Brief Summary
This YouTube video reviews the first audio drama spin-off series featuring the Fugitive Doctor, played by Jo Martin. The review covers the three episodes of the first box set, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each. Overall, the reviewer finds the series promising, praising Martin's performance and the unique stories, while also pointing out some issues with pacing and narrative focus.
- Jo Martin shines as the Fugitive Doctor, bringing energy and authority to the role.
- The series explores the Fugitive Doctor's character and places her in various timelines, creating mystery and excitement.
- "The Legend of Baba Yaga" is a standout episode, blending fantasy and science fiction elements effectively.
Introduction
The video introduces the Fugitive Doctor, portrayed by Jo Martin, who was revealed in "Fugitive of the Judoon" and discusses Big Finish's new audio drama series that explores her character. The reviewer aims to provide a spoiler-free review of the first box set to help viewers decide if it's worth listening to.
Episode 1: Fast Times
The first episode, "Fast Times," written by Robert Valentine, is described as an action-packed adventure where the Doctor is on the run from the Time Lords, hiding a secret she doesn't remember. Hunted by Head Hunter Cosmon, she finds herself imprisoned in a spaceship prison and must escape. She befriends a prisoner who is running from one of the Doctor's future or past enemies. The episode is tonally different from regular Doctor Who, feeling like a mix of "The Mandalorian" and "The Chase." Jo Martin's performance is praised for her energy and authority, portraying a hardened Doctor who still helps those in need. The episode's location hopping might be difficult for new Big Finish listeners, but seasoned listeners will enjoy the ride. The time-hopping segment in New Mexico is highlighted as a particularly exciting moment.
Episode 2: The Legend of Baba Yaga
Episode two, "The Legend of Baba Yaga," takes place in 17th century Russia, where the Doctor encounters Baba Yaga, a figure from folklore with seemingly limitless powers. The Doctor joins Vissia, who seeks Baba Yaga's help to save her family from the cold. The story explores the nature of Baba Yaga's power and whether it's something the Doctor can understand. The reviewer praises the episode for blending fantasy and science fiction, giving a Doctor Who twist to a folk tale. The fantasy elements, such as Baba Yaga's powers, are explained with a scientific basis within the Doctor Who universe. The reviewer hopes that Rashana Patel, the writer, will contribute to more Fugitive Doctor stories, considering this episode the highlight of the set.
Episode 3: The Dimension of Lost Things
The final story, "The Dimension of Lost Things," sees the Doctor falling into another universe outside of time while on the run from Cosmon. She joins a group of displaced people as they explore a dimension that doesn't make sense. This episode is considered the weakest of the set but contains brilliant ideas, such as the Doctor encountering herself and Sandy Irvine, an explorer who went missing on Everest, and a giant squirrel. The episode suffers from having too many ideas, similar to some issues in Chris Chibnall's era. The concept of Sandy Irvine is compelling but feels wasted due to being bundled with other ideas. The interaction between two versions of the Doctor is less effective in audio format. However, there are incredible moments when the Doctor recounts her dreams, with Martin's performance being electrifying.
Final Thoughts
Despite the final episode ending the box set on a sour note, the reviewer believes there is enough in the set to establish the range as something different and willing to take risks. The reviewer was initially hesitant about the series being set after the Doctor's time with Division but feels that the first box set hints at exploring her mystery. The reviewer expresses a desire for some answers and story progression, drawing a comparison to the Christopher Eccleston audios, which felt aimless. The reviewer praises Jo Martin's performance and expresses excitement for future Fugitive Doctor stories. The reviewer also reflects on the idea that there has never been a bad casting decision for the Doctor, and encourages viewers to share their thoughts on the audio drama.
