On this day all the way back in 1974 (in Australia), Alpha Scorpio first took to the broadcast airwaves in search of the truth that was out there. It lasted only a slim six episodes, and here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at Wikpedia.org.:
"It starred Peter Hepworth and Kevin Wilson as two university students who begin to witness strange events while camping at Aireys Inlet in Victoria. The two soon discover that their friend Mirny (Kurt Ludescher) is a member of a group of aliens who have recently landed from the 5th planet of Antares."
"It starred Peter Hepworth and Kevin Wilson as two university students who begin to witness strange events while camping at Aireys Inlet in Victoria. The two soon discover that their friend Mirny (Kurt Ludescher) is a member of a group of aliens who have recently landed from the 5th planet of Antares."
If I'm remembering this correctly, Odyssey 5 was one of those programs that premiered on the pay cable network Showtime during its run on television. I don't recall the show creating much of a buzz within fandom, and I'm not certain that it lives on in the hearts and minds of its viewers today. It's kinda forgotten, and that's a shame as it did give audiences a look into the realm of something special. Starring the great Peter Weller and Sebastian Roche, it had some solid potential, but alas wasn't meant to be. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"After witnessing the sudden implosion of Earth from orbit, a group of five Odyssey astronauts is sent five years back in time by an alien force to find the cause and prevent the disaster. A vast conspiracy stands in their way."
For the record:
At the 2003 Primetime Emmy Awards, Odyssey 5's composer Laura Karpman earned a nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Dramatic Underscore)' for her work in the series' pilot episode.
"After witnessing the sudden implosion of Earth from orbit, a group of five Odyssey astronauts is sent five years back in time by an alien force to find the cause and prevent the disaster. A vast conspiracy stands in their way."
For the record:
At the 2003 Primetime Emmy Awards, Odyssey 5's composer Laura Karpman earned a nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Dramatic Underscore)' for her work in the series' pilot episode.
1985's Cocoon gave so many truly great actors and actresses of an earlier generation the chance to make a big screen appearance in a Science Fiction film, of which the much-praised Maureen Stapleton tried on the genre for good measure. In 1981, she enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard The Fan (1981) for Paramount Pictures. In 1982, she was cast in the role of The Electric Grandmother, a SciFi/Telefilm that sprang from the works of Ray Bradbury. In 1986, she provided some voice work for the animated SciFi/Fantasy project The Cosmic Eye for Hubley Studios. The actress was also gainfully employed in Doin' Time On Planet Earth (1988) and Cocoon II: The Return (1988). Though she's no longer with us, Stapleton was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
For a certain generation of viewers, funnyman Bernie Kopell will always be the doctor who served faithfully aboard the one-time TV juggernaut The Love Boat (clearly, that wasn't Science Fiction), but he actually has a few respectable genre credentials worth mentioning in this space. He enjoyed screen time aboard such projects as My Favorite Martian, The Flying Nun, Get Smart, Night Gallery, Bewitched, The Ghost Busters, The Six Million Dollar Man, Fantasy Island, Supertrain, Bug Buster (1998), Charmed, A Light In The Forest (2003), Get Smart (2008), and The Last Sharknado: It's About Time (2018). Kopell was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screen veteran Ron Ely brought Doc Savage: The Man Of Bronze to life for Warner Bros. back in 1975. He also sported roles in Tarzan (TV), Wonder Woman, and Superboy. Though he's no longer with us, Ely was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
The original Star Trek featured a whole score of lovely ladies, and one of the loveliest has always been Mariette Hartley. She appeared in the program's third season as Zarabeth, a brief love interest for our intrepid Vulcan/Human hybrid, Mr. Spock. As for SciFi, she's also appeared in Earth II (1971), Genesis II (1973), and even in a guest spot as part of TV's Logan's Run series. Hartley was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I purchased a copy of Genesis II (1973) for my own collection as it's a flick I'd always wanted to watch. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I purchased a copy of Genesis II (1973) for my own collection as it's a flick I'd always wanted to watch. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Back in the days of the TV sketch comedy classic SCTV, no one but no one could make me laugh as hard as Eugene Levy and Joe Flaherty did. They were the "Abbott and Costello" of my generation, bar none. Thankfully, Flaherty continues to pop up in roles from time to time, and how fitting it was for him to appear in the climax of Back To The Future 2 in order to send the young Marty McFly on his next adventure in time travel. Though he's no longer with us, Flaherty was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With one hundred separate projects to his name, Lyman Ward has certainly built an impressive resume. He's had roles in Man from Atlantis, Battlestar Galactica, The Phoenix, Creature (1985), Independence Day (1996), and Black Scorpion. Ward was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Corinna Tsopei was not only Miss Greece 1964 and Miss Universe 1964 but also starred as 'Princess Reyka' in an episode of Irwin Allen's SciFi classic series Lost In Space. Tsopei was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Director and producer Tony Scott leaves behind a resume worthy of reflection, though much of it involves far more conventional or mainstream material. Still, let's be thankful for small miracles, even though the reviews for the TV miniseries updating of The Andromeda Strain were a bit harsh. Though he's no longer with us, Scott was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When the dreaded V'Ger wrecked havoc aboard the bridge of the Starship Enterprise in Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), it was 'Chief DiFalco' -- aka the lovely Marcy Lafferty -- who was called to duty to replace the recently departed Ilia. She also enjoyed screen time aboard Kingdom Of The Spiders (1977), The Day Time Ended (1979), and Airplane II: The Sequel (1983). Lafferty was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It bears mentioning that -- for her work aboard the 1979 Apocalypse/Drama The Day Time Ended -- Lafferty received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' from the 1980 Saturn Awards. Though she didn't win top honors, I think it's always great to highlight the exceptionalism of our SciFi and Fantasy creatives.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I attended a Fathom Events special screening of Star Trek: The Motion Picture in honor of an all-new home video release. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It bears mentioning that -- for her work aboard the 1979 Apocalypse/Drama The Day Time Ended -- Lafferty received a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' from the 1980 Saturn Awards. Though she didn't win top honors, I think it's always great to highlight the exceptionalism of our SciFi and Fantasy creatives.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I attended a Fathom Events special screening of Star Trek: The Motion Picture in honor of an all-new home video release. Interested readers can find my review right here.
