When the Federation and the Klingons showed up looking for trouble on his world in Star Trek's "Errand Of Mercy," John Abbott had a little something-something to say about it. Across his career, the actor also booked appearances aboard Once Upon A Time (1944), Cry Of The Werewolf (1944), Science Fiction Theatre, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Munsters, Lost In Space, The Wild Wild West, Land of the Giants, The Cat Creature (1973), and Slapstick Of Another Kind (1982). Though he's no longer with us, Abbott was born on this day in 1905.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While he was Robert Lansing to his family and friends, Star Trek fans knew him best as the incomparable 'Gary Seven,' a character Gene Roddenberry had intended to fashion into a Trek spin-off show which sadly never materialized. He was one of the principles for 1977's schlocky Empire of the Ants, and he did land a role in the SciFi/Cult TV series Automan as a police lieutenant. But ... was there more? Well, you can add work in 4D Man (1959), One Step Beyond, The Twilight Zone, Journey To The Unknown, The Astronaut (1972), The Evil Touch, Scalpel (1977), Island Claws (1980), The Nest (1987), and Monsters to the list. Though he's no longer with us, Lansing was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his directing resume consists of only twenty-seven entries, the work of Jimmy T. Murakami spanned the galaxy as he committed to such visionary projects as Humanoids From The Deep (1980), Battle Beyond The Stars (1980), and one segment of the animated SciFi flick Heavy Metal (1981). His skills stretched beyond directing, though: IMDB.com reports that he was also a skilled animator and scriptwriter. Though he's no longer with us, Murakami was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor John Bach played the memorable construct 'Einstein' in one of greatest sci-fi epics produced for television, Syfy's Farscape. A bit of trivia: when the show was in its regular episodic run, Bach's role was entirely uncredited, most likely a deliberate attempt to build up the mystery surrounding this figure who appeared to aide astronaut John Crichton in finding some answers to the galaxy's most perplexing questions. Bach was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not only does Malcolm Sinclair have a totally kick-ass name, but he's also a gifted actor. Genre fans are familiar with his work from such properties as Relic Hunter, V For Vendetta (2005), and Casino Royale (2006). He also provided some vocals for the Star Wars: The Old Republic video game in 2011. Sinclair was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Daniel von Bargen enjoyed a solid career of largely smaller, more character-driven roles; and he's appeared in such SciFi properties as RoboCop 3, The Postman, The X-Files, and Universal Soldier: The Return. Though he's no longer with us, Von Bargen was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his portfolio is chocked full of vastly more mainstream fare, the versatile Mark Harelik still managed to squeeze in work aboard Star Trek: Voyager, Jurassic Park III, and NBC's Heroes. Harelik was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Richard Zobel Jr. was no stranger to quality projects, having filled up small roles in such programs as To Sleep With A Vampire (1993), Warlock: The Armageddon (1993), M.A.N.T.I.S., Star Trek: Voyager, and The X-Files. Though he's no longer with us, Zobel was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Wow. What a resume. Through her collaborations with industry legends like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy has built a producing track record of a true pioneer. Behind the scenes, she's been involved with films like E.T. - The Extraterrestrial, Innerspace, Jurassic Park, War of the Worlds, and Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens ... just to name a few. Granted, most folks feel that she's pretty much destroyed Star Wars (yes, I'm inclined to agree), but it's still impressive that she landed the job in the first place, no? Kennedy was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Nancy Stafford signed aboard Babylon 5 for a guest cameo in "Greetings From Earth," an episode from the program's third season. Stafford was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not to be scared away by the big boys on either side of the law, Leslie Hendrix commanded a presence all of her own as part of Fox TV's popular Gotham. Hendrix was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Ken Hudson Campbell explored the Final Frontier as part of Michael Bay's unintentionally horrific Armageddon (1998). Campbell was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jeff Garlin lent his voice to that of the Captain himself aboard Walt Disney and Pixar's WALL*E (2008). He's also turned in solid work aboard RoboCop 3 (1993), Blade Runner (video game), and the Wizards Of Waverly Place. Garlin was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Karen Strassman, your talents are boundless! With an IMDB.com resume fast-approaching four hundred different screen titles, you've amazed and amused with your vocal contributions to animated projects and video games too many to mention. (Seriously, check it all out right here.) Plus, she's a ginger, guys! Strassman was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Ron Livingston has always seemed like a nice guy. So it stands to reason that, as an actor, he'd end up in so many 'nice guy' roles. Mostly. He was part of the solid cast for Defying Gravity, a program that only lasted 13 episodes and never really achieved orbit with more than a cult audience. I've never seen it, but I may check it out on video at some point. Livingston was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Award-winning actress Susan Lynch has dabbled in the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy with work aboard the BBC's long-running Doctor Who as well as Steven Spielberg's tepid adaptation of Ready Player One (2018). Lynch was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you