Blake's 7 - Knowledge (XXG)

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eventually revealed to be a Federation agent. The theme of loyalty and trust reaches its maximum during Blake and Avon's final encounter in the last episode ("Blake"); Blake, by now very paranoid, has been masquerading as a bounty hunter collaborating with the Federation as a front for his activities in recruiting and testing potential allies in the struggle and this causes Avon and the others to suspect him when Tarrant accuses Blake of betraying them; an ironic miscommunication between Avon and Blake precipitates the disastrous events that conclude the episode. If Blake and his crew represent Robin Hood and his Merry Men, then the Federation forces, personified by the obsessive, psychopathic Space Commander Travis and his superior, the beautiful but ruthless Supreme Commander Servalan, represent

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the leader of an influential group of political activists opposed to the Federation's Earth Administration. Blake was arrested, brainwashed and coerced into making a confession denouncing the rebellion. His memory of those years was then blocked. Foster wants Blake to rejoin the dissidents. Suddenly, the meeting is interrupted by the arrival of Federation security forces, who shoot and kill the crowd of rebels. Blake, the only survivor, returns to the city, where he begins to remember his past. He is arrested, tried on false charges of child molestation and sentenced to deportation to the prison planet Cygnus Alpha.

635:, her parents were murdered when she was a child on her home planet of Gauda Prime. She joins the group after she is betrayed by her partner Dorian. No-one can match her speed at drawing a gun. Soolin's logical and cynical attitude proves an asset to her colleagues. On several occasions, her quick thinking and prescient actions save the crew from perishing, overpowering the assassin Cancer and surviving the Betafarl Conspiracy. Barber had also previously played the role of a Mutoid in series 1 (episode 9: "Project Avalon"). 5000: 723:(second series). Travis is a dedicated and ruthless Federation officer, with the rank of Space Commander. His left eye and arm were destroyed by Blake, and replaced with an eye patch and a prosthetic arm fitted with a concealed weapon. Travis is known for treating his troops well and leading them personally, but also for his ruthlessness and contempt for human life. After his trial and conviction for killing civilians, Travis becomes increasingly obsessed with killing Blake. 601:(series 3–4). The daughter of former dissident Hal Mellanby, Dayna is an expert in weapons technology. She is adept at designing mechanized weapons, but also appreciates the nobility of what she describes as more 'primitive' combat. Brave and loyal, but at times reckless and naïve, she often successfully challenges men who are supposedly accomplished fighters. Her vendetta against Servalan (who murdered her father) motivates her to endorse Avon's fighting of the Federation. 1282:, an experienced BBC director, was assigned to produce the series and Chris Boucher was engaged as script editor. Nation was commissioned to write the thirteen episodes. Boucher's task was to expand and develop Nation's first drafts into workable scripts, but this became increasingly difficult as Nation started running out of ideas. Meanwhile, Maloney was struggling with the low budget available given the need for action and special effects. Despite these challenges 1290:

ratings declined compared to the first series, the BBC commissioned a third. When Gareth Thomas and Sally Knyvette decided not to return, new characters were required so that the story could continue without its titular character. Suggestions for a replacement actor for Blake were rejected and Avon became more prominent in the story. New characters Del Tarrant, portrayed by Steven Pacey, and Dayna Mellanby, portrayed by Josette Simon, were introduced.

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abilities. In their attempts to stay ahead of their enemies and inspire others to rebel, they encounter a great variety of cultures on different planets, and are forced to confront human and alien threats. Blake's group suffer losses and casualties, and recruit newer members to join them. They perform a campaign against the totalitarian Terran Federation until an intergalactic war occurs with aliens from the Andromeda galaxy. Blake disappears and

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giving credence to Tarrant's accusation that Blake has betrayed them to the Federation. Becoming very suspicious of Blake, Avon kills him. Arlen reveals that she is a Federation officer and Federation guards arrive. Tarrant, Soolin, Vila, and Dayna are shot by Federation troops, who slowly surround Avon with their weapons pointed at him. Avon steps over Blake's body, raises his gun and smiles. Shots are heard over the end credits.

