Love him or hate him, Keanu Reeves is the face of sci-fi for a generation of movie-goers. He was Neo in The Matrix. He kinda/sorta took over our planet in The Day The Earth Stood Still remake (the original is still better). And he traveled through time, all for the purposes of doing a book report, in Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. Mr. Reeves remains a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood, and he celebrates his birthday today, born on this day back in 1964. Party on, dude!
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Martin Miller nearly amassed one hundred different screen credits in his time on the Earthly plane. Perhaps one of his best remembered roles was as 'Kublai Khan' in Doctor Who's very first season. Though he's no longer with us, Miller was born on this day in 1899.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Eileen Way joined Tom Baker aboard "The Creature From The Pit," a late-1970's serial from the BBC's long-running Doctor Who. Though she's no longer with us, Way was born on this day in 1911.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you're a reader anywhere near my ripened age, then you've definitely seen the name of Samuel A. Peeples appear in credits to any number of programs. (Well, if you watched shows like I did and you read the screen credits like I did, that is ...) IMDB.com reports that the talented scribe got his start penning Western novels but very quickly transitioned into the world of television screenwriting; and the rest -- as they say -- is history. While spinning yarns, he was a part of such programs as Special Agent 7, Star Trek ("Where No Man Has Gone Before"), The Girl From U.N.C.L.E., Star Trek: The Animated Series ("Beyond The Farthest Star"), Spectre (1977), Space Academy, Jason Of Star Command, Flash Gordon, and Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan (1982). Though he's no longer with us, Peeples was born on this day in 1917.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1983 Hugo Awards, Peeples -- along with Nicholas Meyer, Jack B. Sowards, and Harve Bennett -- were nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for their work in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
At the 1983 Hugo Awards, Peeples -- along with Nicholas Meyer, Jack B. Sowards, and Harve Bennett -- were nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' for their work in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan.
That tall fellow? The one in the black head-dress and the frilly curtain about his shouders? The guy standing next to the sneering Klingon? That is none other than Michael Dante in the guise of Maab from the Star Trek second season episode, "Friday's Child." The talented actor also sported appearances aboard Get Smart (1966) and The Six Million Dollar Man (1974). Dante was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
"If you're going to be an extra in only a single episode of episodic television, then you damn well better make it a good one." That's what grandma used to say. Grandma always was a little weird. In any event, Robert Chadwick heeded her advice, though he undoubtedly never heard it from my grandma. He had a role in the classic Star Trek episode, "Balance Of Terror," as the Romulan Scanner Operator. He also booked roles in The Outer Limits (1965) and Irwin Allen's Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea (1965). Though he's no longer with us, Chadwick was born on this day in 1933.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In an episode of the classic Battlestar Galactica, Ben Frank played one of the meddlers questioning authority in "Murder on the Rising Star." Though he's no longer with us, Frank was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
With over five decades in the business, Clarence Felder has served time in probably any and all genres. Fans might recognize him best from stops to The Twilight Zone, The Hidden (1987), A Nightmare On Elm Street: The Dream Child (1989), and Alien Nation. Felder was born on this day in 1938.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sandra Knight was certainly bitten by the entertainment bug. IMDB.com reports that her background includes not only acting but also singing and dancing. Still, her career onscreen has been fairly modest, but she can be caught captivating audiences in such properties as Frankenstein's Daughter (1958), One Step Beyond, The Terror (1963), Bloodbath (1966), and The Haunting Of Morella (1990). Knight was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Beverly Sanders delivered a level of palpable menace for her work aboard Scooby-Doo! Curse Of The Lake Monster (2010). As for other forays into the realms of the Fantastic, you can chalk up work aboard Look What's Happened To Rosemary's Baby (1976), Fantasy Island, Magic (1978), Mork & Mindy, Amazing Stories, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, and Charmed. Sanders was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Screenwriter and novelist John A. Russo has an incredible resume that, frankly, probably doesn't get talked about enough in genre circles. In fact, a good many folks probably had no idea that he -- as much as George A. Romero -- invented the traditional zombie picture with their screenplay for Night Of The Living Dead (1968) resurrecting the deceased for some quality screen time. Other projects to his name include such projects as The Liberation Of Cherry Janowski (1976), Midnight (1982), The Return Of The Living Dead (1985), The Majorettes (1986), Heartstopper (1989), Voodoo Dawn (1990), Midnight 2 (1993), Santa Claws (1996), Another Night Of The Living Dead (2011), My Uncle John Is A Zombie (2016), Night Of The Animated Dead (2021), Dead Of Night (2022), and Legends Of The Undead (2023).
Russo was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Russo was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran comic book artist and scribe Walter Simonson celebrates his birthday today. He's contributed to such ongoing comic book properties as Batman, The Hulk, Star Trek, and Star Wars. Simonson was born on this day in 1946.
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
[Source: Wikipedia.org]
Despite a relatively high Klingon presence as part of several of the more modern Star Trek television series, I tend to prefer their portrayal in the classic Trek universe (the original program and its movies) far more than these modern age aliens. Call me naive, but the old-school Klingons seemed more authentic. In any event, Rosana DeSoto played a Klingon female to sublime effect as part of Star Trek: The Undiscovered Country. DeSoto was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the mid-1970's TV program Shazam!, young Michael Gray (above right) played the 'Billy Batson,' the human charged with maintaining custody of the mighty superhero. Gray was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in his career, Mark Harmon knew something was fishy in Goliath Awaits, a 1981 SciFi telefilm about a group of survivors trapped beneath the sea. Harmon was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's now renowned for her work as a horse trainer, Gai Waterhouse (when she was Gai Smith) enjoyed a guest appearance aboard "The Invasion Of Time" serial of Doctor Who. Waterhouse was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: Doctor Who Online]
[Source: Doctor Who Online]
With over 100 screen roles to her name, I'm actually quite surprised that the lovely Linda Purl hasn't done more Science Fiction and Fantasy. A review of her IMDB.com profile only shows a few: Time Travellers (1966) and HBO's True Blood. Dang. Purl was born on this day in 1955.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sean Gallagher dabbled in the wide, wide world of Doctor Who with a guest role in the re-launched program's second season. Gallagher was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
No matter how utterly inviting the prospect of seeing Salma Hayek in 3D might sound, I still can't bring myself to watch Spy Kids 3: Game Over (2003). Hayek was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of watching Black Mirror via a Netflix subscription. Interested in my thoughts on "Joan Is Awful" in which Ms. Hayek played a role? Readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2023, I had the good fortune of watching Black Mirror via a Netflix subscription. Interested in my thoughts on "Joan Is Awful" in which Ms. Hayek played a role? Readers can find my review right here.
