Conference noted::sf

    
    This was my favourite SF TV series of all time, I never missed a
    single episode. It suffered from some of the same problems as 
    Dr. Who ( model spaceships looked like models, a lot of the
    outdoors action took place in the same disused quarry we know so
    well from Dr. Who), but the characters more than made up for it.
    
    I particularly liked the Avon character, great put-downs, and in
    Servelan (boo hiss) they had one of the best baddies.
    
    I also have 2 paperback books, which cover the first 2 series
    closely, as they were written by the creator Terry Nation, not
    great, but for addicts well worth a read.

    	Doug.

Path: muscat!decwrl!sun!imagen!atari!portal!cup.portal.com!Isaac_K_Rabinovitch
From: Isaac_K_Rabinovitch@cup.portal.com
Newsgroups: rec.arts.sf-lovers
Subject: Re: Book Search:  BLAKE'S 7 Novelization Query.
Message-ID: <2490@cup.portal.com>
Date: 15 Jan 88 18:45:53 GMT
References: <2197@ucbcad.berkeley.edu>
Organization: The Portal System (TM)
Lines: 29
XPortal-User-Id: 1.1001.1472
 
    Jchung@cad.Berkeley.EDU (James E. Chung) writes:
 
->Has there ever been any novelization of the British SF TV series BLAKE'S 7?
->(Perhaps something similar to the work of James Blish for the STAR TREK
->series).  Or has anything been written dealing with the series' characters?
->I know that the series creator, Terry Nation...  

    I have never seen a short story version of any BLAKE'S 7 episodes,
though that does not mean they do not exist (A collection of such
stories would rather rub your nose in the series' inconsistencies,
which may explain why they did not do them).  The following *do* exist
(though I have not read any of them): 
 
    * A "Blake's 7 Programme Guide," written by a fan of the series.
 
    * "Afterlife," written by the same guy, a novel that takes place
      after the final episode of the series. 
 
    * A novel by Paul Darrow, about the life of his character Avon
      before he met up with Blake.  I do not know the title or whether it
      has been published. 
 
  Isaac Rabinovitch
  Disclaimer:  Just because I think you're wrong, doesn't
               mean I don't think you're a fun person! :-)
                                                                     

Newsgroups: rec.arts.sf-lovers
Path: decwrl!decvax!purdue!umd5!cvl!kayuucee
Subject: Re: Book Search: BLAKE'S 7 Novelization Query
Posted: 21 Jan 88 19:08:51 GMT
Organization: Center for Automation Research, Univ. of Md.
 
>Has there ever been any novelization of the British SF TV series BLAKE'S 7?
>(Perhaps something similar to the work of James Blish for the STAR TREK
>series).  Or has anything been written dealing with the show's characters?
 
    The BLAKES 7 books are:
 
		BLAKES 7 - Trevor Hoyle
		BLAKES 7: Project Avalon - Trevor Hoyle
		BLAKES 7: Scorpio Attack - Trevor Hoyle
 
    These are adaptations of several episodes of the series. I have
only read BLAKES 7: Scorpio Attack. It contains the episodes "Rescue",
"Traitor" and "Star Drive". They are extremely hard to find, but I
have heard that the first book is going to be re-issued later this
year due to the enormous popularity of the series here in the U.S. 
 
		Afterlife - Tony Attwood
 
    This takes place five months after the episode "Blake" and
according to the cover is the official BBC version of what happens to
the characters. It is not very good in my opinion. 
 
		The BLAKES 7 Programme Guide - Tony Attwood
 
    An episode guide and index to the BLAKES 7 galaxy. This is very
good as the episode descriptions are longer than usual. It also has
short sections with Paul Darrow talking about Avon and Michael Keating
about Vila. 
 
		? - Paul Darrow
 
    I don't know the title of this book, but it was supposed to be out
by Christmas `87. It is about Avon before meeting Blake on the
transport ship to Cygnus Alpha. 
 
						Star-Lord
 
    They were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
    Naturally they became heroes.
                                                               

    
    BLAKE'S 7 is scheduled to be shown on PBS (ch. 2 or 44 in the
    Boston, Ma. area) sometime in October. More details as I hear them.
    
    Ed E.

    For Those in the Boston area-- Blake's 7 episodes will start being
    shown on Channel 2 ,Sunday nights at 11:00 pm. (replaces Dr. Who),
    Starting Sunday, Oct. 2,1988.

    Caught the first episode and liked it - I can see how it might become
    rather addictive. I was amused at some of the twit-level behavior,
    though, such as the Incredibly Naive Defense Attorney completely
    ignoring the listening computer-clerk while expounding about "My
    goodness, this means there must be corruption throughout the
    government!" (Never mind that there would presumably be records of
    access to secure documents...) 
    
    Blake and friends are compelling characters, though, so I may follow
    this series, now that we Yanks finally have a chance to see it!
    
    -b

    We've already had it run through twice here in Silicon Valley.
    
    It's not bad, but it isn't Doctor Who.
    					- HBM

Sure enough, I found out that Blake's 7 is starting in Boston the day after
the first episode was shown. Is there a chance that anyone video-taped it
(and could loan it to me)? I'd be most appreciative, as I hate jumping into
something after it has started.


						-- Andrew

< Note 559.8 by BANZAI::EISENBERG >
               -< Does anyone have a copy of the first episode? >-

Sure enough, I found out that Blake's 7 is starting in Boston the day after
the first episode was shown. Is there a chance that anyone video-taped it
(and could loan it to me)? I'd be most appreciative, as I hate jumping into
something after it has started.


