Look up in the sky ... it's a bird ... it's a plane ... no, it's Superman ... and it was on this day back in 1952 that the popular TV serial of its day Adventures Of Superman first brought the man from Krypton down to Earth for the pursuit of truth, justice, and the American way. George Reeves filled out the titular role, and he spent six seasons righting the wrongs of men (and others) while handling reporting duties for his day job at the Daily Planet. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Man of Steel fights crime with help from his friends at the Daily Planet."
"The Man of Steel fights crime with help from his friends at the Daily Planet."
Transforming a major motion picture into a weekly television program can be a bit daunting. Naturally, some of the magic of what made the film special gets watered down when reshaping the narrative into a weekly dramatic procedural, but on this day in 1986 showrunners aptly tried to tap into Starman's wide-eyed optimism. The always likeable Robert Hays took on the central role of the alien incarnation of Paul Forrester (the part was played by Jeff Bridges in the film), and the show brought him back to Earth to join his son Scott on the (weekly) journey through life and to find Jenny, Scott's mom and Paul's lost love. It lasted a single season, tapping the lovely Erin Gray to fill Jenny's occasional shoes, but forever lives on in our memories.
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The Pretender finally took to the airwaves in the series of a genius gifted with the ability to be a bit of a chameleon. The mysterious Jarod could assume any identity, and he did so with the intent to go about setting things right in the universe while all the while he was being pursued by forces who'd put his right-minded shenanigans to a stop. While definitely a low SciFi property, it was great television viewing while traveling out over the airwaves. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"A specially gifted man, with the ability to instantly master any skill, escapes from a secret testing facility and travels the country taking on different jobs and helping strangers while hiding from his kidnappers."
"A specially gifted man, with the ability to instantly master any skill, escapes from a secret testing facility and travels the country taking on different jobs and helping strangers while hiding from his kidnappers."
Sorry, folks, but I can't tell you all that much about a property called Wolf Lake. (Well, I do know that it premiered on this day in 2001.) Frankly, it was a title I stumbled across in doing a bit of research, and I hadn't heard of it. IMDB.com denotes that it last a single truncated season (10 episodes) and starred such luminaries as Lou Diamond Phillips, Tim Matheson, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Set in the Pacific Northwest, this suspense thriller explores what happens when werewolves overtake a small Seattle suburb."
"Set in the Pacific Northwest, this suspense thriller explores what happens when werewolves overtake a small Seattle suburb."
The well of shows with terrific potential but unfulfilled promises grew a bit deeper with NBC's Surface. Created by Jonas and Josh Pate -- the two wunderkinds behind the massively underrated and tragically shelved Good Vs. Evil -- Surface pitted its mismatched team of kinda/sorta do-gooders trying to expose a new water-based lifeform kept under wraps by a government agents. It premiered on this day in 2005 to respectable ratings. However, as SciFi programming truly has an uphill battle in securing the size of audience necessary for a major network to bless it with long life, Surface dipped below the surface in viewership relatively quickly and eventually sank under its own narrative weight. Too bad, as this one looked like it could've been a contender (at times) ...
In the role of 'Aunt May,' the talented and award-winning Rosemary Harris joined Tobey Maguire for his outings in the Spider-Man universe of motion pictures (2002, 2004, and 2007). The actress was also a part of The Boys From Brazil (1978) Dark Side Of The Moon (1998 video game), The Gift (2000), and Radio Free Albemuth (2010). Harris was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While he's unquestionable best known for his deadpan portrayal of Batman from the late 1960's series of the same name, Adam West did enjoy a blink-and-you'll-miss-it short role in 1964's Robinson Crusoe on Mars. How brief? Well, that monkey from the picture lives much longer than he does in it. Though he's no longer with us, West was born on this day in 1928.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Capt. James T. Kirk was abducted by aliens in the Star Trek third season episode "Wink of an Eye," he found himself tempted by the lovely 'Deela,' one of a rare species who existed at an accelerated rate. Deela was played by the equally lovely Kathie Browne. Across her career, she also paid visits to the worlds of My Favorite Martian, My Brother The Angel, The Wild Wild West, Get Smart, The Evil Touch, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, and Fantasy Island. Though she's no longer with us, Browne was born on this day in 1930.
[Source: IMDB.com]
After-The-Fact Trivia:
Also, it's deserving of mention -- so long as this writer is concerned -- that Browne was, in fact, the wife to genre legend Darren McGavin (who was Kolchak) from 1969 up to her passing in 2003.
[Source: IMDB.com]
After-The-Fact Trivia:
Also, it's deserving of mention -- so long as this writer is concerned -- that Browne was, in fact, the wife to genre legend Darren McGavin (who was Kolchak) from 1969 up to her passing in 2003.
