Nebula One (News)

New portraits of Tom Baker

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 02:03:48 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Now available to purchase via Legend Photography are some fabulous portraits of the Fourth Doctor, Tom Baker. Approximately 18 inches by 12 inches, the set of images would make the perfect gift for a friend or relative, or a prized possession of your very own!

Photographer Oliver McNeil had set about to capture the many aspects of the man, the legend. He said: "We shot the portraits of Tom over two days, firstly at my studio and a week later in the historic town of Rye. After reading up on Tom's website, I discovered his love of France, and this led me to buy a bottle of red wine and serve it to Tom in a large crystal goblet. Even though it was 9am this seemed to relax Tom into the role of raconteur; I was then treated to some of his wonderful stories as we shot the session."

The special thing about these prints is that they are of the highest quality, and individually signed by Mr Baker himself; on request he will even personalise each piece of work. The company will ship worldwide, although framed prints are only available to UK customers - other countries will just receive the prints.

So what are the costs? For the portraits themselves, $315.00 each for US and Australia, £200.00 for UK (framed portraits will cost an additional £80.00 - £280.00 in total), and €235,00 for Europe.

Expensive? Well costly yes, but indeed a fine collection!

Interested? Go on over to Legend Photography and read further or place an order.

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #5 - Survivors in Space

noreply@blogger.com (Ian McArdell) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:05:21 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Survivors in Space is the concluding part of the adventure that began in The Hexford Invasion, as well as the closing chapter of the Serpent Crest series. The Doctor has retained custody of the dangerous Skishtari gene egg for far too long and its owners intend to reclaim it.

Picking up the story three months on, we find Mike Yates presiding over a society on the brink. After the climatic tussle, which saw the quiet Sussex village of Hexford uprooted by a giant alien spaceship and sucked through a time space wormhole, we find it unceremoniously dumped on a lonely moon in outer space. Despite Mike’s best efforts, morale and supplies are running low and the outlook is grim.

Yates is not alone though, as he is aided by the Second Doctor whose bio-mesh trees have provided a breathable atmosphere and encased the village in a protective shield. But this Doctor seems to have an agenda of his own and is looking to break through the barrier.

Meanwhile, the Fourth Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey, who have the Skishtari egg in their possession, are nowhere to be seen...

Paul Magrs' imagination gives us a wonderful slice of British spirit. Faced with the impossibility of the situation, village life goes on regardless with a pub quiz and talk of the Christmas production of Aladdin. The fussy Reverend Tonge (Cornelius Garrett) comes into his own here, endeavouring to carry on though he appears to have become decidedly erratic. Joanna Tope is on hand too as the ever enthusiastic Tish Madoc making a great comic double-act with her cousin, the wonderfully worrisome Deirdre 'whatsit' (Nerys Hughes).

Mike Yates (Richard Franklin) gets to play a central role, assuming narrative duties and ruminating on the loneliness of command. There are plenty of moments for series references too; I enjoyed mentions of both the Brigadier and Sgt. Benton. It’s been great to see the character of Mike have a second lease of life within these tales and even a hint of romance too.

“Your thinking is as woolly as your ludicrous neck-wear!”

After holding off in the first part, our patience is finally rewarded by a meeting between Doctors Two and Four. It is fair to say that it’s a meeting like no other, as traditional series conventions go out of the window in favour of an argument that descends into a scuffle! Whereas some multi-Doctor tales have been less than successful over the years this particular encounter manages to set one against the other for solid story reasons, rather than Time Lord machinery or machinations, and is all the more enjoyable for it.

David Troughton’s Second Doctor and Tom Baker play beautifully against each other and there are some very amusing scenes, such as an uncomfortable meal at Nest Cottage where the Fourth brandishes his old 500 year diary and demands answers!

Mrs Wibbsey (Susan Jameson) delivers some great lines here also, clipping the wings of the Doctor’s ego with pithy asides. Her dismay at the state of her kitchen, left in the care of Mike Yates, was excellent. Wibbs seems to have developed a taste for adventure now and is far from the unwilling companion of earlier series.

Certain things that have seemed predestined since Tsar Wars do indeed come to pass. The conclusion to the tale is stirring stuff, playing out like a disaster movie as the Shishtari and the Robotovs face off with Hexford as the chosen battle ground. Serpent Crest has taken us through space adventure, historical drama and fictional worlds within worlds, but it all boils down to a fight for custody of that egg and its contents in this hugely enjoyable adventure.

Both The Hexford Invasion and Survivors in Space are available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO.

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #4 – The Hexford Invasion

noreply@blogger.com (Ian McArdell) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 09:41:39 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

After the surreal adventures of Aladdin Time, with its fictional worlds Arabian Knights storytelling, the Serpent Crest saga comes back down to Earth in The Hexford Invasion.

Mrs Wibbsey, the Doctor’s housekeeper and sometime travelling companion, was left feeling somewhat abandoned at the end of the last adventure and has had many months to get used to the mundane rhythms of village life. In the Time Lord’s absence, and with time on her hands, she appears to have become increasingly paranoid. The focus of her attentions are the comings and goings of her recently arrived neighbour Tish Madoc, the deep-voiced literary sensation and cousin of village stalwart Deirdre ‘Whatsit’.

All this comes crashing to a halt in the height of summer with the arrival of Mike Yates, back in uniform once again and on special duties. UNIT have monitored strange goings on in the area and have dispatched one of their people to handle the situation, a scruffy little fellow who likes to be known as The Doctor.

“Hello my dear, I’m sure we’re going to get along famously.”

With Doctor Two’s arrival, Mrs Wibbsey’s paranoia increases further. She steadfastly refuses to accept this tramp like stranger as the Doctor and remains entirely suspicious of him, even to the point of her following him on his night-time excursions, planting dubious tree saplings on the outskirts of the village.

Plans to prepare Hexford for a coming alien invasion do not go to plan though, as the Doctor and Mike’s warnings are met with feint ridicule. That is, of course, until a large spaceship appears overhead and then a familiar character with a long scarf turns up in his ‘blue shed’.

I suppose very few readers to this article will find the presence of this other Doctor as news, with its announcement in Doctor Who Magazine. I must admit it came as a surprise to me, despite the teasing recorder on Anthony David Dry's colourful cover illustration that had sent my mind spuriously in the directions of both Omega and The Land of Fiction.

