Televised Fantasies have long tinkered with reasons that we culturally divide one another, and though I've never seen this one it certainly sounds like the short-lived Knights Of God explored two of our biggest divides together: religion and government. (The program's first episode aired on this day back in 1987.) Filmed in 1985 but set in 2020, the show enjoyed a strong cast paired with stories exploring the attempt to return a semblance of freedom to these promised lands. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"In the year 2020, Britain is divided into North and South. The Royal Family has been deposed and in its place rule the Knights of God, a harsh militaristic religious order headed by Prior Mordrin. But a rebel movement is growing, in spite of Mordrin's brainwashing "re-education" camps, and joining it are two love-struck teenagers, Gervase and Julia, who escape from one of the camps to join a quest to find the rightful King of England, and thus re-establish democracy and order to the land."
"In the year 2020, Britain is divided into North and South. The Royal Family has been deposed and in its place rule the Knights of God, a harsh militaristic religious order headed by Prior Mordrin. But a rebel movement is growing, in spite of Mordrin's brainwashing "re-education" camps, and joining it are two love-struck teenagers, Gervase and Julia, who escape from one of the camps to join a quest to find the rightful King of England, and thus re-establish democracy and order to the land."
Think what you may, but I've always found Superman: The Animated Series the very best incarnation of televised Supes in the history of television. (I'm willing to change my mind if another version surpasses its greatness someday.) The stories embraced the wider mythology and brought a maturity to animation that the young and young-at-heart could equally enjoy. It lasted for three incredible seasons, and it certainly gave actor Tim Daly some of the best work of his professional career in bringing to life vocally both Clark Kent and the Man of Steel. It first premiered in a three-part installment on this day in 1996. Here's the series' premise as provided by IMDB.com:
"Set in present day Metropolis against the backdrop of a bright, urban landscape, the ageless superhero combats sinister villains and rescues innocent victims in exciting new stories based on universal themes encompassing the same time-honored tradition of the classic Superman legend."
"Set in present day Metropolis against the backdrop of a bright, urban landscape, the ageless superhero combats sinister villains and rescues innocent victims in exciting new stories based on universal themes encompassing the same time-honored tradition of the classic Superman legend."
Back at the dawn of the era of motion pictures, actor Max Schreck made an indelible impression on moviegoers who discovered his particular take on classic movie vampire 'Count Graf Orlok' in the groundbreaking Nosferatu (1922) for the silver screen. (In fact, it was suggested back in his day that his portrayal of what audiences thought a vampire would be meant that he was an authentic bloodsucker, but that was far from the truth.) He also enjoyed a role aboard the 1933 Science Fiction film The Tunnel for good measure. Though he's no longer with us, Schreck was born on this day in 1879.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The venerable Swoosie Kurtz joined NBC's Heroes for a handful of episodes; otherwise her resume is far more mainstream dramas and comedies. Still, there are a few other appearances worthy of mention. From her IMDB.com profile, I see that she visited such properties as Vice Versa (1988), Storybook (1994), Harvey (1996), Touched By An Angel, The Outer Limits, Bubble Boy (2001), Lost, Category 7: The End Of The World, Superman: Doomsday (animated), Pushing Daisies, and Chuck. Kurtz was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Funny lady Jane Curtain lampooned some of the conventions of Science Fiction with her work aboard Coneheads (1993), a theatrical extension to a popular Saturday Night Live skit. She also dabbled in the realm of SciFi/Sitcoms with appearances aboard NBC's 3rd Rock From The Sun. Curtain was born on this day in 1947.
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2024, Curtain enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress In A Film' for her work aboard Jules (2023).
[Source: IMDB.com]
For the record:
In 2024, Curtain enjoyed a Saturn Awards nomination in the category of 'Best Supporting Actress In A Film' for her work aboard Jules (2023).
Throughout her career, Katherine Cannon lit up both the big and the small screen playing strong women. Genre fans know her work from Future Cop, Lucan, Battlestar Galactica, The Incredible Hulk, Airwolf, The Hidden (1987), Hard Time On Planet Earth, and Seven Days. Cannon was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
There she is! The prettiest girl in all of the original Colonial Fleet! For those of you who don't know, that there is the lovely Anne Lockhart, better known to Battlestar Galactica fans as Lieutenant Sheba. After Battlestar's single season run, genre fans were fortunate enough to have her turn up with roles in The Sixth Sense, Sunburst (1975), Project UFO, Buck Rogers In The 25th Century, Earthbound (1981), The Incredible Hulk, Voyagers!, Tales of the Gold Monkey, Airwolf, Automan, Knight Rider, Troll (1986), Dark Tower (1987), The Highwayman, Freddy's Nightmares, The Little Mermaid (1989), Wishman (1992), Quantum Leap, Bionic Ever After (1994), Theodore Rex (1995), Bug Buster (1998), The Spring (2000, Level 9, Osmosis Jones (2001), Route 666 (2001), Revamped (2007), The Time Traveler's Wife (2009), Surrogates (2009), the Starzinger saga, and Star Trek Continues. She even had an uncredited part in E.T. - The Extraterrestrial. Lockhart was born on this day in 1953.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
One of the things I admired about Star Trek: The Next Generation during its seven year run is that the show was usually very respectful to some of its secondary characters. In one respect, sure, I suppose it's nice to play a character with a name; but it's even more exciting to see some of those characters actually hang around and progress in an albeit fictional career on the program. If nothing else, it helps bring a sense of reality to the fantasy.
Such was the case with Patti Yasutake, better known to TNG fans as Nurse Ogawa ... then Doctor Ogawa. Yasutake was born on this day back in 1953, and she had the good fortune of serving the crew of the Enterprise-D and E all the way through 1996's Star Trek: First Contact.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Such was the case with Patti Yasutake, better known to TNG fans as Nurse Ogawa ... then Doctor Ogawa. Yasutake was born on this day back in 1953, and she had the good fortune of serving the crew of the Enterprise-D and E all the way through 1996's Star Trek: First Contact.
