Adam Graham's Blog: Christians and Superheroes - Posts Tagged "colin-baker"
Discover the Better Sixth Doctor in Big Finish's 99p Sale
Big Finish's 99p sale is back (use password: redballoons) through April 30th. All of the original items I recommend to meet the Eighth Doctor are there except for the Destiny of the Doctor Release.
This is a great opportunity to get into some Big Finish Doctor Who audio dramas. This post will focus on the Sixth Doctor. Colin Baker was really dealt a bad hand on television. His costume was obnoxious and his personality was abrasive. To be clear, I don't think his time on television was nearly as bad as detractors indicate. I like most of his stories and appreciate Colin Baker's efforts, but he was really hampered by a bad first impression and some poor creative decisions influenced by a script editor who thought he wasn't a worthy Doctor.
Big Finish has allowed Colin Baker to really write a new chapter for his Doctor. The ego and bravado are still there, but it's also been tempered with more kindness, compassion, and introspection which makes the character feel more like the Doctor. Colin Baker is the best Big Finish Doctor in my opinion and with the first fifty Big Finish releases on sale, now is a great chance to see what kind of Doctor Colin Baker can be if you give him the chance:
1) The Marian Conspiracy: One big change Big Finish has brought to the Sixth Doctor is new companions. Evelyn Smythe (Maggie Stables) is the first and she played a big part in softening the Sixth Doctor's image. She's an elderly instructor who the Doctor visits because she's at the epicenter of some time travel shenanigans. The Doctor takes her back to the time that Queen Mary is on the throne in England and the two have an adventure. The details of the story are okay, and the story does show the tragedy of how during this period, many sincere Christians killed each other over interpretations and what a tragedy that was. But what the story is ultimately about is the Doctor and Evelyn getting to know one another. Their chemistry is great. The Doctor only took her back in time to sort out the problem in her timeline but to paraphrase Bogie, "This was the beginning of a beautiful friendship."
2) Spectre of Lanyon Moor: The Sixth Doctor didn't properly meet the Brigadier (Nicholas Courtney) on television, but they team up in this audio adventure to investigate a strange mystery on the moor. This is the type of story Doctor Who did back at its height and it really plays out well over audio. Colin Baker, Nicholas Courtney, and Maggie Stables are all in fine form and just a delight to listen to.
3) The Apocalypse Element: The Apocalypse Element represented Big Finish’s most ambitious production at the time as we’re given a massive tale of a Dalek plan to invade Gallifrey and take over the Universe.
This time of thing has been tried since, but the Apocalypse Element works exceptionally well because it manages to really create the feeling of a true space epic where the galaxies burn and the Universe itself is at stake. Lalla Ward’s return as Romana makes this story a standout, particularly her brilliant monologue in Episode 2.
While there are some slow moments in the first part and the soundscape could probably stand being remastered, this is a very well done space epic, and listened to in light of the new series, this story can also be seen as a prelude to the Time War.
4) The One Doctor:
The Sixth Doctor and Mel (Bonnie Langford) find themselves in the vulgar period of time where all the secrets of the Universe are known including that of the existence of the Doctor. It's so well know that a con man and his girlfriend have set up a racket impersonating the Doctor and his companion in hopes of collecting money from grateful citizens. The two impostors succeed in thwarting the Sixth Doctor's attempt to expose them. However, when an alien cylinder issues an ultimatum requiring the Doctor's action, only the real Doctor can do it.
Colin Baker and Bonnie Langsford are both superb. Gareth Roberts' writing is effortlessly funny, so he doesn't have to have them act out of character for cheap laughs. The result is a story that showcases hol the Sixth Doctor and Mel can work together. Christopher Biggins is a great foil for Colin Baker as the fake Doctor Banto Zane, and the best scenes in the story are when they got at one another. Look out for future companion actor Matt Lucas who plays two roles in this one.
Overall, this is a delightful story full of clever dialogue, fun characters, and a few well-done audio gags. The only comedy better than this in Doctor Who is City of Death.
5) The Sandman:
A good concept where the Doctor is viewed as a monster by a race he stopped long ago and is playing up to the reputation for his own reasons, but he finds the aliens have strange goings on for which the Sandman is being blamed.
Overall, this is a very fun story. Evelyn is the perfect companion for the Sixth Doctor in this story where he’s trying to be an over the top menace. There are some clever ideas here. I particularly like the idea of the Doctor’s multi-colored coat actually being a weapon.
6) Jubilee:
Rob Shearman's story tells of a dystopian world where humans destroyed the Daleks with the help of the Doctor and then became an autocratic society is brilliant and chilling. The actors are all on point with Colin Baker turning in a fascinating performance, along with Briggs as the Dalek.
The story has a great combination of dark comedy, piercing social commentary, and memorable characters. The release is known for being the basis for the TV episode, "Dalek," but it's more influential than that. The story has shaped the way most Doctor Who writers deal with the Daleks. Easily a must-listen.
