Alas, peeps, but I know next-to-nothing about the United Kingdom's short-lived City Beneath The Sea which premiered on this day back in 1962. It's one of those properties I stumbled across in my research, I properly dog-eared it, and dutifully posted it to these corners of the Information Superhighway so that you'd be aware. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise behind the series:
"Science Journalist Mark Bannerman and his photographer assistant Peter Blake meet the Professor Westfield at a London gala who is kidnapped. Blake identifies a man who was with the Professor as former U-Boat Commander Captain Kurt Swendler who vanished at the closing events of WWII. At the same time, a U-Boat is reported to have been spotted off the coast of Dover. The Royal Navy intends to track it by using the new atomic-submarine Cyana. Bannerman and Blake are invited aboard as part the restricted press coverings. However, the Cyana is hijacked by Swendler and his crew and the Cyana's own crew are set adrift whilst Bannerman and Blake remain hidden where they come upon a dangerous secret on the seabed..."
"Science Journalist Mark Bannerman and his photographer assistant Peter Blake meet the Professor Westfield at a London gala who is kidnapped. Blake identifies a man who was with the Professor as former U-Boat Commander Captain Kurt Swendler who vanished at the closing events of WWII. At the same time, a U-Boat is reported to have been spotted off the coast of Dover. The Royal Navy intends to track it by using the new atomic-submarine Cyana. Bannerman and Blake are invited aboard as part the restricted press coverings. However, the Cyana is hijacked by Swendler and his crew and the Cyana's own crew are set adrift whilst Bannerman and Blake remain hidden where they come upon a dangerous secret on the seabed..."
On this day in 2001, the world's greatest lineup of superheroes assembled for the small screen animated incarnation of the popular Justice League! Playing from 2001 through 2004, the program featured all of the mainstays in the DC Comics' pantheon as well as giving a bit of screen time to secondary players. It was brought together by the same folks who gave audiences Batman: The Animated Series and Superman: The Animated Series; and it remains a highwater mark in DC animated efforts even today. Here's the program's premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"Seven of the most formidable heroes form arguably the most powerful team ever."
For the record:
Those of us who partook of Justice League's charm were amply rewarded for a nominal investment of time. Also, I'd be remiss in my duties as editor-in-chief if I failed to point out that the show enjoyed two nominations for Primetime Emmys during its run on television. If you're interested, then check out the show's rewards citation page on IMDB.com (right here) as it did enjoy more than a wee bit of praise.
"Seven of the most formidable heroes form arguably the most powerful team ever."
For the record:
Those of us who partook of Justice League's charm were amply rewarded for a nominal investment of time. Also, I'd be remiss in my duties as editor-in-chief if I failed to point out that the show enjoyed two nominations for Primetime Emmys during its run on television. If you're interested, then check out the show's rewards citation page on IMDB.com (right here) as it did enjoy more than a wee bit of praise.
Alas, peeps, here's yet another Science Fiction series that I've heard extremely little about, the United Kingdom's Clone. I do recall this one recently popping up whilst I was doing research for a particular performer, so I slotted it into my files for publication on the appropriate dates. It looks like this was a short-lived SciFi/Comedy, for what that's worth; the information available regarding it on IMDB.com is very slim, so here's the show's premise as provided by Wikipedia.org:
"Intended to be a prototype super soldier who will eventually replace Britain's volunteer Army, his creator, the brilliant scientist Dr Victor Blenkinsop discovers, to both his horror and distaste, that his new super weapon is not quite the awe-inspiring creation he expected. In fact, the clone is more likely to hug someone than shoot them. This modern-day Dr Frankenstein and his monster go on the run hoping to find the neurological trigger that will fix the clone and unlock his superhuman abilities. Unfortunately, they must also avoid Colonel Black and his crack team of security agents, whose mission is to find them and kill them."
"Intended to be a prototype super soldier who will eventually replace Britain's volunteer Army, his creator, the brilliant scientist Dr Victor Blenkinsop discovers, to both his horror and distaste, that his new super weapon is not quite the awe-inspiring creation he expected. In fact, the clone is more likely to hug someone than shoot them. This modern-day Dr Frankenstein and his monster go on the run hoping to find the neurological trigger that will fix the clone and unlock his superhuman abilities. Unfortunately, they must also avoid Colonel Black and his crack team of security agents, whose mission is to find them and kill them."
Hollywood heavyweight Rock Hudson had a great one-two SciFi blitz toward the end of his acting career: in 1980 he headlined the NBC-TV adaptation of Ray Bradbury's The Martian Chronicles, and -- in 1982 -- he served one term as the fictional 'U.S. President Thomas McKenna' in the telefilm World War III. I do realize that, critically, the NBC adaptation of the Bradbury novel was kinda/sorta trashed in its day, but honestly I remember watching it live and being rather smitten with it. Come to think of it, even World War III was a bit of a critical disappointment as well, but I enjoyed that way as well. (Call me old-fashioned.) Also -- as Science Fiction goes -- Hudson appeared as the lead in 1966's somewhat interesting Seconds. It's an Oscar-nomination cinematic adaptation of a SciFi novel, but I'm not so sure it's the kind of flick that's held up well with the passage of time. Though he's no longer with us, Hudson was born on this day in 1925. [Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
Having seen Seconds when it made an airing on Turner Classic Movies, I have penned a review re: my thoughts on it. Interested readers can find it right here.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Having seen Seconds when it made an airing on Turner Classic Movies, I have penned a review re: my thoughts on it. Interested readers can find it right here.
