Undermind first came into our collective consciousness with its television broadcast premiere in the United Kingdom on this day all the way back in 1965. Starring Jeremy Wilkin and Rosemary Nicols (as its only regulars), it lasted a scant eleven episodes (according to all records I can find) but -- as has sadly happened due to the BBC's 'management' of intellectual properties -- only three chapters survive to this day. Here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Personnel Officer Drew Heriot returns to England after working in Australia to discover his brother behaving oddly, to the distress of his sister-in-law Anne. Investigating together they discover that a disembodied alien force is using high frequency signals to brainwash people - including Drew's brother - into committing subversive acts, as a prelude to a full-scale invasion. Together, Drew and Anne battle to stop the acts of sabotage while trying to alert the authorities to the danger..."
"Personnel Officer Drew Heriot returns to England after working in Australia to discover his brother behaving oddly, to the distress of his sister-in-law Anne. Investigating together they discover that a disembodied alien force is using high frequency signals to brainwash people - including Drew's brother - into committing subversive acts, as a prelude to a full-scale invasion. Together, Drew and Anne battle to stop the acts of sabotage while trying to alert the authorities to the danger..."
As shameful as it may sound (meh, I can deal with it), I've lamented before how I just don't get all the love for Babylon 5. It's certainly very well done, and I certainly don't dislike it; rather, I just wasn't drawn to the over-arching storyline. However, I recognize talent, and Stephen Furst is indeed a talented man. He played Vir Cotto aboard that fateful space station, and -- though he's no longer with us -- he was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
We here at Trekspace have nothing but respect for our elders, especially those who've helped pave the way in Hollywood, convincing studio executives to deliver us more and more sci-fi. One of the earliest actors to do so was John Archer (shown above with insert from 1950's Destination Moon). The man led a long and distinguished career throughout television's Golden Era, appearing in such programs as The Twilight Zone, Suspense, and Science Fiction Theatre. Though he's no longer with us, Archer was born on this day in 1915.
Mostly, the career of Angela Stevens (above center) was packed into the decade of the 1950's in which she made all of her forty-plus appearances. So far as genre work goes, she guested aboard Creature With The Atom Brain (1955), a picture that mixed Nazi science with reanimating the dead. Though she's no longer with us, Stevens was born on this day in 1925.
David Hurst had an opportunity to play in the greater universe of Star Trek: he played 'Ambassador Hodin' on the third season adventure "The Mark Of Gideon." Hurst was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I can understand and appreciate that his particular style of humor may not be to everyone's liking, I've always believed the talented Don Rickles was one of the funniest men E-V-E-R. Thankfully, he showed up briefly in 1963's X: The Man With X-Ray Eyes so that I can mention him in these pages. Though he's no longer with us, Rickles was born on this day in 1926.
Bek Nelson didn't traffic heavily in the realm of Science Fiction, but she did enjoy small work aboard Science Fiction Theatre and Men Into Space. Though she's no longer with us, Nelson was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
John Bennett was a character actor whose resume definitely shows some terrific SciFi and Fantasy highlights. He enjoyed screen time aboard Doctor Who, Survivors, Blake's 7, Tales of the Unexpected, The Plague Dogs (1982), Hell Comes To Frogtown (1988), Alien Nation: Millennium (1996), The Fifth Element (1997), Jason and the Argonauts, The Infinite Worlds of H.G. Wells, and Minority Report (2002). Though he's no longer with us, Bennett was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Phyllida Law has amassed an incredible reputation with a career in the acting profession spanning over six decades. Still, what matters most to these humble corners are appearances in the realm of Science Fiction, a field she's occasionally explored including roles aboard The Sarah Jane Adventures and The Time Machine (2002). Law was born on this day in 1932.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine got a lot of things "right," but, so far as I've always been concerned, the slickest decision they ever made was having a main cast regular -- Odo -- actually serving as part of a race intent upon taking over the galaxy. It was a delightful surprise that no one saw coming, and The Founders rose quickly into the pantheon of sci-fi baddies for the TV drama. Veteran character actress Salome Jens brought a studied level of malevolence to her role as the leader of the Shapeshifters, creating a kinda/sorta love interest for Constable Odo in the process, one who offered him a future he never imagined possible. Other appearances in the realm of the fantastic? The actress enjoyed screen time aboard Terror From The Year 5000 (1958), Great Ghost Tales, The Outer Limits, Seconds (1966), House Of Evil (1974), Tomorrow's Child (1982), Superboy, and The Lottery (1996). Jens was born on this day in 1935.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Garth Pillsbury enjoyed a few visits to the greater universe of Star Trek, including small roles aboard "Mirror, Mirror" and "The Cloud Minders." Pillsbury was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Philip LeStrange enjoyed one of those rare blink-and-you'll-miss-it roles aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's episode "Whispers," but you may not have known it due to the layers and layers of prosthetic makeup he was under. LeStrange was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ahh, Deborah Harmon! We fell in love with you in the 1980's when you made us laugh with your work aboard the criminally underrated Used Cars (1984). Thanks for making some genre appearances in such properties as Space Force, Tales Of The Unexpected, Back To The Future (1985), and The Twilight Zone. Harmon was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
While 1984's comedy Used Cars isn't Science Fiction in the slightest, I'd be a fool to miss up this chance to let my readers know that it remains one of my all-time favorite comedies. If you haven't seen it, then please check it out. Fabulous comedy. Just plain fabulous.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
While 1984's comedy Used Cars isn't Science Fiction in the slightest, I'd be a fool to miss up this chance to let my readers know that it remains one of my all-time favorite comedies. If you haven't seen it, then please check it out. Fabulous comedy. Just plain fabulous.
