Superman fans were treated to another televised incarnation of the Man Of Steel when on this day in 1993 the aptly named Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman premiered. This version centered in on the growing romantic relationship between the Daily Planet reporters, allowing this sassy Lois Lane (played by the heavenly Teri Hatcher) to be in on Kal-El's (Dean Cain) secret identity. As Fate would have it, the sparring worked quite well, garnering the show nominations for the valued Primetime Emmys and even a Saturn Award for the Best Genre Television Series in 1994, no small feat indeed ... and all of it accomplished in a single bound. Here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"In addition to fighting evil, Superman has a burning romance with Lois Lane in both of his identities."
"In addition to fighting evil, Superman has a burning romance with Lois Lane in both of his identities."
You want your 'Final Frontier'? Well, how about exploring what's lurking beneath the seas? Creator Rockne S. O'Bannon and NBC went boldly where they could with the premiere of Seaquest DSV which launched on this day in 1993. Though the cast changed over its three seasons (as did its overall theme warping from Science Fiction to pure Fantasy), the program served up an admirable crew facing such weekly dangers as Global Warming, artificial intelligence, and man-eating plants. Despite its ever-changing narrative, Seaquest still garnered a respectable Saturn Award nomination for Best Genre Television Series as well as a few Primetime Emmy nominations, proving that the show wasn't all wet after all! Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"SeaQuest DSV, the future's largest, most powerful submarine, is at your command, Pilot through pirate-infested waters and take on a variety of challenges."
"SeaQuest DSV, the future's largest, most powerful submarine, is at your command, Pilot through pirate-infested waters and take on a variety of challenges."
Be it the silver screen or the small screen, audiences have always had a thirst for the Apocalypse, and on this day in 2014 Syfy got into the business of mankind's demise with the premiere of Z Nation. The SciFi/Drama garnered ratings impressive enough to keep it airing for all of five seasons, though some research indicates that the program may've ended on a bit of a cliffhanger without a network renewal. Still, 68 episodes is an impressive run for any genre entry, and it gives streaming audiences a chance to explore our collective doom at their viewing pleasure. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Three years after the zombie virus has gutted the United States of America a team of everyday heroes must transport the only known survivor of the plague from New York to California, where the last functioning viral lab waits for his blood."
"Three years after the zombie virus has gutted the United States of America a team of everyday heroes must transport the only known survivor of the plague from New York to California, where the last functioning viral lab waits for his blood."
An awful lot of what makes Science Fiction believable to audiences is the fact that ordinary actors are oft times transformed into credible-looking members of an entirely fictional race of aliens, such as the Vulcans, Minbari, or the Newcomers. In the early days of television, no one knew this better than John Chambers. His make-up work can be seen in such programs as The Outer Limits, The Munsters, Lost In Space, and the beloved Star Trek. Furthermore, it's important to note that Mr. Chambers even took the likes of Michael Westmore under his wings to train and mentor him for a whole new era of creating fascinating make-up effects. Over a decade before the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences created an Oscar in the category of make-up, its members honored Chambers with an honorary Academy Award for his work during their 1969 ceremony. He was, truly, a Hollywood 'visionary.' Though he's no longer with us, Mr. Chambers was born on this day back in 1923.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Yes, yes, and yes: I know that the James Bond series is much more Fantasy than it is Science Fiction, but as I've often said the Better Bond films embrace futuristic technology in much the same way that Star Trek did (especially in the 1960's). So allow me to bend the rules just a bit in order to give a proper birthday shout to Desmond Llewelyn, better known as 'Q' in the Bond series ... or the man who had to envision all kinds of miraculous gadgetry. But as an actor he did traffic in the realms of the fantastic with a few other experiences, including The Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde (1950), Knights Of The Round Table (1953), The Invisible Man, Corridors Of Blood (1958), The Curse Of The Werewolf (1961), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968), Doomwatch, Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde (1980), and Merlin (1993). Though he's no longer with us, Llewelyn was born on this day in 1914.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The works of Polish-born Science Fiction author Stanislaw Lem has provided inspiration for such genre properties as First Spaceship On Venus (1960), Profesor Zazul (1962), Vernyy Robot (1965), Voyage To The End Of The Universe (1963), the much-revered Solaris (1972), Professor Tarantoga und ein seltsamer Gast (1979), Pilot Pirx's Inquest (1979), Vozraschchenie so zvyozd (1989), Ijon Tichy: Raumpilot, The Congress (2013), and His Master's Voice (2018). Though he's no longer with us, Lem was born on this day in 1921.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Important links:
The Official Website Of Stanislaw Lem (here)
[Source: IMDB.com]
Important links:
The Official Website Of Stanislaw Lem (here)
Veteran character actor Freddie Jones boasts over 200 impressive gigs on IMDB.com. SciFi and Fantasy fans probably know him best from his appearance in 1983's Krull (pictured above), but he's also been in The Avengers (1967), Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed (1969), My Partner The Ghost, Mystery And Imagination, The Man Who Haunted Himself (1970), In The Devil's Garden (1971), Out Of The Unknown, Son Of Dracula (1973), The Satanic Rites Of Dracula (1973), Alice Through The Looking Glass (1973), Old Dracula (1974), Space:1999, Children Of The Stones, Dune, Firestarter (1984), Young Sherlock Holmes (1985), The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, The Neverending Story III, Neverwhere, and Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased). Though he's no longer with us, Jones was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The delightful Gianna Marie Canale definitely knew how to command the screen. Genre fans might recognize her talent on full display in such features as Lust Of The Vampire (1957), Hercules (1958), Colossus And The Amazon Queen (1960), and Goliath And The Vampires (1961). Though she's no longer with us, Canale was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Understandably, modern audiences will probably always know him best as the first, best Bilbo Baggins from Peter Jackson's legendary adaptation of The Lord of the Rings, but -- to SciFi fans -- actor Ian Holm is remembered as the creepy synthetic 'Ash' from Ridley Scott's equally laudable Alien (1979). The renowned actor also paid visits to the worlds of Mystery And Imagination, The Frighteners, Time Bandits (1981), Tales Of The Unexpected, Greystoke: The Legend Of Tarzan, Lord Of The Apes (1984), Brazil (1985), Dreamchild (1985), Naked Lunch (1991), The Borrowers, Frankenstein (1994), Loch Ness (1996), The Fifth Element (1997), Alice Through The Looking Glass (1998), eXistenZ (1999), The Day After Tomorrow (2004), and Renaissance (2006). Though he's no longer with us, Holm was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- In 1986, Holm enjoyed a Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actor' for his work in 1985's Dreamchild.
