Who doesn't appreciate a good visit from The Doctor? Despite a few clunker episodes here and there, I thought that young Matt Smith's tenure as Doctor Who was respectfully solid. I think in some ways it lacked a lot of the narrative depth of the David Tennant years, trying to give the singular time traveler a bit more magic, a bit more whimsy. Though it's hard to point out all that many stand-out episodes, I would argue that his first full-season run had one of the best intros along with the suitable big finish any man, woman, or child from Gallifrey deserves. Smith was born on this day in 1982. [Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Elsa Lanchester worked her way into Cinema History as well as the heart of one of Science maddest creations with her work as 'the Bride' herself in Universal's fabulous Bride Of Frankenstein (1935). Though she's no longer with us, Lanchester was born on this day in 1902. [Source: IMDB.com]
The late Joe Spinell rather admirably chewed scenery in his role as the villainous 'Count Zarth Arn' aboard the SciFi/Camp release from Italy known as Starcrash (1978). Though he's no longer with us, Spinell was born on this day in 1936.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Jane Alexander (above in the middle) proved herself a force to be reckoned with as a member of the Resistance in Terminator: Salvation. Alexander was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Regular readers here may recall that I've mentioned before an ongoing debate I've had with friends who are convinced that Ghostbusters IS Science Fiction. (I maintain that it isn't.) Whatever the case, I'll still give the franchise's remarkable Annie Potts a shout-out for her special day. She's also appeared in The Twilight Zone (1985), Amazing Stories, and the telefilm The Man Who Fell To Earth. Potts was born on this day in 1952.
Daphne Zuniga is just dreamy, isn't she? It's almost 'dreamy' in an even greater dreamy kind of way, no? Ms. Zuniga was perfectly cast as Princess Vespa in Mel Brooks' zany Spaceballs (1987). Truth be told, I never much cared for the movie, but the same will never be said about Ms. Zuniga, whom I adore. She was born on this day back in 1962.
Lauren Holly has been all over the map, taking terrific character roles in dramas and comedies alike. Her resume is a bit light on SciFi, but she has appeared fairly recently in Lost Girl and Alphas. Holly was born on this day in 1963.
Early in her career, actress Jami Gertz starred in the SciFi-lite feature Solarbabies, an adventure that pitted a group of space-aged roller skaters against a despotic regime bent on controlling Earth's remaining water supply. (Think I'm kidding? Look it up!) Gertz was born on this day in 1965.
About as close to legitimate genre work that Julia Roberts has ever come was her role as a scientist experimenting with the afterlife aboard Joel Schumacher's Flatliners (1990). Roberts was born on this day in 1967. [Source: IMDB.com]
Screenwriter Michael Dougherty has certainly built some solid inroads into the realms of Science Fiction and Fantasy with his participation in such projects as X2: X-Men United (2003), Superman Returns (2006), and Godzilla: King Of The Monsters (2019). Dougherty was born on this day in 1974. [Source: IMDB.com]
Critical darling Joaquin Phoenix created yet another critical stir for his resume when he fell in love with a version of artificial intelligence that sounded like Scarlett Johansson in 2013's Her. Phoenix was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional copy of SpaceCamp (1986) -- in which Phoenix played a role -- in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2017, I received a promotional copy of SpaceCamp (1986) -- in which Phoenix played a role -- in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
In her youth, a plucky Lauren Woodland appeared aboard the Alien Nation TV franchise in the role of Emily Francisco. She's also booked gigs on NBC's Quantum Leap and UPN's Seven Days. Woodland was born on this day in 1977. [Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 1990, the Young Artist Awards nominated the actress in the category of 'Best Young Actress Supporting Role in a Television Series' for her work aboard the Alien Nation weekly series.
For the record:
In 1990, the Young Artist Awards nominated the actress in the category of 'Best Young Actress Supporting Role in a Television Series' for her work aboard the Alien Nation weekly series.
