From what I can recall, The Middleman -- which premiered on this day in 2008 -- is another one of those Science Fiction series wherein I watched the pilot episode and pretty much immediately decided, "Yeah, that's not for me." That isn't intended as an insult; rather, I'm pretty frugal with my viewing habits, so I tend to zone out programs which just don't tickle my fancy fairly early in their broadcast run in favor of exploring them later on home video or reruns. Still, it had a solid good vs. evil vibe to what I did watch, so there's something to be said for 'keeping it simple.' It lasted a single (if short) season. Here's the series' premise from IMDB.com:
"A struggling artist is recruited by a secret agency to fight against evil forces. Based on the graphic novels by Javier Grillo-Marxuach and Les McClaine."
"A struggling artist is recruited by a secret agency to fight against evil forces. Based on the graphic novels by Javier Grillo-Marxuach and Les McClaine."
Another one from the bin of 'Forgotten Fantasy' is 2015's Proof (which premiered on this day back then). Shows involved any aspect of the afterlife, I believe, are a tough sell to audiences because ... well ... let's face facts: it's a topic few of us want to think about in any meaty fashion on a routine basis, so pardon me if I'm not all that surprised that this one didn't have the legs to sustain a greater Neilsen's rating. In any event, it starred the always lovely Jennifer Beals, and here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Following the death of her teenage son, a divorce, and a rift with her daughter, Dr. Carolyn Tyler is persuaded by Ivan Turing, a tech inventor and billionaire with cancer, to investigate supernatural cases of reincarnation, near-death experiences, and haunting, in hopes to find evidence that death is not final."
"Following the death of her teenage son, a divorce, and a rift with her daughter, Dr. Carolyn Tyler is persuaded by Ivan Turing, a tech inventor and billionaire with cancer, to investigate supernatural cases of reincarnation, near-death experiences, and haunting, in hopes to find evidence that death is not final."
History shows that there are far too many Science Fiction authors out there for any of us to try them all in a single lifetime, but one of those who should be on everyone's bucket list is Murray Leinster. Somewhere within the volumes of material he penned, I suspect there will be something to each of our liking. Though he's no longer with us, Leinster was born on this day in 1896.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
With only twenty-five screen credits to her name, Ilona Massey still managed to leave a mark on cinema history and genre fans, especially, with her work aboard Invisible Agent (1942) and Frankenstein Meets The Wolf Man (1943). Though she's no longer with us, Massey was born on this day in 1910.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Faith Domergue played Dr. Ruth Adams as part of the scientific ensemble at the middle of 1955's sci-fi classic This Island Earth. In fact, she practically ruled cinema sci-fi that year as she also headlined The Atomic Man and It Came From Beneath The Sea for willing audiences. Though she's no longer with us, Domergue was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Bill Cobbs is an actor who maintains an incredible body of work. SciFi fans probably recognize him best from guest roles in such properties as Demolition Man (1993), The Outer Limits, and Star Trek: Enterprise. Cobbs was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
It doesn't appear as if Michael Culver has done any professional acting in the past few years, but his resume quite possibly still draws the interest of genre fans. He's enjoyed appearances aboard The Avengers, Doomwatch, Space:1999, and a little something called Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980). Culver was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, you never forget your first doctor, do you? Doctor Who, that is! Carole Ann Ford was there at the beginning of the seminal Time Traveling opus in the role of Susan Foreman, aka the Doctor's granddaughter. The veteran actress clocked in an amazing fifty-two episodes of the program, and she still found time to make appearances in other properties, including 1963's The Day of the Triffids. Ford was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
During her time "in the business," the lovely Suzan Farmer turned up in a few wonderful guest spots, including work aboard Gerry Anderson's UFO and Blake's 7. Though she's no longer with us, Farmer was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Joan Van Ark has turned up in a few SciFi-specific roles, checking aboard The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, and the cult favorite SciFi comedy, Quark. Van Ark was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Anyone in the market for a good Ginger? Well, then how about a great one? The lovely Valerie Mahaffey looks even lovelier every time we see her, but I wish she did more Science Fiction. She had a great guest role aboard the popular Quantum Leap, so I guess I should be thankful for that. Mahaffey was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funny lady Laurie Metcalf dipped her toes into the realm of genre projects with a guest-starring role aboard an episode of Supergirl. Metcalf was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To me, Ian Buchanan has one of those faces that practically screams, "For God's sake, man, I'm an actor!" Those stylish good looks helped him land a guest role aboard Syfy's popular Stargate SG-1. That's for sure! Buchanan