The great Roger C. Carmel built a resume impressive with guest starring roles on many series of his day, but perhaps he'll always be remembered as the duplicitous 'Harry Mudd' from Star Trek's "Mudd's Woman" and "I, Mudd." Genre fans might also recognize him from roles aboard The Munsters, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, Batman, and The Invisible Man. Though he's no longer with us, Carmel was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Certainly, Wilford Brimley might seem a curious choice to celebrate on a website covering the realm of Science Fiction, but -- upon closer inspection -- he's been involved with several popular franchises. He starred in John Carpenter's The Thing (1982) and followed that up with Ron Howard's Cocoon (1985) and followed that up with a curious appearance in the (TV) Star Wars universe aboard Ewoks: The Battle for Endor (1985). Though he's no longer with us, Brimley was born on this day in 1934.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtraAlert:
I penned a few words of respect regarding the news of Brimley's passing in 2020. Interested readers can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtraAlert:
I penned a few words of respect regarding the news of Brimley's passing in 2020. Interested readers can find them right here.
The Biggs Darklighter story from the original Star Wars is just an amazing piece of SciFi serendipity: it was a character, it wasn't a character, etc. Personally, I'm glad for actor Garrick Hagon that Biggs certainly became part of the broader mythology, and how cool is it that two out of three fighter pilots on the same fateful run were played by actors who share a birthday? Hagon was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hungarian-born actress Anna Gaël had the chance to strut her stuff with her work aboard the Adult-themed The Love Factor (aka Zeta One) for Tigon. Though she's no longer with us, Gaël was born on this day in 1943.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
What would that Original Trilogy of Star Wars films be without the appearance of the everyman character of veteran star pilot Wedge Antilles? Many folks saw this secondary character as an inspiration, proving that you don't have to be a main player and still possess the 'right stuff' in that galaxy far, far away. The actor who first played Antilles -- Denis Lawson -- was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Meatloaf -- his birth name was Marvin Lee Aday -- performed songs that were larger-than-life, so it was only natural that he bring such showmanship to his acting. Genre fans might know him best from appearances in such programs as Monsters, Tales From The Crypt, The Outer Limits, and Ghost Wars. Though he's no longer with us, Aday was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I wrote a few words to reflect on the singer's passing in 2022. Interested parties can find them right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
I wrote a few words to reflect on the singer's passing in 2022. Interested parties can find them right here.
The X-Files was a program that knew how to employ and take advantage of a rich roster of talented secondary players. One of the show's favorite 'go-to' groups were better known as 'The Lone Gunmen' who briefly enjoyed a single-season spin-off existence on Fox TV. One of the conspiracy nuts was played by Tom Braidwood (above left). Braidwood was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he never quite seems to land the leading role when I see him, make no mistake: A Martinez is a venerable talent who does some amazing work whenever he's called upon. A brilliant character actor, I first discovered what he could do as a recurring player aboard NBC's popular Profiler in the 1990's, and I've kept an eye on him ever since. Genre fans might know him from Probe (1972), The Sixth Sense, Exo-Man (1977), Wonderbug, The Incredible Hulk, Fantasy Island, Touched By An Angel, Welcome To Paradox, The Hunger, The Terminators (2009), Mega Python Vs Gatoroid (2011), Curse Of Chucky (2013), and Cowboy Bebop. Martinez was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has been a part of many creative projects, included the short-lived sci-fi cult series Space Rangers. SciFi fans may also recognize his work from Heroes, Planet of the Apes (2001), Seven Days, Babylon 5, and Stargate: SG-1. See what I mean? Plenty of creative projects! Most recently, he's boasted a big role in Amazon's The Man In The High Castle. Tagawa was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though I have read that comic creator Jim Shooter left behind a legacy not without a measure of controversy, I try whenver possible to ignore those things when evaluating my own entertainment choices as well as giving a complimentary shout-out for one's contributions to graphic history. That said, Shooter kept himself busy while working on such franchises as Action Comics, Adventure Comics, Uncanny X-Men, Daredevil, Fantastic Four, and many, many more. Though he's no longer with us, Shooter was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
While you might not know his face, there should be little doubt that Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror fans are well aware of Phil Tippett's work. According to his professional profile, he's been a part of the Visual Effects industry for years, attached to such projects as Star Wars (1977), Dragonslayer (1981), Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom (1984), RoboCop (1987), Jurassic Park (1993), The Twilight Saga, and several more. Tippett was born on this day in 1951.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Cameron Oppenheimer (who now just curiously goes by the name Cameron) enjoyed forty-three appearances aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation, most of them in the guise of 'Ensign Kellogg.' She also sported small roles aboard Coneheads (1993), Star Trek: Generations (1994), The Tomorrow Man (1996), and Star Trek: First Contact (1996). Oppenheimer was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
In her professional career, Denise Okuda (above right) contributed greatly to the aesthetic look of the various Star Trek television incarnations in her position with the Art Department. Also, she and her husband on considered 'regulars' on the Trek convention circuit. They're both online in different outlets, but be forewarned: they do not tolerate folks who disagree with them politically and can be very, very, very mean-spirited about it. (I say this from personal experience. It's sad how so many in Trekdom these days don't practice Trek's long-preached tolerance, but it is what it is. Hard times.) Okuda was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