Yeah. You just sit there and drink your morning coffee, actor Robert Brown, for in your role as 'Lazarus' for Star Trek's first season episode -- "The Alternative Factor" -- your existence is about to get a whole lot less peaceful. Enjoy that coffee while you can; it's the last your character will get for some time. You and your damn, damn space coffee. In any event, the actor's professional resume adds up to a slim 30+ entries, most of which was in more mainstream fare than I generally promote in this space. He did squeeze in a visit to television's Fantasy Island, for good measure. Though he's no longer with us, Brown was born on this day in 1926. [Source: IMDB.com]
Th)e venerable Rance Howard has participated in nearly 300 different projects in a career spanning seven decades and counting. Fans might recognize him from roles in the original Village Of The Giants (1966), Locusts (1974), Battlestar Galactica, Mork & Mindy, Airplane II: The Sequel (1982), Creator (1985), Innerspace (1987), The 'Burbs (1989), Quantum Leap, Universal Soldier (1992), Independence Day, and Babylon 5. Though he's no longer with us, Howard was born on this day in 1928. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1982 Primetime Emmy Awards, Howard enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Children's Program' for his work in bringing 1981's Fantasy-themed Through The Magic Pyramid to life.
For the record:
At the 1982 Primetime Emmy Awards, Howard enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Outstanding Children's Program' for his work in bringing 1981's Fantasy-themed Through The Magic Pyramid to life.
One of the loveliest creatures ever born -- model-turned-actress Lauren Hutton -- dabbled briefly in the realms of Science Fiction when in 1983 she appeared in the telefilm Starflight One (aka Starflight: The Plane That Couldn't Land). Then, in 1985, she vamped it up just a bit as a delicious bloodsucker aboard the Horror/Comedy Once Bitten. In 1987, time itself was on the line with her work aboard the SciFi/Telefilm Timestalkers. Little known fact: she also made a splash in the world of -- ahem -- men's entertainment by appearing as a Playboy Bunny. Hubba-hubba, milady! Hutton was born on this day in 1943. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Roberta Collins built a wonderful career out of appearing in some mildly exploitative fare throughout the 1970's, the most significant contribution of which would probably be "Matilda the Hun" in Death Race 2000 (1975). She followed that up not long after with a pair of performances in Horror/Thrillers: Eaten Alive (1976) and The Witch Who Came From The Sea (1976). Interestingly enough, her beauty caught the eye of famous magazine merchant Hugh Hefner; back in the 1960's, she turned down the opportunity to display her assets in his popular men's publication ... still, a review of her professional resume shows she was willing to flash a peek or two on screen if the work required it. You go, girl! Though she's no longer with us, Collins was born on this day in 1944. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, Stephen Root played a small role in Robocop 3 (1993). He's also enjoyed exposure on Golden Years, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Quantum Leap, and Amazon's The Man In The High Castle. Root was born on this day in 1951. [Source: IMDB.com]
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio booked a rare appearance in Science Fiction by appearing in James Cameron's The Abyss from the summer of 1989. (Incidentally enough, her work was so good that she was nominated in the Best Actress category at the 1991 Saturn Awards, no small feat indeed.) Mastrantonio was born on this day in 1958. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, William R. Moses joined the lovely Kathy Ireland in the SciFi/Camp flick, Alien From L.A., for Golan-Globus Productions. Since that time, he's mostly concentrated his skills in areas of more conventional programming. Moses was born on this day in 1959. [Source: IMDB.com]
Producer Frank Spotnitz is best known for his work on Fox's legendary The X-Files TV show, but he's had a relatively successful run on a handful of other programs as well since those days. Spotnitz was born on this day in 1960. [Source: IMDB.com]
Sophie Marceau decided she was going to make things a bit rougher for Pierce Brosnan's James Bond as he had anticipated in The World Is Not Enough (1999). Marceau was born on this day in 1966. [Source: IMDB.com]
David Ramsey's star is on-the-rise within the greater DC Universe. He's played John Diggle (pictured above, center) on The Flash; he's slated to resume the character in a forthcoming arc on Arrow; and he's slated to appear in Legends of Tomorrow. Ramsey was born on this day in 1971. [Source: IMDB.com]
Though he's probably more well known for his work in mainstream fare, Leonard Roberts played a role in NBC's Heroes back in the program's original run. Roberts was born on this day in 1972. [Source: IMDB.com]
Funny lady Leslie Bibb turned on a more dramatic side with an appearance in Iron Man (2008) and Iron Man 2 (2010). Bibb was born on this day in 1974. [Source: IMDB.com]
Very early in her career, the highly photogenic Rachel McAdams made an appearance in the cult favorite series, Earth: Final Conflict. More recently, she dipped into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a prominent role aboard Doctor Strange (2016). McAdams was born on this day in 1978. [Source: IMDB.com]
Odds are, you won't recognize Zoe Bell's face, but I've no doubt -- especially if you're a fan of genre entertainment -- that you're familiar with her work; as a stuntwoman, she's one of the most sought after women on film! Thankfully, she's also been given the opportunity to book some appearances within these various franchises, including some screen time in Cleopatra 2525, Planet Terror, ABC-TV's Lost, and Paradox (2016). Bell was born on this day in 1978. [Source: IMDB.com]
