You can think what you want, but, so far as I'm concerned, the Ferengi were born on this day back in 1987 when Star Trek: The Next Generation's episode "The Last Outpost" aired in syndication. It was our first introduction to those wacky intergalactic capitalists, and they were one of the most interesting additions to all the world of Trekdom.
Spring Byington appeared in far more mainstream projects than she did genre work, largely an outcome owed to her time and place in the industry than anything else. Still, genre fans might know her from roles in Werewolf of London (1935), The Rocket Man (1954), or the late 60's TV version of Batman. Though she's no longer with us, Byington was born on this day in 1886.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Even today, I absolutely love those original Flash Gordon serials, and Duke York played King Kala in the very first of the programs, the one better known as Space Soldiers. Though he's no longer with us, York was born on this day in 1908.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
How cool would it have been to be one of the earliest actors ever tasked with bringing the legendary Batman to bold cinematic life? Well, you'd have to go back in time to ask Robert Lowery; he played the Caped Crusader aboard the 1949 big screen serial, Batman And Robin. (Hopefully that's no relation to the God-awful Joel Schumacher production!) Though he's no longer with us, Lowery was born on this day in 1913.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jerry Siegel (pictured above, left) is only half of the duo credited with the creation of the Man of Steel himself, Superman (the other is Joe Shuster, pictured on the right). Siegel had a long and distinguished career in the comics business and, even today, is recognized as one of the pioneers for the industry. Though he's no longer with us, Mr. Siegel was born on this day back in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The luminous Marsha Hunt continues to sparkle. Though she hasn't done much in the 2000's, she guested in an important role aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation's "Too Short A Season." She also appeared on both The Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits during their original run. Though she's no longer with us, Hunt was born on this day in 1917.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Tom Poston probably struggled to keep a straight face opposite comic legend Robin Williams aboard the fondly remembered Mork And Mindy sitcom. Fascinating trivia: one of the actor's earliest roles was as a guest player aboard Tom Corbett, Space Cadet in 1950. Though he's no longer with us, Poston was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Patricia Kneale didn't have an expansive career in front of the camera. According to IMDB.com, she built up a resume of fifteen screen credits, and perhaps the most significant of which was her work as a regular aboard the fondly remembered A For Andromeda. Though she's no longer with us, Kneale was born on this day in 1925.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Leggy and delicious Julie Adams found herself on the receiving end of some unwanted sexual harassment from the Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954). Though she's no longer with us, Adams was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Maximizing her ability to make grown men salivate, the lovely (and leggy) Beverly Garland showed us she was Not Of This Earth back in 1957. She also appeared in The Alligator People (1959), The Twilight Zone, Planet of the Apes, The Six Million Dollar Man, and Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. Though she's no longer with us, Garland was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Not only was the lovely Delores Wells the Playmate Of The Month for June, 1960 -- deservedly so, I might add -- but also she worked as one of those infamous Playboy Bunnies for a time, earning $1,000 per week (according to her bio on IMDB.com). The truth is that her professional acting resume is decidedly slim (much like the lovely lady!), leaving behind a lean and mean twelve credits to her name. Thankfully, one of those was planted square in the middle of 1964's The Time Travelers for Dobil Productions; and that, my friends, is why I can feature her in this space. Though she's no longer with us, Wells was born on this day in 1937.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I realize that Star Trek's "The Paradise Syndrome" isn't exactly any fan's favorite episode. Shatner's performance as an amnesiac 'savior' is more than a bit hammy, but I always like Sabrina Scharf's work as his intended mate, Miramanee. Scharf was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Thomas Kopache braved the Final Frontier and then some! The talented character actor has smuggled screen time out of such projects as Strange Invaders (1983), Babylon 5, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Generations (1994), The X-Files, Star Trek: Voyager, The Burning Zone, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Stargate: SG-1, Star Trek: Enterprise, Zero Hour, and Jessica Jones. Kopache was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Think what you may, but I believe Michael McKean is an incredibly talented actor. He's been in so many projects that I couldn't even begin to do his career justice here, but I will mention key roles from D.A.R.Y.L. (1985), Short Circuit 2 (1988), Coneheads (1993), The X-Files, and Smallville. McKean was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
And speaking about Superman ... Margot Kidder shared the silver screen with no less than Christopher Reeve in Superman - The Movie, Superman II, Superman III, and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace. Her version of Lois Lane remains the one to watch so far as this humble critic is concerned. Though she's no longer with us, Kidder was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Let it be known that I wasn't the only one smitten with Kidder's work in the overall Super-franchise. In 1979, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded her the Saturn Award 'Best Actress' for her work in Superman: The Movie (1978); and then they again nominated her for her time (in 1982) in Superman II (1980). Interestingly enough, she also enjoyed a Saturn Award 'Best Actress' nomination for her work in The Amityville Horror (1980) that caught their attention as well.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Upon Kidder's passing in 2018, I penned a few words as a quick remembrance. Interested readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Let it be known that I wasn't the only one smitten with Kidder's work in the overall Super-franchise. In 1979, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded her the Saturn Award 'Best Actress' for her work in Superman: The Movie (1978); and then they again nominated her for her time (in 1982) in Superman II (1980). Interestingly enough, she also enjoyed a Saturn Award 'Best Actress' nomination for her work in The Amityville Horror (1980) that caught their attention as well.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Upon Kidder's passing in 2018, I penned a few words as a quick remembrance. Interested readers can find them right here.
