Doctor Who *spoilers*

[Hellboy Animated 101]

I thought Donna calmed down by the end of the Christmas special anyway. She was only annoying and shouty at the start, so I've never been worried that might be an issue. Hopefully we're all right and she is going to be calmer; I couldn't take a whole season of screamy Catherine Tate.

me neither. as that special taught us (and her), when you're with the Doctor, you can learn a thing or 2 about certain things, tolerance and patience being a few of them.

btw, i'm going to New York Comic Con this April, and i have gotten some news that something Doctor Who related might be going down, and...well...here's the rather cryptic news from the Medium At Large blog, which gives frequent updates about the convention (hints are in bold):

How are you spending your Saturday night? Are you going out? Partying? Maybe meeting a nice girl from Long Island who came out clubbing tonight? Cool. I got you beat, though.


I'm currently working on uploading the final (cross your fingers) New York Comic Con programming schedule to www.newyorkcomiccon.com. When will you be able to see it? Let's hope it goes live on Tuesday.

I'm also watching two hours of Doctor Who and two hours of Torchwood starting in like 9 minutes. Any Doctor Who fans out there? You can admit it. I love The Doctor, and my girlfriend totally has a crush on David Tennant. If you're not a fan of Doctor Who yet, you may be after New York Comic Con.

Oops! Did I just hint at something?
Could it be that David Tennant might be attending NY Comic Con on Saturday the 19th for something Doctor Who related?? I'll get back to you guys tomorrow on this...

[king mob]

I thought Donna calmed down by the end of the Christmas special anyway. She was only annoying and shouty at the start, so I've never been worried that might be an issue. Hopefully we're all right and she is going to be calmer; I couldn't take a whole season of screamy Catherine Tate.

Thankfully Tate is only in this series but I'm still convinced she'll say 'I'm not bovvered' at some point. This will make me hurt my telly if she does.

[Captain Jim]

Thankfully Tate is only in this series

Don't think I'd heard that, and I was wondering about same. Any word about a companion for the following abbreviated season?

For that matter, have they ever said why they replaced Freema Agyeman? I thought she was awesome.

[Popgun]

The new Radio Times, out today, contains RTD's episode guide for the new series. Spoilers below:

Particularly interesting is Episode 6: The Doctor's Daughter, starring the ever lovely Georgia Moffett. Moffett is, of course, the real-life daughter of Peter Davison...

Martha returns in Episodes 4 and 5, and then presumably departs until the finale.

Rose returns in episode 11.

[ChrisIII]

It's possible that (potential spoilers, highlight) The Doctor's daughter might be an adaptation of the novel Father Time, perhaps the most acclaimed of the Eigth Doctor novels. In it, the Doctor adopts an alien girl called Miranda after she is orphaned.



Also, today is the release date of two "Time" DVD titles-the Time Warrior and Timelash-in the USA. "Time Warrior" is of course the debut of the Sontarans, and probably their strongest outing as well. "Timelash" on the other hand, is apparentally the worst Colin Baker, and one of WHO's worst period.

[Popgun]

It's possible that (potential spoilers, highlight) The Doctor's daughter might be an adaptation of the novel Father Time, perhaps the most acclaimed of the Eigth Doctor novels. In it, the Doctor adopts an alien girl called Miranda after she is orphaned.

If that's the case then the character names have been changed, and the listing doesn't credit the original author in any way. Who knows?

[Alan Lynch]

It's possible that (potential spoilers, highlight) The Doctor's daughter might be an adaptation of the novel Father Time, perhaps the most acclaimed of the Eigth Doctor novels. In it, the Doctor adopts an alien girl called Miranda after she is orphaned.
Makes sense, considering the praise dished out when they adapted Human Nature. I could see them dipping into some of the other novels after that, even if it could look a bit lazy.

[ZT4]

If they ever explore the Time War, they'll likely adapt "The Ancestor Cell" and should they choose to restore Gallifrey, adapt "The Gallifrey Chronicles"

[Neticule]

he just doesn't want to do the whole convention scene.

I dont blame him, as long as he is nice to his fans that is cool :)

[Spike-X]

Makes sense, considering the praise dished out when they adapted Human Nature. I could see them dipping into some of the other novels after that, even if it could look a bit lazy.
I'd prefer they keep brilliantly adapting existing stories such as Human Nature than keep serving us original crap like Daleks In Manhattan and last year's season finale.

[mattx110]

Sounds like another double-cliff-hanger/3-parter thingy.

[king mob]

Don't think I'd heard that, and I was wondering about same. Any word about a companion for the following abbreviated season?

Nope, nothing really has been announced for the three specials next year beyond RTD writing them and they'll be shown over three bank holiday weekends.

For that matter, have they ever said why they replaced Freema Agyeman? I thought she was awesome.

If you believe the party line, it was to boost Torchwood, if you believe the gossip it was to help raise Tate's profile as a 'serious' actress by placing Tate in one of the BBC's top programmes.

[Stressfactor]

Any word about a companion for the following abbreviated season?

I am of many minds on this and I kind of figure they could take it one of four ways:

1) There is someone they are keeping the lid on who will appear in the series 4 season finale who will carry on into the specials.

2) The Doctor will pick someone up in the first of the three specials and carry him/her throughout.

3) There were be a different "aide" for each of the three specials. Rather than being a companion per se a different character will assist the Doctor in each special (rather like what Tom Baker wanted to do after Elisabeth Sladen left the show).

4) They will bring back a previous companion -- although I'm not sure Billie Piper would want back into the show...

Of course, with either #'s two or three it is likely that that character would then be held over for when the series goes back into regular production. Since there has been a lot of rumors about Tennant leaving after the specials there is a strong show history of keeping the companion character on to help bridge the former Doctor actor and the new Doctor actor. Whoever it would be then would be someone that the BBC could effectively lock into a contract for a little while then.

[Captain Jim]

If you believe the party line, it was to boost Torchwood...

That would make more sense if she was put on as an ongoing cast member, rather than simply guesting in three episodes.

[mattx110]

And anyone else get annoyed at all of Jack's "I saw the end of the world" "I'd trust her if the world was ending, oh yea, I did" comments.

He was also at the end of the universe with her... Wouldn't that be a blip?

[king mob]

That would make more sense if she was put on as an ongoing cast member, rather than simply guesting in three episodes.

It was a mid-series push that got the programme more publicity when it was tailing off a bit. It did it's job as well.

As for the new series of Who, well, the clips the BBC have been showing have focused on Tate & Tennant being rather painfully wacky & look bloody awful. They also feature an effect that makes the burping wheeliebin in Rose look like the best effect you've ever seen on telly.

Also as a little aside. Les Dennis has his autobiography (http://books.guardian.co.uk/departments/biography/story/0,,2269822,00.html?gusrc=rss&feed=media)out and he reveals he had an affair with Sophie Aldred. Well I never!

[king mob]

"Timelash" on the other hand, is apparentally the worst Colin Baker, and one of WHO's worst period.

It's fucking awful. It really isn't worth wasting money on, even if it is on sale for a fiver.

[ChrisIII]

I assume you mean the Pokemon-like creatures that apparentally will be in Partners In Crime. I'm a little worried about them too...


Fires Of Pompeii looks pretty cool, though...

[Popgun]

It was a mid-series push that got the programme more publicity when it was tailing off a bit. It did it's job as well.

As for the new series of Who, well, the clips the BBC have been showing have focused on Tate & Tennant being rather painfully wacky & look bloody awful. They also feature an effect that makes the burping wheeliebin in Rose look like the best effect you've ever seen on telly.


RT makes a big deal out of the involvement of Stephen Regelous, who developed the crowd generating software for Lord Of The Rings and worked on this episode as a favour to The Mill, as he is a huge fan of the programme.

The creatures themselves look like they've escaped from a Vauxhall Corsa advert and run amok on the other side. In fact, they look a bit like a friendly version of Milk & Cheese.

The first episode looks a bit, well, Sarah Jane Adventures.

[ZT4]

SJA was good, so no complaints from me.

[Matt]

It's fucking awful. It really isn't worth wasting money on, even if it is on sale for a fiver.

Oh, it could be worse.
That Dalek story with Alexi Sayle was far, far worse.

[king mob]

I assume you mean the Pokemon-like creatures that apparentally will be in Partners In Crime. I'm a little worried about them too...

Yup, it looks as if Blur's 'Coffee & TV' video has crash landed in the programme.


Fires Of Pompeii looks pretty cool, though...

It does, so does the Ood episode.

[king mob]

SJA was good, so no complaints from me.

If Who could be as consistant as SJA then it really would be astonishing telly.

[Typo Lad]

I think I've become a full-on Who convert. I actually marked a note to myself on the calender.

[ChrisIII]

Some reviews of the first episode have come in, and are for the most part positive so far. Apparentally Tate is toned down as fans have guessed.

[Alan Lynch]

The only effect I've seen that really bothers me is the giant bee chasing Donna around. It's fucking hideous; these Pokemon things are a mystery to me though. Haven't seen those yet.

2 days. I'm so excited. I'm skipping the start of a 21st birthday party to watch the first episode. In saying that, nobody should be starting a party that early anyway.

[Deathstroke]

I've watched Blink 3 times since getting the DVD set of the 3rd season and it kicks my ass each and every time.

I'm in love with Sally Sparrow! ;)

[ChrisIII]

Just saw a clip of the POC aliens. Apparentally they make farting noises, too.


Great. I thought they'd left the toilet humor in season one?

[TCJohnson]

I've watched Blink 3 times since getting the DVD set of the 3rd season and it kicks my ass each and every time.

I'm in love with Sally Sparrow! ;)

I would have loved her as the new companion.

[Typo Lad]

I would have loved her as the new companion.
I like her better as a one-time deal. I suspect she'd be less appealing if we saw her every episode.

[ChrisIII]

Another WHO alumni has died: Johnny Bryne (No relation to the comics writer), who wrote Keeper of Traaken, Arc of Infinity and Warriors Of The Deep.

[Cyke]

Just saw a clip of the POC aliens. Apparentally they make farting noises, too.


Great. I thought they'd left the toilet humor in season one?

Well, in defense of season one, the farts were used as plot devices. Which is more than I can say for most farts in literature TV anyway.

[Ontir]

Another WHO alumni has died: Johnny Bryne (No relation to the comics writer), who wrote Keeper of Traaken, Arc of Infinity and Warriors Of The Deep.

Johnny Byrne (http://imdb.com/name/nm0126210/) also wrote several episodes of Space: 1999, among others. Sad news.

Blink is one of the best-ever Dr? eps! Just amazing, the most time-trippiest with a truly old-school Whovian villain.

...and Sally Sparrow rocks!

I don't think Freema got short-shrift here. She goes from the Doctor, to Torchwood, then back to the Doctor. All concerned seem to love her, and her character (whom I love) keeps turning up. I think she may be someone who intersects with various Whovian concerns, but with a life of her own. Finally, a recurring good guy!

[marvelboy2004]

I don't think Freema got short-shrift here. She goes from the Doctor, to Torchwood, then back to the Doctor. All concerned seem to love her, and her character (whom I love) keeps turning up. I think she may be someone who intersects with various Whovian concerns, but with a life of her own. Finally, a recurring good guy!

And possibly back to season 3 of Torchwood now that both Tosh and Owen are gone?

[Ontir]

AAAAARGH!

Why did I highlight the white spoiler?!?!?!?

I've not seen ANY of season 2 yet. I tried to torrent 2.1, but the program said it was going to take 127 days, so I gave up, and haven't been able to find a working version - yet. I can't wait to see what happens/ed to both though!

DON'T TELL ME! :D

[IamtheRock3]

you know they going to start showing the new season on Sci Fi. I think April 18th in America

starting with voyage of the Damm

also SARA JANE CRONICLES going to be started at 7:30

in april

[Popgun]

Well, I wasn't expecting *that*.

[ZT4]

Indeed. Sometimes it helps when you think "Now, THAT's meant to be near the finale...isnt it?"

Fun premiere. Even Foster's Loony Toon fall got top marks. Donna's hilarious, not intolerantly campy at all. Lovable.

Did Russel rip off Rob Grant's book "Fat" by any chance?

[DHX]

didnt like the episode, typical poor season opener. but that ending was damn surprising

[ZT4]

"Smith and Jones" was also a great opener, nobody's expecting Daleks in openers, they want popcorn. Sometimes you need to understand EVERY premiere that isnt a cliffhanger's resolution is going to be a filler and enjoy it for what it is.