Before going on to play Lucifer himself in the Fox series of the same name, Tom Ellis played a kindler, gentler spirit by helping out Martha and the Doctor aboard an episode of the BBC's Doctor Who. Ellis was born on this day in 1978. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Bojana Novakovic made a guest appearance aboard HBO's popular Westworld into something special. She'll also soon be seen in Beyond Skyline. Novakovic was born on this day in 1981. [Source: IMDB.com]
HubbaHubba Alert! I fell in love with the stunning Viva Bianca as she played the scheming 'Ilithyia' aboard Starz Network's spectacular Spartacus reimagining; thankfully she appeared in a small role aboard a SciFi/Telefilm, Panic at Rock Island (2011), so that I can feature her loveliness here. More recently, she enjoyed a guest spot aboard Amazon's Fantasy-themed Just Add Magic. Bianca was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, Harry Lloyd had a great guest star turn aboard the 2007 season of the BBC's Doctor Who. More recently, the actor has turned in some incredible work as one of the regulars aboard Starz Network's 'parallel worlds' SciFi/Drama Counterpart. Lloyd was born on this day in 1983. [Source: IMDB.com]
Slowly and surely, young Jon Cor has been building an impressive resume in some quality genre projects. He's scored some good screen time in Being Human, Lost Girl, Defiance, Dark Matter, and is getting a big star turn in the forthcoming Shadowhunters. Cor was born on this day in 1984. [Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1918 (in the U.S.), dinosaurs were all the rage with the theatrical release of the imaginative 16-minute short film The Ghost Of Slumber Mountain. Written (in part) and directed by Willis H. O'Brien, the feature starred Alan V. Day, Chauncey A. Day, and Herbert M. Dawley. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a dream Uncle Jack looks through a magic telescope owned by the ghost of a hermit and sees what life was like millions of years ago, including a battle between prehistoric monsters."
For the record:
While I've not seen this fact verified anywhere else, IMDB.com reports that it's believed that The Ghost Of Slumber Mountain was the very first feature to dabble with the narrative element of time travel.
"In a dream Uncle Jack looks through a magic telescope owned by the ghost of a hermit and sees what life was like millions of years ago, including a battle between prehistoric monsters."
For the record:
While I've not seen this fact verified anywhere else, IMDB.com reports that it's believed that The Ghost Of Slumber Mountain was the very first feature to dabble with the narrative element of time travel.
On this day in 1961 (in Finland), Atlantis: The Lost Continent submerged from the depths ... cinematically, that is. Directed by George Pal, the Fantasy feature starred Sal Ponti and Joyce Taylor, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Greek Fisherman brings an Atlantean Princess back to her homeland which is the mythical city of Atlantis. He is enslaved for his trouble. The King is being manipulated by an evil sorcerer who is bent on using a natural resource of Atlantis to take over the world. The Atlanteans, or rather the slaves of Atlantis, are forced to mine a crystalline material which absorbs the suns rays. These crystals can then be used for warmth. The misuse of science has created weapons out of the crystals that can fire a heat ray to destroy whatever it touches."
"A Greek Fisherman brings an Atlantean Princess back to her homeland which is the mythical city of Atlantis. He is enslaved for his trouble. The King is being manipulated by an evil sorcerer who is bent on using a natural resource of Atlantis to take over the world. The Atlanteans, or rather the slaves of Atlantis, are forced to mine a crystalline material which absorbs the suns rays. These crystals can then be used for warmth. The misuse of science has created weapons out of the crystals that can fire a heat ray to destroy whatever it touches."
A star is born! On this day in 1973, The Six Million Dollar Man: The Solid Gold Kidnapping enjoyed its television debut. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A criminal organization, known as "O.S.O.", specializes in kidnapping high ranking U.S. representatives. Although Colonel Steve Austin has already thwarted one of their kidnappings, he is unable to stop them from grabbing William Henry Cameron right from under O.S.I.'s nose. O.S.O. demands one billion dollars in gold, and Oscar Goldman takes the opportunity to try and lure them out into the open. Meanwhile, Steve accompanies Dr. Erica Bergner, who is testing a new method of brain transferal, in order to find out where Cameron is being kept."
"A criminal organization, known as "O.S.O.", specializes in kidnapping high ranking U.S. representatives. Although Colonel Steve Austin has already thwarted one of their kidnappings, he is unable to stop them from grabbing William Henry Cameron right from under O.S.I.'s nose. O.S.O. demands one billion dollars in gold, and Oscar Goldman takes the opportunity to try and lure them out into the open. Meanwhile, Steve accompanies Dr. Erica Bergner, who is testing a new method of brain transferal, in order to find out where Cameron is being kept."
On this day in 1978 (in Argentina), The Medusa Touch tickled fans of Horror and Science Fiction. Directed by Jack Gold, the Fantasy featured starred Richard Burton and Lee Remick, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Psychological thriller about a telekinetic novelist who causes disasters simply by thinking about them."
