The Changes Peter Dickinson

The long-awaited DVD premiere of this influential science-fiction series, which was first broadcast on the BBC in early 1975

Well remembered for its unsettling depiction of a society in meltdown, The Changes paved the way for the likes of Survivors and Day of the Triffids.

When a strange noise is emitted from machinery and electricity pylons, previously placid and easy-going folk turn violently against technology that surrounds them – ruthlessly attacking radios, TVs and other domestic appliances. In the devastating aftermath, young Nicky Gore (Victoria Williams) is separated from her parents, but finds a surrogate home with a group of Sikhs. But they soon are dubbed ‘The Devil’s Children’ by superstitious locals and Nicky is accused of sorcery by a witchfinder. In grave danger, she is forced to find a way to escape, find her parents and uncover what caused the world to become so unbalanced.

This highly acclaimed series was adapted from Peter Dickinson’s best selling trilogy by Anna Home (who would later become chief executive of the Children’s Film and Television Foundation), and features music by the BBC Radiophonic Workshop’s Paddy Kingsland (The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy). Its gritty depiction of a near-apocalyptic world, and its integration of Sikh characters make it as progressive and fascinating now as it was when it was first broadcast.