[Source: IMDB.com]
Everyone's favorite human noisemaker -- comedian Michael Winslow -- lent his vocal antics to the world of Mel Brooks in the spoof of the popular Star Wars saga better known as Spaceballs. Along with a solid track record in animation, the actor has also booked appearances in Gremlins (as the voice of Mogwai and more), Harry And The Hendersons, Lycanthrope (1999), Robodoc (2009), Gingerclown (2013), Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No (2015), Lavalantula (2015), and 2 Lava 2 Lantula (2016). Winslow was born on this day in 1958.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Barbara Patrick stepped into the world of TV's popular The X-Files for a pair of episodes, playing the onscreen spouse to her real-life husband Robert Patrick. She also appeared aboard The Sisterhood (1988), The Wizard Of Speed And Time (1988), and Lord Of Illusions (1995). Patrick was born on this day in 1960.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Here's today's public service announcement for all red-blooded males: Playboy Magazine isn't just for good articles, you know ... it's actually produced some very lovely ladies! And several of those lovely ladies have made the transition from print to the screen, including the statuesque Peggy McIntaggart, shown above in holographic form from Cyber-Tracker 2 (1995). McIntaggart was born on this day in 1961.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Canadian actress Kirsten Bishop left behind a resume reasonably rich in the field of genre entertainment. Fans might recognize her from such contributions to The Little Mermaid (1975), Shivers (1975), Visiting Hours (1982), Goosebumps, Frequency (2000), Nikita, and Warehouse 13. Though she's no longer with us, Bishop was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Betsy Russell got her humble start in an episode of The Powers of Matthew Star before moving on to a guest spot in Superboy as well as a prominent role in the Saw franchise. Russell was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A quick perusal of Adrienne Shelly's timeline shows that the only foray into the realms of the Fantastic -- at least, those that I see clearly -- was a guest spot aboard the fondly remember Early Edition during its run on television. Though she's no longer with us, Shelly was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Wow. What a career! In a relatively short span of time, Chad Coleman has gone from fighting the Undead aboard AMC's signature horror The Walking Dead to probing the depths of outer space in Syfy's The Expanse. And -- in between? He managed to squeeze in a visit to the CW's Arrow program. Awesome. Coleman was born on this day in 1966.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and temptress Kelli McCarty has put her acting chops to good use aboard such genre entries as Phil Of The Future and the motion picture Polycarp (2007) for Justice For All Productions. McCarty was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
I haven't seen Children of Dune, mostly because folks whom I know and trust have told me that the follow-up miniseries was a bit confusing after the original Dune. In any event, kudos to the lovely Barbora Kodetová for bringing her acting talent to the program, and I'm sure I'll see this as it's on my bucket list. Kodetová was born on this day in 1970.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The lovely Justina Machado found herself in some dire straits for her work aboard the Fantasy/Horror Final Destination 2 (2003). As for genre appearances, she's also been a part of Touched By An Angel, Early Edition, Angel, A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001), Dragonfly (2002), Ghost Whisperer, Finders Keepers (2014), and The Horror of Dolores Roach. Machado was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Critically acclaimed actress Anika Noni Rose helped to bring to life the character of 'Catwoman' aboard the DC Universe's animated Injustice in 2021. Rose was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though his current resume suggests he's kinda/sorta moved out of the fields of Science Fiction and Fantasy, Jason Bourque is no slouch, indeed. IMDB.com credits his skills as being very inclusive -- directing, writing, and producing -- and in the process he's given genre fans such entries to behold as Maximum Surge (2003), Dark Storm (2006), Termination Point (2007), Beyond Loch Ness (2008), Ghouls (2008), Wyvern (2009), Polar Storm (2009), Hellhounds (2009), Phantom Racer (2009), High Plains Invaders (2009), Metal Tornado (2011), Doomsday Prophecy (2011), Collision Course (2012), CAT.8, Seattle Superstorm (2012), End Of The World (2013), Cody The Robosapien (2013), Stonados (2013), and Asteroid: Final Impact (2015). Bourque was born on this day in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Over the past few years, actor Idris Elba has really grown into somewhat of a critical favorite around the world. He captained the ship in Ridley Scott's Prometheus (2012), and hopefully we'll continue to see more of his sterling skills in the years ahead. Mr. Elba was born on this day back in 1972.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sarah Danielle Madison faced dinosaurs in Jurassic Park III (2001) before moving on to other less fantastical fare, such as Savage Planet (2007) and Pig (2011). Though she's no longer with us, Madison was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Sarah Strange has a name that just keeps on giving! This lovely lady possesses a resume rich in both real and voice-acting roles, but SciFi folks probably know her best from Stargate: SG-1. Strange was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Justin Whalin (above right) filled in the shoes of the impressionable Jimmy Olsen for 66 episodes of Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman. Whalin was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in the mid-1990's, a fetching Naomie Harris (center) embraced her budding stardom with a role in The Tomorrow People, a reboot that didn't quite stick. Still, she's moved on to bigger things, including joining Daniel Craig in the most recent string of James Bond films. Harris was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Overall, I was more than a bit disappointed with FX's adaptation of The Strain, but one of the things the show got right was casting voice actor extraordinaire Robin Atkin Downes to bring the legendary source of evil to life vocally. The artist maintains an incredible resume on IMDB.com which I encourage every one to check out, and Downes was born on this day in 1976.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert
In 2016, I caught a theatrical screening of Suicide Squad (2016) -- in which Downes played a role -- when it made the round through theaters. Interested readers can find my review right here.
[Source: IMDB.com]
ExtraExtra Alert
In 2016, I caught a theatrical screening of Suicide Squad (2016) -- in which Downes played a role -- when it made the round through theaters. Interested readers can find my review right here.
When G.I. Joe was given new animated life on the small screen in the guise of G.I. Joe: Renegades (2010-2011), the lovely Natalia Cigliuti was tasked with bringing 'Scarlett' to vocal life. Cigliuti was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
According to IMDB.com, Blaze Berdahl got her professional big screen debut with a big role aboard Pet Sematary, the first cinematic adaptation of the Stephen King novel. Berdahl was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Hailing from London, dreamy Tehmina Sunny has the kind of good looks that'll be embraced the world round. She's had roles in Children of Men (2006), Heroes, and CBS's Extant. Sunny was born on this day in 1980.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Model, temptress, and actress Heather Vandeven started out her career in the U.S. military where she was trained in weapons use and -- ahem -- hand-to-hand combat. In 2007, she brought her good looks to the forefront by being named Penthouse Magazine's Pet Of The Year. In 2010, she dipped her delicate toes into the world of genre entertainment with a top role in Housewives From Another World. Vandeven was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A veritable master of playing quirky females (but beautiful nonetheless), Lauren Lapkus helped round out the IT staff for the latest disaster to frighten the Bejezus out of the park-goers at Jurassic World (2015). Lapkus was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Besides standing still and turning her own head, Freya Allan found she had the presence and talent to turn heads out in fandom with her work aboard Netflix's popular Fantasy The Witcher. Allan was born on this day in 2001.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Asher Angel stepped into the shoes (and cape!) of Shazam -- well, his human alter-ego Billy Batson, I should say -- for his work in two motion pictures within the greater DC Cinematic Universe. Angel was born on this day in 2002.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
A star is born!
