BBC Worldwide has released the first two screenshots from their brand new self-published iPhone and iPad game Doctor Who: The Mazes Of Time. [pictured right]

Players will be able to swap between playing The Doctor and Amy during gameplay, which also appears to feature The Daleks (and people holding their hands up!).

The Mazes Of Time is developed by Tag Games and will be available in Early December, price TBA.

[Sources: Doctor Who Online; BBC Worldwide Games]

Return to Earth, released for the Wii, picks up where the DS game, Evacuation Earth, left off and, in storyline terms, is a very accomplished addition to the Doctor Who fold. That is hardly surprising however, given that it was penned by noted author of Doctor Who novels, Oli Smith.

While purists will refuse to acknowledge it as canon, it stands up well enough in its own right and moves the gameplay along well.

For those who didn’t play the prequel, a brief outline is useful, though not essential. Evacuation Earth saw The Doctor and Amy Pond ensuring, appropriately enough, that the Earth is evacuated in the wake of a Solar Storm. They end up on the SS Lucy Gray investigating both the origin of the Storm and an inconveniently vanished TARDIS.

The outing on the Wii picks up with the baton with the Lucy Gray abandoned, and the Cybermen looming – fans of the Daleks will have no choice but to pick up the DS game if they want to see them as the main opposition.

Where Return to Earth, and Wii Games in general, really stands out is the imaginative use of the controller, as it turns into an analogue of the sonic screwdriver, and makes a good job of recreating its functions, even more so if you can get your hands on the add on that literally turns your controller into a replica screwdriver.

And what an innovation it is. The sonic screwdriver is second only to the lightsabre in terms of science fiction items that the Wii remote appears to have been built for and the implementation hasn’t really let down the promise.

But really, the game doesn’t quite fulfil its promise and the narrative is confined to the interior of the spaceship - a little disappointing given the wealth of landscapes on offer within Doctor Who if a bit of imaginations is used.

If you want to try the game before you buy it you can rent it from www.lovefilm.com who are currently offering a free trial.

[Source: Doctor Who Online]

2|Entertain have sent DWO the cover and details for the January 2011 DVD release of The Mutants.

The Mutants

Featuring: Jon Pertwee as The Third Doctor

The Time Lords send the Doctor and Jo on a mission to deliver a sealed message pod to an unknown party aboard a Skybase orbiting the planet Solos in the 30th century.

Solos is due to gain independence from Earth's empire but its Marshal is determined to prevent this. He arranges the murder of the Earth Administrator and, with his chief scientist Jaeger, plans to transform Solo's atmosphere into one more suited to humans. 

Ky, a young Solonian leader, is falsely accused of the murder and flees to the planet, taking Jo with him. The Doctor follows and joins them in an old thaesium mine. Ky turns out to be the intended recipient of the message pod, which opens automatically for him. Inside are stone tablets carved with ancient inscriptions...

Special Features:

Disc 1- Episodes

• 6 x 25 mins approx colour episodes with mono audio. 

• Commentary - stereo. With actors Katy Manning and Garrick Hagon, director Christopher Barry, script editor Terrance Dicks, co-writer Bob Baker, special sounds supervisor Brian Hodgson and designer Jeremy Bear. Moderated by Nicholas Pegg.

• Coming Soon (dur. Approx 1’) - a trailer for a forthcoming DVD release.

• Programme subtitles.

• Subtitle Production Notes.

Disc 2 – DVD Extras

• Mutt Mad (dur. 20’ 43”) – cast and crew look back at the making of the story. With actor Garrick Hagon, producer Barry Letts, director Christopher Barry, co-writer Bob Baker, script editor Terrance Dicks and designer Jeremy Bear. 

• Race Against Time (dur. 37’ 38”) - Noel Clarke narrates a documentary looking at the representation of black actors in Doctor Who and on British TV as a whole. With writer and critic Bidisha, writer Stephen Bourne, actor Fraser James, and Doctor Who Magazine’s assistant editor Peter Ware. Narrated by Noel Clarke. 

• Dressing Doctor Who (dur. 27’ 04”) – three-times Academy Award winning costume designer James Acheson takes an affectionate look back over his earlier work on Doctor Who from his home in New Zealand. Narrated by Simon Ockendon.

• Blue Peter (dur. 1’ 35”) – Peter Purves takes a look at a collection of Doctor Who monsters prior to the opening of an exhibition of visual effects.

• Photo Gallery (dur. 2’ 56”) - production, design and publicity photos from the story.

• Radio Times Listings in Adobe PDF format.

[Source: 2|Entertain]

Doctor Who stars, Matt Smith and Karen Gillan will present Radio 1's Top 10s of 2010, on Christmas Eve.

The show will see the pair airing their favourite tracks from 2010, and will be broadcast between 8-9pm.

Full details, together with other presenters over the festive period, can be found via the press release on the BBC Press Office website.

[Source: BBC Press Office]

London workers got a bit of a shock on their way into the office this morning...

A group of intimidating Cybermen from cult show Doctor Who invaded the city, marching through St Paul's and the London Undergound.

The stunt was to celebrate the launch of the Doctor Who Experience - a fully interactive themed adventure and exhibition opening in the capital in February.

The cyborgs recreated a very familiar scene from the famous 1968 episode The Invasion, posing on the steps in front of St Paul's Cathedral.

Visitors to the Experience will be invited to step inside the Tardis to become The Doctor's companion in fighting his other enemy, the Daleks.

The Doctor Who Experience, which will open at London's Olympia Two on February 20, 2011, will include special effects and newly-filmed scenes with current Doctor Matt Smith recreating the Time Lord's adventures.

It includes an exhibition charting the history of the programme from its first series in 1963 to the latest episodes. Original costumes, a Tom Baker-era Tardis and Cybermen, Silurians and a Zygon will also be on display.

Executive producer Steven Moffat said: 'The Doctor Who Experience is a fan's dream come true - a fully interactive adventure that will allow viewers of the show to get as close as possible to some of the scariest monsters from the series.

'It will also be the first time that Doctor Who artefacts from all the show's 47-year history - classic and new - will be on display together, many of them being seen for the first time. 

'And never mind that, this is the day the Doctor teaches you how to fly the Tardis through time and space, and takes you into battle with all his deadliest enemies in a brand new adventure.'

Tickets for the show are on sale now through www.doctorwhoexperience.com.

[Source: The Daily Mail]

It is with deepest regret that DWO announces the passing of Classic Doctor Who Actress, Ingrid Pitt.

Ingrid was perhaps best known to Doctor Who fans for her roles as Galleia in The Third Doctor adventure; The Time Monster, and as Solow in The Fifth Doctor adventure; Warriors of the Deep. Recently, Ingrid co-authored Doctor Who audio adventure; The Macros, for Big Finish's 'Lost Stories' range.

