Space: Above And Beyond (which premiered on this day back in 1995) is just one of those shows that endures. It featured a great cast and actually gave them exceptionally good war stories (set in space) in order to explore character-driven moments against a galactic backdrop unlike much of what had come before in network television. Like many Science Fiction shows, it was just too good to last, and it delivered a solid cliffhanger that left many of us who watched wanting more but also served as a near-perfect finale to this "little show that could." Here's the premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Earth is embroiled in a desperate war against alien invaders, and this series focuses on one squadron of Marine pilots involved in it."
"The Earth is embroiled in a desperate war against alien invaders, and this series focuses on one squadron of Marine pilots involved in it."
If you missed Journeyman in its short run, then you sure missed something special. The modern take on a man who finds himself mysteriously drifting through the events of the past and present was nothing short of inspired. It premiered on this day back in 2007, and fans have been clamoring for a DVD release or a follow-up feature ever since.
ABC TV's program FlashForward was exactly the kind of 'big premise' idea the networks were all seeking at a time when the sci-fi/mystery program Lost was fading into history: on a normal day, everyone alive on Earth blacked out for over two minutes ... so the program hoped to investigate why? What did it all mean? Unfortunately, FlashForward never quite lived up to the hype and promise of its first episode, "No More Good Days," that premiered on this day back in 2009. FlashForward mostly limped through its only season, answering each question with three more questions, and viewers were quickly disenfranchised.
As I remind folks every time the subject comes up, I'm not a big fan of Marvel. Oh, the label has a few superhero characters I care about, but overall they're just to hip, young, and sassy for my tastes. Still, I can respect any show that manages to get beyond a single season on network television as genre shows typically come and go way too fast, and Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. appears to have solid staying power. Give it up for the regular Joes in the world of Marvel who'll suit up to defend our life, liberty, and whatever else. They're always looking out for us.
The fabric that was the bright and cheerful optimism at the heart of Gene Roddenberry's revered Star Trek was final set to flame and cast away with the premiere of Star Trek: Discovery, an event that took the beloved franchise behind the pay wall for internet subscribers to CBS's information rest stop. Whole swaths of canon were ignored and crying and pronouns were introduced in order to establish this decidedly darker yet socially conscious incarnation (in fairness, the show's first season has a solid reason to be a bit darker than most, but I won't spoil it); and the show lumbered forward with cast and crew who are on-record for hating Trek's legacy along with its fans so much so that you wonder why they even signed on to this program to begin with. (Here's looking at you, Jason Isaacs!) In any event, here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ten years before Kirk, Spock, and the Enterprise, the USS Discovery discovers new worlds and lifeforms as one Starfleet officer learns to understand all things alien."
"Ten years before Kirk, Spock, and the Enterprise, the USS Discovery discovers new worlds and lifeforms as one Starfleet officer learns to understand all things alien."
In the guise of 'Dr. Dan Kauffman,' the venerable Larry Gates tried to be a voice of authority aboard Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1956) for Walter Wanger Productions, but I suspect those who've seen the flick know how well that worked out. The talented actor also paid visits to The Twilight Zone, The Invaders, and Leonard Part 6 (1986). Though he's no longer with us, Gates was born on this day in 1915.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Science Fiction of a certain era owes a debt of gratitude to Bert I. Gordon, a veritable genius responsible for writing and directing twenty-five of his own SciFi features. Now, they may not be "the best films" in the history of our genre, but even things like King Dinosaur (1955), War Of The Colossal Beast (1958), and Empire Of The Ants (1977) deserve a passing glance from time to time. Gordon was born on this day in 1922.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The late Stanley Lebor enjoyed a small role aboard Flash Gordon (1980) playing a scheming Mongol physician who conspired with Princess Aura to keep Flash alive. He also sported work in Doomwatch, The Tomorrow People, and Superman IV: The Quest For Peace (1987). Though he's no longer with us, Lebor was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the realm of The Matrix Reloaded, Randall Duk Kim played The Keymaker, a role he also revisited in the online Enter the Matrix video game. Duk also appeared in an episode of Fox TV's Fringe. Duk was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tony Swartz was one of the background players -- a Colonial fighter pilot -- who helped make the original Battlestar Galactica into the space epic that it was. Though he's no longer with us, Swartz was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his is probably not a household name, Sven-Ole Thorsen has managed to squeeze himself into supporting roles in a solid batch of genre flicks. He's been aboard Conan The Barbarian (1982), Conan The Destroyer (1984), Red Sonja (1985), Predator (1987), The Running Man (1987), Captain Power And The Soldiers Of The Future, Abraxas - Guardian Of The Universe (1990), The Flash, Terminator 2 (1991), Nemesis (1992), Cyborg 2 (1993), Kull The Conqueror (1997), End Of Days (1999), and Timecop: The Berlin Decision (2003). Thorsen was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aboard Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens, actress Harriet Walter played a medical professional who gave a bit of extra attention to mankind's favorite Wookie. My God ... you could cut the sexual tension in that scene above with a lightsaber! Walter was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Director and fan-friendly Brad Bird has more than a few genre notches on his belt to be proud of. He's helmed such properties as The Iron Giant (1999), The Incredibles (2004), Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol (2011), Tomorrowland (2015), and The Incredibles 2 (2018). Bird was born on this day in 1957.