Reviews (3)

Blake got to free a President and Avon a hero?
The next thrilling volume of Blake 7 with titles Bounty and Deliverance
In the epsidoe called Bounty. Blake got a tip that the federation is holding a well known president until the right moment happens on his home world for the federation to use him as a tool for the federation in its ever gorwing conquest of other planets. Only a small detail of guards watch the grounds of the presidents home. Blake has high hopes to free him. Once they got him free they have to deal with a new threat. One that has found its way inside the Liberator and none of the crew can be found at all.
In Deliverance the Liberator watches a ship crash land on a planet that was torn apart by nuclear war. Blake decides to go down and see if thier are any suriviors. They only find two people one is the pilot badly hurt so they send him upto the Liberator to get medical help. The other was a doctor but the strange thing is he has a classified acess code and some strange battries in his medical kit. The pilot awakens to find himself on the Liberator he holds Blake and Cally hostage and force them to send him to a planet with the battries they find on the dead doctor. Meanwhile Avon, Gan, Villa and Jenna are stranded on this planet. Jenna captured by what reamins of the people on the planet after the war. Avon, Gan and Villa find a strange door once opened Avon is considered the chosen one by a woman who thinks he has come to save her people.

Plots and politics
Volume 6 of the "Blake's 7" videos contains 2 more episodes of this classic British sci-fi TV series. In the first episode, "Bounty," Blake and Cally engage in a mission to rescue the exiled president of a non-Federation planet, while the rest of the crew of the "Liberator" investigates a suspicious distress call. In the second episode, "Deliverance," Blake and his crew get entangled in Supreme Commander Servalan's plot to acquire Orac, the valuable invention of a brilliant scientist.

"Bounty" offers a fascinating glimpse into the politics of the B7 universe--we learn more about the ruthlessness of the totalitarian Federation, and about the difficulties faced by those worlds that resist it. "Bounty" also features a memorable guest performance by the actor playing the exiled leader. "Deliverance" is an intriguing tale of greed and conspiracy. In this episode, Servalan emerges as a forceful character in her own right--she is clearly more than just the icy master holding Travis' leash. These are definitely two memorable episodes in this engrossing sci-fi saga.

"Bounty" interesting; "Deliverance" a prelude to "Orac"
"Bounty" is classic first-year Blake. Blake spends the episode trying to convice a planet's leader to return to lead his people, but finds that the leader has basically given up on life, on himself and on leading. A trap is set for the rest of the crew and we are reminded that the members of Blake's crew are people who may or may not be loyal nor trustworthy. "Deliverance" is part one of a two-part tale leading up to the search for a supercomputer called Orac. Once again there are two storylines and the part with Avon and others on the planet's surface is intriguing. The other storyline is interesting, but features some of the most extreme over-acting I've ever seen by the actor who portrays the young Ensor. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This 1982, 180-minute television remake of the original MGM feature, produced 30 years before, is the rare makeover of a classic that works quite well under its own steam. Anthony Andrews plays the disinherited knight who returns from the Third Crusades and is determined to raise the ransom to free a kidnapped King Richard (Julian Glover). With his bid rebuffed by his estranged father (Michael Hordern), and the affection of the latter's ward, Rowena (Lysette Anthony), compromised, Ivanhoe looks toward the generosity of the beautiful Rebecca (Olivia Hussey)--whose father (James Mason) he rescued from anti-Semitic Normans--for help. But a plot by faithless friends to discredit Ivanhoe, and his subsequent partnership with Robin Hood (David Robb) to save the day, keep this story from slowing down even for a minute. Originally a miniseries, this production has enough breadth to provide lots of breathing room for the script and cast to mine all the drama they can from Sir Walter Scott's novel. This is also a great-looking movie, with wall-to-wall pageantry, superb costumes--the works. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Excellent Rendition of the Classic Sir Walter Scott Legend
Director Douglas Camfield somehow manages to bring this classic retelling of this Sir Walter Scott legend to life on a made for TV budget that few others have managed with much larger outlays. Much credit should be given here to this films's expert casting, and it's attention to detail in accurate costumes, and weaponry, heralding back to the golden days of chivalry, romance and thrilling swordplay! Anthony Andrews brings to life this version of Ivanhoe, the young Saxon knight devoted to his king and religious faith. James Mason and Olivia Hussey co-star in this classic tale of valiant warriors and beautiful damsels. When Ivahoe returns to 12th-century England after fighting with Richard the Lion-Hearted in the Crusades, he learns that his true love Rowena (beautifully portrayed by Lysette Anthony) has been betrothed to another and Richard's evil brother, Prince John, is intent on stealing his throne. Ivanhoe faces overwhelming odds in his fight to save Rowena and defeat the villainous Normans. Spectacular battles scenes, featuring some excellent knights-in-tournament footage rarely seen on film, and stirring heroics make this version of Ivanhoe a must see movie for history buffs of this time period. Excellent!!!

An entertaining yet thoughtful version of this classic tale
This made-for-tv movie shines with beautiful scenery and splendid acting. Anthony Andrews stars as the chivalrous Ivanhoe, but he is not even the center of the film much of the time. Two other characters, Sam Neill's Brian Gilbert and Oliva Hussey's Rebecca, keep the story going as much as the titled hero.

Some fascinating historical issues are explored here: the Saxon/Norman rivalry, the monarchy vs. the Church, medieval Christian prejudice against Jews, chivalry (there are several wonderfully detailed tournament scenes), and courtly love.

There are also several timeless issues explored, from prejudice (which emerges as a complex cultural issue here) to love. One might think that a television movie might simplify love stories, but there is a lot going on here. Even at the end of the movie, one wonders whether Brian died for love, whether Ivanhoe loves Rebecca or Rowena, and whether Rebecca loves Ivanhoes. There are no simple answers offered, as in real life.

All of this, and it still maintains an exciting and adventurous pace! This is a rich movie, worth watching over and over for the subtle details. Though not always historically accurate (King Richard emerges as a far too heroic monarch) it provides a glimpse of the rich tapestry that was medieval life.

This needs to be out on DVD ASAP!
This is really a great version -- I think it's hands down the best Ivanhoe! -- and tremendous fun, plus it's wonderful to watch Olivia Hussey. (The newer A&E production is pretty good, but the lead actor is so bland and, at 5 hours, it's just too long!)

Unfortunately the VHS tape of this 1982 version is as rare as hen's teeth and it needs to be released on DVD *now*!!

Since "The Scarlet Pimpernel" is (finally) out on DVD next month, I hope it won't be too long before it's joined by this fine miniseries. I'll be first in line to buy it.