7) Doctor Who and the Pirates:
A historical that finds the Doctor and Evelyn telling a story of adventure and piracy on the high seas. The basic plot of the pirate story is fairly standard. The Doctor and Evelyn arrive on a ship just as its raided and most of its crew is impressed into the service of the mad pirate Red Jasper, who is seeking a treasure on the Ruby Island.
However, it's the telling of the story that makes it so good. Throughout Evelyn and the Doctor telling the story, it's clear that something is troubling her. In the third part, the Doctor tries to alleviate the tension with song and comedy, turning the whole affair into a Gilbert and Sullivan musical, one of Big Finish's earliest and most ambitious musical pieces. In addition, the biggest mystery is why Evelyn is telling the story to a former student.
The result is a tale that manages to mix hilarity with poignancy while portraying the sweet friendship between the Doctor and Evelyn and also showcasing Evelyn's heart.
8) Davros:
This story is the definitive examination of Davros in Doctor Who in a Dalek-free story that finds Davros revived to work for an intergalactic corporate mogul.
The moments between Davros and the Doctor are superb and one of the best explorations of their relationships ever recorded. Colin Baker is perfectly matched with Terry Malloy in this one. Wendy Padbury's character of the historian wife of the company's CEO is fascinating. Her actions in getting her husband to revive Davros is guided by a sort of amoral view of history that focuses only on what a genius Davros is and how mankind could benefit from his genius.
Beyond that, most of the characters are somewhat stock, but it really doesn't matter. Davros is a bold and absolutely brilliant exploration of one of the Doctor's greatest foes.
Bonus recommendations:
Jago and Litefoot: Big Finish made thirteen box sets and three specials centered around Jago and Litefoot, two characters who appeared in the classic Doctor Who story, "The Talons of Weng-Chiang." If you're wondering how you got that many stories out of two characters who only appeared in one episode together on television, check out the Mahogany Murderers. It's their first ever team up for Big Finish and it will give you a taste of the awesome series that came out of that.
Eighth Doctor Adventures: The first series of Eighth Doctor Adventures is also part of the 99p sale. The Eighth Doctor Adventures was a series starring Paul McGann and Sheridan Smith as Lucie Miller. They were given a new Who vibe with a 21st Century companion and (mostly) self-contained hour-long episode. The best parts of the season are two-part opener Blood of the Daleks and the two-part finale Human Resources. All eight episodes are worth a listen, though you could skip Phobas and not really miss anything.
Sherlock Holmes: Check out Roger Llewellyn performing audio versions of his one man plays, "The Last Act" and "Death and the Life."
This is a great opportunity to get into some Big Finish Doctor Who audio dramas. This post will focus on the Sixth Doctor. Colin Baker was really dealt a bad hand on television. His costume was obnoxious and his personality was abrasive. To be clear, I don't think his time on television was nearly as bad as detractors indicate. I like most of his stories and appreciate Colin Baker's efforts, but he was really hampered by a bad first impression and some poor creative decisions influenced by a script editor who thought he wasn't a worthy Doctor.
Big Finish has allowed Colin Baker to really write a new chapter for his Doctor. The ego and bravado are still there, but it's also been tempered with more kindness, compassion, and introspection which makes the character feel more like the Doctor. Colin Baker is the best Big Finish Doctor in my opinion and with the first fifty Big Finish releases on sale, now is a great chance to see what kind of Doctor Colin Baker can be if you give him the chance:
1) The Marian Conspiracy: One big change Big Finish has brought to the Sixth Doctor is new companions. Evelyn Smythe (Maggie Stables) is the first and she played a big part in softening the Sixth Doctor's image. She's an elderly instructor who the Doctor visits because she's at the epicenter of some time travel shenanigans. The Doctor takes her back to the time that Queen Mary is on the throne in England and the two have an adventure. The details of the story are okay, and the story does show the tragedy of how during this period, many sincere Christians killed each other over interpretations and what a tragedy that was. But what the story is ultimately about is the Doctor and Evelyn getting to know one another. Their chemistry is great. The Doctor only took her back in time to sort out the problem in her timeline but to paraphrase Bogie, "This was the beginning of a beautiful friendship."
2) Spectre of Lanyon Moor: The Sixth Doctor didn't properly meet the Brigadier (Nicholas Courtney) on television, but they team up in this audio adventure to investigate a strange mystery on the moor. This is the type of story Doctor Who did back at its height and it really plays out well over audio. Colin Baker, Nicholas Courtney, and Maggie Stables are all in fine form and just a delight to listen to.
3) The Apocalypse Element: The Apocalypse Element represented Big Finish’s most ambitious production at the time as we’re given a massive tale of a Dalek plan to invade Gallifrey and take over the Universe.
This time of thing has been tried since, but the Apocalypse Element works exceptionally well because it manages to really create the feeling of a true space epic where the galaxies burn and the Universe itself is at stake. Lalla Ward’s return as Romana makes this story a standout, particularly her brilliant monologue in Episode 2.
While there are some slow moments in the first part and the soundscape could probably stand being remastered, this is a very well done space epic, and listened to in light of the new series, this story can also be seen as a prelude to the Time War.
