John Dykstra began his career in photographic effects by working on 1972's Silent Running. Only a part of the first Star Wars film, he left Lucas's franchise after Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope to begin work on what he saw as the most ambitious television show in history, the original Battlestar Galactica. Otherwise, he has completed effects work on such other projects as Star Trek - The Motion Picture, X-Men: First Class, and 2014's Godzilla. Dykstra was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I've said before, there are many actors who've left one big footprint on the History of Science Fiction whose faces we hardly now. Case in point: Maurice Evans. In 1968's legendary Planet of the Apes and then again in 1970's Beneath the Planet of the Apes, Evans played the intellectually-scheming 'Dr. Zauis' to perfection. Though he's no longer with us, the man was born on this day in 1901.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Carol Ohmart was one of the Hollywood's "sexy blondes" that populated a wealth of 1950's movies and televisions, but so far as Science Fiction goes her resume only boasts a guest appearance aboard the short-lived Men Into Space. (We'll take it!) Though she's no longer with us, Ohmart was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Honestly, I've not been able to locate all that much information on the late Joan Camden. As IMDB.com lists, she leaves behind a legacy of thirty screen credits, most notable so far as genre work is concerned with be a pair of appearances aboard the fondly remembered The Outer Limits (both of which took place in 1963, making them her last professional citations). Though she's no longer with us, Camden was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Unless I miss my guess (FYI: I've been wrong before), author Marion Zimmer Bradley was far more well known for her work in the realms of imaginative fantasy than she was Science Fiction, but she certainly dabbled on both sides of the line. As a child, she enjoyed reading space adventure novels so much so that she was no doubt inspired to follow in the footsteps of other writers who'd come before. She certainly left behind a wealth of material with which to keep fans interested for decades. Though she's no longer with us, Bradley was born on this day in 1930.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As a child, I can remember seeing Edward Winter's face all over the TV channels. Granted, most of the appearances were part of much more mainstream fare, but the actor did crossover into SciFi from time to time, booking appearances aboard Project U.F.O. and Misfits of Science in their respective runs. He also had a role in The Parallax View, a terrific conspiracy thriller involving government assassinations, if you're into that sort of thing. Though he's no longer with us, Winter was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Frank McRae shared the screen with no less than Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1993's sadly forgettable Last Action Hero, but SciFi fans possibly remember him best in the role of the lovable 'Harry Noble' in 1987's kid-friendly SciFi/Comedy Batteries Not Included. Other genre entries? He also played a roles in TV's Wonder Woman, Red Dawn (1984), the 1980's version of The Twilight Zone, Asteroid (1997), and G-Men From Hell (2000). How's that for a memorable resume? Though he's no longer with us, McRae was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Dreamy Swedish-born actress Camilla Sparv launched herself into the cinema spy business with a role aboard Murderers' Row (1966), the brief franchise featuring Dean Martin in the role of 'Matt Helm.' She enjoyed an almost delirious flirtation with cult-ish projects for some time. After adding her talent to more conventional fare, she and her good looks showed up aboard Survival Zone (1983), Automan, Airwolf, and America 3000 (1986). Though it appears as if she's retired from the business, Sparv was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Bill Paterson (above left) joined Matt Smith twice during his first season as the popular time traveler Doctor Who, playing 'Bracewell,' a scientist with a curious tie to the Daleks. For what it's worth, the man's roots to genre stretch reasonably deep. He's enjoyed a bit of screen time in such properties as The Adventures Of Baron Munchausen (1988), The Witches (1990), The Secret Adventures Of Jules Verne, Sea Of Souls, Dirk Gently, Outlander, Good Omens, and House Of The Dragon. Paterson was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the guise of 'Harriet Jones,' the accomplished Penelope Wilton enjoyed an important recurring role aboard the early re-launch of the BBC's popular Doctor Who. Wilton was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critically acclaimed actor Tristan Rogers enjoyed a guest visit to the world of J. Michael Straczynski's Babylon 5 during its run on television. As far as genre work goes, that's not all he's done: he's voiced characters for such animated works as Sky Commanders, Captain Planet And The Planeteers, and Batman Beyond as well as filling in live action roles aboard Tales From The Crypt and Super Force. Rogers was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Joanne Nail enjoyed a solid role aboard the SciFi/Horror The Visitor (1979) from Brouwersgracht Investments. Nail was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Ian Gelder played an important role in 2009's Torchwood: Children of Earth limited series that continued the adventures of Capt. Jack Harkness and his band of investigators. Though he's no longer with us, Gelder was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely lady above is Melissa Mathison. She is best known for her work on writing the story that eventually became the silver screen SciFi classic, E.T. - The Extraterrestrial. Though she's no longer with us, Mathison was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Robert Z'Dar's chiseled looks might've made him into the butt of a whole series of jokes on MST3K, but it also almost assured that he'd be cast in any number of smaller theatrical roles requiring him to put his face and physique to good use. SciFi fans know him from his work in such cult flicks as Cherry 2000, the 1991 TV series of The Flash, Beastmaster 2: Through the Portal of Time, Frogtown II, and others. Though he's no longer with us, Z'Dar was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A graduate of MIT, Erland van Lidth made an appearance as Dynamo in 1987's The Running Man wherein he briefly went up against Arnold Schwarzenegger. Though he's no longer with us, van Lidth was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2023, I enjoyed a broadcast airing of The Running Man (1987) via a pay cable subscription, having not seen it since its initial theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In late 2023, I enjoyed a broadcast airing of The Running Man (1987) via a pay cable subscription, having not seen it since its initial theatrical run. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Veteran character actor Clive Mantle has a resume wonderfully rich in the realms of the Fantastic. Genre fans might recognize him from work aboard Robin Hood, Superman IV: The Quest For Peace (1987), Alien 3 (1992), Game Of Thrones, several audio adventures of the Doctor Who franchise, Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, Jekyll And Hyde, Anthem (2019), The Accidental Medium, and Diablo IV. Mantle was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As far as I'm concerned, there can never be enough opportunities for Suzie Plakson to work in the Star Trek universe. (Yes, she is that lovely!) Fans know her best as Worf's first (and best) love, the Klingon K'Ehleyr (above right); but she also appeared again aboard the Enterprise-D as Star Trek: The Next Generation's Lt. Selar, M.D. (above left). In 1996, she was given the opportunity to serve as the very first female Q (centered above) in all of Trekdom aboard Star Trek: Voyager, and I think it's a personal shame they didn't find some way to have her revisit that character in additional shows. Plakson was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Genre fans might not recognize actress Bonnie Aarons were they to walk up to her on the street, but that's only because she's usually buried somewhere a bit deep under prosthetics and make-up ... all for good reason. In any event, her wares have been on display in such projects as Caged Heat 3000 (1995), I Know Who Killed Me (2007), InAlienable (2007), Drag Me To Hell (2009), The Conjuring 2 (2016), Annabelle: Creation (2017), The Nun (2018), Frank (2021), Jakob's Wife (2021), The Nun 2 (2023), The Bell Keeper (2023), and Camp Pleasant Lake (2024). Aarons was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was offered a complimentary DVD of Jakob's Wife via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2021, I was offered a complimentary DVD of Jakob's Wife via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
James Purefoy is one of those actors you just love to watch work. Unfortunately, it seems that his brooding looks often find him in roles as the heavy or the lead villain, but that doesn't make him any less talented. Most folks gave John Carter a pass, but I thought his turn as Kantos Kan was pretty inspired. Also -- for those who've seen it -- the man makes an awesome Solomon Kane! Purefoy was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
John Hodgman enjoyed delivering some laughs to audiences for his work aboard Amazon's The Tick. Other forays into genre entertainment include stops to Battlestar Galactica, Adventure Time, and The Venture Bros. Hodgman was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Jason Jones enjoyed a small role aboard the SciFi/Comedy Hot Tub Time Machine 2 (2015) for Paramount Pictures. Other genre appearances include stops to Mutant X, Terminal Invasion (2002), Left Behind II: Tribulation Force (2002), Webs (2003), Phil The Alien, and Creative Galaxy. Jones was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
New Zealand born Miriama Smith is no stranger to genre projects. Fans have been able to watch her grow and change as an actress across such properties as Mirror, Mirror; Young Hercules; Xena: Warrior Princess; The Tribe; Atlantis High; Revelations: The Initial Journey; Power Rangers DinoThunder; Legend Of The Seeker; Kaitangata Twitch; The Dead Lands; and Love And Monsters (2020). Smith was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sebastian Armesto seethed nothing but Imperial menace in his role aboard Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015). Armesto was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Talented Artie Ahr helped explore the depths of mind-reading and free will in 2015's award-winning Listening (pictured). Ahr was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Dan Ewing suited up and took the fight to the aliens aboard Occupation: Rainfall (2020) for Sparkle Films. The actor has also been gainfully employed in roles aboard Superman Returns (2006), Power Rangers R.P.M., Red Billabong (2016), Occupation (2018), Beast No More (2019), Love And Monsters (2020), Devil Beneath (2023), Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism (2023). Ewing was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was provided a complimentary stream of Occupation: Rainfall (2020) via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I was provided a complimentary stream of Occupation: Rainfall (2020) via a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Award-winning actress Michelle Keegan dipped her toes into Science Fiction and Fantasy with a role aboard Red Dwarf. Keegan was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Exploring the possibilities of Science Fiction storytelling is truly a global phenomenon as 2017's Before We Vanish -- a Japanese language SciFi/Drama -- certainly demonstrates. The talented Masami Nagasawa was one of the features headlining talents, and Nagasawa was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her career, a younger Imogen Poots came face-to-face with the continuing zombie Apocalypse in the SciFi-themed sequel, 28 Weeks Later. More recently, she turned up -- just a bit wacky, I might add -- with some good work as an estranged young woman in Amazon Studios' Outer Range. Poots was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I streamed the series Outer Range via my own Amazon Prime subscription. Interested readers can find my review of the pilot episode right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I streamed the series Outer Range via my own Amazon Prime subscription. Interested readers can find my review of the pilot episode right here.
