Toss another television series that came and went all too quickly onto the fire with the small screen debut of The Whispers, a weekly Fantasy/Drama that screened across the summer season of 2015. Alas, a solid cast and some quality writing wasn't enough for this outing; writers were given enough opportunity to craft a suitable conclusion to its thirteen episode run but also left the door ajar just a bit if it were picked up for another season. (It wasn't.) Here's the series' premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"When children across Washington, D.C., all start talking with the same imaginary friend named Drill, who persuades them to play dangerous games, the FBI calls in child specialist Claire Bennigan - whose deaf son has been speaking to Drill, unbeknownst to her - to investigate. Meanwhile, the defense department sends Wes Lawrence to the Sahara Desert, where he encounters a strange geological phenomenon. As puzzle pieces come together, creating a frightening picture, humanity must wage a battle against unseen forces if it hopes to survive."
"When children across Washington, D.C., all start talking with the same imaginary friend named Drill, who persuades them to play dangerous games, the FBI calls in child specialist Claire Bennigan - whose deaf son has been speaking to Drill, unbeknownst to her - to investigate. Meanwhile, the defense department sends Wes Lawrence to the Sahara Desert, where he encounters a strange geological phenomenon. As puzzle pieces come together, creating a frightening picture, humanity must wage a battle against unseen forces if it hopes to survive."
As can happen from time-to-time, I'm utterly surprised to uncover a Science Fiction and/or Fantasy property that I've never even heard of. The truth is it probably happens more often than not ... and Cleverman is one that completely slipped past my radar until I read a blurb about it elsewhere on the Information Superhighway. From what I've learned, it premiered on this day in 2016, and here's the premise that's listed for the program on IMDB.com:
"In the very near future, creatures from ancient mythology must live among humans and battle for survival in a world that wants to silence, exploit and destroy them."
"In the very near future, creatures from ancient mythology must live among humans and battle for survival in a world that wants to silence, exploit and destroy them."
TV's The Twilight Zone gave a wealth of notable actors the chance to establish themselves firmly in the realm of Fantasy, one of which was the late Richard Erdman. He remained a fairly regular face on the Boob Tube, and then later in his career he transitioned over to much more voice acting than before. Though he's no longer with us, Erdman was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
TV legend Andy Griffith (above center) gave Science Fiction a try (albeit briefly) with the plum role of 'Harry Broderick,' an aging entrepreneur who sought to 'salvage' what NASA left on the moon in TV's Salvage 1. Though he's no longer with us, Griffith was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Crooner Pat Boone stripped off his shirt and played the hunky 'Alec McEwan' in the big screen adaptation of Jules Verne's Journey To The Center Of The Earth (1959) for Twentieth Century Fox. He also paid visits to such properties as The Horror Of It All (1964) and Rod Serling's Night Gallery. Boone was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
How blessed is SciFi that we can even occasionally lure a talent like Morgan Freeman to visit our universe? Freeman paired up with Scientology's Tom Cruise to bring us 2013's Oblivion, and he recently joined mankind's vastly overrated Johnny Depp in the box office dud, Transcendence. Morgan, if you're reading this, you can play in our genre any time you like. Freeman was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rene Auberjonois played the shapeshifting 'constable' aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine throughout its seven seasons. Under the actor's skilled performance, audiences were treated to a man in conflict slowly finding his way (and his 'soul') in a chaotic universe. The man has also been around the Trek universe in a few different incarnations, including a small role in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country as well as making a visit to Star Trek: Enterprise. And -- if you want to see an impressive resume for someone in the entertainment business -- check out his entire profile on IMDB.com because Rene's done scads and scads of terrific work. Though he's no longer with us, Auberjonois was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of 'Vince Teagues,' the venerable Richard Donat was only one of the ensemble behind the Syfy Network's popular Haven series. Donat was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though Robert Powell is probably remember more for playing Jesus Christ in the 1977 miniseries of the same name, SciFi fans recognize him from his work aboard TV's Doomwatch. Powell was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran Brian Cox is another face who's appeared in countless good films, but he's rarely dabbled in the world of sci-fi. He