Legendary screen actor Peter Cushing had already made a career out of fighting vampires when George Lucas asked the man to appear in the first installment of his little space opera called Star Wars. And -- for those Whoovians paying close attention -- Cushing had already visited the SciFi realm: in 1966, he appeared appeared as the signature timelord from Gallifrey in an oft-overlooked theatrical adventure titled Doctor Who and the Daleks. Though he's no longer with us, Cushing was born on this day in 1913.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
For his work in the George Lucas original, Cushing earned a 1978 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.' A few years later -- in 1984 -- the Fantasporto Film Festival christened him with an International Film Fantasy Award ('Best Actor') for his contribution to the wide, wide world of cinematic Fantasy. And in 1994 Fangoria Magazine inducted him into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame at its Fangoria Chainsaw Awards ceremony.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
For his work in the George Lucas original, Cushing earned a 1978 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor.' A few years later -- in 1984 -- the Fantasporto Film Festival christened him with an International Film Fantasy Award ('Best Actor') for his contribution to the wide, wide world of cinematic Fantasy. And in 1994 Fangoria Magazine inducted him into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame at its Fangoria Chainsaw Awards ceremony.
James Arness made a splash in fandom when -- in 1951 -- he appeared as The Thing From Another Planet, a film that inspired a generation of filmmakers, especially John Carpenter who remade it as simply The Thing (1982). Also -- a few years later in 1954 -- he showed up to fight those giant ants in the SciFi/Horror classic Them! from Warner Bros. Though he's no longer with us, Arness was born on this day in 1923.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
While I've not read this specifically attributed to one source alone, it's been widely held for many years that Arness thought his work in The Thing From Another World was, largely, an embarassment to his career. From what I've read, he thought the costume was comical; and rumors suggest he never even went to the film's premiere event. Ouch.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
While I've not read this specifically attributed to one source alone, it's been widely held for many years that Arness thought his work in The Thing From Another World was, largely, an embarassment to his career. From what I've read, he thought the costume was comical; and rumors suggest he never even went to the film's premiere event. Ouch.
Roy Dotrice played 'Commissioner Simmonds' aboard the underrated Space:1999's first season. No stranger to genre projects, the veteran character actor has also booked appearances aboard Toomorrow (1970), Tales From The Crypt (1972), Saturn 3 (1980) Tales Of The Gold Monkey, Stephen King's Golden Tales (1985), Eliminators (1986), Tales From The Darkside, Faerie Tale Theatre, Beauty And The Beast, Suburban Commando (1991), Earth 2, Strange Luck, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Babylon 5, Sliders, Alien Hunter (2003), Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008), and HBO's Game Of Thrones for good measure. Though he's no longer with us, Dotrice was born on this day in 1923.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Just how lovely is Ingrid Goude? Exceptionally so! In fact, she won the title of Miss Sweden in 1956 and nearly took the title of Miss Universe shortly thereafter, coming in second place. How in the heck she ended up in a role aboard The Killer Shrews (1959) I'll never know ... but bless her heart for doing it so that I can feature her in this space. Goude was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Why, it took no less than Foxy Brown herself -- actress Pam Grier -- to help clean up the holy mess that waited on the Red Planet in 2001's Ghosts Of Mars, compliments of director John Carpenter. Though she got her start in the arena of blaxploitation pictures (with filmmaker Roger Corman), she quickly moved beyond work like The Twilight People (1972) and Scream Blacula Scream (1973). In 1983, she dipped her toes into big studio genre with a small role in Walt Disney's Something Wicked This Way Comes. She's also had roles in Class Of 1999 (1990), Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991), Escape From L.A. (1996), Mars Attacks! (1996), and the WB's long-running Smallville. Grier was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 1989, actress Dayle Haddon helped beautify the bleak future of the Jean-Claude Van Damme stinker, Cyborg, by appearing as the lovely 'Pearl Prophet.' She's since only appeared sparingly in smaller projects. Haddon was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former NFL'er Dan Pastorini had a brief flirtation with the world of entertainment, amassing only seven credits to his name. Most notably, genre fans remember his version of 'Spartacus' from the short-lived Voyagers! time travel program. Pastorini was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Married to the late Patrick Swayze, actress and director Lisa Niemi had the opportunity to appear alongside her husband in the low-budget Apocalypse drama, Steel Dawn. Niemi was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The delicious Barbara Stock dabbled in the realm of Fantasy with a role aboard Wizards Of The Lost Kingdom (1985). The actress also turned up in some programs as Knight Rider, Otherworld, and The Twilight Zone. Stock was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 1996's seminal SciFi invasion flick Independence Day, luscious (and smart, I assume) Margaret Colin played 'Constance Spano,' a Presidential advisor trapped between serving the Oval Office and her estranged lunatic husband (played by Jeff Goldblum). Colin was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kevin Gage (above right wearing orange) had to man-up while behind bars when he found himself and several other survivors trapped in the B-Movie flick, Jurassic City. Gage was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor