The venerable Ralph Meeker leaves behind a resume of over one hundred different screen projects. To be honest, his SciFi credentials are a bit light, but he did appear aboard The Outer Limits and The Alpha Incident (1978). Though he's no longer with us, Meeker was born on this day in 1920. [Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Joseph Campanella was certainly one of the greats as he leaves behind a resume of just under 200 different screen credits. Genre fans might remember him from appearances aboard The Invaders, Night Gallery, Hangar 18 (1980), Earthbound (1981), Airwolf, Superboy, Space Case (1992), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, Hologram Man (1995), and Star Trek: Voyager. Though he's no longer with us, Campanella was born on this day in 1924. [Source: IMDB.com]
Landing a big role in a Star Trek film will always get you a mention so long as I'm penning a SciFi column, even if that means landing a role in one of the least liked Star Trek films. Laurence Luckinbill played Sybok, the half-brother to Spock, in the William Shatner directed motion picture, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier. For all of the film's warts, Luckinbill certainly wasn't one of them: he brought a deep humanity to the role, one that helped rescue the picture from total obscurity and even challenged long-time Trek fans to accept that a Vulcan could not only 'feel' but 'feel deeply.' Here's a scene from YouTube.com: Sybok's first scene. Luckinbill was born on this day in 1934.
One of Barbara Lord's earliest appearances was aboard the classic TV Fantasy program One Step Beyond in 1959. (She'd appear on another episode of the anthology series in 1960.) Additionally, she enjoyed a guest appearance on CBS's late 1980's Fantasy series, Beauty And The Beast. Lord was born on this day in 1937. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Ingrid Pitt is far more well known for her work in horror (Hammer Films, in particular), but she did make two appearances as different characters in the greater Doctor Who universe: once in 1972 and again in 1984. Though she's no longer with us, Pitt was born on this day in 1937.
During the 1980's, actor Jack Kehoe paid a visit to the second incarnation of the Rod Serling classic television show, The Twilight Zone, on CBS. Though he's no longer with us, Kehoe was born on this day in 1938. [Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you will of syndicated programming, but Star Trek: The Next Generation actually made excellent use of the available talent, perhaps some of the finest in all of television for its era. Today's exhibit: the great Michael Cavanaugh enjoyed a few scenes as a starship captain aboard the third season installment, "Tin Man." As far as Science Fiction goes, the actor also paid visits to Airwolf, Amazing Stories, Starman, The X-Files, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman, The Burning Zone, and Epoch (2001). Cavanaugh was born on this day in 1942. [Source: IMDB.com]
Al Matthews is better known around these parts as Sgt. Apone, the tough-talking, cigar-chomping leader who brought the marines to action in Aliens (1987), James Cameron's awesome follow-up to Ridley Scott's original vision of vicious extraterrestrial life. Matthews even reprised the character in the 2013 video game, "Aliens: Colonial Marines." Boo-yah! Here's a mildly NSFW snippet of his performance from YouTube: Apone goes ape! Though he's no longer with us, Matthews was born on this day in 1942, and for those who don't know it Matthews was a real-life war veteran who was the first black marine to be promoted to the level of sergeant while serving his country in Vietnam.
Ah, the genius of Harold Ramis will definitely be missed! The talented writer/actor/director played a key role in the entire Ghostbusters franchise, and SciFi fans may recall he had a funny voiceover performance in the cult flick Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone (1983). Though he's no longer with us, Ramis was born on this day in 1944.
Tiny Ron enjoyed guest spots aboard both Star Trek: Voyager and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine during their respective runs. He also appeared on Alien Nation: Body and Soul (1995) and Sasquatch Mountain (2006). Ron was born on this day in 1947. [Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Deborah Shelton certainly built a resume balancing both genre projects as well as mainstream stuff. Fans might know her best from roles in Nemesis (1992), Plughead Rewired: Circuitry Man II (1994), and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (2006). Shelton was born on this day in 1948. [Source: IMDB.com]
In case you missed it, the 1980's were filled with some pretty terrific mainstream as well as more cult-themed Science Fiction flicks ... one of which was the Tom Selleck vehicle Runaway. It was a solid entry written and directed by kinda/sorta futurist Michael Crichton (yes, THAT Michael Crichton) blending policework, robots, and specially-targeted bullets. Selleck's gal-pal and partner was none other than lovely actress Cynthia Rhodes. Rhodes was born on this day in 1956.