						-- Andrew

    I watched the second episode a couple of weeks ago. To be
    honest, I expected worse. I was surprised to find that it
    wasn't that bad overall. The story was unexceptional, but
    well enough done. The acting was reasonably good (I can see
    why people like Avon). The visuals were unbelievably cheesy,
    though. No, I'm not one of those who feels that special
    effects are more important than story, but I still feel that
    there must some sort of minimum standard necessary to make
    the whole thing convincing to me, and BLAKES 7 fails in this
    regard.
    
    Anyways, I'd probably watch it regularly except that it's made
    so little impression on me that I forget it's on.
    
    --- jerry

    This is second hand (I've only seen part of one episode), but you might
    want to check it again every once in a while.  The friend who
    recommended it to me said that the series developed through the seasons
    from being a straightforward Brit sf-adventure to a very cynical series
    about the impossibility of lasting change through politics, the
    co-opting of revolution, and ego uber alles.
    
    Not that _that_ sounds like the greatest time in the world, either,
    but the cheesy visuals would interfere less given that approach.
    
    Ray 

Newsgroups: rec.arts.drwho,rec.arts.sf-lovers
Path: decwrl!ucbvax!tut.cis.ohio-state.edu!unmvax!pprg.unm.edu!hc!ames!pacbell!
Subject: New BLAKE'S 7 book
Posted: 6 Feb 89 20:41:06 GMT
Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories - Naperville, Illinois
Xref: decwrl rec.arts.drwho:6176 rec.arts.sf-lovers:22876
  
    New (REALLY!) B7 book:  AVON - A TERRIBLE ASPECT, by Paul Darrow
 
    (From the Press Release):
 
    This is the second novel based on Terry Nation's popular "Blake's
Seven" TV series.  Though set far in the future and containing
fantastical events, it is nonetheless a story of real people,
experiencing strong emotions and fulfilling their destiny. 

    After 300 years of almost constant warfare, Earth finally brought
peace to the Universe.  The Federation, composed of the Nine Families,
ruled over the planets and their moons.   The inhabitants of every
occupied galactic mass were supposedly content, even though they
lacked the one thing that mankind had formerly held so dear - freedom. 
[Personally, I've always thought it a bit difficult to rule an entire 
galaxy, let alone the whole Universe. - LK]

    One man refused to give up this precious possession.  His name was
Avon, an Earthling who was a member of the Nine Families and
half-brother to one of its most powerful members. 

    Taking refuge in one of the remote moons of the farther planets,
he has a brief affair with a reclusive maiden and fathers a child -
but unbeknownst to him, for he has decided to return to Earth for a
final confrontation with his half-brother. 

    In a weird duel in the frozen North of their mother planet, the
two brothers fight a duel to the death and Avon is slain.  This, the
Federation feels spells the end to rebellion in the Universe; but they
are wrong.   The son of Avon, obviously an Earthling and entitled to
return to the mother planet, has sworn to his mother to avenge his
father.  He manages to return to Earth, and there work out the
inevitable conclusion to this ingenious and fascinating tale. 
 
    (end of Press Release)
 
    TO ORDER THIS BOOK:
 
    You may order direct from the publishers:  Send $20.95 (cost of
the book and $2.00 Postage and Handling to:  Carol Communications,
ATTN: Bob Salomon, 120 Enterprise Ave, Secaucus, NJ 07094.  The book
is shipping now to many speciality stores (comic book, sf) and dealers
so it will probably be showing up at conventions in the next few
months.  You can check with Walden or B. Dalton or Barnes & Noble or
Kroch & Bretanno - if they don't have a copy, ask them to order it for
you. This will usually require a nominal deposit ($1 or so).  They
will notify you when it comes in. 
 
    Personal note:  In no way could this be called an "optimistic"
book.  Darrow shows an even darker side to the B7 Universe.  You might
already have guessed that Avon (Kerr) was a bastard - but after reading 
this, you've really got to pity Blake!  Talk about warped childhoods! 
 
Jean Airey
...!att!hrcca!jean 
=========================================
posted by Kit Kimes   ...!att!ihlpe!kimes 
========================================================================
Received: by decwrl.dec.com (5.54.5/4.7.34)
	id AA03935; Mon, 6 Feb 89 22:20:35 PST

    
    So, did anyone ever read this book?  How was it?  How about
    a little review for us underpriviledged folk?
    
    -mishel

    And where can one GET these beauties?  I find plenty of Dr. Who,
    but no Blake's 7.
    
    (orak learning jokes now?  oog.)
    
    K.C. Fahel

    
    
    Finding a copy of Avon: A Terrible Aspect is difficult to say the
    least.  Your best bet is to go to creation conventions.  I got my
    copy at the one in Boston 2 months ago.  I have not read it yet,
    I am saving it until I go back to school where we have a cult following
    of the show.
    
    Neal Horovitz
    

    Well, I guess I'm SOL.  I can't afford to go to cons.
    
    Isn't there ANYWHERE in the Nashua, NH area that I can buy the books?
    
    K.C. Fahel

    A question for those who arefollowing Blake's 7 in the WGBH viewing
    area: what happened to Blake? I missed quite a number of episodes in
    the middle (that is, I saw quite a few when 'GBH first started showing
    Blake's 7, and then again for the past few months).
    
    The last time I saw Blake, he was quite ill and Avon was in command of
    the Liberator. At the end of the episode, Avon asked Blake to just
    trust him, to which Blake replied, "I have always trusted you."
                                                       
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
    

    go into TVnotes, do a DIR/TITLE="blake's 7".  I have an update in
    there.
    
    K.C. Fahel

    	It would proabably help some to write that the TV Conference can
    be found at node BOMBE. 
    
    	Press the KP7 or SELECT key to add TV to your Notebook.
    

    
    Re .16
    
    I was in Boston this weekend and stopped in the large Barnes and
    Noble down on Washington St, and guess what?  They had the book
    in stock.  It was selling for $16+, I don't recall off hand.  Hope
    that helps those who are looking for the book.
    