Sorry, folks, but I really can't tell you all that much about most of these foreign entries into the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy. To be honest, I'm largely at the mercy of IMDB.com and whatever else I can locate on them. Such is the case regarding the lovely Dilraba Dilmurat who -- early in her professional career -- got her start aboard a little something called Swords Of Legends. Dilmurat was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Anne Winters boarded The Orville during its run on Hulu. She also found work aboard The Tribe (2016) and Countdown (2019). Winters was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alicia Woodhouse's star continues to rise as she's been seen taking up secondary roles aboard AMC's Humans and the UK's The Aliens. Woodhouse was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Maddison Jaizani enjoyed a wealth of screen time aboard AMC's Into The Badlands during its run on the network. Jaizani was born on this day in 1995.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Louis Hofmann engaged in a great deal of temporal manipulation in trying to put right the flow of time aboard Netflix's stellar SciFi/Drama Dark. Hofmann was born on this day in 1997.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Look! Up on the screen! On this day in 1950 (in Denmark), the cinematic serial Superman enjoyed its theatrical release. The venerable Kirk Alyn suited up as the singular survivor from Krypton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Superman comes to Earth as a child and grows up to be his home's first superhero with his first major challenge being to oppose The Spider Lady."
"Superman comes to Earth as a child and grows up to be his home's first superhero with his first major challenge being to oppose The Spider Lady."
On this day in 1958 (per Wikipedia.org), Fiend Without A Face showed its ugly mug on the silver screen. Directed by Arthur Crabtree, the SciFi/Horror starred Marshall Thompson, Terry Kilburn, and Kynaston Reeves. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Invisible atomic monsters attack a U.S. Armed Forces base and the local residents."
"Invisible atomic monsters attack a U.S. Armed Forces base and the local residents."
A star is born! On this day in 1959, the Teenagers From Outer Space landed in U.S. theaters. Written and directed by Tom Graeff, the SciFi feature starred David Love and Dawn Bender, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young alien and a teenage earthling fall in love, and plot to stop the alien's race from using Earth as a food-breeding ground for giant lobsters from their planet."
"A young alien and a teenage earthling fall in love, and plot to stop the alien's race from using Earth as a food-breeding ground for giant lobsters from their planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1965, The Yesterday Machine enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Written and directed by Russ Marker, the SciFi feature starred Tim Holt and James Britton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Nazi scientist invents a time machine enabling him to go back to alter the events of WWII."
"A Nazi scientist invents a time machine enabling him to go back to alter the events of WWII."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), the good people of Liverpool were treated to an exclusive theatrical premiere engagement of Island Of Terror. Directed by Terence Fisher from a story by Edward Mann and Al Ramsen, the Horror/Fantasy starred Peter Cushing, Edward Judd, and Carole Gray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A small, isolated island community's terrorised from a horde of creeping, blobbish, tentacled monsters which liquefy and digest the bones from living creatures. The community struggles to fight back, against these horrors."
"A small, isolated island community's terrorised from a horde of creeping, blobbish, tentacled monsters which liquefy and digest the bones from living creatures. The community struggles to fight back, against these horrors."
On this day in 1968 (in Madrid, Spain), the original Planet Of The Apes enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and based on the novel by Pierre Boulle (with the adaptation in part completed by The Twilight Zone master Rod Serling), the feature starred Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, and Roddy McDowall, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
"An astronaut crew crash-lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved."