DWO would like to extend our sympathies to Ingrid's family and friends.

[Source: BBC News]

The BBC Press Office has released the synopsis and a promo image for this year's Doctor Who Christmas Special; 5.14: A Christmas Carol.

Amy and Rory are trapped on a crashing space liner, and the only way The Doctor can rescue them is to save the soul of a lonely old miser, in a festive edition of the time-travelling adventure, written by Steven Moffat. But is Kazran Sardick, the richest man in Sardicktown, beyond redemption? And what is lurking in the fogs of Christmas Eve?

Amy Pond is played by Karen Gillan, Rory Williams by Arthur Darvill, The Doctor by Matt Smith and Kazran Sardick by Michael Gambon.

Doctor Who is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.

[Source: BBC Press Office]

Tonight's Children in Need appeal saw a preview trailer for the forthcoming Doctor Who Christmas Special, A Christmas Carol.

The special, which will air on Christmas Day, guest stars; Michael Gambon and Katherine Jenkins, and will reportedly be over an hour in length.

You can see the preview trailer below:

[youtube:V5El5bu-294]

DWO have a special eBay auction that sees the ashes from our recent 'Will it Blend?' YouTube Episode, up for grabs. A big chunk of the proceeds of the sale will be going to the Children in Need appeal, so get bidding here: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220697587783&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT.

[Sources: Doctor Who Online; BBC]

Russell T. Davies has revealed that new Doctor Who showrunner Steven Moffat wants to feature Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) in the show at some point in the future. Davies made the comments in an interview with IGN where he also discussed how he and Moffat exchange storyline details on future plots on Doctor Who and its spin-off shows The Sarah Jane Adventures and Torchwood so nothing clashes between the three shows.

Speaking to IGN, Russell T. Davies had the following to say:

"Well, Steven said he'd love to see Jack in Doctor Who. So if Steven says that, Steven will make it happen, I would think. That's not inside information, but I bet one day it will happen. I'd love to see it. It would be marvellous."

The character of Captain Jack Harkness was first introduced in the first season two-part story The Empty Child/The Doctor Dances which was written by Moffat. The character appeared in five episodes of Season One and was subsequently given his own spin-off series, Torchwood. John Barrowman returned to Doctor Who as Captain Jack for the three-part series three finale and the two-part series four finale. He also had a cameo appearance in David Tennant's final story as the 10th Doctor, The End of Time.

As fans will already be aware Torchwood is due to return next year for a new ten-part series which will see Barrowman reprise his role of Captain Jack once more with Eve Myles back as Gwen Cooper. It's unlikely therefore we will see Jack back in Doctor Who anytime soon but with both Torchwood and Who filming in America next year who knows?

[Source: IGN]

Doctor Who has entered the UK Indie Singles Charts with two entries from Murray Gold.

Both entries, which are from the recently released Doctor Who: Series 5 Soundtrack, entered the charts after just 1 week of release.

In position #30 is 'Doctor Who XI', which is track number 1 on the Series 5 soundtrack, and in position #16 is 'I Am The Doctor', which is track number 9 on the soundtrack.

We strongly encourage fans to download from iTunes / Amazon, or purchase the Soundtrack from shops / online stores to help get Doctor Who into the Christmas Top 40 charts.

 Check the progress of the UK Indie Singles Charts here.

[Sources: Simon Bisgrove; BBC Radio 1]

DWO now have a brand new Facebook page which our visitors can follow on the popular social networking site.

To celebrate the launch of the new page, we are giving away a copy of the new Doctor Who: Series 5 Soundtrack to 1 lucky follower. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is click on the 'Like' button at the top of the Doctor Who Online Facebook page - that's it!

The winner will be announced via the Facebook page on December 1st.

We've also launched a new Facebook page for our CompareTheDalek.com price comparison website, which you can follow here.

[Source: Doctor Who Online]

Radio Times has produced a limited edition Doctor Who Companions Special magazine.

The 164-page glossy special includes never-before-seen photographs and material from the RT archive, featuring over 40 companions from 1963 to present day, as well as profiles of every companion from Ace to Zoe.

This is a Radio Times exclusive and will not be available in the shops.

Get your copy for just £9.99 including FREE delivery to your door. To order, call 0844 543 9836.

Radio Times recently conducted a poll for readers to vote for their favourite Doctor Who companion. The results are printed below:

1 Rose Tyler BILLIE PIPER 

2 Sarah Jane Smith ELISABETH SLADEN

3 Donna Noble CATHERINE TATE 

4 K-9 JOHN LEESON/DAVID BRIERLEY

5 Amy Pond KAREN GILLAN

The best of the rest...

6 Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman)

7 Ace (Sophie Aldred)

8 Leela (Louise Jameson)

9 Jo Grant (Katy Manning)

10 Brigadier Lethbridge Stewart (Nicholas Courtney)

11 Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman)

12 Jamie McCrimmon (Frazer Hines)

13 Romana II (Lalla Ward)

14 Tegan Jovanka (Janet Fielding)

15 Wilfred Mott (Bernard Cribbins)

16 Peri Brown (Nicola Bryant)

17 River Song (Alex Kingston)

18 Harry Sullivan (Ian Marter)

19 Polly (Anneke Wills)

20 Turlough (Mark Strickson)

[Source: Radio Times]

Doctor Who has been declared the greatest sci-fi & fantasy TV show of all time by top genre website Totalscifionline.com.

The BBC’s long-running series about the time-travelling Doctor and his ever-changing companions saw off stiff competition from over 60 years’ worth of genre television. Star Trek: The Original Series, starring William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy, was voted into second place, while Rod Serling’s classic anthology series The Twilight Zone rounded out the top three.

Doctor Who first hit our screens in 1963 with William Hartnell in the role of the Doctor. Since then, the character has regenerated 10 times, most recently in the form of Matt Smith in this year’s acclaimed season.

Totalscifionline editor Matt McAllister said: “There have been plenty of mind-bending, thought-provoking SF shows in the history of television, but none have proven as enduring as Doctor Who. The key to the show’s longevity has been its ability to re-invent itself for new generations while maintaining a consistency in tone and character, and the Daleks and TARDIS have now become part of our cultural landscape. 2010 saw Who head in yet another triumphant direction – surely another 50 years are guaranteed?”

Viewers can get a sneak peek of this year’s Doctor Who Christmas special on Children in Need, this Friday on BBC One.