Despite one notable occasion in the television series, recasting a specific incarnation of the Doctor has never occurred, or indeed been required as the trick of the show, and key to its longevity has been the periodic recasting of the lead role. Although it’s something audio producers Big Finish have strayed away from, and indeed appeared to be resolutely against in their early years, the advent of the BBC’s successful audio-book translations of the Target novels seem to have made this a very organic move.

Asking David Troughton to reprise his father’s role appears to have happened very naturally and is an instant fit. From his first line I was hooked and happy to accept him. While some commentators might see this as a step too far, I am content to let David Troughton be the judge. If he finds the casting acceptable then who are we to disagree? Frankly, it is a joy to hear that wonderful character on the loose again with his recorder and making references to Yeti on the Bakerloo line!

“Oh dear. Has he never explained regeneration to you?”

For this tale, Susan Jameson takes on narrating duties as it is very much told from Mrs Wibbs’ point of view. She makes some wonderful allusions to cookery and the odd attempt at humour, but it’s her refusal to trust this ‘bogus’ Doctor that makes for a really interesting slant on the character. I sympathised with her longing for her Doctor to return and when he did, his outrage at the interference from his earlier self is wonderful stuff. As ever, Tom Baker clearly loves every moment of this and his enthusiasm shines through every line.

Paul Magrs has again created a quirky range of supporting characters to populate this modern day version of Hexford, which appears to be quite the rural backwater even for deepest, darkest Sussex. From the fussy Reverend Tonge (Cornelius Garrett) to the wonderfully nosey neighbour Deirdre ‘Whatsit’ (Nerys Hughes). Also, there is the decidedly untrustworthy Tish Madoc (Joanna Tope) who claims to know something of UNIT and extra-terrestrials...

“Oh crumbs! It’s all gone a little bit wrong!”

As destruction reigns all around, it seems that the two Doctors are working against each other rather than in concert. With a climatic and surprising finale, the stage is set for the final chapter Survivors in Space where there remain a good deal of questions to be answered…

Both the The Hexford Invasion and Survivors in Space are available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO from 8th December 2012.

Doctor Who: Hornets' Nest comes to Radio 4 Extra

noreply@blogger.com (Ian McArdell) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:00:11 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Digital station BBC Radio 4 Extra is to broadcast the Doctor Who audio series Hornet's Nest, starring Tom Baker, Richard Franklin and Susan Jameson. The 2009 series, originally released on CD and download in 5 parts, will be transmitted in ten thirty minute installments across two weeks.

The saga, penned by Paul Magrs, is the first of three series featuring the fourth Doctor. It begins with Mike Yates, former UNIT Captain and associate of the third Doctor, answering a mysterious newspaper advert and travelling to the mysterious Next Cottage in Sussex. There he finds the Doctor and his housekeeper Mrs Wibbsey in a spot of bother with some feisty stuffed animals and a few tall tales to tell.

Hornets' Nest will air Radio 4 Extra on weekdays from 12th - 16th and 9th - 23rd December at 6 PM.

Check out Nebula One's Past Times retrospective of the series.

Book of Celebrity Doctor Who Memories nearly complete

noreply@blogger.com (Ian McArdell) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 07:27:21 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Since 2010, Steve Berry has been collecting Doctor Who memories from people in the public eye. From comedians and actors to musicians and authors, all are united by their love for Doctor Who. Each of the contributors have written about something related to the programme; be it a favourite adventure, a pivotal moment when growing up or a memory from making the show itself. As Steve puts it himself, a collection of “heart-warming, entertaining or evocative memories”.

Contributions include pieces from Who writers Terrance Dicks, Andrew Smith, Paul Cornell, Stephen Gallagher, Paul Magrs and Marc Platt, as well as actors Nicola Bryant, Hugh Bonneville, Shaun Dingwall and Nicholas Parsons.

The memories submitted so far include "the most devastating moment in Doctor Who history", "the very moment the seeds of fandom took hold" and "Final Score, Doctor Who, and the Cyberman-infested streets of London." Actor Jason Flemying promises to tell of "a secret his father shared with him about making the 1960s’ Dalek films."

Other contributors include a wealth of British comedy talent such as Mitch Benn, Charlie Brooker, Jeremy Dyson, Josie Long, Stephen Merchant, Al Murray, Chris Tarrant and Jonathan Ross. Also Roland Rat.

The project is driven by the desire to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, after the illness endured by Steve's late mother, Janet. ARUK funds research into finding a cure for dementia.

So far, ninety contributions have been collected and ten more are sought by the end of the year, before the book can head to publication.

For more information, or to find out how you can support this very worthwhile project, visit doctorwhobook.com.

Big Blue Box for charity

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:28:56 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Stars of the long running science fiction show Doctor Who will be attending a one day convention in January to help raise funds for Compaid.

The event, entitled Big Blue Box, takes place on Saturday 14th January 2012 at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Special screenings, panel discussions, signings and more are planned to give local Doctor Who and science fiction fans a day to remember.

Among those taking part are actresses Louise Jameson, who played opposite Tom Baker as Leela, and Susan Jameson, who has recently played Mrs Wibbsey opposite Baker in Doctor Who audio plays. They will be joined by Doctor Who writers, including John Dorney, Paul Magrs and Jonathan Morris.

Several companies are backing the event, including local publisher Panini who produce Doctor Who Magazine, Doctor Who licence holders AudioGo and Big Finish, and the Tunbridge Wells branch of Waterstones,

All profits from the event will go towards Compaid’s work with disabled people in the local area.

Stephen Elsden, Chief Executive of Compaid says, “Big Blue Box marks the first ever fan convention for Doctor Who in Tunbridge Wells, which has a long history of associations with the show. From a screening of a classic Peter Cushing Dalek movie to more recent fan films, we will be taking full advantage of Trinity’s superb theatre.”

Tickets cost £25 for the day, and are available from Trinity Theatre’s box office on 01892 678678 or online at www.trinitytheatre.net.

Source: Paul Gee, with thanks!

Doctor Who Tesco competition (@TescoBooks)

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 07:21:33 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Fantastic giveaway via the Tesco Books Blog for Doctor Who fans who reside in the UK and are aged 18 years or older...

