Brody's widow believes that her family is deliberately being targeted by another shark in search of revenge."
"Chief Brody's widow believes that her family is deliberately being targeted by another shark in search of revenge."
On this day in 1987 (in Italy), Toxic Zombies turned up -- dead! -- with an airing on broadcast television. Written by, directed by, and starring Charles McCrann, the feature also starred Beverly Shapiro, Dennis Helfend, and Judith Brown. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Marijuana growers deep in the woods are hit with a new toxic herbicide, and they turn into mindless cannibals killing everyone they come into contact with."
"Marijuana growers deep in the woods are hit with a new toxic herbicide, and they turn into mindless cannibals killing everyone they come into contact with."
What?! Bill Maher?! Did Science Fiction?! Premiering on this day back in 1988, the SciFi/Telefilm Out Of Time paired up Bruce Abbott with the political pundit in a plot reminiscent of many time travel yarns:
"A cop from the future goes back in time to Los Angeles and teams up with his grandfather to capture a master criminal."
"A cop from the future goes back in time to Los Angeles and teams up with his grandfather to capture a master criminal."
A star is born!
On this day in 1992, Rick Moranis took his movie family on another kid-friendly adventure when Honey, I Blew Up The Kid premiered theatrically. I've never seen this one, though I'll admit that his first go round with all of that shrinking of the kids was pretty solid. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Szalinski family is back, this time hilarious disaster strikes when an experiment causes their new toddler son to grow many stories tall."
"The Szalinski family is back, this time hilarious disaster strikes when an experiment causes their new toddler son to grow many stories tall."
On this day in 1996 (in France), Pamela Anderson sported some big guns aboard the SciFi/Fantasy Barb Wire. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During the Second American Civil War in 2017, Barb Wire owns a nightclub called the Hammerhead. Things become complicated when her ex-lover Axel Hood, who is married to the fugitive Corrina Devonshire, re-enters her life."
"During the Second American Civil War in 2017, Barb Wire owns a nightclub called the Hammerhead. Things become complicated when her ex-lover Axel Hood, who is married to the fugitive Corrina Devonshire, re-enters her life."
Regular readers here at SciFiHistory.Net have heard me lament how difficult SciFi comedies can be, but -- every now and then -- someone gets it right. Such was the case on this day in 1996 when Michael Keaton and director Harold Ramis teamed up to deliver their own 'attack of the clones' with Multiplicity. Here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"A man who never has enough time for the things he wants to do is offered the opportunity to have himself duplicated."
"A man who never has enough time for the things he wants to do is offered the opportunity to have himself duplicated."
A star is born!
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), the good people of Century City, California were treated to the silver screen theatrical launch of The Frighteners. Written (in part) and directed by Peter Jackson, the Horror/Thriller starred Michael J. Fox, Trini Alvarado, and Peter Dobson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a tragic car accident that kills his wife, a man discovers he can communicate with the dead, and he uses that gift to con people. However, when a demonic spirit appears, he may be the only one who can stop it from killing the living and the dead."
For the record:
At the 1997 Saturn Awards, The Frighteners earned an impressive eight nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"After a tragic car accident that kills his wife, a man discovers he can communicate with the dead, and he uses that gift to con people. However, when a demonic spirit appears, he may be the only one who can stop it from killing the living and the dead."
For the record:
At the 1997 Saturn Awards, The Frighteners earned an impressive eight nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1999 (in South Korea), Reptilian (aka Reptile 2001) sunk its monster-sized teeth into all of mankind. The film starred Dan Cashman and Bruce Cornwell, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"It's been asleep for two hundred million years. Now it been awakened by aliens from another galaxy. The aliens are using Yonggary to destroy mankind."
"It's been asleep for two hundred million years. Now it been awakened by aliens from another galaxy. The aliens are using Yonggary to destroy mankind."
A star is born!
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Mimic 2 was finally unearthed with a home video release. Directed by Jean de Zegonzac, the Horror/Fantasy starred Alix Koromzay, Bruno Campos, and Will Estes. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A human mimicking giant bug survived Mimic (1997) and is killing humans and stalking a woman, who's bug/biology school teacher in NYC."
"A human mimicking giant bug survived Mimic (1997) and is killing humans and stalking a woman, who's bug/biology school teacher in NYC."