The full Top 10 Sci-Fi and Fantasy TV shows are:

1) Doctor Who (1963-present)

2) Star Trek: The Original Series (1966-69)

3) The Twilight Zone (1959-1964)

4) The X-Files (1993-2002)

5) The Prisoner (1967-68)

6) Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)

7) Battlestar Galactica (2004-09)

8) The Quatermass Experiment (1953)

9) Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

10) Babylon 5 (1993-98)

 You can read the full Top 100 article at: http://totalscifionline.com/features/5769-the-100-greatest-sci-fi-fantasy-tv-shows

[Source: TotalScifiOnline]

Doctor Who star, Matt Smith will be appearing on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson this evening in the USA.

Matt will be interviewed on the show regarding his role on Doctor Who, as well as the recent filming in the United States for Series 6. Last night's show featured a Dalek, which is expected to reappear on tonights show.

The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson is a Peabody Award-winning American late-night talk show hosted by Scottish American comedian Craig Ferguson.

 Watch the show weeknights 12:35pm/11:35pm Central Time.

[Sources: Neilfan12; BBC America]

You've seen the video, now you can own the very same Dalek ashes that appear at the end of the popular Doctor Who 'Will It Blend?' Dalek Special!

Viewed by over 75,000+ people so far, our Dalek blending video is fast turning into an internet hit, and with the Children In Need charity appeal just a few days away, we thought we would give our visitors a chance to bid for the remains of the said Dalek, signed by the star of the 'Will it Blend?' viral videos, Tom Dickson.

We're starting the bidding off at just 1p, and 50% of the final auction sale will go to the Children in Need appeal.

To place your bid, visit the following eBay url: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220697587783&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT#ht_500wt_1156

[Source: Doctor Who Online]

The BBC Doctor Who website has confirmed the title for the 2010 Doctor Who Christmas Special.

After months of patiently...ok...scrub that...impatiently waiting, fans can now rejoice in the comfort that the title has been revealed as: A Christmas Carol.

Show runner, Steven Moffat had the following to say on the special: 

'Oh, we're going for broke with this one. It's all your favourite Christmas movies at once, in an hour, with monsters. And the Doctor. And a honeymoon. And ... oh, you'll see. I've honestly never been so excited about writing anything!'

As with previous years, the special will be shown on Christmas Day at around 6:00pm(ish).

A short preview will be shown as part of this years Children In Need programming on BBC One, on Friday 19th November.

[Source: BBC Doctor Who website]

In what appears to be another example of life imitating science fiction, scientists believe they have found a crack in the universe...well...sort of!

Like a thin band of light stretched across space, it looks like some sort of intergalactic letterbox.

But the extraordinary image to the right is in fact a distant galaxy called NGC 4452, captured as it lies directly edge-on to Earth.

The result is an extraordinary picture taken by the Hubble space telescope of billions of stars observed from an unusual angle. The bright nucleus can be seen at the centre, along with the very thin disc that looks like a straight line from our unusual viewing position.

A hazy halo of stars on the periphery of the galaxy makes it seem to glow.

NGC 4452 was first seen by William Herschel in 1784 with his 18.5inch telescope in England. He described the object as a bright nebula, small and very much elongated. The new Hubble image shows just how elongated this unusual object really is.

Galaxies typically contain many billions of stars and can also be grouped in galaxy clusters. NGC 4452 is part of the Virgo Cluster which lies approximately 60 million light-years distant and contains around 2000 galaxies.

Our own Milky Way is also believed to be extremely thin.

[Source: Daily Mail]

BBC Inside Out will feature a previously unbroadcast interview with the late Delia Derbyshire – the woman who created the iconic Doctor Who theme tune – on Monday 15 November on BBC One at 7.30pm.

In this episode, excerpts of Derbyshire's interview will be heard – which were originally recorded in the late-Nineties by BBC Radio Scotland's John Cavanagh but never broadcast before.

In the interview she reveals that one of the primary influences on her music, including Doctor Who, were the abstract sounds she heard as a child during the Coventry blitz.

Inside Out also features previously unseen footage of Delia later in life at a Doctor Who fan convention.

In the programme, BBC Radio 2 presenter Stuart Maconie looks at her career and explores why the woman herself remains a mystery despite her work influencing the world of electronic music, including Pink Floyd and today's modern dance acts – because, in 1963, hardly anyone outside of avant garde music circles and academia knew electronic music even existed.

But, 47 years on, the Doctor Who theme is probably the most famous piece of electronic music in the world.

Now, her lost recordings, discovered in her attic after her death, are being lovingly restored by the University of Manchester.

BBC Inside Out explores how Delia revolutionised pop music and why she turned her back on music and disappeared. Stuart begins his journey in war-torn Coventry, where Delia grew up, and follows her journey to the Radiophonic Workshop at the BBC. He talks to a range of people, including the man who invented the infamous sound of the Tardis, Brian Hodgson.

Also uncovered in this episode is the revelation that Delia composed music for an astonishing number of landmark programmes of the day, with the original Doctor Who theme being just a small part of Delia's massive output whose style was described in her own words.

Delia says: "Well, the first stage in the realisation of a piece of music is to construct the individual sounds that we are going to use. we can build up any sound we could possibly imagine almost.

"We spend quite a lot of time to invent new sounds, sounds that don't exist already, ones that can't be produced by musical instruments."

As Stuart explains, it was the theme that changed the world and the very first time the public had heard electronic music so who was the person behind it and why was she so important?

He says: "Everyone knows the Doctor Who theme – most of us here have grown up with it. But the techniques developed by one woman to make it have changed the shape and sound of modern music for ever. But the woman herself remains a mystery."

[Source: BBC Press Office]

AudioGO have sent DWO the cover and details for the forthcoming Doctor Who Audiobook release of Demon Quest #4: Starfall.

Two things arrive on the same night in Central Park, New York, 1976. The first is a fireball from space, bringing with it a new identity for one Alice Trefusis. The second is the Tardis, carrying the Doctor and his friends on the trail of an unusual comic book cover.

The Doctor's strength is sapped by something in the New York air - but what could cause such a malaise? As he and Mike are first mixed up with the police and then taken on an aerial ride over the city, Mrs Wibbsey comes face to face with the legendary Talkies film star Mimsy Loyne. And all the while, long multicoloured scarves and floppy felt hats are climbing the stairs of the Dakota Building...

With Tom Baker as the Doctor, Susan Jameson as Mrs Wibbsey, Richard Franklin as Mike Yates, Trevor White as Buddy, Laurel Lefkow as Alice, Lorelei King as Mimsy Loyne, Rupert Holliday Evans as the Cop, and John Chancer as the Cultist.

Starfall is the fourth of five linked stories written by the acclaimed Paul Magrs.

 Doctor Who Demon Quest #4: Starfall is released 2nd December 2010, priced £9.99.

 Compare Prices for this CD at CompareTheDalek.com!

[Source: AudioGO]

Character Options have announced single releases of the Dalek Paradigm Action Figures, due out later this month.

