5 reasons why Doctor Who fans should watch Torchwood

Doctor Who has been one of the most popular science fiction TV shows in the world for decades. With its time-traveling adventures and quirky characters, it has captured the hearts of fans of all ages. However, many fans of the Doctor may not be aware of another amazing show set in the same universe: Torchwood.

Torchwood is a spin-off from Doctor Who that first aired in 2006. The show takes place in Cardiff, Wales and follows a team of investigators who work for the Torchwood Institute, a secret organisation that investigates extraterrestrial phenomena and defends the Earth against alien threats. The team is led by Captain Jack Harkness, a charming and enigmatic time-traveler who first appeared in Doctor Who.

For Doctor Who fans who haven’t yet given Torchwood a chance, here are a few reasons why you should:

  1. Torchwood expands on the Doctor Who universe

One of the best things about Torchwood is that it explores the Doctor Who universe in more depth. While Doctor Who focuses on the adventures of the Doctor, Torchwood takes a closer look at the impact of the Doctor’s actions on the world around him. The show also introduces new creatures and technologies that haven’t been seen in Doctor Who before.

  1. Torchwood is more mature and darker than Doctor Who

Doctor Who is known for its family-friendly tone, but Torchwood takes a darker turn. The show tackles more mature themes like sex, death, and politics, making it more suitable for an older audience. Torchwood also isn’t afraid to take risks, with unexpected plot twists and character developments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

  1. Torchwood has a diverse and dynamic cast

The Torchwood team is made up of a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique personalities and backgrounds. Captain Jack is a pansexual time-traveler who can’t die, while Gwen Cooper is a former police officer who becomes embroiled in the world of Torchwood. The team also includes Toshiko Sato, a brilliant scientist, and Ianto Jones, a former coffee boy who becomes an integral part of the team.

  1. Torchwood has some of the best writing and acting on TV

The writing, although there are some clunkers in series 1, and acting on Torchwood are mostly top-notch. The show’s writers weren’t afraid to tackle complex and controversial issues, and the actors bring their characters to life with nuance and depth. John Barrowman’s performance as Captain Jack is particularly noteworthy, as he brings a sense of humour, charm and a real darkness to the role while also portraying the character’s emotional depth.

In conclusion, Torchwood is a must-watch for any Doctor Who fan. The show expands on the Doctor Who universe, takes a darker and more mature tone, has a diverse and dynamic cast.

Here are some outstanding Torchwood episodes:

  1. “Countrycide” (Season 1, Episode 6) – The team investigates a series of brutal murders in a rural village and soon realises that the culprits are not human.
  2. “Children of Earth” (Season 3, Episodes 1-5) – In this five-part miniseries, an alien race demands that Earth gives them 10% of its children or face annihilation. The Torchwood team must make impossible choices to save the world.
  3. “Adrift” (Season 2, Episode 11) – Gwen investigates the disappearance of people who have been snatched by the Rift and discovers the heartbreaking truth about what happens to them.
  4. “Captain Jack Harkness” (Season 1, Episode 12) – Captain Jack and Tosh find themselves stranded in 1941 during the London Blitz and must find a way back to the present.
  5. “Exit Wounds” (Season 2, Episode 13) – The Torchwood team faces their deadliest enemy yet as Captain John Hart (played by James Marsters) returns with a plan to destroy the team and the entire city of Cardiff.

These episodes showcase the diverse themes and storytelling that make Torchwood such a standout series in the Doctor Who universe.

TV Bafta nominations announced

Ben Whishaw and Martin Freeman have received six nominations each at this year’s Bafta TV Awards, with Whishaw up for best actor for his role as a doctor in the adaptation of Adam Kay’s best-selling memoir, competing against Freeman’s portrayal of a police officer in a Liverpool-set drama.

Other notable acting nominees include Sarah Lancashire, Kate Winslet, Cillian Murphy, and Daniel Radcliffe.