[DHX]

"Smith and Jones" was also a great opener, nobody's expecting Daleks in openers, they want popcorn. Sometimes you need to understand EVERY premiere that isnt a cliffhanger's resolution is going to be a filler and enjoy it for what it is.

Smith and Jones was the exception to the rule. the problem is they let davis write the season opener and davis is very hit and miss.

[Green Goblin]

Sad news indeed about Mr Bryne , on another note I really enjoyed the opener of doctor who. I wasn't sure how Catharine Tate was going to be as the new compation but she was really good in it. The aliens were rather cute in it. Also I brought two new doctor who dvds the special edition verison of the five doctors and the hand of fear

[IamtheRock3]

wonder if Jack meets The Doctor again

will Jack call the Doctor a young whipper snapper, sense he twice the doctors age now.

[Deathstroke]

also SARA JANE CRONICLES going to be started at 7:30

in april

Yeah, that starts this coming Friday. Can't wait.

[drwho]

Just saw episode one of season 4. absolutely marvelous. Much better fun and kind of hokey. I think this season will shape up well plus some early surprises just in the first episode. First episode of season 4 is on you tube happy hunting, or just pm me a request.

[Stressfactor]

Wasn't hard to find on YouTube -- one person hasn't even tried to hide it. Granted the Beeb will probably have it down before the week is out but doesn't matter since I got the chance to watch it.

Sure, it was funny, a bit silly but it really felt like it hearkened back a little bit to some of Baker's sillier episodes. I know there are a lot of people who don't like eps like "Creature from the Pit", "Nightmare of Eden", or "Horns of Nimon" but I laughed out loud at all of them and I laughed out loud here and sometimes its nice to laugh your way through an episode of "Doctor Who".

I also think they've toned Donna down and it suits her well. They've also given her a lot of spunk and initiative on her own. I like that they've made her someone who actively sought the Doctor out to be a companion and that she's more or less invited herself onto the TARDIS. I'll be interested to see how this goes.

[king mob]

Another WHO alumni has died: Johnny Bryne (No relation to the comics writer), who wrote Keeper of Traaken, Arc of Infinity and Warriors Of The Deep.

That's a shame. Byrne was one of those writers who could easily switch genres & that made him a regular writing programmes on British tv.

Right, onto the first episode of the new series. In short it was shite, even the last couple of minutes (which was genuinely sweet & well done) or a great hammy performance from Sarah Lancashire couldn't save another half arsed Davies script.

The script was shoddy, the acting was average from Tennant and Tate and there was a feeling of 'this should do' throughout the entire thing. It felt lazy and I still can't quite believe that the writer of Queer As Folk & Bob & Rose churned this out without anyone poiting out just how poor it was.

Next week's episode does look good, though with the cast it's got it would take another script like last night's to screw it up.

[Tobias March]

My only problem with RTD is that while he is a writer of some ambition - that ambition is to target as wide a demographic of viewers as possible. This does not benefit the story as well as it should. So we have stories revolving around fat, because hey - we can all relate to fat right? Even the surprise cameo felt like a cheat to me. It seemed to be proferred towards the angry fans revolting at Tate's inclusion.

It's like Doctor Who is becoming the Coronation Street of SF :eek:

[king mob]

It's like Doctor Who is becoming the Coronation Street of SF :eek:

Corrie is one of Davies's favourite programmes so expect Ken Barlow to pop up this year as Davros.

[rick]

Last night the weather conditions were perfect and the stars were properly aligned, so I was able to hook up the patented, Satellite Controlled, Magic Crystal Radio Set and treat myself to the first episode of the new season of Doctor Who.

And what a great, silly episode it was too.

First off, I really do get a real kick out of Catherine Tate as Donna. I know she has some people out there who aren’t real fans, but I find her not only very funny, but she so reminds me of several people I have known in the real world who are just so gruff and mean, but are actually just too lovable not to enjoy.

As for the episode itself, I grant that the aliens were not exactly Dalak level, but they were just such an odd idea, that they really were perfect as a Doctor Who threat, plus they were just too damm cute not to like.

The Nanny was irritating, but spot on, the reporter was a great poke in the nose at the type of character who typically becomes a Who companion. And most importantly what exactly was up with that rather familiar blonde lady who just sort of faded away at the end of the episode?

Plus I really got a good laugh out of the whole “conversation” at the window.

It was not the most dramatic episode of the series that I ever saw, but it was a nice opener and I am so glad to have it back on the air.

[Tobias March]

Admittedly I did laugh at the scene through the window. We all knew how it would end, but I thought Tate did some good work there.

[Paul McEnery]

The Buggins wins points. She said: "That's Rose" before she turned round.

Also, evil Mary Poppins go splat, you can't beat that.

And the return (and wind up) of Bernard Cribbins was well good. He should get to go with.

And I am now looking forward to the Doctor having serious all of them together at once women troubles.

[Sean Whitmore]

I liked the premiere. Not one of the best episodes of the series, but still enjoyable. The muted conversation through the windows was hilarious, the villain having a sonic device was fun, and the scene at the end has me anxious to learn what the heck's going on.

That said, seeing the Doctor bringing aboard a new companion for the third time has taken some luster off of the whole idea. It was kinda like, "Okay, so it's your turn now, is it?"


SEAN

[Stressfactor]

That said, seeing the Doctor bringing aboard a new companion for the third time has taken some luster off of the whole idea. It was kinda like, "Okay, so it's your turn now, is it?"


SEAN

Well, there IS precedent. Louise Jameson only lasted a season and a half as Leela and Mary Tamm only did one season as Romana I. Billie Piper stayed on for two seasons then Freema had one and now Tate is getting one.

There is *one* thing I don't quite get, though.... Those who are stoked about Spoilers the possible return of Rose [B]End Spoilers[B] is, really, what do they think is going to happen? Do they really think that SpoilersRose and the Doctor will decalre their undying love for one another, have a good snog and then fly off into the sunset to live happily ever after?End SpoilersFor the long-term longevity of the series that sort of thing really just can't happen.

[Tobias March]

Yeah well that ominous disappearing act certainly points to a probable 'no' to any happy ending.

[Captain Jim]

you know they going to start showing the new season on Sci Fi. I think April 18th in America

starting with voyage of the Damm

also SARA JANE CRONICLES going to be started at 7:30

in april

Yep. Sarah Jane premieres on 4/11, Voyage of the Damned shows on 4/18, and Doctor Who season four begins on 4/25.

[Captain Jim]

now Tate is getting one.

Has it been verified that she's only going to be on for one season?

[Deathstroke]

I watched the premiere episode and while it served the purpose of getting The Doctor and Donna together, the Whovian universe version of the Ewoks was rather pathetic.

The whole Rose thing was freaky, but do we really think it is Rose. The facial expression seemed oddly blank and where'd the fading out of sight thing come from?

[mattx110]

I watched the premiere episode and while it served the purpose of getting The Doctor and Donna together, the Whovian universe version of the Ewoks was rather pathetic.

The whole Rose thing was freaky, but do we really think it is Rose. The facial expression seemed oddly blank and where'd the fading out of sight thing come from?
Universe's are colliding again!!!!

C'mon man! This is huge and destructive and huge!!!!!!!!!!! And there will be Daleks and Cybermen, and Torchwoods, and God knows what else... Do you need a map?

[Ontir]

wonder if Jack meets The Doctor again

will Jack call the Doctor a young whipper snapper, sense he twice the doctors age now.

I'm certain Jack and the Doctor will cross paths again. Another interesting future cross-over is the Doctor and the Face of Bo. The Face told Doctor #10 that they'd meet a set number of times, which they have, but that doesn't mean Doctor #11 and on can't meet the Face of Bo, which means the next meeting, after the end of Season 3 will be quite interesting.

[Cyke]

I have to say I liked it. To me, nothing dragged, and the scene of the Doctor talking to himself was a bit poignant. I liked the pacing, as its frantic nature actually helped with the actual character of Donna.

And all those near-misses: could they be commentary on just how frequently the Doctor seems to stumble into trouble?

Also, I'm not too sure about old Who, but nuWho seems to handle old men very well, especially if they're supporting allies like Donna's grandpappy, or even villains like Lumic.

[Ontir]

I just watched it, and rather enjoyed it overall, but man, Donna's hand-off of the car keys. It's pretty much exactly what I've been hoping for!

Love the amp-up of the theme, too. There are little flourishes that I'd missed from previous versions, now present in the more orchestrated update.

[Stressfactor]

I have to say I liked it. To me, nothing dragged, and the scene of the Doctor talking to himself was a bit poignant. I liked the pacing, as its frantic nature actually helped with the actual character of Donna.

And all those near-misses: could they be commentary on just how frequently the Doctor seems to stumble into trouble?

Also, I'm not too sure about old Who, but nuWho seems to handle old men very well, especially if they're supporting allies like Donna's grandpappy, or even villains like Lumic.

Actually, I think all the Doctor/Donna near misses were just trotting out a very old cliche. I actually wished RTD had not done that because it's one of the oldest cliches in the book and if you're going to use something that well-worn I think you need to find a way to twist it up a bit.

That being said, the Doctor running around following his little tracker gizmo seemed very Doctor-y.

As for old men in "Doctor Who" -- I think the show has a very fine history of focusing on the characters and their characterization regardless of age. If you want to see some truly fun 'Older Gentlemen' characters rent the Tom Baker story "The Talons of Weng Chiang". Keep in mind, the story in general is waaaayyyyy non-PC today but the characters of Jago and Lightfoot are just tons of fun.

[Ontir]

I liked the "A Man and a Woman" twist. Particularly because of the way it ended. The digital dousing rod was cool too.

[king mob]

Actually, I think all the Doctor/Donna near misses were just trotting out a very old cliche. I actually wished RTD had not done that because it's one of the oldest cliches in the book and if you're going to use something that well-worn I think you need to find a way to twist it up a bit.


RTD has been using these techniques with increasing frequency of late, which is a shame as he really is a much better writer than that.

[ChrisIII]

Who has another celebrity guest-and one that's married to a former companion who was once married to a former Doctor.


That's right-controversial writer Richard Dawkins! Husband to Lalla Ward, who played the second Romana, who was once married to Tom Baker.


It'd be cool if they could get Lalla too, but most fans would expect her to be Romana, and I don't think we'll see the Time Lords revived this season.


Apparentally he'll play himself, which is not suprising considering what we've seen in other finale episodes.

[Matt]

We've had Indiana Jones Lego. Star Wars Lego. Batman Lego.

Why no Doctor Who Lego sets?!

[ChrisIII]

There are WHO minimates or Kubricks being developed, I believe..

[The Xenos]

I totally want one of those litlte Apropose things as a toy. Today's Lying in the Gutters had a link to an hand knitted plushie one on ebay.

Who has another celebrity guest-and one that's married to a former companion who was once married to a former Doctor.


That's right-controversial writer Richard Dawkins! Husband to Lalla Ward, who played the second Romana, who was once married to Tom Baker.


It'd be cool if they could get Lalla too, but most fans would expect her to be Romana, and I don't think we'll see the Time Lords revived this season.


Apparentally he'll play himself, which is not suprising considering what we've seen in other finale episodes.

Wow. Very interesting. One of the world's foremost atheists. Not to mention a brilliant geneticist and scientist too. Didn't realize his connection to Who before.

[tricksterpup]

Like many others, I rather enjoyed Season 4 episode. i find Donna rather refreshing, not a pinning little lost girl but some one who is looking for adventure. Plus Donna isn't going to take any crap. I hope she has a good time while she is around.

[king mob]

Wow. Very interesting. One of the world's foremost atheists. Not to mention a brilliant geneticist and scientist too. Didn't realize his connection to Who before.

Dawkins was introduced to Lalla Ward by their mutual friend Douglas Adams, so there's another Who link for you.

[Stressfactor]

A bit off the subject BUT.... Whenever I see Douglas Adams' name now I think I will forever associate him with one of the Easter Eggs on the "City of Death" DVD where he tells the story of an... interersting (shall we say) adventure and finishes it up with "It's the kind of day where you find yourself at 4:00 AM trying to figure out how you're going to get back to England."

I know Adams' writings have immense amounts of quotable quotes but, damnit, THAT is the one I would dearly LOVE to be able to work into a conversation.

[king mob]

Doctor Who is to have it's own night at this years Proms.

