Great Welsh TV!

A 'more mature actor to play The Doctor?

2013-05-24T11:56:00.004-07:00

He's a fossil, but we love him! It's Sir Brucy!

With Matt Smith thought primed & ready to flee the Cardiff coup any time soon, the search is on for new Who, and the BBC in Cardiff Bay are said to be reacting to fan pressure after criticism that The Doctor keeps getting younger & younger!

Production staff are said to be secretly seeking out 'more mature' actors, perhaps to step in to the role for a single season, the sole intention of which 'could be' to 'sort out game-changing events' expected to occur during the show's 50th Anniversary, to air in November this year.

Matt Smith. Heading off forever?

Speculation began to build when Matt Smith (right), who insists he's returning to film Series 8 after a 'filming break' in the US, appeared on TV sporting a savage hair cut, and spoke about his 'love' of America, and his wish to 'do movies in New York'.

Fans have always been highly vocal about the choice of Doctor, and with the Anniversary just 6 months away, have expressed concern about the titular Time lord getting ever younger. Cerys Huws, a production assistant at Porth Teigr said that she understood the concerns of 'seasoned' fans, and it was not 'a given' that any replacement for Matt would be 'a Harry Potteresque teen'. "In fact", she added, "The Doctor has been around for about a thousand years, and maybe it's time for his appearance to reflect that".

Speaking to GW TV, Brian Minchin, only recently appointed as the show's Executive Producer would not be drawn on the choice of Doctor, saying that "Matt will be around for a long while yet", before coughing and continuing to suck on a throat lozenge.

The Whovian rumour mill began to turn just last Friday when, speaking 'off the record' at a photo-shoot for Saga Magazine, antediluvian actor, singer and one-time ubiquitous TV host, Bruce Forsyth referred to the show in a tongue in cheek manner. When asked what he was next going to do as he was now perhaps to old to host 'Strictly Come Dancing' in the UK, Forsyth smiled wryly, adding "You never know, dear.. I may even turn up on Doctor Who... I'd love a dressing room like the TARDIS!" At this point, he was quickly escorted away from the press pack by his agent, who seemed less than impressed!

At 85, some may say that Forsyth (whose wife is thirty years his junior) is too old to be up to the pace of a hectic filming schedule required of Doctor Who, but speaking earlier, on another matter, he did say that at 85, he was "as fit as many people twice his age", adding that he could "tango like the best", and his cha-cha-cha was "something to marvel at".

The lovely Mrs. Forsyth... 30 years younger!

Tom Wilshire, a fan of Doctor Who since the first episode was aired in 1963 said he'd love for Sir Bruce to 'have a romp in the TARDIS" - and felt that this would be a great ploy to bring original fans back into the Whovian fold...

The BBC were not available to comment on the matter, though a rather portly doorman at Roath Lock did say, enigmatically, that 'time will tell. Indeed it will!

(c) Cenwyn Tiwdor-Jones, GW TV.

David Duchovny to lead in US Torchwood movie - Our April 1st spoof for 2012!

2012-03-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

Did we catch you out? Apart from the ridiculous story line, the major clue was that 'FOX' were considering Anthony Perkins (Psycho) for a main role. Sadly, Anthony died back in 1992.

Did we catch you?

Here's the story we ran!

___________________________________________________________

Following Jeff McDonnell's earlier - and unexpected comments about 20th Century TV & FOX's 'interest' in producing a wholly US-based Torchwood movie, the rumour mill has been working overtime, with lots of mumblings appearing to give weight that the idea is at least under initial consideration.

FOX, who initially ditched Torchwood as a TV series, leaving Starz to pick up the reins, now appears to see a movie as a potential money-spinner. The latest high-flyer to throw his hat into the ring is Sherman Marshall, CEO & public spokesman for 20th Century's affiliate, 'FOX Perspective'.

Sherman Marshall, FOX

Speaking off the record following March's production & commissioning meeting in Atlanta, Marshall announced that there was a 'distinct lack' of 'hard hitting Sci Fi' output from 20th Century stages, and a 'great movie' could help 'kick something off'. He later referred to Torchwood Miracle Day, suggesting it had been a 'great idea, poorly executed' - adding that 'FOX could do something with a show like Torchwood', adding to the current round of speculation.

Earlier this month, Chris Carter spoke in interview with Canada's CJON radio that his future projects included 'a movie, connected to British smash, 'Doctor Who'. Carter then quickly added 'but this won't be Doctor Who'!