Look, I'm all in favor of giving epic, towering, hot blonds work in the film industry, but why in the name of goodness would you bury Gwendoline Christie's great looks under silver armor in Star Wars: Episode 7 - The Force Awakens? Seems like a miss to me. Christie was born on this day in 1978. [Source: IMDB.com]
Even folks who have never much cared for 'found footage films' pretty much enjoyed its monsterific variation with 2008's unexpected pleasure Cloverfield. In it, relative newcomer Michael Stahl-David gave a solid lead performance as a guy really caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. He also appeared in 2013's The Congress. Stahl-David was born on this day in 1982.
Though he's clearly more involved in traditional dramatic roles, Finn Wittrock did guest aboard an episode of the BBC's Doctor Who spin-off, Torchwood. Wittrock was born on this day in 1984.
Super-early in her acting career (just her second role ever), a young Troian Bellisario joined Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell in an episode of the popular Quantum Leap. Bellisario was born on this day in 1985.
The fetching Eliana Jones staked out a reputation in Fantasy with an appearances aboard Lost Girl and The CW's Supergirl. Jones was born on this day in 1997. [Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1957 (in Portugal), Satellite In The Sky blasted off into the star-filled heavens. Directed by Paul Dickson, the SciFi/Drama starred Kieron Moore, Lois Maxwell, and Donald Wolfit; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A crew of astronauts, including a scientist and a reporter, launch from England into outer space on a rocket which can serve as a satellite. Their mission is to test a new tritonium bomb, but after the bomb fails to repel itself from the ship, the crew has only a matter of hours to defuse or destroy the weapon before it explodes."
"A crew of astronauts, including a scientist and a reporter, launch from England into outer space on a rocket which can serve as a satellite. Their mission is to test a new tritonium bomb, but after the bomb fails to repel itself from the ship, the crew has only a matter of hours to defuse or destroy the weapon before it explodes."
On this day in 1971 (in the Netherlands), The Omega Man took a shot at cinema glory. Directed by Boris Sagal, the SciFi/Horror hybrid starred Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, and Rosalind Cash; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record: It's important to note that The Omega Man is a cinematic adaptation of the Richard Matheson novel, 'I Am Legend.' To date, the book has been adapted three times: The Last Man On Earth (1964), The Omega Man (1971), and I Am Legend (2007).
More for the record: It's also worth mentioning that actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination from the NAACP Image Awards in 1971 ('Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture') for her work in the film.
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record: It's important to note that The Omega Man is a cinematic adaptation of the Richard Matheson novel, 'I Am Legend.' To date, the book has been adapted three times: The Last Man On Earth (1964), The Omega Man (1971), and I Am Legend (2007).
More for the record: It's also worth mentioning that actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination from the NAACP Image Awards in 1971 ('Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture') for her work in the film.
On this day in 1983 (in West Germany), audiences were treated to the far out SciFi/Fantasy better known as Krull. Directed by Peter Yates, the film starred Ken Marshall and Lysette Anthony, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet."
A star is born! Look out! It's another Apocalypse! On this day in 1983 (in Italy), Rush enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever. Written (in part) and directed by Tonino Ricci, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Bruno Minniti, Gordon Mitchell, and Laura Trotter; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-nuclear holocaust world, a survivor roams the desert, fighting bandits and the forces of an evil warlord."
For the record:
This wasn't the only time Italian audiences would see genre favorite Minitti in the role as he suited up again just months later with Rage (aka A Man Called Rage) (1984), also directed by Tonino Ricci for Arco Film.
"In a post-nuclear holocaust world, a survivor roams the desert, fighting bandits and the forces of an evil warlord."
For the record:
This wasn't the only time Italian audiences would see genre favorite Minitti in the role as he suited up again just months later with Rage (aka A Man Called Rage) (1984), also directed by Tonino Ricci for Arco Film.
A star is born ... and get that man an aspirin! On this day in 1983 (in Canada), Spasms twitched its way onto the silver screen. Written (in part) and directed by William Fruet (adapted from the novel "Death Bite"), the SciFi/Horror starred Peter Fonda, Oliver Reed, and Kerrie Keane. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A gigantic serpent is captured on a remote island and shipped to an American college for experimentation. A British millionaire and an American scientist find themselves in hot pursuit of the beast when it escapes from captivity and starts to kill innocent people."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Spasms enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A gigantic serpent is captured on a remote island and shipped to an American college for experimentation. A British millionaire and an American scientist find themselves in hot pursuit of the beast when it escapes from captivity and starts to kill innocent people."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Spasms enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1989 (in the Philippines), The Bronx Executioner showed up in theatres to dish out mostly mayhem. Written and directed by Vanio Amici, the SciFi film starred Gabriele Gori and Margie Newton, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"In a futuristic New York City, a cyborg goes on a killing spree."
