The Sentinel -- which premiered on this day back in 1996 -- was a reasonably standard police procedural that was made exceptional by endowing its lead hero, Detective James Ellison, with some minorly extraordinary powers that made him a much better-than-average cop. According to IMDB.com, it last a solid four years on television, giving headline potential to such talent as actors Richard Burgi, Garett Maggart, and Bruce A. Young. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the jungles of Peru, the fight for survival heightened his senses. Now, Detective Jim Ellison is a sentinel in the fight for justice. Anthropologist Blair Sandburg works side by side with Jim, helping him develop these senses."
"In the jungles of Peru, the fight for survival heightened his senses. Now, Detective Jim Ellison is a sentinel in the fight for justice. Anthropologist Blair Sandburg works side by side with Jim, helping him develop these senses."
It all came down to this: On this day in 2009, Earth was found, lives were lost, and the crew of the Battlestar Galactica had to determine their own fate when "Daybreak Part 2" and "Part 3" aired on Syfy. As can happen, the ending was a bit divisive amongst the show's ardent fans, but -- as they say -- it is what it is. According to IMDB.com, here's the finale's plot summary:
"A stripped down Galactica attacks the Cylon's Colony ship in the hopes of rescuing Hera. The meaning of the shared dream in the Opera House on Kobol is revealed. Sam Anders is moved in his Hybrid tank to the CIC in the hopes that he will be able to assist the combatants. Their mission complete, Admiral Adama orders Starbuck to pick a destination - any destination - to which the ship can jump to get out of there. With that, the meaning of the tune and the musical notes are explained. Having successfully jumped, the old Galactica has truly reached the end of it's life. A planet capable of sustaining life is found and Lee Adama makes a radical proposal for the future of humankind. In a flash forward far into the future, Hera's importance to the human race is revealed."
"A stripped down Galactica attacks the Cylon's Colony ship in the hopes of rescuing Hera. The meaning of the shared dream in the Opera House on Kobol is revealed. Sam Anders is moved in his Hybrid tank to the CIC in the hopes that he will be able to assist the combatants. Their mission complete, Admiral Adama orders Starbuck to pick a destination - any destination - to which the ship can jump to get out of there. With that, the meaning of the tune and the musical notes are explained. Having successfully jumped, the old Galactica has truly reached the end of it's life. A planet capable of sustaining life is found and Lee Adama makes a radical proposal for the future of humankind. In a flash forward far into the future, Hera's importance to the human race is revealed."
Kermit Murdock leaves behind a resume relatively slim on numbers but rich in reward. He's served time on Star Trek and The Andromeda Strain (1971). Though he's no longer with us, Murdock was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Michael Redgrave enjoyed a leading role in the 1956 adaptation of George Orwell's 1984. Late in his career, Redgrave enjoyed a role aboard a telefilm adaptation of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde (1973). Though he's no longer with us, Redgrave was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Howard Lang left behind a resume of small roles in some pretty interesting projects, the most relatable to SciFi fans being a brief stint aboard Doctor Who. Though he's no longer with us, Lang was born on this day in 1912.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Richard Carlyle joined the crew of the original Starship Enterprise aboard "The Squire Of Gothos." Though he's no longer with us, Carlyle was born on this day in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Late in his professional career, Wendell Corey impacted Science Fiction an ambitious one-two-punch with roles in Cyborg 2087 (1966) and The Astro-Zombies (1968). He also stoled a few scenes aboard Agent For H.A.R.M. (1966). Though he's no longer with us, Corey was born on this day in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Cyborg 2087 (1966) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Cyborg 2087 (1966) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Legendary funnyman Carl Reiner lent his pipes to the character of 'The Wizard' aboard Justice League Action in 2016. Though he's no longer with us, Reiner was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Karen Steele was one of "Mudd's Women," an ensemble of the galaxy's most desirous ladies at the heart of a classic Star Trek episode. She also enjoyed voyages aboard Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Get Smart, and Cyborg 2087 (1966). Though she's no longer with us, Steele was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Cyborg 2087 (1966) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional DVD of Cyborg 2087 (1966) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Sorry, folks, but I don't read as much as I used to. Still, I do try to sing the praises of genre authors whenever I stumble across them, and the late C. Dean Andersson was one who dabbled in the worlds of Science Fiction, Horror, and Fantasy for good measure. Though he's no longer with us, Andersson was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
SciFi author Pamela Sargent has helped bring to readers several Star Trek novels as well as a handful of original novels. Sargent was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
The best way I know to measure how well an actor is at his craft is to ask one simple question: "Could I imagine anyone else doing this role justice?" If you can't imagine anyone else in it, then the talent is probably appropriately cast for any series. Now I ask you, fellow Trek enthusiasts: "Could ANYONE ELSE in all of the galaxies known to mankind ever have pulled off being Star Trek: The Next Generation's irascible Q other than John de Lancie?" I think you know the answer to that question. The wit, the mirth, the playfulness were all brilliant additions done to perfection by the man, so join me in celebrating his birth on this day back in 1948.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
1998's Lost In Space is not a great movie in any estimation; however, it had an incredibly talented cast, that's for sure! William Hurt took over the role as the patriarch for the Robinson family, and any time Scifi can woo a talent like William Hurt to its grace then we're in good company. Though he's no longer with us, Hurt was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I penned a few words on the actor's passing in 2022. Interested parties can find the piece right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I penned a few words on the actor's passing in 2022. Interested parties can find the piece right here.