649:(series 2–4). Orac is a super-computer capable of reading any other computer's data and built by an inventor named Ensor. It uses a component called a Tariel cell—a universal computer component—and can access information stored on any computer that uses one. It can also control other computers. Orac dislikes work that it considers unnecessary, enjoys gathering information and has delusions of grandeur. 2546:, a Blu-ray box set containing the entire first series newly remastered for the release. The set contains bonus features previously seen on the DVD release of the show alongside brand new bonus material, such as optional updated special effects on all 13 episodes, a feature-length documentary detailing the making of the first series, rare convention footage and the previous unreleased 758:". His diverse crew includes a corrupt computer genius (Avon), a smuggler (Jenna), a thief (Vila), a murderer (Gan), a telepathic guerrilla soldier (Cally), the Liberator's computer (Zen) and another computer (Orac). Later additions were: a naïve weapons expert (Dayna), a mercenary (Tarrant), a gunslinger (Soolin) and the Scorpio's computer (Slave). While Blake intends to use 559:(series 1–4). Vila is a skilled thief, lock-picker and conjurer and is usually reluctant to risk his life. His behaviour is often cowardly, and although other crew members regard him as tiresome, he has a high IQ. He has weaknesses for alcohol and women, and apparently talks to himself at times. Vila is the only character to appear in every episode of the series. 591:, like all of her people, who can transmit thoughts silently to others. She later develops mind-reading, telekinesis and precognition abilities, but is also uniquely vulnerable to telepathic control by alien forces. Cally develops as the moral conscience of the group, especially for later episodes of series 2 and throughout series 3. 2539:, intended originally as an extra feature with each DVD release. B7 Enterprises said they " ... did not feel provided a proper tribute or fresh retrospective of the show". The discs contained extra features including bloopers, out-takes, alternative scenes, voiceover commentaries, interviews and behind the scenes footage. 778:, after Blake's disappearance after the events of "Star One", he uses it to pursue his own agenda, such as avenging his lost love Anna Grant. Later, Avon realises that he cannot escape the Federation's reach and that he must, like Blake, resist them. In this respect, by the end of the fourth series Avon has replaced Blake. 774:, in exploring Blake and his devotees' motives and the consequences of their actions. This is most evident in the episode "Star One", in which Blake must confront the reality that in achieving his goal of overthrowing the Federation, he will cause chaos and death for many innocent citizens. When Avon gains control of 1494:. He wrote "If you wanted to sum up the relative position of Britain and America in this century — the ebbing away of the pink areas of the map, the fading of national self-confidence as Uncle Sam proceeded to colonise the globe with fizzy drinks and Hollywood — you could do it like this: they had 2108:

announced that it had commissioned two 60-minute scripts for a potential series, working alongside B7 Productions. On 4 August 2010, the station said it had decided not to commission the series. B7 Productions said the decision was " ... obviously disappointing", but that the development process

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stated, " ... nice to hear the youngsters holding their breath in anticipation of a little terror". Reynolds elaborated, "Television science fiction has got too self-consciously jokey lately. It is also nice to have each episode complete within itself, while still carrying on the saga of Blake's

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of herself, but is thwarted when the embryos are destroyed. Avon decides to find the Federation agent who killed Anna Grant, his former lover. The group interrupts an attempt to eliminate Servalan and Avon discovers that Anna is alive and was previously a Federation agent named Bartolemew. Anna tries

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and its new crew to attack the Federation with the others, especially Avon, as reluctant followers. Blake's first target is a communications station on the planet Saurian Major. Blake infiltrates the station and is assisted by Cally, a telepathic guerrilla soldier from the planet Auron. Blake invites

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Roj Blake, a worker of high social status classified as "alpha-grade", lives in a domed city. Similar domes house most of the Earth's population. Blake is approached by a group of political dissidents who take him outside the city to meet their leader, Bran Foster. According to Foster, Blake was once

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then leads the group. When their spacecraft is destroyed and another group member is killed, the survivors commandeer another craft (which they enhance with superior technology), and a secret base on a distant planet from which they continue their campaign. In the final episode, Avon finds Blake and,

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to strike against the Federation, the others are often reluctant soldiers—especially Avon. Blake and Avon's clashes over the command represent a conflict between idealism and cynicism, emotion and rationality, and dreams and practicality. Similar conflicts occur between other characters; the courage

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for more than ten years. The same recording of Simpson's theme was used for the beginning titles of all four series of the programme. For the fourth series, a new recording was made for the closing credits that used an easy listening-style arrangement. Simpson also provided the incidental music for

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The composition of the titular "seven" changes throughout the series. The initial group—Blake, Vila, Gan, Jenna, Avon, and Cally—included Zen as the seventh member. At the end of the first series, they capture a supercomputer named Orac. Gan is killed during the second series, after which Blake and

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with a transparent rear globe. This was re-released the following year in silver with a model space shuttle, and in blue on its own. Also during 1979, Blue Box Toys produced three space vehicle toys that featured the series logo; however, these had never appeared in the television programme. Comet

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serials, the BBC had created a popular sci-fi/fantasy show along adult lines". His review concludes "Ultimately, the one force the rebels could not overcome proved to be the BBC's long-standing apathy towards science fiction. However, the bloody finale, in which Avon murders Blake, exemplified the

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made considerable use of audio effects that are described in the credits as "special sound". Many electronically generated sound effects were used, ranging from foley-style effects for props including handguns, teleport sounds, spacecraft engines, flight console buttons and background atmospheres.

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crew gain the formula for an antidote to Pylene-50 but this cannot reverse the drug's effects. Avon finds a way to synthesise the antidote and the crew attempt to create an alliance between independent worlds to resist the Federation and get the resources and manpower to mass-produce the Pylene-50

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to a prison planet. En route, he and two fellow prisoners, treated as expendable, are sent to board and investigate an abandoned alien spacecraft found drifting in space. They get the ship working, commandeer it, rescue two more prisoners, and are later joined by an alien guerrilla with telepathic

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to wage war on the Federation. He is passionately opposed to the Federation's injustice and corruption, and prepared to accept loss of life in pursuit of its destruction. He thinks nothing of placing himself in danger to protect his crew or advance his cause. Although Blake is respected by many of

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Four series of thirteen 50-minute episodes were made, and first broadcast in the United Kingdom between January 1978 and December 1981 by BBC1. They are set in the third century of the second calendar (this is mentioned in associated publicity material, not in the series) and at least 700 years in

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magazine, which included a comic strip by Ian Kennedy as well as text stories, features and photographs. Twenty-five issues including two 'specials' were published, until the magazine closed during August 1983. Marvel produced two 'special' magazines during 1994 and 1995, with much of the content

