1959's Men Into Space was one of those older Science Fiction serials which my research had completely missed; a kind bloke on the other side of the Atlantic made me aware of its existence and the fact that its episodes are out there on the Information Superhighway viewable for free. I've happened across a few of them. While I didn't find the writing all that interesting, I have enjoyed the performances and the old school effects work, so there's something to be said for that. Here's the premise as listed on the reliable IMDB.com:
"The adventures of Colonel Ed McCauley, head of the American space program. He battles saboteurs, budget cuts, defective equipment and other problems in outer space."
For the record:
Though I suspect many consider this late 1950's / early 1960's Science Fiction program a bit lost to history, it bears mentioning that the Hugo Awards nominated it (in 1960) for 'Best Dramatic Presentation,' no small feat indeed.
"The adventures of Colonel Ed McCauley, head of the American space program. He battles saboteurs, budget cuts, defective equipment and other problems in outer space."
For the record:
Though I suspect many consider this late 1950's / early 1960's Science Fiction program a bit lost to history, it bears mentioning that the Hugo Awards nominated it (in 1960) for 'Best Dramatic Presentation,' no small feat indeed.
Growing up the middle of Nowhere in the heartland of America, most of the television programming of my youth involved small local TV stations that bought series cheaply on the international market and played it during the after school and prime time slots ... and that's exactly how I found Gerry Anderson's Thunderbirds and fell in love with it. (That was the early 1970's, but the show itself premiered on this day in 1965 in the United Kingdom.) Yes, it's marionettes; and, yes, not a one of them can act ... but the action and drama remains a winning combination for this old dog. Here's the premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"The year is 2026. The location is a secret island base. The Tracy family run International Rescue - a top secret organization whose ongoing mission is to aid humanity. With the support of five incredible THUNDERBIRDS craft, the London agent Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward, her butler and ex safe-cracker Parker and genius Brains, the Tracy family battle the forces of evil."
"The year is 2026. The location is a secret island base. The Tracy family run International Rescue - a top secret organization whose ongoing mission is to aid humanity. With the support of five incredible THUNDERBIRDS craft, the London agent Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward, her butler and ex safe-cracker Parker and genius Brains, the Tracy family battle the forces of evil."
1969's The Immortal -- which premiered on this day in the U.S. back then -- is another one of those shows from yesterday that would seem to be all but forgotten. It starred Christopher George and Don Knight in the big roles, and it did manage to take home a Primetime Emmy during its brief run. Here's the series' premise as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"An immortal man whose blood can have miraculous health benefits is a fugitive from those who would exploit both him and his brother he seeks."
"An immortal man whose blood can have miraculous health benefits is a fugitive from those who would exploit both him and his brother he seeks."
In case you've missed it, regular fandom and I seldom agree. Oh, don't get wrong: there's an awful lot of what folks like that I enjoy equally. It's just that when all is said and done I tend to dismiss a lot of Science Fiction and Fantasy as being a bit too silly. (I have my reasons for that, but that's an article for another day and time.) One case wherein I usually diverge from the consensus is TV's Manimal -- it premiered on this day in 1983. Whereas others dug its vibe, I found it goofy. Sure, it had an interesting premise, and maybe a reboot could do something fun with it, but otherwise? Meh. It's best left to history. Here's the series premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jonathan Chase was a British college professor at New York University who had the unusual ability to transform into any kind of animal. He used his powers to battle crime alongside pretty policewoman Brooke and Vietnam-war pal Ty."
"Jonathan Chase was a British college professor at New York University who had the unusual ability to transform into any kind of animal. He used his powers to battle crime alongside pretty policewoman Brooke and Vietnam-war pal Ty."
Frankly, I've never heard of the Fantasy serial called Mirror, Mirror. What little I've been able to find out about this Australia family program is that ... well ... it premiered on this day back in 1995 and lasted for two seasons. According to IMDB.com, it did enjoy a bit of extra attention during awards seasons; and the show starred Antonia Prebble, Ben Revell, Jovita Lee, Barry Quin, and Simon James. Also according to the entertainment website, here's the series' premise:
"When Jo Tiegan is given a mirror as a gift by the elderly owner of an antique shop, she is amazed to see another girl's image in the mirror instead of her own reflection."
"When Jo Tiegan is given a mirror as a gift by the elderly owner of an antique shop, she is amazed to see another girl's image in the mirror instead of her own reflection."
