There are TV shows ... and then there's The Twilight Zone, perhaps the definitive television program of its era and -- quite possibly -- one of the very best ever. Hosted by Rod Serling, the 'what if' serial premiered on this day in 1959 and has perhaps been given no finer presentation, challenging viewers to travel to a place where sight and sound may look similar but things are just a wee bit off. While the original has spawned a few reboots, nothing surpasses the original and probably never will. For those who have never taken the journey, here's what IMDB.com tells you to expect when you arrive at your destination:
"Ordinary people find themselves in extraordinarily astounding situations, which they each try to solve in a remarkable manner."
For the record:
To be perfectly blunt, The Twilight Zone -- even decades later -- remains one of television's most compelling creations, so much so that producers have gone back to that well to recreate it in a few different incarnations. As for the original? It garneres positive attention and praise from the Primetime Emmy Awards in 1960, 1961, 1962, and 1963. Furthermore, it won three out of four times it was up for the much coveted Hugo Awards' 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' So, yes, it still deserves as much attention as any are willing to give it.
"Ordinary people find themselves in extraordinarily astounding situations, which they each try to solve in a remarkable manner."
For the record:
To be perfectly blunt, The Twilight Zone -- even decades later -- remains one of television's most compelling creations, so much so that producers have gone back to that well to recreate it in a few different incarnations. As for the original? It garneres positive attention and praise from the Primetime Emmy Awards in 1960, 1961, 1962, and 1963. Furthermore, it won three out of four times it was up for the much coveted Hugo Awards' 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' So, yes, it still deserves as much attention as any are willing to give it.
Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda appears to have been a bit of a combination of ideas the legendary TV creator toyed with off-and-on with other properties which were all fashioned into a brand-new hourly star saga set against the backdrop of one man, one crew, and one ship attempting to put a galaxy back together years after it had fallen asunder. For what it's worth, I held with the program through a somewhat confusing first season (first seasons can be tough), but I quickly lost interest in its second one when nothing appeared to have much direction. Eventually, I'll rediscover it either on video or streaming, but -- for now -- I'll just say that production values were pretty solid along with a talented cast but it was hamstrung by too much repeat of what had come before in the realm of Science Fiction. Here's the premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Captain Dylan Hunt and the crew of the Andromeda Ascendant set out on a mission to rebuild the Systems Commonwealth 300 years after its fall."
For the record:
Though the show's storyline was kinda/sorta tweaked along the way to go in slightly different directions, this 'other show' from Gene Roddenberry was no slouch when it came to accolades. It garnered a wealth of positive attention -- including nominations and award citations -- from such groups as the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films; the Gemini Awards; the Leo Awards; and WorldFest Houston.
"Captain Dylan Hunt and the crew of the Andromeda Ascendant set out on a mission to rebuild the Systems Commonwealth 300 years after its fall."
For the record:
Though the show's storyline was kinda/sorta tweaked along the way to go in slightly different directions, this 'other show' from Gene Roddenberry was no slouch when it came to accolades. It garnered a wealth of positive attention -- including nominations and award citations -- from such groups as the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films; the Gemini Awards; the Leo Awards; and WorldFest Houston.
I know, I know, I know: longtime fans of the television world of Stargate were largely disinterested in SGU: Stargate Universe (which premiered on this day back in 2009), but you know what? I liked it. The first Stargate was a bit too sugary for me at times (what I've seen of it), and Stargate: Atlantis kinda/sorta confused me a bit. (I'll agree that I'm not as informed about either of those shows as I should perhaps be.) But Stargate Universe was a show I could join with very little familiarity of all of Stargate and still enjoy. Here's the series' premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"The previously unknown purpose of the "Ninth Chevron" is revealed, and ends up taking a team to an Ancient ship "Destiny", a ship built millions of years ago by the Ancients, used to investigate a mystery as old as time itself. This team, led by Dr. Nicolas Rush and Colonel Everett Young, is trapped on the ship, unable to change its programmed mission. The team encounters new races, new technology and new enemies as the runaway ship travels to the far ends of the Universe."
For the record:
I think it's accurate to suggest that the wider Stargate community may've rejected SGU: Stargate Universe (finding it much darker than what had come before), but that didn't stop the show from capturing its own share of recognition. It drew some positive mentions from the Primetime Emmy Awards, the Gemini Awards, and the Leo Awards.
"The previously unknown purpose of the "Ninth Chevron" is revealed, and ends up taking a team to an Ancient ship "Destiny", a ship built millions of years ago by the Ancients, used to investigate a mystery as old as time itself. This team, led by Dr. Nicolas Rush and Colonel Everett Young, is trapped on the ship, unable to change its programmed mission. The team encounters new races, new technology and new enemies as the runaway ship travels to the far ends of the Universe."
For the record:
I think it's accurate to suggest that the wider Stargate community may've rejected SGU: Stargate Universe (finding it much darker than what had come before), but that didn't stop the show from capturing its own share of recognition. It drew some positive mentions from the Primetime Emmy Awards, the Gemini Awards, and the Leo Awards.
Not to toot my own horn but I am largely accommodating of many reboots. Granted, I do have my own preferences around which properties deserve a revisiting, but that's for another time and another place ... in this space, I'd like to give a courteous nod to HBO's Westworld (which premiered on the pay cable network on this day in 2016). Based loosely on the 1973 movie from writer/director Michael Crichton (and I do mean 'loosely'), this re-imagining has expanded upon so much from its source materials that it barely even resembles it any longer. Is that good? Meh. Is that bad? Well ... meh. My qualms with it is that the writing staff doesn't appear to be weaving one coherent narrative, but that's only my two cents. Here's what IMDB.com says about it all:
"Set at the intersection of the near future and the reimagined past, explore a world in which every human appetite can be indulged without consequence."