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is severely damaged during the battle with the Andromedans, forcing the crew to abandon ship whilst Zen carries out repairs. The Federation defeats the alien invaders but the cost considerably reduces its influence in the galaxy. Blake and Jenna go missing and Avon becomes the new leader. Two new

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when the Federation has been destroyed. Blake, Avon, Vila and Gan reach the control facility and find an empty room. Travis reveals that the computer facility was secretly relocated years before and the old location was left as a decoy. Blake and his crew escape but Travis throws a grenade in the

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While Blake is an idealistic freedom fighter, his associates are petty crooks, smugglers and killers. Avon is a technological genius who, while apparently motivated by self-preservation and wealth, consistently acts to help others. When Blake is separated from his crew, Avon becomes commander. At

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square in the sights of her plasmatic spasm guns. The secret of Blake's appeal, or Blakes appeal, for the otherwise infallibly fatale Servalan remained a mystery, like the actual wattage of light bulb on which the design of Blake's spaceship, or Blakes spaceship, was plainly based". Screenwriter

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gave a negative appraisal, calling it " ... classically awful British television SF ... no apostrophe in the title, no sense in the plot". He continued "The depraved space queen Servalan ... could never quite bring herself to volatilize the dimly heroic Blake even when she had him

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As Blake's attacks against the Federation become bolder, he has less success. Political pressure grows on the Administration with planetary commanders threatening to leave the Federation because of its inability to protect them from Blake's attacks. Rumours abound about Blake's heroism and other

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from the Federation banking system. He distrusts emotion, and he attempts to pursue a code based on logic and reason. This frequently causes conflict with Blake. He becomes a reluctant rebel and at times, he seems motivated by financial gain and shows his readiness to put companions in danger in

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The BBC engaged new writers for the subsequent series. It was decided that one of the regular characters should die, to demonstrate that Blake and his crew were not invincible. Gan, played by David Jackson, was chosen because Gan had been under-used and was the least popular character. Although

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and is injured during a crash landing. Blake arrives, rescues and takes Tarrant to his base and purportedly captures Tarrant as bounty. Tarrant thinks that Blake has betrayed the group and Blake lets Tarrant escape. Tarrant is nearly killed by Blake's colleagues when Avon and his crew save him,

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themes, strong characterisation, ambiguous morality and pessimistic tone, as well as displaying an "enormous sense of fun", but others have criticised its production values and dialogue, and accused it of lacking originality. It retains a sizeable and enthusiastic fan base, and was described in

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Blake meets a man named Ensor and discovers a plot by Servalan and Travis to seize a powerful computer named Orac, which is capable of communicating with any computer that uses a component called a Tariel Cell. Blake's crew suffers from radiation sickness but capture the device before Servalan

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and installed herself as president. She is later overthrown herself and presumed killed, but survives and adopts the pseudonym of Commissioner Sleer. She conducts a campaign of drug-induced pacification in order to regain territory for the Federation and her own position of power. Servalan is

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has acquired a credibility and popularity Terry Nation can never have expected ... I think it's to do with the sheer crappiness of the series and the crappiness it attributes to the universe: it is science-fiction for the disillusioned and ironic — and that is what makes it so very

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was not renewed again and the final episode had an ambiguous finale. Except for Blake, whose death was contractual, the characters were shown being attacked in such a way that their survival would have been possible had a fifth series been commissioned. The final episode, titled "Blake", was

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Loyalty and trust are important themes of the series. Avon is presented with several opportunities to abandon Blake. Many of Blake's schemes require co-operation and expertise from others. Characters are often betrayed by family and friends, especially Avon, whose former lover Anna Grant is

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first, Avon believes the Federation has been destroyed; he becomes tired of killing, and seeks rest. However, by the middle of the third series, Avon realises that the Federation is expanding again, faster than originally realised, and he resumes the fight. The BBC had planned to conclude

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is recaptured by the people that built it and Orac's prophecy is fulfilled when it destroys an identical space vehicle. Blake wants to attack the heart of the Federation and he targets the main computer control facility on Earth. Avon agrees to help on the condition that Blake gives him

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budgeted at between five and six million U.S. dollars. Darrow would play Avon and the series was to be televised during early 2005, depending on " ... many factors, not least financing". Paul Darrow subsequently left the project during December 2003, citing "artistic differences".

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at Space Command Headquarters aboard a space station. Blake decides to restore his group's reputation and attacks the space station but Travis escapes and continues his vendetta against Blake. Blake seeks the new location of the computer control facility. He learns that it is named

611:(series 3–4). Tarrant is an expert pilot who trained with the Federation before beginning illegal activities. He is ruthless and charming, and often challenges Avon's leadership. He also takes advantage of the cowardice of Vila, whom he bullies into performing his instructions. 2270:

was featured on the album sleeve. Another version of the theme, "Blake's 7 Disco", was recorded by Federation and released during 1979 on Beeb Records with a B-side unconnected with the series. Many of the sound effects from the series were released during 1981 as an album,

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in episodic order on 26 VHS cassettes with two episodes per tape. Canadian company BFS also released these in North America. During 1997 Fabulous Films company re-released these tapes in different packaging. The BBC and Fabulous Films planned to issue the series as four

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novels at a rate of two per year. During January 2013 Big Finish released an initial full-cast audio production, Warship. This was followed during January 2014 with a series of six full-cast single-disc original stories, with a second series starting in November 2014.