Expanding on his vision for a 'perfect SciFi movie', Carter referred to a tale involving treachery, a secret organisation - based in New York - dealing with alien threats, living in an underground base & hunted by the authorities. Carter added that aliens would work for the team, one member would be 'immortal' and it would be impossible to work out who the good guys were!

Chris Carter - Prolific!

Torchwood fans will probably recognise the format - but could this be a coincidence? Carter is a prolific writer - the X Files being one of his most famous & sturdy of en-genre shows. He's long been looking for 'a development' to enable an X-files-like show to get the green light, and a version of Torchwood would seem to fit the bill. But what could we expect in a Torchwood movie from him - and who would 20th Century & FOX approach as cast members?

Jeff McDonnell, 'Screenplay'

20th Century's publicist, Jeff McDonnell (left) believes Carter's project needs familiar, known faces to bring an American audience immediately on board.

Both David (Mulder) Duchovny & Anthony (Psycho) Perkins have been suggested to play the lead character, described by Carter as 'an immortal, timeless Captain, lost & out of his own time zone'. Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy) has been suggested as his 'partner & soul mate - a character who keeps the Captain's feet firmly planted on Earth'. Hmm... What can we add?

Sherman Marshall added that any movie would need to be fast paced - but with many lighter moments 'and jokes', and would feature aliens, trapped on Earth. Asked about Torchwood, he is said to have smiled, and replied 'What?"

UK fans and Torchwood purists would no doubt be horrified by the prospect of a Torchwood, again away from Wales - and this time, without the effervescent Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) & the gorgeous Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles). They'll also be shocked that there's no Russell T. Davies, apparently, at the helm. The prospect of an X-Files / Buffy crossover will, of course not appeal to all - but could it be a winner?

David Duchovny:From Mulder to 'Harkness'?

We have to add that there's been no official announcement of a Torchwood movie, and we're not convinced there'll be one.

GWTV are merely analysing & conflating a number of (perhaps) disconnected facts. It may just be a huge coincidence - Marshall, McDonnell & Carter could all be talking of totally unrelated projects - but it could be that there really are plans for a US-based Torchwood movie, and those plans could be well advanced!

We'll keep you informed as the plot unfolds, or collapses!

Being Human - It's a winner!

2012-03-31T01:22:00.000-07:00

BBC Cymru Wales' 'Being Human' - The crew!

Loyal fans of BBC Cymru Wales' superlative supernatural saga, Being Human were left reeling at the end of Series 3 when the popular 'Mitchell', played by Aidan Turner was dramatically killed off, allowing the actor to hop over to New Zealand, to become a Hobbit.

Things went from bad to worse when during the opening episode of the highly-anticipated Series 4, Nina (Sinead Keenan) failed to show, or even be mentioned - and boyfriend, werewolf George (Russell Tovey) died too, as a result of a forced change into wolf form. Things looked more than a little grim.

It was a delightful change - and for many a surprise, when Series 4, complete with new vampire Hal & a returning Tom, together with a re-energised & strengthened story line & superb writing from Toby Whithouse worked, instantly, completely - and perhaps 'felt' better than ever before.

We still had our dark, but sexy vampire in Hal, our youthful, exuberant werewolf, Tom - and at least for now, our gorgeous ghost, Annie. A host of special guests & some really nasty baddies made the season rock - and audience figures soar!

The result? Fantastic reviews from all & sundry & a recommission even before the finale was aired. It's great news we'll be seeing more Being Human - it's a great Welsh institution - and a great window on Barry!

Will Merlin magic up a miracle?

2012-03-31T00:55:00.002-07:00

Colin Morgan & the Merlin cast

With the excellent Merlin due to return to our screens later this year, it's hard to realise that we're already up to series 5 of this magical romp.

Some fans will remember Richard 'Victor Meldrew' Wilson saying that the show's producers had a five-year plan for Merlin, and that the current series should therefore be the last!

With Merlin remaining as popular as ever, and with viewing figures - and international distribution rising, not falling, I'd be very surprised if this really was going to be the last we'd see of the show. Our spies are already hearing rumblings of negotiations amongst the cast with regards to the show's continuation - and we're hopeful to be spending our Saturday evenings in Camelot for quite a while to come!

A full move to the US on the cards?

2012-03-30T04:54:00.001-07:00

20th Century TV's Jeff McDonnell

It seems quite paradoxical that whilst the future of Torchwood is in considerable doubt, with Starz appearing to favour other projects & Welsh TV supremo, Russell T. Davies rumoured to be in discussions about 'another adult drama', there's mounting speculation about a 'Torchwood related movie'.