For the record:
I'll hold off on giving a full assessment of Westworld's many accolades until the show concludes its run on pay cable ... but it goes without saying that it has been a bit of a juggernaut in securing praise and awards for its creators, its network, and its stars.
"Set at the intersection of the near future and the reimagined past, explore a world in which every human appetite can be indulged without consequence."
For the record:
I'll hold off on giving a full assessment of Westworld's many accolades until the show concludes its run on pay cable ... but it goes without saying that it has been a bit of a juggernaut in securing praise and awards for its creators, its network, and its stars.
When I was a little spud, I absolutely loved all of the Abbott and Costello comedies. They would seemingly run in an endless rotation on syndicated televisions, typically on a Saturday morning or afternoon, so I had the chance to see them plenty of times. Thankfully, the duo kinda/sorta went into space with Abbott and Costello Go To Mars (1953) so that I can give Bud Abbott (above left) a birthday shout. Though he's no longer with us, Abbott was born on this day in 1895.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alexander Gillespie Raymond was born on this day back in 1909 in New Rochelle, NY. A student of art, he eventually studied it professionally at the Grand Central School of Art in New York City. In 1933, he was asked to help create a comic strip character to compete with the popular "Buck Rogers" one of the day, and, thus, "Flash Gordon" was born.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
The venerable Charles Drake played the venerable Commodore Stocker in "The Deadly Years," a second season episode of the classic Star Trek series. Though he's no longer with us, Drake was born on this day in 1917.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Moses Gunn leaves behind a resume with just over 70 different screen credits. Fans might recognize him best from his appearance in The NeverEnding Story (1984). Though he's no longer with us, Gunn was born on this day in 1929.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late David Gale got about as close to Barbara Crampton as any red-blooded male could possible ever want to get for his work aboard the Horror/Classic Re-Animator (1985), and he lived to tell the story. As for other visions of wonder? He served time in such projects as Savage Weekend (1979), Tales From The Darkside, The Brain (1988), Pulse Pounders (1988), Bride Of Re-Animator (1990), The First Power (1990), Syngenor (1990), and The Guyver (1991). Though he's no longer with us, Gale was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I sat down and penned my thoughts on Re-Animator, one of the seminal films of my early film watching experience. Interested in my thoughts on the affair? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I sat down and penned my thoughts on Re-Animator, one of the seminal films of my early film watching experience. Interested in my thoughts on the affair? Readers can find my review right here.
Bald or not, Persis Khambatta is a very lovely woman, indeed. Her almost royal good looks immediately drew the interests of fashion moguls everywhere, and her entry into the business was by way of modelling. Trek fans known her as Lieutenant Ilya from Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Though she's no longer with us, Ms. Khambatta was born on this day back in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Born on this day in 1948, Avery Brooks built an impressive television and theatrical career before donning the Starfleet uniform as Commander Benjamin Sisko (later promoted back to Captain) on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. In charge of a space station bordering the planet Bajor and its local wormhole, Brooks did what he could as a single parent to keep life in order ... until the Dominion War threw the sector into chaos.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ian McNeice (shown above from the BBC's long-running Doctor Who) has enjoyed a wonderfully full career on stage and screen. He appeared in both of the Dune miniseries (from SciFi or Syfy, if you prefer), as well as a host of period dramas. McNeice was born on this day back in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If I'm being perfectly honest, the only thing I really enjoyed in Dune (1984) was the production work. Far too much of the story is told in voiceover, and very little of it made much sense to me. Oh, yeah, and it had Sting in a role which was also memorable. Sting was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ahhh, the luminous actress and Playboy Playmate Kymberly Herrin certainly delivered a message from the beyond to the benefit of Dan Aykroyd aboard the genre Comedy classic Ghostbusters (1984). Though she's no longer with us, Herrin was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The comely Robin Riker has a resume approaching one hundred different screen credits, but her work is surprisingly slim on Science Fiction. Earlier in her career, she did have roles aboard Alligator (1980) and guest spots aboard The Greatest American Hero, Airwolf, Misfits of Science, Hard Time on Planet Earth, and Sliders. Riker was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Action star David Bradley made a few forays into the realm of Science Fiction with roles aboard Cyborg Cop (1993), Cyborg Cop 2 (1994), and Total Reality (1997). Bradley was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Argh. It's sad what's become of Star Trek literature. Back in the days when I was avidly following it, there were a great many authors -- such as Diane Carey -- who were turning out some quality material to supplement our time spent in-between both TV and cinematic adventures. But, alas, nothing lasts forever, and I can't even think of the last time I picked up anything in that line-up. I've read a good deal of what Carey penned, however, and I consider it first-rate. Carey was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
During the 1980's, the talented Daniel Peacock enjoyed a guest spot as 'Nord' aboard the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Peacock was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Jeffrey Weissman stepped into the shoes of character 'George McFly' aboard Back To The Future 2 (1989) and Back To The Future 3 (1990) when they were vacated by Crispin Glover. Weissman was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hunky Joe Lara has headlined a good handful of B-movies and direct-to-DVD releases, but perhaps genre fans known him best from work in 1993's American Cyborg: Steel Warrior (pictured above right), Steel Frontier (1995), and Hologram Man (1995). Though he's no longer with us, Lara was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Suki Kaiser has definitely left some footprints in the realm of genre entertainment. She's been seen aboard The Girl From Mars (1991), M.A.N.T.I.S., Cyberjack (1995), Poltergeist: The Legacy, The Outer Limits, The Sentinel, PSI Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal, Viper, Sleepwalkers, Kingdom Hospital, Medium, Masters of Horror, Supernatural, and Arrow. Kaiser was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With over one hundred screen credits to his name, Lew Temple has 'been there, done that' in a lot of great appearances. He's been a part of Futurestates, The Walking Dead, and Zombex. Temple was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