On this day in 2002, the SciFi/Horror feature Python 2 wrapped itself around audiences. The feature starred William Zabka and Dana Ashbrook, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Hired for his transportation services, a former mercenary and his wife accompanying a secret convoy to a Soviet military base find it overrun by a gigantic snake and must battle the creature to get out alive."
"Hired for his transportation services, a former mercenary and his wife accompanying a secret convoy to a Soviet military base find it overrun by a gigantic snake and must battle the creature to get out alive."
On this day in 2003 (in South Korea), the SciFi/Animated Sky Blue came down from the theatrical heavens. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"2142: Pollution and climate change wiped out most of Earth's population. Ecoban city is built to withstand this. Suppression results in revolt. A childhood couple find each other as adults on opposing sides."
"2142: Pollution and climate change wiped out most of Earth's population. Ecoban city is built to withstand this. Suppression results in revolt. A childhood couple find each other as adults on opposing sides."
A star is born!
On this day in 2007 (in the Netherlands), Alien Agent took to Earth's screen. Directed by Jesse V. Johnson from a story by Vlady Pildysh, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Dacascos, Amelia Cooke, and Emma Lahana. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lawman from another galaxy must stop an invading force from building a gateway to planet Earth."
"A lawman from another galaxy must stop an invading force from building a gateway to planet Earth."
On this day in 2009 (in the United Kingdom), Moon first premiered theatrically. Written (in part) and directed by Duncan Jones, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Sam Rockwell, Kevin Spacey, and Dominique McElligott. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Astronaut Sam Bell has a quintessentially personal encounter toward the end of his three-year stint on the Moon, where he, working alongside his computer, GERTY, sends back to Earth parcels of a resource that has helped diminish our planet's power problems."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Moon turned out to be a pretty interesting sensation with audiences and critics, and the flick played to a good deal of praise on the film festival circuit.
"Astronaut Sam Bell has a quintessentially personal encounter toward the end of his three-year stint on the Moon, where he, working alongside his computer, GERTY, sends back to Earth parcels of a resource that has helped diminish our planet's power problems."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Moon turned out to be a pretty interesting sensation with audiences and critics, and the flick played to a good deal of praise on the film festival circuit.
- At the 2010 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Moon enjoyed two nominations in the categories of 'Best Actor' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 2010 Hugo Awards, Moon won the much coveted 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' trophy.
A star is born!
On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), Goblin got its hands on audiences with a broadcast television airing. Directed by Jeffery Scott Lando from a story by Paul Inglis, the Fantasy feature starred Gil Bellows, Tracy Spiridakos, and Camille Sullivan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Every Halloween, a small hamlet in the deep woods is visited by a fierce goblin, intent on capturing infants and brutally murdering anyone in its path."
"Every Halloween, a small hamlet in the deep woods is visited by a fierce goblin, intent on capturing infants and brutally murdering anyone in its path."
On this day in 2011, the SciFi/ShortFilm Small Gods enjoyed its U.S. release. The feature starred Johann Urb and Jeffrey Henderson, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"While Chicago reels from a city-wide telepathic scandal, precognitive cop, Owen Young, fights a desperate battle to keep his abilities secret with the help of his street-sharp partner, John Meyer. But when a seemingly routine case places them in the cross-hairs of a telepathic killer with unlimited power, they quickly discover that in this city, secrets never sleep."
"While Chicago reels from a city-wide telepathic scandal, precognitive cop, Owen Young, fights a desperate battle to keep his abilities secret with the help of his street-sharp partner, John Meyer. But when a seemingly routine case places them in the cross-hairs of a telepathic killer with unlimited power, they quickly discover that in this city, secrets never sleep."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), 626 Evolution enjoyed a U.S. release via the Internet. Directed by John Lyde from a story by Larissa Beck, the SciFi/Thriller starred Danielle C. Ryan, Michaela McAllister, and Brandon Ray Olive. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hunted by government agents and constantly assaulted by a cartel of vengeful thugs, an amnesiac known only as "626" searches for her true identity while protecting a teenage girl who shares her superhuman abilities; but when 626 uncovers the horrifying truth about her past, she must infiltrate enemy headquarters to expose a corporate conspiracy that threatens the free world,before she and her companion are silenced forever."
