One cannot seriously talk about the vintage theatrical Horror without mentioning the name of director James Whale. Over the scope of four incredible years, the man brought to the silver screen not one ... not two ... not three ... but an astonishing four big pictures -- Frankenstein (1931), The Old Dark House (1932), The Invisible Man (1933), and Bride Of Frankenstein (1935) -- that helped to define what the genre could look like up in the light and shadows. Though he's no longer with us, Whale was born on this day in 1889.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Public Service Announcement:
Sadly, Whale struggled with personal problems and ultimately took his own life. So if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I picked up a copy of Universal Pictures Frankenstein Collection on Blu-ray for my own entertainment. Interested readers can find my thoughts on 1931's Frankenstein right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Public Service Announcement:
Sadly, Whale struggled with personal problems and ultimately took his own life. So if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I picked up a copy of Universal Pictures Frankenstein Collection on Blu-ray for my own entertainment. Interested readers can find my thoughts on 1931's Frankenstein right here.
Take my word for it: Bryan Forbes did some incredible, incredible work. How do I know? Well, his IMDB.com resume shows that his career amounted to a relatively slim 42 different projects ... but in that time he scored nine wins and eleven other nominations for his performances ... and that's a lot of recognition! Granted, his genre credentials might be a bit slim, but I'll happily point out any one for work in any of the Quatermass properties when they pop up and I can find them. Though he's no longer with us, Forbes was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Without a doubt, actress Louise Fletcher is best known for her work as the domineering nurse in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, but would you believe she's had a fairly respectable career in sci-fi as well? She's made appearances in Olcoa Presents: One Step Beyond, the newfangled Twilight Zone, Fox TV's short-lived VR5, The Ray Bradbury Theatre, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Though she's no longer with us, Fletcher was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Fletcher remains an incredible and influential actress with her pioneering work on the big and small screen. I penned a reflection piece about her work as it relates to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and those interested in knowing a bit more can check it out right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Fletcher remains an incredible and influential actress with her pioneering work on the big and small screen. I penned a reflection piece about her work as it relates to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and those interested in knowing a bit more can check it out right here.
Actor Terence Stamp (above right) has enjoyed a wildly successful silver screen career, but -- without a doubt -- his most memorable role to date was as General Zod in Superman II (1980). He chewed scenery as easy as the Man of Steel, and he matched wits with none other than Lex Luthor. Stamp had a great opportunity to expand on his place in the Superman mythos when he agreed to voice Jor-El (Superman's father, and Zod's sworn enemy) in the WB's popular Smallville television series. Stamp was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late Ira Keeler was just one of the talented technicians who toiled behind-the-scenes to help bring an incredible number of projects to life on the silver screen. After getting his model-making start on Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi (1983), Keeler went on to such other genre entries as Star Trek III: The Search For Spock (1984), Back To The Future (1985), Enemy Mine (1985), Innerspace (1987), Jurassic Park (1993), Star Trek: Generations (1994), Star Trek: First Contact (1996), Mars Attacks (1996), Men In Black (1997), Starship Troopers (1997), Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999), and Star Wars: Episode II - Attack Of The Clones (2002). Though he's no longer with us, Keeler was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
He's the host of TV's long-running gameshow, Jeopardy, as well as an actor who made an appearance on Fox TV's long-running The X-Files as no less than one of the reputed 'Men In Black.' Who is Alex Trebek? Though he's no longer with us, Trebek was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record: I crafted a few words on Alex Trebek's 2020 passing, and those interested can check them out right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record: I crafted a few words on Alex Trebek's 2020 passing, and those interested can check them out right here.
Anthony James led a career that often saw him playing the role of a 'heavy,' but I'll bet the man is a softy at heart. Genre fans might recognize him from work in Holmes And Yoyo, Return From Witch Mountain (1978), Man From Atlantis, Buck Rogers In The 25th Century, V, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Beauty And The Beast. Though he's no longer with us, James was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
- In 2024, I received a complimentary Blu-ray of Burnt Offerings (1976) in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
The venerable Nick Brimble played 'The Monster' itself in the 1990 flick from Roger Corman, Frankenstein Unbound. Brimble was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Holy moly, Peter Jason's face is so familiar, and I can tell you why: he's enjoyed a fruitful career well over five decades, appeared in over two hundred and fifty projects, and is still hard-at-work! Even better, he's built a pretty impressive roster of genre appearances for fans to appreciate, and this includes work in Land Of The Giants, The Incredible Hulk, Beyond The Universe (1981), Starflight: The Plane That Couldn't Land (1983), Dreamscape (1984), Impulse (1984), Amazing Stories, Hyper Sapien: People From Another Star (1986), Alien Nation (1988), They Live (1988), Arachnophobia (1990), Quantum Leap, Batman: The Animated Series, Mortal Kombat (1995), Escape From L.A. (1996), Perversions Of Science, Batman Beyond, Ghosts Of Mars (2001), Carnivale, Raptor Island (2004), Planet Raptor (2007), Gemini Division, and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018). Now that's a resume! Jason was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he never tired of telling us he was "gettin' to old for this sh#t" in the epic cop film series Lethal Weapon, Danny Glover dipped into the SciFi pool to show us he still had the right stuff to take on Predator 2 (1990). Other genre appearances include work aboard The Greatest American Hero, Iceman (1984), Captain Planet And The Planeteers, Earthsea, The Shaggy Dog (2006), Battle For Terra (2007), Blindness (2008), 2012 (2009), Age Of The Dragons (2012), 2047: Sights Of Death (2014), Day Of The Mummy (2014), Monster Trucks (2016), The Curse Of Buckout Road (2017), Death Race 4: Beyond Anarchy (2018), The Dead Don't Die (2019), and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019). Glover was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2016, I caught a broadcast of Predator 2 (1990) on a pay cable channel, and I penned a few thoughts on it. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2016, I caught a broadcast of Predator 2 (1990) on a pay cable channel, and I penned a few thoughts on it. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Funnyman Albert Brooks took a little time off from all of his hangups with reality for a delightful spin with Fantasy in 1991's Defending Your Life for Geffen Pictures. It was a personal project for the actor as he also wrote and directed the thing! The picture scored three Saturn nominations, one for 'Best Fantasy Film,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Writing,' no small feat indeed. Brooks was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Good grief! What's a girl gotta do to get a little attention 'round these parts? Well, if she's in a Hammer film, then maybe show a little skin? And a pair of vampire fangs certainly can't hurt, can they? That's the lesson learned by the lovely Madeleine Collinson, who did a bit of both in the Horror-themed Twins Of Evil in which she shared the screen with the equally tempting Mary Collinson (her sister!). Though she's no longer with us, this Collinson was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mary Collinson -- along with her identical twin sister Madeleine -- shared the silver screen an impressive seven times in a small variety of film projects. Described by IMDB.com as "strikingly busty, adorable, and voluptuous," these ladies also bear the historical distinction of serving as the very first set of identical twins featured in the pages of Playboy Magazine, accepting the responsibilities as 'Playmates Of The Month' for October, 1970. Though she's no longer with us, this Collinson was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Willem Dafoe helped fight back the Vampire Apocalypse in 2009's underrated SciFi-themed Daybreakers. Dafoe was born on this day in 1955. More recently, he helped launch the DC Cinematic Universe with a top role aboard the popular Aquaman (2018) adaptation.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Rena Owen has enjoyed a pair of guest appearances aboard Fox TV's Star Trek clone The Orville. She's also found work in Star Wars: Episode II - Attack Of The Clones (2002), Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge Of The Sith (2005), and the Fantasy series Siren. Owen was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Joanna Going first caught my eye with her role aboard the Western/Drama Wyatt Earp alongside Kevin Costner. Thankfully, she's had a career rich in genre properties so that I can mention her in this space. In 1991, she turned up in a big role aboard the short-lived reincarnation of Dark Shadows for television. In 1998, she dipped her toes into the realm of SciFi/Horror with some work in Phantoms, an adaptation of a Dean R. Koontz novel. In 2001, she found herself in that strange and wonderful revisioning of The Outer Limits. In 2007, she paid a guest visit to the televised world of Journeyman, a short-lived time travel drama headlined by Kevin McKidd. Lastly, she enjoyed brief roles in TV's From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series and The Magicians for good measure. Going was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