Doctor Who is to feature in this year's Proms, alongside Nigel Kennedy and maypole dancing.

Daleks will roam the Royal Albert Hall at the Doctor Who Prom in July, which will celebrate music from the popular BBC show.

Kennedy, 51, will return to the Proms for the first time in 21 years to perform Elgar's violin concerto.

The Proms will also celebrate the music of composer Vaughan Williams on the 50th anniversary of his death.

Proms director Roger Wright said the musical emphasis would be on the British Isles, with other compositions from Eastern Europe.

And he denied the presence of Doctor Who meant the world-famous music festival was being dumbed down.

Folk music

The event, presented by Doctor Who actress Freema Agyeman, will feature the show's iconic theme tune alongside other compositions related to time and space, including Holst's The Planets - Jupiter, Wagner's Die Walkure - the Ride of the Valkyries.

Doctor Who star David Tennant will make an on-screen appearance in a pre-recorded scene written by Russell T Davies.

Maypole dancing will feature in the Proms' Folk Day, which includes a series of events in and around the Royal Albert Hall.

Story-telling, folk ensembles, fiddle sessions, and maypole dancing will take place at Kensington Gardens on 20 July.

The 2008 Proms season takes place from Friday 18 July to Saturday 13 September.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/7338764.stm

There's also vague rumours about something Who related going on at Glastonbury but that may well be bollocks.

[ChrisIII]

Apparentally some photos/reports have surfaced of the 2008 Christmas special filming, which:


Anybody know the color for spoiler highlights?.....

[Stressfactor]

It should probably be white now since they changed all the colors.

[Enigmanaut]

Apparentally some photos/reports have surfaced of the 2008 Christmas special filming, which:


Anybody know the color for spoiler highlights?.....

Does the Spoil tag not work now?

Cybermen!

Nope. It works.

[Captain Jim]

To be more specific, spoilers should be designated as follows:

[spoil ] [/spoil ] -- without the spaces. This is preferred over using other colors, which isn't always very effective.

[Tik]

Dont know if this has been posted before but heres David Tennent pranking Freema Agyeman on radio (David calls in at 03:10).....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLnSphQ88_w&feature=related

Pretty funny even if he's a bit scary!

[ChrisIII]

A picture of the classic Doctor Who toy line has been circulating on the 'net.

Here's a link to pics:


http://www.doctorwhotoys.net/classics.htm


Tom Baker-this kind of looks similar to the Product Enterprise figure, except it's smaller and with a better likeness. It also comes with a second hatless/more serious looking head. Comes with the sonic screwdriver.

Peter Davison-Also comes with a screwdriver. The sweater seems to be based on his season 22 appearence. Not quite as good a likeness. I wonder if there will be a "Time Crash" variant?


Colin Baker-With the sonic lance from Attack of the Cybermen. Pretty much represents how he appears in most of season 22.

Sea Devil-Looks pretty decent, with a soft 'vest'.


Magnus Greel and Mr. Sin(Talons of Weng-Chiang)-Kind of a two-pack here.


SV7/D84(Robots of Death-not sure if these are in the same package or come seperately. SV7 comes with a removable hand ("Please do not throw hands at me!" and D84 comes with that probe thing.


Zygon (Terror of the Zygons) looks pretty impressive as well.


I wonder why they didn't include any Daleks or Cybermen in the initial wave
.....then again, apparentally they are being developed.

[Stressfactor]

Peter Davison-Also comes with a screwdriver. The sweater seems to be based on his season 22 appearence.

It's also interesting that they include the Sonic Screwdriver here since they claim this likeness is off of "Resurrection of the Daleks" and the Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver was destroyed in the earlier story "The Visitation" and not seen again until the 8th Doctor....


Either way.... anybody know when these are supposed to hit the market?

Also, I suppose sooner or later they will get around to making the First through Third Doctors as well....

[Omac70]

Whoa... I've been coming here a while but have never stumbled upon (or looked for) a Doctor Who thread before...

As Turlough would say, "Big, isn't it?" :smile:

The new series... Well, first episode was awful but isn't it always? I'm sure though, just like the previous three years, things will get much better very quickly.

Even with Catherine Tate there.

[ChrisIII]

I suppose they're going for the most colorful Doctors first. Plus Tom Baker is the most popular era of the classic show, hence the majority of the monsters being from his era, except for the Sea Devil (Curious there's not a Pertwee figure yet, as he's a pretty popular Doctor, certainly more so than Colin Baker!).


It'll be interesting to see how well these sell....

[king mob]

Much much better this week. Cracking turns from Peter Capaldi & Phil Davies, along with a rather funny Phil Cornwall cameo showed how to use guest stars well. Tate was less annoying, and the character of Donna even developed in the way she constantly questioned the Doctor's motives in letting Pompeii be destroyed.
There's even a great piece of acting from Tate & Tennant in a scene in the Tardis that shows just how good new Who should be. They even managed to balance the comedy just right.

Next week: Ood.

[Dancer]

I liked this episode a lot, it was a lot better then last weeks, though thats not really shocking, considering a lot of the beginning episodes in Doctor Who have been nothing but cheesy fun..

I loved that The Doctor had to make such a hard choice, I've always found the episodes where he's stuck making a choice some of the best.

Like last week, its not one of my favorites, and it doesn't stack up well against gems such as Girl in the Fireplace, Doomsday, Parting of Ways, Family of blood. Yet as your average Doctor Who episode, I thought it was great.

On a side note it reminded me why I love the acting in the show, its always superb.

[Omac70]

Sounds like I'll enjoy this one more. I'll have to remember the repeat, as this was the first time since Time and the Rani I've not watched an episode on initial broadcast.

To be fair, it's just a case of forgetting - but the bitter aftertaste of Partners in Crime (and the 2 episodes before it) probably contributed to that...

[carabas]

Okay. I think that was one of the better episodes of New Who.

And it seems that the running theme this year is a planet-killer. That's two alien species in a row that have most one or more planets.

[Stressfactor]

"And before you ask, that fire had nothing to do with me. Well, maybe a little bit..."


HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... Alright, everyone who got the reference raise your hands....



BTW... the Doctor was lying.... that fire had EVERYTHING to do with him...:biggrin:

[Spike-X]

Dont know if this has been posted before but heres David Tennent pranking Freema Agyeman on radio (David calls in at 03:10).....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLnSphQ88_w&feature=related

Pretty funny even if he's a bit scary!
That was frickin' hilarious.

[tricksterpup]

I really like this episode and I really do enjoy Donna.
This is going to be another fun season.

[rick]

Enjoyed the episode, admired the pathos and I just love Donna.

She is such a breath of fresh air and it's great to see the Doctor running around with another grow-up.

Plus I loved the reference to one of the Doctors earliest adventures.

[Ganatus]

Pompeii...

This was epic in all departments. After all the hype about filming in Rome I thought the sets would dominate. However, with the quality of acting, writing and effects it blended into a memorable episode. (And the lighting man needs an award all on his own. The beautiful shadows and highlights in the interior shots.)

With all the publicity about ‘The Doctor’s Daughter’ in the forth coming sixth episode, no one seems to have mentioned this would make her (Hartnell’s) Susan’s mother!

[Matt]

Not necessarily. The 8th Doctor had a daughter, Miranda, who he adopted ... but she was still his daughter.

[Ganatus]

Yes but…

Russell T. is prepared to convert the fictional novels into episodes but doesn’t acknowledge the wealth of written material as part of the Doctors television history.

[king mob]

Yes but…

Russell T. is prepared to convert the fictional novels into episodes but doesn’t acknowledge the wealth of written material as part of the Doctors television history.

Because he doesn't want the programme to get caught up in complex continuity that only a handful of hardcore fans get. That's what helped alienate casual viewers with the old series & there's no way that would happen again, Who is too important a programme for the BBC.

[Tik]

Russell T. is prepared to convert the fictional novels into episodes but doesn’t acknowledge the wealth of written material as part of the Doctors television history.
Actually, he does reference them sometimes. Not enough to alienate viewers but little nods here and there. For example in Smith and Jones the Doctor mentions his brother - a reference to Irving Braxtial of the audios and novels. In Boomtown he directly referenced a new series novel. The continuing description that Skaro was around until the end of the Time War is a reference to the events of the novel War of the Daleks. And in RTD's article on the Time War he mentions many things from the comics, novels, and audios leading up to the Time War (eg that Romana was president, that N-Forms were used, etc).

[ChrisIII]

^The concept of Torchwood is also very similar to some of the novel concepts-especially those in the novel "Scales of Injustice" (Which is available as an Ebook on the main website).

[Tobias March]

Ah Peter Capaldi...he gives good acting :biggrin:

Great fun, this is what I like in Doctor Who. Even pulled on the old emotional strings there towards the end.

[tricksterpup]

Ah with the quote from the profit, i sense something bad is going to happen to Donna. What is on her back? And we all know possibly what she meant that She is back.

[Spike-X]

Did anyone else notice the mention of 'Mad Martha' in the first episode this year (or was it the second? I don't recall)?

It may be just a coincidence, or it may be a tip of the hat to the Internet's own Mad Martha, who works hard every week to make the episodes available to those of us who rely on the Satellite Controlled Magic Crystal Radio Set.

[Omac70]

Knew it wouldn't take very long to get better - that was a fine episode.

Only have the energy or inclination these days to write one detailed review - and I've already done that elsewhere - so I'll just say that it had a bit of everything and was much more the kind of thing I like to see. Some proper comedy, some real drama and even Tate was bearable. Good stuff.

And I'm thinking they're actually going to attempt to do a proper arc this year, rather than just doing what they usually do and repeating a word until people start to take notice of it...

[Ontir]

I like Donna, because she's the first companion to really question the Doctor. Even Romana, probably because she's a Time Lord herself, didn't question him so much. I like that she pushes him, and the revelations of the soothsayers were interesting.

I'm just hoping that when we find out what Rose is up to, she hasn't been twisted into a villain. I'd like to see the Doctor in love and happy, aside from his usual mayhem, for awhile.

[ZT4]

I hope he finally manages to tell her that he doesnt love her in the way she thinks he did. Rose certaingly played a big part in reminding him the human race were worth fighting for, but the kissing, the hugging...was just that, gratitude, then a mate. Rose misinterpreted it for something else.

I've seen it happen with a lot of people who dont love people who love them back, with Martha it was a little easier because she wasnt arm-clinging and whiny, her love was sublte flat-mate bonding, not to mention she didnt play a big part in reminding The Doctor the human race was worth saving (but she did do a hell of a lot more ground work than Rose did, one gulp of the space/time vortex? Nah, rally a whole human army and prank The Master? That's hard work)

[Spike-X]

I hope he finally manages to tell her that he doesnt love her in the way she thinks he did. Rose certaingly played a big part in reminding him the human race were worth fighting for, but the kissing, the hugging...was just that, gratitude, then a mate. Rose misinterpreted it for something else.


Oh, please.

[Stressfactor]

I'd like to see the Doctor in love and happy, aside from his usual mayhem, for awhile.

Ah... no. Sorry to disagree but... no. While I'm not always down with the emo/angsty/depressed Doctor 'being together with Rose' is pretty much a sure-fire way to ruin the series.

Having seen the 'sexual tension' route waaaaay too much on American television that sort of thing just ends badly. The two main characters get together and...... what was once spark and sizzle turns into wet matches and fizzle. I cannot think of ONE series where it did not end badly (I'm not saying there ISN'T one series where it ended well but I'm saying I can't think of one). The thing of it is that "Doctor Who" is predicated on change. Sooner or later EVERYONE leaves. Companions come and go Doctors come and go. The Doctor and Rose getting together means that, sooner or later, Rose would leave and then we get even more angsty/emo/depressed Doctor stories. And then comes the issue of potential half-human-half -Time Lord babies.... honestly, does the Doctor seem like Father Knows Best material? And if he doesn't stick around then we've got 'deadbeat dad' issues and the potential for 'years later the Doctor meets the child he never knew he had and must overcome said child's anger and bitterness and bond with them' stories and those are tropes that I am rather sick of.

It's like the ancient idea of "Courtly Love" -- the IDEAL of love is always better than the real thing. In the IDEAL of love things are beautiful and sonnets and flowers and chocolate all the time. In the REAL WORLD of love things are sometimes sonnets, and sometimes flowers, and sometimes chocolates (but usually not all at the same time) but things are also sometimes angry silences, and sometimes talks that no one wants to have but needs to, and compromises that no one wants to make but needs to, and sulking, and 'not tonight dear, I have a headache'. There are shows I watch to get REAL WORLD drama and shows I watch to just have some fun.... I would really rather that "Doctor Who" stayed just fun and I don't see how they could avaoid getting into relationshipal dramarama if they let the Doctor and Rose be together.

