Tag: Big Finish

Big Finish Review-Doctor Who: Purity Unleashed

“Purity Unleashed,” the sequel to May’s “Water Worlds,” takes listeners on an exciting journey with the Sixth Doctor, Mel, and their new companion, Hebe Harrison. This Big Finish audio play consists of three distinct adventures that maintain a sense of unity throughout.

What sets this mini-series apart is its exploration of the recurring theme of purity. The villains encountered in these stories become obsessed with the concept, leading to engaging and thought-provoking adventures that delve into purity of the mind, body, and even in history.

“Doctor Who: The Sixth Doctor Adventures: Purity Unleashed” lives up to the high standards set by its predecessors, offering a riveting storyline that will leave listeners begging for more. Like its predecessors, this series leaves us with an enticing cliffhanger.

The standout episode is Matthew Sweet’s “Broadway Belongs to Me!” which presents a refreshing and thought-provoking exploration of fascist themes within the context of musical theatre. Supported by Howard Carter’s exceptional score and Helen Goldwyn’s expert direction, the production reaches new heights of excellence.

Chris Chapman’s “Purification” takes us on a journey through time, starting in 1910 in New Zealand and spanning generations. This narrative gradually unravels the fabric of time itself, delving into the depths of the human psyche and will leave a profound impact on the audience.

Ian Potter’s “Time-Burst” transports us to 1864 Sheffield, skillfully exploring social inequity and calamity with sensitivity and nuance. Potter’s adept exploration of displacement, arrogance, and the intricate nature of fixed time creates a tale that deeply resonates with listeners.

Colin Baker and Bonnie Langford once again deliver exceptional performances, effortlessly embodying their respective roles as the Doctor and Mel. Their chemistry is evident through their charming banter and delightful humour, and Langford gets the chance to showcase her musical theatre roots, shining brightly in the process.

With “Doctor Who: The Sixth Doctor Adventures: Purity Unleashed,” Big Finish continues to impress with their ability to craft compelling narratives. This series leaves audiences wanting more, eagerly anticipating the continuation currently scheduled for August.

With exceptional writing, performances, direction and sound design. This drama is a must-listen for all fans of Doctor Who.

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Best Big Finish Doctor Who: A Must-Listen for Doctor Who Fans

If you’re a fan of Doctor Who, then you’re likely aware of Big Finish Productions. This audio production company has been producing Doctor Who stories since 1999, featuring classic Doctors like Tom Baker, Peter Davison, Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy and, Paul McCann. As well as newer Doctors like David Tennant and Christopher Eccleston. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best Big Finish audios that every Doctor Who fan should listen to.

1. The Chimes of Midnight

If you’re looking for a classic Doctor Who story, then you can’t go wrong with “The Chimes of Midnight.” This Eighth Doctor audio adventure takes place on Christmas Eve in 1906 and features a creepy old mansion, mysterious servants, and a time loop that keeps repeating the same hour over and over again. It’s a great example of the kind of atmospheric storytelling that Big Finish Productions is known for.

2. Spare Parts

“Spare Parts” is a Fifth Doctor story that serves as a prequel to the classic Doctor Who episode “The Tenth Planet.” It tells the story of how the Cybermen came to be, and it’s a haunting and emotional tale that will stay with you long after you’ve finished listening. It’s also worth noting that this story was an inspiration for the revival series episodes “The Age of steel” and “Rise of the Cybermen.”

3. The Holy Terror

“The Holy Terror” is a Sixth Doctor story that is equal parts hilarious and terrifying. It takes place on a planet called Világ, where the Doctor and his companion Frobisher encounter a cult that worships a giant penguin. Yes, you read that right. But don’t let the silliness fool you – this story has some genuinely creepy moments and a surprising amount of heart.

4. Masterful

If you’re a fan of the Master, then you’ll want to check out this box set of audio adventures. “Masterful” features nine different incarnations of the Doctor’s arch-nemesis, including Geoffrey Beevers (who played the decayed Master in the classic series), Eric Roberts (who played the Master in the Eighth Doctor TV Movie), John Simm and, Michelle Gomez (who played The Master and Missy in the modern era of the series). Each story is a standalone adventure, but they all tie together to form a larger narrative about the Master’s ultimate plan.

5. The War Master: Killing Time

Speaking of the Master, if you want to see what the character was up to during the Time War, then you need to listen to “The War Master” series. This box set features Derek Jacobi reprising his role as the Master (which he played in the revival series episode “Utopia”) and shows how he became involved in the Time War and what his ultimate goal was. It’s a dark and thrilling series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

There you have it – five of the best Big Finish audios for Doctor Who fans. Of course, there are plenty more to choose from, so don’t be afraid to explore the vast library of stories that Big Finish Productions has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic Doctors or new ones, there’s something for everyone in the world of Doctor Who audios. Happy listening!