For the record:
Decades later, Planet Of The Apes continues to impress both with the impact of the original film as well as the franchise's recreation in the 2000's. The feature was nominated for the 1969 Oscars in both the Best Costume Design and the Best Music (Original Score) categories but failed to capture the prized statue. Legendary make-up technician John Chambers did, however, secure an honorary Oscar for his achievements in bringing the Apes to life for the motion picture. So far as this viewer is concerned, I prefer these original Apes over the CGI creations of the modern era.
On this day in 1971 (in Mexico), audiences learned that Some Girls Do! Essential, the feature is an Action/Comedy with some modest SciFi elements, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A series of unexplainable accidents befall the people and companies responsible for developing the world's first supersonic airliner (SST1). A British agent is sent to investigate and with the help of another agent uncovers a plot masterminded by Carl Petersen who stands to gain eight million pounds if the aircraft is not ready by a certain date. The evil Petersen has developed a number of "robots" (actually rather beautiful girls with "electronic brains") to help him sabotage the SST1 project by means of "infrasound" (extreme low frequency sound waves) which can be directed at people or objects with devastating results."
"A series of unexplainable accidents befall the people and companies responsible for developing the world's first supersonic airliner (SST1). A British agent is sent to investigate and with the help of another agent uncovers a plot masterminded by Carl Petersen who stands to gain eight million pounds if the aircraft is not ready by a certain date. The evil Petersen has developed a number of "robots" (actually rather beautiful girls with "electronic brains") to help him sabotage the SST1 project by means of "infrasound" (extreme low frequency sound waves) which can be directed at people or objects with devastating results."
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), a particular brand of lunacy was delivered to the silver screen with the theatrical release of The Man With Two Brains. Written (in part) and directed by Carl Reiner, the SciFi/Comedy starred Steve Martin, Kathleen Turner, and David Warner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A brain surgeon marries a femme fatale whose life he saved, causing his life to turn upside down. Things go even more awry when he falls in love with a telepathic brain."
"A brain surgeon marries a femme fatale whose life he saved, causing his life to turn upside down. Things go even more awry when he falls in love with a telepathic brain."
On this day in 1989 (in Japan), Alien Nation took a unique look at an all-new form of immigration. Directed by Graham Baker from a story by Rockne S. O'Bannon, the SciFi/Fantasy starred James Caan, Mandy Patinkin, and Terence Stamp. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1989 (in Japan), the SciFi/Comedy My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed its theatrical release. Written by the team of Jerico Stone, Herschel Weingrod, and Timothy Harris, the SciFi/ Comedy was directed by Richard Benjamin and starred Dan Aykroyd, Kim Basinger, and Alyson Hannigan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A creature from another planet tries to seduce a shy Earth physicist to gain control over his researches. The result of this important mission much exceeded her expectations."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
"A creature from another planet tries to seduce a shy Earth physicist to gain control over his researches. The result of this important mission much exceeded her expectations."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, My Stepmother Is An Alien enjoyed a pair of nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
In late 2021, I had the good fortune of receiving a copy of a new Blu-ray release of the film. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts of the SciFi/Comedy, you can find them right here.
On this day in 1992 (in France), The Guyver gave actor Mark Hamill another SciFi/Fantasy franchise to explore. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young man discovers a mechanical device that merges with his own body, turning him into a cyborg superhero. When strange creatures start appearing, trying to take the device back, he begins to uncover a secret plot to genetically engineer terrifying monsters."
"A young man discovers a mechanical device that merges with his own body, turning him into a cyborg superhero. When strange creatures start appearing, trying to take the device back, he begins to uncover a secret plot to genetically engineer terrifying monsters."
A star is born! On this day in 1998, the SciFi/Telefilm better known as Meteorites! crashed down into existence. It starred Tom Wopat and Roxanne Hart, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A meteor shower threatens a small American town."
"A meteor shower threatens a small American town."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), The Chronicles Of Riddick enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever when it opened for audiences in Universal City, California. Written (in part) and directed by David Twohy, the SciFi/Drama starred Vin Diesel, Thandie Newton, and Karl Urban; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The wanted criminal Richard Bruno Riddick (Vin Diesel) arrives on a planet called Helion Prime and finds himself up against an invading empire called the Necromongers, an army that plans to convert or kill all humans in the universe."
For the record:
While the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for the 2005 Saturn Award for 'Best Special Effects,' the Razzies -- ahem -- responded by giving star Vin Diesel a nomination in their category of 'Worst Actor.' I guess what they say is true: diff'rent strokes for diff'rent folks.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a complimentary 4K UltraHD Blu-ray copy of The Chronicles Of Riddick (2004) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"The wanted criminal Richard Bruno Riddick (Vin Diesel) arrives on a planet called Helion Prime and finds himself up against an invading empire called the Necromongers, an army that plans to convert or kill all humans in the universe."
