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My @bigfinish review thread for 2021
The Sinestran Kill
Lots of fun. Tom Baker on fine form, loved Frank Skinner’s DCI Nielson. Don’t have much of a handle on Ann Kelso yet but it’s nice to hear Tom with a new companion.
Lots of fun. Tom Baker on fine form, loved Frank Skinner’s DCI Nielson. Don’t have much of a handle on Ann Kelso yet but it’s nice to hear Tom with a new companion.
Treasure Island
Really love this one, it’s a bit of a comfort story for me. Light and breezy and full of adventurous spirit. It’s a very evocative and immersive production, I would heartily recommend it to anyone.
Really love this one, it’s a bit of a comfort story for me. Light and breezy and full of adventurous spirit. It’s a very evocative and immersive production, I would heartily recommend it to anyone.
Masterful
Mixed feelings. Hearing the various Masters and guest characters bouncing off one another is great, there’s a lot of humour and excitement but underneath it’s somewhat nonsensical. A confusing and abrupt ending left me a bit cold. Might benefit from a second listen.
Mixed feelings. Hearing the various Masters and guest characters bouncing off one another is great, there’s a lot of humour and excitement but underneath it’s somewhat nonsensical. A confusing and abrupt ending left me a bit cold. Might benefit from a second listen.
Mutually Assured Destruction
I liked it but I don’t think it suits being an audio story. I tend to tune out during Dalek-to-Dalek dialogue, and there was a lot of visual action too, which made it a bit difficult to follow, but overall it works well as a cap on 8’s TLV adventures
I liked it but I don’t think it suits being an audio story. I tend to tune out during Dalek-to-Dalek dialogue, and there was a lot of visual action too, which made it a bit difficult to follow, but overall it works well as a cap on 8’s TLV adventures
Genetics of the Daleks
I liked it! In many ways it’s similar to Mutually Assured Destruction - a survival story in a spaceship with Daleks - but it accomplishes itself more efficiently and enjoyably. Lone Dalek tales are usually strong, and this is true here.
I liked it! In many ways it’s similar to Mutually Assured Destruction - a survival story in a spaceship with Daleks - but it accomplishes itself more efficiently and enjoyably. Lone Dalek tales are usually strong, and this is true here.
Planet of the Drashigs
It leans a little heavily on being a Jurassic Park homage but the Drashigs are used inventively and the story justifies their return. It’s a bit odd that the Doctor and Ann spend their second story separated but it lets Ann and K9 face their own challenges
It leans a little heavily on being a Jurassic Park homage but the Drashigs are used inventively and the story justifies their return. It’s a bit odd that the Doctor and Ann spend their second story separated but it lets Ann and K9 face their own challenges
Code Silver
It’s 45 minutes of Kate Stewart being a badass against a squad of Cybermen - I loved it.
It’s 45 minutes of Kate Stewart being a badass against a squad of Cybermen - I loved it.
Master of Worlds
Liked it. This breed of Cybermen seem a bit more powerful and threatening than the usual kind. Loved the Master trying to get inside the UNIT team members’ heads.
Liked it. This breed of Cybermen seem a bit more powerful and threatening than the usual kind. Loved the Master trying to get inside the UNIT team members’ heads.
The Lady of Obsidian
YES! Favourite War Doctor story so far! Leela’s return is handled beautifully, Hurt and Jameson make a fine pairing. Felt genuinely emotional at points listening to them. That was absolutely superb.
YES! Favourite War Doctor story so far! Leela’s return is handled beautifully, Hurt and Jameson make a fine pairing. Felt genuinely emotional at points listening to them. That was absolutely superb.
The Enchantress or Numbers
It gets a little bit technobabble heavy near the end but it’s very atmospheric. The guest characters are well drawn, and the Doctor and Ann feel cemented as a team now.
It gets a little bit technobabble heavy near the end but it’s very atmospheric. The guest characters are well drawn, and the Doctor and Ann feel cemented as a team now.
The Enigma Dimension
It’s suitably trippy for the Time War but takes too many leaps near the end and demands we accept them without justifying them. Needed a lot more development near the end to work imo, and it doesn’t use Leela anywhere near as well as Lady of Obsidian.
It’s suitably trippy for the Time War but takes too many leaps near the end and demands we accept them without justifying them. Needed a lot more development near the end to work imo, and it doesn’t use Leela anywhere near as well as Lady of Obsidian.
Situation Vacant
A fun enough little story. There are a couple of twists that strike me as a bit too similar, though one of them is nicely subverted. It’s a bit on the throwaway side but it’s a harmless enough way to spend an hour, there’s nothing I really disliked about it.
A fun enough little story. There are a couple of twists that strike me as a bit too similar, though one of them is nicely subverted. It’s a bit on the throwaway side but it’s a harmless enough way to spend an hour, there’s nothing I really disliked about it.