1027:. Servalan often co-opts Travis for her personal projects and uses Blake as a cover for her own activities. When Travis repeatedly fails to eliminate Blake, Servalan does not assign the task to another officer and does not use more resources to eliminate him. 699:. Servalan began her service career as a cadet, and eventually becomes Supreme Commander of the Terran Federation. Her desire for power began at the age of eighteen when her lover abandoned her. Shortly before the Intergalactic War, Servalan conducted a 4594: 2364:, published by Target during 1982, is a factual overview of the series with a detailed episode guide, an encyclopedia, and interviews with the cast and writers. It was re-issued by Virgin Books during 1994. Attwood also wrote an original novel named 443:

system that enables transport to the surface of planets. Blake and his crew begin a campaign to damage the Federation, but are pursued by Space Commander Travis—a Federation soldier—and Servalan, the Supreme Commander and later Federation President.

663:, Zen controls the craft's secondary systems, including the battle and guidance computers. It is susceptible to interference from outside influences, such as Orac. It is considered a character in its own right. It is rendered nonfunctional after 621:(series 1–2). Having killed the Federation guard who murdered his girlfriend, Gan has been implanted with an electronic "limiter" device which prevents him from ever killing again. However, he is courageous, strong and dedicated to Blake's cause. 1968:, which would be " ... a series of exciting, character-driven tales that remain true to the original TV series. We're aiming for authenticity—recreating the wonder of 1978 all over again!" The company also said it would publish a series of 1479:

struggle against the 1984-ish Federation. But is that dark-haired telepathic alien girl, the latest addition to Blake's outer-space merry men, going to spell love trouble for blonde Jenna? Maid Marian never had that trouble in Sherwood Forest."

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set 20 years after the finale of the original series. During July 2003, Sewell announced that he, Paul Darrow and Simon Moorhead had formed a consortium called 'B7 Enterprises' that had acquired the rights and was planning a television

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described the series as "oft-derided" and "gloriously low budget" but "a genuine classic". He added "this was superior drama performed by consummate professionals who made it believable by being 100 per cent committed to the material.

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Booby traps, set by Servalan in her underground complex on Terminal, explode and Cally is killed. Avon, Tarrant, Vila and Dayna escape with Orac and are rescued by Dorian, a salvage operator. Dorian takes the crew in his spacecraft,

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of Blake and Avon compared with Vila's cowardice, or Avon and Jenna's scepticism of Blake's ideals compared with Gan's unswerving loyalty, Blake's mass murdering methods compared with Avon's targeted and less destructive methods.

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sends the expendable Blake, Avon, and Jenna across to the ship. Blake defeats the defence system when it tries to use memories he recently discovered were false. With Jenna as pilot, the three convicts escape in the alien craft.

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s crew plot a course to avoid the combat zone and continue their voyage. They encounter a strange alien craft, board it and attempt to salvage it but are thwarted by the alien ship's defence mechanism. The commander of the

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has been irreparably damaged after flying through a cloud of corrosive fluid particles. As Servalan leaves Terminal, the ship explodes and Servalan is apparently killed as she attempts to escape by teleporting away.

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episodes including "Duel", "Deliverance", "City at the Edge of the World" and "Terminal". Although not explicitly stated, some publicity material for the series refers to the Federation as having developed after a

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stations. Location shooting was also extensive with shooting occurring mostly in southern England. Notable location shots include episode eleven, of the first series, "Bounty", where the production was filmed at

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and other science fiction, was also critical. He described "the very few bits I've seen" as "paralytically awful", saying that "the dialogue/characterisation seemed to consist of a kind of childish squabbling".

4604: 2161:. Nation and his agent Roger Hancock discussed this with Ray Williams of BBC Merchandising in December 1976. By May 1977, twenty-seven items of merchandise had been proposed for release by companies including 381:

format starting 1991 and re-released during 1997, and as four DVD boxed sets between 2003 and 2006. The BBC produced two audio dramas during 1998 and 1999 that feature original cast members and broadcast by

1274:

in a moment of inspiration during a pitch meeting with Ronnie Marsh, a BBC drama executive. Marsh was intrigued and immediately commissioned a pilot script. When he had seen the draft, Marsh approved

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movie in which a disparate group of convicts are sent on a suicide mission during World War II. This influence shows in that some of Blake's devotees are escaped convicts (Avon, Vila, Gan and Jenna).

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has been mooted for some years. Terry Nation raised the possibility on a number of occasions and proposed that a new series would be set some years after the existing one. Avon, living in exile like

549:

order to protect himself. He has an ambiguous and sometimes playful relationship with Servalan. Avon appears in 51 of the series' 52 episodes, being absent only in the first episode, "The Way Back".

428:, he and fellow prisoners Jenna Stannis, Vila Restal, and Kerr Avon break free and escape on a technologically advanced alien spacecraft, which its central computer 'Zen' informs them is named 4447: 5153: 5143: 464:

at the end of its third series, but a further series was commissioned unexpectedly. Some changes to the programme's format were necessary, such as the introduction of a new spacecraft,

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additions, weapons expert Dayna Mellanby and mercenary Del Tarrant, join the crew. Avon is less inclined than Blake to attack the Federation but Servalan realises that if she captures

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Gareth Thomas made a final appearance as Blake and insisted that his character be killed in a definitive manner. Although the fourth series performed satisfactorily in the ratings,

791:. Chris Boucher incorporated lines from Westerns into the scripts, much to the delight of Paul Darrow, an enthusiast of the genre. The final episode, "Blake", was inspired by 5203: 1706: 953:

suspecting him of betraying the group, kills him. The group is then shot by Federation guards, who surround Avon in the final scene as shots are heard over the end credits.

