Can you believe it's actually been all the way since 1997 that Ellen Ripley fought her last battle against the alien menace in Alien Resurrection? Yes, I realize that the film wasn't received all that well, but, as always, that doesn't impede my enjoyment of it. Personally, I thought it was a nice set-up for something grand that could've followed -- finally waging a full-out war across Earth with mankind facing the aliens -- but I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
The lovely Frances Dee found herself in a dangerous place with her work aboard the Fantasy/Horror feature I Walked With A Zombie (1943) for RKO Radio Pictures. Though she's no longer with us, Dee was born on this day in 1909.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
1984's version of 1984 gave many talented actors the chance to bring George Orwell's Science Fiction classic to big screen life, and one of those players was the venerable Cyril Cusack. Interestingly enough, the man also played a role in bringing 1966's version of Fahrenheit 451 to cinemas. Though he's no longer with us, Cusack was born on this day in 1910.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With nicknames like 'The Eyeful' and 'The Girl With The Million Dollar Legs,' the lovely Adele Jergens certainly knew how to deliver a command performance. Genre fans might know her best from a big role in Bud Abbott And Lou Costello Meet The Invisible Man (1951) for Universal Pictures or 1955's Day The World Ended for Golden State Productions. Though she's no longer with us, Jergens was born on this day in 1917.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of the very first Science Fiction books I read was Frederik Pohl's Gateway. His 1977 novel about risking one's life and liberty in return for only a single chance at striking it rich was a delight, and it garnered four different 'Best of the Year' book awards from different organizations. If you haven't read it, I encourage you to do so because it's characters and themes are as timely today as they were back then, and that's certainly one of the hallmarks of truly great literature. Though he's no longer with us, Pohl was born on this day in 1919.
Betta St. John found herself in the middle of some prime Action/Fantasy with roles in not one but two differing Tarzan projects: Tarzan And The Lost Safari (1957) and Tarzan The Magnificent (1960). As far as genre entries go, she also served time in such properties as Corridors Of Blood (1958) and The Invisible Man. St. John was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I've had the good fortune of seeing professional voice impersonator Rich Little live once in a family trip to Las Vegas, Nevada. He put on a very good show, though I think a lot of his voices were a bit dated for the audience today. Still, kudos to those talented folks who enjoy some career longevity! Little was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Songstress Tina Turner made a big splash in sci-fi fandom when she went mano-a-mano (so to speak) against Mel 'the Man' Gibson himself. Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome saw our intrepid driver-of-the-Apocalypse befriending a tribe of children and trying to deliver them to safety out of the conniving hands of Aunty Entity (Turner). Though she's no longer with us, Turner was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Character actor Mark Margolis hasn't done a wealth of Science Fiction in his impressive career, but when he has he's always turned in something imminently watchable. Fans may recognize him from parts in Quantum Leap, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and 12 Monkeys (Syfy). Though he's no longer with us, Margolis was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Michael Gregory is one of those great bit players who I remember always showing up in roles of authority. Mind you: he may not have been the most qualified 'voice of authority' on the scene, and sometimes he played it for laughs when the moment required it. In any event, fans might recognize him from work aboard Escape From DS-3 (1981), Voyagers!, Manimal, Automan, RoboCop (1987), Quantum Leap, Total Recall (1990), The Lawnmower Man (1992), and Tales From The Crypt. He's also done a wealth of voiceovers for animation and video games. Gregory was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In Star Trek: The Next Generation's impressive seven-year run, many great actors were given the chance to hop aboard in exceptional guest starring roles, one of which was the great Daniel Davis. He played Professor Moriarity, a holographic creation originally designed to defeat Data's Sherlock Holmes. He reprised the role in an attempt to become a real being, and part of me wonders if he isn't a character worth revisiting again in TNG books or graphic novels. Davis was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Okay ... maybe it's a bit morbid ... but I still think it's cool for an actor or actress to suffer some kind of big death scene in genre films, especially when your attacker is none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger himself! That's what Marianne Muellerleile has to her resume, as she turned up under the name of 'Sarah Connor' in James Cameron's The Terminator (1984). Alas, she was the wrong 'Sarah Connor,' but she was still in the right place at the wrong time to catch a bullet. Still, the talented lady has enjoyed a long career, amassing well over two hundred different screen roles to her name. Muellerleile was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Juanin Clay was actually a frontrunner to assume the role of Commander Wilma Deering in the Buck Rogers in the 25th Century franchise. As fate would have it, the part eventually went to Erin Gray, but that didn't keep Clay from making a guest appearance on the popular program in its heyday. She also made appearances in 1981's The Legend of the Lone Ranger and 1983's WarGames. Though she's no longer with us, Clay was born on this day in 1949.