Review-Doctor Who: Once and Future: Time Lord Immemorial

In the first of this month’s two Once & Future releases, the intriguingly titled “Time Lord Immemorial,” Big Finish has taken an unconventional departure from tradition. They’ve chosen not to align the release with the anniversary month, a decision that adds an air of unpredictability to the narrative landscape.


The Once & Future series, known for its narrative complexity, reaches new heights of intricacy in this particular instalment. While the previous episode featuring the Tenth Doctor managed to seamlessly integrate into the overarching storyline, “Time Lord Immemorial” feels somewhat hastily placed between its predecessor and the series’ culminating conclusion. This haste is palpable, and what’s more confounding is that the stakes of the plot far exceed those of the overarching narrative. Yet, they are treated almost as a mere aside.


Our journey commences with the Ninth Doctor, portrayed by the talented Christopher Eccleston, aboard the TARDIS, diligently pursuing “The Union,” an enigmatic clue from the previous instalment. Surprisingly, this time around, we are spared the chaos of incarnation-changing. The Doctor’s realisation of inhabiting an unfamiliar body dawns on the listener only as the story unfolds.
Curiously absent are the hints of other Doctor voices that have become customary in this series. However, the narrative introduces another Doctor, the Unbound Doctor, essayed by the accomplished David Warner, whose origins extend beyond our familiar universe into the realm of alternate realities, as witnessed during the Bernice Summerfield stories.
The meeting of these two Doctors precipitates a thought-provoking debate on the intricacies of TARDIS interiors. Their discourse, however, is abruptly interrupted by a mysterious entity composed of sand, its cryptic utterances forebodingly whispering of the “Sands of Time.” In response, the Doctors resolve to pursue this enigmatic trail.


Simultaneously, on a tranquil beach, we find Liz Chenka, played by Nicola Walker, sharing a moment of relaxation with an unexpected companion – The Lumiat, portrayed by Gina McKee. For those not attuned to the latest Missy box sets, The Lumiat occupies a unique space in the hierarchy of The Master, residing between Missy and the Sacha Dhawan version. Unlike her predecessors and successors, The Lumiat leans towards the side of good. Yet, their peaceful respite is abruptly shattered as they fall prey to the same enigmatic sand creatures that have infiltrated the TARDIS.
Speaking of the TARDIS, it materialises in the grand hall of the “Time Lord Immemorial,” a mythical locale at the heart of the multiverse. Here resides an all-powerful Time Lord, a veritable deity. Moments later, Liv and The Lumiat emerge through the sand creatures, but the group is swiftly dispersed. The Doctor and The Lumiat find themselves in a corridor adorned with vivid murals, each one narrating facets of their own lives. It’s in this surreal setting that The Doctor confronts her true identity and grapples with the notion of embodying a Master incarnation.


Surprisingly, despite its grand scope and the looming cataclysm of the multiverse, the narrative pivots around conversations, with a conspicuous absence of formidable adversaries. A nursery rhyme prophecy, reminiscent of the style often attributed to Steven Moffat, simplifies the plot’s trajectory: the characters will ultimately reach their destination and save the day, as anticipated.

It’s obvious that “Time Lord Immemorial” was penned with haste, seemingly shoehorned in after the Once and Future storyline had been finalised. The potential of the Unbound Doctor and The Lumiat, both characters with intriguing dimensions, remains completely underutilised. The Unbound Doctor, a figure previously explored in the “Doctor Who Unbound” series, delves into “What If?” scenarios for the Doctors. The Lumiat made her debut in “Missy: The Lumiat” and was also featured in the multi-master narrative “Masterful.”

“Time Lord Immemorial” introduces a compelling premise of a collapsing multiverse, but channels it into a narrative where characters predominantly engage in dialogue. They are guided by a nursery rhyme prophecy, while the Once and Future narrative itself experiences limited progression.

2/10.