showed up in 2011's Rise of the Planet of the Apes; he also appeared in 2009's TV miniseries remake of The Day Of The Triffids; and even did some work in the BBC's once epic Doctor Who franchise. Cox was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Brazil (1985) is one of those rare sci-fi flicks I just don't get, mostly because I've never actually been able to "get" through hit. I've tried watching this alleged gem three different times, and -- I kid you not -- every time I've fallen asleep. It's on my bucket list. Actor Jonathan Pryce headlined it as the unfortunate bureaucrat who finds himself an enemy of the future government. Pryce was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I have always been a fan of Powers Boothe. He first caught my eye in a pay-cable series exploring the cases of Philip Marlowe, and then he turned up in the cult film Red Dawn. Thankfully, he continues to find solid work today, having made appearances as part of ABC's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Though he's no longer with us, Boothe was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though the lovely Robin Mattson is probably more remembered for her contributions to daytime soap operas, she has managed to include a few genre appearances in her resume. She sported roles aboard Phantom Of The Paradise (1974), The Six Million Dollar Man, The Incredible Hulk, and Captain America (1979). Mattson was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tom Irwin is one of those great character actors who can do big things with smaller roles. He doesn't do much Science Fiction and Fantasy, but he has appeared on The Sky's On Fire (1999), The Outer Limits, Angel, Miracles, and ABC TV's Lost. Irwin was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lovely Teri Polo joined Charlie Sheen in exposing the delicious conspiratorial efforts behind an alien agenda in The Arrival (1996), a flick reminiscent of the best parts of the long-running The X-Files series. Polo was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another day, another Power Rangers citation! Paul Schrier (above left) has played Farkas 'Bulk' Bulkmeier as part of several incarnations of the greater Power Rangers universe. Schrier was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rick Gomez had a small role in Michael Bay's Transformers (2007), the film which launched the big screen franchise. Gomez was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adam Garcia played a role in the BBC's "The Christmas Invasion," the episode that brought David Tennant into the role of the legendary time traveler, Doctor Who. Garcia was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Why can't the dreamy Kate Magowan do more Science Fiction? That's a question for the ages, my friends. She did enjoy a guest role aboard the BBC's Primeval, so I guess we need to be thankful for small favors. Magowan was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Up'n'coming talent Gareth Edwards broke into the vast Star Wars Universe by directing Rogue One (2016) for Walt Disney and Lucasfilm. Edwards was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Poor Sarah Wayne Callies: she left the zombie Apocalypse of The Walking Dead only to find herself in what appears to be an Apocalypse of another making in the USA Network's Colony. Still, she looks good for it, no? Callies was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2011 Saturn Awards, Callies scored a solid nomination in the category of 'Best Actress On Television' for her work aboard The Walking Dead.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2011 Saturn Awards, Callies scored a solid nomination in the category of 'Best Actress On Television' for her work aboard The Walking Dead.
The lovely Danielle Harris has done far more horror than she has Science Fiction, but an appearance in Nuclear Family (2012) will earn her a mention here. To be fair, however, there are some who consider the lady part of Horror royalty -- a Scream Queen -- if you will; as she's also been seen in such bloody escapades as Halloween 4: The Return Of Michael Myers (1988), Halloween 5: The Revenge Of Michael Myers (1989), Eerie Indiana, Urban Legend (1998), Charmed, Halloween (2007), Left For Dead (2007), Halloween II (2009), Blood Night: The Legend Of Mary Hatchet (2009), Fear Clinic, Cyrus (2010), Hatchet II (2010), Stake Land (2010), Chromeskull: Laid To Rest 2 (2011), Shiver (2012), Among Friends (2012), Hatchet III (2013), Twisted Tales, Camp Dread (2014), Ghost Of Goodnight Lane (2014), The Town That Dreaded Sundown (2014), Night Of The Living Dead: Darkest Dawn (2015), Havenhurst (2016), Victor Crowley (2017), Camp Cold Brook (2018), Between The Darkness (2019), Redwood Massacre: Annihilation (2020), Creepshow, Natty Knocks (2023), Dr. Gift (2023), and Project Dorothy (2024). Harris was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Harris enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in Stake Land (2010). While she missed out on taking home that trophy, that same ceremony saw her induction into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame. Congrats, milady! You're screamed your way to the top!