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alas, I don't watch as many comedies as I used to. One of the reasons is that I just don't find many things all that humorous these days, but I do gravitate toward a few comic actors whose very presence can usually get me chuckling. Such as talent is Don Lake, who often shows up in small roles requiring near-perfect comic sensibilities. He doesn't do much genre work, but fans might know him from Blue Monkey (1987), The Rocket Boy (1989), Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), Super Mario Bros. (1993), RocketMan (1997), Avalon High (2010), and Space Force. To his credit, he's also done work in both the animated and live action Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventures television series. Lake was born on this day in 1956.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sadly, Jamie Rose's career has only allowed her to flirt with Science Fiction, but hey we'll take it when we can get it! She's enjoyed roles aboard Amazing Stories, Hard Time on Planet Earth, Viper, The Sentinel, and Crusade (the Babylon 5 spinoff series). Rose was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Garcelle Beauvais muscled her way into a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe aboard 2017's Spider-Man: Homecoming, and she's also served time aboard 10.5: Apocalypse (2006), Grimm, and The Magicians for good measure. Beauvais was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though Kristin Bauer van Straten is no doubt best remembered as the duplicitous vampire Pam De Beaufort on HBO's True Blood, she has given SciFi fans a few performances to howl over, most notably guest spots aboard Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Dark Angel, and Star Trek: Enterprise. Van Straten was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adam Harrington has a knack for making great turns in small roles, so much so I have to ask, "Can't we just get this guy a franchise already?" He's scored points aboard Millennium, Welcome To Paradox, Viper, NightMan, The Outer Limits, Y2K, First Wave, Seven Days, Stargate: SG-1, Andromeda, The Dead Zone, Jeremiah, Smallville, and Supernatural. Harrington was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
To know genre entertainment is to know the work of the formidable Ryan Robbins. With over one hundred credits to his name, Robbins has book quality screen time in such projects as Millennium, Strange World, The Net, Seven Days, Dark Angel, The Outer Limits (2001), Jeremiah, Taken (2002), The Twilight Zone (2003), Smallville, Battlestar Galactica, Paycheck (2003), Supernatural, Blade: The Series, Stargate: Atlantis, Sanctuary, Aliens Vs. Predator: Requiem (2007), Caprica, Apollo 18 (2011), The Philadelpha Experiment (2012), Falling Skies, Ascension, Continuum, and Arrow. In short, Robbins remains one of the mainstays of Science Fiction. He was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Recently, Peter Facinelli joined CBS's Supergirl in the role of Maxwell Lord, the villainous wealthy playboy who might spell certain doom for the program's feminine Big Blue. Facinelli was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Leslye Headland -- Hollywood bad girl and the former executive assistant of convicted sex offender Harvey Weinstein -- brought her particular brand of -- ahem -- sexual wizardry to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: The Acolyte on Disney+, a show that many longtime fans suggest signalled the bitter end of a once beloved franchise. Headland was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adult film temptress Aurora Snow braved a rather -- ahem -- randy version of the Final Frontier with her work aboard This Ain't Star Trek XXX (2009) for Hustler Video. Snow was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Jessica Camacho made good playing bad for her part aboard The CW's superhero drama The Flash in the guise of 'Gypsy' in a recurring guest spot. Camacho was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In his youth, Trevor Morgan faced the wild that was Jurassic Park III and lived to tell about it. He also faced down some curious kidnappers in the SciFi chiller Abducted (2013). Morgan was born on this day in 1986.
From time to time, the lovely Tamsin Egerton circles close to the realm of Fantasy. She's enjoyed roles aboard The Mists of Avalon (TV miniseries), Eragon (uncredited), and Starz's unappreciated version of Camelot. Egerton was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The hunky Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson uses his considerable size to menace the lands of Westeros aboard HBO's stellar Game Of Thrones in the guise of 'Gregor Clegane.' Björnsson was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
British singer/songwriter Rita Ora took some time away from music to dabble in the world of Fantasy with a role aboard Pokemon Detective Pikachu (2019) for Warner Bros. Ora was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born ... but this one looks pure evil!