George Wendt found himself in some serious SciFi territory with roles aboard Space Truckers (1996), Alien Avengers (1996), and Alien Avengers II (1997). Also, I'd be remiss in my duties if I failed to mention that his character 'Norm' (from the long-running NBC sitcom Cheers) served as the inspiration for the similar-themed Star Trek: Deep Space Nine character 'Morn,' a patron who sat at the bar frequently in Quark's. Wendt was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While it's safe to say that actress Daniela Poggi doesn't have a great deal of genre work to her resume, she did boast a role in a 1988 SciFi telefilm titled Sound that dealt with an impending alien invasion ... and that's always worth a mention. Poggi was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funnyman Norm MacDonald used his considerable acting skills to help bring to life 'Yaphit,' the gelatinous crewmember serving aboard Fox TV's The Orville. Though he's no longer with us, MacDonald was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Guy Henry was given the daunting task of helping moviemakers bring back to life 'Governor Tarkin' for Walt Disney's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). The actor also visited the world of Harry Potter in a key role. Henry was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 1990, the lovely Cynthia Bain experienced the dangers of Spontaneous Combustion up close. She also appeared aboard Pumpkinhead (1988) and NBC's Quantum Leap. Bain was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Andrea Powell enjoyed a meaty role in 2013's Ender's Game. Otherwise, her career keeps her in more mainstream and/or conventional dramas. Powell was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Outside of being a wildly talented actor in his own right, Mark Gatiss has also penned some of the better episode of the BBC's Doctor Who since its re-incarnation in the 2000's. If you're so inclined, check out his amazing resume over on IMDB.com. Gatiss was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Wood Harris played an absolute menace in the guise of Kay in the vastly underrated Dredd (2012). He's also appeared in the Marvel Universe with a role in Ant-Man as well as Blade Runner 2049. Harris was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Adult film star and general all-around temptress Shauna O'Brien helped deliver up a slice of SciFi camp with her work aboard Baberellas (2003). O'Brien was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Sharon Leal jumped feet first into the role of M'gann M'orzz -- the Martian -- aboard The CW's second season of Supergirl. Leal was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Dreamy actress Tiffany Lyndall-Knight had a pretty pivotal role on Syfy's newfangled Battlestar Galactica but gets no credit for it: she played the cylon hybrid over a handful of episodes who forced the 'toasters' to truly consider what their rightful place was in the universe. Ms. Lyndall-Knight was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The brilliant Matthew Macfadyen turned up in a guest spot aboard the BBC's Crime/Fantasy Ashes To Ashes back in 2008. Macfadyen was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Laura Regan had a role aboard Fox TV's short-lived SciFi reimagining of Minority Report (which had been previously adapted for the silver screen with Steven Spielberg directing). Regan was born on this day in 1977.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Erin Karpluk needs to get herself a SciFi franchise! Often relegated to smaller roles, she's booked appearances on such properties as Seven Days, Jeremiah, Dark Angel, Stephen King's Dead Zone, Battlestar Galactica, Flash Gordon, Supernatural, and Riftworld Chronicles. Karpluk was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As Captain Trueheart, a commanding Deanna Russo (above in gold) helped poke fun at one of Star Trek's long-time storytelling conventions in the web-based production called Red Shirts. Russo was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
For those who missed it, let me assure you that FX Network's adaptation of Guillermo del Toro's The Strain always was a bit silly, but it did have some interesting characters. One of the better ones introduced in the fourth (and final) season was Angel Parker's 'Alex Green.' Alas, even she didn't escape it alive! Parker was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Justin Shenkarow found his way into the limelight by way of a prominent role aboard Eerie, Indiana. Since that place and time, he's also visited Captain Planet and the Planeteers (animated), Lloyd In Space (animated), and Syfy's Z Nation. Shenkarow was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Word to the wise: if you've braved any one of the Apocalypses caught on film, then SciFiHistory.Net is going to find you! Michelle Ang gave it a good go for her part aboard the Fear The Walking Dead franchise. And she lasted much longer aboard the previous Apocalypse she visited that was known as The Tribe. Other genre appearances include work aboard The Twilight Zone, The New Legends Of Monkey, and Star Wars: The Bad Batch. Ang was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Felicity Jones made a pretty incredible entrance into the wider Star Wars universe with a great star-turn aboard Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). As for other forays into the realms of the Fantastic? She's had a few, including roles aboard The Worst Witch, Weirdsister College, Doctor Who, The Tempest (2010), The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014), A Monster Calls (2016), and The Midnight Sky (2020). Jones was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2017 Saturn Awards, Jones earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work aboard Rogue One.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Fans interested in knowing what yours truly thought of Rogue One can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 2017 Saturn Awards, Jones earned a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work aboard Rogue One.
ExtraExtra Alert:
Fans interested in knowing what yours truly thought of Rogue One can find my review right here.
Young Max Irons made a trip into the realm of Science Fiction with a role aboard The Host (2013), the film adaptation of Stephenie Meyer's novel of the same name. Other interesting projects bearing his name include Dorian Gray (2009), and Red Riding Hood (2011). Irons was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Newcomer Bianca Brigitte VanDamme's star is on the rise. She shone as one of the cast trapped within an Alien Uprising (2012) for Filmbox. VanDamme was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Dora Madison found mainstream success with her role on Friday Night Lights, but SciFi fans will better recall her from her appearance on the CW's short-lived Star-Crossed. Other genre work can be found in such projects as Humans Vs Zombies (2011), Exists (2014), Bliss (2019), VFW (2019), and Christmas Bloody Christmas (2022). Madison was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1925 (in France), the good people of Paris were treated to a limited theatrical engagement of Aelita: The Queen Of Mars. Directed by Yakov Protazanov, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Yuliya Solntseva, Igor Ilyinsky, and Nikolai Tsereteli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mysterious radio message is beamed around the world, and among the engineers who receive it are Los, the hero, and his colleague Spiridonov. Los is an individualist dreamer. Aelita is the daughter of Tuskub, the ruler of a totalitarian state on Mars in which the working class are put into cold storage when they are not needed. With a telescope, Aelita is able to watch Los. As if by telepathy, Los obsesses about being watched by her. After some hugger-mugger involving the murder of his wife and a pursuing detective, Los takes the identity of Spiridonov and builds a spaceship. With the revolutionary Gusev, he travels to Mars, but the Earthlings and Aelita are thrown into prison by the dictator. Gusev and Los begin a proletarian uprising, and Aelita offers to lead the revolution, but she then establishes her own totalitarian regime. Los is shocked by this development and attempts to stop Aelita, and then reality and fantasy become confused, and Los discovers what has really happened."
"A mysterious radio message is beamed around the world, and among the engineers who receive it are Los, the hero, and his colleague Spiridonov. Los is an individualist dreamer. Aelita is the daughter of Tuskub, the ruler of a totalitarian state on Mars in which the working class are put into cold storage when they are not needed. With a telescope, Aelita is able to watch Los. As if by telepathy, Los obsesses about being watched by her. After some hugger-mugger involving the murder of his wife and a pursuing detective, Los takes the identity of Spiridonov and builds a spaceship. With the revolutionary Gusev, he travels to Mars, but the Earthlings and Aelita are thrown into prison by the dictator. Gusev and Los begin a proletarian uprising, and Aelita offers to lead the revolution, but she then establishes her own totalitarian regime. Los is shocked by this development and attempts to stop Aelita, and then reality and fantasy become confused, and Los discovers what has really happened."
A star is born! On this day in 1935 (in Mexico), the good people of Mexico City were treated to the theatrical premiere of Los Muertos Hablan (aka The Dead Speak). Gabriel Soria both directed and worked on the adaptation of the Pedro Zapiain novel for the effort, and the film starred Julián Soler, Amelia de Ilisa, and Manuel Noriega. According to our friends at The Movie Database, here's the plot summary:
"Professor Jiménez believes the human retina retains the image of the last thing a person sees before death. Only his student Eduardo stands by him in the face of widespread mockery. Together they will try and prove the professors theory but fate has a unpleasant way of helping them do this."
"Professor Jiménez believes the human retina retains the image of the last thing a person sees before death. Only his student Eduardo stands by him in the face of widespread mockery. Together they will try and prove the professors theory but fate has a unpleasant way of helping them do this."