"In a futuristic New York City, a cyborg goes on a killing spree."
A star is born! On this day in 1991, the SciFi/Telefilm Frankenstein: The College Years warmed up the laughs with some polite mockery of a SciFi/Horror classic. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When professor Lippzigger dies, his favorite student Mark inherits the key to his secret laboratory. There he and his friend Jay find the hundreds of years old body of Frankenstein - and revive it. But where to go with him? They take him with them to their dorms. He's dumb as a brick, but makes it into their football team and becomes popular. If there only wasn't Prof. Loman, who wants to become famous with Lipp's inventions..."
For the record:
Honestly, I don't see much out there on the Information Superhighway that discusses this SciFi/Fantasy telefilm. There is a review and some basic information on Mondo Bizarro, and interested readers can check it out right here.
"When professor Lippzigger dies, his favorite student Mark inherits the key to his secret laboratory. There he and his friend Jay find the hundreds of years old body of Frankenstein - and revive it. But where to go with him? They take him with them to their dorms. He's dumb as a brick, but makes it into their football team and becomes popular. If there only wasn't Prof. Loman, who wants to become famous with Lipp's inventions..."
For the record:
Honestly, I don't see much out there on the Information Superhighway that discusses this SciFi/Fantasy telefilm. There is a review and some basic information on Mondo Bizarro, and interested readers can check it out right here.
On this day in 1992 (in Germany), the 1974-produced Invasion From Inner Earth enjoyed a broadcast on television. Directed by Bill Rebane from a script by Barbara J. Rebane, the SciFi/Horror starred Paul Bentzen, Debbi Pick, and Nick Holt. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of young pilots in a remote region of the Canadian wilderness begin to hear strange reports over their radios about planes crashing, cars stalling and a deadly plague which has gripped the planet. It becomes clear that earth is in the midst of an invasion. The group of pilots decide to barracade themselves in a cabin deep in the woods and wait for their impending doom."
"A group of young pilots in a remote region of the Canadian wilderness begin to hear strange reports over their radios about planes crashing, cars stalling and a deadly plague which has gripped the planet. It becomes clear that earth is in the midst of an invasion. The group of pilots decide to barracade themselves in a cabin deep in the woods and wait for their impending doom."
A star is born! On this day in 1994, a veritable juggernaut of an inevitable Science Fiction and Fantasy franchise was born with the U.S. theatrical release of Stargate. Written by the team of Dean Devlin and Roland Emmerich, the motion picture starred Kurt Russell, James Spader, and Jaye Davidson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An interstellar teleportation device, found in Egypt, leads to a planet with humans resembling ancient Egyptians who worship the god Ra."
For the record:
Besides launching an all-new property for fans worldwide, the original Stargate film was the recipient of some industry recognition as well. In 1995, Sci-Fi Universe Magazine awarded the film the titles of 'Best Special Effects in a Genre Motion Picture,' 'Best Supporting Actress in a Genre Motion Picture,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (It's important to note that these honors were bestowed by the magazine's readership which voted on the publisher's poll.) Also in 1995, Stargate was nominated (but lost) the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' Lastly (in the same year), the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films awarded the feature with the Saturn Award for 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
As mentioned, the film essentially was responsible for bringing an all-new franchise to life. A few years after it's theatrical release, MGM dipped back into the well (originally for the Showtime pay cable network but then transitioning to the Syfy Channel), Stargate the series was launched. Stargate: Atlantis followed a few years later, along with Stargate Universe and Stargate: Origins. I suspect we've not seen the last of this intrepid universe.
"An interstellar teleportation device, found in Egypt, leads to a planet with humans resembling ancient Egyptians who worship the god Ra."
