Siren -- a televised serial exploring life with a mythical species -- enjoyed its television broadcast premiere on this day back in 2018. Lasting three seasons, the show managed to build a respectable following along with garnering a bit of praise via awards, mostly for technical expertise (not a bad thing when it comes to SciFi and Fantasy), but there were some acting nods in its later seasons. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"A coastal town known for its legend of once being home to mermaids is turned upside down when a mysterious girl appears and begins wreaking havoc."
For the record:
"A coastal town known for its legend of once being home to mermaids is turned upside down when a mysterious girl appears and begins wreaking havoc."
For the record:
- At the 2019 Leo Awards (awards recognizing excellence in the British Columbia film and television industry), Siren enjoyed two nominations: 'Best Overall Sound In A Dramatic Series' and 'Best Direction In A Dramatic Series.' Alas, the show went home that year with no wins.
- At the 2021 Leo Awards, Siren captured the big win in the category of 'Best Overall Sound In A Dramatic Series.'
Veteran character actor Arthur O'Connell served as a voice of authority behind Richard Fleischer's signature SciFi/Drama Fantastic Voyage (1966). He also appeared aboard 7 Faces Of Dr. Lao (1964), The Wild Wild West, Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, The Reluctant Astronaut (1967), The Power (1968), A Taste Of Evil (1971), Night Gallery, Ben (1972), and Wicked, Wicked (1973). Though he's no longer with us, O'Connell was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Among his nearly 100 screen roles, Philip Locke (above right) had the opportunity to appear in the world of Doctor Who. A quick review of his resume on IMDB.com also underscores that the actor enjoyed a role aboard Thunderball (1965) for Eon Productions. Other genre work took place in such properties as The Avengers, The Champions, The Omega Factor, The Plague Dogs (1982), and Jekyll And Hyde (1990). Though he's no longer with us, Locke was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late character actor Donald Hotton was rather stealth about roles he assumed, but genre fans might know him best from visits to Dark Shadows, Nightwing (1979), Brainstorm (1983), Airwolf, Invaders From Mars (1986), Alien Nation, Quantum Leap, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Though he's no longer with us, Hotton was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In both the 1965 and the 1979 seasons of Doctor Who, the venerable Barry Jackson had the chance to play in the realm of the BBC's long-running franchise. But that wasn't his only work in Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror; and fans can see what he was able to do in roles big and small in such properties as A For Andromeda, Adam Adamant Lives, Doomwatch, The Frighteners, The New Avengers, The Glitterball (1977), Blake's 7, and Into The Labyrinth. Though he's no longer with us, Jackson was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Acclaimed actor and director Terence Hill found his career somewhat super-charged for his work as the nuclear-enhanced police officer aboard the 1980 Fantasy/Comedy Super Fuzz for Transcinema. Hill was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Scott Wilson delivered a measure of mature gravitas to his portrayal of 'Hershel Greene' aboard AMC's Apocalyptic-themed The Walking Dead. The man was no stranger to genre projects, and he can be seen delivering some incredible work in such entities as The Ninth Configuration (1980), The Twilight Zone, The Exorcist III (1990), Judge Dredd (1995), Mother (1995), The X-Files, The Host (2006), Behind The Mask: The Rise Of Leslie Vernon (2006), Radio Free Albemuth (2010), Damien, and The OA. Though he's no longer with us, Wilson was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actor's credit, Wilson earned an extra bit of praise on the film festival circuit owed to his work in The Ninth Configuration (1980).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
To the actor's credit, Wilson earned an extra bit of praise on the film festival circuit owed to his work in The Ninth Configuration (1980).
Funnyman Eric Idle has provided voice tracks to several Science Fiction and Fantasy projects including Transformers: The Movie (1986), Discworld (video game), Hercules, and Buzz Lightyear of Star Command. IMDB.com shows that Idle got his professional start (in an uncredited role) aboard the Fantasy/Telefilm adaptation of Alice In Wonderland (1966). As for other forays into worlds near and dear to us? There have been a few, including stops to Faerie Tale Theatre, The Adventures Of Baron Munchausen (1988), Nearly Departed, Mom And Dad Save The World (1992), and Casper (1995). Idle was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1976, Idle (and his merry cohorts) shared a Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for bringing Monty Python And The Holy Grail to the masses-at-large.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1976, Idle (and his merry cohorts) shared a Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for bringing Monty Python And The Holy Grail to the masses-at-large.
