As happens quite a bit with some of the smaller properties which came-and-went rather quickly outside of the United States, I really can't tell readers much about Shades Of Darkness other than what's publicly available on the Information Superhighway. It premiered on this day back in 1983 (in the United Kingdom), and it appears to have been a mystery-style anthology with Fantasy and Horror elements woven through individual stories. Here's the series' premise as provided by the good people at IMDB.com:
"'Shades of Darkness' was an anthology of short mysterious dramas, each with a supernatural twist."
"'Shades of Darkness' was an anthology of short mysterious dramas, each with a supernatural twist."
Although his resume in the realm of Special Effects is a bit slim, the late Don Trumbull certainly left an imprint with work on some of the biggest Science Fiction films of an era, including the original Star Wars (1977), Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977), Battlestar Galactica (1978), and Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979). Plus, I'd be remiss if I failed to mention that the man pioneered some new technology for the film industry with won him a pair of technical Oscars, one in 1985 and one in 1999. Though he's no longer with us, Trumbull was born on this day in 1909.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Horror icon Vincent Price is, arguably, much well known for his vast library of work in -- well -- horror (naturally). With a distinctive voice and a towering presence, he certainly knew more than a thing or two about controlling a scene. Still, he occasionally appeared in SciFi and Fantasy projects, including work aboard Master Of The World (1961), The Last Man On Earth (1964), Dr. Goldfoot And The Bikini Machine (1965), Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Batman, The Bionic Woman, the short-lived Time Express, and Edward Scissorhands (1990). Though he's no longer with us, Price was born on this day in 1911.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Vincent Price leaves behind a resume well over two hundred different screen appearances, many of which fell smack dab in the middle of our beloved spheres of cinematic influence. Though he may not have achieved as much fame as others of his generation, his is a legacy still worth review.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Vincent Price leaves behind a resume well over two hundred different screen appearances, many of which fell smack dab in the middle of our beloved spheres of cinematic influence. Though he may not have achieved as much fame as others of his generation, his is a legacy still worth review.
- In 1984, the governing body of the Fantasporto Film Festival (held annually in Porto, Portugal and known for its reputation of gathering SciFi, Fantasy, and Horror films for audiences) gave Price an International Fantasy Film Award for his past and ongoing contributions to Fantasy films.
- In 1986, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films presented Price with a Life Career Award.
- In 1991, the Los Angeles Film Critics Association awarded the actor a Career Achievement Award for his contributions to film.
I know how most folks feel about the Star Wars Prequels -- truth be told, I struggled with huge parts of the films, myself -- but I enjoy a good villain as much as the next fan. Film legend Christopher Lee suited up in the guise of the dastardly 'Count Dooku' perhaps only the way a screen legend would, so at least fans can be thankful for small favors. A veteran of nearly three hundred different projects, genre fans have long loved this 'steward of scare' as he's been involved with such properties as many Dracula pictures, Space:1999, Starship Invasions (1977), Return From Witch Mountain (1978), Captain America II: Death Too Soon (1979), The Return Of Captain Invincible (1983), Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990), The Tomorrow People, and Peter Jackson's The Lord Of The Rings trilogy adaptation. Though he's no longer with us, Lee was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It should go without saying that -- in his day and for his generation of actors -- Christopher Lee was a force to be reckoned with. He leaves behind a professional resume that was nearing three hundred different screen appearances at the time of his death, and I doubt we'll see another talent like his in quite some time.
However, why stop there? Why not mention a few of his earned accolades? Why I'm more than happy to do so.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I was provided the all-new home video release from Blue Underground and MVD Visual Entertainment Group of The Blood Of Fu Manchu -- in which Lee played a role -- in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
It should go without saying that -- in his day and for his generation of actors -- Christopher Lee was a force to be reckoned with. He leaves behind a professional resume that was nearing three hundred different screen appearances at the time of his death, and I doubt we'll see another talent like his in quite some time.
However, why stop there? Why not mention a few of his earned accolades? Why I'm more than happy to do so.
- In 1979, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films presented the actor with its Lifetime Career Award for his body of work in the related genre films.
- The Bram Stoker Awards are normally reserved for writers in the fields of Horror and Dark Fantasy, but in 1995 the organization behind them gave Lee a Lifetime Achievement Award. It was entirely fitting as the actor played Count Dracula seven times across various films.
- In 1996, Fangoria Magazine inducted Christopher Lee into its Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame.