To celebrate the release of Doctor Who: 100 Scariest Monsters they have a bundle of goodies including Where’s the Doctor?, The Official Annual 2012 and a great Doctor Who postcard set. To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on their blog post saying where you’d like to go in the TARDIS. That's it!

Closing date for the competition is 9th December 2011. If you're entering, good luck! Win a Tardis-load of Goodies.

Of course, even if you are not lucky enough to win this fabulous set of prizes, Doctor Who: 100 Scariest Monsters (Hardcover) is available to purchase via Forbidden Planet for £6.99 - RRP is £9.99, saving you 30%.

"It's a big universe and there are some truly terrifying monsters out there! Here are the 100 scariest monsters the Doctor has ever encountered so far, from the devious Daleks to the weird Weeping Angels and the sinister Cybermen. With facts and stats on all the most fearsome scary monsters, this book will have you cowering behind the sofa!"

Big Finish Christmas sale 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:13:00 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

As if it were not exciting enough that Santa Clause will be visiting on 24th December, armed with presents and stealing our mince pies, audio company Big Finish has announced that its Christmas sale will start tomorrow - 1st December! And a number of titles (why did I just type 'turtles' before correcting?) due for the festive discount include Bernice Summerfield, Sapphire & Steel, Iris Wildthyme, Cyberman, Judge Dredd and more...

And, just to whet our appetites further (is that even possible?), it has been announced that "there are special deals on a variety of other items from the extensive Big Finish catalogue".

The Big Finish Christmas Sale will end on 31st December 2011, just as the hands of the New Year lead us into 2012...

Source: Big Finish

Shada publication - cover revealed for the March 2012 novel

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 09:18:33 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

It is one of those 'What if...' situations: what if Season 17 had given us Shada? Sadly it just wasn't to be. The television story, written by legend Douglas Adams, was never completed due to a strike at the BBC during filming. It is a true 'lost' story...

Thanks to the pen of writer Gareth Roberts, we will now be able to explore this adventure featuring the Fourth Doctor, Romana and K-9 for the first time in novel form. Due for release on 15th March 2012, Shada is based on the original scripts.

BBC Books has unveiled the brand new cover for the publication:

Don't forget that the Big Finish audio version is also still available via their official website - for £5! - starring Paul McGann as the Eigth Doctor, Lalla Ward as Romana, and John Leeson reprising his role as K9.

"The Doctor has a spot of unfinished business. Reunited with his old friends Romana and K9, he answers a summons from Professor Chronotis, a retired Time Lord now living the academic life in a Cambridge college. But the Doctor isn’t the only visitor to Cambridge. Somewhere in the city is the sinister alien Skagra, who is intent on stealing an ancient and mysterious book brought to Earth by the Professor many years before."

Source: @DWMtweets

Doctor Who Insider: Issue 9

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:32:15 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Insider is a monthly North American issue, officially licensed by BBC Worldwide and featuring 100% original material, celebrating all eras of Doctor Who. It's first publication (May issue) was released by publisher Panini Magazines on 7th April 2011 for $6.99 (US) and $7.99 (Canada).

“It feels like a magical Christmas story…”

– Matt Smith

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Doctor Who Insider goes behind the scenes of this year’s Doctor Who Christmas Special and talks to Matt Smith and guest‐stars Bill Bailey, Arabella Weir, Paul Bazely and Alexander Armstrong to find out what’s in store.

THE FLIP SIDE

Insider talks to the cast and crew of the Big Finish Doctor Who audio drama, The Fourth Wall, and meets the Sixth Doctor’s new companion, played by Lisa Greenwood.

MOVER AND SHAKER

Doctor Who’s resident choreographer, Ailsa Berk, tells Insider how she makes the monsters move!

THE CREATURE SHOP

Visual effects designer, Mike Tucker looks back to the earliest days of Doctor Who and reveals the role that the independent company Shawcraft Models played in creating some of the show’s most iconic monsters that still feature in the present day series.

WHO’S THAT GUY?

Insider talks to Gary Russell, Anwen Aspden and Phil Ford about how they went about creating The Gunpowder Plot, the latest downloadable Doctor Who adventure game, featuring the Rutans and the Sontarans.

THE FORGOTTEN DOCTOR

Doctor Who Insider looks back to late 2003 when Richard E Grant played the Doctor in the animated Doctor Who drama, Scream of the Shalka.

I WAS… JAMIE McRIMMON (FOR TWO EPISODES)

Hamish Wilson recalls his brief time on Doctor Who in 1968 when he temporarily replaced Frazer Hines as the Doctor’s companion, Jamie.

NEXUS POINT

Insider looks back to the fateful moment when the Tenth Doctor met River Song for the first time in Silence in the Library.

DATA FILE

This issue we look at the life of the bohemian Fourth Doctor and have a rummage through his pockets and check out his friends.

MERCHANDISE

Previews of the latest Doctor Who merchandise, including a chat with Jason Arnopp, author of the new Eighth Doctor audio drama, Army of Death, and an interview with Anneke Wills who plays Polly in the Fifth Doctor audio adventure, The Five Companions. Plus, Gary Russell tells us about the trials and tribulations of writing Doctor Who – The Encyclopedia.

PLUS! The latest official news and a giant, double‐sided poster of the Eleventh Doctor with the cast of the Christmas Special, and the Fourth Doctor. Don’t miss the ninth issue of DOCTOR WHO INSIDER, out December 8, priced just $6.99!

The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe - latest images

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:18:00 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

It’s Christmas Eve, 1938, when Madge Arwell comes to the aid of an injured Spaceman Angel as she cycles home, in this year’s Doctor Who Christmas Special, starring Matt Smith as the Doctor. He promises to repay her kindness – all she has to do is make a wish.

Three years later, a devastated Madge escapes war-torn London with her two children for a dilapidated house in Dorset. She is crippled with grief at the news her husband has been lost over the channel, but determined to give Lily and Cyril the best Christmas ever. The Arwells are surprised to be greeted by a madcap caretaker whose mysterious Christmas gift leads them into a magical wintry world. Here, Madge will learn how to be braver than she ever thought possible. And that wishes can come true…

Source: BBC website

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #3 - Aladdin Time

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:30:24 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Serpent Crest’s third instalment brings us worlds within worlds, and is a chance for writer Paul Magrs’ well honed fantasy sensibilities to let rip even further than usual.