The talented Cherry Jones (above right) played a key role in M. Night Shyamalan's SciFi-themed Signs (2002). Genre fans might know her better from appearances in Fox TV's 24 and NBC's Awake. Jones was born on this day in 1956.
With over thirty years in the entertainment business, Brian McNamara has had the good fortune of appearing in many different franchises, Science Fiction and beyond. Fans might recognize him from his work in Short Circuit (1986), Arachnophobia (1990), Time Trax, Sliders, NightMan, and Star Trek: Voyager. McNamara was born on this day in 1960.
Pretty as a picture Nicollette Sheridan heated up the small screen in the SciFi/Drama Virus aka Formula of Death (1995). Sheridan was born on this day in 1963.
The talented Liza Tarbuck lent her voice to the character of 'Captain Kaliko' aboard one of the animated incarnations of Doctor Who: The Infinite Quest (2007). Tarbuck was born on this day in 1964. [Source: IMDB.com]
Dr. Bashir was always a bit of an odd duck to me. When he first showed up on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, he was kinda/sorta ... well ... loopy, for lack of a better word. I'd read somewheres that producers had initially intended his sexuality to be ... well ... let's just say "of a curious persuasion" and leave it at that. Apparently, this character trait never quite got fleshed out properly, and that's why he seemed a bit flighty in those early episodes.
Anyway, Alexander Siddig -- Bashir's real-world counterpart -- has had some bones to pick about his participation in the Trek franchise and how it's affected his career, but I thought he did the best he could with the material that they gave him. Siddig was born on this day in 1965.
Anyway, Alexander Siddig -- Bashir's real-world counterpart -- has had some bones to pick about his participation in the Trek franchise and how it's affected his career, but I thought he did the best he could with the material that they gave him. Siddig was born on this day in 1965.
The lovely Tamara Gorski has definitely established some solid in-roads into the world of Science Fiction and Fantasy by appearing in such projects as Dracula: The Series, The Lost World (1992), Return To The Lost World (1992), The Hidden Room, Highlander, Forever Knight, PSI Factor: Chronicles Of The Paranormal, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Poltergeist: The Legacy, Earth: Final Conflict, Angel, Witchblade, and Man With The Screaming Brain (2005). Gorski was born on this day in 1968. [Source: IMDB.com]
Victoria Gabrielle Platt played a role in the CW's SciFi-themed teen romance Star-Crossed in the 2014 TV season. Platt was born on this day in 1972.
I wasn't one of the SciFi fans who went gaga all over HBO's Westworld in its inaugural season. (FYI: Season 2 was downright incoherent.) Being perfectly frank, I thought the first season's pacing was awful, and the go-round of episodes ended pretty much where it began. However, I've always been a fan of actor Jimmi Simpson's work (above left), and here's hoping he finds a way to hang around genre projects while he has the chance. Simpson was born on this day in 1975.
Scottish actress Lisa McAllister found herself trapped between a croc and a hard place in the SciFi-telefilm Robocroc for TV4 and UFO International Productions. McAllister was born on this day in 1980.
God bless our cosplay lovelies! One of the greatest things about loving genre work is that some of the world's talented actresses and actors get to dress up as our heroes; and this has given rise to the field of professional cosplay, of which the delicious Ashley Mary Nunes obviously is a 'Jedi Master' all of her own making. Furthermore, she continues to seek out and explores acting gigs all of her own, some of which fall into the realm of Science Fiction. Nunes was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
Ryan Carnes suited up to fight crime aboard the Fantasy-themed The Phantom in 2009. He's also enjoyed screen time aboard Doctor Who. Carnes was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
When she was little more than a munchkin, bombshell Lindsay Haun made multiple holographic appearances in the Delta Quadrant on TV's Star Trek: Voyager. She was but "one of the children" in Capt. Janeway's wildly imaginative holographic novels. The actress went on to appear in more mainstream fare, including stops on Alias and HBO's True Blood. Haun was born on this day in 1984.