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
As Capt. Dylan Hunt, actor Kevin Sorbo took the reins of a Gene Roddenberry program Andromeda and brought the space opera roaring to life on television. Also in the world of genre entertainment, the man brought Hercules to life as part of the occasionally cheesy Hercules: The Legendary Journeys in syndication, helping to fuel a spin-off that became Xena: Warrior Princess. Sorbo was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Die-hard Star Trek enthusiasts -- of which I proudly consider myself -- have debated for years what or (more appropriately) who contributed to Trek's demise greatest throughout the decades since its inception ... and here's the bloke I give the most credit to: John Logan. He penned an absolutely turgid script that became Star Trek: Nemesis, and -- to make matters worse -- he actually spent time running around the shooting stages trying to "correct" everyone on matters considered Trek canon; however, if his script is any indication, it's pretty clear that the screenwriter knew absolutely nothing about the property itself. Logan was born on this day in 1961 ... and, yes, so far as I'm concerned, he's responsible for Trek's death.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I totally dug the premise, I only tuned in for a few episodes of NBC's short-lived Dark Skies. As a conspiracy nut myself, I was fascinated with the idea of revisited world history through the eyes of alien manipulation, but the program's writing was just far too 'elementary' for my refined tastes. Still, I appreciated the work of its stars, of which the lovely Megan Ward played a delicious Kimberly Sayers (above left). Ward was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though her resume boasts far more work in conventional comedies and dramas, heavenly ginger Erin Chambers did set fandom ablaze with a short-lived recurring guest star status aboard Syfy's Stargate: Atlantis. Chambers was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Justin Bruening dabbled in the world of super high-speed artificial intelligence when he played Mike Traceur, the driver behind the wheel of 2008's Knight Rider reboot. Bruening was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The voluptuous Tanit Phoenix brought her talent and considerable assets to bear in the retooled Death Race franchise, appearing aboard both Death Race 2 and Death Race: Inferno as Katrina Banks. Phoenix was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Lara Jean Chorostecki is a fantastic actress who most recently wowed audiences of NBC's Hannibal, but her genre creds don't stop there. She had a small but crucial role in Antiviral (2012), a terrific and underrated SciFi gem I had the good fortune to see on home video when it was released. She's also appeared aboard Camelot, Lost Girl, and Haven. Chorostecki was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A luminous Jessica Lucas left footprints in a handful of television properties -- including UPN's cult favorite Seven Days -- when she vaulted onto the silver screen as one of the unfortunate few 'urbanites' racing to survive a monstrous encounter with Cloverfield. She continues to impress today. Lucas was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In the Supergirl television universe, the sassy Brit Morgan sparks with villainous girl power in the role of 'Livewire.' She also enjoyed a big role aboard HBO's True Blood during its run. Morgan was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Spencer Treat Clark enjoyed a recurring role aboard ABC TV's venture into the Marvel Universe, Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. Clark was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Heartthrob Grey Damon stole young girls' hearts as part of the cast of the CW's short-lived SciFi romance, Star-Crossed. (I never saw it, but some reviews were complimentary.) Damon was born on this day in 1987.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1910 (in the U.S.), Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde -- as a short film -- introduced audiences to the Robert Louis Stevenson Horror classic. Adapted and directed by August Blom, the feature starred Alwin Neuß, Oda Alstrup, and Blom himself. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with scientific means of revealing the hidden, dark side of man and releases a murderer from within himself."
"Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with scientific means of revealing the hidden, dark side of man and releases a murderer from within himself."
On this day in 1962 (in Spain), Samson Vs. The Vampires (aka Goliath And The Vampires) enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Sergio Corbucci, this Horror/Fantasy starred Gordon Scott, Leonora Ruffo, and Jacques Sernas; and here's the premise listed on IMDB.com:
"Goliath must save the kidnapped women of his village from an evil zombie leader who needs their blood to feed his soldiers."