"Hunted by government agents and constantly assaulted by a cartel of vengeful thugs, an amnesiac known only as "626" searches for her true identity while protecting a teenage girl who shares her superhuman abilities; but when 626 uncovers the horrifying truth about her past, she must infiltrate enemy headquarters to expose a corporate conspiracy that threatens the free world,before she and her companion are silenced forever."
A star is born!
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen premiere of Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets. Written (in part) and directed by Luc Besson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne, and Clive Owen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A dark force threatens Alpha, a vast metropolis and home to species from a thousand planets. Special operatives Valerian and Laureline must race to identify the marauding menace and safeguard not just Alpha, but the future of the universe."
"A dark force threatens Alpha, a vast metropolis and home to species from a thousand planets. Special operatives Valerian and Laureline must race to identify the marauding menace and safeguard not just Alpha, but the future of the universe."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), cinema went to the dogs again with the home video release of A.R.C.H.I.E. 2. Written and directed by Robin Dunne, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Sheldon Bergstrom, Sara Canning, and Christina Sicoli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In this sequel, the super intelligent artificial robotronic dog, Archie, befriends Gregory, a young boy who is the son of a carnival owner. Gregory is concerned that someone has been stealing from the carnival and enlists his new friend to help find the culprit."
"In this sequel, the super intelligent artificial robotronic dog, Archie, befriends Gregory, a young boy who is the son of a carnival owner. Gregory is concerned that someone has been stealing from the carnival and enlists his new friend to help find the culprit."
On this day in 1965, Doctor Who aired "A Battle Of Wits." This served as the thirty-eighth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor manages to escape from his cell and get the upper hand on the Monk but his plans are derailed when Sven and Ulf arrive at the monastery."
"The Doctor manages to escape from his cell and get the upper hand on the Monk but his plans are derailed when Sven and Ulf arrive at the monastery."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Undermind aired "End Signal." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The true and frightening scale of the Undermind plot is revealed. Can communications minister Tillinger's jamming station stop the second signal from completing their plans?"
"The true and frightening scale of the Undermind plot is revealed. Can communications minister Tillinger's jamming station stop the second signal from completing their plans?"
On this day in 1966 (in Japan), Thunderbirds aired "Martian Invasion." Officially, this served as the twenty-fourth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Hood infiltrates a film set and engineers an accident during production that leaves two of the main actors trapped in a cave. As International Rescue responds the Hood sets about once again trying to steal footage of the organization in action."
"The Hood infiltrates a film set and engineers an accident during production that leaves two of the main actors trapped in a cave. As International Rescue responds the Hood sets about once again trying to steal footage of the organization in action."
On this day in 1967 (in the Netherlands), Thunderbirds aired "The Perils Of Penelope." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Professor Borender is kidnapped and his assistant, Sir Jeremy Hodge goes to Lady Penelope help find the missing scientist. While on the trail, they are captured on a monorail train by the villainous, Dr. Godber. Along with his henchman, Roache, Godber has Lady Penelope tied to the monorail track and threatens her life when the next train comes through unless the two scientists reveal the details of a conversion formula that Godber demands."
"Professor Borender is kidnapped and his assistant, Sir Jeremy Hodge goes to Lady Penelope help find the missing scientist. While on the trail, they are captured on a monorail train by the villainous, Dr. Godber. Along with his henchman, Roache, Godber has Lady Penelope tied to the monorail track and threatens her life when the next train comes through unless the two scientists reveal the details of a conversion formula that Godber demands."
On this day in 1971, Gerry Anderson's UFO aired "The Sound Of Silence." This served as the twenty-third episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"An alien craft lands in woodland near the home of horseman Russell Stone. When Stone goes missing suspicion initially falls on Ben Culley, a tramp with whom Stone had recently argued over trespassing on his property. However, Culley is found dead and it seems likely that the green alien who killed him has captured Stone.The trail leads to a nearby lake where it seems likely that the alien is hiding. . ."
"An alien craft lands in woodland near the home of horseman Russell Stone. When Stone goes missing suspicion initially falls on Ben Culley, a tramp with whom Stone had recently argued over trespassing on his property. However, Culley is found dead and it seems likely that the green alien who killed him has captured Stone.The trail leads to a nearby lake where it seems likely that the alien is hiding. . ."