Many years ago, the Daleks sent out thousands of egg-shaped Progenitors containing the genetic coding of the race, so that new Daleks could be created whenever necessary.

One of these Progenitors was found in war-torn England during the Second World War and transported to a Dalek ship. However, because the Daleks that found it had been genetically modified by their creator Davros, using his own DNA, the Progenitor did not acknowledge them as pure Daleks, until the Doctor identified them as such and the Progenitor created a new race of powerful Daleks as a result.

These Daleks were led by the white-cased Supreme, and include the enigmatically titled yellow-cased Eternal, blue-cased Strategists, orange-cased Scientists and the red-cased Drones.

Collect all five of the supreme beings. Detailed 6-inch scale Dalek action figures. One Supplied. For ages 5 years and over.

 The Dalek Paradigm Action Figures are released Late November, priced £9.99 each.

 Order these Toys at Forbidden Planet, for just £8.99 each!

[Source: Character Options]

Doctor Who star Matt Smith has revealed more details about the show's upcoming Christmas special.

The festive instalment will feature Harry Potter star Michael Gambon and singer Katherine Jenkins in key roles.

Smith told USA Today: "I had great fun making [the episode] because obviously it was the middle of July and there's loads of fake snow. There's lots of snow, crackers and turkey, and that goes hand-in-hand with the spirit of The Doctor and Doctor Who."

He added that the special would focus heavily on The Doctor's own festive spirit.

"It's showcasing humans at their most open and giving and kind," he said. "It's everything The Doctor's about."

Smith also referred to his role on the sci-fi drama as "the greatest part I've ever played".

"What's so wonderful about playing The Doctor is it's all based on invention," he explained. "You're given this white canvas to invent and paint on, and he can be any colour. I really want to push the boundaries of this part into next year now and keep raising the bar."

The as-yet-untitled Doctor Who special will air on BBC One this Christmas.

[Source: Digital Spy]

Doctor Who Reviews Compendium Ultimate Regeneration set to materialise for Christmas 2010.

Ultimate Regeneration is the title of the first book from Kasterborous. Written and edited by Christian Cawley, ably assisted by Brian Terranova and with contributions from Anthony Dry, Simon Mills, Thomas Willam Spychalski, Gareth Kavanagh and many more, the book tells the real-time critical story of the Russell T Davies era of Doctor Who.

Featuring essays, articles, reviews and interviews, the full story is put into context with a running commentary on the main events in Doctor Who news and fandom.

Including 60 Doctor Who reviews from Rose to The End of Time, Part Two, over 30 articles including character, actor and writer profiles and bursting with typical Kasterborous verve, Ultimate Regeneration tells the full story of the 2005-2010 era of Doctor Who, covering 2 Doctors, 5 companions and one visionary showrunner.

Upon release, Ultimate Regeneration will have a sale price of £14.99.

However a special pre-order price of £9.99 (plus p&p) is currently available, saving 33% on the cover price.

 See www.kasterborous.com for more details.

[Source: Kasterborous]

DWO are pleased to announce the relaunch of our popular News page.

After a few weeks of tweaking, and streamlining, we can now present the new page, complete with full integration into the DWO Forums, search and archive functionality, an email NewsFeed, Twitter retweets and more!

A big Thank You to our resident genius, Rob Halliday, who undertook the job and has been furiously programming away to get it all working seamlessly.

Finally, due to the new system, we can now extend our news contributors, so get ready for even more news items at an even greater frequency.

[Source: Doctor Who Online]

The Stamp Centre is holding a signing at their London store at 79 Strand, on Monday 8th November, starting at 10am and running until about 2pm.

Joining them are Shane Rimmer, of Scott Tracy, Thunderbirds fame whose new autobiography has just been launched and he will be signing it in store from 10am. In his extensive career, he has also appeared in three James Bond movies, UFO, The Protectors, Space 1999 and even Doctor Who in the 1966 Gunfighters story.

Bob Baker will also be in attendance to sign the new Limited Edition Wallace and Gromit Stamp First Day Covers that the Stamp Centre have exclusively produced. Bob created the character of the Wererabbit, and wrote several of the popular episodes. He is also renowned for creating the character of K9 in Doctor Who.

A full range of relevant merchandise will be available to purchase in-store on the day.

[Source: The Stamp Centre]

Manufacturer: BBC Books

Written By: Trevor Baxendale

RRP: £6.99

Release Date: 2nd April 2009

Reviewed by: James Sykes

Review Posted: 11th April 2010

It could be said that the New Series BBC novels have the tendency to be simpler, less engaging and frankly less enjoyable than the old ones. There are a few exceptions, however, and Prisoner of the Daleks is one of them. 

Trevor Baxendale, one of the strongest writers for Doctor Who novels, brilliantly captures the Doctor's character. You can always imagine Tennant saying the dialogue. He also turns one of the staple ingredients for these companion-less-stories on its head, in that the Doctor meets a would-be companion right away, but she is then promptly killed off, leaving him friendless with a group of bounty hunters. The other characters occasionally come off as be ing a little generic, but Baxendale does try to flesh them out a bit, making it vaguely shocking when they are gradually exterminated, although Cutting Edge resembles Cole Train, from the Gears of War Xbox game. 

The Daleks are also well written, and the different font for their dialogue is a nice touch. While Baxendale re-uses a lot of New Series stuff with the Daleks, he also manages to give the story a new spin, and it's a shame that this wasn't used as a TV story, rather than Daleks in Manhattan / Evolution of the Daleks, for example. 

Told at a relentless pace, with the ever crowd-pleasing Daleks, this is certainly one of the strongest, if not the best, of the New Series novels.

Manufacturer: BBC DVD / 2|Entertain

Written By: Louis Marks

RRP: £19.99

Release Date: 8th February 2010

Reviewed by: Doctor Who Online

Review Posted: 14th February 2010

The Masque of Mandragora takes us to 15th Century Italy, where part of the Mandragora Helix (unbeknownst to The Doctor) has hitched a lift aboard the TARDIS and poses a threat to human civilisation. It's a great story that takes the deadly cult plot device to a new level, whilst incorporating history and a simple, yet, terrifying alien menace.

The features included on the disc, are quite varied, and even though not all are specific to the story, they fit right in and offer excellent value to the release.

The 'Commentary' features Tom Baker (The 4th Doctor), Chris D'Oyly-John (Production Unit Manager), Philip Hinchcliffe (Producer) and Gareth Armstrong (Giuliano). Unusually, Tom seems to take a bit of a back seat, allowing for Philip to take the role of moderator for the commentary. There's a great juxtaposition between Philip and John's informative take on the story, with Tom's hilarious observations and side stories.

