Brief Summary
The video explores the character of Mel Bush, a companion of the Sixth and Seventh Doctors in Doctor Who. It discusses her initial introduction without a proper origin story, her character traits, and her returns in the new series. The video argues that Mel's character development was limited in the classic series due to production issues and the lack of a dedicated introductory episode. Her returns in the new series are seen as underutilizing her potential, leaving her character feeling shallow and unexplored. The video concludes by pondering how Mel's story could be improved or whether her enigmatic nature should remain.
- Mel Bush's character was not deeply developed due to the lack of an introductory episode.
- Production issues in the classic series and the new series hindered Mel's character development.
- Mel's returns in the new series felt like cameos and did not add significant depth to her character.
Introduction
The video introduces Mel Bush, a companion of the Sixth and Seventh Doctors, whose return for the 60th anniversary excited classic series fans. The video aims to explore Mel's character, what was learned about her in both the classic and new series, and why her returns to the new series have made her story more confusing. The speaker expresses their love for Mel Bush and Bonnie Langford, the actress who plays her.
Who is Mel Bush?
Mel Bush is a companion who first appeared in "Terror of the Vervoids," a segment of "The Trial of a Time Lord" arc. The Doctor is on trial for interfering with time, and Mel is presented as an established traveler with him. The absence of a standard introductory story makes Mel feel more generic compared to other companions. Companions in the classic series typically receive significant character development in their introduction episodes, which Mel lacks. Examples like Liz Shaw and Nyssa are used to illustrate how initial stories define characters in the classic series. Even though characters like Tegan develop throughout the show.
Production Issues and Mel's Character
Production issues, such as the hiatus and Colin Baker's firing, further complicated Mel's introduction. The show had to continue with Mel as the Doctor's companion without showing how they met. Mel is portrayed as a fitness enthusiast, computer programmer, and someone with a positive attitude. She is a loyal friend to the Doctor and stands up for what she believes in. Her relationship with the Sixth Doctor is healthier than the Doctor's relationship with Peri. In "Time and the Rani," Mel handles the Doctor's regeneration well, but the lack of character depth makes it harder to relate to her. In her final story, "Dragonfire," Mel's character is overshadowed by Ace, who has a more developed personality.
Expanded Universe and Mel's Backstory
The expanded universe attempts to answer questions about how Mel met the Doctor and her life before traveling with him. The book "Business Unusual" by Gary Russell depicts the Doctor trying to avoid meeting Mel to prevent the events of the trial from happening. However, they eventually meet in Brighton and begin their travels together. The Big Finish audio drama "The Wrong Doctors" also attempts to show their first meeting but complicates the timeline further. These expanded universe stories add to the confusion surrounding Mel's introduction.
Mel's Return to the New Series
Mel's return in the new series, coinciding with Russell T. Davies' return as showrunner, was initially hoped to be similar to Sarah Jane Smith's reunion in "School Reunion." While "The Power of the Doctor" did a good job of bringing back Ace and Tegan, Mel's cameo felt more like fan service. In "The Giggle," hints were given about Mel's life after leaving the Doctor, such as traveling with Sabalon Glitz and working at UNIT. However, these hints were not further explored in subsequent appearances. Mel's character in the new series feels shallow, with repetitive mentions of her lost family.
Critique of Mel's Role in the New Series
Mel's character in the new series lacks depth, with minimal lines and development. Russell T. Davies may have had plans for Mel's story in future series, but production issues may have hindered her storyline. The video questions the point of bringing back Mel if there was nothing significant to do with her character. Mel's appearances in multiple season finales feel like cameos, vying for time against numerous other characters. The lack of established character depth makes it difficult for the audience to care about her.
Fixing Mel's Story
The video suggests that the expanded universe explanations for Mel's introduction are overly complicated. A simpler, more straightforward story would have been more fitting for the classic series. The new series could have explored Mel's character deeper, such as revealing that the Weeping Angels were responsible for her family's disappearance. However, it is also possible that Mel will forever remain a mystery. Despite enjoying Mel's presence on screen, the video expresses disappointment with the overall handling of her character.