The lovely Corinne Wahl "manned up" as per the requirements for her role aboard Equalizer 2000 (1987). She also appeared in Brain Waves (1982) and Amazon Women On The Moon (1987). Wahl was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Christopher Cousins (above left) is another one of those remarkable character actor who turns up all over the place, even in some quality genre properties. He's been a part of NightMan, Stargate: SG-1, The Invisible Man, Earth Vs. The Spider (2001), Supernatural, and Revolution. Cousins was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Scott Lawrence has enjoyed roles in two of the biggest Science Fiction flicks of the past decade, appearing in James Cameron's Avatar (2009) and JJ Abrams' Star Trek Into Darkness (2013). For the record, he also served as the voice of Darth Vader in several video game properties. Lawrence was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In all fairness, model-turned-actress Sofia Milos doesn't have a wealth of genre credentials to her resume; but as I've always said genre fans know that we have to take whatever wins we can find in this day and age. That said, she's shown her skills in such projects as Weird Science, Strange Luck, The Twilight Zone, and Project Blue Book. Milos was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though it's been some time since she's occupied any screen time, kudos to actress Charlie Spradling for squeezing herself into such genre fare over the years as The Blob (1988), Twice Dead (1988), Meridian (1990), Twin Peaks, Mirror Mirror (1990), Puppet Master II (1990), Bad Channels (1992), To Sleep With A Vampire (1992), Viper, and Convict 762 (1997). Spradling was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
He played Zander Barcalow -- the brash and confident combat pilot -- who was part and parcel of the ensemble that made Starship Troopers a rollicking interpretation of the Robert A. Heinlein novel. His name is Patrick Muldoon, and he was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Tamara Taylor is just one in a string of terrific character actresses who has built a career in genre and mainstream drama by assuming secondary roles and bringing them to wonderful life on the big and small screen. SciFi fans know her best from her work in Serenity and Lost. Taylor was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Amanda Detmer definitely found herself in some dark territory with her work aboard Final Destination (2000) for New Line Cinema. Since then, she steered herself more toward mainstream fare, but thank goodness for work in Medium, The Vampire Diaries, and Second Chance to keep us interested. Detmer was born on this day in 1971.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Thankfully, bizarre New-Ager Gwyneth Paltrow lets Iron Man do all of the talking as I'm sure audiences might be more than a bit confused by her real-world beliefs. In any event, Paltrow was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The exotic Indira Varma shown in a role of some villainy aboard HBO's adaptation of George R.R. Martin's Game Of Thrones. More recently, she turned up in a role aboard Amazon Studios' Carnival Row. Varma was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hungarian actress Zita Görög may not have the biggest professional portfolio of record -- her IMDB.com profile consists of less than a dozen screen roles -- but the lady still made an impression in a certain vampire universe with a role aboard Underworld: Evolution (2006). Görög was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oh, Anna Camp! You cleaned up so well in HBO's True Blood, and then you morphed into something downright delicious for the small vampire screen serial. Here's hoping we get to see much more of your darker side. Camp was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Oft decorated and always underestimated rocker Avril Lavigne had a track -- "Keep Holding On" -- featured on the soundtrack for the Fantasy movie Eragon (2006). Lavigne was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sorry, folks, but you'll have to chalk this one up to another one I've never seen nor heard about: somebody rebooted Electra Woman and Dyna Girl for the modern age (not a bad idea), and the lovely Grace Helbig (above left) donned the spandex for all of mankind (also, not a bad idea). Helbig was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress Lola Kirke found a bit of musical success when she joined the cast of the Horror/Fantasy Sinners (2025) for Warner Bros. Kirke was born on this day in 1990.
[Source: Google.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I caught a cable broadcast streaming of Sinners (2025) on a platform to which I subscribe. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: Google.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I caught a cable broadcast streaming of Sinners (2025) on a platform to which I subscribe. Interested readers can find my review right here.
HubbaHubba Alert! The steamy adult actress Dillion Harper has tried sexy SciFi on for size with roles aboard This Ain't Star Trek 3 (2013) and Vixens From Venus (2016). Harper was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Thomas Mann was locked and loaded for his work aboard the monster movie franchise Kong: Skull Island (2017) for Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment. Mann was born on this day in 1991.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Young Sam Lerner (above right) did what he could to profit from a few trips through time in 2015's Project Almanac. Lerner was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jenny Ortega's star is not only 'on the rise' but also it's burning red hot! This fiery talent has impressed with just her voice alone in such properties as Elena Of Avalor and Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous but now she's ready for her close-up with the leading role aboard Netflix's Wednesday. Ortega was born on this day in 2002.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1961 (in the U.S.), the 1958-produced The Day The Sky Exploded enjoyed a theatrical release. Directed by Paolo Heusch and Mario Bava, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Paul Hubschmid, Madeleine Fischer, and Fiorella Mari. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists discover that a group of meteors are hurtling on a collison course with Earth, and if they hit, the planet will be destroyed."
