Nestor Paiva (above right) was one of those background actors hired specifically for his ability to play practically any type of foreigner. Genre fans probably know him best from appearances as 'Lucas' in Creature From The Black Lagoon (1954) and Revenge Of The Creature (1955). Though he's no longer with us, Paiva was born on this day in 1905. [Source: IMDB.com]
Screen curmudgeon Harvey Vernon phoned in his Star Trek: Deep Space Nine via subspace. Go figure. Though he's no longer with us, Vernon was born on this day in 1927. [Source: IMDB.com]
Producer Jeri Taylor was one of the driving creative storytelling forces behind both Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager. Taylor was born on this day in 1938. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record: Taylor was no slouch when she entered the realm of TV's beloved Star Trek. She had already worked as a producer for such mainstream fare as Blue Thunder and the popular Magnum, P.I. She did share a nomination for the Primetime Emmy in 'Outstanding Drama Series' for Star Trek: The Next Generation with the production crew, but the show lost out to Picket Fences. As a screenwriter, she contributed to over a dozen episodes of The Next Generation as well as three stories for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
For the record: Taylor was no slouch when she entered the realm of TV's beloved Star Trek. She had already worked as a producer for such mainstream fare as Blue Thunder and the popular Magnum, P.I. She did share a nomination for the Primetime Emmy in 'Outstanding Drama Series' for Star Trek: The Next Generation with the production crew, but the show lost out to Picket Fences. As a screenwriter, she contributed to over a dozen episodes of The Next Generation as well as three stories for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
Star Trek enthusiasts -- mostly male one, methinks -- will debate forever which actresses who guest-starred aboard their beloved franchise is the most memorable, and -- for what it's worth -- Charlene Polite definitely deserves a second look. I think she's often forgotten, mostly as she appeared in the program's heavily-flawed third season and aboard arguably one of the show's lesser entries; but she's definitely easy on the eyes. Though she's no longer with us, Polite was born on this day in 1943. [Source: IMDB.com]
Nicolas Surovy is no slouch when it comes to genre appearances. He's scored roles in such properties as Doctor Franken (1980), The Twilight Zone, 12:01 (1993), The Adventures Of Brisco County Jr., Star Trek: Voyager, SeaQuest 2032, The Visitor, The X-Files, and Angel. Surovy was born on this day in 1944. [Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Vincent D'onofrio was barely recognizable for his part in the original Men In Black (1997). He played 'Edgar,' the homicidal alien who sent all action in motion in the film, but the latter half has his shtick pretty much covered by a CGI creation. More recently, he dipped deep into SciFi's waters by appearing as the 'heavy' opposite Chris Pratt in Jurassic World. D'onofrio was born on this day in 1955. [Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman David Alan Grier delivered the necessary laughs (as expected) with his work aboard Jumanji (1995). Grier was born on this day in 1956. [Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Ilene Chaiken has quality roots in some interesting genre-related projects. As a screenwriter, she penned the story and script for Barb Wire (1996), and -- more recently -- she served as executive producer for Hulu's The Handmaid's Tale. Chaiken was born on this day in 1957. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record: Chaiken is one of those activist-driven screenwriters, a teller of tales who uses her personal politics to dictate the direction of a story. (Not that there's anything wrong with that!) Hollywood tends to reward folks who do this -- always paint their political opponent as the source of evil in the world -- and, as such, her work on The Handmaid's Tale has been rewarded with the 2017 Primetime Emmy for 'Outstanding Drama Series'; the 2018 PGA Award for 'Outstanding Producer Of Episodic Television, Drama'; the 2018 Writers Guild Of America Award for 'Dramatic Series'; and the 2018 Writers Guild Of America Award for 'New Series.' Baring all that in mind, I think it apropos to keep in mind she also won the 1997 Razzie Award for 'Worst Screenplay' for Barb Wire, arguable one of the dumbest things on film (especially for genre projects). So kudos to late blooming, I guess!
For the record: Chaiken is one of those activist-driven screenwriters, a teller of tales who uses her personal politics to dictate the direction of a story. (Not that there's anything wrong with that!) Hollywood tends to reward folks who do this -- always paint their political opponent as the source of evil in the world -- and, as such, her work on The Handmaid's Tale has been rewarded with the 2017 Primetime Emmy for 'Outstanding Drama Series'; the 2018 PGA Award for 'Outstanding Producer Of Episodic Television, Drama'; the 2018 Writers Guild Of America Award for 'Dramatic Series'; and the 2018 Writers Guild Of America Award for 'New Series.' Baring all that in mind, I think it apropos to keep in mind she also won the 1997 Razzie Award for 'Worst Screenplay' for Barb Wire, arguable one of the dumbest things on film (especially for genre projects). So kudos to late blooming, I guess!