On this day in 1918 (in Austria), the good people of Vienna were treated to the theatrical premiere event of Das Andere Ich. Directed by Fritz Freisler from a story by Ladislaus Tuszynski, the German-language SciFi/Fantasy starred Raoul Aslan, Fritz Korner, Magda Sonja, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A professor discovers a way to separate the soul from the body."
"A professor discovers a way to separate the soul from the body."
A star is born!
On this day in 1928 (in the U.S.), The Terror frightened audiences out of their theatrical minds! Directed by Roy Del Ruth, the Horror/Mystery starred May McAvoy, Louise Fazenda, Edward Everett Horton, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Guests at an old English manor house are stalked by a mysterious killer known only as 'The Terror.'"
"Guests at an old English manor house are stalked by a mysterious killer known only as 'The Terror.'"
A star is born!
On this day in 1940 (in the U.S.), Charlie Chan was back in the sleuthing business with the theatrical release of Charlie Chan At The Wax Museum. Directed by Lynn Shores from a story by John Francis Larkin and Earl Derr Biggers, the film starred Sidney Toler, Victor Sen Yung, Joan Valerie, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An escaped convicted murderer hides out at a New York wax museum where he hopes to get plastic surgery, which will help him revenge himself on Charlie Chan."
"An escaped convicted murderer hides out at a New York wax museum where he hopes to get plastic surgery, which will help him revenge himself on Charlie Chan."
On this day in 1956 (in the U.S.), Fire Maidens Of Outer Space (aka Fire Maidens From Outer Space) blazed onto the silver screen. Written and directed by Cy Roth, the film starred Anthony Dexter, Susan Shaw, Paul Carpenter, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A team of astronauts lands on a moon of Jupiter to find it populated with beautiful young women looking for mates. An old man explains to the explorers the group's story, as well as the moon's dangers."
"A team of astronauts lands on a moon of Jupiter to find it populated with beautiful young women looking for mates. An old man explains to the explorers the group's story, as well as the moon's dangers."
On this day in 1956 (in Hong Kong), It Came From Outer Space came down for a theatrical visit at the movie house. Based on a story from Ray Bradbury, the SciFi feature was directed by Jack Arnold and starred Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, Charles Drake, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
"A spaceship from another world crashes in the Arizona desert and only an amateur stargazer and a schoolteacher suspect alien influence when the local townsfolk begin to act strangely."
For the record:
The groundbreaking SciFi film enjoyed a Hugo Award nomination in 1954 in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.' And -- fFor those who love this sort of trivia -- it's interesting to note that Ms. Rush would go on to win the Golden Globe in 1954 for 'Most Promising Newcomer - Female.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1957 (in West Germany), 20 Million Miles To Earth premiered theatrically. Directed by Nathan Juran from a story by Robert Creighton Williams, Christopher Knopf, Charlott Knight, and Ray Harryhausen, the feature starred William Hopper, Joan Taylor, Frank Puglia, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The first U.S. spaceship to Venus crash-lands off the coast of Sicily on its return trip. A dangerous, lizard-like creature comes with it and quickly grows gigantic."
"The first U.S. spaceship to Venus crash-lands off the coast of Sicily on its return trip. A dangerous, lizard-like creature comes with it and quickly grows gigantic."
On this day in 1962 (in Italy), Night Of The Eagle soared onto the silver screen. Directed by Sidney Hayers from a story by Richard Matheson, Charles Beaumont, and George Baxt, the film starred Peter Wyngarde, Janet Blair, Margaret Johnston, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A woman who may be a witch defends her husband from forces attempting to harm him."
For the record:
At the 1963 Hugo Awards, Night Of The Eagle was nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"A woman who may be a witch defends her husband from forces attempting to harm him."
For the record:
At the 1963 Hugo Awards, Night Of The Eagle was nominated in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born!
On this day in 1968 (in the U.S.), the big city of Charlotte, North Carolina hosted the big screen premiere of The Ghastly Ones (aka Blood Rites). Written (in part) and directed by Andy Milligan, the film starred Veronica Radburn, Maggie Rogers, Hal Borske, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three married couples are forced to spend the night in a Victorian-era house where they start getting killed off by a deranged psycho who's bent on claiming an inheritance they are all entitled to."
"Three married couples are forced to spend the night in a Victorian-era house where they start getting killed off by a deranged psycho who's bent on claiming an inheritance they are all entitled to."
On this day in 1971 (in Sweden), the Czech-language SciFi/Fantasy Na Komete (aka On The Comet) roared cinematically. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a comet passes the earth very closely, it pulls a small part of North Africa with it. Carried along is a bunch of people. Among them Angelika, who just escaped from a ruthless weapon dealer's ship, and her two brothers, who are searching her. Then there's a group of natives, who plan a rebellion against the French colonists. All these conflicts become secondary when the people finally realize that they are doomed to live together on an alien planet. However this time of peace and world-happiness won't last for long..."
"When a comet passes the earth very closely, it pulls a small part of North Africa with it. Carried along is a bunch of people. Among them Angelika, who just escaped from a ruthless weapon dealer's ship, and her two brothers, who are searching her. Then there's a group of natives, who plan a rebellion against the French colonists. All these conflicts become secondary when the people finally realize that they are doomed to live together on an alien planet. However this time of peace and world-happiness won't last for long..."
On this day in 1971 (in Italy), The Big Mess (aka Der große Verhau) enjoyed a special screening for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Alexander Kluge, the SciFi/Comedy starred Vinzenz Sterr, Maria Sterr, and Sigi Graue. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Outer space in 2034 is run by greedy corporations in a rundown bureaucracy. Two astronauts, who are not very smart, make their way with shady dealings, smuggling and spaceship wrecking."
"Outer space in 2034 is run by greedy corporations in a rundown bureaucracy. Two astronauts, who are not very smart, make their way with shady dealings, smuggling and spaceship wrecking."
A star is born!