“I know I keep on saying this Mrs Wibbsey, but hold on!”

At the culmination of The Broken Crown, the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey found themselves sucked into a world lying within the powerful Skishtari egg, a dormant but dangerous item brought from the far-flung Robotov Empire of the future. Its master Alex, a confused young boy who is the cyborg heir to that empire, has grown up on 17th century Earth while ostracised from society and fed on a diet of fantastical literature. It’s these stories that have fashioned the world of fictional references presented in Aladdin Time, where our heroes find themselves in, and one book in particular holds sway, the Arabian Nights.

Using the now familiar device of a narrator in the Nest Cottage Adventures, Magrs begins the tale with a storyteller. This echoes the Arabian Nights which has as its central conceit a narrated framing device too. The Storyteller, played by Sophie Ward, has intense, yet moderated tones as she cautiously spins her tale. She’s ever mindful of her position and ensures she leaves her listener, the Shahryār, wanting more on each occasion in a cliffhanger style as her life depends upon it. Employing a formal and sophisticated language, the Storyteller draws you in as her story appears to spin out of control, taking on a life of its own when the usual rules of narrative begin to break down.

The Doctor and Wibbs find themselves beginning within the tale of Aladdin and progress through a series of caverns meeting a collection of supporting characters. All are twisted versions of the characters from the previous instalment and so Boolin, the lad’s android physician, becomes The Magician and Alex is the boy Aladdin himself. Others familiar from the previous adventure are a delight when presented too. The Doctor appears to relish being in this environment, though he insists to his companion that there will be a scientific explanation for it all.

As the characters move from cavern to cavern, the score creates an air of breeding menace employing creepily effective chimes and horns.

“Good night, sleep tight. Hope the Drashig’s don’t…”

Of all the fantastical elements, the strangest and boldest idea has to be that of the Doctor’s scarf coming to life. Voiced by Andrew Sachs, it’s a superb and surprising creation whose loyalties are interesting to try and work out. Even the Doctor seems flummoxed by this turn of events and wonderfully refers to “the treachery of knitware”.

Guy Harvey puts in another solid performance as the boy here and you really feel for him. His confusion once again threatens to engulf everything around him while he endeavours to work out what is real. He seems to cling to Mrs Wibbsey as a stabilising influence and looks after her. She too appears to have genuine affection for the lad too as they endure the trials of the journey and it’s nice to see this softer side to Susan Jameson’s performance of Mrs Wibbs.

In the post-script, the Doctor has an ingenious and typically temporal solution for the egg that both amuses and sets the stage for the concluding two chapters. It appears that the Doctor feels this adventure is over and I look forward to him discovering he’s wrong, as he surely will be, in the next instalment.

Aladdin Time is available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO. Serpent Crest #4 The Hexford Invasion and #5 Strangers in Space are on sale from 8th December 2012.

Nebula One (News) mentioned on Cosmic Hobo

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:41:28 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Back in September this year we wrote a review of latest audio release The Scarifyers: The Magic Circle. Well it was a delight to see that the people behind this fabulous release have quoted part of the review: 'Nebula One adds "there's a touch of magic about The Scarifyers and this outing offers an emotional twist in its tale"' - an honour as we are big fans of this marvellous series starring Nicholas Courtney, Terry Molloy, and David Warner, and featuring a fantastic supporting cast!

If you have not yet read our review, check it out now - and find your way to the Universe of Lionheart, Dunning and Crow...

WhoNews gives to charity for November

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:06:18 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

WhoNews Press Release: Following last years successful fundraising by donating the profits from WhoNews, I will be doing the same from Monday November 21st to the 28th. All profits from the WhoNews with be donated to two charities Cure Leukaemia and Little Hearts Matter.

Cure Leukaemia is a research charity which works with a number of hospitals to fund extra research nursing posts to drive forward research, provide facilities for world-class research, develop new clinical treatments for leukaemia patients, fund the provision of new drugs and treatments and support patients with blood cancers throughout the Midlands.

Little Hearts Matter is the national charity for children born with a single ventricle heart condition, more commonly called half a heart. Twenty years ago most of these children would have died within days or even hours of being born. Thankfully, today there is life-saving surgery available for many of these children, however they will not all survive the complex operations required. This open heart surgery starts when the child is just a few days old and they continue to need surgery at intervals throughout their childhood.

Those that do survive will never have a fully working heart so need to learn to live within the physical restrictions and are likely to need a heart transplant in early adulthood. Around 30% of the children who are born with this condition are unlikely to make it to the age 5. The oldest person with the severest of these conditions is 20, even for the children who do survive the condition is not curable and they will need to learn to live with the disability this life limiting condition creates.

Little Hearts Matter provides support from initial diagnosis right the way through the hazardous and frightening journey the child and family need to take. They also offer bereavement support to parents, when they sadly lose a child.

The charity also provides family days where children and families can get together. This allows the children to be normal for a day rather than the isolated children they can sometimes become at school due the physical and mental restrictions their condition creates.

Just by purchasing WhoNews from the App Store either via iTunes or on an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch, users will make a donation of £1.21 in the UK, $2.10 in the US and $1.90 in Australia. WhoNews is available from all iTunes App Stores across the world, so everybody can make a donation and keep in touch with the latest news on Doctor Who in return. You can purchase it here.

A Visit to the Doctor Who Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:15:30 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell - with additional comments by Francesca (aged 7)

As a child of the 70’s and 80’s, I have been to a few Doctor Who exhibitions in my time. From Longleat to Space Adventure, MOMI to the end of Brighton Pier. Initially in the company of my life long pal Adam and his Dad, a sympathetic Sci-Fi loving parent, and later on our own - once memorably cornering Sylvester McCoy for a fanzine interview. These, while thrilling, were always very much a one-way experience where one was invited to look but not touch.

The Doctor Who Experience at London’s Kensington Olympia 2 promises a new dimension, with an interactive adventure including the chance to fly the TARDIS. I set off accompanied with my eldest daughter Francesca who is now very much a fan in her own right. It’s difficult to say who was more excited.

TARDIS outside Olympia 2
© Ian McArdell 2011

The exhibition begins with the interactive adventure. In the holding area before the ‘interactive journey’ began, we were able to look at some displays from Series 5 stories. (Francesca: I enjoyed posing in the Silurian chair and having my photo taken in front of an Ironside Dalek).