A star is born ... and history was re-made! On this day in 1964 (in West Germany), It Happened Here took audiences on a dark look into an alternate world. (FYI: it's very first showing was for the Mannheim Film Festival.) Written (in part) and directed by the team of Kevin Brownlow and Andrew Mollo, the SciFi/Drama starred Pauline Murray, Sebastian Shaw, and Bart Allison. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1940, Germany invades Britain and transforms it into a Fascist state where some Britons collaborate and others resist. In 1944, Pauline, an apolitical Irish nurse becomes a reluctant player in the fight between the two sides."
"In 1940, Germany invades Britain and transforms it into a Fascist state where some Britons collaborate and others resist. In 1944, Pauline, an apolitical Irish nurse becomes a reluctant player in the fight between the two sides."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in the U.S.), the good people of Gastonia, North Carolina were treated to the silver screen premiere of Sting Of Death. Directed by William Grefé from a script by William Kerwin, the monster movie starred Joe Morrison, Valerine Hawkins, and John Vella. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A deformed man working for a marine biologist takes revenge on the people that mock him by experimenting with a deadly jellyfish."
ExtraExtra Alert:
Believe it or not, your faithful editor has seen 1966's Sting Of Death and even had a little something to say about it. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"A deformed man working for a marine biologist takes revenge on the people that mock him by experimenting with a deadly jellyfish."
ExtraExtra Alert:
Believe it or not, your faithful editor has seen 1966's Sting Of Death and even had a little something to say about it. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in the United Kingdom), Science turned a bit sensuous with the theatrical release of Dr. Jekyll & Sister Hyde from Hammer Films. Directed by Ray Ward Baker, the SciFi/Horror starred Ralph Bates and the lovely Martine Beswick, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"In Victorian London, Dr. Henry Jekyll attempts to create an elixir of life using female hormones stolen from fresh corpses. He reasons that these hormones will wipe out all common diseases and extend his life since women live much longer than men. However, once Dr. Jekyll drinks the serum himself, he transforms into a gorgeous but evil woman. He soon needs female hormones for his serum to maintain, so a number of London women meet bloody deaths."
"In Victorian London, Dr. Henry Jekyll attempts to create an elixir of life using female hormones stolen from fresh corpses. He reasons that these hormones will wipe out all common diseases and extend his life since women live much longer than men. However, once Dr. Jekyll drinks the serum himself, he transforms into a gorgeous but evil woman. He soon needs female hormones for his serum to maintain, so a number of London women meet bloody deaths."
A star is born! On this day in in 1974 (in the United Kingdom), Phase IV enjoyed a limited theatrical engagement in the city of London. Directed by Saul Bass from a script by Mayo Simon, the SciFi/Thriller starred Nigel Davenport, Michael Murphy, and Lynne Frederick. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Desert ants suddenly form a collective intelligence and begin to wage war on the inhabitants. It is up to two scientists and a stray girl they rescue from the ants to destroy them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phase IV enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Desert ants suddenly form a collective intelligence and begin to wage war on the inhabitants. It is up to two scientists and a stray girl they rescue from the ants to destroy them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Phase IV enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1975 (in Finland), Rollerball enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Norman Jewison, the SciFi feature starred James Caan and Maud Adams, and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"In a futuristic society where corporations have replaced countries, the violent game of Rollerball is used to control the populace by demonstrating the futility of individuality. However, one player, Jonathan E., rises to the top, fights for his personal freedom, and threatens the corporate control."
"In a futuristic society where corporations have replaced countries, the violent game of Rollerball is used to control the populace by demonstrating the futility of individuality. However, one player, Jonathan E., rises to the top, fights for his personal freedom, and threatens the corporate control."
On this day in 1980 (in Denmark), Walt Disney got into the space business with the theatrical release of The Black Hole. Directed by Gary Nelson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Robert Forster, Maximilian Schell, and Anthony Perkins. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
For the record:
The Black Hole earned some solid recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Effects - Visual Effects' and 'Best Cinematography.' At the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, at the 1980 Hugo Awards, the film earned the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
For the record:
The Black Hole earned some solid recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Effects - Visual Effects' and 'Best Cinematography.' At the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, at the 1980 Hugo Awards, the film earned the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1980 (in West Germany), The Stepford Wives enjoyed a premiere on television. This SciFi/Mystery was directed by Bryan Forbes as adapted from the Ira Levin novel by William Goldman. It starred a host of lovely ladies, including Katharine Ross, Paual Prentiss, Tina Louise. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Joanna Eberhart has come to the quaint little town of Stepford, Connecticut with her family, but soon discovers there lies a sinister truth in the all too perfect behavior of the female residents."
For the record:
Believe it or not, this franchise has gams -- as it were -- proving that nothing can keep a SciFi property down for all that long. This original release led to Revenge Of The Stepford Wives (1980), The Stepford Children (1987), The Stepford Husbands (1996), and even the inevitable remake in 2004. That's a none-too-shabby record, if you ask me. At the 1976 Golden Scroll Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, actress Katharine Ross took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' while the film itself missed out on the 'Best Science Fiction Film' trophy.
"Joanna Eberhart has come to the quaint little town of Stepford, Connecticut with her family, but soon discovers there lies a sinister truth in the all too perfect behavior of the female residents."
For the record:
Believe it or not, this franchise has gams -- as it were -- proving that nothing can keep a SciFi property down for all that long. This original release led to Revenge Of The Stepford Wives (1980), The Stepford Children (1987), The Stepford Husbands (1996), and even the inevitable remake in 2004. That's a none-too-shabby record, if you ask me. At the 1976 Golden Scroll Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, actress Katharine Ross took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' while the film itself missed out on the 'Best Science Fiction Film' trophy.
On this day in 1985 (in Mexico), Walt Disney's Baby: Secret Of The Lost Legend stirred up the modern Jurassic phenomenon. Directed by Bill Norton, the SciFi feature starred William Katt and Sean Young, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
"A paleontologist and her husband discover a mother and baby brontosaurus in Africa, and try to protect them from a group of hunters intent on capturing the dinosaurs."
On this day in 1985 (in Argentina), Red Sonja stirred up a bit of magic and mystery at the box office. Directed by Richard Fleischer, the Fantasy film also starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sandahl Bergman, and Paul L. Smith; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The fearless warrior Red Sonja sets out to avenge her family's murder and rid her kingdom from the tyrannical rule of evil Queen Gedren."
For the record:
Some days, you have to take the good with the bad, and such is the film history of the kinda/sorta beloved character of Red Sonja. This particular incarnation, however, never quite fared well with critics or audiences. In fact, the 1986 Razzie Awards gave its lead the 'Worst New Star' honor at its annual ceremony. Ouch.
"The fearless warrior Red Sonja sets out to avenge her family's murder and rid her kingdom from the tyrannical rule of evil Queen Gedren."