David Keith (above left) is an actor I've always liked. (Off topic: have you seen him play 'The King' -- aka Elvis -- in the rarely celebrated Heartbreak Hotel?) He's always just maintained a solid presence whether playing a good guy or bad, and it's that kind of workmanship that builds a reliable talent. He's even done some SciFi, taking roles in the franchise property Epoch -- and its sequel Epoch: Evolution -- for good measure. Keith was born on this day in 1954.
Betsy Baker has displayed acting talent that can be of use in any genre, but fans of exceptional entertainment might recognize her from appearances aboard The Evil Dead (1981), Witches' Night (2007), 2084 (2009), Oz The Great And Powerful (2013), True Blood, The Last Ship, Lake Eerie (2016), and The Orville. Baker was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With an IMDB.com resume approaching 100 different projects, Raoul Max Trujillo still may not be a household name, but odds are folks who love genre entertainment remember his face from any number of productions. With several appearances aboard Lost Girl and a plum role aboard Riddick (2013), let's hope he ends up finding more roles for us to celebrate here. Trujillo was born on this day in 1955.
Jeff Wincott continues to gain opportunities to shine on the small screen. SciFi fans might recognize him from appearances aboard Universal Soldier II: Brothers In Arms (1998), Universal Soldier III: Unfinished Business (1998), Codename: Eternity, Earth: Final Conflict, Battle Queen 2020 (2001), or Mutant X. Wincott was born on this day in 1956.
A quick rundown of Megan Gallivan's professional summation on IMDB.com shows that she got her big screen start as one of the TV dancers aboard 1987's The Running Man for Taft Entertainment Pictures. She also enjoyed a bit of coverage in Teen Witch (1989) for Trans World Entertainment (TWE). Gallivan was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
And speaking of Babylon 5 ... Hubba! Hubba! Melissa Gilbert's 'hubba' (at the time) Bruce Boxleitner headlined the program for most of its run, and wouldn't you know it the good man found a way to bring his favorite gal aboard as Anna Sheridan. They've since divorced, but both of them continue working diligently in different projects across the entertainment industry. Gilbert was born on this day in 1964.
The lovely Eileen Bowman enjoyed a small role aboard the SciFi/Comedy Killer Tomatoes Eat France! (1992) for Four Square Productions. Bowman was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If IMDB.com has its facts straight, then it would appear that the lovely Julianne Morris got her start in the world of genre entertainment with a role aboard the Fantasy/Telefilm Witch Hunt for Home Box Office. Though her professional resume is otherwise quite slim (only 8 credits to her name), she enjoyed a recurring role aboard the Fantasy-themed The Adventures Of Sinbad that was, no doubt, a sight to behold. Morris was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Given the opportunity, Kam Heskin learned how to turn heads by way of putting her acting talent to the best use. Genre fans might recall the lovely lady from stops to such entities as Planet Of The Apes (2001), Angel, Vlad (2003), and Charmed. As of this point, it would appear that she's retired from the whole entertainment industry. Heskin was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Josie Maran kinda/sorta covered that beauty up for her work aboard the Fantasy-themed Van Helsing (2004). Maran was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Colorado native Kimberlee Peterson arguably gravitates toward more conventional fare than I cover in this space, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. Still, I'll champion any actress with a record like hers, and she's proudly been a part of Touched By An Angel, Primal Force (1999), and Charmed for good measure. Peterson was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ayesha Antoine enjoyed a small role as 'Dee Dee Blasco' aboard "Midnight," an episode of the BBC's Doctor Who. Antoine was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Canadian-born actress Elizabeth Whitmere has definitely left her mark on the realm of genre entertainment. Fans might check out what she has to offer with her various appearances aboard such properties as Supernatural, The Watch (2008), Clown (2014), Incorporated, 12 Monkeys, The Handmaid's Tale, Titans, and The Changeling. Whitmere was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, the busy life of today's superheroes! Hunky Stephen Amell played Green Arrow for the CW on his own program but has guested aboard companion shows like The Flash , Batwoman, Vixen, Supergirl, and Legends of Tomorrow. But the talented actor also managed to squeeze in some screen time aboard ReGenesis, Screamers: The Hunting (2009), The Vampire Diaries, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out Of The Shadows (2016), and Code 8 (2019). Amell was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2019 Teen Choice Awards, Amell took home top honors in the category of 'Choice TV Actor: Action' for his work in the long-running Arrow.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2019 Teen Choice Awards, Amell took home top honors in the category of 'Choice TV Actor: Action' for his work in the long-running Arrow.
