It was on this day theatrically back in 1979 when audiences first learned that, in space, no one can hear you scream but they sure as heck can hear it in the movie-house: Ridley Scott's seminal Alien took us to realms unimaginable. Understandably, plenty of folks were scared silly when the creature first appeared on screens, and decades later the movie continues to be one of sci-fi highwater marks of sci-fi greatness. For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, I offer you the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The commercial vessel Nostromo receives a distress call from an unexplored planet. After searching for survivors, the crew heads home only to realize that a deadly bioform has joined them."
"The commercial vessel Nostromo receives a distress call from an unexplored planet. After searching for survivors, the crew heads home only to realize that a deadly bioform has joined them."
English author H. Rider Haggard is behind some of the greatest written adventures in all of literature. His Allan Quartermain character was featured in eighteen different stories -- the most popular of which likely clocks in as King Solomon's Mines (which has been adapted to the screen) -- and his novel She has been given theatrical treatment in 1925, 1935, and 1965, all to critical praise. Though he's no longer with us, Haggard was born on this day in 1856.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As can happen quite often in the world of entertainment, you might have heard a great deal of Paul Frees work but never even known it. This is because a good portion of his professional life was spent as a voice actor in animation and in live action productions. His resume up on IMDB.com shows a mind-blowing 377 different credits, and there are many, many, many which appear to have been in Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Animated projects near and far. He did squeeze in a live action bit aboard 1953's groundbreaking The War Of The Worlds (shown above) as the radio announcer who is on-the-scene recounting Earth's first contact with the Martians. Though he's no longer with us, Frees was born on this day in 1920.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Roger Cudney leaves behind a resume rich in over one hundred and fifty different screen roles. Genre fans might remember him best as one of the agents leading Arnold Schwarzenegger on the mission of a lifetime aboard 1990's SciFi/Gem Total Recall. Though he's no longer with us, Cudney was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Singer-turned-actor Kris Kristofferson dipped his toes deep into the realm of Comic Book Fantasy with a terrific role in Marvel's Blade franchise. As far as Science Fiction goes, in the late 1980's the actor had a great one-two punch with roles in TV's Amerika and the Cult-favorite Millennium (1989). In 2001, he voiced one of the apes for Tim Burton's Planet Of The Apes redux. Though he's no longer with us, Kristofferson was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Michael Lerner has nearly 200 different projects to his name (according to IMDB.com), and he turns up in genre projects, too, from time to time. SciFi fans probably recognize him from his work in Godzilla (1998) or X-Men: Days Of Future Past. Lerner was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sorry, folks, but I'm not as well read as the next Science Fiction and Fantasy blogger. I do prowl the book shelves from time-to-time, and the late Octavia E. Butler is an author that's been recommended to me. A few years back, I did start one of her novels (I couldn't tell you which), and it just didn't draw me in. Maybe I'll pick up a collection of her short stories to tide me over when time permits. In any event, Butler was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
Proving he had the ears to spot a good script, funnyman David L. Lander dressed up as no less than a Ferengi for a guest appearance aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation. With over one hundred different screen credits to his name, I suspect that those of my generation will always remember him as 'Squiggy' from the long-running sitcom Laverne & Shirley, but the actor has an incredibly impressive resume that genre nuts should take note of. In his tenure in business, he dabbled in such works as Galaxy High School, The Big Bang (1987), Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), Monsters, Twin Peaks, Batman: The Animated Series, Homeboys In Outer Space, Superman: The Animated Series, Titan A.E. (2000), Black Scorpion, Zoom (2006), and Green Lantern: First Flight (2009). Though he's no longer with us, Lander was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fox Television's long-running The X-Files has an incredible roster of guest appearances, of which the very talented Steve Eastin is included. This character actor has endured since the early 1970's and is well into his fifth decade in show business. Genre fans might recognize him from work aboard Wonder Woman, The Six Million Dollar Man, Starman, The Hidden (1987), Field Of Dreams (1989), Robot Wars (1993), The Hidden II (1993), The X-Files, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, and Black Scorpion. Eastin was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Activist, actress, and Harvey Weinstein enabler Meryl Streep showed her true evil colors aboard the cinematic adaptation of The Giver (2014). Streep was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
TV Science Fiction in the 1970's was so much different than TV SciFi of today. For one thing, we didn't have all of this CGI that could fix issues in post. Perhaps The Bionic Woman is one of the best examples. The lovely Jaime Sommers -- as played by the equally lovely Lindsay Wagner -- used her bionics to help solve crimes and fight dastardly villains; because these Space Age biomechanics were buried beneath human tissue, producers didn't have to squander their budget on expensive make-up effects. Plus, fanboys got to swoon over Lindsay for an hour, and that wasn't a bad trade-off. Wagner was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1977 Primetime Emmys Awards, Wagner took home top honors in the category of 'Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series' for her work aboard The Bionic Woman.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1977 Primetime Emmys Awards, Wagner took home top honors in the category of 'Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series' for her work aboard The Bionic Woman.