Blade Runner (1982) is one of those rare Science Fiction films that hits all of the right notes, especially including its score by composer Vangelis. His tracks are so essential to the entire experience that I can't even comprehend the film with any other score. Though he's no longer with us, Vangelis was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1983, Vangelis enjoyed a BAFTA Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Score' for his work on Blade Runner. IMDB.com reports that his score also earned a Golden Globes nomination (in that same year) though he lost out on that one as well. Interestingly enough, it wasn't until 2022 that his effort for the seminal Science Fiction film went home with a trophy when the score was inducted into the Online Film & Television Association's Film Hall Of Fame.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1983, Vangelis enjoyed a BAFTA Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Score' for his work on Blade Runner. IMDB.com reports that his score also earned a Golden Globes nomination (in that same year) though he lost out on that one as well. Interestingly enough, it wasn't until 2022 that his effort for the seminal Science Fiction film went home with a trophy when the score was inducted into the Online Film & Television Association's Film Hall Of Fame.
Across six episodes in Quantum Leap's run, Dennis Wolfberg portrayed the oft-mentioned-but-rarely-seen 'Gooshie.' The actor also enjoyed a small role in The Clairvoyant (1982). Though he's no longer with us, Wolfberg was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 2006, Bud Cort did some voice work aboard DC Comics' Justice League Unlimited, bringing the Toyman to nefarious life. he's also filled out roles in such projects as Gas (1970), Brave New World (1980), Faerie Tale Theatre, Tales From The Darkside, Tales Of The Unexpected, Invaders From Mars (1986), Bates Motel (1987), Out Of The Dark (1988), The Twilight Zone, Brain Dead (1990), Batman: The Animated Series, Theodore Rex (1995), and Superman: The Animated Series. Cort was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Certainly, Norman Snow has left an imprinted on Science Fiction history. Besides guest roles aboard Man From Atlantis and Voyagers!, Snow appeared as the evil 'Xur' (above right) in The Last Starfighter and as 'Torin' (above left) in Star Trek: The Next Generation. He also served time aboard such properties as Man From Atlantis, Voyagers!, and Quantum Leap. Though he's no longer with us, Snow was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I suspect Dianne Kay is probably better remembered for her work in mainstream projects, she did squeeze in genre appearances aboard Darkroom, Fantasy Island, and Andy Colby's Incredible Adventure (1989). Kay was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered, I'm not entirely sure fans were all that enamored with the character of ship's counselor 'Deanna Troi.' It wasn't that she wasn't interesting as portrayed by series regular Marina Sirtis -- rather, it's that the writers didn't quite know what to make of her. Consequently, she ended up half the time voicing things everyone already knew, and as for the other half? She just sat there looking concerned ... which Marina is certainly good at! Proving she's no one-trick-pony, however, the actress has also scored work aboard The Thief Of Baghdad (1978), Space Riders (1984), Waxwork II: Lost In Time (1992), Gargoyles (animated), The Outer Limits, Earth: Final Conflict, Paradise Lost (1999), Stargate: SG-1, Star Trek: Voyager, Terminal Error (2002), Spectres (2004), Star Trek: Enterprise, Grendel (2007), InAlienable (2007), The Grudge 3 (2009), Annihilation Earth (2009), Speed Demons (2012), Vampire Riderz (2013), Finders Keepers (2014), Little Dead Rotting Hood (2016), Star Trek Continues, 5th Passenger (2017), The Last Sharknado: It's About Time (2018), Titans, The Orville, Star Trek: Lower Decks (animated), and Star Trek: Picard. Sadly as of late, she's more known for her anger directed at those she disagrees with politically. Sirtis was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2024, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2024, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The venerable Brendan Gleeson joined no less than Tom Cruise in delivering the box office juggernaut Edge Of Tomorrow (2014) to the masses at large. He'a also enjoyed screen time aboard Lake Placid (1999), A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001), The Village (2004), Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire (2005), Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix (2007), Beowulf (2007), Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010), The Raven (2012), and Stoneheart Asylum (2014). Gleeson was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Swedish-born Rolf Lassgård is recovering from a bout of "box office poison" for joining Matt Damon aboard the poorly-received SciFi/Comedy Downsizing (2017). Lassgård was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Yolande Palfrey did her duty serving as an offering to the mighty source of evil in Dragonslayer (1981). She also appeared on Blake's 7 and Doctor Who. Though she's no longer with us, Palfrey was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If "there can be only one," then by all means let that one be Christopher Lambert. In 1986's pretty spectacular Highlander, Lambert played the immortal Connor MacLeod with the kind of intensity and charisma one expects from a leading man. Indeed, a franchise was born, but this remains some of his best work. Lambert was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Writer/director Victor Salva has certainly put his own footprint into the sand that is the beach of Horror and Fantasy projects by bringing to life the incredible Jeepers Creepers for audiences. Though I didn't much care for Part 2 and haven't even seen Part 3, I think the first one is epic. Salva was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The fabulous Annabella Sciorra doesn't venture all that often into the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy, but she has enjoyed roles aboard Asteroid (1997) and What Dreams May Come (1998). Sciorra was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funny