I would much rather see Rose and the Doctor admitting they had something but Rose being able to tell him that she has and continues to move on with her life. She has taken the lessons learned from the Doctor and she has crafted a fantastic and fulfilling life for herself from them and the Doctor is pleased by this and knows that now he can move forward as well because he knows that he didn't "ruin her".

[king mob]

Ah Peter Capaldi...he gives good acting :biggrin:


Capaldi is great & The Thick Of It is just wonderful stuff, though I'm still unsure it can survive with Capaldi's character as the focus now they've had to get rid of Chris Langham.

This is still my favourite episode (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=271BS8U4XAY)& it features some cracking swearing.

[Omac70]

I like Donna, because she's the first companion to really question the Doctor. Even Romana, probably because she's a Time Lord herself, didn't question him so much. I like that she pushes him, and the revelations of the soothsayers were interesting.

No real problem with the concept of Donna. It's nice to have someone a little more argumentative for a change (although it would probably be nicer if they could stay away from the extremes).

It's when Tate has to act argumentative (or angry, or "funny") that I'm taken right out of the show, and consequently I'm not warming to her character. But to be fair, her quieter comedy moments in the last episode were fine - and her performance in the scene where she's asking The Doctor to return was very good indeed.

It may be a cheap shot to say that she's just channeling her sketch show characters... But that's what I'm seeing some of the time, and I'd much rather see a whole lot more of the other stuff.

[Captain Jim]

I hope he finally manages to tell her that he doesnt love her in the way she thinks he did. Rose certaingly played a big part in reminding him the human race were worth fighting for, but the kissing, the hugging...was just that, gratitude, then a mate. Rose misinterpreted it for something else.


I don't buy this for a minute. I've just been re-watching these episodes once again and I think it's pretty obvious that there was something more than the usual going on here between the Doctor and Rose. Sure, she was doubtless a bit naive about the whole thing, but I think it's pretty clear that the Doctor felt differently about her than the average companion. (It was pretty clear to Martha Jones as well.) In the Sarah Jane episode, for instance, when Rose asked him, "Is that what you're going to do to me too?" the Doctor quickly answered, "No! Not you!"

Now, that doesn't mean I want to see them settle down in the suburbs. Stressfactor is correct in saying this would probably ruin the series. Actually, I think the question is academic anyway, because I don't see Billie Piper coming back for an extended stay. When they finally do connect, if it is in fact following the point in time when he left her, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that she's now married to Mickey.

[mattx110]

I don't buy this for a minute. I've just been re-watching these episodes once again and I think it's pretty obvious that there was something more than the usual going on here between the Doctor and Rose. Sure, she was doubtless a bit naive about the whole thing, but I think it's pretty clear that the Doctor felt differently about her than the average companion. (It was pretty clear to Martha Jones as well.) In the Sarah Jane episode, for instance, when Rose asked him, "Is that what you're going to do to me too?" the Doctor quickly answered, "No! Not you!"

Now, that doesn't mean I want to see them settle down in the suburbs. Stressfactor is correct in saying this would probably ruin the series. Actually, I think the question is academic anyway, becasue I don't see Billie Piper coming back for an extended stay. When they finally do connect, if it is in fact following the point in time when he left her, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that she's now married to Mickey. He's since learned not to have more than average level of care for people. Doesn't really matter if he loved her before or still does. Well, it matters, but it's extremely unlikely he'd let himself do anything about it aside from stop aliens from eating her brain. And not just from a "this ain't no Dr. and Mrs. Who Show!!! It's Doctor Who!" stand-point, but from an in-story non-omniscient view too.

[Ontir]

Ah... no. Sorry [ ] the [ ] Doctor 'being together with Rose' is pretty much a sure-fire way to ruin the series.

Not at all. 10 and Rose can get back together and be quite happy, for a time, but he IS a Time Lord, and who's to say that what he feels for her now will be the same feelings that 11 has? Who's to say that she'll even like 11, much less love him. That arc could be quite interesting, and it's something we've not seen in the nearly 40 years of adventures.

Omac70, I've not seen anything of Tate (to the best of my knowledge) other than her work on "Who," so if she's re-creating, aping, or carrying characters over from other shows, I've no knowledge, so for me, it works. Just one of those "your mileage my vary..." things.

[king mob]

It may be a cheap shot to say that she's just channeling her sketch show characters... But that's what I'm seeing some of the time, and I'd much rather see a whole lot more of the other stuff.

This is the problem with Tate and it's why one has to be careful with what is a huge bit of stunt casting & cross promotion by the BBC. Saturday's episode was better & hopefully this carries on but the trailers for Planet Of The Ood do seem to suggest it's back to the gurning of the opening episode.

[Omac70]

Omac70, I've not seen anything of Tate (to the best of my knowledge) other than her work on "Who," so if she's re-creating, aping, or carrying characters over from other shows, I've no knowledge, so for me, it works. Just one of those "your mileage my vary..." things.
I'd agree that I'd probably be more open to her interpretation if I hadn't seen (some of) her comedy stuff beforehand. But I think I can honestly say that - apart from the moments I've already noted - her actual acting of the part in 'Who is something I wouldn't be enjoying even if I hadn't seen any of her previous work.

For me, comparing Donna to Tate's sketch show creations is I guess more along the lines of "this actor always does the same thing, and I don't like it much". She has a very distinctive style and it would have been more precise for me to say that I see elements of her comedy characters in Donna because she's just doing her usual schtick. It doesn't appeal to me, but each to their own.

The comparsion definitely came into it during those closing moments of Doomsday. I just thought, "she's not actually acting in - or reacting to - the scene, it's just comedy mannerisms which completely take me out of the 'reality' of the thing". It felt like a sketch show moment ("what the hell is this place?" delivered to sound less like a question than it did a catchphrase). But even without the knowledge of her previous work, I'd still have said it was bad acting. Or not acting at all.

Much like her Marmite sketch show, there will be those who love Donna and those who hate her. And I don't think it's any more complicated than asking, "do you like Catherine Tate or not?" - because with her distinctive style you're maybe going to like everything she does, or none of it. Personally I'm hoping for more of those moments where I'm not seeing the "usual" Catherine tate.

Saturday's episode was better & hopefully this carries on but the trailers for Planet Of The Ood do seem to suggest it's back to the gurning of the opening episode.
Yeah - it was thoroughly enjoyable on Saturday and it certainly helped that Donna wasn't so "distracting" in it (i.e. didn't take me out of the story too much and seemed to fit with what was happening around her).

I think perhaps the gurning is unfortunately something we're going to have to put with every time the character is meant to be "angry or incredulous" - or it's meant to be a "comedy moment". Whether this is down to directions from on-high ("millions watch you doing this on your show, so do it here too") or it's just a result of Tate's limited acting range, I don't know. She was more than acceptable - and indeed, pretty damn good - a few times in the last episode, so hopefully we'll get an equal share of that too.

[Stressfactor]

I just hope all of the 'We're not together and we have no interest in each other' jokes stop soon because they are going to get really old, really fast.

I mean, the "I just want a mate" joke worked in the first episode because they were setting the ground rules for the viewers. It was a 'here's the deal' moment played for laughs. Fine.

The 'we're not married'/'oh, brother and sister, I see the family resemblence' joke worked in the second episode with the addition of the absurdity of the Doctor and Donna as brother and sister

But the "Doctor and Mrs. Noble"/"Oh, we're not married, never, ever" bit in the teaser for the third episode... Gah! Enough already! We GET it! If you want to make a running joke for the series pick a better one than THIS!

[king mob]

I think perhaps the gurning is unfortunately something we're going to have to put with every time the character is meant to be "angry or incredulous" - or it's meant to be a "comedy moment". Whether this is down to directions from on-high ("millions watch you doing this on your show, so do it here too") or it's just a result of Tate's limited acting range, I don't know. She was more than acceptable - and indeed, pretty damn good - a few times in the last episode, so hopefully we'll get an equal share of that too.


Tate's a decent actress but I'd imagine she's been allowed a free range as she's one of the BBC's Big Stars & it is quite a coup that Who have pinned her down for a year.
She could easily have ground out another series of her comedy programme & popped up in several ITV dramas in order to kick start her serious acting career, but she's chosen Who to do this instead. Not a bad thing but it could well be she needs a director who can reign her in so she can be a decent companion & not add to the programme's flaws.

[mattx110]

Tate's a decent actress but I'd imagine she's been allowed a free range as she's one of the BBC's Big Stars & it is quite a coup that Who have pinned her down for a year.
She could easily have ground out another series of her comedy programme & popped up in several ITV dramas in order to kick start her serious acting career, but she's chosen Who to do this instead. Not a bad thing but it could well be she needs a director who can reign her in so she can be a decent companion & not add to the programme's flaws.
She's much better acting than writing to my ears.

So, yippie!

[Deathstroke]

For the US fans who didn't get the same audio commentary as the UK did on the Season 3 DVD, here's some news (http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Doctor-Season-3-Commentary-Track/9394).

[ChrisIII]

Some more news on the classic figure line. Apparentally they're taking a page from Marvel Legends and are going to do 'build-a-figure'.


In the case of the first line, it will be the Robot from well, Robot. They'll probably make him the smaller scale version seen in most of the serial I think, as WHO figures are generally smaller than Marvel legends anyway.

I wonder what other build-a-figures they're considering. I wouldn't mind the Dalek Emperor in both his classic and New series incarnations....

[Stressfactor]

Some more news on the classic figure line. Apparentally they're taking a page from Marvel Legends and are going to do 'build-a-figure'.


In the case of the first line, it will be the Robot from well, Robot. They'll probably make him the smaller scale version seen in most of the serial I think, as WHO figures are generally smaller than Marvel legends anyway.

I wonder what other build-a-figures they're considering. I wouldn't mind the Dalek Emperor in both his classic and New series incarnations....

Oooh shiny! Howsabout a Yeti, or a Macra (old or new), or a giant Azal, or a giant spider from Metabilis III, that spindly-legged Sontaran capture robot from "The Sontaran Experiment" (I don't know WHY I like that thing but I do), A Skarasen (that would be cool)... oh, I could go on....

[mattx110]

Some more news on the classic figure line. Apparentally they're taking a page from Marvel Legends and are going to do 'build-a-figure'.


In the case of the first line, it will be the Robot from well, Robot. They'll probably make him the smaller scale version seen in most of the serial I think, as WHO figures are generally smaller than Marvel legends anyway.

I wonder what other build-a-figures they're considering. I wouldn't mind the Dalek Emperor in both his classic and New series incarnations....
Maybe they'll start at K-1 and work their way to K-9

[king mob]

Black Orchid is out on dvd & it's a gem of a story & worth paying a tenner for on it's own, but the feature on Marvel UK's Doctor Who comics from the early 80's is wonderful.
It's a real walk into the past with great interviews with Alan Mackenzie & Dave Gibbons about the early days of the comic version of the fifth Doctor. I never realised that Mich Austin was a 'controversial' artist, or that Steve Dillon drew a full length story in three weeks, or that Dick Giordano drew the Dell Comics version of the first Peter Cushing Doctor Who film. Great stuff.

[Green Goblin]

The buiild a figures sound really interesing my brother would loved build your own emperor dalek . On another note I reallly enjoyed this week doctor who much better then I thought it be. Did anybody catch the hints for the finale looks like something big is cooking up. {Spoiler Next episode look awsome can't wait for the it Martha and the Sontatrtons are back}


(If that too much information can putting the spoiler tags for me please I'm not sure how to do them and show me how to do them please )

[rick]

The buiild a figures sound really interesing my brother would loved build your own emperor dalek . On another note I reallly enjoyed this week doctor who much better then I thought it be. Did any catch the hints for the finale looks like something big is cooking up. Next episode look awsome can't wait for the it Martha and the Sontatrtons are back.


(If that too much information can putting the spoiler tags for me please I'm not sure how to do them and show me how to do them please )


[spoil ] [ /spoil]

Just move the inner two brackets one more in.

[Green Goblin]

thanks for trying to help me but I'm still having differculty doing the spoiler thing

[carabas]

Just type it in white then.