Actress and producer Lisa London hasn't delved into the realm of Science Fiction all that much, but small roles aboard Amazing Stories and Xtro 3: Watch The Skies (1995) do deserve mention. London was born on this day in 1957. [Source: IMDB.com]
Rupert Graves (pictured above far left) made an appearance in an episode of the BBC's signature SciFi series, Doctor Who, alongside Matt Smith and friends in 2012's "Dinosaurs On A Spaceship." More recently, he faced the danger of an alien invasion from Mars in the BBC's miniseries adaptation of H.G. Wells The War Of The Worlds. In between he managed to squeeze in small roles aboard 12 Monkeys and the criminally underrated Krypton for Syfy. Graves was born on this day in 1963. [Source: IMDB.com]
Director Mark Waters sunk his teeth firmly into Fantasy with his directorial take on The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008). Waters was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
Born on this day in 1966, Marton Csokas hails from New Zealand -- the land most folks know as Middle-Earth these days -- and, since 1990, he's built a terrific career in both conventional and voice acting. While he's lent his vocal talents to such projects as Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones and the Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters video game, he's appeared on screen in such properties as Farscape, Aeon Flux, and Cleopatra 2525. [Source: IMDB.com]
Peter Outerbridge has dabbled in some delicious Sci-Fi properties, including Mission to Mars, The Outer Limits, Millennium, and ReGenesis. Most recently, he can be seen as part of the BBC's pretty stellar Orphan Black and Syfy's The Expanse series. Outerbridge was born on this day in 1966. [Source: IMDB.com]
It's another case of 'You May Not Know His Face, But You've Possibly Heard His Voice'! Actor Brian Bloom has been a part of many genre-related projects as a voice actor, bringing to life characters for various Star Wars video properties and several animated Marvel franchises. Bloom was born on this day in 1970. [Source: IMDB.com]
Chris Conrad went to the mat to defend life as we know it as part of his role aboard Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997). He's also appeared aboard Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Young Hercules, and Portal (2009). Conrad was born on this day in 1970. [Source: IMDB.com]
Luscious Kate Luyben has never had any big breakout role in Science Fiction, but she's enjoyed a handful of smaller parts that have helped to give her a presence. She's been seen on The Sentinel, The X-Files, Millennium, Max Q, Harsh Realm, First Wave, and Dark Angel. Luyben was born on this day in 1972. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her career, the fabulous Molly Parker dabbled in Science Fiction and Fantasy with roles aboard such properties as The Outer Limits, Highlander (TV), The Sentinel, and Poltergeist: The Legacy. More recently, she re-entered the world of SciFi in the guise of 'Maureen Robinson' aboard Netflix's reboot of Lost In Space. Parker was born on this day in 1972. [Source: IMDB.com]
Colton Dunn helped defend Earth from an alien menace aboard the YouTube.Com original move Lazer Team (2015) and Lazer Team 2 (2018). Dunn was born on this day in 1977. [Source: IMDB.com]
It may not be much, but it certainly counts: Rick Gonzalez (above left) joined Tom Cruise in facing Steven Spielberg's dreaded War of the Worlds back in 2005. Gonzalez was born on this day in 1979. [Source: IMDB.com]
Desi Lydic is known for her work in mainstream comedies, and she used her gift for laughs to bring more than a little bit of mirth to William Shatner's Invasion Iowa project back in 2005. Lydic was born on this day in 1981. [Source: IMDB.com]
Though she dabbled off and on in a handful of fairly conventional television dramas for her first few years, Lizzy Caplan (above left) really hit it big in entertainment when she joined the cast of the modern-day monster movie, Cloverfield, in 2008. Although she's now pretty much centered back in the realm of regular programming, SciFi would definitely love to see more of her. Caplan was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 2013, Ashley Walters (above left) joined Matt Smith in the popular episode of Doctor Who, "Journey To The Centre Of The TARDIS." The actor has also appeared in Speed Racer (2008), Outcasts, Sinbad, and The Aliens. Walters was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
Unlike most critics, I didn't spend much time tripping over myself to praise HBO's Westworld: I found much of its first and second seasons a bit under-programmed, but I did like many of its players ... including the lovely Angela Sarafyan who played the soiled dove 'Clementine Pennyfeather.' Over the course of her time as an 'android,' she discovers that reality is quite complicated. And bloody. Sarafyan was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Julie Engelbrecht enjoyed a little bit of exposure in a very important episode of FX's The Strain from Guillermo del Toro in 2015. Engelbrecht was born on this day in 1984. [Source: IMDB.com]
Actor and wrestler Cody Runnels has appeared in the greater DC Television Universe aboard The CW's Arrow on a few occasions. Runnels was born on this day in 1985. [Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in his career, Sean Marquette had a recurring guest spot aboard USA Network's popular The 4400. Marquette was born on this day in 1988. [Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1969 (in Spain), The Twelve-Handed Men Of Mars enjoyed a visit to theaters. Written (in part) and directed by the team of Franco Castellano and Giuseppe Moccia, the SciFi/Comedy starred Paolo Panelli, Carlo Croccolo, Enzo Garinei, and and Alfredo Landa as travellers to Earth from the Red Planet. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Four extraterrestrials, X-1, X-2, X-3 and X-4, arrive on Earth in the early sixties. Here they decide to take on human features to study the terrestrials incognito, but end up getting involved in the Roman "dolce vita"."