"Psychological thriller about a telekinetic novelist who causes disasters simply by thinking about them."
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in Italy and France), 1990: The Bronx Warriors sent audiences just a wee bit into the future for a look at what remained after our Apocalypse. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Gregory, Fred Williamson, and Vic Morrow; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
On this day in 1982 (in France), Galaxina enjoyed a limited release in theaters. Written and directed by William Sachs, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dorothy Stratten and Stephen Macht, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew of the police cruiser Infinity is finally heading home after a long stay in deep space. Just when they think they are about to get some much needed rest and relaxation, the crew is given a new mission - journey to the alien world Altar One to find the Blue Star, a mystical gem that holds unlimited power. Their journey to find the Blue Star leads them to an outer space brothel full of alien women and a gang that worships Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Can Galaxina and the crew find the Blue Star and save the world and will the ship's pilot succumb to the beauty of the ship's sexy robot Galaxina."
"The crew of the police cruiser Infinity is finally heading home after a long stay in deep space. Just when they think they are about to get some much needed rest and relaxation, the crew is given a new mission - journey to the alien world Altar One to find the Blue Star, a mystical gem that holds unlimited power. Their journey to find the Blue Star leads them to an outer space brothel full of alien women and a gang that worships Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Can Galaxina and the crew find the Blue Star and save the world and will the ship's pilot succumb to the beauty of the ship's sexy robot Galaxina."
On this day in 1983 (in Mexico), The Sender found itself playing in theaters. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A disturbed telepathic man is unable to fully control his ability to transmit his dreams and visions into the minds of the people around him, or even influence reality. A female therapist tries to help him, but his mother gets in the way."
"A disturbed telepathic man is unable to fully control his ability to transmit his dreams and visions into the minds of the people around him, or even influence reality. A female therapist tries to help him, but his mother gets in the way."
On this day in 1994, Project Shadowchaser II followed up on the SciFi brilliance and action of the original. The feature starred Frank Zagarino and Brian Genesse, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Terrorists led by an android take over a nuclear plant and threaten to launch a missile at Washington. While the authorities desperately attempt to negotiate, the terrorists persue their real goal. A plant worker, her son and a tough-guy repair man have other ideas, and attempt to stop the terrorists from inside the plant."
"Terrorists led by an android take over a nuclear plant and threaten to launch a missile at Washington. While the authorities desperately attempt to negotiate, the terrorists persue their real goal. A plant worker, her son and a tough-guy repair man have other ideas, and attempt to stop the terrorists from inside the plant."
A star is born! On this day in 1994, Star Trek: Generations enjoyed its silver screen premiere for audiences in Hollywood, California. Written by Rick Berman, Brannon Braga, and Ronald D. Moore, the first cinema adventure for the crew of the Starship Enterprise-D was directed by David Carson. It starred Patrick Stewart, William Shatner, and Malcolm McDowell; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
"With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix."
For the record:
Star Trek: Generations is not without its own notoriety. In 1995, it was nominated for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' by the Hugo Awards. In the same year, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for 'Best Supporting Actress' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also, the 1995 Razzie Awards recognized William Shatner with a nomination for 'Worst Supporting Actor.'
On this day in 1994 (in Argentina), Timecop flew through the ages in big screen theatrical fashion. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
"Max Walker, an officer for a security agency that regulates time travel, must fend for his life against a shady politician who's intent on changing the past to control the future."
On this day in 2006 (in the United Kingdom), the SciFi/Comedy Special opened theatrically. The feature starred Michael Rapaport and Josh Peck, and here's the plot summary listed on IMDB.com:
"A lonely metermaid has a reaction to medication and becomes convinced he's a superhero."
"A lonely metermaid has a reaction to medication and becomes convinced he's a superhero."
On this day in 2011 (in Russia), the Fantasy-themed Bloodrayne: The Third Reich enjoyed its premiere on home video. The feature starred Natassia Malthe and Brendan Fletcher, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Rayne fights against the Nazis in Europe during World War II, encountering Ekart Brand, a Nazi leader whose target is to inject Adolf Hitler with Rayne's blood in an attempt to transform him into a dhampir and attain immortality."
"Rayne fights against the Nazis in Europe during World War II, encountering Ekart Brand, a Nazi leader whose target is to inject Adolf Hitler with Rayne's blood in an attempt to transform him into a dhampir and attain immortality."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in Russia), Earth's Final Hours enjoyed its first exhibition ever with a release on home video. Directed by W.D. Hogan, the SciFi/Thriller starred Robert Knepper, Julia Benson, and Cameron Bright. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After dense matter from an imploded white hole hits Earth, the planet's rotation is devastated. A group of government agents must locate a lost satellite network that is the world's only hope for survival."