was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I'm sure I'll probably always remember John Balma for his brilliant comic turn on NBC's Parks and Recreation, I'm glad he had an appearance on Star Trek: Enterprise so that I can feature his talent here. Balma was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Playing a mayor? No big deal. Playing 'Mayor Kuzak' in RoboCop 2 (1990)? Well, that definitely deserves a mention in these parts of cyberspace. Willard Pugh did just that! The actor was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Legendary screen heavy Arnold Vosloo might just be this generation's Peter Cushing. Or maybe even Christopher Lee. Typically, he's cast as the villain, and I suspect the actor has forgotten more about playing a bad dude than most of his age have ever learned. He's often most recognized from his work in The Mummy series of films, but SciFi fans might recall his work in Gor, Steel Dawn, Darkman II: The Return of Durant, Progeny, Strange World, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and Grimm. Always a pleasure to watch, Vosloo was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Clifton Collins Jr. has one of those familiar faces, and that's largely because he's been a part of so many interesting programs. He was manipulating a conspiracy on NBC's The Event. He was a Romulan baddie as part of JJ Abrams' Star Trek reboot (2009). He was also part of the team ridding the Earth of monsters in Guillermo del Toro's Pacific Rim (2013). Collins was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Long before James Patrick Stuart turned up in a hilariously memorable role on NBC's Seinfeld, he was helping to lead the remaining Galacticans to that shining star known as Earth aboard Galactica 1980 as the mysterious Dr. Zee. Stuart was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
John Cho. Star Trek. Mr. Sulu. Need I say more? Well, I will. While I'll admit I haven't been all that enamored with the current cinematic incarnation of the Gene Roddenberry creation, I do enjoy the work of several key players, John Cho definitely being one of them. Cho was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Instead of watching 20th Century Fox's The Martian on streaming or home video, why not take a moment to pick up author Andy Weir's novel that inspired the flick? Weir was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I've often said, "Science Fiction loves the bit players." For without these bit players -- without these talented actors and actresses toiling away in the background turning in some quality work -- SciFi would have no flavor indeed. Today's smiler is the lovely Enid-Raye Adams. Fans might recognize her in the role of Firell from the Babylon 5 telefilm, The Legend of the Rangers: To Live and Die In Starlight (insert photo left), but she's also booked roles on The Lone Gunmen, The Outer Limits, The Dead Zone, Stargate SG-1, Taken, The Twilight Zone, Jake 2.0, Jeremiah, Fringe, and iZombie. Adams was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I totally missed ABC's Invasion when it aired originally, but I think I have a copy around the house on DVD that I need to screen for myself sometime. In any event, star Eddie Cibrian played one of the principles on the program, and I've been told he did some good work. Cibrian was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Leslie Kendall Dye showed up in an early episode of the syndicated Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Otherwise, her work has been in largely dramatic roles. Dye was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fred Koehler is an immensely talented character actor who turns up all over the place, including great guest roles aboard ABC TV's Lost and, more recently, Torchwood: Miracle Day, for the Starz Network. Koehler was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Daniel Brühl is relatively new to the Marvel Movie Universe, recently turning up as Zemo in Captain America: Civil War (2016). Brühl was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've seen fresh-faced Missy Peregrym in a handful of mainstream fare, but I'd completely forgotten that she'd dabbled in some quality Science Fiction. She had a bit part in Dark Angel as a small screen debut, and since then she's also appeared in Jake 2.0, Smallville, Andromeda, Heroes, and Van Helsing. Peregrym was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As a young one, Olivia Hack turned up briefly aboard Star Trek: Generations (1994) as one of Captain Picard's children, and she's since gone one to some impressive voice work including appearances aboard one of my favorite programs, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Hack was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you like, Marvel fans, but -- for my tastes -- I still think Ed Norton played the best theatrical version of Bruce Banner to date. One of his co-stars (albeit briefly) from The Incredible Hulk (2008) was the very fetching Débora Nascimento, who was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Abby Elliott enjoyed a small role aboard the theatrical reboot of the popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2014) franchise. Elliott was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kelly Blatz has a couple of what I'd call SciFi-lite properties under his acting belt, including work for Walt Disney's Aaron Stone and their telefilm, Skyrunners (2009). More recently, he turned in great work in supporting roles aboard Lucifer, Fear The Walking Dead, and Timeless. Blatz was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sorry, folks, but I don't 'game.' Still, if I did, I'd probably be drawn to the work of the young Mackenzie Mason. She helped bring the character of 'Cortana' to life aboard Halo 4. Mason was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I kid you not: Alexis G. Zall might be one of the youngest talents to voice a phenom as impressive as 'Lois Lane' herself aboard DC Super Hero Girls animated property ... and why not? This young lady appears to have boundless energy herself, her resume already boasting over forty separate screen credits while just cracking into her twenties. Impressive, indeed! Zall was born on this day in 1998.