There are movies ... and then there are Movies. George Lucas's Star Wars -- it premiered on this day in 1977 -- is one of the latter. So far as sci-fi was concerned, mankind had been asleep. Oh, there was the occasional flick that jarred us awake -- the original War of the Worlds, Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey -- but it really wasn't until "A New Hope" that we found ... well ... a new hope.
It hit the movie houses and so did the crowds. Week after week, Star Wars was the number one hit at the box offices. Viewers returned again and again and again, mostly because they couldn't quite believe their eyes. We literally couldn't stop watching it. We'd never seen anything quite like it on the silver screen -- not any time recently -- and we couldn't get enough.
Thank goodness it did because Lucas certainly paved the way to fast-track Star Trek from the small screen to the big screen only a few years later.
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
It hit the movie houses and so did the crowds. Week after week, Star Wars was the number one hit at the box offices. Viewers returned again and again and again, mostly because they couldn't quite believe their eyes. We literally couldn't stop watching it. We'd never seen anything quite like it on the silver screen -- not any time recently -- and we couldn't get enough.
Thank goodness it did because Lucas certainly paved the way to fast-track Star Trek from the small screen to the big screen only a few years later.
For the record:
To the delight of many, the original Star Wars did very well at the 1978 Academy Awards, taking home statues in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' and 'Best Music - Original Score.' It also deservedly cleaned up at the Saturn Awards, taking home trophies for 'Best Science Fiction Film,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Outstanding Editing,' 'Outstanding Sound,' 'Outstanding Art Direction,' and 'Outstanding Set Decoration.' Lastly, it took home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
Wilfred Carter played a key role in the ninth season opening storyline for the BBC's long-running time travel extravaganza -- Doctor Who: in the role of Sir Reginald Styles, he was responsible for setting in motion a series of events that would lead up to the Daleks being exposed as an enemy that how somehow mastered time travel and were using it to rewrite history. Though he's no longer with us, Carter was born on this day in 1908.
Though I remember Steve Cochran more for his work opposite James Cagney in White Heat (1949), I get to mention him in this space for his appearance in Rod Serling's classic The Twilight Zone. Though he's no longer with us, Cochran was born on this day in 1917.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Holy moly: somehow, Claude Akins managed to squeeze well over two hundred different screen credits into a lifetime of 67 years on Earth, and that's no small feat, indeed. Though much of his early days were committed to Westerns and the like, the actor still found screen time for such properties as The Twilight Zone, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Night Stalker (1972), Battle For The Planet Of The Apes (1973), and Eerie, Indiana. Though he's no longer with us, Akins was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Ann Robinson was there to witness the original The War Of The Worlds (1953), and -- believe it or not -- director Steven Spielberg even found a small role for her in his War Of The Worlds (2005) remake. What wonderful serendipity, no? Well, to take it a step further, her character from the 1953 original was even incorporated into a few appearances aboard the late 1980's War Of The Worlds television series. Robinson was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Susan Morrow found herself amongst a bevy of beautiful creatures for her work aboard Cat-Women Of The Moon (1953) for Z-M Productions. Though she's no longer with us, Morrow was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Any actor or actress who made a visit to the Gene Roddenberry saga of Star Trek definitely deserves a mention, and the lovely Sarah Marshall did just that. Outside of a few other SciFi guest slots, the actress gravitated more toward conventional dramas and comedies. Though she's no longer with us, Marshall was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Australian born actress Victoria Shaw played dress-up of the medieval variety for her part in Michael Crichton's Westworld (1973). Though she's no longer with us, Shaw was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As Commander Praji -- the Imperial officer from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope -- George Roubicek was clearly a stern, serious, no-nonsense kinda guy. No doubt, a stand-out officer. As an actor, he also paid a visit to the worlds of Doctor Who back in 1967. Roubicek was born on this day in 1935.
Sir Ian McKellen brings his considerable talents to bear each and every time he appears in the X-Men franchise as the villainous Magneto. McKellen was born on this day in 1939.
Let it be known that only a man as talented with puppetry magic as is Frank Oz could've brought the powerful Jedi Master himself, Yoda, to cinema life in Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back. Oz was born on this day in 1944.
I've often warned about how treacherous it can be to seamlessly blend Science Fiction with Comedy, but screenwriter Bob Gale seemingly had no difficulty with it as can be evidence by his work in crafting the greater universe of Back To The Future. Gale was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The always stunning Connie Sellecca played the 'straight man' to William Katt and Robert Culp's Abbott and Costello routines (is that possible?) in the cult favorite 80's TV series, The Greatest American Hero. Sellecca was born on this day in 1955.
In the guise of an alien physician, the lovely Susan Diol enjoyed a pair of appearances aboard UPN's Star Trek: Voyager during its run. She also visited the world of Quantum Leap and enjoyed a role aboard Alien Nation: Millennium (1996). Diol was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Until the Austin Powers franchise descended to the point wherein it became almost a mockery of itself, this Mike Myers property kept folks interested in the spy spoof saga for some time. Thankfully, it dabbled heavily in the Fantasy elements that made the Bond films so memorable, and I choose to mention it here. Myers was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ray Stevenson's first foray into the Marvel Movie Universe -- he played The Punisher in 2008's forgettable Punisher: War Zone -- but thankfully he gave it another go, appearing as Volstagg in Thor (2011). Stevenson was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and model Maria Di Angelis took comic book fandom by storm whenever she appears in the guise of comicdom's 'Vampirella.' Di Angelis was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I've never much been a fan of Anne Heche's work, I do appreciate any great visit to the world of Superman; and in 2007 she voiced crack reporter 'Lois Lane' for the DC Comics direct-to-DVD adaptation of Superman/Doomsday. Heche was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Over the past few years, the talented Octavia Spencer has been popping up in genre entertainment all over the place. She's secured roles in Dollhouse, Snowpiercer (2013), Insurgent (2015), and Allegiant (2106). Spencer was born on this day in 1970.