During 1986 and 1987, the lovely Bonnie Langford enjoyed a run of twenty episodes aboard the BBC's long-running Doctor Who Fantasy serial. Langford was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Most folks dismiss The X-Files: I Want To Believe (2008) as "the unimportant sequel," but I thought the theatrical outing did nicely to keep interest in the franchise alive with 20th Century Fox. One of its many guest stars included the great Adam Godley, a face genre fans might know from Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Merlin, Dollhouse, Battleship (2012), or Powers. Godley was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not even the presence of John Leguizamo in a villainous, farting role could elevate the silver screen adaptation of Spawn (1997) to watchable heights. (But, hey, kudos on the great casting, eh?) Leguizamo was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rhys Ifans ventured into the Marvel movie universe in the role of Dr. Curt Connors -- aka The Lizard -- in The Amazing Spider-Man (2012). Ifans was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
James Arnold Taylor is one of the many talented voice actors putting their skills to tremendous use as part of the ensemble at the heart of Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series. Among many other characters, Taylor had the distinction of voicing one of the few characters to appear in all incarnations of George Lucas's world, that of Jedi General 'Obi-Wan Kenobi.' Taylor was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Model, actress, and temptress Angela Little knows a thing or two about commanding attention. Genre fans might recognize this lovely lady from work aboard such projects as The Backlot Murders (2002), Charmed, The Life Zone (2011), and Scavenger Killers (2014). Little was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
So far as Eureka goes, Colin Ferguson was 'the law,' playing Sheriff 'Jack Carter' throughout the program's run aboard the Syfy Channel. He's gone on to work in The Vampire Diaries and Haven. Ferguson was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critically lauded actress Franka Potente joined Syfy's Dark Matters for a few episodes at the start of the program's second season on the network. Potente was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, they just don't make 'em like Karen Cliche these days, do they? She's a lovely lady of genre entertainment who's been a part of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (2000), Vampire High, Galidor: Defenders of the Outer Dimension, Mutant X, Flash Gordon, and Syfy's Lost Girl. Cliche was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's certainly not known for her work in Science Fiction, A.J. Cook has had a few roles in the field. She's appeared in Laserhawk, Tru Calling, First Wave, and 2007's Night Skies. Cook was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Model-turned-actress Candace Kroslak has enjoyed a modest bit of screen time in such genre projects as Demonicus (2001), Planet Of The Apes (2001), and Knight Rider. Kroslak was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fans of History Channel's excellent drama Vikings may recognize Clive Standen from his previous work in a handful of episodes of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Standen was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Dreamy Sarah Lind (above right) put on a badge and picked up a gun for an episode of the CW's long-running Smallville, an action for which fanboys can be forever grateful. Lind was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Amy Paffrath is a star who shines whenever given the chance, even if only afforded the shortest opportunity. Genre fans might recognize her from work aboard such properties as The Pit And The Pendulum (2009), Evil Bong 2: King Bong (2009), I Kissed A Vampire, Evil Bong 3: The Wrath Of Bong (2011), Zombies Vs. Strippers (2011), Gingerdead Man Vs Evil Bong (2013), The Purge: Anarchy (2014), Evil Bong 420 (2015), Freshwater (2016), Evil Bong: High 5 (2016), The Thinning (2016), Eruption: LA (2018), and The Thinning: New World Order (2018). Paffrath was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Magical Selena Gomez certainly learned how to cast a spell all of her own after getting a great start in serial television with a top role aboard Wizards Of Waverly Place during its run. Gomez was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Australian-born actress Isabelle Cornish did what she could to instill a sense of magic and wonder aboard the short-lived Marvel property Inhumans ... but, alas, it wasn't enough. Cornish was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Skyler Gisondo enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014) for good measure. In 2018, he also had a big role aboard the warm SciFi/Comedy Time Freak for QC Entertainment. Gisondo was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
During her association with the Walt Disney Company, the young Madison Pettis enjoyed a recurring role aboard their SciFi-lite property, Lab Rats. She's also paid visits to the TV worlds of Jericho, The 4400, and R.L. Stine's The Haunting Hour. Pettis was born on this day in 1998.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Canadian actress Alisha Newton enjoyed a modest amount of screen time in the pilot episode for the short-lived SciFi/Drama Debris during its run. Newton was born on this day in 2001.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1920 (in the U.S.), the next chapter in the silent era SciFi/Serial The Invisible Ray appeared out of the ether on the silver screen. Written for the screen by Guy McConnell and directed by Harry A. Pollard, the feature starred Ruth Clifford, Jack Sherrill, and Sidney Bracey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist discovers a death ray and locks it in a box, giving the key to his daughter, who soon finds herself hunted by criminals looking to steal the deadly mineral."
"A scientist discovers a death ray and locks it in a box, giving the key to his daughter, who soon finds herself hunted by criminals looking to steal the deadly mineral."
On this day in 1930 (in the United Kingdom), Woman In The Moon enjoyed an exclusive theatrical engagement for the people of London, England. Written (in part) and directed by Fritz Lang, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Willy Fritsch, Gerda Maurus, and Klaus Pohl. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A tenacious scientist blasts off for the moon in hopes of riches that may be found there."
For the record:
In 2018, the film was released as part of a special Blu-ray collection, and the product was so well received it was nominated for a Saturn Award in the Best DVD/Blu-Ray Collection category.
"A tenacious scientist blasts off for the moon in hopes of riches that may be found there."
For the record:
In 2018, the film was released as part of a special Blu-ray collection, and the product was so well received it was nominated for a Saturn Award in the Best DVD/Blu-Ray Collection category.
On this day in 1933 (in Australia), King Kong roared in his mighty appearance up in the bright lights. Starring Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, and Bruce Cabot, the film used some pioneering special effects to bring the king to life; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A film crew goes to a tropical island for an exotic location shoot and discovers a colossal ape who takes a shine to their female blonde star. He is then captured and brought back to New York City for public exhibition."
For the record:
In 1991, King Kong was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, which seeks to preserve films for the ages that have demonstrated significant historical, cultural, or aesthetic contributions to the genre.
"A film crew goes to a tropical island for an exotic location shoot and discovers a colossal ape who takes a shine to their female blonde star. He is then captured and brought back to New York City for public exhibition."
For the record:
In 1991, King Kong was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, which seeks to preserve films for the ages that have demonstrated significant historical, cultural, or aesthetic contributions to the genre.