Good episode by the way. Almost good enough to make me forgive that Ood physiology makes zero sense.

[ZT4]

Puking your guts out never felt so much like a facial:cool:

[Jack]

Just type it in white then.

Good episode by the way. Almost good enough to make me forgive that Ood physiology makes zero sense.
The Ood were probably designed by a really, really drunk Time Lord.

[drwho]

Does this take place before, or after the doctor was dealing with the devil?

[Dancer]

I'm not really sure if I liked the episode or not.

On the one hand, I thought it had some interesting ideas, and I liked seeing how the ood were treated, and I liked the idea of them being packed away in crates, there was something so disturbing about that.

On the other hand, it just, didn't click with me, there were so many plot threads going though it all at once, that I just didn't have the chance to connect or get involved with any of them, I know thats a common floor with a lot of Doctor Who episodes, but it seemed more prominent this time.

I was interested about what the ood said to the doctor at the end, I wonder what they meant, and the missing bees thing has got me curious.

On that note, can't wait till next week, classic enemy's, return of a companion, since the doctors in this world, maybe another glimpse of Rose...guessing it'll be a two parter. Looks like a gooden to me.

[king mob]

Does this take place before, or after the doctor was dealing with the devil?

It doesn't matter.

It was a decent episode, not great but watchable but not something worth staying in on a Saturday night for.

[DHX]

i havent been able to watch the last 2 episodes from start to finish, but i'll be watching the martha jones eisodes.

[Tobias March]

Yeah, it felt like a step back after the Vesuvius ep. Plus the Doctor's comment about how he didn't attend to the obvious problem of the Ood last time because he was busy struck me as ....well lazy writing really.

Some nice moments though. I'm already sick of the foreshadowing with Rose's Theme. We get it, she's back! Sheesh.

[ZT4]

The Doctor WAS busy, that was obvious from several things he was doing before he met Martha, then Donna.

[Ontir]

I liked the episode. As for the "lazy writing," did you want the Doctor to stop, in the middle of the story, and re-cap for Donna and the audience?

I also like the foreshadowing. For a time traveler, it's bound to happen!

With Rose and Sarah Jane back, not to mention Martha being with either the Doctor or Torchwood @ any given moment, I think it would be really interesting to round up all the companions on Earth and see what they're up to. All of them drawn together by some event or entity, probably as a trap for the Doctor. I'd love to see what's become of Susan, if she's still alive, and if so, how the timewar affected her.

[rick]

I thought it was a decent enough episode, not my favorite but still enjoyable.

The Ood really creep me out though.

[Ganatus]

A nice reference to an old William Hartnell story, ‘The Sensorites’. The Ood-Sphere is in the same system as the Sense-Sphere. (Nice gap of forty odd years between each story.) The Sensorites and Ood are obviously cousins.

Neither of them particularly appealing to me.

[Stressfactor]

Not as strong as "Fires of Pompeii" but yeah, still watchable. We've all seen the tag-backs to past stories in "Doctor Who" since the series re-started but I find it interesting that in the past two episodes there have been two tag-backs and BOTH have been to William Hartnell stories..... Hmmmm..... Wonder if that means anything?

As for the teaser to next week's episode -- someone PLEASE tell me that they didn't redesign the UNIT uniforms. PLEASE tell me that the guys in black and red are not UNIT. I know they probably want to emphasize that UNIT is not associated with any military (or the UN now either) but that black and red make them look more like the bad guys than the good guys.

One minor quibble as well, I don't think the trailer was cut very well. It really didn't have anything that had me on the edge of my seat saying 'Oh I can't wait for next week!' It might have packed more punch if they hadn't leaked most of it well in advance. We knew Martha was coming back and we knew the Sontarans were going to be involved.

[Tobias March]

I liked the episode. As for the "lazy writing," did you want the Doctor to stop, in the middle of the story, and re-cap for Donna and the audience?.

In a word....YES!! It undercuts his moral superiority the next time he visits a culture and decides to interfere. "But hey, I read about you, you're appeared in the 42nd c and did nothing to aid the poor Ood." "Well....I was busy." "Well get busy somewhere else and stop trying to distribute copies of the little red book to how Raktin sex slaves!"

See?

[king mob]

With Rose and Sarah Jane back, not to mention Martha being with either the Doctor or Torchwood @ any given moment, I think it would be really interesting to round up all the companions on Earth and see what they're up to. All of them drawn together by some event or entity, probably as a trap for the Doctor.

You might not have to wait too long if the rumours are to be believed.

[Ontir]

In a word....YES!! It undercuts his moral superiority the next time he visits a culture and decides to interfere. "But hey, I read about you, you're appeared in the 42nd c and did nothing to aid the poor Ood." "Well....I was busy." "Well get busy somewhere else and stop trying to distribute copies of the little red book to how Raktin sex slaves!"

See?

...uhm, no. Not really. I'm still trying to figure out what your last sentence means. I think that the line actually serves to humanize the Doctor. He had chided Donna, "Where do you think your clothes come from?" Fact is, he too, just accepted things as the norm. Didn't question why because he was, in fact, rather busy. Demonic possession and getting the Ood free from that diverted his attention from the fact that he was actually only diverting hijacked livestock back to its original owner. It's good to know the Doctor's not too perfect.

[carabas]

Does this take place before, or after the doctor was dealing with the devil?Both.
Chronologically speaking, The Impossible Planet must have happened first, because after Planet Of The Ood there won't be any servile Ood anymore.
And from the Doctor's point of view, TIP happened first, of course.

[Ontir]

Plus Rose was with the Doctor on the Impossible Planet, not Donna or even Martha.

[Nothingman]

just finished Planet of the Ood, personally i loved it. out of the series 4 the 3 episodes its my favorite. The character of Donna has grown on me a lot too especially after her explanation on why the Ood are so trusting that tugged at the heartstrings. Looking forward to the next episode and the return of Martha

[ChrisIII]

Any thoughts on the upcoming Sontaran episode? It's written by Helen Raynor, who wrote the much-maligned Dalek two-parter last series. I wonder if the thing in the coffin is a Rutan.


It also looks like this will be the first proper UNIT story we've got in the new series. Beforehand we've had UNIT mainly in an advisory role, not doing the classic fighting against aliens.

[Omac70]

Tate's a decent actress but I'd imagine she's been allowed a free range as she's one of the BBC's Big Stars & it is quite a coup that Who have pinned her down for a year.
That's another possibilty of course. And it may well be the case that - as you suggest - we may find her more palatable depending on who is directing her.

I have to be honest and say that she was mostly fine again last Saturday. A couple of "Lauren" moments early on... But I think I've come 'round to thinking that it's less about Tate channeling her characters than it is, for those who've seen her comedy stuff, recognising the way she portrays particular emotions. All of the sketch show characters are pretty much one-note, so when we see Donna being "bolshy" we're instantly reminded of the character who is always like that - Tate falling back on the way she's used to doing these things.

Very probably there's better and more subtle ways to get these emotions across, but it would be very unfair of me to say that there's been enough of it to bother me in the past two episodes (Planet of the Ood I think had other problems, although it was watchable). Tate has worked best when she's being more subtle, and thankfully we've seen quite a bit of that.

But the "Doctor and Mrs. Noble"/"Oh, we're not married, never, ever" bit in the teaser for the third episode... Gah! Enough already! We GET it! If you want to make a running joke for the series pick a better one than THIS!
Two criticisms I have of the new series - which are intertwined here - are the sledgehammer approach they sometimes take to making their points, and the way they go for extremes.

Because we've had a companion in love with The Doctor, this one has got to very definitely not be. But it's not enough to make her like any of those females who travelled with him in the first 26 years, we've got to state this position on screen again and again until the idiots get it.

Another example of the "sledgehammer" thing is Rose crying about losing The Doctor in Fear Her, even though she's been split up from him countless times already in the season and he's only been gone 5 minutes and she hasn't even bothered to look for him (and she should even know where to look). But just in case anybody hasn't yet picked up on the idea that she's important to him... And the "extremes" thing usually manifests at the end of each season, just by adding "millions" of something to the threat to make it bigger. Which is fine, except there's no point in always upping the ante if the only way to make the problem go away is hitting another variation on the "reset" button...

But for all this, the series since it's come back has produced some remarkable episodes. So I'd never be unhappy about it coming back.

[Omac70]

Any thoughts on the upcoming Sontaran episode? It's written by Helen Raynor, who wrote the much-maligned Dalek two-parter last series. I wonder if the thing in the coffin is a Rutan.
Not the worst Sontarans I've seen. Hopefully going to be better than Raynor's last offering. Would love to see a Rutan!

I know I'm in a minority, but I think Martha is the best of the new series companions and I'm looking forward to her return. Tennant's Doctor gets a proper chance to shine through - unfiltered - when he's not got such an "extreme" (too much in love or just too loud) partner to play against, and Martha being "normal" (without being "boring" or "undeveloped") is the perfect fit for him.

[Stressfactor]

A yes... poor, poor Rutans... only seen once on film so far. It *is* kind of a shame, that.

BTW did anyone catch the Sontaran's name off the trailer? I'm just curious since so far we've had Lynx, Styre, and Stike so far and his name sounded like it might have started with an 'S' as well...

[ZT4]

Not the worst Sontarans I've seen. Hopefully going to be better than Raynor's last offering..

Speaking of minority opinions, I enjoyed "Evolution of the Daleks". Heck, I also enjoy "Destiny of the Daleks", which is also a low-point as far as "fandom consensus" goes.

A yes... poor, poor Rutans... only seen once on film so far. It *is* kind of a shame, that.

It was one hell of a solo story though. Nobody lived beyond The Doctor and Leela. That cant be said of any Sontaran serial.

[Omac70]

BTW did anyone catch the Sontaran's name off the trailer? I'm just curious since so far we've had Lynx, Styre, and Stike so far and his name sounded like it might have started with an 'S' as well...
Your ears did not deceive you. General Staal, apparently.

Speaking of minority opinions, I enjoyed "Evolution of the Daleks". Heck, I also enjoy "Destiny of the Daleks", which is also a low-point as far as "fandom consensus" goes.
But this is what makes fandom fun! Or does at least in places like this where you don't get your head ripped off for daring to have an opinion...

Just for starters, I could mention that I don't really care for any of Chris Boucher's contributions to the series (although I love his Blakes 7 stuff) but I'm really rather fond of Revenge of the Cybermen...

[Spike-X]

Two criticisms I have of the new series - which are intertwined here - are the sledgehammer approach they sometimes take to making their points, and the way they go for extremes.

Because we've had a companion in love with The Doctor, this one has got to very definitely not be. But it's not enough to make her like any of those females who travelled with him in the first 26 years, we've got to state this position on screen again and again until the idiots get it.

This seems to me to be symptomatic of the general dumbing down of the show I've noticed slowly occurring over the last couple of seasons (with some noticeable exceptions, such as Human Nature/Family Of Blood).

It seems like Doctor Who is falling prey to the same thing that strikes so many very popular shows/concepts - "Now that there's so many people watching, we have to, a: keep them watching, and b: get even more people watching!" Which invariably results in a loss of the quality that made it such a success in the first place.

I hope to be proven wrong about this.

[Stressfactor]

Your ears did not deceive you. General Staal, apparently.


Thank you!

Now I'm starting to wonder if Sontarans have something about names that start with 's' in general... :biggrin:

For years fans have been hearing about the Sontaran/Rutan war -- It would be nice to get to see a part of that. Why can't we see a Sontaran/Rutan battle? Even if it's just two CGI ships firing at one another.

[ZT4]

Your ears did not deceive you. General Staal, apparently.


But this is what makes fandom fun! Or does at least in places like this where you don't get your head ripped off for daring to have an opinion...

Just for starters, I could mention that I don't really care for any of Chris Boucher's contributions to the series (although I love his Blakes 7 stuff) but I'm really rather fond of Revenge of the Cybermen...

Wasnt that Gerry Davis?

Boucher wrote "Image of the Turds"..sorry, Fendhal" in addition to "Robots"*


*I actualy like "Fendhal..but those designs..."

[Omac70]

Just for starters, I could mention that I don't really care for any of Chris Boucher's contributions to the series (although I love his Blakes 7 stuff) but I'm really rather fond of Revenge of the Cybermen...
Wasnt that Gerry Davis?
Boucher wrote "Image of the Turds"..sorry, Fendhal" in addition to "Robots"*

*I actualy like "Fendhal..but those designs..."
Sorry - I wasn't very clear. It was Gerry (and Robert Holmes) who wrote Revenge, and I was saying that I'd rather watch that than any of Boucher's tales. Blasphemy, I know!