Aside from providing voice work to some Star Wars animated and video game properties, Michael Benyaer has scored small roles in such flicks as Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, and Marvel's Deadpool. Benyaer was born on this day in 1970.
Jamie Kennedy showed up cocked, locked, and ready to rock aboard Tremors: A Cold Day In Hell (2018) for Universal Pictures. Kennedy was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Director and producer Neil Marshall has some fabulous credentials in the world of genre entertainment. He's been involved with such properties as Game Of Thrones, Constantine, Timeless, Westworld, and Netflix's Lost In Space, all for good measure. Marshall was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
God bless the lovely ladies who can also make us laugh, of which I believe Erinn Hayes is just plain tops. Still, I'd love to see her in more genre work, though I'm thankful for a visit to Time Belt as well as a role aboard Bill & Ted Face The Music (2020). Hayes was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critical favorite Cillian Murphy headlined 2007's Sunshine, a heady Science Fiction thriller that often is labelled "the best SciFi you've never seen." I think that characterization of the film is largely accurate as the film's critics dismissed it largely because of what they felt was an ending that indulged some of the usual tropes associated with cheap horror films. Personally, I think that the haters really missed the point of the film, and I'd encourage you to check it out. Murphy was born on this day in 1976.
Though it's a bit off-topic, Vincent Piazza played a fabulous 'Lucky Luciano' for HBO's Prohibition drama Boardwalk Empire. Thankfully, he's diversified his work: in 2019, he dabbled in the realm of televised SciFi/Fantasy with a top role aboard the short-lived The Passage for 20th Century Fox Television. Piazza was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well before he was making me laugh with his work aboard TV's My Name Is Earl, Ethan Suplee was creeping me out (just a bit) in the SciFi/Cult flick The Butterfly Effect (2004) for BenderSpink. Suplee was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
2014's Edge Of Tomorrow was a fabulous SciFi/Thriller, and kudos to the Tom Cruise starring vehicle for actually casting some talented supported players in key roles, including the likable Kick Gurry. The actor has also appeared in Jupiter Ascending (2015) and the Wachowskis' SciFi/Serial property Sense8. Gurry was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
British-born Esmé Bianco certainly has been popping up more and more as of late in various genre projects. Of late, she's landed employment in the worlds of Game Of Thrones, The Scorpion King 4: Quest For Power (2015), Supergirl, and The Magicians. Bianco was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Superhero properties continue to expand on the big and small screen, giving an increasing number of talented actors and actresses franchises of their own with which to run, fight, and play. Brec Bassinger brought to life 'Courtney Whitmore, aka Stargirl' for DC's growing universe of programming on The CW. Bassinger was born on this day in 1999.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Chloe Lukasiak's star is only starting to rise, but may I be one of the first to say 'kudos' for squeezing in some SciFi work so early in the process? She joined a cast of young talent aboard F.R.E.D.I. (2018) for Collusion Films. Lukasiak was born on this day in 2001.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1945 (in the U.S.), The Body Snatcher delivered some horrific delights to audiences of New York City, New York. Directed by Robert Wise, the film starred Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, and Henry Daniell. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A ruthless doctor and his young prize student find themselves continually harassed by their murderous supplier of illegal cadavers."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Body Snatcher earned a 1946 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A ruthless doctor and his young prize student find themselves continually harassed by their murderous supplier of illegal cadavers."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Body Snatcher earned a 1946 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born ... or was it made in a lab? On this day in 1953 (in the United Kingdom), Four Sided Triangle presented viewers with a moral quandary. Written (in part) and directed by Terence Fisher, the SciFi/Drama starred Barbara Payton, James Hayter, and Stephen Murray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Bill and Robin, helped by their childhood friend, Lena, develop a "reproducer" which can exactly duplicate any object. Bill, crushed when Lena marries Robin, convinces her to allow him to duplicate her, so that he may have a copy of her for himself. The experiment, at first deemed a success, seems to have worked only too well as the duplicate, Helen, is such an exact copy that she also loves Robin, not Bill. Bill hopes to rectify the situation with another radical experiment."
"Bill and Robin, helped by their childhood friend, Lena, develop a "reproducer" which can exactly duplicate any object. Bill, crushed when Lena marries Robin, convinces her to allow him to duplicate her, so that he may have a copy of her for himself. The experiment, at first deemed a success, seems to have worked only too well as the duplicate, Helen, is such an exact copy that she also loves Robin, not Bill. Bill hopes to rectify the situation with another radical experiment."
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in Italy), the good people of Rome were treated to the silver screen premiere of The Time Machine. Directed by genre master George Pal from a script by David Duncan (adapting the H.G. Wells' novel), the film starred Rod Taylor, Yvette Mimieux, and Alan Young. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
At the 1961 Academy Awards, The Time Machine took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Special Effects.' The film also enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
At the 1961 Academy Awards, The Time Machine took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Special Effects.' The film also enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1961 (in West Germany), an edited version of The Bowery Boys Meet The Monsters enjoyed a theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Edward Bernds, the Horror/Comedy starred Leo Gorcey, Huntz Hall, and Bernard Gorcey; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Slip, Sach and the rest of the Bowery Boys enter a haunted house, where they engage in slapstick with the Gravesend Family which has one Creepy Butler, 2 Mad Scientists a crazy old woman with a Man eating Plant a Savage Gorilla, an 8 foot tall Robot and a Vampiress."