"Four extraterrestrials, X-1, X-2, X-3 and X-4, arrive on Earth in the early sixties. Here they decide to take on human features to study the terrestrials incognito, but end up getting involved in the Roman "dolce vita"."
Arguably, the original Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory remains one of the greatest Fantasy films of its generation. It was released on this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), and it starred the legendary Gene Wilder as the central figure, a chocolatier (and more) shrounded in magical mystery. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Charlie receives a golden ticket to a factory, his sweet tooth wants going into the lushing candy, it turns out there's an adventure in everything."
For the record:
In 2014, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, selected for its historical, cultural, and aethetic contributions to filmdom.
"Charlie receives a golden ticket to a factory, his sweet tooth wants going into the lushing candy, it turns out there's an adventure in everything."
For the record:
In 2014, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, selected for its historical, cultural, and aethetic contributions to filmdom.
On this day in 1972, the fourth film in the series -- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes -- launched its full assault on U.S. theaters after an exclusive premiere (just yesterday!) in New York. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Roddy McDowall, Don Murray, and Ricardo Montalban. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
On this day in 1978 (in Japan), the original SciFi spectacle Star Wars enjoyed its theatrical release. Written and directed by George Lucas, the landmark feature starred Mark Hamill, Alec Guinness, and Carrie Fisher; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle-station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the evil Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle-station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the evil Darth Vader."
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1979 (in Japan), audiences were made to believe that a man could fly with the theatrical release of Superman. Directed by Richard Donner, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Christopher Reeve, Margot Kidder, and Gene Hackman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero."
For the record:
At the 1979 Academy Awards, Superman failed to take home the trophy for 'Best Music, Original Score,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Sound' ... but it was awarded a Special Achievement Award for its pioneering visual effects work. Thankfully, the 1979 Saturn Awards corrected any critical oversight when it awarded the film recognition in the categories of 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The feature film also took home the 1979 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"An alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero."
For the record:
At the 1979 Academy Awards, Superman failed to take home the trophy for 'Best Music, Original Score,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Sound' ... but it was awarded a Special Achievement Award for its pioneering visual effects work. Thankfully, the 1979 Saturn Awards corrected any critical oversight when it awarded the film recognition in the categories of 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' The feature film also took home the 1979 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1983 (in the Netherlands), Parasite tried to hitch a ride to box office glory. Directed by genre legend Charles Band, the SciFi/Horror starred Demi Moore, Robert Glaudini, and Luca Bercovici; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic USA, a doctor/scientist infected with a new strain of parasite ends up in a small desert town, trying to find a cure."
"In a post-apocalyptic USA, a doctor/scientist infected with a new strain of parasite ends up in a small desert town, trying to find a cure."
On this day in 1984 (in Sweden), Krull blasted its way into box office gold! (Meh, not really...) Directed by Peter Yates with a script from Stanford Sherman, the Fantasy feature starred Ken Marshall, Lysette Anthony, and Freddie Jones. According to friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
For the record:
Despite its overwhelming mediocrity, Krull did catch the attention of the fine folks at the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. For the 1984 Saturn Awards, they gave it three nominations: 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.' It didn't win any trophies, however. But it did take home a coveted statue for 'Worst Picture' from the 1983 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards. That's gotta count for something, no?
"A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
For the record:
Despite its overwhelming mediocrity, Krull did catch the attention of the fine folks at the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. For the 1984 Saturn Awards, they gave it three nominations: 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Music,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.' It didn't win any trophies, however. But it did take home a coveted statue for 'Worst Picture' from the 1983 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards. That's gotta count for something, no?
On this day in 1984 (in Japan), Star Trek III: The Search For Spock took the crew of the Starship Enterprise on a mission to recover their missing comrade. Directed by Leonard Nimoy, the film starred William Shatner, DeForest Kelley, and James Doohan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Admiral Kirk and his bridge crew risk their careers stealing the decommissioned U.S.S. Enterprise to return to the restricted Genesis Planet to recover Spock's body."
For the record:
This tad-more-cerebral entry into the cinematic realm of Star Trek garnered a handful of nominations from the 1985 Saturn Awards and a singular nomination ('Best Dramatic Presentation') from the 1985 Hugo Awards. The film brings the popular Vulcan back from the dead, indeed, though we learn from the next picture he's not quite himself ... yet.
"Admiral Kirk and his bridge crew risk their careers stealing the decommissioned U.S.S. Enterprise to return to the restricted Genesis Planet to recover Spock's body."
For the record:
This tad-more-cerebral entry into the cinematic realm of Star Trek garnered a handful of nominations from the 1985 Saturn Awards and a singular nomination ('Best Dramatic Presentation') from the 1985 Hugo Awards. The film brings the popular Vulcan back from the dead, indeed, though we learn from the next picture he's not quite himself ... yet.