Actor Graham Greene plays Rafe McCawley on Syfy's Defiance, a program about the survivors of planet Earth after an alien war has decimated the cities. Mr. Greene was born on this day back in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tuvok -- the Vulcan Security Officer who appeared on Star Trek: Voyager -- was a character I had plenty of respect for. In actor Tim Russ's more than capable hands, the Vulcan always maintained a level of dignified respect for everyone around him, but there were some wonderfully quirky moments laced with just the right balance of that forbidden emotion. The actor has also enjoyed a bit of screen notoriety in such projects as Amazing Stories, Starman, Timestalkers, Spaceballs (1987), The Twilight Zone, The Highwayman, Beauty And The Beast, The People Next Door, Freddy's Nightmares, Eve Of Destruction (1991), Journey To The Center Of The Earth (1993), Star Trek: The Next Generation, Seaquest, Star Trek: Generations (1994), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Cabinet Of Dr. Caligari (2005), InAlienable (2007), Star Trek Phase II, Lab Rats, Asteroid Vs Earth (2014), Sharknado III: Oh Hell No (2015), Star Trek: Renegades, 5th Passenger (2017), Personal Space, Supergirl, Karma (2018), The Orville, Swamp Thing, American Horror Story, The Midnight Sky (2020), Them, 4400, and Star Trek: Picard. Mr. Russ was born on this day back in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Genre favorite Bruce Campbell has flirted with an awful lot of properties that dabbled with sci-fi, but perhaps the best (for my tastes, anyway) was Fox TV's single season outing of The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. In it, Campbell played the signature kinda/sorta lawman roaming the West in pursuit of baddies who used futuristic technology to murder his legendary father. Campbell was born on this day in 1958. Groovy!
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- At the 1993 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, the actor took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work in bringing Army Of Darkness (1992) to screens.
- At the 2004 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, he took home his second Chainsaw in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work aboard Bubba Ho-Tep (2002).
- At the 2016 Saturn Awards, Bruce Campbell took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actor On Television' for his work aboard the Ash Vs Evil Dead series. (FYI: he earned two additional nominations -- in the same category -- in 2017 and 2018 but had to settle for the honor of a nomination alone at those ceremonies.)
- At the 2016 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, the actor took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actor' for his work aboard the Ash Vs Evil Dead series. (FYI: he took it home once more for the organization's 2017 ceremony.)
Cleve 'Monster Man' Hall was a special effects master whose body of work included projects that became the bits and pieces of Metalstorm: The Destruction Of Jared-Syn (1983), The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai Across The 8th Dimension (1984), The Dungeonmaster (1984), Ghoulies (1984), Zone Troopers (1985), Eliminators (1986), and a solid handful of additional features. He was even part of the crew that helped to bring the 1985 B-Movie classic Re-Animator to bold cinematic life. Though he's no longer with us, Hall was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Catherine Disher definitely has a lingering love affair with genre projects. From Forever Knight to the short-lived War of the Worlds television series, she's dabbled in some exceptional guest roles and even provided voice to some wonderful animation. Disher was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While he continues working in projects today, actor Nicholas Lea really made a splash in fandom when he took on the role of the dastardly Alex Krycek in Fox TV's The X-Files. He has also made appearances in the universes of The Outer Limits, Andromeda, Kyle XY, V, and Continuum. Lea was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Paterson Joseph should definitely be familiar to SciFi fans. Since launching his career in entertainment, he's been a part of Doctor Who, Aeon Flux (2005), Hyperdrive, and Survivors. Joseph was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As fate would have it, producers for Back To The Future didn't think JJ Cohen was big enough to pull off the role of 'Biff Tannen' in the original BTTF film, but they liked what they saw well enough to keep the actor around as one of Tannen's loyal henchmen throughout the popular time travel trilogy. For what it's worth, the Thespian has some solid genre credentials beyond these as well, garnering screen time aboard V, Amazing Stories, 976-EVIL (1988), and the SciFi/Sitcom 3rd Rock From The Sun. Cohen was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Serious SciFi fans know the name of Michael Sussman. He's served in production responsibilities aboard Star Trek: Enterprise, Threshold, Legend of the Seeker, The Last Ship, and 12 Monkeys. Sussman was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Paula Irvine stepped into the realm of the truly, truly wicked with some silver screen work aboard both Phantasm II (1988) and Phantasm III: Lord Of The Dead (1994). Irvine was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On Syfy's retooled Battlestar Galactica, actor Michael Trucco played Samuel Anders for the program's entire run. The talented young man has also booked appearances aboard Tru Calling, Meteor Storm (TV movie), V, and a wealth of more mainstream fare. Trucco was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hmm. Looks like somebody has a bird problem. That's Laila Rouass, TV survivor from such SciFi projects as the BBC's Primeval and The Sarah Jane Adventures. Rouass was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The multi-talented Sarah Edmondson has a terrific history with genre entertainment in both on-screen and voice roles. In the flesh, she's appeared on The Twilight Zone, Stargate: SG-1, Andromeda, The Dead Zone, Fringe, and Syfy's Continuum. Edmondson was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of Billy Keikeya aboard Syfy's Battlestar Galactica reboot, the young Paul Campbell advised President Roslin on all matters of state. Campbell was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Although SciFi doesn't seem to be her first, best field of employ, Stephany (aka Stephanie) Jacobsen has still gravitated toward some stellar choices. Her TV debut was in a brief role for Farscape. In 2007, she appeared in the Battlestar Galactica: Razor telefilm. Then, in 2008, she stepped into the Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles as 'Jesse Flores,' a mysterious woman with ties to the future. Jacobsen was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