On this day in 1972 (in the U.S.), the good people of Hazleton, Pennsylvania were treated to the theatrical debut of The Cremators. Written (in part) and directed by Harry Essex, the SciFi/Horror starred Maria De Aragon, Marvin Howard, Eric Sinclair, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An alien life form that is a huge ball of living matter invades earth, and replenishes itself by absorbing people."
"An alien life form that is a huge ball of living matter invades earth, and replenishes itself by absorbing people."
On this day in 1972 (in India), The Omega Man took his fight to the streets of a devastated America. Directed by Boris Sagal and based on the novel by Richard Matheson, the film starred Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, Rosalind Cash, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
"Biological war has decimated life on Earth. Los Angeles is a windswept ghost town where Robert Neville tools his convertible through sunlit streets foraging for supplies."
For the record:
Actress Rosalind Cash received a nomination for 'Outstanding Actress In A Motion Picture' from the 1971 NAACP Image Awards for her work in the film.
On this day in 1974 (in Ireland), The Final Programme (aka The Last Days Of Man On Earth) took audiences on a mind-bending espionage-fueled trip. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After the death of his Nobel Prize-winning father, billionaire physicist Jerry Cornelius becomes embroiled in the search for the mysterious "Final Programme", developed by his father. The programme, a design for a perfect, self-replicating human being, is contained on microfilm. A group of scientists, led by the formidable Miss Brunner (who consumes her lovers), has sought Cornelius's help in obtaining it. After a chase across a war-torn Europe on the verge of anarchy, Brunner and Cornelius obtain the microfilm from Jerry's loathsome brother Frank. They proceed to an abandoned underground Nazi fortress in the Arctic to run the programme, with Jerry and Miss Brunner as the subjects."
"After the death of his Nobel Prize-winning father, billionaire physicist Jerry Cornelius becomes embroiled in the search for the mysterious "Final Programme", developed by his father. The programme, a design for a perfect, self-replicating human being, is contained on microfilm. A group of scientists, led by the formidable Miss Brunner (who consumes her lovers), has sought Cornelius's help in obtaining it. After a chase across a war-torn Europe on the verge of anarchy, Brunner and Cornelius obtain the microfilm from Jerry's loathsome brother Frank. They proceed to an abandoned underground Nazi fortress in the Arctic to run the programme, with Jerry and Miss Brunner as the subjects."
A star is born!
On this day in 1974 (in the U.S.), The Thirsty Dead delivered a dose of Horror and Adventure to audiences. Written (in part) and directed by Terry Becker, the film starred Jennifer Billingsley, John Considine, Judith McConnell, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Beautiful young girls are kidnapped off the streets of Manila by a death cult that needs their blood to remain immortal."
"Beautiful young girls are kidnapped off the streets of Manila by a death cult that needs their blood to remain immortal."
On this day in 1979 (in Mexico), Futureworld added to the mythology of its predecessor Westworld (1973) in strange and exciting ways. Directed by Richard T. Heffron from a story by Mayo Simon and George Schenck, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Blythe Danner, Peter Fonda, Arthur Hill, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Upon uncovering the dirty secret of futuristic theme-park Futureworld, an ex-employee is killed after he tips off two other reporters who decide to do an undercover investigation."
For the record:
While I'll admit to finding Futureworld a bit tepid, the film did garner some positive attention during the corresponding awards season.
"Upon uncovering the dirty secret of futuristic theme-park Futureworld, an ex-employee is killed after he tips off two other reporters who decide to do an undercover investigation."
For the record:
While I'll admit to finding Futureworld a bit tepid, the film did garner some positive attention during the corresponding awards season.
- At the 1977 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), actress Blythe Danner took home top honors in the category of 'Best Actress.' While the film was nominated in the category of 'Best Science Fiction Film,' that honor went home with Logan's Run.
- At the 1977 Hugo Awards, the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1979 (in Portugal), Moonraker achieved theatrical orbit. 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 1980 (in Canada), Resurrection enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Daniel Petrie from a story by Lewis John Carlino, the Fantasy/Drama starred Ellen Burstyn, Sam Shepard, Richard Farnsworth, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A woman enters the afterlife briefly after a car crash that kills her husband. But she survives - and finds herself possessing strange powers."
"A woman enters the afterlife briefly after a car crash that kills her husband. But she survives - and finds herself possessing strange powers."
A star is born!
On this day in 1985 (in Italy), the Fantasy/Western hybrid Tex And The Lord Of The Deep opened to unsuspecting audiences. The feature starred Giuliano Gemma and William Berger, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Based on the adventures of the hero Tex from the comic strip by Bonelli. An interesting spaghetti-western/fantasy movie that blends magic and mythology with six-guns and stagecoaches."
"Based on the adventures of the hero Tex from the comic strip by Bonelli. An interesting spaghetti-western/fantasy movie that blends magic and mythology with six-guns and stagecoaches."
A star is born!
On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), The Roller Blade Seven took to the streets ... for justice! Written (in part) and directed by Donald G. Jackson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Scott Shaw, Frank Stallone, Karen Black, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a futuristic society, a sword-wielding roller skater fights evil ninjas, punk roller skaters and is sent on an important rescue mission."
"In a futuristic society, a sword-wielding roller skater fights evil ninjas, punk roller skaters and is sent on an important rescue mission."
A star is born!
On this day in 1993 (in Japan), The Hidden II added another chapter to the saga of The Hidden. Written (in part) and directed by Seth Pinsker, the SciFi/Thriller starred Raphael Sbarge, Kate Hodge, Jovin Montanaro, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The alien criminal from the first movie is dead, but he left a few eggs which are hatching now. The good alien, who still inhabits Tom Beck's body, has been waiting just in case this happened. Unfortunately, his presence in the body has taken a terrible toll on it, draining it of life energy. Additionally relations with Beck's daughter Juliet (now a cop) have deteriorated. But when the killing starts again, they will need to work together to stop the new generation of aliens."
"The alien criminal from the first movie is dead, but he left a few eggs which are hatching now. The good alien, who still inhabits Tom Beck's body, has been waiting just in case this happened. Unfortunately, his presence in the body has taken a terrible toll on it, draining it of life energy. Additionally relations with Beck's daughter Juliet (now a cop) have deteriorated. But when the killing starts again, they will need to work together to stop the new generation of aliens."