- The Jules Verne Achievement Awards are given to artists, explorers, filmmakers, and actors who have encouraged the spirit of adventure through exploration; and -- in 2006 -- Lee received the Jules Verne Lifetime Achievement Award.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I was provided the all-new home video release from Blue Underground and MVD Visual Entertainment Group of The Blood Of Fu Manchu -- in which Lee played a role -- in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Steve Franken found himself on the receiving end of some violent automatons aboard the original Westworld (1973) brought from the mind of Michael Crichton. Largely remembered for his work in more mainstream projects, he did occasionally dabble in realms of the otherworld. Genre fans might recognize him from work aboard One Step Beyond, The Time Travelers (1964), My Favorite Martian, The Wild Wild West, Batman, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, The Reincarnation of Peter Proud (1975), Holmes And Yoyo, Man From Atlantis, Terror Out Of The Sky (1978), Supertrain, and Breakfast Of Aliens (1993). Though he's no longer with us, Franken was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I've never quite understood it, I've heard author Harlan Ellison called "the angriest man in Science Fiction." Like I said, I don't 'get' it, per se. Sure, he's passionate about his work, but would you expect any less? And I have read that -- ahem -- he may have had difficulty in dealing with others. In any event, he's a bona fide genius amongst fandom, contributing to such TV classics as The Outer Limits, Star Trek, The Twilight Zone, and Babylon 5. His novels and stories continue to delight, and the anthology series he spearheaded -- Dangerous Visions and Again Dangerous Visions 2 -- are revered in the industry even today. Up until the time of his passing, he had even been promising a third volume, but none ever materialized. Ouch. Greatness missed. Ellison was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
For the record:
Plenty has already been said about the late, great Harlan Ellison, but I think I have to add a few other items of note. In all honesty, he was never one of my favorite authors -- he had some great stuff along with a lot of good work, so far as I'm aware -- but he'll always get props in this neighborhood for pushing creatives boundaries farther than most of his contemporaries.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I did a 'retro review' looking back at The Outer Limits' episode, "Demon With A Glass Hand," which Ellison penned. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
For the record:
Plenty has already been said about the late, great Harlan Ellison, but I think I have to add a few other items of note. In all honesty, he was never one of my favorite authors -- he had some great stuff along with a lot of good work, so far as I'm aware -- but he'll always get props in this neighborhood for pushing creatives boundaries farther than most of his contemporaries.
- In 1968, his episode of Star Trek -- "City On The Edge Of Forever" -- won the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation,' and the story surrounding his script, its changes by producers, and the like is the stuff of legend.
- In 1976, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded him its Golden Scroll for his career as a writer.
- In 1976, his story for the film A Boy And His Dog won the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
- In 1996, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Bram Stoker Awards for his written contributions to the worlds of Horror and Dark Fantasy.
- In 2011, the Science Fiction Writers Of America named Ellison its 23rd Grand Master and inducted him into their Science Fiction Hall Of Game.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I did a 'retro review' looking back at The Outer Limits' episode, "Demon With A Glass Hand," which Ellison penned. Interested in my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
Actress Lee Meriwether was more than the cat's meow throughout her acting career -- tip: she was only one of the lovely ladies to play the Catwoman for that campy late 60's Batman series. She was also 'Losira' in the Star Trek (TOS) episode "That Which Survives," and she was also a series regular aboard Irwin Allen's The Time Tunnel series. Meriwether was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2018, Meriwether was part of the ensemble that made a popular and award-winning short film titled Rise Of The Catwoman. In fact, her work was so good in it that she won the 'Best Supporting Actress - Webseries' award at the Maverick Movie Awards.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2018, Meriwether was part of the ensemble that made a popular and award-winning short film titled Rise Of The Catwoman. In fact, her work was so good in it that she won the 'Best Supporting Actress - Webseries' award at the Maverick Movie Awards.
1985's Enemy Mine is an often overlooked SciFi gem. For my tastes, it all goes on a bit too long and gets a bit too schmaltzy, but watching veteran character actor Louis Gossett Jr. work his magic as the alien 'Jeriba Shigan' is still worth the price of admission. I've read that the alien language was created from scratch (some of it was simply Russian words spoken in reverse), and the actor suggested the odd vocal intonations of his speech to director Wolfgang Petersen who loved the idea. Allegedly, it's accomplished by speaking while gargling saliva. More recently, he enjoyed a fabulous supporting role in HBO's Superhero miniseries Watchmen. Though he's no longer with us, Gossett Jr. was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Take a look at Gossett's awards citations on his IMDB.com, and you'll see he's definitely one of the more decorated Thespians of his generations.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Take a look at Gossett's awards citations on his IMDB.com, and you'll see he's definitely one of the more decorated Thespians of his generations.