2007's Dragon Wars: D-War is far more fantasy-themed than it is SciFi, but as it's definitely a "close relation" I have no problem citing it here, especially when it gives me the opportunity to give a celebrity shout-out to someone as fetching (and talented) as Amanda Brooks. Brooks was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Will you just look at those eyes? Wowza! The lovely Margareth Madè had a role opposite Alec Baldwin (of all people!) in 2015's SciFi thriller Andron. (It's available on home video, if you're interested.) Madè was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hubba-hubba! Actress Lindsay Ridgeway growed up real nice! In her youth, she had a guest role aboard UPN's Star Trek: Voyager. Ridgeway was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
According to IMDB.com, Douglas Smith got his professional start with a small role aboard Fox TV's popular series The X-Files, and then it's been all uphill from there. His genre work is a bit slim -- small roles, mostly -- but fans have been able to study his craft aboard The Outer Limits, Trancers 6 (2002), Antiviral (2012), Percy Jackson: Sea Of Monsters (2013), and Terminator Genisys (2015). Smith was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Joe Dempsie had a role in the 2008 season of Doctor Who (pictured above right). Fans of his work are probably familiar with his role aboard HBO's Game of Thrones. Dempsie was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sparkly up'n'comer Portia Doubleday played a small role in 2013's critical favorite Her (with Joaquin Phoenix). Doubleday was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Karla Crome first caught my attention as part of the BBC's superhero drama, Misfits. Then she made it over to our side of the pond for a somewhat devilish role aboard CBS's Under the Dome. Crome was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1925, The Lost World enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. Adapted from the novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the Fantasy feature starred Wallace Beery, Bessie Love, and Lloyd Hughes; and here's the premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"The first film adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic novel about a land where prehistoric creatures still roam."
For the record:
In 1998, The Lost World was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, the organization with recognizes features for their ongoing cultural, artistic, or aesthetic significance to the medium.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in the days when I was fairly actively reviewing new genre-specific DVD releases, I had the good fortune of being provided a screening copy of The Lost World. For those who'd like to know what I thought, you can check out my review right here.
"The first film adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic novel about a land where prehistoric creatures still roam."
For the record:
In 1998, The Lost World was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, the organization with recognizes features for their ongoing cultural, artistic, or aesthetic significance to the medium.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in the days when I was fairly actively reviewing new genre-specific DVD releases, I had the good fortune of being provided a screening copy of The Lost World. For those who'd like to know what I thought, you can check out my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), the good people of Long Beach, California were treated to the silver screen premiere of Creature With The Atom Brain. Directed by Edward L. Cahn from a story by Curt Siodmak, the SciFi/Horror starred Richard Denning, Angela Stevens, and S. John Launer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An ex-Nazi mad scientist uses radio-controlled atomic-powered zombies in his quest to help an exiled American gangster return to power."
"An ex-Nazi mad scientist uses radio-controlled atomic-powered zombies in his quest to help an exiled American gangster return to power."
A star is born! On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), It Came From Beneath The Sea submerged from the depths went straight to the silver screen! Directed by Robert Gordon from a script by George Worthing Yates and Harold Jacob Smith, the SciFi feature starred Kenneth Tobey, Donald Curtis, and Faith Domergue. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After an encounter at sea with an unknown underwater creature, a naval commander works with two scientists to identify it. The creature they are dealing with is a giant, radioactive octopus that has left its normal feeding grounds in search of new sources of replenishment. As the creature attacks San Francisco, the Navy tries to trap it at the Golden Gate Bridge but it manages to enter the Bay area leading to a final confrontation with a submarine."
For the record:
For those of you who like this kind of trivia, the giant octopus special effects were designed and completed by the legendary Ray Harryhausen.
"After an encounter at sea with an unknown underwater creature, a naval commander works with two scientists to identify it. The creature they are dealing with is a giant, radioactive octopus that has left its normal feeding grounds in search of new sources of replenishment. As the creature attacks San Francisco, the Navy tries to trap it at the Golden Gate Bridge but it manages to enter the Bay area leading to a final confrontation with a submarine."
For the record:
For those of you who like this kind of trivia, the giant octopus special effects were designed and completed by the legendary Ray Harryhausen.