The great Amy Aquino enjoyed a recurring guest status aboard the Syfy adaptation of the Horror/Fantasy Being Human. Aquino was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As I write this, mankind is brimming with anticipation for for the forthcoming Batman V. Superman motion picture, so kudos for actress Holly Hunter in stepping aboard such a high-profile project when the time is right. Hunter was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Brian Brophy played a Starfleet scientist TV audiences loved to hate aboard "The Measure Of A Man," a popular second season drama for Star Trek: The Next Generation. He's also appeared in Max Headroom, Hard Time On Planet Earth, Future Shock (1994), and the TV miniseries Invasion. Brophy was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
The statuesque Roxanne Kernohan enjoyed a brief flirtation with the entertainment industry before she left our plane of existence. Genre fans might remember her from work aboard Critters 2 (1988), Phoenix The Warrior (1988), and Not Of This Earth (1988). Though she's no longer with us, Kernohan was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Karen Waldron staked out her little corner of Cinema History with a role in the SciF/Cult flick Return Of The Killer Tomatoes (1988). Waldron was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Alice Cadogan found herself in a dark SciFi place when she ventured into Night Of The Creeps (1986). Cadogan was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her modeling career, the lovely Kathy Ireland gave the silver screen a try. Too bad it was in such a forgettable role as the plucky Wanda Saknussemm in Alien From L.A. and Journey To The Center Of The Earth, both in 1988. Since that time, she's done some voice acting for Fantastic Four and The Incredible Hulk as well as small roles in other projects. Ireland was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Susannah Hoffman definitely pops up from time-to-time aboard some SciFi and/or Fantasy franchises. To date, she's served time on Faerie Tale Theatre, The Brain (1988), Millennium (1989), Goosebumps, The X-Files, PSI Factor: Chronicles Of The Paranormal, The Outer Limits, Anonymous Rex (2004), and 11.22.63. Hoffman was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor David Thewlis constantly demonstrates the ability to wrap his head around a lot of unusual performances. He's been a part of the Harry Potter universe and recently appeared in The Zero Theorem for director Terry Gilliam. Back in 1996, he also appeared in The Island of Dr. Moreau. More recently, he got in touch with his inner cosmic villain for his work as the antagonist aboard Wonder Woman (2017). Thewlis was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lisa Masters played Southern hospitality and charm for all of its robotic worth for her part in The Stepford Wives (2004). Though she's no longer with us, Masters was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A quick review of Marc Warren's profile on IMDB.com would suggest that Marc Warren does very little Science Fiction, but a guest role aboard Doctor Who definitely deserves mentions here. Warren was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well, maybe not everybody goes to Quark's, but Cathy DeBuono did. She had the good fortune of seventeen appearances aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. DeBuono was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Dayna Devon turned up briefly aboard Star Trek: Enterprise's fourth season as an engineering officer. She also appeared as a background player in an episode of the WB's long-running Smallville for good measuure. Devon was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Like most fanboys, I'm usually a sucker for a decent Arnold Schwarzenegger movie, but so much of The 6th Day (2000) just felt so bland and uninspired. That's no fault of Michael Rapaport, a genuinely gifted talent but vile, vile, vile political activist whom I generally enjoy in small doses. Rapaport was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Murray Bartlett had a recurring role aboard Syfy's Farscape for a time, appearing as the infamous D.K., John Crichton's earthbound friend in the IASA space program. Bartlett was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jane March has dabbled in roles primarily leaning more toward Fantasy than Science Fiction. Audiences have enjoyed who talents aboard Tarzan and the Lost City (1998), Relic Hunter, Dark Realm, Clash of the Titans (2010), and Jack The Giant Killer (2013). March was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and general hottie Paula Garcés played a role in ABC TV's SciFi/Drama Defying Gravity; sadly, the show never really established an audience and was quickly lost in the creative shuffle. The lovely lady also enjoyed a recurring guest star stint aboard Syfy's Warehouse 13. Garcés was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You travel with the Doctor, and you're going to make friends in fandom very quickly: such was the case for the lovely Freema Agyeman, yet another lovely who trafficked with Doctor Who for the BBC. Agyeman was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've only recently discovered the Starhunter franchise, and I'm starting back at the beginning (meaning Season 1). I do know that Season 2 brought in largely an all-new cast and a modified storyline, so I'm not familiar with Paul Fox's contribution to the program. Fox (above left) was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