- In 1986, he scored a nomination in the category of 'Best Actor' from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films for his work in Enemy Mine.
- In 2020, his work in HBO's Watchmen earned him a nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Limited Series Or Movie.'
Raye Birk is a fabulous character actor who has a solid track record in the realm of genre entertainment and beyond. Fans might recognize him from appearances aboard Earthlings (1984), The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai Across The 8th Dimension (1984), The Twilight Zone, Star Trek: The Next Generation, ALF, Beauty And The Beast, Martians Go Home (1989), M.A.N.T.I.S., The X-Files, Babylon 5, Star Trek: Insurrection (1998), and Black Scorpion. Birk was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Take note, Man of Steel haters: one of the things the film did wrong was to introduce the character of 'Dr. Emil Hamilton' (above, far right, as played by veteran character actor Richard Schiff) only then to see him killed off before the pictures fade to black. Big mistake as in the comic books Dr. Hamilton works at StarLabs and is frequently assisting 'Big Blue' in a host of ways. As far as other genre appearances. The actor has a pretty solid track record, including stops at such junctions as Tales From The Crypt, Wild Palms, Ghost In The Machine (1993), Tank Girl (1995), The Arrival (1996), Special Report: Journey To Mars (1996), Volcano (1997), The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997), Roswell, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, The Cape, Once Upon A Time, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, Geostorm (2017), Alien Code (2018), Castle Rock, and Counterpart. Schiff was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A lovely Chelsea Field joined the cast in the big screen adaptation of the cartoon property -- He-Man and the Masters of the Universe -- back in 1987. Field was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
B-movie maiden Linnea Quigley has dazzled men and women alike with her foray into some of a generation's best and worst cinema shlock including roles in such fare as Deathsport (1978), Creepozoids (1988), Dr. Alien (1989), Robot Ninja (1989), and Beach Babes From Beyond (1993). Quigley was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Ms. Quigley has long been regarded as one of Horror's greatest scream queens. To honor her impact in the industry, Fangoria Chainsaw Awards inducted her (in 1992) into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Ms. Quigley has long been regarded as one of Horror's greatest scream queens. To honor her impact in the industry, Fangoria Chainsaw Awards inducted her (in 1992) into the Fangoria Horror Hall Of Fame.
Without a doubt, Peri Gilpin has one of the sexiest voices in the entertainment business. Though she isn't much known for her work in genre projects, she has lent her pipes to the character of 'Volcana' for work aboard both Superman: The Animated Series and Justice League Animated. Gilpin was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The affable Eddie McClintock headlined Syfy's long-running Warehouse 13, a SciFi procedural centered upon two federal agents maintaining a veritable treasure trove of supernatural and otherworldly objects. He's also enjoyed guest spots aboard Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Supergirl. McClintock was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of biggest disappointments in television for me was ABC TV's Flashforward. Instead of really developing an interesting sci-fi narrative (especially given the fact that it was based on a notable sci-fi book), the showrunners took the premise and then quickly did everything they could to dumb it down in a plot they hoped reminded audiences of Lost. Still, Joseph Fiennes did great work as agent Mark Benford. Fiennes was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Monika Schnarre has one of those faces that tends to pop up in quality genre roles from time to time but never quite seems to land a leading spot. (Personally, I think that's a crying shame!) Fans probably recognize her best from appearances aboard Welcome to Paradox, Earth: Final Conflict, NightMan, Total Recall 2070, First Wave, Beastmaster, Mutant X, and Andromeda. Schnarre was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Paul Bettany headlined 2011's Priest, a B-movie that rather successfully mixed action and SciFi in a tale that saw Bettany's character ignoring the laws of his church while hunting down vampires who had kidnapped his niece. I saw it on home video and enjoyed it the way I do many B-movies. A few years later he dipped into a bigger role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the guise of 'Vision.' Bettany was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her professional career, Sara Wiseman dolled herself up for Fantasy fans for work aboard both Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and Xena: Warrior Princess. Wiseman was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her career, easy-on-the-eyes Cindy Sampson had a few uncredited appearances aboard the cult SciFi TV show Lexx for good measure, and she ventured into the made-for-TV B-Movie flick High Plains Invaders in 2009. And, for a time, she enjoyed a recurring role aboard The CW's long-running Supernatural. Sampson