Dreamy Christina Cole took a chance with the Wachowskis' Jupiter Ascending (that's her as Gemma Chatterjee with the mechanical earmuffs or something), but their latest failed to ignite much interest at the box office. The actress also had a guest starring role aboard the BBC's Doctor Who in 2007. Cole was born on this day in 1982.
Nothing (and I do mean nothing) means that one's star is on-the-rise but a picture sitting behind the wheel of the car while looking totally serious! Such is the case for young Elyes Gabel who has been seen as of late aboard Game of Thrones, World War Z (2013), and Interstellar (2014). Gabel was born on this day in 1983.
Martin Compston (above right) enjoyed a role aboard the Apocalypse-themed Doomsday back in 2008. Compston was born on this day in 1984.
The fetching Abby Trott has been using her skills to bring to life an entire cavalry of animated characters during her time in the business. Genre fans perhaps know her best as the voice of 'Windblade' in a handful of Transformers properties, but be sure to check out her profile on the web. Trott was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
French-born Nora Arnezeder (above right) stays abreast of the SciFi happenings aboard James Patterson's Zoo for CBS. Arnezeder was born on this day in 1989.
The young and talented Ana Mulvoy Ten enjoyed a great spot aboard Ascension (2016), a SciFi/Horror hybrid focusing on alien possession. Ten was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1925, the second installment of the Silent/SciFi serial The Power God played in U.S. theatres. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the serial's plot summary:
"Professor Sturgess invents a miraculous engine which can draw unlimited power from the atoms of the air. When the professor is killed, his daughter and her fiance must fight to keep the secret of the power engine out of the hands of evil Weston Dore and his henchmen."
"Professor Sturgess invents a miraculous engine which can draw unlimited power from the atoms of the air. When the professor is killed, his daughter and her fiance must fight to keep the secret of the power engine out of the hands of evil Weston Dore and his henchmen."
On this day in 1930 (in Italy), Woman In The Moon went celestial cinematically. Directed by Fritz Lang, the SciFi feature starred Willy Fritsch and Gerda Maurus, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A tenacious scientist blasts off for the moon in hopes of riches that may be found there."
"A tenacious scientist blasts off for the moon in hopes of riches that may be found there."
On this day in 1942, The Corpse Vanishes appeared in U.S. theatres. Directed by Wallace Fox from a script by Sam Robins, Gerald Schnitzer, and Harvey Gates, the SciFi/Horror feature starred Bela Lugosi, Luana Walters, and Tristram Coffin. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A scientist, aided by an old hag and her two sons, kills virginal brides, steals their bodies, and extracts gland fluid to keep his ancient wife alive and young."
For the record:
Just so you know -- and I know a good deal of you appreciate this kind of trivia -- The Corpse Vanishes was one of the features understandably lampooned by the yucksters at Mystery Science Theatre 3000.
"A scientist, aided by an old hag and her two sons, kills virginal brides, steals their bodies, and extracts gland fluid to keep his ancient wife alive and young."
For the record:
Just so you know -- and I know a good deal of you appreciate this kind of trivia -- The Corpse Vanishes was one of the features understandably lampooned by the yucksters at Mystery Science Theatre 3000.
A star is born! On this day in 1958 (in the U.S.), the good people of Milwaukee, Wisconsin were treated to the silver screen premiere of Horror Of Dracula. Directed by Terence Fisher from a script by Jimmy Sangster (adapting the Bram Stoker novel), the Horror/Fantasy starred Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, and Michael Gough. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jonathan Harker rouses the ire of Count Dracula after he accepts a job at the vampire's castle under false pretenses. Harker's friend, Dr. Van Helsing, then embarks on a hunt for the predatory villain when he targets Harker's loved ones."
For the record:
In 1959, the film was nominated for a Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Jonathan Harker rouses the ire of Count Dracula after he accepts a job at the vampire's castle under false pretenses. Harker's friend, Dr. Van Helsing, then embarks on a hunt for the predatory villain when he targets Harker's loved ones."
For the record:
In 1959, the film was nominated for a Hugo Award in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1959 (in West Germany), The Colossus of New York made its presence known. Directed by Eugene Lourie from a script by Thelma Schnee and Willils Goldbeck, the feature starred John Baragrey, Mala Powers, and Otto Kruger. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A brilliant surgeon encases his dead son's brain in a large robot body, with unintended results..."