For the record:
Some days, you have to take the good with the bad, and such is the film history of the kinda/sorta beloved character of Red Sonja. This particular incarnation, however, never quite fared well with critics or audiences. In fact, the 1986 Razzie Awards gave its lead the 'Worst New Star' honor at its annual ceremony. Ouch.
On this day in 1990 (in France), Arnold Schwarzenegger finally got to Mars in the cinematic release of Total Recall. Directed by Paul Verhoeven and based on a story originally written by Philip K. Dick, the SciFi/Thriller also starred Ronny Cox, Michael Ironside, and Sharon Stone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a man goes for virtual vacation memories of the planet Mars, an unexpected and harrowing series of events forces him to go to the planet for real."
For the record:
Truth be told, Paul Verhoeven's Total Recall languished in development for some time; I've read that it was written in the late 1970's and jumped around awhile before landing with the director and Schwarzenegger to complete. And complete it they did to an awful lot of praise from industry executives and film organizations. In 1991, it won an Academy Award for 'Special Achievement' in the field of visual effects. That same year, it took home the 'Best Science Fiction Film' Saturn Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films. Alas, it lost the 1991 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' to -- ahem -- Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands. Sigh.
"When a man goes for virtual vacation memories of the planet Mars, an unexpected and harrowing series of events forces him to go to the planet for real."
For the record:
Truth be told, Paul Verhoeven's Total Recall languished in development for some time; I've read that it was written in the late 1970's and jumped around awhile before landing with the director and Schwarzenegger to complete. And complete it they did to an awful lot of praise from industry executives and film organizations. In 1991, it won an Academy Award for 'Special Achievement' in the field of visual effects. That same year, it took home the 'Best Science Fiction Film' Saturn Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films. Alas, it lost the 1991 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' to -- ahem -- Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands. Sigh.
A star is born! On this day in 1995, Third Stone From The Sun enjoyed its U.S. premiere. Written and directed by Jan Nickman, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Linda Hunt and Kath Soucie, and here's the premise as listed on The Movie DB:
"Rich music and only a smattering of dialog, the story is of an exta-terrestial child who's planet is doomed so he's been sent to search for a new world. A white schooner guided by a spirit helper shows him the great Northwest."
"Rich music and only a smattering of dialog, the story is of an exta-terrestial child who's planet is doomed so he's been sent to search for a new world. A white schooner guided by a spirit helper shows him the great Northwest."
On this day in 1997 (in Brazil), Event Horizon delivered a dark dose of Horror with a SciFi setting. Scripted by Philip Eisner and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi feature starred Sam Neill, Laurence Fishburne, and Kathleen Quinlan; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the year 2047 a group of astronauts are sent to investigate and salvage the long lost starship "Event Horizon". The ship disappeared mysteriously 7 years before on its maiden voyage and with its return comes even more mystery as the crew of the "Lewis and Clark" discover the real truth behind its disappearance and something even more terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Event Horizon enjoyed a modest bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"In the year 2047 a group of astronauts are sent to investigate and salvage the long lost starship "Event Horizon". The ship disappeared mysteriously 7 years before on its maiden voyage and with its return comes even more mystery as the crew of the "Lewis and Clark" discover the real truth behind its disappearance and something even more terrifying."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Event Horizon enjoyed a modest bit of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1999, Thrill Seekers (aka The Time Shifters) travelled through time to appear on U.S. television. Directed by Mario Azzopardi, the SciFi/Telefilm starred Casper Van Dien, Peter Outerbridge, and Catherine Bell; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A strange passenger from the future seems to be witnessing all the great disasters of the century. Two reporters are trying to track this man down to see where he will show up next. The movie also works on the problem of the two reporters that want to prevent the next disaster from happening. Should they change the future when they know another disaster is going to strike?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Thrill Seekers enjoyed a 2000 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Single Genre Television Presentation.'
"A strange passenger from the future seems to be witnessing all the great disasters of the century. Two reporters are trying to track this man down to see where he will show up next. The movie also works on the problem of the two reporters that want to prevent the next disaster from happening. Should they change the future when they know another disaster is going to strike?"
For the record:
To the film's credit, Thrill Seekers enjoyed a 2000 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Single Genre Television Presentation.'
On this day in 2000, Boltneck enjoyed its U.S. home video premiere. Directed by Mitch Marcus, the SciFi/Comedy starred Matthew Lawrence and Ryan Reynolds, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"At a party, one student gets picked on and ends up getting thrown into a pool that has no water in it. Frank, a geek, retrieves a brain from his father's lab and agrees to let the boy have it in exchange for a chance to hang with the popular crowd. The brain, it turns out, originally belonged to a serial killer. As the teen monster goes haywire, popular Macy becomes romantically involved with former geek Frank."
"At a party, one student gets picked on and ends up getting thrown into a pool that has no water in it. Frank, a geek, retrieves a brain from his father's lab and agrees to let the boy have it in exchange for a chance to hang with the popular crowd. The brain, it turns out, originally belonged to a serial killer. As the teen monster goes haywire, popular Macy becomes romantically involved with former geek Frank."
On this day in 2003 (in Ireland), Alien -- the director's cut -- enjoyed a special screening as part of the Cork International Film Festival. Directed by Ridley Scott, the SciFi/Thriller starred Sigourney Weaver, Ian Holm, and Tom Skerritt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
The original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
The original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
A star is born! On this day in 2006 (in Italy), Fascisti Su Marte (aka Fascists On Mars) brought a bit of political authority to the Red Planet when it was first screened for audiences at the Rome Film Fest. Directed by the team of Corrado Guzzanti and Igor Skofic, the SciFi/Comedy starred Simona Banchi, Andrea Blarzino, and Irene Ferri. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A handful of Blackshirts commanded by Hierarch Barbagli arrives on Mars.The planet is hostile and scarce water and food. After great discoveries, hilarious adventures and mystical visions, will the fascists be able to go back home?"
"A handful of Blackshirts commanded by Hierarch Barbagli arrives on Mars.The planet is hostile and scarce water and food. After great discoveries, hilarious adventures and mystical visions, will the fascists be able to go back home?"
A star is born ... and then it's shot in the face! On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Brain Dead took one for the team with its cinematic debut for audiences in attendance of the Terror Film Festival. Directed by Kevin Tenney from a script by Dale Gelineau, the Horror/Thriller starred Joshua Benton, Sarah Grant Brendecke, and David Crane. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The story of six people caught in the unusual (except in horror films) predicament of being stranded in a deserted fishing lodge with a host of alien-infected, mutant amoeba-controlled zombies at their doorstep."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Brain Dead enjoyed a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"The story of six people caught in the unusual (except in horror films) predicament of being stranded in a deserted fishing lodge with a host of alien-infected, mutant amoeba-controlled zombies at their doorstep."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Brain Dead enjoyed a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2011 (in the United Kingdom), the 1968-produced They Came From Outer Space enjoyed an all-new release on home video. Freddie Francis directed this Milton Subotsky adaptation of the Joseph Millard novel ("The Gods Hate Kansas"), and it starred Robert Hutton, Jennifer Jayne, and Zia Mohyeddin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists investigating an unusual meteor shower in a rural field are possessed by an alien force bent on an ulterior purpose."