For the record:
Besides launching an all-new property for fans worldwide, the original Stargate film was the recipient of some industry recognition as well. In 1995, Sci-Fi Universe Magazine awarded the film the titles of 'Best Special Effects in a Genre Motion Picture,' 'Best Supporting Actress in a Genre Motion Picture,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (It's important to note that these honors were bestowed by the magazine's readership which voted on the publisher's poll.) Also in 1995, Stargate was nominated (but lost) the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' Lastly (in the same year), the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films awarded the feature with the Saturn Award for 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
More for the record:
As mentioned, the film essentially was responsible for bringing an all-new franchise to life. A few years after it's theatrical release, MGM dipped back into the well (originally for the Showtime pay cable network but then transitioning to the Syfy Channel), Stargate the series was launched. Stargate: Atlantis followed a few years later, along with Stargate Universe and Stargate: Origins. I suspect we've not seen the last of this intrepid universe.
On this day in 2003 (in Hungary), Alien Hunter enjoyed a debut on home video. Directed by Ron Krauss, the SciFi/Thriller starred James Spader, Janine Eser, and John Lynch. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien black box is found in the South Pole, where a government agency is conducting botanical experiments."
"An alien black box is found in the South Pole, where a government agency is conducting botanical experiments."
On this day in 2008 (in Hungary), Showdown At Area 51 turns up the heat with a release on home video. Directed by C. Roma, the SciFi/Thriller starred Jason London, Gigi Edgley, and Christa Campbell. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two aliens who crash on Earth must find a buried weapon that will destroy the planet and their own society if not stopped."
"Two aliens who crash on Earth must find a buried weapon that will destroy the planet and their own society if not stopped."
On this day in 2011, Justin Timberlake made the jump from pop superstardom to Science Fiction with the curiously titled flick called In Time. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future where people stop aging at 25, but are engineered to live only one more year, having the means to buy your way out of the situation is a shot at immortal youth. Here, Will Salas finds himself accused of murder and on the run with a hostage - a connection that becomes an important part of the way against the system."
"In a future where people stop aging at 25, but are engineered to live only one more year, having the means to buy your way out of the situation is a shot at immortal youth. Here, Will Salas finds himself accused of murder and on the run with a hostage - a connection that becomes an important part of the way against the system."
On this day in 2014, audiences learned just how fragile a technological marvel can be with the release of Dragon Day. Written and directed by Jeffrey Travis, the film starred Ethan Flower and Osa Wallander, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"A family getaway to a mountain town turns deadly when China launches a massive cyberattack against the USA, forcing former NSA engineer Duke Evans to fight to save his wife and daughter in the New World Order."
"A family getaway to a mountain town turns deadly when China launches a massive cyberattack against the USA, forcing former NSA engineer Duke Evans to fight to save his wife and daughter in the New World Order."
On this day in 2014, The Perfect 46 enjoyed its U.S. theatrical release. Written and directed by Brett Ryan Bonowicz, the SciFi/Drama starred Whit Hertford and Don McManus, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A geneticist creates a website that pairs an individual with their ideal genetic partner for children."
"A geneticist creates a website that pairs an individual with their ideal genetic partner for children."
On this day in 2017, the SciFi feature Time Trap played for audiences in attendance of the Austin Film Festival. Written and directed by Mark Dennis, the flick starred Andrew Wilson and Cassidy Gifford, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A group of students venture into the deep caves of remote Texas to locate a favorite archaeology professor who inexplicably has gone missing while searching for the Fountain of Youth. In the course of their pursuit, the group unwittingly rappels into a break in the space-time continuum, where time passes much slower than on the surface. With no hope for rescue, they descend further into the cave and uncover the most coveted urban legend in history and find themselves in the crossfire for its control."
"A group of students venture into the deep caves of remote Texas to locate a favorite archaeology professor who inexplicably has gone missing while searching for the Fountain of Youth. In the course of their pursuit, the group unwittingly rappels into a break in the space-time continuum, where time passes much slower than on the surface. With no hope for rescue, they descend further into the cave and uncover the most coveted urban legend in history and find themselves in the crossfire for its control."