Doug Hutchison (pictured above from Lost) has made a career out of playing some really creepy characters ... so it probably came as no surprise a few years ago when he wed some teenager, paid for her breast augmentation, and engaged in some increasingly bizarre media appearances. (Pfft. Actors. Pfft.) Hutchison was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Bobcat Goldthwait yucked up the holidays with his work aboard the Fantasy/Comedy Scrooged (1988) for Paramount Pictures. Goldthwait was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Musetta Vander has toyed on the fringes of Science Fiction and Fantasy for quite a while. She's appeared in such properties as Super Force, Viper and Oblivion before landing roles in higher profile franchises like Babylon 5, Star Trek: Voyager, and Stargate: SG-1. Always lovely -- and dig those eyes! -- Vander was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Singer/songwriter Lenny Kravitz fit in quite nicely into The Hunger Games universe as Cinna, one of Katniss's colleague with a secret of his own. Kravitz was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Terminator Salvation (2009) angered more fans than it pleased, but I enjoyed significant pieces of it even though it kinda/sorta tampered with the mythology in ways I could've done without. However, Helena Bonham Carter played Dr. Serena Kogan in it, a character very near and dear to the cyborg technology. And -- back in 2001 -- she played a downright kissable ape in Timothy Burton's Planet of the Apes reboot. Carter was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screenwriter Alex Garland has been the mastermind behind some of the smartest and most interesting cinematic excursions into the realm of Science Fiction since he appeared on the scene. He's penned scripts for 28 Days Later (2002), Sunshine (2007), Dredd (2012), and Ex Machina (2015). Garland was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While her resume clearly shows she's been in far more mainstream dramas than genre entries, the stunning Rachael Blake performed a nice 'turn' as M2 in the TV miniseries reboot of The Prisoner. Blake was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though a current review of her IMDB.com profile suggest that she's given acting a rest, Shannon Kenny still turned heads with her work aboard the SciFi/Comedy The Invisible Man during its run on television. She also enjoyed work aboard Timemaster (1995), The Invaders (miniseries), Superman: The Animated Series, Millennium Man (1999), Max Steel (animated), and Batman Beyond (animated). Kenny was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
All roads lead to Marvel: the lovely Selenis Leyva enjoyed a small role of educational authority aboard Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017). Leyva was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Nicki Aycox impressed audiences and critics alike. She had a small but crucial role in The X-Files: I Want To Believe (2008) as well as some spiffy recurring appearances on The CW's Supernatural. Other genre appearances include a visit to 3rd Rock From The Sun, Dark Angel, The Twilight Zone, and Jeepers Creepers 2 (2003). Though she's no longer with us, Aycox was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you share the big or small screen with an alien, then we're likely to find you ... even if it's a routine sitcom. Benji Gregory starred in Alf for the duration of the program's run. Though he's no longer with us, Gregory was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Elisabeth Harnois fathomed the highs and lows of Family-based Horror with a role aboard Solstice (2008) for Endgame Entertainment. She's also appeared aboard One Magic Christmas (1985), Highway To Heaven, Beauty And The Beast, The Osiris Chronicles, Charmed, Point Pleasant, Mars Needs Moms (2011), and Bad Meat (2011). Harnois was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The athletic Ashley Massaro parlayed her beauty and brawn into not only a wrestling career but also an appearance aboard The WB's long-running Smallville. Though she's no longer with us, Massaro was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Public Service Announcement:
Sadly, Ashley struggled with issues and eventually took her own life. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Public Service Announcement:
Sadly, Ashley struggled with issues and eventually took her own life. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please share the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. It's never too late to save a life.
I've always let it be known that we here at SciFiHistory.Net are huge fans of the ladies who play 'dress-up,' so here is today's Exhibit A: the dreamy Ashley Bell played the aptly named 'Lady Heavenly' in 2013's Sparks. Other excursions into the realms of the Fantastic include such projects as The Last Exorcism (2010), The Day (2011), The Last Exorcism: Part II (2013), Dark Intentions (2015), Carnage Park (2016), Psychopaths (2017), Voices (2020), and Witch Hunt (2021). Bell was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- At the 2011 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Bell enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard The Last Exorcism (2010).
- At the 2013 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, the lovely lady enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' for her work aboard The Day (2013).
In 2014, Astrid Bergès-Frisbey joined fan-favorite Cillian Murphy in the cerebral SciFi drama, I Origins. Bergès-Frisbey was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Elizabeth Tabish found herself open to a multiverse of possibilities with a big role in The Shift (2023) for Angel Studios. Tabish was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1939 (in the U.S.), The Gorilla looked to wrap its loving arms around the domestic box office. Directed by Allan Dwan, the Horror/Comedy starred the Ritz Brothers, Anita Louise, and Bela Lugosi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a wealthy man is threatened by a killer known as The Gorilla, he hires the Ritz Brothers to investigate. A real escaped gorilla shows up at the mansion just as the investigators arrive."