may, but actor Mark Wahlberg isn't known for his smarts ... which is probably why he was cast in the Timothy Burton's 2001 reboot of Planet of the Apes. (No insult intended to Mr. Wahlberg. The true appeal of any Apes movie remains, after all, the apes, so maybe he's the perfect counterpoint?) For my tastes, his expressions range from blank to blank to blank. This probably made him perfect for a time-traveling astronaut who goes up against some mighty simians. Thank goodness Burton and his antics didn't ruin an otherwise stellar SciFi franchise. Wahlberg was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Suddenly Human," Chad Allen plays Jono, a rescued youngster who finds himself torn between two cultures once befriended by Capt. Jean-Luc Picard. Allen was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Navi Rawat has enjoyed guest-starring exposure aboard such franchises as the WB's Roswell and ABC's short-lived Flashforward. Rawat was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Liza Weil moved on from her stint in the Gilmore Girls and earned a trip to Mars (2010), the kinda/sorta animated SciFi/Comedy from Geoff Marslett. By the looks of her resume, she pretty much sticks to conventional dramas and comedies these days. Sad. Genre would love to see her again. Weil was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Nick Kroll has dabbled in the realm of televised Fantasy with a great guest spot aboard FX Network's exceptional Vampire/Comedy What We Do In The Shadows. Kroll was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Earlier in her career, Amanda Crew found herself suffering a Meltdown: Destruction of Days (2006) alongside B-Movie hero Casper Van Dien. Much more recently, she enjoyed a small but incredible pivotal role aboard the sleeper Superhero hit Freaks (2018) for Bloomgarden Films. Crew was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I caught a broadcast airing of Freaks (2018) -- in which Crew played a role -- when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I caught a broadcast airing of Freaks (2018) -- in which Crew played a role -- when it made the rounds on pay cable. Interested readers can find my review right here.
The stunning Brooke Newton tends to stick toward much more mainstream properties, but she has dabbled in some genre projects like Meteor (TV miniseries) and the humorous Robodoc (2009). Newton was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Proving yet once again that there's no level of sexiness to which a ginger won't stoop, the delicious Ellary Porterfield strutted her stuff as part of the Fantasy-themed Video Game High School. Porterfield was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
2013's After The Dark gave Sophie Lowe and a whole host of actors and actresses her age the chance imagine what re-populating the Earth would be like after a Nuclear Apocalypse. Lowe was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Can you guess which mutant young Troye Sivan played in making his big screen debut in a little something called X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)? Sivan was born on this day in 1995.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1953, It Came From Outer Space enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. (FYI: it had opened a few days earlier in Los Angeles, California.) Based on a story from Ray Bradbury, the SciFi feature was directed by Jack Arnold and starred Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, and Charles Drake. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- for those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- for those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
A star is born! On this day in 1954 (in Hollywood, California), Gog enjoyed a theatrical run. Directed by Herbert L. Strock from a script by Tom Taggart, Richard G. Taylor, and Ivan Tors, the SciFi feature starred Richard Egan, Constance Dowling, and Herbert Marshall. Here's the plot summary from the reliable folks at IMDB.com:
"A security agent investigates sabotage and murder at a secret underground laboratory, home of two experimental robots."
"A security agent investigates sabotage and murder at a secret underground laboratory, home of two experimental robots."
On this day in 1963 (in the U.S.), the panty raids were a bit scarier than usual with the theatrical release of Werewolf In A Girl's Dormitory. Directed by Paolo Heusch from a script by Ernesto Gastaldi, the Horror/Fantasy starred Barbara Lass, Carl Schell, and Michela Roc. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"At a girls' school, several students are murdered by a snarling, wolf-man-like creature. Suspicion falls upon a newly arrived teacher."
"At a girls' school, several students are murdered by a snarling, wolf-man-like creature. Suspicion falls upon a newly arrived teacher."
A star is born! On this day in 1974 (in France), France Societe Anonyme enjoyed its silver screen launch. Written (in part) and directed by Alain Corneau, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michel Bouquet, Allyn Ann McLerie, and Roland Dubillard. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2222, a former drug dealer is kept in a state of hibernation. Reanimated, he tells his story. Leader in the narcotics market, his situation was prosperous until, during a political change, the government legalized its use."
"In the year 2222, a former drug dealer is kept in a state of hibernation. Reanimated, he tells his story. Leader in the narcotics market, his situation was prosperous until, during a political change, the government legalized its use."
On this day in 1981 (in the U.S.), Final Exam enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. Written and directed by Jimmy Huston, the Horror/Thriller starred Cecile Bagdadi, DeAnna Robbins, and Ralph Brown. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A psycho killer shows up on college campus to slash up pretty co-eds and dumb jocks."
"A psycho killer shows up on college campus to slash up pretty co-eds and dumb jocks."