4) The One Doctor:
The Sixth Doctor and Mel (Bonnie Langford) find themselves in the vulgar period of time where all the secrets of the Universe are known including that of the existence of the Doctor. It's so well know that a con man and his girlfriend have set up a racket impersonating the Doctor and his companion in hopes of collecting money from grateful citizens. The two impostors succeed in thwarting the Sixth Doctor's attempt to expose them. However, when an alien cylinder issues an ultimatum requiring the Doctor's action, only the real Doctor can do it.
Colin Baker and Bonnie Langsford are both superb. Gareth Roberts' writing is effortlessly funny, so he doesn't have to have them act out of character for cheap laughs. The result is a story that showcases hol the Sixth Doctor and Mel can work together. Christopher Biggins is a great foil for Colin Baker as the fake Doctor Banto Zane, and the best scenes in the story are when they got at one another. Look out for future companion actor Matt Lucas who plays two roles in this one.
Overall, this is a delightful story full of clever dialogue, fun characters, and a few well-done audio gags. The only comedy better than this in Doctor Who is City of Death.
5) The Sandman:
A good concept where the Doctor is viewed as a monster by a race he stopped long ago and is playing up to the reputation for his own reasons, but he finds the aliens have strange goings on for which the Sandman is being blamed.
Overall, this is a very fun story. Evelyn is the perfect companion for the Sixth Doctor in this story where he’s trying to be an over the top menace. There are some clever ideas here. I particularly like the idea of the Doctor’s multi-colored coat actually being a weapon.
6) Jubilee:
Rob Shearman's story tells of a dystopian world where humans destroyed the Daleks with the help of the Doctor and then became an autocratic society is brilliant and chilling. The actors are all on point with Colin Baker turning in a fascinating performance, along with Briggs as the Dalek.
The story has a great combination of dark comedy, piercing social commentary, and memorable characters. The release is known for being the basis for the TV episode, "Dalek," but it's more influential than that. The story has shaped the way most Doctor Who writers deal with the Daleks. Easily a must-listen.
7) Doctor Who and the Pirates:
A historical that finds the Doctor and Evelyn telling a story of adventure and piracy on the high seas. The basic plot of the pirate story is fairly standard. The Doctor and Evelyn arrive on a ship just as its raided and most of its crew is impressed into the service of the mad pirate Red Jasper, who is seeking a treasure on the Ruby Island.
However, it's the telling of the story that makes it so good. Throughout Evelyn and the Doctor telling the story, it's clear that something is troubling her. In the third part, the Doctor tries to alleviate the tension with song and comedy, turning the whole affair into a Gilbert and Sullivan musical, one of Big Finish's earliest and most ambitious musical pieces. In addition, the biggest mystery is why Evelyn is telling the story to a former student.
The result is a tale that manages to mix hilarity with poignancy while portraying the sweet friendship between the Doctor and Evelyn and also showcasing Evelyn's heart.
8) Davros:
This story is the definitive examination of Davros in Doctor Who in a Dalek-free story that finds Davros revived to work for an intergalactic corporate mogul.
The moments between Davros and the Doctor are superb and one of the best explorations of their relationships ever recorded. Colin Baker is perfectly matched with Terry Malloy in this one. Wendy Padbury's character of the historian wife of the company's CEO is fascinating. Her actions in getting her husband to revive Davros is guided by a sort of amoral view of history that focuses only on what a genius Davros is and how mankind could benefit from his genius.
Beyond that, most of the characters are somewhat stock, but it really doesn't matter. Davros is a bold and absolutely brilliant exploration of one of the Doctor's greatest foes.
Bonus recommendations:
Jago and Litefoot: Big Finish made thirteen box sets and three specials centered around Jago and Litefoot, two characters who appeared in the classic Doctor Who story, "The Talons of Weng-Chiang." If you're wondering how you got that many stories out of two characters who only appeared in one episode together on television, check out the Mahogany Murderers. It's their first ever team up for Big Finish and it will give you a taste of the awesome series that came out of that.
Eighth Doctor Adventures: The first series of Eighth Doctor Adventures is also part of the 99p sale. The Eighth Doctor Adventures was a series starring Paul McGann and Sheridan Smith as Lucie Miller. They were given a new Who vibe with a 21st Century companion and (mostly) self-contained hour-long episode. The best parts of the season are two-part opener Blood of the Daleks and the two-part finale Human Resources. All eight episodes are worth a listen, though you could skip Phobas and not really miss anything.
Sherlock Holmes: Check out Roger Llewellyn performing audio versions of his one man plays, "The Last Act" and "Death and the Life."
Christians and Superheroes
I'm a Christian who writes superhero fiction (some parody and some serious.)
On this blog, we'll take a look at:
1) Superhero stories
2) Issues of faith in relation to Superhero stories
3) Writing Superhe ...more
On this blog, we'll take a look at:
1) Superhero stories
2) Issues of faith in relation to Superhero stories
3) Writing Superhe ...more
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