A star is born! Good grief. How awful does a film have to be in order to cast Rob Schneider to make it even remotely palatable? That would be very bad. Very bad, indeed. Such was the case with 1995's version of Judge Dredd, starring the incomparable Sylvester Stallone and -- yes, you guessed it -- Rob Schneider. I guess it could've been worse. I just can't imagine how. It first played theatrically on this day in 1995. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the year 2139, the Earth has changed into a virtually uninhabitable place called the Cursed Earth. All of the Earth's population have crowded into the cities across the planet, now known as Mega-Cities. The crimes in these Mega-Cities became so violent and so powerful, that the regular justice system was powerless to contain, then it collapsed completely. However, a new justice system came from the ashes, there were three justice systems in one (police, jury and executioner), they were called Judges. In Mega-City One (formerly, New York City), there was a Judge, named Joseph Dredd, who was the toughest and most stringent Judge in history. One day, he was charged with murder, and was tried and sentenced to life in prison because of it."
For the record:
Erm ... I guess the best I can say -- if I'm being kind -- is that this incarnation of Judge Dredd just wasn't meant to be. Stallone is a marquee actor, and I have to wonder if the script wasn't crafted to keep his face out from under Dredd's signature helmet, but it is what it is. Still, the film was technically proficient and definitely looked good. It garnered Saturn Award nominations for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-up,' and 'Best Special Effects,' yet lost in all categories. Stallone and Schneider did have solid chemistry in this buddy picture, so I guess we have to be thankful for small favors.
"In the year 2139, the Earth has changed into a virtually uninhabitable place called the Cursed Earth. All of the Earth's population have crowded into the cities across the planet, now known as Mega-Cities. The crimes in these Mega-Cities became so violent and so powerful, that the regular justice system was powerless to contain, then it collapsed completely. However, a new justice system came from the ashes, there were three justice systems in one (police, jury and executioner), they were called Judges. In Mega-City One (formerly, New York City), there was a Judge, named Joseph Dredd, who was the toughest and most stringent Judge in history. One day, he was charged with murder, and was tried and sentenced to life in prison because of it."
For the record:
Erm ... I guess the best I can say -- if I'm being kind -- is that this incarnation of Judge Dredd just wasn't meant to be. Stallone is a marquee actor, and I have to wonder if the script wasn't crafted to keep his face out from under Dredd's signature helmet, but it is what it is. Still, the film was technically proficient and definitely looked good. It garnered Saturn Award nominations for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-up,' and 'Best Special Effects,' yet lost in all categories. Stallone and Schneider did have solid chemistry in this buddy picture, so I guess we have to be thankful for small favors.
A star is born! On this day in 1995, stars of the small screen morphed to the big screen with the theatrical release of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie. Directed by Bryan Spicer, the Fantasy event starred the regulars from the television show, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Six teenagers Tommy, Kimberly, Adam, Billy, Rocky and Aisha have discovered the power to fight the forces of evil. A giant egg is unearthed in Angel Grove. Lord Zedd and Rita Repulsa investigate the egg, and release the creature inside - Ivan Ooze, whom Zordon had trapped him inside the egg six thousand years ago. Once released, Ooze left to seek revenge on Zordon. And now Zordon in his crystalline deathbed is dying because he has no power, without the power then Zordon of Eltar will never existed. Now the fate of the universe is in their hands. But this time the Power Rangers head for a distant planet to meet up with a bikini-clad warrior babe named Dulcea who imparts ancient wisdom and power. But now that they have their powers back and becomes Power Rangers once more they will now get back to business and defeat Ivan Ooze at all costs."
"Six teenagers Tommy, Kimberly, Adam, Billy, Rocky and Aisha have discovered the power to fight the forces of evil. A giant egg is unearthed in Angel Grove. Lord Zedd and Rita Repulsa investigate the egg, and release the creature inside - Ivan Ooze, whom Zordon had trapped him inside the egg six thousand years ago. Once released, Ooze left to seek revenge on Zordon. And now Zordon in his crystalline deathbed is dying because he has no power, without the power then Zordon of Eltar will never existed. Now the fate of the universe is in their hands. But this time the Power Rangers head for a distant planet to meet up with a bikini-clad warrior babe named Dulcea who imparts ancient wisdom and power. But now that they have their powers back and becomes Power Rangers once more they will now get back to business and defeat Ivan Ooze at all costs."
A star is born! On this day in 1998, Michael Bay's Armageddon enjoyed its Hollywood premiere in Westwood, California. (Never fear, patriots, as it opened up for the rest of us -- in the U.S. and Canada -- just the very next day.) The big budget extravaganza starred Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, and Will Patton as the warriors sent to save the Earth itself from an extinction level event. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Due to a shuttle's unfortunate demise in outer space, NASA becomes aware of a doomsday asteroid that is on a collision course with Earth. It seems that the only way to knock it off course is to drill into its surface and detonate a nuclear weapon. But as NASA's under-funded yet resourceful team train the world's best drillers for the job, the social order of the world begins to break down as the information reaches the public and hysteria results. As high-ranking officials play politics with the effort, the drilling team all faces deep personal issues which may jeopardize humanity's last chance..."