Dan O'Bannon always had a bit of an unassuming face. Most folks today probably wouldn't recognize the name, but, to SciFi fans, Mr. O'Bannon contributed a small mountain of work. He wrote 1974's cult hit, Dark Star. He crafted a nightmare of a script that Ridley Scott filmed as 1978's Alien. He penned two segments of 1981's Heavy Metal. He worked on the screenplays for Lifeforce (1985), Invaders From Mars (1986), and Total Recall (1990). The impressive list goes on and on, with some jaunts taking place in gaming and books. Though he's no longer with us, Mr. O'Bannon was born on this day back in 1946.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Early in her career, the luminous Angie Dickinson enjoyed a guest appearance to the SciFi television series Men Into Space. Later in her career, she visited the short-lived world of TV's Wild Palms, a miniseries that explored the effect of technology on society. Dickinson was born on this day in 1931.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Antoinette Bower had a dubious flirtation with the wide, wide world of Science Fiction, including a guest spot aboard the classic Star Trek as well as a more prominent role in Superbeast (1972). Bower was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Len Cariou put on the uniform for Starfleet in order to serve in a guest spot aboard UPN's Star Trek: Voyager. Cariou was born on this day in 1939.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Victoria Tennant flexed her acting might with a role aboard the 1990 incarnation of Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale for Metro Goldwyn Mayer. She also made a trip through the 1980's version of The Twilight Zone. Tennant was born on this day in 1950.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I viewed 1981's Inseminoid -- in which Tennant played a role -- via my subscription on Amazon Prime Video. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2024, I viewed 1981's Inseminoid -- in which Tennant played a role -- via my subscription on Amazon Prime Video. Interested readers can find my review right here.
Al Leong turned up as no less than 'Genghis Khan' aboard the Cult/SciFi/Comedy Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989). Leong was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jack Wild had an admirable shine in the role of 'Jimmy' for the Fantasy-themed children's program H.R. Pufnstuf back in the early 1970's. Though he's no longer with us, Wild was born on this day in 1952.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former Brady Bunch regular Barry Williams braved the SciFi catastrophe that was Mega Piranha (2010). Williams was born on this day in 1954.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Debrah Farentino found SciFi fame appearing in the cult TV show Earth 2 back in the mid-1990's, and later on she proved that lightning can indeed strike twice when she helped as part of the winning ensemble behind Syfy's Eureka. Farentino was born on this day in 1959.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Syfy didn't want to lose Battlestar Galactica when it was announced that the show was coming to an end; understandably, everyone thought Ronald Moore have crafted a unique vision of the TV space opera, so they started figuring how the storyline could continue. Inevitably, they decided to go into its past, and Caprica was the result. Eric Stoltz headlined the new series. It only last two seasons, but its fans would love to have seen it continued. Stoltz was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Monica Bellucci is, clearly, one of the most beautiful creatures around. She should have a sci-fi franchise, no? I'd certainly be willing to give her a shot. Granted, she had a small but pivotal role in The Matrix trilogy, but it was limited to the 2nd and 3rd films -- The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions -- which most folks think were pretty much garbage. She was born on this day back in 1964, and she looks lovelier every day!
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Andrea Roth is a terrific actress whom I wish did more SciFi work. She did appear in the TV series Robocop that originated from the motion picture franchise, and she's also enjoyed roles in The Outer Limits, Earth: Final Conflict, Lost, and Syfy's Ascension. Roth was born on this day in 1967.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Pretty as a picture Amy Landecker has put in her stripes aboard such genre projects as Project Almanac (2015), Doctor Strange (2016), and TBS's People Of Earth. Landecker was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Well, well, well ... it looks like funnyman Tony Hale found himself in a compromising situation for his part aboard the SciFi/Fantasy feature American Ultra (2015) for FilmNation Entertainment. Hale was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Alistair Petrie turned up as 'General Draven' aboard the SciFi blockbuster Rogue One: A Star Wars Story in 2016. Petrie was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his resume is a bit slim on SciFi credentials, Ashley Hamilton enjoyed a small role aboar Marvel's Iron Man 3 (2013) for good measure. Hamilton was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
If you haven't yet seen Europa Report, then you're missing one of the best portrayals of the risk of deep space exploration around. Sure, you may not be all that thrilled with the big finish, but I liked it plenty. Daniel Wu appeared in it, turning in great work as astronaut William Xu. Wu was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Marion Cotillard (pictured above left) was just one of many who faced an outbreak of global proportions in Stephen Soderbergh's Contagion (2011). The talented actress has also enjoyed roles aboard Inception (2010) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Cotillard was born on this day in 1975.