"Slip, Sach and the rest of the Bowery Boys enter a haunted house, where they engage in slapstick with the Gravesend Family which has one Creepy Butler, 2 Mad Scientists a crazy old woman with a Man eating Plant a Savage Gorilla, an 8 foot tall Robot and a Vampiress."
A star is born! On this day in 1962 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York enjoyed an exclusive premiere engagement of The Cabinet Of Caligari. Directed by Roger Kay from a script by Robert Bloch, the Horror/Thriller starred Glynis Johns, Dan O'Herlihy, and Richard Davalos. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When young Jane Lindstorm's (Glynis Johns) car breaks down, she makes her way to a somewhat frightening-looking mansion for help. Once there, however, her problems go from bad worse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Roger Kay scored a film festival win (in 1962) for his work on the picture.
"When young Jane Lindstorm's (Glynis Johns) car breaks down, she makes her way to a somewhat frightening-looking mansion for help. Once there, however, her problems go from bad worse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Roger Kay scored a film festival win (in 1962) for his work on the picture.
On this day in 1968 (in Spain), Die, Monster, Die! showed audiences just how a monster could die. Screenwriter Jerry Sohl adapted the H.P. Lovecraft story, and the feature was directed by Daniel Haller. The feature starred Boris Karloff, Nick Adams, and Freda Jackson, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A young man visits his fiancée's estate to discover that her wheelchair-bound scientist father has discovered a meteorite that emits mutating radiation rays that have turned the plants in his greenhouse to giants. When his own wife falls victim to this mysterious power, the old man takes it upon himself to destroy the glowing object with disastrous results."
"A young man visits his fiancée's estate to discover that her wheelchair-bound scientist father has discovered a meteorite that emits mutating radiation rays that have turned the plants in his greenhouse to giants. When his own wife falls victim to this mysterious power, the old man takes it upon himself to destroy the glowing object with disastrous results."
A star is born ... and this one was against the law! On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom and the U.S.), Z.P.G. - Zero Population Growth delivered its dark future to the audiences of their day. Directed by Michael Campus from a script by Max Ehrlich Frank De Felitta, the SciFi/Drama starred Oliver Reed, Geraldine Chapman, and Don Gordon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Concerned with population over-growth, the Earth government bans, under the penalty of death, all pregnancies but one couple decides to risk having a real baby rather than legally adopt a cyborg child."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Z.P.G. created a bit of a buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've had the good fortune of watching and thinking about Z.P.G. Interested in knowing my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
"Concerned with population over-growth, the Earth government bans, under the penalty of death, all pregnancies but one couple decides to risk having a real baby rather than legally adopt a cyborg child."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Z.P.G. created a bit of a buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Yes, I've had the good fortune of watching and thinking about Z.P.G. Interested in knowing my thoughts? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1977 (in New York City), the Adult-themed SciFi/Comedy Cinderella 2000 enjoyed its big screen theatrical debut. Directed by Al Adamson, the SciFi/Comedy starred Catharine Burgess, Jay B. Larson, and Vaughn Armstrong. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2047, sex is forbidden and Big Brother uses robots to keep on eye on everyone. One young girl tries to outwit the government so she can be with the man she loves."
"In the year 2047, sex is forbidden and Big Brother uses robots to keep on eye on everyone. One young girl tries to outwit the government so she can be with the man she loves."
A star is born! Truly, one of the most incredible Science Fiction experiences of all time, Ridley Scott's Alien enjoyed its very first theatrical presentation in the United States with a limited release on this day in 1979. With a screenplay from Dan O'Bannon, the feature film starred Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, and Ian Holm; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
The original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
The original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
A star is born! On this day in 1979 (in Poland), Pilot Pirx's Inquest explored the issue of space exploration by proxy in a dramatic way. Based on a short story from Stanislaw Lem, the SciFi/Drama stars Sergei Desnitsky, Boleslaw Abart, and Vladimir Ivashov. According to our friends at Amazon.com, here's the premise:
"A major corporation produces human-like robots; however, the public opinion, the media and the trade unions oppose it. A decision is made to conduct an experiment. An experienced pilot is to fly a spaceship to Saturn and launch two artificial satellites from there. The crew will be made up of androids, and the commander must evaluate the work of his unusual team. To accomplish the flight, pilot Pirx is chosen, who is known for his honesty and integrity. His ill wishers from the corporation are afraid that Pirx’s opinion might upset the profitable production, so they take measures… Pirx wins in the confrontation between a human being and androids. In a difficult situation, he was helped by a member of his crew – Tom Novak. Pirx was shocked when he learned that Novak was an android, too."
"A major corporation produces human-like robots; however, the public opinion, the media and the trade unions oppose it. A decision is made to conduct an experiment. An experienced pilot is to fly a spaceship to Saturn and launch two artificial satellites from there. The crew will be made up of androids, and the commander must evaluate the work of his unusual team. To accomplish the flight, pilot Pirx is chosen, who is known for his honesty and integrity. His ill wishers from the corporation are afraid that Pirx’s opinion might upset the profitable production, so they take measures… Pirx wins in the confrontation between a human being and androids. In a difficult situation, he was helped by a member of his crew – Tom Novak. Pirx was shocked when he learned that Novak was an android, too."