On this day in 1938 (in Belgium), I Accuse enjoyed an exclusive theatrical run for the people of Brussels. Written (in part) and directed by Abel Gance, the SciFi/Drama starred Victor Francen, Line Noro, and Sylvie Gance. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After serving in the trenches of World War I, Jean Diaz recoils with such horror that he renounces love and personal pleasure to immerse himself in scientific research, seeking a machine to prevent war. He thinks he has succeeded, but the government subverts his discovery, and Europe slides with seeming inevitability toward World War II. In desperation, Diaz summons the ghosts of the war dead from the graves and fields of France to give silent, accusing protest."
"After serving in the trenches of World War I, Jean Diaz recoils with such horror that he renounces love and personal pleasure to immerse himself in scientific research, seeking a machine to prevent war. He thinks he has succeeded, but the government subverts his discovery, and Europe slides with seeming inevitability toward World War II. In desperation, Diaz summons the ghosts of the war dead from the graves and fields of France to give silent, accusing protest."
How popular is Science Fiction? Why, there was a time when even legendary Hollywood cowboy Gene Autry wanted in on the stuff, and on this day in 1938 (in the Netherlands) his SciFi/Western serial The Phantom Empire enjoyed a run in theaters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the ancient continent of Mu sank beneath the ocean, some of its inhabitant survived in caverns beneath the sea. Cowboy singer Gene Autry stumbles upon the civilization, now buried beneath his own Radio Ranch. The Muranians have developed technology and weaponry such as television and ray guns. Their rich supply of radium draws unscrupulous speculators from the surface. The peaceful civilization of the Muranians is corrupted by the greed from above, and it becomes Autry's task to prevent all-out war, ideally without disrupting his regular radio show."
"When the ancient continent of Mu sank beneath the ocean, some of its inhabitant survived in caverns beneath the sea. Cowboy singer Gene Autry stumbles upon the civilization, now buried beneath his own Radio Ranch. The Muranians have developed technology and weaponry such as television and ray guns. Their rich supply of radium draws unscrupulous speculators from the surface. The peaceful civilization of the Muranians is corrupted by the greed from above, and it becomes Autry's task to prevent all-out war, ideally without disrupting his regular radio show."
On this day in 1952 (in the Philippines), audiences were transported into the Final Frontier aboard Flight To Mars. Written by Arthur Strawn and directed by Lesley Selander, the SciFi film starred Marguerite Chapman and Cameron Mitchell, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by the always reliable IMDB.com:
"A newspaper reporter and a bunch of scientists fly a rocket to Mars just to find out that Martians look exactly like us. Mars is running low on one of their natural resources (Corium), and plan to steal the Earth astronauts' rocket and conquer Earth. The Martian underground helps the Earthmen stop the insidious plan."
For the record:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary 4K restoration Blu-ray disk from the good people at The Film Detective, a release complete with some incredible extras. Want to know more? Then how about checking out my review of the flick right here.
"A newspaper reporter and a bunch of scientists fly a rocket to Mars just to find out that Martians look exactly like us. Mars is running low on one of their natural resources (Corium), and plan to steal the Earth astronauts' rocket and conquer Earth. The Martian underground helps the Earthmen stop the insidious plan."
For the record:
In 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary 4K restoration Blu-ray disk from the good people at The Film Detective, a release complete with some incredible extras. Want to know more? Then how about checking out my review of the flick right here.
On this day in 1952 (in the Philippines), Lost Continent gave audiences a glimpse into the realms of the fantastic. Directed by Sam Newfield, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Cesar Romero, Hillary Brooke, and Chick Chandler; and here's the plot summary as provided by the folks at IMDB.com:
"Major Joe Nolan heads a rescue mission in the South Pacific to recover a downed atomic rocket. The crew crashlands on a mysterious island, and spends much time rock-climbing. They meet up with a native girl, a big lizard, and some dinosaurs."
"Major Joe Nolan heads a rescue mission in the South Pacific to recover a downed atomic rocket. The crew crashlands on a mysterious island, and spends much time rock-climbing. They meet up with a native girl, a big lizard, and some dinosaurs."
On this day in 1952 (in the Philippines), Two Lost Worlds threw audiences on a trip into the past. Directed by Norman Dawn, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Kasey Rogers, James Arness, and Bill Kennedy. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the American clipper ship "The Queen" is attacked by pirates off the Hebrides in 1830, Mate Kirk Hamilton is injured and must be put ashore at Queensland Colony, Australia, for treatment and recuperation. There, he meets and falls in love with Elaine Jeffries, daughter of the magistrate and all-but-fiancée to rancher Martin Shannon. She also finds herself attracted to Kirk, and a rivalry develops between the two men. Meantime the pirates, led by Captain Hackett, decide to raid the colony and, in the process kidnap Elaine and her friend. Nancy. Kirk, and Shannon lead the pursuit, having not only the romantic triangle to resolve, but the pirates to overcome and, along the way, being stranded on a volcanic island inhabited by dinosaurs."
"When the American clipper ship "The Queen" is attacked by pirates off the Hebrides in 1830, Mate Kirk Hamilton is injured and must be put ashore at Queensland Colony, Australia, for treatment and recuperation. There, he meets and falls in love with Elaine Jeffries, daughter of the magistrate and all-but-fiancée to rancher Martin Shannon. She also finds herself attracted to Kirk, and a rivalry develops between the two men. Meantime the pirates, led by Captain Hackett, decide to raid the colony and, in the process kidnap Elaine and her friend. Nancy. Kirk, and Shannon lead the pursuit, having not only the romantic triangle to resolve, but the pirates to overcome and, along the way, being stranded on a volcanic island inhabited by dinosaurs."
On this day in 1955 (in Finland), Revenge Of The Creature chewed up the box office. Directed by Jack Arnold, the monster movie feature starred John Agar, Lori Nelson, and John Bromfield. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Men capture the creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
"Men capture the creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
On this day in 1959, Hercules delivered his might to the U.S. box office. Directed by Pietro Francisci, the Fantasy feature starred Steve Reeves, Sylva Koscina, and Fabrizio Mioni. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The muscular Hercules performs his Labors, sails with the Argonauts, and romances the fair Iole."
"The muscular Hercules performs his Labors, sails with the Argonauts, and romances the fair Iole."
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in the U.S.), Return Of The Fly buzzed its way onto the silver screen. Written (in part) and directed by Edward Bernds, the Horror/Fantasy starred Vincent Price, Brett Halsey, and David Frankham. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Philippe Delambre, the now-adult son of "The Fly", does some transportation experimentation of his own."
"Philippe Delambre, the now-adult son of "The Fly", does some transportation experimentation of his own."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), the good people of Chicago, Illinois enjoyed an exclusive theatrical screening of the SciFi/Classic The Time Machine. Directed by genre master George Pal from a script by David Duncan (adapting the H.G. Wells' novel), the film starred Rod Taylor, Yvette Mimieux, and Alan Young. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
At the 1961 Academy Awards, The Time Machine took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Special Effects.' The film also enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
At the 1961 Academy Awards, The Time Machine took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Special Effects.' The film also enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1965 (in Portugal), The Mind Benders twisted up the minds of those watching in theaters. Directed by Basil Dearden from a story by James Kennaway, the SciFi/Drama starred Dirk Bogarde, Mary Ure, and John Clements. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A British scientist is discovered to have been passing information to the Communists, then kills himself. Another scientist, Dr. Henry Laidlaw Longman (Sir Dirk Bogarde) decides that they might have brainwashed him by a sensory deprivation technique, but he doesn't know if someone really can be convinced to act against their strongest feelings. So he agrees to be the subject in an experiment in which others will try to make him stop loving his wife Oonagh (Mary Ure)."