"Scientists discover that a group of meteors are hurtling on a collison course with Earth, and if they hit, the planet will be destroyed."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), the good people of Boston, Massachusetts were treated to an exclusive theatrical engagement of The Frozen Dead. Written and directed by Herbert J. Leder, the film starred Dana Andrews, Anna Palk, Philip Gilbert, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A crazed scientist (Dana Andrews) keeps the heads of Nazi war criminals alive until he can find appropriate bodies on which to attach them so he can revive the Third Reich."
"A crazed scientist (Dana Andrews) keeps the heads of Nazi war criminals alive until he can find appropriate bodies on which to attach them so he can revive the Third Reich."
On this day in 1968 (in France), Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey enjoyed its theatrical release. Based on the work of SciFi master Arthur C. Clarke, the feature starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
For the record:
Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey remains one of Science Fiction's benchmark motion pictures. At the 1969 Oscars, the film was nominated in the categories of 'Best Art Direction - Set Direction,' 'Best Writing, Story and Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Effects, Special Visual Effects' ... but it only took home the trophy for Best Effects. Also in 1969, the film did take home the 'Best Dramatic Presentation' from the Hugo Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2022, I penned a column under the heading of 'Warp Core Breach' for SciFiHistory.Net with my thoughts on 2001's wider reputation amongst intellectuals. Does that sort of thing tickle your fancy? Readers can find my premise right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 1969 (in Italy), The Seed Of Man (aka Il seme dell'uomo) gave audiences one more look at survival after our collective Apocalypse. Written (in part) and directed by Marco Ferreri, the film starred Anne Wiazemsky, Marzio Margine, Rada Rassimov, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A young couple argue about having a child in the days after a global plague wipes out most of Earth's population."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Seed Of Man earned a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
"A young couple argue about having a child in the days after a global plague wipes out most of Earth's population."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Seed Of Man earned a wee bit of praise from a screening on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 1979 (in Italy), the character of James Bond finally achieved orbit with the theatrical release of Moonraker. Directed by Lewis Gilbert from a story by Christopher Wood, Ian Fleming, Gerry Anderson, and Tony Barwick, the SciFi/Thriller starred Roger Moore, Lois Chiles, Michael Lonsdale, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
For the record:
Moonraker enjoyed a bit of recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects' but failed to take home the trophy. For the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"James Bond investigates the mid-air theft of a space shuttle, and discovers a plot to commit global genocide."
For the record:
Moonraker enjoyed a bit of recognition during the awards season. At the 1980 Academy Awards, the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Effects, Visual Effects' but failed to take home the trophy. For the 1980 Saturn Awards, the film enjoyed three nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), the good people of Anderson, South Carolina were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Igor And The Lunatics. Written (in part) and directed by W.J. Parolini, the film starred Joseph Eero, Mary Ann Schacht, Joe Niola, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After 16 years in prison, Igor and his gang are out and bent on taking revenge on the town that sent them up."
"After 16 years in prison, Igor and his gang are out and bent on taking revenge on the town that sent them up."
On this day in 1991 (in Hungary), Alien Nation confronted prejudices in a unique SciFi way at the box office. Directed by Graham Baker from a story by Rockne S. O'Bannon, the film starred James Caan, Mandy Patinkin, Terence Stamp, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A few years from now, Earth will have the first contact with an alien civilization. These aliens, known as Newcomers, slowly begin to be integrated into human society after years of quarantine."
For the record:
As well as launching a new franchise for Science Fiction fans to enjoy, the first film enjoyed a reasonable amount of attention from the professional organizations. In 1990, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films awarded it their Saturn Award in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' (The feature had to settle for nominations alone in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Supporting Actor.') Also, in 1989 it enjoyed the Hugo Award nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1991, the 1986-produced Animated/Fantasy Fist Of The North Star enjoyed a U.S. theatrical run. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A practitioner of the deadly martial art "Hokuto Shinken" allies with two children and an expert in "Nanto Suicho-Ken" to fight against the rivals who kidnapped his lover and threaten the prosperity of mankind."
"A practitioner of the deadly martial art "Hokuto Shinken" allies with two children and an expert in "Nanto Suicho-Ken" to fight against the rivals who kidnapped his lover and threaten the prosperity of mankind."
A star is born!
On this day in 1998, the SciFi/Telefilm Universal Soldier II: Brothers In Arms turned up on the Boob Tube. The feature starred Matt Battaglia and Andrew Jackson, and here's the plot summary via IMDB.com:
"The Universal Soldiers are used to smuggle diamonds for a CIA Director, but Luc Deveraux continues to cause him problems."