For the record:
While the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for the 2005 Saturn Award for 'Best Special Effects,' the Razzies -- ahem -- responded by giving star Vin Diesel a nomination in their category of 'Worst Actor.' I guess what they say is true: diff'rent strokes for diff'rent folks.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a complimentary 4K UltraHD Blu-ray copy of The Chronicles Of Riddick (2004) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 2005, the 2000-produced Acne enjoyed its general U.S. release. Written, directed, and starring Rusty Nails, the SciFi/Comedy also gave Tracey Hayes and Jim Darley somthing to do theatrically, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Franny and Zoe wake up one morning ready to go on a high school field trip. Their plans quickly change when Zoe drinks contaminated water and his head becomes a huge pustule. When Franny comes to aid him, Zoe turns her into a monsterous "zithead." Soon the two of them set off on a bizarre journey, mutating other teenagers, encountering strange suburbanites, and developing a very unusual craving for chocolate. The army starts a statewide manhunt for the infected adolecents as they struggle to remain concious, try to figure out what's happened to them, and draw nearer to a terrifying fate."
"Franny and Zoe wake up one morning ready to go on a high school field trip. Their plans quickly change when Zoe drinks contaminated water and his head becomes a huge pustule. When Franny comes to aid him, Zoe turns her into a monsterous "zithead." Soon the two of them set off on a bizarre journey, mutating other teenagers, encountering strange suburbanites, and developing a very unusual craving for chocolate. The army starts a statewide manhunt for the infected adolecents as they struggle to remain concious, try to figure out what's happened to them, and draw nearer to a terrifying fate."
A star is born! On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), The Crow: Wicked Prayer screened for the very first time for audiences in Seattle, Washington. Written (in part) and directed by Lance Mungia, the Horror/Fantasy starred Yuji Okumoto, Marcus Chong, and Tito Ortiz. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jimmy Cuervo is a down-on-his-luck ex-con living in a polluted mining town on a reservation that would run him out of town if not for the remainder of his probation. With his time nearly finished, he plans to start a new life with his girlfriend Lily , and leave the town for good. But Luc Crash and Lola Byrne head up a local gang of local Satanists who murder Jimmy and Lily in a brutally ritualistic slaying that they hope will conjure the rebirth of the Antichrist. When the legend of the Crow returns Jimmy from the dead, Jimmy heads out on a one-man path of vengeance that will lead him to El Nino, the leader of the gang that Luc and Lola are in."
"Jimmy Cuervo is a down-on-his-luck ex-con living in a polluted mining town on a reservation that would run him out of town if not for the remainder of his probation. With his time nearly finished, he plans to start a new life with his girlfriend Lily , and leave the town for good. But Luc Crash and Lola Byrne head up a local gang of local Satanists who murder Jimmy and Lily in a brutally ritualistic slaying that they hope will conjure the rebirth of the Antichrist. When the legend of the Crow returns Jimmy from the dead, Jimmy heads out on a one-man path of vengeance that will lead him to El Nino, the leader of the gang that Luc and Lola are in."
On this day in 2005 (in the United Kingdom), The League Of Gentlemen's Apocalypse opened its doors for cinematic business. Directed by Steve Bendelack, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Mark Gatiss and Steve Pemberton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The notorious fictional town of Royston Vasey is under threat and its inhabitants are forced to leave."
"The notorious fictional town of Royston Vasey is under threat and its inhabitants are forced to leave."
A star is born! On this day in 2011, The Millennium Bug was released upon unsuspecting audiences in attendance of the Dances With Films Festival. Written and directed by Kenneth Cran, the feature starred John Charles Meyer, Jessica Postrozny, and Christine Haeberman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the film's plot summary:
"When the Haskin family seeks refuge from Y2K hysteria in the isolated forests of the Sierra Diablos mountains, madness and terror find them there. Abducted by a vicious hillbilly clan, the Haskins fight for survival, but neither they nor the hillbilly Crawfords can comprehend the monstrous nightmare about to erupt from the bowels of the earth."
For the record:
At the 2011 Dragon*con Independent Film Festival, The Millennium Bug garnered two big wins, taking home trophies for Best Feature Film and (apparently) the best film of the festival. (??? I don't always understand awards festivals.)
