Fans of the British science fiction show Blake’s 7, produced by the BBC for broadcast between 1978 and 1981 in four 13-episode series and created by Terry Nation, will be pleased to learn that Microsoft is funding a comeback for the Blake’s 7 series that will be landing on Xbox Live as an exclusive, reports the FT website.
Microsoft has now replaced the cable outfit Syfy as the Blake’s 7 series backer and will support the Fremantle Media announced 13-part Blake’s 7 series written by Joe Pokaski and directed by Martin Campbell, who also has directed two James Bond films, GoldenEye and Casino Royale, starring Daniel Craig.
The Legacy of Blake’s 7
Blake’s 7 originally captivated audiences with its unique blend of dystopian themes, complex characters, and morally ambiguous storylines. The series followed a group of rebels led by Roj Blake, who fought against the oppressive Terran Federation. The show was notable for its dark tone, which was a departure from the more optimistic science fiction of the time. The original series ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans yearning for more.
The new series aims to capture the essence of the original while updating it for a modern audience. Joe Pokaski, known for his work on “Heroes” and “Daredevil,” brings a fresh perspective to the series. Martin Campbell’s involvement as director adds a layer of credibility, given his successful track record with action-packed, character-driven stories.
What to Expect from the New Series
The new Blake’s 7 series promises to delve deeper into the characters’ backstories and motivations. The year is 2136, and the story begins with Blake waking up alone, reaching for his deceased wife Rachel. This emotional opening sets the stage for a series that will explore themes of loss, redemption, and the fight for freedom.
While no dates have been announced for the new Blake’s 7 series, the involvement of high-profile talent suggests that the project is being taken seriously. Fans can expect a blend of action, drama, and science fiction that honors the original while offering something new.
The casting for Blake and his crew remains a mystery, but speculation is rife. Given the trend of casting well-known actors in rebooted series, it’s possible that we could see some familiar faces. The original cast, including Gareth Thomas as Blake and Paul Darrow as Avon, left big shoes to fill, but the new series has the potential to introduce a new generation of fans to these iconic characters.
Microsoft’s decision to make Blake’s 7 an Xbox Live exclusive is a strategic move to attract more subscribers to its platform. This aligns with the company’s broader strategy of investing in exclusive content to compete with other streaming services. By backing a beloved series with a dedicated fanbase, Microsoft is betting on the show’s ability to draw in viewers.
The return of Blake’s 7 is an exciting development for fans of the original series and newcomers alike. With a talented team behind it and the backing of a major company like Microsoft, the new series has the potential to be a hit. As more details emerge, we will keep you updated on this highly anticipated reboot.
Source: The Register : FT
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