For the record:
Wow. What to say about Armageddon? Well, on April 22, 2013, director Michael Bay finally apologized for loosing the cinematic spectacle upon all of mankind. (Isn't it interesting, though, that one of its principle writers -- JJ Abrams -- remains silent, eh?) To be honest, I didn't think the film was bad enough that we deserved an apology for it: sadly, it was your typical summer blockbuster event, which is to say it was big, loud, dumb, and (mostly) fun. It enjoyed a healthy number of award nominations, and it even won 'Best Science Fiction Film' at the 1999 Saturn Awards (an honor shared with mildly confusing Dark City). Plus the film featured one of Aerosmith's biggest ballads in years -- "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" -- originally penned by the great Diane Warren. Maybe it's best to think of Armageddon as Hollywood's truest case of buyer beware: you never know what you're going to get.
"Due to a shuttle's unfortunate demise in outer space, NASA becomes aware of a doomsday asteroid that is on a collision course with Earth. It seems that the only way to knock it off course is to drill into its surface and detonate a nuclear weapon. But as NASA's under-funded yet resourceful team train the world's best drillers for the job, the social order of the world begins to break down as the information reaches the public and hysteria results. As high-ranking officials play politics with the effort, the drilling team all faces deep personal issues which may jeopardize humanity's last chance..."
For the record:
Wow. What to say about Armageddon? Well, on April 22, 2013, director Michael Bay finally apologized for loosing the cinematic spectacle upon all of mankind. (Isn't it interesting, though, that one of its principle writers -- JJ Abrams -- remains silent, eh?) To be honest, I didn't think the film was bad enough that we deserved an apology for it: sadly, it was your typical summer blockbuster event, which is to say it was big, loud, dumb, and (mostly) fun. It enjoyed a healthy number of award nominations, and it even won 'Best Science Fiction Film' at the 1999 Saturn Awards (an honor shared with mildly confusing Dark City). Plus the film featured one of Aerosmith's biggest ballads in years -- "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" -- originally penned by the great Diane Warren. Maybe it's best to think of Armageddon as Hollywood's truest case of buyer beware: you never know what you're going to get.
A star is born! On this day in 1998, Watchers Reborn (aka Watchers 4) brought the franchise roaring back to life. Directed by John Carl Buechler, this one starred the estimable Mark Hamill along with Lisa Wilcox and Stephen Macht; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An extra-smart dog and detective team up to stop a DNA enhanced killer."
"An extra-smart dog and detective team up to stop a DNA enhanced killer."
A star is born! On this day in 1999 (in Argentina), Bridge of Dragons enjoyed its home video premiere. Directed by Isaac Florentine, the feature starred Dolph Lundgren, Valerie Chow, and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The tough and cold mercenary Warchild, is working for the man who took care of his war training and upbringing, the greedy General Ruechang. Ruechang is planning to take over the country by marrying Princess Halo. But Halo discovers that Ruechang killed her father to gain more power than he had working for the King, so she decides to run away. Warchild is the one who has to bring her back to Ruechang, but the one thing no one counted on happens... Warchild and Halo falls in love, and together they take on the forces of Ruechang..."
"The tough and cold mercenary Warchild, is working for the man who took care of his war training and upbringing, the greedy General Ruechang. Ruechang is planning to take over the country by marrying Princess Halo. But Halo discovers that Ruechang killed her father to gain more power than he had working for the King, so she decides to run away. Warchild is the one who has to bring her back to Ruechang, but the one thing no one counted on happens... Warchild and Halo falls in love, and together they take on the forces of Ruechang..."
A star is born ... or is that 'born again?' On that day in 2003, the Terminator was back again with the theatrical premiere of Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines held in Westwood, California. Directed by Jonathan Mostow, the film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kristanna Loken, and Nick Stahl; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 2006 (in India), Superman himself took to the silver screens again with the release of Bryan Singer's craptacular Superman Returns. (Sorry, friends, but I wasn't a fan.) Starring Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, and Kevin Spacey, the film failed to reignite the box office on behalf of DC Comics. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Superman returns to Earth after spending five years in space examining his homeworld Krypton. But he finds things have changed while he was gone, and he must once again prove himself important to the world."
For the record:
At the 2007 Academy Awards, Superman Returns enjoyed an Oscar nomination (but no win) in the category of 'Best Achievement In Vusual Effects.' The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films was quite smitten with the production, giving it an incredible 11 Saturn Award nominations; the film won top honors in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.' And on the flip side of things, actress Kate Bosworth enjoyed a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actress' from the 2007 Razzie Awards.
"Superman returns to Earth after spending five years in space examining his homeworld Krypton. But he finds things have changed while he was gone, and he must once again prove himself important to the world."
For the record:
At the 2007 Academy Awards, Superman Returns enjoyed an Oscar nomination (but no win) in the category of 'Best Achievement In Vusual Effects.' The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films was quite smitten with the production, giving it an incredible 11 Saturn Award nominations; the film won top honors in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Fantasy Film.' And on the flip side of things, actress Kate Bosworth enjoyed a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actress' from the 2007 Razzie Awards.