lady Amy Sedaris has lent her pipes to characters aboard the SciFi/Animated program Star Vs. The Forces Of Evil. Sedaris was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Elle Macpherson made an appearance opposite George Clooney in Batman & Robin (1997), a film so horribly bad it essentially killed the Bat-franchise for a decade. Macpherson was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sue Price found herself exposed to danger with her work aboard the franchise property Nemesis for all of four motion pictures. Price was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She first caught everyone's eye while tuning in a brilliant lead performance as the tough and occasionally tender Xena: Warrior Princess, but SciFi fans flocked to her support when Lucy Lawless joined the cast of Syfy's newfangled Battlestar Galactica. She's since gone on to terrific work aboard Starz Network's epic reincarnation of Spartacus. Lawless was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mike J. Regan has been doing make-up effects for years in the entertainment business. Genre fans can catch the magic he works in such properties as Blade (1998), Feast (2005), and Piranha 3DD (2012). Regan was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Producer Scott M. Gimple has certainly left his mark on television and genre history with his work in bringing The Walking Dead to life on the small screen. Gimple was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Ryan Lambert yucked it up on the silver screen with some cinema pals as well as a few of filmdom's classic monsters aboard The Monster Squad (1987) for TAFT Entertainment Pictures. Lambert was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
English-born actor Sam Hazeldine stepped into the world of Fantasy with a two-episode arc aboard Netflix's adaptation of Neil Gaiman's The Sandman. As for other forays into our celebrated realms? He's enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard Life On Mars, Robin Hood, Paradox, Don't Let Him In (2011), The Raven (2014), Dead Mine (2012), The Machine (2013), Resurrection, Cherry Tree (2015), The Huntsman: Winter's War (2016), The Innocents, The Intergalactic Adventures Of Max Cloud (2020), and The Witcher. Hazeldine was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
- Sometime during the movie's original release on home video, I had the chance to receive a complimentary DVD of The Machine in exchange for review coverage. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find them right here.
- In 2016, I was privileged to receive a complimentary Blu-ray of The Huntsman: Winter's War in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts? Readers can find them right here.
In 2022, Todd Grinnell played a failed politician whose complacency gets interrupted by the return of his first love from her 20-year space mission ... and she hasn't aged a day! Science Fiction and Romance don't often collide, but every now and then the universe gives up something like The Time Capsule (2022) from Dobre Films. Grinnell was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Producers, take note: any time a vision as lovely as Megan Hilty wants to play in the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy, you let her! She had a small role in CBS's short-lived BrainDead, and I, for one, hope she finds a franchise we can all appreciate. Hilty was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Chad Rook dabbled in the realm of Superheroes with a recurring role aboard The CW's popular adaptation of DC Comics' The Flash. He's also appeared aboard Sanctuary, Alcatraz, iZombie, Timeless, War For The Planet Of The Apes (2017), Colony, and Once Upon A Time. Rook was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Ed Skrein (above center) did what he did in Deadpool (2016), he unleashed a whole new world of hurt into the greater Marvel cinematic Universe. Skrein was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Voluptuous Adult actress Jessie Volt was able to strut her stuff aboard the Fantasy-themed London Knights: A Heroes & Villains XXX Parody (2016) for Digital Playground. Volt was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and stuntwoman Samantha Jo has participated in some terrific genre properties including the Twilight Saga, Man of Steel (2013), Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Wonder Woman (2017). Jo was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely and talented Hayley McFarland has only dabbled in Fantasy sparingly, securing screen time aboard Pushing Daisies and Medium. As for Horror? She's enjoyed working in such properties as Ring Around The Rosie (2006), The Conjuring (2013), and Agnes (2021). McFarland was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Joe Adler was one of the young men who found himself in the midst of a Dystopian nightmare that was at the heart of The Maze Runner (2014) for Twentieth Century Fox. Adler was born on this day in 1993.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The dreamy Perry Mattfeld dipped into Fantasy and SciFi's waters with guest work aboard Wizards Of Waverly Place and Stitchers. Mattfeld was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Thaddea Graham showed up packing heat -- well, space laser heat, anyway -- for her part aboard Doctor Who in 2021. As for other adventures in the unbelievable? You can check her out in such enterprises as The Sparticle Mystery, The Irregulars, and Wreck. Graham was born on this day in 1997.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Newcomer Hana Hayes enjoyed the opportunity to explore a pandemic-fueled Apocalypse as the voice talent behind The Last Of Us video game. Hayes was born on this day in 1999.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1934 (in Germany), Gold enjoyed its very first theatrical exhibition ever for the good people of Berlin. Directed by Karl Hartl from a script by Rolf E. Vanloo, the SciFi/Drama starred Hans Albers, Friedrich Kayßler, and Brigitte Helm. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After his colleague and a mentor, Prof. Achenbach dies in a set-up accident, while trying to produce gold from the lead, Werner Holk seeks revenge. Meanwhile, a British millionaire suggests that Holk work on him on a similar project."