On this day in 1996 (in Spain), Independence Day upped the ante on the not-so-typical alien invasion. Written (in part) and directed by Roland Emmerich (with longtime creative partner Dean Devlin), the space fantasy starred Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind's best weapon is the will to survive."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Independence Day remains one of the best popcorn flicks ever. The film even won an Oscar in 1997 in the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' while having to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Best Sound.' For the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature received an incredible eleven nominations (top prizes were awarded only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film'). It was also a nominee for the 1997 Hugo Award as 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
"The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind's best weapon is the will to survive."
For the record:
Without a doubt, Independence Day remains one of the best popcorn flicks ever. The film even won an Oscar in 1997 in the category of 'Best Effects - Visual Effects,' while having to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Best Sound.' For the 1997 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature received an incredible eleven nominations (top prizes were awarded only in the categories of 'Best Special Effects,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film'). It was also a nominee for the 1997 Hugo Award as 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
On this day in 1996 (in Japan), Nemesis III: Time Lapse delved a bit deeper into that franchise's universe. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Alex again fighting the cyborg mercenaries in 1998 East Africa. This time, Alex finds that she has 20 half sisters who are waiting for her to return to 2077. Central Command wants Alex captured alive and scanned to see if her DNA is a strong and more powerful strain than the normal. But Alex may be too tough for Farnsworth to capture."
"Alex again fighting the cyborg mercenaries in 1998 East Africa. This time, Alex finds that she has 20 half sisters who are waiting for her to return to 2077. Central Command wants Alex captured alive and scanned to see if her DNA is a strong and more powerful strain than the normal. But Alex may be too tough for Farnsworth to capture."
A star is born!
On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Ravager turned in what box office receipts it could. Written (in part) and directed by James D. Deck, the SciFi/Thriller starred Bruce Payne, Yancy Butler, Juliet Landau, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A small passenger spaceship is forced to make a crash landing somewhere on a desolate territory on Earth. In search of some essential mineral the crew discovers a hidden stash of military bio-weapon surplus. One of the crew members gets infected, and starts showing murderous tendencies."
"A small passenger spaceship is forced to make a crash landing somewhere on a desolate territory on Earth. In search of some essential mineral the crew discovers a hidden stash of military bio-weapon surplus. One of the crew members gets infected, and starts showing murderous tendencies."
On this day in 1998 (in Germany), Gargantua came to big, big life. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the Fantasy feature:
"Marine biologist Jack Ellway and his son Brandon are drawn to the Polynesian island of Malau to study the effects of recent seismic activity on the area's marine life. Along with the local doctor Alyson Hart, they soon become caught up in the investigation of a series of recent drownings with unexpected results. As Jack explores the surrounding ocean for a mysterious marine creature, Brandon discovers and befriends a three-foot-long baby creature that is able to leave the ocean and walk on land. As more dangerous and giant creatures come onto the island, and the military begins to take offensive action, Jack must risk everything to save the creatures, the island and his son."
"Marine biologist Jack Ellway and his son Brandon are drawn to the Polynesian island of Malau to study the effects of recent seismic activity on the area's marine life. Along with the local doctor Alyson Hart, they soon become caught up in the investigation of a series of recent drownings with unexpected results. As Jack explores the surrounding ocean for a mysterious marine creature, Brandon discovers and befriends a three-foot-long baby creature that is able to leave the ocean and walk on land. As more dangerous and giant creatures come onto the island, and the military begins to take offensive action, Jack must risk everything to save the creatures, the island and his son."
On this day in 2000 (in Belgium), Pitch Black pitted a group of survivors against an alien species and perhaps even an enemy within. Written (in part) and directed by David Twohy, the film starred Vin Diesel, Radha Mitchell, Cole Hauser, and others. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A commercial transport ship and its crew are marooned on a planet full of bloodthirsty creatures that only come out to feast at night. But then, they learn that a month-long eclipse is about to occur."
For the record:
Besides birthing another franchise for Science Fiction and Fantasy, Pitch Black drew the attention of those organizations that award cinematic excellence.
"A commercial transport ship and its crew are marooned on a planet full of bloodthirsty creatures that only come out to feast at night. But then, they learn that a month-long eclipse is about to occur."
For the record:
Besides birthing another franchise for Science Fiction and Fantasy, Pitch Black drew the attention of those organizations that award cinematic excellence.
- In 2000, the screenwriter team of David Twohy, Ken Wheat, and Jim Wheat were blessed with the nomination for the Bram Stoker Award.
- Also, the film was nominated for the 2000 Saturn Award for 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- In 2001, the International Horror Guild nominated it for the year's 'Best Movie.'
- For 2001's Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Pitch Black enjoyed nominations (but no wins) for 'Best Makeup/Creature FX,' 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Actress,' 'Best Actor,' and 'Best Wide-Release Film.'
On this day in 2002 (in South Africa), Jason X showed audiences that -- yet again -- in space no one could hear you scream! Directed by James Isacc from a story by Todd Farmer and Victor Miller, the feature film starred Kane Hodder, Lexa Doig, Jeff Geddis, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received an all-new home video release of Jason X (2001) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Jason Voorhees is cryogenically frozen at the beginning of the 21st century, and is discovered in the 25th century and taken to space. He gets thawed, and begins stalking and killing the crew of the spaceship that's transporting him."
For the record:
Now, think what you may about the wider Friday The 13th ongoing saga or even the idea of transporting Jason Voorhees into outer space ... but the film did give us a first great look at actress Lexa Doig. In fact, her work in this flick garnered her an award nomination in the category of 'Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award' for the 2002 Saturn Awards.
ExtraExtra Alert:
In 2025, I received an all-new home video release of Jason X (2001) from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Swimfan enjoyed its full U.S. theatrical release. Directed by John Polson from a story by Charles F. Bohl and Phillip Schneider, the film starred Jesse Bradford, Erika Christensen, Shiri Appleby, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A high school senior with a promising swimming career has a one-night stand with consequences."
"A high school senior with a promising swimming career has a one-night stand with consequences."
A star is born!
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Bugs gave TV audiences the heebiejeebies about the creepy crawlies. Written (in part) and directed by Joseph Conti, the film starred Antonio Sabato Jr., Angie Everhart, R.H. Thomson, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An entomologist accompanies a team of commandos to prevent prehistoric insects from escaping from a subway system."
"An entomologist accompanies a team of commandos to prevent prehistoric insects from escaping from a subway system."
A star is born!