Jeff McDonnell from 20th Century TV's internal broadsheet, 'Screenplay' commented today that a potential movie came a step or two closer, with Californian director Chris Carter (X Files, Millennium, Invasion) said to be in the frame as possible 'showrunner'.

McDonnell had earlier revealed that 20th Century, along with FOX were 'interested in theory' in an all-US spin-off, but that no further details were as yet available. He was also unwilling to say whether the project under consideration was a made-for-TV special, or a movie aimed at general cinema release.

Russell T. Davies - Wales' Number 1 show-runner!

GWTV tried to contact Russell T. Davies for comment, but he was unavailable.

GWTV will keep you posted!

Torchwood - Where next?

2012-03-29T14:27:00.002-07:00

As Torchwood sits in limbo, somewhere in between cancellation & a slightly begrudged reappearance, it's announced on ITV 'This Morning' that the show has been 'axed'. Incorrect, perhaps - but did ITV let slip something not yet quite meant to be in the public domain?

Time will tell: but what are the realistic options for Torchwood?

Torchwood, the cast from Series 1 on set in Cardiff.

Fans appear to be divided. At one end of the scale, some say Torchwood should have been laid to rest at the ed of 'Children of Earth'. The Earth - saved, largely in tact.

Jack, broken - but free to travel with the Doctor. Gwen - safe with Rhys & baby Anwen on the way. Torchwood - a fading memory, a mere fleeting reference in future episodes of 'Doctor Who'.

Others ask for a return to pre-CoE Torchwood, with a new series focusing on Jack's missing years, and the reappearance of the much-missed 'Monster of the week'.

Eve Myles and Kai Owen have both publicly called for a Torchwood 'movie' to give some kind of closure to the show for fans. Though this is unlikely due to the high cost of film production - it is a valid suggestion, one which in some form or other, could one day bear fruit. The question is, were 'Torchwood - The Movie' to become a reality, would this be a UK, or a US production, and if a co-production, who would press the buttons? Would the movie resemble 'real' Torchwood - or would we once again be forced to delve into unfamiliar - and generally unwanted territory?

Starz have not quite ruled out more Torchwood, but have hinted if there is more, it may be a long way off. However, should Starz remain involved in the show, at best, we'd get more 'Miracle Day' - and fans are not entirely convinced that's what they'd want.

Perhaps the reins could be returned to BBC Cymru Wales, and the show, to its roots. Indeed, the most popular option, by far!

Torchwood - What went wrong?

2012-03-29T13:58:00.001-07:00

John Barrowman, filming of 'Miracle Day' in Cardiff in Feb, 2011.

Torchwood is currently 'in limbo' and networks seem in not too urgent a hurry to revive it.

Starz seem to have quietly forgotten it, at least for now; BBC Wales are up to their necks in cuts & other projects - and show-runner Russell T. Davies, supposedly taking time out with his seriously-ill partner, Andrew - is actually hard at work in Cardiff, attending to his new & highly anticipated CBBC blockbuster, 'Wizards vs. Aliens'.

For him, too, Torchwood seems not the most pressing of priorities. It's not hard to see why things have gone so quiet right now.

After the fun & japes of Series 1, the hard-hitting stories from Series 2 - and the dizzy heights and very acceptable viewing figures of the chilling 'Children of Earth' we had 'Miracle Day' - a transatlantic romp about as closely related to Torchwood as the Jerry Springer Show - where characters were about as real & genuine as a stash of Polish printed £7 banknotes.

'Miracle Day' reduced the once masterful alpha-male Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) to a weakened, barely-visible character playing a very definite second fiddle to an unconvincing Rex Matheson (Mekhi Pfifer), whilst 'family wife' and ex Cardiff policewoman Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) suddenly became a Welsh Lara Croft, complete with Hollywood designer clothing & unbelievable new confidence - even when out of Wales!

The unwelcome move away from South Wales to LA; a whole host of faux-pas including some excruciatingly bad (and unnecessary) seduction scenes and the poorly-judged insistence that a primarily-American audience needed to constantly be reminded of Jack Harkness' sexuality caused irritation to UK viewers - and led to a total collapse of viewing figures in Australia & New Zealand.

A disappointing, over-explained storyline with more red herrings than the reject freezer at an Icelandic trawler convention & more false starts than a hyperactive relay racer further turned all but hardened fans away from the show, and what promised to be a valiant return ultimately became little more than a damp squib.

It later transpired that Starz, the US network which partnered BBC Wales was not exactly the neutral co-funder we were initially told to expect. Indeed - they took an active interest in the storyline, and insisted on subtle changes and re-takes. Russell T. Davies was said to be 'cross' when Starz insisted CIA agent Rex Matheson not only survive Miracle Day, but end up an immortal character, like Jack Harkness.