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1952 (in Portugal), When Worlds Collide showed audiences what might happen when ... well ... when worlds collide. Directed by Rudolph Mate, the SciFi feature starred Richard Derr, Barbara Rush, and Peter Hansen. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As a new star and planet hurtle toward a doomed Earth, a small group of survivalists frantically work to complete the rocket which will take them to their new home."
For the record:
Without a doubt, When Worlds Collide remains one of the best regarded films of the 1950's, a period when Science Fiction films were truly introduced as part of the Hollywood studio process. It's been said that this film was somewhat rushed into production based on the success of Pal's earlier Destination Moon (1950). At the 1952 Oscars Awards, When Worlds Collide took home the trophy for 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' It was also nominated for (but loss) the award for 'Best Cinematography, Color.'
"As a new star and planet hurtle toward a doomed Earth, a small group of survivalists frantically work to complete the rocket which will take them to their new home."
For the record:
Without a doubt, When Worlds Collide remains one of the best regarded films of the 1950's, a period when Science Fiction films were truly introduced as part of the Hollywood studio process. It's been said that this film was somewhat rushed into production based on the success of Pal's earlier Destination Moon (1950). At the 1952 Oscars Awards, When Worlds Collide took home the trophy for 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' It was also nominated for (but loss) the award for 'Best Cinematography, Color.'
On this day in 1958 (in the United Kingdom), Horror Of Dracula delivered a bit of blood-sucking terror to interested movie patrons. Directed by Terence Fisher from a script by Jimmy Sangster (adapting the Bram Stoker novel), the Horror/Fantasy starred Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, and Michael Gough. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jonathan Harker rouses the ire of Count Dracula after he accepts a job at the vampire's castle under false pretenses. Harker's friend, Dr. Van Helsing, then embarks on a hunt for the predatory villain when he targets Harker's loved ones."
For the record:
In 1959, the film was nominated for a Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Jonathan Harker rouses the ire of Count Dracula after he accepts a job at the vampire's castle under false pretenses. Harker's friend, Dr. Van Helsing, then embarks on a hunt for the predatory villain when he targets Harker's loved ones."
For the record:
In 1959, the film was nominated for a Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to the silver screen spectacle known as Psycho! Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, the Horror film starred Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, and Vera Miles. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer's client, goes on the run and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother."
For the record:
"A Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer's client, goes on the run and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother."
For the record:
- At the 1961 Academy Awards, Psycho enjoyed an incredible four nominations in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction (Black And White),' 'Best Cinematography - Black And White,' 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' and 'Best Director.'
- In 1992, Psycho was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, the institution tasked with preserving features for their ongoing historical, cultural, and aesthetic contribution to the medium of film.
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in the United Kingdom), the good people of London were scared silly by the children taking charge in Village Of The Damned. Written (in part) and directed by Wolf Rilla, the SciFi/Fantasy starred George Sanders, Barbara Shelley, and Martin Stephens. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the English village of Midwich, the blonde-haired, glowing-eyed children of uncertain paternity prove to have frightening powers."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Village Of The Damned enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"In the English village of Midwich, the blonde-haired, glowing-eyed children of uncertain paternity prove to have frightening powers."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Village Of The Damned enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in Japan), Lake Of Dracula took the Prince of Darkness to the silver screen yet again. Directed by Michio Yamamoto from a story by Ei Ogawa and Masaru Takesue, the Horror/Fantasy starred Midori Fujita, Sanae Emi, and Shin Kishida. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A doctor investigates the murders of several women at a lakeside resort. His investigation leads him to believe that a vampire is responsible for the murders. He sets out to track the vampire down."