When writer/director Stephen Sommers rebooted The Mummy (1999) for a whole new generation of fans, he cast the talented Tuc Watkins in the role of Mr. Burns. The actor has also appeared aboard Infested (2002) and Syfy's Warehouse 13. Watkins was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Cynthia Watros was only one of the lovely ladies that made up part of the ensemble at the core to ABC TV's Lost. She hasn't done much genre-specific work since that time, but I for one would welcome her pretty face back any time she likes. Watros was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of my personal favorites TV-based SciFi programs ever remains Fox TV's Space: Above and Beyond. In it, firecracker-hot Kristen Cloke played space-based fighter pilot 'Lt. Shane Vansen' to perfection. Sadly, the show only lasted a season and ended on a massive cliffhanger, but Vansen lives on in the imagination of fans everywhere. Cloke was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Model, Playboy Playmate, and actress Shauna Sand has squeezed in some interesting appearances in genre properties over her career. Fans might recognize her from stints aboard Dark Realm (2001), Charmed, and Succubus: Hell-Bent (2007). Sand was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Nicholas Pinnock's acting portfolio continues to grow. Genre fans might recognize him from work aboard The Deep, Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), Monsters: Dark Continent (2014), and Starz Network excellent yet underrated SciFi/Serial Counterpart. Pinnock was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though it looks as though her career steers more toward conventional programming, the lovely Tiffany Hines did manage to squeeze a role into the SciFi/Miniseries Meteor back in 2009. Here's hoping she finds a few more right up our alley! Hines was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Terra Nova was one of those programs that had great promise: methinks the problem was it was shackled with a creative crew who had absolutely no idea of how to tap into it. That isn't for a lack of talent in front of the camera, though. Allison Miller played Skye to some fan acclaim. Miller was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Cara Jade Myers enjoyed a small role aboard the SciFi/Fantasy Proximity (2020) for Demeusy Pictures. Myers was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Merritt Patterson learned that sometimes you just have to run with the pack for her part in Wolves (2014). The talented actress has also scored roles aboard such genre properties as Kyle XY, Supernatural, The Hole (2009), Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010), Iron Golem (2011), The Troop, and Ravenswood. Patterson was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Voice actress and competitive gamer Faye Mata has a resume too expansive for me to cite much less understand. (Sorry, folks, but I don't game.) Regardless, the talented lady has supplied the pipes to an incredible assortment of characters in animated projects everywhere, so fans are encouraged to check out her full professional profile on IMDB.com. Mata was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Austin Abrams tried to be a force to reckon with in the Fantasy-themed The Walking Dead for AMC; sadly, few folks get out of that show alive. Abrams was born on this day in 1996.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1920 (in the U.S.), Chapter 10 on the ongoing serial that was The Invisible Ray premiered in theaters. Written for the screen by Guy McConnell and directed by Harry A. Pollard, the feature starred Ruth Clifford, Jack Sherrill, Sidney Bracey, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A scientist discovers a death ray and locks it in a box, giving the key to his daughter, who soon finds herself hunted by criminals looking to steal the deadly mineral."
"A scientist discovers a death ray and locks it in a box, giving the key to his daughter, who soon finds herself hunted by criminals looking to steal the deadly mineral."
A star is born!
On this day in 1923 (in the U.S.), that sterling mecca known as New York City, New York served as host for the big screen theatrical premiere of The Hunchback Of Notre Dame. Directed by Wallace Worsley and based on the novel by Victor Hugo, the film starred Lon Chaney, Patsy Ruth Miller, Norman Kerry, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 15th-century Paris, the brother of the archdeacon plots with the gypsy king to foment a peasant revolt. Meanwhile, a freakish hunchback falls in love with a gypsy dancer."
"In 15th-century Paris, the brother of the archdeacon plots with the gypsy king to foment a peasant revolt. Meanwhile, a freakish hunchback falls in love with a gypsy dancer."
On this day in 1926 (in the United Kingdom), The Power God unveiled the first chapter of its 15-part run for audiences on the other side of the pond. Directed by Francis Ford and Ben F. Wilson (who also starred), the film starred Neva Gerber, Lafe McKee, Al Ernest Garcia, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Professor Sturgess invents a miraculous engine which can draw unlimited power from the atoms of the air. When the professor is killed, his daughter and her fiance must fight to keep the secret of the power engine out of the hands of evil Weston Dore and his henchmen."
"Professor Sturgess invents a miraculous engine which can draw unlimited power from the atoms of the air. When the professor is killed, his daughter and her fiance must fight to keep the secret of the power engine out of the hands of evil Weston Dore and his henchmen."
On this day in 1957 (in Sweden), the Horror/SciFi hybrid The Deadly Mantis tried to sink its teeth ... er ... arms ... er ... claw-things into mankind. The feature starred Craig Stevens and William Hopper, and here's the premise compliments of IMDB.com:
"A giant prehistoric praying mantis, recently freed from the Arctic ice, voraciously preys on American military at the DEW Line and works its way south."
"A giant prehistoric praying mantis, recently freed from the Arctic ice, voraciously preys on American military at the DEW Line and works its way south."
On this day in 1960 (in West Germany), The Time Machine sent audiences on a trip into the distant future. Directed by genre master George Pal from a script by David Duncan (adapting the H.G. Wells' novel), the film starred Rod Taylor, Yvette Mimieux, Alan Young, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
- At the 1961 Academy Awards, The Time Machine took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Special Effects.'
- The film also enjoyed a 1961 Hugo Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1966 (in the Philippines), Ibulong mo sa hangin (aka Curse Of The Vampires) (aka Blood Of The Vampires) first enjoyed a bit of sunlight. Directed by Gerardo de Leon from a story by Ben Feleo and Pierre L. Salas, this Filipino-language Horror film starred Amalia Fuentes, Romeo Vasquez, Eddie Garcia, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Siblings discover that their father has their vampire mother chained up in the cellar. The mother bites her son and soon everyone in the community is either dead or a vampire."
For the record:
At the 1967 FAMAS Awards (the Filipino equivalent to the Academy Awards), actress Amalia Fuentes took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in the film. Alas, the flick had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Director,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Picture.'
"Siblings discover that their father has their vampire mother chained up in the cellar. The mother bites her son and soon everyone in the community is either dead or a vampire."