was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A young Ben Feldman found himself trapped in the worst night of his life in Cloverfield (2008), and wouldn't you know somebody showed up with a camcorder to film it all? Feldman was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Bella Heathcote brought her young beauty to 2011's SciFi-themed In Time, a Justin Timberlake actioner that centered around tomorrow's wealthy elite being able to buy immortal youth. More recently, she turned in solid work with a recurring role aboard Amazon Studios' The Man In The High Castle adaptation. Heathcote was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Model-turned-actress Alicia Sixtos found herself in the midst of an alien invasion for her work as an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. aboard The Avengers (2012) for Walt Disney and Marvel. Sixtos was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adult film temptress Ash Hollywood tried on Fantasy of a mildly different variety with a 'Killer Frost' role aboard Wonder Woman XXX: An Axel Braun Parody (2015) for Vivid Entertainment. Hollywood was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Chelsea Gilligan enjoyed a fair amount of screen time with her work aboard the short-lived Star-Crossed during its run on television. Gilligan was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lily-Rose Depp tried Fantasy on for size with a top role aboard The Summoning (aka Planetarium) (2016) with Natalie Portman at her side. Depp was born on this day in 1999.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Pretty as a picture Izabela Vidovic won hearts and minds by stepping into the role of a young 'Kara Danvers' in flashback episodes of The CW's Supergirl. Vidovic wasborn on this day in 2001.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1949 (in the U.S.), Africa Screams enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release a few weeks after a special exclusive premiere event that was held in New York City, New York. Directed by Charles Barton from a story by Earl Baldwin, Martin Ragaway, and Leonard Stern, the film starred Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, Clyde Beatty, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two booksellers search for diamonds in Africa, along the way meeting a visually-impaired gunner, a hungry lion, and a tribe of cannibals."
"Two booksellers search for diamonds in Africa, along the way meeting a visually-impaired gunner, a hungry lion, and a tribe of cannibals."
A star is born!
On this day in 1964 (in Italy), the usual bloodsucker was back in the movie business -- it would seem -- with the theatrical release of Crypt Of The Vampire. Directed by Camillo Mastrocinque from a story by Tonino Valerii, Ernesto Gastaldi, Maria del Carmen, Martinez Roman, Sheridan Le Fanu, and Jose Luis Monter, the film starred Christopher Lee, Adriana Ambesi, Ursula Davis, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Count Karnstein sends for a doctor to help his sick daughter Laura. Her nurse believes she is possessed by the spirit of a dead ancestor, Carmilla."
"Count Karnstein sends for a doctor to help his sick daughter Laura. Her nurse believes she is possessed by the spirit of a dead ancestor, Carmilla."
On this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), Black Cat enjoyed an exclusive theatrical run for the good people of New York City, New York. Written and directed by Kaneto Shindô, the Horror/Fantasy starred Kichiemon Nakamura, Nobuko Otowa, and Kei Satô. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A woman and her daughter-in-law are raped and murdered by samurais during the time of civil war. Afterwards, a series of samurai returning from the war through that area are found mysteriously dead with their throats torn out. The governor calls in a wild and fierce young hero, to quell what is evidently a ghost. He encounters the two beautiful women, in an eerie, beautiful scene. After spiritual purification, he meets the demon in a thrilling fight."
"A woman and her daughter-in-law are raped and murdered by samurais during the time of civil war. Afterwards, a series of samurai returning from the war through that area are found mysteriously dead with their throats torn out. The governor calls in a wild and fierce young hero, to quell what is evidently a ghost. He encounters the two beautiful women, in an eerie, beautiful scene. After spiritual purification, he meets the demon in a thrilling fight."
On this day in 1977 (in West Germany), Crash! took to the silver screen. Directed by Charles Band, the Horror/Thriller starred José Ferrer, Sue Lyon, and Leslie Parrish; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After a woman is nearly killed in a car accident, a doctor investigates the collision, which points toward revenge, destruction, and occult."
"After a woman is nearly killed in a car accident, a doctor investigates the collision, which points toward revenge, destruction, and occult."
A star is born!
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), The Henderson Monster brought Science Fiction ethics to the forefront in a home television movie. Directed by Waris Hussein, the feature starred Stephen Collins, Larry Gates, and Christine Lahti; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A famous scientist, while performing experiments involving DNA, accidentally creates a monster."