"When a wealthy man is threatened by a killer known as The Gorilla, he hires the Ritz Brothers to investigate. A real escaped gorilla shows up at the mansion just as the investigators arrive."
On this day in 1944 (in the U.S.), The Scarlet Claw enjoyed its full theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Roy William Neill, the Horror/Mystery starred Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, and Gerald Hamer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a gentlewoman is found dead with her throat torn out, the villagers blame a supernatural monster. But Sherlock Holmes, who gets drawn into the case from nearby Quebec, suspects a human murderer."
"When a gentlewoman is found dead with her throat torn out, the villagers blame a supernatural monster. But Sherlock Holmes, who gets drawn into the case from nearby Quebec, suspects a human murderer."
A star is born ... and Holy Toledo, Batman! On this day in 1949 (in the U.S.), Batman And Robin soared to life in their very own theatrical serial! Directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Robert Lowery, Johnny Duncan, and Jane Adams. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The caped crusaders versus The Wizard, black-hooded mastermind."
"The caped crusaders versus The Wizard, black-hooded mastermind."
A star is born! On this day in 1950, Rocketship X-M enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever for audiences in attendance of its cinematic premiere held in New York City. Directed by Kurt Neumann, the SciFi/Drama starred Lloyd Bridges, Osa Massen, and John Emery, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An astronaut crew on their way to the Moon are unexpectedly propelled by gravitational forces and end up on Mars instead."
For the record:
For those who like this sort of trivia, Rocketship X-M went on to be nominated for the Best Dramatic Presentation for the 1951 Hugo Awards, which were actually held retroactively in 2001. (The film lost the Hugo to George Pal's Destination Moon.)
ExtraExtra Alert:
I received a complimentary DVD release of Rocketship X-M in 2022. Interested in knowing what I thought about the movie? Readers can find my review right here.
"An astronaut crew on their way to the Moon are unexpectedly propelled by gravitational forces and end up on Mars instead."
For the record:
For those who like this sort of trivia, Rocketship X-M went on to be nominated for the Best Dramatic Presentation for the 1951 Hugo Awards, which were actually held retroactively in 2001. (The film lost the Hugo to George Pal's Destination Moon.)
ExtraExtra Alert:
I received a complimentary DVD release of Rocketship X-M in 2022. Interested in knowing what I thought about the movie? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1953, the original It Came From Outer Space enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever with a special cinematic premiere in Los Angeles, California! Based on a story from Ray Bradbury, the SciFi feature was directed by Jack Arnold and starred Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, and Charles Drake. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in the Philippines), Anak ng Kidlat struck like theatrical lightning! Directed by Mario Barri from a script by Virgilio Redondo, the Fantasy feature starred Cecilia Lopez, Cesar Ramirez, and Lillian Leonardo. According to our friends at SciFi-Movies.com, here's the plot summary:
"A fantasy about a girl who was conceived by lightning (her mother was struck and later became pregnant.) The girl has control over both lightning and electrici ty and hence is potentionally dangerous. Even when she falls in love with a young man she feels she must reno unce him. Instead, however she eventually renounces her supernatural power (BFI)."
"A fantasy about a girl who was conceived by lightning (her mother was struck and later became pregnant.) The girl has control over both lightning and electrici ty and hence is potentionally dangerous. Even when she falls in love with a young man she feels she must reno unce him. Instead, however she eventually renounces her supernatural power (BFI)."
A star is born! On this day in 1965 (in the U.S.), City In The Sea -- or as it's more commonly known these days War Gods Of The Deep -- was first unleashed in theatres. Based on a story from Edgar Allan Poe, the Fantasy/Horror starred Vincent Price, Tab Hunter, and Susan Hart; and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In 1903,in Cornwall,a group of locals discover an underwater city, dating back to 1803, that hides a society of smugglers and aquatic creatures."
"In 1903,in Cornwall,a group of locals discover an underwater city, dating back to 1803, that hides a society of smugglers and aquatic creatures."
A star is born! On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Night Of The Big Heat (aka Island Of The Burning Damned) turned up the heat cinematically. Directed by Terence Fisher, the SciFi feature starred Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, and Patrick Allen; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While mainland Britain shivers in deepest winter, the northern island of Fara bakes in the nineties. The boys at the Met station have no more idea what is going on than the regulars at the Swan. Only a stand-offish visting scientist suspects aliens are to blame. Meanwhile the new secretary to the local best-selling author is raising the temperature in her own way."
"While mainland Britain shivers in deepest winter, the northern island of Fara bakes in the nineties. The boys at the Met station have no more idea what is going on than the regulars at the Swan. Only a stand-offish visting scientist suspects aliens are to blame. Meanwhile the new secretary to the local best-selling author is raising the temperature in her own way."