For the record:
At the 1967 FAMAS Awards (the Filipino equivalent to the Academy Awards), actress Amalia Fuentes took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress' for her work in the film. Alas, the flick had to settle for the honor of nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Director,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Picture.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1965 (in Mexico), audiences were taken on an Adventure At The Center Of The Earth! Directed by Alfredo B. Crevenna from a story by José María Fernández Unsáin, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Kitty de Hoyos, Javier Solis, Columba Dominguez, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Mexican horror film with a variety of classic monsters, bat-like creatures, a rat-faced monster, dinosaurs and a cyclops."
"Mexican horror film with a variety of classic monsters, bat-like creatures, a rat-faced monster, dinosaurs and a cyclops."
On this day in 1965 (in Argentina), Omicron enjoyed its theatrical debut. Written and directed by Ugo Gregoretti, the film starred Renato Salvatori, Rosemary Dexter, Franco Luzzi, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien takes over the body of an Earthman in order to learn about the planet so his race can take it over."
"An alien takes over the body of an Earthman in order to learn about the planet so his race can take it over."
A star is born!
On this day in 1966 (in West Germany), The Brides Of Fu Manchu enjoyed their opening cinematic reception. Written (in part) and directed by Don Sharp, the Horror/Mystery starred Christopher Lee, Douglas Wilmer, Heinz Drache, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Fu Manchu blackmails several industrialists and scientists into helping him construct a super-weapon by kidnapping their daughters and wives."
"Fu Manchu blackmails several industrialists and scientists into helping him construct a super-weapon by kidnapping their daughters and wives."
On this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), Lust For A Vampire enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Jimmy Sangster from a story by Tudor Gates and Sheridan Le Fanu, the Horror/Fantasy starred Barbara Jefford, Suzanna Leigh, and Yutte Stensgaard. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1830, forty years to the day since the last manifestation of their dreaded vampirism, the Karnstein heirs use the blood of an innocent to bring forth the evil that is the beautiful Mircalla - or as she was in 1710, Carmilla."
"In 1830, forty years to the day since the last manifestation of their dreaded vampirism, the Karnstein heirs use the blood of an innocent to bring forth the evil that is the beautiful Mircalla - or as she was in 1710, Carmilla."
On this day in 1976 (in West Germany), Shivers gave audiences a look at one dark vision. Written and directed by David Cronenberg, the film starred Paul Hampton, Joe Silver, Lynn Lowry, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The residents of a suburban high-rise apartment building are infected by parasites that turn them into mindless nymphomaniac fiends."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shivers earned a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"The residents of a suburban high-rise apartment building are infected by parasites that turn them into mindless nymphomaniac fiends."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Shivers earned a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
May the Force be with us! On this day in 1982 (in Italy), the original Star Wars enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
"Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader."
A star is born! (#Cormanology)
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), Deathstalker enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Directed by James Sbardellati from a story by Howard R. Cohen, the film starred Rick Hill, Barbi Benton, Richard Brooker, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lone warrior nicknamed Deathstalker is sent by a witch on a quest to find a sword, a chalice, and an amulet, two of which are held by the wicked king and sorcerer, Munkar."
"A lone warrior nicknamed Deathstalker is sent by a witch on a quest to find a sword, a chalice, and an amulet, two of which are held by the wicked king and sorcerer, Munkar."
On this day in 1983 (in America), Mortuary enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. Written (in part) and directed by Howard Avedis, the film starred Mary Beth McDonough, David Wysocki, Bill Paxton, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young woman investigates the seemingly accidental death of her father, revealing many unsettling secrets and putting her in mortal danger."
"A young woman investigates the seemingly accidental death of her father, revealing many unsettling secrets and putting her in mortal danger."
A star is born!
On this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Actioner Stryker struck theaters. Written (in part) and directed by Cirio H. Santiago, the film starred Steve Sandor, Andrea Savio, William Ostrander, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The world's water supply has dried up due to some sort of apocalypse. A beautiful woman holds the secret to where one of the last springs being guarded by a group of Amazons. A "Road Warrior" like crew captures her and tries to make her talk through brutal torture. The hero (Styrker) unites with some of the remaining "good guys" and the Amazons and frees the woman. They go on to a "Road Warrior" type of concluding battle with the bad guys."
"The world's water supply has dried up due to some sort of apocalypse. A beautiful woman holds the secret to where one of the last springs being guarded by a group of Amazons. A "Road Warrior" like crew captures her and tries to make her talk through brutal torture. The hero (Styrker) unites with some of the remaining "good guys" and the Amazons and frees the woman. They go on to a "Road Warrior" type of concluding battle with the bad guys."
On this day in 1983, Turkey Shoot delivered yet one more dark look at mankind's future. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a totalitarian country, any subversives, undesirables and "deviants" are sent to a prison camp to be rehabilitated and reeducated. The camp is run in fascist fashion, with guards torturing and killing prisoners for sport. Their pinnacle of the guards oppression is an event where a select band of prisoners are set free in the surrounding bush, to be hunted by the guards and special guests for sport - the Turkey Shoot."
"In a totalitarian country, any subversives, undesirables and "deviants" are sent to a prison camp to be rehabilitated and reeducated. The camp is run in fascist fashion, with guards torturing and killing prisoners for sport. Their pinnacle of the guards oppression is an event where a select band of prisoners are set free in the surrounding bush, to be hunted by the guards and special guests for sport - the Turkey Shoot."
On this day in 1988 (in Japan), Transformations enjoyed its launch on home video. Directed by Jay Kamen from a story by Mitc Brian, the SciFi/Horror starred Rex Smith, Lisa Langlois, and Patrick Macnee. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wolfgang is traveling in outer space when a monster, which he sees as a beautiful woman, appears in his spaceship and makes love with him. Then the ship is forced to land on a planet which is a penal colony. Here he meets Miranda who falls in love with him. A group of prisoners uses him and his spaceship to fly away from the planet. But the monster which is by now inside Wolfgang arouses and only Miranda's love can save him."
"Wolfgang is traveling in outer space when a monster, which he sees as a beautiful woman, appears in his spaceship and makes love with him. Then the ship is forced to land on a planet which is a penal colony. Here he meets Miranda who falls in love with him. A group of prisoners uses him and his spaceship to fly away from the planet. But the monster which is by now inside Wolfgang arouses and only Miranda's love can save him."