HubbaHubba Alert: the beautiful Erica Luttrell has fallen onto SciFi's radar with work aboard such properties as iZombie, Arrow, Justice League Action, Westworld, Salvation, and Voltron. Luttrell was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aside from a solid run aboard ABC TV's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., actor Nick Blood has also dabbled deeply into the realm of SciFi identity with a plumb role aboard Identicals (2015). Blood was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I love it when the universe comes around again: such is the case for actor Michael Cassidy. He had a recurring guest role for the WB's Smallville late in its run, and he returned to the DC Universe with a small role aboard Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice. More recently, he showed some solid comedy chops with work in People Of Earth and Syfy's Resident Alien. Cassidy was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Another day, another Sharknado citation! Justine Ezarik boarded the never-ending franchise in the guise of 'Shatner' for Sharknado 4: The 4th Awakens (2016). Ezarik was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ruby Rose is currently riding the road to stardom as she's been caught stealing scenes in such properties as Orange Is The New Black, John Wick: Chapter Two (2017), and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016). More recently, Rose rose to prominence as TV's incarnation of Batwoman, but it was a role which lasted curiously only a single season. Rose was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As much as I totally dug the premise behind Fox TV's Terra Nova (in order to save itself, mankind travels deep into the past), the premise never quite found its footing, instead delving into more 'conventional' drama stories that happened to be 'set' in Earth's somewhat prehistoric times. Sad. Still, Dean Geyer turned in some great work in the program, and for that we're thankful. Geyer was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Bollywood beauty and superstar Kangana Ranaut dipped into the realm of SciFi/Fantasy with a big role in Krrish 3 (2013). Ranaut was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1952 (in Italy), the original The Day The Earth Stood Still enjoyed its theatrical release, showing once more that we were not alone in the universe. Directed by Robert Wise, the feature starred Michael Rennie, Hugh Marlowe, and Patricia Neal. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An alien lands and tells the people of Earth that they must live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets."
For the record:
In all honesty, The Day The Earth Stood Still didn't really catch much attention so far as awards ceremonies go back in the 1950's. It's greatest claim to fame, however, is that it's grown increasingly well-regarded in the years since, so much so that, in 1995, it was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve pictures for their lasting artistic and aesthetic contribution.
"An alien lands and tells the people of Earth that they must live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets."
For the record:
In all honesty, The Day The Earth Stood Still didn't really catch much attention so far as awards ceremonies go back in the 1950's. It's greatest claim to fame, however, is that it's grown increasingly well-regarded in the years since, so much so that, in 1995, it was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve pictures for their lasting artistic and aesthetic contribution.
On this day in 1959 (in France), Not Of The Earth had audiences questioning whether or not we could stand a chance against an alien aggressor. Directed by Roger Corman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Paul Birch, Beverly Garland, and Morgan Jones. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien agent from the distant planet Davana is sent to Earth via a high-tech matter transporter. There, he terrorizes Southern California in an attempt to acquire blood for his dying race, the result of a devastating nuclear war."
"An alien agent from the distant planet Davana is sent to Earth via a high-tech matter transporter. There, he terrorizes Southern California in an attempt to acquire blood for his dying race, the result of a devastating nuclear war."
A star is born! On this day in 1965 (in Japan), Gulliver's Space Travels: Beyond The Moon (aka Garibaa no uchû ryokô) put a SciFi spin on a popular fable. Directed by Yoshio Kuroda, the Animated/Fantasy starred the voices of Kyû Sakamoto, Chiyoko Honma, and Seiji Miyaguchi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young boy meets the famous Lemuel Gulliver, who has just built a rocket ship that will take him exploring outer space. The boy joins him, and the two of them go to the Star of Hope, where they find a civilization that is threatened by evil robots."