"A doctor investigates the murders of several women at a lakeside resort. His investigation leads him to believe that a vampire is responsible for the murders. He sets out to track the vampire down."
On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), A Boy And His Dog enjoyed a special theatrical engagement in New York City, New York. L.Q. Jones both adapted the Harlan Ellison work for the screen and directed the project, and the film starred Don Johnson, Jason Robards, and Susanne Benton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young man and his telepathic dog wander a post-apocalyptic wasteland."
For the record:
It's safe to say that -- if it came from the mind of Harlan Ellison -- then it was bound to capture the attention of the greater Science Fiction community.
"A young man and his telepathic dog wander a post-apocalyptic wasteland."
For the record:
It's safe to say that -- if it came from the mind of Harlan Ellison -- then it was bound to capture the attention of the greater Science Fiction community.
- At the 1976 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actor Don Johnson tied in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work on the picture. The film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 1976 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
- At the 1976 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), the flick enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Writing.'
A star is born! On this day in 1978 (in Canada and the U.S.), the great white shark came up for another bite with the cinematic release of Jaws 2. Directed by Jeannot Szwarc, the Horror/Fantasy starred Roy Scheider, Lorraine Gary, and Murray Hamilton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Police chief Brody must protect the citizens of Amity after a second monstrous shark begins terrorizing the waters."
"Police chief Brody must protect the citizens of Amity after a second monstrous shark begins terrorizing the waters."
On this day in 1980 (in Sweden), the silver screen lit up with -- ahem -- sensual delight under the theatrical promise that was Invasion Of The Love Drones. Written (in part) and directed by Jerome Hamlin, the SciFi/Adult Film starred Eric Edwards, Joann Sterling, and Arlana Blue. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Horny aliens invade Earth."
"Horny aliens invade Earth."
On this day in 1989 (in the United Kingdom), Hellbound: Hellraiser II enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Tony Randel from a story by Peter Atkins and Clive Barker, the Horror/Fantasy starred Doug Bradley, Ashley Laurence, and Clare Higgins. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Kirsty is brought to an institution after the horrible events of Hellraiser (1987), where the occult-obsessive head doctor resurrects Julia and unleashes the Cenobites and their demonic underworld."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Hellbound enjoyed a good amount of special attention earned from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Kirsty is brought to an institution after the horrible events of Hellraiser (1987), where the occult-obsessive head doctor resurrects Julia and unleashes the Cenobites and their demonic underworld."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Hellbound enjoyed a good amount of special attention earned from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born ... and holy smokes, Batman! On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York went back into the dark for the theatrical release of Batman Returns. Directed by Tim Burton, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, and Michelle Pfeiffer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While Batman deals with a deformed man calling himself the Penguin wreaking havoc across Gotham with the help of a cruel businessman, a female employee of the latter becomes the Catwoman with her own vendetta."
For the record:
"While Batman deals with a deformed man calling himself the Penguin wreaking havoc across Gotham with the help of a cruel businessman, a female employee of the latter becomes the Catwoman with her own vendetta."
For the record:
- At the 1993 Academy Awards, Batman Returns enjoyed two Oscar nominations in the categories of 'Best Makeup' and 'Best Effects - Visual Effects.'
- At the 1993 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature enjoyed four nominations in such categories as 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.'
- At the 1993 Hugo Awards, Batman Returns enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
- At the 1993 Razzie Awards, actor Danny DeVito enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
On this day in 1993 (in France), Swamp Thing itself returned theatrically for The Return Of Swamp Thing. Directed by Jim Wynorski, the SciFi/Fantasy film starred Dick Durock, Louis Jourdan, and Heather Locklear. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In this tongue-in-cheek sequel, the benevolent bog creature falls for the vegetarian, plant-loving daughter of the evil scientist who created him."