On this day in 1953 (in the United Kingdom), Meet Mr. Lucifer mixed Fantasy and Comedy with curious results. Directed by Anthony Pelissier, the film starred Stanley Holloway, Peggy Cummins, and Jack Watling. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A television given as a retirement present is sold on to different households, causing misery each time."
"A television given as a retirement present is sold on to different households, causing misery each time."
On this day in 1958 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to the theatrical release of From The Earth To The Moon. Adapted from the work of Jules Verne, the film was directed by Byron Haskin and starred Joseph Cotten, Geroge Sanders, and Debra Paget. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1868, American inventor Victor Barbicane develops a powerful military explosive that he also uses as fuel for a moon-bound rocket manned by himself and a motley crew."
"In 1868, American inventor Victor Barbicane develops a powerful military explosive that he also uses as fuel for a moon-bound rocket manned by himself and a motley crew."
On this day in 1962 (in Denmark), Hercules went 'down under' -- of a different variety -- with the cinematic release of Hercules In The Haunted World. Written (in part) and directed by Mario Bava, the Fantasy/Adventure starred Reg Park, Christopher Lee, and Leonora Ruffo. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hercules must journey into Hades itself to retrieve the magic stone that will free his love from the powers of darkness."
"Hercules must journey into Hades itself to retrieve the magic stone that will free his love from the powers of darkness."
On this day in 1971 (in West Germany), the end was near with the theatrical release of The Omega Man. Adapted from the SciFi/Fantasy novel by Richard Matheson, the film was directed by Boris Sagal and starred Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, and Rosalind Cash. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
A star is born!
On this day in 1974 (in Thailland), Hanuman Vs. 7 Ultraman (aka Urutora 6-kyodai tai kaijû gundan) enjoyed its big screen launch. Directed by Sompote Sands and Shohei Tôjô from a story by Bunzô Wakatsuki, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Ko Kaeoduendee, Anan Pricha, and Yodchai Meksuwan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Hindu god Hanuman teams up with Ultraman and his brethren against familiar Ultra-foes in this rare Ultraman movie co-produced in Thailand."
"The Hindu god Hanuman teams up with Ultraman and his brethren against familiar Ultra-foes in this rare Ultraman movie co-produced in Thailand."
A star is born!
On this day in 1977 (in Japan), The Visitor In The Eye (aka Hitomi no naka no houmonsha) enjoyed its only theatrical airing of record, if IMDB.com is to be trusted with accurate information. Directed by Nobuhiko Ôbayashi from a story by Osamu Tezuka and James Miki, the SciFi/Mystery starred Jô Shishido, Nagisa Katahira, and Shingo Yamamoto. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Komori Tiaki is a budding tennis student. However, one day in training her coach hits the ball into her eye accidentally. She is taken to hospital but is advised that she will never regain the sight in her eye."
"Komori Tiaki is a budding tennis student. However, one day in training her coach hits the ball into her eye accidentally. She is taken to hospital but is advised that she will never regain the sight in her eye."
A star is born!
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), A Fire In The Sky aired on television as yet one more look into mysterious comets heading on a collision course for Earth! Directed by Jerry Jameson, the film Richard Crenna, Elizabeth Ashley, and David Dukes. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Astronomers discover a comet that they believe will crash into Phoenix, Arizona. They attempt to warn officials, but no one believes them."
"Astronomers discover a comet that they believe will crash into Phoenix, Arizona. They attempt to warn officials, but no one believes them."
On this day in 1980 (in France), Without Warning was unleashed on audiences ... without any warning! Directed by Greydon Clark from a script by Lyn Freeman, Daniel Grodnik, and Bennett Tramer, the feature film starred Jack Palance, Martin Landau, and Tarah Nutter. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sandy and Greg are teenagers who go camping, despite warnings not to, with their friends. They soon encounter aliens, who are using the area as a hunting ground."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Without Warning in 2022 with a newly updated home video release. If you're interested in my thoughts on the film, you can find my review right here.
"Sandy and Greg are teenagers who go camping, despite warnings not to, with their friends. They soon encounter aliens, who are using the area as a hunting ground."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Without Warning in 2022 with a newly updated home video release. If you're interested in my thoughts on the film, you can find my review right here.