"The Universal Soldiers are used to smuggle diamonds for a CIA Director, but Luc Deveraux continues to cause him problems."
On this day in 2006 (in France), the 1956-produced Forbidden Planet enjoyed an all-new theatrical re-release. Directed by Fred M. Wilcox from a story by Cyril Hume, Irving Block, and Allen Adler, the feature film starred Leslie Nielsen, Anne Francis, Walter Pidgeon, and others. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
"A starship crew in the 23rd century goes to investigate the silence of a distant planet's colony, only to find just two survivors, a powerful robot, and the deadly secret of a lost civilization."
For the record:
- At the 1957 Academy Awards, the film's Special Effects enjoyed a nomination for the trophy, but the film lost out to The Ten Commandments.
- In 2007, a new home video release was nominated for the Saturn Award in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.'
- In 2013, the National Film Preservation Board inducted the flick into the National Film Registry, the U.S. organization that selects only 25 films annually to preserve them for their cultural, aesthetic, and historical contribution to the arts.
On this day in 2006 (in Germany), the 1978-produced The Astral Factor enjoyed a release on home video. Directed by John Florea, Gene Fowler Jr., and Arthur C. Pierce, the SciFi/Thriller starred Robert Foxworth, Stefanie Powers, and Sue Lyon. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A convicted strangler, studying the paranormal in his jail cell, learns to make himself invisible. As an invisible man, he escapes from prison to stalk and strangle the five women who testified against him at his trial. Robert Foxworth plays the police lieutenant assigned to protect them, and to catch the invisible strangler."
"A convicted strangler, studying the paranormal in his jail cell, learns to make himself invisible. As an invisible man, he escapes from prison to stalk and strangle the five women who testified against him at his trial. Robert Foxworth plays the police lieutenant assigned to protect them, and to catch the invisible strangler."
A star is born!
On this day in 2012 (in the Netherlands), the Fantasy-themed Magistratus: Overtura enjoyed its release on home video. Written and directed by the team of Thijs Meuwese and Kris Patmo, the feature starred Nienke 's Gravemade, Julia Batelaan, and Tamara Brinkman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Democracy is in danger. After years of peace between the Rubem and the Caerulen, an old conflict between these two races surfaces. The land is plagued by turmoil, and when two physicians are killed in cold blood by bandits, their daughter Colinda and bodyguard Hecgard seek vengeance."
"The Democracy is in danger. After years of peace between the Rubem and the Caerulen, an old conflict between these two races surfaces. The land is plagued by turmoil, and when two physicians are killed in cold blood by bandits, their daughter Colinda and bodyguard Hecgard seek vengeance."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013 (in the United Kingdom), Outpost 11 was screened for audiences in attendance of the Raindance Film Festival. The feature starred Billy Clarke and Luke Healy, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Set in an alternative past where steam power still rules the world, outpost 11 is the story of three soldiers manning a remote listening post in the Arctic Circle. One day the warning light goes off unexpectedly and their world is plunged into chaos. Albert , Mason, Graham must fight the isolation, madness and arctic spiders to survive."
"Set in an alternative past where steam power still rules the world, outpost 11 is the story of three soldiers manning a remote listening post in the Arctic Circle. One day the warning light goes off unexpectedly and their world is plunged into chaos. Albert , Mason, Graham must fight the isolation, madness and arctic spiders to survive."
A star is born!
On this day in 2014 (in Belgium and the Netherlands), Crystal Skulls enjoyed a limited theatrical release. Directed by Todor Chapkanov from a script by Denise Poole and Rafael Jordan, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Richard Burgi, Wendy Glenn, and Sam Redford. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"It is 2020 and the apocalypse is inevitable. 12 of 13 Crystal skulls are united causing catastrophic events. Only the 13th Skull can theoretically restore order before the Earth is destroyed from within by their power."
"It is 2020 and the apocalypse is inevitable. 12 of 13 Crystal skulls are united causing catastrophic events. Only the 13th Skull can theoretically restore order before the Earth is destroyed from within by their power."
A star is born!
On this day in 2014 (in Canada), Mutant World enjoyed its first theatarical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Calgary International Film Festival. Directed by David Winning from a script by Matthew Campagna, the SciFi/Thriller starred Holly Deveaux, Ashanti, and Jason Cermak. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a meteor crashes on Earth, a group of people seek shelter in a bunker. Ten years later, they need supplies and leave the bunker, discovering that the survivors have turned into mutants."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant World enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings of the film festival circuit.
