The Battle begun in V (TV Mini Series 1983) continues as small groups of human resistance fighters fight a desperate guerilla war against the genocidal extra-terrestrials who dominate Earth. The war is told from the viewpoint of the resistance group based in Los Angeles, CA as they struggle to find weaknesses of the aliens they can exploit. Following directly on from the original V mini-series, this show bridges over all the plot points and character stories into one explosive adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the original mini-series with my Dad and we enjoyed this one just as much (maybe even more). Whilst carrying forward all the elements of the previous story, this one offers more individual plot threads and new characters who instantly rose to a favourite status between us. Set four months after the Visitors first arrived on Earth, we still follow the resistance group led by Julie and Donovan as they concoct new methods to prove to the population of the unsettling truth about the Visitors. From exposing Supreme Commander John in front of a worldwide broadcast, trying to spring Julie from Visitor captivity, disrupting Visitor control of water supplies and a final stand aboard one of the Visitor's Motherships. With each attempt, the stakes only grew higher with the dangers rising and casualties building up to match. Seeing characters from the first series, unfortunately, die or be killed was very upsetting, especially when some of them went out under tragic circumstances or heroic sacrifices. However, that is the risk with war and this show doesn't shy away from delving into the consequences of it. Both sides feature exceptional actors who elevate the story with their outstanding performances. New addition, Ham Tyler, played by Michael Ironside, brings a serious yet comedic side to the group with his quick quips and a great amount of eruptive action. He doesn't make the best impression on other members of the resistance with his abrupt and determined manner when it comes to ridding the world of Visitors. He has a 'somewhat' steady relationship with Donovan and even gives him the nickname Gooder because of their very different morals. Tyler has no love lost for the Visitors, which even stretches to members of the Fifth Column (Visitors on our side) like Martin or the friendly Willie. I loved seeing more of Martin's relationship with Donovan grow in this series as the two work closely to bring an end to the war. During the show, Donovan is captured and receives truth drugs from Diana to uncover members of the Fifth Column, which he gives away Martin, who was in the room with them. Seeing him instantly fight back and rescue Donovan was incredible and displayed their friendship perfectly. Willie continues to be hilarious with mixing up words but also gets time to shine by helping the resistance. Julie is a brilliant leader who is respected and trusted by everyone, even after undergoing many traumas with torture from Diana. Diana is easily the highlight of any scene involving the Visitors. Her presence in every scene is elevated thanks to her cold demeanour and ruthless behaviour. Other notable villains include Daniel, who has fully turned into a real piece of work who does truly unjustifiable things and gets his just reward for it in the end. Another significant plot point is Robin's pregnancy with Visitor Brian. She experiences a great deal of stress but eventually has her child, Elizabeth, known as the Star Child, who possesses unique abilities left quite ambiguous and felt very convenient to wrap up the story. The series has a decent conclusion that ties everything neatly together whilst leaving some elements up in the air that would be continued in yet another series, despite this being the 'final battle'. Overall, The Final Battle is a worthy follow-up to the original V mini-series that brings forward new ideas and characters whilst bridging over all the stories started in the last one. The effects still hold up and match the level of quality as the previous instalment. Whilst not being the end so to speak, this made for a decent finale that can be enjoyed as such or as a second segment in the adventure. This series certainly merits a watch. Also, check out V (TV Series 1984-1985) for more.
Seasons & Episodes: 1 Season - 3 Episodes (4h 32m)
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