- The actor -- along with the cast of The Lord Of The Rings films -- enjoyed a great deal of recognition in ensemble categories during the film's theatrical run.
One of the projects that came to Bill McKinney late in his career was the voice performance of 'Jonah Hex' aboard the great Batman: The Animated Series. As far as other genre appearances to his name, he starred in Strange New World (1975), Galactica 1980, Back To The Future III (1990), and It Came From Outer Space II (1996). Though he's no longer with us, McKinney was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kim Hamilton enjoyed a nifty li'l cameo-style role aboard "Final Mission," a 1990 episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. As for other stops along the Fantastic trail? She served time in such properties as The Twilight Zone, The Leech Woman (1960), The Wizard Of Baghdad (1960), Future Cop, Project UFO, Tarzan And The Super 7 (animated), and Buck Rogers In The 25th Century. Though she's no longer with us, Hamilton was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The luminous Anne Helm doesn't do much professionally these days, but she certainly dabbled in the realm of genre entertainment. Fans might recognize her from appearances aboard The Magic Sword (1962), Nightmare In Wax (1969), Airwolf, and Amazing Stories. Helm was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The great Christopher Neame -- shown above from his tenure as a high-ranking German officer in Star Trek: Enterprise -- has made a career out of playing some very nefarious characters across all types of programs, and some of this is owed to his chiseled, authoritative looks. Neame was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former Playboy Playmate Cynthia Myers only enjoyed a few screen roles, but thankfully she squeezed herself into a great genre flick called The Lost Continent (1968) from Hammer Films so that I can mention her in this space. Though she's no longer with us, Myers was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Is it so bad to want to live beyond The Matrix? Apparently, Joe Pantoliano's Cypher character didn't think it was worth it ... or maybe that was just a passing phase he went through in the seminal SciFi flick from 1999. Even today, he remains one of the hardest working actors in the business. Pantoliano was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Walt Disney transformed Honey, I Shrunk The Kids from a silver screen to a small screen commodity, funnyman Peter Scolari took over inventor duties on the TV show. Though he's no longer with us, Scolari was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Wow. Apparently there was a TV remake of the Cold War SciFi/Drama On The Beach in 2000, this one starring the underrated Armand Assante and one of the most exquisite beauties born to man Rachel Ward. Never saw it. I'll have to search that one out. In any event, Ward was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
You say you're a Marvel fan? Well, then Hans Zimmer's got you covered: he scored the film Iron Man (2008) along with a solid handful of other genre properties. Zimmer was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jeff Rector has build a resume full of interesting characters featured in such projects as Star Trek: The Next Generation, Galaxis (1995), Sliders, Kraa! The Sea Monster (1998), InAlienable (2008), Dinocroc Vs. Supergator (2010), and Bermuda Tentacles (2014). Rector was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jerry Rector (not to be confused with Jeff Rector) has also built a career distinguished in the realm of SciFi and Fantasy, including roles aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation, Army of Darkness (1992), Sliders, The Burning Zone, The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time (Video game), Sorcerers (1998), Power Rangers Time Force, The Twilight Zone, Eureka, and The Strain. Rector was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
After Peter Weller bowed out of the franchise, Robert John Burke suited up as RoboCop for the third theatrical feature and a kinda/sorta follow-up video game. He's also served time aboard Nightmare Weekend (1986), Dust Devil (1992), Thinner (1996), Witchblade, Person Of Interest, Future '38 (2017), Project Blue Book, Being (2019), and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). Burke was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Mary Kay Adams has had the opportunity to play in two very popular SciFi universes: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine fans know her as the on-again-off-again Klingon love interest (for Quark?!) Grilka while Babylon 5 fans see her instead as Na'Toth, the aide to Narn ambassador G'Kar. Adams was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Stunning ginger Amy Yasbeck joined everybody's favorite 'time fixer' Scott Bakula in an episode of Quantum Leap for NBC back during that program's run. Across her career, she's also been a part of such genre entries as House II: The Second Story (1987), Werewolf, Splash Too (1988), The Mask (1994), and Dracula: Dead And Loving It (1995). Yasbeck was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Darren E. Burrows enjoyed a near-explosive guest star status aboard "Monday," an episode of Fox TV's popular The X-Files. Burrows was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Disgraced autobiographer James Frey turned his fondness for 'spinning yarns' toward penning the Young Adult SciFi-lite novel I Am Number Four, which was adapted for the silver screen in 2011. Frey was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though SciFi fans may not know his face, odds are they've heard his voice as the venerable Gideon Emery has lent his vocal talents to all kinds of properties including the popular StarCraft gaming franchise, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, and countless other high profile genre projects. Emery was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late Paul Walker gave Science Fiction a try on for size with a starring role aboard Timeline (2003). According to IMDB.com, the actor's very first role was in