On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), home audiences were treated to the video release of Hellraiser: Hellbound. Directed by Rick Bota with a story by Clive Barker, Joel Soisson, and Carl V. Dupre, the Horror/Fantasy starred Stelian Urian, Katheryn Winnick, Anna Tolputt, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Gamers playing a MMORPG based on the "Hellraiser" films find their lives endangered after being invited to a rave, the host of which intends to show them the truth behind the Cenobite mythos."
"Gamers playing a MMORPG based on the "Hellraiser" films find their lives endangered after being invited to a rave, the host of which intends to show them the truth behind the Cenobite mythos."
A star is born!
On this day in 2008 (in Canada), audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival were treated to the theatrical premiere of Deadgirl. Directed by Marcel Sarmiento and Gadi Harel from a story by Trent Haaga, the film starred Shiloh Fernandez, Noah Segan, Candice King, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two high school boys discover an imprisoned woman in an abandoned mental asylum who cannot die."
For the record:
Deadgirl was a sensation at the 2010 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, receiving nominations in the categories of 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Make-Up / Creature FX,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Limited-Release / Direct-To-Video Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Some time during the film's original home video release, I received a complimentary DVD from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
"Two high school boys discover an imprisoned woman in an abandoned mental asylum who cannot die."
For the record:
Deadgirl was a sensation at the 2010 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, receiving nominations in the categories of 'Best Screenplay,' 'Best Make-Up / Creature FX,' 'Best Supporting Actor,' and 'Best Limited-Release / Direct-To-Video Film.'
ExtraExtra Alert:
Some time during the film's original home video release, I received a complimentary DVD from a distributor in exchange for review coverage on SciFiHistory.Net. Interested readers can find my review right here.
A star is born!
On this day in 2008 (in Canada), Pontypool enjoyed its first screening of record when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Bruce McDonald from a story by Tony Burgess, the SciFi/Horror starred Stephen McHattie, Lisa Houle, Georgina Reilly, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A radio host interprets the possible outbreak of a deadly virus which infects the small Ontario town he is stationed in."
"A radio host interprets the possible outbreak of a deadly virus which infects the small Ontario town he is stationed in."
A star is born!
On this day in 2011 (in France), Real Steel enjoyed its first theatrical engagement ever when it was hosted by the big city of Paris, France. Directed by Shawn Levy from a story by Richard Matheson, Dan Gilroy, Jeremy Leven, and John Gatins, the SciFi feature starred Hugh Jackman, Evangeline Lilly, Dakota Goyo, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the near future, robots have taken over for humans in the boxing ring. A former boxer and small-time promoter struggles to make a living with patched-up robots in shady venues. When he discovers he has an 11-year-old son who believes that a robot found in the junk heap has what it takes to win, he finds himself with a shot at the big time."
For the record:
"In the near future, robots have taken over for humans in the boxing ring. A former boxer and small-time promoter struggles to make a living with patched-up robots in shady venues. When he discovers he has an 11-year-old son who believes that a robot found in the junk heap has what it takes to win, he finds himself with a shot at the big time."
For the record:
- At the 2012 Academy Awards, Real Steel was nominated in the category of 'Best Achievement In Visual Effects.'
- At the 2012 Saturn Awards, Dakota Goyo was nominated in the category of 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor.'
On this day in 2012 (in Germany), Collision Earth enjoyed its launch on home video. On this day in 2011 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Collision Earth enjoyed the destruction it could rain down on Mother Nature. Directed by Paul Ziller from a story by Ryan Landels, the feature starred Diane Farr, Kirk Acevedo, Andrew Airlie, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When the sun converts to a magnetar for a short time, the planet Mercury is thrown out of orbit (along with a spaceship exploring it) and set on a collision course for Earth. Can a disgraced scientist manage to use his failed weapon system, Project 7, to save our planet?"
"When the sun converts to a magnetar for a short time, the planet Mercury is thrown out of orbit (along with a spaceship exploring it) and set on a collision course for Earth. Can a disgraced scientist manage to use his failed weapon system, Project 7, to save our planet?"
A star is born!
On this day in 2012 (in Canada), audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival were given a trip through time with the theatrical premiere of Looper. Written and directed by Rian Johnson, the SciFi/Thriller starred Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emily Blunt, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 2074, when the mob wants to get rid of someone, the target is sent into the past, where a hired gun awaits - someone like Joe - who one day learns the mob wants to 'close the loop' by sending back Joe's future self for assassination."
For the record:
"In 2074, when the mob wants to get rid of someone, the target is sent into the past, where a hired gun awaits - someone like Joe - who one day learns the mob wants to 'close the loop' by sending back Joe's future self for assassination."
For the record:
- At the 2013 Saturn Awards, Looper received nominations -- but no wins -- in the categories of 'Best Editing,' 'Best Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
- At the 2013 Hugo Awards, Looper received a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation.'
A star is born!
On this day in 2013 (in the Canada), Blood Glacier enjoyed its big screen premiere for audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Marvin Kren, the SciFi/Horror starred Gerhard Liebmann, Edita Malovcic, Hille Beseler, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Scientists working in the Austrian Alps discover that a glacier is leaking a liquid that appears to be affecting local wildlife."
For the record:
At the 2014 Austrian Film Awards (the organization recognizing film excellence in Austria), Blood Glacier earned three big wins in the categories of 'Best Sound Editing,' 'Best Makeup,' and 'Best Actor.' Also, the film enjoyed a nomination but no win in the category of 'Best Film Editing.'
"Scientists working in the Austrian Alps discover that a glacier is leaking a liquid that appears to be affecting local wildlife."
For the record:
At the 2014 Austrian Film Awards (the organization recognizing film excellence in Austria), Blood Glacier earned three big wins in the categories of 'Best Sound Editing,' 'Best Makeup,' and 'Best Actor.' Also, the film enjoyed a nomination but no win in the category of 'Best Film Editing.'
On this day in 2013, the Apocalypse/Thriller Bounty Killer shot 'em up at the box office. The feature starred Matthew Marsden and Christian Pitre, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Bounty killers compete for body count, fame and a fat stack of cash. They're ending the plague of corporate greed and providing the survivors of the apocalypse with retribution. This is the age of the BOUNTY KILLER."
"Bounty killers compete for body count, fame and a fat stack of cash. They're ending the plague of corporate greed and providing the survivors of the apocalypse with retribution. This is the age of the BOUNTY KILLER."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013 (in the U.S.), audiences in attendance of the Salt Lake Comic Con were treated to an exclusive theatrical screening of Dragonfyre. Written (in part) and directed by Kohl Glass, the film starred Masiela Lusha, Rusty Joiner, Adam Johnson, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A battle-weary ex-Special Forces Operative buys a ranch in remote American West to flee from the world, only to encounter a strange series of trespassers, including a beautiful elf princess, a Native American mystic, and Orcs. When the Orcs invade his property, John must give up his isolation to become a hero before the Orcs unleash their dragon god on our world."