"A famous scientist, while performing experiments involving DNA, accidentally creates a monster."
A star is born!
On this day in 1982 (in Colombia), Murder By Phone (aka Bells) enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever. Directed by Michael Anderson from a story by Michael Butler, Dennis Shryack, John Kent Harrison, George Armondo, and James Whiton, the Horror starred Richard Chamberlain, Sara Botsford, Barry Morse, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A disgruntled phone company employee develops a device whereby those answering a phone can be murdered, and it's up to Nat Bridger to stop the killer."
"A disgruntled phone company employee develops a device whereby those answering a phone can be murdered, and it's up to Nat Bridger to stop the killer."
On this day in 1983 (in Mexico), Contamination showed audiences another type of alien incursion. Written and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the SciFi feature starred Louise Marleau and Ian McCulloch, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A former astronaut helps a government agent and a police detective track the source of mysterious alien pod spores, filled with lethal flesh-dissolving acid, to a South American coffee plantation controlled by alien pod clones."
"A former astronaut helps a government agent and a police detective track the source of mysterious alien pod spores, filled with lethal flesh-dissolving acid, to a South American coffee plantation controlled by alien pod clones."
On this day in 1983 (in Norway), Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan brought Kirk and company back to the silver screen in what many argue was their best singular voyage. Directed by Nicholas Meyer, the SciFi/Fantasy starred William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and DeForest Kelley, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
On this day in 1987 (in France), audiences were treated to a little examination of The American Way (aka Riders Of The Storm). Directed by Maurice Phillips, the SciFi/Comedy starred Dennis Hopper, Michael J. Pollard, and Eugene Lipinski; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A group of Vietnam vets disturbs television programs from a B-29 airplane. They want to sabotage Mrs Westinghouse's political campaign who is running for the Senate in support of US military involvement in South America. Mrs Westinghouse orders some nuclear missiles to be launched against the saboteurs, but they manage to avoid the impact and even succeed in exposing a big secret of hers."
"A group of Vietnam vets disturbs television programs from a B-29 airplane. They want to sabotage Mrs Westinghouse's political campaign who is running for the Senate in support of US military involvement in South America. Mrs Westinghouse orders some nuclear missiles to be launched against the saboteurs, but they manage to avoid the impact and even succeed in exposing a big secret of hers."
Sorry, folks, I haven't watched much Japanese anime, so I can't tell you much about this one: on this day in 1988 (in Japan), Dominion Tank Police served and protected as best it could. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a dystopic pollution ridden future, the tank police fight for law and order and cause massive collatorol destruction along the way."
"In a dystopic pollution ridden future, the tank police fight for law and order and cause massive collatorol destruction along the way."
A star is born!
If our collective fear regarding clowns had to begin somewhere, then doesn't it stand to reason that this little film knew it first? On this day in 1988 (in Canada and the U.S.), Killer Klowns From Outer Space delivered a fright worth laughing at ... and more! Written (in part) and directed by Stephen Chiodo, the film starred Grant Cramer, Suzanne Snyder, John Allen Nelson, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Aliens who look like clowns come from outer space and terrorize a small town."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, Killer Klowns received nominations in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Music.'
"Aliens who look like clowns come from outer space and terrorize a small town."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards, Killer Klowns received nominations in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Music.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1989 (in the Philippines), the good people of Davao were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Alien From The Deep. Directed by Antonio Margheriti from a story by Tito Carpi, the film starred Daniel Bosch, Marina Giulia Cavalli, Robert Marius, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two members of Greenpeace discover that a local factory sheds radioactive waste into an active volcano, which has created a terrifying creature that wreaks havoc in the area."
"Two members of Greenpeace discover that a local factory sheds radioactive waste into an active volcano, which has created a terrifying creature that wreaks havoc in the area."
On this day in 1993 (in Portugal), the 1944-produced Bluebeard enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Directed by Edgar G. Ulmer from a story by Arnold Lipp, Werner H. Furst, and Pierre Gendron, the films tarred John Carradine, Jean Parker, Nils Asther, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In Paris, an artist hires portrait models, and after he finishes their portraits, he strangles them."
"In Paris, an artist hires portrait models, and after he finishes their portraits, he strangles them."
On this day in 1996, the SciFi/Telefilm Doctor Who enjoyed its premiere on the BBC. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the flick:
"The newly-regenerated Doctor takes on the Master on the turn of the millennium, 31 December 1999."