That knucklehead in the baseball cap not exactly exercising quality gun control there is none other than actor Michael Gross. Most folks known him from the 80's sitcom Family Ties, but SciFi fans know him best as gun enthusiast 'Burt Gummer' from the Tremors franchise. Gross was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
- Readers of SciFiHistory.Net should know that Tremors (1990) remains one of my all-time favorite genre releases. In 2020, I received a complimentary home video release of it from a distributor in exchange for review coverage. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
- In 2023, that same distributor kindly offered me a new promotional copy of Tremors 2: Aftershocks (1996) in exchange for review coverage on the website. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Robyn Douglass is a lovely American actress who was actually born in Japan. Science Fiction fans might remember her from the Gods-Of-Kobol-awful Galactica spin-off, Galactica 1980. According to IMDB.com, she got her professional start aboard The Clone Master (1978) for Paramount Television. Douglass was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his wild and crazy youth, a young Michael Bowen made a brief appearance in Roger Corman's Forbidden World (1982) for New World Pictures. Genre fans might recognize him from his appearances aboard Knight Rider, Night of the Comet (1984), The Adventures of Brisco County Jr., Brimstone, The X-Files, Lost, The Last House On The Left (2009), Cabin Fever 2: Spring Fever (2009), Slumber Party Massacre (2012), All Cheerleaders Die (2013), Gotham, and House By The Lake (2017). Bowen was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Artist and actor Leigh McCloskey has definitely made a mark on Science Fiction by assuming guest spots aboard Isis, The Bermuda Depths (1978), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Babylon 5, and Star Trek: Voyager. McCloskey was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Clearly, Blake Gibbons is no genre heavyweight, but he's enjoyed some screen time in such programs as Charmed, A.I. Assault (2006), and The CW's long-running Supernatural. Gibbons was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I'll probably always think of him as the evil 'Governor' from AMC's The Walking Dead, actor David Morrissey hung up his eye patch in favor of some military colors to share the small screen with Halle Berry in CBS's Extant. For good measure, the actor has also made a guest starring appearance on Doctor Who (above right). Morrissey was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The great Doug Savant is a reliable character actor who can make waves in any genre. SciFi fans probably know him best from appearances in The Outer Limits, Godzilla (1998), Harsh Realm, Firefly, and The X-Files. Savant was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Approximately one-half of the creative team behind The Matrix franchise of films -- Lana Wachowski (previously 'Larry Wachowski') -- celebrates her (previously 'his') birthday today. In his/her time in the business, he/she has also contributed to such other genre projects as V For Vendetta (2005), Speed Racer (2008), Cloud Atlas (2012), Jupiter Ascending (2015), Sense8, and The Matrix Resurrections (2021). Wachowski was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I viewed a broadcast streaming of The Matrix Revolutions via a pay cable subscription. Interested readers can find my 'Quick Thoughts' on the production right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- In 1997, Lana Wachowski earned a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Writing' for his/her work in crafting Bound (1996) for the big screen.
- In 2000, he/she took home the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Director' for his/her work in delivering The Matrix (1999) to screens. He/She had to settle for the honor of a nomination alone in the category of 'Best Writer' for the same.
- At the 2000 Hugo Awards, Wachowski's The Matrix (1999) earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
- In 2007, Wachowski earned another Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Writing' for his/her adaptation of V For Vendetta (2005) for the screen.
- Also in 2007, he/she earned his/her second Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' for V For Vendetta (2005).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I viewed a broadcast streaming of The Matrix Revolutions via a pay cable subscription. Interested readers can find my 'Quick Thoughts' on the production right here.