"Scientists investigating an unusual meteor shower in a rural field are possessed by an alien force bent on an ulterior purpose."
Woof! On this day in 2014, The Adventures Of RoboRex proved once and for all that movies have gone to the dogs! Directed by Stephen Shimek, the SciFi feature starred Ben Browder and Ethan Phillips, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"James Miller has only one friend in the world, his beloved Labrador Retriever, Rex. But when a strange capsule lands in the his backyard and a robot dog emerges, his life will never be the same. The robot dog identifies himself as RoboRex, and tells James that he has come from the future to stop an evil man named Professor Apocalypse from taking over the world, along with his wily robotic Destructo-Cat. Now with the help of Rex and RoboRex, James embarks on a heroic and heart warming adventure to save the future!"
"James Miller has only one friend in the world, his beloved Labrador Retriever, Rex. But when a strange capsule lands in the his backyard and a robot dog emerges, his life will never be the same. The robot dog identifies himself as RoboRex, and tells James that he has come from the future to stop an evil man named Professor Apocalypse from taking over the world, along with his wily robotic Destructo-Cat. Now with the help of Rex and RoboRex, James embarks on a heroic and heart warming adventure to save the future!"
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in Italy), They Call Me Jeeg enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Rome Film Festival. Directed by Gabriele Mainetti, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Claudio Santamaria, Luca Marinelli, and Ilenia Pastorelli. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Lonely, misanthropic small-time crook Enzo uses the superpowers he gained after falling into the Tiber River to chase down a crazy gangster called "The Gypsy.""
For the record:
To the film's credit, They Call Me Jeeg enjoyed a wealth of praise, nominations, and awards from screenings on the film festival circuit and beyond. If you're interested in knowing more about them, then check out the film's awards citation page on IMDB.com right here.
"Lonely, misanthropic small-time crook Enzo uses the superpowers he gained after falling into the Tiber River to chase down a crazy gangster called "The Gypsy.""
For the record:
To the film's credit, They Call Me Jeeg enjoyed a wealth of praise, nominations, and awards from screenings on the film festival circuit and beyond. If you're interested in knowing more about them, then check out the film's awards citation page on IMDB.com right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the United Kingdom), Female Zombie Riot (aka Zombie Women Of Satan 2) brought out the big guns for its release on home video. Written and directed by the team of Chris Greenwood and Warren Speed, the Comedy/Horror starred Pete Bennett, Kathy Paul, and Dani Thompson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Following the release of Zombie Women of Satan, the movie about the events of the first film, Pervo's career hasn't quite gone to plan. Shunned and unwanted, he's a fading star. But not to be defeated, he returns to this sequel with a new manager, a trusty bodyguard and the beautiful actress Dahlia Von Rose as they tour the country promoting their new movie. With things looking bleak though, it seems Pervo's fifteen minutes of fame are just about over. However, a chance encounter with a mystery millionaire could turn all their fortunes around. But is it a chance encounter? Or a diabolical revenge plot? Lured to a party at an enormous mansion, all is going well until those zombie women escape and end up running wild."
"Following the release of Zombie Women of Satan, the movie about the events of the first film, Pervo's career hasn't quite gone to plan. Shunned and unwanted, he's a fading star. But not to be defeated, he returns to this sequel with a new manager, a trusty bodyguard and the beautiful actress Dahlia Von Rose as they tour the country promoting their new movie. With things looking bleak though, it seems Pervo's fifteen minutes of fame are just about over. However, a chance encounter with a mystery millionaire could turn all their fortunes around. But is it a chance encounter? Or a diabolical revenge plot? Lured to a party at an enormous mansion, all is going well until those zombie women escape and end up running wild."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Antihuman enjoyed its launch on home video. Directed by Luke Gietzen and Mark Robins, the SciFi/Horror starred Anya Korzun, Danielle Arden, and Andrew Jardine. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman returns to the secluded, abandoned psychological research facility where her deceased mother once worked. Accompanied by three friends, she discovers that the ghosts of the past have found their way to the present when the hospital's legacy of experimentation and madness tears away all known bounds of time, memory and space."
"A young woman returns to the secluded, abandoned psychological research facility where her deceased mother once worked. Accompanied by three friends, she discovers that the ghosts of the past have found their way to the present when the hospital's legacy of experimentation and madness tears away all known bounds of time, memory and space."
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Blood Mercury enjoyed its only public airing of record. Written and directed by Len Kabasinski, the SciFi/Horror starred Jawn Gross, Brian Anthony, and Trish Shallenbarger. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A renegade federal agent confiscates a deadly chemical warfare virus and attempts to make it to a scientist who vows to destroy it. However, black ops agents give chase and want their investment back at all costs!"
"A renegade federal agent confiscates a deadly chemical warfare virus and attempts to make it to a scientist who vows to destroy it. However, black ops agents give chase and want their investment back at all costs!"
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Canada), Defective enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Toronto After Dark Film Festival. Written and directed by Reese Eveneshen, the SciFi/Thriller starred Colin Paradine, Raven Cousens, and Ashley Armstrong. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set in the near future where Rhett Murphy and his estranged sister Jean are forced to flee from a militant police state after witnessing the dark secrets of a nefarious corporation."
"Set in the near future where Rhett Murphy and his estranged sister Jean are forced to flee from a militant police state after witnessing the dark secrets of a nefarious corporation."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), The Thinning: The New World Order enjoyed its debut to the masses-at-large via the World Wide Web. Written (in part) and directed by Michael J. Gallagher, the SciFi/Drama starred Logan Paul, Peyton List, and Matthew Glave. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After risking her life to expose the corruption of the thinning test, Laina Michaels becomes the target of Governor Redding's Machiavellian presidential campaign. Blake Redding, trapped and enslaved in a secret underground work camp, must fight to reconnect with Ellie, his presumably dead girlfriend, and do what no failed student has done before: escape..."
"After risking her life to expose the corruption of the thinning test, Laina Michaels becomes the target of Governor Redding's Machiavellian presidential campaign. Blake Redding, trapped and enslaved in a secret underground work camp, must fight to reconnect with Ellie, his presumably dead girlfriend, and do what no failed student has done before: escape..."