"The newly-regenerated Doctor takes on the Master on the turn of the millennium, 31 December 1999."
On this day in 1998 (in Singapore), the 1985-produced Lifeforce enjoyed an all-new home video release. Directed by Tobe Hooper, the script by Dan O'Bannon and Don Jakoby was an adaptation of the Colin Wilson novel ("The Space Vampires"). The SciFi/Thriller starred Steve Railsback, Mathilda May, Colin Firth, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
"A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos."
For the record:
At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Lifeforce enjoyed a pair of nominations in the categories of 'Best Special Effects, and 'Best Horror Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of viewing the Shout Factory special edition release of the film sometime in the 2014/2015 timeframe. Interested in knowing what I thought of the film? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1999 (in Singapore), Cube presented a curious dilemma for its inhabitants as well as the viewing audience. Written (in part) and directed by Vincenzo Natali, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Nicole de Boer, Maurice Dean Wint, and David Hewlett; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Six complete strangers with widely varying personalities are involuntarily placed in an endless maze containing deadly traps."
"Six complete strangers with widely varying personalities are involuntarily placed in an endless maze containing deadly traps."
On this day in 2000 (in Japan), Mission To Mars blasted off in theaters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi/Drama:
"When the first manned mission to Mars meets with a catastrophic and mysterious disaster after reporting an unidentified structure, a rescue mission is launched to investigate the tragedy and bring back any survivors."
"When the first manned mission to Mars meets with a catastrophic and mysterious disaster after reporting an unidentified structure, a rescue mission is launched to investigate the tragedy and bring back any survivors."
Ah! The cinema! Is there anything more exciting, more visceral than a couple of would-be scientists sitting around looking at a self-storage facility? Meh. Primer is one of those films that has rabid fans, downright rabid supporters; and -- for the life of me -- I can't figure out why. Sure, it's an innovative flick (in the same way any would be if you or I or our fellow average Joes figured out how to build a time machine), but ... is that all there is? I was honestly bored stiff with the thing. It's like watching paint dry. And make that bad paint, a color you didn't even like. Go figure. To each his own.
Heavily praised around the web and beyond as well as the fact that it even won a few festival awards here and there, Primer first premiered theatrically (in Spain) on this day in 2004.
Heavily praised around the web and beyond as well as the fact that it even won a few festival awards here and there, Primer first premiered theatrically (in Spain) on this day in 2004.
On this day in 2005, the Adult-themed Fantasy SpiderBabe enjoyed its premiere on U.S. home video. The feature starred Erin Brown and Darian Caine, and here's the premise compliments of IMDB.com:
"A socially awkward young woman gets bitten by a radioactive spider and becomes a crime-fighting superhero and tries to defeat a nefarious super villain while going after any man (or woman) she wants to bed down with."
"A socially awkward young woman gets bitten by a radioactive spider and becomes a crime-fighting superhero and tries to defeat a nefarious super villain while going after any man (or woman) she wants to bed down with."
On this day in 2010 (in Belgium and the Netherlands), Ice Twisters enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Directed by Steven R. Monroe, the SciFi/Chiller starred Mark Moses, Camille Sullivan, and Kaj-Erik Eriksen; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Charlie Price, a former scientist turned science fiction author, starts living one of his novels when the Federal Science Foundation's weather experiments escape control and turn disastrous."
"Charlie Price, a former scientist turned science fiction author, starts living one of his novels when the Federal Science Foundation's weather experiments escape control and turn disastrous."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013 (in the United Kingdom), audiences found themselves Stranded on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Roger Christian, the SciFi/Horror starred Christian Slater, Amy Matysio, and Brendan Fehr; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Four astronauts working at a lunar base suffer a meteor strike that brings an infection that leads to paranoia, fear and death."
"Four astronauts working at a lunar base suffer a meteor strike that brings an infection that leads to paranoia, fear and death."
After all, Science Fiction can't be all stories of pretty girls studying in the park, but on this day in 2015 it was as Trakked enjoyed its U.S. release. The feature starred Eric Annunziato and Jade Elysan, and here's the plot from IMDB.com:
"A woman inserts a camera in the head of her cheating boyfriend and watches his every move on her computer."
"A woman inserts a camera in the head of her cheating boyfriend and watches his every move on her computer."
On this day in 2016 (in the United Kingdom), the 1977-produced Close Encounters Of The Third Kind enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
On this day in 2016 (in Australia), the 1982-produced Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
"With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon."