On this day in 1981 (in Canada), the SciFi/Action film The Last Chase enjoyed a run at the theatres. Directed by Martyn Burke, the feature starred Lee Majors, Burgess Meredith, and Chris Makepeace. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"It is the future. Evil fascists have forced everyone to recycle and drive electric cars, and have oppressed all those poor people who want to drive Ferraris and smoke cigarettes. Hero Franklyn Hart, an ex-racing car driver, decides to make a statement by pulling out his old race car and driving cross-country at one hundred fifty miles (two hundred forty-one kilometers) per hour (he siphons gas from old gas station pumps). Taking along a young computer hacker, he drives for the Holy Land, the Free State of California. Of course, the powers that be try to eliminate him by hiring Captain J.G. Williams to shoot him down with a fighter jet, which, too, are virtually extinct."
"It is the future. Evil fascists have forced everyone to recycle and drive electric cars, and have oppressed all those poor people who want to drive Ferraris and smoke cigarettes. Hero Franklyn Hart, an ex-racing car driver, decides to make a statement by pulling out his old race car and driving cross-country at one hundred fifty miles (two hundred forty-one kilometers) per hour (he siphons gas from old gas station pumps). Taking along a young computer hacker, he drives for the Holy Land, the Free State of California. Of course, the powers that be try to eliminate him by hiring Captain J.G. Williams to shoot him down with a fighter jet, which, too, are virtually extinct."
On this day in 1985 (in France), The Last Starfighter soared into theaters. Directed by Nick Castle, the SciFi release starred Lance Guest, Catherine Mary Stewart, and Robert Preston. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
For the record:
I could be wrong, but I think The Last Starfighter is one of the more celebrated Science Fiction releases to come out of the 1980's. At the 1985 Saturn Awards, actor Robert Preston received a nomination for 'Best Supporting Actor.' At the 1985 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, director Nick Castle received a nomination for their 'Grand Prize' for his work on the film. Lastly, the feature was nominated for the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1985 Hugo Awards.
More for the record:
In 2020, I was privileged to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of Arrow Video's release in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Folks interested in checking out what I thought can do so right here.
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
For the record:
I could be wrong, but I think The Last Starfighter is one of the more celebrated Science Fiction releases to come out of the 1980's. At the 1985 Saturn Awards, actor Robert Preston received a nomination for 'Best Supporting Actor.' At the 1985 Avoriaz Fantastic Film Festival, director Nick Castle received a nomination for their 'Grand Prize' for his work on the film. Lastly, the feature was nominated for the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1985 Hugo Awards.
More for the record:
In 2020, I was privileged to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of Arrow Video's release in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Folks interested in checking out what I thought can do so right here.
On this day in 1986, the Fantasy-themed The Throne Of Fire enjoyed its premiere on the U.S. home video market. Directed by Franco Prosperi from a story by Giuseppe Buricchi and Nino Marino, the feature starred Sabrina Siani, Pietro Torrisi, and Harrison Muller. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A mighty hero battles the son of Satan and his evil witch ally to save a kingdom from being taken over by the duo."
"A mighty hero battles the son of Satan and his evil witch ally to save a kingdom from being taken over by the duo."
A star is born! On this day in 1987 (in the U.S.), Cyclone was unleashed on unsuspecting masses. Written (in part) and directed by Fred Olen Ray, this SciFi-themed motorcycle action film starred the lovely Heather Thomas, Jeffrey Combs, and Martine Beswick, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Rick has devoloped the ultimate mototcycle, the Cyclone. It is a $5 million bike equipped with rocket launchers and laser guns. Rick meets his fate and it is up to his girlfriend Teri to keep the Cyclone from falling into the wrong hands. Teri can trust no one but herself."
"Rick has devoloped the ultimate mototcycle, the Cyclone. It is a $5 million bike equipped with rocket launchers and laser guns. Rick meets his fate and it is up to his girlfriend Teri to keep the Cyclone from falling into the wrong hands. Teri can trust no one but herself."
On this day in 1992 (in the United Kingdom), tea and crumpets were served with the theatrical release of Split Second! Directed by Tony Maylam from a script by Gary Scott Thompson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Rutger Hauer, Kim Cattrall, and Alastair Duncan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a flooded future London, Detective Harley Stone hunts a serial killer who murdered his partner, and has haunted him ever since. He soon discovers what he is hunting might not be human."
"In a flooded future London, Detective Harley Stone hunts a serial killer who murdered his partner, and has haunted him ever since. He soon discovers what he is hunting might not be human."
On this day in 1992 (in the Netherlands), Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country brought peace with the Klingon Empire front and center for the motion picture. Directed by Nicholas Meyer, the feature was intended to be a theatrical 'swan song' for Star Trek's original crew, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the eve of retirement, Kirk and McCoy are charged with assassinating the Klingon High Chancellor and imprisoned. The Enterprise crew must help them escape to thwart a conspiracy aimed at sabotaging the last best hope for peace."
For the record:
At the 1992 Academy Awards, Star Trek VI enjoyed Oscar nominations in the categories of 'Best Makeup' and 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing.' At the 1993 Saturn Awards, The Undiscovered Country took home top prize in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' while having to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Supporting Actress.' Lastly, the 1992 Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"On the eve of retirement, Kirk and McCoy are charged with assassinating the Klingon High Chancellor and imprisoned. The Enterprise crew must help them escape to thwart a conspiracy aimed at sabotaging the last best hope for peace."
