TLDR Review: Blake's 7: Season 1 Blu-Ray
Pros
- •A classic sci series with a compelling space opera storyline and significant cultural influence.
- •Offers both original and updated visual effects, allowing viewers to toggle revamped effects on or off to preserve the show's original charm.
- •Includes extensive bonus content like interviews, actor histories, photos, and a notable interview with the model maker, enhancing the overall fan experience.
- •Picture quality is solid given the source material, with excellent visual quality in filhot scenes and tasteful enhancements on exterior shots, especially of the Liberator spaceship.
- •Released in the original 4:3 aspect ratio, maintaining the show’s intended presentation.
- •The story and characters, particularly Avon, are engaging and grow stronger as the series progresses, culminating in a unique and memorable ending.
- •The Blay is well packaged, featuring a sturdy slip case and well-designed booklet.
- •The new effects add a fresh touch without overwhelming original fans, mainly enhancing spaceship sequences.
- •The show stands out with unique sci ideas and a rebellious tone against an oppressive Federation, distinguishing itself from typical space operas.
- •Highly recommended for fans of classic and British sci due to its quality presentation and comprehensive extras.
Cons
- •The first episode is slow and primarily serves as a setup, which could test the patience of some viewers.
- •Video is upscaled to HD but is not true high definition, resulting in less sharpness and clarity compared to native HD releases.
- •Some viewers prefer the original effects as the updated effects, although high quality, occasionally alter or replace scenes in ways that might not sit well with purists.
- •Updated special effects are used sparingly, mostly in brief spaceship sequences, which may feel inconsistent to some.
- •The overall series can feel dated in parts due to its 1978 production era, which might not appeal to all modern sci fans.
- •Slow buildup in early episodes may discourage viewers looking for immediate action or engagement.
Bottom Line
*Blake's 7: The Complete First Series (Blu-Ray)* is a must-have for fans of classic British sci-fi, offering a thoughtfully preserved and enhanced viewing experience with plenty of extras to dive into. While the upscaled video isn’t perfect HD and the pace starts slow, the storytelling and character development more than make up for it, especially if you enjoy rebellious space operas with a cult following. If you want your retro sci-fi with the option to toggle updated effects or stick to the original, this set delivers beautifully. If you’re looking for a similar classic sci-fi series with a bit different style and presentation, checking out the original Star Trek: The Original Series Blu-ray might be a great complement to your collection.
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