The False Guardian
Not a lot going on in this one. It reintroduces elements of Daleks’ Masterplan and is mainly concerned with setting up the environment and characters for the next story. It wasn’t bad, there just isn’t much to talk about with it
Not a lot going on in this one. It reintroduces elements of Daleks’ Masterplan and is mainly concerned with setting up the environment and characters for the next story. It wasn’t bad, there just isn’t much to talk about with it
Nevermore
I think I liked it. It’s a story with a lot of mad elements, and it maybe over-complicates its background a bit, but I enjoyed listening to it and it has some beautiful imagery. I’ve really enjoyed my second run of the 8DAs, a lot of them have gone up in my estimation.
I think I liked it. It’s a story with a lot of mad elements, and it maybe over-complicates its background a bit, but I enjoyed listening to it and it has some beautiful imagery. I’ve really enjoyed my second run of the 8DAs, a lot of them have gone up in my estimation.
The Lovecraft Invasion
Love this one. A really well done play, with lots for all the characters to do. Calypso Jonze is absolutely the highlight - I really hope they become a recurring character or a companion. The Doctor, Flip and Constance are a delight as usual.
Love this one. A really well done play, with lots for all the characters to do. Calypso Jonze is absolutely the highlight - I really hope they become a recurring character or a companion. The Doctor, Flip and Constance are a delight as usual.
Time’s Assassin
That was fun! It bounces along, managing to tidy up a lot of stuff quite ably. Nice to get a sense of the series arc and there’s an intriguing twist for Ann. Hard to believe I’m near the series end though, it feels as though Ann’s just started her travels.
That was fun! It bounces along, managing to tidy up a lot of stuff quite ably. Nice to get a sense of the series arc and there’s an intriguing twist for Ann. Hard to believe I’m near the series end though, it feels as though Ann’s just started her travels.
Also Zephon was such a meme
The Book of Kells
It’s a little bit padded out but it’s good. I love the Monk, and I genuinely didn’t see through the Lucianus thing the first time I listened. The story didn’t appeal to me as much as I expected it to, I guess.
It’s a little bit padded out but it’s good. I love the Monk, and I genuinely didn’t see through the Lucianus thing the first time I listened. The story didn’t appeal to me as much as I expected it to, I guess.
Circular Time
Adore this. The Isaac Newton story is spectacular. Autumn is the most beautifully melancholic pieces of Doctor Who ever. And Winter... I watched Caves of Androzani before I listened to Winter and now I’m broken. An extremely good set of stories.
Adore this. The Isaac Newton story is spectacular. Autumn is the most beautifully melancholic pieces of Doctor Who ever. And Winter... I watched Caves of Androzani before I listened to Winter and now I’m broken. An extremely good set of stories.
Fever Island
...
...
... never again
...
...
... never again
Deimos
Bit of a runaround but bloody hell, what a cliffhanger. Looking forward to Part two
Bit of a runaround but bloody hell, what a cliffhanger. Looking forward to Part two
The Guardians of Prophecy
Liked this. Nice to revisit Trakenite society and see another aspect of that lore. The Melkur get shown off a lot more than in Keeper. Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant on excellent form. Stephen Thorne was great too. Nice, inoffensive slice of 80s Who.
Liked this. Nice to revisit Trakenite society and see another aspect of that lore. The Melkur get shown off a lot more than in Keeper. Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant on excellent form. Stephen Thorne was great too. Nice, inoffensive slice of 80s Who.
The Resurrection of Mars
This was good! Love the Doctor’s morality being pitted against the Monk’s, and it uses the events of Deimos as leverage for Tamsin leaving the Doctor really well. Graeme Garden is superb, and it’s really nice to have the Doctor and Lucie reunited.
This was good! Love the Doctor’s morality being pitted against the Monk’s, and it uses the events of Deimos as leverage for Tamsin leaving the Doctor really well. Graeme Garden is superb, and it’s really nice to have the Doctor and Lucie reunited.
The Perfect Prisoners Part 1
Good. Nice to get Ann’s true nature revealed at last. The Dream Machine plot is great, I almost wish it wasn’t presented along with the Syndicate/Anya reveals so it could be more fully explored. 1/2
Good. Nice to get Ann’s true nature revealed at last. The Dream Machine plot is great, I almost wish it wasn’t presented along with the Syndicate/Anya reveals so it could be more fully explored. 1/2
The issue I have with Perfect Prisoners: I’ve never done Daleks Masterplan, so the returning characters are pretty meaningless to me. I’ve no idea what most of them are meant to look like. Maybe that’s a me problem but I think it’s a real flaw in using stuff from missing episodes
The Perfect Prisoners Part 2
Wow. Loved that. Really powerful story after Anya’s unmasking, and puts the Dream Machine concept to excellent use. The Doctor’s sense of betrayal is palpable; his reactions to Anya feel raw and emotional. A definite high for the Fourth Doctor range!