The delicious Carrie Preston delivered some comic relief to HBO's Fantasy-themed Vampire program True Blood throughout its run on the pay cable network. Preston was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The always interesting Juliette Lewis made a rare appearance in the realm of Science Fiction by appearing in James Cameron's largely forgotten flick, Strange Days. Lewis was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com's citations are correct, then methinks that the lovely Kelsey Matheson has left the whole acting thing behind for family and greener pastures. Thankfully she has a few genre credits so that we can give her a shout here, including roles in Code Name Phoenix (2000), Dracula 2000 (2000), and the SciFi/Short-Film Space Zombies: Terror From The Sky (2003). Matheson was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The Americanized version of the BBC's Life On Mars never even begins to approach the original's greatness. For starters, the BBC's is clearly grounded in characters and fantasy while the US "interpretation" never quite finds a compelling center and, instead, goes for a big(ish) SciFi finale. Meh. Still, I love Maggie Siff, and she gave an otherwise forgettable series a reason to pay attention. Siff was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Nathan Darrow has brought to life the character of 'Victor Fries' (aka Mr. Freeze) for Fox TV's popular Gotham. Darrow was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ultimately, I think each of us has a reason deep down as to why we love the BBC's long-running SciFi juggernaut, Doctor Who, but I'd like to think that it's mainly due to the almost 'fairy tale quality' to the writing. The show certainly plumbs the depths of our nightmares as Will Thorp's make-up for his appearances as Toby Zed can attest. Thorp was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Erica Durance was a late addition to the WB's Smallville series, coming aboard the show as yet the next TV incarnation of that feisty, spunky reporter Lois Lane. She's also made appearances in the Andromeda, Stargate: SG-1, and Supergirl TV universes, and she continues to be one of the hottest properties in fandom today. Durance was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the lady's credit, Durance enjoyed nominations in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress On Television' for her work aboard Smallville in the years 2005 and 2006. Then, in 2011, she enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Actress On Television' for the same. Well done, milady!
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the lady's credit, Durance enjoyed nominations in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress On Television' for her work aboard Smallville in the years 2005 and 2006. Then, in 2011, she enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Actress On Television' for the same. Well done, milady!
Chris Pratt played the lovable doofus 'Andy Dwyer' on NBC's Parks & Recreation (one of my personal favorite sitcoms ever), and he does so with such perfection that I've wondered if audiences would take him seriously elsewhere. Well, he headlined Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy (2014) to great acclaim, so I guess we know the answer. Also, you can catch him in the Jurassic Park sequel, Jurassic World. Pratt was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I streamed a showing of The Tomorrow War (2021) via my subscription to Amazon Prime. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- In 2015, Pratt took home top honors from the Saturn Awards in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work aboard Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy (2014).
- In 2017, the actor enjoyed his second Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work aboard Passengers (2016).
- In 2024, he enjoyed his third Saturn Awards nomination, this time in the category of 'Best Actor In A Film,' for his work aboard Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023).
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I streamed a showing of The Tomorrow War (2021) via my subscription to Amazon Prime. Interested readers can find my thoughts right here.
The talented Benjamin Walker brought to life some of the more fantastical elements of a U.S. President's secret life in Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012). Walker was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Should you share the screen with a Terminator -- regardless of the make or model -- methinks you deserve a mention, and such is the case for Brian Sites, who shared the screen briefly with one of the cybernetic killer in Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines. Sites was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Scam artist and race baiter Jussie Smollett tried Science Fiction on for size with a role aboard Ridley Scott's Alien: Covenant (2017), which was sadly poorly received by audiences. Don't know what this guy is up to now, though I think he had something to do with Subway not too long back. Smollett was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I attended a screening of Alien: Covenant (2017) during its original theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I attended a screening of Alien: Covenant (2017) during its original theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Annalisa Cochrane took a trip into the world of televised Fantasy with a guest visit to Henry Danger for good measure. Cochrane was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
HubbaHubba Alert! The eye-catching Kalinka Petrie stole scenes aboard Syfy's signature SciFi/Serial Killjoys during its 2017 season. She also enjoyed a few appearances aboard the Americanized remake of Being Human. Petrie was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Natalie Alyn Lind continues to blossom in all of the right ways. Genre fans probably know her best from work aboard Fox TV's The Gifted during its run on the network. She also enjoyed a bit of treacherous screen time aboard Pet Sematary: Bloodlines (2023) for Paramount Pictures. Lind was born on this day in 1999.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born ... and isn't she lovely? On this day in 1925 (in Portugal), audiences were treated to one of the earliest attempts to bring H. Rider Haggard's immortal She to the silver screen. This version was adapted by screenwriters G.B Samuelson and Walter Summers. Leander De Cordova and Samuelson shared directing responsibilies. The film starred Betty Blythe, Carlyle Blackwell, and Mary Odette. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In Africa an explorer is the reincarnated lover of the 2,000-year-old White Queen."
"In Africa an explorer is the reincarnated lover of the 2,000-year-old White Queen."