The shows with the most nominations are Bad Sisters, The Crown, The English, and Slow Horses, each receiving five nods. Additionally, Daisy May Cooper’s comedy-thriller Am I Being Unreasonable? received four nominations, while three boy-based dramas – Top Boy, Somewhere Boy, and Big Boys – were each nominated four times.

BAFTA came under fire recently, after failing to mention Bernard Cribbins in the in memoriam section. This lead to actor Phil Davis withdrawing his membership. BAFTA has promised to pay tribute at the TV awards.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on May 14, with the Bafta Craft Awards handed out on April 23.

Top 5 James Bond comics by Dynamite Entertainment

Dynamite Entertainment is a publisher of comic books that has produced a number of James Bond comics over the years. Here are the top 5.

1. James Bond: Casino Royale

This comic adaptation of Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel is a must-read for any Bond fan. The story follows 007 as he takes on Le Chiffre, a French communist and paymaster of a Soviet trade union. The artwork by artist Gabriel Hardman captures the gritty, noir feel of the original novel, and writer Van Jensen stays true to Fleming’s source material.

2. James Bond: Hammerhead

Set in the present day, Hammerhead sees Bond investigating a sinister tech billionaire named Kraken. The story has all the hallmarks of a classic Bond adventure, with high-speed chases, beautiful women, and a dastardly villain. Writer Andy Diggle and artist Luca Casalanguida deliver an action-packed story that will satisfy any fan of the franchise.

3. James Bond: Vargr

Vargr is the first original James Bond comic from Dynamite, and it doesn’t disappoint. The story sees Bond investigating a drug smuggling ring in Berlin, and features a memorable villain in the form of Kraken, a former KGB agent with a grudge against MI6. Writer Warren Ellis and artist Jason Masters capture the spirit of Fleming’s novels while updating the character for modern audiences.

4. James Bond: Eidolon

Eidolon sees Bond taking on a shadowy organisation known as Eidolon, which is responsible for a series of deadly attacks around the world. The story features some of the franchise’s most iconic elements, including gadgets, car chases, and beautiful women. Writer Warren Ellis and artist Jason Masters deliver a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that will satisfy any Bond fan.

5. James Bond: Black Box

Black Box is a standalone adventure that sees Bond investigating a mysterious box with the power to destroy anything in its path. The story takes Bond to Tokyo, where he teams up with a Japanese secret agent to take on a ruthless villain named Tiger Tanaka. Writer Benjamin Percy and artist Rapha Lobosco deliver a thrilling story that combines the best elements of classic Bond with a modern sensibility.

The James Bond comics from Dynamite Entertainment offer a fresh take on the iconic spy, while staying true to the spirit of the original novels and films.

Whether you’re a die-hard Bond fan or a newcomer to the franchise, these comics are well worth checking out.

The Dark Knight’s Greatest Adventures: Exploring the Best Batman Comics of All Time

Batman is one of the most popular and enduring characters in the world of comic books. With a history that spans over 80 years, the Caped Crusader has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless adaptations in film, television, and video games. But at the heart of Batman’s popularity lies the source material: the comics. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Batman comics and explore some of the best and most iconic stories ever written.

Batman: Year One

Frank Miller’s Batman: Year One is widely regarded as one of the greatest Batman stories ever written. The series tells the story of Bruce Wayne’s first year as Batman and Jim Gordon’s first year as a cop in Gotham. The story is a gritty, grounded take on Batman that shows how he first established himself as a force for justice in Gotham. The artwork by David Mazzucchelli is beautiful and captures the dark, moody atmosphere of Gotham perfectly.

One of the reasons Batman: Year One resonates so strongly with fans is its focus on character development. The series explores Bruce Wayne’s early struggles with his new identity as Batman, as well as Gordon’s fight against the rampant corruption in Gotham’s police department. The story is a nuanced, complex look at the early days of Batman’s crimefighting career and remains a fan favourite to this day.