English-born Lucy Cohu has a resume impressive in some period and drama efforts, and thankfully she's enjoyed exposure aboard the BBC's Torchwood so that we can sing her praises here. Cohu was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Acclaimed actress Elyse Mirto dabbled in the world of the Apocalypse with a recurring role aboard TNT's The Last Ship during its run. She also paid a visit to the world of TV's Sliders. Mirto was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Bridget White made a proper splash in Science Fiction with an appearance aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine during its run in television syndication. As for other forays? Viewers might spot her goodness on display in such properties as Seven Days, The Apostate (2000), Supernatural, Evan Almighty (2007), Medium, and Person Of Interest. White was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
The delightful Natasha Little gravitates more toward conventional dramas, but she did throw herself into the Fantasy-themed Mr. Nobody with Jared Leto in 2009. She's also provided voicework to several Star Wars gaming properties. Little was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Following in the footsteps that so many one-time pop superstars before her have done, the lovely Tiffany gave acting a try with roles aboard the SciFi properties Mega Piranha (2010) and Mega Python Vs Gatoroid (2011). Tiffany was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Michelle Krusiec has proven time and time again that she's much much more than a pretty face! She's blessed genre works with her commanding presence aboard Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Special Unit 2, Fringe, and Touch. Krusiec was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Lindsey Stoddart enjoyed a guest spot aboard "Chosen Realm," an episode of Star Trek: Enterprise. Stoddart was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though the lovely Brianna Brown doesn't do much genre work, she has enjoyed a few roles deserving mention. She's been seen in Special Unit 2, Spider-man 2, and Smallville for good measure. Brown was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She's certainly a bit older now -- and she's definitely matured into a beautiful young woman in her own right -- but the lovely and precocious Camilla Belle began her SciFi career hoping to feed a tiny piece of her hot dog to a hungry little dinosaur in Jurassic Park: The Lost World. Someone should've told her things like that always end badly. Belle was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I occasionally struggled with The CW's popular Apocalypse/Drama The 100. Why? Well, even the supposed smart people get duped into doing some perfectly stupid things from time to time, but the show excels when it gives more time to its strong supporting cast, of which the young Christopher Larkin typically shines in the role of survivor 'Monty Green.' Larkin was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well ... never let it be said that Castille Landon doesn't know how to make an entrance. And make an entrace she does, especially given the fact that she's not only an actress but also a talented screenwriter and director. Genre fans can catch the lady doin' her thang in such properties as Ghost Whisperer and Albion: The Enchanted Stallion (2016). Landon was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Brendan Meyer continues to build a resume rich in genre work. Since launching on a professional career, he's garnered screen time aboard R. L. Stine's The Haunting Hour, The 100, Falling Skies, iZombie, Fear The Walking Dead, and The OA. Meyer was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1916 (in Hungary), Homunculus took to the silver screen. Directed by Otto Rippert from a script by Robert Reinert, the SciFi/Horror starred Olaf Fønss, Ernst Ludwig, and Albert Paul. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of scientists, led by a Professor Ortmann, produce a living human child using scientific processes - a "homunculus." This creature is human in every way, except that he cannot experience love."
"A group of scientists, led by a Professor Ortmann, produce a living human child using scientific processes - a "homunculus." This creature is human in every way, except that he cannot experience love."
On this day in 1962 (in Argentina), The Ship Of Monsters set sail on the silver screen for parts unknown. Directed by Rogelio A. González, the SciFi/Horror starred Eulalio González, Ana Bertha Lepe, and Lorena Velázquez. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two extraterrestrial women are sent on a mission by the regent of Venus to search for a male of another planet."
"Two extraterrestrial women are sent on a mission by the regent of Venus to search for a male of another planet."
A star is born! On this day in 1966 (in Italy), Star Pilot launched theatrically! Written (in part) and directed by Pietro Francisci, the SciFi feature starred Leonora Ruffo and Mario Novelli, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Aliens from the constellation Hydra crash-land on the island of Sardinia. A prominent scientist, his daughter, several young technicians, and a pair of Oriental spies are taken hostage by the beings so they can use them to repair their spaceship's broken engine. With that done, they take off towards their home planet, taking the earthlings with them. However, the humans attempt to mutiny against their captors, inadvertently sending their tiny spaceship hurtling into the infinite beyond..."
For the record:
Yes, I've had the good fortune (or was it?) of viewing the glorious Star Pilot. Those interested in knowing what I thought of it can check out SciFiHistory.Net's review right here.
"Aliens from the constellation Hydra crash-land on the island of Sardinia. A prominent scientist, his daughter, several young technicians, and a pair of Oriental spies are taken hostage by the beings so they can use them to repair their spaceship's broken engine. With that done, they take off towards their home planet, taking the earthlings with them. However, the humans attempt to mutiny against their captors, inadvertently sending their tiny spaceship hurtling into the infinite beyond..."
For the record:
Yes, I've had the good fortune (or was it?) of viewing the glorious Star Pilot. Those interested in knowing what I thought of it can check out SciFiHistory.Net's review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1975 (in the Netherlands), The Ultimate Warrior enjoyed its first theatrical engagement, giving a bare-chested Yul Brynner the chance to save mankind from the Apocalypse. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Only a few people still live in New York City in 2012. They are organized in gangs with their own turfs. One of them is led by Baron, another one by Carrot, and they are constantly at war with each other. Baron's gang is more peaceful and have developed seeds that can germinate despite the virus plague. The lone ranger Carson is hired by Bishop for protection."
"Only a few people still live in New York City in 2012. They are organized in gangs with their own turfs. One of them is led by Baron, another one by Carrot, and they are constantly at war with each other. Baron's gang is more peaceful and have developed seeds that can germinate despite the virus plague. The lone ranger Carson is hired by Bishop for protection."