Very Good Rendition of Sir Walter Scott's Classic Tale!
Director Douglas Camfield somehow manages to bring this classic retelling of this Sir Walter Scott classic to life on a made for TV budget that few others have managed with much larger outlays. Much credit should be given here to this films's expert casting, and its attention to detail in accurate costumes, and weaponry, heralding back to the golden days of chivalry, romance and thrilling swordplay! Anthony Andrews brings to life this version of Ivanhoe, the young Saxon knight devoted to his king and religious faith. James Mason and Olivia Hussey co-star in this classic tale of valiant warriors and beautiful damsels. When Ivanhoe returns to 12th-century England after fighting with Richard the Lion-Hearted in the Crusades, he learns that his true love Rowena (beautifully portrayed by Lysette Anthony) has been betrothed to another and Richard's evil brother, Prince John, is intent on stealing his throne. Ivanhoe faces overwhelming odds in his fight to save Rowena and defeat the villainous Normans. Spectacular battles scenes, featuring some excellent knights-in-tournament footage rarely seen on film, and stirring heroics make this version of Ivanhoe a must see for history buffs of this time period. Excellent!!!

Top Notch Television Miniseries
I have to admit that I am a sucker for stories like Robin Hood and Ivanhoe. And this television adaptation of Sir Walter Scott's book does NOT disappoint.

Anthony Andrews does a first-rate job as the title character, with fine performances by James Mason, Olivia Hussey and Lysette Anthony.

If you normally shy away from TV movies because production values are lacking, do not worry. Attention to details in costume and staging are first-rate. Can't say enough good things about this video. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Blake made a daring raid, So why is Gan going insane?
The next two episodes titled Project Avalon and Breakdown
In Project Avalon we find Blake and the others heading to a planet held by the federation. Blake intends to find the rebel leader in hopes to get more crew and possably a way to get the federation off his back. Travis and Servalan are already on the planet having captured the leader decide to make her the tool of Blake destruction. Blake telports down to the site where he was to meet her. All he finds is death. He figures out the federation has her. He makes a daring raid into the compund and gets her out alive. Blake wondering why all the guards missed while shooting at him or even why Travis didn't try and take his head off? Something is very wrong and if Blake can't figure out why soon then he and all the others on board the Liberator may just very well die.
In Breakdown Gan implanted chip which controls his aggression is breaking down. Gan losses all reason and attacks the crew. Blake knowing that none of them are docotrs can do nothing for him. Zen informs Blake that many planets and space stations with the right medical care for Gan are to far away. Excpet that Avon knows of a space station very close but they have to cross a part of space unkonwn even to Zen. They set course for the space station XK72. Gan holding onto dear life and Zen stops working and the crew have to fly by the seat of thier pants to get through. Once agin Blake does all he can to save the life of his fellow crewmen all the while the federation have found Blake and pursuit ships are hot on there heels.

The B7 universe further fleshed out
Volume 5 of the "Blake's 7" video series contains two more episodes of this classic British sci-fi TV series. These two episodes continue the interplanetary saga of Blake, the rebel leader who, together with a crew of convicts and outcasts, wages an unrelenting war against the tyrannical Federation.

In "Project Avalon," Federation officer Travis plots to use another rebel leader as a lure in order to capture Blake. This episode contains a good sci-fi plot device. In the next episode, "Breakdown," Blake's crewman Gan suffers a devastating medical emergency when his brain implant malfunctions. Blake seeks medical aid from a neutral research station. This episode offers a fascinating window into the politics and personal conflicts caused by the Federation's dominance of so many worlds. Together, these episodes exemplify the suspense, memorable dialogue, and intriguing characterizations that have made this series such a cult favorite. If you are a fan of great British science fiction, don't miss this volume in the "Blake's 7" saga.

"One of the many faces of neutrality."
Finally, two enjoyable Blake's 7 episodes running consecutively - meaning they are both on the same tape! "Project Avalon" and "Breakdown" are among the highlights of the series' first season - both are taut, suspenseful stories which plots that progress and develop. "Project Avalon" continues Blake's Robin Hood style quest against the Federation; this time he is coming to the aid of another high profile freedom fighter, Avalon. But she has been captured by Travis, and the rescue attempt begins. The fact that viewers have the foreknowledge that Travis is setting a trap for Blake, but are unaware of its exact nature, adds to the tension. While Stephen Greif's performance of Blake's nemesis is good, and his character firmly established, it is at this point evident he is the central enemy - he will be behind all plots, schemes and machinations and, because of the hero/villain rule, will never be successful. This is perhaps the only problem with Travis - the character's single-mindedness can only lead to "single-plottedness" as well. But this is not to fault "Project Avalon". The atmosphere builds up as the story progresses, with the plot shifting between two halves: the "action" half, in which the task is to get into the complex and rescue Avalon. This includes walking through caves and corridors, a not very well realised shootout and the obligatory retreat and escape. In my opinion, this is the poorer half. Much better is the "suspense" half, after the crew escape in the Liberator. This is indeed suspenseful - the pace of the story has slowed down, but in its place is the creeping anxiety that something is not quite right - the true nature of Travis's plan will be revealed. "Project Avalon" is the kind of story with fast and slow moments, but the story is served better by the slower paced scenes, rather than the outright action packed ones. The following episode, "Breakdown", is also played out in two halves, although neither are clearly divided between action and suspense. Blake is forced to face an interesting dilemma. A malfunctioning limiter implant puts Gan's life at risk - he will die if he does not get specialist medical treatment. But as the Liberator crew are wanted criminals, where do they turn? The two halves serving the plot make for a well balanced story - the first is the race against time, and journeying into the unknown, to find help for Gan. The second part of the story deals with what unfolds when they arrive at their destination. Unlike "Project Avalon", this episode explores more character traits - Jenna's loyalty, as she will not give up on Gan; Cally's naivete and alien (almost child-like) innocence where she deplores restraining Gan, and Gan's ability to trick her into releasing him; Avon's motives and his preparedness to leave Blake. The episode also tackles the issue of neutrality - its feasibility and, indeed, whether it succeeds or fails. This is the cue for the always brilliant actor, and perhaps the biggest guest star in the series so far, Julian Glover. He plays the neurosurgeon Kayn, a member of a neutral space station, XK-72; Kayn is in fact a Federation sympathiser who informs them of Blake's presence. Glover plays Kayn with an icy coolness; a blend of arrogance and determination. One of the best moments of the story is when Blake threatens to destroy his hands; the other is after Kayn murders the station administrator - a long shot when the neurosurgeon stares at his own hands, reflecting on what he has just done. There is one irritating quibble with this story. Surely the crew of XK-72 shouldn't have to wait for the administrator's order when a plasma bolt is about to hit them? Surely it's not as bureaucratic as that? Arrrgh! However, it doesn't ruin "Breakdown". Nothing can ruin either of these excellent episodes of Blake's 7.