If you've worn the Starfleet uniform, then you deserve a mention: Christopher Held (now Karl Held) suited up for a small role aboard Star Trek's "The Return Of The Archons." He also appeared aboard The Outer Limits, The Girl From U.N.C.L.E., The Gnome-Mobile (1967), The Invaders, Diamonds Are Forever (1971), Space:1999, The Incredible Hulk, and Bad Blood (2012). Held was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actor David McCallum has made a splash in many television programs throughout the years. However, one of his lesser known roles was in a Fox TV program called VR5 which focused on a young woman's experiences in the virtual world. McCallum was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When Star Trek boldly went "Where No Man Has Gone Before" in its first season, Lloyd Haynes was part of the ship's bridge crew. As far for other forays into the realms of the Fantastic? He visited Batman, The Green Hornet, Tarzan, and Look What's Happened To Rosemary's Baby (1976). Though he's no longer with us, Haynes was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
The beautiful Caroline John brought to life the equally delightful 'Liz Shaw' during Doctor Who's classic years. The actress also had the good fortune to find employment in such entities as The Hound Of The Baskervilles, Santa Claus: The Movie (1985), Link (1986), Doctor Who: Dimensions In Time, P.R.O.B.E.: The Zero Imperative (1994), P.R.O.B.E.: The Devil Of Winterborne (1995), P.R.O.B.E.: Ghosts Of Winterborne (1996), P.R.O.B.E.: Unnatural Selection (1996), and Doctor Who: The Monthly Adventures. Though she's no longer with us, John Was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: Doctor Who Online Guide]
[Source: Doctor Who Online Guide]
Singer, composer, and actor Paul Williams (above right) put on some heavy make-up and boarded Star Trek: Voyager in a special guest role. But that's hardly all, and Williams has been an acting talent to be reckoned with in genre projects. A look of his resume shows contributions to such projects as Battle For The Planet Of The Apes (1973), Phantom Of The Paradise (1974), The Wild Wild West Revisited (1979), The Secret Of NIMH (1982), Fantasy Island, Solar Crisis (1990), She-Wolf Of London, The Last Halloween (1991), Batman: The Animated Series, Babylon 5, Aaaah! Real Monsters, Captain Planet And The Planeteers, Phantom 2040, Perversions Of Science, Honey, I Shrunk The Kids: The TV Show, Superman: The Animated Series, The Ghastly Love Of Johnny X (2014), and Superman: Red Son (2020). Williams was born on this day in 1940.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
That 1980's version of Flash Gordon is so very few peoples' "cup of tea" but it's one of my secret favorite films. It was just so over-the-top that I found it hard not to love its quirky vibe. Mariangela Melato made quite a splash in it as 'Kala,' one of the female enforcers of Ming the Merciless, and she truly helped bring Mongo to life. Ms. Melato was born on this day back in 1941; though she's no longer with us, that won't stop me in wishing her a Happy Birthday.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Victor Brandt had the good fortune of turning up not once but twice during Star Trek's third and final season. The actor also made visits to properties like The Invaders, They Came From Outer Space, and Star Wars: The Clone Wars (voice acting). Brandt was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Randolph Mantooth turned up in one of the better installments of the original Battlestar Galactica: in "Greetings from Earth," he played Michael, a human found in suspended animation who just might be from Earth! As for other adventures? He can be found onscreen in such properties as Night Gallery, Project UFO, Fantasy Island, Terror At London Bridge (1985), Fire Serpent (2007), Ghost Whisperer, and Killer Holiday (2013). Mantooth was born on this day in 1945.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The voluptuous Bobbie Bresee reigned primarily as a scream queen in some passable horror features, but a few roles -- such as a guest spot aboard Wonder Woman and starring roles in Star Slammer (1986) and Evil Spawn (1989) -- had solid SciFi elements to them. Bresee was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
That desperately, desperately pale man is none other than screen legend Jeremy Irons. Don't worry: he isn't normally that pale! He's done up in his make-up for the role of the Uber-Morlock from 2002's remake of the classic The Time Machine. One of the most decorated actors of his generation, Irons has also explored genre roles in such entries as Dead Ringers (1988), Dungeons & Dragons (2000), Eragon (2006), Beautiful Creatures (2013), High-Rise (2015), Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016), Assassin's Creed (2016), Justice League (2017), Watchmen, and The Flash (2023). Irons was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 2014, David Bamber boarded "Mummy on the Orient Express," an episode of the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Bamber was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rex Smith had a rather 'flirting' association with some interesting genre projects. In the guise of 'Daredevil,' he joined Bill Bixby for The Trial of the Incredible Hulk TV movie in 1989, just a few short years after taking to the streets on a high-tech motorcycle to fight crime in Street Hawk. Smith was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While aboard the Enterprise-D during Star Trek: The Next Generation's first season, Will Riker briefly found his mojo with the lovely Minuet, a holographic swinger who was a knock-out in her red dress. Minuet was played by the lovely Carolyn McCormick, who celebrates this day as her special day; she was born in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Italian-born beauty Alessandra Martines radiated royalty for her part aboard the Fantasy-themed Sinbad Of The Seven Seas (1989). Martines was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Spencer Garrett is another one of those scene-stealing character actors who can do great things with even bit roles. Genre fans know him from work aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation, M.A.N.T.I.S., Dark Skies, The X-Files, Star Trek: Voyager, The Invisible Man, Carnivale, Supernatural, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009), Iron Man 3 (2013), The Magicians, and Timeless. Garrett was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the role of 'Elizabeth Maxwell,' the lovely Jennifer Cooke took it to the Reptilian overlords when V aired on television during the 1980's. Cooke was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Kim Richards turned up in a small role aboard Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! (2015) She also enjoyed a supporting role aboard 2009's Race To Witch Mountain. Richards was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Most folks found AvP: Aliens vs. Predator forgettable, but -- for all its quirks -- I enjoyed it well enough, and I hoped it would make a star out of the lovely Sanaa Lathan. After all, she was a li'l lady who had to stand tall in joining alongside the Predator to fight for her life against the alien. Ms. Lathan was born on this day back in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Playboy Magazine's Miss December 1996 Victoria Silvstedt managed to work a small role aboard TV's Black Scorpion into her busy schedule. Silvstedt was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
2008's Quarantine is far more Horror than it is Science Fiction, but the hybrid does pose some interesting questions about how far regular folks are willing to go to survive. Columbus Short played a law enforcement officer trying to get through the worst night of his career in the film, and Short was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and supermodel Lydia Hearst found herself at the middle of a SciFi-themed medical catastrophe better known as Cabin Fever 3: Patient Zero (2014). She's also found time for appearances aboard Comdemned (2015), South Of Hell, Z Nation, The Haunting Of Sharon Tate (2019), Titanic 666 (2022), and Slayers (2022). Hearst was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Kevin Zegers -- shown above from his appearance aboard the WB's signature superhero series, Smallville -- has turned up in such franchises as In The Mouth Of Madness (1994), Tales From The Cryptkeeper, The X-Files, Specimen (1996), Goosebumps, Komodo (1999), So Weird, Dawn Of The Dead (2004), Zoom (2006), The Colony (2013), and Sleepwalker (2017). Zegers was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
That young lady checking out her youthful beauty is none other than Danielle Panabaker. Though largely unknown to Science Fiction she did star in a clever little SciFi thriller called Time Lapse that started a bit of a fire on the festival circuit in 2014. Still, her big claim to fame is as a regular as part of the ensemble that makes the CW's The Flash such winning entertainment. Panabaker was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Panabaker's run on The Flash was filled with some solid performances, so much so that the actress took home the 2021 Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress In A Television Series.' Also, her work aboard the SciFi/Indie film Time Lapse (2014) garnered some very positive attention.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
Panabaker's run on The Flash was filled with some solid performances, so much so that the actress took home the 2021 Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress In A Television Series.' Also, her work aboard the SciFi/Indie film Time Lapse (2014) garnered some very positive attention.