A star is born! On this day in 1931 (in the U.S.), The Black Camel enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever ... and it was apparently a black-tie affair! Directed by Hamilton MacFadden, the Charlie Chan Horror/Mystery starred Warner Oland, Bela Lugosi, and Sally Eilers. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The unsolved murder of a Hollywood actor several years earlier and an enigmatic psychic are the keys to help Charlie solve the Honolulu stabbing death of a beautiful actress."
"The unsolved murder of a Hollywood actor several years earlier and an enigmatic psychic are the keys to help Charlie solve the Honolulu stabbing death of a beautiful actress."
A star is born! On this day in 1963 (in West Germany), The Strangler Of Blackmoor Castle began his (or her?) nefarious cinematic pursuits. Directed by Harald Reinl, the Horror/Fantasy starred Karin Dor, Harry Riebauer, and Rudolf Fernau. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A strangler is loose on a British estate, and he not only strangles his victims but brands an "M" onto their foreheads before he decapitates them."
"A strangler is loose on a British estate, and he not only strangles his victims but brands an "M" onto their foreheads before he decapitates them."
A star is born! On this day in 1964 (in Italy), audiences were treated to the curiously-named The Twelve-Handed Men Of Mars in its theatrical debut. Written (in part) and directed by the team of Franco Castellano and Giuseppe Moccia, the SciFi/Comedy starred Paolo Panelli, Carlo Croccolo, and Enzo Garinei. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Four extraterrestrials, X-1, X-2, X-3 and X-4, arrive on Earth in the early sixties. Here they decide to take on human features to study the terrestrials incognito, but end up getting involved in the Roman "dolce vita"."
"Four extraterrestrials, X-1, X-2, X-3 and X-4, arrive on Earth in the early sixties. Here they decide to take on human features to study the terrestrials incognito, but end up getting involved in the Roman "dolce vita"."
On this day in 1972 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Horror hybrid Beware! The Blob enjoyed its release. Directed by Larry Hagman (yes, THAT Larry Hagman), the feature starred Robert Walker Jr., Gwynne Gilford, and Richard Stahl; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A technician brings a frozen specimen of the original Blob back from the North Pole. When his wife accidentally defrosts the thing, it terrorizes the populace, including the local hippies, kittens, and bowlers."
For the record:
At the 1975 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Beware! The Blob enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"A technician brings a frozen specimen of the original Blob back from the North Pole. When his wife accidentally defrosts the thing, it terrorizes the populace, including the local hippies, kittens, and bowlers."
For the record:
At the 1975 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Beware! The Blob enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born ... or is that a Groundstar? On this day in 1972 (in the U.S.), The Groundstar Conspiracy enjoyed its first theatrical release. Directed by Lamont Johnson from a story by Leslie P. Davies and Douglas Heyes, the SciFi/Thriller starred George Peppard, Michael Sarrazin, and Christine Belford. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A government investigator tries to find out the truth behind the break-in at a top secret research facility."
"A government investigator tries to find out the truth behind the break-in at a top secret research facility."
A star is born! On this day in 1973 (in France), Love Brides Of The Blood Mummy delivered a dose of bloody terror to the silver screen. Directed by Alejandro Marti from a story by Vincent Didier and Julio Salvador, the Horror/Fantasy starred George Rigaud, Michael Flynn, and Catherine Franck. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A revived mummy needs the blood of young women to slake his thirst."
"A revived mummy needs the blood of young women to slake his thirst."
A star is born! On this day in 1973 (in Mexico), The Invasion Of The Dead (aka Blue Demon y Zovek en La invasión de los muertos) enjoyed its only theatrical release of record (if IMDB.com is to be trusted). Written and directed by Rene Cardona, the Horror/Thriller starred Christa Linder, Zovek, and Alejandro Moreno. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Professor Bruno Volpi spots some strange paintings on a cliff. He sends for Professor Zovek to help him discover its meaning. Zovek uses his powers to figure the writings are a warning that a cosmic tragedy is going to happen. Their fears prove to be true when a fire ball falls from the skies causing the ressurrection of the dead as zombies, craving for human flesh."
"Professor Bruno Volpi spots some strange paintings on a cliff. He sends for Professor Zovek to help him discover its meaning. Zovek uses his powers to figure the writings are a warning that a cosmic tragedy is going to happen. Their fears prove to be true when a fire ball falls from the skies causing the ressurrection of the dead as zombies, craving for human flesh."
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), the good people of Mandan, North Dakota were treated to a look into a sexy tomorrow with the silver screen release of 2069: A Sex Odyssey. Directed by Georg Tressler from a story by Willy Pribil, the Adult/Fantasy starred Nina Frederik, Catharini Conti, and Heidrun Hankammer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Five sexy females from the planet Venus are sent to Earth to bring back sperm samples to their planet. In Bavaria they use machines to extract the samples from resisting males but soon learn that sex is an easier way to get what they want."
"Five sexy females from the planet Venus are sent to Earth to bring back sperm samples to their planet. In Bavaria they use machines to extract the samples from resisting males but soon learn that sex is an easier way to get what they want."