"When a meteor crashes on Earth, a group of people seek shelter in a bunker. Ten years later, they need supplies and leave the bunker, discovering that the survivors have turned into mutants."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant World enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings of the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2014 (in Greece), the 1981-produced The Boogens enjoyed an all-new release on home video. Directed by James L. Conway, the SciFi/Horror feature starred Rebecca Balding, Anne-Marie Martin, and Fred McCarren. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Otherworldly creatures are released from the bootleg tunnels underneath a small-town mining community, and begin chomping on the locals."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of The Boogens (1981) in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
"Otherworldly creatures are released from the bootleg tunnels underneath a small-town mining community, and begin chomping on the locals."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In early 2024, I had the good fortune of receiving a complimentary Blu-ray of The Boogens (1981) in exchange for a review on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested in my thoughts on the film? Readers can find my review right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2016, First Man On Mars enjoyed a pair of releases. According to IMDB.com, the film was first released on home video on this day in the United Arab Emirates; and it was also released theatrically in the United States. Written (in part) and directed by Mike Lyddon, the SciFi/Comedy starred Kelly Murtagh, Bobby Gilchrist, and Christian Walker. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The countdown to terror has begun. Astronaut Eli Cologne became the first man on Mars, but something went horribly wrong. Infected by an alien organism, he returned to Earth a savage monster with an unquenchable thirst for human flesh."
"The countdown to terror has begun. Astronaut Eli Cologne became the first man on Mars, but something went horribly wrong. Infected by an alien organism, he returned to Earth a savage monster with an unquenchable thirst for human flesh."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in Italy), I Still See You enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Scott Speer from an adaptation of the Daniel Waters novel ("Break My Heart One Thousand Times"), the SciFi/Horror starred Bella Thorne, Richard Harmon, and Dermot Mulroney. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set ten years after an apocalyptic event that killed millions and left the world inhabited by ghosts."
"Set ten years after an apocalyptic event that killed millions and left the world inhabited by ghosts."
A star is born!
On this day in 2024 (in the United Kingdom), audiences of the Dead Northern Film Festival were treated to the theatrical debut of Fear Cabin: The Last Weekend Of Summer. Written by, directed by, and starring Brian Krainson, the flick also featured such familiar faces as Jennifer Barlow, Violet SinClair, Parker Denning, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Six friends' end-of-summer cabin party turns deadly when they discover they're not alone in the woods. Their weekend of drinking and fun becomes a fight for survival with an unwanted visitor."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received an all-new home video release of Fear Cabin: The Last Weekend Of Summer from the fine folks at Cleopatra Entertainment in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Six friends' end-of-summer cabin party turns deadly when they discover they're not alone in the woods. Their weekend of drinking and fun becomes a fight for survival with an unwanted visitor."
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received an all-new home video release of Fear Cabin: The Last Weekend Of Summer from the fine folks at Cleopatra Entertainment in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2024 (in the U.S.), One Million Babes B.C. came face-to-face wtih mankind via its release over the Information Superhighway. Written (in part) and directed by Mark Polonia, the film starred Jamie Morgan, Marie DeLorenzo, Tim Hatch, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"It is the 3rd setting of the bright orange orb in the sky. Ogg, the leader of a wildly band of prehistoric people have chosen Nila to be sacrificed in order to appease sky Gods."
"It is the 3rd setting of the bright orange orb in the sky. Ogg, the leader of a wildly band of prehistoric people have chosen Nila to be sacrificed in order to appease sky Gods."
On this day in 1952 (in the U.S.), Space Patrol aired "The Star Raiders." Officially, this served as the thirty-ninth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by Solarguard.com:
"Commander Buzz Corry in his search for the Star Raiders deep in galactic space, encounters an unheard of race of primitive men. Buzz learns that the Star Raiders, though primitive, are in many respects living in a civilization far in advance of any in recorded history. Moreover the Raiders, gifted with a tremendous power of destruction, have decided on the United Planets as their next target."
"Commander Buzz Corry in his search for the Star Raiders deep in galactic space, encounters an unheard of race of primitive men. Buzz learns that the Star Raiders, though primitive, are in many respects living in a civilization far in advance of any in recorded history. Moreover the Raiders, gifted with a tremendous power of destruction, have decided on the United Planets as their next target."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Lost In Space aired "Hunter's Moon." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"After killing a hostile alien, Professor Robinson comes across a "hunter" and he must replace his dead prey."
"After killing a hostile alien, Professor Robinson comes across a "hunter" and he must replace his dead prey."
On this day in 1968 (in the U.S.), Star Trek aired "The Enterprise Incident." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third (and final) season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An apparently insane Capt. Kirk has the Enterprise deliberately enter the Romulan Neutral Zone where the ship is immediately captured by the enemy."
"An apparently insane Capt. Kirk has the Enterprise deliberately enter the Romulan Neutral Zone where the ship is immediately captured by the enemy."
On this day in 1972 (in the United Kingdom), Ace Of Wands aired "Mama Doc: Part 1." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's third (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When one of Mr Sweet's university colleagues, Professor Dorian, disappears, Tarot and his companions follow a trail which leads to a bizarre doll's hospital run by the eccentric Mama Doc. With her accomplice Bobby, the woman turns real people into dolls."