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), the SciFi/Animated/Telefilm Doctor Who: The Infinite Quest first aired. Directed by Gary Russell with a script from Alan Barnes, the feature starred the voices of David Tennant, Freema Agyeman, and Anthony Head. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Doctor and Martha Jones trek through space and time in a race against the galaxy's greatest despot, Baltazar, to follow a complex trail of clues to discover the location of the legendary lost spaceship, the Infinite, which, according to myth, can grant anybody their hearts desire."
"The Doctor and Martha Jones trek through space and time in a race against the galaxy's greatest despot, Baltazar, to follow a complex trail of clues to discover the location of the legendary lost spaceship, the Infinite, which, according to myth, can grant anybody their hearts desire."
On this day in 2007 (in the Netherlands), Locusts: The 8th Plague both took flight and started munching on people. Directed by Ian Gilmour with a script from D.R. Rosen, the Horror feature starred Dan Cortese, Julie Benz, and David Keith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Top-secret lab experiments have resulted in genetically-engineered locusts that devour the flesh from any humans in their path. When the swarm escapes, a determined researcher heads a team to stop the menace before it consumes the world."
"Top-secret lab experiments have resulted in genetically-engineered locusts that devour the flesh from any humans in their path. When the swarm escapes, a determined researcher heads a team to stop the menace before it consumes the world."
A star is born! On this day in 2008, the SciFi/Horror/Telefilm better known as Sea Beast made audiences afraid to go back into the water or even on the dock it would appear. Written (in part) and directed by Paul Ziller, the monster movie starred genre-favorite Corin Nemec, Miriam McDonald, and Daniel Wisler. According to IMDB.com, here's the (edited) plot summary:
"The fishing vessel Solita crosses a storm during the night and the Skipper Will McKenna witnesses a weird creature attacking the crewman Joey. They return to the dock and Will has difficulties to pay the amount he owes to the former owner of the boat, Roy. The fish population is reducing in the area and the biologist Arden is investigating the possible causes."
"The fishing vessel Solita crosses a storm during the night and the Skipper Will McKenna witnesses a weird creature attacking the crewman Joey. They return to the dock and Will has difficulties to pay the amount he owes to the former owner of the boat, Roy. The fish population is reducing in the area and the biologist Arden is investigating the possible causes."
On this day in 2009 (in both Belgium and the Netherlands), Polar Storm enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Paul Ziller, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jack Coleman, Holly Elissa, and Tyler Johnston; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A comet passes near the Earth and disturbs Earth's magnetic field."
"A comet passes near the Earth and disturbs Earth's magnetic field."
A star is born ... and it's packing giant robotic heat! On this day in 2009, Transmorphers: Fall of Man enjoyed its release on home video. Directed by Scott Wheeler with a script from Shane Van Dyke, the SciFi/Thriller starred Bruce Boxleitner, Jennifer Rubin, and Alana DiMaria. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In this present day prequel, the robot invaders attack the Earth, forcing a small band of humans to seek refuge below the surface of the planet."
"In this present day prequel, the robot invaders attack the Earth, forcing a small band of humans to seek refuge below the surface of the planet."
On this day in 2011 (in Spain), the 1985-produced Back To The Future played for audiences in attendance of the Phenomena Barcelona. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and Lea Thompson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Marty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent thirty years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Marty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent thirty years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after. At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.' The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 2011 (in Russia), the SciFi feature Target (aka Mishen) opened in theatres. Written (in part) and directed by Aleksandr Zeldovich, the SciFi/Drama starred Maksim Sukhanov, Justine Waddell, and Vitaliy Kishchenko. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 2020, a group of wealthy Muscovites traveling to a complex of abandoned astrophysics, where rumors say they have enough power to stop the aging process."
For the record:
As well as a fair amount of praise earned on the film festival circuit, Target was celebrated at the 2012 Nika Awards, the Russian equivalent to the U.S.'s Academy Awards. The film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Music' but had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Costume Designer,' 'Best Production Designer,' and 'Best Cinematographer.'
"In 2020, a group of wealthy Muscovites traveling to a complex of abandoned astrophysics, where rumors say they have enough power to stop the aging process."
For the record:
As well as a fair amount of praise earned on the film festival circuit, Target was celebrated at the 2012 Nika Awards, the Russian equivalent to the U.S.'s Academy Awards. The film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Music' but had to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Costume Designer,' 'Best Production Designer,' and 'Best Cinematographer.'
A star is born ... and this one's about to be hunted! On this day in 2012, the SciFi/Telefilm Bigfoot gave cryptozoologists hope for the elusive Sasquatch. Directed by Bruce Davison with a script from Brian Brinkman and Micho Rutare, the film starred Danny Bonaduce, Barry Williams, and Sherilyn Fenn. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"1970's pop culture icons Danny Bonaduce and Barry Williams face off in the hunt for the legendary mountain creature."
"1970's pop culture icons Danny Bonaduce and Barry Williams face off in the hunt for the legendary mountain creature."
On this day in 2020 (in South Korea), 3022 took audiences on yet one more rather bleak journey into our collective tomorrow. Directed by John Suits from a script by Ryan Binaco, the SciFi/Drama starred Omar Epps, Kate Walsh, and Angus Macfadyen; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A group of astronauts living in the haunting emptiness of deep space awake to find earth has suffered an extinction level event."