A star is born ... and this one had wheels!
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Solarbabies raced onto the silver screen. Directed by Alan Johnson from a story by Walon Green and D.A. Metrov, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Richard Jordan, Jami Gertz, and Jason Patric. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-apocalyptic future ruled by the military, a group of renegade teenage orphans find a legendary orb, Bohdai, that can supposedly bring the rain back to dried up Earth."
"In a post-apocalyptic future ruled by the military, a group of renegade teenage orphans find a legendary orb, Bohdai, that can supposedly bring the rain back to dried up Earth."
On this day in 1986, the original crew of the Starship Enterprise returned to the big screen. Having experienced death and resurrection, it was time to 'lighten things up' a bit, and that's precisely what Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home did. It presented an epic story -- all mankind on Earth facing extinction -- that gave our intrepid heroes a chance to, once again, save life as we know it and teach a lesson to anyone watching.
Plus, it had some really great laughs!
Plus, it had some really great laughs!
On this day in 1986 (in Portugal), mankind was served up another look at the Apocalypse with Wheels Of Fire. (FYI: this was not the film's original theatrical premiere, however.) The SciFi feature starred Gary Watkins and Laura Banks, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In a postapocalyptic future, a ruthless vehicular gang called the Highway Warriors is conquering the wasteland through murder and plunder. During a raid, they kidnap the sister of a road warrior named Trace. He brings hell down upon them."
"In a postapocalyptic future, a ruthless vehicular gang called the Highway Warriors is conquering the wasteland through murder and plunder. During a raid, they kidnap the sister of a road warrior named Trace. He brings hell down upon them."
On this day in 1987 (in West Germany), Cherry 2000 dished out a dose of love by way of its SciFi construct. Directed by Steve De Jarnatt from a script by Michael Almereyda (adapted from a story by Lloyd Fonvielle), the feature starred a young and tough Melanie Griffith teamed up with the always likeable David Andrews, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In 2017, a successful businessman travels to the ends of the earth to find that the perfect woman is always under his nose. He hires a sexy renegade tracker to find an exact duplicate of his android wife."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cherry 2000 enjoyed a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"In 2017, a successful businessman travels to the ends of the earth to find that the perfect woman is always under his nose. He hires a sexy renegade tracker to find an exact duplicate of his android wife."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Cherry 2000 enjoyed a wee bit of love from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1987 (in Uruguay), Mel Brooks' Spaceballs poked fun at all things Science Fiction and Fantasy. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rogue star pilot and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a Princess and save the galaxy from a ruthless race of beings known as Spaceballs."
"A rogue star pilot and his trusty sidekick must come to the rescue of a Princess and save the galaxy from a ruthless race of beings known as Spaceballs."
A star is born!
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Fatherland presented an Alternate History take on Nazi Germany winning World War II. Directed by Christopher Menaul, the feature starred Rutger Hauer, Miranda Richardson, and Peter Vaughan. Here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"Fictional historical account of what might have happened if Adolf Hitler had won the Second World War. Germany has corralled all European countries into a single state called Germania, and continues fighting against the Soviet Union. It is now 1964 and Germany's war crimes against the Jews have so far been kept a secret. Germany believes that an alliance with the United States would finally beat the Soviet war machine. As his 75th birthday approaches, Hitler wants to talk peace with President Joseph Kennedy. An SS homicide detective and an American journalist stumble into a plot to destroy all evidence of the genocide; evidence that could destroy the peace process with America and evidence that Nazi and SS leaders will stop at nothing to keep hidden."
For the record:
In all honesty, Fatherland was a bit of a television sensation as it garnered a good deal of positive praise during its brief time in the limelight.
"Fictional historical account of what might have happened if Adolf Hitler had won the Second World War. Germany has corralled all European countries into a single state called Germania, and continues fighting against the Soviet Union. It is now 1964 and Germany's war crimes against the Jews have so far been kept a secret. Germany believes that an alliance with the United States would finally beat the Soviet war machine. As his 75th birthday approaches, Hitler wants to talk peace with President Joseph Kennedy. An SS homicide detective and an American journalist stumble into a plot to destroy all evidence of the genocide; evidence that could destroy the peace process with America and evidence that Nazi and SS leaders will stop at nothing to keep hidden."