"A young boy meets the famous Lemuel Gulliver, who has just built a rocket ship that will take him exploring outer space. The boy joins him, and the two of them go to the Star of Hope, where they find a civilization that is threatened by evil robots."
A star is born! On this day in 1968 (in Japan), the Gamera franchise grew by another film with the theatrical release of Gamera Vs. Viras (aka Gamera tai uchu kaijû Bairasu). Directed by Noriaki Yuasa and Shigeo Yanaka, the Monster Movie starred Kôjirô Hongô, Tôru Takatsuka, and Carl Craig. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Gamera the Flying Turtle falls under the spell of evil aliens, but two children free him and he returns to fight the aliens' monster, Viras."
"Gamera the Flying Turtle falls under the spell of evil aliens, but two children free him and he returns to fight the aliens' monster, Viras."
On this day in 1972 (in Spain), Future Woman (aka Rio 70) (aka The Girl From Rio) took yet another dark view at our planet's gender-confused future. Directed by legendary shlockmaster Jesús Franco, the film starred Shirley Eaton, George Sanders, and Richard Wyler. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Sumuru, the beautiful leader of the all-female kingdom of Femina, plans to use her women to take over the world."
"Sumuru, the beautiful leader of the all-female kingdom of Femina, plans to use her women to take over the world."
On this day in 1980 (in Portugal), Death Watch took audiences to death's door and beyond. Directed by Bertrand Tavernier (who also worked on the adaptation), the SciFi/Drama starred Romy Schneider, Harvey Keitel, and Harry Dean Stanton. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
For the record:
As well as garnering some praise from various festival screenings, Death Watch enjoyed five nominations (but no wins) at the 1981 César Awards, the highest film honor possible in that country ("Best Screenplay, Original or Adaptation," "Best Music," "Best Cinematography," 'Best Editing," and "Best Sound").
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
For the record:
As well as garnering some praise from various festival screenings, Death Watch enjoyed five nominations (but no wins) at the 1981 César Awards, the highest film honor possible in that country ("Best Screenplay, Original or Adaptation," "Best Music," "Best Cinematography," 'Best Editing," and "Best Sound").
A star is born! On this day in 1980 (in Japan), you just can't keep a good giant-sized turtle down ... not with the theatrical release of Gamera, Super Monster (aka Uchu kaijû Gamera). Directed by Noriaki Yuasa and Shigeo Tanaka, the Monster Movie starred Mach Fumiake, Yaeko Kojima, and Yoko Komatsu. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Using several clips from previous Gamera entries, this film deals with alien forces sending all the monsters Gamera has faced in one final battle to rid the planet of its last hope."
"Using several clips from previous Gamera entries, this film deals with alien forces sending all the monsters Gamera has faced in one final battle to rid the planet of its last hope."
On this day in 1986 (in Australia), Troll did what it could to delight audiences with a bit of Fantastical magic and horror. Written (in part) and directed by John Carl Buechler, the film starred Michael Moriarty, Shelley Hack, and Noah Hathaway. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A wicked troll king in search of a mystical ring that will transform him to human form invades a San Francisco apartment complex where a powerful witch lives."
For the record:
At the 1987 Young Artist Awards, young Jenny Beck was nominated in the 'Exceptional Performance by a Young Actress, Supporting Role in a Feature Film - Comedy, Fantasy or Drama' for her work in the film.
"A wicked troll king in search of a mystical ring that will transform him to human form invades a San Francisco apartment complex where a powerful witch lives."
For the record:
At the 1987 Young Artist Awards, young Jenny Beck was nominated in the 'Exceptional Performance by a Young Actress, Supporting Role in a Feature Film - Comedy, Fantasy or Drama' for her work in the film.