On this day in 2019 (in Kuwait), Abduction absconded with the hearts and minds of its theatrical audience. Directed by Ernie Barbarash, the SciFi/Horror starred Scott Adkins, Andy On, and Truong Ngoc Anh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Quinn steps out of a park fountain in Vietnam with no recollection of who he is or where he came from. As he wanders through the city, piecing together clues to his past, he is relentlessly pursued by mysteriously dangerous figures."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Abduction enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"Quinn steps out of a park fountain in Vietnam with no recollection of who he is or where he came from. As he wanders through the city, piecing together clues to his past, he is relentlessly pursued by mysteriously dangerous figures."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Abduction enjoyed a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2019 (in Portugal), Mutant Blast exploded on the screen in a limited theatrical run. Written (in part) and directed by Fernando Alle, the SciFi/Comedy starred Pedro Barão Dias, Maria Leite, and João Vilas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Adventures of Superman aired "The Monkey Mystery." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The daughter of an Eastern European scientist flees to the United States to give a secret formula to the president before the communists who killed her father can get to it, and Lois receives information on her whereabouts from an organ grinder and his monkey."
"The daughter of an Eastern European scientist flees to the United States to give a secret formula to the president before the communists who killed her father can get to it, and Lois receives information on her whereabouts from an organ grinder and his monkey."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Double Trouble." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by CTVA.Biz:
"A drama about a man who writes about a death ray machine, and later finds that the government has just such a thing and is trying to keep it a secret."
"A drama about a man who writes about a death ray machine, and later finds that the government has just such a thing and is trying to keep it a secret."
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), Adventures Of Superman aired "Shot In The Dark." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A frantic woman named Harriet Hopper (Vera Marshe) bursts into the offices of the "Daily Planet" demanding to speak to Superman--and makes a beeline to the office of Clark Kent (George Reeves! How has Harriet managed to tumble to Clark's secret identity? Well, it seems that her nephew Alan (played by Billy Gray of Father Knows Best fame) is a camera bug, and has managed to snap an infra-red photo of Clark changing into his Superman outfit. Though Kent manages to alibi his way out of this sticky situation, young Alan is not yet out of the woods: He has also taken a picture of a dangerous criminal named Burnside (John Eldredge) faking his own death in order to defraud an insurance company."
"A frantic woman named Harriet Hopper (Vera Marshe) bursts into the offices of the "Daily Planet" demanding to speak to Superman--and makes a beeline to the office of Clark Kent (George Reeves! How has Harriet managed to tumble to Clark's secret identity? Well, it seems that her nephew Alan (played by Billy Gray of Father Knows Best fame) is a camera bug, and has managed to snap an infra-red photo of Clark changing into his Superman outfit. Though Kent manages to alibi his way out of this sticky situation, young Alan is not yet out of the woods: He has also taken a picture of a dangerous criminal named Burnside (John Eldredge) faking his own death in order to defraud an insurance company."
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), Johnny Jupiter aired "How To Be A Movie Star." This served as the seventh episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Ernest and Mr. Frisby try to become movie stars."
"Ernest and Mr. Frisby try to become movie stars."
On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), TV's Space Patrol aired "The Slaves Of Planet X." Officially, this served as the forty-second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary from Space Patrol Online:
"Trapped in a mine beneath the surface of the Black Falcon's stronghold, Buzz and Happy learn the hideous secret behind their imprisonment. A narrow shaft in the side of the rock turns out to be the entrance into a valuable mineral ore mine. Once inside the tunnel, Buzz and Happy make the startling discovery that the ore is being mined by two captured scientists and a crew of tortured dwarfs."
"Trapped in a mine beneath the surface of the Black Falcon's stronghold, Buzz and Happy learn the hideous secret behind their imprisonment. A narrow shaft in the side of the rock turns out to be the entrance into a valuable mineral ore mine. Once inside the tunnel, Buzz and Happy make the startling discovery that the ore is being mined by two captured scientists and a crew of tortured dwarfs."
On this day in 1959 (in the United Kingdom), The Invisible Man aired "The Prize." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Russian writer scheduled to attend a prize ceremony in the West is arrested by her government for crimes against the state. When Peter learns of the arrest, he crosses a minefield and breaks into the military headquarters to rescue her. However, the commissar in charge anticipates Peter's arrival and sets a trap."
"A Russian writer scheduled to attend a prize ceremony in the West is arrested by her government for crimes against the state. When Peter learns of the arrest, he crosses a minefield and breaks into the military headquarters to rescue her. However, the commissar in charge anticipates Peter's arrival and sets a trap."
On this day in 1959 (in the U.S.), World Of Giants aired "Feathered Foe." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Wikipedia.Org:
"An enemy agent is using carrier pigeons to transport secret documents."
"An enemy agent is using carrier pigeons to transport secret documents."
On this day in 1961 (in the United Kingdom), A For Andromeda aired "The Miracle." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"The construction of the computer is completed, and immediately it becomes apparent that it is under control of an alien intelligence. Fleming and his colleagues engage in a bizarre question and answer session with the computer: the computer asks the questions, and Fleming and his colleagues do the answering. It transpires that one of Flemings colleagues, Bridger, is passing information about the discovery to a mysterious organisation called Intel. A government agent monitoring Bridger is killed. Meanwhile the computer has been spelling out the molecular structure of a living cell. Fleming now begins to fear the computer, and considers that the project should be brought to a close, in this he finds himself in conflict with one of his colleagues, Madeline Dawnay."
"The construction of the computer is completed, and immediately it becomes apparent that it is under control of an alien intelligence. Fleming and his colleagues engage in a bizarre question and answer session with the computer: the computer asks the questions, and Fleming and his colleagues do the answering. It transpires that one of Flemings colleagues, Bridger, is passing information about the discovery to a mysterious organisation called Intel. A government agent monitoring Bridger is killed. Meanwhile the computer has been spelling out the molecular structure of a living cell. Fleming now begins to fear the computer, and considers that the project should be brought to a close, in this he finds himself in conflict with one of his colleagues, Madeline Dawnay."
On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), The Outer Limits aired Harlan Ellison's "Demon With A Glass Hand." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Days ago, Trent awoke with no memory of his past. Since then, sinister men have pursued him constantly. He manages to stay one step ahead of them by following the advice of his hand. Made of glass and apparently capable of speech, Trent's hand can answer many of his questions. But it cannot tell him who he is or why his enemies seek him until he finds all of its fingers. The only trouble is that they're in the hands of his enemies."
ExtraExtra Alert:
The episode of The Outer Limits has long been heralded as one of the show's very best. I've seen it on home video, and anyone interested in knowing my thoughts on it can find them right here.
"Days ago, Trent awoke with no memory of his past. Since then, sinister men have pursued him constantly. He manages to stay one step ahead of them by following the advice of his hand. Made of glass and apparently capable of speech, Trent's hand can answer many of his questions. But it cannot tell him who he is or why his enemies seek him until he finds all of its fingers. The only trouble is that they're in the hands of his enemies."