Wow. Loved that. Really powerful story after Anya’s unmasking, and puts the Dream Machine concept to excellent use. The Doctor’s sense of betrayal is palpable; his reactions to Anya feel raw and emotional. A definite high for the Fourth Doctor range!
Masters of War
It’s not bad, it’s just far too long. Nice ending. Warner and Courtney superb. The Quatch voices are awful.
It’s not bad, it’s just far too long. Nice ending. Warner and Courtney superb. The Quatch voices are awful.
The Fearmonger
Appropriately terrifying, and more relevant than ever. Feels exactly how I imagine early 90s Doctor Who would’ve done. A definite Big Finish classic.
Appropriately terrifying, and more relevant than ever. Feels exactly how I imagine early 90s Doctor Who would’ve done. A definite Big Finish classic.
Colony of Fear
It’s a bit paint-by-numbers but it was fine. Really liked Tarlos’ story though, I’ve wanted something like that from Doctor Who for years.
It’s a bit paint-by-numbers but it was fine. Really liked Tarlos’ story though, I’ve wanted something like that from Doctor Who for years.
Space: 1999 - Breakaway
Superb! A terrific production, plenty of mystery to keep me hooked on the rest of the series and excellent performances all round. Music and sound design are top notch. Really, really excited for Volume 1!
Superb! A terrific production, plenty of mystery to keep me hooked on the rest of the series and excellent performances all round. Music and sound design are top notch. Really, really excited for Volume 1!
Death and the Queen
It’s really fun. Strongest from the first series of 10DAs by a mile. It’s basically a ridiculous fairytale played straight, with a lot of humour for Tennant and Tate.
It’s really fun. Strongest from the first series of 10DAs by a mile. It’s basically a ridiculous fairytale played straight, with a lot of humour for Tennant and Tate.
Purgatory 12
A little bit wandering and aimless but overall not bad! Nice atmosphere, captures the tone of early 80s Doctor Who really nicely.
A little bit wandering and aimless but overall not bad! Nice atmosphere, captures the tone of early 80s Doctor Who really nicely.
Colditz
It’s a classic, isn’t it? Probably one of the best McCoy stories, despite some dodgy sound design. Klein is a superb villain, and the stolen TARDIS thing really works for me.
It’s a classic, isn’t it? Probably one of the best McCoy stories, despite some dodgy sound design. Klein is a superb villain, and the stolen TARDIS thing really works for me.
Chase The Night
I liked it, but...
The second story with a living planet (or planet wide organism in this case) creating incorporeal copies of the inhabitants in a row? Feel like it should’ve done something different after Purgatory 12, but it’s an entertaining listen anyway.
I liked it, but...
The second story with a living planet (or planet wide organism in this case) creating incorporeal copies of the inhabitants in a row? Feel like it should’ve done something different after Purgatory 12, but it’s an entertaining listen anyway.
The Judgement of Sherlock Holmes
Really liked this! An intriguing international mystery that fits nicely into the Holmes chronology. Some excellent material for Dr. Watson too. Really digging the Sherlock Holmes series at the moment
Really liked this! An intriguing international mystery that fits nicely into the Holmes chronology. Some excellent material for Dr. Watson too. Really digging the Sherlock Holmes series at the moment
Prisoner of the Sun
I liked it but it’s a little bit throwaway. Gets a bit too tangled up near the end, I think, but it’s basically sound.
I liked it but it’s a little bit throwaway. Gets a bit too tangled up near the end, I think, but it’s basically sound.
The Library in the Body
Really like this one! This was the first David Warner Doctor story I ever heard, and it was such a revelation. It does a great job of setting up the new Unbound universe and telling its own story simultaneously. The perfect series opener, really
Really like this one! This was the first David Warner Doctor story I ever heard, and it was such a revelation. It does a great job of setting up the new Unbound universe and telling its own story simultaneously. The perfect series opener, really
Planet X
Adore this. Favourite Unbound story by a considerable distance. Spare Parts meets The Happiness Patrol with a healthy dose of Unbound weirdness. It’s dark and chilling, and every single member of the cast is on fire. Perfectly showcases the Unbound Doctor. 10/10.
Adore this. Favourite Unbound story by a considerable distance. Spare Parts meets The Happiness Patrol with a healthy dose of Unbound weirdness. It’s dark and chilling, and every single member of the cast is on fire. Perfectly showcases the Unbound Doctor. 10/10.
The Memory Box
Not for me. There’s a large stretch in the middle where not very much happens, and the (extremely convenient) twists near the end aren’t a storytelling style that appeals to me.
Not for me. There’s a large stretch in the middle where not very much happens, and the (extremely convenient) twists near the end aren’t a storytelling style that appeals to me.
Lucie Miller
I like this even if it is just a Bigger And Better(?) rehash of DIOE. Does a good job establishing the occupation of Earth quickly. The conflict between Tamsin & the Monk is handled nicely (though how could she possibly think the Daleks are medical missionaries??)