"After his colleague and a mentor, Prof. Achenbach dies in a set-up accident, while trying to produce gold from the lead, Werner Holk seeks revenge. Meanwhile, a British millionaire suggests that Holk work on him on a similar project."
A star is born! On this day in 1955, the good people of Detroit, Michigan were treated to the big screen cinematic premiere of Universal Pictures' Revenge Of The Creature! (Yes, this was the feature's first theatrical presentation ever.) Directed by Jack Arnold, the film starred John Agar, Lori Nelson, and John Bromfield; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Men capture the Creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
"Men capture the Creature from the Black Lagoon and make him an aquarium attraction, from which he escapes."
A star is born! On this day in 1961 (in Italy), the strongman himself took to the silver screen with the theatrical premiere of Atlas Against The Cyclops. Directed by Antonio Leonviola, the Fantasy feature starred Gordon Mitchell, Chelo Alonso, and Vira Silenti; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Strongman Maciste must battle the one-eyed Cyclops monster that is ravaging the land of Sadok, while at the same time fending off the advances of the evil Queen Capys, who wants to do a little ravaging of her own."
"Strongman Maciste must battle the one-eyed Cyclops monster that is ravaging the land of Sadok, while at the same time fending off the advances of the evil Queen Capys, who wants to do a little ravaging of her own."
On this day in 1964 (in the United Kingdom), the 1958-produced version of From The Earth To The Moon was finally seen in theatres. The feature starred Joseph Cotton and George Sanders, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In 1868, American inventor Victor Barbicane develops a powerful military explosive that he also uses as fuel for a moon-bound rocket manned by himself and a motley crew."
"In 1868, American inventor Victor Barbicane develops a powerful military explosive that he also uses as fuel for a moon-bound rocket manned by himself and a motley crew."
A star is born! On this day in 1972 (in France), Man With The Transplanted Brain emerged as the 'brainchild of director Jacques Doniol-Valcroze. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Professor Marcilly is a famed brain specialist who, following in-depth and extended research work, is now able to perform brain transplant surgery. One day, he finds himself in the presence of a young car accident victim for whom the only hope of survival would be a brain transplant. Marcilly, who has a heart condition and is terminally ill, decides to become the "donor". The operation is a success. But who is actually the patient discharged from the hospital: a young fellow with the brain of a young man or an old man in the body of a young one?"
"Professor Marcilly is a famed brain specialist who, following in-depth and extended research work, is now able to perform brain transplant surgery. One day, he finds himself in the presence of a young car accident victim for whom the only hope of survival would be a brain transplant. Marcilly, who has a heart condition and is terminally ill, decides to become the "donor". The operation is a success. But who is actually the patient discharged from the hospital: a young fellow with the brain of a young man or an old man in the body of a young one?"
A star is born! On this day in 1977 (in the United States), Dead Of Night enjoyed its first broadcast airing ever, delivering an anthology flick to audiences on the small screen. Directed by Dan Curtis, the telefilm starred Ed Begley Jr., Ann Doran, and Christina Hart. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three imaginative tales involving a vintage car that transports its driver back to 1926; the mistress of an old mansion terrified by vampires and a mother tormented by the spirit of her dead son."
"Three imaginative tales involving a vintage car that transports its driver back to 1926; the mistress of an old mansion terrified by vampires and a mother tormented by the spirit of her dead son."
On this day in 1984 (in Mexico), Hercules took his trials to the silver screen once more. Written and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the Fantasy feature starred Lou Ferrigno, Sybil Danning, and Brad Harris. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... perhaps Mr. Ferrigno should've stayed content playing none other than the TV incarnation of The Incredible Hulk as opposed to signing aboard Cozzi's adaptation of one of the seminal strongmen from literature. The 1984 Razzie Awards christened him with the winning title of 'Worst New Star' for the effort. His co-star Danning didn't fare much better, taking home their coveted 'Worst Supporting Actress' (not for this film, however) in the same ceremony. Alas, the entire project had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Actor,' and 'Worst Picture.'
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
For the record:
Well, well, well ... perhaps Mr. Ferrigno should've stayed content playing none other than the TV incarnation of The Incredible Hulk as opposed to signing aboard Cozzi's adaptation of one of the seminal strongmen from literature. The 1984 Razzie Awards christened him with the winning title of 'Worst New Star' for the effort. His co-star Danning didn't fare much better, taking home their coveted 'Worst Supporting Actress' (not for this film, however) in the same ceremony. Alas, the entire project had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Worst Screenplay,' 'Worst Actor,' and 'Worst Picture.'