On this day in 1979 (in the Netherlands), Starcrash crashed into pop culture history. Written (in part) and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Caroline Munro, Marjoe Gornter, and Christopher Plummer; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An outlaw smuggler and her alien companion are recruited by the Emperor of the Galaxy to rescue his son and destroy a secret weapon by the evil Count Zarth Arn."
For the record:
At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Starcrash received a nomination in the category of 'Best Foreign Film.'
"An outlaw smuggler and her alien companion are recruited by the Emperor of the Galaxy to rescue his son and destroy a secret weapon by the evil Count Zarth Arn."
For the record:
At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Starcrash received a nomination in the category of 'Best Foreign Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1979 (in Italy), the good people of Milan were treated to the big screen debut of Super Andy, Ugly Brother Of Superman. Directed by Paolo Bianchini from a story by Leone Colonna, the SciFi/Comedy starred Andy Luotto, Gino Santercole, and Eurilla del Bono. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"SuperAndy arrives in Italy after the destruction of his home planet of Krypton, in this Italian spoof of Superman."
"SuperAndy arrives in Italy after the destruction of his home planet of Krypton, in this Italian spoof of Superman."
A star is born! How do you combine senior citizens in a retirement living community with science fiction and come up with a crowd-pleasing motion picture? Why, you hire Ron Howard to direct Cocoon! The film explored what effects an alien pod had on the old folks -- giving them a sense of youthful rejuvenation -- and it stirred up big business at the summer box office when it premiered on this day in 1985. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a group of trespassing seniors swim in a pool containing alien cocoons, they find themselves energized with youthful vigor."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cocoon enjoyed a pair of Oscar wins -- actor Don Ameche took home the gold statue in the 'Best Actor In A Supporting Role' category and the film's effects team all shared on the 'Best Effects - Best Visual Effects' win. At the 1986 Saturn Awards, director Ron Howard took home the trophy for the 'Best Director' category but the film missed out in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards gave the flick a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"When a group of trespassing seniors swim in a pool containing alien cocoons, they find themselves energized with youthful vigor."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cocoon enjoyed a pair of Oscar wins -- actor Don Ameche took home the gold statue in the 'Best Actor In A Supporting Role' category and the film's effects team all shared on the 'Best Effects - Best Visual Effects' win. At the 1986 Saturn Awards, director Ron Howard took home the trophy for the 'Best Director' category but the film missed out in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards gave the flick a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born ... and you said a mouthful! On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), audiences were assaulted with Lifeforce. Directed by Tobe Hooper, the script by Dan O'Bannon and Don Jakoby was an adaptation of the Colin Wilson novel ("The Space Vampires"). The SciFi/Thriller starred Steve Railsback, Mathilda May, and Colin Firth. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), audiences returned to the ultimate land of Fantasy with the theatrical release of Return To Oz. Written (in part) and directed by Walter Murch, the film starred Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, and Jean Marsh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dorothy, saved from a psychiatric experiment by a mysterious girl, is somehow called back to Oz when a vain witch and the Nome King destroy everything that makes the magical land beautiful."
"Dorothy, saved from a psychiatric experiment by a mysterious girl, is somehow called back to Oz when a vain witch and the Nome King destroy everything that makes the magical land beautiful."
A star is born! On this day in 1986 (in Japan), Death Powder enjoyed its theatical release. The feature starred Shigeru Izumiya and Takichi Inukai, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two people, a man and a woman enters a warehouse that will change their life and minds forever."
"Two people, a man and a woman enters a warehouse that will change their life and minds forever."
A star is born! On this day in 1986 (in Japan), the SciFi/Anime Project A-Ko enjoyed its theatrical run. The project featured the talents of Miki Itô and Stacey Gregg, and here's the premise as listed on the reliable IMDB.com:
"Project A-ko is the typical love triangle of three school girls and their confrontations with aliens, giant robots, and women who look like burly men."
"Project A-ko is the typical love triangle of three school girls and their confrontations with aliens, giant robots, and women who look like burly men."
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in Japan), the kinda/sorta lusty Star Virgin enjoyed its premiere on home video. The feature starred Eiko Kuroki in the -- ahem -- titular role, and here's the plot summary compliments of Letterboxd online:
"Eiko is an alien girl with a unique superpower. She can sense when a man or a monster is out to rape her and take her virginity. She can transform into a superhero, Star Virgin, and use her super powers to destroy anyone out to take her chastity. Star Virgin never wears more than a small bikini and a headdress. Along with keeping her virginity, Eriko has to save the world from killer robots and spend time with her nerdy boyfriend."
"Eiko is an alien girl with a unique superpower. She can sense when a man or a monster is out to rape her and take her virginity. She can transform into a superhero, Star Virgin, and use her super powers to destroy anyone out to take her chastity. Star Virgin never wears more than a small bikini and a headdress. Along with keeping her virginity, Eriko has to save the world from killer robots and spend time with her nerdy boyfriend."