Chris Albrecht, Starz' CEO.

It's believed Starz wanted to maintain an option on their own version of Torchwood, with Matheson as their 'key Immortal', should the show take the States by storm, and should the BBC not wish to continue with the series. However, with viewing figures in the US mediocre at best - and with newer, fresher projects having taken Albrecht's eye, it's not difficult why Starz may have had a change of heart.

In Britain, it's clear 'Miracle Day' didn't hit the right note for mass appeal, and there's no general clamour for a new series. It would take something special to put Torchwood back on the right tracks!

The New Earth, or the cutting-room floor?

2010-12-12T03:13:00.001-08:00

Had a lengthy Twitter exchange last night with Carole - a mega JB fan & like me, lover of Torchwood Seasons 1 & 2. Both of us hated Season 3 with venomous passion.

Carole's view (and I think, hope) is that a US-based Season 4 featuring just Gwên & Jack is bound to fail, and will be abandoned by past fans.

What's your view?

Torchwood: The New Earth

2010-11-30T05:28:00.001-08:00

Hmm.. Torchwood, The New Earth. Filming begins on Jan 11. However, few of the original characters remain, it's largely US based & produced, and it promises to be 'dark, bleak & depressing. Don't think I want to watch it!

Watch out for flying egos!

2010-11-26T05:14:00.001-08:00

For those who hated Russell T. Davies’ Torchwood: Children of Earth, perhaps due to its sheer bleakness & ethos of organisational deconstruction, these quotes from RTD will come as no comfort. I’ve a feeling I won’t be watching Season 5.

Has RTD’s almighty ego over-inflated so much that its now obscuring his vision & causing him to lose the plot totally?

http://sciencefictionworld.com/tv/science-fiction-tv/560-torchwood-season-4-due-2011-darker-than-ever.html

Ianto's place...

2010-11-26T05:05:00.001-08:00

Anyone in or around Cardiff, a bit of recycling’s needed over at Ianto’s place, the Hub, Mermaid Quay. There’s a bit of water damage, and a number of tributes are a bit mouldy.

There’s definitely a need for a fresh-n-up & some new pix / cards! Still, loads of daily visitors.

Today I spoke with some TW enchanted Spaniards, Germans who loved Ianto & some girls from Porthcawl who’d come down with Xmas cards ;-)

RTD. The death of Torchwood?

2010-11-26T05:02:00.001-08:00

If only RTD hadn’t SABOTAGED #Torchwood and our cheery, happy, camp, alien Cardiff-based Welsh drama had remained in tact!! (Growls at RTD).

Cardiff > The big Christmas switch-on... by sonic screwdriver!

2010-11-11T04:39:00.000-08:00

Quite surreal to be in Cardiff on Nov 10th to encounter a Xmas choir, Bob the Builder and Doctor Who and his able assistants, all introduced by BBC Cymru/Wales' Jason Mohammed.

Warming to hear that classic theme tune booming across Cardiff as the Xmas lights come on, and fireworks ignite the sky.

Pure class!

New posts coming!

2010-02-17T16:00:00.001-08:00

New posts are on the way.... I've been concentrating on other publications!

RIP The 10th Doctor. A loss to BBC Cymru, Wales & maybe to Tennant.

2009-12-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Seen the new BBC Cymru/Wales Xmas logo ID?

The Doctor returns to the Tardis, to find it almost completely covered in snow. He looks around and spots reindeer. He raises an eyebrow & looks knowingly to camera.

In the next shot, the reindeer are harnessed to the Tardis, and David's leading them into the heavens as the Tardis is freed. David, the reindeer & the free Tardis then ride round & circle the BBC Cymru/Wales logo, as the next program is introduced whilst Xmas music plays. It's very impressive.

Still very sad to be losing the Tenth Doctor. I love David, and think he'll not be beaten> I'd not like to be in Matt's shoes, though I have seen him wearing Converse in-role, and at least that's sexy. David should have stuck it out for a couple more seasons, after all - Doctor Who & BBC Cymru/Wales have made him, and shaped his career forever.

RIP David Tennant's 10th Doctor. The End of time - part 1 - Christmas Eve, 6pm on BBC Cymru/Wales, BBC 1 and in hi def on BBC HD. Watch... and cry.

xxx

Doctor Who: The end of time. Christmas eve, 6pm, BBC1W & BBC HD.

2009-12-18T12:58:00.000-08:00

The TARDIS will be completely destroyed during this Christmas's Doctor Who two-part special.