In these past few years, Jena Malone has certainly slipped effortlessly into the realm of genre entertainment without missing a creative beat. She's made appearances in such projects as Zak Snyder's Sucker Punch as well as The Hunger Games franchise. She's even had a small role in Snyder's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Malone was born on this day in 1984.
On this day in 1931 (in the U.S.), the original SciFi/Horror classic Frankenstein enjoyed its theatrical release. James Whale directed the motion picture from an adaptation of the Mary Shelley novel, and the feature starred Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, and Boris Karloff. For those born on an island, here's the plot summary as provided by the folks at IMDB.com:
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
"Henry Frankenstein is a doctor who is trying to discover a way to make the dead walk. He succeeds and creates a monster that has to deal with living again."
For the record:
In 1991, Frankenstein was inducted into the National Film Registry of the U.S. Library of Congress. The National Film Registry seeks to preserve films based on their historical, cultural, and aesthetic contributions to history.
A star is born! On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the unearthing of The Mole People! Directed by Virgil W. Vogel, the SciFi/Horror starred John Agar, Cynthia Patrick, and Hugh Beaumont. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A party of archaeologists discovers the remnants of a mutant five-millennia-old Sumerian civilization living beneath a glacier atop a mountain in Mesopotamia."
"A party of archaeologists discovers the remnants of a mutant five-millennia-old Sumerian civilization living beneath a glacier atop a mountain in Mesopotamia."
On this day in 1966 (in Sweden), Around The World Under The Sea enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Andrew Marton, the SciFi film starred Lloyd Bridges and David McCallum, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The crew of a five-man submarine travels the world oceans, planting sensors on the ocean floor to warn scientists of any impending earthquakes."
"The crew of a five-man submarine travels the world oceans, planting sensors on the ocean floor to warn scientists of any impending earthquakes."
A star is born! On this day in 1972 (in the U.S.), Gargoyles took flight with its first television broadcast airing ever. Directed by Bill Norton (who has a long history in genre television), the Fantasy feature starred Cornel Wilde, Jennifer Salt, and Bernie Casey. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An anthropologist/paleontologist and his daughter, while travelling through the southwestern U.S., stumble upon a colony of living, breathing gargoyles."
For the record:
While I cannot attest to the fact that I have definitely seen Gargoyles, I do believe this one was a flick I watched when it aired on the Boob Tube back in my youth. In 1973, the telefilm took home the Primetime Emmy in the category of 'Outstanding Achievement In Makeup.' Also, the feature enjoyed a nomination for the 1973 Eddie Award (sponsored by the American Cinema Editors) in the category of 'Best Edited Television Special.'
"An anthropologist/paleontologist and his daughter, while travelling through the southwestern U.S., stumble upon a colony of living, breathing gargoyles."
For the record:
While I cannot attest to the fact that I have definitely seen Gargoyles, I do believe this one was a flick I watched when it aired on the Boob Tube back in my youth. In 1973, the telefilm took home the Primetime Emmy in the category of 'Outstanding Achievement In Makeup.' Also, the feature enjoyed a nomination for the 1973 Eddie Award (sponsored by the American Cinema Editors) in the category of 'Best Edited Television Special.'
On this day in 1974 (in the United Kingdom), the good people of London enjoyed a special theatrical engagement of The Clones. Written (in part) and directed by the team of Lamar Card and Paul Hunt, the SciFi/Thriller starred Michael Greene, Gregory Sierra, and Otis Young. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist discovers a plot to clone other scientists so the government can control the weather."
"A scientist discovers a plot to clone other scientists so the government can control the weather."
On this day in 1979 (in the Netherlands), Sammy's Super T-Shirt brought a kid-friendly excursion into the world of the Superhero movie. Directed by Jeremy Summers, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Reggie Winch, Lawrie Mark, and David Young. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young boy's lucky t-shirt is transformed through a power surge and gives its wearer super-powers."
"A young boy's lucky t-shirt is transformed through a power surge and gives its wearer super-powers."
On this day in 1980, the cult SciFi/Musical The Apple enjoyed its U.S. premiere. The feature starred Catherine Mary Stewart and Grace Kennedy, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 1994, a young couple enters the world of the music industry, and subsequently the world of drugs."