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I was offered the chance to screen Project Dorothy (2024) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Harris enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work in Stake Land (2010). While she missed out on taking home that trophy, that same ceremony saw her induction into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame. Congrats, milady! You're screamed your way to the top!
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I was offered the chance to screen Project Dorothy (2024) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Sometimes-model Tina Casciani is also a sometimes-actress, and thank goodness she had a small role on Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles so that I can mention her here. Casciani was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sylvia Hoeks' star is on the rise since appearing in a small role aboard the Blade Runner sequel, Blade Runner 2049. Hoeks was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Taylor Handley has quietly been building a resume of smaller SciFi projects, including Battle Los Angeles (2011), Channeling (2013), Horizon (2013), and Toxin (2015). Handley was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Relative newcomer Madison Smith (above, with the Uzi and the motorcycle helmet) joined Syfy's signature Apocalypse drama, Aftermath, for a handful of episodes. Smith was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Zazie Beetz suited up rather nicely for the role of 'Domino' abaord the somewhat poorly received Deadpool 2 (2018). However, she's got a great track record in genre projects, included work aboard such institutions as Geostorm (2017), Slice (2018), Once Upon A Deadpool (2018), Wounds (2019), The Twilight Zone, Joker (2019), and Black Mirror. Beetz was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2021 Saturn Awards, Beetz enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard Joker (2019).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2021 Saturn Awards, Beetz enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard Joker (2019).
Young Tom Holland has web-slung his future at the hip with the Marvel Movie Universe: he joined Captain America: Civil War as the next incarnation of 'Peter Parker,' aka Spider-Man. Holland was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While Katniss Everdeen steals all of the glory in The Hunger Games, her opportunity would never have presented itself if younger sister Primrose hadn't originally been chosen to represent the district. Primrose is brought to life by Willow Shields. Shields was born on this day in 2000.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! It's a little known fact these days that -- back in the earlier age of cinema -- studios would sometimes produce both an English-language version and a European-language version of a particular title in order to increase their prospects of finding audiences in their respective countries. Such is the case for L'or -- which premiered theatrically on this day back in France -- a film that's known as Gold in English-speaking countries. (Yes, sometimes these films would even have modestly different scenes and sequences along with slightly different performances.) Directed by Serge de Poligny and Karl Hartl, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Brigitte Helm, Pierre Blanchar, and Roger Karl. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An investigator uncovers sinister sabotage in the death of a scientist who was on the verge of producing an artificial version of mankind's most precious metal..Simultaneously filmed French version of the German film, Gold."
"An investigator uncovers sinister sabotage in the death of a scientist who was on the verge of producing an artificial version of mankind's most precious metal..Simultaneously filmed French version of the German film, Gold."
A star is born! On this day in 1944, Jungle Woman enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever in the United States. Directed by Reginald Le Borg, the Fantasy feature starred Acquanetta in the singular role of a wild woman brought into civilization, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Paula the ape woman is alive and well, and running around a creepy old sanitarium run by the kindly Dr. Fletcher, also reverting to her true gorilla form every once in a while to kill somebody."
For the record:
This Fantasy feature is actually a sequel to Captive Wild Woman (1943), the feature which originally introduced audiences to Paula Dupree's ape-fueled struggle.
"Paula the ape woman is alive and well, and running around a creepy old sanitarium run by the kindly Dr. Fletcher, also reverting to her true gorilla form every once in a while to kill somebody."
For the record:
This Fantasy feature is actually a sequel to Captive Wild Woman (1943), the feature which originally introduced audiences to Paula Dupree's ape-fueled struggle.
A star is born! On this day in 1945 (in the U.S.), audiences were treated to the theatrical premiere of The Frozen Ghost. Directed by Harold Young, the Fantasy/Horror starred Lon Chaney Jr., Evelyn Ankers, and Milburn Stone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A stage mentalist involved in a mysterious death and a discredited plastic surgeon are among the assorted characters involved in mysterious goings-on in an eerie wax museum."