"After dense matter from an imploded white hole hits Earth, the planet's rotation is devastated. A group of government agents must locate a lost satellite network that is the world's only hope for survival."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Germany), audiences in attendance of the Berlin Sci Fi Filmfest were treated to the silver screen debut of The Beyond. Written and directed by Hasraf Dulull, the SciFi/Drama starred Jane Perry, Noeleen Comiskey, and Nigel Barber. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After observing an anomaly in space, scientists transplant human brains in to synthetic bodies and send them through the wormhole."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beyond enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"After observing an anomaly in space, scientists transplant human brains in to synthetic bodies and send them through the wormhole."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Beyond enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2019 (in the United Kingdom), the 1994-produced Tammy And The T-Rex played for audiences in attendance of the Soho Horror Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Stewart Raffill, the SciFi/Horror starred Denise Richards, Paul Walker, and Ellen Dubin; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An evil scientist implants the brain of Michael, a murdered high school student, in an animatronic Tyrannosaurus. He escapes, wreaks vengeance on his high school tormentors and is reunited with his sweetheart Tammy. Together, the couple try to elude the mad scientist and the police and find a more appropriate vessel for Michael's brain."
"An evil scientist implants the brain of Michael, a murdered high school student, in an animatronic Tyrannosaurus. He escapes, wreaks vengeance on his high school tormentors and is reunited with his sweetheart Tammy. Together, the couple try to elude the mad scientist and the police and find a more appropriate vessel for Michael's brain."
On this day in 1952, Adventures of Superman aired "The Secret of Superman." This served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Dr. H.L. Ort is using an advanced version of a truth serum to hypnotize employees of the Daily Planet in an attempt to discover Superman's secret identity."
"Dr. H.L. Ort is using an advanced version of a truth serum to hypnotize employees of the Daily Planet in an attempt to discover Superman's secret identity."
It all began right here: on this day in 1962 (in the United Kingdom), City Beneath The Sea enjoyed its original television premiere. Officially, the first episode was titled "The Pirates," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Swendler kidnaps Professor Westfield and plans to hijack a British nuclear submarine of which Bannerman and Blake are aboard along with the regular crew."
"Swendler kidnaps Professor Westfield and plans to hijack a British nuclear submarine of which Bannerman and Blake are aboard along with the regular crew."
On this day in 1965, Lost In Space aired the tenth episode of its first season. "The Sky Is Falling" pitted the Robinson family against an alien race called the Taurons.
You know how your mother tells you never to throw a good thing away? Well, here's why! The first season episode titled "The Menagerie, Part 1" actually utilizes footage from the original Star Trek pilot, "The Cage," to revisit those events through a narrative perspective involving Kirk and his crew. Spock seizes control of the ship in order to take his ailing former Captain Christopher Pike (see above) to Talos IV. It first aired in 1966, and it's a winner of an episode.
Would you like to know more? Well, "The Menagerie" remains one of Star Trek's best regarded episodes. In fact, it's one of only two installments of the classic Science Fiction show to win the 1967 Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation.
Would you like to know more? Well, "The Menagerie" remains one of Star Trek's best regarded episodes. In fact, it's one of only two installments of the classic Science Fiction show to win the 1967 Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation.
Another personal favorite of mine, Star Trek's "Journey to Babel" aired on this day in 1967. The Enterprise is tasked with escorting a whole cadre of intergalactic diplomats to some huge space convention; but our captain realizes that something strange is afoot when another alien race remains intent on keeping these guests from appearing. Plus, there's a terrific B story involving Spock and his parents, Sarek and Amanda, that truly gives the hour some human dimensions.
On this day in 1974, "At Planet Brumas" aired as an installment of Star Blazers first season. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Argo answers a distress call from Space Marines on planet Brumas."
"The Argo answers a distress call from Space Marines on planet Brumas."
On this day in 1976, Star Maidens aired the eleventh episode of its first and only season. The adventure was titled "Hideout," and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"On the run, Adam and Shem find shelter in an apartment, but have been seen and reported. Adam is arrested, but Shem is rescued by Rose, whose fiancé has left her. The two start to grow close - but the police are closing in."
"On the run, Adam and Shem find shelter in an apartment, but have been seen and reported. Adam is arrested, but Shem is rescued by Rose, whose fiancé has left her. The two start to grow close - but the police are closing in."
The ultimate blemish on the entire Star Wars franchise when it was only in its creative infancy -- the Star Wars Holiday Special -- first aired on this day in 1978. Ugh. Seriously, the Force wasn't all that strong with that one. Here's the summary as provided by the good people at IMDB.com:
"Chewbacca and Han Solo try to get home to Chewie's family to celebrate Life Day, which includes various forms of entertainment."
"Chewbacca and Han Solo try to get home to Chewie's family to celebrate Life Day, which includes various forms of entertainment."
On this day in 1979 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Creature From The Pit: Part 04." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's seventeenth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Full revelation of Adrasta's wicked acts in maintaining her planetary monopoly on metal brings her reign to an end, but the victimized alien creature holds a secret: massive interstellar retribution for her crimes is headed their way, with doom for all, including those whose current short-sighted actions undermine the Doctor's efforts to save the planet in order to become new leaders of the old metal monopoly."
"Full revelation of Adrasta's wicked acts in maintaining her planetary monopoly on metal brings her reign to an end, but the victimized alien creature holds a secret: massive interstellar retribution for her crimes is headed their way, with doom for all, including those whose current short-sighted actions undermine the Doctor's efforts to save the planet in order to become new leaders of the old metal monopoly."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Jason Of Star Command aired "Little Girl Lost." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jason and Samantha discover a young girl called Heidi and her doll in the wreckage of a crashed spaceship."
