Science fiction fans viewing British television in the 1980s had much to contend with. Limited budgets and unconvincing special effects often required a leap of faith of such size as to put people off. But, in the midst of this, emerged The Tripods, a fondly-remembered sci-fi hit of the time, of which both series are present on this DVD set.
Adapted from the books by John Christopher, The Tripods is set late in the 21st century, with humanity living in peaceful servitude, albeit under the eye of huge alien machines. These machines - The Tripods - fit the young with special headgear that will ensure future humans are similarly subservient to the alien invaders, and it s when two teenagers, Will and Henry, look to evade such treatment that the adventure begins.
Hearing stories of other uncapped humans in the south, they set off on a journey to find them, while being pursued by The Tripods, who naturally aren't best happy.
There are many pleasant surprises to The Tripods, even rewatching it today, and the programme has stood up really very well to the rigours of time. The limited budget means that the deployment of the Tripods themselves is kept for carefully chosen moments, and they re convincing, at time intimidating invaders. But it s the storytelling that s key here, and it s that which should ensure this DVD release earns The Tripods a new collection of fans.
First broadcast in 1984, post-apocalyptic fantasy adventure The Tripods remains one of the UK’s best-loved science fiction series.
This BBC box set contains both series of The Tripods as well as fascinating extra material.