    Neal Horovitz
    

    I am looking for the book "Blake's 7: Afterlife" by Tony Attwood.
    I tried ordering it from Starlog, but they are out of stock.  Tried
    ordering it from a book store, but it is out of print.  Would anyone
    like to lend/sell me their copy?  Or any hints as to where I might
    find one?  Any help would be much appreciated.  I am located in
    Marlboro.
  
    
    Thanks,
    Janet
    
    Incidentally,  I have the Program Guide by Tony Attwood and it is
    fantastic.  If you are a Blake's 7 fan you shouldn't miss it.

    Yes, Janet, but where can I FIND it?
    
    K.C. Fahel, a Blake's 7 fan since day 1.

    
    I have seen the paperbacks in Waldenbooks every now and then, but,
    your best bet would be a convention.  There are also 3 paperback
    adaptations of the series:
    
    	Their First Adventure
    	Project Avalon
    	(Don't remember the 3rd, but it takes place during the 4th season)
    
    	Afterlife
    	Program Guide
    	Avon: A Terrible Aspect
    
    Plus, there are several fanzines floating around that chronicle
    other adventures of the seven.  The one I have takes a what if approach
    after the 2cd season, totally negating the last two seasons.
    
    Neal Horovitz

    Question to the moderators:
    
    Is this topic purely for discussion of where to find the books, or can
    the TV series be discussed here also? I know there is a note on
    Blake's 7 in the TV conference but I think it makes more sense to
    discuss it here in SF.
                                                       
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /

    I watched Sunday's episode last night (tape delay).
    
    So, whaddya think?
    
    IS Blake still alive?  Was Servalan lying?  Goodness knows that
    she can't tell now!
    
    K.C. Fahel

    >   <<< Note 559.25 by STEREO::FAHEL "Amalthea, the Silver Unicorn" >>>
    
    >IS Blake still alive?  Was Servalan lying?  Goodness knows that
    >she can't tell now!
    
    I think it may be premature to say that servalan is dead.  I think it
    is pretty clear that she transported away and she should end up on the
    same planet.
    
    Is Blake Alive?  I haven't a clue, but I guess it would be more
    interesting if he was, so if Brittish TV is anything like American TV,
    they will find a way to keep him alive!
    
    Tony

    Servalan took off her bracelet.  How could she teleport if 
    
    a) she didn't have her bracelet
    
    b) Liberator didn't have the power to teleport
    
    c) the teleporter had blown up
    
    These questions, and many more, will be answered!  (I hope!)
    
    ;^)  ;^)
    
    K.C. Fahel

    
    I'll play a bit-o the devil's advocate because I have seen the entire
    series between here and at school, so I'll just give you a few thoughts
    and maybe a few spoilers.
    
    Spoilers...
    
    
    The worst thing for Servalan would be for Blake to actually be dead.
    Ever hear of Martrydom?  That can be more affective than a live
    leader.  Besides, just like in American soap operas, unless you
    see the dead body, they can always bring the character back.
    Plus, she was probably lying to make Avon feel real lousy.  I loved
    how he smiled at the end of Terminal.  He is an interesting person,
    I saw/met him at a convention two years ago.
    
    Does Servalan die, no, but she changes a bit in the 4th season.

    If anyone really wants to know what happened, let me know, but I
    think you should really enjoy parts of the last season and the last
    episode.  That will be one worth talking about.  I'll put the title
    of the last episode behind another spoiler, because it does answer
    a previously asked question.
    
    The final episode is called...
    
    BLAKE
    
    Neal Horovitz
    
    

    Although I have read all of .28, here's what I thought before reading
    it:
    
    a) Servalan is most likely not dead, we didn't actually see her die,
       and you know how resiliant a good villian is.
    
    b) Blake is not dead, she told Avon that purely to hurt him in probably
       his only vulnerable spot.
    
    Re .28:
    
    > The worst thing for Servalan would be for Blake to actually be dead.
    > Ever hear of Martrydom?
    
    Exactly why they brainwashed him just before the beginning of the
    series, as opposed to executing him.
    
    > I loved how [Avon] smiled at the end of Terminal.
    
    So did I.
    
    > ...but I think you should really enjoy parts of the last season and
    > the last episode.
    
    Which episode is "Terminal" in the scheme of things? Last of the 3rd
    season?
    
    
                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /

    
    Terminal is the last episode of the third season.  The fourth season
    starts on Sunday, and as the saying goes, there is no rest for the
    wicked.
    
    The program guide makes an interesting observation about the closing
    episode of each season.  I'll put it behind a spoiler for those
    who have not seen the first 2 seasons.
    
    
    
    Something bad always seems to happen.
    1st Season - Orac Predicts the destruction of the Liberator.
    2cd Season - The Galactic War
    3rd Season - The Destruction of the Liberator.
    4th Season - I won't tell unless you ask.
    
    Neal
    

    How many seasons are there?
    
    K.C.

    
    There are only 4 seasons.  A total of 52 1hr episode.  Just enough
    for one year.
    
    There was a rumor floating around on the dr who notes file that
    I will mention.
    
    Spoiler
    
    The rumor is that Terry Nation is working on a new Blake's Seven
    television movie featuring Avon and Vila.
    
    Neal Horovitz
    

    RE: .22
    
    You can order "The Programme Guide" from Starlog Magazine ($3.95
    or 4.95).  It is fantastic.  You can get the first 3 Blake's 7 books
    at Waldenbooks (In TV Section or SciFi Section).
    
    I have also been a fan since day one.  After watching Sunday's episode
    (Terminal) and watching the Liberator being destroyed (and hearing
    Zen say "I have failed you") I feel as if one of my friends had
    died.  I only started watching the show because Dr. Who used to
    be on at that time and I needed my SciFi "fix".  It turned out to
    be better than I expected.  I hope the 4th (final) season is just
    as good.  Of course I cheated and read The Programme Guide and I
    know what is going to happen, but I HAVE to see it now.  
    