On this day in 1979 (in the Philippines), a Plague broke out cinematically. Written (in part) and directed by Ed Hunt, the SciFi/Thriller starred Daniel Pilon and Kate Reid, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An ambitious lab assistant carries out a forbidden experiment and accidentally creates a deadly bacteria which kills her and rapidly engulfs the city. The authorities order a curtain of secrecy and impose quarantine on all known contacts whilst embarking on a desperate search for a cure. Meanwhile one of the people in quarantine escapes and becomes the unwitting carrier of the disease. She spreads the plague wherever she goes and becomes a fugitive on the run eluding the police through subways and alleyways. In a gripping build up of events, the full horror of the plague becomes public and the onslaught has to be stopped before all human life on Earth is destroyed."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Plague enjoyed a modest bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"An ambitious lab assistant carries out a forbidden experiment and accidentally creates a deadly bacteria which kills her and rapidly engulfs the city. The authorities order a curtain of secrecy and impose quarantine on all known contacts whilst embarking on a desperate search for a cure. Meanwhile one of the people in quarantine escapes and becomes the unwitting carrier of the disease. She spreads the plague wherever she goes and becomes a fugitive on the run eluding the police through subways and alleyways. In a gripping build up of events, the full horror of the plague becomes public and the onslaught has to be stopped before all human life on Earth is destroyed."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Plague enjoyed a modest bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1981 (according to an online advertisement I reviewed from The Atlanta Constitution), Roger Corman's Galaxy Of Terror enjoyed its very first theatrical engagement ever. Written (in part) and directed by Bruce D. Clark, the SciFi/Horror release starred Erin Moran, Sid Haig, and Robert Englund, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When spaceship Remus crash-lands on planet Morganthus, the Planet Master of Xerces sends the spacecraft Quest to rescue them, but it crash-lands, too. Baelon leads the away team, comprising himself, his rival Cabren, psi-sensitive Alluma, medic Dameia, martial arts fighter Quuhod and jittery rookie Cos. Finding only brutally murdered bodies aboard the Remus, Quest personal start getting brutally slaughtered, one-by-one, themselves. With their ship still damaged, the team investigates a nearby, lifeless alien pyramid, not realizing its using their own personal fears to hunt them down and kill them."
"When spaceship Remus crash-lands on planet Morganthus, the Planet Master of Xerces sends the spacecraft Quest to rescue them, but it crash-lands, too. Baelon leads the away team, comprising himself, his rival Cabren, psi-sensitive Alluma, medic Dameia, martial arts fighter Quuhod and jittery rookie Cos. Finding only brutally murdered bodies aboard the Remus, Quest personal start getting brutally slaughtered, one-by-one, themselves. With their ship still damaged, the team investigates a nearby, lifeless alien pyramid, not realizing its using their own personal fears to hunt them down and kill them."
On this day in 1987, Creepozoids promised to sink its teeth into mankind. The feature starred Linnea Quigley and Ken Abraham, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"A group of survivors try to avoid the battles of World War III; when they try to escape to the quiet lands, they encounter something much more deadly."
"A group of survivors try to avoid the battles of World War III; when they try to escape to the quiet lands, they encounter something much more deadly."
On this day in 1992 (in Hungary), Omega Cop stirred up what "international" box office it could. Written (in part) and directed by Paul Kyriazi, the feature starred Ronald Marchini, Meg Thayer, and Adam West; and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"In the future, a cop goes after a gang of slave traders."
"In the future, a cop goes after a gang of slave traders."
A star is born! On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), the ongoing saga of the Tremors bunch grew by another chapter with the home video release of Tremors 3: Back To Perfection. Directed by Brent Maddock, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michael Gross, Shawn Christian, and Ariana Richards; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The now famous Burt Gummer returns to his hometown of Perfection, Nevada for the first time in years, but the deadliest Graboid evolution yet forces him to save the town he swore to protect."
For the record:
For the 2001 DVD Exclusive Awards, Tremors 3 enjoyed a bit of attention. Michael Gross took home the 'Best Actor' Award, and the film also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
"The now famous Burt Gummer returns to his hometown of Perfection, Nevada for the first time in years, but the deadliest Graboid evolution yet forces him to save the town he swore to protect."
For the record:
For the 2001 DVD Exclusive Awards, Tremors 3 enjoyed a bit of attention. Michael Gross took home the 'Best Actor' Award, and the film also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Special Effects.'
A star is born! On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), the Americanized version of The Ring enjoyed its theatrical debut with a screening at the Hollywood Film Festival. Directed by Gore Verbinski, the Horror/Fantasy starred Naomi Watts, Martin Henderson, and Brian Cox. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A journalist must investigate a mysterious videotape which seems to cause the death of anyone one week to the day after they view it."
"A journalist must investigate a mysterious videotape which seems to cause the death of anyone one week to the day after they view it."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Chainsaw Sally revved up her motor for audiences in attendance of the Cinema Wasteland Convention. Written and directed by Jimmyo Burril, the Horror/Comedy starred April Monique Burril, Mark Redfield, and Alec Joseph. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman, traumatized after witnessing the murder of her parents as a young girl, grows up to be a serial killer whom gets her inspiration for killing from horror films."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Chainsaw Sally earned a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A young woman, traumatized after witnessing the murder of her parents as a young girl, grows up to be a serial killer whom gets her inspiration for killing from horror films."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Chainsaw Sally earned a wee bit of attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2009 (in Japan), Battle Planet waged a war all of its own with a home video release. Written and directed by Greg Aronowitz, the SciFi/Thriller starred Zack Ward, Monica May, and Colleen Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the not-so-distant future, Captain Jordan Strider, a Special Forces Officer in the New World Alliance, is chosen for a top-secret mission. Sent to a desolate planet, Terra 219, to arrest possible traitors to the Alliance, Strider must survive with only a government issued experimental suit as protection. Eventually Strider discovers that he has been double crossed: The mission is an experiment to test the suit, which he cannot take off."