For the record:
Samson Vs. The Vampires was actor Gordon Scott's introduction to the world of peplum features. The muscleman made a solid impression and returned for several more adventures.
"Goliath must save the kidnapped women of his village from an evil zombie leader who needs their blood to feed his soldiers."
For the record:
Samson Vs. The Vampires was actor Gordon Scott's introduction to the world of peplum features. The muscleman made a solid impression and returned for several more adventures.
On this day in 1962 (in Sweden), The Magic Sword (aka St. George And The Dragon) enjoyed its magical run in magical theatres. Conceived and directed by famed storyteller Bert I. Gordon, the Fantasy/Drama starred Basil Rathbone, Gary Lockwood, and Estelle Winwood. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The son of a sorceress, armed with weapons, armour and six magically summoned knights, embarks on a quest to save a princess from a vengeful wizard."
For the record:
Perhaps one part of the film's dubious legacy was that it was -- ahem -- properly skewered by those knuckleheads on Mysterious Science Theater 3000 (MST3K).
"The son of a sorceress, armed with weapons, armour and six magically summoned knights, embarks on a quest to save a princess from a vengeful wizard."
For the record:
Perhaps one part of the film's dubious legacy was that it was -- ahem -- properly skewered by those knuckleheads on Mysterious Science Theater 3000 (MST3K).
On this day in 1962 (in Denmark), The Time Machine gave audiences a view of our distant future. Based on the novel by H.G. Wells, George Pal directed this adaptation from screenwriter David Duncan, and it starred Rod Taylor, Yvette Mimieux, and Alan Young. 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:
To the film's credit, The Time Machine took home the gold statue from the 1961 Academy Awards in the category of 'Best Effect - Special Effects.' It also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1961 Hugo Awards.
"A man's vision for a utopian society is disillusioned when travelling forward into time reveals a dark and dangerous society."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Time Machine took home the gold statue from the 1961 Academy Awards in the category of 'Best Effect - Special Effects.' It also enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the 1961 Hugo Awards.
On this day in 1964 (in West Germany), Robinson Crusoe On Mars gave audiences a curious look at the Red Planet. Directed by Byron Haskin, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Paul Mantee, Victor Lundin, and Adam West. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Stranded on Mars with only a monkey as a companion, an astronaut must figure out how to find oxygen, water, and food on the lifeless planet."
"Stranded on Mars with only a monkey as a companion, an astronaut must figure out how to find oxygen, water, and food on the lifeless planet."
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), the conflict came to a head with Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes. Directed by J. Lee Thompson from a script by Paul Dehn, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Roddy McDowall, Ricardo Montalban, and Don Murray. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
"In a futuristic world that has embraced ape slavery, Caesar, the son of the late simians Cornelius and Zira, surfaces after almost twenty years of hiding out from the authorities, and prepares for a slave revolt against humanity."
A star is born! On this day in 1975 (in France), Louis Malle's Black Moon enjoyed its theatrical debut. Written (in part) and directed by Louis Malle, the Horror/Fantasy feature starred Cathryn Harrison, Alexandra Stewart, and Therese Giehse; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"To escape a gender war, a girl flees to a remote farmhouse and becomes part of an extensive family's unusual, perhaps even supernatural, lifestyle."
For the record:
I suspect it might help potential viewers to know -- before going into the feature -- that many have suggested that its narrative is best considered 'experimental.' In an interview, director Malle stated that he was inspired by his own fascination with Alice In Wonderland to tell this tale (per IMDB.com). To the film's credit, Black Moon went on to win trophies for 'Best Sound' and 'Best Cinematography' at the 1976 Cesar Awards, the French equivalent to the U.S. Oscar Awards.
"To escape a gender war, a girl flees to a remote farmhouse and becomes part of an extensive family's unusual, perhaps even supernatural, lifestyle."
For the record:
I suspect it might help potential viewers to know -- before going into the feature -- that many have suggested that its narrative is best considered 'experimental.' In an interview, director Malle stated that he was inspired by his own fascination with Alice In Wonderland to tell this tale (per IMDB.com). To the film's credit, Black Moon went on to win trophies for 'Best Sound' and 'Best Cinematography' at the 1976 Cesar Awards, the French equivalent to the U.S. Oscar Awards.
A star is born! On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), the good people of New York City, New York were treated to the theatrical debut of Bloodtide. Written (in part) and directed by Richard Jefferies, the Horror/Thriller starred James Earl Jones, Jose Ferrer, and Deborah Shelton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An adventurer hunting for treasure in Greece accidentally frees a monster that forces local villagers to sacrifice virgins."
