The Golden Age of U.S. television had a handful of interesting genre anthologies, but -- as can happen -- not all of them made the history books. On this day in 1951, Out There tried to take audiences ... well ... out there ... at least so far as budgetary restrictions allowed for the day and time. The program enjoyed some solid guest appearances in its single season of broadcast existence -- such as Robert Webber, Leslie Nielsen, and Rod Steiger -- and, yet, it's still a franchise that never quite achieved orbit. Here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Innovative anthology series was one of the first adult-oriented science fiction series of the early-fifties and probably suffered for it. Teleplays were adapted from the best science fiction stories available from such masters as Ray Bradbury and Robert Heinlein. The series, which did not have a sponsor, was canceled after only twelve episodes."
"Innovative anthology series was one of the first adult-oriented science fiction series of the early-fifties and probably suffered for it. Teleplays were adapted from the best science fiction stories available from such masters as Ray Bradbury and Robert Heinlein. The series, which did not have a sponsor, was canceled after only twelve episodes."
By all investigative efforts, it looks like The Green Man -- which premiered on this day back in 1990 in the United Kingdom -- was actually a television miniseries and not a ongoing serial that lasted for three installments. (At least, that's all I've been able to confirm at this point.) Starring the much acclaimed Albert Finney as the lead, the program did go on to win a BAFTA Award during its run. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
Maurice Allington (Albert Finney), the alcoholic, sexually promiscuous, and unappealing lead character owns a country inn called "The Green Man". He frightens and regales his guests, when he's not trying to seduce them, with tales of ghosts and spirits haunting his hotel. The fun begins when he and they realize the haunts are real and malevolent. At times, a sexual farce, at others, a ghostly thriller, this mini-series is aptly called a "ghost story for adults"."
Maurice Allington (Albert Finney), the alcoholic, sexually promiscuous, and unappealing lead character owns a country inn called "The Green Man". He frightens and regales his guests, when he's not trying to seduce them, with tales of ghosts and spirits haunting his hotel. The fun begins when he and they realize the haunts are real and malevolent. At times, a sexual farce, at others, a ghostly thriller, this mini-series is aptly called a "ghost story for adults"."
Based loosely on the original novel from H.G. Wells, creator and showrunner Howard Overman took the whole foundation of an alien invasion of Earth in a vastly different direction in his War Of The Worlds. Bringing together an international cast and set in a handful of European locations, the show enjoyed three seasons of trying to put right what time and aliens (or were they?) upset in a quest for global domination. Here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Set in contemporary France, this Anglo-French reimagining of H. G. Wells' classic in the style of Walking Dead follows pockets of survivors forced to team up after an apocalyptic extra-terrestrial strike."
"Set in contemporary France, this Anglo-French reimagining of H. G. Wells' classic in the style of Walking Dead follows pockets of survivors forced to team up after an apocalyptic extra-terrestrial strike."
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]
[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]
George 'Buck' Flowers leaves behind a legacy rich in small roles stretched across just about any genre imaginable. Fans might know him best, however, as the lovable street drunk from 1985's Back To The Future. Though he's no longer with us, Flower was born on this day in 1937.
[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]
While she got her start as a former beauty pageant queen, Katherine Justice soon turned heads on screens big and small. Genre fans might know her best from such stints aboard The Invaders, Tales Of The Unexpected, Captain America II: Death Too Soon (1979), Blue Thunder, Alien Nation, and The Nevermore Chronicles. Justice was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The beautiful Catharine Burgess headlined the Adult-themed SciFi romp known as Cinderella 2000 (1977) for Independent-International Pictures. Burgess was born on this day in 1951.
[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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Chris Bauer braved a great many creatures -- vampires, werewolves, fairies, and more -- with his work aboard HBO's long-running True Blood for the pay cable channel. Bauer was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Trick'rTreat (2007) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I received a promotional Blu-ray of Trick'rTreat (2007) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
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.
[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.
Look, I'm all in favor of giving epic, towering, hot blondes 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]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Acclaimed Indian actress Aditi Rao Hydari braved a bit of the Final Frontier with her work aboard the SciFi/Drama Antariksham 9000 kmph (2018) for First Frame Entertainment. Hydari was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
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]
[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."
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in Italy), Uncle Was A Vampire enjoyed its big screen debut. Directed by Steno, the Horror/Comedy starred Renato Rascel, Sylva Koscina, and Kai Fischer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A baron down on his luck has to sell his family castle to pay off his mounting debt. After the castle is turned into a hotel, he's hired as a bellboy. But all is not lost, as he discovers he has a rich uncle; unfortunately, he's a vampire."