Two excellent first season episodes, esp. Project Avalon
"Avalon" is one of the first season's best episodes. Excellent plot, well-executed. "Breakdown" is also very good and features Gan. Plus, Avon makes his first attempt to leave Blake and crew behind. Well done. END ... Read more

Reviews (4)

What is ORAC and who in the devil is after Zen?
The next thrilling volume of Blake's 7 contains epsidoes entitled
ORAC and Redempton
In the epsidoe entitled ORAC
Blake unable to help the pilot or the doctor who crashed landed goes to the planet they were heading for the planet Aristo where the pilot dying words were "Federation willing to pay any price for....ORAC". Blake wants to know who or what is ORAC and why the federation will go to such lengeths to aquire it. Unknown to Blake and the others Servalan and Travis have already landed on Aristo and are searching the near water planet for ORAC. Blake enroute notices that Avon, Villa, Gan and Jenna all have radiation sickness and no medical supplies to help them. Blake gambles with his crew to find ORAC, save them all and somehow escape from the clutches of Servalan and Travis.
In the next epsidoe entitled Redemption
Blake has a new weapon in his fight against the Federation and his name is ORAC. However ORAC is being difficult and doesn't seem to be very helpful to Blake and the others. ORAC shows the crew an image of the Liberator then exploding. Blake is horrified to see the ship he is on explode. Blake doesn't know what to do. Just then an unknown ship comes right at them they try to our run it but it matches speed for speed. Blake and the others figure it is not the Federation but they also wonder who can create a ship like the Liberator? Soon Zen can not speak to the crew they are attacked and taken prisoner. Blake trying to figuyre out who this new threat is and can he avoid his future?

Introducing Orac
Volume 7 of "Blake's 7" on video contains two more episodes of this engrossing British sci-fi TV series. The first of the pair, "Orac," introduces a new character--the artificial intelligence named Orac--to the crew. The second episode, "Redemption," delves into the mystery behind the space ship Liberator.

"Orac" is a suspenseful continuation of the previous episode, "Deliverance" (on tape 6). As the episode begins, Blake's crew is sick with radiation poisoning, and are racing to the planet Aristo--where they hope to find medicine for their sickness, and also to deliver a life-saving device to a dying scientist. But the crew has some surprises in store for them. This episode is rich in irony and intrigue.

"Redemption" contains an element of mystery as the crew tries to figure out an ominous prediction from supercomputer Orac. The episode opens with a battle in space, and the crew's odyssey continues as they encounter a strange, but highly advanced, alien civilization. These episodes are essential chapters in the B7 saga. If you like sci-fi with compelling characters and memorable dialogue, check out these and other episodes of this great series.

Will there be a second series?
... we all wondered when watching the final moments of "Orac", a masterly episode. "redemption" is a very disappointing follow up but "orac" paves the way for risky catastrophic series finales. Keep watching

"Orac" essential for Blake fans; "Redemption" unfulfilling
"Orac" is a reasonably good tale and continues the story from the previous episode, "Deliverance." "Orac" is essential viewing for Blake's fans because the final member of the crew is introduced. "Redemption" is the first episode from the second season and completes the story started by the cliffhanger ending of "Orac." The story is a little disappointing, but demonstrates some of the special qualities of the newest member of the crew. I applaud Terry Nation for taking an entire season to fill out the crew of "Blake's 7." It kept me guessing from week to week, wondering when the crew would finally be completed. I think Nation's original vision for the show was brilliant and his execution during the first season was outstanding as he wrote all thirteen episodes himself. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Blakes 7 = fantastic. But the first video...oh dear.
Whilst Blake's 7 is easily my favorite sci-fi series, it gets off to an incredibly poor start. The first two episodes are packed with "scene setting" plot details which, whilst they are rather vital to your understanding and perhaps even enjoyment of the later episodes, do little enliven these two rather staid stories.

Please don't get me wrong - I am a big fan of Blake's 7, it is just the almost every other episode is much better! Even "Cygnus Alpha" with Brian Blessed making a noisy appearance does not deliver. These episodes lack the banter and bickering between Avon and Villa, the tension between Blake and Avon, or even the pressure of persuit and evasion between the Federation and the Liberator. And these are the elements that lift the story, help the script to fly and draw you in to ful enjoyment of what is an excellent, compelling and surprisingly complex series.

If you are serious about Blake's 7, you need this video in your collection. But if you are trying to introduce a friend to the series, don't make these the first episodes that they see!

A Great Show
From start to finish, the entire run of Blake's 7 was a great show. I have the entire VHS set and would replace them all with DVD the moment they come out -- which I have found it is doing so, but unfortunately it's an overseas release and therefore not in NTSC format. But hopefully this means it will be released here sometime after that.

This is the story of Blake and how he took back the universe
Blake 7 is a wonderful BBC t.v. production. Many Doctor Who fans should note that Terry Nation was head writer for many of the epsiodes. Anyway on to the first installment of Blake 7 entitled "The Way Back". We are given the setting of earth in the distant future where most of the human population live inside of domes due to the severe radiation outside of the domes. The domes are run by the federation a world goverment whose hand has reached to the stars themselves and has much influence. We are intoduced to a man called Roj Blake who from watching the first few minutes is a rather normal person. However when he meets a few of his freinds his life takes on a new twist. He finds that the earth has never had radation and that the human population insdie of the dome is a lie. He then finds out that he was once the leader of a rebel band bent on stopping the true agenda of the Fedeartion total domiantion of the universe. Soon freinds turn into false memories his future uncertain his life is without meaning and then the Federation find him with the new rebels. He is soon brought on false charges and a mockery of a trail sends Blake to the penal planet to live out the rest of his life. This is the first installment of the Blake 7 story. Although this is by no means the first epsiode. In the next epsiodes to come Blake has his fighters and a reason to stop the Federation.
In the Epsiode entilted "Space Fall" Blake is being shipped to the penal planet Cygnus Alpha. Along with Blake he meets Avon the egocentric computer genuis, Jan the tough as nails female piolt, Villa the cowardly safe cracker and Gan the brutal yet computer controled chipped prisoner. Blake trying to find a way to take over the ship and start his plans of stopping the Federation. The captain of the prisoner ship finds a large ship dirfiting unkonwing it would be the doom of most aboard. He sends men over to try and take over the ship. They end up mad or dead. The captain sends Blake over along with Jan and Avon. Soon Blake is confronted by the ships computer called Zen who tries and kill those with false images. Blake overcomes and takes over the newly dubbed ship the Liberator. Now with a ship and gathering a crew is easy. But the captain has written off Blake and the others dead and heads on to the penal planet to drop off the remaining prionsers. Blake speeds off to try and save those others and begin his plans to stop the Fedeartion. ...

Blake is a man sworn to save the universe by any means.
Blake 7 is the tale of a man who was once a rebel leader who was trying to stop a goverment called the Federation whose grip on earth has gone to the stars and beyond. In this first epsiode we are given a bit of back history of a simple man called Blake. He is unaware that the events to follow would lead him back to where he was five years ago. Blake has found out that his life or what was manufactred by the federation on his capture is a lie. His family is dead thinking they were still alive living in the forinter of space. Old freinds turn out to be false memories. His true freinds turn out to be rebels trying to stop the Federation. Before Blake can do anything the rebels on earth are killed. Only Blkae is alive. The Federation decide to frame Blake and send him to a penal colony for the rest of his life. Once the mockery of a trial is over he along with many other prisoners are sent into space. This epsiode while not action packed is the start of a long story about Blake his decsion to stop the Federation and the crew of prionsers that would follow him into the fight.
The second epsiode on this tape brings us to a ship floating in space with no crew and no reason why its out thier. The ship carrying Blake and the other prisoners to the penal planet stop and tries to take the other ship. Countless crew members from the ship go missing and found dead. The captain wanting this strange ship sends Blake and two others who would form his crew. Avon a egocentric computer genius and Jan a pilot who takes [nothing] from others. They get aboard the ship later to be called the Liberator and be the key tool used by blake and the others. Once agin like the first episode this is being used as a ground to intorduce the charaters and give the viewers a good look into thise that would fight the Federation.