genre entertainment, a little Horror/SciFi called Monster In The Closet (1986). He's also served time aboard Programmed To Kill (1987), Tammy And The T-Rex (1994), Touched By An Angel, and Pleasantville (1998). Though he's no longer with us, Walker was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oklahoma-born Lauren Stamile has enjoyed a modest bit of exposure aboard such genre staples as Tru Calling, Heroes, and The Event. Stamile was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I know a lot of folks don't quite consider much involved with the greater Batman franchise to be Science Fiction or Fantasy, but I strongly disagree as much of the work includes elements of both worlds. In any event, Ben McKenzie brought the character of 'James Gordon' to life aboard Fox TV's Gotham. McKenzie was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A stunning Elle LaMont has been taking your breath away since she started in the entertainment business. Savvy fans might recognize her from work in such entries as Alternate Realities (2014), From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series, and Alita: Battle Angel (2019). LaMont was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When she was but an urchin, Rosemary Morgan made her professional screen debut aboard "The Chute," a third season episode of UPN's Star Trek: Voyager. Morgan was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Before she got all edgy and foul-mouthed as part of the ensemble behind Showtime's Shameless, Emmy Rossum was little more than a precocious tweener hoping to survive the end of the life as we knew it in Roland Emmerich's The Day After Tomorrow (2004). Rossum was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Science Fiction has never been shy about embracing its campy roots ... and speaking about embracing! Hubba hubba! Adult film star Christie Stevens has headlined a number of titles I couldn't repeat here, but she's also starred in Stacked Racks From Mars, Strippers From Another World, and Intergalactic Swingers. Stevens was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I suspect Alfie Allen is far more well known for his work as the morally flexible 'Theon Greyjoy' aboard HBO's stellar Game Of Thrones, he's built a solid resume beyond that singular property. In fact, he turned up in the SciFi/Thriller Pandemic (2016) for New Artists Alliance. Allen was born on this day in 1986.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Fresh-faced Aurelia Scheppers is putting her classic good looks to good use in small roles aboard such projects as Dinocroc Vs. Supergator (2010), Galaxy West (2011), and Jurassic City (2015). Scheppers was born on this day in 1988.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Perky Alexia Fast continues to shine in through in projects big and small. Fans might be familiar with her from her work aboard The 4400, Masters Of Science Fiction, Tin Man, Supernatural, iZombie, and Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency. Fast was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Newcomer Bex Taylor-Klaus continues to grow her talents in front of and behind the camera (in voiceovers). She's been involved with Arrow, iZombie, The Last Witch Hunter (2015), and Voltron (animated). Taylor-Klaus was born on this day in 1994.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Ryan Potter answered the call to bring 'Beast Boy' to life aboard the DC Comics' streaming property Titans. He's also done some impressive voicework as part of his employment with Walt Disney's Big Hero 6 and much more. Potter was born on this day in 1995.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Colin Ford helped bring to life the SciFi mystery at the heart of CBS's adaptation to Stephen King's Under The Dome while it was on the tube. The talented actor also sported roles aboard Smallville, Journeyman, Jack And The Beanstalk (2009), Push (2009), Revolution, Supernatural, Family Blood (2018), Captain Marvel (2019), and 50 States Of Fright. Ford was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
- In 2008, Ford enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Performance in a TV Series - Guest Starring Young Actor' from the Young Artist Awards for his work aboard an episode of Journeyman.
- In 2010, Ford took home top honors in the category of 'Best Performance in a TV Series - Recurring Young Actor 13 and Under' from the Young Artist Awards for his work aboard Supernatural.
- In 2011, Ford enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Performance In A DVD Film - Young Actor' from the Young Artist Awards for his work aboard 2009's Jack And The Beanstalk.
- In 2014, Ford earned a Saturn Award nomination for 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor In A Television Series' from the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films for his work aboard Under The Dome.
On this day in 1951 (in Mexico), Destination Moon saw the Eagle had landed in theatres. Directed by Irving Pichel, the SciFi feature starred John Archer, Tom Powers, and Warner Anderson; and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
For the record:
At the 1951 Academy Awards, Destination Moon was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color' but missed out on taking the statue home; it did, however, take home the gold in the category of 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' For the 1951 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"After their latest rocket fails, Dr. Charles Cargraves and retired General Thayer have to start over again. This time, Gen. Thayer approaches Jim Barnes, the head of his own aviation construction firms to help build a rocket that will take them to the moon. Together they gather the captains of industry and all pledge to support the goals of having the United States be the first to put a man on the moon. They build their rocket and successfully leave the Earth's gravitational pull and make the landing as scheduled. Barnes has miscalculated their fuel consumption however and after stripping the ship bare, they are still 100 lbs too heavy meaning that one of them will have to stay behind."