"A British scientist is discovered to have been passing information to the Communists, then kills himself. Another scientist, Dr. Henry Laidlaw Longman (Sir Dirk Bogarde) decides that they might have brainwashed him by a sensory deprivation technique, but he doesn't know if someone really can be convinced to act against their strongest feelings. So he agrees to be the subject in an experiment in which others will try to make him stop loving his wife Oonagh (Mary Ure)."
On this day in 1966 (in Italy), the silver screen lit up with the blazing carnage that was The War Of The Planets with an exclusive engagement in the city of Turin. Directed by Antonio Margheriti, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Tony Russel, Lisa Gastoni, and Franco Nero. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the 21st century, aliens invade the solar system."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, director Antonio Margheriti delivered four films to the silver screen during 1966-1967, and all of these who the basis of a loose Science Fiction saga I've seen called the 'Gamma One Quadrilogy' in articles online. While costumes and sets were re-used -- the chief setting for these flicks was the Gamma One Space Station -- different casts were involved. For those wanting to explore the titles separately -- and in the proper order -- they are Wild, Wild Planet (1966), War Of The Planets (1966), War Between The Planets (1966), and Snow Devils (1967).
"In the 21st century, aliens invade the solar system."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, director Antonio Margheriti delivered four films to the silver screen during 1966-1967, and all of these who the basis of a loose Science Fiction saga I've seen called the 'Gamma One Quadrilogy' in articles online. While costumes and sets were re-used -- the chief setting for these flicks was the Gamma One Space Station -- different casts were involved. For those wanting to explore the titles separately -- and in the proper order -- they are Wild, Wild Planet (1966), War Of The Planets (1966), War Between The Planets (1966), and Snow Devils (1967).
On this day in 1966 (in Italy), the good people of Rome were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagement of The Wild Wild Planet. Directed by Antonio Margheriti, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tony Russel, Lisa Gastoni, and Massimo Serato. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A deranged scientist is using his employer's top-secret bio-laboratory to engage in clandestine experiments. When he starts kidnapping leading citizens for use in his twisted tests, it's up to rogue cop Mike Halstead to come to the rescue."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, director Antonio Margheriti delivered four films to the silver screen during 1966-1967, and all of these who the basis of a loose Science Fiction saga I've seen called the 'Gamma One Quadrilogy' in articles online. While costumes and sets were re-used -- the chief setting for these flicks was the Gamma One Space Station -- different casts were involved. For those wanting to explore the titles separately -- and in the proper order -- they are Wild, Wild Planet (1966), War Of The Planets (1966), War Between The Planets (1966), and Snow Devils (1967).
"A deranged scientist is using his employer's top-secret bio-laboratory to engage in clandestine experiments. When he starts kidnapping leading citizens for use in his twisted tests, it's up to rogue cop Mike Halstead to come to the rescue."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, director Antonio Margheriti delivered four films to the silver screen during 1966-1967, and all of these who the basis of a loose Science Fiction saga I've seen called the 'Gamma One Quadrilogy' in articles online. While costumes and sets were re-used -- the chief setting for these flicks was the Gamma One Space Station -- different casts were involved. For those wanting to explore the titles separately -- and in the proper order -- they are Wild, Wild Planet (1966), War Of The Planets (1966), War Between The Planets (1966), and Snow Devils (1967).
A star is born! On this day in 1967 (in Japan), King Kong Escapes rumbled onto screens everywhere. Directed by Ishiro Honda, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Rhodes Reason, Mie Hama, and Linda Miller. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Inspired by the Rankin/Bass cartoon, the evil Dr. Who captures King Kong to dig for Element X when his mechanical doppelganger, Mechani-Kong, is unable to do the task. Kong escapes and soon confronts his mechanical double."
"Inspired by the Rankin/Bass cartoon, the evil Dr. Who captures King Kong to dig for Element X when his mechanical doppelganger, Mechani-Kong, is unable to do the task. Kong escapes and soon confronts his mechanical double."
A star is born ... and this one was ready to fight! On this day in 1967 (in Japan), Ultraman enjoyed his big screen theatrical debut. Directed by Hajime Tsuburaya from a story by Mamoru Sasaki, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ajiki Kobayashi, Susumu Kurobe, and Hiroko Sakurai. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A feature-length compilation of episodes of the famous Japanese sci-fi TV series about a futuristic policeman who secretly transforms into a giant extraterrestrial savior."
"A feature-length compilation of episodes of the famous Japanese sci-fi TV series about a futuristic policeman who secretly transforms into a giant extraterrestrial savior."
On this day in 1968 (in Norway), the original Planet Of The Apes enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and based on the novel by Pierre Boulle (with the adaptation in part completed by The Twilight Zone master Rod Serling), the feature starred Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, and Roddy McDowall, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
A star is born! On this day in 1970 (in the U.S.), Cry Of The Banshee was heard on silver screens across the nation. Directed by Gordon Hessler, the Horror/Fantasy starred Vincent Price, Elisabeth Bergner, and Essy Persson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1500s England, a cruel witch-hunting magistrate, who often tortures innocent villagers for his entertainment, runs afoul of a witch who conjures a banshee to kill the magistrate and his family."
"In 1500s England, a cruel witch-hunting magistrate, who often tortures innocent villagers for his entertainment, runs afoul of a witch who conjures a banshee to kill the magistrate and his family."
On this day in 1972 (in Japan), the apes were back in business with the theatrical release of Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes. Directed by J. Lee Thompson from a story by Paul Dehn and Pierre Boulle, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Roddy McDowall, Ricardo Montalban, and Don Murray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
For the record:
In 2009, Conquest -- along with the other Apes films of the era -- were gathered into a single home video collection set by 20th Century Fox that enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
For the record:
In 2009, Conquest -- along with the other Apes films of the era -- were gathered into a single home video collection set by 20th Century Fox that enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
On this day in 1976 (in the Netherlands), Shivers gave audiences a chill and a fright. Written and directed by David Cronenberg, the Horror/Fantasy starred Paul Hampton, Joe Silver, and Lynn Lowry. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The residents of a suburban high-rise apartment building are being infected by a strain of parasites that turn them into mindless, sex-crazed fiends out to infect others by the slightest sexual contact."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shivers earned a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"The residents of a suburban high-rise apartment building are being infected by a strain of parasites that turn them into mindless, sex-crazed fiends out to infect others by the slightest sexual contact."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shivers earned a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), Orca submerged from the depths for its full U.S. theatrical run. Directed by Michael Anderson, the Horror/Fantasy starred Richard Harris, Charlotte Rampling, and Will Sampson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A hunter squares off against a killer whale seeking vengeance for the death of its mate."
"A hunter squares off against a killer whale seeking vengeance for the death of its mate."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), The Hills Have Eyes enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. Written and directed by genre master Wes Craven, the Horror/Fantasy starred Susan Lanier, Robert Houston, and John Steadman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On the way to California, a family has the misfortune to have their car break down in an area closed to the public, and inhabited by violent savages ready to attack."