Big Finish Review-Torchwood: Thirst Trap

In the heart of Cardiff, a new dating app has taken the city by storm, offering users the chance to find their perfect match in just 20 minutes. But there’s a twist – once the time is up, they may never see their date again.

As more and more people try out the app, something strange begins to happen. Everyone seems to be going on the same dates, with the same activities, conversation topics, and even jokes. It’s almost as if the app is controlling their every move. Normally, Sgt. Andy Davidson would be the first to investigate, but he’s busy with his own date.

Torchwood has often been praised for its dark and gritty tone, exploring themes of loss, trauma, and alien invasion. However, this particular episode takes a different approach. It’s a lighthearted romp through the world of dating apps and the strange things that can happen when people put their trust in technology.

Despite the departure from the show’s usual tone, the actors still deliver standout performances. Tom Price and Kai Owen, who play Sgt. Andy Davidson and Rhys Williams respectively, are particularly impressive in their portrayal of two men caught up in a whirlwind of romantic comedy hijinks. Their chemistry is palpable, and their lightning-fast shifts from serious to lovesick are both hilarious and heartwarming.

The supporting cast also shines, with Natalia Hinds, Sunjay Midda, and Rebecca Trehearn each bringing their unique flair to their roles. Whether they’re playing matchmakers, hard-working council workers, or hapless police officers, they all add to the story’s infectious energy and sense of fun.

Tom Price, who also stars in the adventure, shows his versatility as a writer with a fluid and brilliant script that perfectly complements his acting skills. The writing captures the humorous and whimsical aspects of the story, while also exploring deeper themes of human connection and the perils of relying too heavily on technology.

David O’Mahony’s direction keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, while Blair Mowat’s music and Shane O’Byrne’s sound design help to create an engaging atmosphere.

Overall, this is a well-crafted and enjoyable story. A must-listen for any Torchwood fan looking for a fun 45-minute adventure.

Torchwood contains material, that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Torchwood: Thirst Trap is available for purchase from Big Finish.

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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.

Big Finish review-The Eighth of March 3: Strange Chemistry

The third instalment of Big Finish’s “Eighth of March” series was unveiled on March 8th, 2023, coinciding with International Women’s Day. The album, titled “Strange Chemistry,” presents two stories that tackle different themes and ideas, albeit with less prominent female leads.

The first story, “Ghost of Alchemy,” features a captivating performance by Louise Jameson and centres around the historical figure of Marie Curie embarking on a perilous tour of the United States. However, the writing is heavy-handed in its efforts to incorporate women’s struggles into the narrative, often feeling forced and awkward. The villain is also a caricature of misogyny, making it hard to take him seriously.

On the other hand, the album’s main draw is Missy’s encounter with a young Amy Pond in “Fairies at the Bottom of the Garden.” This track is undoubtedly the standout of the album, filled with surprises and an engrossing listen. While Caitlin Blackwood’s teenage angst is relatable, Karissa Hamilton-scripted Bannis’s storyline is more tedious than necessary. The premise is also not fully explored, despite Michelle Gomez’s delightful and eccentric performance.

It’s worth noting that Helen Goldwyn’s direction on “Strange Chemistry” is still impeccable, even if the stories themselves are not quite up to par. Her direction brings out the best in the actors and helps create a rich soundscape that draws listeners in. Despite the flaws in the writing, Goldwyn’s direction keeps the album engaging and immersive.

Overall, “Strange Chemistry” is an improvement over last year’s lacklustre “Protectors of Time.” However, it still falls short of being a must-listen. It seems as if the entire range is an afterthought, which is a shame because these sets deserve better attention and effort.

The Eighth of March 3: Strange Chemistry is available for purchase from Big Finish.

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Big Finish Review-Doctor Who: Short Trips Volume 12

Doctor Who is a beloved British science fiction television show that has captivated audiences for over 50 years. The show follows the adventures of the Doctor, a time-travelling alien who travels through time and space in a TARDIS, a spaceship that looks like a 1960s British police box. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring books, comics, audio dramas, and more. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12, an audiobook featuring six short stories set during the era of the Twelfth Doctor, played by Peter Capaldi.

Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 is a collection of six short stories, each written by a different author. The stories are all set during the time of the Twelfth Doctor and are narrated by Jacob Dudman, a voice actor who specialises in Doctor Who related media. The stories are all relatively short, ranging from around 20 to 40 minutes in length. The audiobook was produced by Big Finish Productions, a company that produces Doctor Who audio dramas and other science fiction and fantasy content.

