The original Avengers TV series has become one of the most iconic 1960s British TV shows and has a large cult following.
In 1976, it was decided to revive the show, with a slightly different format and some new actors. Patrick Macnee returned as Steed, but was joined by newcomers Purdey played by Joana Lumley and Gambit, played by Gareth Hunt.
The series lasted two seasons, and while it was nowhere near as good as the original series, it did have some good episodes and high points.
The first season is the best, with some good stories and great guest stars such as Peter Cushing and Ian Hendrey. The fantastical elements were also kept in the series with subjects such as reanimated Nazi’s and Cybernauts, half-man half-robot.
The great thing about the series is the on-screen chemistry between the leads, and it does maintain British irreverence and humour, with witty and smart dialogue. It’s just a shame that the high quality of the first season could not be kept for most of the second.
Like a lot of British TV around this time the series was shot on 35mm film so it can be given a great new remastered HD transfer and it looks fabuolous on these discs.
There is great detail on show, and it has been cleaned up to look its best. Audio has DTS-HD MA 2.0 track for all episodes and sounds clean and solid.
A great selection of extras is also in the set and includes audio commentaries on a variety of episodes from some of the actors and production staff. You also get a mumber of interviews with Annette Andre, Raymond Austin, Patrick Macnee Biographer Marie Cameron , Brian Clemens, Laurie Johnson and more.
Also you have a variety of features including Becoming Purdey: The Woman Who Redefined The Avengers, The Impact of The New Avengers: Reinvented for a New Era, and Kicks, Flips & Spy Tricks: The Stunt Magic of The New Avengers.
Also you get a 64-page bound booklet and a 32-page comic book.
While not as enjoyable or well made as the original this series does have a lot to offer and is great fun to watch. It also has one of the best theme tunes of any UK TV series!
Available as a 4K UHD or Blu ray set.
SERIES ONE – 8 / SERIES TWO – 6 / PICTURE – 9 / AUDIO – 8 / EXTRAS – 8