For the record:
During the film's original run, The Hills Have Eyes enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I received a promotional re-release of The Hills Have Eyes (1977) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
"On the way to California, a family has the misfortune to have their car break down in an area closed to the public, and inhabited by violent savages ready to attack."
For the record:
During the film's original run, The Hills Have Eyes enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I received a promotional re-release of The Hills Have Eyes (1977) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
On this day in 1981 (in Colombia), Roger Corman's Battle Beyond The Stars enjoyed a run at the cineplex. Directed by Jimmy T. Murakami and Roger Corman, the feature starred Richard Thomas, Darlanne Fluegel, and Sybil Danning; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Shad, a young farmer, assembles a band of diverse mercenaries in outer space to defend his peaceful planet from the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors. Among the mercenaries are Space Cowboy, a spacegoing truck driver from Earth; Gelt, a wealthy but experienced assassin looking for a place to hide; and Saint-Exmin, a Valkyrie warrior looking to prove herself in battle."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
"Shad, a young farmer, assembles a band of diverse mercenaries in outer space to defend his peaceful planet from the evil tyrant Sador and his armada of aggressors. Among the mercenaries are Space Cowboy, a spacegoing truck driver from Earth; Gelt, a wealthy but experienced assassin looking for a place to hide; and Saint-Exmin, a Valkyrie warrior looking to prove herself in battle."
For the record:
Though many dismiss Battle Beyond The Stars as little more than a Star Wars knock-off (as if that's a bad thing), it's the kind of release for which legendary B-movie director Roger Corman became known for in the 1980's. With a script from John Sayles, the story essentially takes a page from 1954's Seven Samurai but transplants the warriors into deep space wherein they agree to defend peaceful farmers from an aggressive warlord. To the film's credit, it enjoyed four Saturn Award nominations (though didn't win any): 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' and 'Best Special Effects.' For all of her work in genre entertainment, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films did award actress Sybil Danning the 'Golden Scroll Of Merit' in 1981 ... no small feat, indeed.
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in Italy), audiences were treated to another look at our impending Apocalypse with the theatrical release of 2019: After The Fall Of New York. Written (in part) and directed by Sergio Martino, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Michael Sopkiw, Valentine Monnier, and George Eastman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a nuclear war, society breaks down into two groups, the evil Euraks and the rebel Federation. A mercenary named Parsifal is hired by the Federation to infiltrate New York City, which is controlled by the Euraks, to rescue the only fertile woman left on Earth."
"After a nuclear war, society breaks down into two groups, the evil Euraks and the rebel Federation. A mercenary named Parsifal is hired by the Federation to infiltrate New York City, which is controlled by the Euraks, to rescue the only fertile woman left on Earth."
On this day in 1983 (in West Germany), someone took a peek under the clothing of an Android. Directed by Aaron Lipstadt, the SciFi/Drama starred Klaus Kinski, Brie Howard, and Don Keith Opper. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A strange doctor secretly experiments with androids on his space station. His assistant is Max, a curious android who wants to see the world and meet a girl. Criminals hide on their station and soon violence erupts."
For the record:
Along with a good deal of love earned from screenings on the film festival circuit, Android earned a 1983 Saturn Award nomination (from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films) in the category of 'Best Low-Budget Film.'
"A strange doctor secretly experiments with androids on his space station. His assistant is Max, a curious android who wants to see the world and meet a girl. Criminals hide on their station and soon violence erupts."
For the record:
Along with a good deal of love earned from screenings on the film festival circuit, Android earned a 1983 Saturn Award nomination (from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films) in the category of 'Best Low-Budget Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), audiences were afraid once again to go back into the water with the theatrical release of Jaws 3D. Directed by Joe Alves, the Horror/Fantasy starred Dennis Quaid, Bess Armstrong, and Simon MacCorkindale. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A giant thirty-five-foot shark becomes trapped in a SeaWorld theme park and it's up to the sons of police chief Brody to rescue everyone."
For the record:
At the 1984 Razzie Awards, Jaws 3D enjoyed an incredible five nominations in such categories as 'Worst New Star,' 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' and 'Worst Picture.'
"A giant thirty-five-foot shark becomes trapped in a SeaWorld theme park and it's up to the sons of police chief Brody to rescue everyone."
For the record:
At the 1984 Razzie Awards, Jaws 3D enjoyed an incredible five nominations in such categories as 'Worst New Star,' 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Supporting Actor,' 'Worst Director,' and 'Worst Picture.'
On this day in 1983 (in Mexico), The Beastmaster dabbled in Fantasy magic with its theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Don Coscarelli, the Fantasy featured starred Marc Singer, Tanya Roberts, and Rip Torn. (FYI: The screenplay was based on the novel by Andre Norton.) According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A sword-and-sorcery fantasy about a young man's search for revenge. Armed with supernatural powers, the handsome hero and his animal allies wage war against marauding forces."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beastmaster enjoyed a modest bit of praise on the film festival circuit. It was also the birth of a Fantasy franchise as two sequels would follow along with a somewhat rebooted TV series.
"A sword-and-sorcery fantasy about a young man's search for revenge. Armed with supernatural powers, the handsome hero and his animal allies wage war against marauding forces."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beastmaster enjoyed a modest bit of praise on the film festival circuit. It was also the birth of a Fantasy franchise as two sequels would follow along with a somewhat rebooted TV series.
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in Japan), Gunhed enjoyed its big screen launch, and methinks it came out with guns blazing. Written (in part) and directed by Masato Harada, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Masahiro Takashima, Brenda Bakke, and James Brewster Thompson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a cyberpunk future, Kyron-5 supercomputer attempts to exterminate the human race, but Gunhed mechs stop it. In 2038, five thieves break into a condemned island facility to steal Kyron's dead CPU. The place turns out to be a deathtrap."
"In a cyberpunk future, Kyron-5 supercomputer attempts to exterminate the human race, but Gunhed mechs stop it. In 2038, five thieves break into a condemned island facility to steal Kyron's dead CPU. The place turns out to be a deathtrap."
On this day in 1991 (in Germany), Accidents enjoyed its debut on home video. Directed by Gideon Amir from a story by John Eubank, the SciFi/Thriller starred Edward Albert, Leigh Taylor-Young, and Jon Cypher. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A research scientist discovers that his project is being secretly adapted for use by the military. When he objects, his co-workers start to die in mysterious accidents."
"A research scientist discovers that his project is being secretly adapted for use by the military. When he objects, his co-workers start to die in mysterious accidents."
On this day in 1992 (in France), the original crew of the Starship Enterprise enjoyed a theatrical swan song with the premiere of Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. Directed by Nicholas Meyer, the feature film was the last to star the entire cast of the original Star Trek television series; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the eve of retirement, Kirk and McCoy are charged with assassinating the Klingon High Chancellor and imprisoned. The Enterprise crew must help them escape to thwart a conspiracy aimed at sabotaging the last best hope for peace."
For the record:
At the 1992 Academy Awards, Star Trek VI enjoyed Oscar nominations in the categories of 'Best Makeup' and 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing.' At the 1993 Saturn Awards, The Undiscovered Country took home top prize in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' while having to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Supporting Actress.' Lastly, the 1992 Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"On the eve of retirement, Kirk and McCoy are charged with assassinating the Klingon High Chancellor and imprisoned. The Enterprise crew must help them escape to thwart a conspiracy aimed at sabotaging the last best hope for peace."