A star is born!
On this day in Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Resident Evil: Vendetta enjoyed its theatrical unveiling. Directed by Takanori Tsujimoto from a story by Tokuro Fujiwara, Makoto Fukami, Hanchen Lin, Joe McClean, and Shinji Mikami, the project featured the voice talents of Kevin Dorman, Erin Cahill, Cristina Valenzuela, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Chris Redfield enlists the help of Leon S. Kennedy and Rebecca Chambers to stop a death merchant from spreading a deadly virus in New York."
"Chris Redfield enlists the help of Leon S. Kennedy and Rebecca Chambers to stop a death merchant from spreading a deadly virus in New York."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in Brazil), The Witch Files enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Fantaspoa Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Kyle Rankin, the film starred Holly Taylor, Tara Robinson, Britt Flatmo, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of marginalized young women form a powerful coven."
"A group of marginalized young women form a powerful coven."
On this day in 2019 (in Ukraine), Ridley Scott's Alien played for audiences in attendance of the Molodist International Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a space merchant vessel receives an unknown transmission as a distress call, one of the crew is attacked by a mysterious life form and they soon realize that its life cycle has merely begun."
"After a space merchant vessel receives an unknown transmission as a distress call, one of the crew is attacked by a mysterious life form and they soon realize that its life cycle has merely begun."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Evil of the Daleks: Part 2." Officially, this served as the thirty-eighth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Jamie investigate Waterfield's antiques shop, where they are knocked unconscious and transported back to the 19th century."
"The Doctor and Jamie investigate Waterfield's antiques shop, where they are knocked unconscious and transported back to the 19th century."
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Time Monster: Part 2." Officially, this served as the twenty-second episode of the program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor realises the Master is trying to harness the power of Kronos, last of the Chronovores, but is unaware Percival is harbouring him at the institute."
"The Doctor realises the Master is trying to harness the power of Kronos, last of the Chronovores, but is unaware Percival is harbouring him at the institute."
On this day in 1972 (in West Germany), Star Trek aired "Tomorrow Is Yesterday." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When the Enterprise is flung back in time while trying to escape the gravitational pull of a black star, they find themselves in orbit around a 1960's Earth. When they are seen by a U.S. Air Force pilot, they beam him aboard but then face the dilemma of what to do with him as he learns more and more about the future. They have to review their initial decision to just keep him when historical records show that his yet-to-be-born son will lead Earth's first successful mission to probe Saturn. Spock devises a plan to do so while also erasing any memory of recent events."
"When the Enterprise is flung back in time while trying to escape the gravitational pull of a black star, they find themselves in orbit around a 1960's Earth. When they are seen by a U.S. Air Force pilot, they beam him aboard but then face the dilemma of what to do with him as he learns more and more about the future. They have to review their initial decision to just keep him when historical records show that his yet-to-be-born son will lead Earth's first successful mission to probe Saturn. Spock devises a plan to do so while also erasing any memory of recent events."
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), Project U.F.O. aired "Sighting 4012: The Rock and Hard Place Incident." Officiall, this served as the twelfth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Major Gatlin and S/Sgt. Fritz investigate a UFO that was seen in the night sky by numerous people (including themselves) and at different locations, all in the same night. As their investigation progresses they begin to suspect a hoax."
"Major Gatlin and S/Sgt. Fritz investigate a UFO that was seen in the night sky by numerous people (including themselves) and at different locations, all in the same night. As their investigation progresses they begin to suspect a hoax."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 1983 (in the United Kingdom), Shades Of Darkness aired its first episode, "The Lady's Maid's Bell." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Miss Hartley is pleased to have found employment with Mrs Brymton as a lady's maid. She is somewhat concerned at having been hired sight unseen, but on her arrival at Brymton Hall she finds both her employer and the other servants in the house to be quite amenable. Mr. Brympton on the other hand is rude and nasty to his wife, but fortunately is frequently away and Mrs Brymton has formed a close friendship with a neighbor, Mr. Ranford. Miss Hartley is shaken however when she sees someone in the house who should not be there. Just who is this person and what is she trying to tell her?"