"A brilliant surgeon encases his dead son's brain in a large robot body, with unintended results..."
A star is born! On this day in 1964 (in the United States), Hammer Studios went back to the well for the theatrical release of The Evil Of Frankenstein. Directed by Freddie Francis from a script by Anthony Hinds, the Fantasy/Horror starred Peter Cushing, Peter Woodthorpe, and Duncan Lamont. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Upon returning to his home village to continue his experimental research, the destitute Dr. Frankenstein revives his old creature, but a hypnotist wants the monster to control for himself."
"Upon returning to his home village to continue his experimental research, the destitute Dr. Frankenstein revives his old creature, but a hypnotist wants the monster to control for himself."
On this day in 1970 (in Italy), Latitude Zero enjoyed a theatrical run. The SciFi feature starred Joseph Cotton and Cesar Romero, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"A journalist is saved by a giant submarine captained by a 200 year old man who takes him to an underwater paradise city where no one ages. That's when monsters and mutants sent by the captain's rival, a 200 year old scientist, attack."
"A journalist is saved by a giant submarine captained by a 200 year old man who takes him to an underwater paradise city where no one ages. That's when monsters and mutants sent by the captain's rival, a 200 year old scientist, attack."
A star is born! On this day in 1977 (in the United Kingdom), it all went to the dogs (again) with the theatrical release of Dracula's Dog. Directed by Albert Band from a script by Frank Ray Perilli, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jose Ferrer, Michael Pataki, and Jan Shutan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Communist soldiers accidentally unleash the part-vampire servant of Dracula, as well as Zoltan, his vampire dog, during excavations in Romania. Together, they set out for America to find the last living direct descendant of the great Count. Meanwhile, said descendant, unaware of his true heritage, goes on vacation with his family and their dogs, not knowing they are in great danger. Fortunately, a vampire hunter is also on the case and is tracking down the servant and his dog, as well as the descendant, in order to destroy the former and protect the latter."
"Communist soldiers accidentally unleash the part-vampire servant of Dracula, as well as Zoltan, his vampire dog, during excavations in Romania. Together, they set out for America to find the last living direct descendant of the great Count. Meanwhile, said descendant, unaware of his true heritage, goes on vacation with his family and their dogs, not knowing they are in great danger. Fortunately, a vampire hunter is also on the case and is tracking down the servant and his dog, as well as the descendant, in order to destroy the former and protect the latter."
On this day in 1980 (in the United Kingdom), Saturn 3 stirred up some space lust compliments of the lovely Farrah Fawcett. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two lovers stationed at a remote base in the asteroid fields of Saturn are intruded upon by a retentive technocrat from Earth and his charge: a malevolent eight foot robot."
"Two lovers stationed at a remote base in the asteroid fields of Saturn are intruded upon by a retentive technocrat from Earth and his charge: a malevolent eight foot robot."
A star is born! On this day in 1981, the good people of Tucson, Arizona were treated to the grisly theatrical premiere of The Being. Written and directed by Jackie Kong, the SciFi/Horror starred Martin Landau, Marianne Gordon, and Bill Osco; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mutated creature is wreaking havoc in a small town in Idaho. A police chief and a government scientist team up to save their rural town from its menace."
"A mutated creature is wreaking havoc in a small town in Idaho. A police chief and a government scientist team up to save their rural town from its menace."
On this day in 1981 (in Australia), the world got bigger for some and much smaller for audiences with the theatrical release of The Incredible Shrinking Woman. Directed by Joel Schumacher, the SciFi/Comedy starred Lily Tomlin, Charles Grodin, and Ned Beatty; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A housewife grows smaller and smaller in reaction to chemicals found in cosmetics and household products."
For the record:
Along with receiving a bit of attention from a film festival screening, The Incredible Shrinking Woman boasts a solid performance from funny lady Tomlin, who received a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Actress.'
"A housewife grows smaller and smaller in reaction to chemicals found in cosmetics and household products."
For the record:
Along with receiving a bit of attention from a film festival screening, The Incredible Shrinking Woman boasts a solid performance from funny lady Tomlin, who received a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Actress.'
A star is born! On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), the good people of Westwood, California were treated to the big screen cinematic premiere of Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom. Written by George Lucas, Willard Huyck, and Gloria Katz, the second installment in the saga of Indiana Jones was directed by Steven Spielberg with Harrison Ford returning while bringing actress Kate Capshaw and Ke Huy Quan to the adventure. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1935, Indiana Jones arrives in India, still part of the British Empire, and is asked to find a mystical stone. He then stumbles upon a secret cult committing enslavement and human sacrifices in the catacombs of an ancient palace."