Dreamy newcomer Lorenza Izzo stole the show as a guest star aboard the short-lived SciFi series Dimension 404. She's also enjoyed a bit of screen time in such genre properties as Aftershock (2012), Hemlock Grove, The Green Inferno (2013), The Stranger (2014), Holidays (2016), The House With A Clock In Its Walls (2018), and Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels. Izzo was born on this day in 1989.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1932 (in the United Kingdom), Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde turned up a little horrofic heat for audiences. Directed by Rouben Mamoulian, the SciFi/Horror starred Fredric March, Miriam Hopkins, and Rose Hobart; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Jekyll faces horrible consequences when he lets his dark side run wild with a potion that transforms him into the animalistic Mr. Hyde."
For the record:
At the 1931 Faro Island Film Festival, actor Fredric March took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Actor.' At the 1932 Venice Film Festival, March was again recognized by securing the award for 'Most Favorite Actor' and director Mamoulian won the coveted 'Most Original Story (Fantasy)' title. At the 1932 Academy Awards, March earned the 'Best Actor In A Leading Role' Oscar while the film missed out in two other categories: 'Best Cinematography' and 'Best Writing, Adaptation.'
"Dr. Jekyll faces horrible consequences when he lets his dark side run wild with a potion that transforms him into the animalistic Mr. Hyde."
For the record:
At the 1931 Faro Island Film Festival, actor Fredric March took home the trophy in the category of 'Best Actor.' At the 1932 Venice Film Festival, March was again recognized by securing the award for 'Most Favorite Actor' and director Mamoulian won the coveted 'Most Original Story (Fantasy)' title. At the 1932 Academy Awards, March earned the 'Best Actor In A Leading Role' Oscar while the film missed out in two other categories: 'Best Cinematography' and 'Best Writing, Adaptation.'
On this day in 1969 (in the Netherlands), Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed added another layer to the whole Frankenstein mythos. Directed by Terence Fisher, the Horror/Fantasy starred Peter Cushing, Veronica Carlson, and Freddie Jones. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
"Baron Frankenstein, with the aid of a young doctor and his fiancée, kidnaps the mentally sick Dr. Brandt in order to perform the first brain transplant operation."
On this day in 1977 (in Spain), the original Star Wars opened for the expectant crowd of the San Sebastian Film Festival. According to our friends at Amazon.com, here's the plot summary:
"Young farm boy Luke Skywalker is thrust into a galaxy of adventure when he intercepts a distress call from the captive Princess Leia. The event launches him on a daring mission to rescue her from the clutches of Darth Vader and the Evil Empire."
"Young farm boy Luke Skywalker is thrust into a galaxy of adventure when he intercepts a distress call from the captive Princess Leia. The event launches him on a daring mission to rescue her from the clutches of Darth Vader and the Evil Empire."
On this day in 1979 (in France) ... you guessed it! It was another Apocalypse at the movies when End Of The World enjoyed its release. Directed by John Hayes from a script by Frank Ray Perilli, the SciFi/Horror starred Christopher Lee, Sue Lyon, and Kirk Scott. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After witnessing a man's death in a bizarre accident, Father Pergado goes on a spiritual retreat, where he encounters his alien double bent on world conquest."
"After witnessing a man's death in a bizarre accident, Father Pergado goes on a spiritual retreat, where he encounters his alien double bent on world conquest."
A star is born! On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen premiere of Without Warning. Directed by Greydon Clark from a script by Lyn Freeman, Daniel Grodnik, and Bennett Tramer, the feature film starred Jack Palance, Martin Landau, and Tarah Nutter. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Sandy and Greg are teenagers who go camping, despite warnings not to, with their friends. They soon encounter aliens, who are using the area as a hunting ground."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Without Warning in 2022 with a newly updated home video release. If you're interested in my thoughts on the film, you can find my review right here.
"Sandy and Greg are teenagers who go camping, despite warnings not to, with their friends. They soon encounter aliens, who are using the area as a hunting ground."
ExtraExtra Alert:
I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of Without Warning in 2022 with a newly updated home video release. If you're interested in my thoughts on the film, you can find my review right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1981 (in Canada), audiences were treated to the first theatrical engagement ever of Threshold. Directed by Richard Pearce from a script by James Salter, the SciFi/Drama starred Donald Sutherland, Jeff Goldblum, and Mare Winningham. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In this gripping sci-fi drama, a celebrated heart surgeon (Donald Sutherland, "The Hunger Games") collaborates with an offbeat scientist (Jeff Goldblum, "Jurassic Park") to perform the first artificial heart transplant."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Threshold enjoyed an incredible 10 nominations at Canada's Genie Awards ceremony in 1983. The drama took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Achievement In Cinematography' and 'Best Performance By An Actor In A Leading Role.'
"In this gripping sci-fi drama, a celebrated heart surgeon (Donald Sutherland, "The Hunger Games") collaborates with an offbeat scientist (Jeff Goldblum, "Jurassic Park") to perform the first artificial heart transplant."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Threshold enjoyed an incredible 10 nominations at Canada's Genie Awards ceremony in 1983. The drama took home top honors in the categories of 'Best Achievement In Cinematography' and 'Best Performance By An Actor In A Leading Role.'
On this day in 1985 (in Mexico), Parasite sunk its teeth into our cultural consciousness. Directed by genre master Charles Band, the SciFi/Horror starred Robert Glaudini, Demi Moore, 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 1986 (in the Philippines), the Xenomorphs returned to prominence aboard Aliens. Starring Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, and Michael Biehn, the SciFi/Adventure took Ripley into her very own 'heart of darkness,' and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
For the record:
Simply put, Aliens was then and remains today nothing short of phenomenal. While the original established the property, I'd argue that it took the sequel to firmly establish it as a proper Science Fiction franchise. Multiple films have explored the growing mythology behind the Xenomorphs, and 20th Century Fox even paired the aliens up with the Predator for a picture or two. Still, Aliens won the Oscars for 'Best Sound Editing' and 'Best Special Effects' at the 1987 Academy Awards, and the picture even garnered an acting nomination for Weaver -- a rarity for a SciFi film.