On this day in 1988 (in Spain), The Brother From Space crashed down to Earth (in theatres, that is). It starred Martin Balsam and Agostina Belli, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"After the crash of their spaceship the only surviving alien seeks refuge from the government. He finds the help of a blind music teacher with psychic powers, and a sympathetic priest."
"After the crash of their spaceship the only surviving alien seeks refuge from the government. He finds the help of a blind music teacher with psychic powers, and a sympathetic priest."
A star is born! On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), Suburban Commando enjoyed a limited theatrical release of record. Directed by Burt Kennedy from a story by Frank A. Cappello, the SciFi/Comedy starred Hulk Hogan, Christopher Lloyd, and Shelley Duvall. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An interstellar hero from a distant world visits Earth, and tries to fit in with a mundane, yet kind, suburban family."
"An interstellar hero from a distant world visits Earth, and tries to fit in with a mundane, yet kind, suburban family."
On this day in 1991 (in the U.S. and Canada), Walt Disney took to the skies with the theatrical release of The Rocketeer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young pilot stumbles onto a prototype jetpack that allows him to become a high-flying masked hero."
For the record:
The Rocketeer took home the Saturn Award for 'Best Costumes' from the 1992 ceremony sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films while missing out on top honors in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' It also enjoyed the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1992 Hugo Awards ... but didn't win the top prize.
"A young pilot stumbles onto a prototype jetpack that allows him to become a high-flying masked hero."
For the record:
The Rocketeer took home the Saturn Award for 'Best Costumes' from the 1992 ceremony sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films while missing out on top honors in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' It also enjoyed the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1992 Hugo Awards ... but didn't win the top prize.
On this day in 1996 (in Japan), Proteus enjoyed its submergence with a release on home video. Directed by Bob Keen from a story by John Brosnan and Robert Firth, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Craig Fairbrass, Toni Barry, and William Marsh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Group of heroin smugglers finds shelter on abandoned oil rig after their ship had exploded. Soon they find that the oil rig was just cover for biological experiment. One of the results is Charlie - shape-shifting monster with ability to absorb the memory of its victims. However, even such creatures have their own bad habits."
"Group of heroin smugglers finds shelter on abandoned oil rig after their ship had exploded. Soon they find that the oil rig was just cover for biological experiment. One of the results is Charlie - shape-shifting monster with ability to absorb the memory of its victims. However, even such creatures have their own bad habits."
A star is born! On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), audiences were afraid to go back out into the crop with the home video release of Children Of The Corn V: Fields Of Terror. Written (in part) and directed by Ethan Wiley, the Horror/Fantasy starred Stacy Galina, Alexis Arquette, and Eva Mendes. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Six college students on a road trip take a wrong turn and end up trapped in a strangely deserted rural town inhabited by a murdeous cult of children."
"Six college students on a road trip take a wrong turn and end up trapped in a strangely deserted rural town inhabited by a murdeous cult of children."
A star is born! On this day in 2000 (in Belgium), Amazon enjoyed its big screen theatrical debut. Written (in part) and directed by Philippe de Broca, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jean-Paul Belmondo, Arielle Dombasle, and Patrick Bouchitey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On an observatory set high on a mountain, astronomers make a stunning discovery somewhere out in the galaxy. A flying object in the depths of the cosmos is showing signs of life, emitting an intelligent signal. The UFO has just landed on Earth somewhere in the midst of a rainforest. Margot, the enthusiastic young woman heading up the research team, decides to go to the spot and check out this phenomenon. Meanwhile Edouard, our hero, studies the flora and fauna of the tree tops in the rainforest. He perches on an enormous net that stretches over the still pure, unadulterated forest that spreads out beneath him. He discovers a naked little twelve-year old girl seated on the net. He covers her with a broad banana leaf and asks where she comes from. She quickly replies, in perfect French 'from another world'."
"On an observatory set high on a mountain, astronomers make a stunning discovery somewhere out in the galaxy. A flying object in the depths of the cosmos is showing signs of life, emitting an intelligent signal. The UFO has just landed on Earth somewhere in the midst of a rainforest. Margot, the enthusiastic young woman heading up the research team, decides to go to the spot and check out this phenomenon. Meanwhile Edouard, our hero, studies the flora and fauna of the tree tops in the rainforest. He perches on an enormous net that stretches over the still pure, unadulterated forest that spreads out beneath him. He discovers a naked little twelve-year old girl seated on the net. He covers her with a broad banana leaf and asks where she comes from. She quickly replies, in perfect French 'from another world'."
On this day in 2004 (in the United Arab Emirates), Resident Evil delivered its evil goods to folks searching for it in the home video market. Written and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, and Ryan McCluskey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
This day marked the film's full U.S. (and Canada) theatrical release, though it actually enjoyed its first theatrical screening in Los Angeles on March 12, 2002. At the 2003 Saturn Awards, Resident Evil enjoyed a pair of nominations -- 'Best Actress' and 'Best Horror Film' -- but missed out on the trophy in both cases.