Great series!
For any fans of 60's B-type science fiction, this stuff is classic! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Travis, the Federation eveyone seems to be taking hostages
The next enstallment of the series Blake's 7 with the titles HOSTAGE and COUNTDOWN
The epsidoe entitled Hostage
Orac picks up a strange message sent to Blake by of all people Travis. Travis is holding his cousin and is willing to kill her if he does not meet with him. Blake seeing now course but to meet with travis and see what he has to say. The Federation gets wind of the message sent by Travis to Blake they speed off to capture not only Travis but Blake as well. Can Blake save his cousin? Will he figure out if Travis is on his side? Will the Federation capture them both? Will this mean Travis and Blake will have to be cell mates on a penal planet? Who knows?
In the next epsidoe entitled COUNTDOWN
Blake has finally found where control has been moved to. Only one Federation officer named Provine knows where and he is on the planet Albion. What Blake doesn't know is that Provine and his forces have been fighting off rebel attacks and has put into motion the most deadly weapon at hand. Blake and the others try to help the rebels while finding Provine but to Avon discuss he meets up with a man who said he would kill him if he saw him again. This particualr epsidoe shows a bit more into the past of Avon and what is yet to come from him.

Things heat up for the Liberator crew
Volume 11 of the "Blake's 7" videos contains 2 more episodes of this classic British sci-fi series. These episodes--"Hostage" and "Countdown"--continue the saga of rebel leader Blake and his interplanetary crusade against the oppressive Federation.

In "Hostage," Blake's enemy Travis seeks to lure him to a planet with a hostage: an important person from Blake's past. This episode begins with a memorable space combat sequence, and contains some great Vila one-liners. A tense and violent episode, "Hostage" also offers a glimpse into another aspect of Blake's character.

"Countdown" opens with a gritty ground combat sequence on the planet Albian, which is attempting to break free of Federation domination. Blake and his crew arrive to help their fellow rebels evade a deadly Federation countermeasure. This episode is important because it reveals more about Avon's past. Great line: "I'm really looking forward to this: danger, excitement, sudden death. I can't wait" (Vila). This is a suspenseful episode with good guest performances.

These episodes exemplify the strengths of this series: compelling plotlines, memorable characters, and great dialogue. Highly recommended for fans of great sci-fi sagas.

TWO classics in one!
Both stories add dimension to lead characters.

"Hostage" is a Blake story and "Countdown" is an Avon story.

"Hostage" is seemingly a typical story, but uses parts of Blake's family to make the story into something special.

"Countdown" itself is about a revolt on an outer world, complete with some cool ideas as to how the destruction of the rebels would be accomplished. Having a nemesis of Avon adds to the tension, and the ending is astounding.

As with "Hostage", the charcaters in "Countdown" make the stories more than what they are. And it's characters that make us watch and want more. Definitely worth buying. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Avon needs allies and Cally meets a evil legend of old
The next vol. of Blake's 7 entitled VOLCANO and DAWN OF THE GODS

In the episode entitled VOLCANO
Avon is taking full advantage of the Federation in disarray over the war with the alien armada. His first stop is the planet Obsidian. The planet somehow managed to stay out of the war and away from the Federation. Dayna and Tarrant go to investiagte why. Meanwhile Servalan takes the reminatns of the fleet and begins to clean up the Federation but she just happens to spot the Liberator near the planet Obsidian. Servalan wants the Liberator and wants to know why the planet is so important to those on the Liberator. Will Servalan win could this be the end of it all?
In the next episode entitled DAWN OF THE GODS
Liberator is heading for a black hole but what Avon and the others can't figure out is why it wasn't there a few seconds ago? Soon they are hurled into the black hole excpeting never to return but then Cally begins to get a metnal command from the Thaarn an ancient tale told to children of Cally people. Could the Thaarn created the black hole? Could Cally be the first to see if the Thaarn is nothing more then a story of something far worse? ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Trial of Travis and a new code may just stop Blake
The next vol of Blake's 7 entitled Trial and Killer

In the epsidoe entitled Trial
The time has come Travis has failed Servalan time and time again. So this time he is put on trial for his cirminal activites. Many people want to see Travis in prison while others want to use this as an chance to get rid of Servalan for good. The judge is a fleet adimiral called Star Killer two of the Federation Senate are watching and waiting for the chance to give Traivs a chance to get back at Servalan. Servalan is watching in secret waiting for the moment to stirke herself. While Blake has beamed down to a planet to questin why he fights the Federation and what the death of Gan means to him. This epsiode sees new twists and turns for all the players in the Blake 7 universe some good,some bad.
The next epsidoe entitled Killer
Blake has gotten word that the Federation has a new code system. Blake heads to the planet Fosforon where the code is being developed, along the way he spots an ancinet space ship. Zen detects nothing but Cally sense a great evil on board. The planet Fosforon collects the ship and finds a man dead for centuries. Avon and Villa sneak into the base while Blake beams down to investiagte the old ship and what evil Cally senses. Can Avon be trusted to get the new code? Can Villa stop being a coward? Will Blake find out what that evil is on board that ship?

"Trial": a pivotal B7 episode
Volume 10 of the "Blake's 7" videos contains 2 more episodes of this marvelous British sci-fi TV series. These installments continue the saga of rebel leader Blake, who, with his crew, wages an interplanetary war against the tyrannical Federation.

The first episode, "Trial," contains two engrossing, interconnected storylines. One involves Blake: guilt-ridden over the death of a crewman (in the previous episode), he goes on a private quest. The other story finds Blake's arch-enemy Travis being put on trial for allegedly directing a savage massacre. "Trial" offers more tantalizing glimpses into the tortured tangle of Federation plots and politics. And as a bonus, we learn more about the Mutoids. This is a suspenseful episode that delivers some memorable action.

In "Killer," Avon and Vila seek to obtain a piece of Federation technology from a base, while Blake gets involved in a deadly mystery. Great line: "When Avon holds out the hand of friendship, watch the other hand. That's the one with the hammer" (Vila). It's particularly fun to see Vila and Avon on a mission together in this one.

"Killer" is a good enough episode, but the superb "Trial" is certainly one of the best, and most pivotal, episodes of the series' first two seasons. Essential viewing for B7 fans.

Episodes "Trial" and "Killer" are covered on this tape...
"Trial" covers Blake's guilt and self-destructive recriminations following the events in "Pressure Point" and the Liberator's disasterous raid on Earth's Central Control, while arch-enemy Travis is going through a trial of his own. In "Killer" we meet an old friend of Avon's..."I knew you had to have a friend somewhere!"-Vila ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Servalan on Liberator and Villa is the choosen one?
The next vol. of Blake's 7 with the epsidoes entitled THE HARVEST OF KAIROS and CITY AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD

In the epsidoe entitled THE HARVEST OF KAIROS

Servalan has a cunning plan to take the Liberator but her advisors seem to think her plans as of late have not been working. She finds out that a construction worker has been speaking out on Servalan tatcis. She orders that this man be brought to her. What she doesn't know is that this man was once a general in the Federation army. Servalan is taken by the man and he begins in ernest to capture the Liberator from Avon and the others. Servalan in overjoyed that this man in finally able to do what hundreds of other could not take the Liberator and give Servalan the Federation on a silver platter. Will Avon and the others be ready for whatever cunning plans are in store? Or will they end up as another war story fro this general turned construction worker turned lover of Servalan?