    Avon is my favorite,
    Janet
    

    There are only the four seasons, as already stated, and if you do
    manage to find a copy of AFTERLIFE, don't read it until you have seen
    all of the last season, as it takes up where the series left off. 
    Thus, if you read it first, you will spoil the series.
    
    The last episode of the series will certainly keep you guessing, as to
    what really went on.
    
    ..klaas..
    

    
    Re .35
    
    I agree that the last episode will keep you guessing, however, a
    reminder for this episode is to watch/listen to the closing credits 
    (the begining anyways).  Trust me, would I lie to you 8-)
    
    Neal Horovitz
    
    "There's something very suspicious about a man who keeps his
    booze under lock and key." - Vila

    <spoiler>
    
    
    I can't believe Cally's dead!  I am heartsick.  She was the only
    gentle one of the group.
    
    Gan, Cally, Zen.  I refuse to believe that Blake is dead.  And Jenna
    is still around here somewhere!
    
    Vila is slipping.  His true intelligence is showing!  ;^)
    
    K.C. 

    I am heartsick also!  She was the only gentle one of the group,
    true.  But have you noticed that Del Tarrant has softened up a 
    little?  He was hugging Dayna in the caves when she was so upset,
    and he said "you're not alone now".  I do believe he will start
    being kind to Vila next.  I hope so.  I am trying to like him. 
    He has great potential as a human being.  
    
    Subject from Left Field:  Did any of you see Dr. Who this past
    Saturday, 12-Aug?  TRAVIS (the second) was on there!  It was such
    a kick seeing him in another role.  This episode was called Robots
    of Death.  And if any of you continue watching Dr. Who you will
    see Vila soon in an upcoming episode titled "The Sunmakers".  
    Enough about the Dr.  Bring on more Blake fans!  
    
    Avon is still my favorite,
    Janet
    

        
    Jacquilin Pearce who plays Servalan is in The Two Doctors as well
    as in White Mischief (on cable this month)
    
    Paul Darrow (Avon) is in Time Lash as wells as The Silurians (but
    you have to look hard to see him.)

    Both Doctor Who appearances occur during Colin Baker's tenure.
    
    Neal Horovitz
    

    I've posted this in the Dr. Who note, so I might as well try here,
    too.  I missed the first five minutes of Blake the other night
    (8-13-89), and I'd like to know what happened.  Could anyone help
    me?
    
    I too love Avon.  But Tarrent's Ok too.  He *is* softening up, and
    the more he does that, the more I like him.  Villa is absolutely
    wonderful!  The only one I have a hard time with is Dana.  Maybe
    she'll grow on me.
    
    
    
    -mishel
    

    Funny, I like Dayna, but don't care too much for Tarrent.
    
    The first 5 minutes consisted of Avon & Dayna trying to get to the
    ship that Servalan so "kindly" left them.  One of the ape-creatures
    entered the ship, and the ship exploded.
    
    Can't wait 'til next Sunday!
    
    K.C., the Blake-oholic

    So everyone got out except for Callie?  What a bummer.  I liked
    Callie.
    
    
    
    -mishel

    Tarrent went in to save Cally, Vila ended up saving Tarrent, Vila
    started to go save Cally, when the explosion occurred.
    
    Her last scream of "BLAKE!" is going to stay with me for a while.
    
    :'^(
    
    K.C.

So, after we are through lamenting the loss of old friends, how about some
quick (before Sunday) speculation about new "friends"; Soolin, Slave, and
Scorpio. Does this mean that Scorpio is just about as powerful as the Liberator?
Will Aurac be able to complete the Teleport? What was Soolin planning to do
when she crept up the stairs while everyone stared at Dorian (Gray)'s alter
ego? And what about those guns, eh? Will Vila be able to break the unbreakable
locks or will Soolin open the door? And what of Servalan?

                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
 

    These questions, and many more, will be answered on the Next episode
    of:
    
    		B L A K E ' S   7!
    
    (Kidding aside)
    
    For some reason the thought of Orac and Slave together gives me
    the creeps.  Orac the Ultra-Ego and Slave the Ultra-Humble.  What
    a mix!
    
    Well, the seats on Scorpio look more comfortable.
    
    I think that between Avon and Orac (with Slave humbly helping when
    he can), the Teleport will work fine.  Getting new bracelets is
    going to be a trick.  But maybe they can figure out a way to get
    it to work without the bracelets.
    
    The jury here is still out on Soolin.  I would hate to see a duel
    between her and Dayna.  They are both good.
    
    (Cute play on Dorian [Gray]!)
    
    MY question is:  will they all be able to get Vila away from the
    wine cabinet?
    
    K.C.

    
    
    As much as I would like to be here to see how you'all react to the
    rest of the season, alas, I must return to school, my term as a
    co-op completed.  Enjoy the remainder of the season, it ranges from
    quite good/moving to pure camp, but that's what so good about the
    show.
    
    BTW, an interesting note about the fourth season.  None of the actors
    knew there was going to be one until days before filming began.
    So when Avon smiled at the end of Terminal, as far as they knew
    it was the end of the series.  But of course, we know it wasn't.
    
    Neal Horovitz
    Co-op -> Senior at Carnegie(no dash)Mellon (No University)

    re .46:
    
    > So when Avon smiled at the end of Terminal, as far as they knew
    > it was the end of the series.
    
    I wondered if that smile was "breaking character", it seemed
    uncharacteristic of Avon.
    
                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
    

    Blake's 7 wasn't on last night!
    
    *sniff*
    
    K.C.