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Stark Sands is one of the young talents headlining Fox TV's 2015 kinda/sorta retooling of Steven Spielberg's Minority Report for television viewing. He's also been gainfully employed as part of Day Of The Dead (2008) and the Star Wars: The Old Republic video game. Sands was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Toni Trucks made a SciFi splash in the Telefilm Star Runners (2009) for the SciFi Channel. She's also appeared in the Twilight Saga of films. Trucks was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The youthfully exuberant Lacey Chabert hasn't done that much science fiction in her budding entertainment career, but she did get the chance to put her imprint on our genre when she took on the role of Penny Robinson in 1998's ill-fated Lost In Space reboot. She did an affable job, but methinks the franchise just wasn't meant to be on the big screen. Chabert was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 2000, Teal Redmann lit up the small screen with a role aboard Chameleon 3: Dark Angel for Wilshire Court Productions. Redmann was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Finnish actress Pihla Viitala may not have a great deal of genre work on her resume, but she did manage to squeeze herself in Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (2013) for Paramount Pictures. Viitala was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A delicious Katrina Law first caught my eye for her work aboard Starz's Network incredible Spartacus program. She's also enjoyed exposure aboard The Resistance and, more recently, the CW's Arrow. Law was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actors like Greyston Holt are the breed upon which quality genre entertainment rests. Fans have enjoyed his work as part of Smallville, The 4400, Flash Gordon, Fringe, SGU: Stargate Universe, Alcatraz, Supernatural, Bitten, and The CW's Batwoman. Holt was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ezra Miller sped things up in his career in a prominent role as 'The Flash' aboard the big screen adaptation of Justice League (2017). Sadly, the actor's off-screen antics may have damaged his future beyond repair if the dismal box office returns from The Flash (2023) are any indication. Miller was born on this day in 1992.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Rising star Levi Miller (above right) enjoyed a guest spot aboard the first season of Supergirl for CBS. As for theatrical opportunities? Miller enjoyed screen time in Pan (2015), Better Watch Out (2016), and A Wrinkle In Time (2018). Miller was born on this day in 2002.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born! On this day in 1953 (in the U.S.), audiences finally got their hands on Donovan's Brain! (Well, cinematically, that is.) Written (in part) and directed by Felix E. Feist, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Lew Ayres, Gene Evans, and Nancy Reagan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three scientists unlawfully remove the still living brain of a dead tycoon and experiment with it but the evil brain begins to telepathically control the lead scientist."
"Three scientists unlawfully remove the still living brain of a dead tycoon and experiment with it but the evil brain begins to telepathically control the lead scientist."
A star is born! On this day in 1972 (in Spain), audiences in attendance of the Sitges - Catalonian International Film Festival were treated to the very first theatrical exhibition of Horror Express! Directed by Eugenio Martin, the Horror/Fantasy starred Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, and Alberto de Mendoza. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express, an anthropologist and his rival must contain the threat posed by the former's cargo: a prehistoric ape which is the host for a lifeform that is absorbing the minds of the passengers and crew."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Horror Express enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit. Also -- in 2019 -- the Arrow Films home video release of the picture enjoyed a 2019 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-Ray Special Edition Release.'
"While travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express, an anthropologist and his rival must contain the threat posed by the former's cargo: a prehistoric ape which is the host for a lifeform that is absorbing the minds of the passengers and crew."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Horror Express enjoyed a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit. Also -- in 2019 -- the Arrow Films home video release of the picture enjoyed a 2019 Saturn Award nomination in the category of 'Best DVD/Blu-Ray Special Edition Release.'
On this day in 1977 (in West Germany), Demon Seed opened in theatres. The sci-fi thriller explored one of the weirdest encounters between man and machine on film when the world's greatest supercomputer -- code-named Proteus -- achieves consciousness and decides he wants to procreate! The machine sets its sights on the lovely Julie Christie (what machine wouldn't, after all?), and let the games begin! It's more than a bit schlocky, but even I can appreciate what the writer and director tried to do here by playing with mankind's dependence on technology in a new way.
A star is born! On this day in 1983 (in the U.S. and Canada), Christopher Walken and others decided to tap into the unexplored potential of the human mind in Brainstorm. Here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Brilliant researchers Lillian Reynolds and Michael Brace have developed a system of recording and playing back actual experiences of people. When another researcher dies during playback the tape is locked away and Michael has to fight against his former colleagues and the government lackeys that now run his lab in order to play back and confront the "scariest thing any of us will ever face" - death itself."
"Brilliant researchers Lillian Reynolds and Michael Brace have developed a system of recording and playing back actual experiences of people. When another researcher dies during playback the tape is locked away and Michael has to fight against his former colleagues and the government lackeys that now run his lab in order to play back and confront the "scariest thing any of us will ever face" - death itself."
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Elvira: Mistress Of The Dark delivered her brand of bawdy humor with a heavy hint of Horror appreciation to masses. Directed by James Signorelli, the feature starred Cassandra Peterson, Phil Rubenstein, and Larry Flash Jenkins. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Upon arriving in a small town where she has inherited a rundown mansion, a famous horror hostess battles an evil uncle, and townspeople who want her burned at the stake."