Batman: The Long Halloween

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale’s Batman: The Long Halloween is another fan favourite that has stood the test of time. The 13-issue miniseries tells the story of a serial killer known as Holiday, who strikes on major holidays throughout the year. The story is a murder mystery that features many of Batman’s most famous villains, including the Joker, Two-Face, and Catwoman.

One of the strengths of The Long Halloween is its exploration of the relationships between Batman, Harvey Dent, and Jim Gordon. The story shows how the events of the series shape these characters and ultimately lead to the creation of Two-Face. The artwork by Tim Sale is gorgeous and perfectly captures the noir atmosphere of Gotham.

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns is a landmark work that helped redefine the Batman character for a new generation. The series is set in a dystopian future where an ageing Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement to take on a new generation of criminals. The story is a gritty, mature take on Batman that explores themes of ageing, mortality, and the nature of heroism.

The Dark Knight Returns is a tour-de-force of storytelling, with Miller’s artwork and writing both at their best. The series is full of iconic moments, including Batman’s final confrontation with the Joker, and has had a lasting impact on the Batman mythos.

Batman: The Killing Joke

Written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland, Batman: The Killing Joke is a haunting and deeply unsettling story that explores the relationship between Batman and his arch-nemesis, the Joker. The story sees the Joker attempting to drive Commissioner Gordon insane, while also revealing a possible origin story for the Joker himself.

The Killing Joke is a powerful, thought-provoking story that asks important questions about the nature of madness and the fine line between heroism and villainy. The artwork by Brian Bolland is stunning and perfectly captures the twisted, nightmarish world of the Joker.

Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s Batman: Hush is a 12-issue miniseries that features many of Batman’s most famous villains, including the Joker, Poison Ivy, and Catwoman. The story introduces a new villain named Hush, who has a personal vendetta against Bruce Wayne.

One of the strengths of Batman: Hush is its exploration of the Bruce Wayne persona and his relationships with the other characters in the Batman universe. The story also features a number of unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Jim Lee’s artwork is also a major highlight of the series, with dynamic, cinematic panels that perfectly capture the action and drama of the story. Batman: Hush is a thrilling, action-packed story that delivers on all fronts, and is widely considered one of the best Batman stories of all time.

Batman: The Court of Owls

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s Batman: The Court of Owls is a modern classic that explores a hidden society of powerful, influential figures who have controlled Gotham for centuries. The story sees Batman facing off against the Court of Owls and their deadly Talons, while also questioning his own place in Gotham’s history.

The Court of Owls is a masterful blend of horror and mystery, with Snyder’s writing and Capullo’s artwork combining to create a haunting, atmospheric tale. The story also features a number of memorable new characters, including the enigmatic Lincoln March, who adds a new layer of complexity to Batman’s history.

Batman: The Black Mirror

Scott Snyder’s Batman: The Black Mirror is a standalone story that takes place shortly after Dick Grayson takes on the mantle of Batman. The story sees Grayson investigating a series of murders in Gotham that lead him to confront his own dark past.

The Black Mirror is a dark, moody story that explores the nature of identity and the role of legacy in the Batman universe. The story also features some of the most memorable villains in recent Batman history, including James Gordon Jr. and the Mirror House Killer.

Batman: The Killing Time

Denny O’Neil and Dick Giordano’s Batman: The Killing Time is a lesser-known but highly underrated story that sees Batman facing off against a mysterious new villain known as the Timekeeper. The story is a high-concept tale that features time travel, alternate realities, and mind-bending plot twists.

What sets The Killing Time apart from other Batman stories is its focus on the philosophical implications of time travel and the nature of reality. The story is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be a hero in a world where time itself is malleable.

Batman: A Death in the Family

Jim Starlin and Jim Aparo’s Batman: A Death in the Family is a controversial but unforgettable story that sees Batman facing off against his arch-nemesis, the Joker, in a battle that leaves one of Batman’s closest allies dead.