For the record:
At the 1992 Academy Awards, Star Trek VI enjoyed Oscar nominations in the categories of 'Best Makeup' and 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing.' At the 1993 Saturn Awards, The Undiscovered Country took home top prize in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' while having to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Supporting Actress.' Lastly, the 1992 Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Troll 2 came out into the sunlight for a bit of exposure on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Claudio Fragasso, the Fantasy feature starred Michael Paul Stephenson, George Hardy, and Margo Prey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A vacationing family discovers that the entire town they're visiting is inhabited by goblins, disguised as humans, who plan to eat them."
"A vacationing family discovers that the entire town they're visiting is inhabited by goblins, disguised as humans, who plan to eat them."
On this day in 1997 (in Germany), Roger Corman's Alien Avengers (aka Welcome To Planet Earth) enjoyed a premiere on home video. The feature starred George Wendt and Shanna Reed, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Charlie and Rhonda are a sweet and comfortable married couple on vacation with their lovely daughter Daphne. They find a rundown boarding house and its haggard owner, Joseph, an ex-con whose mother has just died and left him the house. He doesn't know why this cheerful couple would want to vacation in the worst part of Los Angeles, but he doesn't know they're vacationing from outer space, and their idea of fun is murdering lowlife out on the streets."
"Charlie and Rhonda are a sweet and comfortable married couple on vacation with their lovely daughter Daphne. They find a rundown boarding house and its haggard owner, Joseph, an ex-con whose mother has just died and left him the house. He doesn't know why this cheerful couple would want to vacation in the worst part of Los Angeles, but he doesn't know they're vacationing from outer space, and their idea of fun is murdering lowlife out on the streets."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Mystery Men marched their way into cinema history in their comic fight against crime. Directed by Kinka Usher from a story by Neil Cuthbert and Bob Burden, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Ben Stiller, William H. Macy, and Paul Reubens. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of inept amateur superheroes must try to save the day when a supervillain threatens to destroy a major superhero and the city."
For the record:
At the 2000 Saturn Awards, Mystery Men (1999) earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Costumes.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I received a promotional re-release of Mystery Men (1999) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
"A group of inept amateur superheroes must try to save the day when a supervillain threatens to destroy a major superhero and the city."
For the record:
At the 2000 Saturn Awards, Mystery Men (1999) earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Costumes.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I received a promotional re-release of Mystery Men (1999) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
On this day in 2000, the SciFi/Telefilm Ice chilled audiences to the bone ... or thereabouts. The feature starred Grant Show and Udo Kier, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"After the whole North of the Equator freezes below zero, a group of people in Los Angeles risk their lives while trying to "escape" from the city's hostile conditions, in order to take a ship to a hotter place on Earth."
"After the whole North of the Equator freezes below zero, a group of people in Los Angeles risk their lives while trying to "escape" from the city's hostile conditions, in order to take a ship to a hotter place on Earth."
A star is born! On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Delta Delta Die! enjoyed its launch in the home video marketplace. Written and directed by Devin Hamilton, the Fantasy/Horror starred Julie Strain, Brinke Stevens, and Joe Dain. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Every-so-often, boys disappear from the Delta House, a Sorority suspected to be based on cannibalism."
"Every-so-often, boys disappear from the Delta House, a Sorority suspected to be based on cannibalism."
On this day in 2003 (in Hungary), Jason X brought his rituals of bloodletting to its video release. Directed by James Isacc, the feature film starred Kane Hodder, Lexa Doig, and Jeff Geddis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
A star is born! On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), The Devil's Rejects enjoyed their first exposure into the light of day. Written and directed by Rob Zombie, the Horror/Fantasy starred Sid Haig, Sheri Moon Zombie, and Bill Moseley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The murderous, backwoods Firefly family take to the road to escape the vengeful Sheriff Wydell, who is not afraid of being as ruthless as his target."
"The murderous, backwoods Firefly family take to the road to escape the vengeful Sheriff Wydell, who is not afraid of being as ruthless as his target."
On this day back in 2005, the perennially pretty people named Ewan McGregor and Scarlet Johansson found themselves voted off The Island, a Michael Bay actioner that was one-part Sci-Fi and two-parts mindless stuntwork. Here's the film's summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A man goes on the run after he discovers that he is actually a "harvestable being", and is being kept as a source of replacement parts, along with others, in a Utopian facility."
For what it's worth, I actually found the film's first hour -- the stuff actually set on that mythical Island of perfect people -- to be quite good. Once it segued into the usual Michael Bay BOOMfest it went downhill real fast.
"A man goes on the run after he discovers that he is actually a "harvestable being", and is being kept as a source of replacement parts, along with others, in a Utopian facility."
For what it's worth, I actually found the film's first hour -- the stuff actually set on that mythical Island of perfect people -- to be quite good. Once it segued into the usual Michael Bay BOOMfest it went downhill real fast.
A star is born! On this day in 2006 (in Canada), Arcanum enjoyed a debut screening as a work-in-progress to audiences in attendance of the Fantasia Film Festival. Written and directed by Sanjay F. Sharma, the Fantasy feature starred Deborah Baum, Ken Proulx, and Sasha Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After discovering the "Arcanum," a camera-like object, Syd begins to document his own reality. But when he starts to view previously recorded stories, he notices that all who have used the device have come to some unfortunate end."
"After discovering the "Arcanum," a camera-like object, Syd begins to document his own reality. But when he starts to view previously recorded stories, he notices that all who have used the device have come to some unfortunate end."
A star is born! On this day in 2006, the Fantasy/Telefilm Dragon Dynasty enjoyed its initial broadcast. The feature starred Stana Katic and Aaron Hendry, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Returning from China, Marco Polo is given a stone by the Chinese Emperor after successfully establishing trading relationships with the country. Unknown to Marco, the stone unlocks the gates to the dragon world. When Marco is attacked on his journey, and the stone stolen, two fire-spitting dragons are released, bent on killing Marco and his companions. A merciless fight between man and beasts is about to begin."
"Returning from China, Marco Polo is given a stone by the Chinese Emperor after successfully establishing trading relationships with the country. Unknown to Marco, the stone unlocks the gates to the dragon world. When Marco is attacked on his journey, and the stone stolen, two fire-spitting dragons are released, bent on killing Marco and his companions. A merciless fight between man and beasts is about to begin."
A star is born! On this day in 2006, the SciFi/Telefilm Lightspeed took another look at a Stan Lee creation. The feature starred Jason Connery and Nicole Eggert, and here's the premise that's provided via IMDB.com:
"After an accident, a government Agent gains the ability of super-speed and goes after an old friend turned Nemesis."
"After an accident, a government Agent gains the ability of super-speed and goes after an old friend turned Nemesis."
A star is born! On this day in 2010 (in Portugal), Backlight enjoyed a limited theatrical release for its big screen debut. Written and directed by Fernando Fragata, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Joaquim de Almeida, Michelle Mania, and Skyler Day. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Several characters who are each at critical stages of their lives are strangely impelled towards an uncharted lake in the middle of the desert where they all have the opportunity to save each other."
"Several characters who are each at critical stages of their lives are strangely impelled towards an uncharted lake in the middle of the desert where they all have the opportunity to save each other."
A star is born! On this day in 2011, the SciFi/Telefilm Metal Tornado proved to be a bunch of hot air. The feature starred Lou Diamond Phillips and Nicole de Boer, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An American company inadvertently unleashes a magnetic vortex on an unprepared world."