"In 1994, a young couple enters the world of the music industry, and subsequently the world of drugs."
On this day in 1980 (in West Germany), Tourist Trap gave audiences a look at some visual frights. Written (in part) and directed by David Schmoeller, the Fantasy/Horror starred Chuck Connors, Jocelyn Jones, and Jon Van Ness. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of young friends stranded at a secluded roadside museum are stalked by a masked assailant who uses his telekenetic powers to control the attraction's mannequins."
"A group of young friends stranded at a secluded roadside museum are stalked by a masked assailant who uses his telekenetic powers to control the attraction's mannequins."
On this day in 1985 (in West Germany), Legend enjoyed achieving its legendary status as a Cult/Fantasy with audiences. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film starred Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, and Tim Curry, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A demon who seeks to create eternal night by destroying the last of the unicorns and marrying a fairy Princess is opposed by the forest boy Jack and his elven allies in this magical fantasy."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of being provided an incredible Blu-ray DVD re-release of Legend in 2021 from Arrow Video. I penned a review of the U.S. Theatrical Version which readers can find right here.
More for the record:
Legend enjoyed a singular Oscar Award for 'Best Make-up,' but the trophy went elsewhere that year. It secured three nominations from the 1986 BAFTA Awards: 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Make Up Artist,' and 'Best Special Visual Effects.' (Again, no wins.) Lastly, it secured the nomination for 'Best Make-up' also from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films ... but lost there as well. Sigh.
"A demon who seeks to create eternal night by destroying the last of the unicorns and marrying a fairy Princess is opposed by the forest boy Jack and his elven allies in this magical fantasy."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of being provided an incredible Blu-ray DVD re-release of Legend in 2021 from Arrow Video. I penned a review of the U.S. Theatrical Version which readers can find right here.
More for the record:
Legend enjoyed a singular Oscar Award for 'Best Make-up,' but the trophy went elsewhere that year. It secured three nominations from the 1986 BAFTA Awards: 'Best Costume Design,' 'Best Make Up Artist,' and 'Best Special Visual Effects.' (Again, no wins.) Lastly, it secured the nomination for 'Best Make-up' also from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films ... but lost there as well. Sigh.
On this day in 1985 (in Hong Kong and Norway), Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome enjoyed its theatrical release. The SciFi/Thriller starred Mel Gibson as Max himself, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
On this day in 1985 (in Portugal), The Last Starfighter soared on to the silver screen. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
"Video game expert Alex Rogan finds himself transported to another planet after conquering The Last Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test. He was recruited to join the team of best starfighters to defend their world from the attack."
On this day in 1986 (in Japan), the SciFi/Horror Breeders enjoyed its release on home video. The feature starred Teresa Farley and Lance Lewman, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"The Manhattan General Hospital has admitted a string of young women who have been raped by something otherworldly. The perpetrator only attacks women who are virgins. Dr. Pace and Detective Andriotti work together to try and isolate the strange organic material found on the victims, and to try and locate the fiend. Soon the victims begin arising in a trance and leaving the hospital by an underground passage where their fate awaits them."
"The Manhattan General Hospital has admitted a string of young women who have been raped by something otherworldly. The perpetrator only attacks women who are virgins. Dr. Pace and Detective Andriotti work together to try and isolate the strange organic material found on the victims, and to try and locate the fiend. Soon the victims begin arising in a trance and leaving the hospital by an underground passage where their fate awaits them."
A star is born! On this day in 1986 (in Canada), Captain Kirk took his crew on a trip into the past in order to save the future with the silver screen premiere of Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. Written (in part) and directed by star Leonard Nimoy, the SciFi/Comedy starred William Shatner, DeForest Kelley, and Catherine Hicks. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"To save Earth from an alien probe, Admiral James T. Kirk and his fugitive crew go back in time to San Francisco in 1986 to retrieve the only beings who can communicate with it: humpback whales."