"When one of Mr Sweet's university colleagues, Professor Dorian, disappears, Tarot and his companions follow a trail which leads to a bizarre doll's hospital run by the eccentric Mama Doc. With her accomplice Bobby, the woman turns real people into dolls."
On this day in 1974 (in the U.S.), Kolchak: The Night Stalker aired "They Have Been, They Are, They Will Be ..." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Kolchak connects a string of bizarre thefts committed by a powerful invisible entity that targets metal deposits to a string of suspicious animal and human deaths connected by the fact that the victims' bone marrow is missing."
"Kolchak connects a string of bizarre thefts committed by a powerful invisible entity that targets metal deposits to a string of suspicious animal and human deaths connected by the fact that the victims' bone marrow is missing."
On this day in 1974 (in the U.S.), TV's Planet Of The Apes aired "The Trap." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When they are buried alive, underground, in an ancient San Francisco subway station during an earthquake, Burke and General Urko are forced to work together. Above ground, Galen and Virdon try to figure out a way to help Burke, with the assistance of several gorilla soldiers."
"When they are buried alive, underground, in an ancient San Francisco subway station during an earthquake, Burke and General Urko are forced to work together. Above ground, Galen and Virdon try to figure out a way to help Burke, with the assistance of several gorilla soldiers."
On this day in 1974 (in the U.S.), The Six Million Dollar Man aired "Pilot Error." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Senator Ed Hill is facing charges after crashing an airplane he was piloting. Colonel Steve Austin is asked to look into the case. Oscar Goldman reminds him that the Senator was directly responsible for the funding of Austin's bionics. On the way back Steve shares a small private plane with the Senator, his son and his chief aide, when they are caught in bad weather and Hill's reflexes once again falter."
"Senator Ed Hill is facing charges after crashing an airplane he was piloting. Colonel Steve Austin is asked to look into the case. Oscar Goldman reminds him that the Senator was directly responsible for the funding of Austin's bionics. On the way back Steve shares a small private plane with the Senator, his son and his chief aide, when they are caught in bad weather and Hill's reflexes once again falter."
On this day in 1975 (in the U.S.), Land of the Lost aired "One Of Our Pylons Is Missing." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When a mysterious energy hole appears in the ground and swallows Cha-Ka, Holly attempts a rescue."
"When a mysterious energy hole appears in the ground and swallows Cha-Ka, Holly attempts a rescue."
On this day in 1979 (in the U.S.), Buck Rogers In The 25th Century began its regular episodic run (after the telefilm) with a show titled "Planet of the Slave Girls," which sounds very much like what a program based on a pulp-era property would. Here's the summary from IMDB.com:
"Evil and charismatic mutant Kaleel poisons Earth's food supply in order to weaken the planet's defenses and launch an attack on our world. Buck Rogers, Wilma Deering, and Major Duke Denton travel to the planet Vistula so they can thwart Keleel's dastardly plans before it's too late."
ExtraExtra Alert:
For those of you who'd like to know a little more, I've prepared an extensive collection of screencaps from this episode of Buck Rogers. You can access those pictures by following this link.
"Evil and charismatic mutant Kaleel poisons Earth's food supply in order to weaken the planet's defenses and launch an attack on our world. Buck Rogers, Wilma Deering, and Major Duke Denton travel to the planet Vistula so they can thwart Keleel's dastardly plans before it's too late."
ExtraExtra Alert:
For those of you who'd like to know a little more, I've prepared an extensive collection of screencaps from this episode of Buck Rogers. You can access those pictures by following this link.
On this day in 1985 (in the U.S.), Knight Rider aired "KITTnap." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's fourth (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jeff Cavanaugh, another crook arrested by Michael in a previous but unseen adventure, escapes from jail with help Julian Martin. Fearing FLAG is on his tail, Julian decides to kidnap Mike's latest flame Karen and also gets his hands on K.I.T.T."
"Jeff Cavanaugh, another crook arrested by Michael in a previous but unseen adventure, escapes from jail with help Julian Martin. Fearing FLAG is on his tail, Julian decides to kidnap Mike's latest flame Karen and also gets his hands on K.I.T.T."
On this day in 1986 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Trial Of A Timelord: Part 4." Officially, this served as the fourth episode to the program's twenty-third season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"All those on Ravolox are in exponentially greater peril than anyone can comprehend. If anything in the entire universe is to survive, it may come down to the Doctor arguing against machine logic over the value of life."
"All those on Ravolox are in exponentially greater peril than anyone can comprehend. If anything in the entire universe is to survive, it may come down to the Doctor arguing against machine logic over the value of life."
On this day in 1987 (in the U.S.), Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future aired "The Abyss." Officially, this served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When the Captain and Hawk answer a distress call, they are captured by General Briggs and his troops. The General has been driven over the edge and is still waiting for new orders from the President."
"When the Captain and Hawk answer a distress call, they are captured by General Briggs and his troops. The General has been driven over the edge and is still waiting for new orders from the President."