For the record:
At the 1951 Academy Awards, Destination Moon was nominated for the Oscar in the category of 'Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color' but missed out on taking the statue home; it did, however, take home the gold in the category of 'Best Effects, Special Effects.' For the 1951 Hugo Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Untamed Women likely gave untamed men a little something to think about. Directed by W. Merle Connell, the Fantasy film starred Mikel Conrad, Doris Merrick, and Richard Monahan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During World War II, an American bomber pilot is rescued after drifting at sea aboard a raft. After being administered truth serum, he tells the doctor a story of how he and the three survivors of his plane crash washed up on an island that was inhabited by a tribe of beautiful primitive cave-women, dinosaurs and a group of savage cavemen who are bent on abducting the women for breeding purposes."
"During World War II, an American bomber pilot is rescued after drifting at sea aboard a raft. After being administered truth serum, he tells the doctor a story of how he and the three survivors of his plane crash washed up on an island that was inhabited by a tribe of beautiful primitive cave-women, dinosaurs and a group of savage cavemen who are bent on abducting the women for breeding purposes."
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in the former Soviet Union), The Sky Calls (aka Battle Beyond The Sun) set it sights on the stars. Directed by Mikhail Karyukov and Aleksandr Kozyr, the feature starred Ivan Pereverzev, Konstantin Bartashevich, and Aleksandr Shvorin. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two countries race to have the first successful landing on Mars."
"Two countries race to have the first successful landing on Mars."
A star is born! On this day in 1963 (in the United Kingdom), London audiences were treated to the theatrical premiere of Unearthly Stranger. Directed by John Krish, the SciFi/Horror starred John Neville, Philip Stone, and Gabriella Licudi. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Mark Davidson, government scientist, meets a mysterious woman and is married quickly. He knows little of her past. His government superiors want to know more about his wife, especially certain strange attributes that suggest she may be more than she appears. When it turns out she actually does love her husband, they both become targets."
"Dr. Mark Davidson, government scientist, meets a mysterious woman and is married quickly. He knows little of her past. His government superiors want to know more about his wife, especially certain strange attributes that suggest she may be more than she appears. When it turns out she actually does love her husband, they both become targets."
On this day in 1973 (in the U.S.), Beyond Atlantis enjoyed a very special screening for the folks of Los Angeles, California. Directed by Eddie Romero with a script from Charles Eric Johnson and Stephanie Rothman, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Patrick Wayne, John Ashley, and Leigh Christian. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A band of adventurers invade a native island determined to grab a reported fortune in buried treasure. The islanders are just as determined to keep their sacred treasure. Complications ensue."
"A band of adventurers invade a native island determined to grab a reported fortune in buried treasure. The islanders are just as determined to keep their sacred treasure. Complications ensue."
On this day in 1979 (in France), Alien burst from the cinematic chest of the silver screen. Directed by Ridley Scott, the SciFi/Horror starred Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, and Ian Holm. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
he original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
"In the distant future, the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo are on their way home when they pick up a distress call from a distant moon. The crew are under obligation to investigate and the spaceship descends on the moon afterwards. After a rough landing, three crew members leave the spaceship to explore the area on the moon. At the same time as they discover a hive colony of some unknown creature, the ship's computer deciphers the message to be a warning, not a distress call. When one of the eggs is disturbed, the crew realizes that they are not alone on the spaceship and they must deal with the consequences."
For the record:
he original Alien was a film that I was a bit slow to love. I thought it was brilliant, but I honestly felt its 'rewatchability' was a bit low: once you knew where all the scares were, then the effect is pretty much lost. However, I gave it many, many, many second chances ... and it still manages to scare me all of these years later. In fact, I think Alien and Aliens are the only two films in all of the series that I truly am frightened by the Xenomorphs. And, of course, I'd be a fool if I failed to mention that the original won the coveted Oscar for 'Best Special Effects' in 1980. Like a great film should, Alien continues to resonate today, as I suspect will be the case for years to come.
On this day in 1980 (in Uruguay), Walt Disney's The Black Hole put the Mouse House in the serious business of Science Fiction and Fantasy though with its signature kid-friendly sensibilities. Directed by Gary Nelson, the film starred Robert Forster, Anthony Perkins, and Yvette Mimieux. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
For the record:
The Black Hole earned some solid recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Effects - Visual Effects' and 'Best Cinematography.' At the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, at the 1980 Hugo Awards, the film earned the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
For the record:
The Black Hole earned some solid recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Effects - Visual Effects' and 'Best Cinematography.' At the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film earned nominations for 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, at the 1980 Hugo Awards, the film earned the nomination for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born! On this day in 1984, The Next One (aka The Time Traveller) landed in Earth cinemas. Written and directed by Nico Mastorakis, the feature starred Adrienne Barbeau, Peter Hobbs, and Keir Dullea; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"An astronaut's widow and her young son meet a stranger from the future on a Greek island."
"An astronaut's widow and her young son meet a stranger from the future on a Greek island."
On this day in 1985 (in Hungary), Android explored a curious conflict. Directed by Aaron Lipstadt, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Klaus Kinski, Don Keith Opper, and Brie Howard. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A strange doctor secretly experiments with androids on his space station. His assistant is Max, a curious android who wants to see the world and meet a girl. Criminals hide on their station and soon violence erupts."
For the record:
In addition to enjoying a good amount of attention on the film festival circuit, Android enjoyed a 1983 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Low-Budget Film.'