The death of Jason Todd, the second Robin, is a defining moment in Batman’s history and has had a lasting impact on the character’s development. The story is a powerful exploration of loss and grief and shows how even the Dark Knight himself is not immune to the pain of tragedy.

Batman has been a staple of comic book culture for over eight decades, and his legacy is built on the incredible stories and characters that have populated his world. From the gritty realism of Frank Miller’s Year One to the mind-bending high concept of Denny O’Neil’s The Killing Time, there is a Batman story for every kind of fan.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the Dark Knight for the first time, these stories are a testament to the enduring power and appeal of one of the greatest comic book characters of all time.

Why Joey Couldn’t Live Up to ‘Friends’: Analysing the Flaws and Missteps of the Spin-Off Series

Joey, the spin-off to the beloved sitcom Friends, premiered to great anticipation in 2004. Fans of the original show were excited to see what was next for Joey Tribbiani, the lovable and charming ladies’ man played by Matt LeBlanc. However, despite the initial hype, Joey failed to capture the same magic as its predecessor and was ultimately cancelled after only two seasons. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why Joey failed to live up to expectations and what spin-offs they should have made instead.

Lack of Chemistry

One of the main reasons why Friends was such a success was the chemistry between the actors. The six main cast members had a natural rapport that made their interactions feel authentic and unforced. Unfortunately, this chemistry was largely absent in Joey. While Matt LeBlanc was undoubtedly a talented actor, he simply didn’t have the same chemistry with the new cast members. The show’s attempts to introduce new love interests for Joey felt forced and lacked the spark that made his romances on Friends so memorable.

Different Tone

Another factor that contributed to Joey’s failure was its different tone compared to Friends. Friends was a sitcom that struck a balance between comedy and drama, with episodes that could make you laugh one minute and cry the next. Joey, on the other hand, leaned heavily into the comedy side of things and didn’t have the same emotional weight. This made it harder for viewers to invest in the characters and care about what happened to them.

Uninspired Storylines

Perhaps the biggest problem with Joey was the uninspired storylines. While Friends had storylines that were both funny and heartfelt, Joey’s storylines felt generic and forgettable. The show tried to capitalize on Matt LeBlanc’s comedic talents by giving him broad, slapstick-heavy material, but this just didn’t resonate with viewers. The show’s attempts to reference Friends felt forced and contrived, rather than natural and nostalgic.

Timing

Finally, it’s worth considering the timing of Joey’s premiere. Friends had ended its ten-season run only a year prior, and many fans were still mourning the loss of their favourite show. The introduction of Joey so soon after the end of Friends may have been too much, too soon for viewers. The show may have been better received if it had premiered a few years later after fans had had time to move on from Friends and were ready for something new.

What Spin-Offs Should They Have Made?

So, if Joey wasn’t the right spin-off for Friends, what would have been? Here are a few ideas that could have been successful:

  1. Phoebe & Mike – Phoebe Buffay, played by Lisa Kudrow, was one of the most beloved characters on Friends. Her quirky personality and offbeat sense of humour made her stand out from the rest of the cast. A spin-off focusing on Phoebe and Mike’s life in New York City could have been a great way to continue her story.
  2. Chandler and Monica’s Life in the Suburbs – One of the most heartwarming storylines in Friends was Chandler Bing and Monica Geller’s romance. After getting married, the two moved to the suburbs to start a family. A spin-off focusing on their life in the suburbs could have explored their struggles and triumphs as they navigated married life and parenthood.
  3. Ross and Rachel’s Life as Co-Parents – Ross and Rachel, played by David Schwimmer and Jennifer Aniston respectively, had a complicated romantic history on Friends. In the series finale, it was revealed that the two had reunited and were raising their daughter Emma together. A spin-off focusing on their life as co-parents could have explored their dynamic as they worked together to raise their daughter.
  4. The one with Carol & Susan. Two of the most regular characters in Friends were Ross’s ex-wife and her partner. A spin-off with them raising Ben could’ve worked.