    I've once again missed a few episodes, so I need a run-down of what
    I've missed; specifically, how did Servalan survive the destruction of 
    "Liberator"?
    
    Thanks,
                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
    

    Hi!
    
    It has never been explained; but Dayna and Avon were saying stuff
    like "Impossible!  How could she have survived?"  I'm still waiting
    to find out meself.
    
    I didn't see last night's, (I will be seeing it tonite, via VCR),
    but if you tell me how many weeks you've missed, I may be able to
    help.
    
    STEREO::FAHEL
    
    K.C.

    I missed the first half of last night and the two prior to that.
    (I had programmed the VCR to tape it while I was on vacation, but there
    was apparently a power glitch shortly after we left).
    
                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
    

    The Blake's 7 Episode Guide is the October issue of Starlog (on
    the stands now).  The episode guide is in two parts, the second
    being in the November issue.  If you are a B-7 Fan you should get
    this for your collection.  It contains lots of photos (B/W + Color)
    from the first two seasons, and if Starlog runs true to form, the
    next issue should have lots of photos from the 3rd and 4th seasons.
    Don't miss it!!!
    

    Re: Servalan:
    
       In last week's episode, The Sand, she alluded that it malfunctioned,
    and she got lucky by finding herself on a federation ship.  I could
    play my tape and quote her, but that's the gist of it.
    
    					-mjg
    

    Help!
    
    (I am so embarrassed!)
    
    We were watching Sunday's Blake's 7 episode on tape last night,
    and with about 15 minutes left, the tape ran out!  (We forgot to
    rewind the tape, so it was at the end.)
    
    Can someone, please, give me a rundown of what happened after our
    gang went into the lift, with Dayna on the stretcher, and Soolin
    the last one in the lift?
    
    Send it to STEREO::FAHEL.
    
    K.C.

Just where is Blake's 7 heading? Last week's episode "Gold" was a big 
disappointment. Not just in the ending but in the whole structure.
The 7 no longer seem to have any larger goal (such as overthrowing the 
federation tyrrany), they now seem to be little more than an outlaw gang
of thieves and ruffians. 

                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /

    Re: .55
    
    I hate to say it but I agree.  I LOVE the series and the characters,
    but after the 'Gold' episode the word 'Thugs' came to mind a little
    too easily.  There may be a simple explanation though.  Avon is
    supposed to be slipping further and further into a psychosis (according
    to the Programme Guide).  He appears to have mellowed some since
    the beginning of the series but actually he is more dangerous now.
    Also, they aren't really freedom fighters anymore, are they?  Avon
    said that they were only sticking together while it was mutually
    beneficial.
    
    I know the series isn't going to have a happy ending but it still
    tugs at the heart-strings to see these changes happening.
    
    Janet
      

    Everyone else probably knows but I don't. What is Starlog?  A magazine? 
    Can you get it easily anywhere, e.g., the Paper Store in Maynard?
    
    Thanks.
    

    It's an SF media mag available in most bookstores in the U.S.  I
    don't know about its availability in the U.K. or other locales.

    The only store that might have starlog in the UK that I know of
    is Forbidden Planet in London. It's near Charing Cross, isn't it?
    
    steve p

    Re: .57
    
    Starlog is a SF Magazine widely distributed in the U.S.  You can
    find it in almost any large bookstore (Walden Books, etc.).  I don't
    know if it's available in the UK or not, but it was available in
    Japan when I was there a few years ago, so I think it should be
    sold in the U.K.  
    
    Part 1 of the B7 episode guide was in the October issue and the
    2nd part is in the November issue which is available now.  If you
    have missed one or both issues I would be happy to send you a photocopy
    of the episode guides in the mail.  These contain some great pictures! 
    
    Simply send me mail at:  HYEND::JBROWN
    
    Janet
    
    

    I will vouch for the quality of the photocopies of the programme
    guides.  I received mine!
    
    K.C.

    WWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

   re:	<<< Note 559.62 by STEREO::FAHEL "Amalthea Luincarandir/Silver Unicorn" >>>
                               -< *sob* *sniff* >-
>    WWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

   I agree.  What will I do with my Sunday nights?  Watch the news?
   You're joking!!
   
   It happened much too quickly.  For the emotional investment we've all
   got in these characters I think it would have been much more fitting
   to have done this story in two hours.
   
   And Servalan never even got to gloat.  She was nowhere in the episode,
   so we don't know if this trap was even her doing!!
   
   Here's hoping 'GBH will see fit to run the entire series again in the
   near future.
   
   D=

    Yes, I agree it should have been done in 2 hours.  Thank you for
    putting in to words (the emotional investment) what I've been feeling
    but couldn't quite say.  
    
    The Programme Guide makes the ending sound as though Vila hit the
    ground when the shooting started (after he karated Arlen) and we
    weren't quite sure if he was dead/shot or not, but it SURE looked to ME
    as if he was shot!  
    
    Also, the blood on Blake (graphically done, I might add) was done
    purposely.  Gareth Thomas (Blake) insisted that he be definitely DEAD 
    with no possibility of a comeback.  I believe that the others didn't
    bleed because of a possible resurrection of the series, and with a
    little imagination (I happen to have lots) a few of them could have
    survived.  I am most upset about Vila being shot, and I don't quite
    know why yet. 
    
    I can picture Avon surviving the shot-out since we never saw him get
    shot, we only heard that horrible gun fire at the beginning of the
    end credits.  I thought that it was very well done, still some mystery.
    
    Did you hear the distress in Avon's voice when he was talking to Blake
    before he shot him?  I was expecting the old arrogant Avon, but instead
    I thought we were going to see tears!!!
    
    Janet
    

   Ok, I'm depressed.


					-mjg

	That was my first (and last?) episode of Blake's 7.


	Not very nice of them to kill all the characters the first night
	I watch....