"Jason and Samantha discover a young girl called Heidi and her doll in the wreckage of a crashed spaceship."
On this day in 1984, The Tripods aired "France: September, 2089 AD." This served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The boys stay on to help at a vineyard until after the grape harvest. When time comes to continue their journey, they find it hard to leave their new found friends."
"The boys stay on to help at a vineyard until after the grape harvest. When time comes to continue their journey, they find it hard to leave their new found friends."
On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), Amazing Stories aired "Mr. Magic." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Old-timer Lou Bundles, once a world-famous magician, is now fumbling every trick, and desperately purchases an amazing old deck of cards at a small magic shop in hopes of going out in a spectacular display of legerdemain."
"Old-timer Lou Bundles, once a world-famous magician, is now fumbling every trick, and desperately purchases an amazing old deck of cards at a small magic shop in hopes of going out in a spectacular display of legerdemain."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Defenders Of The Earth aired "Lother's Homecoming." Officially, this served as the fifty-first episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While in Jamaica to attend a ceremony in Lothar 's honor, the Defenders discover a cultist plot to control the town's children and seize power."
"While in Jamaica to attend a ceremony in Lothar 's honor, the Defenders discover a cultist plot to control the town's children and seize power."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Defenders Of The Earth aired "The Mind Warriors: Part 01." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a 7-billion-year-old alien warhead crash lands in the South American jungle, the Defenders must retrieve the device and deactivate it. After Ming fails to stop the Defenders from escaping with it, he hacks into their Battle Simulation Room in an attempt to destroy them."
"When a 7-billion-year-old alien warhead crash lands in the South American jungle, the Defenders must retrieve the device and deactivate it. After Ming fails to stop the Defenders from escaping with it, he hacks into their Battle Simulation Room in an attempt to destroy them."
On this day in 1986, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Lord of the Sands." This (technically) served as the program's forty-ninth episode (they were aired wildly out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A transport with Foxx, Gooseman, and Zozo is sabotaged and they crash land on planet. They have no communicator and Foxx's bionics are damaged. They have to contend with their environment and the locals."
"A transport with Foxx, Gooseman, and Zozo is sabotaged and they crash land on planet. They have no communicator and Foxx's bionics are damaged. They have to contend with their environment and the locals."
On this day back in 1990, Wesley Crusher kinda/sorta did the unthinkable: he went away! Star Trek: The Next Generation's "Final Mission" saw the oft-maligned ensign and Capt. Picard shipwrecked on a desert planet, but the circumstances brought out the best in the young Mr. Crusher on his 'final mission' as a crewmember of the Enterprise-D. (Alas, he returned, but only in guest starring appearances.) Bon voyage, Wesley! (But good riddance, too, to a subpar character with very little use in the future.)
On this day in 1990, Super Force aired "Prisoners Of Love." This served as the ninth episode of the SciFi-crime-fighting program's first season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Beautiful young women are disappearing which forces Carla and Zach to go undercover to find them. Will Carla fall victim to a madman's evil plot?"
"Beautiful young women are disappearing which forces Carla and Zach to go undercover to find them. Will Carla fall victim to a madman's evil plot?"
On this day in 1991, Super Force aired "Hank's Back: Part 2." This served as the seventh episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Hank helps Zach save F.X. who has been kidnapped by the same mob men that were after him. Will they reach F.X. in time?"
"Hank helps Zach save F.X. who has been kidnapped by the same mob men that were after him. Will they reach F.X. in time?"
On this day in 1996 (in Germany), SeaQuest 2032 aired "Chains Of Command." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's third (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A rogue admiral launches an unprovoked attacked on a Macronesia colony. Seaquest is dispatched to the site of the launch which is commanded by the captains former commanding officer."
"A rogue admiral launches an unprovoked attacked on a Macronesia colony. Seaquest is dispatched to the site of the launch which is commanded by the captains former commanding officer."
On this day in 1996 (in Romania), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Q-Less." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Q, the Enterprise-D's consistent omnipotent annoyance, comes to harass the DS9 crew when his traveling companion, Vash, refuses to travel with Q any longer."
"Q, the Enterprise-D's consistent omnipotent annoyance, comes to harass the DS9 crew when his traveling companion, Vash, refuses to travel with Q any longer."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Musings Of A Cigarette Smoking Man." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's fourth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Lone Gunmen reveal the (possibly fake) secret history of the Smoking Man to Mulder with focus on three episodes from his life - the assassination of JFK, his attempts at becoming a novelist and one of his UFO cover ups."
"The Lone Gunmen reveal the (possibly fake) secret history of the Smoking Man to Mulder with focus on three episodes from his life - the assassination of JFK, his attempts at becoming a novelist and one of his UFO cover ups."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Earth: Final Conflict aired "Resurrection." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Doors makes a public appearance, leading to an increase in anti-Taelon sentiment. The Taelon Synod is fed up with Da'an and sends Zo'or in his stead."