"When the Haskin family seeks refuge from Y2K hysteria in the isolated forests of the Sierra Diablos mountains, madness and terror find them there. Abducted by a vicious hillbilly clan, the Haskins fight for survival, but neither they nor the hillbilly Crawfords can comprehend the monstrous nightmare about to erupt from the bowels of the earth."
For the record:
At the 2011 Dragon*con Independent Film Festival, The Millennium Bug garnered two big wins, taking home trophies for Best Feature Film and (apparently) the best film of the festival. (??? I don't always understand awards festivals.)
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in Japan), Crawl Or Die enjoyed its original release on home video. Written and directed by Oklahoma Ward, the Horror/Fantasy starred Nicole Alonso, Torey Byrne, and Tommy Ball. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An elite security team assigned the task of protecting the last known woman who can become pregnant, find themselves caught in an endless claustrophobic underground tunnel system. The team soon learns - the real horror is not the unstoppable force chasing them, but the ever shrinking tunnel itself."
"An elite security team assigned the task of protecting the last known woman who can become pregnant, find themselves caught in an endless claustrophobic underground tunnel system. The team soon learns - the real horror is not the unstoppable force chasing them, but the ever shrinking tunnel itself."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Dystopian flick Andron was first released theatrically. Written and directed by Francesco Cinquemani, the SciFi/Drama starred Leo Howard, Gale Harold, and Michelle Ryan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of people are plunged into a dark, claustrophobic maze, where they must fight to survive, as the outside world watches."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2016, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary DVD of Andron in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"A group of people are plunged into a dark, claustrophobic maze, where they must fight to survive, as the outside world watches."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2016, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary DVD of Andron in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2016, Approaching The Unknown blasted off in theatres. Written and directed by Mark Elijah Rosenberg, the film starred Mark Strong, Luke Wilson, and Sanaa Lathan; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Captain William Stanaforth is on a one-way solo mission to take the first steps in colonizing Mars. Like all pioneers throughout history, Stanaforth will face insurmountable odds and life and death decisions as he rockets bravely through space."
For the record:
In 2014, storyteller Mark Elijah Rosenberg won the NHK Award from the Sundance Film Festival, an award given to honor and promote emerging filmmakers.
"Captain William Stanaforth is on a one-way solo mission to take the first steps in colonizing Mars. Like all pioneers throughout history, Stanaforth will face insurmountable odds and life and death decisions as he rockets bravely through space."
For the record:
In 2014, storyteller Mark Elijah Rosenberg won the NHK Award from the Sundance Film Festival, an award given to honor and promote emerging filmmakers.
On this day in 2016 (in Japan), Terminus enjoyed its release on DVD. Written (in part) and directed by Marc Furmie, the SciFi/Drama starred Jai Koutrae and Kendra Appleton, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Following a near-fatal accident, David Chamberlain makes an unprecedented discovery that will not only determine the fate of his family, but of mankind."
"Following a near-fatal accident, David Chamberlain makes an unprecedented discovery that will not only determine the fate of his family, but of mankind."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), The Twilight Zone aired "Mr. Bevis." This served as the thirty-third episode to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An eccentric loser gets a new life from his guardian angel, but there is a price to keeping it."
"An eccentric loser gets a new life from his guardian angel, but there is a price to keeping it."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Evil of the Daleks: Part 3." This served as the thirty-ninth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As part of the Daleks' experiment, the Doctor manipulates Jamie into attempting to rescue Victoria."
"As part of the Daleks' experiment, the Doctor manipulates Jamie into attempting to rescue Victoria."
On this day in 1969 (in the U.S.), what so many fans of the original Star Trek era feared came to fruition: NBC aired the last episode ever featuring the adventures of Captain Kirk and his crew. It was called "Turnabout Intruder," and this was the twenty-fourth episode of the third season, and here's the plot summary from our friends at TrekCore.com:
"Dr. Janice Lester forcibly trades bodies with Captain Kirk to obtain what she always wanted: command of a starship, but when "Captain Kirk" begins to exhibit strange behaviour, the Enterprise crew turn to mutiny. In this final adventure, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy and Scotty are sentenced to death by what appears to be their captain."
For the record: Though methinks it's obvious at this point, I still thought it relevant to point out that, indeed, Star Trek never ended. In fact, its cancellation was really only the beginning. The show sold into TV syndication; and once mankind landed on the moon (just a short time later) the show was more popular than ever. A few years later, an animated version launched on television. Paramount Pictures enlisted the show's creator that a return to the well would bear fruit, and the storyteller went to work on crafting a little something-something known as Star Trek: Phase II. In the midst of that preparation, Star Wars ignited our cultural imagination, so Paramount said, "Hey, Gene, how about we make it a movie?" (I'm paraphrasing.) Today, Trek continues unabated: new series creep up from time-to-time, and the various reruns are still popular. It looks like the future is bright.