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (per Google.com), 12 To The Moon enjoyed its silver screen premiere in Los Angeles, California. Directed by David Bradley, the SciFi/Drama starred Ken Clark, Michi Kobi, and Tom Conway; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An international team embarks on an expedition to the moon in an uncommonly spacious rocketship. There they encounter a faceless alien intelligence who conclude that the human race is too immature and dangerous and must be destroyed."
"An international team embarks on an expedition to the moon in an uncommonly spacious rocketship. There they encounter a faceless alien intelligence who conclude that the human race is too immature and dangerous and must be destroyed."
Behind every colossal man is a fetching little lady! On this day in 1962 (in West Germany), The Amazing Colossal Man leapt out of proportion for all he was worth. Directed by Bert I. Gordon, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Glenn Langan, Cathy Downs, and William Hudson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A military officer survives a nuclear blast, only to begin to uncontrollably grow into an increasingly unstable giant."
"A military officer survives a nuclear blast, only to begin to uncontrollably grow into an increasingly unstable giant."
On this day in 1966, Around The World Under The Sea enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Directed by Andrew Marton, the SciFi feature starred Lloyd Bridges, David McCallum, and Shirley Eaton; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"The crew of a five-man submarine travels the world oceans, planting sensors on the ocean floor to warn scientists of any impending earthquakes."
"The crew of a five-man submarine travels the world oceans, planting sensors on the ocean floor to warn scientists of any impending earthquakes."
On this day in 1967 (in West Germany), Star Pilot soared into theatres. Directed by Pietro Francisci, the SciFi feature starred Leonora Ruffo, Roland Lesaffre, and Mario Novelli; and here's the plot summary as listed on IMDB.com:
"Aliens from the constellation Hydra crash-land on the island of Sardinia. A prominent scientist, his daughter, several young technicians, and a pair of Oriental spies are taken hostage by the beings so they can use them to repair their spaceship's broken engine. With that done, they take off towards their home planet, taking the earthlings with them. However, the humans attempt to mutiny against their captors, inadvertently sending their tiny spaceship hurtling into the infinite beyond..."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving an all-new 4K restoration Blu-ray of Star Pilot in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Aliens from the constellation Hydra crash-land on the island of Sardinia. A prominent scientist, his daughter, several young technicians, and a pair of Oriental spies are taken hostage by the beings so they can use them to repair their spaceship's broken engine. With that done, they take off towards their home planet, taking the earthlings with them. However, the humans attempt to mutiny against their captors, inadvertently sending their tiny spaceship hurtling into the infinite beyond..."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving an all-new 4K restoration Blu-ray of Star Pilot in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born ... and this one's incarcerated! On this day in 1973 (in the U.S.), Terminal Island took a look into the SciFi world of capital punishment. Written (in part) and directed by Stephanie Rothman, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Don Marshall, Phyllis Davis, and Marta Kristen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the abolishment of the death penalty, California murderers are dumped on an island to spend the rest of their lives unsupervised. There, two groups are formed, one lead by a psychopath, and another group determined to bring him down."
"After the abolishment of the death penalty, California murderers are dumped on an island to spend the rest of their lives unsupervised. There, two groups are formed, one lead by a psychopath, and another group determined to bring him down."
On this day in 1975, 1969's The Love Factor (aka Zeta One) made first contact with U.S. moviehouses. Written (in part) and directed by Michael Cort, the SciFi/Comedy starred James Robertson Justice, Charles Hawtrey, and Brigitte Skay; and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"A race of topless, large-breasted women from the planet Angvia, in another dimension, come to earth to kidnap women to repopulate their planet."
"A race of topless, large-breasted women from the planet Angvia, in another dimension, come to earth to kidnap women to repopulate their planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), the good people of Lexington, Kentucky were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagement of Shock Waves. Written (in part) and directed by Ken Wiederhorn, the SciFi/Horror starred Peter Cushing, John Carradine, and Brooke Adams. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Visitors to a remote island discover that a reclusive Nazi commandant has been breeding a group of Zombie soldiers."
"Visitors to a remote island discover that a reclusive Nazi commandant has been breeding a group of Zombie soldiers."
On this day in 1978 (in Colombia), End of the World served up yet one Apocalyptic-themed SciFi/Thriller. Directed by John Hayes, the feature film starred Christopher Lee (in a dual role) and Sue Lyon, and here's the premise as cited on IMDB.com:
"After witnessing a man's death in a bizarre accident, Father Pergado goes on a spiritual retreat, where he encounters his alien double bent on world conquest."
"After witnessing a man's death in a bizarre accident, Father Pergado goes on a spiritual retreat, where he encounters his alien double bent on world conquest."
A star is born! On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Nightwing took flight ... cinematically, that is. Directed by Arthur Hiller, the Fantasy/Horror starred Nick Mancuso, David Warner, and Kathryn Harrold. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Killer bats plague an Indian reservation in New Mexico."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Nightwing enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"Killer bats plague an Indian reservation in New Mexico."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Nightwing enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1979 (in West Germany), The Humanoid enjoyed a life in theaters. Directed by Aldo Lado and Enzo G. Castellari, the film starred Barbara Bach, Richard Kiel, and Corinne Cléry. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hoping to overthrow his brother as ruler of the planet Metropolis, the evil Graal enlists the help of the insane Dr. Kraspin, who has invented a chemical capable of turning an ordinary person into a perfect soldier. They test this chemical on the pilot Golob, turning the unsuspecting victim into a mindless but indestructable automaton possessing superhuman strength. The people of Metropolis must somehow outwit Graal before he can create an army of these soldiers, or their planet will be destroyed."