'The Secret of the Labyrinth' is an informative and vibrant behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Masque of Mandragora. Set in the Welsh village of Portmeirion, which doubled for the filming of the story, it starts off with Philip Hinchcliffe (Producer) explaining his reasons for the filming at the location.

All aspects of the production are covered, from casting and costumes to set design, giving a well-rounded understanding for the serial. It's backed up with interviews from Gareth Armstrong (Giuliano), Rodney Bennett (Director), Antony Carrick (Captain Rossini), Chris D'Oyly-John (Production Unit Manager), Jon Laurimore (Count Federico), Barry Newbery (Production Designer), Tim Piggott-Smith (Marco), Steve O'Brien (Writer, SFX Magazine) and Jim Sangster (Film and TV Historian). Kudos to Rob Semenoff for the fantastic CGI introduction to the feature.

'Bigger on the inside' is totally unconnected to The Masque of Mandragora, but provides a thoroughly detailed, yet concise history of the TARDIS. Featuring interviews with Tom Baker (The 4th Doctor), Robert Shearman (New Series Writer), Francesca Gavin (Art Writer & Editor), Matthew Savage (New Series Designer), Barry Newbury (Classic Series Designer) and Christopher H Bidmead (Writer & Script Editor 1980-81).

'Now and Then' looks at the locations of The Masque of Mandragora, showing original shots to the modern day comparisons. It feels a little different to previous Now and Then documentaries, as this time, we follow the locations through a map of Portmeirion. As a result of the style and nature of the location, there are very few actual changes that can be noticed, but it's interesting to see where all the action happened in context.

'Beneath the Masque' offers Clayton Hickman (Ex Doctor Who Magazine Editor) and Gareth Roberts' (New Series Writer), rather amusing take of the events surrounding and including the production of The Masque of Mandragora. The pair are clearly a double-act to be reckoned with. Even Hickman's Cathy come home impersonation which also resembled a 1980's Dot Branning, can't fail to resound a palpable hit amongst the hugely entertaining feature. It's pretty much utter nonsense, but who cares? It's produced with such sheer brilliance, and will have you chuckling away at the subtle and not-so-subtle digs at the show. Oh, and Gareth Roberts as a Blue Peter presenter was...priceless. Here's to future offerings from the pair!

The 'Coming Soon' trailer is for The Space Museum / The Chase DVD release, and is a clever twist on the usual trailers by incorporating a viewscreen from one of the episodes to promote the box-set. Definitely one of the most original trailers to date.

As with previous DVD releases, there are the usual 'Trails and Continuity', 'PDF Material', 'Photo Gallery' and 'Production Subtitles' included.

Overall, it's another tidy and well-thought-out package from 2|Entertain, and although there could have been room for one or two more extras, you can't help but feel totally satisfied with the finished package.

Manufacturer: BBC DVD / 2|Entertain

Written By: Brian Hayles

RRP: £29.99

Release Date: 18 th January 2010

Reviewed by: Doctor Who Online

Review Posted: 9th February 2010

The Curse of Peladon

The Curse of Peladon, for many, is a textbook Doctor Who adventure. With a healthy mix of mystery, deception, villainy and suspense, the story is as entertaining as any new series offering, and has held up well to the test of time. With secret passages, allies who are villains and villains who are allies, there are more twists and turns than the underground tunnels of Peladon itself.

The selection of features for this release is adequate, and compared to previous DVD releases like 'Black Orchid', you can't help feeling there is more distance for extra content.

The 'Commentary' is moderated seamlessly by Toby Hadoke, who also provides some informative facts connected with the story. Joining Toby is Barry Letts (Producer), Terrance Dicks (Script Editor), Katy Manning (Jo Grant) and Chris D'Oyly-John (Production Assistant). It proves to be a rather amusing commentary, with all parties contributing equally, together with a great selection of amusing and revealing stories.

'The Peladon Saga - Part One', is by far the highlight of the extras on this disc, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Curse of Peladon. Although it's not as in-depth as previous 'making of' documentaries, it looks at the production of the adventure as well as putting it in political context with the time.

'Warriors of Mars', gives us a history of The Ice Warriors. There's a chronological look at their appearances in Doctor Who, as well as the different classes of Ice Warrior. Narrated by Donald Gee, the feature provides interviews with Sonny Caldinez (Ice Warrior), Bernard Bresslaw (Ice Warrior), Sylvia James (Make-Up Supervisor) Michael Ferguson (Director), Terrance Dicks (Script Editor) Alan Bennion (Ice Lord), Barry Letts (Producer) and Brian Hodgson (BBC Radiophonic Workshop).

'Jon and Katy', looks at the pairing of Jon Pertwee (The Doctor) and Katy Manning (Jo Grant), with interviews from Katy Manning, Terrance Dicks and Barry Letts. In the feature, Katy looks back with genuine love for both her character, and John as an actor and friend.

The 'Storyboard Comparison' compares design sketches with the final shot, together with soundtrack excerpts that lead up to the clips.

As with previous DVD releases, there are the usual 'PDF Material', 'Photo Gallery' and 'Production Subtitles' included.

The Monster of Peladon

The Monster of Peladon heralds the second (and final) chapter in the Peladon Saga - albeit a slightly long-winded story, weighing in at six episodes. There's a wonderful sense of continuity mixed with enough fresh elements to rejuvenate the settings and situations, and with a rather feisty Sarah Jane Smith, helps add another level to the Doctor / Companion dynamic.

As with The Curse of Peladon, this release is a little feature light - even though there is one disc for the story and another for the features, that being said, the quality of the extras is in no way compromised, and adds value to an already worthwhile box-set.

The 'Commentary' is again moderated by Toby Hadoke, and features Terrance Dicks (Script Editor), Barry Letts (Producer), Nina Thomas (Queen Thalira), Donald Gee (Eckersley), Ralph Watson (Ettis) and Stuart Fell (Alpha Centauri). Once more, Toby does a great job with the direction coupled with his Doctor Who knowledge, and both Terrance and Barry add some entertaining memories, but it can't help feeling a little overshadowed by the Curse commentary, owing to vacancy of Katy Manning and her boundless energy.

There's also a 'Fan Commentary' for episode Four of the story, featuring Rob Shearman, Mark Aldridge, Kate Du-Rose and Philip Newman. The commentary is well placed as it breaks up the pace and dynamic of the commentary thus far, and it's nice to hear a take on the story from a fans perspective - or in this case four!

'The Peladon Saga - Part Two', follows on from the previous part with additional interviews from Donald Gee (Eckersley), Nick Hobbs (Aggedor), Stuart Fell (Alpha Centauri), Sonny Caldinez (Ice Warrior) and Ralph Watson (Ettis the Miner). The second installment goes more into the production of the story, and we also learn from cast and crew what it was like working with Jon Pertwee. The crowning moment, though, has to be Terrance Dicks' hilarious breakdown of Alpha Centauri's physical appearance.