Story Summaries

  1. “The Charge of the Night Brigade” by David Llewellyn In this story, the Doctor and his companion Clara arrive on a planet that is at war. The Doctor decides to intervene and help the people of the planet, but things don’t go as planned. The story is a retelling of the famous poem “The Charge of the Light Brigade” by Alfred Lord Tennyson, with the Doctor and Clara taking the place of the soldiers.
  2. “War Wounds” by Mark Wright The Doctor and his companion Bill arrive at a hospital during World War I. They discover that the hospital is using a new experimental drug to treat wounded soldiers, but the drug has some unexpected side effects. The story explores themes of trauma and healing, as well as the horrors of war.
  3. “Distant Voices” by Lizbeth Myles The Doctor and his companion Nardole arrive on a planet where the inhabitants communicate through singing. The planet is under threat from an external force, and the Doctor must find a way to save the day. The story explores the power of music and communication, as well as the importance of empathy and understanding.
  4. “Field Trip” by Una McCormack The Doctor and his companions arrive on a planet where a group of scientists are studying a mysterious energy field. However, when the energy field starts to behave erratically, the Doctor must intervene to prevent a catastrophe. The story explores themes of scientific exploration and discovery, as well as the potential dangers of uncontrolled experimentation.
  5. “Dead Media” by John Richards The Doctor and his companion Peri arrive at a museum where they discover a mysterious exhibit of obsolete media formats. However, when the exhibits start to come to life, the Doctor must find a way to stop them before they wreak havoc. The story is a fun and lighthearted exploration of the ways in which technology can take on a life of its own.
  6. “The Revisionists” by Andy Frankham-Allen In this story, the Doctor and his companion Ace arrive in a world where time travel is commonplace. However, when they discover that someone is altering history, they must race against time to restore the timeline before it’s too late. The story explores the dangers of altering history, as well as the importance of preserving the past.

Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 is an excellent addition to the Doctor Who universe. The stories are all well-written and engaging, with each author bringing their own unique style to the table. The voice acting by Jacob Dudman is top-notch, capturing the essence of each character and bringing the stories to life.

One of the strengths of this audiobook is its variety. Each story explores a different theme or genre, from war to music to time travel. This keeps the book fresh and exciting and ensures that there is something for everyone.

Another strength of the book is its focus on character. Each story delves into the psychology and motivations of the characters, both old and new. This helps to deepen our understanding of these beloved characters and makes us feel more invested in their adventures.

Overall, I highly recommend Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 to any fan of the show. It’s a well-crafted and entertaining audiobook that captures the spirit of Doctor Who and will leave you wanting more, this is a must-listen for any fan of the show. With its engaging stories, excellent voice acting, and wide range of themes and genres, it’s a great addition to the Doctor Who universe. We highly recommend it and believe that it deserves a top spot in any Doctor Who fan’s audiobook collection.

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Big Finish review- Doctor Who: The Doctor Chronicles: The Eleventh Doctor: All of Time and Space

The Doctor Chronicles range from Big Finish has had a mixed reception, with some fans ridiculing the entire range. However, ‘Geronimo!’ stands out as one of the best box sets of 2022, receiving widespread praise for its imaginative and enjoyable stories. Jake Dudman and Safiyya Ingar also established themselves as a new fan-favourite TARDIS team. Now, we are treated to a reunion with the Eleventh Doctor and his cybernetically-enhanced companion in ‘All of Time and Space’.

‘All of Time & Space’ provides a mind-bending experience that offers insightful commentary on the art of creative writing. This gripping story centers around a character who gains sentience inside an unfinished story and must complete a quest that involves erasing the Doctor’s biography. The unknown writer behind this script has shown tremendous potential, and I would love to see more from them.

‘The Yearn’ by Angus Dunican is a true gem of an episode. The gestalt collective is at war with itself, with one side desiring individuality and the other preferring to remain a hive mind. What sets this story apart is the unique depiction of the Yearn as angry, bestial energy panthers. It’s a standout episode and might even be my favorite Eleventh Doctor audio adventure.

‘Curiosity Shop’ is a character-driven piece that showcases the talents of James Goss. The Doctor believes he is a junkyard owner, and it’s up to Val to bring him back to reality as she gives up her cybernetics. The pacing of this dialogue-heavy story is impeccable, making it a brilliant way to wrap up the box set.