"A group of astronauts living in the haunting emptiness of deep space awake to find earth has suffered an extinction level event."
On this day in 1951, TV's Space Patrol aired "The Lost City Of The Carnacans." This served as the twenty-seventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Space Patrol: Missions Of Daring In The Days Of Early Television (Kindle version):
"The United Planets Communications Commision receives a message that the underground city of Temphi, capital of the lost civilization of the Carnacans, has been discovered in the Martian Desert. Buzz, always fascinated by Carnacan history, goes exploring with Happy and Carol to learn who or what is transmitting radio messages with a 1,000-year-old transmitter from the ancient city."
"The United Planets Communications Commision receives a message that the underground city of Temphi, capital of the lost civilization of the Carnacans, has been discovered in the Martian Desert. Buzz, always fascinated by Carnacan history, goes exploring with Happy and Carol to learn who or what is transmitting radio messages with a 1,000-year-old transmitter from the ancient city."
On this day in 1962, Out Of The World aired "The Yellow Pill." This served as the second episode in the program's only season of existence, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A strait-jacketed homicidal maniac is brought to see an eminent Psychiatrist. But which of them is actually deluded?"
"A strait-jacketed homicidal maniac is brought to see an eminent Psychiatrist. But which of them is actually deluded?"
On this day in 1992, Mann & Machine aired "Mann's Fate." This served as the sixth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mann moves in with Eve after a psychotic bomber destroys his home, seeking the person who arrested him."
Showrunners followed up the airing of that installment with a special 2nd episode, this one titled "Truth Or Consequences." According to IMDB.com, here's the premise behind that adventure:
"Eve learns more about humans while guarding a young girl and her mother, who is to testify against her accountant husband's mobster employers."
"Mann moves in with Eve after a psychotic bomber destroys his home, seeking the person who arrested him."
Showrunners followed up the airing of that installment with a special 2nd episode, this one titled "Truth Or Consequences." According to IMDB.com, here's the premise behind that adventure:
"Eve learns more about humans while guarding a young girl and her mother, who is to testify against her accountant husband's mobster employers."
On this in 1999, First Wave aired "The Decision." This served as the twenty-second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's provided via IMDB.com:
"The leaders of the Gua First Wave force are meeting to decide if it is time to begin the Second Wave. They are about to vote for it unanimously when Joshua shows up and tries to persuade them (through the use of flashbacks) that too many of their experiments have gone awry -- partly from their own weaknesses, but mostly because of Subject 117: Cade Foster. He tries to convince them that if there enough humans humans with the same psychological profile as Cade, they could easily band together and could possibly defeat the Gua invasion. To prove his point, he presents as evidence events from past episodes."
"The leaders of the Gua First Wave force are meeting to decide if it is time to begin the Second Wave. They are about to vote for it unanimously when Joshua shows up and tries to persuade them (through the use of flashbacks) that too many of their experiments have gone awry -- partly from their own weaknesses, but mostly because of Subject 117: Cade Foster. He tries to convince them that if there enough humans humans with the same psychological profile as Cade, they could easily band together and could possibly defeat the Gua invasion. To prove his point, he presents as evidence events from past episodes."
On this day in 2000, Stargate: SG-1 kicked off its fourth season with an hour titled "Small Victories." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"SG-1 has to deal with a Replicator infestation on a Russian sub on Earth while Major Carter advises the Asgardians about combating the menace in their space."
"SG-1 has to deal with a Replicator infestation on a Russian sub on Earth while Major Carter advises the Asgardians about combating the menace in their space."
On this day in 2000 (in Australia), the Apocalypse-themed Thunderstone aired the third episode of its third (and final) season. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Noah, Arushka and Chip try to escape from E-Delta. Kwan takes responsibility of the animal reserve."
"Noah, Arushka and Chip try to escape from E-Delta. Kwan takes responsibility of the animal reserve."
On this day in 2001, Sherlock Holmes In The 22nd Century aired "The Adventure Of The Mazarin Chip." This served as the eighth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Moriarty and Fenwick steal the Mazarin Chip, a voice activated virtual reality microchip that can create lifelike environments on demand, then kidnap the Prime Minister of England to crash the financial market from his secret hideout."
"Moriarty and Fenwick steal the Mazarin Chip, a voice activated virtual reality microchip that can create lifelike environments on demand, then kidnap the Prime Minister of England to crash the financial market from his secret hideout."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2007, TV's Dinosapien went extinct (as it were) with the airing of "The Thunderbird." Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Aikens wants to use Eno as bait to destroy the dinosaurs as they emerge from their caves in the Badlands. Lauren is able to locate Eno with Nelson and Danielle's help. Undeterred, Dr. Aikens continues to stuff dynamite into the caves, but the Diggers arrive and chase him off. When a bolt of lightning strikes, the Thunderbird myth Ten Bears had foretold becomes a reality. Will this make Lauren and Eno's dreams come true?"