"Fifty-seven years after surviving an apocalyptic attack aboard her space vessel by merciless space creatures, Officer Ripley awakens from hyper-sleep and tries to warn anyone who will listen about the predators."
For the record:
Simply put, Aliens was then and remains today nothing short of phenomenal. While the original established the property, I'd argue that it took the sequel to firmly establish it as a proper Science Fiction franchise. Multiple films have explored the growing mythology behind the Xenomorphs, and 20th Century Fox even paired the aliens up with the Predator for a picture or two. Still, Aliens won the Oscars for 'Best Sound Editing' and 'Best Special Effects' at the 1987 Academy Awards, and the picture even garnered an acting nomination for Weaver -- a rarity for a SciFi film.
A star is born! This is one of the films I've never seen, but, based on the premise, I'm honestly surprised that I've not only never seen it but also never heard of it. Radioactive Dreams appears to be a kind of spoof of MAD MAX; it was released on this day back in 1985. Here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"After an atomic war Phillip Hammer and Marlowe Chandler have spent 15 years on their own in an bunker, stuffed with junk from the 40s and old detective novels. Now, 19 years old, they leave their shelter to find a world full of mutants, freaks and cannibals. They become famous detectives in the struggle for the two keys that could fire the last nuclear weapon."
"After an atomic war Phillip Hammer and Marlowe Chandler have spent 15 years on their own in an bunker, stuffed with junk from the 40s and old detective novels. Now, 19 years old, they leave their shelter to find a world full of mutants, freaks and cannibals. They become famous detectives in the struggle for the two keys that could fire the last nuclear weapon."
On this day in 1990 (in France), time travel was never so teen-a-rific as it was aboard Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. Directed by Stephen Herek, the feature gave Keanu Reeves one of the earliest hits, pairing him up with a goofy Alex Winter in the winning premise of two dudes just trying to get through high school and maybe even save the world. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two seemingly dumb teens set off on a quest to prepare the ultimate historical presentation with the help of a time machine."
For the record:
I've always been pleased as punch to consider Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure one of SciFi and Fantasy's smaller franchises. And, yes, it certainly is a franchise as it gave birth to not only a popular animated television series as well as a short-lived live action one but also a pair of big screen sequels: Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991) and Bill & Ted Face The Music (2020). That's no small affair in the modern era of filmmaking. Though the quality of the content has varied, I think the original maintains its charm even today. Lastly, it did enjoy a 1991 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"Two seemingly dumb teens set off on a quest to prepare the ultimate historical presentation with the help of a time machine."
For the record:
I've always been pleased as punch to consider Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure one of SciFi and Fantasy's smaller franchises. And, yes, it certainly is a franchise as it gave birth to not only a popular animated television series as well as a short-lived live action one but also a pair of big screen sequels: Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991) and Bill & Ted Face The Music (2020). That's no small affair in the modern era of filmmaking. Though the quality of the content has varied, I think the original maintains its charm even today. Lastly, it did enjoy a 1991 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 1995, Cyberjack (aka Virtual Assassin) morphed into existence. The SciFi/Action film starred Michael Dudikoff and Suki Kaiser, and here's the plot summary compliments of our friends at IMDB.com:
"In the near future Nassim, terrorist leader, storms computer company headquarters. His aim is deadly computer virus that could bring him world domination. Nick, company janitor and ex-cop, will get in his way."
"In the near future Nassim, terrorist leader, storms computer company headquarters. His aim is deadly computer virus that could bring him world domination. Nick, company janitor and ex-cop, will get in his way."
On this day in 1996 (in Germany and Norway), Independence Day brought a spectacular alien invasion to life. Written (in part) and directed by Roland Emmerich (with longtime creative partner Dean Devlin), the space fantasy starred Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, and Bill Pullman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind's best weapon is the will to survive."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Independence Day remains one of the best popcorn flicks ever. The film even won an Oscar in 1997 in the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' while having to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Best Sound.' For the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature received an incredible eleven nominations (top prizes were awarded only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film'). It was also a nominee for the 1997 Hugo Award as 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind's best weapon is the will to survive."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Independence Day remains one of the best popcorn flicks ever. The film even won an Oscar in 1997 in the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' while having to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Best Sound.' For the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature received an incredible eleven nominations (top prizes were awarded only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film'). It was also a nominee for the 1997 Hugo Award as 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1997 (in Brazil, Switzerland, and Spain), our civilization finally made Contact. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the SciFi/Drama starred Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Skerritt. Here's the plot summary, compliments of our friends at IMDB.com:
"Dr. Ellie Arroway, after years of searching, finds conclusive radio proof of intelligent aliens, who send plans for a mysterious machine."
For the record:
At the 1998 Academy Awards, Contact was nominated in the category of 'Best Sound' but missed out on taking home top honors. For the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Jodie Foster took home the 'Best Actress Award' and Jena Malone took home the 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress' Award while the film missed out on the trophies in categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, Contact did take home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' in 1998.
"Dr. Ellie Arroway, after years of searching, finds conclusive radio proof of intelligent aliens, who send plans for a mysterious machine."
For the record:
At the 1998 Academy Awards, Contact was nominated in the category of 'Best Sound' but missed out on taking home top honors. For the 1998 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Jodie Foster took home the 'Best Actress Award' and Jena Malone took home the 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress' Award while the film missed out on the trophies in categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writer,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.' Lastly, Contact did take home the Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation' in 1998.