I like this even if it is just a Bigger And Better(?) rehash of DIOE. Does a good job establishing the occupation of Earth quickly. The conflict between Tamsin & the Monk is handled nicely (though how could she possibly think the Daleks are medical missionaries??)
The Siren Call
Good! Though it was considerably more standalone than I was expecting, and the resolution was slightly lacklustre compared to the mystery that came before it. Some very obvious doubling up of roles as well, but that’s a nit-pick. Really looking forward to the rest
Good! Though it was considerably more standalone than I was expecting, and the resolution was slightly lacklustre compared to the mystery that came before it. Some very obvious doubling up of roles as well, but that’s a nit-pick. Really looking forward to the rest
The Planet of Witches
Fine, though it repeats elements from the prior stories in the series yet again. The fantastical tone of this one is a departure from high concept sci-fi, but I would have liked a bit more variation from the four stories in this series of 4DAs.
Fine, though it repeats elements from the prior stories in the series yet again. The fantastical tone of this one is a departure from high concept sci-fi, but I would have liked a bit more variation from the four stories in this series of 4DAs.
The Holy Terror
Masterpiece. That is all.
Masterpiece. That is all.
The Harvest
Liked it. Nice to have a non-conventional Cybermen story, and to revisit the near-future Earth Big Finish established in their early years. Some of the more Eurosceptic dialogue has aged quite noticeably though
Liked it. Nice to have a non-conventional Cybermen story, and to revisit the near-future Earth Big Finish established in their early years. Some of the more Eurosceptic dialogue has aged quite noticeably though
To The Death
It’s amazing, but wow, what a downer. Three major character deaths in one episode seems a bit bloodthirsty but I suppose it sets up the Doctor’s mindset in Dark Eyes. Susan doesn’t get to grieve for anywhere near long enough though.
It’s amazing, but wow, what a downer. Three major character deaths in one episode seems a bit bloodthirsty but I suppose it sets up the Doctor’s mindset in Dark Eyes. Susan doesn’t get to grieve for anywhere near long enough though.
The Emporium at the End
It’s fun. Mark Gatiss makes an excellent Master - suave and sinister. This Doctor being given his sonic screwdriver feels like a really weighty moment. The Mother Superior should’ve had her own spin off.
It’s fun. Mark Gatiss makes an excellent Master - suave and sinister. This Doctor being given his sonic screwdriver feels like a really weighty moment. The Mother Superior should’ve had her own spin off.
The Last Beacon
This is a pretty nice one! Ianto is very sweet, and Owen’s misery is hilarious. Turns out to have a relatively uplifting tone for Torchwood, which is a vibe I really, really like
This is a pretty nice one! Ianto is very sweet, and Owen’s misery is hilarious. Turns out to have a relatively uplifting tone for Torchwood, which is a vibe I really, really like
The Peterloo Massacre
Possibly the most important story Big Finish have ever made. Powerful, heartrending and righteously furious. It’s an exceptionally tragic piece, with superb performances from the cast. If you’re into Big Finish, you need to hear this one
Possibly the most important story Big Finish have ever made. Powerful, heartrending and righteously furious. It’s an exceptionally tragic piece, with superb performances from the cast. If you’re into Big Finish, you need to hear this one
Death’s Other Dominion
That was great. It had a nice dark tone, and Nival had a creepy, unsettling vibe about it from the start. The stuff about the impact of immortality on the human mind was great, and Chris Jarman made for a really threatening villain.
That was great. It had a nice dark tone, and Nival had a creepy, unsettling vibe about it from the start. The stuff about the impact of immortality on the human mind was great, and Chris Jarman made for a really threatening villain.
The Quest of the Engineer
It was OK. Really decent villain, but there’s a lot of running around that gets quite hard to follow, and the plot drags a bit. Liked it though!
It was OK. Really decent villain, but there’s a lot of running around that gets quite hard to follow, and the plot drags a bit. Liked it though!
Goldilocks
This was great! Hits a lot of retro sci fi tropes, but it was nice to hear the Alphans brushing shoulders with a benevolent alien race after two stories of antagonistic ones. Excellent sound design on the monsters. Really love this series!
This was great! Hits a lot of retro sci fi tropes, but it was nice to hear the Alphans brushing shoulders with a benevolent alien race after two stories of antagonistic ones. Excellent sound design on the monsters. Really love this series!
Slight Glimpses of Tomorrow
Fantastic. Walks the line between the “We can’t change history, not one line” and “Time can be re-written” philosophies and balances them beautifully. A really worthy successor to 5:29 from Volume 2, I’m really glad they brought Rachel back.
Fantastic. Walks the line between the “We can’t change history, not one line” and “Time can be re-written” philosophies and balances them beautifully. A really worthy successor to 5:29 from Volume 2, I’m really glad they brought Rachel back.