On this day in 1972, Doomwatch aired "Deadly Dangerous Tomorrow." This served as the seventh episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"Ridge continues his ecological crusade by warning against the dangerous side effects of the chemical insecticide known as D.D.T. upon the world's developing countries. He stages a publicity stunt by flying in an Indian family and setting them up in a tent in the middle of London's St. James Park. But the prank backfires when it is discovered that one of them is suffering from malaria."
"Ridge continues his ecological crusade by warning against the dangerous side effects of the chemical insecticide known as D.D.T. upon the world's developing countries. He stages a publicity stunt by flying in an Indian family and setting them up in a tent in the middle of London's St. James Park. But the prank backfires when it is discovered that one of them is suffering from malaria."
On this day in 1987 (in Canada), Airwolf (aka Airwolf II) aired "Malduke." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence. Here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"The team races to stop a madman, who has rigged a toxic waste barge with explosives, bent on forcing the government to quarantine chronically ill people."
"The team races to stop a madman, who has rigged a toxic waste barge with explosives, bent on forcing the government to quarantine chronically ill people."
On this day in 1992, The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "The Happiness Machine." This served as the second episode in the program's sixth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A family man, incorrigible dreamer and small-town inventor is inspired to build a machine that can create happiness. However, his wife makes him realize the irony of such concept."
"A family man, incorrigible dreamer and small-town inventor is inspired to build a machine that can create happiness. However, his wife makes him realize the irony of such concept."
On this day in 1995, Gerry Anderson's Space Precinct aired "Deathwatch: Part 1." This served as the twenty-third episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from the Space Precinct Online Guide:
"A dual-personality slum lord, by the name of Borden, and his thugs wreak havoc on the tenants of a run-down apartment tower. However, there is more than meets the eye, as Brogan (Ted Shackelford) and Haldane (Rob Youngblood) realize that Borden is really something far more evil than just an unpleasant landlord. The question is not who is Borden, but rather, what is Borden?"
"A dual-personality slum lord, by the name of Borden, and his thugs wreak havoc on the tenants of a run-down apartment tower. However, there is more than meets the eye, as Brogan (Ted Shackelford) and Haldane (Rob Youngblood) realize that Borden is really something far more evil than just an unpleasant landlord. The question is not who is Borden, but rather, what is Borden?"
On this day in 1995 (in the United Kingdom), The Outer Limits aired "Caught In The Act." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A bashful woman gets possessed by an incorporeal alien that feeds on sexual energy. A series of killings starts. Her boyfriend, his scientist friend and a skeptical cop try find a way to stop the alien without killing her in the process."
"A bashful woman gets possessed by an incorporeal alien that feeds on sexual energy. A series of killings starts. Her boyfriend, his scientist friend and a skeptical cop try find a way to stop the alien without killing her in the process."
On this day in 1998, Stargate: SG-1 aired "The Gamekeeper." This served as the fourth episode of the long-running program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Exploring a strange and beautiful garden, SG-1 comes across a dome containing a race that are connected to machines. The team are captured by the machines and rendered unconscious, but awake to find themselves reliving pivotal moments of their lives, over and over again. Then they discover it is virtual reality and a mysterious keeper appears to persuade them to try different outcomes for the moments. But can the team escape his clutches, when they don't know what is real and what is not?"
"Exploring a strange and beautiful garden, SG-1 comes across a dome containing a race that are connected to machines. The team are captured by the machines and rendered unconscious, but awake to find themselves reliving pivotal moments of their lives, over and over again. Then they discover it is virtual reality and a mysterious keeper appears to persuade them to try different outcomes for the moments. But can the team escape his clutches, when they don't know what is real and what is not?"
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Witchblade aired "Maelstrom." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sara has to rescue her boyfriend, Concobar, when an Irish gang kidnaps him. They're actually looking for his older brother Edward, a member of he Irish Republican Army who reputedly set off 20 car bombs in Belfast. Sara will stop at nothing to find him, but her late partner doesn't approve of her methods. When the kidnappers agree to release Conchobar for a hefty ransom, one of the gang also demands the Witchblade bracelet. When Kenneth Irons refuses to help her out, Sara seeks to get the money from the police evidence room."