On this day in 1997 (in Canada), Falling Fire was released to the masses. Written (in part) and directed by Daniel D'Or, the SciFi/Thriller starred Michael Pare, Heidi von Palleske, and Mackenzie Gray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An asteroid is brought by spaceship to lunar orbit to be mined for resources for dying Earth. Sabotage to the ship's navigation system guides the asteroid into collision orbit with Earth."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Falling Fire earned a bit of praise and attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"An asteroid is brought by spaceship to lunar orbit to be mined for resources for dying Earth. Sabotage to the ship's navigation system guides the asteroid into collision orbit with Earth."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Falling Fire earned a bit of praise and attention from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2003 (in Switzerland and Italy), the Terminator came back -- as promised -- in Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines. Directed by Jonathan Mostow, the film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kristanna Loken, and Nick Stahl; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"A machine from a post-apocalyptic future travels back in time to protect a man and a woman from an advanced robotic assassin to ensure they both survive a nuclear attack."
For the record:
At the 2004 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Terminator 3 enjoyed four nominations (yet no wins) in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Make-up,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 2008 (in the United Kingdom), Zombie Strippers turned up the Apocalyptic heat on America's (ahem) favorite pasttime. The feature starred Robert Englund and Jenna Jameson, and here's the plot compliments of IMDB.com:
"A zombie epidemic spreads throughout a strip club in Nebraska."
"A zombie epidemic spreads throughout a strip club in Nebraska."
On this day in 2009 (in Japan), it was the end of the world as we know it yet again with the theatrical release of Doomsday. Written and directed by Neil Marshall, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Rhona Mitra, Bob Hoskins, and Alexander Siddig. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lethal virus spreads throughout Scotland, infecting millions and killing hundreds of thousands. To contain the threat, acting authorities brutally quarantine the country as it succumbs to fear and chaos. The quarantine is successful. Three decades later, the Reaper virus violently resurfaces in London. An elite group of specialists, including Eden Sinclair, is urgently dispatched into Scotland to retrieve a cure by any means necessary. Shut off from the rest of the world, the unit must battle through a landscape that has become a waking nightmare."
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards, Doomsday did enjoy a single nomination in the category of 'Best Make-up.'
"A lethal virus spreads throughout Scotland, infecting millions and killing hundreds of thousands. To contain the threat, acting authorities brutally quarantine the country as it succumbs to fear and chaos. The quarantine is successful. Three decades later, the Reaper virus violently resurfaces in London. An elite group of specialists, including Eden Sinclair, is urgently dispatched into Scotland to retrieve a cure by any means necessary. Shut off from the rest of the world, the unit must battle through a landscape that has become a waking nightmare."
For the record:
At the 2009 Saturn Awards, Doomsday did enjoy a single nomination in the category of 'Best Make-up.'
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in Vietnam), Alien Outpost enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever. Written (in part) and directed by Jabbar Raisani, the SciFi project starred Adrian Paul, Reiley McClendon, and Rick Ravanello. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A documentary crew follows an elite unit of soldiers in the wake of an alien invasion."
"A documentary crew follows an elite unit of soldiers in the wake of an alien invasion."
On this day in 2014 (in the United Kingdom), the animated SciFi flick Chronicles of Humanity: Renegades opened for business. According to IMDB.com, here's the feature's plot summary:
"Earth has fallen to alien invaders, Katherine continues to rampage around the colonies with her rebel fleet. Renegades brings the story to a close and not everyone is going to make it to the end."
"Earth has fallen to alien invaders, Katherine continues to rampage around the colonies with her rebel fleet. Renegades brings the story to a close and not everyone is going to make it to the end."
On this day in 2014 (in Hungary), the 1977-produced Close Encounters Of The Third played for audiences in attendance of the Jameson Cinefest International Film Festival. The SciFi/Drama starred Richard Dreyfuss, Teri Garr, and François Truffaut; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"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.'
On this day in 2014 (in Japan), the apes were back in theatrical business with the release of Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes. Directed by Matt Reeves, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Gary Oldman, Keri Russell, and Andy Serkis; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The fragile peace between apes and humans is threatened as mistrust and betrayal threaten to plunge both tribes into a war for dominance over the Earth."
For the record:
Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes was the second film in an all-new trilogy that re-introduced the Apes saga to audiences around the world, and it was widely celebrated. At the 2015 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.' At the 2015 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick received an incredible eight nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"The fragile peace between apes and humans is threatened as mistrust and betrayal threaten to plunge both tribes into a war for dominance over the Earth."
For the record:
Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes was the second film in an all-new trilogy that re-introduced the Apes saga to audiences around the world, and it was widely celebrated. At the 2015 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.' At the 2015 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick received an incredible eight nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor,' 'Best Make-Up,' 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Production Design,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 2014, audiences experienced Lost Time. The feature starred Rochelle Vallese, Luke Goss, and Robert Davi, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"After leaving a doctor visit with the worst news, Valerie Dreyfuss and her sister Melissa come to a stop on a lonely stretch of road. Their car is engulfed by a blinding light....12 hours later Valerie wakes to the horror that her sister is gone, nowhere to be found."
"After leaving a doctor visit with the worst news, Valerie Dreyfuss and her sister Melissa come to a stop on a lonely stretch of road. Their car is engulfed by a blinding light....12 hours later Valerie wakes to the horror that her sister is gone, nowhere to be found."
A star is born! On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Fantastic Fest were treated to the silver screen premiere of The Hive. Written (in part) and directed by David Yarovesky, the SciFi/Thriller starred Gabriel Basso, Sean Gunn, and Kathryn Prescott. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young man suffering from amnesia must dig deep into the far reaches of his mind to remember who he is and save the love of his life before a virus that has infected him takes over."
"A young man suffering from amnesia must dig deep into the far reaches of his mind to remember who he is and save the love of his life before a virus that has infected him takes over."
On this day in 2014, The Maze Runner opened theatrically. This was yet another cinematic adaptation of a popular Young Adult SciFi novel, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Thomas is deposited in a community of boys after his memory is erased, soon learning they're all trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with fellow "runners" for a shot at escape."
"Thomas is deposited in a community of boys after his memory is erased, soon learning they're all trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with fellow "runners" for a shot at escape."
A star is born! On this day in 2015 (in the United Kingdom), Asteroid: Final Impact enjoyed its first airing on television. Written and directed by Jason Bourque, the SciFi/Thriller starred Mark Lutz, Anna Van Hooft, and Emilie Ullerup. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"As the Earth is on a collision course with a deadly asteroid after a small-scale meteor shower, a discredited astrophysicist and his team race against time to hack into a state-of-the-art meteor-tracking satellite. Can he save the world?"