"A stage mentalist involved in a mysterious death and a discredited plastic surgeon are among the assorted characters involved in mysterious goings-on in an eerie wax museum."
On this day in 1947, Universal Pictures' 1931-produced SciFi/Horror Classic Frankenstein enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by James Whale, the feature starred Colin Clive and Boris Karloff, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), 12 To The Moon delivered some lunar delight to audiences in theaters. Directed by David Bradley, the SciFi/Drama starred Ken Clark, Michi Kobi, and Tom Conway; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An international team embarks on an expedition to the moon in an uncommonly spacious rocketship. There they encounter a faceless alien intelligence who conclude that the human race is too immature and dangerous and must be destroyed."
For the record:
This is what I call a substitute premiere date as 12 To The Moon's original theatrical debut date appears at present lost to history. (IMDB.com simply denotes it was released in June of 1960.) For the time being, this will serve as the film's launch date for my citation purposes.
"An international team embarks on an expedition to the moon in an uncommonly spacious rocketship. There they encounter a faceless alien intelligence who conclude that the human race is too immature and dangerous and must be destroyed."
For the record:
This is what I call a substitute premiere date as 12 To The Moon's original theatrical debut date appears at present lost to history. (IMDB.com simply denotes it was released in June of 1960.) For the time being, this will serve as the film's launch date for my citation purposes.
On this day in 1963 (in Japan), the 1946-produced The Catman Of Paris clawed its way into the box office record. Directed by Lesley Selander, the Fantasy/Horror starred Carl Esmond, Lenore Aubert, and Adele Mara; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Are mysterious killings in Paris of 1896 the work of man or monster?"
"Are mysterious killings in Paris of 1896 the work of man or monster?"
Everybody in! The water's fine! On this day in 1964, The Horror Of Party Beach enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical run after a limited premiere a month earlier. Directed by Del Tenney, the Horror/Musical (yes, you read that right) starred John Lyon, Alice Lyon, and Allan Laurel. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sea creatures created from radioactive sludge terrorize a beach community."
For the record:
According to IMDB.com's trivia page regarding The Horror Of Party Beach, it's said that author Stephen King insists its one of his personal favorites. (Yes, you read that right, too.)
"Sea creatures created from radioactive sludge terrorize a beach community."
For the record:
According to IMDB.com's trivia page regarding The Horror Of Party Beach, it's said that author Stephen King insists its one of his personal favorites. (Yes, you read that right, too.)
On this day in 1973 (in Spain), Tales From The Crypt opened up an assortment of short stories for those who like things that go bump in the night. Directed by Freddie Francis, the Fantasy/Horror starred Joan Collins, Peter Cushing, and Ralph Richardson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Five strangers get lost in a crypt and, after meeting the mysterious Crypt Keeper, receive visions of how they will die."
"Five strangers get lost in a crypt and, after meeting the mysterious Crypt Keeper, receive visions of how they will die."
On this day in 1978 (in South Korea), the original Star Wars enjoyed its theatrical release. Written and directed by George Lucas, the Space Fantasy starred Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1980, The Alien Dead enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever. Directed by Fred Olen Ray, the SciFi feature starred Buster Crabbe and Linda Lewis, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A meteor strikes a houseboat in the swamps near a southern town populated by Yankees with fake accents. The people on the houseboat become zombies who feed on the alligators in the swamp. Once they run out of alligators, they start going for the citizens. A local scientist tries to figure out what's happening to people once they start disappearing."
"A meteor strikes a houseboat in the swamps near a southern town populated by Yankees with fake accents. The people on the houseboat become zombies who feed on the alligators in the swamp. Once they run out of alligators, they start going for the citizens. A local scientist tries to figure out what's happening to people once they start disappearing."
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in Czechoslovakia), 'Babicky dobíjejte presne!' enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Ladislav Rychman (who also had a hand in adapting the work for the film), the feature starred Jirí Lábus and Daniela Kolárová, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A family purchases a home robot designed to look like a grandmum. Their neighbours immediately buy a more expensive model as the two families always try to up the other one. Both grandmums start to "terorize" their families because they were set up to ensure the mums exercise, the kids study etc."