In the next epsidoe entitled CITY AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD
Avon has agreed to Bayban the Butcher(the second most dangerous man after Blake of course) the use of Villa and his safe craking abilites. What Villa doesn't know is what Bayban wantd with this door opened? Bayban doesn't know but wants whatever is on the other side. The people of the planet say it is the doorway to another world. Bayban thinks it is a door to wealth beyond wealth. Villa can only do as he says of die trying for Bayban has only given him an hour. Now Villa is racing against time to save his life and possable give Bayban the means to destroying the world. On a personal note this is my favorite episode. Not only does it have Villa being the hero for once it also has to Doctor Who fans Colin Baker as a rather dangerous villian which is nice to watch. But also the actor who played the Black guardian during the time of Peter Davidson run as the Doctor. So all in all the best episode around.

Adventure and romance
Volume 16 of the "Blake's 7" video collection contains two more episodes of this excellent British science fiction television series. These episodes continue the saga of the space ship Liberator, whose crew battles the oppressive Federation.

In "The Harvest of Kairos," Tarrant plans to steal the subject of the episode's title: a crystal that grows on the planet Kairos. But his plan leads the crew of the Liberator into conflict with Servalan. This episode features one of the series' all-time best guest performances: Andrew Burt as Jarvik, a former Federation officer who distrusts computers and believes in old-fashioned concepts like honor and courage. This episode features everything you could want in a B7 episode: a thrilling space battle, alien monsters, intrigue, romance, and moral ambiguity.

The second episode on the tape, "City at the Edge of the World," is a marvelous adventure that focuses on Vila, the Liberator's cowardly resident thief. Vila gets involved with the notorious bandit Bayban the Butcher (played with a touch of campy humor by Colin Baker), finds romance with a lovely bandit girl (Carol Hawkins), and even gets to expound his theory of safecracking. This episode features lots of action and humor, and great dialogue. Great line: "He's lost a lot of weight, hasn't he?" (Vila, upon seeing a skeleton). This episode shows why Vila is one of sci-fi's all-time classic characters. Together, "Kairos" and "City" represent two of the most entertaining hours in the entire run of this classic series.

City at the Edge of the World=excellent Harvest= decent
City at the Edge of the World is one of the best Vila episodes written,as well as developing the characters of Tarrent, Avon, and Cally. This is a critical episode if you are a Vila fan. It offers a good glipse of Vila's skill, intelligence, and a rare display of bravery. It also shows Avon, and Cally in a good light. Tarrent forces Vila to go down against his will as part of a trade with the natives; which quickly backfires. The others do their best to come to Vila's aid. This is the only episode in which Vila saves the day and gets the girl. The final scenes are exciting, touching, and humorous.

Harvest on Kairos is a decent episode. If you are a Servelain fan this is an episode you will want to see. Avon comes though in the end, but this isn't one of his best episodes. It is an interesting show however, but I didn't care too much for it because Cally and Vila were largely ignored. The only enjoyment I got was out of the further development of Servelain's character. If you like Tarrent this is an episode you will want to see, but if you like Avon better this episode will make you sick!

I give City a 10 and Harvest a 5(lower if not for Servelain)

A Cold blood Avon and Doctor Who on one tape, wow!
"The Harvest of Kairos" with Blake gone from the show finally, the crew realistically tries to get rich by stealing a rare harvest from a planet so dangerous no one has ever survive after a harvest. The ending is not as good as others, but still it is fun to watch the cold blooded Avon and the cool Servalan go at it head to head.

"City at the Edge of the World" is worth the price of the video alone. The crew's loveable thief Vila is threatened by his own crewmate Tarrant to beam down onto the planet Keezarn, where he is used by a crazed villain (wonderfully played by Collin Baker---who later becomes the sixth Doctor Who) to open a deadly vault in a long lost city.

"Harvest" pointless; "City" is a waste
Having now watched episodes 1-32 again, these episodes definitely constitute the worst of all the first 16 Blake's 7 videos. The plot of "The Harvest of Kairos" is somewhat intriguing, but the story heads the crew in a direction that I believe ultimately sunk the show. The crew's mission, which had been so clearly defined with Blake at the head, now seems to be that they wander about the universe wondering what they can plunder next. Wow, now those are characters I want to root for or care about. "City" is abysmal. The villain is ridiculous, Vila's love story subplot is awful and the writing overall is incredibly disappointing. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Blake missing Avon takes control of the Liberator
The next vol of Blake's 7 enetitled AFTERMATH and POWERPLAY

In the epsidoe entitled AFTERMATH
Star one has been destroyed and an unknown alien armada has come to wage war on Federation space. The Liberator escapes but not without taking heavy damage. Blake and the others escape from the Liberator and are hurled into the cosmos. Avon along with Orac land on the planet Sarran. A primative planet with war like people. They regard Avon as target and begin to hunt him down. Avon is soon befreinded by a young woman named Dayna. She is not from the planet Sarran she came from Earth along with here father a famous engineer and weapons maker to this planet to get away from the control of the Federation. What Avon doesn't know is that Servalan has also come to the planet Sarran as well but not by choice. Servalan taking the chance of Star One destuction has made herself president of the Federation but before she could take office the Federation fleet was attacked by the alien armada and her own ship shoot down. Now Avon must find a way back to the Liberator find the rest of the crew and take advantage of the Federation dissaray. This signals the end of Blake role as a rebel leader and the beginning of Avon time as a much darker and far more dangerous leader then Blake ever was.
In the next episode entitled POWERPLAY
Avon along with Dayna have gotten back to the Liberator but not without finding some new passengers Federation soliders lead by Captain Del Tarrant. Avon and Dayna are taken captive. Zen has found where Villa is and is homing in on his signal. None of the Federation soldiers can take control of the ship. Captain Tarrant thinks Avon might be the key. Before any of that could be done federation soldiers begin to die off one by one. Avon thinks something else maybe on board, Dayna thinks its one of the people on baord. Captain Tarrant thinks its them loose on the ship and the section leader under Captain Tarrant thinks its him. Will Avon figure out what is killing them? Will the Liberator get to Villa before the Federation takes total control of Zen? This marks the next thrilling episode in which a new player in the Blake's 7 universe is shown

Major changes in the "Blake's 7" saga
Volume 14 of the "Blake's 7" video series contains two more episodes of this classic British science fiction television series. These episodes, "Aftermath" and "Powerplay," constitute the first two episodes of the 3rd season, and continue the story of an interplanetary band of rebels who wage a campaign against the tyrannical Federation.