Ultimately, the failure of “Joey” was likely due to a combination of factors, including poor writing, uninteresting storylines, and the absence of beloved “Friends” characters. It’s clear that spin-offs can be a risky business, and studios and networks need to carefully consider whether a particular show has the potential to stand on its own before committing to a spin-off series.

In conclusion, while “Friends” was a beloved and successful sitcom that remains popular with audiences today, its spin-off “Joey” failed to capture the same magic. Although there were several potential spin-offs that could have been successful, ultimately, the show’s failure demonstrates the difficulty of creating a successful spin-off series. It takes more than just a popular show and a beloved character to create a hit spin-off. It requires careful planning, strong writing, and the ability to capture the same magic that made the original series so beloved.

Why Angel is a Great Spin-Off: Exploring the Darker Side of the Buffyverse

If you’re a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, then you’re probably familiar with the character Angel, a brooding vampire with a soul. Angel was so popular among fans that he received his own spin-off show, simply titled Angel. While some spin-offs don’t quite capture the same magic as the original series, Angel proved to be a worthy continuation of the Buffyverse, exploring the darker side of the supernatural world and offering a fresh perspective on familiar characters. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why Angel is such a great spin-off and why it’s still worth watching today.

Exploring the Darker Side of the Buffyverse.

One of the things that set Angel apart from Buffy the Vampire Slayer was its willingness to explore darker themes and take risks with its storytelling. While Buffy dealt with heavy topics such as death, addiction, and betrayal, Angel took things to a whole new level, delving into the seedy underbelly of the supernatural world and tackling issues such as redemption, identity, and morality. The show also had a more mature tone, with a focus on character development and relationships rather than just action and humour. If you’re looking for a spin-off that’s not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of its genre, then Angel is definitely worth a watch.

Fresh Perspective on Familiar Characters.

One of the most compelling aspects of Angel is the way it expanded upon and reimagined characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The titular character, played by David Boreanaz, was a popular supporting player on Buffy, but his spin-off gave him a chance to shine in his own right. We got to see more of Angel’s backstory and learn about his struggles with his vampire nature and his quest for redemption. Other familiar faces such as Wesley, Cordelia, Harmony, Oz and, Spike also made appearances on Angel, but in different roles, than we were used to seeing them. Some even became series regulars. This gave the show a sense of continuity with Buffy while also offering a fresh perspective on these characters.

Introduction of New Characters.

While Angel certainly made the most of its connections to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it also introduced plenty of new characters that quickly became fan favourites. One of the most notable was Charles Gunn, a street-smart vampire hunter who becomes an ally to Angel and his team. Played by J. August Richards, Gunn was a welcome addition to the show, bringing a new dynamic to the team and providing some much-needed humour in the darker episodes.

Another standout new character was Fred Burkle, a brilliant physicist who was rescued from a hell dimension by Angel and his team. Played by Amy Acker, Fred was initially a shy and somewhat fragile character, but she quickly grew into a valuable member of the team, using her scientific knowledge to help them fight various supernatural threats. Fred’s eventual transformation into the demon Illyria in the show’s final season was one of the most shocking and memorable moments in the series, showcasing the show’s willingness to take risks and subvert expectations. My personal favourite character was Lorne, played by Andy Hallet, a green-skinned empath demon. Who could predict your future if you sang for him. Lorne added a sense of fun to the show.

Wesley’s Evolution.

One of the most impressive character arcs in the Buffyverse belongs to Wesley Wyndam-Pryce, who was introduced as a bumbling Watcher on Buffy the Vampire Slayer but quickly became one of the most complex and interesting characters on Angel. Played by Alexis Denisof, Wesley’s journey from a comedic sidekick to a tragic hero is a testament to the show’s commitment to character development.