ExtraExtra Alert:
The episode of The Outer Limits has long been heralded as one of the show's very best. I've seen it on home video, and anyone interested in knowing my thoughts on it can find them right here.
On this day in 1965 (in the U.S.), Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea aired "The Cyborg." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Nelson visits a scientist that's created cyborgs who hold him prisoner. Then a Nelson cyborg is sent to the Seaview to start a war."
"Nelson visits a scientist that's created cyborgs who hold him prisoner. Then a Nelson cyborg is sent to the Seaview to start a war."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), The Invaders aired "The Spores." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's second (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tom Jessup's an invader, who's transporting a briefcase containing something vital: spores. These organisms will grow into aliens able to withstand Earth's atmosphere. As Jessup desperately tries to find the briefcase, the spores inside of it continue to develop."
"Tom Jessup's an invader, who's transporting a briefcase containing something vital: spores. These organisms will grow into aliens able to withstand Earth's atmosphere. As Jessup desperately tries to find the briefcase, the spores inside of it continue to develop."
On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), The Six Million Dollar Man aired "The Most Dangerous Enemy." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's fourth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Steve and Rudy go to check up on scientist, Cheryl Osborne, who was performing research on chimpanzees but who has ceased communications. When they arrive they find something has destroyed the lab, and Rudy is bitten by a rampaging chimpanzee. Rudy begins to turn psychotic and Steve must both stop him and find Osborne before it's too late."
"Steve and Rudy go to check up on scientist, Cheryl Osborne, who was performing research on chimpanzees but who has ceased communications. When they arrive they find something has destroyed the lab, and Rudy is bitten by a rampaging chimpanzee. Rudy begins to turn psychotic and Steve must both stop him and find Osborne before it's too late."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), Logan's Run aired the episode "Man Out Of Time." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the programs only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the skinny from IMDB.com:
"David Eakins, a scientist time travels 200 years into the future, where he encounters Logan, Jessica and Rem, where he plans to change history and prevent the nuclear war. Can Logan, Jessica and Rem stop David from changing history?"
"David Eakins, a scientist time travels 200 years into the future, where he encounters Logan, Jessica and Rem, where he plans to change history and prevent the nuclear war. Can Logan, Jessica and Rem stop David from changing history?"
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), Starman aired "Blue Lights." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scott erroneously uses the sphere to make some lights appears in the sky. And when a deputy sees them and he tells everyone about it, they don't believe him. But Fox upon hearing about it heads to investigate."
"Scott erroneously uses the sphere to make some lights appears in the sky. And when a deputy sees them and he tells everyone about it, they don't believe him. But Fox upon hearing about it heads to investigate."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Lady of Light." This (technically) served as the program's thirty-third episode (they were aired wildly out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A being from a different dimension lands on Tortuna. If she remains in this universe for too long, the universe will be destroyed. The Rangers must find her and send her back to her own dimension."
"A being from a different dimension lands on Tortuna. If she remains in this universe for too long, the universe will be destroyed. The Rangers must find her and send her back to her own dimension."
On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), War of the Worlds aired "Thy Kingdom Come." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Harrison and the team talk to a psychic woman who studied the aliens after the first invasion. Meanwhile, a group of aliens take over a family and travel cross country in order to awaken more aliens from hibernation."
"Harrison and the team talk to a psychic woman who studied the aliens after the first invasion. Meanwhile, a group of aliens take over a family and travel cross country in order to awaken more aliens from hibernation."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman aired "Requiem for a Superhero." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Lois and Clark are assigned to cover a large boxing match in the city and find that several of the fighters seem stronger than the average mortal man. They begin to investigate only to have a dear family friend of Lois' killed for knowing too much and then discover that the man behind it all is Lois's estranged father, Dr. Sam Lane a legend in the world of sports medicine."
"Lois and Clark are assigned to cover a large boxing match in the city and find that several of the fighters seem stronger than the average mortal man. They begin to investigate only to have a dear family friend of Lois' killed for knowing too much and then discover that the man behind it all is Lois's estranged father, Dr. Sam Lane a legend in the world of sports medicine."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), SeaQuest DSV aired "Brothers And Sisters." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Sea Quest crew is on its way to demolish an abandoned munitions plant. As they get closer they realize it isn't abandoned at all, there are six children trapped inside. One of the children is sick and needs to be transported to the ship right away, while the oldest boy is very hesitant to leave and runs off. Lucas is thrilled to have others his age on the boat and gets to show the oldest girl on a tour of the ship. Bridger must juggle keeping the two youngest boys out of his hair while trying to help Commander Ford get the last child out of the compound before it collapses. He also has to deliver solemn news to the children concerning their parents."
"The Sea Quest crew is on its way to demolish an abandoned munitions plant. As they get closer they realize it isn't abandoned at all, there are six children trapped inside. One of the children is sick and needs to be transported to the ship right away, while the oldest boy is very hesitant to leave and runs off. Lucas is thrilled to have others his age on the boat and gets to show the oldest girl on a tour of the ship. Bridger must juggle keeping the two youngest boys out of his hair while trying to help Commander Ford get the last child out of the compound before it collapses. He also has to deliver solemn news to the children concerning their parents."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired the fourth episode of its second season. The hour was titled "Invasive Procedures," and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at Trekcore.com:
"When DS9 is being evacuated due to a plasma storm, a group of renegades infiltrate the station. The leader of the intruders is the Trill Verad who intends to steal the symbiont of Dax, a procedure which would undoubtedly kill the host body of Jadzia."
"When DS9 is being evacuated due to a plasma storm, a group of renegades infiltrate the station. The leader of the intruders is the Trill Verad who intends to steal the symbiont of Dax, a procedure which would undoubtedly kill the host body of Jadzia."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Dax was front and center again in the fourth episode of its third season. It was an hour titled "Equilibrium," and here's the plot summary as provided by Trekcore.com:
"Dax goes into shock when the computer aboard the Defiant displays a picture of the Trill composer of a song that has been on her mind. Sisko tries to seek out the mysterious link with the long-dead musician and Dax only to have all the official channels closed in their faces."
"Dax goes into shock when the computer aboard the Defiant displays a picture of the Trill composer of a song that has been on her mind. Sisko tries to seek out the mysterious link with the long-dead musician and Dax only to have all the official channels closed in their faces."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), Deadly Games aired "The Practical Joker." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Danny Schlecht, a real-life practical joker, secretly adds a villain to the game based on himself. Fortunately for the gang, the Jackal disapproves of this "outside" villain."
"Danny Schlecht, a real-life practical joker, secretly adds a villain to the game based on himself. Fortunately for the gang, the Jackal disapproves of this "outside" villain."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), the crew of Stargate: SG-1 aired the twelfth episode of its first season. Officially, the hour was titled "Fire and Water," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"O'Neill, Carter and Teal'c return through the Stargate shell-shocked and distressed to announce that Daniel Jackson was killed. But Jackson was captured by the last survivor of an aquatic race, who planted false memories in the other members of SG1. Can the team remember and return to rescue Daniel?"