"In the not-so-distant future, Captain Jordan Strider, a Special Forces Officer in the New World Alliance, is chosen for a top-secret mission. Sent to a desolate planet, Terra 219, to arrest possible traitors to the Alliance, Strider must survive with only a government issued experimental suit as protection. Eventually Strider discovers that he has been double crossed: The mission is an experiment to test the suit, which he cannot take off."
On this day in 2009 (in Spain), [REC]2 enjoyed a full theatrical release to audiences. Written (in part) and directed by the team of Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jonathan D. Mellor, Manuela Velasco, and Óscar Zafra. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In order to ascertain the current situation inside, a supposed medical officer and a GEO team step into the quarantined and ill-fated apartment building."
"In order to ascertain the current situation inside, a supposed medical officer and a GEO team step into the quarantined and ill-fated apartment building."
On this day in 2013 (in Japan), AE: Apocalypse Earth delivered the end of the world as we know it to theaters. Written and directed by Thunder Levin, the SciFi feature starred Adrian Paul, Richard Grieco, and Bali Rodriguez; and here's the plot summary as listed on IMDB.com:
"A group of refugees from Earth work to survive on a hostile alien planet."
"A group of refugees from Earth work to survive on a hostile alien planet."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in South Korea), the Superhero/Comedy American Hero enjoyed its unveiling to the masses in attendance of the Busan International Film Festival. Written and directed by Nick Love, the production starred Stephen Dorff, Eddie Griffin, and Raeden Greer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Melvin, a reluctant Superhero, lives only for crime, women and drugs - until he realises that the only way he will ever get to see his estranged son is to go straight and fulfil his potential as a crime fighter."
"Melvin, a reluctant Superhero, lives only for crime, women and drugs - until he realises that the only way he will ever get to see his estranged son is to go straight and fulfil his potential as a crime fighter."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), Medusa glowed on silver screens everywhere. Written and directed by Jorge Ameer, the SciFi/Horror starred Jeff Allen, Thomas William, and Britt Rose; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jack Peruci is a mythology professor who acquires an antique mirror from Kao, a shady witch doctor. As evil haunts Dr. Peruci through this recently acquired artifact, he must overcome the paranormal to avoid his soul from being summoned as a vessel of resurrection."
"Jack Peruci is a mythology professor who acquires an antique mirror from Kao, a shady witch doctor. As evil haunts Dr. Peruci through this recently acquired artifact, he must overcome the paranormal to avoid his soul from being summoned as a vessel of resurrection."
On this day in 2015, Narcopolis enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Written and directed by Justin Trefgarne, the SciFi feature starred James Callis, Harry Lloyd, and Kerry Shale; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, Frank Grieves is a new breed of police officer working in a city where all recreational drugs are legal. When he is taken off a case involving an unidentified corpse, he discovers that legalization has come at a price."
"In the near future, Frank Grieves is a new breed of police officer working in a city where all recreational drugs are legal. When he is taken off a case involving an unidentified corpse, he discovers that legalization has come at a price."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Shangri-La: Near Extinction delivered up one look at our impending doom via its general release on the internet. Written and directed by Nick Wauters, the SciFi feature starred Eric Szmanda, Ewan Chang, and Sara Malakul Lane; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mankind is nearly extinct in this post-apocalyptic creature thriller. Most humans died from a deadly plague and the ice age they manufactured to eradicate it. A man named Vargas leads a group of survivors on a quest to reach Shangri-La, the last safe haven on Earth. However, they must fight through the cold, a mutant cult and a pack of deadly creatures to get there."
"Mankind is nearly extinct in this post-apocalyptic creature thriller. Most humans died from a deadly plague and the ice age they manufactured to eradicate it. A man named Vargas leads a group of survivors on a quest to reach Shangri-La, the last safe haven on Earth. However, they must fight through the cold, a mutant cult and a pack of deadly creatures to get there."
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in Australia, Canada, Brazil, and the U.S.), 2067 took audiences on a trip into the not-so-distant future. Written (in part) and directed by Seth Larney, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Aaron Glenane, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Ryan Kwanten. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"One man's journey to the future to save a dying world."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I was offered a copy of 2067 on DVD in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"One man's journey to the future to save a dying world."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2020, I was offered a copy of 2067 on DVD in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in knowing what I thought of the project? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 1954 (in the U.S.), Captain Midnight aired "Death Below Zero." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tut shows Jackson his latest invention, a universal lock opener. The discussion is interrupted by a news flash about a major bank robbery. A young boy, Jefferson Bishop arrives for a meeting with Jackson. His dog is sick and the boy thinks he might be poisoned by some bad meat he purchased. Jackson agrees and decides to talk to the meat merchant. The butcher is amicable and agrees to help the boy out. As the pair leave, two men enter the shop. Jackson recognizes one of them as the guard from the bank robbery earlier in the day and organizes Ikkie and the boy to follow..."
"Tut shows Jackson his latest invention, a universal lock opener. The discussion is interrupted by a news flash about a major bank robbery. A young boy, Jefferson Bishop arrives for a meeting with Jackson. His dog is sick and the boy thinks he might be poisoned by some bad meat he purchased. Jackson agrees and decides to talk to the meat merchant. The butcher is amicable and agrees to help the boy out. As the pair leave, two men enter the shop. Jackson recognizes one of them as the guard from the bank robbery earlier in the day and organizes Ikkie and the boy to follow..."
On this day back in 1959, a whole new phenomenon began when Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone aired its first episode ever. "Where Is Everybody?" featured a man waking up and finding himself all alone in a town void of people. The Twilight Zone easily withstands the test of time as each episode delivers some truly terrific storytelling along with a sense of purpose and some compelling performances. If you're never seen it, then shame on you! If you have, then do like I've done and start watching it again on DVD: you'll be pleasantly surprised with how the quality has held up despite the passage of several decades.
On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), Jonny Quest aired "The Curse Of Anubis." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A plot to frame Dr. Quest for the theft of a national Egyptian treasure awakens an ancient mummy to dog the steps of the true culprits."