For the record:
At the 1990 Razzie Awards, actress Heather Locklear took home the big win in the category of 'Worst Actress.' Ouch.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of The Return Of Swamp Thing via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"In this tongue-in-cheek sequel, the benevolent bog creature falls for the vegetarian, plant-loving daughter of the evil scientist who created him."
For the record:
At the 1990 Razzie Awards, actress Heather Locklear took home the big win in the category of 'Worst Actress.' Ouch.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I was fortunate to receive an all-new release of The Return Of Swamp Thing via a distributor relationship in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), The Shrunken City went big for its release on home video. Directed by Ted Nicolaou from a story by Neal Marshall Stevens, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Michael Malota, Agnes Bruckner, and Jules Mandel. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two teen-aged kids discover a miniature bottled city buried beneath a construction site. They must protect the tiny civilization within from reptilian alien hunters after its everlasting power supply."
"Two teen-aged kids discover a miniature bottled city buried beneath a construction site. They must protect the tiny civilization within from reptilian alien hunters after its everlasting power supply."
On this day in 2000 (in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Norway), Supernova exploded on the silver screen. Directed by Walter Hill, the SciFi feature starred Robin Tunney, James Spader, and Angela Bassett. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
A star is born! How (oh how!) does SciFi get so many curious creature features? Piranhaconda is a telefilm that was spawned on TV audiences first on this day back in 2012. Directed by Jim Wynorski from a story by J. Brad Wilke and Mike MacLean, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Rib Hillis, Michael Madsen, and Terri Ivens. Here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Two piranha/anaconda hybrid creatures hunt down the scientist who stole their egg and a film crew; making a slasher film in the jungle."
"Two piranha/anaconda hybrid creatures hunt down the scientist who stole their egg and a film crew; making a slasher film in the jungle."
A star is born! Boom! On this day in 2015, Supernova 45 aired on U.S. television. Directed by Alan J. Levi from a story by David P. Johnson, this SciFi feature starred Matt Doherty, Sondra Currie, and Jessica Duffy. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ganymede Pan, an elite space pilot gone AWOL, is hunted down by the cunning and captivating General Tai, who manipulates him into tracking down a "Golden" boy, trained to control a substance which is the ultimate weapon of mass destruction."
"Ganymede Pan, an elite space pilot gone AWOL, is hunted down by the cunning and captivating General Tai, who manipulates him into tracking down a "Golden" boy, trained to control a substance which is the ultimate weapon of mass destruction."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Terrordactyl took to the cinematic skies! Written and directed by Don Bitters III, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Jenny Allford, Bianca Haase, and Kevin Keator. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When ancient flying reptiles attack Los Angeles, it's up to two working-class friends, the unlikeliest of heroes, to save the day."
"When ancient flying reptiles attack Los Angeles, it's up to two working-class friends, the unlikeliest of heroes, to save the day."
On this day in 1956, Adventures Of Superman aired "The Jolly Roger." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Pirates kidnap Jimmy, Lois and Clark and hide on a remote island the U.S. Navy is about to destroy."
"Pirates kidnap Jimmy, Lois and Clark and hide on a remote island the U.S. Navy is about to destroy."
On this day in 1963 (in the United Kingdom), Fireball XL5 aired "The Fire Fighters." Officially, this served as the thirty-fourth episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mysterious cloud sends fiery balls to Earth and causes fires to many areas. While investigating this, Fireball XL5 is victim of one of these balls and is out of order. Professor Matic has an idea to use a device to vacuum the cloud before it causes more damages, like Venus' beach house...."
"A mysterious cloud sends fiery balls to Earth and causes fires to many areas. While investigating this, Fireball XL5 is victim of one of these balls and is out of order. Professor Matic has an idea to use a device to vacuum the cloud before it causes more damages, like Venus' beach house...."
On this day in 1973 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Green Death: Part 5." Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor manages to escape from BOSS with help from Yates and discovers Cliff has been infected by a giant maggot."
"The Doctor manages to escape from BOSS with help from Yates and discovers Cliff has been infected by a giant maggot."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1977, The Fantastic Journey aired "The Innocent Prey," the tenth and final episode in its single season existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A vessel from the future that is used for transporting prisoners is pulled into the triangle and crashes. The prisoners get free and kill the guards. When the travelers come across them, the prisoners have assumed the guise of the guards. Later they come across a colony of pacifists who live an idyllic existence. When they display their abilities, one of the prisoners sees how can it profit them so he sets to possess the source at an cost. And when he kills one of the colonists and they accuse him, the leader upon hearing his proclamation of innocence decides to end it there."
"A vessel from the future that is used for transporting prisoners is pulled into the triangle and crashes. The prisoners get free and kill the guards. When the travelers come across them, the prisoners have assumed the guise of the guards. Later they come across a colony of pacifists who live an idyllic existence. When they display their abilities, one of the prisoners sees how can it profit them so he sets to possess the source at an cost. And when he kills one of the colonists and they accuse him, the leader upon hearing his proclamation of innocence decides to end it there."
Think what you may, fans, but there's never been a better 'Part 1' in all of SciFi television than Star Trek: The Next Generation's third season finale, "The Best of Both Worlds." (It aired in syndication on this day back in 1990.) Could they stakes have been any higher? Riker in personal and professional crisis? Picard seized by the Borg? Starfleet facing possible eradication? Audiences were left on the edge of their seats all summer thanks to this winning script by writer Michael Piller. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Responding to a distress call on one of the Federation's outer-most colonies, the Enterprise arrives...only to find a big hole in the ground where the town used to be, and discovers the Borg are behind the attack."
"Responding to a distress call on one of the Federation's outer-most colonies, the Enterprise arrives...only to find a big hole in the ground where the town used to be, and discovers the Borg are behind the attack."
On this day in 1997, Babylon 5 aired "Intersections In Real Time." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sheridan has been captured. Now he's being tortured for information. How long can he hold out?"
"Sheridan has been captured. Now he's being tortured for information. How long can he hold out?"
On this day in 1999, Crusade aired "The Long Road." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Gideon mediates between Earth miners and the residents of a planet containing a virus-fighting mineral--and a fire-breathing dragon."
"Gideon mediates between Earth miners and the residents of a planet containing a virus-fighting mineral--and a fire-breathing dragon."
On this day in 2000, Farscape aired "Home on the Remains," the seventh episode of the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The crew needs food. Zahn needs to eat meat, she starts spewing spores. Only Aeryn seems to have an tolerance for the spores. While she's on Moya with Zahn, the others find a Budong to get some food."
"The crew needs food. Zahn needs to eat meat, she starts spewing spores. Only Aeryn seems to have an tolerance for the spores. While she's on Moya with Zahn, the others find a Budong to get some food."
On this day in 2000, Lexx aired "791." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew of the Lexx answer a distress call only to discover the origins of the signal are from a crashed prison ship. 790 finds a cyborg and sets about modifying the creature to allow him to finally make love to Xev. Nothing goes to plan and the crew need to stop 790's experiment while trying to work out who were the prisoners and who were the guards on the crashed ship."
"The crew of the Lexx answer a distress call only to discover the origins of the signal are from a crashed prison ship. 790 finds a cyborg and sets about modifying the creature to allow him to finally make love to Xev. Nothing goes to plan and the crew need to stop 790's experiment while trying to work out who were the prisoners and who were the guards on the crashed ship."
On this day in 2000, The Invisible Man aired "The Catevari." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Agency is about to stop a man who is able to kill only by touching his target. He seeks revenge on everyone responsible for his condition including Darien's boss."
"The Agency is about to stop a man who is able to kill only by touching his target. He seeks revenge on everyone responsible for his condition including Darien's boss."
On this day in 2002, Witchblade aired "Emergence." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Time resets, and Sara and Danny are at the Rialto, but Sara turns away, causing great annoyance in Irons, who wanted the Witchblade to bond with her through shedding blood. So he decides to find a new woman to wield the 'Blade, and sets a murderous plot in motion to make it all happen."
"Time resets, and Sara and Danny are at the Rialto, but Sara turns away, causing great annoyance in Irons, who wanted the Witchblade to bond with her through shedding blood. So he decides to find a new woman to wield the 'Blade, and sets a murderous plot in motion to make it all happen."