"A strange doctor secretly experiments with androids on his space station. His assistant is Max, a curious android who wants to see the world and meet a girl. Criminals hide on their station and soon violence erupts."
For the record:
In addition to enjoying a good amount of attention on the film festival circuit, Android enjoyed a 1983 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Low-Budget Film.'
On this day in 1987 (in South Korea), Eliminators went to the box office with the goal of eliminating its competition. Directed by Peter Manoogian, the SciFi/Thriller starred Andrew Prine, Denise Crosby, and Patrick Reynolds. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A former pilot rebels against his creator, teaming up with the scientist responsible for android technology, her pet robot Spot, a rough-and-tumble riverboat guide, and a martial arts warrior."
"A former pilot rebels against his creator, teaming up with the scientist responsible for android technology, her pet robot Spot, a rough-and-tumble riverboat guide, and a martial arts warrior."
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in Italy), the business of an 'almighty' came from and center when audiences of the Venice Film Festival were treated to the first theatrical engagement ever of Hard To Be A God (aka Es ist nicht leicht, ein Gott zu sein). Written (in part) and directed by Peter Fleischmann, the film starred Edward Zentara, Aleksandr Filippenko, and Hugues Quester. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Another planet in the period of medieval times. An employee of the institute of experimental history from Earth, who is send under the name of noble don Rumata of Estor as a spy with a mission to contact the local resident of the institute, arrives in the city of Arkanar. But the resident perishes under an unlucky attempt to make a palace coup, and Rumata have to take his place as the resident. Soon he meets all the horrors of the medieval society - a peasant war, palace coups, mass executions. To continue to be an indifferent watcher of all these horrors turns out to be simply impossible..."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Hard To Be A God enjoyed a good amount of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"Another planet in the period of medieval times. An employee of the institute of experimental history from Earth, who is send under the name of noble don Rumata of Estor as a spy with a mission to contact the local resident of the institute, arrives in the city of Arkanar. But the resident perishes under an unlucky attempt to make a palace coup, and Rumata have to take his place as the resident. Soon he meets all the horrors of the medieval society - a peasant war, palace coups, mass executions. To continue to be an indifferent watcher of all these horrors turns out to be simply impossible..."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Hard To Be A God enjoyed a good amount of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 1989 (in South Africa), audiences were treated to the monster mash-up that was Mutator. Directed by John Bowey from a story by Lynn Rose Higgins and Gerald A. Rose, the SciFi/Horror starred Brion James, Carolyn Ann Clark, and Embeth Davidtz. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A beast gets loose in a laboratory, killing all in it's way. A former scientist, now working as a custodian tries to stop it."
"A beast gets loose in a laboratory, killing all in it's way. A former scientist, now working as a custodian tries to stop it."
A star is born! On this day in 1991 (in Germany), Until The End Of The World enjoyed its big screen debut. Written (in part) and directed by Wim Wenders, the SciFi/Drama starred William Hurt, Solveig Dommartin, and Pietro Falcone. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1999, Claire's life is forever changed after she survives a car crash. She rescues Sam and starts traveling around the world with him. Writer Eugene follows them and writes their story, as a way of recording dreams is being invented."
"In 1999, Claire's life is forever changed after she survives a car crash. She rescues Sam and starts traveling around the world with him. Writer Eugene follows them and writes their story, as a way of recording dreams is being invented."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), The Invader invaded movie houses. Written and directed by Mark Rosman, the SciFi/Thriller starred Ben Cross, Daniel Baldwin, and Sean Young; and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Good alien from a dying race must impregnate an Earth woman to avoid extinction of his race. Bad alien whose race helped wipe out good alien's race doesn't want to see this happen."
"Good alien from a dying race must impregnate an Earth woman to avoid extinction of his race. Bad alien whose race helped wipe out good alien's race doesn't want to see this happen."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Johnny 2.0 premiered on television. Directed by Neill Fearnley, the feature starred Jeff Fahey, Tahnee Welch, and Michael Ironside; and here's the plot summary that's listed on IMDB.com:
"Awakening from a 15-year coma, scientist Johnny Dalton discovers that his life has been illusory and that he is merely a clone of the real Dr. Dalton. With the help of rebel leader Nikki Holland, Dalton sets out to find his maker in a futuristic society fraught with danger and secrecy."
"Awakening from a 15-year coma, scientist Johnny Dalton discovers that his life has been illusory and that he is merely a clone of the real Dr. Dalton. With the help of rebel leader Nikki Holland, Dalton sets out to find his maker in a futuristic society fraught with danger and secrecy."
A star is born! On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), it was bloody murder what the film Bloody Murder did with its release on home video. Directed by Ralph E. Portillo from a story by John R. Stevenson, the Horror flick starred Jessica Morris, Peter Guillemette, and Patrick Cavanaugh. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Plans for a summer filled with fun and romance turn to terror for a group of young counselors."
"Plans for a summer filled with fun and romance turn to terror for a group of young counselors."
On this day in 2001 (in France), the ground-breaking Close Encounters Of The Third Kind enjoyed a theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by Steven Spielberg, the SciFi/Drama starred Richard Dreyfuss, Teri Garr, and Melinda Dillon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"Roy Neary, an Indiana electric lineman, finds his quiet and ordinary daily life turned upside down after a close encounter with a UFO, spurring him to an obsessed cross-country quest for answers as a momentous event approaches."