For the record:
On behalf of her work in this picture, Barbara Bach was nominated for the Jupiter Award in the category of 'Best International Actress.'
"Hoping to overthrow his brother as ruler of the planet Metropolis, the evil Graal enlists the help of the insane Dr. Kraspin, who has invented a chemical capable of turning an ordinary person into a perfect soldier. They test this chemical on the pilot Golob, turning the unsuspecting victim into a mindless but indestructable automaton possessing superhuman strength. The people of Metropolis must somehow outwit Graal before he can create an army of these soldiers, or their planet will be destroyed."
For the record:
On behalf of her work in this picture, Barbara Bach was nominated for the Jupiter Award in the category of 'Best International Actress.'
On this day in 1984 (in Ireland), Metalstorm: The Destruction Of Jaren-Syn blasted over the horizon with lazers set to kill! Directed by Charles Band, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jeffrey Byron, Michael Preston, and Kelly Preston; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On a desert planet, warlord Jared-Syn is trying to convince a tribe of mutants that he's their messiah and gain unlimited power hidden in a crystal. Ranger Dogen and explorer Dhyana, who's father was murdered by Syn, must stop him."
For the record:
Metalstorm was the recipient of the 'Best Special Effects' Award from the 1984 Fantafestival.
"On a desert planet, warlord Jared-Syn is trying to convince a tribe of mutants that he's their messiah and gain unlimited power hidden in a crystal. Ranger Dogen and explorer Dhyana, who's father was murdered by Syn, must stop him."
For the record:
Metalstorm was the recipient of the 'Best Special Effects' Award from the 1984 Fantafestival.
A star is born! And she's packing heat! On this day in 1984 (in the big city of Wilmington, North Carolina), The Lost Empire enjoyed its U.S. theatrical debut. Written and directed by Jim Wynorski, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Melanie Vincz, Raven De La Croix, and Angela Aames. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Seeking revenge, officer Angel Wolfe, her Native American friend Whitestar, and outlaw Heather infiltrate a fortified island where an undead wizard and his evil cult force captured women to take part in gladiatorial tournaments."
"Seeking revenge, officer Angel Wolfe, her Native American friend Whitestar, and outlaw Heather infiltrate a fortified island where an undead wizard and his evil cult force captured women to take part in gladiatorial tournaments."
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in France), Faceless put a new face on the face of Horror. Written (in part) and directed by Jesus Franco, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Helmut Berger, Brigitte Lahaie, and Telly Savalas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When model Barbara Hallen disappears in France, her father's private detective traces her steps to a private plastic surgery clinic run by Dr.Flamand."
"When model Barbara Hallen disappears in France, her father's private detective traces her steps to a private plastic surgery clinic run by Dr.Flamand."
On this day in 1989 (in Australia), Slipstream slipped easily into theaters. Directed by Steven Lisberger (the writer/director for the original SciFi/Classic Tron), the feature starred Bob Peck, Mark Hamill, and Bill Paxton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
If you're interested in checking out SciFiHistory.Net's collection of screencaps from the flick, you can find them right here. If you're interested in reading my Flushback Review of the film, you can find it right here.
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
If you're interested in checking out SciFiHistory.Net's collection of screencaps from the flick, you can find them right here. If you're interested in reading my Flushback Review of the film, you can find it right here.
A star is born ... or is that reborn?
Alas, in fandom we've seen it happen all too often: inferior sequels. RoboCop 2 opened theatrically on this day in 1990, and, sadly, it followed that ugly, ugly trend. Thankfully, Peter Weller was back, as were an awful lot of the secondary players' familiar faces, but even they didn't have the right stuff to elevate this relatively dry and unimaginative addition to the Robo-world. Or is that Robo-heavens? In either case, it was less than acceptable. Directed by Irvin Kershner, the SciFi/Thriller starred Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, and Belinda Bauer. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a successful deployment of the Robocop Law Enforcement unit, OCP sees its goal of urban pacification come closer and closer, but as this develops, a new narcotic known as "Nuke" invades the streets led by God-delirious leader Cane. As this menace grows, it may prove to be too much for Murphy to handle. OCP tries to replicate the success of the first unit, but ends up with failed prototypes with suicidal issues... until Dr. Faxx, a scientist straying away from OCP's path, uses Cane as the new subject for the Robocop 2 project, a living God."
For the record:
Despite an underwhelming story, RoboCop 2 did score three impressive nominations from the 1991 Saturn Awards: Best Science Fiction Film, Best Performance By A Younger Actor, and Best Special Effects. It lost in all three categories.