On this day in 1970 (in the U.S.), things went from bad-to-worse (not that they were all that great to begin with) when audiences went Beneath The Planet Of The Apes only to learn that the human survivors of the nuclear holocaust that brought down planet Earth planned to go one step further: total thermonuclear annihilation! Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The sole survivor of an interplanetary rescue mission searches for the only survivor of the previous expedition. He discovers a planet ruled by apes and an underground city run by telepathic humans."
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror), an all-new home video release featuring all of the original Planet Of The Apes movies enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"The sole survivor of an interplanetary rescue mission searches for the only survivor of the previous expedition. He discovers a planet ruled by apes and an underground city run by telepathic humans."
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror), an all-new home video release featuring all of the original Planet Of The Apes movies enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), the apes were back in action with the theatrical release of Escape From The Planet Of The Apes at an exclusive premiere event in Los Angeles, California. Directed by Don Taylor, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter, and Bradford Dillman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The world is shocked by the appearance of three talking chimpanzees, who arrived mysteriously in a U.S. spacecraft. They become the toast of society, but one man believes them to be a threat to the human race."
Editor's Note:
This premiere date is based on information available on IMDB.com. Google.com states that the film first premiered on May 21st; once I obtain indefensible proof of the correct date, I'm make the necessary correction to these Daily Archives.
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror), an all-new home video release featuring all of the original Planet Of The Apes movies enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
"The world is shocked by the appearance of three talking chimpanzees, who arrived mysteriously in a U.S. spacecraft. They become the toast of society, but one man believes them to be a threat to the human race."
Editor's Note:
This premiere date is based on information available on IMDB.com. Google.com states that the film first premiered on May 21st; once I obtain indefensible proof of the correct date, I'm make the necessary correction to these Daily Archives.
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror), an all-new home video release featuring all of the original Planet Of The Apes movies enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD Collection.'
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in France), E.T. The Extraterrestrial touched down into Earth's theaters for the very first time when it played for audiences in attendance of the Cannes Film Festival. Written by Melissa Mathison and directed by Steven Spielberg, the film starred Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Peter Coyote. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A troubled child summons the courage to help a friendly alien escape Earth and return to his home world."
For the record:
Yes, yes, and yes! Though E.T. was no screen monster, the film did monster business, both critically and commercially.
"A troubled child summons the courage to help a friendly alien escape Earth and return to his home world."
For the record:
Yes, yes, and yes! Though E.T. was no screen monster, the film did monster business, both critically and commercially.
- The Spielberg feature racked up an incredible nine Academy Award nominations and was able to turn four of them ('Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing,' 'Best Sound,' and 'Best Effects - Visual Effects') into gold statues.
- The Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films was a bit more complimentary: the flick received 8 nominations and turned five of them ('Best Poster Art,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') into top honors.
- It did have to settle with only the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' nomination from the 1983 Hugo Awards, but the feature racked up an impressive number of honors from many organizations.
- In 1994, E.T. - The Extraterrestrial was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry for its preservation.
On this day in 1983 (in Colombia), Ator, The Fighting Eagle enjoyed its trip across the silver screen. Written and directed by Joe D'Amato, the Fantasy feature starred Miles O'Keeffe and Sabrina Siani, and here's the plot summar as provided by IMDB.com:
"The son of Torren learns of his heritage, goes to avenge the deaths of his fellow villagers, and rescue his sister from the evil Dakkar and his spider cult."
"The son of Torren learns of his heritage, goes to avenge the deaths of his fellow villagers, and rescue his sister from the evil Dakkar and his spider cult."
On this day in 1983 (in Spain), adventure had a new name ... and it was Treasure Of The Four Crowns! In 3D! Written by the team of Lloyd Battista, Jim Bryce, and Jerry Lazarus, the Fantasy/Adventure was directed by Ferdinando Baldi. It starred Tony Anthony, Ana Obregón, and Gene Quintano; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A group of adventurers are gathered together to retrieve some mystical gems which are in the possession of a deadly cult."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Treasure Of The Four Crowns in exchange for a product review. Interested in knowing what I thought of it? You can find the article right here.
"A group of adventurers are gathered together to retrieve some mystical gems which are in the possession of a deadly cult."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Treasure Of The Four Crowns in exchange for a product review. Interested in knowing what I thought of it? You can find the article right here.
On this day in 1988 (in West Germany), adventure got a new name with the release of The Secret Of The Incas' Empire. Directed by Gianfranco Parolini, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Gianfranco Parolini (sound familiar?) and Kelly London, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hidden somewhere deep inside a volcano in the mysterious South American mountains lies the legendary lost kingdom of the Incas. And buried in this kingdom is a fabulous treasure of inestimable value. Enter our hero, complete with buxom bimbo and assorted side-arms. After wading across crocodile-infested rivers, ducking poisoned arrows, and evading hungry head hunters our dynamic duo face their most deadly challenge to keep their fabulous treasure."