Finally, it’s worth noting what a revelation Safiyya Ingar is as the new TARDIS team member. Their performance as Val is nuanced and engaging, and their chemistry with Jake Dudman’s Eleventh Doctor is fantastic. They continue to impress as a versatile actor, and I can’t wait to see where their career takes them.

Overall, ‘All of Time and Space’ is another fantastic box set that lives up to the high bar set by ‘Geronimo!’. The writers deserve kudos for their imaginative and enjoyable stories, and Jake Dudman and Safiyya Ingar continue to impress as the new TARDIS team. I eagerly anticipate what’s in store for the Doctor and Val in their next adventure.

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Big Finish review-The Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince

The Doctor Who spin-off, Class, returns in audio form with Big Finish’s latest release, Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince. While there are limitations to the storytelling, due to licensing restrictions, writer Blair Mowat has managed to craft a compelling narrative that will thrill fans of the series.

The story is largely told through Charlie’s diary, with a focus on his relationship with Matteusz, as they navigate the dangerous world of Coal Hill Academy. While the scattered approach to retelling events from the series may be confusing for newcomers, Mowat’s script manages to balance the need for recap with the desire for new material. He adds depth and complexity to existing characters and concepts, while also introducing new twists and surprises that keep the story exciting and unpredictable.

Mowat’s ability to capture the essence of Class is what makes Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince such a standout release. As a writer who has been involved with the world of Doctor Who in various capacities over the years, Mowat brings a unique perspective to the story of Class that feels both familiar and fresh. His focus on character development allows listeners to better understand the progression of Charlie and Matteusz’s relationship, and his use of Charlie’s diary as a framing device is particularly effective, as it allows for a personal and introspective look at the events of the series.

The final scenes of the play are particularly exciting and surprising, with twists and hidden secrets that cast everything that’s gone before in a whole new light. While reviewers have been requested not to reveal anything about these scenes, they are enough to get your heart beating faster at the sheer audacity of what’s happening.

It’s also worth noting the excellent production values of Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince. The sound design and music are top-notch, immersing listeners in the world of Coal Hill Academy and adding to the overall sense of tension and drama.

The Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince is an essential purchase for anyone invested in the goings-on at Coal Hill Academy. Mowat has set the stage for any future Class sets and promises a thrilling ride for fans.

Class: Secret Diary of a Rhodian Prince, written by the original TV series’ music composer, Blair Mowat, is now available to own for just £10.99 (CD + download) or £8.99 (download only) from www.bigfinish.com. The exclusive audio will be strictly limited to a pressing of 1,000 CDs.

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Big Finish review-Torchwood: The Lincolnshire Poacher

Mysterious signals lead the Torchwood team to investigate the Moil, where they encounter a series of numbers that seem to hold a secret. The story follows the team as they try to unravel the mystery, with Greg, an antagonist played by David Shaw-Parker, at the center of the intrigue. Greg’s routine, which involves recording audio while working in the Moil and setting traps, adds to the eerie atmosphere created by the use of real-life number stations.

Meanwhile, Ianto is trapped in a boiler room, and the reality around the team appears to be collapsing. As the story unfolds, the tension builds, and the Lincolnshire Poacher waits in the wings, adding to the creepy atmosphere.

Gareth David-Lloyd gives a stirring performance as Ianto, and the direction by Lisa Bowerman and sound designs by Toby Hrycek-Robinson create an immersive experience. The use of atmospheric music adds to the overall effect.

The Moil, an archaic word for “to work hard, often in the mud,” creates a sense of mystery and ambiguity, and the writing partnership of Lauren Mooney and Stuart Pringle shines through in the unique story and experimental themes.

Overall, The Lincolnshire Poacher is a strong addition to the Torchwood monthly range, with its strange, dark, and mysterious story keeping listeners guessing throughout. It’s a must-listen for fans of the show and anyone who enjoys immersive audio experiences.

Please note that Torchwood contains adult material and may not be suitable for younger listeners.

Torchwood: The Lincolnshire Poacher is available to buy from Big Finish.

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Episode 268: Doctor Who am I?

Martyn and Pete are joined by Matthew Jacobs and Vanessa Yuille, who discuss their excellent documentary ‘Doctor Who am I?‘

Doctor Who am I? follows Matthew Jacobs, writer of the 1996 Doctor Who TV movie, as he is reluctantly dragged back into the American Whoniverse, in this funny and moving documentary about finding family in the unlikeliest of places.

Doctor Who am I? is currently screening in the UK, with American dates to follow. Check out Twitter and Facebook for more info. The Blu-ray and DVD are due for release on November 28th.

Twitter: Martyn, Pete, Sam, Gerrod,

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