On this day in 1995 (in France), Hercules And The Lost Kingdom whetted the audience's appetite for yet more adventures in the realm of TV's Hercules. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Hercules is provoked till he has no other choice then fight Gargan, a giant who had absolutely no quarrel with him- and decks the mountain of aggression easily. Then the last survivor of a group of messengers, killed off one by one by Hera, dies after imploring him to come end her rule of terror in the 'lost city of Troy', which his father Zeus, who is once more unwilling to extend any more tangible help, discloses can only be found with the 'one true compass' last seen in the possession of queen Omphale. On his searching for her he frees -then against her will- Deianeira, the eager victim about to be sacrificed to the river god as virgin in the prime of her fertility to end a drought. He battles passed the 48 sons of the gate guardian and arranges to be sold at the annual slave market to the queen, who only wants him in her bed. After dealing with some protection racketeers and the devoted, happy palace slave Waylin he finally gets her late husbands compass from Omphale. He sets out on the journey with Deianeira; a sea monster swallows them, but is defeated. On land they find her father, the dying king of Troy who names her his heir, prepare an army of Trojans to reconquer the city and enter it unopposed, but then emerges an army of Heras minions, whose leader is about to sacrifice Deianeira and puts up a good fight against Hercules."
"Hercules is provoked till he has no other choice then fight Gargan, a giant who had absolutely no quarrel with him- and decks the mountain of aggression easily. Then the last survivor of a group of messengers, killed off one by one by Hera, dies after imploring him to come end her rule of terror in the 'lost city of Troy', which his father Zeus, who is once more unwilling to extend any more tangible help, discloses can only be found with the 'one true compass' last seen in the possession of queen Omphale. On his searching for her he frees -then against her will- Deianeira, the eager victim about to be sacrificed to the river god as virgin in the prime of her fertility to end a drought. He battles passed the 48 sons of the gate guardian and arranges to be sold at the annual slave market to the queen, who only wants him in her bed. After dealing with some protection racketeers and the devoted, happy palace slave Waylin he finally gets her late husbands compass from Omphale. He sets out on the journey with Deianeira; a sea monster swallows them, but is defeated. On land they find her father, the dying king of Troy who names her his heir, prepare an army of Trojans to reconquer the city and enter it unopposed, but then emerges an army of Heras minions, whose leader is about to sacrifice Deianeira and puts up a good fight against Hercules."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), 13th Child enjoyed its home video release. Directed by Thomas Ashley and Steven Stockage from a story by Michael Maryk and Cliff Robertson, the film starred Cliff Robertson, Lesley-Anne Down, Christopher Atkins, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"People are being killed by someone or something using superhuman strength. A clever DA Assistant is sent to investigate. Is this just a way to commit the perfect murder or will the legend of the Jersey Devil prove to be true?"
"People are being killed by someone or something using superhuman strength. A clever DA Assistant is sent to investigate. Is this just a way to commit the perfect murder or will the legend of the Jersey Devil prove to be true?"
A star is born!
On this day in 2003 (in Italy), audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Code 46. Directed by Michael Winterbottom from a story by Frank Cottrell Boyce, the film starred Samantha Morton, Om Puri, the insufferable Tim Robbins, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A futuristic Brief Encounter (1945), this is a love story in which the romance is doomed by genetic incompatibility."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Code 46 earned a good bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"A futuristic Brief Encounter (1945), this is a love story in which the romance is doomed by genetic incompatibility."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Code 46 earned a good bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2004 (in the Netherlands), The Stepford Wives served up a cautionary tale for women trying to find a place in a man's society. Based on the novel by Ira Levin, this incarnation of the Science Fiction tale was directed by Frank Oz. The cast included Nicole Kidman, Matthew Broderick, Glenn Close, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The secret to a Stepford wife lies behind the doors of the Men's Association."
"The secret to a Stepford wife lies behind the doors of the Men's Association."
On this day in 2005 (in Japan), Endangered Species found new life (snicker snicker) with its home video release. Written and directed by Kevin Tenney, the SciFi/Thriller starred Eric Roberts, Arnold Vosloo, Al Sapienza, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A killing machine from another world comes to Earth to kill humans."
"A killing machine from another world comes to Earth to kill humans."
On this day in 2005 (in Poland and Turkey), audiences were transported to ... The Island. Directed by Michael Bay, the SciFi/Thriller starred Ewan McGregor, Scarlett Johansson, and Djimon Hounsou; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A man living in a futuristic sterile colony begins to question his circumscribed existence when his friend is chosen to go to the Island, the last uncontaminated place on earth."
For the record:
The Island is not without its fans, though this glossy adventure seems to have been forgotten a bit with the passage of time. Still, in 2006, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film,' though it failed to win top honors.
"A man living in a futuristic sterile colony begins to question his circumscribed existence when his friend is chosen to go to the Island, the last uncontaminated place on earth."
For the record:
The Island is not without its fans, though this glossy adventure seems to have been forgotten a bit with the passage of time. Still, in 2006, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated it for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film,' though it failed to win top honors.
A star is born!
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Carnival Of The Damned enjoyed its first home video release. Written and directed by Chris Thompson, the film starred Valerie Allen, Adrienne Baltz, Chazz Bessette, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The film follows a detective, a rookie officer, a waitress, a reporter, and a hitman stopping a cult from taking over with a legion of the walking dead. Where will you be when the world ends?"
"The film follows a detective, a rookie officer, a waitress, a reporter, and a hitman stopping a cult from taking over with a legion of the walking dead. Where will you be when the world ends?"
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), The Morgue enjoyed its general release on home video. Directed by Halder Gomes and Gerson Sanginitto from a story by Najla Ann Al-Doori and Andrew Pletcher, the film starred Bill Cobbs, Lisa Crilley, Chris Devlin, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"About six strangers who find themselves stranded overnight at a rural morgue."
"About six strangers who find themselves stranded overnight at a rural morgue."
A star is born!
On this day in 2009 (in Italy), feral zombies were back in the 'found footage' business when audiences at the Venice Film Festival were treated to the first theatrical engagement ever of REC2. Written (in part) and directed by the team of Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza, the Horror/Fantasy starred Jonathan D. Mellor, Manuela Velasco, Óscar Zafra, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In order to ascertain the current situation inside, a supposed medical officer and a GEO team step into the quarantined and ill-fated apartment building."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rec 2 garnered a good amount of praise from a small handful of film organizations.
"In order to ascertain the current situation inside, a supposed medical officer and a GEO team step into the quarantined and ill-fated apartment building."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rec 2 garnered a good amount of praise from a small handful of film organizations.
On this day in 2009 (in the Czech Republic), the original SciFi/Classic The War Of The Worlds enjoyed a release on home video. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A small town in California is attacked by Martians, beginning a worldwide invasion."
"A small town in California is attacked by Martians, beginning a worldwide invasion."
