Very British Futures

The Day of the Triffids

The Day of the Triffids by John Wyndham is one of the best known science fiction novels in Britain. It has been adapted for radio several times, plus a movie, and two (soon to be three) television series. For many, the 1981 BBC adaptation is the best and closest version.

The series follows the story of Bill Marsden, a farmer living in a post-apocalyptic world after a meteor shower has rendered most of the population blind. The disaster also allows a species of mobile carnivorus plant called Triffids to escape and multiply. Bill is a young man who has retained his sight due to being protected by bandages, ironically after a Triffid attack. As he navigates the dangers of the new world, he meets a young woman called Joselyn and together they face tough choices, trying to balance compassion and self-preservation. The series explores themes of survival, adaptation, and the dangers of unchecked scientific progress.

Convincingly filmed on the streets of London and in the chilly English countryside, The series had an impressive cast led by John Duttine, Emma Relph, and Maurice Colbourne. Produced by Blake's 7 producer David Maloney and directed by well regarded TV and film name Ken Hannam.

I must credit Andrew Pixley for his exhaustive DVD viewing notes in helping me research this podcast. For this episode I was lucky to be joined by writer Rik Hoskin, singer and actor Ella Burton and actor Chris Burton.

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