For the record:
At the 1992 Academy Awards, Star Trek VI enjoyed Oscar nominations in the categories of 'Best Makeup' and 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing.' At the 1993 Saturn Awards, The Undiscovered Country took home top prize in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' while having to settle for nominations only in the categories of 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Supporting Actress.' Lastly, the 1992 Hugo Awards nominated the film in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born ... but this one was dead! On this day in 1993 (in Italy), Return Of The Living Dead III enjoyed its silver screen launch when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Dylan Dog Horror Fest. Directed by Brian Yuzna from a script by Joe Penney, the Fantasy/Horror starred Kent McCord, James T. Callahan, and Sarah Douglas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Having recently witnessed the horrific results of a top secret project to bring the dead back to life, a distraught youth performs the operation on his girlfriend after she's killed in a motorcycle accident."
For the record:
As well as the film garnering some praise from screenings on the film festival circuit, actress Melinda Clarke took home the big win in the category of 'Best Actress' from the 1993 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards.
"Having recently witnessed the horrific results of a top secret project to bring the dead back to life, a distraught youth performs the operation on his girlfriend after she's killed in a motorcycle accident."
For the record:
As well as the film garnering some praise from screenings on the film festival circuit, actress Melinda Clarke took home the big win in the category of 'Best Actress' from the 1993 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards.
On this day in 2000 (in the Philippines), Supernova exploded on the silver screen. Directed by Walter Hill (and a few others), the SciFi feature starred Angela Bassett, James Spader, and Robin Tunney. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
"Supernova chronicles the search and rescue patrol of a medical ship in deep space in the early 22nd century and its six-member crew which includes a captain and pilot, a co-pilot, a medical officer, a medical technician, a search and rescue."
A star is born! On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), The New Women enjoyed its theatrical premiere when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the New York Lesbian And Gay Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Todd Hughes, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mary Woronov, Jamie Tolbert, and Sandra Kinder. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The New Women is a post-apocalyptic adventure about Lisa LaStrada (Mary Woronov) and her small town group of women friends who clearly haven't come a long way, baby. Lisa spends her nights pining over the infidelities of her philandering sheriff husband who is having an affair with her nemesis, Virginia Van Upp (Roma Maffia). A recovering alcoholic, Lisa falls off the wagon and tries in vain to drown her sorrows in booze, drugs and RV fantasies until one day, at a local barbeque, along comes a huge rainstorm that quite literally puts everyone in the entire world to sleep. In a couple of days, slowly but surely, all of the women wake up to a world that has come to a complete standstill. Well, not a complete standstill, their men remain fast asleep in comas, getting erections every forty-five minutes. There was definitely something in that rain! Now Lisa and her friends struggle to rebuild their world (and face their issues of low self-esteem) until they realize by degrees, as their men start dying and food starts to run out, that there's no hope for survival in isolated Lacuna. So they hit the road following a shaky radio signal to find a new model of society made by women for women called Elysium. But the brave new world has way more out there than they bargained for. Will the new-age hippy chicks and angry, jilted lady bikers they cross on the winding path to Elysium stand in our heroines' way of true happiness? Or is Elysium, too, just another impossible dream?"
"The New Women is a post-apocalyptic adventure about Lisa LaStrada (Mary Woronov) and her small town group of women friends who clearly haven't come a long way, baby. Lisa spends her nights pining over the infidelities of her philandering sheriff husband who is having an affair with her nemesis, Virginia Van Upp (Roma Maffia). A recovering alcoholic, Lisa falls off the wagon and tries in vain to drown her sorrows in booze, drugs and RV fantasies until one day, at a local barbeque, along comes a huge rainstorm that quite literally puts everyone in the entire world to sleep. In a couple of days, slowly but surely, all of the women wake up to a world that has come to a complete standstill. Well, not a complete standstill, their men remain fast asleep in comas, getting erections every forty-five minutes. There was definitely something in that rain! Now Lisa and her friends struggle to rebuild their world (and face their issues of low self-esteem) until they realize by degrees, as their men start dying and food starts to run out, that there's no hope for survival in isolated Lacuna. So they hit the road following a shaky radio signal to find a new model of society made by women for women called Elysium. But the brave new world has way more out there than they bargained for. Will the new-age hippy chicks and angry, jilted lady bikers they cross on the winding path to Elysium stand in our heroines' way of true happiness? Or is Elysium, too, just another impossible dream?"
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Man With The Screaming Brain shouted from the cinematic rooftops when it was screened for audiences in attendance of Fangoria's Weekend Of Horrors. Written (in part), directed by, and starring genre legend Bruce Campbell, the SciFi/Fantasy also featured Tamara Gorski, Ted Raimi, and Stacy Keach. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The brains of a Russian taxi driver and a wealthy businessman are brought together in one body by a mad scientist."