"A plot to frame Dr. Quest for the theft of a national Egyptian treasure awakens an ancient mummy to dog the steps of the true culprits."
On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), Thunderbirds aired "Atlantic Inferno." Officially, this served as the first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Lady Penelope invites Jeff Tracy for a vacation on her Australian ranch. Jeff reluctantly agrees and leaves Scott in command of International Rescue, after getting an update from John that a World Navy exercise is taking place in the Atlantic Ocean. This exercise involves warning a nearby mid-ocean drilling rig, the Seascape, whose crew chief, Frank Hooper, isn't pleased that the exercise involves firing nuclear warheads underwater. His concern proves justified when an errant nuclear torpedo detonates on the ocean floor and the resulting wave batters the rig. The swell settles and no damage is incurred, but that night a jet of fire erupts from the sea floor, the result of detonation of a gas pocket beneath of ocean floor."
"Lady Penelope invites Jeff Tracy for a vacation on her Australian ranch. Jeff reluctantly agrees and leaves Scott in command of International Rescue, after getting an update from John that a World Navy exercise is taking place in the Atlantic Ocean. This exercise involves warning a nearby mid-ocean drilling rig, the Seascape, whose crew chief, Frank Hooper, isn't pleased that the exercise involves firing nuclear warheads underwater. His concern proves justified when an errant nuclear torpedo detonates on the ocean floor and the resulting wave batters the rig. The swell settles and no damage is incurred, but that night a jet of fire erupts from the sea floor, the result of detonation of a gas pocket beneath of ocean floor."
Wow: I'm guessing that Dr. Helena Russell will think twice the next time Commander John Koenig suggests a three-way. Yuck. Big yuck. On this day in 1975 (in the United Kingdom), "Death's Other Dominion" aired as part of Space:1999's first season. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the ice world of Ultima Thule the Alphans encounter members of lost earth expedition who have achieved immortality- but at a price!"
"On the ice world of Ultima Thule the Alphans encounter members of lost earth expedition who have achieved immortality- but at a price!"
On this day in 1976 (in the U.S.), Ark II aired "The Robot." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Samuel creates a robot that could prove useful when exploring a sector permeated by a strange gas, but Jonah is unwilling to allow Alpha-One to assist and orders him deactivated. Alphie has other ideas."
Editor's Note:
That's right, space fans! Look closely and you'll realize that the role of 'The Robot' in Ark II's episode titled "The Robot" was played by none other than Forbidden Planet's Robby The Robot!
"Samuel creates a robot that could prove useful when exploring a sector permeated by a strange gas, but Jonah is unwilling to allow Alpha-One to assist and orders him deactivated. Alphie has other ideas."
Editor's Note:
That's right, space fans! Look closely and you'll realize that the role of 'The Robot' in Ark II's episode titled "The Robot" was played by none other than Forbidden Planet's Robby The Robot!
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), Battle Of The Planets aired "The Space Mummy." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the planet Zarcadia, discovered by 7-Zark-7, a series of mysterious plane accidents are occurring. There is no mention of turbulence - only 'something white', according to Chief Anderson. When G-Force reaches Zarcadia Mark encounters a titanic mummy - apparently powered by a highly radioactive element called 'Plutonium X', manufactured only by Spectra. The only antidote, something called Anti-Pluton, is in the hands of its creator, a Dr. Sweet, who resides on the planet. His nephew, Buddy, is the son of one of the missing pilots. When his dad apparently returns, he is caught searching Dr. Sweet's safe. The man is none other than Zoltar, and later that night the mummy attacks the airport. -Force must find a way to eliminate the mummy before it can destroy Zarcadia - and them..."
"On the planet Zarcadia, discovered by 7-Zark-7, a series of mysterious plane accidents are occurring. There is no mention of turbulence - only 'something white', according to Chief Anderson. When G-Force reaches Zarcadia Mark encounters a titanic mummy - apparently powered by a highly radioactive element called 'Plutonium X', manufactured only by Spectra. The only antidote, something called Anti-Pluton, is in the hands of its creator, a Dr. Sweet, who resides on the planet. His nephew, Buddy, is the son of one of the missing pilots. When his dad apparently returns, he is caught searching Dr. Sweet's safe. The man is none other than Zoltar, and later that night the mummy attacks the airport. -Force must find a way to eliminate the mummy before it can destroy Zarcadia - and them..."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Traash." Officially, this (technically) served as the program's tenth episode (they were aired out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Traash, a very aggressive territorial species, are encountered in a new area of space. The Rangers are ordered to make contact with the Traash, something no one else has ever attempted."
"The Traash, a very aggressive territorial species, are encountered in a new area of space. The Rangers are ordered to make contact with the Traash, something no one else has ever attempted."
On this day in 1987 (in the U.S.), Max Headroom aired "Grossberg's Return." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Grossberg wages a grim vendetta against Edison and Network 23 by taking firm control of their arch rival Network 66."
"Grossberg wages a grim vendetta against Edison and Network 23 by taking firm control of their arch rival Network 66."
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), War of the Worlds aired "The Second Wave." Officially, this served as the first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A new, more advanced generation of aliens known as the Morthren arrive on Earth. Dr Blackwood is saved from a kidnapping by a renegade soldier called John Kincaid. After executing the original alien invaders for failing to conquer humanity, the Morthren aim to destroy Blackwood's team with a clone of Colonel Ironhorse."
"A new, more advanced generation of aliens known as the Morthren arrive on Earth. Dr Blackwood is saved from a kidnapping by a renegade soldier called John Kincaid. After executing the original alien invaders for failing to conquer humanity, the Morthren aim to destroy Blackwood's team with a clone of Colonel Ironhorse."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Interface." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Geordi is distracted by the news of the possible loss of his mother while he uses a new remote probe technology to search for a downed spacecraft."