"An adventurer hunting for treasure in Greece accidentally frees a monster that forces local villagers to sacrifice virgins."
On this day in 1982 (in Hong Kong), The New York Ripper opened up a vein. Cinematically, that is. Written (in part) and directed by Lucio Fulci, the Horror/Thriller starred Jack Hedley, Almanta Suska, and Howard Ross. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
"A burned-out New York police detective teams up with a college psychoanalyst to track down a vicious serial killer randomly stalking and killing various young women around the city."
On this day in 1992 (in the U.S.), the fabled Doctor Mordrid enjoyed its home video release. Written and directed by Charles Band, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jeffrey Combs, Jay Acovone, and Yvette Nipar; and here's the premise listed on IMDB.com:
"An unspeakable evil has come into our dimension and wants to rule over Earth, and only a mysterious sorceror known as Doctor Mordrid can stop him."
"An unspeakable evil has come into our dimension and wants to rule over Earth, and only a mysterious sorceror known as Doctor Mordrid can stop him."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Lifeform (aka Invader) delivered some SciFi chills via a potential alien invader with its release on home video. Written and directed by Mark H. Baker, the SciFi/Thriller starred Cotter Smith, Deirdre O'Connell, and Robert Wisdom. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the Viking space capsule suddenly returns to Earth from its long ago trip to Mars, it brings with it an intelligent visitor that is part 'Alien' and part 'ET.' Encased in armor, it extends a humanlike form from its shell to examine its surroundings and shows an interest in humans including a soft caress of a female scientist prior to the Army killing it. This only enrages its sibling."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, writer/director Mark H. Baker shows only one other professional credit (in a similar capacity) on IMDB.com: he's credited with the story to the fondly remembered Flight Of The Navigator (1986) for Walt Disney.
"When the Viking space capsule suddenly returns to Earth from its long ago trip to Mars, it brings with it an intelligent visitor that is part 'Alien' and part 'ET.' Encased in armor, it extends a humanlike form from its shell to examine its surroundings and shows an interest in humans including a soft caress of a female scientist prior to the Army killing it. This only enrages its sibling."
For the record:
Interestingly enough, writer/director Mark H. Baker shows only one other professional credit (in a similar capacity) on IMDB.com: he's credited with the story to the fondly remembered Flight Of The Navigator (1986) for Walt Disney.
On this day back in the year 2001, an obscure something titled It Came From Outer Space II premiered on television (in Russia). I've never heard of it, but I'm only guessing it pilfered its 'alien invasion' idea on the original It Came From Outer Space. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Aliens crashland near a small desert town, strewing odd bluish-glowing rocks throughout the area. Townfolk notice something is amiss when temperatures begin to soar, water disappears, power goes down and people seem not to be themselves."
"Aliens crashland near a small desert town, strewing odd bluish-glowing rocks throughout the area. Townfolk notice something is amiss when temperatures begin to soar, water disappears, power goes down and people seem not to be themselves."
Someone call an exterminator! A really big one! On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Spiders II: Breeding Ground enjoyed its debut on home video. Directed by Sam Firstenberg, the SciFi/Horror starred Stephanie Niznik, Greg Cromer, and Daniel Quinn. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the events of Spiders (2000), a scientist conducts genetic tests, and a couple becomes the perfect host. Now, the hunt is on, as an army of arachnids is after the succulent human flesh. Who can stop the spiders' feeding frenzy?"
"After the events of Spiders (2000), a scientist conducts genetic tests, and a couple becomes the perfect host. Now, the hunt is on, as an army of arachnids is after the succulent human flesh. Who can stop the spiders' feeding frenzy?"
On this day in 2002, Starfire Mutiny enjoyed its launch into the U.S. home video marketplace. Directed by Lloyd A. Simandl, the SciFi feature starred Joe Lara and Maureen LaVette, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In future, the ozone layer is gone and Earth is a wasteland. Most survivors are on a space station, waiting for a chance to replenish the ozone, somehow. A dangerous man tries to take over the station, but its commander fights back."
"In future, the ozone layer is gone and Earth is a wasteland. Most survivors are on a space station, waiting for a chance to replenish the ozone, somehow. A dangerous man tries to take over the station, but its commander fights back."