5198: 5178: 2640: 1842:. Paul Darrow, Michael Keating, Steven Pacey, Peter Tuddenham and Jacqueline Pearce reprised their television roles, but Josette Simon and Glynis Barber were replaced by 1023:

rebel groups use his name for their actions. Supreme Commander Servalan appoints Space Commander Travis, who has a vendetta against Blake, to eliminate Blake and capture

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and kill Travis but the gap in the barrier allows the aliens to invade. Jenna calls for help from the Federation, where Servalan has conducted a military coup, imposed

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Jenna disappear and are replaced by new characters Dayna and Tarrant. At the start of the fourth series, Cally dies and is replaced by Soolin. After the destruction of

1113:

and declared herself President. Servalan dispatches the Federation's battle fleets to repel the invaders, who begin to breach the barrier. With Blake badly wounded,

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have infiltrated it. Vila discovers a fleet of alien spacecraft beyond the barrier. Travis partially disables the barrier. Blake and his crew overcome the aliens at

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on the front cover. A stereo re-recording of Dudley Simpson's theme music, in a markedly different arrangement to the original, was also released as a single, with

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dealt with its dissidents. Explorations of totalitarianism in the series are not confined to the Federation—totalitarian control through religion ("Cygnus Alpha"),

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During 1985 BBC Video issued four compilation videocassettes containing highlights from the first three series edited into 2 hour features. The first released was

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approaches Gauda Prime and is attacked. The crew, except Tarrant, use the teleport to abandon the damaged craft. Slave is damaged, Tarrant remains aboard to pilot

1231:. Deposed as President of the Federation, she is using the pseudonym Commissioner Sleer and is enacting a pacification programme using a drug named Pylene-50. The 5148: 2273: 2109:

has resulted in the " ... dynamic reinvention of this branded series". It said it was confident it would find another partner to develop a new version of

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was not expected to be recommissioned after the third series and there was surprise when during 1980 a further series was announced as the third series ended.

573:. She has a great deal of affection for Blake, and is loyal to him once he gains her trust. In earlier episodes, Jenna often maintains her opinions stubbornly. 4531: 1147:

to shoot Avon in the back but Avon kills her and frees Servalan. Servalan lures Avon into a trap using a faked message from Blake. Servalan finally captures

841:. This is most evident in the nature of the Federation, whose methods of dealing with Blake in the first episode, "The Way Back", including brainwashing and 3732: 4198: 5183: 373:

merchandise was issued, and books, magazines and annuals published. The BBC released music and sound effects from the series, and several companies made

3447:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Maloney, David (director — uncredited). (1980) "Powerplay" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3421:

Boucher, Chris (writer) & Maloney, David (director — uncredited). (1979) "Star One" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

1696:

at 16th place, with the magazine commenting that "twenty years on, TV SF is still mapping the paths first explored by Terry Nation's baby". During 2005

1227:

crew become concerned about the speed at which the Federation is reclaiming its former territory and discover that Servalan survived the destruction of

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programme's strengths — fearless narratives, credible but surprising character development and an enormous sense of fun." In 2015 Tim Stanley of

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box sets, but this was disrupted by conflicts with rights-holders B7 Enterprises. These issues were resolved and one series per year was released on

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held nothing remotely original. The outlaw group resisting a powerful and corrupt regime is an idea familiar from Robin Hood and beyond." He added "

1502: ... No 'boldly going' here: instead, we got the boot stamping on a human face which George Orwell offered as a vision of humanity's future in 879: 3382:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Spenton-Foster, George (director). (1979) "Pressure Point" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3616: 3820: 1686:

placed the series 25th in popularity, despite then only having recently begun to be broadcast in the US. A similar poll in Britain conducted for

4175: 3343:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1978) "Seek-Locate-Destroy" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

1236:

antidote. One of the alliance members, Zukan, betrays the alliance to Servalan and detonates explosives on Xenon base, which is damaged and the

5050: 4455: 3538:

Follet, Jim (writer) & Proudfoot, David Sullivan (director). (1981) "Stardrive" (television series episode). In Lorrimer, Vere (producer),

1304:

and enjoyed it greatly. He telephoned the presentation department and ordered them to make the announcement. As David Maloney was unavailable,

3486:

Boucher, Chris (writer) & Cumming, Fiona (director). (1980) "Rumours of Death" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3473:

Parkes, Roger (writer) & Morgan, Andrew (director). (1980) "Children of Auron" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

943:

played the eponymous character Roj Blake, a political dissident who is arrested, tried and convicted on false charges, and then deported from

4687: 4153: 3291:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Briant, Michael E. (director). (1978) "The Way Back" (Television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3276: 3045: 4007: 1090:

begins to malfunction, Servalan also becomes desperate to find its location. The facility's failure causes many problems in the Federation.

853:("The Web") and technology ("Redemption") are also portrayed. Such authoritarian dystopias are common in Terry Nation's work, including his 5173: 3887: 925:

on Earth. Noting the series's distinctive aesthetic, an academic concluded: "At its best, Blake's 7 had a peculiar intensity all its own".

