Cally finds a novel way of ensuring that Vila can carry out his task…

There’s a certain amount of movement forward of the series’ arc in this story (and you can pretty much guess what it’s going to be from the moment that Servalan makes an appearance), but the utter delight of this story – and what I suspect will have me listening to this one again in the not too distant future – is Michael Keating’s performance as the Fearless Vila. If you’ve ever wondered what the character would be like with all of his distinguishing traits flipped in a mirror, then here’s the chance to find out – and boy, does Keating have fun with it, both in scenes with Jan Chappell and later with Jacqueline Pearce.

The storyline introduces us to yet another previously unknown part of Vila’s past, but it works in context, as her expectations of the thief are pretty much the same as the listener’s… so this brash, overconfident, loudmouthed braggart throws her plans out just as much. Inevitably, of course, things go wrong, and Vila reverts to normal, but it’s the combination of the two that makes this one so well.

David Bryher’s script and John Ainsworth’s direction ensure that the tension is maintained throughout, and it makes for a terrific end to this first set.

Verdict: A tour de force performance from Michael Keating makes this one of the most enjoyable Blake’s 7 adventures. 9/10

Paul Simpson