On a trip to Iceland, the Doctor discovers predator and prey…

There’s something appropriate for me in this being the last Main Range story of 2018 – my year began with editing a book on the unsolved Reykjavik Murders, and I celebrated my wedding there at Easter, so I have no problem at all in envisaging the scenes conjured up by A K Benedict’s well-written script and Steve Foxon’s excellent sound design. And yes, there’s a coincidence of theme between this and Jodie Whittaker’s debut story – but given the obsessive secrecy over the latter and the fact this was actually recorded in July this year, this is a good example of parallel evolution. And Benedict’s hunter has a much nastier set of trophies…

Colin Baker seems more energised in this story than in some time, with the climactic scenes emphasising just how far the Sixth Doctor has come during his nearly-20 years with Big Finish. Amy Beth Hayes’ Yrsa Kristjansdottir is a strong foil for him (and I really hope that the hints regarding possible future adventures are followed up), while Michael Griffiths’ Hunter manages to be both bombastic and believable. Joe Jameson and Will Hislop provide some comic relief, reminding me a little of Mitchell and Webb’s appearance in Dinosaurs on a Spaceship (although Jameson and Hislop are funny!), and the rest of the cast play it absolutely straight – an essential for the various plot elements to work. John Ainsworth’s direction is pitched well, with some of the best “running chase” scenes of recent times.

Verdict: A chilly slice of Doctor Who excellence. 10/10

Paul Simpson