Into the adventure itself: It began with an excellent montage of clips from the series, using some of the Doctor’s big speeches. After this, we entered into Starship UK’s museum where a Node from The Library gave use a tour. This was then interrupted by a call for help from the Doctor himself. To say too much more would be to spoil the surprises, but suffice to say there are three main elements to the story, A TARDIS ride, a monster encounter and then a 3D time vortex. The script is light and funny with Matt Smith delivering some cracking lines. The story re-uses elements from Series 5 such as the Pandorica and the crack in time, but remains easily accessible for someone not familiar with the shows. As an ardent Matt Smith fan, Francesca was thrilled to notice all the references, and did not find it too scary, just perhaps a bit loud in places. (Francesca: It was a little tiny bit scary when the Daleks nearly exterminated us, but at least I had Daddy with me).

Having assisted in saving the universe, and the Doctor, we entered into the main part of the exhibition. We were thrilled to see some items from A Christmas Carol, namely Elliot Sardick’s weather control station and Abigail’s cryogenic chamber with the former taking the form of a beautifully ornate church organ. (Francesca: I wanted to get inside the cryogenic chamber but not be frozen!) Sadly it was a look but not touch display.

On from this, all of the Doctor’s costumes were displayed, as well as a full sized TARDIS and Matt Smith mannequin. Despite looking like an Auton duplicate, I am pleased to say it did not lurch into life at any time! (Francesca: I liked the celery on the 5th Doctor’s costume although it didn’t look like the one in the picture. Dad said that’s because it was illusory celery!)

We spent a good deal of time pouring over a couple of display boxes at the rear of this area, entitled ‘the Doctor’s Gadgets’. In them, we found a variety of TARDIS keys and sonic screwdrivers from various eras of the show. Also present was the ‘Krafyis detector’ from Vincent and the Doctor and the Whisk from Amy’s Choice.

The Eccleston/Tennant TARDIS is truly a thing of beauty and it was great to get so close. Running on a large screen behind it was the Tenth Doctor’s regeneration sequence, to those stirring strains of ‘Vale Decem’ and we paused a while to watch the farewell and the birth of Eleven. (Francesca: It was cool, but I didn’t know TARDISes had enormous cinema screens in them!)

From there we progressed through a wonderful display of costumes from all the recent companions plus Sarah Jane, Jack, Astrid Peth. Apparently the latter was played by some sort of pop star – who knew? (Francesca: I liked Astrid’s dress and Amelia’s Duffle coat with the toggles!) Next to Sarah Jane’s costume from School Reunion was a battered K-9, still faithfully guarding his mistress and a brief note giving condolences for Elisabeth Sladen’s passing.

80s Console
© Ian McArdell 2011

A real treat for me was the 80’s TARDIS console. Lights blinking beautifully and programmed for a flight sequence that included the time rotor going up and down, we paused a while. This was the TARDIS of my youth. (Francesca: It was awesome and really white with lots of colourful buttons.) In the corner, there was a long scarf draped around a hat stand, technically a mismatch with this version but it was still a lovely touch.

Hatstand & Scarf
© Ian McArdell 2011

At the far end of the display, we also found an original TARDIS and the poor old Melkur, still looking creepily impressive despite his advancing years. (Francesca: I want to know how that is a TARDIS, Daddy says I’ll have to watch The Keeper of Traken.)

On to a great array of costumes and monsters, we moved through a display of Cyberheads, which lead on to an impressive gallery of Dalek designs. Starting with Davros, they went through the years from an original to a Special Weapons Dalek and most versions seemed to be represented, ending with a ‘Mini Cooper’ Dalek and an example of the new Paradigm. They really are much bigger than all the others are! (Francesca: I really liked the Emperor Dalek model from The Parting of the Ways but it looked very odd in comparison to all the others.) Also for comparison were three versions of Sontaran; 70s, 80’s and modern. Again, the height variation really took me aback when I saw it, as the current ones are tiny in comparison.

Mixing old and new monsters was a great idea, an Ice Warrior stood along side Cat Nuns, Zygon, Slitheen and Sycorax. Sadly, the Hoix was out for repair. We even found the Face of Boe lurking in the viewing room, keeping an eye on a Pig Slave and a scarecrow. I wondered if he might have a message for me, but apparently not.

Zygon
© Ian McArdell 2011

We much enjoyed the ‘Walk like a Monster’ area, where we took instructions from choreographer Alisa Berk on how to move like both a Cyberman and a Scarecrow. Another good interactive element was the opportunity to add the effects to ‘Danny Boy’s’ attack on the Dalek Ship from Victory of the Daleks, as well as the chance to mix the show’s theme on giant faders. (Francesca: I liked the voice changer where you could make your voice sound like a Dalek or a Cyberman. We made the Dalek say ‘Delete delete’ for fun.) Also there was a fascinating display showing an Ood, with a mask cut away to reveal the animatronics beneath.

Ood Head with animatronics
© Ian McArdell 2011

Lastly we came across a few more recent elements from the show. The wonderful ‘junk TARDIS’ with Idris’ costume and an acid suit from The Rebel Flesh. After that, exit through a little shop – the Doctor would approve.

The Doctor Who Experience is at Kensington Olympia Two and it has recently been announced that it will remain open in London until February 2012, before relocating to Cardiff. With both the interactive adventure and the exhibition you can easily while away two hours or more and we would heartily recommended it to fans of all ages. Look out online and in the press for voucher codes too.

There’s something else though, I’m sure I’m forgetting something. (Francesca: I don’t remember anything else Daddy...)

Silence
© Ian McArdell 2011

Doctor Who Magazine: Issue 440

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:16:01 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Magazine began life in 1979 - although back then it was known as Doctor Who Weekly. Issue #1 was released in October of that year for the price of 12p!

It wasn't until 1980 that the issues began to be published monthly, hence the change in name to Doctor Who with the tagline A Marvel Monthly. The release of Issue #61, in 1982, meant that the magazine became known as Doctor Who Monthly. Doctor Who Magazine later emerged with issue #107 in December 1985.

FACT: DWM holds the Guinness World Record for "Longest Running Magazine Based on a Television Series."