On this day in 1988 (in the United Kingdom), Red Dwarf aired "Statis Leak." Officially, this served as the fourth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Rimmer, Lister and Cat find a time barrier called "Stasis Leak" on Floor 16 and it takes them back in time on Red Dwarf 3 million years earlier. Rimmer and Lister try to change the past, which puts either Rimmer or Kochanski into suspended animation so one of them doesn't die in the radioactive disaster."
"Rimmer, Lister and Cat find a time barrier called "Stasis Leak" on Floor 16 and it takes them back in time on Red Dwarf 3 million years earlier. Rimmer and Lister try to change the past, which puts either Rimmer or Kochanski into suspended animation so one of them doesn't die in the radioactive disaster."
On this day in 1989 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Battlefield: Part 4." Officially, this served as the fourth episode of the program's twenty-sixth season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Morgaine forces Ace and Shou Yuing to hand over Excalibur by threatening to release the Destroyer, so the Doctor and the Brigadier enter a dimensional portal to stop her."
"Morgaine forces Ace and Shou Yuing to hand over Excalibur by threatening to release the Destroyer, so the Doctor and the Brigadier enter a dimensional portal to stop her."
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), Quantum Leap aired "Disco Inferno." Officially, this served as the second episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary that's provided via IMDB.com:
"Sam has to save his host's younger brother from his obsessed father who wants him to go into the family business as a movie stuntman."
"Sam has to save his host's younger brother from his obsessed father who wants him to go into the family business as a movie stuntman."
On this day in 1995 (in the U.S.), SeaQuest DSV (now SeaQuest 2032) aired "In The Company Of Ice And Profit." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Seaquest gets involved in a businessman's scheme to use refugees and an iceberg to further his financial and political gains. Ben Krieg makes a return as one of the refugees and Dagwood becomes an official member of the crew."
"The Seaquest gets involved in a businessman's scheme to use refugees and an iceberg to further his financial and political gains. Ben Krieg makes a return as one of the refugees and Dagwood becomes an official member of the crew."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Sliders aired "Double Cross." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The sliders arrive on a world that has dwindling natural resources. While there, Rembrandt gets sidetracked by his number one fan. Meanwhile, Quinn and the others meet a group of scientists trying to perfect a sliding device of their own. While they may have the technology to get the sliders home, all is not what it seems."
"The sliders arrive on a world that has dwindling natural resources. While there, Rembrandt gets sidetracked by his number one fan. Meanwhile, Quinn and the others meet a group of scientists trying to perfect a sliding device of their own. While they may have the technology to get the sliders home, all is not what it seems."
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Superman: The Animated Series aired "Brave New Metropolis." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Lois is thrown into an alternate reality version of Metropolis where Luthor and Superman rule in tyranny together."
"Lois is thrown into an alternate reality version of Metropolis where Luthor and Superman rule in tyranny together."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), First Wave aired "Comes A Horseman." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Foster is quarantined inside a lab that contains a deadly contagion engineered by the Gua."
"Foster is quarantined inside a lab that contains a deadly contagion engineered by the Gua."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Firefly aired "Bushwhacked." 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:
"The Serenity hits a wrecked transport vessel that was transporting settler's families and Mal decides to check whether there are survivors or goods. He goes on board with Zoe and they find a survivor completely mad and bring him to the Serenity. They also find some valuable goods and the fate of the crew that was attacked by the Reavers. When they are ready to go, they are intercepted by an Alliance's spacecraft and their Commander Harken brings them on board for investigation. Soon Mal realizes that they are in danger and tries to convince Harken to check the survivor."
"The Serenity hits a wrecked transport vessel that was transporting settler's families and Mal decides to check whether there are survivors or goods. He goes on board with Zoe and they find a survivor completely mad and bring him to the Serenity. They also find some valuable goods and the fate of the crew that was attacked by the Reavers. When they are ready to go, they are intercepted by an Alliance's spacecraft and their Commander Harken brings them on board for investigation. Soon Mal realizes that they are in danger and tries to convince Harken to check the survivor."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Justice League aired "A Knight Of Shadows: Part 1." Officially, this served as the twentieth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The League joins with Etrigan the Demon to battle Morgan Le Fay's scheme of world conquest for her son."
"The League joins with Etrigan the Demon to battle Morgan Le Fay's scheme of world conquest for her son."
It all came down to this ...
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Mobile Suit Gundam Seed bowed out with the airing of "To An Endless Future." This served as the fiftieth and final episode of the show's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Mobile Suit Gundam Seed bowed out with the airing of "To An Endless Future." This served as the fiftieth and final episode of the show's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), Starhunter 2300 aired the eighth episode of its second season, an hour entitled "Torment." Here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at Wikipedia.org:
"Rudolpho is contacted by his ex-wife Gina who demands 50,000 credits in back child support, or take their undisciplined 16-year-old daughter Serena off her hands. Deciding on the latter, Rudolpho brings Serena aboard the Tulip despite reservations from the rest of the crew - especially Marcus who Serena becomes enthralled with. Meanwhile, Travis helps Santiago, a man whose parents are being held for ransom by a man named Darnell aboard a near-lightspeed capable ship. As a result of time dilation, Santiago is now twice his parents' age. Later, as relations between Rudolpho and Serena collapse, Serena secretly makes contact with Darnell in hopes he will take her to a farworlds colony - and as far away from her pestering father as possible."