"A baron down on his luck has to sell his family castle to pay off his mounting debt. After the castle is turned into a hotel, he's hired as a bellboy. But all is not lost, as he discovers he has a rich uncle; unfortunately, he's a vampire."
A star is born! On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), The Human Duplicators enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Directed by Hugo Grimaldi and Arthur C. Pierce, the SciFi/Fantasy starred George Nader, Barbara Nichols, and George Macready. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien is dispatched from a faraway galaxy to take over the Earth by duplicating humans and creating a race of zombies. But the alien's heart is softened by the persevering goodness of a beautiful blind woman."
"An alien is dispatched from a faraway galaxy to take over the Earth by duplicating humans and creating a race of zombies. But the alien's heart is softened by the persevering goodness of a beautiful blind woman."
A star is born! On this day in 1971 (in Italy), Short Night Of Glass Dolls enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Aldo Lado, the Horror/Fantasy starred Ingrid Thulin, Jean Sorel, and Barbara Bach. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An American journalist temporarily stationed in Central Europe searches for his new girlfriend, who has suddenly disappeared."
"An American journalist temporarily stationed in Central Europe searches for his new girlfriend, who has suddenly disappeared."
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:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
On this day in 1982 (in Argentina), Parasite tried to cling to the box office to maximize its earnings potential. Directed by Charles Band, the Horror/Fantasy starred Demi Moore, Robert Glaudini, and Luca Bercovici. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-apocalyptic USA, a doctor/scientist infected with a new strain of parasite ends up in a small desert town, trying to find a cure."
"In a post-apocalyptic USA, a doctor/scientist infected with a new strain of parasite ends up in a small desert town, trying to find a cure."
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.
A star is born ... and this one just might bite you in the arse! On this day in 1984 (in Italy), Ghoulies surfaced as part of the roster of flicks on display at the MIFED Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Luca Bercovici, the Horror/Fantasy starred Peter Liapis, Lisa Pelikan, and Michael Des Barres. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young man and his girlfriend move into an old mansion home, where he becomes possessed by a desire to control ancient demons."
"A young man and his girlfriend move into an old mansion home, where he becomes possessed by a desire to control ancient demons."
A star is born! On this day in 1986 (in Italy), Vicious Lips enjoyed its big screen debut as part of the MIFED Film Festival. Written and directed by Albert Pyun, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Dru-Anne Perry, Gina Calabrese, and Linda Kerridge. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sometime in the distant future, a fledgling band gets an opportunity for a breakthrough, if they can make it in time to a faraway planet to perform in a very popular club."
"Sometime in the distant future, a fledgling band gets an opportunity for a breakthrough, if they can make it in time to a faraway planet to perform in a very popular club."
A star is born! On this day in 1987 (in Italy), Lurkers was first released to the masses at large as part of the festival schedule for MIFED. Directed by Roberta Findlay from a story by Ed Kelleher and Harriette Vidal, the Horror/Fantasy starred Christine Moore, Gary Warner, and Marina Taylor. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Cathy's mother killed her father and tried to kill her when she was ten. Her younger brother, a priest, holds her responsible. Fifteen years later Bob manipulates a clingy, drippy Cathy into falling in love with him. He lures her back to the apartment building of her youth for a so-called work party. There, he and his business partner Monica and a few of their oddly pathetic friends hold Cathy hostage for a few hours before forcing her off the side of the building roof. She becomes one of them, a 'lurker'. The building is supposed to be 'hell' and everyone born there is evil and is brought back there to die. Cathy becomes one of the lurkers who floats around town warning other people who the baddies try to get back to the building - Bobs new girlfriend and Cathys priest brother including."
"Cathy's mother killed her father and tried to kill her when she was ten. Her younger brother, a priest, holds her responsible. Fifteen years later Bob manipulates a clingy, drippy Cathy into falling in love with him. He lures her back to the apartment building of her youth for a so-called work party. There, he and his business partner Monica and a few of their oddly pathetic friends hold Cathy hostage for a few hours before forcing her off the side of the building roof. She becomes one of them, a 'lurker'. The building is supposed to be 'hell' and everyone born there is evil and is brought back there to die. Cathy becomes one of the lurkers who floats around town warning other people who the baddies try to get back to the building - Bobs new girlfriend and Cathys priest brother including."
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."