"Doors makes a public appearance, leading to an increase in anti-Taelon sentiment. The Taelon Synod is fed up with Da'an and sends Zo'or in his stead."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Resurrection." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's sixth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Major Kira takes a romantic interest in the mirror universe counterpart of her deceased lover Bareil after he transports himself into her universe and onto DS9."
"Major Kira takes a romantic interest in the mirror universe counterpart of her deceased lover Bareil after he transports himself into her universe and onto DS9."
On this day in 1999 (in Canada), First Wave aired "Lost Souls." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Subway workers find the body of a woman buried 50 years ago in a wall, impossibly she is still alive. Nostrodamus prophecy predicts this so Foster investigates how this could be and if the GUA are responsible."
"Subway workers find the body of a woman buried 50 years ago in a wall, impossibly she is still alive. Nostrodamus prophecy predicts this so Foster investigates how this could be and if the GUA are responsible."
On this day in 1999, Star Trek: Voyager found a very special way to interact with the history of the Alpha Quadrant with the airing of "One Small Step ..." This was the eighth episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Voyager encounters a graviton ellipse, a phenomenon that emerges from subspace on rare occasions. The anomaly engulfed a manned vessel during a Mars mission in 2032 and Chakotay is determined to retrieve the debris from inside the ellipse. Chakotay, Paris and Seven take the Delta Flyer in, but when an asteroid strikes, Chakotay, obsessed with retrieving the module, disobeys Janeway's order to leave. The collision renders the Flyer flightless as the ellipse prepares to return to subspace."
"Voyager encounters a graviton ellipse, a phenomenon that emerges from subspace on rare occasions. The anomaly engulfed a manned vessel during a Mars mission in 2032 and Chakotay is determined to retrieve the debris from inside the ellipse. Chakotay, Paris and Seven take the Delta Flyer in, but when an asteroid strikes, Chakotay, obsessed with retrieving the module, disobeys Janeway's order to leave. The collision renders the Flyer flightless as the ellipse prepares to return to subspace."
On this day in 2001 (in the United Kingdom), Atlantis High aired the eleventh episode in its only season in broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Giles continues his attempts to gain Octavia's affection. Sophie is convinced that Giles actually has feelings for her, not Octavia. A depressed Mr. Dorsey makes an unlikely friend. Meanwhile, Commander Vermont uncovers information that raises his suspicions that perhaps Jet is correct: there is a conspiracy afoot that could threaten Sunset Cove."
"Giles continues his attempts to gain Octavia's affection. Sophie is convinced that Giles actually has feelings for her, not Octavia. A depressed Mr. Dorsey makes an unlikely friend. Meanwhile, Commander Vermont uncovers information that raises his suspicions that perhaps Jet is correct: there is a conspiracy afoot that could threaten Sunset Cove."
It all began right here: on this day in 2001, the animated adventures of DC Comics' Justice League began on the Cartoon Network with an explosive three-part storyline titled "Secret Origins." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Batman and Superman team up to deal with an alien invasion, and a telepathic message leads the duo to a military base housing future ally J'onn J'onzz."
"Batman and Superman team up to deal with an alien invasion, and a telepathic message leads the duo to a military base housing future ally J'onn J'onzz."
On this day in 2003, Andromeda aired "Conduit To Destiny." This served as the eighth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"After taking a wrong turn in slipstream, the Andromeda receives a distress call from a Commonwealth prison, experiencing a riot the likes of which thy have not seen before. Dylan and his crew quickly put down the rebellion, but Dylan keeps having flashbacks to the last time he was on this planet."
"After taking a wrong turn in slipstream, the Andromeda receives a distress call from a Commonwealth prison, experiencing a riot the likes of which thy have not seen before. Dylan and his crew quickly put down the rebellion, but Dylan keeps having flashbacks to the last time he was on this planet."
On this day in 2003, Mutant X aired "Wasteland." This served as the eighth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plotsummary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jesse is forced to reconnect with his former fiancé when the Mutant X team learns that her company is involved in the genetic manipulation of crops."
"Jesse is forced to reconnect with his former fiancé when the Mutant X team learns that her company is involved in the genetic manipulation of crops."
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Lost aired "Solitary." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sayid's life is in danger after finding the source of the French transmission, while Hurley hatches a ridiculous plan to make life more civilized."
"Sayid's life is in danger after finding the source of the French transmission, while Hurley hatches a ridiculous plan to make life more civilized."
On this day in 2006, Syfy's Battlestar Galactica aired "Hero." This served as the eighth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A figure from Adama's past returns to haunt him. His return raises questions about why the Cylons launched their initial attack against the Twelve Colonies."
"A figure from Adama's past returns to haunt him. His return raises questions about why the Cylons launched their initial attack against the Twelve Colonies."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Doctor Who aired "The Impossible Planet." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the Modern Era of Doctor Who; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When the Doctor and Rose become stranded on a planet orbiting a black hole, they find a human expedition crew and their servants, the Ood, being terrorised by the Devil."
"When the Doctor and Rose become stranded on a planet orbiting a black hole, they find a human expedition crew and their servants, the Ood, being terrorised by the Devil."