1341:, and the two wanted to be 'briefly crossing paths' with one another before going their separate ways. Ultimately, the idea was scrapped. 390:

has been revived with two series of audio dramas, a comedic short film, and a series of fan-made audio plays involving the original cast.

3330:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Roberts, Pennant (director). (1978) "Time Squad" (Television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3317:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1978) "Cygnus Alpha" (Television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3304:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Roberts, Pennant (director). (1978) "Space Fall" (Television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

4033: 3551:

Masters, Simon (writer) & Ritelis, Viktors (director). (1981) "Warlord" (television series episode). In Lorrimer, Vere (producer),

3369:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1979) "Redemption" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

1533:

s triumph lay in its vivid characters, its tight, pacey plots and its satisfying realism...For arguably the first time since the 1950s

677:(series 4). Introduced during the fourth series, Slave was built and programmed by Dorian and is the master computer of Dorian's ship, 4595:"Syfy to Develop Cult Adventure Classic 'Blake's 7'; 'Casino Royale's' Martin Campbell to Direct, 'Heroes' Joe Pokaski to Write Pilot" 3460:

Prior, Allan (writer) & McCarthy, Desmond (director). (1980) "Volcano" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3434:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1980) "Aftermath" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3408:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1979) "Countdown" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

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B7 Enterprises announced on 31 October 2005 that it had appointed Drew Kaza as non-executive chairman, and that it was working on two

799: 3686: 681:. It has a cringing personality, frequently apologetic and obsequious, and addresses Avon as 'master' and others as 'sir' or 'madam'. 4745: 4282: 3946: 3921: 3851: 3395:

Boucher, Chris (writer) & Martinus, Derek (director). (1979) "Trial" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

3243: 3218: 3165: 3140: 3112: 3079: 3013: 2959: 2905: 2863: 2832: 2797: 2765: 2694: 4335: 4500: 4391: 4309: 3499:

Nation, Terry (writer) & Ridge, Mary (director). (1980) "Terminal" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

2145:. Other media reported that a full-series order of thirteen episodes had been placed. Again, however, no new series materialised. 971:

Whilst awaiting deportation from Planet Earth, Blake meets thief Vila Restal and smuggler Jenna Stannis. On board the prison ship

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Boucher, Chris (writer) & Ridge, Mary (director). (1981) "Rescue" (television series episode). In Lorrimer, Vere (producer),

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Nation, Terry (writer) & Lorrimer, Vere (director). (1978) "Orac" (television series episode). In Maloney, David (producer),

544:(series 1–4, leader of the crew in series 3–4). Avon is an electronics and computer expert who once attempted to steal 5 million 3564:

Boucher, Chris (writer) & Ridge, Mary (director). (1981) "Blake" (television series episode). In Lorrimer, Vere (producer),

406:

s narrative concerns the exploits of political dissident Roj Blake, who leads a small group of rebels against the forces of the

1243:

Avon tells the rest of the group that Orac has traced Blake to Gauda Prime, an agricultural planet. Blake is masquerading as a

5163: 4821: 2559: 1640: 1623: 3525:

Steed, Ben (writer) & Ridge, Mary (director). (1981) "Power" (television series episode). In Lorrimer, Vere (producer),

2122:

reported that a remake for US television networks was being developed by the independent studio Georgeville Television. The

1752:

entitled "Blake's Junction 7" debuted at several film festivals around the world. It was directed by Ben Gregor, written by

1682:

remains fairly well regarded. A poll of United States science-fiction writers, fans and critics for John Javna's 1987 book

529:(leader of the crew in series 1–2, guest appearances in series 3–4). Blake is a long-term political dissident who uses the 5080: 3765: 3659: 2616: 1165: 1126: 1048: 962: 934: 618: 289: 186: 90: 4790: 1432:

all of the episodes except for the Series One episode "Duel" and the Series Two episode "Gambit". "Duel" was directed by

4883: 4852: 3268: 351: 4653: 770:, whose influence on the series increased as it progressed, was inspired by Latin American revolutionaries, especially 377:

toys and models. Four video compilations were released between 1985 and 1990, and the entire programme was released in

1437: 1077:

After Gan's death, Blake considers the future of the rebellion, and Travis is convicted of war crimes by a Federation

418:, and drug pacification to control its citizens. Blake was arrested, tried on false charges, and deported to a remote 3070:

McCormack, Una (2006). "Resist the host: Blake's 7 – a very British future". In Cook, John R.; Wright, Peter (eds.).

1312:

and its computer Slave. Jan Chappell (who played Cally) decided that she did not want to return, and was replaced by

5109: 5096: 5043: 2734:

In the episode "Killer", a 700-year-old space ship is encountered, one of the first deep-space missions from Earth.

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offered a cheaper home-made alternative to fans who wanted merchandise. In its 23 February 1978 show, presenter

1981: 1773: 1450: 2387:

for 1979, 1980 and 1981. These featured stories, games, artwork and articles about space. During October 1981

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was very popular, with some episodes exceeding ten million viewers. A second series was quickly commissioned.

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in London. For indoor complexes, such as bases or command centre bunkers, filming often took place in local

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The series is set in a future age of interstellar travel and concerns the exploits of a group of outlaws.

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by Paul Darrow, told the story of Avon's early years before he met Blake, and was published during 1989.