A star is born ... or has it been raised from the dead?!?! On this day in 1998 (in Belgium), audiences in attendance of the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Tale Of The Mummy. Written (in part) and directed by Russell Mulcahy, the Fantasy/Horror starred Jason Scott Lee, Louise Lombard, and Sean Pertwee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Centuries ago, under the sands of ancient Egypt, a Prince was buried and his tomb eternally cursed so that no man would ever again suffer from his evil ways. But hundreds of years later on a greedy search for treasure, a group of archaeologists break the cursed seal of the tomb. Every man vanishes without a trace, leaving behind only a log book, and a deadly warning of the legend of the bloodthursty Talos. Fifty years later, the log book ends up in the hands of the granddaughter of the head archaeologist, and she defiantly sets out to retrace his steps. Discovering the forbidden treasure, she recovers a sacred amulet and once again unleashes the savage power of the tomb. Racing through the streets of London, and against the force of a rare interplanetary line-up, she, along with the help of her original dig team and an American detective, desperately try to turn back the inhuman curse and to keep Talos from destroying all in his path in an attempt to gain immortal power."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Tale Of The Mummy enjoyed a modest amount of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"Centuries ago, under the sands of ancient Egypt, a Prince was buried and his tomb eternally cursed so that no man would ever again suffer from his evil ways. But hundreds of years later on a greedy search for treasure, a group of archaeologists break the cursed seal of the tomb. Every man vanishes without a trace, leaving behind only a log book, and a deadly warning of the legend of the bloodthursty Talos. Fifty years later, the log book ends up in the hands of the granddaughter of the head archaeologist, and she defiantly sets out to retrace his steps. Discovering the forbidden treasure, she recovers a sacred amulet and once again unleashes the savage power of the tomb. Racing through the streets of London, and against the force of a rare interplanetary line-up, she, along with the help of her original dig team and an American detective, desperately try to turn back the inhuman curse and to keep Talos from destroying all in his path in an attempt to gain immortal power."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Tale Of The Mummy enjoyed a modest amount of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2003 (in the Netherlands), the 1985-produced Phenomena enjoyed an all-new home video release. Written (in part) and directed by Dario Argento, the Fantasy/Horror starred Jennifer Connolly, Donald Pleasence, and Daria Nicolodi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young girl who has an amazing ability to communicate with insects is transferred to an exclusive Swiss boarding school, where her unusual capability might help solve a string of murders."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phenomena enjoyed a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Ultra HD 4K release of Phenomena. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"A young girl who has an amazing ability to communicate with insects is transferred to an exclusive Swiss boarding school, where her unusual capability might help solve a string of murders."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phenomena enjoyed a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Ultra HD 4K release of Phenomena. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born ... and this one looks very bloody! On this day in 2008 (in Germany), audiences were treated to Asylum. Directed by David R. Ellis from a story by Ethan Lawrence, the Horror/Fantasy starred Sarah Roemer, Jake Muxworthy, and Mark Rolston. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Six college students discover their dorm was once an insane asylum that conducted gruesome lobotomies on its teenage inmates during the 1930's."
"Six college students discover their dorm was once an insane asylum that conducted gruesome lobotomies on its teenage inmates during the 1930's."
A star is born ... or is it manufactured?! On this day in 2008 (in Japan), audiences in attendance of the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Cyborg She. Written and directed by Jae-young Kwak, the SciFi/Comedy starred Haruka Ayase, Keisuke Koide, and Risa Ai. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lonely university student develops a romance with a beautiful interesting woman, who turns out to be a cyborg from the future."
For the record:
At the 2008 Nikkan Sports Film Awards, actress Haruka Ayase took home top honors in the 'Best Actress' category.
"A lonely university student develops a romance with a beautiful interesting woman, who turns out to be a cyborg from the future."
For the record:
At the 2008 Nikkan Sports Film Awards, actress Haruka Ayase took home top honors in the 'Best Actress' category.
To be perfectly honest, I don't remember all that much about the single viewing I gave Knowing when it came out on home video. (It premiered theatrically on this day in 2009.) I know it starred Nicolas Cage, and I know it had something to do with an alien species trying to warn mankind about some massive death and destruction pending for the planet Earth, but otherwise? I'm drawing a blank. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"M.I.T. professor John Koestler links a mysterious list of numbers from a time capsule to past and future disasters and sets out to prevent the ultimate catastrophe."
For the record:
In 2010, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated Knowing for the Saturn Awards in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"M.I.T. professor John Koestler links a mysterious list of numbers from a time capsule to past and future disasters and sets out to prevent the ultimate catastrophe."
For the record:
In 2010, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated Knowing for the Saturn Awards in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), things were not looking all that good for mankind with the release of Revelation Road: The Beginning Of The End. Written (in part) and directed by Gabriel Sabloff, the Fantasy/Thriller starred David A.R. White, Brian Bosworth, and Andrea Logan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Amidst foreboding lighting and tremors, a traveling salesman with a dark past must fight demons, both his own and a murderous biker gang, in his quest to complete his last sale and go home."