On this day in 2002, Witchblade aired "Destiny." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Using the incredibly strong and powerful powers and abilities of the Witchblade, Sara saves the life of her partner, Danny Woo when he's buried alive. But then Irons procures an ancient weapon, called the Longinus Lance, in order to kill Sara to obtain the Witchblade. Can she save herself as the battle for the Witchblade turns into a fight to the death? In this new time-line, Sara struggles to know more about the Witchblade which leads her to meeting Gabriel for the first time who gives her some advice, but it puts a strain on her detective partner, Danny, over her refusing to confide in him about what has been going on with her."
"Using the incredibly strong and powerful powers and abilities of the Witchblade, Sara saves the life of her partner, Danny Woo when he's buried alive. But then Irons procures an ancient weapon, called the Longinus Lance, in order to kill Sara to obtain the Witchblade. Can she save herself as the battle for the Witchblade turns into a fight to the death? In this new time-line, Sara struggles to know more about the Witchblade which leads her to meeting Gabriel for the first time who gives her some advice, but it puts a strain on her detective partner, Danny, over her refusing to confide in him about what has been going on with her."
On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Utopia." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's third season (Modern Era), and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Martha arrive in present day Cardiff to refuel the TARDIS and are inexplicably thrust to a distant planet 100 trillion years into the future. When they arrive they realize they have an unexpected passenger in Captain Jack Harkness who has been patiently waiting for the Doctor's return since the mid-19th century. On the planet they eventually meet Professor Yana who is running the 1000-year old Utopia project, the aim of which is to relocate the human-like creatures to a new planet, away from the outsiders who they fear they will become if they don't leave. When Prof. Yana has need of someone to make repairs in a room in which no one can survive, the Doctor has the perfect candidate. The Professor is not what he seems to be however and Martha notices he has a fob watch much like one the Doctor recently made use of."
"The Doctor and Martha arrive in present day Cardiff to refuel the TARDIS and are inexplicably thrust to a distant planet 100 trillion years into the future. When they arrive they realize they have an unexpected passenger in Captain Jack Harkness who has been patiently waiting for the Doctor's return since the mid-19th century. On the planet they eventually meet Professor Yana who is running the 1000-year old Utopia project, the aim of which is to relocate the human-like creatures to a new planet, away from the outsiders who they fear they will become if they don't leave. When Prof. Yana has need of someone to make repairs in a room in which no one can survive, the Doctor has the perfect candidate. The Professor is not what he seems to be however and Martha notices he has a fob watch much like one the Doctor recently made use of."
It all began right here: on this day in 2008, The Middleman tried to 'cut out the middleman' on television. The pilot episode was titled "Sanction," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
" You know how it is in comic books, how there's always lots of mad scientists, androids and robots, all trying to either destroy the world or take it over? Well, it really does happen like that." So says Wendy's new boss. Wendy gets recruited by a secretive agency after they see her threatened by a body parts monster and still remains cool. Her first assignment with the Middleman is getting to the bottom of Genetically Enhanced Gorillas who first are going to take out the mob and then take over the world."
" You know how it is in comic books, how there's always lots of mad scientists, androids and robots, all trying to either destroy the world or take it over? Well, it really does happen like that." So says Wendy's new boss. Wendy gets recruited by a secretive agency after they see her threatened by a body parts monster and still remains cool. Her first assignment with the Middleman is getting to the bottom of Genetically Enhanced Gorillas who first are going to take out the mob and then take over the world."
On this day in 2013 (in Canada), Continuum aired "Second Listen." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Kiera and CSIS agent Gardiner start working together and try to trace the bodies stolen from the morgue. They hit a dead end. Kiera visits Escher who tells her about freelancers who tattoo marks between their fingers. The police do find two deaths where those tattoos were found. Emery Wallace and Tommy Oliver didn't have much in common but theirs wills were handled by the same law firm, Fisker & Associates, and both had the same beneficiary, a Mr. Warren, the same man Gardiner saw driving the truck with the morgue bodies. Alec starts working with Jason who is proving to be quite useful. Kellog isn't pleased. Alec gets home to find some of his roommates dead and the assassin waiting for him."