A star is born! On this day in 1979, the SciFi/Horror hybrid called The Brood premiered theatrically. Written and directed by David Cronenberg, the feature starred Oliver Reed, Samantha Eggar, and Art Hindle; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A man tries to uncover an unconventional psychologist's therapy techniques on his institutionalized wife, amidst a series of brutal murders."
For the record:
At the 1980 Genie Awards, The Brood scored an impressive five nominations -- 'Best Achievement In Sound,' Best Achievement In Art Direction/Production Design,' 'Best Music Score,' 'Best Performance By A Foreign Actress,' and 'Best Performance By An Actor In A Supporting Role' -- but no wins.
"A man tries to uncover an unconventional psychologist's therapy techniques on his institutionalized wife, amidst a series of brutal murders."
For the record:
At the 1980 Genie Awards, The Brood scored an impressive five nominations -- 'Best Achievement In Sound,' Best Achievement In Art Direction/Production Design,' 'Best Music Score,' 'Best Performance By A Foreign Actress,' and 'Best Performance By An Actor In A Supporting Role' -- but no wins.
Six years after it began (with Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope in 1977), George Lucas put Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi in theatres in 1983. Luke Skywalker finally went mano-a-mano with dad; the Emperor suffered a comeuppance; and Ewoks became the most hated thing in all of the galaxy (until JarJar Binks came along, that is). Truth be told, I and my friends were a bit disappointed with significant parts of ROTJ, but it was terrific to see a swashbuckling space saga come alive on the silver screen. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a daring mission to rescue Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt, the Rebels dispatch to Endor to destroy the second Death Star. Meanwhile, Luke struggles to help Darth Vader back from the dark side without falling into the Emperor's trap."
"After a daring mission to rescue Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt, the Rebels dispatch to Endor to destroy the second Death Star. Meanwhile, Luke struggles to help Darth Vader back from the dark side without falling into the Emperor's trap."
On this day in 1984 (in Portugal), it was the end of the world as we know it -- yet again -- with the release of Warriors Of The Wasteland. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Fred Williamson, Giancarlo Prete, and George Eastman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two mercenaries help wandering caravans fight off an evil and aimless band of white-clad bikers after the nuclear holocaust."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing a pretty poor DVD copy of Warriors Of The Wasteland, and -- to my astonishment -- I think this was the first time I'd seen all of the film in a complete sitting. Interested in knowing what I made of it? Readers can find my review right here.
"Two mercenaries help wandering caravans fight off an evil and aimless band of white-clad bikers after the nuclear holocaust."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing a pretty poor DVD copy of Warriors Of The Wasteland, and -- to my astonishment -- I think this was the first time I'd seen all of the film in a complete sitting. Interested in knowing what I made of it? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1987 (in India), SciFi took on the a hint of laughter with the release of Mr. India. Directed by Shekhar Kapur from a script by the writing team of Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan, the feature film starred Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, and Amrish Puri. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise behind the SciFi/Comedy:
"A poor but big-hearted man takes orphans into his home. After discovering his scientist father's invisibility device, he rises to the occasion and fights to save his children and all of India from the clutches of a megalomaniac."
"A poor but big-hearted man takes orphans into his home. After discovering his scientist father's invisibility device, he rises to the occasion and fights to save his children and all of India from the clutches of a megalomaniac."
A star is born! Sometimes, in order to save the future, you have to go save the past, and that's what Marty McFly does when he travels back to the old West to recover his pal, Doc Brown, and return to the present in Back To The Future Part III. The movie was released to modest acclaim on this day back in 1990 (in the U.S. and Canada), successfully completing the franchise's trilogy. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Stranded in 1955, Marty McFly learns about the death of Doc Brown in 1885 and must travel back in time to save him. With no fuel readily available for the DeLorean, the two must figure how to escape the Old West before Emmett is murdered."
For the record:
As well as winning over audiences with his crowd-pleasing big finish, Back To The Future Part III enjoyed some acclaim from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At the 1991 ceremoney, the film scored nominations only in the categories of 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' It did, however, take home the trophies in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor' and 'Best Music.'
"Stranded in 1955, Marty McFly learns about the death of Doc Brown in 1885 and must travel back in time to save him. With no fuel readily available for the DeLorean, the two must figure how to escape the Old West before Emmett is murdered."
For the record:
As well as winning over audiences with his crowd-pleasing big finish, Back To The Future Part III enjoyed some acclaim from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At the 1991 ceremoney, the film scored nominations only in the categories of 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' It did, however, take home the trophies in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor' and 'Best Music.'
On this day in 1990 (in Sweden), Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure took audiences on a wild trip through time. Directed by Stephen Herek, the feature gave Keanu Reeves one of the earliest hits, pairing him up with a goofy Alex Winter in the winning premise of two dudes just trying to get through high school and maybe even save the world. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two seemingly dumb teens set off on a quest to prepare the ultimate historical presentation with the help of a time machine."
For the record:
I've always been pleased as punch to consider Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure one of SciFi and Fantasy's smaller franchises. And, yes, it certainly is a franchise as it gave birth to not only a popular animated television series as well as a short-lived live action one but also a pair of big screen sequels: Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991) and Bill & Ted Face The Music (2020). That's no small affair in the modern era of filmmaking. Though the quality of the content has varied, I think the original maintains its charm even today. Lastly, it did enjoy a 1991 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"Two seemingly dumb teens set off on a quest to prepare the ultimate historical presentation with the help of a time machine."