"Hidden somewhere deep inside a volcano in the mysterious South American mountains lies the legendary lost kingdom of the Incas. And buried in this kingdom is a fabulous treasure of inestimable value. Enter our hero, complete with buxom bimbo and assorted side-arms. After wading across crocodile-infested rivers, ducking poisoned arrows, and evading hungry head hunters our dynamic duo face their most deadly challenge to keep their fabulous treasure."
On this day in 1988 (in Hungary), The Terminator blazed a trail through time itself. Written (in part) and directed by James Cameron, the SciFi feature starred Michael Biehn, Linda Hamilton, and Arnold Schwarzenegger; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1984, a human soldier is tasked to stop an indestructible cyborg killing machine, both sent from 2029, from executing a young woman, whose unborn son is the key to humanity's future salvation."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
"In 1984, a human soldier is tasked to stop an indestructible cyborg killing machine, both sent from 2029, from executing a young woman, whose unborn son is the key to humanity's future salvation."
For the record:
It's impossible to deny the clout James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger earned with the release of this little gem. Yes, it gave them a franchise in the broader scheme of things, but it's an enduring property that continues to produce iterations in film, television, and print which give fans more to consume, if not think about. As for the original flick? The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films was smitten, giving the feature an incredible three Saturn Awards ('Best Make-up,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film') while having to settle for nominations only in four other categories ('Best Music,' 'Best Director,' 'Best Actress,' and 'Best Actor'). Like that unstoppable machine of the title, the franchise refuses to go down for the fight, and I suspect we'll see more of the same in the years ahead.
A star is born! On this day in 1991, the SciFi/Telefilm Plymouth first aired on television. It starred Cindy Pickett and Richard Hamilton, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The residents of a town displaced by an industrial accident agree to take over a failing mining base on the Moon as their new place to live and work. Their first big test comes in the form of a wave of radiation from a massive solar flare."
"The residents of a town displaced by an industrial accident agree to take over a failing mining base on the Moon as their new place to live and work. Their first big test comes in the form of a wave of radiation from a massive solar flare."
On this day in 1995 (in the United Kingdom), Death Machine bared its mechanical teeth! This film starred Brad Dourif and Ely Pouget, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Chaank Armaments is experimenting with the ultimate fighting machine which is part human - part machine. So far, the Hardman project has been unreliable and has killed a number of innocent people. The genius behind this project is Jack who lives in a world of models, toys and magazines. When he is fired by Cale for killing a few corporate officers, he unleashes the ultimate killing machine called the 'Warbeast' against Cale and those who would help her."
"Chaank Armaments is experimenting with the ultimate fighting machine which is part human - part machine. So far, the Hardman project has been unreliable and has killed a number of innocent people. The genius behind this project is Jack who lives in a world of models, toys and magazines. When he is fired by Cale for killing a few corporate officers, he unleashes the ultimate killing machine called the 'Warbeast' against Cale and those who would help her."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Johnny Mnemonic enjoyed its full theatrical run. Written by William Gibson and directed by Robert Longo, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Keanu Reeves, Dolph Lundgren, and Dina Meyer; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A data courier, literally carrying a data package inside his head, must deliver it before he dies from the burden or is killed by the Yakuza."
For the record:
Ach. Thankfully, this foray into the world of the Information Superhighway didn't shy Keanu Reeves away from other Tech Noir projects, or we could've seen a much different version of The Matrix. Still, it was likely a blow when the Razzies nominated Reeves for 'Worst Actor' for its 1996 ceremony.
"A data courier, literally carrying a data package inside his head, must deliver it before he dies from the burden or is killed by the Yakuza."
For the record:
Ach. Thankfully, this foray into the world of the Information Superhighway didn't shy Keanu Reeves away from other Tech Noir projects, or we could've seen a much different version of The Matrix. Still, it was likely a blow when the Razzies nominated Reeves for 'Worst Actor' for its 1996 ceremony.
A star is born! HubbaHubba Alert! On this day in 1998, justice took on a decidedly more feminine shape with the U.S. home video release of The Chosen One: Legend Of The Raven. The Fantasy/Action feature starred Carmen Electra and Shauna Sand, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a serial killer mysteriously and savagely murders a young Indian woman in rural Los Angeles county, her sister McKenna must replace her as the keeper of an amulet, the sacred crescent. Reluctantly, McKenna accepts the role of chosen one. With the amulet and after the rigors of the ritual, she takes on the spirit and powers of the raven, the good forces in the battle against evil, the wolf. McKenna's powers include a thirst for milk and great sexual energy, which she unleashes on her former boyfriend, Henry, a cop. The spirit of the wolf inhabits Rose, Henry's jilted lover. Rose wrecks havoc of her own before a final showdown with the chosen one."
"When a serial killer mysteriously and savagely murders a young Indian woman in rural Los Angeles county, her sister McKenna must replace her as the keeper of an amulet, the sacred crescent. Reluctantly, McKenna accepts the role of chosen one. With the amulet and after the rigors of the ritual, she takes on the spirit and powers of the raven, the good forces in the battle against evil, the wolf. McKenna's powers include a thirst for milk and great sexual energy, which she unleashes on her former boyfriend, Henry, a cop. The spirit of the wolf inhabits Rose, Henry's jilted lover. Rose wrecks havoc of her own before a final showdown with the chosen one."