"Amidst foreboding lighting and tremors, a traveling salesman with a dark past must fight demons, both his own and a murderous biker gang, in his quest to complete his last sale and go home."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in Spain), the good people of Barcelona were treated to the silver screen premiere of The Last Days (aka Los últimos días). Written and directed by the team of David Pastor and Àlex Pastor, the SciFi/Drama starred Quim Gutiérrez, Jose Coronado, and Marta Etura. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 2013, a mysterious epidemic spreads across the planet: humanity develops an irrational fear of open spaces which causes death within seconds. Soon the entire global populace is trapped inside buildings. As Barcelona descends into chaos, Marc sets off on a quest to find Julia, his missing girlfriend--without ever venturing outside."
For the record:
At the 2014 Gaudi Awards (recognizing film excellence in the nation of Catalonia), The Last Days was quite the sensation. The film took home an incredible seven trophies (categories of 'Best Non-Catalon-Language Film,' 'Best Special/Visual Effects,' 'Best Production Manager,' 'Best Art Direction,' 'Best Make-Up And Hairstyles,' 'Best Sound,' and 'Best Cinematography') while having to settle for the honor of a nomination alone in four other groups (categories of 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Original Score,' and 'Best Director').
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2014, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of The Last Days in exchange of a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the drama? Readers can find my review right here.
"In 2013, a mysterious epidemic spreads across the planet: humanity develops an irrational fear of open spaces which causes death within seconds. Soon the entire global populace is trapped inside buildings. As Barcelona descends into chaos, Marc sets off on a quest to find Julia, his missing girlfriend--without ever venturing outside."
For the record:
At the 2014 Gaudi Awards (recognizing film excellence in the nation of Catalonia), The Last Days was quite the sensation. The film took home an incredible seven trophies (categories of 'Best Non-Catalon-Language Film,' 'Best Special/Visual Effects,' 'Best Production Manager,' 'Best Art Direction,' 'Best Make-Up And Hairstyles,' 'Best Sound,' and 'Best Cinematography') while having to settle for the honor of a nomination alone in four other groups (categories of 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Original Score,' and 'Best Director').
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2014, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary copy of The Last Days in exchange of a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the drama? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), Sex And The Single Alien aroused what interest it could. Written and directed by Peter Daskaloff, the SciFi/Comedy starred Rachel Alig, Jeremiah Benjamin, and Josiah Black. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the Adult-themed SciFi flick:
"Two eccentric aliens from outer space manipulate one man's brain so he can make telepathic love to any woman they like."
"Two eccentric aliens from outer space manipulate one man's brain so he can make telepathic love to any woman they like."
On this day in 2015, the Comedy/Horror/Fantasy Spring enjoyed its US theatrical release as well as a streaming release for interested audiences. Directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, the feature starred Lou Taylor Pucci, Nadia Hilker, and Nick Nevern. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young man in a personal tailspin flees from US to Italy, where he sparks up a romance with a woman harboring a dark, primordial secret."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Spring scored a good amount of positive praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A young man in a personal tailspin flees from US to Italy, where he sparks up a romance with a woman harboring a dark, primordial secret."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Spring scored a good amount of positive praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the United Kingdom), Alice And The Last Lottery took its attempt at winning big. Written and directed by Jacek Fuchs, the SciFi/Drama starred Shireen Ashton, Ross Heath, and Rahel Kapsaski. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Policeman of the City of Perfection (where officially 'no one ever dies') becomes obsessed with a woman who manipulates him into killing a girl called Alice."
"Policeman of the City of Perfection (where officially 'no one ever dies') becomes obsessed with a woman who manipulates him into killing a girl called Alice."
On this day in 2020 (in a whole host of countries around the world), The Platform enjoyed its debut on streaming. Directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, the SciFi/Horror starred Ivan Massagué, Zorion Eguileor, and Antonio San Juan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A vertical prison with one cell per level. Two people per cell. Only one food platform and two minutes per day to feed. An endless nightmare trapped in The Hole."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Platform was a bit of a sensation from a variety of screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A vertical prison with one cell per level. Two people per cell. Only one food platform and two minutes per day to feed. An endless nightmare trapped in The Hole."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Platform was a bit of a sensation from a variety of screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Read To Me, Herr Doktor." Officially, this served as the thirty-first episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Patricia Kinworth is surprised to discover that her father has built a robot and named it after an old teacher nicknamed "Herr Doktor". Professor Kinworth built the robot to read his books to him, but has underestimated both the amount of intelligence he gave his creation and its desire to live out the stories that the robot has read."