"The brains of a Russian taxi driver and a wealthy businessman are brought together in one body by a mad scientist."
On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Chicago Massacre: Richard Speck brought a little blood up for audiences in the mood for that sort of thing. Written and directed by Michael Feifer, the Horror/Drama starred Corin Nemec, Amy Lyndon, and Coley Feifer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A film based on the notorious mass killer Richard Speck, who systematically tortured, raped and murdered a group of student nurses from South Chicago Community Hospital in 1966."
"A film based on the notorious mass killer Richard Speck, who systematically tortured, raped and murdered a group of student nurses from South Chicago Community Hospital in 1966."
On this day in 2008, the Fantasy-themed Short Film Lexx enjoyed its general video release in the United States. Written and directed by David Lussier, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Daniel Beaudoin, Annick Blanchard, and Emmanuel Gilot. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Lexx is fighting a criminal organization led by a rich and powerful woman. But the villains know the secret of Lexx's superpowers and are ready to eliminate her."
"Lexx is fighting a criminal organization led by a rich and powerful woman. But the villains know the secret of Lexx's superpowers and are ready to eliminate her."
On this day in 2009 (in Germany), the 1933-produced German language release Ein Unsichtbarer Geht Durch Die Stadt enjoyed a real on home video. Directed by Harry Piel, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Piel along with Fritz Odemar, Lissy Arna, and Olga Limburg. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A taxi driver finds an odd contraption on the back seat that renders him invisible, but his friend steals the device to rob a bank."
"A taxi driver finds an odd contraption on the back seat that renders him invisible, but his friend steals the device to rob a bank."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Canada and the U.S.), Land Of The Lost revisited a family-friendly television classic from the 1970's with a -- cough cough -- contemporary comedy makeover. Directed by Brad Silberling, the revisioning starred Will Ferrell, Danny McBride, and Anna Friel. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A space-time vortex sucks scientist Rick Marshall, his assistant Holly and a survivalist Will into a world populated by dinosaurs and painfully slow creatures called Sleestaks."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Land Of The Lost was a veritable hit with the 2010 Razzie Awards. Actor Will Ferrell received two nods in the categories of 'Worst Actor' and 'Worst Screen Couple.' Director Brad Siberling scored a nomination in the category of 'Worst Director.' Actor Jorma Taccone earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Supporting Actor.' And the film took home the much coveted win in the category of 'Worst Remake, Ripoff Or Sequel.' Nicely done!
"A space-time vortex sucks scientist Rick Marshall, his assistant Holly and a survivalist Will into a world populated by dinosaurs and painfully slow creatures called Sleestaks."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Land Of The Lost was a veritable hit with the 2010 Razzie Awards. Actor Will Ferrell received two nods in the categories of 'Worst Actor' and 'Worst Screen Couple.' Director Brad Siberling scored a nomination in the category of 'Worst Director.' Actor Jorma Taccone earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Supporting Actor.' And the film took home the much coveted win in the category of 'Worst Remake, Ripoff Or Sequel.' Nicely done!
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Japan), Pandemic enjoyed its release to the masses-at-large with a launch on home video. Directed by Jason Connery from a script by Aaron Pope, the SciFi/Horror starred Ray Wise, Graham McTavish, and Alesha Rucci. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A veterinarian finds herself in the midst of a horrifying pandemic where humans and animals are stricken with a horrible, contagious disease. She must pair up with an eccentric conspiracy theorist to discover the true source of the threat."
"A veterinarian finds herself in the midst of a horrifying pandemic where humans and animals are stricken with a horrible, contagious disease. She must pair up with an eccentric conspiracy theorist to discover the true source of the threat."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), The Commune took to the silver screen for the very first time when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Dances With Films Festival. Written and directed by Elisabeth Fies, the Horror/Comedy starred Chauntal Lewis, David Scott Lago, and Stuart G. Bennett. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When Jenny Cross has to spend summer vacation with her deadbeat dad in his creepy commune, she thinks clean living and boredom will kill her. But some fates are worse than death."
"When Jenny Cross has to spend summer vacation with her deadbeat dad in his creepy commune, she thinks clean living and boredom will kill her. But some fates are worse than death."
A star is born ... and this one has wings! On this day in 2013 (in Japan), Dracano enjoyed its debut on home video. Directed by Kevin O'Neill from a script by Keith Shaw, the Fantasy starred Corin Nemec, Victoria Pratt, and Mia Marcon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A catastrophic volcanic eruption releases ancient dragon-like creatures on the surrounding areas. Scientists believe this could start a chain reaction of volcanic eruptions giving way to a global Dragon Apocalypse."
"A catastrophic volcanic eruption releases ancient dragon-like creatures on the surrounding areas. Scientists believe this could start a chain reaction of volcanic eruptions giving way to a global Dragon Apocalypse."