The Spectre of Lanyon Moor
One of the all time best, without a doubt. Classic Who through and through. Love it to bits.
One of the all time best, without a doubt. Classic Who through and through. Love it to bits.
Brave New World
This one felt dragged out, with a lot of padding near the end. Could’ve been tighter but it was alright. I felt slightly dissatisfied by the lack of retribution from River for what Linos and Bryson did to Rachel, but I suppose that was the point. Lovely cameo
This one felt dragged out, with a lot of padding near the end. Could’ve been tighter but it was alright. I felt slightly dissatisfied by the lack of retribution from River for what Linos and Bryson did to Rachel, but I suppose that was the point. Lovely cameo
A Forever Home
Liked this! The Master bait-and-switch was a bit weird, and it gets a little exposition heavy near the end but overall it’s pretty good. Bonkers and chilling in equal measure. An army of evil K9 units is too good an idea not to be done at least once.
Liked this! The Master bait-and-switch was a bit weird, and it gets a little exposition heavy near the end but overall it’s pretty good. Bonkers and chilling in equal measure. An army of evil K9 units is too good an idea not to be done at least once.
Dead Time
Stranded 2 off to an intriguing start, with a captivating mystery about humanity’s future - or lack thereof. *Huge* TARDIS crew in this one, but they get balanced well enough. I’m really interested to see how this series turns out!
Stranded 2 off to an intriguing start, with a captivating mystery about humanity’s future - or lack thereof. *Huge* TARDIS crew in this one, but they get balanced well enough. I’m really interested to see how this series turns out!
The City and the Clock
It’s OK, though I find the end a little hard to follow. Does a great job of filling in the gap between this set and the last though, and effectively sets up the Doctor’s frame of mind for the rest of this series.
It’s OK, though I find the end a little hard to follow. Does a great job of filling in the gap between this set and the last though, and effectively sets up the Doctor’s frame of mind for the rest of this series.
R&J
All sorts of beautiful. Love how River and Jack’s relationship develops over the hour; James Goss is brilliant at this sort of storytelling. Exactly the story two characters of this magnitude deserve. Leaves tons of space for more Jack and River stories; they need to happen!
All sorts of beautiful. Love how River and Jack’s relationship develops over the hour; James Goss is brilliant at this sort of storytelling. Exactly the story two characters of this magnitude deserve. Leaves tons of space for more Jack and River stories; they need to happen!
Subterfuge
Likeable, if a bit unremarkable. Gets points for being a non-WWII Churchill story, and it’s always a pleasure to hear the Monk. There are a lot of disparate elements and storylines but they tie together well enough in the end.
Likeable, if a bit unremarkable. Gets points for being a non-WWII Churchill story, and it’s always a pleasure to hear the Monk. There are a lot of disparate elements and storylines but they tie together well enough in the end.
Queen of the Mechonoids
I love the Mechonoids as much as the next nerd, but did they really need their own version of Davros?? I liked the conflict between River and Anya though, and it’s nice to have an introduction to Mark Seven before Dalek Universe starts.
I love the Mechonoids as much as the next nerd, but did they really need their own version of Davros?? I liked the conflict between River and Anya though, and it’s nice to have an introduction to Mark Seven before Dalek Universe starts.
UNIT Dating
Oh my good god. Oh my dear Zodin. What a story. Those last few scenes had me in bits. Serious Absent Friends vibes at one point. And then the Brigadier said gay rights. I cheered. I cried. Outstanding work.
Oh my good god. Oh my dear Zodin. What a story. Those last few scenes had me in bits. Serious Absent Friends vibes at one point. And then the Brigadier said gay rights. I cheered. I cried. Outstanding work.
The Garden of Storms
Alright. Very good introduction to Abby and Zara, but the story itself felt a bit basic. Only part 1/3 so I’m deferring judgement for now . The alien society felt a little bit contrived, and a similar concept was used to greater effect in The Elite.
Alright. Very good introduction to Abby and Zara, but the story itself felt a bit basic. Only part 1/3 so I’m deferring judgement for now . The alien society felt a little bit contrived, and a similar concept was used to greater effect in The Elite.
The Baker Street Irregulars
2 very different stories but I enjoyed both. The Akhtar story had the edge for me; it was engaging, though the final twist came from nowhere. Enjoying Liv & Tania’s developing relationship. I hope we get some answers to Stranded’s mystery soon though!
2 very different stories but I enjoyed both. The Akhtar story had the edge for me; it was engaging, though the final twist came from nowhere. Enjoying Liv & Tania’s developing relationship. I hope we get some answers to Stranded’s mystery soon though!
Asking For A a Friend
It deserves a thread of its own. A spectacular story, brilliantly performed. Warner and Badland are unbelievably good. The twist is genius, and there’s a lot to be drawn in replaying to spot all the hints leading up to it. It’s just perfect.