"Dr. Aikens wants to use Eno as bait to destroy the dinosaurs as they emerge from their caves in the Badlands. Lauren is able to locate Eno with Nelson and Danielle's help. Undeterred, Dr. Aikens continues to stuff dynamite into the caves, but the Diggers arrive and chase him off. When a bolt of lightning strikes, the Thunderbird myth Ten Bears had foretold becomes a reality. Will this make Lauren and Eno's dreams come true?"
On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Last Of The Time Lords." This served as the thirteenth episode in the re-launched program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"It's been a year since The Master unleashed the mysterious Toclafane onto Earth. With the human race and The Doctor enslaved under The Master's control, Martha Jones is the only person that can help stop the evil Time Lord."
"It's been a year since The Master unleashed the mysterious Toclafane onto Earth. With the human race and The Doctor enslaved under The Master's control, Martha Jones is the only person that can help stop the evil Time Lord."
On this day in 2007, the remastered version of Star Trek's "The Omega Glory" aired in TV syndication. (FYI: the episode's original airing was in 1968.) According to IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"Responding to a distress signal, Kirk finds Captain Tracey of the U.S.S. Exeter violating the prime directive and interfering with a war between the Yangs and the Kohms to find the secret of their longevity."
"Responding to a distress signal, Kirk finds Captain Tracey of the U.S.S. Exeter violating the prime directive and interfering with a war between the Yangs and the Kohms to find the secret of their longevity."
So far as this viewer is concerned, one of the very best episodes in all of TNT's Falling Skies alien invasion drama aired on this day in 2013 when the long-simmering feud between Tom Mason and Pope came to a head in an hour called "Search and Recover." Two great performances brought the story to life, and here's what IMDB.com had to say about it:
"When a mission goes terribly awry, Tom and Pope must rely on each other to survive. Meanwhile, Weaver and company search desperately for two members of the 2nd Mass who have gone missing."
Tip to sci-fi writers: sometimes conflict works best when you hang up all of the dangling mythology and give two good actors something to play off of ... like this hour.
"When a mission goes terribly awry, Tom and Pope must rely on each other to survive. Meanwhile, Weaver and company search desperately for two members of the 2nd Mass who have gone missing."
Tip to sci-fi writers: sometimes conflict works best when you hang up all of the dangling mythology and give two good actors something to play off of ... like this hour.
On this day in 2014, CBS's adaptation of Stephen King's Under The Dome launched into its second season with the airing of "Heads Will Roll." According to IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"As Barbie's fate lies in Big Jim's hands, the dome presents a new threat when it becomes magnetized. Meanwhile, Julia seeks out the help of a stranger to save the life of a mysterious girl."
"As Barbie's fate lies in Big Jim's hands, the dome presents a new threat when it becomes magnetized. Meanwhile, Julia seeks out the help of a stranger to save the life of a mysterious girl."
On this day in 2015, Stitchers aired "Stitcher in the Rye." This served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"When the algorithm for the Stitchers program turns up among thousands of classified documents hidden by a conspiracy theorist, Kirsten starts to suspect her colleagues. Meanwhile, Kirsten starts getting cryptic messages from an unexpected source."
"When the algorithm for the Stitchers program turns up among thousands of classified documents hidden by a conspiracy theorist, Kirsten starts to suspect her colleagues. Meanwhile, Kirsten starts getting cryptic messages from an unexpected source."
On this day in 2015, Zoo aired "First Blood." This served as the pilot episode of the SciFi program, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jackson Oz finds a link between his late father's theories and mysterious animal attacks."
"Jackson Oz finds a link between his late father's theories and mysterious animal attacks."
On this day in 2017, Syfy's Killjoys launched into its third season with the airing of "Boondoggie." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dutch and D'avin, with the help of an obnoxious black market dealer, are on the hunt for a weapon that will draw out the Hullen; Johnny receives an SOS from Clara, leading him into the underground world of Hackmods."
"Dutch and D'avin, with the help of an obnoxious black market dealer, are on the hunt for a weapon that will draw out the Hullen; Johnny receives an SOS from Clara, leading him into the underground world of Hackmods."
On this day in 2015, Harper Design released The Scientific Secrets of Doctor Who. According to our friends at Amazon.com, here's the book's premise:
"The Scientific Secrets of Doctor Who is a mind-bending blend of story and science that will help you see Doctor Who in a whole new light, weaving together a series of all-new adventures, featuring every incarnation of the Doctor. With commentary that explores the possibilities of time travel, life on other planets, artificial intelligence, parallel universes and more, Simon Guerrier and Dr. Marek Kukula show how Doctor Who uses science to inform its unique style of storytelling—and just how close it has often come to predicting future scientific discoveries."
"The Scientific Secrets of Doctor Who is a mind-bending blend of story and science that will help you see Doctor Who in a whole new light, weaving together a series of all-new adventures, featuring every incarnation of the Doctor. With commentary that explores the possibilities of time travel, life on other planets, artificial intelligence, parallel universes and more, Simon Guerrier and Dr. Marek Kukula show how Doctor Who uses science to inform its unique style of storytelling—and just how close it has often come to predicting future scientific discoveries."