For the record:
The blockbuster film also scored a bit of praise from the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Science awarded it the Oscar in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects.' Alas, John Williams' score had to settle for nomination only in the category of 'Best Music, Original Score.'
"In 1935, Indiana Jones arrives in India, still part of the British Empire, and is asked to find a mystical stone. He then stumbles upon a secret cult committing enslavement and human sacrifices in the catacombs of an ancient palace."
For the record:
The blockbuster film also scored a bit of praise from the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Science awarded it the Oscar in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects.' Alas, John Williams' score had to settle for nomination only in the category of 'Best Music, Original Score.'
On this day in 1985, Creature premiered in theatres (per Wikipedia.org). (This is one of those films I've heard of but never had the good fortune to see on video.) Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A expedition to Titan uncovers an alien being, that goes on a rampage."
"A expedition to Titan uncovers an alien being, that goes on a rampage."
Well, I guess it was only a matter of time before the Devil himself got into the cheerleading business ... and on this day in 1987 (it Italy), the 1977-produced Satan's Cheerleaders made viewers stand up and cheer. Written (in part) and directed by Greydon Clark, the Horror/Comedy starred Yvonne De Carlo, John Ireland, and John Carradine; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The janitor at a local high school is actually the scout for a coven of Satanists on the lookout for a virgin to sacrifice. One day he kidnaps the cheerleading squad to use for their rituals. However, unbeknownst to the devil-worshipers, one of the cheerleaders is actually a witch, and has plans of her own for the Satanists."
"The janitor at a local high school is actually the scout for a coven of Satanists on the lookout for a virgin to sacrifice. One day he kidnaps the cheerleading squad to use for their rituals. However, unbeknownst to the devil-worshipers, one of the cheerleaders is actually a witch, and has plans of her own for the Satanists."
Ach! That's gonna leave a mark! On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), Things enjoyed its home video release. Written (in part) and directed by Andrew Jordan, the Horror/Fantasy starred Barry J. Gillis, Amber Lynn, and Bruce Roach. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An impotent husband, driven by a fanatical desire to father children, forces his wife to undergo a dangerous experiment. The result: the birth of a multitude of monstrous THINGS."
"An impotent husband, driven by a fanatical desire to father children, forces his wife to undergo a dangerous experiment. The result: the birth of a multitude of monstrous THINGS."
A star is born! On this day in 1995, the SciFi/Telefilm Formula For Death (aka Virus) brought yet one more killer disease to life. It starred Nicollette Sheridan and William Devane, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A strain of ebola, apparently transmitted by an infected African monkey, is starting to sweep across the country. Investigating unusual similarities between many of the victims, a young doctor discovers a conspiracy amongst senior hospital administrators and doctors, who don't seem to want her to stop the disease."
"A strain of ebola, apparently transmitted by an infected African monkey, is starting to sweep across the country. Investigating unusual similarities between many of the victims, a young doctor discovers a conspiracy amongst senior hospital administrators and doctors, who don't seem to want her to stop the disease."
On this day in 1998, the planet Earth got the stuffing knocked out of it when Deep Impact premiered theatrically. This disaster picture was only one of many postulated the near-end of mankind, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Unless a comet can be destroyed before colliding with Earth, only those allowed into shelters will survive. Which people will survive?"
"Unless a comet can be destroyed before colliding with Earth, only those allowed into shelters will survive. Which people will survive?"
On this day in 2002 (in Argentina), the ground shook and opened up, allowing Tremors 3: Back To Perfection to burst to life on home video. Directed by Brent Maddock, the SciFi/Horror starred Michael Gross, Shawn Christian, and Susan Chuang; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The now famous Burt Gummer returns to his hometown of Perfection, Nevada for the first time in years, but the deadliest Graboid evolution yet forces him to save the town he swore to protect."
"The now famous Burt Gummer returns to his hometown of Perfection, Nevada for the first time in years, but the deadliest Graboid evolution yet forces him to save the town he swore to protect."
Officially on this day in 2009, JJ Abrams and Paramount Pictures introduced Star Trek back to the masses, dramatically re-envisioning the origins of Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the crew into some hot-shot group of Starfleet up'n'comers destined to have their own ship before even graduating from the academy. In order to 'make it so,' the story postulated an all-new timeline compliments of a little something called Red Matter. Bravo, JJ, for keeping the flame alive!
On this day in 2010 (in Spain), a restored cut of 1927's Metropolis was screened for audiences of the Vitoria-Gasteiz. Written (in part) and directed by Fritz Lang, the SciFi/Drama starred Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, and Theodor Loos. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a futuristic city sharply divided between the working class and the city planners, the son of the city's mastermind falls in love with a working class prophet who predicts the coming of a savior to mediate their differences."