For the record:
At the 1978 Saturn Awards, the film took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Music' and 'Best Director' while having to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Writing,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 1978 Academy Awards, Close Encounters took home a single Oscar -- 'Best Cinematography' -- though Frank E. Warner also took home as Special Achievement Award for his work on the project. The flick had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role,' 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' 'Best Film Editing,' 'Best Sound,' 'Best Art Direction - Set Decoration,' and 'Best Director.' Lastly, the Hugo Awards nominations the film in its category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born ... or is that 'brought back from the dead'? On this day in 2002 (in Canada), Alive enjoyed its first exhibition ever when it played at the Toronto International Film Festival. Based on a comic book by Tsutomu Takahashi, the film was adapted (in part) and directed by acclaimed auteur Ryûhei Kitamura; and it starred Hideo Sakaki, Ryô, and Koyuki. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Tenshu is imprisoned and sentenced to death for murdering the men who raped his girlfriend. However, he manages to survive his execution and is presented with an option: face another execution attempt or subject himself to their bizarre and dangerous experiments. He choses the latter and is put in a cell with a rapist and a woman who's infected with a taint that transports from person to person during extreme anger. The taint is transferred to Tenshu and he must now deal with the military who has interrupted the experiment to obtain it."
"Tenshu is imprisoned and sentenced to death for murdering the men who raped his girlfriend. However, he manages to survive his execution and is presented with an option: face another execution attempt or subject himself to their bizarre and dangerous experiments. He choses the latter and is put in a cell with a rapist and a woman who's infected with a taint that transports from person to person during extreme anger. The taint is transferred to Tenshu and he must now deal with the military who has interrupted the experiment to obtain it."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in Canada), the SciFi/Drama Re-Generation (aka The Limb Salesman) came to life when audiences attending the Toronto International Film Festival were treated to its first theatrical exhibition ever. Written (in part) and directed by Anais Granofsky, the feature starred Peter Stebbings, Ingrid Veninger, and Clark Johnson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A man in a barren Canadian landscape builds artificial legs for an invalid woman."
"A man in a barren Canadian landscape builds artificial legs for an invalid woman."
A star is born! On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Are You Scared? tried to drill its way into the entertainment stratosphere. Written (in part) and directed by Andy Hurst, the Horror flick starred Alethea Kutscher, Erin Consalvi, and Brad Ashten. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Six kidnapped teens awake in an abandoned factory to discover they're being filmed for a twisted and terrifying reality show."
"Six kidnapped teens awake in an abandoned factory to discover they're being filmed for a twisted and terrifying reality show."
A star is born ... and she's packing heat! On this day in 2008 (in Canada), audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival saw guns blazing with the theatrical premiere of Sexy Killer: You'll Die For Her (aka Sexykiller). Directed by Miguel Martí, the SciFi/Horror starred Macarena Gómez, Alejo Sauras, and César Camino. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A femme fatale fashionista at a trendy design school embarks on a brutal and bloody killing spree, while gleefully evading the hapless cops assigned to the murder cases."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Sexy Killer: You'll Die For Her enjoyed a modest bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"A femme fatale fashionista at a trendy design school embarks on a brutal and bloody killing spree, while gleefully evading the hapless cops assigned to the murder cases."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Sexy Killer: You'll Die For Her enjoyed a modest bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Lightning Strikes set off a charge on television. Directed by Gary Jones, the feature starred Kevin Sorbo, David Schofield, and Annabel Wright; and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"A man must save his town from a monster that hides in lightning."
"A man must save his town from a monster that hides in lightning."
On this day in 2012 (in France), Antiviral enjoyed a special screening for audiences in attendance of the L'Étrange Festival. Written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg, the SciFi feature starred Caleb Landry Jones, Lisa Berry, and Sarah Gadon; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a blackly satirical near future, a thriving industry sells celebrity illnesses to their obsessed fans. Employee Syd March's attempts to exploit the system backfire when they involve him in a potentially deadly mystery."
For the record:
Antiviral was the recipient of a lot of praise -- as well as a few awards and nominations -- when it made the rounds on the film festival circuit. For example, at the Chicago International Film Festival it won the coveted Gold Hugo Award in the 'After Dark Competition.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of screening a DVD copy of Antiviral in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
"In a blackly satirical near future, a thriving industry sells celebrity illnesses to their obsessed fans. Employee Syd March's attempts to exploit the system backfire when they involve him in a potentially deadly mystery."
For the record:
Antiviral was the recipient of a lot of praise -- as well as a few awards and nominations -- when it made the rounds on the film festival circuit. For example, at the Chicago International Film Festival it won the coveted Gold Hugo Award in the 'After Dark Competition.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of screening a DVD copy of Antiviral in exchange for a review. Interested in knowing my thoughts on the project? Readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 2015 (in France), it was the Apocalypse all over again when the 1983-produced Warriors Of The Wasteland was let loose again for a special screening. Written (in part) and directed by Enzo G. Castellari, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Fred Williamson, Giancarlo Prete, and George Eastman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two mercenaries help wandering caravans fight off an evil and aimless band of white-clad bikers after the nuclear holocaust."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing a pretty poor DVD copy of Warriors Of The Wasteland, and -- to my astonishment -- I think this was the first time I'd seen all of the film in a complete sitting. Interested in knowing what I made of it? Readers can find my review right here.