On this day in 1985 (in Portugal), that legendary muscleman was back in action with the release of Hercules. Written and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the Fantasy feature starred Lou Ferrigno, Sybil Danning, and Brad Harris. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
"The story of the Greek mythological figure, updated in this 80's version."
On this day in 1985 (in the United Kingdom), intelligence was not on the cinematic menu with the release of Morons From Outer Space. Directed by Mike Hodges from a script by Griff Rhys Jones and Mel Smith (who also starred), the SciFi/Comedy also cast Joanne Pearce, Jimmy Nail, and James Sikking. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A trio of moronic aliens crash-land on Earth and become celebrities, while a fourth alien, who arrives separately, finds himself ignored."
For the record:
Morons From Outer Space did enjoy a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A trio of moronic aliens crash-land on Earth and become celebrities, while a fourth alien, who arrives separately, finds himself ignored."
For the record:
Morons From Outer Space did enjoy a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in West Germany), Arena enjoyed its original release on home video. Written by Danny Bilson and Paul De Meo and directed by Peter Manoogian, the SciFi/Thriller starred Paul Satterfield, Hamilton Camp, and Claudia Christian; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A human becomes an unlikely rising star in the biggest fighting tournament in the galaxy that's dominated by alien species."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional release of Arena (as part of a set) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"A human becomes an unlikely rising star in the biggest fighting tournament in the galaxy that's dominated by alien species."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I received a promotional release of Arena (as part of a set) in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1994, Class Of 1999 II: The Substitute enjoyed its debut in the U.S. home video market. Directed by Spiro Razatos, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sasha Mitchell, Caitlin Dulany, and Nick Cassavetes; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The substitute teacher of the future is a robot who answers spit-wads with bullets. He'll clean up the gang situation at the school, too, if a government agent doesn't catch him first for an experimental robot army."
"The substitute teacher of the future is a robot who answers spit-wads with bullets. He'll clean up the gang situation at the school, too, if a government agent doesn't catch him first for an experimental robot army."
A star is born! On this day in 1995 (in Germany), Lunar Cop (aka Lunarcop) enjoyed its very first engagement with its release on home video! Directed by Boaz Davidson from a script by Terrence Paré (his only screen credit ever), the SciFi/Thriller starred genre great Michael Paré, Billy Drago, and Walker Brandt; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A cop from the moon is sent to the Earth, now possessed by motorcycle-riding "Mad Max"-like inhabitants, to stop a serum from being released that he believes is going to destroy the Earth..."
"A cop from the moon is sent to the Earth, now possessed by motorcycle-riding "Mad Max"-like inhabitants, to stop a serum from being released that he believes is going to destroy the Earth..."
A star is born! On this day in 1997, the Fantasy/Telefilm Escape From Atlantis rose from the depths. The feature starred Jeff Speakman and Justin Burnette, and here's the plot summary as provided by Amazon.com:
"A world unlike any you've ever known! Matt Spencer, a workaholic attorney and single father, is struggling to raise his three rebellious teenagers in the wake of his wife walking out on him, Chris Spencer, Matt's eldest son, is a handsome, over-achieving, straight-laced 18-year-old who is angry with his father about the divorce, even though his mother is the one who left, Daughter Claudia is a typical 16-year-old mall rat with too much time on her hands and the good looks that usually spell trouble, Youngest son Adam is a hip 13-year-old with a big mouth and a smart-alec attitude to go along with it, In an attempt to bring his family together again, Matt charters a sailboat for a 10-day surprise cruise to the Bahamas, The kids, selfishly un-excited about the trip, try to talk their father out of it, but he is steadfast in his determination to spend some quality family time together, Upon landing in Florida, the Spencers arrive at the dock to board the Wind Dancer, a beautiful 90-foot sailboat that, according to the brochure, perfectly combines "performance sailing and luxury living." Not quite! It turns out to be a rundown, yet still seaworthy schooner, complete with mildewy sails and a hull that is in desperate need of a paint job, The ship's captain, Liam Gallagher, is a salty, bedraggled man who drinks too much and seems to be in worse shape than his vessel, Not one to be deterred, Matt, having been convinced the Wind Dancer has passed a recent safety inspection, sets off with his family on a bigger adventure than any of them had planned."