On this day in 2013 (in Finland), the 1975-produced Adult-themed Wham Bam Thank You, Spaceman enjoyed a release on home video. Directed by William A. Levey from a script by Shomo D. Weinstein, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dyanne Thorne, Jay Rasumny, and Samual Mann. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two aliens from a dying planet are on a mission to impregnate Earth women."
"Two aliens from a dying planet are on a mission to impregnate Earth women."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), 2045 Carnival Folklore enjoyed its big screen premiere when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Seattle International Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Naoki Kato, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ryo Hamamoto, Ryosuke Hayashi, and Junya Ishii. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Like a noise rock Brave New World with echoes of Alphaville, this gorgeous black and white vision of Japan after a nuclear disaster pits chaos against control and secret agents against an oppressive government agency."
"Like a noise rock Brave New World with echoes of Alphaville, this gorgeous black and white vision of Japan after a nuclear disaster pits chaos against control and secret agents against an oppressive government agency."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in France), the good people of Paris were treated to the silver screen premiere of In Search Of The Ultra-Sex. Written and directed by the team of Nicolas Charlet and Bruno Lavaine, the SciFi/Comedy starred the duo along with Jon Dough. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A pandemic infects people everywhere with infinite lust, and the only ones who can save us are a group of astronauts in space, desperately looking for a solution."
"A pandemic infects people everywhere with infinite lust, and the only ones who can save us are a group of astronauts in space, desperately looking for a solution."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the premiere event of Walt Disney and Pixar's Incredibles 2. Written and directed by Brad Bird, the Animated/Fantasy featured the voices of Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, and Sarah Vowell. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Incredibles family takes on a new mission which involves a change in family roles: Bob Parr (Mr. Incredible) must manage the house while his wife Helen (Elastigirl) goes out to save the world."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Incredibles 2 enjoyed a 2019 Academy Award in the category of 'Best Animated Feature Film.' It received the same nomination -- 'Best Animated Film' -- from the 2019 Saturn Awards.
"The Incredibles family takes on a new mission which involves a change in family roles: Bob Parr (Mr. Incredible) must manage the house while his wife Helen (Elastigirl) goes out to save the world."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Incredibles 2 enjoyed a 2019 Academy Award in the category of 'Best Animated Feature Film.' It received the same nomination -- 'Best Animated Film' -- from the 2019 Saturn Awards.
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), the mighty Jurassic Predator tried to take a bite out of the home video business. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Jones, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Lee Bane, Richard Dee-Roberts, and Jason Homewood. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists working at a secret government research facility use prehistoric DNA to resurrect a T-Rex. But it escapes and terrorizes the residents of a nearby town."
"Scientists working at a secret government research facility use prehistoric DNA to resurrect a T-Rex. But it escapes and terrorizes the residents of a nearby town."
On this day in 2018 (in Austria, Germany, and France), a restored version of the 1925-produced Fantasy/Classic The Lost World enjoyed a broadcast on television. Based on the novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the release starred Wallace Beery and Bessie Love, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A expedition to rescue Maple White, who has been marooned at the top of a high plateau. Joined by hunter John Roxton, and others, the group goes to South America, where they do indeed find a plateau inhabited by pre-historic creatures, one of which they even manage to bring back to London with them."
"A expedition to rescue Maple White, who has been marooned at the top of a high plateau. Joined by hunter John Roxton, and others, the group goes to South America, where they do indeed find a plateau inhabited by pre-historic creatures, one of which they even manage to bring back to London with them."
On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), audiences were tempted to ponder that inevitable merger of Sex And The Future. Directed by Luis Carlos Hueck and Ethan Zvi Kaplan (who also penned the screenplay), the SciFi/Comedy starred Revell Carpenter, Torrey Richardson, and Janet Lopez; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When misfits Barry and Evan design their ideal woman as a robot, they realize a fortune could be made if they had the money to mass produce their prototype. A wealthy prince soon finds out about their invention and the three hatch a plan to rule the world and change sex and the future! If life were that simple."
"When misfits Barry and Evan design their ideal woman as a robot, they realize a fortune could be made if they had the money to mass produce their prototype. A wealthy prince soon finds out about their invention and the three hatch a plan to rule the world and change sex and the future! If life were that simple."
On this day in 1965, Doctor Who aired "Flight Through Eternity." (FYI: this was an installment in a greater serial titled "The Chase.") The episode served as the thirty-second in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS crew's attempts to escape from the Daleks take them to the top of the Empire State Building and a 19th century sailing ship."
"The TARDIS crew's attempts to escape from the Daleks take them to the top of the Empire State Building and a 19th century sailing ship."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Undermind aired "Too Many Enemies." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Attempting to foil a plot to steal the 'black boxes' - containing signals from space, possibly from aliens - from the Kimberley Vale radio-telescope observatory, Drew and Anne are horrified to find out who is actually behind the affair."
"Attempting to foil a plot to steal the 'black boxes' - containing signals from space, possibly from aliens - from the Kimberley Vale radio-telescope observatory, Drew and Anne are horrified to find out who is actually behind the affair."