David Tennant's Doctor dies in mortal combat with The Master, played by the marvelous John Simm, now with blond hair. A new TARDIS regenerates, looks the same outside, but is new - and massive on the inside. It takes up all of the set previously occupied the Torchwood Hub in Upper Boat.

But where does it get its regeneration energy from? Could it be provided by Captain Jack, originally made immortal by vortex plasma from the TARDIS?

Does Jack sacrifice himself to save the Universe?

John Barrowman has said Jack's back in the new Torchwood Series 4, said to be filming from January, but could this be a bluff? Has Russell T. Davies decided to finish Jack off, to make way for a brand new Torchwood cast

Jack's death, though unpalatable, makes sense - after all, he was made immortal when Rose Tyler brought him back to life after he was exterminated by a Dalek. She used energy from the Tardis's time vortex to resurrect him. This would be the perfect form of energy to restore a 'dying' Tardis... but would it cost Jack his immortality - and his life?

Watch... see... weep!

Series 4! Torchwood!

2009-12-18T12:26:00.000-08:00

BBC Cymru / Wales has given the go ahead for a new, full-series of Torchwood, to be filmed during 2010, though no schedule as yet exists.

The series will consist of 13 episodes, and will be broadcast on BBC1 & BBC HD and will star John Barrowman, who has also confirmed he's looking forward to reprising his role as immortal, bi-sexual time traveler, Captain Jack Harkness.

Details are very sketchy at this stage, but it's suspected there'll be a new base for Torchwood, possibly not in Cardiff, though filming will actually take place in the city. Eve Myles is said to be 'ready to return' as Gwen Cooper, though other casting & availabilities of actors is said to be at a very early stage.

Russell T. Davies had earlier said that Series 4 was 'pretty well written and ready to go', and that he was waiting for the green light from Cardiff before production planning was started.

More details later!

AWOL!

2009-12-09T03:29:00.000-08:00

But no fear... more updates to follow soon!

Torchwood - Children of Earth... it's all over!

2009-07-12T02:06:00.000-07:00

So here's a bit of a look-back & review...

Episode 1...

Absolutely f*****g EXCELLENT... AWESOME BEYOND BELIEF!!!

We do know how to make great TV here in Wales!!! Torchwood -

the BEST EVER EPISODE BY FAR... I just can't wait until tomorrow

for Episode 2!!!

Already totally excited about Torchwood tonight, but worried

sick about Jack, who I don't want to end up as some living

head on a machine or worse. Seems a bit grim.

I'm assured that Captain Jack does not end up as a living head

in a bowl of chemicals - and that he does appear in the rest

of the series. UPDATE: Chris Chibnall & the BBC 'delighted' with

Monday's viewing figures - 5.9 million, excluding repeats this week

on BBC2 & 3. Awesome news, addding significantly to the argument

for more TW beyond the current mini-series!

Ready for Day 2...

NEWS: I asked Chris Chibnall (TW writer) if he was happy with last

night's viewing figures: "It's a *great* number, (5.9m) esp in summer & "genre". Other new BBC1 dramas getting c. 4-5m. I bet the team are

ecstatic!" Will there be any more Torchwood? "I'd *guess*: too early

to say. Takes 'em a long time to decide, once whole week's figures are in. Need lots of patience..."

Day 2...

I was told by a Torchwood insider that tonight's show

would be 'even better' than Monday's masterpiece. I didn't believe

him - as Monday was indescribably awesome.

Tonight - F****NG EXCELLENT!! What a show - unbelievable...

I don't have the language to convey my thoughts adequately!!

Amazing!

Torchwood **UPDATE** Last night's explosive episode was

watched by 5.6 million people, making it the most watched

program on Tuesday evening - an amazing success for the

TW team. Tonight's show promises to be even more exciting

still, with high-octane action and the arrival of 'them'!

Can't wait - it's gonna be AWESOME!...

Bloody fantastic... the dog's b*****ks! Phew!

Going into exile mode... hot choc made & ready to drink...

lights low... HDTV on... Surround sound switched on & bass

boosted... phones off... door locked! Must be time for

TORCHWOOD! Watch out for a THRILLING show - and a

SPECTACULAR, high-thrills, cliff-hanging ending!! Enjoy!

(TW-CF OUT!!)

Day 3...

Yet another AWESOME episode of Torchwood tonight - not

as explosive as Monday & Tuesday's offering, but terrifyingly

cold, tense and shockingly unexpected! Turns out that Jack

may be the key to all of this - and those creatured look pretty

bloody hideous too. Hate the projectile

vomit!!

