Available via the 2000AD app

The Mighty Tharg introduces two seasonal tales – One Christmas During Eternity, and The Star…

We’ve had some 2000AD dramas before – courtesy of Big Finish – but this selection of tales comes from their twisted tales of the unexpected sequence, Future Shocks. Some years back we reviewed the collection of Alan Moore contributions and called them “short but very snappy” stories, and they’ve not lost that quality in this excellent transfer to audio.

Natt Tapley adapts and directs with strong sound design from Pete Dennis and Rick Blything, and performances from the cast (including a starring role for Lisa Bowerman) that are pitched correctly to ensure maximum credibility. Each story only runs a few minutes, so has to pull the audience into the worlds as quickly as  possible, aided by some scene setting from a suitably gravel-voiced narrator.

The first story, One Christmas During Eternity, is a debate on the price of immortality (and a gag about Doctor Who!), while The Star sees scientists keen to establish the nature of the Star of Bethlehem. One of the stories telegraphs its punchline, the other not so much, but both are very effective.

If the other episodes maintain this standard, then we’re in for a treat over the coming months!

Verdict: A seasonally appropriate taster of Future Shocks, 2000AD style. 9/10

Paul Simpson