On this day in 2007 (in France), the SciFi/Telefilm Deadly Skies (aka Force Of Impact) aired on the boob tube. Directed by Sam Irvin, the film starred Rae Dawn Chong, Antonio Sabato Jr., and Michael Moriarty. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The sky is literally falling in this thriller as one of the nation's leading astronomers, Madison Kelsey believes she is tracking a huge rogue asteroid rocketing toward earth. However, she can't get anyone in authority to take her seriously because the mysterious asteroid exists only in the mathematical calculations of her computer program and it's not yet visible. With only hours remaining until probable impact, Madison enlists the aid of discredited former Air-Force Colonel, Richard Donovan. Together they hatch a plan to resurrect a mothballed military laser in order to blast the asteroid out of the sky before it destroys the planet. The only problem with their plan, the laser is under guard in the middle of an Air Force base and the guards have orders to shoot to kill."
"The sky is literally falling in this thriller as one of the nation's leading astronomers, Madison Kelsey believes she is tracking a huge rogue asteroid rocketing toward earth. However, she can't get anyone in authority to take her seriously because the mysterious asteroid exists only in the mathematical calculations of her computer program and it's not yet visible. With only hours remaining until probable impact, Madison enlists the aid of discredited former Air-Force Colonel, Richard Donovan. Together they hatch a plan to resurrect a mothballed military laser in order to blast the asteroid out of the sky before it destroys the planet. The only problem with their plan, the laser is under guard in the middle of an Air Force base and the guards have orders to shoot to kill."
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Pandemic sought to bring a biological end to mankind. This TV miniseries event starred Tiffani Thiessen, French Stewart, and Faye Dunaway. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The bird flu virus spreads through Los Angeles as a doctor from the CDC races to find a vaccine."
"The bird flu virus spreads through Los Angeles as a doctor from the CDC races to find a vaccine."
On this day in 2007 (in France), the SciFi/Telefilm Savage Planet came down to Earth. Directed by Andrew Wild, this one starred Sean Patrick Flanery, Reagan Pasternak, and Joel Keller; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"A team of scientists explore a new planet and find much more than expected."
"A team of scientists explore a new planet and find much more than expected."
On this day in 2016, Equals enjoyed its U.S. theatrical debut. Conceived and directed by Drake Doremus, the SciFi/Drama starred Nicholas Hoult, Kristen Stewart, and Bel Powley; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In an emotionless utopia, two people fall in love when they regain their feelings from a mysterious disease, causing tensions between them and their society."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Equals enjoyed a fair amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
"In an emotionless utopia, two people fall in love when they regain their feelings from a mysterious disease, causing tensions between them and their society."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Equals enjoyed a fair amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), 96 Souls showed audiences yet one more look at science gone slightly awry. Written and directed by Stanley Jacobs, the SciFi/Drama starred Grinnell Morris, Sridhar Maruvada, and Paul Statman. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A university research scientist, about to lose funding and status, has a lab accident and discovers he can see people's true intentions -- making his situation even worse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 96 Souls enjoyed a fair amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
"A university research scientist, about to lose funding and status, has a lab accident and discovers he can see people's true intentions -- making his situation even worse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 96 Souls enjoyed a fair amount of praise while on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in Brazil), laughs turned to chills with the theatrical launch of After The Lethargy (aka Alien Invasion). Written and directed by Marc Carreté, the SciFi/Comedy starred Andrea Guasch, Joe Manjon, and Liliana Cabal. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A journalist experiences a terrifying Alien abduction, when researching an extraterrestrial encounter in an old war shelter."
For the record:
To the film's credit, After The Lethargy scored a good amount of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A journalist experiences a terrifying Alien abduction, when researching an extraterrestrial encounter in an old war shelter."
For the record:
To the film's credit, After The Lethargy scored a good amount of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1951, Space Patrol aired "Dangerous Intrigue." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Solarguard.com:
"Major Robertson is on the planet Neptune. After memorizing and destroying the plans for a powerful new rocket engine he is overpowered and rendered unconscious by his physician, Dr. Owen. The Dr owns a private sanatorium on the planet and intends to force Robbie to divulge the secret plans. When Commander Buzz Corry and Cadet Happy discover the treachery, the Cadet embarks on a scheme to rescue Robbie, without his Commanders full knowledge. Which results in the Commander using a cosmic missile to blast a radio controlled space car occupied by Happy and Robbie."