"Upon arriving in a small town where she has inherited a rundown mansion, a famous horror hostess battles an evil uncle, and townspeople who want her burned at the stake."
A star is born! On this day in 1993 (in Hong Kong), Heroic Trio 2: Executioners enjoyed its theatrical debut. Directed by Siu-Tung Ching and Johnny To, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Maggie Cheung, Michelle Yeoh, and Anita Mui. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Set some time after the original 'Heroic Trio' the city has been devastated by nuclear attack. An evil deformed villain controls the city's scarce water supply, exerting influence over both a popular leader and a militarist colonel. The trio of Chat the Thief catcher, Ching and Wonder Woman (along with her young daughter) have to avert a military takeover and find clean headwaters to save the city."
"Set some time after the original 'Heroic Trio' the city has been devastated by nuclear attack. An evil deformed villain controls the city's scarce water supply, exerting influence over both a popular leader and a militarist colonel. The trio of Chat the Thief catcher, Ching and Wonder Woman (along with her young daughter) have to avert a military takeover and find clean headwaters to save the city."
A star is born! Or is that ... porn? On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), producers were out to prove that you can't keep a good man down -- on Earth, that is -- with the home video release of the Adult-themed Space Nuts. Written (in part) and directed by Jonathan Morgan, the picture starred Stormy Daniels, Evan Stone, and Randy Spears. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In another time and another galaxy, an evil Overlord and his lover, the Dark Witch, have been taking over and destroying planet after planet until in one star system, they discover that whoever will marry the virginal Princess Hubba Hubba will become de facto heir to the Clitorian solar system. But the princess as fled from her planet with a rag-tag bunch of rebels and the final battle rests with the few for the solar system and the galaxy."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Space Nuts was apparently a dream come true for the 2008 Adult Video News Awards as the picture garnered an incredible thirteen different nominations which led to an pretty spectacular six big wins, including the coveted category of 'Best Sex Comedy.'
"In another time and another galaxy, an evil Overlord and his lover, the Dark Witch, have been taking over and destroying planet after planet until in one star system, they discover that whoever will marry the virginal Princess Hubba Hubba will become de facto heir to the Clitorian solar system. But the princess as fled from her planet with a rag-tag bunch of rebels and the final battle rests with the few for the solar system and the galaxy."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Space Nuts was apparently a dream come true for the 2008 Adult Video News Awards as the picture garnered an incredible thirteen different nominations which led to an pretty spectacular six big wins, including the coveted category of 'Best Sex Comedy.'
Sadly, Serenity (or Firefly) is one of those properties I just don't discuss all that much, and that's entirely do to its fan base. When the program appeared on television, the Browncoats took over the web and demanded that (A) everyone worship the show and (B) every discussion topic had to be about 'Mal Vs ___' (insert whatever pop icon you want in there). As I tried to point out, I just didn't find the program or its subsequent motion picture effort (which incidentally premiered theatrically on this day back in 2005 in Canada and the U.S.) all that interesting. Perhaps it was too much of a hybrid, or perhaps I had seen too many of its concepts played out in some other variations elsewhere; I couldn't say. But ... it is what it is. Here's the plot summary from IMB.com:
"The crew of the ship Serenity try to evade an assassin sent to recapture telepath River."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Summer Glau took home top honors in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' while the film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 2006 Hugo Awards, writer/director Whedon was awarded the 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' trophy. Also, at the 2006 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), Whedon also took home the trophy for 'Best Script.'
"The crew of the ship Serenity try to evade an assassin sent to recapture telepath River."
For the record:
At the 2006 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Summer Glau took home top honors in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress' while the film had to settle for nominations alone in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film.' At the 2006 Hugo Awards, writer/director Whedon was awarded the 'Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form' trophy. Also, at the 2006 Nebula Awards (sponsored by the Science Fiction And Fantasy Writers Of America), Whedon also took home the trophy for 'Best Script.'
On this day in 2008, Pulse 2: Afterlife made its debut on home video. The feature starred Jamie Bamber and Rachel Robinson, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"After ghosts invade the human world through the Internet, a father must protect his daughter from the psychotic spirit of his ex-wife."
"After ghosts invade the human world through the Internet, a father must protect his daughter from the psychotic spirit of his ex-wife."
On this day in 2008 (in Spain), the 1957 SciFi/Horror flick The Deadly Mantis enjoyed a release on home video. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A giant prehistoric praying mantis, recently freed from the Arctic ice, voraciously preys on American military at the DEW Line and works its way south."
"A giant prehistoric praying mantis, recently freed from the Arctic ice, voraciously preys on American military at the DEW Line and works its way south."