On this day in 1967 (in Japan), The Space Giants aired "Rada's Invasion." Officially, this served as the forty-ninth episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by The Space Giants Online Guide:
"An Earth ship is launched to study the planet Venus. Rodak observes the rocket and is furious that the Earth people are invading his territory. He decides to attack the spaceship and render it inoperable. Goldar is called for help and goes after the rocket. Goldar attaches himself, in rocket form, to the disabled ship and starts to fly it home. Rodak causes Goldar to lose control and he lets go of the rocket, sending it crashing to Earth. Two hunters find the ship and notice part of the hull is a golden color. Believing it to be real gold, the hunters think they are rich. Mikko and Gam search for the lost ship and landing beside it. Suddenly, there is a large explosion, and through the smoke emerges the monster Rada (Kindora)! Gam’s powers are useless against the creature, so Mikko calls for Goldar. As Goldar attacks, they notice that Rada has the power to rejuvenate lost limbs. After a short fight, Rada retreats. The two hunters are rushed to the hospital, but by the time they arrive, all that is left are their skeletons. The doctors say that the cause is a living orange liquid which was brought to Earth on the rocket ship. Mathusam tells Goldar that Rada must be destroyed before it can spread more of the orange liquid."
"An Earth ship is launched to study the planet Venus. Rodak observes the rocket and is furious that the Earth people are invading his territory. He decides to attack the spaceship and render it inoperable. Goldar is called for help and goes after the rocket. Goldar attaches himself, in rocket form, to the disabled ship and starts to fly it home. Rodak causes Goldar to lose control and he lets go of the rocket, sending it crashing to Earth. Two hunters find the ship and notice part of the hull is a golden color. Believing it to be real gold, the hunters think they are rich. Mikko and Gam search for the lost ship and landing beside it. Suddenly, there is a large explosion, and through the smoke emerges the monster Rada (Kindora)! Gam’s powers are useless against the creature, so Mikko calls for Goldar. As Goldar attacks, they notice that Rada has the power to rejuvenate lost limbs. After a short fight, Rada retreats. The two hunters are rushed to the hospital, but by the time they arrive, all that is left are their skeletons. The doctors say that the cause is a living orange liquid which was brought to Earth on the rocket ship. Mathusam tells Goldar that Rada must be destroyed before it can spread more of the orange liquid."
On this day in 1971, Doctor Who aired "The Dæmons: Part 3." This served as the twenty-third episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Doctor explains to his friends that the Master is trying to gain the power of the last of the Daemons, a race who influenced Earth's development, while the Master brings the rest of the village under his control."
"The Doctor explains to his friends that the Master is trying to gain the power of the last of the Daemons, a race who influenced Earth's development, while the Master brings the rest of the village under his control."
On this day in 1972, Doomwatch launched into its third (and final) season with the airing of "Fire And Brimstone." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"John Ridge apparently suffers a breakdown from the pressure, and decides that, due to the excessive threat of pollution on the environment, drastic steps should be taken. He steals some phials of the deadly virus anthrax and holds the government to ransom: unless his anti-pollution terms are met, he will destroy humanity by releasing the virus in a number of major cities. A race against time begins. Can Ridge be tracked down before it is too late?"
"John Ridge apparently suffers a breakdown from the pressure, and decides that, due to the excessive threat of pollution on the environment, drastic steps should be taken. He steals some phials of the deadly virus anthrax and holds the government to ransom: unless his anti-pollution terms are met, he will destroy humanity by releasing the virus in a number of major cities. A race against time begins. Can Ridge be tracked down before it is too late?"
On this day in 1994, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Tribunal." This served as the twenty-fifth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Chief O'Brien goes through the horrific Cardassian judicial system when he is charged for an unknown crime."
"Chief O'Brien goes through the horrific Cardassian judicial system when he is charged for an unknown crime."
On this day in 2000 (in Canada), Lexx aired "Garden." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Lexx crew discover a city on the planet Water called Garden and Stan decides that his wandering days are over. It is agreed that she will go off on her own as there are no men and that they will part as friends."
"The Lexx crew discover a city on the planet Water called Garden and Stan decides that his wandering days are over. It is agreed that she will go off on her own as there are no men and that they will part as friends."
On this day in 2005, The 4400 aired "Wake-Up Call." This served as the first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Kyle tries to visit his cousin Shawn at The 4400 Center but is thrown out. Richard and Lily are desperate to protect their infant daughter, Isabelle from Collier and other maniacs, and a schizophrenic 4400 wants a huge communicative device and makes it a hospital's project from a minor position."
"Kyle tries to visit his cousin Shawn at The 4400 Center but is thrown out. Richard and Lily are desperate to protect their infant daughter, Isabelle from Collier and other maniacs, and a schizophrenic 4400 wants a huge communicative device and makes it a hospital's project from a minor position."