"As the Earth is on a collision course with a deadly asteroid after a small-scale meteor shower, a discredited astrophysicist and his team race against time to hack into a state-of-the-art meteor-tracking satellite. Can he save the world?"
On this day in 2015 (in Japan), the 1989-produced Back To The Future II played for audiences in attendance of the Mito Short Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Robert Zemeckis, the SciFi/Comedy starred Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and Lea Thompson; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip."
"After visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip."
On this day in 2015 (in Japan), King Kong enjoyed a special screening for audiences in attendance of the Kanawaza Film Fest.Starring Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, and Bruce Cabot, the film used some pioneering special effects to bring the king to life; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A film crew goes to a tropical island for an exotic location shoot and discovers a colossal ape who takes a shine to their female blonde star. He is then captured and brought back to New York City for public exhibition."
For the record:
In 1991, King Kong was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, which seeks to preserve films for the ages that have demonstrated significant historical, cultural, or aesthetic contributions to the genre.
"A film crew goes to a tropical island for an exotic location shoot and discovers a colossal ape who takes a shine to their female blonde star. He is then captured and brought back to New York City for public exhibition."
For the record:
In 1991, King Kong was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry, which seeks to preserve films for the ages that have demonstrated significant historical, cultural, or aesthetic contributions to the genre.
On this day in 2016 (in Japan), the 1980-produced Crazy Thunder Road enjoyed a special screening for audiences in attendance of the Kanazawa Film Fest. Written and directed by Gakuryû Ishii, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tatsuo Yamada, Mamamitsu Ohike, and Kôji Nanjô. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the leader of the once-notorious biker gang of Tokyo falls in love with a barmaid and quickly loses his rebellious ideals, the rest of the gang feels betrayed. Especially the reputedly troubled kid Ken revolts against his former friend."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Crazy Thunder Road earned a bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"When the leader of the once-notorious biker gang of Tokyo falls in love with a barmaid and quickly loses his rebellious ideals, the rest of the gang feels betrayed. Especially the reputedly troubled kid Ken revolts against his former friend."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Crazy Thunder Road earned a bit of love from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2017 (in Poland), The Man With The Magic Box enjoyed its first engagement ever when it played for folks in attendance of the Gdynia Polish Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Bodo Kox, this Polish-language SciFi/Romance starred Olga Boladz, Piotr Polak, and Sebastian Stankiewicz. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A janitor in Warsaw stumbles upon a time-traveling device in his apartment and gets stuck in the past while the woman he's been seeing looks for him."
For the record:
As well as garnering some positive attention on the film festival circuit, The Man With The Magic Box enjoyed two nominations from the Polish Film Awards in 2018: 'Best Film Score' and 'Best Production Design.'
"A janitor in Warsaw stumbles upon a time-traveling device in his apartment and gets stuck in the past while the woman he's been seeing looks for him."
For the record:
As well as garnering some positive attention on the film festival circuit, The Man With The Magic Box enjoyed two nominations from the Polish Film Awards in 2018: 'Best Film Score' and 'Best Production Design.'
On this day in 2019 (in the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Australia, and a whole host of countries around the world), Ad Astra opened its space doors for box office business. Written (in part) and directed by James Gray, the SciFi/Drama starred Brad Pitt, Tommy Lee Jones, and Ruth Negga. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Astronaut Roy McBride undertakes a mission across an unforgiving solar system to uncover the truth about his missing father and his doomed expedition that now, 30 years later, threatens the universe."
For the record:
To be perfectly fair, Ad Astra enjoyed a wealth of praise from organizations and festivals largely for the film's technical prowess. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 2020 in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the film with three nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costume,' 'Best Special Effects,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I wasn't all that impressed with Ad Astra, most of my disappointment owed to what I felt was just an unengaging storyline. In any event, interested readers can find out what I thought of it right here.
"Astronaut Roy McBride undertakes a mission across an unforgiving solar system to uncover the truth about his missing father and his doomed expedition that now, 30 years later, threatens the universe."
For the record:
To be perfectly fair, Ad Astra enjoyed a wealth of praise from organizations and festivals largely for the film's technical prowess. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 2020 in the category of 'Best Achievement In Sound Editing.' Also, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films recognized the film with three nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costume,' 'Best Special Effects,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
I wasn't all that impressed with Ad Astra, most of my disappointment owed to what I felt was just an unengaging storyline. In any event, interested readers can find out what I thought of it right here.
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), folks attending Fantastic Fest enjoyed a festival screening of Sweetheart. Written (in part) and directed by J.D. Dillard, the SciFi/Horror starred Kiersey Clemons, Emory Cohen, and Hanna Mangan Lawrence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jenn has washed ashore a small tropical island and it doesn't take her long to realize she's completely alone. She must spend her days not only surviving the elements, but must also fend off the malevolent force that comes out each night."
For the record:
As well as garnering a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit, Sweetheart caught the attention of the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards (2020) with a pair of nominations: 'Best Creature FX' and 'Best Actress.'
"Jenn has washed ashore a small tropical island and it doesn't take her long to realize she's completely alone. She must spend her days not only surviving the elements, but must also fend off the malevolent force that comes out each night."
For the record:
As well as garnering a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit, Sweetheart caught the attention of the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards (2020) with a pair of nominations: 'Best Creature FX' and 'Best Actress.'
A star is born! On this day in 2020 (in Brazil), audiences in attendance of the Festival de Cinema de Gramado were treated to the silver screen premiere of Tales Of Tomorrow. Written and directed by Pedro de Lima Marques, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Bruno Barcelos, Duda Andreazza, and Bruno Krieger. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 2165, Michele's kidnapping puts the city-state of Porto 01, the last stronghold of human civilization, under a state of war. To save the city it will be necessary to count on the help of Jefferson, a high school student who lives in 1999."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Tales Of Tomorrow earned a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
"In 2165, Michele's kidnapping puts the city-state of Porto 01, the last stronghold of human civilization, under a state of war. To save the city it will be necessary to count on the help of Jefferson, a high school student who lives in 1999."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Tales Of Tomorrow earned a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
It all began right here: on this day in 1952 (in theU.S.), "Superman On Earth" aired as the pilot episode for the popular Adventures of Superman television series. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jor-El, Krypton's leading scientist, sends his infant son to Earth in a rocket just as the planet explodes. The rocket is found by Eben and Sarah Kent and Eben gets the infant out before the craft explodes. They raise the child as their own. Years later, after Eben's death and now aware of his super powers, Clark Kent moves to Metropolis. Sarah has made a costume for him, and she tells him that he must use his powers for good. Superman makes his debut saving a man falling from a blimp. As Clark, he hustles the man to the Daily Planet, which scores a scoop. This convinces editor Perry White to hire Clark."