"Patricia Kinworth is surprised to discover that her father has built a robot and named it after an old teacher nicknamed "Herr Doktor". Professor Kinworth built the robot to read his books to him, but has underestimated both the amount of intelligence he gave his creation and its desire to live out the stories that the robot has read."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Centre." (FYI: Who purists will assure you that this installment is one part of the serial storyline better known as "The Web Planet.") Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Vicki are taken before the Animus but the isoptope is left behind in the laboratory.The only hope of victory lies with Barbara and her Menoptera allies."
"The Doctor and Vicki are taken before the Animus but the isoptope is left behind in the laboratory.The only hope of victory lies with Barbara and her Menoptera allies."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Mr. Terrific aired "Harley And The Killer." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An escaped murderer vows to extract fatal revenge on his one-time prosecutor - Harley Trent."
"An escaped murderer vows to extract fatal revenge on his one-time prosecutor - Harley Trent."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Claws Of Axos: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Winser begin to analyse axonite while Chinn plots to secure its use exclusively for Britain."
"The Doctor and Winser begin to analyse axonite while Chinn plots to secure its use exclusively for Britain."
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century aired its episode, "Buck's Duel to the Death." According to IMDB.com:
"Buck and Twiki are lured to another planet where they are enlisted to fight an evil alien warlord called "The Traybor" (played "B" movie bad guy William Smith), who has built a harem of young women-most recently the daughter of the Darius, the leader of the planet. In addition to Smith's trademark muscles, "The Traybor" is wired to direct a surge of electricity toward his opponent. Buck learns from Darius of a legend than a 500 year old man will one day appear and defeat 'The Traybor.'"
"Buck and Twiki are lured to another planet where they are enlisted to fight an evil alien warlord called "The Traybor" (played "B" movie bad guy William Smith), who has built a harem of young women-most recently the daughter of the Darius, the leader of the planet. In addition to Smith's trademark muscles, "The Traybor" is wired to direct a surge of electricity toward his opponent. Buck learns from Darius of a legend than a 500 year old man will one day appear and defeat 'The Traybor.'"
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future aired "Retribution: Part 1." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Dread decides to put all his power into destroying Power and his resistance group. Thanks to Blastarr he finds out Power's Jumpship has teleportation capabilities and Souron helps him to install a tracking device with which to locate Power's base."
"Dread decides to put all his power into destroying Power and his resistance group. Thanks to Blastarr he finds out Power's Jumpship has teleportation capabilities and Souron helps him to install a tracking device with which to locate Power's base."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Profit and Loss." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Cardassian woman named Natima Lang, who was once a flame of Quark's, visits the station under dubious circumstances."
"A Cardassian woman named Natima Lang, who was once a flame of Quark's, visits the station under dubious circumstances."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Voyager aired "Prime Factors." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew encounters a hedonistic alien race with the ability to travel through the galaxy at will -- an ability that may be the key to Voyager's returning home."
"The crew encounters a hedonistic alien race with the ability to travel through the galaxy at will -- an ability that may be the key to Voyager's returning home."
It all began right here: on this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The Sentinel began his tour of duty of television. Officially, the first episode was titled "The Switchman," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After spending years in the Peruvian jungle during his tour in Army Special Forces, Cascade PD Detective James Ellison developed hyperactive senses, which came back to him five years after his return to the US. He can see people in darkened windows at night from two hundred yards, hear the music playing on the radio of the car he's chasing after he's lost sight of it, and can distinguish between wood and plastic after both have been in a three thousand degree fire. Blair Sandburg, a local anthropology student, tells Ellison that he is a "Sentinel," who in ancient tribes would protect the village and seek out game using such hyperactive senses. Sandburg becomes Ellison's back-watcher and teacher of how to use his new powers as Ellison brings a whole new edge to the war on crime in Cascade, Washington."
"After spending years in the Peruvian jungle during his tour in Army Special Forces, Cascade PD Detective James Ellison developed hyperactive senses, which came back to him five years after his return to the US. He can see people in darkened windows at night from two hundred yards, hear the music playing on the radio of the car he's chasing after he's lost sight of it, and can distinguish between wood and plastic after both have been in a three thousand degree fire. Blair Sandburg, a local anthropology student, tells Ellison that he is a "Sentinel," who in ancient tribes would protect the village and seek out game using such hyperactive senses. Sandburg becomes Ellison's back-watcher and teacher of how to use his new powers as Ellison brings a whole new edge to the war on crime in Cascade, Washington."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Enterprise aired "Rogue Planet." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lieutenant Reed discovers a rogue planet, which has broken out of orbit and therefore is devoid of any light. Life is still possible in some places because heat is bubbling up from under the surface, but T'Pol doesn't detect any humanoid life. Further scans however give a strange energy reading which seems to be coming from a ship on the surface. After the crew has landed, they encounter the Eska. The Eska come from another planet and they say they are hunting for the drayjin, an animal considered a delicacy. When captain Jonathan Archer tries to sleep on the planet, he hears a voice calling him by his name. A human female is wandering in the forest. Somehow he seems to know her."