"Sara has to rescue her boyfriend, Concobar, when an Irish gang kidnaps him. They're actually looking for his older brother Edward, a member of he Irish Republican Army who reputedly set off 20 car bombs in Belfast. Sara will stop at nothing to find him, but her late partner doesn't approve of her methods. When the kidnappers agree to release Conchobar for a hefty ransom, one of the gang also demands the Witchblade bracelet. When Kenneth Irons refuses to help her out, Sara seeks to get the money from the police evidence room."
On this day in 2005, The 4400 aired "Life Interrupted." This served as the sixth episode of the second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Tom Baldwin wakes up in a parallel or alternate world where he has married a woman two years ago but he has never seen her before. There is no trace of any 4400s from the future with special skills, and Jordan Collier is Governor."
"Tom Baldwin wakes up in a parallel or alternate world where he has married a woman two years ago but he has never seen her before. There is no trace of any 4400s from the future with special skills, and Jordan Collier is Governor."
On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), The 4400 aired "Audrey Parker's Come And Gone." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's fourth 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."
I've struggled with TNT's alien invasion drama Falling Skies. For example, I just didn't think its first two seasons were really all that good. Though the program has some talent I admire, the characters all feel a bit bland. However, on this day back in 2011, the show aired the sixth episode of its inaugural season, an hour titled, "Sanctuary, Part 1." Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Lt. Terry Clayton (guest star Henry Czerny - The Tudors) of the 7th Mass arrives with word that the aliens are on their way to attack the 2nd Mass."
"Lt. Terry Clayton (guest star Henry Czerny - The Tudors) of the 7th Mass arrives with word that the aliens are on their way to attack the 2nd Mass."
On this day in 2014, Syfy's Defiance aired "Putting The Damage On." This served as the fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Amanda is being stalked by a man who managed to get into her room. She manages to defend herself but tells Nolan that she was attacked in New York 5 years ago. When Nolan apparently accosts her in an alleyway, she wonders if she is hallucinating. Datak Tarr is recovering from his beating and visits the house. Christie is not pleased to see him, especially after what he did to Alak. Datak sets out to rebuild his empire. Rafe has moved in with his daughter at Stahma's house and is having some trouble getting use to their customs. Someone from Doc Yewl's past arrives in Defiance."
"Amanda is being stalked by a man who managed to get into her room. She manages to defend herself but tells Nolan that she was attacked in New York 5 years ago. When Nolan apparently accosts her in an alleyway, she wonders if she is hallucinating. Datak Tarr is recovering from his beating and visits the house. Christie is not pleased to see him, especially after what he did to Alak. Datak sets out to rebuild his empire. Rafe has moved in with his daughter at Stahma's house and is having some trouble getting use to their customs. Someone from Doc Yewl's past arrives in Defiance."
On this day in 2015, Killjoys aired "A Glitch In The System." This served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An easy salvage job on an abandoned ship takes an insidious turn when the Killjoys are trapped aboard, in a tense, terrifying standoff that forces them to confront their own darkest secrets."
"An easy salvage job on an abandoned ship takes an insidious turn when the Killjoys are trapped aboard, in a tense, terrifying standoff that forces them to confront their own darkest secrets."
Oy, not an apocalypse again! On this day in 2016, Rooster Teeth's Day 5 released "Sweet Dreams." This served as the fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"New clues converge in Dallas, while Ally attempts a dangerous reunion in Austin."
"New clues converge in Dallas, while Ally attempts a dangerous reunion in Austin."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), The 100 aired "The Warriors Will." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's fifth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Monty strives to show Wonkru an alternative to war, and to the valley itself. Meanwhile, Abby's health continues to deteriorate, along with McCreary's patience."
"Monty strives to show Wonkru an alternative to war, and to the valley itself. Meanwhile, Abby's health continues to deteriorate, along with McCreary's patience."
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), The InBetween aired "The Length Of A River." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a serial killer strikes again, Cassie allows her visions to lead Tom and Damien toward the killer, leading to an unexpected twist in the investigation. Cassie also helps an old friend search for peace after the death of a loved one."
"When a serial killer strikes again, Cassie allows her visions to lead Tom and Damien toward the killer, leading to an unexpected twist in the investigation. Cassie also helps an old friend search for peace after the death of a loved one."