A star is born! On this day in 2005, Earth found itself in the crosshairs yet again with the airing of the SciFi/Telefilm Path Of Destruction. The flick starred Danica McKellar and Chris Pratt, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"The movie opens with a faulty nanotechnology experiment that results in a massive, deadly explosion. The company's CEO manages to sidestep blame by framing a meddling young reporter (Katherine), who now holds the only surviving evidence needed to expose the truth. All the while, the dangerous nanoparticles - having escaped from the explosion into the stratosphere - threaten to destroy nearby cities with wildly destructive weather patterns. Among the chaos of the storms, and on the run from the authorities, Katherine must - with the help of a young scientist - get the evidence to the government to enlist their help before it's too late...and the deadly disaster turns worldwide."
"The movie opens with a faulty nanotechnology experiment that results in a massive, deadly explosion. The company's CEO manages to sidestep blame by framing a meddling young reporter (Katherine), who now holds the only surviving evidence needed to expose the truth. All the while, the dangerous nanoparticles - having escaped from the explosion into the stratosphere - threaten to destroy nearby cities with wildly destructive weather patterns. Among the chaos of the storms, and on the run from the authorities, Katherine must - with the help of a young scientist - get the evidence to the government to enlist their help before it's too late...and the deadly disaster turns worldwide."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Sweden), 2033: Future Apocalypse played for audiences in attendance of the Lund Fantastisk Film Festival. Directed by Francisco Laresgoiti from a script by Jordi Mariscal, the SciFi/Thriller starred Raul Mendez, Claudio Lafarga, and Sandra Echeverria. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The first installment of a planned trilogy, director Francisco Laresgoiti's speculative sci-fi thriller finds the son of a powerful general caught in the middle of a raging class war between the privileged elite, and the downtrodden masses. In the year 2033, Mexico has become a fascist state. As the upper classes partake in debauched parties and amuse themselves by using the poor for target practice, a highly addictive drink called Pactia keeps the working class under control. Meanwhile, the religious minority forms a resistance movement, and finds an unlikely ally in the guise of privileged military brat Pablo. Despite his sheltered upbringing, Pablo knows the difference between good and evil. And once a line is drawn in the sand, he is compelled to turn against everything he's ever known in the fight for the future of humanity."
"The first installment of a planned trilogy, director Francisco Laresgoiti's speculative sci-fi thriller finds the son of a powerful general caught in the middle of a raging class war between the privileged elite, and the downtrodden masses. In the year 2033, Mexico has become a fascist state. As the upper classes partake in debauched parties and amuse themselves by using the poor for target practice, a highly addictive drink called Pactia keeps the working class under control. Meanwhile, the religious minority forms a resistance movement, and finds an unlikely ally in the guise of privileged military brat Pablo. Despite his sheltered upbringing, Pablo knows the difference between good and evil. And once a line is drawn in the sand, he is compelled to turn against everything he's ever known in the fight for the future of humanity."
A star is born! On this day in 2010, the Horror/SciFi flick Nightbeasts sunk its teeth into audiences. The feature starred Zach Galligan and Audra Wise, and here's the plot summary that's listed on IMDB.com:
"A father and son on a weekend hunting trip encounter supernatural horror in the woods."
"A father and son on a weekend hunting trip encounter supernatural horror in the woods."
A star is born! On this day in 2011, Area 51 Confidential took the 'Found Footage Phenomenon' inside America's secret UFO laboratory. The film starred Devanny Pinn and Angie Johnson, and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"People from various walks of life find themselves held captive in a desolate area surrounding a secret government installation rumored to contain extraterrestrial life."
"People from various walks of life find themselves held captive in a desolate area surrounding a secret government installation rumored to contain extraterrestrial life."
On this day in 2011, Time Machine: Rise Of The Morlocks took a SciFi page out of the H.G. Wells original. The feature starred David Hewlett and Christina Cole, and here's the plot summary as provided compliments of IMDB.com:
"An experimental time machine opens a window into the future and mutated monsters (the Morlocks) use it to come back to the present and go on a murderous rampage."
"An experimental time machine opens a window into the future and mutated monsters (the Morlocks) use it to come back to the present and go on a murderous rampage."
On this day in 2013, the Adult-themed SciFi/Comedy Intergalactic Swingers crashed down to Earth. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dara and Alana are gorgeous extraterrestrial women who help destroy a giant asteroid heading towards Earth. While on Earth, they have close encounters of the physical kind with many people."
"Dara and Alana are gorgeous extraterrestrial women who help destroy a giant asteroid heading towards Earth. While on Earth, they have close encounters of the physical kind with many people."
A star is born! On this day in 2013, Rulers Of Darkness turned up the heat in small-town life. The SciFi/Thriller starred Rachel Cairns and Mark Slacke, and here's the premise that's been provided via IMDB.com:
"A 20 year old, runs away from his conservative father to the remote town where his mother died two years ago. He meets an alluring young woman. They search for answers about his mother's death and discover a terrifying entity in the woods."