"After a successful deployment of the Robocop Law Enforcement unit, OCP sees its goal of urban pacification come closer and closer, but as this develops, a new narcotic known as "Nuke" invades the streets led by God-delirious leader Cane. As this menace grows, it may prove to be too much for Murphy to handle. OCP tries to replicate the success of the first unit, but ends up with failed prototypes with suicidal issues... until Dr. Faxx, a scientist straying away from OCP's path, uses Cane as the new subject for the Robocop 2 project, a living God."
For the record:
Despite an underwhelming story, RoboCop 2 did score three impressive nominations from the 1991 Saturn Awards: Best Science Fiction Film, Best Performance By A Younger Actor, and Best Special Effects. It lost in all three categories.
On this day in 1991 (in South Korea), Metamorphosis: The Alien Factor first bared in theatrical fangs. Written and directed by Glenn Takakjian, the feature starred Matt Kulis and Patrick Barnes, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"A virus from outer space transforms a bio-researcher into a blood thirsty monster. But chief, Dr.Vialini doesn't like the cops and public to be involved in this secret experiment. But he becomes lunch very soon."
"A virus from outer space transforms a bio-researcher into a blood thirsty monster. But chief, Dr.Vialini doesn't like the cops and public to be involved in this secret experiment. But he becomes lunch very soon."
On this day in 1995 (in Argentina and Germany), Tank Girl rumbled through the great cinematic Apocalypse. Directed by Rachel Talalay, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Lori Petty, Ice-T, and Naomi Watts; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A girl is among the few survivors of a dystopian Earth. Riding a war tank, she fights against the tyranny of a mega-corporation that dominates the remaining potable water supply of the planet."
"A girl is among the few survivors of a dystopian Earth. Riding a war tank, she fights against the tyranny of a mega-corporation that dominates the remaining potable water supply of the planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1999, the SciFi/Western Timegate: Tales of the Saddle Tramps roused up a little interest. Directed by Dan Golden, the film starred Amy Lindsay and Kim Yates, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"While visiting an historic western town, two beautiful women stumble upon a device that transports them over a century back in time to the Old West. When the girls are mistaken for brothel babes, they get a hankerin' for some real cowboy action! But their erotic recreation with the local cowpokes soon ruffles a few feathers in town- and when the deputy winds up dead, the posse's hot on their tails for some answers! They must go back to their own time, before they're punished for the crime."
"While visiting an historic western town, two beautiful women stumble upon a device that transports them over a century back in time to the Old West. When the girls are mistaken for brothel babes, they get a hankerin' for some real cowboy action! But their erotic recreation with the local cowpokes soon ruffles a few feathers in town- and when the deputy winds up dead, the posse's hot on their tails for some answers! They must go back to their own time, before they're punished for the crime."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Scooby-Doo And The Loch Ness Monster emerged from the murky depths for its debut in the home video marketplace. Directed by Scott Jeralds and Joe Sichta, the animated Horror/Comedy featured the voice talents of Frank Welker, Casey Kasem, and Mindy Cohn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While the gang travel to Scotland to visit Daphne's cousin and witness the Highland Games, they find themselves terrorized by the legendary Loch Ness Monster."
"While the gang travel to Scotland to visit Daphne's cousin and witness the Highland Games, they find themselves terrorized by the legendary Loch Ness Monster."
On this day in 2007 (in Canada and the U.S.), someone checked into 1408 but -- ahem -- likely never checked out. Directed by Mikael Håfström, the Horror/Fantasy starred John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, and Mary McCormack. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man who specialises in debunking paranormal occurrences checks into the fabled room 1408 in the Dolphin Hotel. Soon after settling in, he confronts genuine terror."
"A man who specialises in debunking paranormal occurrences checks into the fabled room 1408 in the Dolphin Hotel. Soon after settling in, he confronts genuine terror."
On this day in 2012 (in Canada, the U.S., and several other places around the world), the 16th President of the United States got into the slaying business with the theatrical release of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov from a story by Seth Grahame-Smith, the Horror/Fantasy starred Benjamin Walker, Rufus Sewell, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, discovers vampires are planning to take over the United States. He makes it his mission to eliminate them."
"Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, discovers vampires are planning to take over the United States. He makes it his mission to eliminate them."
A star is born! On this day in 2015, Fire City: End Of Days burned into bold celluloid life. Directed by Tom Woodruff Jr., the feature starred Tobias Jelinek and Danielle C. Ryan, and here's the plot summary as listed on IMDB.com:
"Vine, a disillusioned demon, secretly lives with others of his kind in the world of humans sustained by their misery. Forced into a choice to save his brethren or an innocent human girl, the delicate balance between human and demon kind is threatened, which may result in war."
"Vine, a disillusioned demon, secretly lives with others of his kind in the world of humans sustained by their misery. Forced into a choice to save his brethren or an innocent human girl, the delicate balance between human and demon kind is threatened, which may result in war."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom), God of Thunder (aka Dark Universe) tried to cash in on some other popular cinematic franchise. Written (in part) and directed by Thomas Shapiro, the feature starred Max Aria and Jacqui Holland, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"Thor pursues Loki, but in the journey, he is rendered defenceless, awakening on Earth without his mighty hammer, or his memory."