							-sjk

    Oh, Steve!  Shame on you!  (Or should I say shame FOR you?)
    
    Hopefully, we will be able to remedy that.
    
    (details coming up...)
    
    K.C.
    
    P.S.  Steve, how can I get MJGrier's tape to you to get back to
    him?  What time do you get in?  See me via MAIL

    No, I don't think there's any chance of "resurrections", the use of
    slow-motion as each member of the team was shot, I think, was meant to 
    signify their "real death". As for Avon, really now, there were about
    50 federation guards surrounding him, all waiting for an excuse to
    shoot him, do you think they all could have missed?
    
    I, for another, was crushed by this ending. Was there any point to this
    last season? I think they should have left it with Servalan dying in
    the Liberator. At least then we have been left with some hope of the
    ultimate liberation of the galaxy. Now, the federation has won and the
    opposition has been eliminated.
    
                                                   
                  /
                 (  ___
                  ) ///
                 /
    

   Re: .66:

   Steve, when I talked to you, I TOLD you not to watch it now, this late in
the season!!

   Unfortunately, if I had known what was going to happen, I don't know if
I'd have watch it myself...

   Anyways.

   Did anyone notice some interesting bits in who they focused the camera
upon?  Especially when Avon was talking about the lawlessness which must
exist on G.P., and he said something about "thieves, killers and psychopaths".
When he said "thieves", they showed Vila, on "killers", Soolin, and
on psychopaths, they showed none other than AVON!  Yup, it's a hint, ol'
Avon's losing it.

   Well, he may well have lost it all now! :-(

   If Servalan can survive Liberator's destruction, Avon and Vila AT LEAST
can survive this minor mishap.  Dayna never really grew on me, and I had
written Tarrant off with Scorpio.

   Did anyone notice how Soolin's delivery of the line about "The difference
here is that they ARE out to get you."  I could've sworn it was Avon there
for a moment.  Maybe he's rubbing off...

   That and the recurring theme of "No one is indespensible."


					-mjg

    
    A definitive spoiler from this side of the water.........
    
    
    Here in the UK, where B7 originates, we saw the episode under
    discussion some years ago, since when .....
    
    			SPOILER WARNING
    
    
    
    No more episodes have been made.
    That is definitely, and finally *it*.
    Nothing penultimate about this one.
    
    Sorry !
    
    
    Ian

    <spoiler to answer spoiler in .70>
    
    
    Yes, we know that there ARE no more episodes, but there MIGHT BE
    some new episodes.  The ball is in our court, so to speak.
    
    In an interview Paul Darrow (Avon) mentioned that if there is a
    favorable response to the show, and if Terry Nation were to work
    on it, there was a chance of new episodes.
    
    We are going to fight!  We will be heard!  WE WANT OUR BLAKE'S 7!
    
    (sorry, got a little carried away on that one.  ;^) )
    
    K.C.

I really hated the ending of Blake.  Where was Servalan?






spoiler




Can someone explain to me why Avon killed Blake?

    Answer to your spoiler:
    
    
    
    Avon killed Blake because Avon felt that Blake had deceived them,
    and turned them over to the Federation.  It wasn't until after the
    deed was done did Avon realize that he was wrong.
    
    and where WAS Servalan?  ;^)
    
    K.C.

   If anyone goes to this convention where Avon (Paul Darrow) and Vila
(Michael Keating?) will be present, could they take a copy of these
questions and ask THEM?


   I'm curious about whether Avon realized Orac certainly could have flown
Scorpio while he and Tarrant teleported.  I think that's why the camera fixed
on Orac when Avon went over to talk to Tarrant.


					-mjg

>    signify their "real death". As for Avon, really now, there were about
>    50 federation guards surrounding him, all waiting for an excuse to
>    shoot him, do you think they all could have missed?

Do you really believe the guards needed an excuse?  Also, was the point where
Avon brought up his gun done in slow motion or was he really taking his time?
(I thought it was the latter... In which case the guards had their excuse before
he ever got the gun up... Surely, they were not going to let him fire if they
could help it).  
    
>    the Liberator. At least then we have been left with some hope of the
>    ultimate liberation of the galaxy. Now, the federation has won and the
>    opposition has been eliminated.

The federation has not really won.  The Scorpio crew seem to have 'inspired' a
number of people/groups to go against the federation.  Some may... Some may not.
And I have always had the impression that deep down, they were all still the
same as they were at the beginning... Looking out for themselves.  The last
season certainly seems to show this.  They were not always freedom fighting;
that seemed more like a hobby while they went after things (eg, money, crystal,
etc).

-Joe

    re: .75:
    
       Remember, noone is irreplacable.
    
    
    					-mjg
    

    We almost set our VCR last night.  *sigh*.
    
    NOW I am REALLY depressed!
    
    K.C.

    RE: .77
    
    I'm glad I'm not the only one!  Every Sunday night for the last
    year.......  Oh well.  I came up with the idea of rerunning my tapes
    starting with episode #1 on Sunday nights starting at 11:00.  I may
    have to in order to get my 'fix'.  Also, I think it will be interesting
    to watch the old episodes already knowing what will happen to them.  It
    is also interesting to compare how they were when they first met to
    how there relationships with each other progressed as time went on.  
    
    Janet
      

    Hello, folks!
    
    If anyone is interested in having Blake's 7 return to Sunday nights,
    send me EMAIL, with your full name, and mail stop.
    
    K.C.	STEREO::FAHEL

    Well folks, I have just read in a morning paper that Terry Nation
    is on the hunt for funding to make a new series of BLAKE'S 7.
    Apparently he has already signed Paul Darrow to play AVON again,
    but there will be an all new cast apart from that.
    
    More when I get it,
    
    Bob

>    Apparently he has already signed Paul Darrow to play AVON again,
>    but there will be an all new cast apart from that.

