you're right, re 3 and 4 being more larky in the plots but... i do stand by what i said, even if i should have said it better. basically: the atmosphere is warmer. yes, everyone bickers etc, but they all definitely like each other (even avon) and blake has a plan and is obviously the hero and you sort of feel like 'ah, well, this is all right. i bet he'll save the day most of the time and probably overthrow the federation in the end!'.
certainly in series 1. series 2 less so due to plot events and blake's confidence deteriorating (to the point where he's like 'we have to do it so i know i was right' - dear dear), but then it ends with THE MOST SPOILERY BIT IS WHITED OUT potential universal destruction, but actually a general win for our heroes, blake's alive despite being shot, travis is dead, and avon doing something heroic and leadery. also, there's a good chance they'll win the war, and they do.
man, the plots of series 3 and 4, though... i think that should be a reason of its own. do you like fanfic plots? of COURSE you do. then watch blake's 7.
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certainly in series 1. series 2 less so due to plot events and blake's confidence deteriorating (to the point where he's like 'we have to do it so i know i was right' - dear dear), but then it ends with THE MOST SPOILERY BIT IS WHITED OUT potential universal destruction, but actually a general win for our heroes, blake's alive despite being shot, travis is dead, and avon doing something heroic and leadery. also, there's a good chance they'll win the war, and they do.
man, the plots of series 3 and 4, though... i think that should be a reason of its own. do you like fanfic plots? of COURSE you do. then watch blake's 7.