For fans of classic science-fiction and fantasy films, Ray Harryhausen is an important guy. He was not the most prolific man in his time, but the visual-effects master produced some of the early greats, most notably Jason and the Argonauts and The 7th Voyage of Sinbad. The man had an eye for effects in an age where visual effects were just starting to emerge. The Saturn Awards (presented by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films) plans to give Harryhausen the George Pal Memorial Award at this year's 32nd annual awards festival on May 2nd.

The two flicks mentioned above are among my all-time favorites (particularly Jason and the Argonauts), and I can think of few men more deserving of special notice by the Saturn people. Harryhausen is something of a legend in the geek community, and I imagine nearly everyone out there agrees with this award. I'm just glad the 80-something year old is still around to receive it in person.