At the beginning of Angel, Wesley is a somewhat pathetic figure, still trying to prove himself after his failure as Buffy’s Watcher. However, as the series progresses, Wesley becomes increasingly competent and capable eventually becoming one of the show’s most formidable and ruthless characters. One of the defining moments of Wesley’s evolution occurs in the third series of the show. Believing Angel will kill Connor, Wesley kidnaps him. Which sets up a chain of events that see Angel lose his son. This was a turning point for Wesley’s character, setting him on a dark path that would ultimately lead to his tragic end.

Wesley’s death in the final season of Angel is one of the show’s most heartbreaking moments, but it’s also a fitting end to his character arc. Through his journey, Wesley proves that he’s much more than just a comic relief character or a failed Watcher. He’s a complex and deeply flawed individual who, despite his mistakes and missteps, is willing to do whatever it takes to protect his friends and fight for what’s right.

Angel may have started as a spin-off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but it quickly established itself as a unique and compelling series in its own right. With its exploration of darker themes and mature storytelling, the show offered a fresh perspective on familiar characters and introduced new ones that quickly became fan favourites. And through the evolution of characters like Wesley, Angel proved that it wasn’t afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of its genre.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Buffyverse or just discovering it for the first time, Angel is definitely worth checking out. With its gripping storytelling, memorable characters, and surprising twists, it’s a spin-off that stands the test of time and proves that sometimes, the best stories are the ones that take risks and go to the dark side.

Both Buffy the vampire slayer and, Angel are available to stream on Dinsey+

Comic review-Superman #2, The Night of the Parasite

Superman #2, “The Night of the Parasite,” delivers a thrilling continuation of the epic storyline introduced in the first issue. With eight different covers to choose from, three in particular stand out.

Jamal Campbell’s standard cover introduces a new character, Marilyn Moonlight, who easily restrains Superman. While her name and appearance are intriguing, her motives remain unclear. Campbell expertly captures Superman’s facial expressions, heightening the tension and anticipation. The interior artwork is exceptional, creating a sense of fear and urgency without resorting to grotesque imagery. The horror movie tropes are balanced by the colorful artwork, reminiscent of Superman: The Animated Series.

Writer Joshua Williamson and letterer Ariana Maher deliver a non-stop thrill ride of an issue. Parasite’s evolved powers turn his victims into more Parasites, spreading throughout Metropolis like a virus. This new take on Parasite is both brilliant and terrifying. It’s also refreshing to see other characters, such as Marilyn Moonlight, receive leveled-up powers. The introduction of new characters adds to the overall mystery and excitement of the story, culminating in a cliffhanger ending that sets up a Superman story unlike any other.

Why Jago & Litefoot is the best series Big Finish has ever produced

If you’re a fan of Doctor Who and haven’t yet heard Jago & Litefoot, then you’re in for a treat. This audio drama series, produced by Big Finish, is arguably the best series the company has ever created.

For those unfamiliar with the series, Jago & Litefoot follows the adventures of two characters from the classic Doctor Who story “The Talons of Weng-Chiang”: Henry Gordon Jago (played by Christopher Benjamin) and Professor George Litefoot (played by Trevor Baxter). The series picks up after the events of that story, with Jago and Litefoot forming an unlikely partnership and setting up a detective agency in Victorian London.

One of the things that makes Jago & Litefoot stand out is its unique blend of genres. At its core, the series is a Victorian detective story, with Jago and Litefoot investigating all sorts of strange and unusual cases. But the writers aren’t content to stick to just one genre. Instead, they throw in elements of horror, science fiction, and adventure, creating a series that’s both exciting and unpredictable.

Take, for example, the episode “The Bloodless Soldier” from Series 1. In this episode, Jago and Litefoot are tasked with investigating a series of gruesome murders. However, the situation becomes even more perilous as an old foe reappears. As they pursue the Bloodless Soldier, Jago and Litefoot are met with tragedy that strikes perilously close to home.