Bite Me: A Buffy podcast-The Harvest

Join Joe Ford and Martyn Havell in this thrilling first episode of Bite Me, as they delve into ‘The Harvest’.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of supernatural adventures, witty banter, a dash of nostalgia and some therapy.

If you’d like to support the show, please check out our ⁠⁠Ko-Fi page⁠⁠

The podcast is available on ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Bite Me podcast art by ⁠Penny Smallshire⁠.

Check out Joe’s other podcasts: ⁠⁠Hamster with a blunt penkife⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Finish Big⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Untitled Star Trek Project⁠⁠.

Check out Martyn’s other podcasts: ⁠⁠Bad Wilf⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Running Down Corridors⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Martyn &⁠⁠.

SOCIALS:

Martyn-⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

Joe-⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠.

Bite Me-⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠.

Running Down Corridors-Torchwood: Ghost Machine

We’re back from our summer break and with Chris on paternity leave, Martyn and Abi are joined by YouTuber Jimi Wolfe.

Check out Abi’s production company ⁠TT Productions 23⁠. Toverton Podcast is ⁠here⁠.

Check out Chris’s ⁠Second Doctor audios.⁠

Check out Bite Me: A Buffy Podcast.

Check out Jimi’s YouTube channel.

Twitter: ⁠Podcast⁠, ⁠Martyn⁠, ⁠Abi⁠.

Instagram: ⁠Podcast⁠, ⁠Martyn⁠, ⁠Chris⁠, ⁠Abi⁠.

TikTok: ⁠Podcast⁠, ⁠Martyn⁠, ⁠Chris⁠, ⁠Abi⁠.

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RDC-Torchwood:Everything Changes

Martyn, Chris and Abi discuss the first episode of Torchwood. 

In the first episode, aptly titled “Everything Changes,” viewers are introduced to a universe that exists alongside Doctor Who.

“Everything Changes” begins in the bustling city of Cardiff, where a chance encounter thrusts Gwen Cooper, a dedicated police constable, into a clandestine world beyond her wildest imagination. As Gwen investigates a puzzling murder case, she stumbles upon Torchwood, an enigmatic group led by fan-favourite Captain Jack Harkness.

Captain Jack Harkness and his team operate outside the conventional boundaries of law and order, dedicated to protecting humanity from extraterrestrial threats and supernatural occurrences. Torchwood’s diverse ensemble cast includes the tech-savvy Toshiko Sato, the medical expert Owen Harper, and the resourceful Ianto Jones. Together, they form an unconventional yet formidable team with unique skills and their own complex dynamics.


Through Gwen’s eyes, viewers discover a hidden side of Cardiff, where extraordinary events and unexplained phenomena are woven into the fabric of everyday life. The episode immerses audiences in a city filled with secrets, blurring the lines between the ordinary and the extraordinary.


As Gwen becomes entangled with Torchwood, she grapples with the shocking revelation that aliens exist among us. “Everything Changes” unveils the covert battles fought by Torchwood, exploring the complexities of their mission and the sacrifices made to protect humanity. Friendships are forged, loyalties are tested, and the very nature of reality is questioned.

Check out Abi’s production company ⁠TT Productions 23⁠. Toverton Podcast is ⁠here⁠.

Check out Chris’s ⁠Second Doctor audios.⁠

Twitter: ⁠Podcast⁠⁠Martyn⁠⁠Abi⁠.

Instagram: ⁠Podcast⁠⁠Martyn⁠⁠Chris⁠⁠Abi⁠.

TikTok: ⁠Podcast⁠, ⁠Martyn⁠, ⁠Chris⁠, ⁠Abi⁠.

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Big Finish review-Doctor Who: Daleks! Genesis of Terror

In Daleks! Genesis of Terror, an audio adaptation that delves into the realm of the classic Doctor Who story, Genesis of the Daleks, the potential for exploring new dimensions within this beloved narrative is unfortunately left untapped. This release disappointingly fails to meet the expectations of delivering a cohesive and engaging experience.