"Aftermath" is the conclusion to the cliffhanger episode "Star One," in which humanity faces an invasion of an armada from another galaxy. The crew of the rebel ship Liberator flees in escape pods when the ship takes on heavy damage. Most of this episode follows the adventures of Avon after he is stranded on a primitive planet. This episode also introduces a new regular character: weapons expert Dayna Mellanby, who has lived in exile from the Federation with her father. The tough, but somewhat innocent Dayna is a compelling character who has some great chemistry with Avon in this episode.

"Powerplay" is essentially the third part of a three-part episode that began with "Star One." This episode is the substantial introduction of Tarrant (briefly seen in "Aftermath"), who will also become a regular character in the series. This is a violent and suspenseful episode in which Avon struggles to regain control of the Liberator while Cally and Vila remain separated from the ship. Vila has some fun comic sequences that complement the dark elements of the story. Great line: "It sounds big and bad-tempered. I just hope it's vegetarian" (Vila, stranded on a planet, upon hearing growls coming from the woods).

These episodes exemplify some of the best characteristics of B7: memorable characters, sharp dialogue, and suspenseful plotting. If you're a fan of other sci-fi sagas like "Babylon 5" and "Farscape" but have not yet discovered "Blake's 7," check out this video series.

"aftermath" intros Dayna; "powerplay" intros Tarrant
"Aftermath" follows up from the cliffhanger ending to "Star One." Dayna is introduced as one of the new regular cast members. This episode is critical for understanding the state of the Federation in future episodes. The plotline focusing on Dayna is interesting, but the most value from this episode comes from finding out what has happened to the crew of the Liberator and Servalan. "Powerplay" is a superior story to "Aftermath" and lays the foundation for the new crew. These episodes start the show in a new direction and are critical for any serious fan of "Blake's 7." ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Blake looses control and Villa seems to be winning?
The next exciting vol. of Blake's 7 entitled VOICE FROM THE PAST and GAMBIT
Ex-Arbiter General Ven Glynd is trying to make contact with Blake and the others. He and he alone has information regarding Servalan and her motives to take control of the Federation. Blake thinks this maybe the key to stopping the Federation. Avon wonders why Blake is acting so strange around Ven Glynd and his group. Can Blake figure out who is telling the truth or is this another cunning trap laid out by the Federation for him?
In the next epsidoe entitled GAMBIT
Blake gotten word that a medical officer named Docholli may know where control is. Blake heads for Freedom City a place where gamblers can win and loose fortunes in a mere moment. What Blake doesn't know is that Servalan is already there finding Docholli so she can find control. What both Blake and Servalan don't know is that Travis has found Docholli and seems to be protecting him. All the while Avon and Villa get a rather good idea to use ORAC to get some money while Blake tries to find his man.

"Voices" OK; "Gambit" a campy gem
Volume 12 of the "Blake's 7" video series contains two more episodes of this British sci-fi series. These episodes continue the saga of interplanetary rebel Blake, his starship Liberator, and his ongoing campaign against the tyrannical Federation.

In "Voice from the Past," Blake is suffering aftereffects of the brainwashing he had suffered at the hands of Federation thugs. He and the crew of the Liberator become entangled in Federation leader Servalan's latest plot. Although there are some good aspects to this episode, I found it to be less than effective. The show struck me as rather stiffly directed and acted in parts.

But "Gambit," the second episode on the tape, is marvelous. In this story Blake and the crew infiltrate Freedom City, a "wild west"-type outpost that is independent of the Federation. Freedom City is an incredibly decadent and baroque place, with a profitable gambling industry. Servalan refers to the place as a "pestilential rat-hole"--ironically, she seems to fit in perfectly! This episodes features some of the series' most outrageous costumes and characters (in particular, Freedom City's foppish leader), and some great guest performances. And as a bonus, the artificial intelligence Orac reveals a surprising new ability. There are some great Avon-Vila moments, and the plot helps build up to the explosive second-season finale (on the next video).

B7 has inspired quite a cult following over the years, and these episodes demonstrate some of the qualities that make the series a classic of sci-fi TV. Check this video out.

One great, one average
"Voice from the Past" takes what was given in the first episode and turns into a great sequel, turning originally two-dimensional one-off characters into 3D masterpieces. It's great to see Blake's prosecutor defect and turn against the Federation! The whole episode deals with Blake, trechery, deception, and more... and perfectly done.

"Gambit" is odd for a Robert Holmes story as he usually writes top-notch stuff. Making ORAC inexplicably shrink for a while is obviously what ruins the story, but the rest of it is not bad by any means. But it is a thorn which sticks in the side of an otherwise typical story with the usual Robert Holmes' gift of making cool characters.

Definitely worth owning, though! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

This series shows what excellent TV is all about
This series shows what excellent TV is all about. NOT snazzy special effects. The first episode gets one to look past the obvious toy landscapes really fast. As a matter of fact, they play a good part in stimulating the imagination to make everything that much more real, if that makes sense. This is ALL ABOUT THE STORY and great and intense acting. Star Wars may be higher budget, but looks cheesy in comparison. This is an epic of a gang of outcasts, criminals, and rebels, that form a haphazard revolutionary force brought together by fateful circumstances catching everybody in their stream. One gets to understand and like these characters, colorful and even somewhat repulsive some of them may be - human nature in all its detail and contradictions. The series lead author, Terry Nation, may ring a bell from what must be a horrendous pile of books, and some of the finest Dr. Who episodes. The final moments of Blake's friends are truly memorable and will touch you - but watch the series' other episodes, preferrably the whole thing, first.
After "UFO", "The Avengers", "Reilly", "Cosmos", and the "Thunderbirds" I'm afraid this series belongs into my must have category - I wish there were a bargain on a complete collector's box set. ...How about DVD? Amazon[.com], oh Amazon[.col], please talk them into a DVD set!

This is it the end of a series that changed sci-fi forever
The last vol of the series Blake's 7 entitled WARLORD and BLAKE

In the epsidoe entitled WARLORD
The Federation pacification program has caught on like wildfire. Soon no one will be able to stop the Federation ever growing grip on the universe. In a last ditch effort Avon has called on the non allied planets to a conference. These worlds working as one could make the anti-toxin needed to stop the Federation cold in its tracks. But everything hinges on the mighty warlord known as Zukan. It is Zukan who holds the most powerful fleet in the universe that could help these other planets fight off the Federation and give them the time needed to give the anti-toxin to those and begins a full scale war aginst the Federation. Avon thinks he may have finally done it finally but an end to the Federation takeover of the known universe. But something doesn't seem right Zukan seems to be thinking of other things. Has Avon gambled and lost?
In the final episode entitled BLAKE

This is it. Everything that has happen that will happen is in this episode. And with that in mind nothing else of this episode shall be mentioned. The ending will make your jaw drop. If you read the other reviews of this episode they will all agree this is one thing that no one can write about. It is an episode that must be watched to be belived. On a personal note this final episode truly shows the scope of the series from the final words spoken in the first epsidoe THE WAY BACK "No I shall be coming back" muttred by Blake to the final few moments of this episode called BLAKE. A series that made sci-fi what it is today and shall be rembered by this reviwer in the years to come.

