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

<p> <I>Blake's 7</I> Terry Nation's science fiction tale of cosmic freedom fighters became a hit series in Great Britain when it premiered in 1978. Eight years later the show quickly became a cult program in America. A dramatization of futuristic outlaw heroes who defend the innocent from both alien and human conquering forces the series might better be said to be equal parts <I>Robin Hood</I> and <I>The Magnificent Seven</I>. The series defied traditional genre elements of science fiction television and developed the concept of the continual story arc years before such shows as <I>Babylon 5</I> and <I>Deep Space Nine</I>.</p><p> This book provides a critical history and episode guide for <I>Blake's 7</I> including commentaries for all 52 episodes. Also included are analytical essays on the show dealing with such topics as themes imagery and story arc; a consideration of the series as a futuristic Robin Hood myth; cinematography and visual effects; and an overview of <I>Blake's 7</I> in books comics and videos. A detailed appendix lists the genre conventions found in the series. The author also includes information about <I>Blake's 7</I> fan clubs and Internet sites.</p>