The episode is a great example of the series’ ability to blend genres. It starts off as a detective story, with Jago and Litefoot interviewing witnesses and gathering clues. But as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that something supernatural is going on, and Jago and Litefoot find themselves facing off against a very real threat.

Another standout episode is “The Similarity Engine” from Series 1. It’s a sequel to the Mahogany Murderers and sees Jago and Litefoot investigate a strange machine that can create perfect duplicates of people. It’s a fascinating concept that leads to some great character moments as Jago and Litefoot both come face to face with their own doppelgangers.

What’s great about this episode is the way it uses science fiction to explore deeper themes. The idea of a machine that can create perfect copies of people raises all sorts of questions about identity and the nature of the self. And as Jago and Litefoot try to figure out who’s behind the machine, they’re forced to confront some uncomfortable truths about themselves.

But it’s not just the blending of genres that makes Jago & Litefoot so great. It’s also the chemistry between the two leads. Christopher Benjamin and Trevor Baxter are both fantastic actors, and they play off each other brilliantly. Jago is bombastic and theatrical, while Litefoot is more reserved and intellectual. It’s a classic odd-couple dynamic, and it works perfectly.

And yet, even as Jago and Litefoot bicker and banter, there’s a real sense of warmth and friendship between them. They may be very different people, but they share a deep respect and affection for each other. It’s this relationship that really makes the series work, and it’s what kept fans coming back for more.

Of course, no series is perfect, and there are certainly episodes of Jago & Litefoot that are weaker than others. But even the weaker episodes are still a lot of fun. The writers have a real love for the characters and the world they’ve created, and that enthusiasm shines through in every episode.

It’s also worth noting that Jago & Litefoot has some truly fantastic supporting characters. There’s Leela (played by Louise Jameson), a former companion of the Fourth Doctor who becomes a regular in the later series. There’s also Inspector Quick (played by Conrad Asquith), a police officer who’s often at odds with Jago and Litefoot but who respects and admires them. There’s Ellie the immortal barmaid (played by Lisa Bowerman). And then there are the various villains and monsters that the duo encounter, from ghostly apparitions to mad scientists to creatures from other dimensions.

All of these elements come together to create a series that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Jago & Litefoot is a true gem, and it’s a testament to the creativity and talent of the writers, actors, and production team at Big Finish.

So, if you’re looking for a new audio drama to sink your teeth into, I highly recommend giving Jago & Litefoot a try. And to get you started, here are five standout episodes that are sure to hook you in:

“The Mahogany Murderers” Released as part of the companion chronicles range, this is the episode that started it all, and it’s a perfect introduction to the world of Jago & Litefoot. In this episode, we’re re-introduced to these characters and their wider surroundings.

“The Bellova Devil” (Series 1, Episode 2): A body is found on the Circle Line, wearing full dress uniform. It as identified as Reginald Colville – a man who was certified dead some six weeks ago! In an attempt to solve the mystery Jago and Litefoot become unwilling bodysnatchers… And thus begins a chain of events that will pit them against killer Bulgars and the mysterious machinations of the Far-Off Travellers Club..

“The Similarity Engine” (Series 1, Episode 4): As I mentioned before, this episode is a great example of how Jago & Litefoot can use science fiction to explore deeper themes. In this case, it’s the idea of identity and what makes us who we are. Plus, the scenes with Jago and his doppelganger are pure comedy gold.

“The Monstrous Menagerie” (Series 7, Episode 1): On the run, attempting to clear their names. Jago & Litefoot accept help from the mysterious Professor Dark. They also encounter Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Tired of his most popular creation. Doyle has moved onto other works that he considers more worthy. Then enters Laura Lyons.