The end?
A great 2 episode build up to a natural, albeit shocking, conclusion to the TV Blake's 7 series. The final moments of the doomy last episode are suitably catastrophic. I remember seeing the episodes in 1981 and that haunting last image stayed with me forever. Excellent!

The most amazing series finale to ever grace the TV screen.
The episode "Blake" contained in this video is one of the most amazing, unpredictable and masterfully executed series endings ever to appear on television. I shall not reveal the ending, but suffice it to say, if you've followed the series you will be thinking about it for weeks afterwards.

I guess the good guys don't always win
Of course, this is the tape containing the episode "Blake" - a must-see for all fans of this series, especially if you've only seen the last two seasons, where the character 'Blake' wasn't even around and you've been wondering who this chap is that so obsesses our calm, cool, and collected Avon. Suffice to say, there have been a few changes...and you'll never believe the last five minutes! It took me almost an hour to pick my jaw up off the floor. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Avon got solve a murder, Blake got to fight Travis
The next volume of Blake 7 entitled Mission to Destiny and Duel
blake and the crew find a ship out in space drifitng. The board it and find a crew asleep thanks to someone druging the air supply. They also find a dead body. The people on the drugged ship first blame Blake and the others. But realzing that thier special cargo hasn't been stolen they ask Blake for help. Blake and the other minus Avon and Cally, as a sign of trust stay on board the ship. Blake goes speeding off, Avon has to figure who killed the poor person who knew the killer. Before the killer strikes again. Unlike some of my other reviews this is more of a who done it so I won't give to much away in this epsidoe. Besides it would spoil it for all who like watching Blake's 7
The next episode entitled Duel
Travis has finally caught up with Blake. Federation pursuit ships trap the Liberator near a dead planet. Blake and the others realizing that the only way to get away from Travis is to teleport down to the planet. There they find a dead world and a million graves but all are the same a person standing with thier arms streched out holding two knives. A strange old woman and a young woman watch Blake and Travis fight in the sky. They then send Blake, Jenna to a strange forest that wasn't on the planet to begin with. Travis and a solider are also sent to this forest where both Blake and Travis duel to the death. Rather reminds me of star trek in this episode but then where would we all be if someone hadn't taken an idea from someone else? All in all good clean fun for fans of Blake 7

Mystery and combat
Volume 4 of the "Blake's 7" videos contains two more episodes of this classic British sci-fi TV series. In "Mission to Destiny," the B7 crew encounters a murder mystery onboard a spaceship from the planet Destiny. In "Duel," Blake and his rival, Federation Space Commander Travis, are forced to engage in personal combat on an alien world.

Together, these episodes offer interesting insights into the characters and politics of the B7 universe. The mystery angle of "Mission" gives us a chance to see an interesting side of series regular Avon.

"Duel" is reminiscent of the classic "Star Trek" episode "Arena," in which Kirk battles a Gorn captain; the big difference in the B7 story is that the hero battles a recurring character, and not just an alien-of-the-week. So "Duel" has ramifications that extend beyond this episode. "Duel" also offers some fascinating insights into the Mutoids, the vampire-like altered humans who are used in the Federation space service.

If you like sci-fi television with witty dialogue and an intelligent political edge, check out these, and other episodes of "Blake's 7."

"I don't like an unsolved mystery."
Although a brilliant show, Blake's 7 is also a very derivative one, taking inspiration and ideas from a collection of genres, both inside and outside of science fiction. This tape consists of two such stories; one of them is realised quite successfully, the other not so. "Mission to Destiny" is the show's obligatory whodunnit (all TV shows of this type seem to have one). It is a very skilful adaptation of the murder mystery, confining the action to a ship adrift in space (the equivalent of the mansion cut off by a storm, or on a lonely island). There are moments of claustrophobia and intrigue, and the supporting characters come across well. At this stage of Blake's 7, with the crew and enemies introduced, the ongoing characters are now explored with more depth, usually on an individual or "partnered up" basis. The episode allows Avon and Cally to develop an already obvious rapport, by leaving the two on board the ship while the Liberator crew departs for the planet Destiny. Their interaction is very good, if a bit stilted; it's almost as if they suppress their relationship while investigating the mystery - time to act professionally with each other as the situation commands. Avon playing detective is also nice to see, although he is doing it out of self interest, not any desire to see justice done. (But the audience knows Avon well enough now, so this is hardly a surprise.) The denouement, in which Avon gathers everyone together is another nice tip of the hat to Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot, if the solution is a little obvious (and implausible). In all, there is not much to fault "Mission to Destiny", except perhaps the fashions. They were always fairly bad in "Blake's 7", but the outfits of the Ortega crew are ghastly to the extreme! But a minor criticism doesn't detract from calling this a fine episode of "Blake's 7". Unfortunately the same cannot be said for the next one which uses as its source of inspiration the science fiction chestnut of the duel, in which the hero is pitted against an enemy/monster, with primitive weapons, for the benefit of an alien audience. The first (and most obvious) example of this in TV sci-fi is the Star Trek episode, "Arena". The Blake's 7 equivalent, unimaginatively titled "Duel", is very slow moving at times, with the short bursts of action very unengaging. There is some unnecessary sermonising, with Blake and Travis required to learn the lessons of "the death of an enemy" and "the death of a friend". There is a clear message about the horrors of nuclear war - the visuals of the graveyard are chilling, as is the tale of how Sinofar's civilisation destroyed itself, but the didacticism of the episode detracts from the impact it should have. However there are moments that save "Duel" from sinking entirely - the visuals, the performance of the beautiful Isla Blair as Sinofar, and the genuine sense of siege as Travis's pursuit ships surround the powerless Liberator. Mutoids are also first seen in this episode, showing another horrible side to the Federation. "Duel" is, overall, flat and boring, with a few saving graces that lift it from being totally bad.

"Mission" good plot; "Duel" good character devlopment
Mission to Destiny is is a good ol' British Mystery in space. Interesting how the different film stocks used, at times give the ship a different atmosphere.

Duel is very reminiscent of an episode of Star Trek; but here is much more insight into the emotion inherent behind action. Watch for the interplay between the guardian/gatekeeper, and how Travis' motivation afects the outcome.