There's a 'Deleted Scene' in the form of photos and off-air recordings featuring Eckersley trying to convince Gebek to get the miners to continue mining for the trisilicate.

'Where are They Now?' features an interview with Ysanne Churchman, conducted by David Jacobs. Ysanne is asked about providing her voicework for the Hermaphrodite exopod; Alpha Centauri, before treating us to a rather alarming Birmingham accent!

'On Target: Terrance Dicks', offers an in-depth look at the writer's work off the screen, with the Doctor Who Book range. Featuring interviews with Alan Barnes (Ex Doctor Who Magazine Editor), Paul Cornell (Writer), as well as input from Terrance himself. This is the most significant feature on The Monster of Peladon disc, as everything about it from the titles, down to the concise information and text readings from Katy Manning, smacks of sheer quality.

As with previous DVD releases, there are the usual 'PDF Material', 'Photo Gallery' and 'Production Subtitles' included.

Peladon Tales is a great box-set, well worth the £29.99 RRP, but with 2|Entertain's previous history of quality extras, the bar has been raised so high, that the viewer is spoiled, and can’t help feeling a little deflated with anything less than two screens of features per story.

That being said, the quality of the features for both stories are as high as ever, and act as a great companion to the Peladon saga.

Manufacturer: BBC DVD / 2|Entertain

Written By: Terrance Dicks & Malcolm Hulke

RRP: £19.99

Release Date: 6th July 2009

Reviewed by: Doctor Who Online

Review Posted: 14th July 2009

The War Games is firmly regarded as a favourite amongst many Doctor Who fans, and the announcement earlier this year of the proposed DVD release was fuelled with much excitement, hype and expectation.

But with so much riding on what could arguably be one of the most important DVD releases from the Classic Series so far, could the BBC / 2|entertain deliver?

The answer, quite simply, is a big resounding YES!

The War Games presents Doctor Who's first and only 10-part adventure. Although a lengthy story, totaling over 4 hours, the storyline, cast, pace and suspense keep you entertained all the way through, and watching in straight succession is by no means a chore.

It contains some of the best villainy in Doctor Who history, with some truly engaging performances from Philip Madoc (The War Lord), Edward Brayshaw (The War Chief), David Garfield (Captain von Weich) and James Bree (Security Chief).

It is also clear from this story that the chemistry-fuelled partnership between Patrick Troughton, Frazer Hines and Wendy Padbury was coming to a close, as the adventure marks the end of The Second Doctor's tenure on the show. But what better way to bow out than on the high that this story provides.

The War Games succeeds on so many levels. From the underlying message of War and its consequences, the gripping cliffhangers (which count for some of the best seen in Doctor Who), to the amazing way in which the cast and crew worked together to pull off a thoroughly entertaining piece of Science Fiction Television history. 

The DVD package is rounded off with a cavernous collection of Special Features that each compliment and support the story.

The 'Commentary' features Frazer Hines (Actor 'Jamie'), Wendy Padbury (Actor 'Zoe), Philip Madoc (Actor 'The War Lord'), Jane Sherwin (Actor 'Lady Jennifer'), Graham Weston (Actor 'Russell'), Terrance Dicks (Writer) and Derrick Sherwin (Producer). Although, as commentaries go, there are a lot of guests, they are spread out over the 10 episodes, giving balance whilst coming and going fluidly. Terrance and Frazer, in particular, offer some extremely entertaining anecdotes.

'War Zone' looks at the genesis of the story, together with some of the cast and crew's stories from filming. With interviews from Terrance Dicks, James Moran (Writer), Paul Cornell (Writer), Tom Spilsbury (DWM Editor), Graham Weston, Frazer Hines, Wendy Padbury, Jane Sherwin, Bernard Horsfall (Actor 'Time Lord), Derrick Sherwin, David Maloney (Director), Roger Cheveley (Production Designer) and Joseph Lidster (Writer).

Paul Cornell's input in the documentary, is particularly worthy of note, due to his accurate and thought provoking dissection of some of the plot points in the story.

'Shades of Grey' focuses on the limitations and considerations of black and white television. The documentary casts a light on Producing, Designing, Graphic Designing, Performing and Sound Design for monochrome television production and features interviews with Frazer Hines, Wendy Padbury, Jane Sherwin, Terrance Dicks, Derrick Sherwin, Timothy Combe (Director), Roger Cheveley, Bernard Lodge (Graphic Designer) and Brian Hodgson (Sound Designer).

'Now and Then' offers a look at the locations used in The War Games, and compares the locations as they were used 40 years ago, with footage recorded recently. This is quite possibly one of the best Now and Then features produced to date, owing to the accuracy of location positioning coupled with the informative narration and supporting music.

'The Doctor's Composer' gives us a long-overdue and well-presented look at Dudley Simpson's musical contribution to Doctor Who. The documentary provides a chronological look at stories and scenes from the Classic Series that Dudley provided music for, connected with interview footage of Dudley himself.

'Sylvia James - In Conversation', offers a chronological look at the Make-up Designer's work during the Patrick Troughton era of Doctor Who, with clips from episodes as well as stills of her work, as she describes the processes involved.

'Talking about Regeneration' does exactly what it says on the tin! It's a clear, concise, and informative guide to The Doctor's regenerations to date. Featuring interviews with Kate O'Mara (Actor 'The Rani'), Peter Davison (Actor 'The 5th Doctor'), Gareth Roberts (Writer), Rob Shearman (Writer), Joseph Lidster and Clayton Hickman (former DWM Editor).

'Time Zones', kicks off with a neat little CGI sequence, and focuses on the historical truth behind The War Games, with detailed information on some of the major points surrounding the First World War, Roman Warfare and The American Civil War. The feature adds a good grounding behind the story, and includes interviews from Martin Farr (Political Historian), Crispin Swayne (Military Historian), Lindsay Allison-Jones (of Newcastle University) and Susan-Mary Grant (Author).

'Stripped for Action - The Second Doctor', looks at the Second Doctor comics, and how some of the companions and villains changed from the TV episodes to the comic strips, not to mention some of the bizarre storylines. The feature includes contributions from Gary Russell (former DWM Editor), Alan Barnes (former DWM Editor), John Ainsworth (Comics Historian) and Jeremy Bentham (Comics Historian).

'On Target - Malcolm Hulke'; shows us how the cherished Doctor Who Writer got into writing for the show, as well as his impact on some of the other members of the production team associated with the show, such as Terrance Dicks and Gary Russell. The documentary includes interviews with Terrance Dicks, Gary Russell, Alan Barnes, David J Howe (Author) and Chris Achilleos (Illustrator). Terrance Dicks' memories in particular, make up some of the best moments in this feature.