"Jor-El, Krypton's leading scientist, sends his infant son to Earth in a rocket just as the planet explodes. The rocket is found by Eben and Sarah Kent and Eben gets the infant out before the craft explodes. They raise the child as their own. Years later, after Eben's death and now aware of his super powers, Clark Kent moves to Metropolis. Sarah has made a costume for him, and she tells him that he must use his powers for good. Superman makes his debut saving a man falling from a blimp. As Clark, he hustles the man to the Daily Planet, which scores a scoop. This convinces editor Perry White to hire Clark."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Tales Of Tomorrow aired "The Chase." This served as the fifth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and -- unfortunately -- I've yet been able to find a suitable plot description anywhere on the World Wide Web!
First showing ever! On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), The Outer Limits returned to the airwaves with its second season premiere, an adventure penned by the late, great Harlan Ellison and curiously titled "Soldier." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A soldier from the far future is accidentally teleported back to our present. The psychiatrist assigned to examine the soldier realizes that he has been bred purely as a killing machine, but he believe he can reawaken the warrior's humanity. Meanwhile a second soldier arrives, dedicated to hunting and killing his enemy."
Extra-Extra Alert:
Fans interested in knowing a bit more can check out SciFiHistory.Net's "Soldier" page with includes cast photos and screencaps from the episode right here. And if you're interested in knowing what I thought of this landmark episode, my review is up right here.
"A soldier from the far future is accidentally teleported back to our present. The psychiatrist assigned to examine the soldier realizes that he has been bred purely as a killing machine, but he believe he can reawaken the warrior's humanity. Meanwhile a second soldier arrives, dedicated to hunting and killing his enemy."
Extra-Extra Alert:
Fans interested in knowing a bit more can check out SciFiHistory.Net's "Soldier" page with includes cast photos and screencaps from the episode right here. And if you're interested in knowing what I thought of this landmark episode, my review is up right here.
It all began right here: on this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), TV delivered up yet one more serialized adaptation of a successful SciFi motion picture with the premiere of Starman. Gone was Jeff Bridges but Robert Hays stepped up in his absence, and here's the premise behind "The Return":
"Photographer Paul Forrester decides to photograph an erupting volcano when he is caught in the eruption and killed. At the same time, the Starman has returned to seek Jenny Hayden and their child. He clones the dead photographer's body and finds his son, whose name is Scott and is living in an orphanage. George Fox has decided that the Starman's initial visit was a reconnaissance mission for a potential invasion, and believes that he will return. He sets up a department and begins the hunt."
"Photographer Paul Forrester decides to photograph an erupting volcano when he is caught in the eruption and killed. At the same time, the Starman has returned to seek Jenny Hayden and their child. He clones the dead photographer's body and finds his son, whose name is Scott and is living in an orphanage. George Fox has decided that the Starman's initial visit was a reconnaissance mission for a potential invasion, and believes that he will return. He sets up a department and begins the hunt."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Time's Arrow: Part 2." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's sixth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Captain Picard and crew follow Data back to the late 1800s to get him back, only to find the suspected alien visitors killing people of that time."
"Captain Picard and crew follow Data back to the late 1800s to get him back, only to find the suspected alien visitors killing people of that time."
On this day in 1992 (in France), The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "The Long Rain." This served as the sixth episode of the program's sixth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an army spaceship crash lands on a world where it never stops raining, the four survivors try to reach the Sundome that has been erected on the planet and provides the only shelter. But exhaustion hits and predatory plants await."
"When an army spaceship crash lands on a world where it never stops raining, the four survivors try to reach the Sundome that has been erected on the planet and provides the only shelter. But exhaustion hits and predatory plants await."
On this day in 1993 (in the U.S.), SeaQuest DSV aired "The Devil's Window." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Captain Bridger must decide whether to continue assisting Dr. Raleigh Young with his hydrothermal vent experiments or help the ailing Darwin."
"Captain Bridger must decide whether to continue assisting Dr. Raleigh Young with his hydrothermal vent experiments or help the ailing Darwin."
On this day in 1994 (in Australia), Ocean Girl aired "The Earthquake." This served as the fourth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After an earthquake hits ORCA, two kids are trapped in a damaged section, which is filling with water."
"After an earthquake hits ORCA, two kids are trapped in a damaged section, which is filling with water."
On this day in 1994, Robocop: The Series aired "Nano." This served as the twentieth episode to the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"While arresting a thief, who is suddenly run down by a runaway bus, Detective Madigan is seriously injured and paralyzed. Robocop investigates and uncovers a criminal using nanobots to override machinery and electronics."
"While arresting a thief, who is suddenly run down by a runaway bus, Detective Madigan is seriously injured and paralyzed. Robocop investigates and uncovers a criminal using nanobots to override machinery and electronics."
It all began right here: on this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The Pretender aired its pilot episode. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jarod is the new doctor at a NYC hospital, trying to expose negligence and a cover-up that led to a young boy being paralyzed."
"Jarod is the new doctor at a NYC hospital, trying to expose negligence and a cover-up that led to a young boy being paralyzed."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Stargate: SG-1 aired "Brief Candle." This served as the eighth episode to the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"On the planet Argos, Kynthia seduces Colonel O'Neil, which gives him an Argosian lifespan of only a 100 days. As his skin turns the color of death, will the SG-1 team succeed finding a cure?"
"On the planet Argos, Kynthia seduces Colonel O'Neil, which gives him an Argosian lifespan of only a 100 days. As his skin turns the color of death, will the SG-1 team succeed finding a cure?"
