The TARDIS is recovering – but the Doctor’s test flight ends up rather crowded.

Matt Fitton’s script for the first story of this new box set picks up in the immediate aftermath of the conclusion of the opening set, with it made clear that there are consequences to what’s gone down – particularly in terms of those involved’s reactions to it. Some can’t quite believe what they’ve just witnessed, for others it’s confirmation of what they believe… but there’s still a nice air of mystery around some of the inhabitants of the Baker Street house.

For those who have wondered how all this fits into the ongoing Torchwood continuity, there’s an explanation, and the Doctor is becoming increasingly suspicious of some of those in the group that have accreted around him – although he gains cause to give further trust to at least one of them as a result of this story. There’s some great reactions from the supporting cast to events – in at least one case, reminding me of Peter Parker’s reactions in the comics (and an extent in Infinity War) when he gets caught up in something far bigger than himself.

The episode widens the canvas on which the Stranded tales can be told without destroying the core of what made the first set work so well.

Verdict: A very good start. 9/10

Paul Simpson

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