"A 20 year old, runs away from his conservative father to the remote town where his mother died two years ago. He meets an alluring young woman. They search for answers about his mother's death and discover a terrifying entity in the woods."
Found footage fans rejoice! On this day in 2014 (in the Philippines), The Remaining remained strong (theatrically, that is) against mankind's inevitable doom. Written and directed by Casey La Scala, the Apocalypse/Drama starred Johnny Pacar and Shaun Sipos, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Friends gather at a wedding, but the celebration is shattered by terrifying apocalyptic events forcing them to examine life, love and faith as they must choose between redemption and survival."
"Friends gather at a wedding, but the celebration is shattered by terrifying apocalyptic events forcing them to examine life, love and faith as they must choose between redemption and survival."
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), The Osiris Child enjoyed its theatrical debut when it played for folks in attendance of Fantastic Fest. Written (in part) and directed by Shane Abbess, the SciFi/Thriller starred Kellan Lutz, Daniel MacPherson, and Isabel Lucas. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set in the future in a time of interplanetary colonization, an unlikely pair race against an impending global crisis and are confronted by the monsters that live inside us all."
"Set in the future in a time of interplanetary colonization, an unlikely pair race against an impending global crisis and are confronted by the monsters that live inside us all."
On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), Adventures Of Superman aired "The Bully Of Dry Gulch." Officially, this served as the tenth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Visiting the quaint Old West community of Dry Gulch, Jimmy quickly runs afoul of town bully Gunnar Flinch, who has an eye for Lois. Not necessarily a job for Superman, who nonetheless provides a still timely lesson on bullying."
"Visiting the quaint Old West community of Dry Gulch, Jimmy quickly runs afoul of town bully Gunnar Flinch, who has an eye for Lois. Not necessarily a job for Superman, who nonetheless provides a still timely lesson on bullying."
On this day in 1955 (in the U.S.), the eleventh episode of Commando Cody: Sky Marshal of the Universe aired as part of its single season on television. According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"In his efforts to add the Earth to his long list of slave planets, the Ruler tries to get Commando Cody and his crew out of the way. His plans include the capture of Cody's rocketship. The method, a trumped up story told by a Mercurian."
"In his efforts to add the Earth to his long list of slave planets, the Ruler tries to get Commando Cody and his crew out of the way. His plans include the capture of Cody's rocketship. The method, a trumped up story told by a Mercurian."
On this day in 1966 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Smugglers: Part 3." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Polly and Ben are placed in the custody of Blake, who reveals he also has his suspicions about the Squire, while the Doctor and Kewper are forced to team up to escape from Pike's ship."
"Polly and Ben are placed in the custody of Blake, who reveals he also has his suspicions about the Squire, while the Doctor and Kewper are forced to team up to escape from Pike's ship."
On this day in 1977 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Horror Of Fang Rock: Part 4." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's fifteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With little to fear, and its mother ship about to land and turn Earth into an alien attack base, the electrically charged Rutan scout drops its human guise and attacks openly."
"With little to fear, and its mother ship about to land and turn Earth into an alien attack base, the electrically charged Rutan scout drops its human guise and attacks openly."
After its big premiere, the original Battlestar Galactica then settled into its regular episodic format on this day back in 1978 with the premiere of "The Lost Planet of the Gods, Part 1." The action saw most of the male Viper pilots sidelined by a space virus, leaving Starbuck and Apollo with the curiously thankless job of training any and all females capable of strapping in to the cockpit to defend the Fleet. BOOYAH!
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Battle of the Planets aired "Decoys of Doom." Officially, this served as the fifty-third episode of the program's United States' run, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Humanoid decoys of the G-Force team are created to be used as bait in a trap for Spectra. The "real" Mark swaps places with his decoy and is captured by Spectra. Mark must signal the team and lead G-Force to the Spectra base."
"Humanoid decoys of the G-Force team are created to be used as bait in a trap for Spectra. The "real" Mark swaps places with his decoy and is captured by Spectra. Mark must signal the team and lead G-Force to the Spectra base."
On this day in 1982 (in the U.S.), The Powers of Matthew Star aired "The Accused." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season of original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"When a cop is killed while the police were in the middle of an operation. One of the other cops recognizes Walt as the killer. Walt is arrested and at his arraignment they produce a video tape that shows that "Walt" killed the cop, Walt is held without bail. Walt tells Matthew that the man is Walt's counterpart on Earth. When Matthew fails to convince the police they have the wrong man, he goes out and tries to find Walt's counterpart, which won't be easy cause the man's associates will do whatever they have to, to protect him."