For the record:
I've always been pleased as punch to consider Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure one of SciFi and Fantasy's smaller franchises. And, yes, it certainly is a franchise as it gave birth to not only a popular animated television series as well as a short-lived live action one but also a pair of big screen sequels: Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991) and Bill & Ted Face The Music (2020). That's no small affair in the modern era of filmmaking. Though the quality of the content has varied, I think the original maintains its charm even today. Lastly, it did enjoy a 1991 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Seattle International Film Festival were treated to the exclusive premiere engagement of Circuitry Man. Written (in part) and directed by Steven Lovy, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jim Metzler, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, and Lu Leonard. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future where most humans have moved underground to escape the pollution, one of the few pleasures left is a kind of narcotic in the form of chips which can be plugged directly into the brain. Lori, a female body guard steals a case of such chips and flees underground Los Angeles with Danner, a pleasure android so that they can smuggle the chips to New York. In pursuit is Plughead, a dangerous criminal so named because of the many sockets and ports which decorate his scalp so that he can test and use the chips that he is after."
"In a future where most humans have moved underground to escape the pollution, one of the few pleasures left is a kind of narcotic in the form of chips which can be plugged directly into the brain. Lori, a female body guard steals a case of such chips and flees underground Los Angeles with Danner, a pleasure android so that they can smuggle the chips to New York. In pursuit is Plughead, a dangerous criminal so named because of the many sockets and ports which decorate his scalp so that he can test and use the chips that he is after."
On this day in 1990 (in Portugal), Slipstream slipped onto silver screens everywhere. Directed by Steven Lisberger, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Bob Peck, Bill Paxton, and Kitty Aldridge. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
If you're interested in checking out SciFiHistory.Net's collection of screencaps from the flick, you can find them right here. If you're interested in reading my Flushback Review of the film, you can find it right here.
"In the near future, where Earth has been devastated by natural disasters, and giant winds rule the planet, bounty hunter Matt kidnaps a murderer out of the hands of two police officers, planning to get the bounty himself. These in turn try to hunt the two men down."
For the record:
Slipstream is one of those B-Films that folks tend to love or hate (there's very little middleground, it would seem). IMDB.com reports that not only did the film essentially bankrupt producer Gary Kurtz but also it was Mark Hamill's first return to the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy after his (then) swan song of playing 'Luke Skywalker' in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return Of The Jedi (1983) for 20th Century Fox and Lucasfilm.
More for the record:
If you're interested in checking out SciFiHistory.Net's collection of screencaps from the flick, you can find them right here. If you're interested in reading my Flushback Review of the film, you can find it right here.
On this day in 1991 (in Japan), Scanners II: The New Order started blowing up heads once more for audiences. Directed by Christian Duguay, the SciFi/Horror starred David Hewlett, Deborah Raffin, and Yvan Ponton; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scanner discovers a plot by renegade elements in the city government to take power with the help of evil scanners."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Scanners II: The New Order received a 1992 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Genre Release Video.'
"A scanner discovers a plot by renegade elements in the city government to take power with the help of evil scanners."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Scanners II: The New Order received a 1992 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Genre Release Video.'
A star is born ... and this one has claws! On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), The Borrower enjoyed its first theatrical engagement when it was screened for audiences of the Seattle International Film Festival. Directed by John McNaughton from a script by Mason Nage and Richard Fire, the SciFi/Horror starred Rae Dawn Chong, Don Gordon, and Tom Towles. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Aliens punish one of their own by sending him to earth. The alien is very violent, and when the body he occupies is damaged, he is forced to find another."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Borrower enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Aliens punish one of their own by sending him to earth. The alien is very violent, and when the body he occupies is damaged, he is forced to find another."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Borrower enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1991 (in South Korea), Timebomb exploded onto the silver screen. Written and directed by Avi Nesher, the film starred Michael Biehn, Patsy Kensit, and Tracy Scoggins; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When someone tries to murder watchmaker Eddy Kay, the incident triggers a barrage of nightmares and flashbacks into a past that isn't his own. Fearing for his sanity, Eddy contacts psychiatrist Dr. Anna Nolmar for help. Anna thinks he's hallucinating until another attack proves the dangers are all too real. The two of them go on the run, trying to discover the truth about Eddie's past and true identity before it kills them."
For the record:
In response to his work on the film, Avi Nesher enjoyed a bit of praise from both the film festival circuit as well as the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films.
"When someone tries to murder watchmaker Eddy Kay, the incident triggers a barrage of nightmares and flashbacks into a past that isn't his own. Fearing for his sanity, Eddy contacts psychiatrist Dr. Anna Nolmar for help. Anna thinks he's hallucinating until another attack proves the dangers are all too real. The two of them go on the run, trying to discover the truth about Eddie's past and true identity before it kills them."
For the record:
In response to his work on the film, Avi Nesher enjoyed a bit of praise from both the film festival circuit as well as the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films.
A star is born ... and they're keeping this one in a jar! On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Possessed By The Night was an eye-opening experience when it debutted on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Fred Olen Ray, the SciFi/Horror starred Shannon Tweed, Ted Prior, and Sandahl Bergman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Several subplots revolve around story of mutant embryo in jar that exercises control over the lives of those who come into contact with it."
"Several subplots revolve around story of mutant embryo in jar that exercises control over the lives of those who come into contact with it."