"Mission"-interesting murder mystery;"Duel"-bizarre showdown
Destiny is an interesting murder mystery with twists and turns throughout. Duel is a showdown between Blake and Travis in a bizarre setting. Reveals much about the personality of Travis and tells us about the lowly existence of the mutoids. Both stories are interesting and worth watching. END ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Blake trapped in a space web, worse and old enemy after him.
The next two titles in Blake 7 called The Web and Seek-Locate-Destroy
Blake and the others outrunning federation pursuit ships for weeks now have just about lost them. What they didn't count on was Cally. Trying to destory key functions of the Liberator and send them to some unknow part of the galaxy. Unknow to any of the crew but Cally mind is placed under control by a group called The Lost. A group from her planet Auron long ago who were exiled and went out into the stars to do dangerous experiments on themselves and other beings. The liberator traveling at speeds unheard off rams itself into some kind of webbing. Blake and the others are stumped as to why they can't get free. The Lost contact Blake informing him that they need power to replace thier own dying power source. Blake makes a teleport and finds two humans fighting off strange creatures weilding crude weapons (Doctor who fans should note that the aliens look an awful lot like Zygons or just took the concept from them and made for that). Worse Blake meet the last of the Lost or should I say the remains of the last of the Lost and his combined minds of the others now dead. Blake finds out they want to kill the creatures that the Lost created along with the web that got out of control. For only they can free the Liberator and its crew. But Blake doesn't know that federation pursuit ships are fast on thier trail.
In the next episode entitled Seek-Locate-Destory
We are introduced to the main villianess Supreme Commander of Federation Forces Servalan (Doctor Who fans should note she appeared in "The Two Doctors")who would dog Blake until his capture or his death. She would like that latter. Her first act to stop Blake is bring in Space Commander Travis a man who knows Blake all to well. Seeing as how he was the one who took Travis eye and arm when Blake was leader of the first rebellion. Travis wants nothing more then to see Blake dying before him as he aims his gun at Blake to get his revenge. He has his chance when he finds out that Blake and the others just hit a communications centre and ran off with a cyper device but in the process of getting away Cally is hurt and left behind. Blake has to find a way to get Cally back and avoid Travis traps along the way.
Now the stage has been set for fans to watch the villans try and stop or even capture Blake. The charter of Travis would be in many of the adventures to come but Servalan was the true villian of Blake 7 and I couldn't see it any other way.

New wrinkles in the B7 universe
This tape collects two episodes of "Blake's 7," the classic British space adventure TV series. These two installments continue the adventures of Blake, who leads his crew of rebels in their quest to overthrow the corrupt, tyrannical Federation.

In "The Web," the spaceship Liberator is trapped in a giant web in space, and Blake bargains for help to get it free. This episode features a genetically-engineered race of creatures known as the Decimas. There are some genuinely surreal and disturbing scenes in "The Web," as well as an interesting moral dilemma for Blake.

In "Seek-Locate-Destroy," Blake masterminds a daring raid on a Federation facility. This episode is especially important in the overall saga for introducing the recurring villains Servalan and Travis. This episode also reveals the conflict at work within the Federation and its space officer corps. Travis' fascinating backstory is part of this conflict.

Overall, these two episodes are good examples of B7's first season. If you like low-budget sci-fi with well-written dialogue and memorable character dynamics, check this tape out.

Five Stars for Tight Black Leather, Negative Two for Midgets
Seek, Locate, and Destroy is a FANTASTIC Blake's Seven episode that introduces a most interesting character, Travis. The Web? Laughable! You might just want to fast forward through The Web (it has NO impact on the plot what-so-ever) and watch Seek Locate Destroy. Don't get me wrong - if your idea of high sci-fi includes midgets hopping about, wearing green tissue paper suits and squeeling at the top of their voices, then this is the episode for you! *NOTE* You might want to hit the mute button during the scene where the mutant midget decimas destroy the laboratory. (I use the term destroy losely, because the scene of destruction is mostly comprised of jumping and yipping, but I think I saw one midget knock over a table!) Why did I waste good money on this video? Because I have the nerd dream of collecting the entire series and let's face it, TRAVIS IS A HOTTIE!....

"I'm always grateful for a rough analogy..."
For long-suffering new viewers who have perservered and survived the somewhat slow four episodes that provide an exposition to "Blake's 7", they can take heart that now, finally, the series gets going. However, for those expecting an immediate rush into Blake's crusade against the forces of the Federation, you'll have to hold on a bit longer, for "The Web" diverts the Liberator crew to a planet inhabited by an exile from Cally's home world and a genetically engineered race, the Decimas. The Decimas are the first truly alien species encountered in Blake's 7, and the focus of this episode is on their plight, making for a non-Federation adventure (with the exception of a group of pursuit ships approaching the trapped Liberator, providing some race against time tension). While the episode makes topical points about genocide, as a whole it is rather boring, primarily because it is so slow. The Decimas do engage sympathy, but "The Web" is too ponderous to be really gripping. It is well intentioned but unsuccessful in realisation. The appearance of Saymor is totally unconvincing, also adding to the episode's detriment. However, all is not lost - "The Web" has a few saving graces, all associated with the fleshing out of the crew, be they personal traits or interaction with each other. Cally's possession by the alien force (which would become a cliche in later seasons) reinforces Jenna's suspicion of her; Jenna believes she is the weak link and is slightly jealous of Cally's respect for Blake. Avon's contempt of Gan, and his ominous musings that one day Blake will not be around to thwart his ambitions are, at this early stage, interesting character revelations. The Blake/Avon relationship is also given more strength, especially when Avon gives in to Blake's insistence on assisting the Decimas. The location work is also nice. But, overall, "The Web" is a diversion from the main action that, because it is not fast paced, would only infuriate the new viewer even further. However, this cannot be said of the following episode, "Seek-Locate-Destroy". In this, the action of "Blake's 7" truly begins. Although this is the second attack on a Federation base, it is much more interesting than that of "Time Squad". The location work (this time at the Fulham Gasworks) is again excellent; the tension builds up as time begins to run out, and the sense of humor prevalent in the series is present in Vila's "I've come to blow something up" speech. Although stolen by Terry Nation from his own Doctor Who script "Genesis of the Daleks" (in which Tom Baker walks up to guards and says "I'm a spy"), it is still very funny. When Cally is left behind on Centero, it is infuriating that nobody notices her until it is too late (it should be obvious that she is not aboard the ship), but this is one of the few glaring errors of the episode. The most interesting aspect of the episode is the inside look at Federation politics, and in particular the introduction of Servalan and Travis. Jacqueline Pearce's first portrayal of elegant, sexy and villanous Supreme Commander is an understated one - she is not the central character she would become in the latter half of the show's history. Travis's character is the most interesting; Stephen Greif's performance is exceptional - he makes the character cold, heartless and totally determined. I feel that the introduction of these two characters at this stage, and not in the very first episode, is an excellent move. If they had appeared at the very beginning, there would be no build-up of drama or tension as the series progressed; the main characters needed to be developed before the chief antagonists could be introduced; done the way it has been, the characters that would become recurring individual enemies are given greater justice, able to be explored with more depth as they are brought into the ongoing story.

Beloved by me!
This tape contains two episodes from my favourite show - Blake's 7. Roj Blake is the main character, one, who fights against the terrorist Galactic Federation, once upon a time in the future... In the episode 'The Web' it could be seen how peoples from the future could deal with our up-to-date gene engineering's problems, such as forming sensible creatures. One could share the Blake's opinion on the Decima's 'human' rights. My _most_ favourite quote from all the episodes is in 'Seek-Locate-Destroy'. A villain, called Bercol, speaks about Blake and his fellows. The quote expresses how peoples in Galaxy feel Blake as their liberator: 'My department has done all in its power to suppress information about Blake and his actions - there is a total blackout on all reports concerning him - but still the stories get out. They spread by word of mouth, by whispers, by rumour; each time the story is told it is elaborated upon. Any damage to the Federation is attributed to Blake. The smallest incident is exaggerated out of all proportion until it becomes a major event. Blake is becoming a legend. His name is a rallying call for malcontents of all persuasions. He must be stopped.' ... Read more