For the record:
To the film's credit, it scored a 'Best Movie' win on the film festival circuit.
"Thor pursues Loki, but in the journey, he is rendered defenceless, awakening on Earth without his mighty hammer, or his memory."
For the record:
To the film's credit, it scored a 'Best Movie' win on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom), The Rezort played for audiences in attendance of the BFI Southbank Film Festival. Directed by Steve Barker, the SciFi/Horror starred Dougray Scott, Jessica De Gouw, and Martin McCann; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The ReZort, a safari park, offers paying guests the opportunity to kill as many zombies as they please following an outbreak."
"The ReZort, a safari park, offers paying guests the opportunity to kill as many zombies as they please following an outbreak."
On this day in 2018 (in Taiwan), Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by Stanley Kubrick, the SciFi/Drama starred Gary Lockwood, Keir Dullea, and William Sylvester. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
On this day in 2018 (in the United Kingdom), Jurassic Predator took a bite out of the box office. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Jones, the feature starred Lee Bane, Jason Homewood, and Megan Lockhurst; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scientists working at a government research facility use prehistoric DNA to resurrect a T-Rex who escapes from the lab to terrorize a nearby town."
"Scientists working at a government research facility use prehistoric DNA to resurrect a T-Rex who escapes from the lab to terrorize a nearby town."
You can never keep a good Tyrannosaurus Rex down: on this day in 2018, audiences went back to park with Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Directed by J.A. Bayona, the feature starred Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Rafe Spall; and here's the plot summary as listed on IMDB.com:
"When the island's dormant volcano begins roaring to life, Owen and Claire mount a campaign to rescue the remaining dinosaurs from this extinction-level event."
"When the island's dormant volcano begins roaring to life, Owen and Claire mount a campaign to rescue the remaining dinosaurs from this extinction-level event."
- Want to know more? Check out SciFiHistory.Net's review of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom right here.
On this day in 2018 (in Vietnam), Time Trap presented a temporal conundrum for audiences to follow. Directed by Mark Dennis and Ben Foster, the SciFi/Thriller starred Reiley McClendon, Cassidy Gifford, and Brianne Howey; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A professor enters a cave and goes missing. Some of his students come looking for him and get trapped in the cave as well."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Time Trap enjoyed a bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
"A professor enters a cave and goes missing. Some of his students come looking for him and get trapped in the cave as well."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Time Trap enjoyed a bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1956, Science Fiction Theatre aired "The Human Experiment." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Biochemist Dr. Ellen Ballard has isolated an enzyme from bees that she hopes will help the mentally ill function in society. What she creates at her isolated laboratory is a house full of patients with characteristics of the queen, worker, and soldier bees. A fellow scientist arriving for a visit soon realizes that something is very wrong."
"Biochemist Dr. Ellen Ballard has isolated an enzyme from bees that she hopes will help the mentally ill function in society. What she creates at her isolated laboratory is a house full of patients with characteristics of the queen, worker, and soldier bees. A fellow scientist arriving for a visit soon realizes that something is very wrong."
On this day in 1995 (in Canada), Mysterious Island aired "Down Under." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Harding and company learn their island lies far from any mainland, is volcanic in origin, and seems prone to earthquakes. They also come to believe it's inhabited by some sort of force or power characterized by a green light."
"Harding and company learn their island lies far from any mainland, is volcanic in origin, and seems prone to earthquakes. They also come to believe it's inhabited by some sort of force or power characterized by a green light."
On this day in 1998, Sliders aired "Virtual Slide." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Sliders enter a world where the entire population is governed by virtual reality, mind-controlling devices; Maggie is held captive."
"The Sliders enter a world where the entire population is governed by virtual reality, mind-controlling devices; Maggie is held captive."
On this day in 2001, Farscape aired "Green Eyed Monster." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Talyn is swallowed by a boodong, leaving Stark and Rygel stranded in a transport pod."
"Talyn is swallowed by a boodong, leaving Stark and Rygel stranded in a transport pod."
On this day in 2001, The Invisible Man aired "Going Postal." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hobbes, while undercover with Fawkes and Monroe inside the Post Office dead letter division, goes "postal" and starts shooting up the place. Hobbes ends up in the "psycho-ward" while Fawkes tries to figure out what caused it all."
"Hobbes, while undercover with Fawkes and Monroe inside the Post Office dead letter division, goes "postal" and starts shooting up the place. Hobbes ends up in the "psycho-ward" while Fawkes tries to figure out what caused it all."
On this day in 2001 (in Canada), The Outer Limits aired "Alien Shop." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An alien shape-shifter owns a unique curio shop whose merchandise possess strange powers; when a petty crook accepts a peculiar wallet he learns the hard way that money not earned comes at a price."