"Lieutenant Reed discovers a rogue planet, which has broken out of orbit and therefore is devoid of any light. Life is still possible in some places because heat is bubbling up from under the surface, but T'Pol doesn't detect any humanoid life. Further scans however give a strange energy reading which seems to be coming from a ship on the surface. After the crew has landed, they encounter the Eska. The Eska come from another planet and they say they are hunting for the drayjin, an animal considered a delicacy. When captain Jonathan Archer tries to sleep on the planet, he hears a voice calling him by his name. A human female is wandering in the forest. Somehow he seems to know her."
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Starhunter 2300 aired its twentieth episode of its second season, an hour curiously titled "License To Fill." According to Wikipedia.org, here's the plot summary:
"While docked at Olympus Mons City, Travis is contacted by Mars Fed in regards to his expired bounty hunting license. Despite only being two days late for renewal, a prosecutor named Calder comes aboard the Tulip and places the crew under house arrest pending a court hearing into a series of complaints filed against them. Using Caravaggio's recordings as evidence, and as a witness, Calder reviews a series of past events that places Travis and crew in a bad light. Even Percy is found and brought in to answer questions. The hunters' only hope to keep their job, and ship, lies in Morgan, an attorney who freely accepts their case in hopes of exposing Calder of conspiring against the bounty hunters for unknown personal reasons. Meanwhile, Callie and Marcus hack into the Mars police database to find who he's connected with and use it against him."
"While docked at Olympus Mons City, Travis is contacted by Mars Fed in regards to his expired bounty hunting license. Despite only being two days late for renewal, a prosecutor named Calder comes aboard the Tulip and places the crew under house arrest pending a court hearing into a series of complaints filed against them. Using Caravaggio's recordings as evidence, and as a witness, Calder reviews a series of past events that places Travis and crew in a bad light. Even Percy is found and brought in to answer questions. The hunters' only hope to keep their job, and ship, lies in Morgan, an attorney who freely accepts their case in hopes of exposing Calder of conspiring against the bounty hunters for unknown personal reasons. Meanwhile, Callie and Marcus hack into the Mars police database to find who he's connected with and use it against him."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Smallville aired "Traveler." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode of the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lionel kidnaps Clark and holds him in a kryptonite-lined cell at a Luthorcorp facility; Chloe and Lana confront Lionel, who blames Lex, and they then take Kara to the Fortress and plead with Jor-El to restore her memory so she can save Clark."
"Lionel kidnaps Clark and holds him in a kryptonite-lined cell at a Luthorcorp facility; Chloe and Lana confront Lionel, who blames Lex, and they then take Kara to the Fortress and plead with Jor-El to restore her memory so she can save Clark."
On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars closed out its first season with the airing of "Hostage Crisis." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode of the first season, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"To free crime lord Ziro the Hutt, bounty hunters seize control of the Senate Building and take hostages, unaware that Anakin Skywalker is still inside."
"To free crime lord Ziro the Hutt, bounty hunters seize control of the Senate Building and take hostages, unaware that Anakin Skywalker is still inside."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), 12 Monkeys aired "Divine Move," a game-changer of an episode. Officially, this served as the tenth hour to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Forces come to a head when Ramse takes measures to protect his newfound family, leaving Cole to deal with the fallout."
"Forces come to a head when Ramse takes measures to protect his newfound family, leaving Cole to deal with the fallout."
On this day in 2020 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Gone With A Trace." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After leaving the Jedi Order, Ahsoka Tano finds herself in the underworld of Coruscant where she meets aspiring pilot Trace Martez. Enlisted by Trace's sister Rafa to help build dangerous droids, Ahsoka opts to keep her Jedi past a secret."
"After leaving the Jedi Order, Ahsoka Tano finds herself in the underworld of Coruscant where she meets aspiring pilot Trace Martez. Enlisted by Trace's sister Rafa to help build dangerous droids, Ahsoka opts to keep her Jedi past a secret."
