Sarah Jane Smith Series 2 - A Retrospective | Big Finish | Doctor Who Spinoff

Brief Summary

This episode of The Sirens of Audio features a retrospective on the second series of the Sarah Jane Smith audio dramas by Big Finish. The hosts, Dwane and Philip, discuss the enduring appeal of Sarah Jane Smith as a character, the changes in production and writing for Series 2, and provide detailed analyses of each of the four stories: "Buried Secrets," "Snowblind," "Fatal Consequences," and "Dreamland." They include insights from interviews with key contributors such as Gary Russell, John Ainsworth, David Bishop, Jess Fielder, Stephen greif and Jacqueline Pierce. The discussion covers the narrative arcs, character development, and the overall impact of the series, including its cliffhanger ending and legacy.

• The enduring appeal of Sarah Jane Smith as a character.
• Production and writing changes in Series 2.
• Detailed analyses of each of the four stories.
• Insights from interviews with key contributors.
• The series' cliffhanger ending and legacy.

Introduction

Sadie Miller introduces the second series of The Sirens of Audio, noting the three-year gap since the first series. She explains that the delay was due to her desire to ensure continued interest in the character, especially without the Doctor. Miller expresses joy in collaborating on scripts with David Bishop and having input on storylines, driven by her deep understanding of the character developed over 30 years.

Podcast Introduction

Dwayne and Philip introduce the retrospective on Sarah Jane Smith series two, noting the long-awaited follow-up to their series one feature. They discuss the enduring popularity of Sarah Jane Smith among fans, attributing it to Elizabeth Sladen's confident performance, which brought humor, fear, excitement, and adventure to the character. They highlight the strong rapport between Sladen and her co-stars, particularly Tom Baker, which enhanced the character's appeal.

Gary Russell Interview Snippet

Gary Russell discusses the transition from producing the Sarah Jane Smith audio series to becoming the script editor for "The Sarah Jane Adventures" on television. He recalls his initial satisfaction with the first audio series and the Miss Winters storyline. Russell mentions that John Ainsworth took over as producer for Series 2. He shares an anecdote about Elizabeth Sladen's dedication to her role, including late-night phone calls to discuss script details. Russell also reflects on Sladen's insecurity about her popularity and the outpouring of love after her death. He emphasizes Russell T Davies's significant involvement in "The Sarah Jane Adventures" and the collaborative environment with the writers.

Buried Secrets Discussion

Dwayne and Philip begin their discussion of "Buried Secrets," the first story in Series 2. They note the immediate change in production team and direction, marked by the death of Hilda Winters. Despite the initial shock, they appreciate the new, exciting direction of the series, which features a stronger overriding theme and a definite story arc. They praise Tom Chadbon's voice acting and the introduction of the Josh Townsend arc, which adds unexpected depth to his character.

John Ainsworth Interview

John Ainsworth discusses taking over as producer for the second season of Sarah Jane Smith. He mentions listening to the first series and identifying "Test of Nerve" as a high point. Ainsworth initially wanted a more realistic and gritty feel but collaborated closely with Elizabeth Sladen, who was very hands-on with the storylines and concepts. He notes that Sladen's involvement was unusual compared to other actors he had worked with. The decision was made to have David Bishop write all four episodes to maintain a consistent story arc. Ainsworth drew inspiration from the series "Alias" for the prophecy element.

David Bishop Interview

David Bishop discusses writing for the second series of Sarah Jane Smith, noting that John Ainsworth approached him after other writers' ideas didn't work out. He aimed to create four standalone stories that built into a larger narrative, a forerunner to modern box sets. Bishop mentions the initial idea was to make Sarah less paranoid and not as much of a working journalist. He shares that his first story pitch was rejected due to problematic themes around disability. The character of Will Sullivan was changed from Harry Sullivan's nephew to his brother to avoid Sarah being seen as a mother hen to younger characters. "Buried Secrets" was inspired by Bishop's research into Renaissance Florence and a desire to create a callback to "The Masque of Mandragora." He also reveals that the series was intended to end with the sound of the TARDIS, implying the Doctor's rescue.

Tom Chadbon Interview

Tom Chadbon discusses his role as Will Sullivan, noting that he played the character straight, focusing on what his character knew at the time. He praises the director and writers for handling the overall plot. Jess Fielder discusses the long gap between series one and two, noting the radio silence and her involvement in other projects. She recounts a story about learning about the second series from Elizabeth Sladen at a Doctor Who convention. Fielder also praises the decision to have David Bishop write all the stories for consistency.