"Kiera and CSIS agent Gardiner start working together and try to trace the bodies stolen from the morgue. They hit a dead end. Kiera visits Escher who tells her about freelancers who tattoo marks between their fingers. The police do find two deaths where those tattoos were found. Emery Wallace and Tommy Oliver didn't have much in common but theirs wills were handled by the same law firm, Fisker & Associates, and both had the same beneficiary, a Mr. Warren, the same man Gardiner saw driving the truck with the morgue bodies. Alec starts working with Jason who is proving to be quite useful. Kellog isn't pleased. Alec gets home to find some of his roommates dead and the assassin waiting for him."
On this day in 2013, Falling Skies aired the third episode of its third season. It was an hour titled "Badlands," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The two-year anniversary of the alien invasion is fast approaching as the people of Charleston prepare for another potentially devastating offensive. A sniper attack by an unlikely gunman creates questions and doubts within the new government."
"The two-year anniversary of the alien invasion is fast approaching as the people of Charleston prepare for another potentially devastating offensive. A sniper attack by an unlikely gunman creates questions and doubts within the new government."
It all began right here: on this day in 2015, Proof enjoyed its broadcast premiere on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Because he may make a sizable donation to the hospital, Carolyn reluctantly agrees to meet with tech mogul and eccentric billionaire Ivan Turing. Upon learning directly from Ivan that he has terminal cancer, she is surprised that he did not want to meet with her to "jump the medical queue", but rather to ask her to head a project on finding definitive evidence - proof - of what happens to a person after death, something that will happen to him soon. This project is something way off of Carolyn's radar as legitimate science. Her hard science perspective is however one of the key reasons why he chose her. His offer of control of his entire $10 billion estate, which she could funnel into Medics International, after his death is not enough to convince her. Possibly finding out what has happened to Will is not enough to convince her. Her own recent near death experience in Japan while working for Medics International following the tsunami is not enough to convince her. But something that Sophie is going through and the experience of one of her own patients in combination with these other factors are enough for her at least to look into one of the many cases on which Ivan has files, namely a young girl named Lilly Seavers who allegedly passed over to the other side briefly. She has drawn some pictures of people she met on the other side, family members she would never have met or known of in the living world. It is one person who has not been identified from Lilly's drawings that may pique some interest in Carolyn. Not wanting to divulge the nature of Ivan's offer to Charles or her family, Carolyn decides to enlist the help of young intern, Dr. Zedan Badawai, with who she has developed a "tell it like it is" rapport. What Carolyn decides to do concerning Ivan's offer may also depend on her encounter with Peter Van Owen, a medium who she knows she will encounter again and again if she does accept Ivan's offer, and the issue that some may choose death over life if they know what is on the other side."
"Because he may make a sizable donation to the hospital, Carolyn reluctantly agrees to meet with tech mogul and eccentric billionaire Ivan Turing. Upon learning directly from Ivan that he has terminal cancer, she is surprised that he did not want to meet with her to "jump the medical queue", but rather to ask her to head a project on finding definitive evidence - proof - of what happens to a person after death, something that will happen to him soon. This project is something way off of Carolyn's radar as legitimate science. Her hard science perspective is however one of the key reasons why he chose her. His offer of control of his entire $10 billion estate, which she could funnel into Medics International, after his death is not enough to convince her. Possibly finding out what has happened to Will is not enough to convince her. Her own recent near death experience in Japan while working for Medics International following the tsunami is not enough to convince her. But something that Sophie is going through and the experience of one of her own patients in combination with these other factors are enough for her at least to look into one of the many cases on which Ivan has files, namely a young girl named Lilly Seavers who allegedly passed over to the other side briefly. She has drawn some pictures of people she met on the other side, family members she would never have met or known of in the living world. It is one person who has not been identified from Lilly's drawings that may pique some interest in Carolyn. Not wanting to divulge the nature of Ivan's offer to Charles or her family, Carolyn decides to enlist the help of young intern, Dr. Zedan Badawai, with who she has developed a "tell it like it is" rapport. What Carolyn decides to do concerning Ivan's offer may also depend on her encounter with Peter Van Owen, a medium who she knows she will encounter again and again if she does accept Ivan's offer, and the issue that some may choose death over life if they know what is on the other side."