"Major Robertson is on the planet Neptune. After memorizing and destroying the plans for a powerful new rocket engine he is overpowered and rendered unconscious by his physician, Dr. Owen. The Dr owns a private sanatorium on the planet and intends to force Robbie to divulge the secret plans. When Commander Buzz Corry and Cadet Happy discover the treachery, the Cadet embarks on a scheme to rescue Robbie, without his Commanders full knowledge. Which results in the Commander using a cosmic missile to blast a radio controlled space car occupied by Happy and Robbie."
On this day in 1956, Adventures Of Superman aired "Blackmail." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Criminal Arnold Woodman and his two confederates plant 20,000 dollars in stolen money on Inspector Henderson, then threaten to accuse him of taking a bribe unless he does what they tell him. Playing for time, Henderson agrees to follow orders, which does not sit well with his reporter friend Clark Kent. Nor do things bode well for Kent's alter ego Superman, who has been targeted for extinction by Woodman through the deployment of a sure-fire doomsday weapon."
"Criminal Arnold Woodman and his two confederates plant 20,000 dollars in stolen money on Inspector Henderson, then threaten to accuse him of taking a bribe unless he does what they tell him. Playing for time, Henderson agrees to follow orders, which does not sit well with his reporter friend Clark Kent. Nor do things bode well for Kent's alter ego Superman, who has been targeted for extinction by Woodman through the deployment of a sure-fire doomsday weapon."
On this day in 1961, The Twilight Zone aired "Will The Real Martian Please Stand Up?" This served as the twenty-eighth episode to the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Following a frantic phone call about a crashed spaceship, two policeman try and determine who among the passengers of a bus at a snowed-in roadside diner is from another world."
"Following a frantic phone call about a crashed spaceship, two policeman try and determine who among the passengers of a bus at a snowed-in roadside diner is from another world."
On this day in 1963 (in the United Kingdom), Fireball XL5 aired "Invasion Earth." Officially, this served as the thirty-first episode in the program's only season on television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mysterious cloud roam into Space. Having destroyed XL18 then XL24, it comes to Earth as the Aliens invade Space City on arrival. The crew of Fireball XL5 is waiting in Space for the right moment for its move to stop the invasion."
"A mysterious cloud roam into Space. Having destroyed XL18 then XL24, it comes to Earth as the Aliens invade Space City on arrival. The crew of Fireball XL5 is waiting in Space for the right moment for its move to stop the invasion."
On this day in 1973 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Green Death: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode in the program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and the Brigadier attempt to rescue Jo and Bert from the mine but Global Chemicals prove distinctly uncooperative."
"The Doctor and the Brigadier attempt to rescue Jo and Bert from the mine but Global Chemicals prove distinctly uncooperative."
On this day back in 1990, Deanna Troi and her mother took center stage in a curiously comic hour of Star Trek: The Next Generation aptly titled "Menage a Troi." Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Deanna's mother spurns advances made by a Ferengi Daimon, he takes it upon himself to kidnap the two of them, along with Commander Riker and steal them away aboard his ship."
"When Deanna's mother spurns advances made by a Ferengi Daimon, he takes it upon himself to kidnap the two of them, along with Commander Riker and steal them away aboard his ship."
On this day in 1992, it all came down to this: "A Hundred Years A Second" served as the finale to the two seasons of life awarded Super Force on television. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Zach's memory is harmed when he uses one of F.X.'s new toys. Will his friends be able to save him this time?"
"Zach's memory is harmed when he uses one of F.X.'s new toys. Will his friends be able to save him this time?"
It signaled the beginning of the end as, on this day in 1996, Space: Above and Beyond aired the first part of its tightly-plotted two-part series finale. "And If They Lay Us Down To Rest ..." saw the 58th squadron deployed to an alien moon to prepare for a final assault on the Chigs; the only problem is, once they get there, they find out the place is inhabited by a mysterious alien whose extinction 'Operation Roundhammer' may unwittingly cause.
On this day in 1997, Babylon 5 aired "No Retreat, No Surrender." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After Clark's order causes the death of civilians, Sheridan decides it's time to attack Clark's forces directly. First mission is a colony that's being oppressed by some Earth Cruisers. Some in Earth force also distrust Clark, Sheridan might find some allies, amongst those he might be fighting."
"After Clark's order causes the death of civilians, Sheridan decides it's time to attack Clark's forces directly. First mission is a colony that's being oppressed by some Earth Cruisers. Some in Earth force also distrust Clark, Sheridan might find some allies, amongst those he might be fighting."
On this day in 1999, Seven Days aired "Lifeboat." Officially, this served as the twenty-first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An alien survivor of the Roswell crash, nick named "Adam", who was kept on life support for decades, suddenly awakens and wreaks havoc."
"An alien survivor of the Roswell crash, nick named "Adam", who was kept on life support for decades, suddenly awakens and wreaks havoc."