"A family purchases a home robot designed to look like a grandmum. Their neighbours immediately buy a more expensive model as the two families always try to up the other one. Both grandmums start to "terorize" their families because they were set up to ensure the mums exercise, the kids study etc."
A star is born! Star Trek III: The Search for Spock kinda/sorta gets a bad rap about being slow, maybe even a bit too methodical for most audiences' tastes, but I like it plenty. It's a wonderful rumination on life and one's place in personal history, and it teaches us -- once and for all -- how the good of the one can outweigh the good of the many. It opened theatrically on this day back in 1984. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Admiral Kirk and his bridge crew risk their careers stealing the decommissioned U.S.S. Enterprise to return to the restricted Genesis Planet to recover Spock's body."
For the record:
This tad-more-cerebral entry into the cinematic realm of Star Trek garnered a handful of nominations from the 1985 Saturn Awards and a singular nomination ('Best Dramatic Presentation') from the 1985 Hugo Awards. The film brings the popular Vulcan back from the dead, indeed, though we learn from the next picture he's not quite himself ... yet.
"Admiral Kirk and his bridge crew risk their careers stealing the decommissioned U.S.S. Enterprise to return to the restricted Genesis Planet to recover Spock's body."
For the record:
This tad-more-cerebral entry into the cinematic realm of Star Trek garnered a handful of nominations from the 1985 Saturn Awards and a singular nomination ('Best Dramatic Presentation') from the 1985 Hugo Awards. The film brings the popular Vulcan back from the dead, indeed, though we learn from the next picture he's not quite himself ... yet.
A star is born! On this day in 1990, sex and SciFi combined with the release of Frankenhooker! Written (in part) and directed by Frank Henenlotter, the SciFi/Comedy starred Patty Mullen, James Lorinz, and Joanne Ritchie. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A medical student sets out to recreate his decapitated fiancée by building her a new body made of Manhattan street prostitutes."
"A medical student sets out to recreate his decapitated fiancée by building her a new body made of Manhattan street prostitutes."
After enjoying its studio premiere twenty-four hours earlier, Paul Verhoeven's Total Recall enjoyed its full US theatrical release on this day in 1990. Adapted from a story by the greaet Philip K. Dick, the feature film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone, and Michae Ironside. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a man goes in to have virtual vacation memories of the planet Mars implanted in his mind, an unexpected and harrowing series of events forces him to go to the planet for real - or is he?"
For the record:
Truth be told, Paul Verhoeven's Total Recall languished in development for some time; I've read that it was written in the late 1970's and jumped around awhile before landing with the director and Schwarzenegger to complete. And complete it they did to an awful lot of praise from industry executives and film organizations. In 1991, it won an Academy Award for 'Special Achievement' in the field of visual effects. That same year, it took home the 'Best Science Fiction Film' Saturn Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films. Alas, it lost the 1991 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' to -- ahem -- Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands. Sigh.
ExtraExtra Alert:
For those of you who'd like to know a bit more about Total Recall (1990), please check out the film's official page on SciFiHistory.Net right here.
"When a man goes in to have virtual vacation memories of the planet Mars implanted in his mind, an unexpected and harrowing series of events forces him to go to the planet for real - or is he?"
For the record:
Truth be told, Paul Verhoeven's Total Recall languished in development for some time; I've read that it was written in the late 1970's and jumped around awhile before landing with the director and Schwarzenegger to complete. And complete it they did to an awful lot of praise from industry executives and film organizations. In 1991, it won an Academy Award for 'Special Achievement' in the field of visual effects. That same year, it took home the 'Best Science Fiction Film' Saturn Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films. Alas, it lost the 1991 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' to -- ahem -- Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands. Sigh.
ExtraExtra Alert:
For those of you who'd like to know a bit more about Total Recall (1990), please check out the film's official page on SciFiHistory.Net right here.
On this day in 1993 (in the Czech Republic), Swamp Thing itself returned cinematically in The Return Of Swamp Thing! (Well, it enjoyed its home video release for the republic on this day back then.) Directed by Jim Wynorski, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dick Durock and Heather Locklear, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Swamp Thing returns to battle the evil Dr. Arcane, who has a new science lab full of creatures transformed by genetic mutation, and chooses Heather Locklear as his new object of affection."
