In the far distant future, the Earth and its space colonies are under the dictatorial rule of the Federation, which uses everything from physical torture to mind-controlling drugs to keep the populace under its thumb. Among the Federation's "perfect" citizens is Roj Blake (Gareth Thomas), whose memories of his previous life as a freedom fighter have been obliterated by the authorities. Upon recovering his full mental capacities and learning his true identity, Blake agrees to lead a revolt against the Federation -- only to be framed on a phony child-molestation charge and sentenced to the prison planet Cygnus Alpha. While onboard the prison transport vessel, Blake meets two fellow "outlaws" -- smuggler Jenna Stannis (Sally Knivette) and safecracker Vila Restal (Michael Keating) -- who are destined to join him in a bold escape attempt. Thus, with the episode titled "The Way Back," began the BBC1 TV run of Blakes 7 on January 2, 1978.
by Hal Erickson
synopsis