On this day in 2010 (in Portugal), Predators took audiences for another spin in the wide, wide world of The Predator's franchise. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a group of elite warriors find themselves in a jungle they realize that they are on a completely different planet and it's home to a race of extraterrestrial hunters. The group consists of a mercenary known as Royce, an IDF sniper known as Isabelle, a Russian Spetsnaz known as Nikolai, a drug cartel enforcer known as Cuchillo, an RUF officer known as Mombasa, a death row inmate known as Stans, a Yakuza assassin known as Hanzo, and an American doctor known as Edwin. It's up to these 8 individuals to stop their hunters and get off the planet."
"When a group of elite warriors find themselves in a jungle they realize that they are on a completely different planet and it's home to a race of extraterrestrial hunters. The group consists of a mercenary known as Royce, an IDF sniper known as Isabelle, a Russian Spetsnaz known as Nikolai, a drug cartel enforcer known as Cuchillo, an RUF officer known as Mombasa, a death row inmate known as Stans, a Yakuza assassin known as Hanzo, and an American doctor known as Edwin. It's up to these 8 individuals to stop their hunters and get off the planet."
A star is born!
On this day in 2010 (in Japan), the good people of Tokyo woke up to the Zombie Apocalypse that was the theatrical premiere of Resident Evil: Afterlife. Written and directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, Wentworth Miller, and others. Accrording to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While still out to destroy the evil Umbrella Corporation, Alice joins a group of survivors living in a prison surrounded by the infected who also want to relocate to the mysterious but supposedly unharmed safe haven known only as Arcadia."
For the record:
Resident Evil: Afterlife suffered no 'sophomore slump' in the life of the entire Resident Evil franchise. The flick garnered a wealth of attention from the Genie Awards, the organization that recognized excellence in Canadian film. Also, actress Milla Jovovich was honored as the 'Best Science Fiction Actress' at the 2011 Scream Awards, no small feat indeed.
"While still out to destroy the evil Umbrella Corporation, Alice joins a group of survivors living in a prison surrounded by the infected who also want to relocate to the mysterious but supposedly unharmed safe haven known only as Arcadia."
For the record:
Resident Evil: Afterlife suffered no 'sophomore slump' in the life of the entire Resident Evil franchise. The flick garnered a wealth of attention from the Genie Awards, the organization that recognized excellence in Canadian film. Also, actress Milla Jovovich was honored as the 'Best Science Fiction Actress' at the 2011 Scream Awards, no small feat indeed.
From what I can tell, most folks really hate the whole 'found footage' flick format, but I kinda/sorta dig it. There's a rawness to the storytelling that I appreciate, but I hate the herky-jerky camera work as much as the next person. Still -- on this day in 2011 -- Apollo 18 gave us a look at the real reason (wink wink) behind the end of the American exploration of the moon, and I found that definitely an entertaining bit of 'found footage.' Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Decades-old found footage from NASA's abandoned Apollo 18 mission, where two American astronauts were sent on a secret expedition, reveals the reason the U.S. has never returned to the moon."
"Decades-old found footage from NASA's abandoned Apollo 18 mission, where two American astronauts were sent on a secret expedition, reveals the reason the U.S. has never returned to the moon."
On this day in 2011 (in Japan), Doomsday Prophecy enjoyed its premiere on home video. The SciFi feature starred A.J. Buckley and genre-favorite Jewel Staite, and here's the premise compliments of IMDB.com:
"Based on the 2012 end-of-world prophesy where two unlikely characters team up to solve a mystery that just might save the world."
"Based on the 2012 end-of-world prophesy where two unlikely characters team up to solve a mystery that just might save the world."
A star is born!
All hail Robotropolis! Well, maybe not so much "hail" but just try not to laugh at it! Opening on this day in 2011 (in the United Kingdom, no less), Robotropolis delivered a measure of mechanized madness to millions. (Well, maybe not millions ...) Written and directed by Christopher Hatton, the film starred Zoe Naylor, Graham Sibley, Edward Foy, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A group of reporters are covering the unveiling of a new facility that is completely maintained by robot prototypes. When one of the robots goes haywire, the reporters find themselves not just reporting on the malfunction, but fighting for their lives."
"A group of reporters are covering the unveiling of a new facility that is completely maintained by robot prototypes. When one of the robots goes haywire, the reporters find themselves not just reporting on the malfunction, but fighting for their lives."
On this day in 2011 (in Bulgaria, Canada, and the U.S.), Shark Night tried to sink its teeth into our collective consciousness. Directed by David R. Ellis from a story by Will Hayes and Jesse Studenberg, the Horror/Thriller starred Sara Paxton, Dustin Milligan, and Chris Carmack. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A weekend at a lake house in the Louisiana Gulf turns into a nightmare for seven vacationers as they are subjected to shark attacks."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Shark Night earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
"A weekend at a lake house in the Louisiana Gulf turns into a nightmare for seven vacationers as they are subjected to shark attacks."
For the record:
At the 2012 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Shark Night earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
On this day in 2011 (in Brazil), The Man From The Future premiered in theatres. The Fantasy/Comedy starred Wagner Moura and Alinne Moraes, and here's the plot summary that's been provided by IMDB.com:
"Zero is a brilliant scientist. However, 20 years ago, he was publicly humiliated when he lost Helena, the love of his life. One day, an accidental experience with one of his inventions causes him to travel back in time to 1991. Having taken the opportunity to change history, Zero returns to own time to find totally changed."
"Zero is a brilliant scientist. However, 20 years ago, he was publicly humiliated when he lost Helena, the love of his life. One day, an accidental experience with one of his inventions causes him to travel back in time to 1991. Having taken the opportunity to change history, Zero returns to own time to find totally changed."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013 (in Italy), The Zero Theorem enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences of the Venice Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Terry Gilliam, the film starred Christoph Walz, Lucas Hedges, David Thewlis, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A hugely talented but socially isolated computer operator is tasked by Management to prove the Zero Theorem: that the universe ends as nothing, rendering life meaningless. But meaning is what he already craves."
For the record:
Along with some praise from screenings on the film festival circuit, The Zero Theorem received a 2015 Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"A hugely talented but socially isolated computer operator is tasked by Management to prove the Zero Theorem: that the universe ends as nothing, rendering life meaningless. But meaning is what he already craves."
For the record:
Along with some praise from screenings on the film festival circuit, The Zero Theorem received a 2015 Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 2014 (in Spain), the 1985-produced Back To The Future enjoyed a theatrical re-release. Written (in part) and directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film starred Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after.
"Marty McFly, a typical American teenager of the Eighties, is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a plutonium-powered DeLorean "time machine" invented by a slightly mad scientist. During his often hysterical, always amazing trip back in time, Marty must make certain his teenage parents-to-be meet and fall in love - so he can get back to the future."
For the record:
Since its theatrical debut, Back To The Future has established itself as one of Science Fiction's best comedies ... and it continues to earn praise decades after.