The fragmented nature of Daleks! Genesis of Terror is hard to ignore. Instead of providing a complete retelling of Genesis of the Daleks, this audio adaptation solely focuses on Part One of the original draft. Parts Two, Four, and Six are quickly skimmed through by Nicholas Briggs, while Part Three and Part Five are presented as Companion Chronicle versions, narrated by Harry Sullivan and Sarah Jane respectively. This fragmented approach hinders storytelling, resulting in an unsatisfying and disjointed narrative experience for listeners.

Genesis of the Daleks: Part One suffers from poor writing and lacks significant deviations from its televised counterpart. Terry Molloy’s involvement, although expected to elevate the material, unfortunately, falls flat, lacking the fresh perspective necessary to rejuvenate the story. Additionally, Nicholas Briggs’s rushed readings of the other parts do little to fully immerse the audience, leaving much to be desired in terms of narrative engagement.

To further complicate matters, the inclusion of an 80-minute interview with Philip Hinchcliffe seems puzzlingly out of place within the context of the audio adaptation. While such interviews can provide valuable insights and behind-the-scenes information, this extended feature disrupts the flow of the release and distracts from its primary focus. It ultimately fails to enhance the listener’s experience as intended.

Ultimately, Daleks! Genesis of Terror struggles to justify its existence as a worthwhile adaptation. The decision to tackle a universally acclaimed story like Genesis of the Daleks appears misguided, as it lacks the necessity for a remake.

With its fragmented structure, lacklustre execution, and questionable creative choices, Daleks! Genesis of Terror fails to deliver a satisfying audio adaptation. Despite its commendable attempt to revisit a beloved story, it ultimately falls short of capturing the essence and magic of the original. Fans of Doctor Who would be better served by revisiting classic episodes or exploring other stories in the “Lost” range that offer more immersive and engaging experiences.

⭐️⭐️

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.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Film review-Fast X

Fast X takes the Fast and Furious franchise to new heights of excitement and spectacle. It embraces its over-the-top nature, delivering a wild ride that pushes the boundaries of plausibility. The film is a celebration of sheer entertainment, inviting viewers to suspend their disbelief and revel in the exhilarating action.

The plot revolves around Dom Toretto and his crew, who find themselves entangled in a complex scheme orchestrated by the deranged Dante Reyes, son of a Hernan Reyes from Fast Five. Dante Reyes seeks to torment Dom by putting his loved ones in danger through a series of outlandish scenarios. Along the way, familiar faces and adversaries reappear, adding to the ever-expanding ensemble.

Fast X never shies away from its audacity. It showcases jaw-dropping action sequences, including car jumps, explosive stunts, and death-defying feats. The film blurs the line between homage and repetition, referencing past instalments while introducing fresh elements to keep things from feeling repetitive.

The cast delivers committed performances, with Jason Momoa stealing the show as the flamboyantly unhinged antagonist. He’s essentially playing The Joker. His portrayal adds a captivating mix of humour and madness to the proceedings. The film also introduces new characters, such as Brie Larson’s Tess and Alan Ritchson’s Almes, who contribute to the diverse ensemble.

At its core, Fast X is an escapist thrill ride. It demands that viewers embrace its over-the-top nature and surrender to the sheer enjoyment of the spectacle. The film transports audiences to a world where the laws of physics take a backseat to adrenaline-pumping action and larger-than-life characters.

While the plot may be convoluted and the characters larger than life, Fast X succeeds in delivering an exhilarating experience. It captures the essence of the franchise’s appeal: the excitement, the high-octane action, and the sense of camaraderie within the “family.” It reminds us that sometimes, it’s okay to suspend our disbelief and indulge in pure cinematic escapism.

Fast X stands as a testament to the franchise’s ability to consistently deliver entertainment that resonates with its devoted fan base. It invites viewers to buckle up, let go of their inhibitions, and embrace the wild and outrageous journey it offers. So, prepare for a thrill like no other as Fast X revs up the engines and takes you on a heart-pounding adventure where anything is possible.