**UPDATE: 5.9m watched TW this shlow!!** Penultimate

TW tonite: can't wait - it's gonna be AWESOME!!

QUOTE from a TW writer / producer: "I think tonight's is

my favorite episode of Torchwood Children of Earth -

one scene in particular I've watched over & over again!"

Well, what more can I add to that!!! So much looking

forward to the show - but feeling a bit ropey with a fever...

Day 4...

Terrible, terrible show. Ianto is dead - the future of the

world is totally bleak & I'm crying like a baboon after

Torchwood tonight. So deep, dark & depressing. Totally

chilling and very frightening. The air of menace was palpable -

and I can't see a way out. The look on Jack's face when

Ianto died just set me off. 10/10 for the show - the best

I've ever seen, but so, so bleak.. ... Tissues!

Now I've stopped howling... TW tonight was, without bias,

the BEST TV show I've ever, ever seen. The depth, the

quality of writing & production really was at the pinnacle

of excellence, & far ahead of what many of us expected

from our favorite TV show. The mood was black - and bleak,

hopeless perhaps, and evil without precedent, and I was left

genuinely gutted and shocked by the outcome. Great, but sad

TV from Wales.

Spoke to TW: My usual sources are totally tight lipped -

not even air is escaping. Can't believe CF Bay is destroyed

& Ianto dead: convinced there'll be a major turnaround

somehow. The Doctor comes back? The Rift has some

'hiccup' & the past is restored? Jack pulls a flanker?

Another species of aliens help? We'll find out tonight -

but what suspense!

Torchwood's over. Awesome TV and an absolutely

fantastic show, but very, very depressing - what Jack

did to his grandson & daughter beggars belief, and the

cold finality of the last scenes were not what I wanted

- or expected. I don't expect to see it back - that was

too final, and it looks as though ratings of 6M plus

stand for nothing.

Still cooling down & crawling out of my depressive

pit after the end of Day 5. A total masterpiece,

genuine 9.5/10 quality TV, with fantastic action,

story and overall plot. Menace was massive and

tension & stress was present thru'out. Only the

lack of cheer lost it a 10: I was left genuinely

numb as the credits rolled. As for the future -

I'm not sure if RTD will do it again. Time will tell!

Am I right? Am I just too depressive & too emo??

Is Torchwood genuinely dead in the water - or will it

be back?

Well, time will tell... I'll post if I hear anything!

Ashes to Ashes: UPDATE!

2009-06-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Spoke to Kudos Productions this afternoon. I can officially confirm that Gene Hunt, Alex Drake & all of the Ashes to Ashes crew will be back in a BRAND NEW SERIES to be aired some time in late 2010 / early 2011 on BBC Wales, BBC 1 and BBC HD. The series will be in two parts, each comprising 8 episodes.

The new show will focus around Gene Hunt, who in 1982 falls under suspicion of shooting Alex Drake, who is now critically ill & near to death. Alex is the only one who can clear Alex's name, as corrupt coppers are keen to see Hunt go down and have well & truly framed him - 'Stitched me up like a kipper' as we will hear Hunt say!

Hunt goes on the run - but somehow manages to visit Alex, who's wired up in hospital and in a deep, unsurvivable coma. He tries to get thru to her - but he can't - she's too far gone!

Meanwhile, in 2010, Alex is spending time with her daughter and getting used to her 'real; life, but things aren't right. She sees Gene where ever she goes, and she knows he's in big trouble. somehow, she has to get back to 1982 to save him. After all, if she could have done... she would have done!

Alex becomes unsure of what reality is - is she really from 1982, or 2010, and who, or what is Gene Hunt? And how can she get back to 1982 without risking everything she has in 2010?

Well, I don't know... and we'll have to wait for the new series to find out. The show may be called 'Hunt!' or 'Hunt on the run!', but this has far from been decided.

Watch this space - you'll hear it first here!

Ashes to Ashes... Letter to Kudos Production Team

2009-06-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

To Kudos & BBC Cymru (named contacts):

I never initially liked 'Ashes to Ashes' - I think I'd been spoiled by the totally excellent 'Life on Mars' and the amazing John Simm. It took me a while to get used to Alex Drake - and I hated her tongue-in-cheek approach to 'life' in the 80's which we saw thru much of Series 1.

However, just like with LOM, I got totally adicted by the show - as indeed has everyone I know. I've never heard so much discussion & comment on a drama production before, much of it almost at a 'spiritual' level. Fantastic show, fantastic production, great characterization and a totally innovative idea.