- At the 1986 Academy Awards, the film took home top honors in the category of 'Best Effects - Sound Effects Editing' while missing out on the gold in the categories of 'Best Sound,' 'Best Music - Original Song,' and 'Best Writing - Screenplay Written Directly For The Screen.'
- The 1986 Saturn Awards christened the flick with an incredible nine nominations, but the movers and shakers only went home with trophies in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- Lastly, it won the 1986 Hugo Award for 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 2016, Scott Free Productions released the Artificial Intelligence thriller Morgan to the general public. The film starred Kate Mara and Anya Taylor-Joy, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A corporate risk-management consultant must decide whether or not to terminate an artificially created humanoid being."
"A corporate risk-management consultant must decide whether or not to terminate an artificially created humanoid being."
- If you want to know more, then check out SciFiHistory.Net's review of Morgan right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter took the battle to the enemy when it premiered for audiences in attendance of the Action On Film International Film Festival. Written and directed by Neil Johnson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Tracey Birdsall, William Kircher, Daz Crawford, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the distant future, humanity is overthrown by artificial intelligence on Earth and other worlds."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rogue Warrior enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
I've had the good fortune of seeing Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter when it was originally released on home video. Readers interested in knowing what I thought can find my review right here.
"In the distant future, humanity is overthrown by artificial intelligence on Earth and other worlds."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Rogue Warrior enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
ExtraExtra Alert:
I've had the good fortune of seeing Rogue Warrior: Robot Fighter when it was originally released on home video. Readers interested in knowing what I thought can find my review right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2016 (in Canada), The Northlander enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever for audiences in attendance of the Montréal World Film Festival. Written and directed by Benjamin Ross Hayden, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Corey Sevier, Roseanne Supernault, Michelle Thrust, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2961, the time is after humanity and nature has recovered the land. A hunter named Cygnus is called to rise above his duty. He provides for Last Arc, a once nomadic band of survivors in need of food and water that is now growing scarce. The answer must be found before a group of outlandish Heretics descend upon them. Cygnus must voyage across the treacherous landscape to defend his people. Sent by Nova, the matriarch of the band, she acts based on her vision for Cygnus to find a seed of hope. The future of Last Arc is for him to discover, Cygnus ventures into a hostile landscape in search of an answer for his people. On this journey of encountering many traps and dangers, Cygnus discovers what has been hunting him is his identity."
"In the year 2961, the time is after humanity and nature has recovered the land. A hunter named Cygnus is called to rise above his duty. He provides for Last Arc, a once nomadic band of survivors in need of food and water that is now growing scarce. The answer must be found before a group of outlandish Heretics descend upon them. Cygnus must voyage across the treacherous landscape to defend his people. Sent by Nova, the matriarch of the band, she acts based on her vision for Cygnus to find a seed of hope. The future of Last Arc is for him to discover, Cygnus ventures into a hostile landscape in search of an answer for his people. On this journey of encountering many traps and dangers, Cygnus discovers what has been hunting him is his identity."
On this day in 2016, Yoga Hosers took it to the limit theatrically on behalf of all mankind. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set in the Great White North of Canada, YOGA HOSERS tells the story of Colleen Collette and Colleen McKenzie - two teenage besties from Winnipeg who spend their lives doing Yoga with their faces in their phones, 'Liking' or 'Not Liking' the real world around them. But when these Sophomore girls are invited to a Senior party by the school hottie, the Colleens accidentally uncover an ancient evil, long buried beneath the Manitoba earth."
"Set in the Great White North of Canada, YOGA HOSERS tells the story of Colleen Collette and Colleen McKenzie - two teenage besties from Winnipeg who spend their lives doing Yoga with their faces in their phones, 'Liking' or 'Not Liking' the real world around them. But when these Sophomore girls are invited to a Senior party by the school hottie, the Colleens accidentally uncover an ancient evil, long buried beneath the Manitoba earth."
A star is born!
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Central Florida Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Death House. Written (in part) and directed by B. Harrison Smith, the film starred Bill Moseley, Tony Todd, Nicole Cinaglia, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two guards fighting through a power breakdown inside the secret 'Death House' prison must fight to survive ruthless inmates and even supernatural horrors."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Death House enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Two guards fighting through a power breakdown inside the secret 'Death House' prison must fight to survive ruthless inmates and even supernatural horrors."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Death House enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born!
On this day in 2017 (in Japan), the Earth rumbled as Shockwave (aka 2020) hit theaters. Directed by Nick Lyon from a story by Blaine Chiappetta, Ke'Lonn Darnell, Rafael Jordan, and Ari Novak, the SciFi/Adventure starred Stacey Oristano, Rib Hillis, Bruce Thomas, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When massive volcanic storms begin to spew from the Earth, geophysicist Kate Ferris tries to convince the Department of Defense that this is no natural phenomenon. They're the result of a seismic super weapon known as the Hell Storm device; and now that it's been activated, the shockwaves it sends out will destroy major cities across the globe, killing millions. When her claims fall on deaf ears, Kate teams up with her daughter and estranged husband at the San Andreas fault line to find a way to counteract the destruction. As Kate and her family navigate the fault, they find themselves directly at the epicenter of the largest shockwave yet. Now, in a harrowing race against the clock, Kate must figure out how to stop the shockwave before its effects seal humanity's fate once and for all."
"When massive volcanic storms begin to spew from the Earth, geophysicist Kate Ferris tries to convince the Department of Defense that this is no natural phenomenon. They're the result of a seismic super weapon known as the Hell Storm device; and now that it's been activated, the shockwaves it sends out will destroy major cities across the globe, killing millions. When her claims fall on deaf ears, Kate teams up with her daughter and estranged husband at the San Andreas fault line to find a way to counteract the destruction. As Kate and her family navigate the fault, they find themselves directly at the epicenter of the largest shockwave yet. Now, in a harrowing race against the clock, Kate must figure out how to stop the shockwave before its effects seal humanity's fate once and for all."
On this day in 2020 (in the Netherlands), Captive State enjoyed a new release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Rupert Wyatt, the SciFi/Drama starred Ashton Sanders, John Goodman, Jonathan Majors, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Nearly a decade after occupation by an extraterrestrial force, the lives of a Chicago neighborhood on both sides of the conflict are explored. In a working-class Chicago neighborhood occupied by an alien force for nine years, increased surveillance and the restriction of civil rights have given rise to an authoritarian system - and dissent among the populace."
"Nearly a decade after occupation by an extraterrestrial force, the lives of a Chicago neighborhood on both sides of the conflict are explored. In a working-class Chicago neighborhood occupied by an alien force for nine years, increased surveillance and the restriction of civil rights have given rise to an authoritarian system - and dissent among the populace."