"A world unlike any you've ever known! Matt Spencer, a workaholic attorney and single father, is struggling to raise his three rebellious teenagers in the wake of his wife walking out on him, Chris Spencer, Matt's eldest son, is a handsome, over-achieving, straight-laced 18-year-old who is angry with his father about the divorce, even though his mother is the one who left, Daughter Claudia is a typical 16-year-old mall rat with too much time on her hands and the good looks that usually spell trouble, Youngest son Adam is a hip 13-year-old with a big mouth and a smart-alec attitude to go along with it, In an attempt to bring his family together again, Matt charters a sailboat for a 10-day surprise cruise to the Bahamas, The kids, selfishly un-excited about the trip, try to talk their father out of it, but he is steadfast in his determination to spend some quality family time together, Upon landing in Florida, the Spencers arrive at the dock to board the Wind Dancer, a beautiful 90-foot sailboat that, according to the brochure, perfectly combines "performance sailing and luxury living." Not quite! It turns out to be a rundown, yet still seaworthy schooner, complete with mildewy sails and a hull that is in desperate need of a paint job, The ship's captain, Liam Gallagher, is a salty, bedraggled man who drinks too much and seems to be in worse shape than his vessel, Not one to be deterred, Matt, having been convinced the Wind Dancer has passed a recent safety inspection, sets off with his family on a bigger adventure than any of them had planned."
A star is born! On this day in 2000 (in Argentina), the Epicenter was first felt ... with its release on home video! Directed by Richard Pepin from a script by Gregg McBride, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Traci Lords, Gary Daniels, and Jeff Fahey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A detective assigned to transport a dangerous mobster discovers that she has been set-up to fail."
"A detective assigned to transport a dangerous mobster discovers that she has been set-up to fail."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in the United Kingdom), the good people of London, England were treated to the silver screen premiere of Shaun Of The Dead. Written (in part) and directed by Edgar Wright, the Horror/Comedy starred Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, and Kate Ashfield. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The uneventful, aimless lives of a London electronics salesman and his layabout roommate are disrupted by the zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shaun Of The Dead was both a critical and commercial success. At the 2005 BAFTA Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations. It won the title of 'Best Horror Film' from the 2005 Saturn Awards. It also took home the trophy from the 2005 Bram Stoker Awards in the category of 'Screenplay.' Also in the same year, it took home an incredible four Fangoria Chainsaw Awards.
"The uneventful, aimless lives of a London electronics salesman and his layabout roommate are disrupted by the zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shaun Of The Dead was both a critical and commercial success. At the 2005 BAFTA Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations. It won the title of 'Best Horror Film' from the 2005 Saturn Awards. It also took home the trophy from the 2005 Bram Stoker Awards in the category of 'Screenplay.' Also in the same year, it took home an incredible four Fangoria Chainsaw Awards.
On this day in 2008 (in France), the 1975-produced Mandarin-language Infra-Man played as a special engagement of the Nuit Excentrique Film Festival. Directed by Shan Hua from a script by Kuang Ni, the SciFi/Thriller starred Danny Lee, Terry Liu, and Hsieh Wang. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Princess Dragon Mom and her mutant army have arisen, and only Inframan can stop them!"
"Princess Dragon Mom and her mutant army have arisen, and only Inframan can stop them!"
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in France), 13 Eerie enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation ever for audiences in attendance of the Mauvais Genre Film Festival. Directed by Lowell Dean, the Horror/Fantasy starred Katharine Isabelle, Michael Shanks, and Brendan Fehr; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Six forensic undergrads embark on a scientific expedition to a remote island that was once used as illegal biological testing grounds for life-term prisoners."
"Six forensic undergrads embark on a scientific expedition to a remote island that was once used as illegal biological testing grounds for life-term prisoners."
A star is born! On this day in 2013 (in Japan), Singularity Principle enjoyed its debut on home video. Written and directed by the team of David Robert Deranian and Austin Robert Hines (with some assistance on the script from star Denis), the feature starred William B. Davis, Michael Patrick Denis, and John Diehl. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Singularity Principle is a feature length science-fiction film about the consequences of renegade experiments into Parallel Universes with attention to scientific detail that delivers a story to both illuminate and entertain."
"Singularity Principle is a feature length science-fiction film about the consequences of renegade experiments into Parallel Universes with attention to scientific detail that delivers a story to both illuminate and entertain."
Sorry, folks, but I honestly can't tell you much about The Host. All I really know is that it was penned by the genius who wrote the Twilight books, so I avoided this one. I'll probably catch it sometime on video ... when a gun is held to my head. I know there's aliens in there somewhere, though, so that makes it privy to this column. It first premiered theatrically on this day in 2013. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an unseen enemy threatens mankind by taking over their bodies and erasing their memories, Melanie Stryder risks everything to protect the people she cares about."
"When an unseen enemy threatens mankind by taking over their bodies and erasing their memories, Melanie Stryder risks everything to protect the people she cares about."