It all began right here: on this day in 2008 (in the United Kingdom), the SciFi/Comedy Clone morphed into its original broadcast existence. Officially, the first episode was titled "Alive," and here's the plot summary as provided by Wikipedia.org:
"Dr. Victor Blenkinsop creates the world's first human clone but, instead of being the world's supreme fighting machine as intended, he turns out to be a naive, clumsy and peaceful child in an adult's body. Desperate to fix his mistake, Dr Blenkinsop escapes his vengeful military paymasters (under Colonel Black) and hides with the clone in a small village. He meets the landlady Rose Bourne, who is also a maths genius. Her brain may hold the key to 'fixing' the clone's memory implants."
"Dr. Victor Blenkinsop creates the world's first human clone but, instead of being the world's supreme fighting machine as intended, he turns out to be a naive, clumsy and peaceful child in an adult's body. Desperate to fix his mistake, Dr Blenkinsop escapes his vengeful military paymasters (under Colonel Black) and hides with the clone in a small village. He meets the landlady Rose Bourne, who is also a maths genius. Her brain may hold the key to 'fixing' the clone's memory implants."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Heroes aired "Chapter 09 - It's Coming." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Barely escaping from the evil and powerful Arthur Petrelli, Ando forces Hiro to teleport them back to Japan only to discover that Mr. Petrelli has erased most of Hiro's mind and who thinks he's 10-years-old, and still in school. Ando must try find a way to make Hiro remember his powers. Meanwhile, Sylar tries to reason with the captive Elle to force out her anger and to learn how to take her powers without killing her. Mr. Petrelli sends Knox and Flint out after Claire and Peter who try to find a way to outwit their pursuers. Matt Parkman tries to scan the comatose Angela Petrelli's mind to try to save her and learns that Daphne is a double-agent assigned to watch over him and that Mr. Petrelli has something against her. While Suresh continues to unsuccessfully search for the secret to the formula to give people powers, Nathan and Tracy pay a visit to Pinehurst where they meet with the manipulative Arthur Petrelli who offers Nathan the world in exchange for his loyalties and help. Nathan declines, but Tracy, eager to gain more power in politics, accepts."
"Barely escaping from the evil and powerful Arthur Petrelli, Ando forces Hiro to teleport them back to Japan only to discover that Mr. Petrelli has erased most of Hiro's mind and who thinks he's 10-years-old, and still in school. Ando must try find a way to make Hiro remember his powers. Meanwhile, Sylar tries to reason with the captive Elle to force out her anger and to learn how to take her powers without killing her. Mr. Petrelli sends Knox and Flint out after Claire and Peter who try to find a way to outwit their pursuers. Matt Parkman tries to scan the comatose Angela Petrelli's mind to try to save her and learns that Daphne is a double-agent assigned to watch over him and that Mr. Petrelli has something against her. While Suresh continues to unsuccessfully search for the secret to the formula to give people powers, Nathan and Tracy pay a visit to Pinehurst where they meet with the manipulative Arthur Petrelli who offers Nathan the world in exchange for his loyalties and help. Nathan declines, but Tracy, eager to gain more power in politics, accepts."
On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Bound For Rescue." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's fifth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hondo has failed to capture the Kaiburr crystals, but does hold Ahsoka as a prisoner. The younglings form a plan to infiltrate the pirate hideout on Florrum."
"Hondo has failed to capture the Kaiburr crystals, but does hold Ahsoka as a prisoner. The younglings form a plan to infiltrate the pirate hideout on Florrum."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Avengers Assemble aired "In Deep." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Iron Man and Captain America disguise themselves as villains to infiltrate Red Skull's Cabal, but when their disagreements over strategy cause their cover to get blown, they're forced to take on the entire Cabal alone."
"Iron Man and Captain America disguise themselves as villains to infiltrate Red Skull's Cabal, but when their disagreements over strategy cause their cover to get blown, they're forced to take on the entire Cabal alone."
On this day in 2014, Star Wars: Rebels aired "Gathering Forces." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Kanan and Ezra try to protect an Imperial deserter by distracting the Imperial forces."
"Kanan and Ezra try to protect an Imperial deserter by distracting the Imperial forces."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), DC's Legends Of Tomorrow aired "Outlaw Country." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Legends find Jonah Hex in trouble with his arch-nemesis Quentin Turnbull when they arrive in the Old West."
"The Legends find Jonah Hex in trouble with his arch-nemesis Quentin Turnbull when they arrive in the Old West."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Z Nation aired "Crisis Of Faith." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's fourth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Warren and the others encounter a mysterious stranger who they think is a grave robber, but he's something much more than that."
"Warren and the others encounter a mysterious stranger who they think is a grave robber, but he's something much more than that."
Sorry, folks, I don't "game" (never quite had the hand/eye coordination to be any good at it), but I do respect folks who do. And can there be any greater gaming property than the various worlds of the Star Wars universe? On this day in 2015 the very first incarnation of Star Wars: Battlefront was released to the marketplace. According to our good friends at IMDB.com, here's what all of the buzz was about:
"Join the battle and play an important part in the Star Wars Galaxy. Lead the battle as you fight against the powerful empire in hope to regain freedom for the Galaxy."
"Join the battle and play an important part in the Star Wars Galaxy. Lead the battle as you fight against the powerful empire in hope to regain freedom for the Galaxy."