"The Swamp Thing returns to battle the evil Dr. Arcane, who has a new science lab full of creatures transformed by genetic mutation, and chooses Heather Locklear as his new object of affection."
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in Spain), the SciFi/Thriller Firestorm went up in theatrical flames. (Well ... home video flames, that is.) The feature starred John Savage and Bentley Mitchum, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In the year 2024, a fierce battle rages on between a ruthless villain and an android resistance group. Prsents a strong case for waging a war over rights of possession."
"In the year 2024, a fierce battle rages on between a ruthless villain and an android resistance group. Prsents a strong case for waging a war over rights of possession."
A star is born! On this day in 2006, the SciFi/Comedy Spaced Out crashed down to the Earth. It starred James Vallo and Greg Maurer, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"The planet earth is in peril of impending doom, and maniacal destructive forces from outer space are closely at hand! Twisted, demented alien terrorists are single-handedly about to reap horrific havoc on earth and threaten life itself. Meanwhile, ace investigative reporter extraordinaire, Al Manac (James Vallo), has been held captive for two years in their space lair."
"The planet earth is in peril of impending doom, and maniacal destructive forces from outer space are closely at hand! Twisted, demented alien terrorists are single-handedly about to reap horrific havoc on earth and threaten life itself. Meanwhile, ace investigative reporter extraordinaire, Al Manac (James Vallo), has been held captive for two years in their space lair."
On this day in 2012 (in the United Kingdom), Death Watch enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by Bertrand Tavernier, the SciFi/Drama starred Harvey Keitel and Romy Schneider, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
For the record:
During the film's original theatrical release, Death Watch enjoyed a wealth of attention on the film festival circuit.
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
For the record:
During the film's original theatrical release, Death Watch enjoyed a wealth of attention on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2018 (in Spain), 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the SciFi/Classic starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
A star is born ... or was it hatched? On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), Monster Island first made its appearance on television. Written and directed by Mark Atkins, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Eric Roberts, Toshi Toda, and Adrian Bouchet. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Gigantic monsters threaten to destroy everything in their path as mankind remains defenseless."
"Gigantic monsters threaten to destroy everything in their path as mankind remains defenseless."
On this day in 1956, Science Fiction Theatre aired "End Of Tomorrow." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A German scientist appears in Washington 20 years after supposedly being lost in a South American jungle. He's brought with him an antibiotic so powerful that it prevents and cures every known disease in world. Just before mass inoculations are to begin, two government researchers discover it's dangerous side effect."
"A German scientist appears in Washington 20 years after supposedly being lost in a South American jungle. He's brought with him an antibiotic so powerful that it prevents and cures every known disease in world. Just before mass inoculations are to begin, two government researchers discover it's dangerous side effect."
On this day in 1960, Men Into Space aired "Moon Trap." This served as the thirty-third episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ship MR34 loses Auto-Control during landing and crashes 200 miles from Moon Base. Two of the crew survive and make for a nearby fuel-cache. Can they use the liquid oxygen there to improvise a survival igloo?"
"Ship MR34 loses Auto-Control during landing and crashes 200 miles from Moon Base. Two of the crew survive and make for a nearby fuel-cache. Can they use the liquid oxygen there to improvise a survival igloo?"
On this day in 1962, The Twilight Zone aired "The Changing of the Guard." This served as the thirty-seventh episode to the popular program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After being forced to retire, Professor Fowler contemplates suicide when he doesn't feel he has made a difference in the world. That night he has an experience that shows him that he is wrong."
"After being forced to retire, Professor Fowler contemplates suicide when he doesn't feel he has made a difference in the world. That night he has an experience that shows him that he is wrong."
On this day in 1974 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Planet Of The Spiders: Part Five." Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's eleventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor escapes from the spiders' larder only to encounter the Great One, while Sarah makes a deal with the Queen Spider."
"The Doctor escapes from the spiders' larder only to encounter the Great One, while Sarah makes a deal with the Queen Spider."