A star is born! On this day in 2015, Magnetic managed to attract itself to audiences in attendance of the Boston Underground Film Festival. The feature starred Allix Mortis and Chris Bernardi, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On December 31st, the Earth will be destroyed. Everything you know will become nothing. Maybe it already has."
"On December 31st, the Earth will be destroyed. Everything you know will become nothing. Maybe it already has."
On this day in 1957 (in the U.S.), Adventures Of Superman aired "Tomb Of Zaharan." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lois Lane is kidnapped by a third world country after a strange necklace she is wearing indicates she is the reincarnation of that country's legendary queen who'd died 5000 years ago."
"Lois Lane is kidnapped by a third world country after a strange necklace she is wearing indicates she is the reincarnation of that country's legendary queen who'd died 5000 years ago."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Lost In Space aired "The Phantom Family." Officially, this served as the twenty-seventh episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While John and Maureen are away observing volcanic activity, the alien scientist Lemnoc captures Don, Judy, Penny, and Dr. Smith and replaces them with android duplicates. Lemnoc then forces Will and the Robot to train the duplicates in survival skills, hoping that they will be an inspiration to his own people, who are losing the will to live."
"While John and Maureen are away observing volcanic activity, the alien scientist Lemnoc captures Don, Judy, Penny, and Dr. Smith and replaces them with android duplicates. Lemnoc then forces Will and the Robot to train the duplicates in survival skills, hoping that they will be an inspiration to his own people, who are losing the will to live."
In my experience, "Assignment: Earth" is one of those Star Trek episodes audience members either love or they hate. They hate it because the central characters aren't truly any of the 'Magnificent Seven' of the Enterprise, or they hate it because they know that the episode was essentially meant to serve as the introduction for a possible TREK-themed spin-off. Why do they love it? Because it's a perfect example of 60's kitsch that occupied so much of TV of that era. It first aired on this day back in 1968, and, hate it or love it, it's still Trek.
On this day in 1984 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Twin Dilemma: Part 3." Officially, this served as the twenty-third episode in the program's twenty-first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor arrives on Jaconda, once lush and green, to find it completely devastated by giant gastropods. Old legends about the planet's half-human/half-slugs weren't just myths after all. With or without help from the Doctor and his unpredictable mood swings, Lt. Lang is up for rescuing the twins, who are finally informed of the grand purpose they've been brought to Jaconda to accomplish."
"The Doctor arrives on Jaconda, once lush and green, to find it completely devastated by giant gastropods. Old legends about the planet's half-human/half-slugs weren't just myths after all. With or without help from the Doctor and his unpredictable mood swings, Lt. Lang is up for rescuing the twins, who are finally informed of the grand purpose they've been brought to Jaconda to accomplish."
On this day in 1985, Knight Rider aired "Knight In Retreat." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Bonnie asks Michael to look into the apparent suicide of her idol, Harley Freeman. Michael disguises himself as computer scientist Dr. Knightwood and parachutes into 'the Retreat', a private rest and relaxation compound filled with beautiful women. K.I.T.T. has to stay out of sight and finds himself coping with Sheeba, the lion cub the women's keep as a pet."
"Bonnie asks Michael to look into the apparent suicide of her idol, Harley Freeman. Michael disguises himself as computer scientist Dr. Knightwood and parachutes into 'the Retreat', a private rest and relaxation compound filled with beautiful women. K.I.T.T. has to stay out of sight and finds himself coping with Sheeba, the lion cub the women's keep as a pet."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1986, Airwolf bowed out of its original broadcast existence with the airing of "Birds Of Paradise." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hawke agrees to help his nephew with a missing-person case, which quickly leads to a dangerous drug-smuggling ring."
"Hawke agrees to help his nephew with a missing-person case, which quickly leads to a dangerous drug-smuggling ring."
On this day in 1989 (in West Germany), Battlestar Galactica aired "Lost Planet Of The Gods: Part 02." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After traversing a large void in space, the Galactica and the refugee fleet discover the home planet of their species, Kobol."
"After traversing a large void in space, the Galactica and the refugee fleet discover the home planet of their species, Kobol."
On this day in 1993 (in Canada), Matrix aired "Moths To A Flame." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by Matrix: The Series website:
"Matrix is awarded a contract on Miriam Blair, Jeffrey Blair's wife of twenty years. Initiated by Jeffrey's mistress Julia Dunn who's lost two wealthy husbands through accidental deaths, Billy warns Matrix not to get too close to the Black Widow. Even though Sister Rowena, a guide in the City In-Between, is monitoring Matrix's every move, Matrix's plan to change Jeffrey's mind about killing his wife almost fails when Julia decides to finish the job herself. A tragic ending in this episode as Jeffrey takes the bullet before Matrix arrives at the scene to stop Julia."