The cover for DWM 440 (available Thursday 20th October, price £4.99) - a tribute to actress Elisabeth Sladen, who will always be in our hearts as journalist Sarah Jane Smith.

The current Editor of Doctor Who Magazine is Tom Spilsbury.

Source: @DWMtweets

The Big Review: Doctor Who - Robophobia

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:05:09 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

WARNING: may contain spoilers!

The Doctor has been here before. Not the transport ship Lorelei, which has a cargo of over 157,000 robots on board, but the menace that stalks within. The Time Lord's first encounter with slave robots had been during his fourth incarnation, accompanied by then companion Leela. There had been deaths on a sandminer (named Storm Mine 4) and an attempt to murder the entire crew. But worse would have followed if it had not been for the Doctor's interference - his meddling had prevented further bloodshed. It appears that history, however, has been relegated to rumour, the tragedy never officially confirmed.

And so to the Lorelei... The Doctor, now in his seventh incarnation and companionless, is murdered, along with Tal Karus (portrayed by Matt Addis), a member of a support team from Kaldor City. And yet, only Tal's body is found.

Physician Liv Chenka (Nicola Walker) had known the deceased for a very short time and yet, she is saddened by his death. And then she meets the only man on the ship who knows more than he is letting on. The Doctor, mysterious and at his manipulative best, tries to help Liv see what he quite clearly does: someone, or something, is not what they seem.

A second murder and sabotage, and as usual the Doctor is suspect - the only stowaway on board! But just why has he activated the robots? And why do the slave humanoids refer to the Time Lord as Tal Karus?

"Robots cannot harm or kill humans, or by admission of action allow a Human to be harmed or killed. It is our primary command, we cannot deviate from it."

But does history say otherwise, and is such an incident happening again? As the Voc robots engage in their duties and offering help, as programmed, there is fear throughout the Lorelei. Panic and paranoia, and a sinister force at work.

There is a touch of Terror of the Vervoids here, an intriguing piece of mystery and suspense, sleight of hand by writer Nicholas Briggs that keeps you guessing until much of the way through. Fine performances from cast and crew as tension builds, the question being is Super-Voc SV10 (and the other robots) innocent in recent events or, like its counterpart in The Robots of Death, could the robot be manipulating the situation for a deadly purpose?

A further killing, this time Bas Pellico (played by William Hazell), and the crew prepare to fight. Evidence that at least one killer robot is indeed on board the transport ship is visible near the body. Communication between Kaldor City and the Lorelei is cut off and Security Chief Farel (Toby Hadoke) informs Leftenant Selerat (Nicholas Pegg) that robots have seized control of the long-range transceiver antenna. There is further robot activity and they are coming for the Humans!

The Doctor's faith in Liv eventually pays off and he gains her trust. Which is just as well...

"This time I will kill you DOCTOR!"

...as a second attempt is made on the Time Lord's life.

The acting in Robophobia is strong and Jamie Robertson's sound design offers the right balance of spaceship background noise and music (including a beautiful theme that has a direct link to the plot) to enhance the experience. Sylvester McCoy is at his devious best, a Doctor who observes and advises, stepping in when required.

The lack of recaps at the start of Part Two, Three and Four is a little strange and could make the story feel a little disjointed. However that is a minor issue. A fabulous production!

Credit to designer Simon Holub for his cover art which features Sylvester McCoy, Nicola Walker, and SV10.

Robophobia is available from Big Finish

Robophobia: an irrational fear of robots (also referred to as 'Grimwade's syndrome') - or is it an irrational fear? The robots are lurking...

Big Finish: Vortex - Issue #32

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 03:23:56 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

In March 2009 audio company Big Finish brought us Vortex, a free magazine (or ezine) dedicated to all things BF.

Released monthly, every issue gives us an insight into BF productions: behind-the-scenes, interviews, upcoming releases, and much more. Available as a PDF or Doc download, or to read online via Flash. All previous issues are still accessible, via its webpage.

If you want to learn more about what goes on in the Universe that is Big Finish, or would simply like to kill some time, then Vortex is a nice choice.

The latest issue is available now from Big Finish: Vortex. Recommended entertainment for all audio lovers out there!

"NICHOLAS BRIGGS AND RICHARD EARL reunited as Holmes and Watson"

BF has an official Twitter presence: check out @bigfinish.

And Facebook: Big Finish Productions

Patrick Troughton: Before The Screaming Begins on @BBCRadio4extra

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:33:55 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Prepare for a sci-fi adventure featuring the Doctor! Except... it's not the Doctor!

Actor Patrick Troughton can be heard in today's Before The Screaming Begins, a three-part 1977 audio series about a wife who reports the abduction of her husband during their wedding anniversary celebrations - except the local police are decidedly doubtful. But then more and more abductions are reported... This alien invasion tale was written by English writer Wally K Daly.

Before The Screaming Begins will air Monday 10th to Wednesday 12th October 2011 at 6pm (repeated Midnight) on BBC Radio 4 Extra.

Don't forget if you miss it, this production will be available on BBC iPlayer for a limited time following the original broadcast.

Wally K. Daly also wrote the 1989 Doctor Who novel The Ultimate Evil (published by Target Books), featuring the Sixth Doctor and Peri and based on a cancelled script from the 1986 season.

Doctor Who Insider: Issue 7

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 06:05:32 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Insider is a monthly North American issue, officially licensed by BBC Worldwide and featuring 100% original material, celebrating all eras of Doctor Who. It's first publication (May issue) was released by publisher Panini Magazines on 7th April 2011 for $6.99 (US) and $7.99 (Canada).

"I did a lot of research that included going to various locations and hearing a lot of his tapes which have all his speeches on it so that I could get some of his cadences together."

- Ian McNeice on playing Winston Churchill

CHURCHILL'S VICTORY

Following his return to Doctor Who as Winston Churchill in The Wedding of River Song, Ian McNeice reveals his delight at being part of the extended Doctor Who family.

ACE IN THE 80'S

Sophie Aldred shares her memories of playing groundbreaking companion Ace opposite Seventh Doctor, Sylvester McCoy.

THE DOCTOR'S WHEELS

Whilst exiled on Earth in the 1970's, the Doctor acquired two very different vehicles to transport him too and from his adventures - Bessie and the Whomobile. Insider investigates the real life story of both cars, revealing their origins and attempting to find out where they are now.