For the record:
Star Trek IV enjoys the distinction of both being popular with longtime fans as well as viewers who weren't traditional fans of the franchise, and this is owed largely to the fact that its heart (and comedy) are in the right place. At the 1987 Academy Awards, the film was nominated for an impressive four Oscars in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' and 'Best Cinematography.' For the 1987 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the nominations were indeed plentiful as the flick enjoyed an incredible eleven citations. Granted, it only took home the trophy for 'Best Costumes,' but the fact that it was nominated in ten other categories speaks volumes. Lastly, it did enjoy a nomination for the 1987 Hugo Awards for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"To save Earth from an alien probe, Admiral James T. Kirk and his fugitive crew go back in time to San Francisco in 1986 to retrieve the only beings who can communicate with it: humpback whales."
For the record:
Star Trek IV enjoys the distinction of both being popular with longtime fans as well as viewers who weren't traditional fans of the franchise, and this is owed largely to the fact that its heart (and comedy) are in the right place. At the 1987 Academy Awards, the film was nominated for an impressive four Oscars in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' and 'Best Cinematography.' For the 1987 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the nominations were indeed plentiful as the flick enjoyed an incredible eleven citations. Granted, it only took home the trophy for 'Best Costumes,' but the fact that it was nominated in ten other categories speaks volumes. Lastly, it did enjoy a nomination for the 1987 Hugo Awards for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), The Wraith enjoyed its very first theatrical release of record. Written and directed by Mike Marvin, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Charlie Sheen, Sherilyn Fenn, and Randy Quaid. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a small town in Arizona, a mysterious man/spirit descends from the sky and manifests in a sports car and targets a local violent road-racing gang of motor heads, headed by a ruthless bully who'll do anything to get what he wants."
"In a small town in Arizona, a mysterious man/spirit descends from the sky and manifests in a sports car and targets a local violent road-racing gang of motor heads, headed by a ruthless bully who'll do anything to get what he wants."
I know folks who believe that Predator 2 was a better installment than the original Predator movie -- for the most part, they felt the first adventure was too formulaic -- but, for my tastes, it'll always be the lesser of the two flicks. I thought the big city setting was a terrific departure from the jungle of the original; I just didn't think they made best use of all of the alternatives presented in the story. Still, some Predator is better than no Predator, eh? The film opened on this day in 1990.
For my thoughts on Predator 2, you can check out the film's 'Flushback' right here.
For my thoughts on Predator 2, you can check out the film's 'Flushback' right here.
On this day in 1990 (in the U.S.), man-on-man fighting morphed into robot-on-robot action with the theatrical release of Robot Jox. Written (in part) and directed by Stuart Gordon, the SciFi/Thriller starred Gary Graham, Anne-Marie Johnson, and Paul Koslo. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the distant future, mankind has forsaken global wars for battles of single combat. The world has been divided into two opposing super powers, with each side represented by trained champions."
"In the distant future, mankind has forsaken global wars for battles of single combat. The world has been divided into two opposing super powers, with each side represented by trained champions."
On this day in 1990, the SciFi/Telefilm Running Against Time was aired on the Boob Tube. The film starred Robert Hays and Catherine Hicks, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"History professor David Rhodes never has got over the death of his older brother, 1966 in Vietnam. When he hears the rumor that a famous professor is working on a time machine, he immediately contacts him and persuades him to allow him to travel back in time and correct history. If he could save President Kennedy's life, Vietnam war might never have happened!"
"History professor David Rhodes never has got over the death of his older brother, 1966 in Vietnam. When he hears the rumor that a famous professor is working on a time machine, he immediately contacts him and persuades him to allow him to travel back in time and correct history. If he could save President Kennedy's life, Vietnam war might never have happened!"
On this day in 1991 (in Germany), Quest For The Mighty Sword moved from the silver screen to a release on home video. Written and directed by Joe D'Amato, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Eric Allan Kramer, Margaret Lenzey, and Donald O'Brien. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Once upon a time a god gave a mighty sword to the king of Aquiles to bring justice to his people. Now he wants it back - but the king rather gives his life than the sword."
"Once upon a time a god gave a mighty sword to the king of Aquiles to bring justice to his people. Now he wants it back - but the king rather gives his life than the sword."