"Rudolpho is contacted by his ex-wife Gina who demands 50,000 credits in back child support, or take their undisciplined 16-year-old daughter Serena off her hands. Deciding on the latter, Rudolpho brings Serena aboard the Tulip despite reservations from the rest of the crew - especially Marcus who Serena becomes enthralled with. Meanwhile, Travis helps Santiago, a man whose parents are being held for ransom by a man named Darnell aboard a near-lightspeed capable ship. As a result of time dilation, Santiago is now twice his parents' age. Later, as relations between Rudolpho and Serena collapse, Serena secretly makes contact with Darnell in hopes he will take her to a farworlds colony - and as far away from her pestering father as possible."
The fallout continued on this day in 2006 (in the U.S.) when CBS's Apocalypse drama Jericho aired "Fallout." Officially, this served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As nuclear rain threatens Jericho, Johnston and Eric scramble to shelter the residents of the town. Meanwhile, Jake struggles to fix ventilation at a shelter, and the missing deputies are found."
"As nuclear rain threatens Jericho, Johnston and Eric scramble to shelter the residents of the town. Meanwhile, Jake struggles to fix ventilation at a shelter, and the missing deputies are found."
On this day in 2007 (in the U.S.), Smallville aired "Bizarro." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's seventh season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Clark confronts Bizarro, the last surviving escapee from the Phantom Zone, who has taken Clark's physical form and has all of his powers, but none of his weaknesses. The ensuing fight causes the dam to break and a torrent of water rushes towards the land. Lex, having just been arrested for Lana's murder, is submerged under water in a patrol car, but is saved by a mysterious young woman, who is a Kryptonian living in hibernation in a spaceship at the bottom of the nearby lake. Lois manages to pull Chloe to safety but her cousin is pronounced dead at the hospital. Chloe manages to revive and learns more about her meteor-rock powers. Also, Lionel is swept away by the flood, but is rescued by a mysterious person."
"Clark confronts Bizarro, the last surviving escapee from the Phantom Zone, who has taken Clark's physical form and has all of his powers, but none of his weaknesses. The ensuing fight causes the dam to break and a torrent of water rushes towards the land. Lex, having just been arrested for Lana's murder, is submerged under water in a patrol car, but is saved by a mysterious young woman, who is a Kryptonian living in hibernation in a spaceship at the bottom of the nearby lake. Lois manages to pull Chloe to safety but her cousin is pronounced dead at the hospital. Chloe manages to revive and learns more about her meteor-rock powers. Also, Lionel is swept away by the flood, but is rescued by a mysterious person."
On this day in 2008 (in the United Kingdom), Primeval aired "Mealworms, Indeed." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When an anomaly to a period when the atmosphere was sulphur based opens on the 15th floor of an office building, out pours both the poisonous atmosphere and a great number of gigantic worms. This is Jenny's first taste of what she is trying to shield the public from."
"When an anomaly to a period when the atmosphere was sulphur based opens on the 15th floor of an office building, out pours both the poisonous atmosphere and a great number of gigantic worms. This is Jenny's first taste of what she is trying to shield the public from."
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), the BBC's Doctor Who aired "The Caretaker." Officially, this served as the sixth episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The terrifying Skovox Blitzer is ready to destroy all humanity - but worse, and any second now, Danny Pink and the Doctor are going to meet."
"The terrifying Skovox Blitzer is ready to destroy all humanity - but worse, and any second now, Danny Pink and the Doctor are going to meet."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Ghost Rider: Meet The New Boss." Officially, this served as the second episode of the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Daisy goes to battle Ghost Rider at a terrible cost, and Coulson faces the new Director, and his bold agenda surprises them all."
"Daisy goes to battle Ghost Rider at a terrible cost, and Coulson faces the new Director, and his bold agenda surprises them all."
On this day in 2021 (in the U.S.), Roswell, New Mexico aired "Angels Of The Silences." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode in the program's third season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Liz and Max race to find Heath in the hopes that he can help find a way to get Jones out of Max's body. Michael and Isobel try to get through to Dallas."
"Liz and Max race to find Heath in the hopes that he can help find a way to get Jones out of Max's body. Michael and Isobel try to get through to Dallas."
On this day in 2022 (in the U.S.), La Brea aired "The Next Day." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second (and final) season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Desperate to reunite with her son, Eve follows a lead that brings her face-to-face with a ruthless prehistoric group."
"Desperate to reunite with her son, Eve follows a lead that brings her face-to-face with a ruthless prehistoric group."