"When a cop is killed while the police were in the middle of an operation. One of the other cops recognizes Walt as the killer. Walt is arrested and at his arraignment they produce a video tape that shows that "Walt" killed the cop, Walt is held without bail. Walt tells Matthew that the man is Walt's counterpart on Earth. When Matthew fails to convince the police they have the wrong man, he goes out and tries to find Walt's counterpart, which won't be easy cause the man's associates will do whatever they have to, to protect him."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Space Moby." This (technically) served as the program's eighteenth episode (they aired wildly out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Some Space Miners in an Asteroid field encounter Space Whales. Business leaders want the whales eliminated, others want them protected. The Rangers are sent in to find a solution."
"Some Space Miners in an Asteroid field encounter Space Whales. Business leaders want the whales eliminated, others want them protected. The Rangers are sent in to find a solution."
On this day back in 1993 (in the U.S.), The X-Files was getting one of its most memorable villains (especially for its first season) when the episode "Squeeze" introduced audiences to Eugene Victor Tooms (played by Doug Hutchison).
What? Don't tell me you've never seen Space: Above and Beyond? Clearly, S:AAB (as it's known among its fans) was one of the highwater marks of sci-fi TV for the 1990's. It premiered on this day in 1995 with a plot that bore a lot of similarities to another sci-fi book & film (that I won't name in order to divert controversy): settlers on a distant planet were attacked by an unseen alien race, and the forces of Earth respond, in kind, with a military campaign. It introduced audiences to a squadron of young cadets -- soldiers and fighter pilots known as the 'Wild Cards' -- and all of them would be affected in ways they never imagined before it all came crashing to its epic end in only a single season.
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), The Burning Zone aired "Arms of Fire." Officially, this served as the fourth episode to the program's first and only season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Edward and Kimberly have to make a vaccine to solve a virus."
"Edward and Kimberly have to make a vaccine to solve a virus."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Smallville soared back onto the small screen, premiering its second season with an hour titled "Vortex." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Clark Kent saves Lana Lang from the tornado, but his father Jonathan is missing, trapped with the despicable reporter Roger Nixon (Tom O'Brien) in an old tomb beneath a destroyed church filled with meteor rocks. Lex Luthor saves his father, who is submitted to the hospital for surgery, and then joins forces with Clark to look for Jonathan. Chloe Sullivan decides to be only friends with Clark after his disappearance from the dance to rescue Lana. Also, Lana becomes suspicious of the abilities of Clark."
"Clark Kent saves Lana Lang from the tornado, but his father Jonathan is missing, trapped with the despicable reporter Roger Nixon (Tom O'Brien) in an old tomb beneath a destroyed church filled with meteor rocks. Lex Luthor saves his father, who is submitted to the hospital for surgery, and then joins forces with Clark to look for Jonathan. Chloe Sullivan decides to be only friends with Clark after his disappearance from the dance to rescue Lana. Also, Lana becomes suspicious of the abilities of Clark."
On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), Andromeda aired "The Weight: Part 1." Officially, this served as the first episode of the program's fifth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dylan exits the route of ages and ends up on Seefra. The beings on Seefra have limited technology and no escape from the system. Dylan finds Rhade, who's not too thrilled to see his former Captain."
"Dylan exits the route of ages and ends up on Seefra. The beings on Seefra have limited technology and no escape from the system. Dylan finds Rhade, who's not too thrilled to see his former Captain."
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Justice League Unlimited aired "Chaos At The Earth's Core." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Green Lantern, Stargirl, S.T.R.I.P.E. and Supergirl are drawn to the subterranean world of Skartaris to assist the Warlord, Travis Morgan."
"Green Lantern, Stargirl, S.T.R.I.P.E. and Supergirl are drawn to the subterranean world of Skartaris to assist the Warlord, Travis Morgan."
Also on this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), Justice League Unlimited aired "To Another Shore." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's third season, and here's the premise that's listed on IMDB.com:
"Wonder Woman finds herself fighting a team from the Legion of Doom determined to steal the frozen body of the Viking Prince."
"Wonder Woman finds herself fighting a team from the Legion of Doom determined to steal the frozen body of the Viking Prince."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), NBC premiered Journeyman, yet another twist in the time travel possibilities. Officially, the first episode was titled "A Love Of A Lifetime," and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A San Francisco reporter travels back in time, eventually figuring out why. But his present-day life becomes a mess due to his absences."
On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), NBC premiered Journeyman, yet another twist in the time travel possibilities. Officially, the first episode was titled "A Love Of A Lifetime," and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A San Francisco reporter travels back in time, eventually figuring out why. But his present-day life becomes a mess due to his absences."