A star is born!
On this day in 2021 (in a whole host of countries around the world), Afterlife Of The Party was first released to the masses-at-large via the Information Superhighway. Directed by Stephen Herek from a story by Carrie Freedle, the film starred Victoria Justice, Midori Francis, Robyn Scott, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"During her birthday week, a young female party planner unfortunately dies. Now she must assist a specific selection of people who were in her life in order to move herself to the Above (or Heaven)."
"During her birthday week, a young female party planner unfortunately dies. Now she must assist a specific selection of people who were in her life in order to move herself to the Above (or Heaven)."
A star is born! (#HeroErectus)
On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), Femalien: Starlight Saga enjoyed its initial launch on home video. Directed by Dean McKendrick, this compilation film starred Valerie Baber, Jazy Berlin, Carter Cruise, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a cosmic threat crash-lands on Earth, it's up to the Femaliens to stop it."
"When a cosmic threat crash-lands on Earth, it's up to the Femaliens to stop it."
On this day in 1950 (in the U.S.), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century aired the sixteenth episode of its only season of original broadcast existence. As the vast majority of the program's supporting details have been lost to history, I am posting the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"A twentieth century football player is swept to the twenty-fifth century and joins the battle against the local despot."
"A twentieth century football player is swept to the twenty-fifth century and joins the battle against the local despot."
On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), The Corridor People aired "Victim As Whitebait." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season on broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The investigation into the disappearance of six corpses leads to the discovery that Syrie van Epp is providing financial backing for a scientist working on raising the dead."
"The investigation into the disappearance of six corpses leads to the discovery that Syrie van Epp is providing financial backing for a scientist working on raising the dead."
On this day in 1967 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Tomb Of The Cybermen: Part 1." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's fifth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor, Jamie and Victoria arrive on Telos, where an archaeological group are exploring the Tomb of the Cybermen. But are the Cybermen as dormant as they believe?"
"The Doctor, Jamie and Victoria arrive on Telos, where an archaeological group are exploring the Tomb of the Cybermen. But are the Cybermen as dormant as they believe?"
On this day in 1970 (in the United Kingdom), Ace Of Wands aired "The Mind Robbers: Part 4." Officially, this served as the seventh episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Fat Boy has trapped Tarot and Lulli with a deadly snake. Tarot must escape and do battle with the sinister Zandar."
"Fat Boy has trapped Tarot and Lulli with a deadly snake. Tarot must escape and do battle with the sinister Zandar."
On this day in 1978 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Ribos Operation: Part 1." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's sixteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor is chosen for a quest by The White Guardian to go in search for the six segments to the Key to Time, that have been scattered and sent throughout the time/space continuum. With the Key to Time, The White Guardian will restore balance to the universe. Joined by a young time lady named Romana, The Doctor, Romana and K-9 Mark 2 begin their quest and arrive at their first destination, The medieval Russian like world Ribos, where a conman named Garron bids to sell Ribos to a exiled tyrant known as Graff Vynda K, where Unstoffe, Garron's assistant uncovers Garron's scheme and is unaware he is in possession of the first segment of the Key to Time."
"The Doctor is chosen for a quest by The White Guardian to go in search for the six segments to the Key to Time, that have been scattered and sent throughout the time/space continuum. With the Key to Time, The White Guardian will restore balance to the universe. Joined by a young time lady named Romana, The Doctor, Romana and K-9 Mark 2 begin their quest and arrive at their first destination, The medieval Russian like world Ribos, where a conman named Garron bids to sell Ribos to a exiled tyrant known as Graff Vynda K, where Unstoffe, Garron's assistant uncovers Garron's scheme and is unaware he is in possession of the first segment of the Key to Time."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), M.A.N.T.I.S. aired "Tango Blue." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"MANTIS starts a weapons turn-in program; only to have the weapons stolen by a band of pirates."
"MANTIS starts a weapons turn-in program; only to have the weapons stolen by a band of pirates."
On this day in 2005 (in Australia), Wicked Science aired "Superfish." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Toby has his eye fixed firmly on Jack's sister Nikki. He is desperate to impress her, but how? Given she's a swimming star, he decides his best chance is to get on the school swim team. There's only one problem - Toby's a pathetic swimmer! Toby uses wicked science to invent a body oil to help move through the water like a seal. This threatens Garth's tenuous position on the swim team and when Elizabeth learns what Toby's up to she intervenes, tampering with Toby's oil."
"Toby has his eye fixed firmly on Jack's sister Nikki. He is desperate to impress her, but how? Given she's a swimming star, he decides his best chance is to get on the school swim team. There's only one problem - Toby's a pathetic swimmer! Toby uses wicked science to invent a body oil to help move through the water like a seal. This threatens Garth's tenuous position on the swim team and when Elizabeth learns what Toby's up to she intervenes, tampering with Toby's oil."
On this day in 2007 (in Hungary), Firefly aired "Heart Of Gold." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season on broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A Companion-trained friend of Inara's who runs a brothel on a remote planet calls for help from Serenity when a local reveals his intentions to take the baby from a woman he impregnated."
"A Companion-trained friend of Inara's who runs a brothel on a remote planet calls for help from Serenity when a local reveals his intentions to take the baby from a woman he impregnated."
Save the cheerleader, save the world ... On this day in 2007 (in Italy), Heroes aired "Chapter 01: Genesis." Officially, this served as the program's pilot episode, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
"In Manhattan, Peter Petrelli is the younger brother Nathan Petrelli an overly ambitious and unscrupulous candidate for the next New York congressman, and he dreams and believes that he can fly. He decides to prove his theory and jumps from the roof of a building in an alley and his brother flies and saves him. In Texas, cheerleader Claire Bennet learns that she is literally indestructible and can not harm herself or die. She saves a fireman in a fire in a train, but does not take the credit. In Tokyo, Hiro Nakamura believes he can control time and space continuum. In India, Mohinder Suresh moves to the Brooklyn, New York, where his father, that was researching a secret project called Genesis about genome and DNA, is killed in a taxi cab. In Lower Manhattan, the painter Isaac Mendez paints pictures of the future. In Las Vegas, stripper Niki Sanders borrows $30,000 from a powerful local mobster to get her young son into school, and does not have the money to pay her loan. She sees a different image of her in the mirror, and when two gangsters come to her house to collect the money, one of them hits her and she faints. Later Nikki wakes up, and the two thugs are dead... literally torn apart by her evil alter ego."