For the record:
There are some who say that it wasn't until Fritz Lang's Metropolis made its silver screen debut that Science Fiction -- as a motion picture -- was truly born, and I suppose there might be a glimmer of truth to that. Arguably, the film probably wasn't as revered in its time as its become as the years have gone by, but the same could be said of other pictures in their respective genres. IMDB.com denotes only a single critical citation back then -- it received a nomination in the category of 'Most Popular Film' at the 1927 Faro Island Film Festival -- and it has racked up some solid accolades since then, especially with its 2002 restoration and subsequent home video releases.
"In a futuristic city sharply divided between the working class and the city planners, the son of the city's mastermind falls in love with a working class prophet who predicts the coming of a savior to mediate their differences."
For the record:
There are some who say that it wasn't until Fritz Lang's Metropolis made its silver screen debut that Science Fiction -- as a motion picture -- was truly born, and I suppose there might be a glimmer of truth to that. Arguably, the film probably wasn't as revered in its time as its become as the years have gone by, but the same could be said of other pictures in their respective genres. IMDB.com denotes only a single critical citation back then -- it received a nomination in the category of 'Most Popular Film' at the 1927 Faro Island Film Festival -- and it has racked up some solid accolades since then, especially with its 2002 restoration and subsequent home video releases.
A star is born! On this day in 2010, Mongolian Death Worm climbed up from beneath the Earth. The feature starred Sean Patrick Flanery and Victoria Pratt, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an American oil company sets up an experimental drilling plant out in the vast deserts of Mongolia, they awaken a nest. The deadly creatures begin to breed and spread, devouring everyone in their path."
"When an American oil company sets up an experimental drilling plant out in the vast deserts of Mongolia, they awaken a nest. The deadly creatures begin to breed and spread, devouring everyone in their path."
On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), humans went after their mortal screen enemies with this home video release of Humans Vs Zombies. Written (in part) and directed by Brian T. Jaynes, the Horror/Comedy starred Dora Madison, Melissa Carnell, and Frederic Doss. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Students on summer break are exposed to a deadly virus that is spread rapidly through direct human contact. One by one, more and more fall victim to the plague triggering an epidemic that spawns a horde of ravenous zombies."
"Students on summer break are exposed to a deadly virus that is spread rapidly through direct human contact. One by one, more and more fall victim to the plague triggering an epidemic that spawns a horde of ravenous zombies."
A star is born! On this day in 2014, the big city of Los Angeles, California hosted the silver screen premiere for the epic return of Godzilla. Directed by Gareth Edwards, the giant-sized monster movie starred Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, and Bryan Cranston; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The world is beset by the appearance of monstrous creatures, but one of them may be the only one who can save humanity."
"The world is beset by the appearance of monstrous creatures, but one of them may be the only one who can save humanity."
On this day in 2016, the 1924-produced Fantasy/Drama L'inhumaine played for audiences in attendance of the Maryland Film Festival. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Claire Lescot is a famous first lady. All men want to be loved by her and among them is the young scientist Einar Norsen. When she mocks at him, he leaves her house with the declared intention to kill himself."
"Claire Lescot is a famous first lady. All men want to be loved by her and among them is the young scientist Einar Norsen. When she mocks at him, he leaves her house with the declared intention to kill himself."
On this day in 2017 (in the United Kingdom), Star Raiders: The Adventures Of Saber Raine enjoyed its release on home video. Written and directed by Mark Steven Grove, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Casper Van Dien, Cynthia Rothrock, and James Lew. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Rocket ships, Rayguns, and Robots abound in this heart-pounding tale where the stellar adventurer Saber Raine is hired to guide three elite soldiers on a rescue mission to a mysterious planet on the outer rim of the galaxy."
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2017, I received a complimentary DVD of Star Raiders in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find them right here.
"Rocket ships, Rayguns, and Robots abound in this heart-pounding tale where the stellar adventurer Saber Raine is hired to guide three elite soldiers on a rescue mission to a mysterious planet on the outer rim of the galaxy."
ExtraExtra Alert:
Back in 2017, I received a complimentary DVD of Star Raiders in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the production? Readers can find them right here.
On this day in 1953, Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Vault." This served as the thirty-eighth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a scientific test goes array, it traps four people in a vault deep in the Earth. They wonder if they are the last humans alive."
"When a scientific test goes array, it traps four people in a vault deep in the Earth. They wonder if they are the last humans alive."
On this day in 1954, Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired "Death Trap." According to our friends at the reliable IMDB.com, here's that adventure's plot summary:
"Tom responds to a mysterious distress signal from an empty sector of space."
"Tom responds to a mysterious distress signal from an empty sector of space."
On this day in 1964, The Twilight Zone aired "Mr. Garrity and the Graves." This served as the thirty-second episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mr. Garrity comes into town offering to resurrect the dead and reunite the townsfolk with their departed loved ones out of the goodness of his heart. Do the town-folks want these miracles to occur?"