"A special military unit fights a powerful, out-of-control supercomputer and hundreds of scientists who have mutated into flesh-eating creatures after a laboratory accident."
For the record:
This day marked the film's full U.S. (and Canada) theatrical release, though it actually enjoyed its first theatrical screening in Los Angeles on March 12, 2002. At the 2003 Saturn Awards, Resident Evil enjoyed a pair of nominations -- 'Best Actress' and 'Best Horror Film' -- but missed out on the trophy in both cases.
A star is born! On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen debut of Superman Returns. Written (in part) and directed by Bryan Singer, the Superhero/Fantasy starred Brandon Routh, Kevin Spacey, and Kate Bosworth. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Superman returns to Earth after spending five years in space examining his homeworld Krypton. But he finds things have changed while he was gone, and he must once again prove himself important to the world."
For the record:
"Superman returns to Earth after spending five years in space examining his homeworld Krypton. But he finds things have changed while he was gone, and he must once again prove himself important to the world."
For the record:
- At the 2007 Academy Awards, Superman Returns enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.'
- At the 2007 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Superman Returns took home two trophies and had to settle for nominations alone in two others. Brandon Routh took home the 'Best Actor' Award, and the film garnered the big win of 'Best Fantasy Film.' Actress Kate Bosworth missed out on 'Best Actress,' and actor James Marsden did as well in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.'
On this day in 2007 (in Israel and Russia), Planet Terror took a shot in the dark at screen history. Written and directed by Robert Rodriguez, the SciFi/Comedy starred Rose McGowan, Freddy Rodriguez, and Josh Brolin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After an experimental bio-weapon is released, turning thousands into zombie-like creatures, it's up to a rag-tag group of survivors to stop the infected and those behind its release."
"After an experimental bio-weapon is released, turning thousands into zombie-like creatures, it's up to a rag-tag group of survivors to stop the infected and those behind its release."
A star is born ... and this one's animated! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the theatrical debut of Wall-E. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Stanton, the SciFi/Fantasy featured the voice talents of Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, and Jeff Garlin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the distant future, a small waste-collecting robot inadvertently embarks on a space journey that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind."
"In the distant future, a small waste-collecting robot inadvertently embarks on a space journey that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind."
On this day in 2010 (in Germany), 1957's Russian-language SciFi Doroga K Zvezdam enjoyed its release in the home video market. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A groundbreaking popular science fiction film about the past and future of astronautics, from the first experiments by Konstantin Tsiolkovsky to the manned spaceflight and colonization of the Moon."
"A groundbreaking popular science fiction film about the past and future of astronautics, from the first experiments by Konstantin Tsiolkovsky to the manned spaceflight and colonization of the Moon."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), For The Plasma enjoyed its first exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the BAMcinema Fest. Directed by the team of Bingham Bryant and Kyle Molzan, the SciFi/Comedy starred James Han, Erica Jennifer Hill, and Ryohei Hoshi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In Maine, two friends predict how the global financial market is going to change based on CCTV footage of a surrounding forest."
"In Maine, two friends predict how the global financial market is going to change based on CCTV footage of a surrounding forest."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Slave Girlsl On The Moon got into the theatrical act when they premiered for the good people of McAllen, Texas. Written and directed by Joshua Kennedy, the SciFi/Comedy starred Madelyn Wiley, Devin Dunne, and Tomi Heady. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When her colleague is accidentally shot into the year 8888 and sent to a prison on the Moon, scientist Chloe Trustcott must travel to the future and get arrested herself to plan a prison-break in order to save her."
"When her colleague is accidentally shot into the year 8888 and sent to a prison on the Moon, scientist Chloe Trustcott must travel to the future and get arrested herself to plan a prison-break in order to save her."
On this day in 2014 (in Canada), The Infinite Man played for audiences in attendance of the Niagara Integrated Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man's attempts to construct the ultimate romantic weekend backfire when his quest for perfection traps his lover in an infinite loop."
"A man's attempts to construct the ultimate romantic weekend backfire when his quest for perfection traps his lover in an infinite loop."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the Netherlands), audiences were treated to the cinematic spectacle better known as Fire Twister. Directed by George Erschbamer from a story by Larry Bain, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Casper Van Dien, Lisa Davis, and Johnny Hawkes. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man-made fire twister sweeps through Los Angeles, leaving the city in ruins. However, all is not lost when a group of strangers band together to put an end to the destruction."
"A man-made fire twister sweeps through Los Angeles, leaving the city in ruins. However, all is not lost when a group of strangers band together to put an end to the destruction."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in Berlin, Germany), Terminator Genisys enjoyed its original theatrical premiere. Written by Laeta Kalogridis and Patrick Lussier and directed by Alan Taylor, this SciFi/Actioner starred Arnold 'Screw Your Freedoms' Schwarzenegger, Emilia Clarke, and Jai Courtney. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When John Connor, leader of the human resistance, sends Sgt. Kyle Reese back to 1984 to protect Sarah Connor and safeguard the future, an unexpected turn of events creates a fractured timeline."