On this day in 1994 (per Google.com), Ticks sunk its teeth into interested audiences. Directed by Tony Randel, the film starred Rosalind Allen, Ami Dolenz, and Seth Green; and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"A group of troubled teenagers are led by social workers on a California wilderness retreat, not knowing that the woods they are camping in have become infested by mutated, blood-sucking ticks."
For the record:
At the 1993 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Ticks enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Limited-Release/Direct-To-Video Film.'
"A group of troubled teenagers are led by social workers on a California wilderness retreat, not knowing that the woods they are camping in have become infested by mutated, blood-sucking ticks."
For the record:
At the 1993 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Ticks enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Limited-Release/Direct-To-Video Film.'
On this day in 1995 (in Argentina), Star Trek: Generations bridged the saga between the original Trek and the Next Generation. Written by Rick Berman, Brannon Braga, and Ronald D. Moore, the first cinema adventure for the crew of the Starship Enterprise-D was directed by David Carson. It starred Patrick Stewart, William Shatner, and Malcolm McDowell; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in Turkey), The Invader invaded the television airwaves for its broadcast premiere. Written and directed by Mark Rosman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Ben Cross, Sean Young, and Daniel Baldwin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Good alien from a dying race must impregnate an Earth woman to avoid extinction of his race. Bad alien whose race helped wipe out good alien's race doesn't want to see this happen."
"Good alien from a dying race must impregnate an Earth woman to avoid extinction of his race. Bad alien whose race helped wipe out good alien's race doesn't want to see this happen."
On this day in 2001 (in Japan), 1995's Attack Of The 60 Foot Centerfold enjoyed a theatrical release. Directed by Fred Olen Ray, the SciFi/Comedy starred J.J. North, Ted Monte, and Raelyn Saalman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A magazine centerfold overdoses on a beauty-enhancement drug and grows 60 feet tall."
"A magazine centerfold overdoses on a beauty-enhancement drug and grows 60 feet tall."
A star is born! On this day in 2006 (in France), A Scanner Darkly held its premiere event at the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival. Adapted for the screen (from the Philip K. Dick novel) and directed by Richard Linklater, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, and Robert Downey Jr. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An undercover cop in a not-too-distant future becomes involved with a dangerous new drug and begins to lose his own identity as a result."
For the record:
To the film's credit, A Scanner Darkly rummaged up a good amount of praise during its theatrical life. At the 2007 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed a solid nomination in the category of 'Best Animated Film.' Perhaps garnering even a little more street cred, it received a 2007 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.'
"An undercover cop in a not-too-distant future becomes involved with a dangerous new drug and begins to lose his own identity as a result."
For the record:
To the film's credit, A Scanner Darkly rummaged up a good amount of praise during its theatrical life. At the 2007 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed a solid nomination in the category of 'Best Animated Film.' Perhaps garnering even a little more street cred, it received a 2007 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form.'
On this day in 2010 (in Italy), Fireball burned up the charts of the home video marketplace. Directed by Kristoffer Tabori, the feature starred Ian Somerhalder, Lexa Doig, and Aaron Pearl; and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"Inspector Ava Williams investigates a prison fire to its source, a prisoner seeking revenge against those who put him behind bars."
"Inspector Ava Williams investigates a prison fire to its source, a prisoner seeking revenge against those who put him behind bars."
A star is born! On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), The 7 Adventures Of Sinbad enjoyed its launch on home video. Written and directed by the team of Ben Hayflick and Adam Silver, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Patrick Muldoon, Sarah Desage, and Bo Svenson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sinbad, the original Prince of Persia, must complete seven tasks in order to save the world from catastrophe."
"Sinbad, the original Prince of Persia, must complete seven tasks in order to save the world from catastrophe."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), the good people of Columbia Heights, Minnesota were treated to the silver screen premiere of Attack Of The Moon Zombies. Written and directed by Christopher R. Mihm, the SciFi/Horror starred Michael Cook, Shannon McDonough, and Sid Korpi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Twenty years have passed since Dr. Vincent Edwards took on a certain radiation-mutated bat creature and he is ready to retire. While training his replacement on the Jackson Lunar Base, the two stumble upon a seemingly impossible discovery: alien plant life on the surface of the moon! Unfortunately, exposure to the spores of this otherworldly flora cause instant death. Too bad those killed by them don't stay dead and instead, want nothing more than to replicate!"
"Twenty years have passed since Dr. Vincent Edwards took on a certain radiation-mutated bat creature and he is ready to retire. While training his replacement on the Jackson Lunar Base, the two stumble upon a seemingly impossible discovery: alien plant life on the surface of the moon! Unfortunately, exposure to the spores of this otherworldly flora cause instant death. Too bad those killed by them don't stay dead and instead, want nothing more than to replicate!"
A star is born! On this day in 2011, Marvel's X-Men: First Class enjoyed its big screen theatrical premiere in New York City. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, the SciFi/Superhero feature starred James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, and Jennifer Lawrence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the 1960s, superpowered humans Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr work together to find others like them, but Erik's vengeful pursuit of an ambitious mutant who ruined his life causes a schism to divide them."
For the record:
Personally, I think it goes without saying that this installment served to terrifically reinvigorate the whole X-Men film franchise, though its follow-ups were a bit underwhelming (to say the least). First Class scored great praise -- nominations and wins -- across a variety of venues. It did have to settle for a nomination only -- in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' -- from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films.
