Six of the Doctor’s legacy serials return in omnibus editions, topped and tailed with contemporary new content. 

What a lovely idea this is, which was kept a secret until the grand reveal this week. As part of the official launch of the Whoniverse (a vast body of Doctor Who serials, spinoffs and supporting programmes), half a dozen of the Doctor’s prior adventures have been given a makeover, with new scenes from original cast members.

The format works that either a Doctor and companion or two companions find themselves within a special version of the TARDIS, where they are encouraged to remember a previous story, which is then shown omnibus style (beginning and end credits removed) followed by a coda. The TARDIS is a combination of previous consoles, full of props and costumes from the last 60 years.

And what a joy it is to see original Doctors and companions back again, in character, reflecting on their adventures and what they did with their lives afterwards. While ostensibly serving as a jumping on point for new viewers to enjoy a story in feature format, it’s also a wonderful opportunity for classic characters to get a final moment to share their feelings and look back on what they’ve achieved.

I won’t reveal the details of what happens, but the stories are:

  • The Time Meddler with Steven (Peter Purves) and Vicki (Maureen O’Brien), new content by Phil Ford
  • The Mind Robber with Jamie (Frazer Hines) and Zoe (Wendy Padbury) by Pete McTighe
  • The Three Doctors with Jo Jones (Katy Manning) and Clyde Langer (Daniel Anthony) by Phil Ford
  • Earthshock with The Doctor (Peter Davison) and Tegan (Janet Fielding) by Russell T Davies.
  • Vengeance on Varos with The Doctor (Colin Baker) and Peri (Nicola Bryant) by Phil Ford
  • The Curse of Fenric by The Doctor (Sylvester McCoy) and Ace (Sophie Aldred) by Pete McTighe

Verdict: An unexpected 60th anniversary treat that’s one for the fans. Beware, you might get a bit of dust in your eye. No, I’M not crying… 8/10

Nick Joy