On this day in 2010, arguably one of the finest episodes in all of the long-running Doctor Who aired under the name of "Vincent And The Doctor." This served as the tenth episode in the re-launched program's fifth season, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Amy travel back in time to meet Vincent Van Gogh and face an invisible monster that only the painter can see."
"The Doctor and Amy travel back in time to meet Vincent Van Gogh and face an invisible monster that only the painter can see."
On this day in 2012, Lightning Point aired "Good Vibrations." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Kiki finds out that their arrival has caused Luca's horse Bandit to become skittish, Kiki uses her alien powers to heal him."
"When Kiki finds out that their arrival has caused Luca's horse Bandit to become skittish, Kiki uses her alien powers to heal him."
On this day in 2017, Stitchers launched into its third (and final) season with the airing of "Out Of The Shadows." According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The team rushes to save Kirsten while investigating Daniel Stinger. Mitchell Blair reveals his motives."
"The team rushes to save Kirsten while investigating Daniel Stinger. Mitchell Blair reveals his motives."
On this day in 2000, Pocket Books released Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - A Stitch In Time, the novel written by Andrew J. Robinson, or as he's best known as 'Elim Garak' on the program. According to our friends at Amazon.com, here's the plot summary:
"For nearly a decade Garak has longed for just one thing -- to go home. Exiled on a space station, surrounded by aliens who loathe and distrust him, going back to Cardassia has been Garak's one dream. Now, finally, he is home. But home is a world whose landscape is filled with death and destruction. Desperation and dust are constant companions and luxury is a glass of clean water and a warm place to sleep. Ironically, it is a letter from one of the aliens on that space station, Dr. Julian Bashir, that inspires Garak to look at the fabric of his life. Elim Garak has been a student, a gardener, a spy, an exile, a tailor, even a liberator. It is a life that was charted by the forces of Cardassian society with very little understanding of the person, and even less compassion. But it is the tailor that understands who Elim Garak was, and what he could be. It is the tailor who sees the ruined fabric of Cardassia, and who knows how to bring this ravaged society back together. This is strange, because a tailor is the one thing Garak never wanted to be. But it is the tailor whom both Cardassia and Elim Garak need. It is the tailor who can put the pieces together, who can take a stitch in time."
"For nearly a decade Garak has longed for just one thing -- to go home. Exiled on a space station, surrounded by aliens who loathe and distrust him, going back to Cardassia has been Garak's one dream. Now, finally, he is home. But home is a world whose landscape is filled with death and destruction. Desperation and dust are constant companions and luxury is a glass of clean water and a warm place to sleep. Ironically, it is a letter from one of the aliens on that space station, Dr. Julian Bashir, that inspires Garak to look at the fabric of his life. Elim Garak has been a student, a gardener, a spy, an exile, a tailor, even a liberator. It is a life that was charted by the forces of Cardassian society with very little understanding of the person, and even less compassion. But it is the tailor that understands who Elim Garak was, and what he could be. It is the tailor who sees the ruined fabric of Cardassia, and who knows how to bring this ravaged society back together. This is strange, because a tailor is the one thing Garak never wanted to be. But it is the tailor whom both Cardassia and Elim Garak need. It is the tailor who can put the pieces together, who can take a stitch in time."
On this day in 1938, The Shadow radio serial aired "The Tenor With The Broken Voice." According to our friends on The Shadow Wiki, here's the plot summary:
"During the performance of an opera, a premier tenor loses his voice. The audience think nothing wrong of this, until, a sandbag falls on another performer, killing him, when the same opera plays again. Each performance of the opera leads to another unfortunate occurrence, and only The Shadow can solve the mystery."
"During the performance of an opera, a premier tenor loses his voice. The audience think nothing wrong of this, until, a sandbag falls on another performer, killing him, when the same opera plays again. Each performance of the opera leads to another unfortunate occurrence, and only The Shadow can solve the mystery."
On this day in 1949, The Shadow radio serial aired "Preview Of Terror." Unfortunately, it would appear that the details involving this particular episode are lost to history as I've been unable to locate any summary on the internet.
On this day in 1955, the SciFi radio serial X Minus One aired "Perigi's Wonderful Dolls." According to our friends at the Retro Radio Podcast, here's the (edited) plot summary:
"At a doll shop near the Pentagon, a little girl and her mom do some window shopping. When daddy stops along to meet them, the small, life like dolls are just too precious to pass up. As dad runs off on another errand, Mr Perigi shows off his animated, talking dolls with artificial intelligence. A sale is made, but when Toto the doll is brought home, the family dog changes from a gentle little pup to a growling beast who takes offense at the new doll."
"At a doll shop near the Pentagon, a little girl and her mom do some window shopping. When daddy stops along to meet them, the small, life like dolls are just too precious to pass up. As dad runs off on another errand, Mr Perigi shows off his animated, talking dolls with artificial intelligence. A sale is made, but when Toto the doll is brought home, the family dog changes from a gentle little pup to a growling beast who takes offense at the new doll."
- For those of you interested in listening to the tale, it's available on YouTube.com right here.