On this day in 2000 (in Germany), Farscape aired its pilot episode on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Astronaut John Crichton attempts to use the Earth's atmosphere to propel his module at high speeds but is hit by a radiation wave and is sucked through a wormhole into a distant part of the universe."
"Astronaut John Crichton attempts to use the Earth's atmosphere to propel his module at high speeds but is hit by a radiation wave and is sucked through a wormhole into a distant part of the universe."
On this day in 2001 (in the United Kingdom), Stargate: SG-1 aired "Threshold." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's fifth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"To help Teal'c mind clear again, SG-1 asks Bra'tac to help. Bra'tac removes Teal'c's Gou'ald and Teal'c is forced to remember certain memories of his past. The real Teal'c in the end. SG-1 is glad to have him back."
"To help Teal'c mind clear again, SG-1 asks Bra'tac to help. Bra'tac removes Teal'c's Gou'ald and Teal'c is forced to remember certain memories of his past. The real Teal'c in the end. SG-1 is glad to have him back."
It all began right here: on this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Wolf Lake aired "Meat The Parents." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Seattle police detective John Kanin's search for his vanished girlfriend, Ruby Cates, brings him to the small Pacific Northwest town of Wolf Lake. There he becomes embroiled in a local power struggle and discovers that something a force ancient and mystical exerts an irresitible control over the people of the town."
"Seattle police detective John Kanin's search for his vanished girlfriend, Ruby Cates, brings him to the small Pacific Northwest town of Wolf Lake. There he becomes embroiled in a local power struggle and discovers that something a force ancient and mystical exerts an irresitible control over the people of the town."
It all began right here: on this day back in 2005 (in the U.S.), the short-lived program Surface premiered its pilot episode of its only season in original broadcast existence. Here's the skinny from IMDB.com:
"Random underwater encounters raise questions and concerns among scientists, naval officials and civilians."
I know a few folks who watched the show said it was superior; they were frustrated that it all ended on a serious cliffhanger that, unfortunately, has never been resolved.
"Random underwater encounters raise questions and concerns among scientists, naval officials and civilians."
I know a few folks who watched the show said it was superior; they were frustrated that it all ended on a serious cliffhanger that, unfortunately, has never been resolved.
On this day in 2006 (in the U.S.), Eureka premiered "Purple Haze." This served as the tenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Strange behavior exhibited by the townspeople is investigated by Carter,who has to solve the mystery before Stark makes a decision that could affect the world."
"Strange behavior exhibited by the townspeople is investigated by Carter,who has to solve the mystery before Stark makes a decision that could affect the world."
On this day in 2008 (in Japan), Quantum Leap aired "A Song For The Soul." Officially, this served as the fifteenth episode in the program's fourth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Singing in a 1960's black girl band, Sam must save one member from an unscrupulous nightclub owner."
"Singing in a 1960's black girl band, Sam must save one member from an unscrupulous nightclub owner."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Alphas aired "Blind Spot." This served as the ninth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed 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 (in the U.S.), Eureka aired "One Giant Leap ..." This served as the twentieth episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Hours before the launch of the Titan mission Eureka struggles with black holes and, having decided who will stay and who will go, goodbyes."
"Hours before the launch of the Titan mission Eureka struggles with black holes and, having decided who will stay and who will go, goodbyes."
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Doctor Who aired "The Shakespeare Code." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season (in the Modern Era); and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor takes Martha to London in 1599, where William Shakespeare's new play is being used by three witches in an evil plan."
"The Doctor takes Martha to London in 1599, where William Shakespeare's new play is being used by three witches in an evil plan."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), Doctor Who blasted back onto the airwaves with the season premiere of its ninth (rebooted) season. "The Magician's Apprentice" was a bit of a moody affair, picking up on some of the threads left dangling with the season eight finale. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the skies of Earth are frozen by a mysterious alien force, Clara needs her friend, the Doctor. But where is he and what is he hiding from?"
"When the skies of Earth are frozen by a mysterious alien force, Clara needs her friend, the Doctor. But where is he and what is he hiding from?"
On this day in 2017 (in the Phillipines), Firefly released "The Train Job" on home video. Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mal has second thoughts after discovering that two boxes of Alliance goods his crew has been hired to steal are full of badly needed medical supplies headed for the mining town of Paradiso."
"Mal has second thoughts after discovering that two boxes of Alliance goods his crew has been hired to steal are full of badly needed medical supplies headed for the mining town of Paradiso."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Somewhere Between bowed out of televised existence with the airing of the aptly titled "One Must Die." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The vast conspiracy leading to Danny's execution is exposed but it is a race against time for Laura and Nico to save Danny's life."
"The vast conspiracy leading to Danny's execution is exposed but it is a race against time for Laura and Nico to save Danny's life."
Sorry, folks, I don't game, but on this day in 2014 the game Wasteland 2 enjoyed its release to the general marketplace. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's all you need to know about that:
"Sequel to the original 1988 personal computer role-playing game Wasteland, revived by original director Brian Fargo and inXile Entertainment with the return of many key members of the original development team. Wasteland 2 continues the story of the Wasteland's traveling party, with Snake Vargas, Angela Deth and other characters returning throughout the story. Following the events of the original game, you are members of a new squad of Desert Rangers patrolling post-apocalyptic Arizona, investigating new threats to the scattered survivors of nuclear war. Sent on a mission to discover what happened to the recently killed Ace, another member of the original game's party, Team Echo of the Desert Rangers will blaze a trail through multiple locations with highly interactive environments and a branching, flexible story."
"Sequel to the original 1988 personal computer role-playing game Wasteland, revived by original director Brian Fargo and inXile Entertainment with the return of many key members of the original development team. Wasteland 2 continues the story of the Wasteland's traveling party, with Snake Vargas, Angela Deth and other characters returning throughout the story. Following the events of the original game, you are members of a new squad of Desert Rangers patrolling post-apocalyptic Arizona, investigating new threats to the scattered survivors of nuclear war. Sent on a mission to discover what happened to the recently killed Ace, another member of the original game's party, Team Echo of the Desert Rangers will blaze a trail through multiple locations with highly interactive environments and a branching, flexible story."