It all began right here: on this day in 1951 one of the very first Science Fiction anthology series premiered on television under the name of Out There. Sadly, it lasted only twelve episodes, perhaps setting an ugly trend very early in the world of SciFi TV. In any event, the first installment was titled "Outer Limit," it benefitted from the acting talents of Wesley Addy, Robert Allen, and Stewart Bradly, and here's the plot summary from CTVA.Biz:
"An extraterrestrial being attempts to convince a captured American jet pilot that earth infatuation with atomic weapons is viewed with alarm by other worlds and that Earth will be destroyed if it fails to curb its experimentation in atomic weaponry."
"An extraterrestrial being attempts to convince a captured American jet pilot that earth infatuation with atomic weapons is viewed with alarm by other worlds and that Earth will be destroyed if it fails to curb its experimentation in atomic weaponry."
On this day in 1959, Men Into Space aired "Water Tank Rescue." This served as the fourth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an astronaut is stricken by a heart attack on the Moon, McCauley must find a way to get him back to Earth."
"When an astronaut is stricken by a heart attack on the Moon, McCauley must find a way to get him back to Earth."
On this day in 1960, The Twilight Zone aired "A Thing About Machines." This served as the fourth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Bartlett Finchley's paranoia about the machines around proves true."
"Bartlett Finchley's paranoia about the machines around proves true."
On this day in 1962, Fireball XL5 rocketed into existence with the airing of its very first episode, "Planet 46." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spacecraft carrying an atomic device much more powerful than a hydrogen bomb approaches Earth. The World Space Patrol sends Fireball XL-5, piloted by Steve Zodiac, to intercept. It turns out the spacecraft is manned and is carrying out a suicide mission. Zodiac destroys the spacecraft and is instructed to travel to the craft's source -- Planet 46."
"A spacecraft carrying an atomic device much more powerful than a hydrogen bomb approaches Earth. The World Space Patrol sends Fireball XL-5, piloted by Steve Zodiac, to intercept. It turns out the spacecraft is manned and is carrying out a suicide mission. Zodiac destroys the spacecraft and is instructed to travel to the craft's source -- Planet 46."
On this day in 1962, The Jetsons aired "The Good Little Scouts." This served as the sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"George reluctantly agrees to lead Elroy's scout troop on their camping trip on the moon. He wasn't too thrilled about it, but since Mr. Spacely's son Arthur is also a scout member, George jumped at the opportunity to appease his boss. They're not on the moon one hour when George and Arthur find themselves lost."
"George reluctantly agrees to lead Elroy's scout troop on their camping trip on the moon. He wasn't too thrilled about it, but since Mr. Spacely's son Arthur is also a scout member, George jumped at the opportunity to appease his boss. They're not on the moon one hour when George and Arthur find themselves lost."
On this day in 1963, The Outer Limits aired "The Man Who Was Never Born." This served as the sixth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Earth awaits a terrible fate in the far future, so a 20th Century astronaut and a typically hideously malformed future Earthling go back in time hoping to change history. They target a beautiful young woman just before she gives birth to the scientist who created the bio-warfare agent which ravages the future Earth and all humans. But how can the repulsive Andro succeed when he's likely to be shot on sight?"
"Earth awaits a terrible fate in the far future, so a 20th Century astronaut and a typically hideously malformed future Earthling go back in time hoping to change history. They target a beautiful young woman just before she gives birth to the scientist who created the bio-warfare agent which ravages the future Earth and all humans. But how can the repulsive Andro succeed when he's likely to be shot on sight?"
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Thunderbirds aired "Edge Of Impact." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"The Hood has been paid by General Bron to destroy Red Arrow - a new British Fighter plane. However, two men are placed in deadly danger when the second prototype crashes into a television relay tower."
"The Hood has been paid by General Bron to destroy Red Arrow - a new British Fighter plane. However, two men are placed in deadly danger when the second prototype crashes into a television relay tower."
On this day in 1966, The Time Tunnel aired "Massacre." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first (and only) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Doug and Tony are transported to the summer of 1876 and witness soldiers slaughtered by Indians in the middle of the desert."
"Doug and Tony are transported to the summer of 1876 and witness soldiers slaughtered by Indians in the middle of the desert."
