The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: The Primary Phase (Dramatized)

By: Douglas Adams

Narrated by: Peter Jones, Simon Jones, Geoffrey McGivern, Mark Wing-Davey, Susan Sheridan, Stephen Moore, full cast

Length: 3 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

A dynamic remastering of the original BBC Radio 4 full-cast serial - Fit the First to Fit the Sixth - which spawned a phenomenal hitchhiking legend.

The original series of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, remastered by Dirk Maggs (director of the Tertiary, Quandary and Quintessential Phases) to give a full, vibrant sound, now with Philip Pope’s version of the familiar theme tune and specially re-recorded announcements by John Marsh.

Join Arthur Dent, Ford Prefect, Trillian, Zaphod Beeblebrox and Marvin the Paranoid Android in their first series of adventures as they witness the destruction of Earth to make way for a hyperspace bypass, stumble upon the ancient planet of Magrathea, dine at the Restaurant at the End of the Universe and seek an answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe and everything.

Peter Jones, Simon Jones, Geoffrey McGivern, Mark Wing-Davey, Susan Sheridan, Stephen Moore and a full supporting cast star in these BBC Radio 4 episodes.

A special 55-minute bonus programme, Douglas Adams's Guide to the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, explores the genesis of the radio series and its incredible success, with contributions from the original cast and production team.

Audio files were replaced in April 2021.

©2008 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2008 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Classic Comedic Genius

If you are a fan of science fiction, or just comedy in general , this is a worthwhile listen. The form of humor in this series of radio shows has a very Monty Python feel, bizarre and perhaps a little random at times; however unlike python's sketch comedy and more akin to their feature films the comedy is tied together into a clever and original story arc. Whether it is proving that there is no life in the universe or finding the meaning of life in the universe, you'll find an interesting and comedic explanation to all your questions.
For those who may have seen the movie the story arc is longer and differs in some large ways, the radio show is also funnier (this is not an opinion it is a fact).
The only thing keeping this audio production from a 5 out of 5 is production quality. The production quality is over all pretty good, especially when one keeps in mind when it was produced. There are, however, a few spots in the recording where I had trouble understand what was being said due to effects placed on vocals.
All in all I would recommend this audio show to anyone who enjoys chuckling at the bizarre.

Mostly Harmless

I first thumbed a ride into Douglas Adams's end of the universe when the first novelization was published back around 1980. I read all five parts of his trilogy as well as the sixth entry by Eoin Colfer, I watched the BBC TV version with relish when it was first shown in the US on PBS, and (like other Adams fans) I struggled through the misguided film adaptation.

But I never heard the original radio show before. This remastered edition is sonically difficult to listen to, as other reviewers have stated, but the material is as fresh as ever. My one caveat, having started with the novels, is that there is so much more in print than there ever was on the radio, especially the hilarious excerpts from the Guide. Of course the novels are 25 hours long in total (not including Colfer) so there is so much more room for all of that.

Still, good stuff for HG2G aficionados, despite the poor sound quality, with a bonus radio doc about the making of the primary phase of the radio series. Hitchhiker's Guide newbies -- I'd recommend the novel as the best entry point but this would not be a bad place to start either.

One of the best

What can I say? A classic all around. Been in my top 10 books for many years. The original radio broadcasts here are great also. A must.

An Absolute Classic

Wonderful from start to finish. Clever, funny and great performances throughout- a true must listen

Love the Guide

I’ve been a huge fan for decades. I’m loving just listening to the non-sequiturs and far fetching realities of this series. Offbeat, obtuse, and outrageous.

Favorite!

The performance was sooo good! I am so happy I downloaded this book, cant wait to listen to the rest.

Absolutely fantastic

I was a long time fan of the print version of this story and had no idea it was originally a radio drama. The format allows for unique gags and humor that are lost in print or single voice narration. Though at times, the 70's sci-fi sound effects do make it slightly difficult to understand what's going on.

Love Adams

Hitchcock Hikers Guide to the Gallaxy
is a classic that's for sure. My only complaint is when you combine a radio programs episodes, you should make a little cohesive. In other words use the theme music to a minimum please because it got annoying really fast. Other than that it is the same wonderful Adams creation.

The best version of Hitchhiker's there is

I was told that the radio version of Hitchhiker's was Douglas Adams's favourite, and I understand why. It's a genuine classic.

Hear what started it all

This is a great set of shows from the very beginning of the Hitchkiker's craze. Plus some bonus material with interviews providing some nice behind the scenes info. Overall very enjoyable.