"A battle-weary ex-Special Forces Operative buys a ranch in remote American West to flee from the world, only to encounter a strange series of trespassers, including a beautiful elf princess, a Native American mystic, and Orcs. When the Orcs invade his property, John must give up his isolation to become a hero before the Orcs unleash their dragon god on our world."
A star is born!
On this day in 2013, InSpectres took another look at the supernatural-themed comedy. Directed by Darren Orange from a story by J.A. Dohm, Matt Forbeck, and Jared A. Sorensen, the feature starred Lucas Thompson, Brian Barber, Mike Mauloff, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a world where ghosts, ghouls, and goblins are a common place, the InSpectres are the only exterminators capable of eliminating these supernatural nuisances! After a run in with a zombie, Lucas joins the InSpectres as an agent in training. He, his mentor Tracey, and company embark on eerily funny adventure aimed at re-capturing entities freed from a government holding facility by a corporate saboteur. They encounter a variety of released oddities on their path to identifying the saboteur: an invisible Hollywood fan-boy, a party animal wolf-man, and a group of German gremlins who fix 8-Bit arcade machines. The motley crew tracks the culprit across the country to prevent Armageddon. In the end, the Inspectres' heart and persistence prove exactly why they are the ones who "...fight the forces of darkness so you don't have to!"
"In a world where ghosts, ghouls, and goblins are a common place, the InSpectres are the only exterminators capable of eliminating these supernatural nuisances! After a run in with a zombie, Lucas joins the InSpectres as an agent in training. He, his mentor Tracey, and company embark on eerily funny adventure aimed at re-capturing entities freed from a government holding facility by a corporate saboteur. They encounter a variety of released oddities on their path to identifying the saboteur: an invisible Hollywood fan-boy, a party animal wolf-man, and a group of German gremlins who fix 8-Bit arcade machines. The motley crew tracks the culprit across the country to prevent Armageddon. In the end, the Inspectres' heart and persistence prove exactly why they are the ones who "...fight the forces of darkness so you don't have to!"
I don't want to say that I was disappointed with Riddick -- which premiered theatrically on this day in 2013 -- but, to put it bluntly, I was disappointed with Riddick. Don't get me wrong: I'm all for giving a guy a dog (I have a few of them myself), but so much of the film felt like it was two different motion pictures trying to compete with one another. The end result? It was all a bit messy and derivative, though it did give the loner a conjugal visit with no less than Katee Sackhoff. In any event, here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Left for dead on a sun-scorched planet, Riddick finds himself up against an alien race of predators. Activating an emergency beacon alerts two ships: one carrying a new breed of mercenary, the other captained by a man from Riddick's past."
"Left for dead on a sun-scorched planet, Riddick finds himself up against an alien race of predators. Activating an emergency beacon alerts two ships: one carrying a new breed of mercenary, the other captained by a man from Riddick's past."
On this day in 2013 (in France), the 1978-produced Starcrash enjoyed a special screening for audiences of the L'Étrange Festival. Written (in part) and directed by Luigi Cozzi, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Caroline Munro, Marjoe Gornter, and Christopher Plummer; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An outlaw smuggler and her alien companion are recruited by the Emperor of the Galaxy to rescue his son and destroy a secret weapon by the evil Count Zarth Arn."
For the record:
At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Starcrash received a nomination in the category of 'Best Foreign Film.'
"An outlaw smuggler and her alien companion are recruited by the Emperor of the Galaxy to rescue his son and destroy a secret weapon by the evil Count Zarth Arn."
For the record:
At the 1980 Saturn Awards sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films, Starcrash received a nomination in the category of 'Best Foreign Film.'
A star is born!
On this day in 2016 (in Italy), The Bad Batch enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Written and directed by Ana Lily Amirpour, the Horror/Fantasy starred Suki Waterhouse, Jason Momoa, Jayda Fink, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a desert dystopia, a young woman is kidnapped by cannibals."
"In a desert dystopia, a young woman is kidnapped by cannibals."
A star is born!
On this day in 2018 (in Portugal), audiences in attendance of the MOTELX - Lisbon International Horror Film Festival were treated to the very first theatrical exhibition of Mutant Blast. Written (in part) and directed by Fernando Alle, the SciFi/Comedy starred Pedro Barão Dias, Maria Leite, João Vilas, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
"Maria, a fearless soldier, and TS-347, a man with superhuman strength, are being pursued by a military cell responsible for scientific experiments that have resulted in a zombie apocalypse."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mutant Blast enjoyed a wealth of praise while playing on the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2019 (in Germany), the 1990-produced Demonstone (aka Deathstone) enjoyed an all-new home video release. Directed by Andrew Prowse from a story by Frederick Bailey, David Phillips, and John Trayne, the film starred R. Lee Ermey, Nancy Everhard, Jan-Michael Vincent, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two U.S. Marine investigators looking into a series of grisly murders in Manila discover that the crimes are tied to an amulet with a 400-year-old curse on it that has unleashed supernatural forces which can possess people."
"Two U.S. Marine investigators looking into a series of grisly murders in Manila discover that the crimes are tied to an amulet with a 400-year-old curse on it that has unleashed supernatural forces which can possess people."
A star is born!
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the big screen launch of Eternal Code. Written and directed by Harley Wallen, the SciFi/Thriller starred Richard Tyson, Scout Taylor-Compton, Billy Wirth, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Eternal life technology (transferring mind to new body) is developed by 2 companies. Resistance to the merger of the 2 companies is met with kidnapping and murder."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Eternal Code earned a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
"Eternal life technology (transferring mind to new body) is developed by 2 companies. Resistance to the merger of the 2 companies is met with kidnapping and murder."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Eternal Code earned a wee bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
A star is born!
On this day in 2023 (in Germany), audiences in attendance of the Fantasy Filmfest were treated to the glorious theatrical premiere of Night Of The Hunted. Written (in part) and directed by Franck Khalfoun, the film starred Camille Rowe, Jeremy Scippio, Stasa Stanic, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A woman stops at a remote gas station in the middle of the night and becomes the target of a sociopathic sniper with a secret vendetta."