On this day in 1983 (in the United Kingdom), Shades Of Darkness aired its first episode, "The Lady's Maid's Bell." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Miss Hartley is pleased to have found employment with Mrs Brymton as a lady's maid. She is somewhat concerned at having been hired sight unseen, but on her arrival at Brymton Hall she finds both her employer and the other servants in the house to be quite amenable. Mr. Brympton on the other hand is rude and nasty to his wife, but fortunately is frequently away and Mrs Brymton has formed a close friendship with a neighbor, Mr. Ranford. Miss Hartley is shaken however when she sees someone in the house who should not be there. Just who is this person and what is she trying to tell her?"
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), Superboy aired "Luthor Unleashed." 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:
"Luthor steals a powerful weapon developed by the army and prepares to sell it to weapon dealers. Later, while Luthor is working in the Shuster laboratory, he causes an explosion, and Superboy saves him by blowing the chemical fumes out of the building."
"Luthor steals a powerful weapon developed by the army and prepares to sell it to weapon dealers. Later, while Luthor is working in the Shuster laboratory, he causes an explosion, and Superboy saves him by blowing the chemical fumes out of the building."
On this day in 1994, RoboCop: The Series aired "The Human Factor." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"RoboCop teams-up with his unsuspecting father, a retired police captain, to stop an insane bomber from unleashing a campaign of terror against OCP that could end in nuclear Armageddon."
"RoboCop teams-up with his unsuspecting father, a retired police captain, to stop an insane bomber from unleashing a campaign of terror against OCP that could end in nuclear Armageddon."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "Meditations on the Abyss." Officially, this served as the fourteenth episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Vir learns he is the new Centauri ambassador to Babylon 5."
"Vir learns he is the new Centauri ambassador to Babylon 5."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Batman Beyond aired "Where's Terry?" Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Terry goes missing, Wayne and Max go searching for him."
"When Terry goes missing, Wayne and Max go searching for him."
Original BBC premiere!!! On this day in 2006, Doctor Who aired "The Idiot's Lantern." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the rebooted program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"As the coronation of Elizabeth II nears, the streets of London live in fear. Faceless people are stolen from their homes in the night and something evil is lurking in the television."
"As the coronation of Elizabeth II nears, the streets of London live in fear. Faceless people are stolen from their homes in the night and something evil is lurking in the television."
On this day in 2017, Doctor Who aired "The Pyramid At The End Of The World." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the relaunched program's tenth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A 5,000-year-old pyramid appears overnight, baffling everyone including the Doctor."
"A 5,000-year-old pyramid appears overnight, baffling everyone including the Doctor."
Well, live long and prosper, indeed! On this day in 2009 (per Memory Alpha), IDW Publishing collected a series of classic Star Trek stories and republished them under a single cover titled Star Trek Omnibus. Here's the tome's plot summary as provided by Amazon.com:
"IDW’s Star Trek Omnibus collects fifteen consecutive issues from the early Marvel Comics run. Soar with your favorite characters like Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scotty, Sulu, Uhura, Chekov, and more as they battle for the future of The United Federation of Planets — and the entire universe!"
"IDW’s Star Trek Omnibus collects fifteen consecutive issues from the early Marvel Comics run. Soar with your favorite characters like Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scotty, Sulu, Uhura, Chekov, and more as they battle for the future of The United Federation of Planets — and the entire universe!"
On this day in 1940, The Adventures Of Superman radio serial aired "Alonzo Craig: Arctic Explorer." This particular story ran on this day through June 7th, and here's the (edited) plot summary from the Superman Homepage (link):
"Three years ago, Alonzo Craig was exploring the islands north of Elsmereland to prove that a race of giant white natives and their supposedly immortal witch doctor leader exist. Daily Planet reporter Ray Martin and and Professor Peters of the Metropolis Museum went on a search for Craig recently. Perry White has not heard from either Martin nor Peters in over a month. He's ordered Clark Kent to do what he can to find Martin, Peters and Alonzo Craig. Peters and Martin were to contact Perry via shortwave radio at Ormand. A telegraphed message from Fort Ormand says that gossip among the natives says that Professor Peters and Ray Martin are missing."
"Three years ago, Alonzo Craig was exploring the islands north of Elsmereland to prove that a race of giant white natives and their supposedly immortal witch doctor leader exist. Daily Planet reporter Ray Martin and and Professor Peters of the Metropolis Museum went on a search for Craig recently. Perry White has not heard from either Martin nor Peters in over a month. He's ordered Clark Kent to do what he can to find Martin, Peters and Alonzo Craig. Peters and Martin were to contact Perry via shortwave radio at Ormand. A telegraphed message from Fort Ormand says that gossip among the natives says that Professor Peters and Ray Martin are missing."