Having said that, I don't actually hate those stories and I should perhaps look at them more often.

[king mob]

This may be spoiler time so don't read the rest of this..


The 2008 Christmas special is being filmed just up the road in Gloucester over the next few weeks. According to one of the lads down the pub for the footy who's done some extra work it's version of A Christmas Carol & it's rumoured on-set to be a flashback episode.

It's due to finish filming at Gloucester Cathedral just after the Mayday bank holiday & then it apparently continues filming in Cardiff until the end of May.

[Omac70]

A few pictures of the filming here (http://www.gallifrey5forum.co.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=2262&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=14) (the one under the spoiler revealing a guest star I've hoped to see for a long time)

[Ontir]

According to one of the lads down the pub for the footy[...]

Spoiler be damned, this is the most unabashadly British sentences I've heard in a long time! :tongue:

[mattx110]

A few pictures of the filming here (http://www.gallifrey5forum.co.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=2262&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=14) (the one under the spoiler revealing a guest star I've hoped to see for a long time)
Oh Christ that would be awesome as sin.

That's a gorgeous suit.

[Captain Jim]

This may be spoiler time so don't read the rest of this..


The 2008 Christmas special is being filmed just up the road in Gloucester over the next few weeks. According to one of the lads down the pub for the footy who's done some extra work it's version of A Christmas Carol & it's rumoured on-set to be a flashback episode.

It's due to finish filming at Gloucester Cathedral just after the Mayday bank holiday & then it apparently continues filming in Cardiff until the end of May.

Do we know if Donna is still going to be the Doctor's companion by then?

[mattx110]

Do we know if Donna is still going to be the Doctor's companion by then?
I think the real spoiler, is that Donna is the one doing the regenerating :wink:

[Omac70]

Do we know if Donna is still going to be the Doctor's companion by then?
Apparently The Doctor will be going into the 2008 xmas special all alone. Which will be something of an achievement, given how crowded the Tardis is going to get later on...

I think the real spoiler, is that Donna is the one doing the regenerating :wink:
She needn't wait until the end of the season as far as I'm concerned. :wink:

A few pictures of the filming here (http://www.gallifrey5forum.co.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=2262&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=14) (the one under the spoiler revealing a guest star I've hoped to see for a long time)
Oh Christ that would be awesome as sin.
Definitely going to be there. Doing what, no-one's quite sure yet...

[Ontir]

I think the real spoiler, is that Donna is the one doing the regenerating :wink:

I don't think the Doctor OR Donna will be the one doing the regenerating!

[rick]

Oh Christ that would be awesome as sin.

That's a gorgeous suit.


I have no idea at all who that is.

Mind saying who he is in a spolier?

[Spike-X]

I have no idea at all who that is.

Mind saying who he is in a spolier?
I was just gonna ask the same thing.

[joeyblues]

I do belive it's Morissey, Popular english Cumudgon and racist.

more poularly known for being the lead singer/songwriter in The Smiths before pretentiousness consumed him.

[Spike-X]

Well, that'll be interesting.

[Deathstroke]

I didn't know Billie Piper was pregnant.

A celebrity gossip site has pics of her topless on a beach and they say she is pregnant.

She looks gorgeous.

Oh, and I can't wait to watch the first regular episode of Season 4 tomorrow night. I watched it on Youtube, but TV is always better.

[edhopper]

This thread is for us fans in the US who see Doctor Who on the SciFi Channel. The other thread discusses episodes shown in Britain that we won't see for months. I like to avoid having future episodes spoiled.
Last Friday Season 4 premiered with "Voyage of the Damned". It was fun enough, not a great episode, but they usually have shows that are sort of buffers when a new companion is introduced. And since I avoid the other Doctor Who thread, I thankfully don't know who it is.:biggrin:
I did think this episode had a retro feel, maybe do to the well known character actors in the episode.

[Sean Walsh]

Actually, they're airing in the States pretty quickly this season. I think episode 3 or 4 just aired in the UK.

For past seasons we Americans didn't start getting it until long after the UK season had ended.

[edhopper]

Actually, they're airing in the States pretty quickly this season. I think episode 3 or 4 just aired in the UK.

For past seasons we Americans didn't start getting it until long after the UK season had ended.

Still 3 or 4 episodes too many. It's to hard to search the thread for the episode we saw here without seeing info on ones we haven't.

[Ontir]

You can also watch them on youtube.

Also, you KNOW who the new companion is, you just don't know you know. :tongue:

[Omac70]

I have no idea at all who that is.
I do belive it's Morissey, Popular english Cumudgon and racist.

:smile:

It's David Morrissey (who amongst other things starred with Tennant in an excellent series called Blackpool) and I guess it's no big deal except for those who've always hoped to see that pairing again in 'Who.

And Morrissey (the other one) isn't a racist.

[Ontir]

I do belive it's Morissey, Popular english Cumudgon and racist.

more poularly known for being the lead singer/songwriter in The Smiths before pretentiousness consumed him.

Curmudgeon, English, pretentious, certainly. Racist? I've not heard anything about this. When did Morissey make racist statements?

[Alan Lynch]

Curmudgeon, English, pretentious, certainly. Racist? I've not heard anything about this. When did Morissey make racist statements?
I think it's something to do with an interview in the NME, unless he's said something else. The BBC have a brief recap here. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/6music/news/20071128_mozza.shtml) He said some things about immigration, NME printed them, he sued and subsequently got an apology.

[king mob]

I think it's something to do with an interview in the NME, unless he's said something else. The BBC have a brief recap here. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/6music/news/20071128_mozza.shtml) He said some things about immigration, NME printed them, he sued and subsequently got an apology.

But he's still a bigot, not sure if he's become an out and out racist while living in LA but he's always dabbled with dubious imagery.

Anyhow, there's no Tate in the Christmas special though there is a guest companion but apparently not one as big as Kylie is. David Morrissey would make a fantastic Doctor and a fine replacement for Tennant when he leaves. Shame that's looking unlikely.

[Spike-X]

It's David Morrissey (who amongst other things starred with Tennant in an excellent series called Blackpool) and I guess it's no big deal except for those who've always hoped to see that pairing again in 'Who.

Oh. I was wondering why he didn't look anything like...who I thought.

[mattx110]

I have no idea at all who that is.

Mind saying who he is in a spolier?
Well, we already have uncovered in this thread, it's David Morrissey, of "Blackpool" fame along with Tennant. Where he lost his wife to DI Carlyle. But, also, lost his wife to Cal McCaffery as played by John Simm in "State of Play"(not a spoiler, trust me, when you get to episodes 5 and 6, you won't care whose screwing who).

So, both the Doctor and Master have taken his wimmens, and it's time for revenge. And he's almost definitely not playing the next incarnation of the Doctor, but with the outfit, and the fact that he was considered for the part (or at least rumored repeatedly) and would probably do a great job (although probably a ruder doctor than Tennant), makes it look like he's the new Doctor. Which is a cool as heck concept. Although sad in a way that he probably isn't and can't be anymore once he does another role that's apparently big enough for press photos. Maybe they'll introduce the new doctor in a "two doctors" story that involves 10 and 11, before 10 turns into 11 continuity-wise due to all the time-trickery. I think it'd be cool, and they've only done that kinda thing once, and he was evil. Getting to see yourself regenerate into yourself is also kind of a rare "only a timelord can do it" concept. Better than looking at the back of your head.

[Ontir]

But he's still a bigot, not sure if he's become an out and out racist while living in LA but he's always dabbled with dubious imagery.

OK, Mob. You've got to come up with a bit more than what we've seen thus far if you're going to call the guy a racist. I need at least a quote or two, from someplace reputable.

BTW: Unless something's changed radically, the likelihood of Morissey knocking ANYONE up is astronomically miniscule.

[edhopper]

You can also watch them on youtube.

Also, you KNOW who the new companion is, you just don't know you know. :tongue:

Well then, tonight should be interesting.

[rick]

At this point the US is only three weeks behind on the new episodes.

[king mob]

OK, Mob. You've got to come up with a bit more than what we've seen thus far if you're going to call the guy a racist. I need at least a quote or two, from someplace reputable.

It all results from this (http://motorcycleaupairboy.com/interviews/1992/caucasian.htm)at one of the first Madstock gigs in the early 90's. Morrissey had always dabbled with Suedehead imagry during his Smiths days, but the minute to start to call reggae 'vile' but as mentioned in the link, it's the song 'National Front Disco' that dropped Mozzer well & truely in it.

However I don't think Mozzer is an out & out racist but he's showing the same sort of lazy racism all too common with British socialists of a certain age. When the NME interviewed him last year, it wasn't to trap him as a bigot, fuck no, they'd spent years trying to blag an interview. When Mozzer kicked off about this particular interview (http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/music/2007/11/jonze_nme_morrissey.html) which was on the back of the Love Music, Hate Racism (http://www.lovemusichateracism.com/) campaign, it was done because Mozzer has been a vocal campaigner against such petty racism & there lies the problem.

Morrissey has found his place in the ranks of British songwriters surpassed, most notably by Jarvis Cocker but also by The Libertines, but his place is assurred. However as much as I think he's great, he's a cock who often doesn't realise just what power his words hold.

[Spike-X]

I can't stand reggae, dub, dancehall or any of that gear either. I also despise the homophobia present in Jamaican culture.

Does that make me a racist as well?

[king mob]

I can't stand reggae, dub, dancehall or any of that gear either. I also despise the homophobia present in Jamaican culture.

Does that make me a racist as well?

If you tar it all with the same brush as Morrissey did then yes, it does. There's a lot more to Jamaican music and culture that what's personified by the likes of Shabba Ranks.

[Captain Jim]

Watched the first episode and enjoyed it, but I thought it was just a little over the top. Little men made of fat? And people say that Sarah Jane is too juvenile for them? In terms of silliness, this tops anything I've seen on Sarah Jane so far.

Certainly was intrigued by the Rose appearance, though. As long as they don't do what Star Trek Voyager did with Kes and turn her evil. I'd hate that.

[DF2506]

I thought last weeks episode Voyage of the Damned was really, really, really good, but this weeks was...well....OK I guess.

I liked the return of Donna, the hilarous moment where the Dr. & Donna finally see each other and "talk" (lol), Donna's grandpa seeing the Tardis, the whole "mate" moment (ha), and of course the BEST part was the return of Rose!! That shocked me so much. I was like " What?! "

And " What was that all about?! "

Without a doubt, the best moment of the episode!

Next week looks better. Looking forward to it as always. Who has turned out to be a really good show.

DF2506

[edhopper]

I'm of two minds. Donna is pretty funny, but I don't know if I can take a whole season of comic relief, it might wear thin. Though the Rose thing at the end could compensate. But since the show hasn't disappointed me in the past, I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.

[ZT4]

Donna isnt comic releif. That's part of the package, but there's much more to her.

[DonC]

I didn't care for "Voyage of the Damned," but I really liked this week's episode. It was just some light-hearted fun, plain and simple. Would I want every episode to the this fluffy? No, but it's a welcome break from the Daleks, Cybermen and all kinds of other serious threats.

[ZT4]

"The Sontaran Stratagem" has aired.

I enjoyed it. The Sonatrans were realized perfectly, even if theyve suddenly developed "gang names". The clone idea? Ironic, but unnecersary, there's a good enough story with the cars and Atmos being used to choke the planet

Seeing Robert Holmes in the end credits was as touching as seeing the Tenth Sontaran Battle Fleet in space watching Earth choked to death IN CARS! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-P2SrGzFwc)

I think we missed an oppertunity to team Tennant and Tate up with Liz Sladen here...the whole thing screamed "Sarah Jane Adventures" quality with a slight edge

[Green Goblin]

I really enjoyed the Sontaron Stargem , loved the unit dating refernce conversely , the martha/ donna intereaction was great as well . I also like the sontarons battle fleet in space and the first appereance of the planet sontor in televsion. So we know we the sontarons were not alllowed to fight in the time war , wonder what other races weren't allowed

[drwho]

I was disappointed to see the size they made the sontarans. They should be tall and menacing.

[rick]

I was disappointed to see the size they made the sontarans. They should be tall and menacing.


Well, I adm,it that they used to be a little larger then they are, but they have never been all that huge.