A star is born ... or is that porn? On this day in 2009 (in the U.S.), beauty went into the future with the home video release of the award-winning 2040. Written and directed by Brad Armstrong, the SciFi/Adult film starred Jessica Drake, Kirsten Price, and Alektra Blue. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a future where sex is outlawed, androids are taking the place of porn stars. When a New prototype performs beyond expectations and develops real emotions. The hunt is on to capture this new android and uncover its secrets."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 2040 was a sensation at the 2010 Adult Video News Awards, receiving an incredible 18 nominations and taking home an impressive three trophies. Job well done!
"In a future where sex is outlawed, androids are taking the place of porn stars. When a New prototype performs beyond expectations and develops real emotions. The hunt is on to capture this new android and uncover its secrets."
For the record:
To the film's credit, 2040 was a sensation at the 2010 Adult Video News Awards, receiving an incredible 18 nominations and taking home an impressive three trophies. Job well done!
A star is born! On this day in 2014, the Adult/SciFi flick better known as Apocalypse X found life in mankind's aftermath. The feature starred Stevie Shae and Veronica Rodriguez, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at The Movie Database:
"In a future, after years of demolition, the Earth’s natural resources have withered away and the world is now a deserted pit. A woman named Razor seeks vengeance upon a bike gang called Reapers. To the community, Razor is known as The Ghost. From stealing gasoline and food, to using men to feed her sexual appetite, Razor always takes what she wants. She has one last score to settle with the Reapers’ gang leader, Scar. In an effort to avenge the murder of her beloved husband, Razor will use every womanly advantage she has to seduce anyone in her path for retribution."
"In a future, after years of demolition, the Earth’s natural resources have withered away and the world is now a deserted pit. A woman named Razor seeks vengeance upon a bike gang called Reapers. To the community, Razor is known as The Ghost. From stealing gasoline and food, to using men to feed her sexual appetite, Razor always takes what she wants. She has one last score to settle with the Reapers’ gang leader, Scar. In an effort to avenge the murder of her beloved husband, Razor will use every womanly advantage she has to seduce anyone in her path for retribution."
A star is born! While this entry isn't 'Science Fiction' per se, I think it's still something that most fans would find of interest: on this day in 2016, the Docudrama Passage To Mars found its premiere. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A NASA Arctic expedition designed to be the first Martian road trip on Earth becomes an epic two-year odyssey of human adventure and survival."
"A NASA Arctic expedition designed to be the first Martian road trip on Earth becomes an epic two-year odyssey of human adventure and survival."
It all began right here: on this day in 1959 (in the U.S.), Men Into Space premiered on television. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for "Moon Probe":
"The first test of an orbital flight around the Moon is scheduled. During liftoff one of the stages does not separate correctly causing the ship to no longer be under control. A crew member goes outside the ship to inspect the damage. While outside an accident occurs that endangers both his life and that of the crew and ship."
"The first test of an orbital flight around the Moon is scheduled. During liftoff one of the stages does not separate correctly causing the ship to no longer be under control. A crew member goes outside the ship to inspect the damage. While outside an accident occurs that endangers both his life and that of the crew and ship."
On this day in 1960 (in the U.S.), Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone returned to the tube for the premiere of its second season. The episode was titled "King Nine Will Not Return," and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A pilot of a downed WW II bomber comes to in the African desert and desperately tries to find out what happened to the rest of his crew."
"A pilot of a downed WW II bomber comes to in the African desert and desperately tries to find out what happened to the rest of his crew."
On this day in 1963 (in the U.S.), The Outer Limits aired "The Architects of Fear." This served as the third episode to the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A secret group of scientists decide to surgically alter one of their members into an 'alien', in order to convince the world that an alien invasion is imminent. They hope that such a threat will force all governments to make peace with one another. However such a complex plan has many vulnerabilities... including the wife of the volunteer."
"A secret group of scientists decide to surgically alter one of their members into an 'alien', in order to convince the world that an alien invasion is imminent. They hope that such a threat will force all governments to make peace with one another. However such a complex plan has many vulnerabilities... including the wife of the volunteer."
It all began right here: Five ... Four ... Three ... Two ... One ... and Thunderbirds were go originally on this day back in 1965 (in the United Kingdom). The first episode was titled "Trapped In The Sky," and here's the premise from IMDB.com:
"The Hood plants a bomb aboard the Fireflash. Can International Rescue bring the airliner down without using its landing gear?"
"The Hood plants a bomb aboard the Fireflash. Can International Rescue bring the airliner down without using its landing gear?"
It all began right here: on this day in 1969 (in the U.S.), TV audiences were introduced to the pilot installment of The Immortal. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A professional race-car driver discovers that there are certain properties in his blood that will make him, basically, immortal. A dying multi-millionaire also finds out about the racer's blood, and is determined to get it to keep himself alive."