It deserves a thread of its own. A spectacular story, brilliantly performed. Warner and Badland are unbelievably good. The twist is genius, and there’s a lot to be drawn in replaying to spot all the hints leading up to it. It’s just perfect.
The Silver Turk
A very worthy follow-on from Spare Parts. It has a macabre, gothic atmosphere and feels quite epic. It’s not a typical Cyberman story but it places a huge emphasis on their struggle to survive & adapt at any cost. Another essential story, alongside Spare Parts.
A very worthy follow-on from Spare Parts. It has a macabre, gothic atmosphere and feels quite epic. It’s not a typical Cyberman story but it places a huge emphasis on their struggle to survive & adapt at any cost. Another essential story, alongside Spare Parts.
The End of the Beginning
Ep 1
Felt a bit pulseless. I enjoyed the setting and the Indiana Jones sort of feel but I’d have liked a bit more going on plotwise.
Ep 2
Better. A welcome return for Calypso, though they’re used a little oddly. Wee bit of a runaround but basically fine
Ep 1
Felt a bit pulseless. I enjoyed the setting and the Indiana Jones sort of feel but I’d have liked a bit more going on plotwise.
Ep 2
Better. A welcome return for Calypso, though they’re used a little oddly. Wee bit of a runaround but basically fine
Ep 3
Probably the best of the 1st 3 episodes. Delightful to hear 8 & Charley back together, and the Doctor’s history with Highgate was intriguing.
Ep 4
A satisfying enough conclusion. 7’s entrance is a punch-the-air moment. Nice to hear the Drs and companions interacting.
Probably the best of the 1st 3 episodes. Delightful to hear 8 & Charley back together, and the Doctor’s history with Highgate was intriguing.
Ep 4
A satisfying enough conclusion. 7’s entrance is a punch-the-air moment. Nice to hear the Drs and companions interacting.
Overall...
I think it was hamstrung by using the Sirens of Time format. I’d have liked more interaction between the different Doctors/eras a bit sooner. It felt a bit too much like one of the 4-story anthologies first me. I’m afraid I was a little bit disappointed with this one.
I think it was hamstrung by using the Sirens of Time format. I’d have liked more interaction between the different Doctors/eras a bit sooner. It felt a bit too much like one of the 4-story anthologies first me. I’m afraid I was a little bit disappointed with this one.
The Moonrakers
I really liked it! A Sontaran take on the Cult of Skaro, and the Doctor manipulating them from within was a fantastic idea. It tied into the first story in a really surprising way and I’m very excited to find out how this set ends.
I really liked it! A Sontaran take on the Cult of Skaro, and the Doctor manipulating them from within was a fantastic idea. It tied into the first story in a really surprising way and I’m very excited to find out how this set ends.
Return of the Cybermen
A tiny bit unremarkable but overall very enjoyable. The new Sarah & Harry are very convincing, I can’t wait to hear more of them. Sarah being sidelined so much in her first new story didn’t really sit right with me but I guess that was out of BFs hands.
A tiny bit unremarkable but overall very enjoyable. The new Sarah & Harry are very convincing, I can’t wait to hear more of them. Sarah being sidelined so much in her first new story didn’t really sit right with me but I guess that was out of BFs hands.
Also, loved Tom Baker’s performance, and the production felt very authentic to Season 12. It’s definitely one I look forward to revisiting in future.
The Long Way Round
That was spectacular. The story is built up masterfully and that final twist was mind-blowing. I’m so excited for the rest of Stranded; what a series it’s shaping up to be. It’s the freshest, most invigorating run of Dr Who I’ve experienced in a long time
That was spectacular. The story is built up masterfully and that final twist was mind-blowing. I’m so excited for the rest of Stranded; what a series it’s shaping up to be. It’s the freshest, most invigorating run of Dr Who I’ve experienced in a long time
Truant
One last hurrah for the Doctor and Benny in the Unbound universe. It does a great job of tying into the theme of the boxset - really plays on the Doctor’s inability to escape his responsibilities, no matter how much he tries. An underrated gem.
One last hurrah for the Doctor and Benny in the Unbound universe. It does a great job of tying into the theme of the boxset - really plays on the Doctor’s inability to escape his responsibilities, no matter how much he tries. An underrated gem.
The People Made Of Smoke
I’m afraid I didn’t like this at all. I’m not even sure if I can say exactly why, but I just didn’t get on with it
I’m afraid I didn’t like this at all. I’m not even sure if I can say exactly why, but I just didn’t get on with it
The Lifeboat and the Deathboat
It’s a very odd story but it mostly works. I think it’s amazing that we’re getting new Eric Roberts Master stories in 2021. It takes a ridiculous amount of time for him to actually *be* the Master in this one but when he does, it’s amazing.