1964:, under licence from B7 Productions, announced that it would be producing a series of audio dramas named 1581:. Moral clarity returned. The budgets ballooned. But, for my money, it was nowhere near as interesting." 1186:, to his base on the planet Xenon, where they meet his partner, Soolin. Dorian plans to drain the crew's 5138: 4064: 2789: 2368:, which is set after the final episode and was published by Target during 1984. Another original novel, 2360:

from the fourth series). Publications continued to be issued after the series had ended. Tony Attwood's

1977: 1035:

but Ensor dies when the power cells for his artificial heart are depleted before they are able to reach

940: 900: 872: 859: 783: 526: 321: 70: 5036: 1941:. The new series was broadcast by BBC Radio 7 and repeated during mid-2010 as three one-hour episodes: 4937: 4089:

Stevens, Toby; Tyler, Alan (Executive Producers) & Followell, Tony (Director) (12 December 2006).

5117: 4183: 1454: 1436:, who had a grudge against Simpson and refused to work with him, and so Camfield used library music. 1187: 906: 813: 670: 576: 4399: 3797: 2074: 2012: 1914: 1894: 1658: 1612: 1540: 894: 2550:

originally meant for the DVD release. The box set is planned to be released on 11 November 2024.

2222:

teleport bracelet from common household objects. This was followed on 6 June 1983, when presenter

474:

was watched by approximately 10 million people in the UK and was broadcast in 25 other countries.

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written by television historian Andrew Pixley and about how the series was made. Seven issues of

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controls a large defensive barrier that has prevented extra-galactic incursions. Blake discovers

833: 545: 331: 3828: 3603: 1354: 3131:

Muir, John Kenneth (2000). "The Jurassic Arc: Science Fiction Television's First Video Novel".

2824: 2814: 1953:(James Swallow). B7 Productions also produced series of 30-minute prequel audio episodes named 569:(series 1–2). Jenna is a former space smuggler and skilled pilot who becomes adept at piloting 5011: 4914: 4771: 4741: 4737: 4725: 4683: 4657: 4599: 4482: 4113: 4041: 3942: 3939:

A History and Critical Analysis of Blake's 7, the 1978-1981 British Television Space Adventure

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A History and Critical Analysis of Blake's 7, the 1978-1981 British Television Space Adventure

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A History and Critical Analysis of Blake's 7, the 1978-1981 British Television Space Adventure

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sold a four-series box set, but a casualty of the difficulties with Blake's 7 Enterprises was

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s sets and dresses were bright and gaudy but it was dark, dark melodrama." Stanley concluded "

1382: 1209: 922: 696: 584: 452:, the computer Zen is replaced by a new computer, Slave, on board their new commandeered ship 411: 226: 105: 2757: 2745: 1885:

On 11 December 2006 B7 Productions announced that it had recorded a series of 36 five-minute

1117:

by Avon's direction, alone until Servalan's battle fleets arrive, fights against the aliens.

975:, Blake meets convicted murderer Olag Gan and computer engineer and embezzler Kerr Avon. The 3644: 2686: 2674: 2528: 2094: 2017: 1926: 1433: 1102: 868: 3737: 3694: 2709:

The Federation introducing a 'new calendar' is mentioned in the episode Pressure Point). (

2524: 2131: 2062: 1976:

Several individuals and companies have produced unofficial material based upon Blake's 7.

1910: 1890: 1808:, would be persuaded by a new group of rebels to resume the fight against the Federation. 1757: 1742: 1554: 1484: 823: 771: 738: 674: 656: 646: 407: 347: 95: 4626: 4286: 3855: 2093:. Graham's concept was that a group of young rebels would rescue Avon, who had been kept 2036:

During April 2000 producer Andrew Mark Sewell announced that he had bought the rights to

1003:. They retrieve Vila and Gan, while Blake leaves the other prisoners. Blake wants to use 4339: 1333:

during its initial run, Gareth Thomas was open to the idea as he was close friends with

498: 487: 4999: 4563:"Martin Campbell And Georgeville TV Shop Reboot Of Cult U.K. Sci-Fi Series 'Blake's 7′" 4508: 4313: 2086: 2070: 1761: 1424: 793: 743: 720: 594: 566: 410:

Terran Federation that rules the Earth and many colonised planets. The Federation uses

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using the technology left behind by Dorian. Soolin joins the crew and they commandeer

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denied that it had been a conscious influence on the latter. Television playwright

354:. Critical responses have been varied; some reviewers praised the programme for its 4733: 4421: 3260: 2947: 2893: 2855: 2753: 2682: 2297: 2189:

in 1989, which contained many parts. They also produced a two-inch, white metallic

1938: 1934: 1918: 1906: 1871: 1847: 1843: 1765: 1688: 1672: 1590: 1558: 1519: 1151:

and maroons the crew on an artificial planet named Terminal but does not know that

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and Terry Nation, and published during 1978 (novelising the first-series episodes

386:. Although proposals for live-action and animated remakes have not been realised, 316:, who wrote nine of its episodes. The main character for the first two series was 2185:

Miniatures produced a nine-inch-long (23 cm) injection-moulded model kit of

2069:

was to be a 26-part children's animated adventure series written by Aaronovitch,

1374:. The Waterloo Tower in Quex Park was ex-president Sarkoff's residence in exile. 3621: 2223: 2215: 2127: 1998: 1922: 1839: 1831: 1753: 1663: 1585: 1420: 1398: 1358: 1297: 1110: 838: 604: 552: 541: 383: 335: 85: 3769: 3741:. London: Independent Digital News and Media Limited. p. 3. Archived from 3663: 1772:

and Peter Tuddenham. This parody depicted the characters taking a break at the

1031:

arrives. Blake offers to perform the operation to save Ensor's life aboard the

366:

s 40-year retrospective as "a bold show that wasn't afraid to break formulas".