"Dr. Janice Lester forcibly trades bodies with Captain Kirk to obtain what she always wanted: command of a starship, but when "Captain Kirk" begins to exhibit strange behaviour, the Enterprise crew turn to mutiny. In this final adventure, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy and Scotty are sentenced to death by what appears to be their captain."
For the record: Though methinks it's obvious at this point, I still thought it relevant to point out that, indeed, Star Trek never ended. In fact, its cancellation was really only the beginning. The show sold into TV syndication; and once mankind landed on the moon (just a short time later) the show was more popular than ever. A few years later, an animated version launched on television. Paramount Pictures enlisted the show's creator that a return to the well would bear fruit, and the storyteller went to work on crafting a little something-something known as Star Trek: Phase II. In the midst of that preparation, Star Wars ignited our cultural imagination, so Paramount said, "Hey, Gene, how about we make it a movie?" (I'm paraphrasing.) Today, Trek continues unabated: new series creep up from time-to-time, and the various reruns are still popular. It looks like the future is bright.
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Time Monster: Part 3." Officially, this served as the twenty-third episode in the program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Master enlists the help of Krasis to control Kronos while Yates tries to bring the TARDIS to the institute only to come under attack from dangers from the past."
"The Master enlists the help of Krasis to control Kronos while Yates tries to bring the TARDIS to the institute only to come under attack from dangers from the past."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "Darkness Ascending." This served as the fifteenth episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sheridan finally discovers why Delenn had Lennier assigned to the White Star Fleet, and orders his ship to return. But Lennier takes his fighter and continues his mission, where he finally gets the information the Alliance needs. Lyta contacts G'Kar and reminds him of the offer he made to her in "The Gathering." She's willing to help the Narn in exchange for money to find a home world for telepaths."
"Sheridan finally discovers why Delenn had Lennier assigned to the White Star Fleet, and orders his ship to return. But Lennier takes his fighter and continues his mission, where he finally gets the information the Alliance needs. Lyta contacts G'Kar and reminds him of the offer he made to her in "The Gathering." She's willing to help the Narn in exchange for money to find a home world for telepaths."
On this day in 2002 (Canada), Tracker aired "Remember When." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Cole discovers a way to recapture all the prisoners. But as he makes his preparations, he gets hit with an energy blast and suffers from amnesia. With the wormhole rapidly closing, can he remember in time to fix the device to send all the prisoners home? What will happen if he does complete his mission? The finale of the series."
"Cole discovers a way to recapture all the prisoners. But as he makes his preparations, he gets hit with an energy blast and suffers from amnesia. With the wormhole rapidly closing, can he remember in time to fix the device to send all the prisoners home? What will happen if he does complete his mission? The finale of the series."
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Sym-Bionic Titan aired "The Steel Foe." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Unable to defeat a Mutraddi menace without Octurs, Lance and Ilana have dropped out of school and are traveling the country in search of a way to recharge their robot protector."
"Unable to defeat a Mutraddi menace without Octurs, Lance and Ilana have dropped out of school and are traveling the country in search of a way to recharge their robot protector."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Defiance aired "Goodbye Blue Sky." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Defiance is bombarded with razor rain, metal object falling from the sky as their orbit around the Earth deteriorates. Irisa has a vision and heads off to the badlands when she sees that Sukar is in danger. They arrive seemingly too late to save him but his funeral ceremony is something of a surprise. A resurrected Sukar is on a mission and takes Irisa with him. If he succeeds, it may be the end of the town. Christie McCawley meanwhile is worried about the Castithan bathing ritual for newlyweds where the entire family bathes together. Alak's mother Stahma calls on Kenya to arrange counseling for her son on women's sexuality. Nicky drops in on the McCawleys on the pretext of needing shelter from the bad weather."
"Defiance is bombarded with razor rain, metal object falling from the sky as their orbit around the Earth deteriorates. Irisa has a vision and heads off to the badlands when she sees that Sukar is in danger. They arrive seemingly too late to save him but his funeral ceremony is something of a surprise. A resurrected Sukar is on a mission and takes Irisa with him. If he succeeds, it may be the end of the town. Christie McCawley meanwhile is worried about the Castithan bathing ritual for newlyweds where the entire family bathes together. Alak's mother Stahma calls on Kenya to arrange counseling for her son on women's sexuality. Nicky drops in on the McCawleys on the pretext of needing shelter from the bad weather."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Warehouse 13 aired "Instinct." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"H.G. Wells returns to help Pete and Myka with an artifact that's forcing confessions out of criminals all while earthquakes are beginning to shake the Warehouse."