For the record:
In all honesty, Fatherland was a bit of a television sensation as it garnered a good deal of positive praise during its brief time in the limelight.
- At the 1995 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the production enjoyed a nomination in the big, big, big category of 'Best Single Genre Television Presentation.'
- At the 1995 Primetime Emmy Awards, the project earned a solid nomination in the category of Outstanding Individual Achievement - Special Visual Effects.'
- At the 1995 Golden Globes Awards, actress Miranda Richardson took home top honors in the category of 'Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television' while having to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television' and 'Best Miniseries Or Motion Picture Made For Television.'
On this day in 1996 (in Greece), Snake Plissken was in the thick of it again with the theatrical run of Escape From L.A. Written (in part) and directed by John Carpenter, the SciFi/Thriller starred Kurt Russell, Steve Buscemi, and Stacy Keach. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Snake Plissken is once again called in by the United States government to recover a potential doomsday device from Los Angeles, now an autonomous island where undesirables are deported."
For the record:
At the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Escape From L.A. escaped the ceremony with nominations only (no wins) in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also -- at the 1996 Stinkers Awards -- the flick enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Sequel.' Ouch.
"Snake Plissken is once again called in by the United States government to recover a potential doomsday device from Los Angeles, now an autonomous island where undesirables are deported."
For the record:
At the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Escape From L.A. escaped the ceremony with nominations only (no wins) in the categories of 'Best Costumes' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Also -- at the 1996 Stinkers Awards -- the flick enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Worst Sequel.' Ouch.
A star is born ... or is that porn?
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Petticoat Planet enjoyed what little box office it could muster, pard'ner. The Adult/SciFi/Comedy starred Elizabeth Kaitan and Lesli Kay, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A man crash lands on a Western themed planet inhabited by beautiful women."
"A man crash lands on a Western themed planet inhabited by beautiful women."
A star is born!
On this day in 1997 (in Hungary), Johnny 2.0 enjoyed its original commercial release on home video. Directed by Neill Fearnley from a script by Wynne McLaughlin, the SciFi feature starred Jeff Fahey, Michael Ironside, and Tahnee Welch. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Awakening from a 15-year coma, scientist Johnny Dalton (Fahey) discovers that his life has been illusory and that he is merely a clone of the real Dr. Dalton. With the help of rebel leader Nikki Holland (Welch), Dalton sets out to find his maker in a futuristic society fraught with danger and secrecy."
"Awakening from a 15-year coma, scientist Johnny Dalton (Fahey) discovers that his life has been illusory and that he is merely a clone of the real Dr. Dalton. With the help of rebel leader Nikki Holland (Welch), Dalton sets out to find his maker in a futuristic society fraught with danger and secrecy."
A star is born!
On this day in 1997 (in the Philippines), Kokey enjoyed its extraterrestrial reveal to people everywhere. Directed by Romy Suzara, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Carlo Aquino, Mahal, and Ani Pearl Alonzo. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"On their way home, Bong and Anna discover Kokey, an extraterrestrial whose spaceship exploded upon landing on earth. Without their parents' knowledge, the children keep Kokey at home.The three become the best of friends and Kokey turns out to be a big help to the family and their business, attracting customers using his extraterrestrial powers. But Kokey becomes homesick, pointing to the sky in silent tears, missing his parents. He tries to contact them but has no success. Will he ever be reunited with his family? How long can the children keep Kokey a secret?"
"On their way home, Bong and Anna discover Kokey, an extraterrestrial whose spaceship exploded upon landing on earth. Without their parents' knowledge, the children keep Kokey at home.The three become the best of friends and Kokey turns out to be a big help to the family and their business, attracting customers using his extraterrestrial powers. But Kokey becomes homesick, pointing to the sky in silent tears, missing his parents. He tries to contact them but has no success. Will he ever be reunited with his family? How long can the children keep Kokey a secret?"
A star is born!
On this day in 1997 (in Greece), No Sympathy For The Devil (aka Kamia sympatheia gia ton Diavolo) enjoyed its silver screen debut. Written and directed by Dimitris Athanitis, the SciFi/Romance starred Kostas Kazanas, Lena Kitsopoulou, and Giorgos Kotanidis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A romance of extremes in Athens tomorrow. A cashier finds true love in the face of a young waitress who has just been released from prison. When he looses her, he travels all the way to get her back."