"A professional race-car driver discovers that there are certain properties in his blood that will make him, basically, immortal. A dying multi-millionaire also finds out about the racer's blood, and is determined to get it to keep himself alive."
On this day in 1970 (in the United Kingdom), Ace Of Wands aired "The Smile: Part 1." This served as the tenth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Tarot's friends help him celebrate his birthday. Elsewhere, a mysterious Oriental gentleman and his associate are interested in a valuable statuette on display in a Bond Street gallery."
"Tarot's friends help him celebrate his birthday. Elsewhere, a mysterious Oriental gentleman and his associate are interested in a valuable statuette on display in a Bond Street gallery."
On this day in 1973 (in the United Kingdom), Moonbase 3 aired "Outsiders." This served as the fourth episode in the program's only season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Faced with an inspection ahead of potential budget cuts, Caulder's hopes of demonstrating that the Moonbase 3 research programme is worthwhile lie with two brilliant but erratic researchers, Stephen Partness and Peter Conway, both of whom are showing evidence of cracking under the strain."
"Faced with an inspection ahead of potential budget cuts, Caulder's hopes of demonstrating that the Moonbase 3 research programme is worthwhile lie with two brilliant but erratic researchers, Stephen Partness and Peter Conway, both of whom are showing evidence of cracking under the strain."
On this day in 1977 (in the U.S.), Logan's Run aired "Capture." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's only season on original broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"James Borden, a hunter captures, Logan, Jessica, Rem and Francis, after Francis captures the three runners. Where Borden decides to free Logan and Francis and he decides to hunt them like animals, where Logan and Francis decides to join forces and set out to rescue Jessica and Rem from Borden. Can Logan and Francis save Jesscia and Rem?"
"James Borden, a hunter captures, Logan, Jessica, Rem and Francis, after Francis captures the three runners. Where Borden decides to free Logan and Francis and he decides to hunt them like animals, where Logan and Francis decides to join forces and set out to rescue Jessica and Rem from Borden. Can Logan and Francis save Jesscia and Rem?"
On this day in 1978 (in the U.S.), Jason Of Star Command aired "A Cry For Help." This served as the fourth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"When Canarvin's clone manages to escape and disable the Academy's shields, Dragos orders an all-out attack, which causes the ship to hurtle out of control towards a star. Jason transforms a furry, speechless creature into its true shape - a lovely princess and the two manage to escape from Dragos' cells to a tiny planetoid that begins to disintegrate from the force of the Dragos' attack on the Academy."
"When Canarvin's clone manages to escape and disable the Academy's shields, Dragos orders an all-out attack, which causes the ship to hurtle out of control towards a star. Jason transforms a furry, speechless creature into its true shape - a lovely princess and the two manage to escape from Dragos' cells to a tiny planetoid that begins to disintegrate from the force of the Dragos' attack on the Academy."
It all began right here: on this day in 1983 (in the U.S.), TV's Manimal snarled its way to life. The series starred Simon MacCorkindale and Melody Anderson, and here's the premise for the pilot episode as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jonathan Chase is a British college professor at New York University who has the unusual ability to transform into any kind of animal he wants. He decides to use his power to assist the New York Police Department in solving unusual crimes, and in this series pilot, he teams up with cute cop Brooke and war buddy Ty to stop some terrorists from stealing a supply of toxic gas."
"Jonathan Chase is a British college professor at New York University who has the unusual ability to transform into any kind of animal he wants. He decides to use his power to assist the New York Police Department in solving unusual crimes, and in this series pilot, he teams up with cute cop Brooke and war buddy Ty to stop some terrorists from stealing a supply of toxic gas."
On this day in 1986 (in the U.S.), The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "Psychocrypt." This (technically) served as the program's twenty-third episode (they were aired wildly out of sequence), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Zackery can't sleep. His nights are interrupted by nightmares of his wife calling to him. Q-Ball realizes that the Queen of the Crown is using Aliza Foxx's psycho crystal to get to Zackery. Now he wants to go to the Psychocrypt to get her crystal. But Walsh refuses to let him go, forcing Zack into a rash decision. Can the other Rangers stand by and watch their friend go on a mission alone?"
"Zackery can't sleep. His nights are interrupted by nightmares of his wife calling to him. Q-Ball realizes that the Queen of the Crown is using Aliza Foxx's psycho crystal to get to Zackery. Now he wants to go to the Psychocrypt to get her crystal. But Walsh refuses to let him go, forcing Zack into a rash decision. Can the other Rangers stand by and watch their friend go on a mission alone?"
On this day in 1989 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "The Ensigns of Command" in TV syndication. This served as the second episode to the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at TrekCore.com:
"Data attempts to convince the leader of an endangered colony that his people must evacuate the planet or face extinction at the hands the Sheliak who are claiming the planet to colonize."