"Geordi is distracted by the news of the possible loss of his mother while he uses a new remote probe technology to search for a downed spacecraft."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman aired "The Source." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Lois fights a hard struggle to protect one of her sources. When it looks like the source has been murdered as a result of having provided Lois with information Perry feels he has no choice but to suspend her. After some encouragement from Superman it now becomes Lois mission to solve the murder and find out what really happened."
"Lois fights a hard struggle to protect one of her sources. When it looks like the source has been murdered as a result of having provided Lois with information Perry feels he has no choice but to suspend her. After some encouragement from Superman it now becomes Lois mission to solve the murder and find out what really happened."
If you surf the web, you'll find that there are plenty of theories as to what really brought actor Michael Dorn -- in the guise of Worf -- to the fold of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. One of the dominant "explanations" I've heard over the years on more than one occasion (and at more than a single Trek convention) was that the producers were experiencing some "difficulties" with one of the leads already established on the show; so they opted to send a message to that certain someone, namely something along the lines of "If we need to replace you, then we're ready for it." Years later, there's never been any official explanation, but the addition of the Klingon officer introduced another layer of stories that was added to an already rich tapestry for DS9. "The Way of the Warrior" was an epic two-parter that first aired on this day in 1995, and it truly cemented Dorn's clout amongst Trek enthusiasts who weren't yet quite sold on joining the other spin-off. Some did, and the rest, as they say, is history. Or should I say 'canon'? Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Sisko becomes uncomfortable when the Klingons station a task force to help defend against the Dominion. Worf is summoned to find out their true intentions."
"Sisko becomes uncomfortable when the Klingons station a task force to help defend against the Dominion. Worf is summoned to find out their true intentions."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Stargate: SG-1 aired "The Tok'ra: Part 1." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Teal'c makes Sam Carter realize how valuable the knowledge left by Tok'ra Jolinar in her brain and the chance for an alliance can be, they convince general Hammond to let SG-1 attempt a meeting. They arrive on a planet which is deserted on the surface, but are awaited by well-camouflaged, armed Tok'ra who bring them to tunnels which they create by means of a mysterious crystal, which can also undo them afterward. Both parties are quiet suspicious, the team feels like captives, and indeed the Tok'ra leader Yosuuf fears they cannot be released at least until the whole site is moved. Meanwhile the Tauri (earthlings) barely overcome their suspicion against the Tok'ra Goa'uld biology (with symbiont), when already asked to volunteer themselves as 'hosts', and Carter learns Martouf (alias Lantash, symbiotically) was Jolinar's lover, hence has a special connection with her..."
"When Teal'c makes Sam Carter realize how valuable the knowledge left by Tok'ra Jolinar in her brain and the chance for an alliance can be, they convince general Hammond to let SG-1 attempt a meeting. They arrive on a planet which is deserted on the surface, but are awaited by well-camouflaged, armed Tok'ra who bring them to tunnels which they create by means of a mysterious crystal, which can also undo them afterward. Both parties are quiet suspicious, the team feels like captives, and indeed the Tok'ra leader Yosuuf fears they cannot be released at least until the whole site is moved. Meanwhile the Tauri (earthlings) barely overcome their suspicion against the Tok'ra Goa'uld biology (with symbiont), when already asked to volunteer themselves as 'hosts', and Carter learns Martouf (alias Lantash, symbiotically) was Jolinar's lover, hence has a special connection with her..."
On this day in 1999, Batman Beyond continued exploring this unique spin on Batman's potential future mythology. This third episode of the second season was titled "Joyride," and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When a prototype military vehicle with a disastrous flaw is abandoned and seized by Jokerz, Batman and the vehicle's creator must hunt it down before it explodes."
"When a prototype military vehicle with a disastrous flaw is abandoned and seized by Jokerz, Batman and the vehicle's creator must hunt it down before it explodes."
On this day in 1999, The Lost World aired "More Than Human," the third episode in the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After a run-in with a T-Rex, the group find themselves taken hostages by an unfamiliar species, humanoids evolved from dinosaurs. To this odd civilization, humans are nothing more than slaves, inferior to them."
"After a run-in with a T-Rex, the group find themselves taken hostages by an unfamiliar species, humanoids evolved from dinosaurs. To this odd civilization, humans are nothing more than slaves, inferior to them."
It all began right here: on this day in 2000, Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda took flight in television syndication. The series gave Kevin Sorbo a chance to venture deep into SciFi, and here's the premise for the pilot episode titled "Under The Night" as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"The Commonwealth vessel Andromeda, captained by Dylan Hunt, responds to an urgent distress call to find itself lured into a trap. Nietzschean warships surround them and open fire. Captain Hunt, in a last ditch effort, evacuates the ship and maneuvers toward a nearby black hole. Hunt's first officer, Rhade, a Nietzschean himself, betrays Hunt and attempts to kill him, but Hunt perseveres, killing Rhade in the process. Time dilation near the black hole slows time for the Andromeda and Dylan until a freighter tows it out 300 years later. Dylan now must fight off the band of scavengers attempting to claim his ship as salvage."
"The Commonwealth vessel Andromeda, captained by Dylan Hunt, responds to an urgent distress call to find itself lured into a trap. Nietzschean warships surround them and open fire. Captain Hunt, in a last ditch effort, evacuates the ship and maneuvers toward a nearby black hole. Hunt's first officer, Rhade, a Nietzschean himself, betrays Hunt and attempts to kill him, but Hunt perseveres, killing Rhade in the process. Time dilation near the black hole slows time for the Andromeda and Dylan until a freighter tows it out 300 years later. Dylan now must fight off the band of scavengers attempting to claim his ship as salvage."
On this day in 2007, Eureka aired "A Night In Global Dynamics." This served as the thirteenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A flesh eating virus has infected Global Dynamics, and the building goes into a security protocol that endangers everyone's lives."
"A flesh eating virus has infected Global Dynamics, and the building goes into a security protocol that endangers everyone's lives."