Thanks for LOM & A2A... genuinely great TV which gave so many of us so much pleasure!

The ending of LOM I never fully understood, but A2A was different. We now have a paradox: Alex Drake permanently existing in either 'life' or 'coma' modes, with two real 'realities' existing independently.

It's totally clear to me that there's so much scope for another show. Hunt's such a popular character - and the only TV character who can get away with anything, due to the unique nature of his role. He's now a fugitive in 1982 - his only hope of being cleared is Alex Drake, who lies in a coma, and yet if she recovers, she leaves 2009, perhaps for good.

A great show 'Hunt on the run' or similar... great 80's action, lots of very funny non-PC stuff (love it!) - and our favorite characters back in action.

So, to cut to the chase, do you / BBC Cymru have any plans for a new show? If not, are discussions planned, and when would any commissioning decisions be made? Let's have more. There's scope. There's more mileage. There's so much more to discover & see!

Please advise & put me out of my misery - preferably with a 'YES' or at least, a 'MAYBE'!

Best wishes,

Chris T

Ashes to Ashes concludes! Bring on Gene Hunt!

2009-06-08T16:09:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a show!!

Ashes to Ashes, Series 2 concluded tonight in the UK. As I 'predicted' and revealed earlier, there WAS a massive twist tin the plot, but my 'snout' had not given me the exact story-line, surprise surprise!

After 8 superb episodes in which Alex Drake really established herself as a credible character in this off-the-wall 1980's police drama, we finally reach a conclusion, of sorts. I'll not go into the detail in case you haven't yet watched it, but Alex has her wish - and returns to 2009 as a result of being shot in 1982.

As she recovers, she is delighted and clearly emotional to be reunited with her daughter and the team of surgeons who saved her. But something feels wrong, and she's edgy. Shockingly, the hospital monitor crackles & jumps into action, and on the screen is...

GENE HUNT!

Gene is still back in 1982, but is a real person. He is by Alex's bedside in the HDU. Alex is... in a coma. The Police think Gene shot her > and they're after him. He's on the run. Gene begs her to wake up. She can't > she's in a deep coma. Gene shakes her. He's visibly on every TV, every monitor, every PC in Alex's world. Alex leaves the 2009 hospital in a shocked panic. She doesn't know what's real... 2009, or 1982.

There's clearly MUCH scope for a new series, which will explore Hunt on the Run. We'll discover more about Gene, and who.. or what he really is!

I'll be speaking to Kudos tomorrow. I'll keep you posted >> but what a series finale!!

Destiny?

2009-05-28T17:46:00.000-07:00

QUOTE: An American Parascientist: "[most] humans are transparent, predictable, formulaic, ephemeral, full of self-interest & shallow beyond belief. To the point of being intensely tiresome, individual human actions are easy to forecast, and breaking of expected behavioral patterns occur rarely..."

"I once thought I was so totally wrong when I believed, as a youngster that life was a pre-programmed event, following pre-ordained routes & with fully-pre-defined outcomes. The more I experience, the more often I witness different humans following identical patterns, the more certain I am, sadly, that I was right.

What if free-will did not exist, and that individual humans on what we believe to be Earth were merely automatons, blindly following pre-programmed instructions, leading to the same outcomes, whatever they did, or whatever 'free' decisions they thought they were making?

What if they were pre-programmed units, existing in some kind of organic - or electronic matrix? They'd never know.. they'd just carry on living what they thought were their own lives as the cogs turned & they reached their pre-planned conclusions.

What if humans were alone - entirely - and everything they experience, their lives, their families, friends & actions were actually fabrications - only happening as part of a matrix or feigned reality?

Answer: They'd never know. And they never will; unless they're pre- programmed to discover, at some future point, for some unknown reason?

And who, or what would be mastering the puppetry, were this to be the case?"

End of quoted article... Interesting viewpoint, or insanity?

Torchwood - Children of The Earth... Series 3... NEWS UPDATE!

2009-05-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Torchwood returns this summer, most likely in late June or early July. It will be filmed in HD, and shown on BBC 1 and BBC HD. The show will later be available on Blu-Ray & DVD, along with Series 1 & 2, which will be re-released.

Had a very detailed chat with BBC Commissioning guys in Cardiff and London tonight - great thing to do when stuck on the M4 in murderous traffic on the way home after work.

A couple of mysteries solved... Firstly, the reduction of episodes from 13 down to 5 was actually at Torchwood's request. Partly, there was need for a holiday, (coinciding with Doctor Who's 2009 downtime - both shows share a large number of production staff) - but mostly, as it was felt that a big-bang, all action, hard-hitting single story would have maximum impact, and would turbo charge the Torchwood brand big time. Producers & the Team really wanted a fast, pacey, detailed story in which lots could happen & characters could develop, rather than a longer series of largely unconnected shows.