On this day in 1994 (in Australia), Body Melt delivered ... erm ... well, I've no idea what that is but it definitely looks oozing. Written (in part) and directed by Philip Brophy, the Horror/Fantasy starred Gerard Kennedy, Andrew Daddo, and Ian Smith. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Residents of peaceful Pebbles Court, Homesville, are being used unknowingly as test experiments for a new 'Body Drug' that causes rapid body decomposition (melting skin etc.) and painful death."
"Residents of peaceful Pebbles Court, Homesville, are being used unknowingly as test experiments for a new 'Body Drug' that causes rapid body decomposition (melting skin etc.) and painful death."
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.'
Editor's Note:
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.'
Editor's Note:
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.
A star is born! On this day in 2000 (in Japan), The 6th Day enjoyed its big screen theatrical debut for audiences of the Tokyo International Film Festival. Directed by Roger Spottiswoode from a story by Cormac Wibberley and Marianne Wibberley, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tony Goldwyn, and Michael Rooker. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the near future, cloning is now technically advanced, but human cloning is still illegal. Adam Gibson returns home after working with his friend Hank Morgan, only to find a clone of himself with his family. Before he has chance to find out the truth, he is attacked by a group who want him dead. Adam must escape and find out the truth from the creator of the clones, Michael Drucker. Adam knows for sure he couldn't have been cloned, but isn't ready for what he's about to hear."
For the record:
At the 2001 Saturn Awards, The 6th Day earned a solid four nominations in such categories as 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"In the near future, cloning is now technically advanced, but human cloning is still illegal. Adam Gibson returns home after working with his friend Hank Morgan, only to find a clone of himself with his family. Before he has chance to find out the truth, he is attacked by a group who want him dead. Adam must escape and find out the truth from the creator of the clones, Michael Drucker. Adam knows for sure he couldn't have been cloned, but isn't ready for what he's about to hear."
For the record:
At the 2001 Saturn Awards, The 6th Day earned a solid four nominations in such categories as 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), A Light In The Forest shined with its release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by John Carl Buechler, the Family/Fantasy starred Lindsay Wagner, Edward Albert, and Frank Bonner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Britta must face her fears at her school's Christmas pageant while Holly Boy, the spirit of the season, must battle the forces of evil."
"Britta must face her fears at her school's Christmas pageant while Holly Boy, the spirit of the season, must battle the forces of evil."
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 2003 (in Germany), Absolon enjoyed its birth on home video. Directed by David De Bartolome from a script by Brad Mirman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Christopher Lambert, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Kelly Brook. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a world ravaged by disease, he's the only cure... and the last hope for human-kind."
"In a world ravaged by disease, he's the only cure... and the last hope for human-kind."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Bikini Bloodbath Car Wash delivered suds and bloods with its home video release. Written and directed by the team of Jonathan Gorman and Thomas Edward Seymour, the Horror/Comedy starred Debbie Rochon, Rachael Robbins, and Sheri Lynn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group women decide to raise money and by donning bikinis for a car wash. But a maniac chef is prowling about to get a cut of the action."
"A group women decide to raise money and by donning bikinis for a car wash. But a maniac chef is prowling about to get a cut of the action."
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."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Belgium and France), Cinéman showed up on silver screens to save the day. Written (in part) and directed by Yann Moix, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Franck Dubosc, Lucy Gordon, and Pierre Richard. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A maths teacher acquires the power to travel into movies to save the woman of his dreams and bring her back to her correct film."
"A maths teacher acquires the power to travel into movies to save the woman of his dreams and bring her back to her correct film."
A star is born ! On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Chinese American Film Festival were treated to the sensuous delight that is 1,001 Ways To Enjoy The Missionary Position. Directed by Alan Chu from a story by Isaac Ho, the SciFi/Drama starred William Russ, Anthem Moss, and Natasha Melnick. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the near future, where government regulations are so restrictive our most intimate acts are considered acts of rebellion, Nora tries to break out of a lifetime of strict thought and sexual repression before it's too late."
"In the near future, where government regulations are so restrictive our most intimate acts are considered acts of rebellion, Nora tries to break out of a lifetime of strict thought and sexual repression before it's too late."
On this day in 2011 (in Finland), 1990: The Bronx Warriors played for audiences in attendance of the Night Visions Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Mark Gregory, Fred Williamson, and Vic Morrow; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
"In a post-apocalyptic New York City, a policeman infiltrates the Bronx, which has become a battleground for several murderous street gangs."