[Sanagi]

Partners in Crime didn't even attempt to scratch the surface of the themes it was working with, but I have to give it credit for being seriously weird. Weight loss obsession, monsters that don't look like monsters, motherhood, Aliens-style murderous insemination, morally gray Frankenstein's Monster situations... None of which went anywhere, but it was an interesting mix of ideas. And better by far than Voyage of the Damned.

Ever since the rumors started circulating, I was against the return of Rose, but I have to admit I'm intrigued. Maybe they'll make it work.

[Stressfactor]

Doctor seems like he's being a bit of a hypocrite early on. He skewers Col. Mace over carrying a gun when, when you got right down to it, the Doctor definitely considered the Brig a friend and the Brig always carried a gun.

[mattx110]

That was awesome. Very old school feel. Like the old UNIT appearances, despite the new face of UNIT.

[Stressfactor]

Funny, I felt the same way by te end. I thought to myself 'well, that really felt like a "Classic Who" episode.

Although I'm going to go out on a limb here and bet that I'm the only one who had bad flashbacks to the Disney animated film "The Great Mouse Detective" every time someone mentioned Rattigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTWBgiWtzsc

[Omac70]

Whereas I'm rapidly losing the will to watch... But I'm glad so many people enjoyed this.

Personally, I'm hoping for a second half of season turnaround (like last year) where the best I can say won't be "tolerable" or "watchable". I know I'm in a minority, but I think S4 has had the worst start of them all.

[Ontir]

What I liked about Voyage of the Damned was the way it showed the Doctor's impact on Britain in particular, and the weight he still carries within the British Government. It's been a long, long time since his U.N.I.T. days, but between this and Torchwood, we know he's still got clout!

...plus I just loved the Queen in do-rags & fuzzy pink slippers, racing the korgis out of Buckingham! :eek: :tongue:

[Ontir]

[...]I'm the only one who had bad flashbacks to the Disney animated film "The Great Mouse Detective" every time someone mentioned Rattigan[...]

I KNEW I knew that name! :tongue:

I rather enjoyed this ep. I liked the way Martha was involved, the opening gambit was interesting, and the Sontarans looked pretty cool, which is a first! I also liked the way that the Doctor has met Donna's family, albeit by bumbling across them, which is typical, one by one. With each episode, I'm getting to like Donna more and more. The way she went in, doing her own thing, and proving her worth, as well as the way she didn't take any crap from the U.N.I.T. officer was cool.

[TCJohnson]

Doctor seems like he's being a bit of a hypocrite early on. He skewers Col. Mace over carrying a gun when, when you got right down to it, the Doctor definitely considered the Brig a friend and the Brig always carried a gun.

Yeah, but the Doctor always scolded him when he used it.


I really liked this episode. My favorite of the season so far.

[TCJohnson]

I was disappointed to see the size they made the sontarans. They should be tall and menacing.

Why? The Sontarans have always been played by relatively short actors (although usually not that short.) The novels said it was because their planet had so much gravity, made them short but extremely strong.

http://www.whosdw.com/images/lynxdoc.jpg

[king mob]

Seeing Robert Holmes in the end credits was as touching as seeing the Tenth Sontaran Battle Fleet in space watching Earth choked to death IN CARS! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-P2SrGzFwc)

It was nice to see Holmes's name speed by, but I can't help but think that he'd have cringed at the quality of the script. It was also another script with a 'this'll do, won't it?' feel to follow up last week's effort.

Whereas I'm rapidly losing the will to watch... But I'm glad so many people enjoyed this.

Personally, I'm hoping for a second half of season turnaround (like last year) where the best I can say won't be "tolerable" or "watchable". I know I'm in a minority, but I think S4 has had the worst start of them all.

With the exception of Fires Of Pompeii this series had been poor so far, not to mention being incredibly dull in places. I found myself incredibly bored with last night's episode, even my mates kids have become bored of it and they've been die-hard Who fans since it returned.

I'm hoping the series improves in it's second half, we still have Moffat's two-parter & the everything but the kitchen sink three part finale to come so there's still hope.

[Stressfactor]

I'm a bit surprised -- I thought there would be a number of Martha Jones fans on here kicking up a fuss since she seemed to get a big dose of "Traditional Companion" here. It was the one thing that really irritated me -- not that I have that much knowledge of Martha's time as a companion but the fact that she does pretty much everything a Traditional Female Companion used to do to herself in trouble. We even had screaming.

[Tobias March]

Satellite controlled cars of death!?

Teh suck :tongue:

[ZT4]

Oh I'm sure the implied stripping was why she was screaming:cool:

With the exception of Fires Of Pompeii this series had been poor so far, not to mention being incredibly dull in places. I found myself incredibly bored with last night's episode, even my mates kids have become bored of it and they've been die-hard Who fans since it returned.

Sorry you beleive that then, this is as "True Doctor Who" as most of the seasons are, I think the criticisms these days are just for the sake of finding any reason to complain and have no fun with the episodes. There missing out.

DW isnt always going to be oscar-worthy, sometimes people just want to have fun. This was fun.

[Stressfactor]

Yeah, not earthshattering, but fun.

I almost think they HAD to give some credit to Holmes because a lot of what appeared here really tied back into "The Time Warrior". I mean, we had UNIT back, we had workers under hypnotic control and being worked until they dropped, we had probic vents, three fingered hands, blaster wands, heck, we even had mention of human females having more frail thoraxes!

On the other hand, I DO think the episode suffered the most from the lighting. The set design was mostly okay but using all of that neon green and purple and blue glow lighting just made all of those scenes lit like that look like a bad 1980's (or early 1990's) video arcade. It robbed it of impact by making it all look too silly. If they had just used some darker colors for the lighting I think it would have helped.

And come on -- Bernard Cribbens as Donna's grandfather. The man could walk away with a scene tucked under his arm and no one would care.

[Cyke]

Tennant-style antics with Pertwee-style pacing and plot twists. I approve :)

And yes, the Doctor's a bit of a hypocrite, but I'm so glad that Martha called him out and defended Col. Mace. Here's hoping Mace gets some more character development next week to justify that defence.

[Omac70]

I think the criticisms these days are just for the sake of finding any reason to complain and have no fun with the episodes. There missing out.
I can only speak for myself, but I only complain when I don't like something - I can't pretend to enjoy something if I didn't.

...This isn't directed at you particularly, but why is it when people have something positive to say they're never accused of having an "agenda"? And why is it impossible to be critical of any episode of the new series without first having to list all the episodes you have enjoyed (for the record, too many to mention in my case) just so people know you're not an "RTD-basher"? Or whatever ridiculous tag they want to apply...

DW isnt always going to be oscar-worthy, sometimes people just want to have fun. This was fun.
Which is fair enough - the show can do just about anything, and I've enjoyed the various styles and tones it's adopted throughout the years. But "fun" isn't universal - not everybody enjoys the same things.

[Ontir]

Satellite controlled cars of death!?

Teh suck :tongue:

I'm not really sure what "teh suck" means, but...

I think, as described, it's a really interesting and rather nefarious plot.
A car is a couple thousand pounds of metal, moving at high speed. That is, when used improperly, quite a weapon as is. Add alien intelligence, exploiting both a need and desire connected to them, as well as their ubiquity, and you've got a pretty scary idea.

I think that anyone seized by an alien, stripped naked, and bound up for a purpose which will lead to your betrayal of pretty much everything you stand for would lead you to scream as well.

What I like about this ep, is that the Sontarans had been planning for quite awhile. They knew what they were doing, and had all their pawns in place. It was fun, the difference between Donna and Martha was as interesting as their similarities. The return of U.N.I.T. was cool, complete with the red berets in which Ianto would look so good! :wink: It was interesting, both in this ep, and in the Torchwood ep, to see what kind of Clout the Doctor still has, as well as his reluctancy to use it, at least for himself. I love that Donna - more of a Jo Grant companion - uses her own strengths, in a way we've really not seen before, to find information and be of use. I also loved that she didn't take any crap from the U.N.I.T. officer. "I'll take a salute!"

[Tobias March]

I'm not really sure what "teh suck" means, but...

I think, as described, it's a really interesting and rather nefarious plot.
A car is a couple thousand pounds of metal, moving at high speed. That is, when used improperly, quite a weapon as is. Add alien intelligence, exploiting both a need and desire connected to them, as well as their ubiquity, and you've got a pretty scary idea.

I think that anyone seized by an alien, stripped naked, and bound up for a purpose which will lead to your betrayal of pretty much everything you stand for would lead you to scream as well.

What I like about this ep, is that the Sontarans had been planning for quite awhile. They knew what they were doing, and had all their pawns in place. It was fun, the difference between Donna and Martha was as interesting as their similarities. The return of U.N.I.T. was cool, complete with the red berets in which Ianto would look so good! :wink: It was interesting, both in this ep, and in the Torchwood ep, to see what kind of Clout the Doctor still has, as well as his reluctancy to use it, at least for himself. I love that Donna - more of a Jo Grant companion - uses her own strengths, in a way we've really not seen before, to find information and be of use. I also loved that she didn't take any crap from the U.N.I.T. officer. "I'll take a salute!"

I was taking the piss sir, no worries :smile:

It was an alright episode, but nothing special.

I liked the Sontaran haka at the end.

[Stressfactor]

I love that Donna - more of a Jo Grant companion

Bit your tongue! Jo Grant is one of my LEAST favorite companions. Although I do agree that Donna continues to shine and I love that the writers are showing her wriggling in among the cracks and using her rather oridinary Earthly knowledge in ways that surprise and prove useful.

I know there are a lot of people who are still a little unsure of Tate in the role but honestly -- look at Tate and Tennant onscreen together. There is real chemistry there -- a sense of two actors who are truly sparking off of one another. THAT is what I'm really loving with this season. I'm starting to feel it is a bit of a shame that Tate won't be staying longer. She's proving a real breath of fresh air here.

I'm starting to really look forward to the episode "The Unicorn and the Wasp" since it has been billed as a comedic episode rather in the vein of "The Romans", "The Mythmakers" and "The Gunfighters". I have a feeling this is going to be good as long as they don't let it go TOO far over the top.

[ZT4]

And come on -- Bernard Cribbens as Donna's grandfather. The man could walk away with a scene tucked under his arm and no one would care.

Are you in a minority? Cribbens is a highly-regarded actor, and he acted Tate off the screen with their reunion without saying anything.

[Cyke]

I can only speak for myself, but I only complain when I don't like something - I can't pretend to enjoy something if I didn't.

...This isn't directed at you particularly, but why is it when people have something positive to say they're never accused of having an "agenda"? And why is it impossible to be critical of any episode of the new series without first having to list all the episodes you have enjoyed (for the record, too many to mention in my case) just so people know you're not an "RTD-basher"? Or whatever ridiculous tag they want to apply...


Oh, pay no mind. I was chastised for being one of the few people who didn't like The Fires of Pompeii. And I've defended some clunkers in my time!

[SPAfreak]

Are you in a minority? Cribbens is a highly-regarded actor, and he acted Tate off the screen with their reunion without saying anything.

I think that's the point. He stole the scene.

[Stressfactor]

I think that's the point. He stole the scene.

Bingo!

My point was, how could someone COMPLETELY hate an episode in which Cribbens steals scenes with such talent and class.

[Ganatus]

Fortunately now, for the re-emergence of the Sontarans, most people have not heard of Xel, a character back in the 60’s comic strip Dan Dare, or if so, forgotten him. He was small, came from a heavy gravity planet, wore a bulky space suit with a helmet that covered his potato shaped head, with it’s cruel broad mouth and was totally warrior class.

And I enjoyed seeing the Sontarans return.

However, I would have liked that weakness, the old plug in the neck, forgotten… as the new team decided to forget the gold weakness in the respiration vents of the Cybermen. Never thought either were sensible weaknesses.

[Matt]

I never had a problem with either of those weaknesses, though the Cyberman one did go to far at times.

Seriously, sometimes it seemed that just being in the same room as gold meant their doom ... which was never the intention.

[Stressfactor]

The gold thing never sat right with me. It always seemed very silly and I still prefer the days when the Doctor had to come up with a different way of defeating the Cybermen every time. After all, they were also vulnerable to radiation, strong gravomettric forces and emotions but somehow gold just became their schtick.

I don't mind the whole 'probic vent' thing because, at least in the earliest incarnations, it was only meant to be a weakness -- not sometihng that could kill them. A strong clout on the head would incapacitate just about any alien race with a skull so why should the Sontaran probic vent be any different?