On this day in 1991, Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "In Theory." This served as the twenty-fifth episode to the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary provided by our friends at TrekCore.com:
"Lt. Jenna D'Sora becomes attached to Data, who at first protests that he has no human feelings, and then attempts to emulate emotions. In the meantime, a dangerous nebula lies in the path of the Enterprise."
"Lt. Jenna D'Sora becomes attached to Data, who at first protests that he has no human feelings, and then attempts to emulate emotions. In the meantime, a dangerous nebula lies in the path of the Enterprise."
On this day in 1996, Weird Science aired "Gary & Wyatt's Bloodsucking Adventure." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by ShareTV.com:
"Gary, Wyatt and Lisa decide to go clubbing after hours and Lisa makes them "creatures of the night" by turning them into vampires. Except they crave for Yoo-Hoo instead of blood. The guys get new powers and meet a group of real vampires. Principal Scampi and Chett become vampire hunters determined to stop the vampires."
"Gary, Wyatt and Lisa decide to go clubbing after hours and Lisa makes them "creatures of the night" by turning them into vampires. Except they crave for Yoo-Hoo instead of blood. The guys get new powers and meet a group of real vampires. Principal Scampi and Chett become vampire hunters determined to stop the vampires."
On this day in 2007, Painkiller Jane aired "Higher Court." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jane's team tracks a Neuro who is capable of making people see anything he wants. He used this power to make people in the Witness Protection program commit suicide by making them see something completely different."
"Jane's team tracks a Neuro who is capable of making people see anything he wants. He used this power to make people in the Witness Protection program commit suicide by making them see something completely different."
On this day in 2007, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Talion" as the seventeenth episode of the long-running program's tenth season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"At a summit conference, 32 Jaffa are killed when several bombs explode. Both Teal'c and Master Bra'tac are seriously injured in the blasts and after two weeks in a coma, Teal'c sets out to find the man he is convinced is behind the attack, Arkad. He defeated Arkad in a battle long ago and there has been bad blood between them ever since. Teal'c also suspects that Arkad may have had his mother killed. Intelligence reports indicate that Arkad is a follower of the Ori and that someone, perhaps Arkad himself, is planning to attack the Earth. When Arkad contacts the SGC he turns that information on its head by denying any role in that planned attack and offers to help them defend Earth. SG-1 is sent out to stop Teal'c who is killing and torturing people in his attempt to find his enemy."
"At a summit conference, 32 Jaffa are killed when several bombs explode. Both Teal'c and Master Bra'tac are seriously injured in the blasts and after two weeks in a coma, Teal'c sets out to find the man he is convinced is behind the attack, Arkad. He defeated Arkad in a battle long ago and there has been bad blood between them ever since. Teal'c also suspects that Arkad may have had his mother killed. Intelligence reports indicate that Arkad is a follower of the Ori and that someone, perhaps Arkad himself, is planning to attack the Earth. When Arkad contacts the SGC he turns that information on its head by denying any role in that planned attack and offers to help them defend Earth. SG-1 is sent out to stop Teal'c who is killing and torturing people in his attempt to find his enemy."
On this day in 2013, "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" aired as the first season finale to Orphan Black. Yet another clone was revealed, and the mystery deepened even further for those who remained. Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Sarah's last chance to bring her nemesis back to sanity slips away as Art intervenes to get answers of his own. Meanwhile, the Orphans must decide whether to make peace with their creators, as Sarah is forced into a deadly confrontation with their enemy."
"Sarah's last chance to bring her nemesis back to sanity slips away as Art intervenes to get answers of his own. Meanwhile, the Orphans must decide whether to make peace with their creators, as Sarah is forced into a deadly confrontation with their enemy."
It all began right here: on this day in 2015, The Whispers opened up their doors for some curious business. The first episode was titled "X Marks The Spot," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"FBI child specialist Claire Bennigan investigates when kids are persuaded to play dangerous games."
"FBI child specialist Claire Bennigan investigates when kids are persuaded to play dangerous games."
It all began right here: on this day in 2016, Cleverman aired "First Contact," the first episode in its only season on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A series of unexplained violent attacks in the city are blamed on the newly discovered "Hairypeople," who have been living among the rest of society."