"Mr. Garrity comes into town offering to resurrect the dead and reunite the townsfolk with their departed loved ones out of the goodness of his heart. Do the town-folks want these miracles to occur?"
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Space Museum." This served as the twenty-sixth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The TARDIS arrives on a planet that has been turned into a space museum but the Doctor and his friends are puzzled when they find themselves out of phase with their surroundings."
"The TARDIS arrives on a planet that has been turned into a space museum but the Doctor and his friends are puzzled when they find themselves out of phase with their surroundings."
It all began right here: on this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Undermind aired "Instance One." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Police Detective Frank Herriot has attacked a member of Parliament and otherwise behaves strangely. His brother Drew and estranged wife Anne try to understand with the help of a psychiatrist, but he - the psychiatrist - is soon murdered."
"Police Detective Frank Herriot has attacked a member of Parliament and otherwise behaves strangely. His brother Drew and estranged wife Anne try to understand with the help of a psychiatrist, but he - the psychiatrist - is soon murdered."
On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Colony In Space, Part 5." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Master offers to help the colonists in exchange for information on the Primitive city and forces the Doctor to act as a guide by taking Jo hostage."
"The Master offers to help the colonists in exchange for information on the Primitive city and forces the Doctor to act as a guide by taking Jo hostage."
On this day in 1981 (in the United Kingdom), The Nightmare Man aired the second installment in its only season of original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The brutal murder of Sheila Anderson remains a mystery. Can the bizarre nature of her death be linked to a possible ritual killing? While her murderer roams free, Inverdee's island community is in great danger."
"The brutal murder of Sheila Anderson remains a mystery. Can the bizarre nature of her death be linked to a possible ritual killing? While her murderer roams free, Inverdee's island community is in great danger."
On this day in 1984 (in the U.S.), the conflict came to a head when V: The Final Battle aired the third and final part of its second mini-series. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Resistance develops a biological weapon to use against the Visitors, but Diana intends to destroy the Earth rather than accept defeat."
"The Resistance develops a biological weapon to use against the Visitors, but Diana intends to destroy the Earth rather than accept defeat."
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), the television mini-series event that was Something Is Out There enjoyed its small screen debut with the airing of its first installment. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two police officers investigate a series of brutal murders in which the victims have had bodily organs removed. When one of them questions a young woman who has been seen at the crime scenes, it turns out she is an alien from an interstellar prison ship and that the murders have been committed by a powerful xenomorphic alien which had escaped."
"Two police officers investigate a series of brutal murders in which the victims have had bodily organs removed. When one of them questions a young woman who has been seen at the crime scenes, it turns out she is an alien from an interstellar prison ship and that the murders have been committed by a powerful xenomorphic alien which had escaped."
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), War of the Worlds aired "The Raising of Lazarus." This served as the twenty-second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Near an isolated nuclear research facility an alien scout ship is discovered. As the team arrives and set up their operations, command of the find is handed over to Colonel Alexander and his mysterious Project 9."
"Near an isolated nuclear research facility an alien scout ship is discovered. As the team arrives and set up their operations, command of the find is handed over to Colonel Alexander and his mysterious Project 9."
On this day in 1991, Quantum Leap aired "Heart Of A Champion." This served as the twentieth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Sam leaps into a wrestler who must convince his partner-brother to quit due to a heart problem."
"Sam leaps into a wrestler who must convince his partner-brother to quit due to a heart problem."
On this day in 1993, Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Suspicions." This served as the twenty-second episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Crusher puts her career on the line to prove a scientist's theoretical new shielding technology which may have cost him his life."
"Dr. Crusher puts her career on the line to prove a scientist's theoretical new shielding technology which may have cost him his life."
On this day in 1994, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman aired "The House Of Luthor." This served as the twenty-first episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's provided via IMDB.com:
"Clark, Perry, Jimmy and Jack start investigating the bombing and sale of the Daily Planet. Meanwhile, Lois and Lex prepare for their big day."
"Clark, Perry, Jimmy and Jack start investigating the bombing and sale of the Daily Planet. Meanwhile, Lois and Lex prepare for their big day."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), SeaQuest aired "Such Great Patience." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While exploring an underwater earthquake, the Seaquest discovers an alien spaceship that has been buried for close to 1 million years."
"While exploring an underwater earthquake, the Seaquest discovers an alien spaceship that has been buried for close to 1 million years."
On this day in 1994, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "The Wire." This served as the twenty-second episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at TrekCore.com:
"During a disagreement with Bashir, Garak collapses, and Bashir discovers an implant is connected to his brain. Quark discovers the source of the implant is Cardassia's Obsidian Order - a feared secret police organization which is known for its totally ruthless activities."
"During a disagreement with Bashir, Garak collapses, and Bashir discovers an implant is connected to his brain. Quark discovers the source of the implant is Cardassia's Obsidian Order - a feared secret police organization which is known for its totally ruthless activities."