For the record:
In 2016, Terminator Genisys was nominated in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films ... but it didn't win.
"When John Connor, leader of the human resistance, sends Sgt. Kyle Reese back to 1984 to protect Sarah Connor and safeguard the future, an unexpected turn of events creates a fractured timeline."
For the record:
In 2016, Terminator Genisys was nominated in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films ... but it didn't win.
On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom), the 1972-produced Horror/Fantasy telefilm The Night Stalker played for audiences in attendance of the Edinburgh International Film Festival in Scotland. Directed by John Llewellyn Moxey, the film starred Darren McGavin as the signature reporter chasing after things that go bump in the night; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An abrasive Las Vegas newspaper reporter investigates a series of murders committed by a vampire.
"An abrasive Las Vegas newspaper reporter investigates a series of murders committed by a vampire.
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Space Patrol aired "Mission To Mercury." Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Solarguard.com:
"Cadet Happy is sent on an important mission to Mercury with a briefcase full of papers which put the finger on an interplanetary official involved in a bribery scandal. In an unguarded moment the suspect replaces the contents of the case with a time bomb."
"Cadet Happy is sent on an important mission to Mercury with a briefcase full of papers which put the finger on an interplanetary official involved in a bribery scandal. In an unguarded moment the suspect replaces the contents of the case with a time bomb."
It all began right here: on this day in 1974 (in Australia), Alpha Scorpio aired its first episode in its single season broadcast existence. I've been unable to find individual episode summaries, so in lieu of that I'm provided the series' summary from IMDB.com:
"Two university students discover that their friend Mirny is a member of a group of aliens who have recently landed on Earth."
"Two university students discover that their friend Mirny is a member of a group of aliens who have recently landed on Earth."
On this day in 1994 (in France), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman aired "Fly Hard." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Armed criminals invade the Daily Planet, taking everyone inside hostage, including Clark, Lois, Perry, and Lex Luthor. Clark is unable to use his powers for fear that he will put the others in danger."
"Armed criminals invade the Daily Planet, taking everyone inside hostage, including Clark, Lois, Perry, and Lex Luthor. Clark is unable to use his powers for fear that he will put the others in danger."
On this day in 2002, Farscape aired the third episode of its fourth season, an adventure titled "What Was Lost, Part 2: Resurrection." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The crew discovers how far Scorpius has fallen in the Peacekeeper ranks. They must find and activate all the probes to stop the magnetic storm on Arnesk, but someone doesn't want them stopped."
"The crew discovers how far Scorpius has fallen in the Peacekeeper ranks. They must find and activate all the probes to stop the magnetic storm on Arnesk, but someone doesn't want them stopped."
It all began right here: on this day in 2002, Odyssey 5 aired its pilot episode for the very first time ever. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Five astronauts are sole survivors of an inexplicable apocalyptic event that caused Earth to suddenly blow up. An alien AI construct that's investigating similar incidents arrives and sends them five years into the past to stop the event."
"Five astronauts are sole survivors of an inexplicable apocalyptic event that caused Earth to suddenly blow up. An alien AI construct that's investigating similar incidents arrives and sends them five years into the past to stop the event."
On this day in 2003, Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "Divine Thunder." This served as the thirty-seventh episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2007 (in the Netherlands), Heroes aired "Chapter 01 - Genesis." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
On this day in 2009 (in Hungary), Quantum Leap aired "A Song For The Soul." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Singing in a 1960's black girl band, Sam must save one member from an unscrupulous nightclub owner."
"Singing in a 1960's black girl band, Sam must save one member from an unscrupulous nightclub owner."
On this day in 2011 (in the United Kingdom), Primeval aired "The End Of The Future: Part 1." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the team explains to James that Burton was in league with Helen Cutter in wishing to return the world to its primeval state a huge T Rex which has come through one of his anomalies and is on the rampage in London needs their attention. Anomalies are opening the world over and Burton leaves Connor to die at one nearer home though fortunately Abby comes to the rescue. The team tries in vain to get Burton to close down his New Dawn machine but,after pterodactyls have seen off April,Burton closes all the other anomalies worldwide putting all their power into a huge one at ARC through which Connor is sucked."
"As the team explains to James that Burton was in league with Helen Cutter in wishing to return the world to its primeval state a huge T Rex which has come through one of his anomalies and is on the rampage in London needs their attention. Anomalies are opening the world over and Burton leaves Connor to die at one nearer home though fortunately Abby comes to the rescue. The team tries in vain to get Burton to close down his New Dawn machine but,after pterodactyls have seen off April,Burton closes all the other anomalies worldwide putting all their power into a huge one at ARC through which Connor is sucked."
On this day in 1953, The Shadow radio serial aired "The Invisible Weapon." According to our friends at The Shadow Wiki, it would appear all details surrounding this tale have been lost to history. Not even The Shadow knows!