On this day in 2009 (in Australia), Stormworld aired "The Long Way Home." Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by ShareTV:
"Voss asks if the gang can help him retrieve the Arkoddian fuel reserves. Once on the Arkoddian island Voss tricks the gang by locking them in the prison."
"Voss asks if the gang can help him retrieve the Arkoddian fuel reserves. Once on the Arkoddian island Voss tricks the gang by locking them in the prison."
It all came down to this: on this day in 2009 (in Australia), Stormworld bowed out of its original broadcast existence with the airing of its series' finale, "Homeward Bound." According to our friends at ShareTV, here's the plot summary:
"Jason, Lee and Flees arrive on the Island of the Abiders. The island that holds a portal- a way off Stormworld. Others have followed. Jason may not want to leave."
"Jason, Lee and Flees arrive on the Island of the Abiders. The island that holds a portal- a way off Stormworld. Others have followed. Jason may not want to leave."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Aidan 5 aired "A Date At The Docks." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Aidan and Riley's partnership may be at an end as he tracks down the man without a face."
"Aidan and Riley's partnership may be at an end as he tracks down the man without a face."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Haven aired "Friend Or Faux." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A bizarre trail of violence is traced back to a man who seems to have spawned an identical copy of himself."
"A bizarre trail of violence is traced back to a man who seems to have spawned an identical copy of himself."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Torchwood aired "Miracle Day: The Gathering." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Whilst the CIA look in vain for traces of the three families, Esther somehow gets Jack to Scotland,from where they join Gwen and her family in Wales - as, rather surprisingly - does Oswald Danes, claiming he wants to be helpful. He has stolen Jilly Kitzinger's computer, which shows her to be going to Shanghai. After the police have raided Gwen's house and taken her father she sets out with Oswald and Jack to Shanghai, where Jilly is meeting a woman called Mother Colasanto. Esther and Rex pursue a lead in South America."
"Whilst the CIA look in vain for traces of the three families, Esther somehow gets Jack to Scotland,from where they join Gwen and her family in Wales - as, rather surprisingly - does Oswald Danes, claiming he wants to be helpful. He has stolen Jilly Kitzinger's computer, which shows her to be going to Shanghai. After the police have raided Gwen's house and taken her father she sets out with Oswald and Jack to Shanghai, where Jilly is meeting a woman called Mother Colasanto. Esther and Rex pursue a lead in South America."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Under The Dome aired "Speak Of The Devil." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Big Jim reports to the police station as promised and convinces Linda that his stash of propane is what's saving everyone today. He tells her the biggest threat they face is from Barbie. After spending the night on the couch, Barbie tells Julia he didn't like it much and she admits she didn't much like sleeping alone either. She answers a knock at the door and comes face to face with Maxine who promptly shoots her in the chest. Barbie races to get her to the hospital. Back at the barn, Joe thinks the stars are about them but Junior runs off after failing to convince Angie they should be together. After the shooting and Junior running off, the weather turns nasty. After it clears, Joe and the others head off to the dome and see something they wish they hadn't."
"Big Jim reports to the police station as promised and convinces Linda that his stash of propane is what's saving everyone today. He tells her the biggest threat they face is from Barbie. After spending the night on the couch, Barbie tells Julia he didn't like it much and she admits she didn't much like sleeping alone either. She answers a knock at the door and comes face to face with Maxine who promptly shoots her in the chest. Barbie races to get her to the hospital. Back at the barn, Joe thinks the stars are about them but Junior runs off after failing to convince Angie they should be together. After the shooting and Junior running off, the weather turns nasty. After it clears, Joe and the others head off to the dome and see something they wish they hadn't."
On this day in 2015 (in the U.S.), Extant aired "Zugzwang." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's second (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Molly manages to find John's former colleague with JD and Ethan hoping to be able to stop the Humanich threat. Julie sends Charlie on a mission to discover where Lucy's orders are coming from."
"Molly manages to find John's former colleague with JD and Ethan hoping to be able to stop the Humanich threat. Julie sends Charlie on a mission to discover where Lucy's orders are coming from."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Dark Matter aired "Take The Shot." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An uploaded computer virus from an unknown source wreaks havoc with the crew, the Android and the ships main computer. The crews pasts are used against them and the Android is tested."
"An uploaded computer virus from an unknown source wreaks havoc with the crew, the Android and the ships main computer. The crews pasts are used against them and the Android is tested."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Killjoys aired "How To Kill Friends And Influence People." Officially, this served as the tenth episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The team joins forces with an old enemy in a desperate bid to thwart the Level Six plan for The Quad."
"The team joins forces with an old enemy in a desperate bid to thwart the Level Six plan for The Quad."
On this day in 2018 (in the U.S.), Fear The Walking Dead aired "Weak." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's fourth season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"June helps when Al's health deteriorates; Morgan searches for friends lost in the storm."
"June helps when Al's health deteriorates; Morgan searches for friends lost in the storm."
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), The Terror aired "The Weak Are Meat." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Chester, off in search of a better life, is treated with hostility by his fellow Americans. Luz hopes to be accepted by Henry and Asako in their new home as the Japanese American community celebrates Obon, a festival to commemorate the spirits of those who have died."
"Chester, off in search of a better life, is treated with hostility by his fellow Americans. Luz hopes to be accepted by Henry and Asako in their new home as the Japanese American community celebrates Obon, a festival to commemorate the spirits of those who have died."
On this day in 2021 (in the U.S.), The Outpost aired "The Pleasing Voice Of The Masters." Officially, this served as the eighth episode in the program's fourth (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Talon and Luna fight against the gods but not all goes as planned. Janzo is reunited with someone from his past. Meanwhile, Garret and Janzo feud over the fate of a prisoner. Lastly, Tobin fights to save Talon."
"Talon and Luna fight against the gods but not all goes as planned. Janzo is reunited with someone from his past. Meanwhile, Garret and Janzo feud over the fate of a prisoner. Lastly, Tobin fights to save Talon."
On this day in 2021 (in the U.S.), What We Do In The Shadows aired "The Prisoner." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Guillermo's fate hangs in the balance as the vampires receive a promotion."
"Guillermo's fate hangs in the balance as the vampires receive a promotion."
On this day in 2021 (in the U.S.), What We Do In The Shadows aired "The Cloak Of Duplication." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A forbidden artifact is used to help Nandor court a health club employee."
"A forbidden artifact is used to help Nandor court a health club employee."
According to our friends over at Wookieepedia, it was on this day all the way back in the year 1980 that Marvel Comics continued their saga in that galaxy far, far away with the publication of Star Wars #41. From what I've read, this was part of their serialization of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back; and it was titled "Imperial Pursuit."