"An American company inadvertently unleashes a magnetic vortex on an unprepared world."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in Canada and Ireland), Snow Beast roared onto the screen. Directed by Brian Brough from a story by Brittany Wiscombe, the SciFi/Fantasy starred John Schneider, Danielle C. Ryan, and Paul D. Hunt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"People disappear every year out in the Canadian wilderness - however, this year is different. This year something is increasing the body count. Jim ('John Schneider') and his research team trek into the Canadian wilderness to study the Canadian Lynx every year. However, this year is different. The Lynx are missing. In fact most of the wildlife is missing; Jim and his team, including his rebellious daughter Emmy (Danielle C. Ryan), seek to find out why. As they conduct their study, something is stalking them. Something not human. Something that no prey can escape...including human prey! While the research team is trying to find out why the lynx have disappeared, the local ranger ('Jason London') is searching for the answer to what is making tourist disappear; even if it the last thing he ever does... and it is."
"People disappear every year out in the Canadian wilderness - however, this year is different. This year something is increasing the body count. Jim ('John Schneider') and his research team trek into the Canadian wilderness to study the Canadian Lynx every year. However, this year is different. The Lynx are missing. In fact most of the wildlife is missing; Jim and his team, including his rebellious daughter Emmy (Danielle C. Ryan), seek to find out why. As they conduct their study, something is stalking them. Something not human. Something that no prey can escape...including human prey! While the research team is trying to find out why the lynx have disappeared, the local ranger ('Jason London') is searching for the answer to what is making tourist disappear; even if it the last thing he ever does... and it is."
On this day in 2012, 1959's The World, The Flesh, And The Devil played for audiences attending the New Horizons Film Festival in Poland. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A miner trapped in a cave-in resurfaces, and upon discovering mankind has been wiped out in a nuclear holocaust, sets out to find other survivors."
"A miner trapped in a cave-in resurfaces, and upon discovering mankind has been wiped out in a nuclear holocaust, sets out to find other survivors."
On this day in 2013 (in Poland), the 1987-produced Morning Patrol enjoyed a special theatrical engagement when it was screened for audiences in attendance of New Horizons Film Festival. Directed by Nikos Nikolaidis, the SciFi feature starred Michele Valley and Liana Hatzi, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Going alone into an abandoned, living city, a woman tries to cross a forbidden zone swarming with the Morning Patrol and traps. Meeting one of the last city guards, they attempt recall the past and penetrate the zone together."
"Going alone into an abandoned, living city, a woman tries to cross a forbidden zone swarming with the Morning Patrol and traps. Meeting one of the last city guards, they attempt recall the past and penetrate the zone together."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in Germany), Survivor enjoyed its entry into the commercial marketplace with its home video debut. Written and directed by John Lyde, this SciFi feature starred Danielle C. Ryan, Kevin Sorbo, and Rocky Myers; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"During their search for a habitable planet the last living humans crash-land on a barren world, inhabited by bloodthirsty aliens and mysterious post-apocalyptic warriors."
"During their search for a habitable planet the last living humans crash-land on a barren world, inhabited by bloodthirsty aliens and mysterious post-apocalyptic warriors."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.) ... just when you thought it was safe to go back out into the upper atmosphere, Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! proved that it would never be. Directed by Anthony C. Ferrante from a story by Thunder Levin, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ian Ziering, Tara Reid, and Cassandra Scerbo. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A monstrous tornado unleashes ravenous sharks from Washington, D.C., all the way down to Orlando, Florida."
"A monstrous tornado unleashes ravenous sharks from Washington, D.C., all the way down to Orlando, Florida."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in Canada), Synchronicity enjoyed its theatrical debut when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Fantasia International Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Jacob Gentry, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Chad McKnight, Brianne Davis, and AJ Bowen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A physicist who invents a time machine must travel back to the past to uncover the truth about his creation and the woman who is trying to steal it."
"A physicist who invents a time machine must travel back to the past to uncover the truth about his creation and the woman who is trying to steal it."
On this day in 2016 (in Poland), the 1979-produced Arrebato played for audiences in attendance of the New Horizons Film Festival. Written and directed by Iván Zulueta, this Spanish-language Fantasy/Horror starred Eusebio Poncela, Cecilia Roth, and Will More; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A low budget horror filmmaker gets in touch with an eccentric who is trying to film his consciousness during drug abuse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Arrebato enjoyed a good amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
"A low budget horror filmmaker gets in touch with an eccentric who is trying to film his consciousness during drug abuse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Arrebato enjoyed a good amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Batman: The Killing Joke was first unveiled to the masses in attendance of the San Diego Comic Con. This animated adaptation of the comic book story was directed by Sam Liu, and it starred the voices of Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, and Tara Strong. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As Batman hunts for the escaped Joker, the Clown Prince of Crime attacks the Gordon family to prove a diabolical point mirroring his own fall into madness."
"As Batman hunts for the escaped Joker, the Clown Prince of Crime attacks the Gordon family to prove a diabolical point mirroring his own fall into madness."
A star is born! On this day in 2016, Beta Test toyed with virtual reality finding footholds in the real world. The feature starred Manu Bennett and Larenz Tate, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Champion gamer Max Troy discovers events in a new video game are being mirrored in the real world, and must join forces with the game's protagonist, Orson Creed, to unravel the conspiracy before the game's sinister plot overwhelms the city."
"Champion gamer Max Troy discovers events in a new video game are being mirrored in the real world, and must join forces with the game's protagonist, Orson Creed, to unravel the conspiracy before the game's sinister plot overwhelms the city."
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in Canada), audiences in attendance of the Fantasia International Film Festival were treated to the theatrical launch of Man Underground. Written and directed by the team of Michael Borowiec and Sam Marine, the SciFi/Drama starred George Basil, Andy Rocco, and Pamela Fila. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A reclusive conspiracy theorist enlists people from his small town to help him make a low-budget movie about his experience encountering aliens while working as a geologist for the US government."
"A reclusive conspiracy theorist enlists people from his small town to help him make a low-budget movie about his experience encountering aliens while working as a geologist for the US government."
On this day in 2016 (in Spain), audiences in Barcelona were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagment of the 1985 Horror/Fantasy Phenomena. Written (in part) and directed by Dario Argento, the Fantasy/Horror starred Jennifer Connolly, Donald Pleasence, and Daria Nicolodi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young girl who has an amazing ability to communicate with insects is transferred to an exclusive Swiss boarding school, where her unusual capability might help solve a string of murders."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phenomena enjoyed a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Ultra HD 4K release of Phenomena. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"A young girl who has an amazing ability to communicate with insects is transferred to an exclusive Swiss boarding school, where her unusual capability might help solve a string of murders."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phenomena enjoyed a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Ultra HD 4K release of Phenomena. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 2016, JJ Abrams' Star Trek Beyond enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. The feature starred Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The crew of the USS Enterprise explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a new ruthless enemy, who puts them, and everything the Federation stands for, to the test."
"The crew of the USS Enterprise explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a new ruthless enemy, who puts them, and everything the Federation stands for, to the test."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the United Kingdom), audiences were treated to an Alien Siege. Directed by Rob Pallatina from a story by Mark Atkins and Christian Butcher, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ari Hader, Matthew Pohlkamp, and Christina Licciardi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After an alien spacecraft destroys Washington, D.C., the residents of a small town must fight off a unit of alien soldiers on the hunt for the President of the United States and the mysterious device he's carrying after his escape chopper crash lands nearby."