On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), Smallville launched into its tenth (and final) season with the airing of "Lazarus." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Oliver is tortured incessantly by Rick Flag until Chloe, who used the Justice League's helmet to find him, exchanges herself for him. Awakening in a secret LuthorCorp lab among partial Lex clones, Tess meets young Alexander before the bloodthirsty, dying senior knocks her down and uses Lois, who enabled Clark's healing by removing the fatal blue kryptonite, to set a sadistic trap. Despite his success, Clark lets his confidence be undermined by Jor-El in the ice fortress, but reconsiders after a pep-talk from Jonathan."
"Oliver is tortured incessantly by Rick Flag until Chloe, who used the Justice League's helmet to find him, exchanges herself for him. Awakening in a secret LuthorCorp lab among partial Lex clones, Tess meets young Alexander before the bloodthirsty, dying senior knocks her down and uses Lois, who enabled Clark's healing by removing the fatal blue kryptonite, to set a sadistic trap. Despite his success, Clark lets his confidence be undermined by Jor-El in the ice fortress, but reconsiders after a pep-talk from Jonathan."
On this day in 2012 (in the U.S.), Alphas aired "The Devil Will Drag You Under." Officially, this served as the ninth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Hicks turns defector and beginning working for Parish, Rosen and the team can only wonder: has Hicks truly turned, or is he playing a deeper game involving Dani?"
"When Hicks turns defector and beginning working for Parish, Rosen and the team can only wonder: has Hicks truly turned, or is he playing a deeper game involving Dani?"
It all began right here ...
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. opened its door for business on the ABC Network. According to IMDB.com, here's the premise behind its pilot episode:
"S.H.I.E.L.D. puts together a special team, led by Agent Phil Coulson, to track down a mysterious man with special abilities and the young computer hacker that's encouraging him to reveal himself to the world."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. opened its door for business on the ABC Network. According to IMDB.com, here's the premise behind its pilot episode:
"S.H.I.E.L.D. puts together a special team, led by Agent Phil Coulson, to track down a mysterious man with special abilities and the young computer hacker that's encouraging him to reveal himself to the world."
On this day in 2017 (in the United Kingdom), Electric Dreams aired "Impossible Planet." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Two jaded space tourism employees take up an elderly woman's request for a trip back to Earth - a planet which has lost all life due to a catastrophic "solar fire". She's easily confused but very rich, so what's the harm in indulging her fantasies? As the journey unfolds, their scam begins to eat away at them and they ultimately find themselves dealt a bittersweet surprise."
"Two jaded space tourism employees take up an elderly woman's request for a trip back to Earth - a planet which has lost all life due to a catastrophic "solar fire". She's easily confused but very rich, so what's the harm in indulging her fantasies? As the journey unfolds, their scam begins to eat away at them and they ultimately find themselves dealt a bittersweet surprise."
It all began right here ...
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), CBS and Paramount dipped back into the well with the television premiere of Star Trek: Discovery. (FYI: after this first episode, the property moved behind an internet pay wall for subscribers only.) The first installment was titled "The Vulcan Hello," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While patrolling Federation space, the U.S.S. Shenzhou encounters an object of unknown origin, putting First Officer Michael Burnham to her greatest test yet."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), CBS and Paramount dipped back into the well with the television premiere of Star Trek: Discovery. (FYI: after this first episode, the property moved behind an internet pay wall for subscribers only.) The first installment was titled "The Vulcan Hello," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"While patrolling Federation space, the U.S.S. Shenzhou encounters an object of unknown origin, putting First Officer Michael Burnham to her greatest test yet."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Discovery aired "Battle At The Binary Stars." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Escaping from the brig while the ship is under attack, Burnham joins the captain in an audacious plan to end a battle rapidly escalating into war."
"Escaping from the brig while the ship is under attack, Burnham joins the captain in an audacious plan to end a battle rapidly escalating into war."
On this day in 2002, Earth & Beyond was released to the general marketplace. According to our friends at Wikipedia.org, here's what all of the excitement was about:
"Earth & Beyond was a science fiction massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Westwood Studios and published by Electronic Arts (EA). The game was released in September 2002 in the United States. EA shut down Earth & Beyond on September 22, 2004. It was the last game developed by Westwood Studios."
"Earth & Beyond was a science fiction massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Westwood Studios and published by Electronic Arts (EA). The game was released in September 2002 in the United States. EA shut down Earth & Beyond on September 22, 2004. It was the last game developed by Westwood Studios."