"A series of unexplained violent attacks in the city are blamed on the newly discovered "Hairypeople," who have been living among the rest of society."
On this day in 2017 (in Spain), The Ministry Of Time (aka The Department Of Time) aired "Con el tiempo en los talones." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 2017, with the Ministry in renovation and following the aftermath of a tragic death among its own ranks, the patrol must face a conspiracy involving Alfred Hitchcock's visit to Spain."
"In 2017, with the Ministry in renovation and following the aftermath of a tragic death among its own ranks, the patrol must face a conspiracy involving Alfred Hitchcock's visit to Spain."
If Google.com is to be believed, then it was on this day back in 1961 when Robert A. Heinlein's Stranger In A Strange Land was first published for the masses-at-large. A revered classic amongst those in the know, Stranger certainly set a high bar for others to follow. Here's the book's premise as provided by our friends at Amazon.com:
"Raised by Martians on Mars, Valentine Michael Smith is a human who has never seen another member of his species. Sent to Earth, he is a stranger who must learn what it is to be a man. But his own beliefs and his powers far exceed the limits of humankind, and as he teaches them about grokking and water-sharing, he also inspires a transformation that will alter Earth’s inhabitants forever..."
For the record:
In 1962, Stranger took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Novel.' Wikipedia.org also notes that the book was the first Science Fiction novel to actually score a spot on The New York Times Book Review Bestseller's List. Kudos!
"Raised by Martians on Mars, Valentine Michael Smith is a human who has never seen another member of his species. Sent to Earth, he is a stranger who must learn what it is to be a man. But his own beliefs and his powers far exceed the limits of humankind, and as he teaches them about grokking and water-sharing, he also inspires a transformation that will alter Earth’s inhabitants forever..."
For the record:
In 1962, Stranger took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Novel.' Wikipedia.org also notes that the book was the first Science Fiction novel to actually score a spot on The New York Times Book Review Bestseller's List. Kudos!
On this day in 1947, The Shadow radio serial aired "Spider Boy." For the record, this was actually the second airing of the "Spider Boy" story -- it originally aired on November 11, 1945 -- but this one was updated with an alternate cast. According to our friends at The Shadow Wiki, here's the plot summary:
"While weaving cloth in an attic, a lonely boy befriends a giant spider. Soon after, he also tries to romance a girl in the small room, but she screams of shock and runs out the building when she notices the spider. On the street, she bumps into Cranston and Margot and is taken to the hospital because she is hysterical. The duo head back to the apartment building and the lonely boy notices their approach from his window. While he hides, they enter the attic. The giant spider comes out to attack and Cranston shoots it dead. They leave and the boy is upset by the death of his "friend." Suddenly, the "power of revenge" is transmitted from the spider to the boy and he is able to spin webs. Later, he dangles a beautiful web down to the streets and Margot follows it back to the attic. She is captured by the boy and he begins to weave a web around her tighter and tighter. Out-of-nowhere, The Shadow comes to the rescue and the boy casts a web towards the window, then leaps, only to fall to his death."
"While weaving cloth in an attic, a lonely boy befriends a giant spider. Soon after, he also tries to romance a girl in the small room, but she screams of shock and runs out the building when she notices the spider. On the street, she bumps into Cranston and Margot and is taken to the hospital because she is hysterical. The duo head back to the apartment building and the lonely boy notices their approach from his window. While he hides, they enter the attic. The giant spider comes out to attack and Cranston shoots it dead. They leave and the boy is upset by the death of his "friend." Suddenly, the "power of revenge" is transmitted from the spider to the boy and he is able to spin webs. Later, he dangles a beautiful web down to the streets and Margot follows it back to the attic. She is captured by the boy and he begins to weave a web around her tighter and tighter. Out-of-nowhere, The Shadow comes to the rescue and the boy casts a web towards the window, then leaps, only to fall to his death."
On this day in 1952, The Shadow radio serial aired "The Demon Of Devil's Cove." According to our friends at The Shadow Wiki, the details of this particular tale have sadly been lost to history. Not even The Shadow knows!