It’s a very odd story but it mostly works. I think it’s amazing that we’re getting new Eric Roberts Master stories in 2021. It takes a ridiculous amount of time for him to actually *be* the Master in this one but when he does, it’s amazing.
Seasons of Fear
A personal favourite. Scratched an itch I had for early 8th Doctor & Charley (they have a wonderful upbeat energy about them in those early stories). Grayle is possibly one of the best villains the Main Range produced; his enmity with the Doctor is brilliant.
A personal favourite. Scratched an itch I had for early 8th Doctor & Charley (they have a wonderful upbeat energy about them in those early stories). Grayle is possibly one of the best villains the Main Range produced; his enmity with the Doctor is brilliant.
Out of Time
David Tennant and Tom Baker versus an army of Daleks. It’s the most fun any Doctor Who fan can have with a pair of earphones
David Tennant and Tom Baker versus an army of Daleks. It’s the most fun any Doctor Who fan can have with a pair of earphones
Masterful
I liked this a lot more on the second listen! It’s such a riot to hear all the Masters together, there’s so much wit in their interactions. The story is a lot easier to follow when you know what’s coming, and I appreciated it a lot more this time.
I liked this a lot more on the second listen! It’s such a riot to hear all the Masters together, there’s so much wit in their interactions. The story is a lot easier to follow when you know what’s coming, and I appreciated it a lot more this time.
The Doomsday Contract
A fun Adamsian diversion. It didn’t feel quite as tight as it probably could’ve been, but I enjoyed it OK. The conclusion was a tad convoluted but it definitely paid off well enough.
A fun Adamsian diversion. It didn’t feel quite as tight as it probably could’ve been, but I enjoyed it OK. The conclusion was a tad convoluted but it definitely paid off well enough.
Sync
An awful lot of fun! I love that they found a way to bring Margaret Slitheen back, and Annette Badland plays her with as much charm (or lack of...) and cutting wit as she did in 2005. It’s also nice to hear a bit more of Suzie, as there was so little of her on TV Torchwood.
An awful lot of fun! I love that they found a way to bring Margaret Slitheen back, and Annette Badland plays her with as much charm (or lack of...) and cutting wit as she did in 2005. It’s also nice to hear a bit more of Suzie, as there was so little of her on TV Torchwood.
Cicero I
A very strong opener for one of Big Finish’s best series. It’s a very rich piece; it does an excellent job of conjuring up Rome and the characters that inhabit it. Barnett plays Cicero very naturally. The story presents an engaging mystery with a satisfying conclusion.
A very strong opener for one of Big Finish’s best series. It’s a very rich piece; it does an excellent job of conjuring up Rome and the characters that inhabit it. Barnett plays Cicero very naturally. The story presents an engaging mystery with a satisfying conclusion.
Last of the Romanovs
You can really feel the weight of Time pressing down on the TARDIS crew in this one; it feels very momentous, like you can sense history hinging around the events portrayed in it. I think it leaves a very serious impression on the listener. Great story.
You can really feel the weight of Time pressing down on the TARDIS crew in this one; it feels very momentous, like you can sense history hinging around the events portrayed in it. I think it leaves a very serious impression on the listener. Great story.
The True Saviour of the Universe
A worthy finale to the Unbound Universe arc. Ties the arc up neatly, and putting the Unbound Doctor into the ‘prime’ universe was a very exciting development.
But leaving the Master in charge of a whole universe? What was the Doctor thinking?
A worthy finale to the Unbound Universe arc. Ties the arc up neatly, and putting the Unbound Doctor into the ‘prime’ universe was a very exciting development.
But leaving the Master in charge of a whole universe? What was the Doctor thinking?
Live 34
An extremely relevant story. It paints a terrifying picture of what happens when a malevolent government manipulates the media, and twists events and facts to control what the public thinks. I actually flinched a few times listening to this, it feels so prescient.
An extremely relevant story. It paints a terrifying picture of what happens when a malevolent government manipulates the media, and twists events and facts to control what the public thinks. I actually flinched a few times listening to this, it feels so prescient.
Faustian
A strong opener for the set, it gives us a good introduction to Lyla and it’s a satisfying vehicle for the Master’s return. Roberts is honestly superb in the last fifteen minutes, free of the Vortex and able to resume his old ways at last. Looking forward to the rest.
A strong opener for the set, it gives us a good introduction to Lyla and it’s a satisfying vehicle for the Master’s return. Roberts is honestly superb in the last fifteen minutes, free of the Vortex and able to resume his old ways at last. Looking forward to the rest.
Terror of the Master
Not bad. Listening to an audiobook was a nice change of pace. It’s piqued my interest for the Audio Novels series but I don’t know that I’ll be too quick to revisit this one; the story doesn’t make the most of being a novel, and it felt a bit unambitious.
Not bad. Listening to an audiobook was a nice change of pace. It’s piqued my interest for the Audio Novels series but I don’t know that I’ll be too quick to revisit this one; the story doesn’t make the most of being a novel, and it felt a bit unambitious.