On this day in 1995, father and son share a very special adventure on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. "Explorers" served as the twenty-second episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by TrekCore.com:
"Sisko recovers records of a Bajoran sailship which somehow traveled to Cardassia in ancient times. He enlists Jake's help in his quest to construct a working replica of the sailship from old Bajoran blueprints and recreate the journey."
"Sisko recovers records of a Bajoran sailship which somehow traveled to Cardassia in ancient times. He enlists Jake's help in his quest to construct a working replica of the sailship from old Bajoran blueprints and recreate the journey."
This hour of Star Trek: Voyager titled "Faces" -- it aired near the end of the program's first season in 1995 -- remains one of my personal favorites in all of the program's run. As its villain, it featured one of the Phage creatures, and this scientist had managed to split B'Elanna Torres into her two genetic selves: one human and one Klingon. As separate entities, the two had to eventually work together to put things right, and along the way one character learned an awful lot about herself. The hour boasts a terrific performance from the lovely Roxann Dawson, one of the best she's ever given.
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), Batman Beyond aired "Disappearing Inque." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An enamored warder of the imprisoned Inque frees her and helps her in her quests for healing and revenge."
"An enamored warder of the imprisoned Inque frees her and helps her in her quests for healing and revenge."
On this day in 1999, Superman: The Animated Series aired "A Fish Story." This served as the ninth episode of the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Lois and Jimmy investigate a series of bizarre marine animal attacks."
"Lois and Jimmy investigate a series of bizarre marine animal attacks."
On this day in 2001, Fox TV's Dark Angel aired "Hit A Sista Back." This served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Tinga, who escaped to Canada in #1.12 with other X5's, when Eyes Only warned them their locations were compromised, comes back in town to save her husband and son. With Max and Zack's help, the family is reunited, but not before the son is given a deadly pathogen. Lydecker agrees to cure the boy in exchange for Tinga. Unbeknownst to him, Madame X has already arranged for Brin to double cross Lydecker. She captures Tinga, who is able to pass her special traits to her children, to study her."
"Tinga, who escaped to Canada in #1.12 with other X5's, when Eyes Only warned them their locations were compromised, comes back in town to save her husband and son. With Max and Zack's help, the family is reunited, but not before the son is given a deadly pathogen. Lydecker agrees to cure the boy in exchange for Tinga. Unbeknownst to him, Madame X has already arranged for Brin to double cross Lydecker. She captures Tinga, who is able to pass her special traits to her children, to study her."
On this day in 2001, Seven Days aired "The Brink." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"An attack with a laser weapon leaves thousands of concert attending teens permanently blind, with a trail leading Parker back to the Hansen Island mental institute."
"An attack with a laser weapon leaves thousands of concert attending teens permanently blind, with a trail leading Parker back to the Hansen Island mental institute."
On this day in 2002, Star Trek: Enterprise aired "Fallen Hero." This served as the twenty-third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TrekCore.com:
"Archer is ordered to transport the Vulcan Ambassador V'Lar, an early role model of T'Pol's, from the planet of Mazar to rendezvous with a Vulcan ship. En route, Enterprise comes under attack from the Mazarites, and V'Lar's integrity comes under scrutiny by T'Pol."
"Archer is ordered to transport the Vulcan Ambassador V'Lar, an early role model of T'Pol's, from the planet of Mazar to rendezvous with a Vulcan ship. En route, Enterprise comes under attack from the Mazarites, and V'Lar's integrity comes under scrutiny by T'Pol."
As networks are prone to do with new shows when executives are trying to ramp up popularity, UPN aired a second episode on this day in 2002 of Star Trek: Enterprise. The second hour was titled "Desert Crossing," and it served as the twenty-fourth episode to the first season. According to our friends at TrekCore.com, here's what you need to know about it:
"When Archer and Trip are invited to a desert planet by an alien leader, they discover he is a terrorist who has lured them there under false pretenses."
"When Archer and Trip are invited to a desert planet by an alien leader, they discover he is a terrorist who has lured them there under false pretenses."
On this day in 2010 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Vampires of Venice." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in Doctor Who's (relaunched) fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor and Amy cross swords in more ways than one with a horde of blood-sucking vampires in 16th century Venice."
"The Doctor and Amy cross swords in more ways than one with a horde of blood-sucking vampires in 16th century Venice."
On this day in 2012, Syfy's Sanctuary aired "Chimera." This served as the ninth episode of the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"There is a sentient organic nanite causing havoc in the computer system in the Sanctuary. Magnus and Tesla connect their minds to the system in an effort to isolate the nanite. They find Adam Worth instead."
"There is a sentient organic nanite causing havoc in the computer system in the Sanctuary. Magnus and Tesla connect their minds to the system in an effort to isolate the nanite. They find Adam Worth instead."