"An alien shape-shifter owns a unique curio shop whose merchandise possess strange powers; when a petty crook accepts a peculiar wallet he learns the hard way that money not earned comes at a price."
On this day in 2002, Galidor: Defenders of the Outer Dimension aired "Pieces of Nick." This served as the first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"After his attempt to disarm the Kek Powerizer, Nick is forced to go out of the material world, and no one can see or hear him. Jens detects a surge of glich energy. Allegra is convinced that it's Nick, so she orders Jens to take the Egg back to Kek. Nick gets into Jens's body so he could talk to Allegra. Thinking that Nick is a glitch, Jens resets his circuits, and while doing so, he kicks Nick out."
"After his attempt to disarm the Kek Powerizer, Nick is forced to go out of the material world, and no one can see or hear him. Jens detects a surge of glich energy. Allegra is convinced that it's Nick, so she orders Jens to take the Egg back to Kek. Nick gets into Jens's body so he could talk to Allegra. Thinking that Nick is a glitch, Jens resets his circuits, and while doing so, he kicks Nick out."
On this day in 2007, Painkiller Jane aired "Portraits Of Lauren Gray." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young woman who is a runway model at a fashion show, suddenly ages decades overnight and dies. Jane and Maureen are assigned to go undercover as fashion models to find the cause. But can Jane stop a Neuro who can literally suck the life force out of a person?"
"A young woman who is a runway model at a fashion show, suddenly ages decades overnight and dies. Jane and Maureen are assigned to go undercover as fashion models to find the cause. But can Jane stop a Neuro who can literally suck the life force out of a person?"
On this day in 2007, Stargate: Atlantis aired "First Strike." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After learning the Asurians are building a fleet of ships, Earth sends its newest ship, the Apollo, under the command of Colonel Abe Ellis to initiate a preemptive first strike to stop them from attacking Atlantis or worse, Earth itself."
"After learning the Asurians are building a fleet of ships, Earth sends its newest ship, the Apollo, under the command of Colonel Abe Ellis to initiate a preemptive first strike to stop them from attacking Atlantis or worse, Earth itself."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2007, the space saga that was Stargate: SG-1 came to its inevitable conclusion with the airing of "Unending," the twentieth and final episode of the program's tenth season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's all you needed to know about its big finish:
"General Landry accompanies SG-1 on a mission to collect the knowledge of the Asgard. When the Ori show up however, Sam is forced to evacuate the crew and Landry and SG-1 stay aboard, but are stuck helpless in a time dilation field for decades."
"General Landry accompanies SG-1 on a mission to collect the knowledge of the Asgard. When the Ori show up however, Sam is forced to evacuate the crew and Landry and SG-1 stay aboard, but are stuck helpless in a time dilation field for decades."
On this day in 2013, Zero Hour aired "Weight." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in its only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hank's parents start to open up when he confronts them about his birth and childhood; the search for Laila brings Beck, Paige, Arron and Rachel to Istanbul; Hank connects with a man who is more important than he could have guessed."
"Hank's parents start to open up when he confronts them about his birth and childhood; the search for Laila brings Beck, Paige, Arron and Rachel to Istanbul; Hank connects with a man who is more important than he could have guessed."
On this day in 2014 (in Canada), Continuum aired "Last Minute." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's third season (it's season finale), and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Kiera battles old friends by allying with former enemies (Liber8). Alec stands on the precipice of power with one man in his way."
"Kiera battles old friends by allying with former enemies (Liber8). Alec stands on the precipice of power with one man in his way."
On this day in 2014, Falling Skies aired "Ghost in the Machine." This served as the first episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the outskirts of Charleston, just steps away from perceived safety, The Mason Clan and the remaining 2nd Mass suddenly find themselves under brutal attack by a new Espheni war machine - and a new, deadly creation unlike anything previously encountered. Divided like chattel and spread to the winds, The Masons must each forge new relationships and abilities to survive."
"On the outskirts of Charleston, just steps away from perceived safety, The Mason Clan and the remaining 2nd Mass suddenly find themselves under brutal attack by a new Espheni war machine - and a new, deadly creation unlike anything previously encountered. Divided like chattel and spread to the winds, The Masons must each forge new relationships and abilities to survive."
On this day in 2017, The Ministry of Time aired "Tiempo de ilustrados." This served as the fourth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Goya's the Naked Maja is slashed by an unseen force. As the trio travels to XIX century Spain to convince an old, bitter Goya to paint it again, they must deal with intrigues, broken hearts and the rise of a new, sinister enemy - not to mention Velazquez's usual stubbornness."
"Goya's the Naked Maja is slashed by an unseen force. As the trio travels to XIX century Spain to convince an old, bitter Goya to paint it again, they must deal with intrigues, broken hearts and the rise of a new, sinister enemy - not to mention Velazquez's usual stubbornness."
On this day in 1952, The Shadow radio serial aired "The Terrified Wife." According to our friends at The Shadow Wiki, it appears that all of the details involving this tale have sadly been lost to history. Not even The Shadow knows!