Night Thoughts
Extremely atmospheric, with an interesting set of guest characters. I’m not entirely sure the plot holds up to close examination, but as a whole it’s far too good to worry about something like that...
Extremely atmospheric, with an interesting set of guest characters. I’m not entirely sure the plot holds up to close examination, but as a whole it’s far too good to worry about something like that...
Cicero II
Very good. It’s easy to get invested in this series, the cases are interesting and give a good sense of how Roman society worked. The ending is a real gut punch, and it exhibits the issues Cicero sees in Rome’s institutions as well as working on a more intimate level.
Very good. It’s easy to get invested in this series, the cases are interesting and give a good sense of how Roman society worked. The ending is a real gut punch, and it exhibits the issues Cicero sees in Rome’s institutions as well as working on a more intimate level.
Prey
I’m afraid I didn’t enjoy this much. Getting out into the rougher side of future-London was good, but the story felt like a fairly ineffectual chase without any real stakes. I have no huge love for Vienna either, so I guess this episode was never going to be my thing.
I’m afraid I didn’t enjoy this much. Getting out into the rougher side of future-London was good, but the story felt like a fairly ineffectual chase without any real stakes. I have no huge love for Vienna either, so I guess this episode was never going to be my thing.
Vengeance
Better than Prey but it still fails to deliver on the promises of Faustian. As a set, Master! felt underdeveloped and lacking focus. The future-Earth setting doesn’t feel very interesting, and the story is a bit directionless. Overall, a wasted opportunity I’m afraid.
Better than Prey but it still fails to deliver on the promises of Faustian. As a set, Master! felt underdeveloped and lacking focus. The future-Earth setting doesn’t feel very interesting, and the story is a bit directionless. Overall, a wasted opportunity I’m afraid.
Despite that, I hope they continue the series and do more with Roberts’ Master. I think they need to find scripts that play more to his strengths, as Faustian did, and give the sets a tighter focus between stories.
Night of the Fendahl
Definitely sits at the nastier end of the Torchwood spectrum. It tries way too hard to create links to Image of the Fendahl, leaving it feeling like a fairly unnatural/forced sequel. Overall not bad though, I can see myself listening to it around Halloween.
Definitely sits at the nastier end of the Torchwood spectrum. It tries way too hard to create links to Image of the Fendahl, leaving it feeling like a fairly unnatural/forced sequel. Overall not bad though, I can see myself listening to it around Halloween.
Sphere of Influence
What a joy to hear Susan and Ian reuniting like this. It felt truly special to have them together in this, I’m so glad Big Finish did it. The story facilitates that well, though some of the diplomacy stuff dragged a bit. Really enjoyed it overall!
What a joy to hear Susan and Ian reuniting like this. It felt truly special to have them together in this, I’m so glad Big Finish did it. The story facilitates that well, though some of the diplomacy stuff dragged a bit. Really enjoyed it overall!
The Settling
The tone is somewhat inconsistent but it’s nice to have a Irish historical story, though I’m not 100% with how Cromwell was portrayed. Hex’s story is well done, I like that it took an event he’s familiar with to make him reassess his position as a TARDIS crew member
The tone is somewhat inconsistent but it’s nice to have a Irish historical story, though I’m not 100% with how Cromwell was portrayed. Hex’s story is well done, I like that it took an event he’s familiar with to make him reassess his position as a TARDIS crew member
Scorched Earth
The conflict between Flip and Constance is to die for - such a creative use of those characters and the differences in their backgrounds. One of the best stories for this team, if not *the* best I’ve heard.
The conflict between Flip and Constance is to die for - such a creative use of those characters and the differences in their backgrounds. One of the best stories for this team, if not *the* best I’ve heard.
The Uncertain Shore
Enjoyed this one. Susan and Veklin aren’t the most natural pairing of characters on the surface of things but I enjoy how they interact with one another in this. It’s not the most substantial story ever but it was fun to listen to.
Enjoyed this one. Susan and Veklin aren’t the most natural pairing of characters on the surface of things but I enjoy how they interact with one another in this. It’s not the most substantial story ever but it was fun to listen to.
Night of the Vashta Nerada
Oh, this is brilliant. Tom Baker sounds like he’s jumped straight out of the 70s and it manages to make the Vashta Nerada work really well on audio. It’s a fairly straightforward story but it’s refreshing and the characters make it feel interesting.
Oh, this is brilliant. Tom Baker sounds like he’s jumped straight out of the 70s and it manages to make the Vashta Nerada work really well on audio. It’s a fairly straightforward story but it’s refreshing and the characters make it feel interesting.
Gonna stop this thread here. Really enjoyed chronicling my listening like this but I feel like it’s run it’s course now. Twitter’s character count feels a bit too limiting to review the stories properly, and I think it’s time to call a day on it.