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."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in Japan), Ajin Part 1: Shoudou enjoyed its silver screen debut when it was first screened for audiences of the Tokyo International Film Festival. Directed by Hiroaki Andô from a story by Gamon Sakurai, the animated Fantasy featured the voices of Mamoru Miyano, Mikako Komatsu, and Hôchû Ôtsuka. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"For high schooler Kei - and for at least forty-six others - immortality comes as the nastiest surprise ever. Sadly for Kei, such a feat doesn't make him a superhero. In the eyes of both the general public and governments, he's a rare specimen who needs to be hunted down and handed over to scientists to be experimented on for life - a demi-human who must die a thousand deaths for the benefit of humanity."
"For high schooler Kei - and for at least forty-six others - immortality comes as the nastiest surprise ever. Sadly for Kei, such a feat doesn't make him a superhero. In the eyes of both the general public and governments, he's a rare specimen who needs to be hunted down and handed over to scientists to be experimented on for life - a demi-human who must die a thousand deaths for the benefit of humanity."
A star is born ... but this one looks undead! On this day in 2017 (in Mexico), Aj Zombies! first tried to take a bite out of audiences when it was screened for the Morbido Film Fest. Directed by Daniel Martín Rodríguez, the Horror/Comedy starred Emilram Cossio, Anahi de Cárdenas, and Cesar Ritter. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Claudia and Felipe can't be any more different. Only a zombie apocalypse could bring them together. A hilarious love story set in zombie times. Claudia, Felipe, a drunkard and a security guard must escape Lima together in search of safety."
"Claudia and Felipe can't be any more different. Only a zombie apocalypse could bring them together. A hilarious love story set in zombie times. Claudia, Felipe, a drunkard and a security guard must escape Lima together in search of safety."
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."
A star is born! On this day in 2022 (in the United Kingdom), Demons At Dawn was released to audiences via the World Wide Web. Directed by Randy Kent from a story by Chris Shane Sanders, the Horror/Fantasy starred Amber Doig-Thorne, Dani Thompson, and Andy Gatenby. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Demons At Dawn follows a retired hitman who is blackmailed into taking one last job. During his mission, he uncovers an elite Satanic cult that use human sacrifice to summon Demons."
"Demons At Dawn follows a retired hitman who is blackmailed into taking one last job. During his mission, he uncovers an elite Satanic cult that use human sacrifice to summon Demons."
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."
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."
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."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 1990 (in the United Kingdom), The Green Man aired the first episode of its only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
""The Green Man" is a country hotel near Cambridge, lodged in a house built centuries ago. Is it haunted?"
On this day in 1990 (in the United Kingdom), The Green Man aired the first episode of its only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
""The Green Man" is a country hotel near Cambridge, lodged in a house built centuries ago. Is it haunted?"
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 (in the U.S.), The Flash (CW) aired "Going Rogue." Officially, 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."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 2019 (in a handful of countries around the world), yet one more look at our impending collapse from a dark and sinister alien invasion enjoyed its television premiere when War Of The Worlds came into existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for Episode One:
"When astrophysicists detect a transmission from another galaxy, it is definitive proof of intelligent extra-terrestrial life. The world's population waits for further contact with baited breath. They do not have to wait long. Within days, mankind is all but wiped out; just pockets of humanity are left in an eerily deserted world."
On this day in 2019 (in a handful of countries around the world), yet one more look at our impending collapse from a dark and sinister alien invasion enjoyed its television premiere when War Of The Worlds came into existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for Episode One:
"When astrophysicists detect a transmission from another galaxy, it is definitive proof of intelligent extra-terrestrial life. The world's population waits for further contact with baited breath. They do not have to wait long. Within days, mankind is all but wiped out; just pockets of humanity are left in an eerily deserted world."
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."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), the good people at Respawn Entertainment loosed a little something-something called Titanfall 2 into the consumer marketplace. Here's the game's premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Titanfall 2 is about a rifleman, named Jack Cooper, given a Titan, a big giant robot that is there to help or inflict trouble. As a rifleman, he does not have a pilot certification, which does not help his situation. But the Titan, named BT-7274 does not give up on their relationship, and continues the fight The IMC forces led by Apex Predator Blisk, with Jack Cooper."
"Titanfall 2 is about a rifleman, named Jack Cooper, given a Titan, a big giant robot that is there to help or inflict trouble. As a rifleman, he does not have a pilot certification, which does not help his situation. But the Titan, named BT-7274 does not give up on their relationship, and continues the fight The IMC forces led by Apex Predator Blisk, with Jack Cooper."