On this day in 2007 (in Sweden), Stargate: SG-1 aired "Moebius: Part 1." Officially, this served as the nineteenth episode in the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
"With the threats of both the Replicators and the Goa'uld greatly diminished and the sister ship to the Prometheus, the Daedalus, now under construction, SG-1 is anxious to get a ride on the new ship. However, the mood is somewhat darkened by a phone call informing Dr. Jackson of Catherine Langford's death. After the funeral, Catherine's niece gives Daniel "a few odds and ends" that her aunt wanted him to have. Upon delivery it is discovered that almost her entire collection was shipped to Daniel's lab. He finds in one of her books a possible location of a ZPM, but scans of the area showed that it was no longer there. Daniel proposes that they use the Ancient time machine to take it from Ra at Giza in 3000 BC."
On this day in 2008, Smallville aired "Toxic." This served as the third episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the premise that's provided via IMDB.com:
"Oliver Queen is poisoned at a charity fundraiser and Clark races around the world to find a cure."
"Oliver Queen is poisoned at a charity fundraiser and Clark races around the world to find a cure."
On this day in 2009, Smallville aired "Metallo." This served as the second episode of the program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After being hit by a truck, John Corben becomes a human guinea pig when his heart is replaced by a machine powered by meteor rocks, which, in turn, gives him extraordinary strength, and he realizes he can use it to catch his prey...the Red & Blue Blur."
"After being hit by a truck, John Corben becomes a human guinea pig when his heart is replaced by a machine powered by meteor rocks, which, in turn, gives him extraordinary strength, and he realizes he can use it to catch his prey...the Red & Blue Blur."
It all began right here: on this day in 2009, Stargate Universe launched itself into the greater mythology of television's Stargate universe. The first episode was titled "Air: Part 1," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Icarus Base is attacked, its inhabitants are forced to flee through the Stargate. The base was created on a distant planet to take advantage of a powerful energy supply located there. Their goal is to try to determine the purpose of the mysterious ninth symbol of the Stargate, which they've never been able to lock in. In going through the Stargate, they are transported not to Earth, but to a very old apparently uninhabited spacecraft. With the group's commander injured, Lt. Scott and the chief scientist - Dr. Nicholas Rush - lead the exploration of the craft. Several areas of the ship have been damaged but it is basically functional. They are able to learn that they are, in fact, billions of light years from Earth."
"When Icarus Base is attacked, its inhabitants are forced to flee through the Stargate. The base was created on a distant planet to take advantage of a powerful energy supply located there. Their goal is to try to determine the purpose of the mysterious ninth symbol of the Stargate, which they've never been able to lock in. In going through the Stargate, they are transported not to Earth, but to a very old apparently uninhabited spacecraft. With the group's commander injured, Lt. Scott and the chief scientist - Dr. Nicholas Rush - lead the exploration of the craft. Several areas of the ship have been damaged but it is basically functional. They are able to learn that they are, in fact, billions of light years from Earth."
On this day in 2009, Stargate Universe aired "Air: Part 2." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tensions rise as the new arrivals explore the ship. Dr. Rush comes under suspicion with his secretive behavior and attitude. He determines however that the ship is losing air. They find a damaged room that is partly exposed to space but the problem is that the door can only be closed from the inside. Who is prepared to sacrifice their life for the others? Once that problem is solved, Rush determines that the level of carbon dioxide is rising rapidly. The ship comes out of hyperspace near a planet that will have the materials needed to fix the scrubbers. They are given only 12 hours to get what they need."
"Tensions rise as the new arrivals explore the ship. Dr. Rush comes under suspicion with his secretive behavior and attitude. He determines however that the ship is losing air. They find a damaged room that is partly exposed to space but the problem is that the door can only be closed from the inside. Who is prepared to sacrifice their life for the others? Once that problem is solved, Rush determines that the level of carbon dioxide is rising rapidly. The ship comes out of hyperspace near a planet that will have the materials needed to fix the scrubbers. They are given only 12 hours to get what they need."
It all started right here: on this day in 2016, HBO ventured into the realm of Science Fiction in a big way with the premiere of its revisioned Westworld tv series based on the 1973 movie from Michael Crichton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the pilot episode known as "The Original":
"As another day of fantasy plays out in Westworld - a vast, remote park where guests pay top dollar to share wild-west adventures with android "hosts" - top programmer Bernard Lowe alerts park founder Dr. Robert Ford about incidents of aberrant behavior cropping up in some recently re-coded hosts. Meanwhile, in the Westworld town of Sweetwater, a rancher's daughter named Dolores encounters a gunslinger named Teddy in the street - but their predictable narrative is upended by the appearance of a ruthless Man in Black and, later, by a supporting host's unscripted encounter with an artifact of the outside world."
"As another day of fantasy plays out in Westworld - a vast, remote park where guests pay top dollar to share wild-west adventures with android "hosts" - top programmer Bernard Lowe alerts park founder Dr. Robert Ford about incidents of aberrant behavior cropping up in some recently re-coded hosts. Meanwhile, in the Westworld town of Sweetwater, a rancher's daughter named Dolores encounters a gunslinger named Teddy in the street - but their predictable narrative is upended by the appearance of a ruthless Man in Black and, later, by a supporting host's unscripted encounter with an artifact of the outside world."
- If you're interested in knowing what SciFiHistory.Net thought of the pilot, then follow the link right here.
On this day in 2017, The Ministry Of Time aired "El cisma del tiempo." This served as the ninth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The 'Exterminating Angel' abducts Rabbi Levi in a bid to make him find a door to the future after 2017, but he escapes to the room of Antipope Benedict XIII in 1417 Peñiscola."
"The 'Exterminating Angel' abducts Rabbi Levi in a bid to make him find a door to the future after 2017, but he escapes to the room of Antipope Benedict XIII in 1417 Peñiscola."