"In the 1960s, superpowered humans Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr work together to find others like them, but Erik's vengeful pursuit of an ambitious mutant who ruined his life causes a schism to divide them."
For the record:
Personally, I think it goes without saying that this installment served to terrifically reinvigorate the whole X-Men film franchise, though its follow-ups were a bit underwhelming (to say the least). First Class scored great praise -- nominations and wins -- across a variety of venues. It did have to settle for a nomination only -- in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film' -- from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films.
On this day in 2012, the Chernobyl Diaries delivered a harrowing SciFi/Horror feature exploring potential nuclear devastation. Directed by Bradley Parker, the SciFi/Horror starred Jesse McCartney, Jonathan Sadowski, and Olivia Taylor Dudley; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Six tourists hire an extreme tour guide who takes them to the abandoned city Pripyat, the former home to the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. During their exploration, they soon discover they are not alone."
"Six tourists hire an extreme tour guide who takes them to the abandoned city Pripyat, the former home to the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. During their exploration, they soon discover they are not alone."
A star is born! On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), No One Lives Forever enjoyed its silver screen debut as part of the Accolade Competition. Written and directed by Joseph Villapaz, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Anna Landreth, Warren Bub, and Roman Limonta. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a top alien assassin defects and leaves the realm called The Magnate, the leaders fear destruction of their civilization and are forced to make desperate choices."
For the record:
To the film's credit, No One Lives Forever enjoyed some positive praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"When a top alien assassin defects and leaves the realm called The Magnate, the leaders fear destruction of their civilization and are forced to make desperate choices."
For the record:
To the film's credit, No One Lives Forever enjoyed some positive praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2015 (in Singapore), the 1981-produced Cannibal Ferox tried to take its hungry bite out of the home video market with an all-new release. Written and directed by Umberto Lenzi, the Horror/Fantasy starred Giovanni Lombardo Radice, Lorraine De Selle, and Danilo Mattei. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three friends set out to disprove cannibalism on a trip to the Amazonian jungle, where they meet two men trying to escape a vicious cannibal tribe."
"Three friends set out to disprove cannibalism on a trip to the Amazonian jungle, where they meet two men trying to escape a vicious cannibal tribe."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Zero City enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written and directed by A.J. Brooks, the SciFi/Horror starred Mia Allen, Emily Crist, and Kate Holdaway. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The female inhabitants of "The City" discover they are being drugged and replaced by clones. The clones hunt the last man alive who has escaped the city to find his lost love."
"The female inhabitants of "The City" discover they are being drugged and replaced by clones. The clones hunt the last man alive who has escaped the city to find his lost love."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in Russia), Chernovik (aka A Rough Draft) stirred up a bit of business at the box office. Directed by Sergey Mokritskiy, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Nikita Volkov, Severija Janusauskaite, and Vilen Babichev. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A video game designer is stripped of his identity and recruited by a mysterious force to be the gatekeeper of a multi-dimensional portal."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Chernovik enjoyed a wee bit of buzz from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A video game designer is stripped of his identity and recruited by a mysterious force to be the gatekeeper of a multi-dimensional portal."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Chernovik enjoyed a wee bit of buzz from a screening on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Future World enjoyed its unveiling for the masses-at-large via its internet/streaming release. Directed by the team of James Franco and Bruce Thierry Cheung (who also worked on the screenplay), the SciFi/Thriller starred Franco, Suki Waterhouse, and Jeff Wahlberg. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young boy searches a future world wasteland for a rumored cure for his dying mother."
"A young boy searches a future world wasteland for a rumored cure for his dying mother."
A star is born ... and this one just might be immortal! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Immortality Of The Conscious Mind enjoyed its first screening of record. Written and directed by Dylan Hoang, the SciFi/Drama starred Hunter Miller, Kaitlyn Kennedy, and Kendal Singh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Taking place in the near future where energy is scarce, a group of young and eager minds make a revolutionary breakthrough when they discover a doorway into an infinitum of alternate realities."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Immortality enjoyed some positive buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit and beyond.
"Taking place in the near future where energy is scarce, a group of young and eager minds make a revolutionary breakthrough when they discover a doorway into an infinitum of alternate realities."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Immortality enjoyed some positive buzz from screenings on the film festival circuit and beyond.
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in Australia), Occupation enjoyed an exclusive screening event for folks in attendance of the Monster Fest Travelling Sideshow. Written (in part) and directed by Luke Sparke, the SciFi/Thriller starred Dan Ewing, Temuera Morrison, and Stephany Jacobsen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A small group of town residents have to band together after a devastating ground invasion. As they struggle to survive, they realize they must stay one step ahead of their attackers, and work together for a chance to strike back."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Occupation enjoyed a bit of acclaimed in that its creator -- Luke Sparke -- scored a win for his efforts from the 2018 Australian Screen Industry Network Awards.
"A small group of town residents have to band together after a devastating ground invasion. As they struggle to survive, they realize they must stay one step ahead of their attackers, and work together for a chance to strike back."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Occupation enjoyed a bit of acclaimed in that its creator -- Luke Sparke -- scored a win for his efforts from the 2018 Australian Screen Industry Network Awards.
On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), TV's Science Fiction Theatre aired "The Unguided Missile." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A female journalist seems to suddenly have access to secret information about ballistic missile research being conducted at a nearby university. Concern grows over who the leak is and what she plans to do with the information. The truth turns out to be far stranger than anyone ever expected."