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books were produced by various authors and publishers. The first was entitled

2210: 2046: 1749: 1630: 1534: 1394: 1390: 1386: 1378: 1349:

Interior spaceship sets and other indoor scenes were recorded on videotape at

1329: 1190:

and take Orac but is foiled by Vila. Avon completes a new teleport system for

888: 842: 751: 642: 632: 339: 4891: 4860: 4775: 4486: 4117: 3687:"Doctor Who Magazine issue 259, 17 December 1997 in Dr. Who/Douglas Camfield" 3190: 2987: 2720: 2652: 1039:. Aboard the ship, Orac predicts the craft's destruction in the near future. 4989: 3977:

Bradley, Dave, ed. (2005). "The Top 50 Greatest UK Telefantasy Shows Ever".

3793:"Blake's 7: the low-budget late 70s British sci-fi is now a genuine classic" 2520: 2388: 1776:

motorway service area. During 2006 the BBC produced a 30-minute documentary

1769: 1712: 1646: 1617: 1490: 1474: 1367: 1338: 1053: 949: 755: 588: 537: 424: 3617:"Gareth Thomas and Tom Baker wanted Blake's 7 to crossover with Doctor Who" 2153:

Terry Nation had done well financially from commercial exploitation of the

1850:

as Soolin. The story was set during the fourth series between the episodes

330:

was broadcast in 25 other countries. It had a low budget but featured many

1247:; his latest quarry is Arlen, whom he hopes to recruit for his rebellion. 4261: 2166: 2041: 1862:, which featured the same cast, producer and writer and was broadcast as 1801: 1781: 1652: 1385:

as the site of an alien mine. Additional location shooting took place at

850: 808: 692: 614: 439:

s speed and weaponry are superior to Federation craft, and it also has a

355: 5017: 5005: 2978:

Pixley, Andrew (October 2002). "Blake's 7. 'The Dirty Dozen in Space'".

2711:

Pixley, Andrew (October 2002). "Blake's 7. 'The Dirty Dozen in Space'".

2641:"Blake's 7: 40 years on, the dystopian sci-fi drama still packs a punch" 2591:—all episodes in all four series are available to view for subscribers. 2061:

was to be a two-part, three-hour mini-series, which would be written by

667:

is damaged by corrosive fluid particles, and is destroyed with the ship.

17: 5022: 3036:

Bignell, Jonathan; O'Day, Andrew (2004). "Nation, Space and Politics".

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magazine during 2003 for the top 100 cult television programmes scored

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Golder, Dave, ed. (April 1999). "The Top 50 SF TV Shows of All Time".

3676:

Details largely taken from documentary included Blake's 7 series 4 DVD

3040:. Manchester, England: Manchester University Press. pp. 113–178. 5028: 2170: 624: 4477:

Darlington, David (21 June 2006). "Script Doctors: Matthew Graham".

4217:"Radio 7 Programmes - Blake's 7: The Early Years, When Vila Met Gan" 4108:

Nazzaro, Joe (September 1992). "Terry Nation's Blake's 7 Part Two".

1700:

surveyed readers' top 50 British telefantasy shows of all time, and

1308:

became the producer. He introduced new characters, a new spacecraft

43: 2173:. However, only a small quantity of these was ever made available. 1984:, produced three unofficial audio cassettes between 1991 and 1998: 4719: 3181:

Nazzaro, Joe (August 1992). "Terry Nation's Blake's 7. Part One".

1957:, which explored the earlier histories of the central characters. 1561:

years with their piles of rubbish in the streets. Then along came

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s location and finds that, with help from Travis, aliens from the

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his crew members, Avon accuses him of fanaticism and recklessness.

343: 4717: 4715: 4713: 4711: 4709: 4707: 4705: 4703: 4701: 4699: 1060:, the alien starship used by Blake and his crew for series 1 to 3 4724:

Davies, Kevin; Attwood, Tony; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2938:

Attwood, Tony; Davies, Kevin; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2884:

Attwood, Tony; Davies, Kevin; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2848:

Attwood, Tony; Davies, Kevin; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2744:

Attwood, Tony; Davies, Kevin; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2673:

Attwood, Tony; Davies, Kevin; Emery, Rob; Ophir, Jackie (1994).

2511:. During 1990 all four tapes were re-released in the UK on VHS. 2157:

Daleks, and recognised the potential for merchandise related to

2142: 2123: 2105: 1838:

strand. The play was produced by Brian Lighthill and written by

1805: 1578: 1468:

received both positive and negative reviews. The fourth episode

1371: 846: 297: 250: 5032: 2040:

from the estate of Terry Nation, and was planning to produce a

878:

A common theme of Nation's science fiction is the depiction of

4448:"B7 Productions Press Release — Appointment of Drew Kaza" 3992:

Spilsbury, Tom (June 2003). "The Top 100 Cult TV Shows Ever".

3914: