Arnold Schwarzenegger has a long, distinguished affiliation with science fiction, and perhaps one of the best -- even to this day -- remains 1987's seminal sci-fi juggernaut Predator. The film was perfectly conceived -- it's man versus alien in a clever variation of Agatha Christie's 'Ten Little Indians' mode -- as well as perfectly cast and perfectly shot. It remains the highwater mark for the series, and it's still watchable even to this day. It first played to audiences on this day in 1987. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A team of commandos on a mission in a Central American jungle find themselves hunted by an extraterrestrial warrior."
For the record:
Besides putting another epic Science Fiction franchise on the entertainment map, the original Predator did not go quietly without a good amount of praise during awards season. At the 1988 Academy Awards, it did enjoy a single nomination in the category of 'Best Effects - Visuals Effects' but failed to take home the gold. The 1988 Saturn Awards (hosted by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films) was a bit more generous, sending composer Alan Silvestri home with top honors in 'Best Music,' but the film missed out in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, Predator had to settle just for being nominated in good company for the 1988 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A team of commandos on a mission in a Central American jungle find themselves hunted by an extraterrestrial warrior."
For the record:
Besides putting another epic Science Fiction franchise on the entertainment map, the original Predator did not go quietly without a good amount of praise during awards season. At the 1988 Academy Awards, it did enjoy a single nomination in the category of 'Best Effects - Visuals Effects' but failed to take home the gold. The 1988 Saturn Awards (hosted by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films) was a bit more generous, sending composer Alan Silvestri home with top honors in 'Best Music,' but the film missed out in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, Predator had to settle just for being nominated in good company for the 1988 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
Ben Frommer was one of those talented bit players who made a living stealing small scenes aboard any property that gave him the opportunity. Leaving behind a legacy of nearly one hundred and fifty screen credits, fans know him best from work in Plan 9 From Outer Space (1959), Batman, Lost In Space, The Six Million Dollar Man, Battlestar Galactica (at right, under makeup), and The Incredible Hulk. Though he's no longer with us, Frommer was born on this day in 1913.
In the guise of 'Col. Edward McCauley,' the venerable William Lundigan explored the Final Frontier aboard the landmark TV SciFi/Serial Men Into Space. He also headlined Riders To The Stars (1954) for Ivan Tors Productions and enjoyed a guest spot aboard Science Fiction Theatre. Though he's no longer with us, Lundigan was born on this day in 1914. [Source: IMDB.com]
The late, great Irwin Allen was responsible for the Science Fiction of a whole generation of viewers, conceiving and/or producing such programs as Lost In Space, Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Time Tunnel, and others. Though he's no longer with us, Allen was born on this day in 1916. [Source: IMDB.com]
Bernie Hamilton leaves viewers with a resume of just under seventy-five different screen performances for study. Those of particular note? Very early in his professional career, he enjoyed a role aboard an adaptation of Jules Verne's Mysterious Island (1951) for Sam Katzman Productions. Much later and toward the end of his time in the business, he enjoyed screen time aboard Glen Larson's Galactica 1980. Though he's no longer with us, Hamilton was born on this day in 1928. [Source: IMDB.com]
Jim Nabors (above right) stepped into the magical realms of Sid and Marty Krofft for the role of 'Fum' aboard 1975's The Lost Saucer. Nabors was born on this day in 1930.
Not only is he responsible in no small way for the creation of DC Comics' Swamp Thing but also Len Wein has left his stylings all over the greater world of comicdom, penning stories for such tentpoles as Wolverine, X-Men, Justice League, and Star Trek. Wein was born on this day in 1948. [Source: Wikipedia.org]
Aboard the SciFi/Thriller DNA (1996), actor Roger Aaron Brown took 'one for the team,' opting for a noble death in lieu of the film's entire cast. He's also served time aboard The Incredible Hulk, Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), Alien Nation (1988), Hard Time on Planet Earth, Robocop 2 (1990), Galaxis (1995), Dark Skies, and Supernatural. Brown was born on this day in 1949. [Source: IMDB.com]
Though he may not have had much to say, Dexter Clay turned a background role as a ship's security officer aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation into a whopping twenty-eight appearances. Though he's no longer with us, Clay was born on this day in 1956. [Source: Memory Alpha]
Timothy Busfield (above left) joined Kevin Costner aboard Field Of Dreams (1989), arguably one of the most impressive Fantasy-themed flicks of its generation. The actor has also sported roles aboard The Outer Limits, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Revolution, and Sleepy Hollow. Busfield was born on this day in 1957.
The lovely Jenilee Harrison made a splash in sitcom history with work aboard the popular Three's Company during its time on television. Sadly, her genre credentials are extremely light: there's a guest appearance aboard They Came From Outer Space as well as a small role in Curse III: Blood Sacrifice (1991) deserving of mention. Harrison was born on this day in 1958. [Source: IMDB.com]
When mankind enslaved women against their will in the SciFi/Apocalyptic thriller The Sisterhood (1988), the lovely Rebecca Holden packed some heat and took a stand. She's also appeared aboard the 1980's TV favorite Knight Rider for several episodes. Holden was born on this day in 1958.
Funnyman Scott Thompson brought his love of quirky characters to bear aboard a guest spot of Star Trek: Voyager. Thompson was born on this day in 1959. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Felecia M. Bell had a total of three visits to the world of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, helping to bring Capt. Sisko's late wife Jennifer back to life via the Mirror Universe. Bell was born on this day in 1960. [Source: IMDB.com]
Late in her professional career, Jodi Thelen took a trip into the wild and weird Fantasy world of David Lynch's Twin Peaks. Thelen was born on this day in 1962. [Source: IMDB.com]
Paul Schulze is a talent who pops up all over the place yet never seems to get enough credit for the work he does. I remember him best in the role of Ryan Chappelle from Fox TV's 24, but he's also been a part of Alien Fury: Countdown to Invasion, Roswell, Journeyman, and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Schulze was born on this day in 1962.
Patrice Martinez turned in some voice tracks for a guest spot aboard the animated incarnation of Phantom 2040. Martinez was born on this day in 1963. [Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Tim DeKay has rather effortlessly flitted in and out of a variety of quality genre projects, and he's been dabbling in Science Fiction since his early days. He's appeared in such properties as SeaQuest 2032, Invasion (TV movie), Carnivale, The 4400, and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. DeKay was born on this day in 1963.
Sadly, Paula Marshall doesn't do more Science Fiction. Oh, early in her career she had a few great roles -- she played the original 'Iris West' in CBS's version of The Flash; she had a small role in an episode of Superboy; and she appeared in Warlock: The Armageddon -- but since then it's largely been vastly more conventional fare. Marshall was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
Christopher Liam Moore made a pair of appearances in the greater world of Star Trek: Voyager, one buried heavily under make-up and one not. Moore was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Frances O'Connor has a terrific resume, both in and out of genre work. Perhaps her best known SciFi roles is as 'Monica Swinton' in Steven Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001), but she's also had appearances in Timeline (2003) and other great dramas. O'Connor was born on this day in 1967.
The lovely Sarah Trigger entered the realm of cinematic Fantasy with her work aboard Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991). Trigger was born on this day in 1968. [Source: IMDB.com]
Voluptuous screen temptress Glori-Anne Gilbert has always given her fans something to talk about, leaving them duly satisfied with appearances aboard such titillating fare as The Thing Below (2004), The Curse Of The Komodo (2004), The Witches Of Breastwick (2005), The Breastford Wives (2007), and House On Hooter Hill (2007). God bless her endowments! Gilbert was born on this day in 1969. [Source: IMDB.com]
The always reliable Rick Hoffman played a supporting role in the short-lived 2009 Knight Rider television reboot. Hoffman was born on this day in 1970.
Actor and general goofball Jason Mewes enjoyed a pair of cameo-style appearances aboard Kevin Smith-directed episodes of The CW's popular The Flash. Mewes was born on this day in 1974. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, funnyman Richard Ayoade shone as one of the regulars aboard the Comedy/Fantasy Garth Marenghi's Darkplace, arguably one of the funniest comedies on television you've never seen. Ayoade was born on this day in 1977. [Source: IMDB.com]
The talented James Ashcroft finds a way to squeeze his work into great scenes whenever he gets the chance. He's been a part of such properties as Dark Angel, Special Unit 2, Taken (miniseries), Catwoman (2004), Stargate: SG-1, Dead Like Me, Supernatural, Battlestar Galactica (Syfy), and Eureka. Ashcroft was born on this day in 1978.
Actress Jodie Prenger enjoyed a small role in the United Kingdom Fantasy series Wizards Vs. Aliens during its run on television. Prenger was born on this day in 1979. [Source: IMDB.com]
After playing a small part in saving life as we know it in 1999's Galaxy Quest, Jeremy Howard has continued to plunder the SciFi and Fantasy landscape for interesting parts to play. You may recognize him from his appearances in Men In Black II, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, or 2014's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ... or you may not, as the actor generally appears in make-up or prosthetics. Howard was born on this day in 1981.
OMG, those two beautiful adies have the same beautiful eyes ... though I'm guessing that only one of them has X-Ray Vision. In any event, Anais Fairweather provides the vocals and verbal muster for Supergirl aboard DC Super Hero Girls. Fairweather was born on this day in 1984. [Source: IMDB.com]
California-born Alexandra Hulme continues to build her resume in roles big and small. Genre fans might've caught glimpses of her fetching persona in such features as Raptor Ranch (2013), Kids Vs Monsters (2015), or The Devil's Machine (2019). Hulme was born on this day in 1984. [Source: IMDB.com]
Film and voice actress Deneen Melody has brought to life characters in such mesmerizing genre properties as As Night Falls (2010), Wonderland (2011), Western X (2016), Osmosis, and Sword Art Online (animated). Melody was born on this day in 1984. [Source: IMDB.com]
Playboy's voluptuous Kendra Wilkinson is just one of the many, many celebrities who've been wooed to clock in a cameo aboard Syfy's popular Sharknado franchise. Wilkinson was born on this day in 1985. [Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Dave Franco squeezed himself into a guest spot aboard the SciFi/Web-Project Other Space during its short run. Franco was born on this day in 1985.
Genre fans possibly aren't all that familiar with the work of Jenna Willis. Much of her work has been in traditional mainstream fare, but she pop up in something called Heroine Legends briefly. Let's hope she finds her way to a starship or a time machine at some point in her professional future. Willis was born on this day in 1986. [Source: IMDB.com]
Luke Youngblood's star continues its rise in the world of Fantasy entertainment. He's been seen in the cinematic Harry Potter universe as well as part of the short-lived Galavant. Youngblood was born on this day in 1986.
Young Abbey Lee has mastered the fine art of making even the Apocalypse sexy by playing one of the fair maidens at the heart of 2015's hit blockbuster Mad Max: Fury Road. Lee was born on this day in 1987.
Ah, that never-ending story of what could've been! For those of you who missed it, Lost In Space actually had an attempted reboot in the early 2000's with The Robinsons: Lost In Space (2004), a telefilm directed by John Woo. (FYI: as one who has seen it, the flick flacked much of Woo's usual stylishness.) Aboard this intrepid mission, young Ryan Malgarini embodied a precocious 'Will Robinson.' Malgarini was born on this day in 1992. [Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1972 (in Denmark), Slaughterhouse Five enjoyed its run through theatres. Adapted from the Kurt Vonnegut novel, the SciFi/Drama starred Michael Sacks, Ron Leibman, and Eugene Roche; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Billy Pilgrim has mysteriously become unstuck in time. He goes on an uncontrollable trip back and forth from his birth in New York to life on a distant planet and back again to the horrors of the 1945 fire-bombing of Dresden."
For the record:
It's worth noting that Slaughterhouse-Five was no slouch when it came to critical and cultural acclaim. In the inaugural year of Saturn Awards being issued for Best Science Fiction Film, it took home 1973's top honor. The film also took the Jury Prize for the 1972 Cannes Film Festival, with director Hill being nominated for the Palm d'Or. In 1973, it won the Hugo Award for the Best Dramatic Presentation.
More for the record:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of Arrow Films 2019 Blu-ray release of the feature, and I penned a review of it. Those interested can access my thoughts right here.
"Billy Pilgrim has mysteriously become unstuck in time. He goes on an uncontrollable trip back and forth from his birth in New York to life on a distant planet and back again to the horrors of the 1945 fire-bombing of Dresden."
For the record:
It's worth noting that Slaughterhouse-Five was no slouch when it came to critical and cultural acclaim. In the inaugural year of Saturn Awards being issued for Best Science Fiction Film, it took home 1973's top honor. The film also took the Jury Prize for the 1972 Cannes Film Festival, with director Hill being nominated for the Palm d'Or. In 1973, it won the Hugo Award for the Best Dramatic Presentation.
More for the record:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of Arrow Films 2019 Blu-ray release of the feature, and I penned a review of it. Those interested can access my thoughts right here.
On this day in 1973 (in Iran), the Planet Of The Apes saga got a bit bigger with the release of Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, the SciFi/Drama starred Roddy McDowall, Don Murray, and Ricardo Montalban; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"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."
"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."
A star is born! On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), Clash Of The Titans took mythology to the silver screen in a big, big way. Directed by Desmond Davis, the Fantasy film starred Harry Hamlin, Claire Bloom, and Laurence Olivier; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Perseus must battle Medusa and the Kraken to save the Princess Andromeda."
For the record:
At the 1982 Saturn Awards conducted by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Clash Of The Titans took home top honors only in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' (for Burgess Meredith) while missing out on statues in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
"Perseus must battle Medusa and the Kraken to save the Princess Andromeda."
For the record:
At the 1982 Saturn Awards conducted by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Clash Of The Titans took home top honors only in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' (for Burgess Meredith) while missing out on statues in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1981 (in the U.S. and Canada), the summer blockbuster that was Raiders Of The Lost Ark ignited the entire Indiana Jones saga in just the right way. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the Action/Fantasy starred Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, and Paul Freeman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1936, archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before Adolf Hitler's Nazis can obtain its awesome powers."
For the record:
Wow. Where does one begin to measure greatness? Well, let's just run down some of the citations.
"In 1936, archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before Adolf Hitler's Nazis can obtain its awesome powers."
For the record:
Wow. Where does one begin to measure greatness? Well, let's just run down some of the citations.
- At the 1982 Academy Awards, Raiders took home top honors in 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.' It also took home a Special Achievement Oscar in the category of Sound Effects Editing. It just missed out statues in the categories of 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Cinematography,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Picture.'
- At the 1982 Saturn Awards coordinated by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Raiders took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.' It also missed out taking home trophies in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Supporting Actor.'
- At the 1982 Hugo Awards, the film deservedly took home the top honor for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1984, the Apocalypse has never looked so bleak as it did in the French-language SciFi film Le Dernier Combat. The feature starred Jean Reno and Pierre Jolivet, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic future where no one is able to speak, the few remaining humans fight over resources in order to survive."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Le Dernier Combat enjoyed an impressive amount of praise on the film festival circuit, securing a few trophies in the category of 'Best Film.'
"In a post-apocalyptic future where no one is able to speak, the few remaining humans fight over resources in order to survive."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Le Dernier Combat enjoyed an impressive amount of praise on the film festival circuit, securing a few trophies in the category of 'Best Film.'
On this day in 1985 (in France), Walt Disney's Baby: Secret Of The Lost Legend enjoyed a theatrical release. The feature starred William Katt and Sean Young, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
On this day in 1996 (in Brazil), Science Fiction and Comedy collided one more time with the release of Tremors 2: Aftershocks. Directed by S.S. Wilson, the film starred Fred Ward, Helen Shaver, and Michael Gross; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Earl Bassett, now a washed-up ex-celebrity, is hired by a Mexican oil company to eradicate a Graboid epidemic that's killing more people each day. However, the humans aren't the only one with a new battle plan."
For the record:
The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated Tremors II for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Home Video Release,' no small feat indeed.
"Earl Bassett, now a washed-up ex-celebrity, is hired by a Mexican oil company to eradicate a Graboid epidemic that's killing more people each day. However, the humans aren't the only one with a new battle plan."
For the record:
The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated Tremors II for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Home Video Release,' no small feat indeed.
On this day in 1997 (in Singapore), Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back - The Special Edition enjoyed its re-release in theaters. The film saw stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher back in the action in that galaxy far, far away. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the Rebels are brutally overpowered by the Empire on the ice planet Hoth, Luke Skywalker begins Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued by Darth Vader and a bounty hunter named Boba Fett all over the galaxy."
For the record:
At the 1981 Academy Awards, The Empire Strikes Back took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Sound' along with a Special Achievement Oscar for 'Visual Effects.' At the 1981 Saturn Awards, the film took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also in 1981, it took home the Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"After the Rebels are brutally overpowered by the Empire on the ice planet Hoth, Luke Skywalker begins Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued by Darth Vader and a bounty hunter named Boba Fett all over the galaxy."
For the record:
At the 1981 Academy Awards, The Empire Strikes Back took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Sound' along with a Special Achievement Oscar for 'Visual Effects.' At the 1981 Saturn Awards, the film took home trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also in 1981, it took home the Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Post Impact delivered audiences with yet one more look at mankind's bleak future. Written (in part) and directed by Christoph Schrewe, the SciFi feature starred Dean Cain and Bettina Zimmermann, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a meteor strike starts a new ice age, a group of survivors tries to find a device that could give mankind new hope."
"After a meteor strike starts a new ice age, a group of survivors tries to find a device that could give mankind new hope."
On this day in 2008 (in Finland), the 1924-produced SciFi/Drama Aelita: Queen Of Mars played for audiences in attendance of the Midnight Sun Film Festival. Directed by Yakov Protazanov, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Yulija Solntseva, Igor Ilyinsky, and Nikolai Tsereteli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mysterious radio message is beamed around the world, and among the engineers who receive it are Los, the hero, and his colleague Spiridonov. Los is an individualist dreamer. Aelita is the daughter of Tuskub, the ruler of a totalitarian state on Mars in which the working class are put into cold storage when they are not needed. With a telescope, Aelita is able to watch Los. As if by telepathy, Los obsesses about being watched by her. After some hugger-mugger involving the murder of his wife and a pursuing detective, Los takes the identity of Spiridonov and builds a spaceship. With the revolutionary Gusev, he travels to Mars, but the Earthlings and Aelita are thrown into prison by the dictator. Gusev and Los begin a proletarian uprising, and Aelita offers to lead the revolution, but she then establishes her own totalitarian regime. Los is shocked by this development and attempts to stop Aelita, and then reality and fantasy become confused, and Los discovers what has really happened."
"A mysterious radio message is beamed around the world, and among the engineers who receive it are Los, the hero, and his colleague Spiridonov. Los is an individualist dreamer. Aelita is the daughter of Tuskub, the ruler of a totalitarian state on Mars in which the working class are put into cold storage when they are not needed. With a telescope, Aelita is able to watch Los. As if by telepathy, Los obsesses about being watched by her. After some hugger-mugger involving the murder of his wife and a pursuing detective, Los takes the identity of Spiridonov and builds a spaceship. With the revolutionary Gusev, he travels to Mars, but the Earthlings and Aelita are thrown into prison by the dictator. Gusev and Los begin a proletarian uprising, and Aelita offers to lead the revolution, but she then establishes her own totalitarian regime. Los is shocked by this development and attempts to stop Aelita, and then reality and fantasy become confused, and Los discovers what has really happened."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Visioneers played for audiences in attendance of the Seattle International Film Festival. Directed by Jared Drake, the SciFi/Comedy starred Zach Galifianakis and Judy Greer, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When people begin exploding from stress, George Washington Winsterhammerman tries to ignore the epidemic and live his usual life, but then he suffers his first symptom."
"When people begin exploding from stress, George Washington Winsterhammerman tries to ignore the epidemic and live his usual life, but then he suffers his first symptom."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Ireland and the United Kingdom), Doghouse put all of mankind in the 'doghouse' with yet one more look at a virus-fueled Apocalypse. Directed by Jake West, the SciFi/Horror starred Danny Dyer, Noel Clarke, and Emil Marwa. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of men, heading to a remote village to help one of their friends get over his divorce, soon discover that all the women have been infected with a virus that makes them man-hating cannibals."
"A group of men, heading to a remote village to help one of their friends get over his divorce, soon discover that all the women have been infected with a virus that makes them man-hating cannibals."
A star is born! On this day in 2010, the SciFi/Telefilm Stonehenge Apocalypse premiered on the television set. Written (in part) and directed by Paul Ziller, the feature starred Misha Collins and the lovely Torri Higginson; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Archeologists come across an Egyptian chamber, causing an electromagnetic pulse, which comes from Stonehenge, that sends destructive shockwaves around the world. When the pyramids are destroyed and the stones start doing strange things; a radio host, a team of scientists, and a team of the British military, try to stop the same force responsible for creating life on Earth, from destroying everything."
"Archeologists come across an Egyptian chamber, causing an electromagnetic pulse, which comes from Stonehenge, that sends destructive shockwaves around the world. When the pyramids are destroyed and the stones start doing strange things; a radio host, a team of scientists, and a team of the British military, try to stop the same force responsible for creating life on Earth, from destroying everything."
A star is born! On this day in 2012, the SciFi/ShortFilm Ray Bradbury's Kaleidoscope enjoyed general release when it played for audiences in attendance of the New Media Film Festival. Directed by Eric Tozzi, the SciFi Short Film starred Brett Stimely, Nathaniel Freeman, and Leonard Kelly-Young. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summation:
"We were hurdling through space, five of us living, each going to a separate and irrevocable fate."
For the record:
To the Short Film's credit, it received a good amount of praise on the film festival circuit.
"We were hurdling through space, five of us living, each going to a separate and irrevocable fate."
For the record:
To the Short Film's credit, it received a good amount of praise on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2014 (in Peru), Gallowwalkers straddled that line between life, death, and zombies cinematically. Written and directed by Andrew Goth, the feature starred Wesley Snipes,Riley Smith, and Tanit Phoenix; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A cursed gunman (Snipes) whose victims come back from the dead recruits a young warrior to help in the fight against a gang of zombies."
"A cursed gunman (Snipes) whose victims come back from the dead recruits a young warrior to help in the fight against a gang of zombies."
Deja vu, you say? On this day in 2015 (in Spain), Gallowwalkers enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written and directed by Andrew Goth, the feature starred Wesley Snipes, Riley Smith, and Tanit Phoenix; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mysterious gunman, Aman, is the son of a nun who breaks her covenant with God to ensure his survival. This act brings a curse upon Aman - all those that die by his gun will return. Soon, he is hunted by a gang of his undead former victims, led by the vicious Kansa. Aman enlists Fabulos, a new young warrior, to fight by his side."
"A mysterious gunman, Aman, is the son of a nun who breaks her covenant with God to ensure his survival. This act brings a curse upon Aman - all those that die by his gun will return. Soon, he is hunted by a gang of his undead former victims, led by the vicious Kansa. Aman enlists Fabulos, a new young warrior, to fight by his side."
On this day in 2015 (in a whole slew of countries), the park was again open for business as Jurassic World promised to thrill audiences with another go-round in the realm of re-engineered dinosaurs. Written (in part) and directed by Colin Trevorrow, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Ty Simpkins. Here's the plot summary as detailed by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Twenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World, as originally envisioned by John Hammond. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, in order to fulfill a corporate mandate, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor's interest, which backfires horribly."
For the record:
Well-made visual spectacles always do well come awards time, and Jurassic World was no exception. The motion picture garnered a wealth of praise from organizations big and small. At the 2016 Saturn Awards put on by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, the flick scored only a single win in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' while missing out in seven other categories.
"Twenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World, as originally envisioned by John Hammond. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, in order to fulfill a corporate mandate, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor's interest, which backfires horribly."
For the record:
Well-made visual spectacles always do well come awards time, and Jurassic World was no exception. The motion picture garnered a wealth of praise from organizations big and small. At the 2016 Saturn Awards put on by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, the flick scored only a single win in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor' while missing out in seven other categories.
On this day in 2017 (in Australia), the 1978-produced SciFi/Drama Jubilee played for audiences in attendance of the Sydney Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Queen Elisabeth I travels 400 years into the future to witness the appalling revelation of a dystopian London overrun by corruption and a vicious gang of punk guerrilla girls led by the new Monarch of Punk."
"Queen Elisabeth I travels 400 years into the future to witness the appalling revelation of a dystopian London overrun by corruption and a vicious gang of punk guerrilla girls led by the new Monarch of Punk."
On this day in 2018, the 2006-produced Abominable enjoyed a Blu-ray release via the MVD Rewind Collection. The film starred Matt McCoy and Dee Wallace, and here's the plot summary as listed on Amazon.com:
"It has been sighted 42,000 times in 68 countries, a vicious creature of myth and legend called Sasquatch, Yeti, and perhaps most infamously, Bigfoot. It's been hunted it for years. But what happens when it decides to hunt us? After recovering from a horrific accident, paraplegic Preston Rogers (Matt McCoy) moves back into the remote cabin where he and his now-deceased wife once lived. When his new neighbor Karen, is attacked by a gigantic creature, Rogers contacts the local authorities. But after the police and those around him dismiss Rogers as a delusional widower, he sets out to stop the abominable creature himself."
"It has been sighted 42,000 times in 68 countries, a vicious creature of myth and legend called Sasquatch, Yeti, and perhaps most infamously, Bigfoot. It's been hunted it for years. But what happens when it decides to hunt us? After recovering from a horrific accident, paraplegic Preston Rogers (Matt McCoy) moves back into the remote cabin where he and his now-deceased wife once lived. When his new neighbor Karen, is attacked by a gigantic creature, Rogers contacts the local authorities. But after the police and those around him dismiss Rogers as a delusional widower, he sets out to stop the abominable creature himself."
It's the end of the world as we know it ... or is it? On this day in 2018, Apocalypse Rising rose in the United States. Directed by Richard Lowry, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Hunter Alexes Parker and Shane Samples, and here's the plot summary as provided by Rotten Tomatoes:
"A colorful band of warriors from a war-torn distant planet escape and land on Earth. They quickly find Earth is also on the brink of destruction as the dead prepare to rise from the grave, so together they must tool up and fight to save their new home."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Apocalypse Rising enjoyed a bit of love on the film festival circuit.
"A colorful band of warriors from a war-torn distant planet escape and land on Earth. They quickly find Earth is also on the brink of destruction as the dead prepare to rise from the grave, so together they must tool up and fight to save their new home."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Apocalypse Rising enjoyed a bit of love on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2018, 1982's Cult/Fantasy hit The Beastmaster enjoyed an updated Blu-ray release. (If you're interested in picking up the release, it's available on Amazon.com right here.) The feature starred Marc Singer and Tanya Roberts, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"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.
"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.
On this day in 2018, The Humanity Bureau blasted its way into the U.S. home video market with its general DVD release. (Source: DVD Release Dates) (FYI: IMDB.com also reports that the film premiered in Singapore on this day in 2018.) Directed by Rob W. King, the SciFi/Drama starred Nicolas Cage and Sarah Lind, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A dystopian thriller set in the year 2030 that sees the world in a permanent state of economic recession and facing serious environmental problems as a result of global warming."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Humanity Bureau enjoyed a single win from its appearance on the film festival circuit.
"A dystopian thriller set in the year 2030 that sees the world in a permanent state of economic recession and facing serious environmental problems as a result of global warming."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Humanity Bureau enjoyed a single win from its appearance on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2018, The Jurassic Dead was brought to life for its U.S. DVD release. (Source: Blu-ray.com) Directed by Milko Davis and Thomas Martwick, the SciFi/Thriller starred Matt Block, Cooper Elliott, and Ben Johnson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A cracked scientist aligns with the Axis of Evil to bring down the US of A with EMP blasts, toxic zombification gas and an unleashing of the ultimate undead killing monstrosity -- the Z-REX. When a hot-wired militia squad and a crew of college hipsters are thrown together to do something about it, chaotic Predator-Thunder action runs amok."
"A cracked scientist aligns with the Axis of Evil to bring down the US of A with EMP blasts, toxic zombification gas and an unleashing of the ultimate undead killing monstrosity -- the Z-REX. When a hot-wired militia squad and a crew of college hipsters are thrown together to do something about it, chaotic Predator-Thunder action runs amok."
On this day in 2018, 1982's Xtro enjoyed a 'limited edition' Blu-ray release that's been long overdue. (Those interested might be able to purchase a copy via the link on Amazon.com right here.) The SciFi/Horror flick starred Philip Sayer and Bernice Stegers, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A man who was abducted by aliens returns to his family three years later, but his presence affects them negatively."
For the record:
During the film's original release periods in the early 1980's, Xtro won the 'Best Special Effects' award from the 1983 Fantasporto Film Festival.
"A man who was abducted by aliens returns to his family three years later, but his presence affects them negatively."
For the record:
During the film's original release periods in the early 1980's, Xtro won the 'Best Special Effects' award from the 1983 Fantasporto Film Festival.
On this day in 2018, Vampariah enjoyed its release on the home video market compliments of Video Music, Inc. The film starred Aureen Almario and Alex Benjamin, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Mahal is a part of an elite squad of skilled hunters responsible for keeping the world safe from vampires and other creatures of the night. Her mission to rid the world of this undead threat becomes compromised when her fate intertwines with an aswang (a vampire of Philippine folklore)."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Vampariah enjoyed a bit of praise during its time on the film festival circuit.
"Mahal is a part of an elite squad of skilled hunters responsible for keeping the world safe from vampires and other creatures of the night. Her mission to rid the world of this undead threat becomes compromised when her fate intertwines with an aswang (a vampire of Philippine folklore)."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Vampariah enjoyed a bit of praise during its time on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2019 (in Sweden), Crossbreed enjoyed its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Brandon Slagle, the SciFi feature starred Vivica A. Fox and Daniel Baldwin, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, the President of the New United States of America hires a team of military veterans to retrieve an alien bio-weapon from a top secret research facility orbiting the Earth."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Crossbreed enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Indie SciFi' from the 2020 Film Threat Award This festival.
"In the near future, the President of the New United States of America hires a team of military veterans to retrieve an alien bio-weapon from a top secret research facility orbiting the Earth."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Crossbreed enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Indie SciFi' from the 2020 Film Threat Award This festival.
It all came down to this: on this day in 1953, Tales Of Tomorrow aired the final episode in its original broadcast existence. Officially, "What Dreams May Come" served as the forty-second episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Telepathic thoughts alert a woman to her future murder."
"Telepathic thoughts alert a woman to her future murder."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), "there be monsters here" as Doctor Who aired "Journey Into Terror." This served as the thirty-third episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS lands in a haunted house where the Doctor and his friends are confronted by Dracula and Frankenstein's Monster...and then the Daleks appear."
"The TARDIS lands in a haunted house where the Doctor and his friends are confronted by Dracula and Frankenstein's Monster...and then the Daleks appear."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Undermind aired "Intent To Destroy." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a run down hotel, a stockbroker receives tips from a man who claims he can foretell the future, including the death of "someone famous" in front of many people. Herriot tries to stop it, and nearly dies himself."
"In a run down hotel, a stockbroker receives tips from a man who claims he can foretell the future, including the death of "someone famous" in front of many people. Herriot tries to stop it, and nearly dies himself."
On this day in 1967 (in Japan), The Space Giants aired "Fury In Space." Officially, this served as the fiftieth episode in the program's time on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by The Space Giants Online Guide:
"Goldar battles Rada again, but the monster reproduces every limb that Goldar destroys. Goldar attempts to incinerate the beast with his jet rockets, but Rada only disappears. Goldar reports to Mathusam, who tells him that Rada is composed of Space Bacteria that enables it to disappear when in danger. Gam and Mikko search the area looking for Rada and run into a cloud of orange color. Figuring that it is the Space Bacteria, they quickly leave the area. At the hospital, Tom Mura interviews all the victims that have come into contact with the orange liquid. One patient mentions that he had seen the color green. Perhaps this could be a form of cure? Tom and Mikko leave to see if they can locate the green liquid that could be the answer to their problems. Along the way, they encounter two strangers attempting to flee the area. They overpower Mikko and Tom and steal their car. Tom and Mikko search for a place to hide from the approaching orange mist and find an empty house. The orange mist comes closer, only to be turned away by a green plant which surrounds the house. This green plant is an antibiotic which followed the orange liquid from space to the Earth. Rodak issues orders for Rada to continue spreading the disease. Goldar and Gam attack with the green spray and Rada is destroyed."
"Goldar battles Rada again, but the monster reproduces every limb that Goldar destroys. Goldar attempts to incinerate the beast with his jet rockets, but Rada only disappears. Goldar reports to Mathusam, who tells him that Rada is composed of Space Bacteria that enables it to disappear when in danger. Gam and Mikko search the area looking for Rada and run into a cloud of orange color. Figuring that it is the Space Bacteria, they quickly leave the area. At the hospital, Tom Mura interviews all the victims that have come into contact with the orange liquid. One patient mentions that he had seen the color green. Perhaps this could be a form of cure? Tom and Mikko leave to see if they can locate the green liquid that could be the answer to their problems. Along the way, they encounter two strangers attempting to flee the area. They overpower Mikko and Tom and steal their car. Tom and Mikko search for a place to hide from the approaching orange mist and find an empty house. The orange mist comes closer, only to be turned away by a green plant which surrounds the house. This green plant is an antibiotic which followed the orange liquid from space to the Earth. Rodak issues orders for Rada to continue spreading the disease. Goldar and Gam attack with the green spray and Rada is destroyed."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Daemons, Part 4." This served as the twenty-fourth episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"The Master orders Bert to set a trap for the Doctor at the village while a concussed Jo makes for the cavern."
"The Master orders Bert to set a trap for the Doctor at the village while a concussed Jo makes for the cavern."
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), Doomwatch aired "High Mountain." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An inquiry into Doomwatch is begun following the events surrounding Ridge's breakdown. Meanwhile, Quist is summoned to a large country estate in Scotland, where he finds himself offered a new position with both power and wealth in the private sector, but only if he will curtail his investigations into a new drug called disocyanate. Back in London, the Minister decides that it is time to place his own man within Doomwatch, and so despatches Commander Neil Stafford to join the team."
"An inquiry into Doomwatch is begun following the events surrounding Ridge's breakdown. Meanwhile, Quist is summoned to a large country estate in Scotland, where he finds himself offered a new position with both power and wealth in the private sector, but only if he will curtail his investigations into a new drug called disocyanate. Back in London, the Minister decides that it is time to place his own man within Doomwatch, and so despatches Commander Neil Stafford to join the team."
On this day in 1991 (in the United Kingdom), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Contagion." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Encountering the superior technology of a very ancient race creates system malfunctions for a doomed Federation starship, for the Enterprise, and for an eavesdropping Romulan warbird."
"Encountering the superior technology of a very ancient race creates system malfunctions for a doomed Federation starship, for the Enterprise, and for an eavesdropping Romulan warbird."
On this day in 1993, Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Timescape." This SciFi potboiler served as the twenty-fifth episode of the long-running program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at TrekCore.com:
"Returning via runabout from a conference, Picard, Troi, Geordi and Data encounter strange disturbances in time. Finally locating the Enterprise, they find her in an exchange of fire with a Romulan warbird, in a zone of time that moves so slowly it appears to be still."
"Returning via runabout from a conference, Picard, Troi, Geordi and Data encounter strange disturbances in time. Finally locating the Enterprise, they find her in an exchange of fire with a Romulan warbird, in a zone of time that moves so slowly it appears to be still."
On this day in 1995, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Facets." This served as the twenty-fifth hour of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by TrekCore.com:
"Jadzia undergoes a ritual in which the memories of each of Dax's past hosts is telepathically transferred to another person so she can come to understand them better. Problems are anticipated when it comes to encountering Joran, the mentally unstable host preceding Curzon."
"Jadzia undergoes a ritual in which the memories of each of Dax's past hosts is telepathically transferred to another person so she can come to understand them better. Problems are anticipated when it comes to encountering Joran, the mentally unstable host preceding Curzon."
On this day in 2000 (in Canada), Lexx aired "Battle." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Lexx crew is attacked by balloons under the command of Prince. The slow motion ballet of destruction ends with Xev being stranded on the burning desert surface of Fire and Stan and Kai escaping to the orbiting Lexx."
"The Lexx crew is attacked by balloons under the command of Prince. The slow motion ballet of destruction ends with Xev being stranded on the burning desert surface of Fire and Stan and Kai escaping to the orbiting Lexx."
On this day in 2005, The 4400 aired "Voices Carry." This served as the second episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A baseball player is overwhelmed by a special 4400 ability. Collier is involved with a weapons' dealer. To Maia's delight Diana's sister visits them. Richard and Lily seek shelter at a motel where Isabelle takes some surprising initiatives."
"A baseball player is overwhelmed by a special 4400 ability. Collier is involved with a weapons' dealer. To Maia's delight Diana's sister visits them. Richard and Lily seek shelter at a motel where Isabelle takes some surprising initiatives."
On this day in 2015, Defiance aired "The World We Seize." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"You are introduced to another Race. Defiance's supplies are running low. The search continues for the two children and their kidnappers. We discover more about the Votanis Collective. Irisa and Nolan escape and try to return to Defiance."
"You are introduced to another Race. Defiance's supplies are running low. The search continues for the two children and their kidnappers. We discover more about the Votanis Collective. Irisa and Nolan escape and try to return to Defiance."
On this day in 2015, Defiance aired "The Last Unicorns." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With most of the McCawleys now dead, Pilar, Alak and baby Luke manage to escape. Pilar finds a trailer in the wilderness and promptly kills the occupants. When Alak awakes in the night, Pilar and the baby are nowhere to be found. In Defiance, Doc Yewl tries to mend the newly arrived purple-skinned alien, Kindzi, though she does so reluctantly. She knows them as an early Votan race known as the Omec, vicious creatures known for eating those they conquer. Kindzi's father T'evkin is soon in town and Amanda has a proposition for him: they will return his daughter provided they share the gulanite. Stahma and Dalak Tarr meanwhile have to deal with General Rahm Tak who wants them to be his spies in the city."
"With most of the McCawleys now dead, Pilar, Alak and baby Luke manage to escape. Pilar finds a trailer in the wilderness and promptly kills the occupants. When Alak awakes in the night, Pilar and the baby are nowhere to be found. In Defiance, Doc Yewl tries to mend the newly arrived purple-skinned alien, Kindzi, though she does so reluctantly. She knows them as an early Votan race known as the Omec, vicious creatures known for eating those they conquer. Kindzi's father T'evkin is soon in town and Amanda has a proposition for him: they will return his daughter provided they share the gulanite. Stahma and Dalak Tarr meanwhile have to deal with General Rahm Tak who wants them to be his spies in the city."
On this day in 2017, Stitchers aired "For Love Or Money." This served as the second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team investigates the case of a young woman found dead in her wealthy boyfriend's pool; Linus feels a connection to Ivy; Camille is intrigued by a medical examiner who likes to meet in unusual places."
"The team investigates the case of a young woman found dead in her wealthy boyfriend's pool; Linus feels a connection to Ivy; Camille is intrigued by a medical examiner who likes to meet in unusual places."
On this day in 1938, The Shadow radio serial aired "Murder On Approval." According to our friends on The Shadow Wiki, here's the plot summary:
"Enemies of the United States have developed a germ that could wipe out the entire army, eventually leaving the U.S. open to invasion. It is first tested out at a barracks near New York. The Shadow must hurry and find out who is behind it and if a cure is available."
"Enemies of the United States have developed a germ that could wipe out the entire army, eventually leaving the U.S. open to invasion. It is first tested out at a barracks near New York. The Shadow must hurry and find out who is behind it and if a cure is available."
On this day in 1944, The Adventures Of Superman radio serial began "The North Woods Story." This story began on this day and aired through June 30th, and I've been unable to locate any plot summary anywhere on the internet.