"Matrix is awarded a contract on Miriam Blair, Jeffrey Blair's wife of twenty years. Initiated by Jeffrey's mistress Julia Dunn who's lost two wealthy husbands through accidental deaths, Billy warns Matrix not to get too close to the Black Widow. Even though Sister Rowena, a guide in the City In-Between, is monitoring Matrix's every move, Matrix's plan to change Jeffrey's mind about killing his wife almost fails when Julia decides to finish the job herself. A tragic ending in this episode as Jeffrey takes the bullet before Matrix arrives at the scene to stop Julia."
Time Trax was one of those relatively forgettable programs that tried to make a solid run for success in syndication. It last two seasons, but -- as I said -- I found it largely forgettable. On this day in 1993, the program aired "Treasure of the Ages" as the tenth episode of its first season. Here's the episode summary compliments of TV.com:
"Lambert goes to Florida in search of a treasure hunter who will stop at nothing to find a sunken ship."
"Lambert goes to Florida in search of a treasure hunter who will stop at nothing to find a sunken ship."
On this day in 1997, Crime Traveller aired "Sins of the Father." This served as the fifth episode in the show's first (and only) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Slade's father's former partner is leading the department's latest case and both Slade and his father find their pasts coming back to haunt them."
"Slade's father's former partner is leading the department's latest case and both Slade and his father find their pasts coming back to haunt them."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Lexx aired "ApocaLexx Now." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lyekka comes on board the Lexx to convince the crew not to destroy her ship. The seed is planted - if they destroy her ship, she will perish."
"Lyekka comes on board the Lexx to convince the crew not to destroy her ship. The seed is planted - if they destroy her ship, she will perish."
On this day in 2002, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Last Stand." This served as the sixteenth episode of the long-running program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"As the Goa'uld summit continues, Daniel finds himself face to face with Osiris. He fools him in the same fashion as he did with Yu, but cannot bring himself to cause the death of Sarah, Osiris's host. He remains to uncover information about the unknown master of Osiris. Lantash, having taken Lt. Elliot as a host, guides the rest of SG-1 in escaping the fallen Tok'ra base."
"As the Goa'uld summit continues, Daniel finds himself face to face with Osiris. He fools him in the same fashion as he did with Yu, but cannot bring himself to cause the death of Sarah, Osiris's host. He remains to uncover information about the unknown master of Osiris. Lantash, having taken Lt. Elliot as a host, guides the rest of SG-1 in escaping the fallen Tok'ra base."
On this day in 2003, Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "Moment." This served as the twenty-sixth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The damaged Archangel is safely berthed in Orb where it undergoes repairs. Meanwhile, the Zala Team has infiltrated Orb to search for the Archangel. The rest of Kira's friends are reunited with their families. Kira, meanwhile, avoids his parents, and then has an unpleasant encounter with Flay. The time comes for the Archangel to resume its journey to Alaska, but they are attacked as soon as they reach open water. The battle gets very personal as someone on each side falls in battle. Finally, enraged, Kira and Athrun battle heightens to the bitter end which leads to devastating results!"
"The damaged Archangel is safely berthed in Orb where it undergoes repairs. Meanwhile, the Zala Team has infiltrated Orb to search for the Archangel. The rest of Kira's friends are reunited with their families. Kira, meanwhile, avoids his parents, and then has an unpleasant encounter with Flay. The time comes for the Archangel to resume its journey to Alaska, but they are attacked as soon as they reach open water. The battle gets very personal as someone on each side falls in battle. Finally, enraged, Kira and Athrun battle heightens to the bitter end which leads to devastating results!"
On this day in 2017, The 100 aired "God Complex." This served as the eighth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clarke and Abby question how far they're willing to go when they make a disappointing discovery; Jaha finds a lead to the Second Dawn."
"Clarke and Abby question how far they're willing to go when they make a disappointing discovery; Jaha finds a lead to the Second Dawn."
On this day in 2017, The Expanse aired "Cascade." This served as the tenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Holden leads his crew through the war-torn station on Ganymede."
"Holden leads his crew through the war-torn station on Ganymede."
It all began right here: on this day in 2018, Freeform dipped deep into the waters of Fantasy with the television premiere of Siren. Officially, this first episode was titled "The Mermaid Discovery," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The coastal town of Bristol Cove, once known for being home to mermaids, is turned upside down with the arrival of a mysterious girl."
"The coastal town of Bristol Cove, once known for being home to mermaids, is turned upside down with the arrival of a mysterious girl."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Siren continued its premiere event with the airing of its second episode, "The Lure." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Ben and the North Star crew uncover a device emitting a strange sound; Ryn finds shelter in the home of the local folklore expert."
"Ben and the North Star crew uncover a device emitting a strange sound; Ryn finds shelter in the home of the local folklore expert."