"After an alien spacecraft destroys Washington, D.C., the residents of a small town must fight off a unit of alien soldiers on the hunt for the President of the United States and the mysterious device he's carrying after his escape chopper crash lands nearby."
On this day in 1972 (in West Germany), Star Trek aired "The Enemy Within." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While beaming back aboard the Enterprise, a transporter malfunction results in two vastly different Captain Kirks being beamed aboard. His personality has in effect been split into two. One Captain Kirk is weak and indecisive, fearful of making any kind of decision; the other is a mean-spirited and violent man who likes to swill brandy and force himself on female crew members. Meanwhile, as Scotty struggles to repair the transporter, the landing party is stuck on the planet below with temperatures falling rapidly."
"While beaming back aboard the Enterprise, a transporter malfunction results in two vastly different Captain Kirks being beamed aboard. His personality has in effect been split into two. One Captain Kirk is weak and indecisive, fearful of making any kind of decision; the other is a mean-spirited and violent man who likes to swill brandy and force himself on female crew members. Meanwhile, as Scotty struggles to repair the transporter, the landing party is stuck on the planet below with temperatures falling rapidly."
On this day in 1994, Robocop: The Series aired "The Tin Man." This served as the sixteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"As armed Ice Cream trucks and Lunch Catering vans wage a gang war for control of illegal gambling and Gadget falls victim to Lotto-fever, the past haunts RoboCop when an ex-partner returns as a gang-busting vigilante."
"As armed Ice Cream trucks and Lunch Catering vans wage a gang war for control of illegal gambling and Gadget falls victim to Lotto-fever, the past haunts RoboCop when an ex-partner returns as a gang-busting vigilante."
On this day in 1995, Weird Science aired "Fly Boy." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Gary is caught flying around with a pair of magical shoes, two F.B.I. agents show up who investigate strange and weird incidents."
"When Gary is caught flying around with a pair of magical shoes, two F.B.I. agents show up who investigate strange and weird incidents."
On this day in 1999, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Learning Curve." This served as the fifth episode of the long-running program's third season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"While employing the help of a planet's highly intelligent children for a project, the team discovers their horrific imposed fate when they reach a certain age."
"While employing the help of a planet's highly intelligent children for a project, the team discovers their horrific imposed fate when they reach a certain age."
On this day in 2002, Witchblade aired "Hierophant." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A killer known only as V tries to take over New York's organized crime syndicates, causing mayhem. But when the evidence gathered at the crime scenes includes the fingerprints of Sara's long-dead father, Sara must trust the Witchblade's powers to overcome her emotions and wage war with the greatest evil she has ever faced."
"A killer known only as V tries to take over New York's organized crime syndicates, causing mayhem. But when the evidence gathered at the crime scenes includes the fingerprints of Sara's long-dead father, Sara must trust the Witchblade's powers to overcome her emotions and wage war with the greatest evil she has ever faced."
On this day in 2002, Battlestar Galactica aired "Valley Of Darkness." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Cylon virus is interfering with Galactica's power supply, while Cylon centurions are heading for crucial systems. Somehow they must be stopped."
"A Cylon virus is interfering with Galactica's power supply, while Cylon centurions are heading for crucial systems. Somehow they must be stopped."
On this day in 2005, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Avalon, Part 2." This served as the second episode of the long-running program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Upon finding Merlin's testing grounds, Dr. Jackson, Teal'c, Col. Mitchell, and Vala uncover the hidden treasure including a book that tells the story of the Ancients coming to Earth from another galaxy and a strange alien device."
"Upon finding Merlin's testing grounds, Dr. Jackson, Teal'c, Col. Mitchell, and Vala uncover the hidden treasure including a book that tells the story of the Ancients coming to Earth from another galaxy and a strange alien device."
On this day in 2007 (in Hungary), Firefly aired "Out Of Gas." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mal and the Serenity crew are celebrating Simon's birthday when there is a fire in the engine room. Soon Keylee learns that the life support system is not working since they need a new converter. Mal order his crew to live Serenity in the two shuttles and Wash releases a distress signal. While breathing with difficulty, Mal recalls how most of the members of his crew joined him in the Serenity while waits for a miracle."
"Mal and the Serenity crew are celebrating Simon's birthday when there is a fire in the engine room. Soon Keylee learns that the life support system is not working since they need a new converter. Mal order his crew to live Serenity in the two shuttles and Wash releases a distress signal. While breathing with difficulty, Mal recalls how most of the members of his crew joined him in the Serenity while waits for a miracle."
On this day in 2007, The 4400 aired "The Marked." This served as the sixth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as listed on IMDB.com:
"The NTAC nerd squad bring to their Director's attention a 4400, Curtis Peck, who was a shoestring budget film maker and continues to be one, except that his 4400 ability seems to be to receive script pieces that combine to tell the true, complete answers to haunting questions, like "What happened to Jimmy Hoffa?" and "Who shot JFK?". And now he's missing and he left a video message where he told that Jordan Collier is not the real threat - there is something far more dangerous, and now they are after him. Peck's producer shows a trailer of the film Peck was supposed to start making, "The Marked", to Tom and Diana, and it paints a new, frightful picture: In the future the 4400 are supposed to prevent, exists a group of powerful individuals who like their time just the way it is and have irrevocably replaced the minds of ten important persons of the present time with the minds of their agents."
"The NTAC nerd squad bring to their Director's attention a 4400, Curtis Peck, who was a shoestring budget film maker and continues to be one, except that his 4400 ability seems to be to receive script pieces that combine to tell the true, complete answers to haunting questions, like "What happened to Jimmy Hoffa?" and "Who shot JFK?". And now he's missing and he left a video message where he told that Jordan Collier is not the real threat - there is something far more dangerous, and now they are after him. Peck's producer shows a trailer of the film Peck was supposed to start making, "The Marked", to Tom and Diana, and it paints a new, frightful picture: In the future the 4400 are supposed to prevent, exists a group of powerful individuals who like their time just the way it is and have irrevocably replaced the minds of ten important persons of the present time with the minds of their agents."
Many, many elements involving several major characters were in motion as -- on this day in 2012 -- TNT's Falling Skies aired "Molon Labe" as the seventh episode of its second season. Here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Ben is placed in harm's way by someone who he thought he could trust. Tom captures another hostage. Weaver offers Matt a job to lift his spirits and make him feel useful. And when members of the 2nd Mass are trapped in the basement of a building, the situation takes a turn for the worst when they find themselves faced with a new enemy."
"Ben is placed in harm's way by someone who he thought he could trust. Tom captures another hostage. Weaver offers Matt a job to lift his spirits and make him feel useful. And when members of the 2nd Mass are trapped in the basement of a building, the situation takes a turn for the worst when they find themselves faced with a new enemy."
On this day in 2017, Orphan Black aired "Gag Or Throttle." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As Westmoreland demands a more aggressive approach with Kira, and Sarah fights to save her daughter, Rachel discovers a dark secret that makes her question her place within Neolution."
"As Westmoreland demands a more aggressive approach with Kira, and Sarah fights to save her daughter, Rachel discovers a dark secret that makes her question her place within Neolution."