Isn't having a new cast just about required...  You have seen the
last episode, right?

    Yeah I've seen the last episode...
    
    		SPOILER AFTER THE <FF>
    
    
    Everyone wiped out and all that but... from some of Mr Nations other
    work and subsequent new series's (strange word that).  I would not
    be supprised if there was something nifty up the sleeve of MR Nation.
                                                     
    Bob
    

    Re: .81
    
    Anything is possible... <FF>
    
    
    
    Haven't you ever heard of stun guns?  ;^)
    
    K.C.

    Let's just hope the BBC are prepared to produce better special effects
    than for the old series, and for Dr Who. I got fed up seeing toilet
    roll holders and squeezy washing-up liquid bottles flying around space.
    
    Re. last:
    
    Perhaps Avon will wake up in the shower, and find the last episode was
    all a dream :-)
    
    
    Dave Hazel

    Just caught my first ever view of Blake 7. bad special effects or not I
    loved it - NOW aren't there more ZENs in the computing world...
    
    I really hope a new series does come about
    
    Tahi

    WHERE DID YOU SEE IT??????????
    
    K.C.

    Sorry about the late reply but here in the UK Blake 7 is available on
    Video. I found that the Video store I frequent BLOCKBUSTERS has quite a
    few Bloake 7 videos - The begining (the video I watched) is about 2
    hours or more long and contains three complete stories up to and
    including the naming of the seven members of Blake's Crew ...
    
    The other videos are called DUEL, ORAC, AFTERMATH,  (I think there's
    about 5 or 6 of them but I don't know the correct order although it
    does tell you on the actual video box)
    
    I really don't know where you can get the videos in the states but
    enquire at your local video store they might be able to help.
    
    Tahi

    Well, we have BLOCKBUSTERS here, so, maybe....
    
    
    THANX, TAHI!!!!!
    
    K.C.

    
    The original four videos caught my eye (The Begining, Duel, Orac &
    Aftermath) so I bought 'em, watched 'em and really enjoyed 'em.
    
    They are however heavily cut down from the series as was originally
    shown. (Still good to watch though)
    
    I thought nothing more about the videos until last week when I noticed
    in our local supermarket (Reading, UK) that there were some different
    videos of Blakes 7 available.
    
    They were numbered 1 through 6 and each claimed to contain 2 FULL
    episodes. I can't remember the titles right now (even though I bought
    1,2 and 3 on Saturday) but I'll make a note and post the info. here
    sometime next week.
    
    Keith.

    But when, oh when, are they coming HERE? (Nashua, NH, USA)
    
    K.C.

 re: -1
	Sorry - I don't know when they'll be available elsewhere  :^(

	I got hold of the videos that are released on Staurday. The full list 
	available to date is as follows:

	Video #		# in series	Titles contained

	BBCV 4447	     1		The Way Back,
					Space Fall
	BBCV 4448	     2		Cygnus Alpha,
					Time Squad
	BBCV 4449	     3		The Web,
					Seek-Locate-Destroy
	BBCV 4450	     4		Mission to Destiny,
					Duel
	BBCV 4468	     5		Project Avalon,
					Breakdown
	BBCV 4469	     6		Bounty,
					Deliverance

	I asked if they had release dates for any others in a couple of
	places but nobody had any more information. So far I believe that 
	numbers 1,2,3 & 4 were released in January and 5 & 6 in March. 

	If I can find out about any more I'll post it here (Including any
	info. for overseas releases)

	Keith.

>    Finding a copy of Avon: A Terrible Aspect is difficult to say the
>    least.  Your best bet is to go to creation conventions.  I got my


Just the tiniest bit late :-) :-).

There was one copy of this book left on the shelf at Barnes & Noble,
Daniel Webster Highway, Nashua NH as of about 8:30 tonight.  I do not
know if they have more in the stockroom.

-Joe

    Avon: A Terrible Aspect is being released as a paperback.  I don't have
    details with me, but it should be on shelves soon.  If anyone is
    interested I'll post the details here tomorrow. (I got the info from my
    clubs newsletter - if anyone's interested in _that_ let me know also
    ;-) ). 
    
    - Russ.
    

    _I'M_ interested!!!!!!!!!
    
    K.C.

re: 

Avon etc..

I put a note in some conference somewhere.  This book WAS on the Barnes&Noble
shelf in the SF section under Darrow in Nashua NH last night.  I picked up
my copy there.  There was one left on the shelf; they may have more stocked
somewhere.

-Joe

    Here's the information I got:
    
    _Avon: A Terrible Aspect_ has finally been released by Carol Publishing
    Group in paperback format.  The book is available at bookstores for
    $4.50, or can be ordered direct from Carol Publishing, 120 Enterprise
    Ave., Secaucus, New Jersey 07094.  In Canada, the book is available
    from Musson Book Company, Don Mills, Ontario. (ISBN 0-8216-2503-9).
    
     AND
    
    "another possible entry to the American market is the official uncut
    BBC Enterprises series of Blake's 7 videos.  A source at BBC
    Enterprises in London told Tarriel Cell October 2 that the tapes had
    been licensed for U.S. Distribution by CBS/Fox Videos of New York. When
    asked for confirmation, a CBS/Fox spokesperson denies any knowledge of
    the deal."
    
    (Information from Tarriel Cell, the newsletter of Organized Response to
    Avon's Call (ORAC), P.O. Box 566123, Dallas, TX 75356-6123.)
    
    
    - Russ. 
    

    Well, the local pbs just finished 'Blake' last night.  I must say it
    was pretty conclusive.  
    
    Also, they certainly forced it that way, no?  Avon trusting Tarrant
    over Blake?  After Tarrant spent all of what 6 hours with him and then
    Blake let him loose through his facility?
    