Fast X is in cinemas across the UK & Ireland.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Best Flash Stories: Unforgettable Speedster Adventures

The Flash, the beloved superhero from DC Comics, has captivated readers for decades with his incredible speed, quick wit, and thrilling adventures. Since his debut in 1940, this scarlet speedster has accumulated a vast collection of incredible stories that have defined his legacy in the world of comic books. In this article, we delve into the most unforgettable Flash stories, exploring the breathtaking moments, emotional arcs, and mind-bending concepts that have made the Scarlet Speedster an iconic character.

1. “The Return of Barry Allen” (The Flash Vol. 2 #73-79):

In this classic tale by Mark Waid and Greg LaRocque, Barry Allen, the original Flash, mysteriously returns from the dead. However, things are not as they seem, as an imposter with a sinister agenda lurks in the shadows. This story delves into themes of legacy, identity, and the enduring spirit of heroism.

2. “Flashpoint” (Flashpoint #1-5):

Written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Andy Kubert, “Flashpoint” takes readers on a journey through an alternate reality where Barry Allen awakens to a world in chaos. His mission to restore the timeline leads to unexpected alliances and heart-wrenching sacrifices. This groundbreaking event reshaped the DC Universe and set the stage for a new era.

3. “The Dastardly Death of the Rogues” (The Flash Vol. 3 #1-6):

Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul crafted this story arc that introduces readers to a Flash who is falsely accused of murdering his Rogues Gallery. As he fights to clear his name, he uncovers a deeper conspiracy that challenges his trust in those closest to him. With stunning visuals and an intricate plot, this tale showcases the enduring bond between the Flash and his villains.

4. “Blitz” (The Flash Vol. 2 #192-200):

Geoff Johns and Scott Kolins weave an electrifying narrative in “Blitz” as the Flash confronts his most formidable adversary yet: Zoom, a villain who embodies pure speed. With the lives of his loved ones hanging in the balance, Barry must tap into unknown depths of courage and determination to overcome this terrifying threat.

5. “The Flash: Rebirth” (The Flash Vol. 3 #1-6):

In this highly anticipated series written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Ethan Van Sciver, Barry Allen returns to a world that has moved on without him. “The Flash: Rebirth” delves into the complexities of Barry’s resurrection, his reconnection with his family, and his rediscovery of his purpose as the Fastest Man Alive.

6. “Born to Run” (The Flash Vol. 2 #62-65):

Mark Waid and Greg LaRocque provide a definitive origin tale for Wally West, who becomes the Flash after his mentor, Barry Allen. “Born to Run” showcases the emotional journey of a young hero finding his place, grappling with self-doubt, and ultimately embracing his destiny as a guardian of Central City.

The Flash has raced through countless unforgettable adventures throughout his storied history, leaving an indelible mark on comic book storytelling. From the iconic tales of Barry Allen to the transformation of Wally West, these stories have explored themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of the Flash. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the Scarlet Speedster’s world, these stories stand as a testament to the enduring appeal and limitless potential of the Flash.

The Flash will hit cinemas on 16th June 2023.

The Cosmic Adventures: Exploring the Best Guardians of the Galaxy Comics of All Time

Guardians of the Galaxy is a relatively new addition to the Marvel Universe, but it has quickly become a fan favourite. The team of misfits has captured the hearts of readers with their hilarious banter, exciting adventures, and compelling character arcs. In this article, we will explore the best Guardians of the Galaxy comics of all time, from the team’s first appearance to the most recent series.

  1. “Annihilation: Conquest” (2007)

Before the Guardians of the Galaxy were a team, they were a group of characters thrown together during the “Annihilation: Conquest” storyline. The event saw the Phalanx, a race of technologically advanced beings, take over the Kree Empire. Star-Lord, Drax the Destroyer, Gamora, Rocket Raccoon, and Groot all played a role in the conflict, and it was during this storyline that they first came together as a team. The “Annihilation: Conquest” storyline is a must-read for fans of the Guardians of the Galaxy, as it establishes the team’s origins and sets the stage for their future adventures.