'Devious' is a Fan film that attempts to bridge the 'alleged' gap between The War Games and Spearhead from Space with 'The 2nd and a half Doctor', played by Tony Garner . The film includes scenes recorded with Jon Pertwee (playing The 3rd Doctor) as well as Peter Tuddenham and Hugh Lloyd (playing Time Lords). There's also a commentary option featuring the cast and crew that offers some behind the scenes tidbits, including an explanation of how Jon Pertwee was persuaded to take part.

This feature was a real surprise, and makes a genuinely pleasant and bold (on the BBC's part) addition to the DVD.

The 'Coming Soon Trailer' features a trailer promoting the forthcoming Black Guardian Trilogy DVD box-set. Although it's not one of the best trailers to date, it certainly packs a lot of energy and seems to sell the main plot points. One can't help feeling though, after a release such as The War Games, that the DVD features should also be highlighted in the trailers.

As with previous DVD releases, there are the usual 'Easter Eggs', 'PDF Material', 'Photo Gallery' and 'Production Subtitles' included.

It's easy to get swept away with positive comments when reviewing a DVD like this, especially when it contains a story as successful as The War Games, but the variety and quality of the supporting features are what help to make this package shine with utter brilliance. Well... that and Clayton Hickman's vividly eye-catching cover!

Overall, this is quite clearly, and most definitely the finest Doctor Who DVD release thus far, and will surely take some beating.

Manufacturer: BBC DVD / 2|Entertain

Written By: Paula Moore

RRP: £19.99

Release Date: 16th March 2009

Reviewed by: Doctor Who Online

Review Posted: 18th March 2009

Attack of the Cybermen offers a bold and ambitious start to Colin Baker's first full season as The 6th Doctor. With some great locations, acting and nods to the shows past, the serial is a generally enjoyable 88 minutes.

There are, however, a few let-downs, which prevented the story from reaching its full potential.

The role of the Cyber Controller didn't really work, as David Banks' Cyber Leader had already been established within the story, and is more than a powerful enough adversary for The Doctor to face off with.

The musical score for the story, has to be one of the worst in the shows entire history, and ends up sounding both messy and terribly dated. That being said, the brief theme for The Cryons had great potential and was sadly underused.

The script also had its fair share of pitfalls, with most of the meatier dialogue given to Maurice Colbourne, who, to be fair, was instrumental in most of the areas that this story succeeds in.

The DVD release is packed with some top quality features that not only compliment, but help to mend the way for those who may feel a little short-changed by the serial itself.

'The Cold War' looks at the making of Attack of the Cybermen, and features interviews with Actors; Colin Baker (The Doctor), Nicola Bryant (Peri), Terry Molloy (Russell) and Sarah Berger (Rost), Writer; Eric Saward, Director; Matthew Robinson, Continuity Advisor; Ian Levine, and Film Cameraman; Godfrey Johnson.

It proves to be an insightful breakdown of the genesis of the story, and may even surprise some fans when the authorship of the story comes into discussion.

'The Cyber Story' blasts off with an awesome CGI introductory title sequence, and offers an in-depth look at the genesis of the Cybermen, and how there is a basis of plausibility behind their concept. Featuring interviews with Director; Morris Barry, Writer; Eric Saward, Designers; Sandra Reid and Dinah Collins, Cybermen Actor; Mark Hardy, Cybermen Voice Artist; Roy Skelton and Professor Kevin Warwick.

'Human Cyborg' features an extended version of the interview with Kevin Warwick (Professor of Cybernetics at Reading University), from the previous feature, who, as well as being a self-proclaimed Doctor Who fan, is heralded as the worlds first Human Cyborg.

The feature looks at the possibility of whether Cybermen could exist, as Kevin unveils some of his experiments, beliefs and ideas. This is a DVD extra that is bound to capture the minds of all fans of The Cybermen, as well as educating with surprising clarity.

'The Cyber-Generations' is a pictorial guide to the different types of Cybermen throughout the year s, displayed in chronological order. With photos from lost stories that some fans will never have seen before, it is great to have such a concise guide to one of The Doctors greatest villains. (The title sequence isn't quite as mind-blowing as 'The Cyber Story', however).

The 'Coming Soon Trailer' is for the forthcoming Image of the Fendahl DVD release. As with the other trailers, it fails to disappoint, with tight scene cutting and an energetic music track that work well together.

The 'Audio Commentary' features Colin Baker (The Doctor), Nicola Bryant (Peri) and Terry Molloy (Russell) for Part One, with Sarah Berger (Rost) replacing Terry Molloy for Part Two. Colin in particular, provides a thoroughly entertaining narrative, thanks to his knowledge of the show, coupled with some choice one-liners - he also directs the conversation perfectly. Colin and Nicola's on-screen chemistry, carries itself off-screen for this commentary, as the pair share both affection and memories which are a genuine joy to hear.

As with previous DVD releases, the usual Photo Gallery, Info Text, Trails & Continuity and Radio Times Listings are included. There's also a Dalek related Easter Egg hidden somewhere within the menu system.

Although this release may not house the best example of Classic Who, the features are representative of some of the best examples of the impressive quality and effort that goes into the Doctor Who DVD range.

Manufacturer: BBC DVD / 2|Entertain

Written By: Andrew Smith, Terrance Dicks & Stephen Gallagher

RRP: £34.99

Release Date: 26th January 2009

Reviewed by: Doctor Who Online

Review Posted: 2nd February 2009

Full Circle

Full Circle kicks off The E-Space Trilogy to a flying start. The story, which is the brainchild of 17-year-old Doctor Who fan, Andrew Smith, is well paced, well placed, and features some great location shots together with some generally good acting.

Compared to the other stories in this box-set, Full Circle is definitely the tidiest DVD, with just the right amount of features to compliment the story.

'All aboard the Starliner', offers an in-depth look at the making of Full Circle. Featuring interviews with Andrew Smith (Writer), Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor), Max Samett (Cameraman) with Actors; Lalla Ward (Romana), Bernard Padden (Tylos), George Baker (Login) and John Leeson (K9), as well as excepts from an archived interview with Director; Peter Grimwade. The documentary length was just right and made for a thoroughly informative companion to the serial. 

'K9 in E-Space' takes a look at K9's role in The E-Space Trilogy, as well as serving some rather amusing Marmite-esque 'love him or hate him' opinions of the character from the cast and crew. It is clear, however, that this feature was recorded as part of  'All aboard the Starliner', and doesn't entirely feel big enough as a standalone feature.