On this day back in 1999, Capt. Kathryn Janeway and the crew of the USS Voyager thought they had found some new Federation allies in the Star Trek: Voyager season 5 finale, "Equinox, Part 1," aired on the UPN. Here's the plot summary, compliments of IMDB.com:
"Voyager encounters the Federation Starship Equinox, a Starfleet vessel trapped in the Delta Quadrant by the same alien who brought Voyager there. Equinox is heavily damaged and running with a skeleton crew. Happy to have found each other, Voyager assists Equinox in fighting off an non-humanoid alien race attacking them. But Equinox has earned the aliens hostility. Captain Ransom and his crew have been kidnapping and killing the aliens and using their unique physiology to enhance their warp drive. When Janeway imprisons the Equinox crew they stage a revolt. The Equinox EMH commandeers The Doctor's portable emitter and poses as The Doctor aboard Voyager. The cliffhanger leaves Equinox in retreat, with The Doctor and Seven of Nine hostage, and Voyager under attack by the alien race."
"Voyager encounters the Federation Starship Equinox, a Starfleet vessel trapped in the Delta Quadrant by the same alien who brought Voyager there. Equinox is heavily damaged and running with a skeleton crew. Happy to have found each other, Voyager assists Equinox in fighting off an non-humanoid alien race attacking them. But Equinox has earned the aliens hostility. Captain Ransom and his crew have been kidnapping and killing the aliens and using their unique physiology to enhance their warp drive. When Janeway imprisons the Equinox crew they stage a revolt. The Equinox EMH commandeers The Doctor's portable emitter and poses as The Doctor aboard Voyager. The cliffhanger leaves Equinox in retreat, with The Doctor and Seven of Nine hostage, and Voyager under attack by the alien race."
On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Human Nature." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the re-launched program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1913, Martha watches in jealousy from afar as The Doctor learns what it is to be human and to fall in love with the local school nurse, Joan Redfern."
"In 1913, Martha watches in jealousy from afar as The Doctor learns what it is to be human and to fall in love with the local school nurse, Joan Redfern."
On this day in 2012, the first major arc in storytelling for Green Lantern: The Animated Series came to a big, big, big finish with the airing of the thirteenth episode, "Homecoming." According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hal and the Green Lanterns must defend Oa from the Red Lanterns."
"Hal and the Green Lanterns must defend Oa from the Red Lanterns."
On this day in 2013 (in Canada), Continuum aired "Second Opinion." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"It's her son Sam's birthday and Kiera is out of sorts.Vancouver PD has a new police chief and Insp. Dillon is replaced by Insp. Nora Harris whose main task is to find the mole in the department. Dillon warns Kiera to watch her back and she is soon being interrogated by Harris and CSIS agent Gardiner. When things get a bit testy with Gardiner, Kiera finds she's been taken off line by one of her built-in programs, a cognitive therapist, who cuts her communication with Alec in order to conduct a psych evaluation. The program tells her that it will erase her memories if she doesn't calm down. Kiera helps Betty get out of a jam. Matthew shows Alec the state of the art lab he's set up for him and Alec finally agrees to partner with him. Jason gives Alec a series of diagrams about time travel."
"It's her son Sam's birthday and Kiera is out of sorts.Vancouver PD has a new police chief and Insp. Dillon is replaced by Insp. Nora Harris whose main task is to find the mole in the department. Dillon warns Kiera to watch her back and she is soon being interrogated by Harris and CSIS agent Gardiner. When things get a bit testy with Gardiner, Kiera finds she's been taken off line by one of her built-in programs, a cognitive therapist, who cuts her communication with Alec in order to conduct a psych evaluation. The program tells her that it will erase her memories if she doesn't calm down. Kiera helps Betty get out of a jam. Matthew shows Alec the state of the art lab he's set up for him and Alec finally agrees to partner with him. Jason gives Alec a series of diagrams about time travel."
It all began right here: on this day in 2013, the web-based project better known as Star Trek Continues aired its first episode, Pilgrim of Eternity! According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"The original Apollo is back aboard the Enterprise and once again wreaks havoc. Is there any reasoning with him?"
"The original Apollo is back aboard the Enterprise and once again wreaks havoc. Is there any reasoning with him?"
On this day in 1941, The Adventures Of Superman radio serial began its "Dr. Deutch And The Radium Mine" story. This serial began then and aired through June 21st, and here's the (edited) premise from the Superman Homepage (link):
"When we last left Superman, he had recovered the stolen Grayson Submarine from the foreign agent Doctor Deutch. However, Deutch has escaped from the naval base's military prison with the aid of an agent within the facility, and Superman - in his guise of Clark Kent - is trying to discover if this same agent forged Naval Base Commander Leeds' signature on papers to send Doctor Deutch and his henchman Hans to prison before the enemy agents could be questioned."
"When we last left Superman, he had recovered the stolen Grayson Submarine from the foreign agent Doctor Deutch. However, Deutch has escaped from the naval base's military prison with the aid of an agent within the facility, and Superman - in his guise of Clark Kent - is trying to discover if this same agent forged Naval Base Commander Leeds' signature on papers to send Doctor Deutch and his henchman Hans to prison before the enemy agents could be questioned."