"Data attempts to convince the leader of an endangered colony that his people must evacuate the planet or face extinction at the hands the Sheliak who are claiming the planet to colonize."
On this day in 1994 (in the U.S.), The X-Files aired "Blood." This served as the third episode to the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Mulder and Scully investigate a series of violent killings committed by seemingly normal residents of a small town."
"Mulder and Scully investigate a series of violent killings committed by seemingly normal residents of a small town."
It all began right here: on this day in 1995 (in Australia), Mirror Mirror delivered a bit of Fantasy to the television broadcast line-up in the land down under. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the first episode:
"We meet 14-year-old Wellington schoolgirl, Jo Tiegan. Jo's mother, Catherine Guthrie, is principal of Jo's school, which causes friction because Jo believes her mother is too tough on her."
"We meet 14-year-old Wellington schoolgirl, Jo Tiegan. Jo's mother, Catherine Guthrie, is principal of Jo's school, which causes friction because Jo believes her mother is too tough on her."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Babylon 5 aired "Walkabout." This served as the program's eighteenth episode to its third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Kosh's replacement arrives and Dr. Franklin falls in love with a singer during his search."
"Kosh's replacement arrives and Dr. Franklin falls in love with a singer during his search."
On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "Image In The Sand." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Having returned to Earth a couple of months ago, Sisko waits for the Prophets to instruct him on what to do next. When he receives one, he begins searching for the woman behind the face in the sand in his vision. Meanwhile, back on DS9, Kira deals with a promotion and handling the decisions surrounding her command, and finding herself wishing for the return of Sisko. And Worf deals with the loss of his wife, Jadzia Dax."
"Having returned to Earth a couple of months ago, Sisko waits for the Prophets to instruct him on what to do next. When he receives one, he begins searching for the woman behind the face in the sand in his vision. Meanwhile, back on DS9, Kira deals with a promotion and handling the decisions surrounding her command, and finding herself wishing for the return of Sisko. And Worf deals with the loss of his wife, Jadzia Dax."
On this day in 2000 (in the U.S.), Batman Beyond aired "Inqueling." This served as the third episode to the program's third and final season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Seriously wounded in a doublecross, Inque approaches her estranged daughter for help."
"Seriously wounded in a doublecross, Inque approaches her estranged daughter for help."
On this day in 2006 (in Australia), Doctor Who aired "Army of Ghosts." This served as the twelfth episode in the relaunched program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the ghosts of loved ones appear, the whole world celebrates. But as the Doctor investigates he believes that there is a more sinister motive behind their appearence. And deep within the Torchwood tower, a mysterious sphere containing the greatest enemies of the Doctor is opened..."
"As the ghosts of loved ones appear, the whole world celebrates. But as the Doctor investigates he believes that there is a more sinister motive behind their appearence. And deep within the Torchwood tower, a mysterious sphere containing the greatest enemies of the Doctor is opened..."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Fringe aired "One Night in October." This served as the second episode to the popular program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As the victims of a highly intelligent serial killer "Over There" stack up, the Fringe Division "Over Here" is asked to assist. As the two sides tangle and innocent people remain at risk, the suspect's doppelganger "Over Here," a professor who teaches Forensic Psychology, is brought into the fold and forces the team to consider the notion of sending civilians to the other side."
"As the victims of a highly intelligent serial killer "Over There" stack up, the Fringe Division "Over Here" is asked to assist. As the two sides tangle and innocent people remain at risk, the suspect's doppelganger "Over Here," a professor who teaches Forensic Psychology, is brought into the fold and forces the team to consider the notion of sending civilians to the other side."
On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), Star Wars: The Clone Wars aired "Shadow Warrior." This served as the fourth episode to the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"There is unrest on Naboo and the Gungans are considering to join the Separatists. But General Skywalker discovers Boss Lyonie is being influenced by dark magic against his will."
"There is unrest on Naboo and the Gungans are considering to join the Separatists. But General Skywalker discovers Boss Lyonie is being influenced by dark magic against his will."
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), Ms. Vampy's Bites aired "Dating A Younger Man." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Back by popular demand, Ms. Vampy launches her new interactive advice show MS. VAMPY'S BITES. Many of you have asked where she has been lately. Well, she went back to school and is now a Life Coach. These days, Ms. Vampy lives in her Hollywood Villa and is a Life Coach to the rich and famous. She is often seen on night shoots, shopping in Beverly Hills for Dior or hanging out at Lakers' games. She loves 80s rock and disco, her favorite band is Vampire Weekend and she never misses American Idol, The Voice or Millionaire Matchmaker on TV. Her secret dream is to join the cast of HBO's True Blood (of course, she thinks it's a "reality" show)! She enjoys Godiva Chocolates and Bloody Marys and she loves to play Xbox when she's feeling feisty. While she has yet to marry or have children, she freely admits to being boy crazy and hopes to someday make-out with Robert Pattinson. Ms. Vampy is forever sexy, funny, young, and obnoxious, but her heart is as big as her mouth. If she ever bites you, it'll be with love!"