DORIUM'S DELIGHT

Simon Fisher-Becker couldn't be happier to be playing blue man, Dorium Maldovar. Insider finds out why.

I WAS... ADOLF HITLER

Albert Welling tells Insider what it was like to play the most hated man in history in Let's Kill Hitler.

NEXUS POINT

Whilst on trial by his own people, the Time Lords, the Sixth Doctor is slightly surprised to discover that his prosecutor, the Valeyard, is in fact a future version of himself!

DATA FILE

We take a look at the life of the whimsical Second Doctor and his companions.

TIME SCOOP

Insider follows the Doctor and his companion Romana on their quest for the six segments of the Key to Time.

MERCHANDISE

Previews of the latest Doctor Who merchandise, including the special edition of The Talons of Weng-Chiang on DVD. Authors Emma Beeby and Gordon Rennie tell Insider how they wrote Big Finish Productions' new audio drama The Doomsday Quatrain, featuring the Seventh Doctor. And writer Naomi Alderman explains how she plays tricks with time in her new Doctor Who novel, Borrowed Time.

FAN ZONE

Insider presents a special report on this year's Comic-Con event in San Diego where Doctor Who was featured in a big way! PLUS! The latest official news and a giant, double-sided poster of the Eleventh Doctor with Winston Churchill and the Second Doctor.

Don't miss the seventh issue of DOCTOR WHO INSIDER, out October 6, priced just $6.99!

Doctor Who: The Complete David Tennant Years DVD set almost here...

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:41:08 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

If you are missing David Tennant, so brilliantly cast as the Tenth Doctor, and still do not own the entire collection of DVDs - The Complete David Tennant Years (Region 1 set) is to be released very soon: Tuesday 11th October, 2011!

"David Tennant first appeared as The Doctor in 2005, and went on to star in three seasons and eight specials as the tenth incarnation of the Time Lord. BAFTA-winner Russell T Davies (Torchwood, Queer as Folk) is lead writer and executive producer and BAFTA-winner Julie Gardner (Torchwood, Life on Mars) is executive producer.

"This collection celebrates Tennant’s tenure by bringing together The Complete Second Series co-starring Billie Piper (Secret Diary of a Call Girl) as Rose Tyler, The Complete Third Series co-starring Freema Agyeman (Law & Order: UK) as Martha Jones and The Complete Fourth Series co-starring Catherine Tate (The Office, The Catherine Tate Show) as Donna Noble, all eight specials, and two spin-off animated adventures, in a collectible package."

Click on above image to pre-order

Includes every episode and special throughout David Tennant’s reign as the Tenth Doctor

Contains over 39 hours of programming and over 27 hours of bonus features on 26 discs

Bonus features include deleted scenes, audio commentary, David Tennant’s Video Diary and more

Release date: October 11, 2011

Length: 2385 min + 1636 min. bonus features

SRP: $199.98 ($227.25 in Canada)

DVD Region: 1 (for use in U.S. and Canada)

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #2 - The Broken Crown

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:30:24 PST

Post Author: Ian McArdell

After the interstellar action of series opener Tsar Wars, the second instalment of Serpent Crest series brings us firmly back down to Earth.

The Broken Crown begins the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey stranded in time thanks to their actions at the end of the previous adventure. They are in the right place, Hexford village, but the wrong time because in 1861 Nest Cottage has yet to be built.

Beginning their search for the Robotov refugees, robotic Medic Boolin and the young cyborg and Imperial Heir Alexander, the Doctor is also concerned about the whereabouts of a dangerous alien egg that he intended to take into custody. Receiving a somewhat hostile reception from Rector Dobbs, who spends his days drowning troubles in gin at the bar of The White Heart, Mrs Wibbsey is suffering a little culture shock. Meanwhile the Doctor becomes concerned about Hexford’s the “ineffable air of menace and doom” and begins to investigate a spate of mysterious disappearances…

The Broken Crown is a far more intimate tale than the previous instalment and a marked shift in tone, revolving around a small village Rectory and a troubled child. Both the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey have some fun investigating and it is great to see Wibbs being proactive, talking her way into the role of Rectory Housekeeper at the first sniff of intrigue. The Doctor on the other hand interacts with the children, and Baker is at his jokey charismatic best with them.

Like the previous Fourth Doctor tales, the story is related partially through narration. In this instance the chosen voice is that of the Reverend’s thirteen year-old ward and he draws us into the pain and confusion of his cosseted world well. Played confidently by young actor Guy Harvey, Andrew is a tortured soul whose disfigurement and treatment have caused him to become a social outcast, observing village life from a distance. Yet he is an imaginative lad who has developed friendships with other local children and learnt how to come in and out of his Rectory home unnoticed. Another notable member of the guest cast is Terrance Hardiman, who starred in 2010’s The Beast Below, here giving life to the role of the world weary Reverend Dobbs.

Writer Paul Magrs again provides a script with sparkling dialogue and Tom Baker delivers some amusing comic asides, including gems like being “a hundred and fifty years too early for bingo and chicken-in-a-basket” and giving direction to the villagers on how to handle a dragon. Magrs is on firm ground with the sinister use of fairy tales and manages some great misdirection before the finale, whilst laying in groundwork for the next part of the saga too. A sparse score lends an air of brooding menace with some excellent scares provided by jangly piano cues. With a dramatic and claustrophobic cliffhanger to conclude the story, I look forward to November’s instalment, entitled Aladdin Time.

The Broken Crown is available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download and CD from AudioGO from October 6th 2011.

Demon Quest – The Complere Series (Box Set)

In addition, 6th October sees the release of a CD box set containing all five stories that comprise 2010’s excellent Demon Quest series by Paul Magrs. The tale, ranging across time, chronicles the Doctor’s journey to recover vital TARDIS components that Mrs Wibbsey accidentally gave away at a Bring and Buy Sale. Once again in the company of Mrs Wibbsey, and also Mike Yates, he travels to locations as diverse as Roman Britain, the Moulin Rouge and 1970’s New York as the Demon endeavours to ensnare him.

Check here for a Past Times Special covering the series.