“Jago & Son” (Series 11, Episode 1): This episode sees Jago reunited with a man claiming to be his long-lost son, who has come to London to seek his fortune. It’s a touching story that explores the relationship between fathers and sons, and it’s a great showcase for Christopher Benjamin’s acting skills.

All of these episodes (and many more) are available to download from the Big Finish website. The first five series are available to stream on Spotify. I highly recommend giving them a listen. Jago & Litefoot is a series that’s full of surprises, and you never know what kind of adventure you’ll be embarking on next.

5 Reasons Why The Last of Us Series is a Must-Watch for Fans of the Game

The Last of Us is a critically acclaimed video game that was released in 2013. Developed by Naughty Dog, the game tells the story of Joel, a smuggler who is tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie across a post-apocalyptic United States, which has been devastated by a deadly fungus that has turned most of the population into zombie-like creatures.

Since its release, The Last of Us has become one of the most beloved video games of all time, earning critical acclaim and a massive fanbase. In 2020, a sequel to the game, The Last of Us Part II, was released, which has also been widely praised. If you are a fan of The Last of Us games, here are five reasons why you should also watch the TV series:

  1. A New Medium for the Story

While the video games are beloved by fans for their immersive gameplay and stunning visuals, the TV series offers a new way to experience the story of Joel and Ellie. With high production value and the ability to explore the characters and world in even more depth, the TV series is a must-watch for anyone who wants to delve even deeper into the world of The Last of Us.

  1. Same World, New Story

The TV series is not just a retelling of the games but instead tells a new story set in the same post-apocalyptic world. This means that even if you are intimately familiar with the games, you will still be surprised and thrilled by the new story that the TV series will tell.

  1. Stellar Cast and Crew

The Last of Us TV series has a talented cast and crew, including the original game’s writer and director, Neil Druckmann, and Chernobyl creator Craig Mazin, who both serve as executive producers. The series stars Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie, two actors who have proven their talent in other acclaimed series like Game of Thrones and The Mandalorian.

  1. The Chance to See the World of The Last of Us Come to Life

The Last of Us games are set in a beautifully realised post-apocalyptic world, and the TV series has the opportunity to bring that world to life in even greater detail. Fans of the games will be able to see familiar locations and landmarks, and newcomers to the world of The Last of Us will be able to experience its haunting beauty for the first time.

  1. More of the Characters We Love

For fans of the games, the chance to spend more time with characters like Joel and Ellie is reason enough to watch the TV series. The Last of Us is known for its complex and memorable characters, and the TV series offers even more depth and nuance to these already beloved characters.

In conclusion, The Last of Us TV series is a must-watch for fans of the games. With a talented cast and crew, a new story set in the same post-apocalyptic world, and the opportunity to see the world of The Last of Us come to life in even greater detail, the TV series is a thrilling and unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the games.

Read our review here.

Cillian Murphy working on Small Things Like These adaptation

Actor and producer Cillian Murphy, known for his roles in Batman Begins, Peaky Blinders, and Oppenheimer, is set to star in and produce an adaptation of Claire Keegan’s acclaimed novel Small Things Like These. The film, produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity, is already in production in Ireland.

The story follows devoted father Bill Furlong (Murphy) as he uncovers startling secrets kept by a convent in his town and discovers shocking truths about his own life during the Christmas of 1985. Ciarán Hinds and Emily Watson will also star in the film, with Tim Mielants directing. Mielants and Murphy have previously worked together on Peaky Blinders, while the script is being penned by Enda Walsh, a longtime collaborator of Murphy’s. The story has been likened to a Dickens tale.

Murphy said: : “I’m honoured and thrilled to have the opportunity to bring Claire Keegan’s magnificent novel to the screen. We have gathered together a phenomenal team of creatives to make this film, and found exceptional partners in AE, a studio led by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck — actors and filmmakers I have admired for many years.”

With his exceptional talent and impressive portfolio of characters, Murphy’s involvement in this passion project is eagerly anticipated by fans.