On this day in 1975, The Tomorrow People aired "One Law: Another For The Rich." This served as the second episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Lord Dunning takes Mike's family prisoner in order to force him to use his powers in his service. Meanwhile, John, Liz and Stephen attempt to discover his whereabouts by interrogating Slow and Two Tone."
"Lord Dunning takes Mike's family prisoner in order to force him to use his powers in his service. Meanwhile, John, Liz and Stephen attempt to discover his whereabouts by interrogating Slow and Two Tone."
On this day in 1978, Jason of Star Command aired "Attack of the Dragons." This served as the eighth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Professor Parsafoot manages to repair the Starfire and he and his friends take off from the "Limbo of the Lost" planet. Having rescued Captain Kidd from Dragos' booby trap, the pirate agrees to join the fight against the alien tyrant. When the Starfire's navigation system is disabled, the Captain uses his sextant to calculate their location and course and the spaceship arrives at Space Academy just in time to thwart Dragos' latest attack by his ship's guidance system, sending his vessel adrift in deep space."
"Professor Parsafoot manages to repair the Starfire and he and his friends take off from the "Limbo of the Lost" planet. Having rescued Captain Kidd from Dragos' booby trap, the pirate agrees to join the fight against the alien tyrant. When the Starfire's navigation system is disabled, the Captain uses his sextant to calculate their location and course and the spaceship arrives at Space Academy just in time to thwart Dragos' latest attack by his ship's guidance system, sending his vessel adrift in deep space."
On this day in 1978, Project U.F.O. aired "Sighting 4017: The Devilish Davidson Lights Incident." This served as the third episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Capt. Ryan and S Sgt. Fitz fly to Davidson, CA to investigate a mass sighting of lights in the night sky believed to be UFO's. The sightings were documented over a two day period by dozens of people and included photographic evidence."
"Capt. Ryan and S Sgt. Fitz fly to Davidson, CA to investigate a mass sighting of lights in the night sky believed to be UFO's. The sightings were documented over a two day period by dozens of people and included photographic evidence."
On this day in 1983, Manimal aired "Female of the Species." This served as the fourth episode in the show's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A girl was found in India apparently raised by wolves and brought to the U.S. and is being kept at a university while she is being studied. Jonathan attends a lecture and it's during the lecture her habitat is set on fire. Jonathan tries to save her but she runs away. When she sees Jonatahn transform she trusts him. Jonathan takes her to his home and tries to communicate with her. The scientist who found demands she be returned to him but Jonathan thinks she's in danger."
"A girl was found in India apparently raised by wolves and brought to the U.S. and is being kept at a university while she is being studied. Jonathan attends a lecture and it's during the lecture her habitat is set on fire. Jonathan tries to save her but she runs away. When she sees Jonatahn transform she trusts him. Jonathan takes her to his home and tries to communicate with her. The scientist who found demands she be returned to him but Jonathan thinks she's in danger."
On this day in 1984, Terrahawks aired "Midnight Blue." This served as the fifth episode of the puppety program's second season, and here's the plot summary from TV.com:
"Whilst pursuing a decoy Zeaf, Hawkwing becomes trapped in the depths of space."
"Whilst pursuing a decoy Zeaf, Hawkwing becomes trapped in the depths of space."
On this day in 1986, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Bronto Bear." This (technically) served as the program's fortieth episode (they were aired wildly out of order), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Blackhole Gang wakes a Brontobear, one of the largest most dangerous creatures in the galaxy. The Rangers arrive to stop its rampage."
"The Blackhole Gang wakes a Brontobear, one of the largest most dangerous creatures in the galaxy. The Rangers arrive to stop its rampage."
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Booby Trap." Officially, this served as the sixth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at TrekCore.com:
"After taking the Enterprise into a mysterious asteroid belt to examine the only known relic of a long-dead race, Picard discovers that the belt is actually a lethal snare and assigns La Forge the impossible task of finding a way out before it's too late."
"After taking the Enterprise into a mysterious asteroid belt to examine the only known relic of a long-dead race, Picard discovers that the belt is actually a lethal snare and assigns La Forge the impossible task of finding a way out before it's too late."