"Back by popular demand, Ms. Vampy launches her new interactive advice show MS. VAMPY'S BITES. Many of you have asked where she has been lately. Well, she went back to school and is now a Life Coach. These days, Ms. Vampy lives in her Hollywood Villa and is a Life Coach to the rich and famous. She is often seen on night shoots, shopping in Beverly Hills for Dior or hanging out at Lakers' games. She loves 80s rock and disco, her favorite band is Vampire Weekend and she never misses American Idol, The Voice or Millionaire Matchmaker on TV. Her secret dream is to join the cast of HBO's True Blood (of course, she thinks it's a "reality" show)! She enjoys Godiva Chocolates and Bloody Marys and she loves to play Xbox when she's feeling feisty. While she has yet to marry or have children, she freely admits to being boy crazy and hopes to someday make-out with Robert Pattinson. Ms. Vampy is forever sexy, funny, young, and obnoxious, but her heart is as big as her mouth. If she ever bites you, it'll be with love!"
On this day in 2014 (in the U.S.), Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. aired "Heavy Is The Head." This served as the second episode of the program's second season, and here's the premise as listed on IMDB.com:
"Hunter gets captured by General Talbot. May goes after Creel and the Obelisk."
"Hunter gets captured by General Talbot. May goes after Creel and the Obelisk."
Children of the 1980's rejoice! On this day in 2015, IDW Publishing has brought back to life the property Airwolf, returning Hawke and Santini with their super-intelligent and ultra-cool high-tech helicopter for another go'round of serious flying mayhem. (NOTE: this is a trade paperback collecting previously serialized adventures.) According to our friends at TFAW.com, here's the plot summary for Airwolf Airstrikes:
"Hawke, Santini, and the coolest attack chopper ever made are back in this epic reimagining of the hit TV classic! Airwolf, the nuclear-powered helicopter, is featured in this blistering anthology of stand-alone thrillers that redefines the classic for a new generation!"
"Hawke, Santini, and the coolest attack chopper ever made are back in this epic reimagining of the hit TV classic! Airwolf, the nuclear-powered helicopter, is featured in this blistering anthology of stand-alone thrillers that redefines the classic for a new generation!"
Fans longing for the days of Matt Smith's incarnation as the infamous time traveling Doctor Who need look no further than Titan Comics collection of the 11th Doctor in a massive omnibus collection, apparently the first of seven planned. It's being released on this day in 2015, and here's the plot summary from TFAW.com:
"Jack the Ripper and sentient spam! Giant robot dinosaurs and ancient football! Body-swaps, giant space squid... and a very happy Christmas! It's all in the first Eleventh Doctor Archives Omnibus, collecting US-format comics published by IDW Publishing from 2010-2011! Collects: Doctor Who Volume II (2010) #1-12 and Annual 2011, previously published in the collections 'The Ripper,' 'When Worlds Collide,' and 'It Came From Outer Space.'"
"Jack the Ripper and sentient spam! Giant robot dinosaurs and ancient football! Body-swaps, giant space squid... and a very happy Christmas! It's all in the first Eleventh Doctor Archives Omnibus, collecting US-format comics published by IDW Publishing from 2010-2011! Collects: Doctor Who Volume II (2010) #1-12 and Annual 2011, previously published in the collections 'The Ripper,' 'When Worlds Collide,' and 'It Came From Outer Space.'"
Think you can keep a good cop down? Think again, creep! That's what Boom! Studios wants you to know with their release of Robocop: Dead Or Alive (trade paperback) on this day in 2015. According to our friends at TFAW.com, here's the skinny:
"Months after the events of the original classic film, John Killian, a criminal from Old Detroit's mysterious past, returns to a city ablaze. As RoboCop, Anne Lewis, and the police department wage war on anarchic streets, tension between the people and 'their protectors' is at an all-time high. When the mayor launches an initiative to remove the people's rights to arms, Killian will lead the citizens in an uprising that tears down the very foundation of OCP."
"Months after the events of the original classic film, John Killian, a criminal from Old Detroit's mysterious past, returns to a city ablaze. As RoboCop, Anne Lewis, and the police department wage war on anarchic streets, tension between the people and 'their protectors' is at an all-time high. When the mayor launches an initiative to remove the people's rights to arms, Killian will lead the citizens in an uprising that tears down the very foundation of OCP."