I'm told Torchwood, Series 3, 'Children of the Earth' really does hit the high notes. A terrifying plot in which the Earth really is in imminent, mortal threat from an unknown attacker. The show will be seen every night at 9pm over one week, with some of the most shocking, nail-biting cliff hangers ever shown on TV in Wales & the UK. The show will be 'compelling beyond belief' - and we'll see the characters in a different light as the story progresses.

Screening has been delayed, originally it was due to air early spring. However, the production team were not happy with the original cut, and it's gone back to The Mill for a re-working, plus some recent re-shoots in Penarth, attended by yours' truly.

It's due to be finished soon, and will be on out screens 'within three weeks' of finalization. I'll keep uoi posted!

Rumors on the Internet are that the Torchwood Hub (home of TorchwoodCF) will be destroyed completely during Part 1 of this 5 part story. This is true. However, I'm told that 'normality will be revealed' and 'all will make sense' by the conclusion to the story. I understand from that that the Hub will be somehow restored.

Captain Jack, Gwen Cooper & Ianto will star in the story, but I got a tight lipped silence when I asked about Owen Harper. Owen 'died' in Series 2, but was brought back to a 'living death' by some kind of alien energy force from a mysterious glove. He then 'died' again by being vaporized within a nuclear reactor. I was given a pretty broad hint that he would reappear, but perhaps not in all of the 5 parts to the story.

Finally, and most importantly, there are STACKS of rumors & stories suggesting that the BBC plans to kill off Torchwood after Series 3. I'm assured by my BBC 'sources' that this is totally untrue. Series 1 & 2 were highly succesful, and a fantastic amount of money has been ploughed into making Series 3 'absolutely stunning', and a 'flagship show' for BBC 1.

DVD sales in Wales, the UK and globally are said to be awesome, and far stronger than expected. In fact, Series 1 was releases on Blu-Ray in response to massive international demand.

Though series 4 has not yet been commissioned, this is not unusual. BBC rarely re-commissions new series / stories until past series have aired, and viewer response has been measured. I was left in no doubt that Series 3 would be an absolute stunner, and there was a 'full expectation' that this would lead to future shows!

Just to conclude, all of the information above comes directly from BBC Wales Drama in Cardiff, and BBC Commissioning in London & Cardiff, and none of it is blind speculation. TorchwoodCF will keep you updated on any further news.. as I hear it!

John Barrowman will reprise his role as the pan-sexual Captain Jack Harkness, and Eve Myles re-appears as spirited valleys ex-cop, Gwen Cooper. As ever, Ianto remains Jack's eye candy & true love interest.

Take care,
Chris @ Torchwood CF

Doctor Who? SHOCK NEWS and UPDATE

2009-05-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

As David Tennant completes filming in Cardiff for the next 'special' sometime later this year, it's becoming clear that his demise, at the end of the evil Master, reprised by the excellent John Simm ('Sam Tyler' from 'Life on Mars') will be a spectacular televisual feast, with lots of shocks & surprizes!

Firstly - the last time we saw the Master, it was in fact his dead body being burned to a crisp after he was defeated whilst tortured by his madness and 'the drums'. We didn't see a subtle cygnet ring slip from his burning fingers... we are to learn that this contains his crystalized consciousness!

We then hear that the TimeLords aren't actually extinct.. a large'ish niumber have survived, but they're all BIG, BAD EVIL, and controlled by the Master's hypnotic life-force!

But the biggest surprize will be that as David Tennant's character dies, regeneration brings us Matt Smith, a relatively unknown British actor, barely out of diapers. Smith is seen as 'the perfect replacement' to Tennant, though many fans & the UK's vocal press doubt he will have the graivitas and maturity to carry off the role with the depth and energy required.

What are your views??

CONFIDENTIAL UPDATE!

Matt Smith shocks BBC Wales in Cardiff and decides Doctor Who is not for him.

Stating fears for his personal privacy and his reluctance to become a globally-recognised celebrity, Smith is said to be returning to the theater, and low-budget TV shows, for Channel 4 & Five.

BBC Wales had released a publicity shot of an unknown actor from Somerwest County, expected to take over as the 11th Timelord when the ever-popular David Tennant regenerates in the New Year, 2010.

However, this image was removed by the BBC for legal reasons, thought by some to be that Matt hasn't fully decided!