"A romance of extremes in Athens tomorrow. A cashier finds true love in the face of a young waitress who has just been released from prison. When he looses her, he travels all the way to get her back."
A star is born!
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Shark Attack 3: Megalodon tried to sink its teeth into the home video marketplace with a release on video. Directed by David Worth from a story by Scott Devine and William Hooke, the Fantasy/Horror starred John Barrowman, Jenny McShane, and Ryan Cutrona. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When two researchers discover a colossal shark's tooth off the Mexican coast, their worst fears surface: the most menacing beast to ever rule the waters is still alive and mercilessly feeding on anything that crosses its path."
"When two researchers discover a colossal shark's tooth off the Mexican coast, their worst fears surface: the most menacing beast to ever rule the waters is still alive and mercilessly feeding on anything that crosses its path."
A star is born!
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Manticore lit up the small screen, yet one more tale of flying monsters of death! The telefilm starred Robert Beltran (Star Trek: Voyager) and Chase Masterson (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Commandos in Iraq looking for terrorists find a man-eating monster instead."
"Commandos in Iraq looking for terrorists find a man-eating monster instead."
A star is born!
On this day in 2009 (in Kazakhstan), Hooked (aka Na igre) played games with its audience. Written (in part) and directed by Pavel Sanaev, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sergey Chirkov, Marina Petrenko, and Pavel Priluchnyy. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Gamers are faced with the task of finding the circulation of discs and - either destroying it, or, having created and led a whole army of gamers, dictate their will - The team is divided. Everyone goes to their goal."
"Gamers are faced with the task of finding the circulation of discs and - either destroying it, or, having created and led a whole army of gamers, dictate their will - The team is divided. Everyone goes to their goal."
On this day in 2009 (in Germany), the Drama/Fantasy The Door enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Anno Saul, the feature starred Mads Mikkelsen and Jessica Schwarz, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A successful artist loses control of his life after his young daughter's death. A chance for a new start appears, but all is not what it seems."
"A successful artist loses control of his life after his young daughter's death. A chance for a new start appears, but all is not what it seems."
A star is born!
On this day in in 2011 (in Japan), the good people of Tokyo were treated to the theatrical debut of Chikyû bôei Girls P9. Written (in part) and directed by Minoru Kawasaki, the SciFi/Comedy starred Aika, Yui Asakura, and Bin Furuya. According to our friends at Mubi.com, here's the plot summary:
"At the close of the twentieth century the earth defense patrol has driven away many monsters and aliens, but the lack of crises has led downsizing."
"At the close of the twentieth century the earth defense patrol has driven away many monsters and aliens, but the lack of crises has led downsizing."
A star is born!
On this day in 2011 (in Japan), Samurai Angel Wars (aka Gyaru basara: Sengoku-jidai wa kengai desu) were finally fought on the big screen. Directed by Futoshi Sato from a story by Jiro Kaneko and Kiyoto Takeuchi, the SciFi/Comedy starred Moe Arai, Kasumi Arimura, and Yoshiki Arizono. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Here is a film about time travel. Japan is at war in the samurai era some 440 years ago. A high school student time travels to the era alongside class-mates who are all uniformly weak at history. They know next to nothing about the time period. They come across many problems and want to help solve the issues, but can they when they know nothing? Could they make things worse?"
"Here is a film about time travel. Japan is at war in the samurai era some 440 years ago. A high school student time travels to the era alongside class-mates who are all uniformly weak at history. They know next to nothing about the time period. They come across many problems and want to help solve the issues, but can they when they know nothing? Could they make things worse?"
A star is born ... but lightning never strikes twice!
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Storm War unleashed Hell on Earth to the masses. Directed by Todor Chapkanov from a story by Paul A. Birkett, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jason London, Wes Brown, and Gary Grubbs. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Washington haunting series of weather disasters, devastating the city. Two brothers - sons of a recognized scientist and meteorologist - begin an investigation to explain the unexpected attacks of nature."
"Washington haunting series of weather disasters, devastating the city. Two brothers - sons of a recognized scientist and meteorologist - begin an investigation to explain the unexpected attacks of nature."
A star is born!