"Two mercenaries help wandering caravans fight off an evil and aimless band of white-clad bikers after the nuclear holocaust."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of viewing a pretty poor DVD copy of Warriors Of The Wasteland, and -- to my astonishment -- I think this was the first time I'd seen all of the film in a complete sitting. Interested in knowing what I made of it? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Triclops brought its eye ... eyes (???) to bear on the marketplace. Directed by Brett Piper, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Matthew Crawley, Steve Diasparra, and Richard Lounello. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Samantha is on a search mission for her husband, an air force pilot whose plane went down in a giant meteor crater which is an off limit area like Area 51."
"Samantha is on a search mission for her husband, an air force pilot whose plane went down in a giant meteor crater which is an off limit area like Area 51."
A star is born! On this day in 2018 (in the Philippines), Alimuom enjoyed a pair of screenings, both hitting the silver screen for the general public as well as a special engagement for audiences in attendance of the ToFarm Film Festival. Written and directed by Keith Sicat, the SciFi/Thriller starred Ina Feleo, Jeffrey Quizon, and Mon Confiado. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A futuristic Philippines with specific sections of the country under individual bio-domes. The OFWs are actually Outerspace Filipino Workers and the song Bahay-Kubo is a distant memory that makes a young boy ask: 'Ano ang singkamas?'"
For the record:
At the 2019 FAMAS Awards (the ceremony that recognizes excellence in the Philippine cinema), Alimuom enjoyed two nominations in the categories of 'Best Adapted Screenplay' and 'Outstanding Achievement In Visual Effects.'
"A futuristic Philippines with specific sections of the country under individual bio-domes. The OFWs are actually Outerspace Filipino Workers and the song Bahay-Kubo is a distant memory that makes a young boy ask: 'Ano ang singkamas?'"
For the record:
At the 2019 FAMAS Awards (the ceremony that recognizes excellence in the Philippine cinema), Alimuom enjoyed two nominations in the categories of 'Best Adapted Screenplay' and 'Outstanding Achievement In Visual Effects.'
A star is born ... and it looks hungry! On this day in 2018 (in South Korea), Monstrum enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever. Written (in part) and directed by Jong-ho Huh, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Myung-Min Kim, Kim In-kwon, and Hyeri Lee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Yoon Gyeom is a loyal subject of King Jung Jong of Joseon. He struggles to fight against a monster that threatens King Jung Jong's life and a group of people trying to depose King Jung Jong."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Monstrum enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"Yoon Gyeom is a loyal subject of King Jung Jong of Joseon. He struggles to fight against a monster that threatens King Jung Jong's life and a group of people trying to depose King Jung Jong."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Monstrum enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in Canada), audiences were treated to the first theatrical exhibition ever of Shadow In The Cloud. Written (in part) and directed by Roseanne Liang, the Fantasy/Horror starred Chloë Grace Moretz, Nick Robinson, and Beulah Koale. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A female WWII pilot traveling with top secret documents on a B-17 Flying Fortress encounters an evil presence on board the flight."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shadow In The Cloud enjoyed a wee bit of attention while playing on the film festival circuit.
"A female WWII pilot traveling with top secret documents on a B-17 Flying Fortress encounters an evil presence on board the flight."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shadow In The Cloud enjoyed a wee bit of attention while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1952, Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Cocoon." This served as the fourth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Scientists exploring a crater in a remote jungle discover a perfectly-preserved cocoon, which releases an invisible and very dangerous creature."
"Scientists exploring a crater in a remote jungle discover a perfectly-preserved cocoon, which releases an invisible and very dangerous creature."
On this day in 1953, Tom Corbett, Space Patrol aired "The Trojan Planets." According to our friends at the reliable IMDB.com, here's the adventure's plot summary:
"The crew of the Polaris investigate strange activity on planetoids orbiting Jupiter."
"The crew of the Polaris investigate strange activity on planetoids orbiting Jupiter."
On this day in 1964, the first season of Doctor Who came to a close when it aired the episode titled "Prisoners of Conciergerie." Here's the episode summary from IMDB.com:
"Ian finally delivers his message to James Stirling but in order to secure Susan's release he and Barbara are forced into a dangerous spying mission."
"Ian finally delivers his message to James Stirling but in order to secure Susan's release he and Barbara are forced into a dangerous spying mission."
On this day in 1966 (in Japan), The Space Giants aired "Clash Of The Mammoth Monster." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary from The Space Giants Series Guide:
"The Lugo Men put all of their victims, humans without identities, in a truck for transportation to another location. Mikko and his father watch the Lugo Men, but are helpless to do anything. Tom Mura tells Mikko to continue observing them from their hiding place while he goes to the police for help. The police do not believe his story since their identities have been taken over by Lugo Men, and Tom is put in a jail cell. The aliens are about to steal Mura’s identity when Silvar blasts in to rescue him. Flying over the ocean shipping lanes, Goldar spots Zandosis and begins his attack on the creature!"
"The Lugo Men put all of their victims, humans without identities, in a truck for transportation to another location. Mikko and his father watch the Lugo Men, but are helpless to do anything. Tom Mura tells Mikko to continue observing them from their hiding place while he goes to the police for help. The police do not believe his story since their identities have been taken over by Lugo Men, and Tom is put in a jail cell. The aliens are about to steal Mura’s identity when Silvar blasts in to rescue him. Flying over the ocean shipping lanes, Goldar spots Zandosis and begins his attack on the creature!"
It all began right here: on this day in 1993, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman soared onto televisions. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's what the pilot was all about:
"After Clark gets a job at the Daily Planet, he joins Lois in investigating space shuttle sabotage, which he must thwart as Superman."