'Swap Shop' features Matthew Waterhouse as interviewed on the show by Noel Edmonds back in 1980. Matthew takes calls from viewers as well as giving away some prizes for a competition on the programme.

'E-Space - Fact or Fiction?' is an intelligent look at the science and plausibility behind the idea of E-Space. Narrated by Sophie Aldred, the feature includes interviews with Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor), Mat Irvine (Visual Effects Designer), Patrick Moore (Presenter and Astronomer), Andrew Ball (Planetary Scientist) as well as Authors; Paul Parsons and Stephen Baxter. Particularly of interest, was Parsons breakdown of the Four different types of Multiverse, which he explains clearly.

The 'Commentary' is provided by Matthew Waterhouse (Adric), Andrew Smith (Writer) and Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor), and presents honest, open and entertaining perspectives of their involvement in the story. Waterhouse and Bidmead are particularly good at keeping the energy levels up in moments where conversation appears to dip. The Doctor Who DVD Commentaries seem to work best when guided by someone unconnected to the serial, as it helps bring the viewer/listener in further by not feeling so alienated.

The 'Coming Soon Trailer' gives us a look at the February 2009 release of The Rescue & The Romans box-set, and has been cut together extremely well with a good choice of music overlay that nips along at an energetic pace.

Also included on the disc are the usual Continuity announcements, Photo Galleries, Info Text and Radio Times Listings.

State of Decay

State of Decay, is, quite simply, gothic Doctor Who at its best. It has it all; vampires, creepy woodland, and an underground lair that harbors a gruesome foe. Of the three stories includes in the box-set, it is clearly this one that shines. This second disc is a little feature-heavy, and feels a bit saturated with a couple of items that focus more on themes, rather than the story in hand.

'The Vampire Lovers' looks at the making of State of Decay. Featuring interviews with Terrance Dicks (Writer), Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor), Peter Moffatt (Director), Christine Ruscoe (Designer) and Actors; Lalla Ward (Romana), John Leeson (Voice of K9) and Clinton Greyn (Ivo).

It touches on the turbulent relationship between Dicks and Bidmead, with frank accounts from both parties, as well as looking at some of the themes within the story such as Blood and Vampirism. There is some fascinating insight into the Design of the set and how Christine Ruscoe took inspiration from Mont St Michel in France.

The 'Film Trims' feature includes 6 minutes of mute model and effects shots including the Great Vampires' hand and subsequent staking, as well as some alternative takes of the tower.

'Leaves of Blood' is a fantastic feature, presented by Nicholas Briggs, and gives us a history of Vampires in written fiction. Featuring interviews with Dr. Tina Rath (Vampire Fiction specialist), Authors; Simon Clark, Stephen Gallagher, Kim Newman, Ramsey Campbell, Alison L. R. Davies, Chris Fowler and Pete Crowther, as well as excerpts read deliciously by Nick Scovell.

The breakdown and evolution of the Vampire character is laid bare here thanks to the opinions and ideas discussed by the interviewees which have to be the cream of the crop in this subject matter.

'The Blood Show' takes a look at the make-up of blood, as well as its meaning in society. Featuring interviews with Simon Clare (Nurse Specialist in Haematology), Sir Christopher Frayling (Cultural Historian), Stefan Gates (Broadcaster and Food Writer), Emily Richards (Goth Club Promoter), Dr. Lola Martinez (from the Department of Anthropology, SOAS), Fergus Henderson (Chef and Proprietor, St John Restaurant) and Frank Baker (of Frank's Butchers). Although the feature is of interest, it feels too much like padding to a DVD that already has sufficient content.

'The Frayling Reading' offers Christopher Frayling's understanding of the Vampire legend as well as its connection to State of Decay. The feature brings us back to the Doctor Who DVD content, proper, and makes for a welcome addition.

The 'Commentary' is provided by Matthew Waterhouse (Adric), Peter Moffatt (Director) and Terrance Dicks (Writer). Right from the off we are given some detailed information on the genesis of the story from Dicks, which sets the pace for what turns out to be a fact-filled commentary. Waterhouse, however, takes a while to warm into the commentary, and rather annoyingly repeats chunks of text spoken by Tom Baker in parrot fashion.

Also included on the disc are the usual Continuity announcements, Photo Galleries, Info Text and Radio Times Listings.

Warriors' Gate

Warriors' Gate, as a story is quite complex - perhaps a little too ambitious. What is clear, however, is how much effort has gone into the production. Although it was one of the cheapest Doctor Who stories to be made, the attention to detail in many areas, has to be commended. You do get the feeling that so much more could have been made out of the adventure, however, and end up feeling a little short-changed by the end due to Romana's rushed exit.

Warriors' Gate, holds the most rewarding special features in The E-Space Trilogy box set, with some highly entertaining documentaries and interviews that all connect directly to the story.

'The Dreaming' looks at the making of Warriors' Gate, and features interviews with Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor), Paul Joyce (Director), Stephen Gallagher (Writer), Mat Irvine (Visual Effects Designer), and Actors; Lalla Ward (Romana), John Leeson (Voice ok K9), Clifford Rose (Rorvik) and David Weston (Biroc).

The documentary, reveals the pitfalls that the production went through before its completion, as well touching on some of the conflicts amongst the cast and crew.

'The Boy with the Golden Star' features an interview with Matthew Waterhouse, as he looks back through his time on the show. A really enjoyable feature that casts Waterhouse in a new light, whilst tackling some of the myths that followed him as a young actor.

'Lalla's Wardrobe' brings us a chronological look at the various costumes Romana wore throughout her tenure on the show. With interviews from June Hudson (Costume Designer), Louise Page (New Series Costume Designer) and Writers; Nev Fountain and Jonathan Morris.

The 'Extended and Deleted Scenes' are barely noticeable, but will no doubt appease completists. Its such a shame a longer farewell scene wasn't recorded between The Doctor and Romana.

The 'Commentary' features Paul Joyce (Director), John Leeson (Voice of K9), Mat Irvine (Effects Designer), Christopher H. Bidmead (Script Editor) and Lalla Ward (Romana).

It becomes obvious quite early on, that five people in a commentary is just too much, and surprisingly, the energy levels are relatively low throughout with some guests tending to fade into the background.

Also included on the disc is an Easter Egg, as well as the usual Continuity announcements, Photo Galleries, Info Text and Radio Times Listings.

Overall, The E-Space Trilogy DVD box set is quite satisfying, with the exception of a couple of red undant features. The commentaries, in general, were good, but needed more direction, which an external presence could have easily provided.

These serials are by no means representative of The Doctor's finest adventures, but they do show how, even with a tight budget, imagination and resourcefulness can pull through to make a trilogy of entertaining science fiction. Together with its feature-laden content, E-Space is a universe you will enjoy coming back to.