"A woman stops at a remote gas station in the middle of the night and becomes the target of a sociopathic sniper with a secret vendetta."
On this day in 1966 (in Canada), Star Trek aired "The Man Trap." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. McCoy discovers his old flame is not what she seems after crew members begin dying from a sudden lack of salt in their bodies."
"Dr. McCoy discovers his old flame is not what she seems after crew members begin dying from a sudden lack of salt in their bodies."
On this day in 1967 (in the U.S.), Irwin Allen's Lost In Space premiered its third (and final) season with an hour titled "Condemned Of Space." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Robinsons leave their planet to escape a collision with a comet and find a ship full of frozen convicts."
"The Robinsons leave their planet to escape a collision with a comet and find a ship full of frozen convicts."
On this day in 1975 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Terror Of The Zygons: Part 2." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's thirteenth season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Zygon traps the Doctor and Sarah in a decompression chamber while Harry is taken to the aliens' underwater ship."
"The Zygon traps the Doctor and Sarah in a decompression chamber while Harry is taken to the aliens' underwater ship."
On this day in 1986 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who returned to the airwaves with the premiere of its twenty-third season. Officially, the adventure was titled "Trial of a Timelord: Part 1," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor is put on trail by the Time Lords again. The first of two events from his resent past is presented as evidence of his interference in the affairs of other worlds. In particular, his actions on planet Ravalox."
"The Doctor is put on trail by the Time Lords again. The first of two events from his resent past is presented as evidence of his interference in the affairs of other worlds. In particular, his actions on planet Ravalox."
It all began right here: on this day in 1987 (in the United Kingdom), Knights Of God aired the very first episode of its single broadcast season existence. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The year is 2020. After a civil war, Britain is being ruled by the Knights of God. But plans are being made for a rebellion - with a young man being singled out for a mysterious, but vital, role."
"The year is 2020. After a civil war, Britain is being ruled by the Knights of God. But plans are being made for a rebellion - with a young man being singled out for a mysterious, but vital, role."
On this day in 1988 (in the United Kingdom), Red Dwarf aired "Kryten." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second season. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The Red Dwarf crew intercepts a SOS distress call from the American Space cruiser "Nova 5", that has crashed on a moon. They find the only survivor is Kryten, an android butler, whose favorite TV show is 'Androids'."
"The Red Dwarf crew intercepts a SOS distress call from the American Space cruiser "Nova 5", that has crashed on a moon. They find the only survivor is Kryten, an android butler, whose favorite TV show is 'Androids'."
On this day in 1989 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who premiered what would be its twenty-sixth and final season (of the original run) for the BBC. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for "Battlefield: Part 1":
"Knights from a parallel universe arrive on Earth to find the legendary sword Excalibur. And only the Doctor and Ace with the assistance of Brigadier Lethbridge Stewart and save the Earth from total catastrophe."
"Knights from a parallel universe arrive on Earth to find the legendary sword Excalibur. And only the Doctor and Ace with the assistance of Brigadier Lethbridge Stewart and save the Earth from total catastrophe."
It all began right here: on this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Superman: The Animated Series soared onto the small screen. The first episode was titled "The Last Son Of Krypton: Part 1," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jor-El, unable to convince the Kryptonian government of the pending destruction of the planet, plans to save his son while Brainiac makes him a fugitive."
"Jor-El, unable to convince the Kryptonian government of the pending destruction of the planet, plans to save his son while Brainiac makes him a fugitive."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Superman: The Animated Series aired "The Last Son Of Krypton: Part 2." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Young Clark Kent learns of his alien past, as well as his full power, and decides to move to Metropolis to be both reporter and superhero."
"Young Clark Kent learns of his alien past, as well as his full power, and decides to move to Metropolis to be both reporter and superhero."
On this day in 1996 (in the U.S.), Superman: The Animated Series aired "The Last Son Of Krypton: Part 3." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After saving Lois, Superman stops Lex Luthor's plans for an illegal arms deal, which is the beginning of their ongoing conflict."
"After saving Lois, Superman stops Lex Luthor's plans for an illegal arms deal, which is the beginning of their ongoing conflict."
On this day in 2002 (in the U.S.), Justice League aired "Injustice For All: Part 1." Officially, this served as the eighteenth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Arrested and terminally ill, Lex Luthor breaks out of prison to assemble a team of supervillains to help him destroy the Justice League."
"Arrested and terminally ill, Lex Luthor breaks out of prison to assemble a team of supervillains to help him destroy the Justice League."
On this day in 2003, Mobile Suit Gundam Seed aired "The Nightmare's Return." Officially, this served as the forty-seventh episode of the program'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."
"A war is under way between genetically enhanced Coordinators and unmodified Naturals."
On this day in 2003 (in the U.S.), the cult series Starhunter aired "Spaceman." Officially, this served as the fifth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Travis and his crew salvage a sarcophagus floating in space, only to find that the life form inside has bioengineered powers that contaminate everyone he touches."
"Travis and his crew salvage a sarcophagus floating in space, only to find that the life form inside has bioengineered powers that contaminate everyone he touches."
On this day in 2014, Doctor Who aired "Robot of Sherwood." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's eighth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In Sherwood forest, the Doctor finds an evil plan from outer space and makes an alliance with Robin Hood. With Nottingham at stake, the Doctor must decide who is real and who is fake."
"In Sherwood forest, the Doctor finds an evil plan from outer space and makes an alliance with Robin Hood. With Nottingham at stake, the Doctor must decide who is real and who is fake."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Zoo aired "Pangaea." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team rushes to Pangea to find the Saber Tooth Cat to complete the cure. Davies makes his move with the TX-Gas."
"The team rushes to Pangea to find the Saber Tooth Cat to complete the cure. Davies makes his move with the TX-Gas."
On this day in 2016 (in the U.S.), Zoo aired "Clementine." Officially, this served as the thirteenth episode in the program's second season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The team races the clock to find Clementine and vaccinate her before the TX gas reaches the general population."
"The team races the clock to find Clementine and vaccinate her before the TX gas reaches the general population."
On this day in 2017 (in the U.S.), Salvation aired "All In." Officially, this served as the eleventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Grace and Harris must forge an alliance when their children's lives are in jeopardy. Also, Liam presents Jillian with an unusual proposal."
"Grace and Harris must forge an alliance when their children's lives are in jeopardy. Also, Liam presents Jillian with an unusual proposal."