A star is born! On this day in 1995, Cyber Bandits enjoyed its U.S. premiere on home video. Directed by Erik Fleming, the feature starred Martin Kemp, Grace Jones, and Alexandra Paul. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A navigator aboard a millionaire's yacht, Jack Morris discovers that the millionaire's mistress has stolen the data for his secret Virtual Reality. To escape, they encrypt, miniaturize, and tattoo the data onto Jack's PL:back. The pair share a VR adventure on the run from the Millionaire's thugs, meeting up with a wild series of characters."
"A navigator aboard a millionaire's yacht, Jack Morris discovers that the millionaire's mistress has stolen the data for his secret Virtual Reality. To escape, they encrypt, miniaturize, and tattoo the data onto Jack's PL:back. The pair share a VR adventure on the run from the Millionaire's thugs, meeting up with a wild series of characters."
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), the 1983-produced Chinese Horror/Fantasy The Boxer's Omen enjoyed a U.S. release. Written (in part) and directed by Chih-Hung Kuei, the film starred Phillip Ko, Shao-Yen Lin, and Kar-Man Wai. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While in Thailand to avenge his brother who was crippled in a fight with a corrupt Thai boxer, a man gets caught up in a web of fate, Buddhism and black magic."
"While in Thailand to avenge his brother who was crippled in a fight with a corrupt Thai boxer, a man gets caught up in a web of fate, Buddhism and black magic."
A star is born! On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), the entire Ben 10 franchise grew by yet another telefilm with the release of Ben 10: Race Against Time. Directed by Alex Winter, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Graham Phillips, Christien Anholt, and Haley Ramm. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Ben Tennyson returns home from summer vacation only to discover that a rapidly aging alien criminal named, Eon, is planning to use an ancient alien artifact to destroy Bellwood."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Ben 10: Race Against Time enjoyed a bit of praise -- in the form of nominations -- from various service organizations in the film industry.
"Ben Tennyson returns home from summer vacation only to discover that a rapidly aging alien criminal named, Eon, is planning to use an ancient alien artifact to destroy Bellwood."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Ben 10: Race Against Time enjoyed a bit of praise -- in the form of nominations -- from various service organizations in the film industry.
On this day in 2012, the animated Fantasy-themed Rise Of The Guardians enjoyed its U.S. theatrical premiere. The feature starred the talents of Hugh Jackman and Isla Fisher, and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"When the evil spirit Pitch launches an assault on Earth, the Immortal Guardians team up to protect the innocence of children all around the world."
"When the evil spirit Pitch launches an assault on Earth, the Immortal Guardians team up to protect the innocence of children all around the world."
On this day in 2013 (in Portugal), the 1968-produced 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke and director Stanley Kubrick, the feature starred Keir Dullea, William Sylvester, and Gary Lockwood,. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
On this day in 2014, The Frame enjoyed its home video release in the countries of Germany, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Written and directed by Jamin Winans, the SciFi/Fantasy starred David Carranza and Cal Bartlett, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two strangers find their lives colliding in an impossible way. Alex is a methodical cargo thief working for a dangerous cartel. Sam is a determined paramedic trying to save the world while running from her past."
"Two strangers find their lives colliding in an impossible way. Alex is a methodical cargo thief working for a dangerous cartel. Sam is a determined paramedic trying to save the world while running from her past."
In all honesty, I really think the best thing about the whole Hunger Games franchise remains Jennifer Lawrence. She made for a terrific heroine. As for the story? Meh. Take it, leave it. It's all the same to me. On this day in 2014, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 opened theatrically, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Katniss Everdeen is in District 13 after she shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta and a nation moved by her courage."
"Katniss Everdeen is in District 13 after she shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta and a nation moved by her courage."
On this day in 2018 (in Turkey), Bird Box enjoyed a release via the Internet. Directed by Susanne Bier, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, and John Malkovich. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Five years after an ominous unseen presence drives most of society to suicide, a mother and her two children make a desperate bid to reach safety."
"Five years after an ominous unseen presence drives most of society to suicide, a mother and her two children make a desperate bid to reach safety."
On this day in 1953, Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired "The Beacon Of Danger." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the adventure's plot summary:
"An unscrupulous mechanic tampers with shipping lane warning beacons in hopes of luring a treasure liner to crash in a debris field."
