Big Finish’s V UK: Visitation breathes fresh life into the classic 1980s science fiction miniseries, deftly reimagining the story of alien occupation in a modern British context. With a rich sound design and a stellar cast, this audio drama effectively captures the tension, intrigue, and humanity of its source material while delivering a distinctly fresh take.
The story is set in present-day London, where alien motherships appear above cities worldwide, igniting fear and uncertainty. These Visitors, led by the enigmatic Diana (Janie Dee), present themselves as saviors, offering peace and prosperity while secretly orchestrating an insidious occupation. The three-part structure is tightly woven, immersing listeners in a tale of resistance, betrayal, and survival.
Episode one establishes the initial awe and unease as humanity grapples with the Visitors’ arrival. Annabel Baldwin shines as Dr. Juliet Parrish, a reluctant hero who transitions from a cautious observer to a determined leader. The nuanced performances and sharp dialogue ground the narrative, making the alien invasion feel eerily plausible. The episode captures the initial allure of the Visitors’ promises while hinting at the darkness lurking beneath their benevolence.
The second episode, set a month later, shifts gears as the Visitors’ true intentions begin to surface. Scientists are persecuted, and people start disappearing. Jack Myers’ portrayal of Mike Donovan, a documentary-maker who uncovers the Visitors’ horrifying agenda, is riveting. His daring infiltration of a mothership and subsequent discovery of their secrets are among the production’s most gripping moments. The moral dilemmas and interpersonal conflicts are heightened, with Geoffrey Aymer as Abraham Mabaso providing a compelling counterpoint to Donovan’s brash heroism.
By the third episode, the tone becomes decidedly darker. The Visitors impose martial law, with Juliet Parrish forced into the role of a resistance leader. The stakes are personal and political, with Baldwin’s Parrish exuding quiet strength as she navigates the challenges of rebellion. Dee’s Diana is a chilling antagonist, her cold precision contrasting sharply with the human warmth of the resistance fighters. The Christmas setting adds an ironic touch of festivity to the oppressive atmosphere, further highlighting the Visitors’ sinister grip on society.
The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances across the board. Nicholas Briggs’s voice work as Newsreader Two is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, adding authenticity to the story’s media commentary. Hannah Brown as Robin Maxwell and Jesse Dunbar as Daniel Mabaso inject youthful energy into the narrative, while Raj Ghatak’s Tony and Kate O’Rourke’s Lynn Mabaso add layers of familial tension and emotional depth.
Under Helen Goldwyn’s direction, the production is a masterclass in audio storytelling. Jamie Robertson’s sound design and Joe Kraemer’s music work in perfect harmony to create an immersive experience. The hum of alien technology, the echoes of crowded resistance hideouts, and the chilling broadcasts from Visitor-controlled media all contribute to a rich auditory landscape. The pacing is expertly handled, with moments of quiet introspection interspersed with pulse-pounding action.
Jonathan Morris’s script stays true to the spirit of Kenneth Johnson’s original work while introducing new twists and contemporary themes. The parallels between the Visitors’ tactics and real-world issues of propaganda, authoritarianism, and xenophobia lend the story a timely resonance. The choice to set the drama in the UK adds a fresh perspective, with cultural and political nuances that make the story feel both familiar and new.
V UK: Visitation is a triumph. It successfully reinvents a beloved classic for a new audience, delivering a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its compelling characters, atmospheric soundscapes, and timely themes, this audio drama is a must-listen for fans of science fiction and political allegory alike. Big Finish has crafted a gripping tale of resistance and survival, proving once again that great storytelling transcends mediums.
V UK: Visitation exclusively available to buy from the Big Finish website until 28 February 2025, and on general sale after this date.
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