Snowblind Discussion

Dwayne and Philip discuss "Snowblind," highlighting its base-under-siege setting, interesting characters, and Steve Foxton's sound design. They note that the story continues the arc from the previous episode, with Sarah ignoring Will's warning and traveling to Antarctica. The episode reveals new information about Will, testing his relationship with Sarah. They praise the cliffhanger ending and the use of "previously on" trailers.

David Bishop on Snowblind

David Bishop discusses the global locations in Series 2, including Antarctica, which was inspired by the graphic novel "Whiteout" and a desire to improve upon the depiction in "Seeds of Doom." He aimed to subvert expectations and create callbacks to Sarah Jane's past adventures. Bishop mentions that space tourism was a developing concept at the time, influencing the space setting. He also notes that Elizabeth Sladen approved all the scripts and provided notes, emphasizing that not every story needed to be about saving the world.

John Ainsworth on Snowblind

John Ainsworth discusses bringing in Harry Sullivan's brother and casting Tom Chadbon in the role. He mentions that Tom was disappointed not to be in the final episode. Ainsworth also talks about the decision to bring back Natalie and Josh from season one, noting that Sadie was only in Story one and story four. He explains the use of framing devices like "previously on" and "next time on" segments. Ainsworth emphasizes the deliberate effort to give the series an international feel.

Jacqueline Pearce Interview

Jacqueline Pearce discusses her role, noting it was similar to her "Servalan" character from "Blake's 7." Jess Fielder discusses the stronger stories in Series 2, noting the bolder and more sinister tone. She recalls the emotional recording of the series' conclusion and the cast's reactions.

Fatal Consequences Discussion

Dwayne and Philip discuss "Fatal Consequences," noting its "Da Vinci Code"-like feel and the emergence of Doctor Who elements. They mention the secret societies and the story's connection to "The Masque of Mandragora." The hosts highlight the character arcs, particularly Josh's, and the darker territory the story explores.

David Bishop on Fatal Consequences

David Bishop discusses Josh's character growth throughout the series, influenced by the TV series "24." He mentions that the plan was for Nat to exit the series after the first story but was brought back for the final story. Bishop reveals that killing off Hilda Winters was a given, allowing for a clean slate. He also discusses writing the "previously on" and "next time on" segments and the influence of "24" on the structure and pacing.

John Ainsworth on Fatal Consequences

John Ainsworth recalls working with the cast, including Tom Chadbon, Jacqueline Pearce, and Stephen Greif. He notes that Liz had the most reservations about number three. Ainsworth discusses Liz's desire for the character to be stronger and less paranoid. He also mentions finding out about Liz's involvement in the TV episode and his concern about contradictions.

Sadie Miller and Jeremy James Interview

Sadie Miller and Jeremy James discuss the logical progression of their characters, noting that they have been out of the game for a while. Jess Fielder shares memories of working with Tom Chadbon, Stephen Greif, and Jacqueline Pearce. He describes John Ainsworth's style as more of a facilitator compared to Gary Russell's hands-on approach. Fielder also recalls the intense recording sessions and the emotional atmosphere.

Dreamland Discussion

Dwayne and Philip discuss "Dreamland," the final story in Series 2, noting the huge cliffhanger and the character pieces. They highlight Josh's redemption story and the revelations about character relationships.

David Bishop on Dreamland

David Bishop recalls the photo shoot with Liz, Tom, and Jacqueline. He mentions that the plan was always to end on a cliffhanger, leaving it for someone else to resolve. Bishop discusses the inspirations for the story, including real-life events and the desire to create a sense of mystery.

John Ainsworth on Dreamland

John Ainsworth discusses the ending of the series, noting that he wanted to leave it open but ambiguous. He mentions that he might have regretted the way they ended it, given the criticism of other series ending on cliffhangers. Ainsworth also shares his fond memories of working with Liz and the separate photo shoot for the covers.

Jess Fielder on Dreamland

Jess Fielder recalls the conversations about a third season and his initial disappointment at not being included in "The Sarah Jane Adventures." He shares his reaction to Liz's passing and the outpouring of sadness. Fielder praises Sadie Miller for reprising Sarah Jane, calling it a beautiful tribute.

Conclusion

Dwayne and Philip conclude the retrospective, thanking their guests and reflecting on the popularity of their Sarah Jane Smith episodes. They mention Big Finish's "Rani Takes on the World" and the legacy of Sarah Jane Smith. The hosts acknowledge the doctor's looming presence over the stories and the constant presence of Sarah Jane.