On this day in 2011 (in Japan), the good people of Tokyo were thrilled beyond conception with the release of The Parasite Doctor Suzune: Genesis (aka Kisei jûi · Suzune: Genesis). Directed by Ryu Kaneda, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Motoki Fukami, Akari Hoshino, and Yukijirô Hotaru. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The city is infested with mysterious parasites that bore into their human hosts to increase their host's power and sexual desires. A beautiful girl, Suzune Arizono is a vet with a specialty in parasites, and who fights daily to end the plague. Before long, she learns that an evil organization, the Kito Zaibatsu, is behind the explosive growth of this ferocious parasite. She also learns that her long-missing father, Dr. Arizono, is also involved. In order to crush the Kito Zaibatsu's ambition and to see her father again, Suzune takes on the fight without regard to the danger involved."
"The city is infested with mysterious parasites that bore into their human hosts to increase their host's power and sexual desires. A beautiful girl, Suzune Arizono is a vet with a specialty in parasites, and who fights daily to end the plague. Before long, she learns that an evil organization, the Kito Zaibatsu, is behind the explosive growth of this ferocious parasite. She also learns that her long-missing father, Dr. Arizono, is also involved. In order to crush the Kito Zaibatsu's ambition and to see her father again, Suzune takes on the fight without regard to the danger involved."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in the United Kingdom), Aquaman submerged from the depts to take his place on the throne in theaters. Directed by James Wan, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, and Willem Dafoe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
Arthur Curry, the human-born heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, goes on a quest to prevent a war between the worlds of ocean and land.
Arthur Curry, the human-born heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, goes on a quest to prevent a war between the worlds of ocean and land.
A star is born!
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), Anya blended Science Fiction with some more conventional dramatic themes. Written and directed by the team of Jacob Akira Okada and Carylanna Taylor, the film starred Anthony Aguilar, Ali Ahn, and Mary Theresa Archbold. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"ANYA is a contemporary sci-fi love story about a newlywed couple who turn to a scientist for help having a baby and find themselves at the center of a genetic puzzle with far reaching implications and an ethically ambiguous solution."
"ANYA is a contemporary sci-fi love story about a newlywed couple who turn to a scientist for help having a baby and find themselves at the center of a genetic puzzle with far reaching implications and an ethically ambiguous solution."
On this day in 1955, Science Fiction Theatre aired "Friend Of A Raven." Officially, this served as the thirty-first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A teacher of the deaf and a truant officer visit an apparently deaf-mute boy to determine why he has not been attending school. The teacher finds that the boy has an uncanny ability to communicate with animals, in spite of his disability."
"A teacher of the deaf and a truant officer visit an apparently deaf-mute boy to determine why he has not been attending school. The teacher finds that the boy has an uncanny ability to communicate with animals, in spite of his disability."
On this day in 1977, Space Academy aired "My Favorite Marcia." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Gampu and the Cadets respond to a distress call and discover Gampu's old girlfriend on the run from her rogue robot."
"Gampu and the Cadets respond to a distress call and discover Gampu's old girlfriend on the run from her rogue robot."
On this day in 1982, The Powers of Matthew Star aired "Mother." This served as the tenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Walt realizes that a ring given to Matthew by a mysterious fortuneteller belonged to Matthew's mother."
"Walt realizes that a ring given to Matthew by a mysterious fortuneteller belonged to Matthew's mother."
On this day in 1986, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Battle of the Bandits." This (technically) served as the program's fifty-fourth episode (they were aired out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Nimrod forms a band called the Slaver Lords, they enter a battle of the Bands contest. The Rangers form their own band to get Nimrod. The Queen of the Crown has her own plans for the Nimrod."
"Nimrod forms a band called the Slaver Lords, they enter a battle of the Bands contest. The Rangers form their own band to get Nimrod. The Queen of the Crown has her own plans for the Nimrod."
On this day in 1987, the second part of the five-part miniseries titled Treasure Island In Outer Space aired. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise behind the entire program:
"A space age version of "Treasure Island". Instead of ships, there are spaceships, and instead of an island, there is a planet. This version also includes androids, laser weapons and skeletal remains of colossal space beasts."
"A space age version of "Treasure Island". Instead of ships, there are spaceships, and instead of an island, there is a planet. This version also includes androids, laser weapons and skeletal remains of colossal space beasts."
"Where Silence Has Lease" was one of those Trek episodes that introduced an interesting villain (called Nagilum) but, unfortunately, never followed up with it. The episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation first aired in syndication on this day in 1988.