[Enigmanaut]

I was disappointed to see the size they made the sontarans. They should be tall and menacing.

Sontarans are supposed to be short, not tall.

[Captain Jim]

I thought Voyage was great and am interested in knowing why some of you didn't like it.

[DonC]

I thought Voyage was great and am interested in knowing why some of you didn't like it.


I didn't mind the bad guy. And I loved the humor where everyone in London left town. But the whole Poseidon Adventure plot was, well, a rip off of The Poseidon Adventure. Had they added some element of parody or something, it might have been better. But playing it straight didn't work for me.

[Ontir]

Bit your tongue! Jo Grant is one of my LEAST favorite companions. Although I do agree that Donna continues to shine and I love that the writers are showing her wriggling in among the cracks and using her rather oridinary Earthly knowledge in ways that surprise and prove useful.

What I meant was that she, like Grant, had a job to do, and did it. Donna doesn't try to get caught up in the timy-wimy bits, or figure out nuclear phsyics, that's not her thing. She knows what she does, and she does it, providing some interesting results.

I know there are a lot of people who are still a little unsure of Tate in the role but honestly -- look at Tate and Tennant onscreen together. There is real chemistry there -- a sense of two actors who are truly sparking off of one another. THAT is what I'm really loving with this season. I'm starting to feel it is a bit of a shame that Tate won't be staying longer. She's proving a real breath of fresh air here.

I think it was that chemistry - so evident in the DVD extras and on "Confidential" when they made "Runaway Bride" that lead to her coming back. It's also interesting to see that the character of Donna really has grown since her first ride in the TARDIS. She's no Mother Theresa, but she's come a loooooooong way!

I'm starting to really look forward to the episode "The Unicorn and the Wasp" since it has been billed as a comedic episode rather in the vein of "The Romans", "The Mythmakers" and "The Gunfighters". I have a feeling this is going to be good as long as they don't let it go TOO far over the top.

"Unicorn and Wasp" makes me want to make a Jack & Ianto joke. I don't have one, but I have the urge to have one!

[Stressfactor]

I didn't mind the bad guy. And I loved the humor where everyone in London left town. But the whole Poseidon Adventure plot was, well, a rip off of The Poseidon Adventure. Had they added some element of parody or something, it might have been better. But playing it straight didn't work for me.

I agree. Plus, the story kind of ripped off Douglas Adams as well and it might have been nice to see them maybe do some sort of tip of the hat to acknowledge that.

It also suffered a little bit from trying to cram a two hour movie into a 75 minute story. I didn't like the way all the deaths clustered together at the middle and the end of the story instead of being stretched out.

I will give them points, though, for letting that rich jackass live. Killing that character off would have been a sense that he "deserved" it so they used it to illustrate that sometimes some of those who deserve to die get to live and sometimes some of those who deserve to live die.

But for it being the 'big Christmas extravaganza" I was a bit disappointed. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it.

[Sanagi]

Voyage of the Damned was just a series of cliches, and while Doctor Who can often get away with that by dressing up the cliches with sci-fi/time travel elements, this time it didn't work. That said, I don't think it was the worst episode ever, just a disappointing one.

[Deathstroke]

I loved the casting on Voyage of the Damned of the ship's suicidal captain who was the lead on As Time Goes By and the old man who was the tour guide who was the henpecked husband on Keeping Up Appearances.

[Mac Danny]

I did NOT think hey were going to bring even an image of Rose back so soon.

Intrigued!

Also wouldn't next weeks Pompeii episode be a great place for a Captain Jack appearance?

[king mob]

Sorry you beleive that then, this is as "True Doctor Who" as most of the seasons are, I think the criticisms these days are just for the sake of finding any reason to complain and have no fun with the episodes. There missing out.

DW isnt always going to be oscar-worthy, sometimes people just want to have fun. This was fun.

I'm not just being picky, I'm actually really bored by this series & the general shoddy nature of the writing from the start of last series seems to have followed the same pattern this series.

Now Saturday's episode wasn't especially bad, it wasn't a Fear Her, but it was just dull & had a sense of Who by numbers that's crept into the programme over the last two years.

The programme needs a shake up & it needs to have voices critical of it rather than just liking it for the sake of it being Doctor Who.

[Ontir]

I liked last season, I like Tennant a lot, and apart from feeling like they were in a bit of a rut with the Christmas special, I've enjoyed this season as well.

[IamtheRock3]

Saw an episode That I missed just an hour ago

About Rose taking one of her boyfriend with her Adam. He eventully got left back on earth with a computer hole in his head. Harsh..granted he mess up

But come on what companion HASNT BROUGHT EARTH TO NEAR EXTINCTION...practilly all of of them

Would of thought he just run the Tardaris across his head, so his head wont open up every time someone snaps his finger

Then again if that hole works on every monder day Computer, that means free porn for life...fair trade

[Sean Whitmore]

The Doctor was a little self-righteous, but I appreciated that they didn't make the UNIT staff particularly violent or stupid to prove his viewpoint. I liked Ross, and the Colonel had a nice back-and-forth going with the Doc.

This was the first time I've seen an episode with the Sontarans, and I enjoyed them. I like all that warrior culture stuff...they're like little, potato-shaped Klingons.


SEAN

[Captain Jim]

Also wouldn't next weeks Pompeii episode be a great place for a Captain Jack appearance?

Any particular reason?

[mattx110]

Any particular reason?
I'd guess because it seems like there's a lot of ways for someone to die painfully...

[Mr. Croup]

I loved the casting on Voyage of the Damned of the ship's suicidal captain who was the lead on As Time Goes By and the old man who was the tour guide who was the henpecked husband on Keeping Up Appearances.

His name is Clive Swift, and in 1985, he was in a 6th Doctor serial entitled, Revelation of the Daleks.

[Sanagi]

Any particular reason?
The "volcano day" line in the preview is a reference to the storyline in which Jack first appeared.

[Spike-X]

I liked Ross

Me too. there was some great by-play between him and The Doctor. I found myself thinking, "Hmm...possible Companion material!"

[Stressfactor]

"Don't call Ross a grunt; we like Ross."

I liked Ross too. Instead of a companion, though, I'd like to see Ross as the modern replacement for the Brigadier. Col. Mace just doesn't have the right chemistry to be the new "Brig" stand-in. Ross would be much better.

Note -- we never DO hear what Ross's rank is...

[TCJohnson]

"Don't call Ross a grunt; we like Ross."

I liked Ross too. Instead of a companion, though, I'd like to see Ross as the modern replacement for the Brigadier. Col. Mace just doesn't have the right chemistry to be the new "Brig" stand-in. Ross would be much better.

Note -- we never DO hear what Ross's rank is...

Or, more appropriately, Sgt. Benton

[Stressfactor]

I dunno... Ross seems a bit sharper all round than Benton. Benton wasn't stupid but he always seemed a bit... naive around the edges... a little too sweet to ever make it very far.

Ross is obviously a nice guy but you get the impression that he can be hard if he needs to.

We'll put Ross somewhere between Benton and Yates (before Yates went loony and betrayed UNIT).

Either way, there is no way the actor playing Col. Mace has the charisma to replace the Brig. I wouldn't want someone to try to RECREATE Courtney's character because that would obviously be a slap in the face to Courtney but I think any actor who tries to take on that sort of role needs to have that spark -- that hint of being able to truly verbally spar with Doctor and at least SOMETIMES come out on top.

[Mac Danny]

The "volcano day" line in the preview is a reference to the storyline in which Jack first appeared.

Yes, the Con that Jack was playing in The Empty Child was one that he has played in the past using Pompeii.

"Pompeii's great for self cleaning cons except you have to make sure to set your watch for Volcano Day." was the line I think.

[ChrisIII]

The Captain in VOYAGE is another Doctor Who vet-he was in the Pertwee story DOCTOR WHO AND THE SILURIANS. Although US audiences might remember him as Admiral Roebuck in the James Bond film TOMMOROW NEVER DIES (Where he also worked with his TIME GOES BY co-star Judi Dench).

Bernard Cribbins (Wilfred, the newspaper guy/Donna's grandfather) was also one of the companions of the Peter Cushing non-canon incarnation of the Doctor from the 60's films.

[ChrisIII]

There was Bambera (In Battlefield, which according to most WHO timelines is set in the late 90's)....but she seems to be mainly forgotten....

[Ontir]

True, but there is also a great deal of extreme homophobia within Jamaican culture, and perhaps that's what drew the ire of Morrissey to begin with.

[Paul McEnery]

I'm not just being picky, I'm actually really bored by this series & the general shoddy nature of the writing from the start of last series seems to have followed the same pattern this series.

Now Saturday's episode wasn't especially bad, it wasn't a Fear Her, but it was just dull & had a sense of Who by numbers that's crept into the programme over the last two years.

The programme needs a shake up & it needs to have voices critical of it rather than just liking it for the sake of it being Doctor Who.

It's true. Davies is done on this show. And the fact that the basic skeleton of this episode is the same as the little fat people which is the same as the Bane tells us he's stretched himself a bit thin, and it's time for him to do another project entirely.

Not that it isn't all competently done and all. And I'm still enjoying the one thing everyone else seems to be having a fit about, which is what Donna brings to the table.

[Paul McEnery]

"Don't call Ross a grunt; we like Ross."

I liked Ross too. Instead of a companion, though, I'd like to see Ross as the modern replacement for the Brigadier. Col. Mace just doesn't have the right chemistry to be the new "Brig" stand-in. Ross would be much better.

Note -- we never DO hear what Ross's rank is...

We already have a replacement for the Brigadier.

Hint: She's black.

[Ontir]

I don't think RTD is by any means done. I don't think this season is nearly as bad as many are complaining, but it is true that often, around season 3 or 4, there's a bit of a growing pains stretch. The show is changing, because it has to, but the exact new parameters are not quite known. It's rough for awhile, then it's sorted, and you get better following season.

[Stressfactor]

We already have a replacement for the Brigadier.

Hint: She's black.

Ah, but by now she should be GENERAL Bambera :wink:

And yes, she was good but no one currently working with the show seems to want to acknowledge her or get the actress back to reprise her role.

[Popgun]

Ah, but by now she should be GENERAL Bambera :wink:

And yes, she was good but no one currently working with the show seems to want to acknowledge her or get the actress back to reprise her role.

I don't think Paul was referring to Bambera...

[Spike-X]

We already have a replacement for the Brigadier.

Hint: She's black.
You mean...


God?

[ChrisIII]

Bambera does show up in a few novels (Some I think written by those who have written on the new series).


I think that if the series continued in the 90's, Bambera would've returned as a replacement for Lethbridge-Stewart. I think the novel writers were aware of this as well as she appears in several of the New Adventures(Although Lethbridge-Stewart makes a lot of appearences in novels and audios).

[Ugoff]

I loved the casting on Voyage of the Damned of the ship's suicidal captain who was the lead on As Time Goes By and the old man who was the tour guide who was the henpecked husband on Keeping Up Appearances.

I was surprised to see them there as well! It was great! Voyage was a great episode I loved. And the most recent episode was hilarious! I couldnt believe how funny it was. I'm not sure I want Freema Aygeman to return this season, I'm really loving the humor Donna brings to the show and her interaction with the Doctor. This show is just show is just to good, I wish we could have like 5 new episodes everyday for reals!!!

[Zero Hunter]

If you can't wait to see new episodes Youtube has the next 3 online. Watched Pompei, Planet of the Ood, and the 1st part of the Sontarian story the other day. Even after watching them online I still will watch them when they air on Sci Fi since they so far have all been really good.

[ChrisIII]

Apparentally Four To Doomsday (Peter Davison's second story, but the first filmed) The War Machines (Which introduces Hartnell's final companions and is a solid late Hartnell adventure) and Battlefield (The final UNIT story in the classic series) are getting released this fall in Britain. "Battlefield" interestingly will complete Doctor Who's (and McCoy's) final classic season, but both seasons 24 and 25 remain largely unfinished.

I think season 24 so far is the only season that we haven't had at least one story-complete or incomplete-from. Might be mistaken though.

EDIT: Looks like I'm right. Season 24 is the only season with absolutely nothing announced or already released.

[Ontir]

I've not read any Who novels. Was Bambera ever in the show? I don't recall her, but I've not seen all of the Colin Baker/McCoy eps. Telecasting them on PBS was spotty at best by that point.