On this day in 1989, Superboy aired "Young Dracula." This served as the fourth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Superboy and Lana get caught in the middle of a battle between two vampires."
"Superboy and Lana get caught in the middle of a battle between two vampires."
On this day in 1990, Monsters aired "Outpost." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Cara Raymond (Juliet Mills) is inspecting a mining outpost on a hostile alien world for a big company. The outpost is manned by Sebastian, a man who was dying of an incurable disease. "The company" offers to bioengineer anyone who is dying, wipe their memories, and give them a second chance at life. Only, under the law, the bioeningeered people are not considered human any more, and are put to work on unbearably hot planets with poisonous atmospheres (where they are the only beings who can live there without a spacesuit). Raymond demands that Sebastian get his mining quota back on schedule, but Sebastian says he's hearing alien voices. She warns him that if the project is shut down, the company has the right to kill him. Sebastian and Cara debate the importance of life, work, friendship, and belonging. He accuses Cara of being less than human herself due to her obsessive dedication to her work. Sebastian also harbors a deeper secret, one which involves Cara."
"Cara Raymond (Juliet Mills) is inspecting a mining outpost on a hostile alien world for a big company. The outpost is manned by Sebastian, a man who was dying of an incurable disease. "The company" offers to bioengineer anyone who is dying, wipe their memories, and give them a second chance at life. Only, under the law, the bioeningeered people are not considered human any more, and are put to work on unbearably hot planets with poisonous atmospheres (where they are the only beings who can live there without a spacesuit). Raymond demands that Sebastian get his mining quota back on schedule, but Sebastian says he's hearing alien voices. She warns him that if the project is shut down, the company has the right to kill him. Sebastian and Cara debate the importance of life, work, friendship, and belonging. He accuses Cara of being less than human herself due to her obsessive dedication to her work. Sebastian also harbors a deeper secret, one which involves Cara."
On this day in 1992 (in France), The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "Fee Fie Foe Fum." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode of the program's sixth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A vicious prankster convinces his wife's mean old grandmother that he is planning to kill her and her pets and grind them up in the new garbage disposal that he bought for her."
"A vicious prankster convinces his wife's mean old grandmother that he is planning to kill her and her pets and grind them up in the new garbage disposal that he bought for her."
On this day in 1994, Time Trax aired "The Lottery." This served as the seventeenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"22nd century comedian Joey Miller thinks he's got life made having used future knowledge to win the lottery, but suddenly he's faced with a deadly loan shark asking for more on one side and Lambert telling him to return the money and get sent back on the other."
"22nd century comedian Joey Miller thinks he's got life made having used future knowledge to win the lottery, but suddenly he's faced with a deadly loan shark asking for more on one side and Lambert telling him to return the money and get sent back on the other."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "Z'ha'dum," the finale to the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the relevant plot summary:
"Sheridan goes to Z'Ha'Dum, to try and prevent the fall of Centauri Prime, and end the Shadow War. Secrets are revealed, and Kosh's warning haunts Sheridan."
"Sheridan goes to Z'Ha'Dum, to try and prevent the fall of Centauri Prime, and end the Shadow War. Secrets are revealed, and Kosh's warning haunts Sheridan."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Myles O'Brien's attempt to get some alone time with his wife Keiko goes horribly awry when an alien entity inhabits her human form for the purposes of completing "The Assignment." I'll say this: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine certainly put that married couple to the test!
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), the clock was winding down on SciFi TV serial Babylon 5. Producers aired the eighteenth episode of their fifth (and final) season, an adventure called "The Fall of Centauri Prime." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Centauri Prime has been attacked, thousands have died. Londo finds out the truth, who masterminded the war, and why they allowed the attack on Centauri Prime to happen. Londo becomes Emperor, and has to act hostile to those he once called 'friend.'"
"Centauri Prime has been attacked, thousands have died. Londo finds out the truth, who masterminded the war, and why they allowed the attack on Centauri Prime to happen. Londo becomes Emperor, and has to act hostile to those he once called 'friend.'"
On this day in 1998, Seven Days aired "Vows." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Frank is tasked with going back 7 days into the past to try and stop a bomb explosion caused by a failed bank robbery. While on the mission unforeseen events occur that turn Frank's and everyone he loves, world upside down."