    Also, I just wondered how the federation storm troopers could have
    fired at Avon?  I mean they were surrounding him at CLOSE range.  Fire
    at him and they shoot their own folks.  Talk about firendly fire.
    
    I was tempted to believe that the shots after the credits were just a
    reflection of the dying that had occurred earlier.
    
    Boy was Vila out of character!  Good thing he died or he would never
    live down the fact that he nailed someone.
    
    Also, the series is dead, isn't it.  The last one was filmed what, 10
    years ago?  sounds pretty terminal to me.
    
    Tony

    RE: last
    
    From interviews I've read it seems that every series of Blake ended
    with some sort of cliff hanger.  The writers and actors (except for
    Blake, of course -  he wanted out) fully expected to make another 
    year's worth, but the BBC cancelled it. 
    
    A friend of mine is convinced that Avon pulled up his gun, shot the
    lights out, and ducked !!!!  The guards all shot each other.  That's
    why he was grinning!  The others were stunned by the guards. 
     
    There are lots of theories about what happened.  Alas, we'll never
    know.   The episode "Blake" aired 10 years ago this December 8th
    (we're having a "Blake Wake" complete with black armbands ;-)). 
    
    - Russ. 
      
    
    
    
    

re: .last

I saw the first FIVE video tapes (two episodes per tape) at Suncoast Video
in Nashua NH, USA  recently (the Pheasant Lane Mall).  They were $19.9x
each.  I made mention of this in the Dr Who conference but forgot to put
it in here.

-Joe

In case anyone is interested, the tapes 1 through 15 (each is a
double episode) were seen at Suncoast Video, Pheasant Lane Mall,
Nashua NH.  This was about 4 days ago.

-Joe

    Hi there I am new to dec notes, and have just discovered this entry,
    any fans of B7 out there, I'd love to here from them.  I am not a
    general sci-fi fan, but B7 is definitely an exception.

    
    I'm definitely a B7 fan, and I remember watching the shows in the late
    70's/early 80's. 
    
    I think the storyline was very strong and helped make it a cult series.
    
    Emma

    re .103
    
    "Me too". But B7 is now just a fading memory. Not much SF on TV has
    managed to capture my imagination since then.
    
    B7 had an interesting assemblage of characters. Even the computers, Zen
    and Orac, were characters.

Anybody know if Blake's 7 is available on video (hopefully to rent?)  It used
to play late at night on PBS here, but I just never knew enough about it
to tune in, and now I'm hearing a lot of things that make me wish I
had payed more attention back then.

I've heard people favorably compare Babylon 5 to Blake's 7, 
(starts with a B, ends with a number ;-) the storyline is
much more connected, people are not whom they seem and 
things happen to major characters that are not glossed over
like in the Trek world...

But again, I don't have the point of reference.

PeterT

>
>Anybody know if Blake's 7 is available on video (hopefully to rent?)  It used
>to play late at night on PBS here, but I just never knew enough about it
>to tune in, and now I'm hearing a lot of things that make me wish I
>had payed more attention back then.

I have never seen it for rent, but Suncoast Video, Pheasant Lane Mall, Nashua
NH, USA has the first 15 tapes.  Each tape has two episodes, so that is 30 out
of the 52 episodes for the series.  I forget the price, but it probably $19.99 
or less.  I believe it is S&J productions that sells them mail order as well.  
They supposedly have all 26 tapes.

I thought it was a good show.  Although the series had a poorer special
effects budget than ST:Voyager, I thought it was MUCH more entertaining
(I never did get over Voyager landing on the planet, nor that Away team 
mucking about with flashlights strapped to one of their arms).

-Joe

    Wow I didn't expect any answers as this entry looks like it has been
    quite for a while, nice to know I'm not out there on my own.  For me
    too it was only a vague but fond memory, as it stopped showing when I
    was a mere 10 years old.  Then in the UK, a satalite channel, UK Gold,
    started showing it, and I saw all 52 episodes, and now I am a confirmed
    fan.  The BBC have just issued for a limited time, and supposedly the
    last time, the first 2 seasons, and will be releasing the 3rd and 4th
    in about March '96.  Sorry I know this does not help if you're not in
    the UK.
    
    The first thing that struck me was the dry humour, I also loved the 
    fact that everything was not black or white. Infact it was a very 
    dark outlook at times, and often there were no outright winners, 
    or anyone clearly in the moral right, just alot of shades in between.  
    This is one reason I am not a huge fan of the Star Treks, particularly
    not the original.  It was far too 'nice', does that make me twisted or
    something :-)?  I also loved the interaction between a group of people
    who did not really want to be together, but had to work together due to
    circumstances. 
    
    Just a few of the many quotes I could put here:
    
    Vila:           Blake would've been proud of you, you know.
    Avon:           I know, but then he never was very bright.
    
    Vila:           There is something very suspicious about a man who
    		    keeps his booze under lock and key. 
    
    Vila:           I've got this shocking pain right behind the eyes.
    Avon:           Have you considered amputation?
    
    Vila:           This is stupid.
    Avon:           When did that ever stop us.
    
    Vila:           What did I do to deserve this?
    Avon:           How long a list would you like?
    
    Avon:           Staying with you requires a degree of stupidity of
                    which I no longer feel capable.
    Blake:          Now you're just being modest.
    
    
    
    
    
    

I *really* liked Avon, to me he remains the "best of good baddies" :^)


\C

    Blakes 7 returns to Sky in March.  As a fan of this series I would
    recommend watching it if you get the chance.  The special effects may
    not have been up to much even for the late 70's, but the characters and
    their development are good. Overall it is quite dark, but there are
    some wonderful one liners.
    
    Vila:           I've got this shocking pain right behind the eyes.
    Avon:           Have you considered amputation?