"O'Neill, Carter and Teal'c return through the Stargate shell-shocked and distressed to announce that Daniel Jackson was killed. But Jackson was captured by the last survivor of an aquatic race, who planted false memories in the other members of SG1. Can the team remember and return to rescue Daniel?"
On this day in 1999 (in the U.S.), GvsE (aka Good vs Evil) aired "Lady Evil." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A rock band, Lady Evil, is going nowhere in their attempt to become rock stars. Harlow, one of the two members, decides they need a manager and chooses Roddy, a Morlock. The band's rise to fame is unbelievable and the Corps, utilising their rock and roll expert Desmond Rossmore, send in Chandler and Henry with orders to get Harlow to renounce his deal."
"A rock band, Lady Evil, is going nowhere in their attempt to become rock stars. Harlow, one of the two members, decides they need a manager and chooses Roddy, a Morlock. The band's rise to fame is unbelievable and the Corps, utilising their rock and roll expert Desmond Rossmore, send in Chandler and Henry with orders to get Harlow to renounce his deal."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Special Unit 2 aired "The Years." This served as the third episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Detectives Benson & O'Malley track down a 'Year Witch', that kills its victims by sucking the youth out of them; O'Malley becomes attracted to an enigmatic fashion designer, who's the primary suspect."
"Detectives Benson & O'Malley track down a 'Year Witch', that kills its victims by sucking the youth out of them; O'Malley becomes attracted to an enigmatic fashion designer, who's the primary suspect."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Enterprise's Mr. Tucker found himself in hot water of a very unique variety in the fifth episode of the program's first season, "Unexpected." According to our friends at Trekcore.com, here's the plot summary:
"After discovering the presence of a damaged alien vessel, Archer dispatches Tucker to its aid, but the engineer's encounter with a Xyrillian female has an unexpected side effect."
"After discovering the presence of a damaged alien vessel, Archer dispatches Tucker to its aid, but the engineer's encounter with a Xyrillian female has an unexpected side effect."
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Farscape: The Peacekeeper Wars brought back the crew of the original Farscape for the first of its two-part wrap-up in a mind-blowing, galaxy-changing event. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"John Crichton and Aeryn anticipate the birth of their child, only to get caught in the middle of a war that threatens millions of lives."
"John Crichton and Aeryn anticipate the birth of their child, only to get caught in the middle of a war that threatens millions of lives."
On this day in 2007 (in Finland), Heroes enjoyed its premiere on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the pilot hour:
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars brought about the end of its 'Malevolence' arc for its first season with the airing of the appropriately titled "Destroy Malevolence." According to our friends at StarWars.com, here's the plot summary:
"Padmé Amidala and C-3PO are taken hostage by General Grievous, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to save the Senator and complete the destruction of the Malevolence."
"Padmé Amidala and C-3PO are taken hostage by General Grievous, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to save the Senator and complete the destruction of the Malevolence."
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Stargate: Atlantis aired the twelfth episode of its fifth (and final) season, an hour answering to the title of "Outsiders." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Atlantis team endeavors to thwart Wraith plans to either find a cure for the Hoffan drug (which makes humans deadly to Wraith feeding on them) or exterminate all those infected."
"The Atlantis team endeavors to thwart Wraith plans to either find a cure for the Hoffan drug (which makes humans deadly to Wraith feeding on them) or exterminate all those infected."
On this day in 2009 (in Germany), Firefly aired "Our Mrs. Reynolds." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A woman claiming to be Mal's wife appears aboard Serenity."
"A woman claiming to be Mal's wife appears aboard Serenity."
On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Senate Spy." This served as the fourth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Jedi Council suspects Senator Rush Clovis of the Banking Delegation is working with the Trade Federation. They ask his former lover Senator Amidala to get reacquainted with him and act as a spy. When she accompanies Clovis on a trip to Cato Neimoidia, Anakin Skywalker goes along disguised as a Naboo pilot."
"The Jedi Council suspects Senator Rush Clovis of the Banking Delegation is working with the Trade Federation. They ask his former lover Senator Amidala to get reacquainted with him and act as a spy. When she accompanies Clovis on a trip to Cato Neimoidia, Anakin Skywalker goes along disguised as a Naboo pilot."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Z Nation aired "Resurrection Z." Officially, this served as the sixth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An encounter with a seeming utopian enclave and a religious cult results in a series game changer."
"An encounter with a seeming utopian enclave and a religious cult results in a series game changer."
On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom and the U.S.), Doctor Who aired the ominously titled "The Girl Who Died." This served as the fifth episode in the re-launched program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"In a Viking village, a girl named Ashildr is about to make a desperate mistake. The Mire are the deadliest mercenaries in the galaxy, famed for showing no mercy and Ashildr has just declared war on them. The Doctor and Clara have 12 hours to turn a peaceful village into strong fighters, ready for the deadly Mire."
"In a Viking village, a girl named Ashildr is about to make a desperate mistake. The Mire are the deadliest mercenaries in the galaxy, famed for showing no mercy and Ashildr has just declared war on them. The Doctor and Clara have 12 hours to turn a peaceful village into strong fighters, ready for the deadly Mire."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Supergirl aired "The Last Children of Krypton." Officially, this served as the second episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Supergirl is hurt by a kryptonite-powered villain sent by Cadmus to attack National City. Superman blames Hank since the kryptonite was stolen from the DEO. In the meantime, Kara's first day at her new job doesn't go as planned when she meets her new boss."
"Supergirl is hurt by a kryptonite-powered villain sent by Cadmus to attack National City. Superman blames Hank since the kryptonite was stolen from the DEO. In the meantime, Kara's first day at her new job doesn't go as planned when she meets her new boss."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Timeless aired "Atomic City." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team tracks Flynn to 1962 Las Vegas where they end up on the run with the era's most infamous mistress."
"The team tracks Flynn to 1962 Las Vegas where they end up on the run with the era's most infamous mistress."
On this day in 1937, The Shadow radio serial aired "Murder By The Dead." According to our friends at The Shadow Wiki, here's the episode's plot summary:
"After the verdict is read at a criminal's trial, a judge and D. A. are threatened by the condemned man. The convict is then hanged. Later, the judge is murdered, as is the district attorney. The stakes are high when the jury foreman, who is next on the killer's list, happens to be Margot Lane's father. How is the dead man following through with his threat? Can he be stopped?"
"After the verdict is read at a criminal's trial, a judge and D. A. are threatened by the condemned man. The convict is then hanged. Later, the judge is murdered, as is the district attorney. The stakes are high when the jury foreman, who is next on the killer's list, happens to be Margot Lane's father. How is the dead man following through with his threat? Can he be stopped?"