"An unscrupulous mechanic tampers with shipping lane warning beacons in hopes of luring a treasure liner to crash in a debris field."
On this day in 1964, the Daleks brought it all home on Doctor Who with the airing of "World's End." This served as the fourth episode to the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Ian and Barbara believe the TARDIS has finally returned to their contemporary London, but soon discover signs of plague and warfare. Their old enemies, the Daleks, have invaded the Earth of the 22nd century. Separated and fighting for their lives, the travelers must try to aid the remaining humans and overthrow the Daleks' cruel tyranny."
"Ian and Barbara believe the TARDIS has finally returned to their contemporary London, but soon discover signs of plague and warfare. Their old enemies, the Daleks, have invaded the Earth of the 22nd century. Separated and fighting for their lives, the travelers must try to aid the remaining humans and overthrow the Daleks' cruel tyranny."
On this day in 1986, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Westride." This (technically) served as the program's fifty-second episode (they were aired wildly out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A new region is about to be settled. People come to stake a claim and others arrive to steal the land."
"A new region is about to be settled. People come to stake a claim and others arrive to steal the land."
Q came back on this day in 1987 with a plan to woo Commander Riker to join the Continuum in the episode "Hide and Q." Here's the preview from Star Trek: The Next Generation's first season episode, compliments of Youtube: Hide and Q
On this day in 1988, War of the Worlds aired "To Heal The Leper." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Martians encounter another human disease, chicken pox which is crippling their invasion plans. They decide by harvesting human brains so they can produce a cure that will put the invasion back on track. Harrison's team race against time to stop them completing their project."
"The Martians encounter another human disease, chicken pox which is crippling their invasion plans. They decide by harvesting human brains so they can produce a cure that will put the invasion back on track. Harrison's team race against time to stop them completing their project."
On this day in 1993, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman aired "The Man Of Steel Bars." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by IMDB.com:
"During an unnaturally extreme winter heat wave, Superman is accused of being the cause."
"During an unnaturally extreme winter heat wave, Superman is accused of being the cause."
Commander Sisko finds himself attracted to a woman who keeps disappearing on him in the 2nd season episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine titled "Second Sight." The episode first aired in TV syndication on this day in 1993. Here's the preview from Youtube.com: Second Sight
One year later (1994), Thomas Riker came aboard the Cardassian space station with an agenda all of his own, stealing the Defiant and heading off to fight the Maquis in "Defiant." The episode first aired in syndication on this day back then. Here's a brief snippet from the episode over on Youtube.com: Brief sequence from "Defiant"
It all came down to this: on this day in 1994, Robocop: The Series aired its finale. It was titled "Public Enemies," and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"RoboCop must save the President and First Gentleman from an assassiantion plot hatched by Dr. Mallardo, Chip Chayken, and Pudface Morgan."
"RoboCop must save the President and First Gentleman from an assassiantion plot hatched by Dr. Mallardo, Chip Chayken, and Pudface Morgan."
On this day in 2000, Dark Angel aired "Prodigy." This served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Max and Donald Lydecker are taken hostages at a convention. Logan decides to trade himself as a hostage for all the women. Max decides to stay and ends up helping Logan when the terrorists push him off the roof of the building. She also does the unexpected when she saves Lydecker from being shot in the head."
"Max and Donald Lydecker are taken hostages at a convention. Logan decides to trade himself as a hostage for all the women. Max decides to stay and ends up helping Logan when the terrorists push him off the roof of the building. She also does the unexpected when she saves Lydecker from being shot in the head."
On this day in 2001, Star Trek: Enterprise continued its voyage into mediocrity with the airing of "Fortunate Son." This served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TrekCore.com:
"Enterprise must intervene when the leader of a human freighter crew sets out for revenge against alien pirates."
"Enterprise must intervene when the leader of a human freighter crew sets out for revenge against alien pirates."
On this day in 2008, Syfy's Sanctuary aired "Edward." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Henry comes to terms with his abnormal side, Ashley works through her feelings about her parents, and Will helps a young autistic man whose father possibly shot himself."
"Henry comes to terms with his abnormal side, Ashley works through her feelings about her parents, and Will helps a young autistic man whose father possibly shot himself."