"A female journalist seems to suddenly have access to secret information about ballistic missile research being conducted at a nearby university. Concern grows over who the leak is and what she plans to do with the information. The truth turns out to be far stranger than anyone ever expected."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), Men Into Space aired "Mission To Mars." Officially, this served as the thirty-second episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the Moon the US and Soviets are in an informal race to be the first to Mars. Both sides play down the need to rush with concerns about safety. Ultimately both missions launch within minutes of each other, but a terrible accident completely changes the game and the ultimate fate of both crews."
"On the Moon the US and Soviets are in an informal race to be the first to Mars. Both sides play down the need to rush with concerns about safety. Ultimately both missions launch within minutes of each other, but a terrible accident completely changes the game and the ultimate fate of both crews."
On this day in 1962 (in the U.S.), The Twilight Zone aired "Cavendar Is Coming." Officially, this served as the thirty-sixth episode to the popular program's third season, and here's the plot summary as highlighted by IMDB.com:
"Inept guardian angel Harmon Cavender is given a chance to earn his wings by helping an unconventional big city woman, the young, awkward Agnes Grep."
"Inept guardian angel Harmon Cavender is given a chance to earn his wings by helping an unconventional big city woman, the young, awkward Agnes Grep."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), The Incredible Hulk aired "Vendetta Road." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"David 'Brennan' inadvertently joins up with a modern day 'Bonnie & Clyde' who blow up gas stations in a bid to avenge the death of the male's father."
"David 'Brennan' inadvertently joins up with a modern day 'Bonnie & Clyde' who blow up gas stations in a bid to avenge the death of the male's father."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Amazing Stories aired "Grandpa's Ghost." Officially, this served as the twenty-fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Edwin's grandpa died in his sleep last night. So why is the old man still hanging around the apartment, playing the piano and swapping stories with Edwin's grandma?"
"Edwin's grandpa died in his sleep last night. So why is the old man still hanging around the apartment, playing the piano and swapping stories with Edwin's grandma?"
On this day in 1991 (in U.S. TV syndication), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "The Mind's Eye." Officially, this served as the twenty-fourth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Geordi is brainwashed by the Romulans to assassinate a Klingon governor."
"Geordi is brainwashed by the Romulans to assassinate a Klingon governor."
On this day in 1991 (in U.S. TV syndication), Superboy aired "The Road To Hell: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-sixth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Barely escaping the jungle, Superboy is transported to another alternate reality where the demented Dr. Winger admits to trapping him. Now Superboy will have to travel back through realities in order to save himself and defeat Lex Luthor."
"Barely escaping the jungle, Superboy is transported to another alternate reality where the demented Dr. Winger admits to trapping him. Now Superboy will have to travel back through realities in order to save himself and defeat Lex Luthor."
Wow: was Zima really the drink of the future? Methinks not! On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "TKO." This served as the fourteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A disgraced boxer comes to Babylon 5 to compete in the Mutai, an alien fighting match. Meanwhile, an old friend visits Ivanova so that she can mourn the loss of her father."
"A disgraced boxer comes to Babylon 5 to compete in the Mutai, an alien fighting match. Meanwhile, an old friend visits Ivanova so that she can mourn the loss of her father."
On this day in 1996 (in U.S. TV syndication), Weird Science aired "Family Affair." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Jenny's family doesn't like Gary, he wishes that they did. Now Gary is dating the entire family though he sees nothing wrong with this."
"When Jenny's family doesn't like Gary, he wishes that they did. Now Gary is dating the entire family though he sees nothing wrong with this."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1997 (in U.S. TV syndication), Tarzan: The Epic Adventures aired "Tarzan And The Circus Hunter." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tarzan leaves the jungle to visit his cousin but while on the train his death is foretold and his cousin goes missing. Tarzan encounters sinister characters, black magic and animal smuggling which has him ready to leave civilization."
"Tarzan leaves the jungle to visit his cousin but while on the train his death is foretold and his cousin goes missing. Tarzan encounters sinister characters, black magic and animal smuggling which has him ready to leave civilization."
On this day in 2004 (in Japan), Mutant X aired "Possibilities." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Brennan and the Mutant X team join forces with a time traveling mutant to defuse a bomb threatening devastating consequences."
"Brennan and the Mutant X team join forces with a time traveling mutant to defuse a bomb threatening devastating consequences."
Identities were revealed, secrets betrayed, and no stone was left unturned in "Unconscious Selection," the penultimate episode of Orphan Black's first season. It aired on this day in 2013, and here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"After Kira's life is threatened, Sarah is on the warpath, but Dr. Leekie makes her think twice about her plans for revenge. Meanwhile, Cosima faces the truth about Delphine, forcing her to choose sides. Now, it's up to Sarah to decide the killer's fate, but the truth about where Sarah came from changes everything."
"After Kira's life is threatened, Sarah is on the warpath, but Dr. Leekie makes her think twice about her plans for revenge. Meanwhile, Cosima faces the truth about Delphine, forcing her to choose sides. Now, it's up to Sarah to decide the killer's fate, but the truth about where Sarah came from changes everything."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Avengers Assemble aired "The Final Showdown." Officially, this served as the twenty-sixth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the Tesseract now in the hands of the Cosmic Skull, the world is in catastrophic peril. Iron Man realizes teaming up with the rest of the Cabal might be their only chance for victory."
"With the Tesseract now in the hands of the Cosmic Skull, the world is in catastrophic peril. Iron Man realizes teaming up with the rest of the Cabal might be their only chance for victory."