"H.G. Wells returns to help Pete and Myka with an artifact that's forcing confessions out of criminals all while earthquakes are beginning to shake the Warehouse."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Wynonna Earp aired "She Wouldn't Be Gone." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wynonna and Dolls investigate the haunting, snowy Barrens where rumors of a bloodthirsty beast could prove Bobo's undoing-and their own. Henry confronts his murky future and takes action with Waverly's inadvertent help."
"Wynonna and Dolls investigate the haunting, snowy Barrens where rumors of a bloodthirsty beast could prove Bobo's undoing-and their own. Henry confronts his murky future and takes action with Waverly's inadvertent help."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Westworld aired "Les Écorchés." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Bernard meets with an unexpected old friend; The Cradle is under threat; Maeve encounters a scene from her past."
"Bernard meets with an unexpected old friend; The Cradle is under threat; Maeve encounters a scene from her past."
On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Know Your Onions." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's seventh (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"With the identity of the timeline-unraveling "threat" revealed, the team's mission to protect him at all costs leads each agent to question their own values. Is preserving the future of the world as they know it worth the destruction they could prevent?"
"With the identity of the timeline-unraveling "threat" revealed, the team's mission to protect him at all costs leads each agent to question their own values. Is preserving the future of the world as they know it worth the destruction they could prevent?"
On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), The 100 aired "False Gods." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's seventh (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As Raven faces an unexpected threat, Clarke must keep the peace among opposing factions in Sanctum."
"As Raven faces an unexpected threat, Clarke must keep the peace among opposing factions in Sanctum."
On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), Charmed aired "Be Kind. Rewind." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alarming event triggers a drastic change in the magical universe. Only The Charmed Ones, along with Harry and Jordan, can save the world where humankind and magical beings co-exist...but they'll risk their lives in the process."
"An alarming event triggers a drastic change in the magical universe. Only The Charmed Ones, along with Harry and Jordan, can save the world where humankind and magical beings co-exist...but they'll risk their lives in the process."
On this day in 2003, LucasBooks released Matthew Stover's "Shatterpoint" for readers. The tale explored a stand alone adventure featuring fan favorite character Mace Windu, and here's the (edited) synopsis as featured on Amazon.com:
"Mace Windu is a living legend: Jedi Master, senior member of the Jedi Council, skilled diplomat, devastating fighter. Some say he is the deadliest man alive. But he is a man of peace—and for the first time in a thousand years, the galaxy is at war. Now, following the momentous events climaxing in the Battle of Geonosis, Master Mace Windu must undertake a perilous homecoming to his native world—to defuse a potentially catastrophic crisis for the Republic . . . and to confront a terrifying mystery with dire personal consequences."
"Mace Windu is a living legend: Jedi Master, senior member of the Jedi Council, skilled diplomat, devastating fighter. Some say he is the deadliest man alive. But he is a man of peace—and for the first time in a thousand years, the galaxy is at war. Now, following the momentous events climaxing in the Battle of Geonosis, Master Mace Windu must undertake a perilous homecoming to his native world—to defuse a potentially catastrophic crisis for the Republic . . . and to confront a terrifying mystery with dire personal consequences."
On this day in 1943, The Adventures Of Superman radio serial aired the first part of "The Meteor From Krypton." This story ran through June 11th, and here's the (edited) premise as detailed by the Retro Radio Podcast (link):
"The story thus far deals with a flaming meteor that crashed onto a nearby farm. As Clark Kent investigated, he became weak and dizzy. Fearing a doctors exam would reveal his secret identity as Superman, he is reluctant but Perry makes him go anyway. His impervious skin has broken the doctors needle."
"The story thus far deals with a flaming meteor that crashed onto a nearby farm. As Clark Kent investigated, he became weak and dizzy. Fearing a doctors exam would reveal his secret identity as Superman, he is reluctant but Perry makes him go anyway. His impervious skin has broken the doctors needle."
On this day in 1946, The Shadow radio serial aired an episode titled "Death In A Minor Key." Unfortunately, I've been able to locate a plot synopsis anywhere on the internet.
On this day in 1951, The Shadow radio serial aired an episode titled "The Red Chain." According to our friends on The Shadow Wiki, this tale was penned by SciFi's Alfred Bester but the details appear to be lost to history as I've found no plot summary on the internet.