"After Clark gets a job at the Daily Planet, he joins Lois in investigating space shuttle sabotage, which he must thwart as Superman."
It all began right here: on this day in 1993, Seaquest DSV went where no man had gone before beneath Earth's oceans. The pilot episode was titled "To Be Or Not To Be," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Captain Nathan Bridger is hauled out of retirement to command the new submarine SeaQuest, under the authority of the United Earth/Oceans Organization. His ship goes up against pirate forces commanded by Marilyn Stark, a former SeaQuest captain who tried to instigate a war."
"Captain Nathan Bridger is hauled out of retirement to command the new submarine SeaQuest, under the authority of the United Earth/Oceans Organization. His ship goes up against pirate forces commanded by Marilyn Stark, a former SeaQuest captain who tried to instigate a war."
On this day in 1994, Ocean Girl aired "Wall Of Death." This served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"The Bates-Brothers encounter Neri once more while trying to get rid of an illegal fishing net."
"The Bates-Brothers encounter Neri once more while trying to get rid of an illegal fishing net."
On this day in 1994, Robocop: The Series aired "Mother's Day." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Gadget's caught in a custody fight and leaves Sergeant Parks to be reunited with her real mother. RoboCop suspects the woman is part of a plot by Russian crime boss Vlad "Stitch" Molotov and his sexy moll, Nadia."
"Gadget's caught in a custody fight and leaves Sergeant Parks to be reunited with her real mother. RoboCop suspects the woman is part of a plot by Russian crime boss Vlad "Stitch" Molotov and his sexy moll, Nadia."
- For those interested, it looks like the episode in its entirety is up on YouTube.com right here.
On this day in 1997, Stargate: SG-1 aired "The Nox." This served as the seventh episode of the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"With the Stargate program in danger of being terminated, the team is under pressure to find technology. Visiting a planet where they believe there is a creature that possesses the secret of invisibility, they encounter Apophis and his guards. Both sides receiving mortal wounds, they are aided by the planet's inhabitants, the Nox, a gentle people with a very large secret."
"With the Stargate program in danger of being terminated, the team is under pressure to find technology. Visiting a planet where they believe there is a creature that possesses the secret of invisibility, they encounter Apophis and his guards. Both sides receiving mortal wounds, they are aided by the planet's inhabitants, the Nox, a gentle people with a very large secret."
On this day in 2006, Eureka aired "Primal." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Taggart achieves a medical breakthrough while Fargo invents a device that bridges the divide between computers and human brains."
"Taggart achieves a medical breakthrough while Fargo invents a device that bridges the divide between computers and human brains."
On this day in 2011, Alphas aired "Blind Spot." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the Alpha team attempts to interrogate an alpha doctor, who wants to create more alphas, an invisible alpha attempts to abduct him. Dr. Rosen struggles to determine who is the more dangerous."
"As the Alpha team attempts to interrogate an alpha doctor, who wants to create more alphas, an invisible alpha attempts to abduct him. Dr. Rosen struggles to determine who is the more dangerous."
On this day in 2011, Eureka aired "One Small Step ..." This served as the nineteenth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Grace embraces an honor that strains her relationship with Henry while Deputy Andy becomes an accidental guinea pig for the Astraeus mission -- with catastrophic results."
"Grace embraces an honor that strains her relationship with Henry while Deputy Andy becomes an accidental guinea pig for the Astraeus mission -- with catastrophic results."
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Doctor Who aired "The Runaway Bride." Officially, this signalled the start of the show's third season (in the Modern Era of Doctor Who); and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor is baffled when a young woman is transported to the TARDIS on her wedding day, and attempts to find out how she is connected to an alien plot to destroy Earth."
"The Doctor is baffled when a young woman is transported to the TARDIS on her wedding day, and attempts to find out how she is connected to an alien plot to destroy Earth."
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Doctor Who aired "Smith And Jones." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season (in the Modern Era of Doctor Who); and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When the hospital she works at is transported to the moon, medical student Martha Jones joins forces with The Doctor to hunt down an alien fugitive before the oxygen runs out."
"When the hospital she works at is transported to the moon, medical student Martha Jones joins forces with The Doctor to hunt down an alien fugitive before the oxygen runs out."
It all began right here: on this day in 2014, TV audiences were treated to yet one more exploration of mankind's inevitable collapse with the premiere of Z Nation. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three years into the zombie apocalypse, Lt. Hammond assembles a team of everyday heroes to transport the only known survivor of the zombie virus from New York to California in hopes of using his blood for a vaccine."
"Three years into the zombie apocalypse, Lt. Hammond assembles a team of everyday heroes to transport the only known survivor of the zombie virus from New York to California in hopes of using his blood for a vaccine."
On this day in 2017, Somewhere Between aired "Ghost." This served as the ninth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Tom shares his plan but a double-cross turns deadly after the identity of the killer is revealed. The race is on to save Danny and Serena."
"Tom shares his plan but a double-cross turns deadly after the identity of the killer is revealed. The race is on to save Danny and Serena."
The first (and best!) writer of all things related to the classic pulp character known as "The Shadow" was Walter B. Gibson. Gibson was the first to pen adventures of his creation -- the man who could cloud men's minds -- under the pseudonym of Maxwell Grant. Though he's no longer with us, Mr. Gibson was born on this day back in 1897. Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows ... and so did Walter Gibson.