Sadie Miller, daughter of Elisabeth Sladen, speaks to the Radio Times

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 10:45:20 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

To us, the fans, she shall always be journalist Sarah Jane Smith. But to Sadie Miller, 26 years, Elisabeth Sladen is simply “Mum.”

The young English graduate talks about her mother, the career that made Elisabeth so famous, and meeting past Doctors... Beautiful memories are shared of their time together, for example how “Mum loved being domestic and she was a very nurturing person: she used to come and teach at my school as a classroom helper and she did amazing parties. When I was six, I had a ‘mermaid party’ and Mum made fishtails for all the girls – and some of the boys – out of bubble wrap and sequins.”

And though she won't be watching the new series of The Sarah Jane Adventures at present, “I find it just a bit strange. I can’t really watch it too soon. But I know I’ll enjoy watching them again at some stage. And if I have children it will mean a lot to watch it with them. Mum would have been a wonderful grandma and I feel sad that she won’t get to experience that.”

You can read the full interview at www.radiotimes.com.

Team Rassilon #6 - Doctor Who: The Wedding of River Song

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:42:37 PST

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

The joy, of course, was in trying to spot how the Doctor could cheat death before it was spelt out. Many would have guessed already, but that was hardly the point as this was always destined to be a glorious, if complex romp.

A high concept approach gave us cars under hot-air balloons, Emperor Churchill and pterodactyls menacing the Royal Parks. Dickens’ cameo was masterstroke, teasing the inspiration for last year’s Christmas Special in a way that only Moffat would dare to. With a dying Dalek and a Cave of Skulls, the show wore its past on its sleeve throughout, but in a subtle enough manner not to distract. That said, the Brigadier reference took me utterly by surprise and brought a lump to the throat.

There were many great moments and with the show’s central question restated, one wonders if we are being prepared for the journey that leads to the 50th Anniversary. Reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. On this evidence, the Doctor would appear to be in rude health!

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

Only the Tardis can fit this entire episode in under a hundred words. So I’ll just hit a few basics here. Time as we know it has ceased to exist. Something has impacted the space-time continuum resulting in the amalgamation of history. All eras are frozen in time and happening at once -- 5:02 pm. That something was River Song’s refusal to kill the Doctor – thus violating a fixed point in time. The Doctor resolves everything via the Teselecta from the Lets Kill Hitler episode. The Doctor who dies is actually the Teselecta filling in for him. One more thing. The Doc is a married man now.

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

A tour de force from Alex Kingston, the most touching tribute to Nicholas Courtney (that caused this thirty two year old man to well-up) and a breakneck pace that didn’t even pause for breath: The Wedding of River Song had a lot to wrap up, and it delivered in spades. A Dalek, carnivorous skulls, deadly chess and we found out what those eye-patches were really for in addition to resolving the Doctor’s death (c’mon, he couldn’t really die, could he?) and how River fit into that particular puzzle. Christmas can’t come soon enough – we’ve never had it so good!

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

So, the death of The Doctor. It was all so very simple in the end. Y'know, apart from all the bits that weren't. The season finale had a lot to tie up, which it managed admirably, and at breakneck speed. There were some cracking moments and lines in the show, a brilliant performance by Frances Barber who seemed to be relishing her role as the ill-fated Madame Kovarian, and The Silence short-lived mocking of Rory as "the man who dies and dies again" was brilliant, pointed, accurate... and then Amy massacred them with a machine gun. I guess she really is tired of waiting... Beautifully written, admirably acted and directed, and with enough cameos to keep most fans happy.

Dear Santa,

I'd like a somewhat gentler plotted season next year; more standalone episodes and another Gaiman episode would be lovely, but above all else the thing I want more than anything, the one thing I absolutely need to have... is the wonderful, brilliant and all-conquering Matt Smith continuing as The Doctor for a long time yet. He's my hero. And heroes are cool.

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

The Wedding of River Song almost doesn’t feel like a season finale. True, there’s the traditional end of season cameos and alt-London, one part Steampunk and two parts Jasper Fforde-esque (a future guest writer?), which is beautifully batty. The terrifying skulls will be haunting lots of kiddies’ nightmares and the interplay between River and the regulars just gets better and better.

While it successfully knits together a lot of this season’s questions, there are still some that haven’t been touched and it goes on to pose even more. While this is more than a touch frustrating, there is much to admire in the scope and ambition of Moffat’s storytelling.

Is it Christmas yet?

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

A beautiful tribute to Nicholas Courtney, a defenceless Dalek, a cave of skulls (just imagine if the First Doctor had encountered these fantastically evil versions in An Unearthly Child – 1963), an electrifying game of Chess, a return of the Teselecta (Justice Department Vehicle that can physically imitate anyone), and River Song refusing to abide by the laws of space and time.

The Wedding of River Song might not feel like a traditional season finale, but its mysterious end promises that something is still to come – “It’s all still waiting for you…. The fields of Trenzalore, the fall of the Eleventh. And the question! The first question! The question that must never be answered, hidden in plain sight. The question you’ve been running from all your life. Doctor who?”

Simple resolution but engaging.

Beth Evers, United States
(Twitter: @beth_evers)

The Wedding of River Song, a twisty-turny, timey-wimey, wibbly-wobbly tale if there ever was one. But I have to say, it all worked for me. River Song refuses to kill the Doctor, and a time bubble is created, an alternate reality, in which every time exists simultaneously. Time can’t move forward unless the Doctor dies.

I have come to like River throughout this series, and it was nice to have a bit of a payoff to her story. Alternate Amy was gorgeous and one tough cookie. And it was fab to see Rory in command. It definitely suited him. Finally! Loved the companions, loved the Doctor, loved the ending. Can’t wait for Christmas!

Join Paul Magrs on Facebook!

noreply@blogger.com (Alwyn Ash) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:05:53 PDT

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Paul Magrs fans will be pleased to know that the author of Brenda and Effie and creator of Iris Wildthyme now has an official Facebook page dedicated to all his work, signings etc., so please do go along and "Like".

Also, the second part of Doctor Who: Serpent Crest will be available to purchase this week, 6th October 2011 - The Broken Crown features Tom Baker as the Fourth Doctor and Susan Jameson as Mrs Wibbsey. In addition to this, the complete Demon Quest series is to be released on the same day - see here on or after the date to order...

If you are interested in connecting with Paul then do check out the following links:

Facebook

Twitter

Website