"Frank is tasked with going back 7 days into the past to try and stop a bomb explosion caused by a failed bank robbery. While on the mission unforeseen events occur that turn Frank's and everyone he loves, world upside down."
Also on this day in 1998, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine began marching diligently through the paces of its seventh (and final) season, airing "Chrysalis" as its fifth episode that year. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the hour's plot summary:
"Dr. Bashir attempts to bring one of his genetically engineered friends out of the catatonic state she is in, and when he is successful, he begins to fall for her."
"Dr. Bashir attempts to bring one of his genetically engineered friends out of the catatonic state she is in, and when he is successful, he begins to fall for her."
Also on this day in 1998, Star Trek: Voyager aired the third episode of its fifth season. "Extreme Risk" was its name, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"B'Elanna Torres secretly participates in several dangerous holodeck programs. The Voyager crew works around the clock to build the Delta Flyer, hoping to beat the Malon in retrieving a lost probe from the atmosphere of a gas giant."
"B'Elanna Torres secretly participates in several dangerous holodeck programs. The Voyager crew works around the clock to build the Delta Flyer, hoping to beat the Malon in retrieving a lost probe from the atmosphere of a gas giant."
On this day in 2011, Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Darkness On Umbara." Officially, this served as the seventh episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"During an assault on the shadowy world of Umbara, General Skywalker is called back to Coruscant. He has to relinquish command of the 501st legion to legendary Jedi Master Krell, who turns out to have a low opinion of clones."
"During an assault on the shadowy world of Umbara, General Skywalker is called back to Coruscant. He has to relinquish command of the 501st legion to legendary Jedi Master Krell, who turns out to have a low opinion of clones."
On this day in 2014, The Flash (CW) aired "Going Rogue." This served as the fourth episode of the popular program's first season, and here's the (condensed) plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The Flash stops a robbery but the culprits get away after shooting a guard, and The Flash chooses to save the man instead of following the criminals. Joe shows Barry a book of suspects and Barry identifies Leonard Snart as the leader of the group. Snart revises his plan to steal the Kahndaq Dynasty Diamond and gets a boost when he gets his hands on a stolen "cold gun," which could kill The Flash."
"The Flash stops a robbery but the culprits get away after shooting a guard, and The Flash chooses to save the man instead of following the criminals. Joe shows Barry a book of suspects and Barry identifies Leonard Snart as the leader of the group. Snart revises his plan to steal the Kahndaq Dynasty Diamond and gets a boost when he gets his hands on a stolen "cold gun," which could kill The Flash."
I kid you not: I know next to nothing about computer gaming. (Well, except that I've never been any good at it!) However, if this promotional pic for Command and Conquer: Red Alert 3 -- which was released on this day in 2008 -- is any indication then maybe I need to check it out! Here's what I learned of it from IMDB.com's citation:
"As the Soviet Union was beginning to disillusion by the massive powers of the western world, General Krukov and Colonel Cherdenko with Dr. Zelinski makes a last ditch effort to save the Union by using Zelinski's latest invention, a time machine. Cherdenko, Krukov and Zelinski time warp to the 1920's, and killed off Albert Einstein. As they come back to their original time, they realize that the Soviet Union is a better faction than the western world,and Cherdenko becomes the Premier of the Union. But, another faction is now rising to power, The Empire of the Rising Sun, and they intend to invade the Soviet Union. With 3 factions fighting, only one can be the one standing to rule the world."
"As the Soviet Union was beginning to disillusion by the massive powers of the western world, General Krukov and Colonel Cherdenko with Dr. Zelinski makes a last ditch effort to save the Union by using Zelinski's latest invention, a time machine. Cherdenko, Krukov and Zelinski time warp to the 1920's, and killed off Albert Einstein. As they come back to their original time, they realize that the Soviet Union is a better faction than the western world,and Cherdenko becomes the Premier of the Union. But, another faction is now rising to power, The Empire of the Rising Sun, and they intend to invade the Soviet Union. With 3 factions fighting, only one can be the one standing to rule the world."