Space: Above and Beyond's "Choice or Chance" saw the return of those dastardly AIs. After the events of the previous episode ("Hostile Visit"), the 58th finds itself trapped inside an alien penal colony. The hour first aired on this day back in 1995.
On this day in 1996, The Burning Zone aired "Faces in the Night." This served as the tenth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"A serial killer who kills on the full moon kidnaps Shiroma. The team must find her before the next full moon when Shiroma will become his next victim."
"A serial killer who kills on the full moon kidnaps Shiroma. The team must find her before the next full moon when Shiroma will become his next victim."
On this day in 2000, The X-Files aired "Roadrunners." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Doggett is a little dismayed when Scully investigates a murder in a barely inhabited town in Utah without him. When Scully's car breaks down and she finds the town people aren't as sweet as they seem she struggles to find a way out of the demented town."
"Doggett is a little dismayed when Scully investigates a murder in a barely inhabited town in Utah without him. When Scully's car breaks down and she finds the town people aren't as sweet as they seem she struggles to find a way out of the demented town."
On this day in 2001, Andromeda aired "Into the Labyrinth." This served as the ninth episode to the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"While the Andromeda is hosting a diplomatic conference, Harper encounters a reporter who is able to remove the Magog larvae from his guts. She offers to remove them all in exchange for the information Harper previously had downloaded into his brain. A high-ranking member of the Sabra-Jaguar pride arrives at the conference unannounced to join the Commonwealth."
"While the Andromeda is hosting a diplomatic conference, Harper encounters a reporter who is able to remove the Magog larvae from his guts. She offers to remove them all in exchange for the information Harper previously had downloaded into his brain. A high-ranking member of the Sabra-Jaguar pride arrives at the conference unannounced to join the Commonwealth."
On this day in 2001, Earth: Final Conflict aired "Entombed." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"From a hive under Stonehenge, Renee and Street take an Atavus called Gren in his stasis chamber to the Antarctic to see if the cold will affect him. Gren tries to convince Street that most Atavus are peaceful and will not feed from humans."
"From a hive under Stonehenge, Renee and Street take an Atavus called Gren in his stasis chamber to the Antarctic to see if the cold will affect him. Gren tries to convince Street that most Atavus are peaceful and will not feed from humans."
On this day in 2001, Mutant X aired "Crime of the Century." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A boy who's developing new mutant abilities has been kidnapped. The team tries to find him, for his mother. They later learn she was the one who had her son kidnapped. She said it was too protect him from his father. Shortly after they bring him back, his father takes him and brings him to Eckhart."
"A boy who's developing new mutant abilities has been kidnapped. The team tries to find him, for his mother. They later learn she was the one who had her son kidnapped. She said it was too protect him from his father. Shortly after they bring him back, his father takes him and brings him to Eckhart."
On this day in 2007, Heroes aired "Chapter Ten - Truth & Consequences." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Peter Petrelli and Adam Monroe track down another founding member of the Company and learn the location of virus 183. Maya learns how to control her powers but Alejandro' distrust of Sylar leads to a deadly confrontation. Niki returns to New Orleans and tells Micah about her medical condition. When his backpack is stolen, Micah and Monica set off to retrieve it, but things don't work out as planned. Hiro decides to avenge his father's death and goes after Adam. Claire, grieving over her father's death, decides to go public with her powers in a bid to stop the Company."
"Peter Petrelli and Adam Monroe track down another founding member of the Company and learn the location of virus 183. Maya learns how to control her powers but Alejandro' distrust of Sylar leads to a deadly confrontation. Niki returns to New Orleans and tells Micah about her medical condition. When his backpack is stolen, Micah and Monica set off to retrieve it, but things don't work out as planned. Hiro decides to avenge his father's death and goes after Adam. Claire, grieving over her father's death, decides to go public with her powers in a bid to stop the Company."
On this day in 2010, Syfy's Sanctuary aired "Breach." This served as the seventh episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Another abnormal rendezvous goes awry, this time in a way no one could have ever seen coming."
"Another abnormal rendezvous goes awry, this time in a way no one could have ever seen coming."
In case you missed it, Primeval: New World -- Syfy's incarnation of the Primeval franchise that only had a single season -- really had some quality CGI so far as the dinosaurs were concerned. "Undone" -- it aired on this day in 2012 -- pitted the team against a Lycaenops that became stranded in present day on a university campus.