  1. “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2008)

Following their initial appearance in “Annihilation: Conquest,” the Guardians of the Galaxy were given their own ongoing series in 2008. Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, the series saw the team come together to protect the galaxy from a variety of threats, including the Badoon, the Phalanx, and the Universal Church of Truth. The series is notable for its focus on character development, particularly for characters like Rocket Raccoon and Groot, who had previously been more minor players in the Marvel Universe. The series ran for 25 issues and is considered one of the best Guardians of the Galaxy stories ever told.

  1. “Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Avengers” (2013)

In 2013, Brian Michael Bendis and Steve McNiven relaunched the Guardians of the Galaxy series with a new #1 issue. The series saw the team come together once again to protect the galaxy, this time from the cosmic threat of Thanos. The series is notable for its excellent characterization and for introducing new team members like Angela, a character originally created by Neil Gaiman for Spawn. The series ran for 27 issues and was the basis for the first Guardians of the Galaxy film.

  1. “Rocket Raccoon” (2014)

In 2014, Marvel launched a new ongoing series focused on Rocket Raccoon. Written and illustrated by Skottie Young, the series saw Rocket go on a series of wacky adventures across the galaxy. The series was notable for its humour and its beautiful artwork, and it helped to solidify Rocket’s place as one of the most beloved characters in the Marvel Universe. The series ran for 11 issues and is a must-read for fans of the character.

  1. “Guardians of the Galaxy: Legacy” (2018)

In 2018, Gerry Duggan and Aaron Kuder launched a new Guardians of the Galaxy series that focused on the team’s legacy. The series saw the team dealing with the aftermath of Thanos’ death and trying to establish themselves as the new protectors of the galaxy. The series is notable for its exploration of the team’s history and for introducing new characters like Cosmic Ghost Rider. The series ran for 12 issues and is a great read for fans of the team.

The Guardians of the Galaxy have had a relatively short but incredibly impactful history in the Marvel Universe. From their origins in “Annihilation: Conquest” to their recent adventures in “Guardians of the Galaxy: Legacy,” the team has provided readers with some of the most entertaining and compelling stories.

Big Finish Review-Torchwood: Launch Date

Launch Date, the conclusion of the Torchwood “romance trilogy,” brings Aaron Lamont’s deft writing to the forefront, with Ianto Jones, played by Gareth David-Lloyd, taking a back seat to the budding relationship between Geraint and Chrissie, played by Jonathan Hawkins and Gemma Knight Jones.

Lamont’s script is filled with witty dialogue that sets the pace for the story, with Hawkins delivering an effortless performance as the unconfident Geraint. While his Welsh accent occasionally falters, it doesn’t detract much from the overall performance.

Knight-Jones shines as the headstrong and opinionated Chrissie, delivering a performance that evokes a sense of frustration with the world. Lamont’s well-crafted story allows the listener to witness a different side of Ianto, as he plays a peripheral but pivotal role in bringing Geraint and Chrissie closer together. The duologues between the two, as well as the vignettes of their personal lives, are skillfully interspersed, with Callum Lloyd’s annoying but endearing portrayal of Joe adding a delightful touch of humour to the mix.

While the story has some light and funny moments, the climax is slightly underwhelming, as it’s evident from the beginning that Ianto is playing matchmaker. Nonetheless, the character interactions are written and played in a thoughtful and nuanced manner, with David-Lloyd’s performance being consistently on top form.

Overall, Launch Date is a solid story, with Lamont’s writing and the cast’s performances making it a fitting conclusion to the Torchwood “romance trilogy.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Torchwood: Launch Date is now available to own as a collector’s edition CD + download for £10.99 or as a digital download for £8.99, exclusively from Big Finish.