Brief Summary
In this episode of The Sirens of Audio, Dwayne and Philip, along with guest Dave, discuss Doctor Who expanded media, focusing on the Virgin New Adventures and BBC novels adapted for Big Finish audios. They explore the balance between sticking to TV canon and branching out in expanded media, using "The Highest Science" and "Cold Fusion" as examples. The conversation touches on the history and impact of the Virgin novels, the character development within these stories, and the challenges of adapting complex narratives into audio format.
- Expanded media's adherence to TV canon is debated.
- "The Highest Science" and "Cold Fusion" adaptations are analyzed.
- The impact and history of Virgin New Adventures are discussed.
Intro
Rob Shaman introduces The Sirens of Audio, highlighting the importance of editing in podcasting to remove distractions and ensure a smooth listening experience.
Greetings and Crocodile Encounters
Dwayne and Philip greet their audience and introduce Dave from The Doctor Who Show. Philip shares his experiences in Broom, including a recent swim at Cable Beach after it reopened following a crocodile sighting.
Expanded Media and TV Canon
The hosts and Dave discuss whether expanded Doctor Who media should adhere to TV canon. Philip believes expanded media should remain recognizable and linked to the TV show, while Dave is more flexible, as long as the stories are enjoyable. They touch on examples like the Peter Cushing movies and the Virgin New Adventures, noting the importance of adding to the TV show without changing it. The conversation explores whether the show's presence on TV affects the license taken by expanded media.
Dave's Fandom Origin Story
Philip asks Dave about his journey into Doctor Who fandom and why he has remained a fan. Dave explains that he inherited his fandom from his father, who introduced him to the show and Target novels from a young age. He recounts fond memories of watching the show with his father and the excitement surrounding the discovery and release of lost episodes.
The Virgin New Adventures
Dave discusses the impact of the Virgin New Adventures on fandom, noting that they filled a void when the TV series was not running. He describes the anticipation for new titles, authors, and cover art, comparing it to the excitement for trailers of the new show today. Dave shares his personal experiences of reading the books as a teenager and how they introduced him to original science fiction and spin-off books. He also shares his preferences for the Missing Adventures, noting that they were more like the original TV show.
The History of the New and Missing Adventures
Dave explains the origins of the New and Missing Adventures, detailing how Virgin Publishing initially released the New Adventures every two months before switching to a monthly schedule. The Missing Adventures were spun off to allow authors to write for previous doctors and eras. He also shares his favorite books from both series, including "The Killing Ground," "The Plotters," "Nightshade," and "The Higher Science."
The Highest Science: Introduction and Trailer
The hosts transition to discussing "The Highest Science," a Big Finish adaptation of a Virgin New Adventure. Philip reads a blurb, followed by a trailer of the audio drama.
The Highest Science: Dave's Perspective
Dave explains why he chose "The Highest Science," highlighting it as a favorite story and one of the first Big Finish novel adaptations. He praises the story's blend of Doctor Who elements, including strange planets, militaristic tortoises, and a galactic criminal. Dave also appreciates Gareth Roberts' humor and the story's ability to create a fun adventure without a budget. He shares his thoughts on the chelonians' depiction in the Big Finish artwork and Lisa Bowerman's portrayal of Benny Summerfield.
The Highest Science: Philip and Dwayne's Thoughts
Philip discusses his relationship with novel adaptations, noting that they often feel like they are trying to contain too much. He appreciates Gareth Roberts' writing and humor, particularly in the adaptation of "Sharda." Philip also comments on Benny's characterization, noting that she sounds like the older Benny despite the story being set early in her timeline. Dwayne shares his struggles with novel adaptations, feeling that they are densely packed with story and that he is missing information.
The Highest Science: Adaptation Changes and Directing
Dave discusses the changes made in the adaptation of "The Highest Science," including reducing the number of accomplices for Sheld Ducker and removing the drug addiction subplot involving Benny. He speculates on the reasons for these changes, suggesting budgetary constraints and BBC policy. Dwayne praises Scott Hancock's direction and the casting choices, while also noting the differences in music compared to "Cold Fusion."
The Highest Science: Plot and Music
Dwayne admits to needing to consult Tardis Wiki to fully understand the plot of "The Highest Science." He appreciates the twist ending and the Douglas Adams-esque feel of the book. Philip praises Howard Carter's music, noting that it gives the story a modern Doctor Who feel. The panel discusses where the story fits within the Seventh Doctor's timeline, noting that it feels like a standalone portrayal.
Cold Fusion: Introduction and Trailer
The hosts introduce "Cold Fusion," a Big Finish adaptation of a Virgin Missing Adventure. Philip reads a blurb, followed by a trailer of the audio drama.
Cold Fusion: Initial Reactions
Dwayne admits to enjoying listening to "Cold Fusion" more than "The Highest Science" but understanding it less. Dave agrees, noting that while the first few episodes flowed well, the ending felt confusing. Philip was surprised by the six-episode length and enjoyed the interplay between the characters.
Cold Fusion: Character Interplay and Adric
Philip praises Yasmin Bannerman's acting and excitement for playing multiple characters. He also notes that he didn't initially realize Chris Cwej was pretending to be Bruce. The panel agrees that Adric and the Seventh Doctor work well together, contrasting Adric's dynamic with the Fifth Doctor.
Cold Fusion: Doctor Dynamics and Book Differences
Dave discusses the overt contrast between the Fifth and Seventh Doctors in the book, noting that the Fifth Doctor is concerned about the person he will become. He explains that the plot serves to highlight these dynamics, which are not as prominent in the adaptation. Philip feels that the Fifth Doctor comes across as weak in the final scene.
Cold Fusion: Lance Parkin and Adric's Death
Dave praises Lance Parkin's writing and his contributions to the Doctor Who universe. The panel discusses the handling of Adric's death in the audio drama, noting that it feels remote. Dave mentions that the book has more introspection about the doctor being tempted to prevent Adric's death.
Cold Fusion: Matthew Waterhouse and Music
The panel praises Matthew Waterhouse's performance as Adric, noting that Big Finish gives him the opportunity to bring something to the character that was never fully realized on TV. Philip suggests that Waterhouse should not try to get his voice as high as it was back then. Dwayne discusses the music, noting that it is reminiscent of Season 19.
Cold Fusion: Nyssa and the Adjudicators
The panel discusses Nyssa's role in the story, noting that she is less prominent than other companions. Philip admits to struggling to understand the role of the adjudicators. Dave explains that they are Intergalactic policemen from 30th Century Earth.
Cold Fusion: Patience and Music
Dwayne asks about the character of Patience and her importance to the backstory of the Doctor and Susan. Dave explains that she was married to Omega and gave birth to Susan's father. The panel discusses the music, with Dwayne praising its Season 19 feel and Philip feeling that it does not quite fit the story.
Cold Fusion: Overall Enjoyment and Recommendations
The panel concludes their discussion of "Cold Fusion," noting that despite its complexity, it is an enjoyable listen. Dave recommends "Nightshade" and "The Romance of Crime" as accessible entry points to the Virgin book adaptations and the Virgin books themselves.
Recommendations
Philip recommends the musical "Operation Mincemeat," a hilarious and brilliant show about a convoluted plot during World War II. Dwayne recommends the TV series "Masters of the Air," a Band of Brothers-style show about the Air Force in World War II.
Final Thoughts and Farewells
The hosts thank Dave for joining them and express their hope to hang out with him in person at future conventions. They bid farewell to their audience and announce the episode number and title.
