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Rose Tyler: The Dimension Cannon #1
Rose Tyler: The Dimension Cannon
Rose Tyler’s world is ending.
As she begins a desperate mission to find the one person who can make a difference, Rose discovers that it’s not only her universe at stake. Across alternate dimensions, parallel timelines – where divergences may be tiny or cataclysmic – every Earth is under threat.
Time is running out, but Rose won’t stop searching until she finds the Doctor...
1.1 The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris
As his parallel universe darkens, Pete Tyler has found a chance of survival. Punch a hole through dimensions and someone can jump through - and maybe find a way to the Doctor’s universe.
On her very first trip, Rose visits an Earth that’s about to get colder. As a long night begins, Rose meets different versions of her parents. And one man who could help her search. His name is Clive…
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin
Making another leap with a new companion, Rose finds a world suffering environmental change. The rain won’t stop, and the government could be hiding the scale of the impending disaster.
While Rose connects with another version of Pete and a strangely compelling young man, Clive meets someone special of his own. In this world, there was no Clive for Caroline to meet, but love can cross dimensions.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
Pete decides it’s time he accompanied Rose on one of her dimension jumps. But he couldn’t have picked a worse time. They arrive in a world where technology took an extraordinary path, and where the recently deceased Pete Tyler had a very different kind of success.
As machines start to break down, Pete meets his widow, and he and Rose must confront truths about their ‘family’. But they may not escape this Earth alive.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
Rose and Jackie visit a home very close to the one they left behind. But some old friends are missing, and some are unexpectedly present… Rose meets two young men she knows should be together - it can sometimes take the end of the world to see what’s right in front of you.
Meanwhile, the Powell Estate faces Armageddon in the only way it can – by throwing a party.
As she begins a desperate mission to find the one person who can make a difference, Rose discovers that it’s not only her universe at stake. Across alternate dimensions, parallel timelines – where divergences may be tiny or cataclysmic – every Earth is under threat.
Time is running out, but Rose won’t stop searching until she finds the Doctor...
1.1 The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris
As his parallel universe darkens, Pete Tyler has found a chance of survival. Punch a hole through dimensions and someone can jump through - and maybe find a way to the Doctor’s universe.
On her very first trip, Rose visits an Earth that’s about to get colder. As a long night begins, Rose meets different versions of her parents. And one man who could help her search. His name is Clive…
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin
Making another leap with a new companion, Rose finds a world suffering environmental change. The rain won’t stop, and the government could be hiding the scale of the impending disaster.
While Rose connects with another version of Pete and a strangely compelling young man, Clive meets someone special of his own. In this world, there was no Clive for Caroline to meet, but love can cross dimensions.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
Pete decides it’s time he accompanied Rose on one of her dimension jumps. But he couldn’t have picked a worse time. They arrive in a world where technology took an extraordinary path, and where the recently deceased Pete Tyler had a very different kind of success.
As machines start to break down, Pete meets his widow, and he and Rose must confront truths about their ‘family’. But they may not escape this Earth alive.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
Rose and Jackie visit a home very close to the one they left behind. But some old friends are missing, and some are unexpectedly present… Rose meets two young men she knows should be together - it can sometimes take the end of the world to see what’s right in front of you.
Meanwhile, the Powell Estate faces Armageddon in the only way it can – by throwing a party.
Audiobook
First published September 4, 2019
3 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Morris
214 books70 followersJonathan Morris is one of the most prolific and popular writers of Doctor Who books, including the highly-regarded novels 'Festival of Death' and 'Touched by an Angel' and the recent guide to monsters, 'The Monster Vault'. He has also written numerous comic strips, most of which were collected in 'The Child of Time', and audios for BBC Audio and Big Finish, including the highly-regarded comedies 'Max Warp' and 'The Auntie Matter', as well as the adaptation of Russell T Davies’ 'Damaged Goods'.
Recently he has started his own audio production company, Average Romp. Releases include a full-cast adaptation of Charles Dickens' The Chimes', an original play, 'When Michael Met Benny', and three episodes of a SF sitcom, 'Dick Dixon in the 21st Century'.
For details visit www.averageromp.com
He also originated his own series, Vienna and script-edited the Nigel Planer series 'Jeremiah Bourne in Time'. He’s also written documentaries and for TV sketch shows.
Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
Recently he has started his own audio production company, Average Romp. Releases include a full-cast adaptation of Charles Dickens' The Chimes', an original play, 'When Michael Met Benny', and three episodes of a SF sitcom, 'Dick Dixon in the 21st Century'.
For details visit www.averageromp.com
He also originated his own series, Vienna and script-edited the Nigel Planer series 'Jeremiah Bourne in Time'. He’s also written documentaries and for TV sketch shows.
Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 29, 2019
I've waited for this audiodrama for 14 years. I needed closure after Rose's departure from Doctor Who hut boy, I haven't gotten any closure. Now I only want more. This was really emotional for me, the whole premise. I hope we get more, and a series colab as well.
December 19, 2022
My first Big Finish audio drama! So excited!
The Endless Night: ★★★★
The Flood: ★★★★★
Ghost Machines: ★★★★★
The Last Party On Earth: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★★
This is very similar to what I would expect from a RTD2 Disney+ era spin-off! Limited series style, entertaining, amazing quality, has a focus on global warming/climate change (which RTD confirmed will be discussed in Series 15), and stars a RTD1-era main character. This was the best Big Finish box set to start with for me, considering Rose Tyler is one of my favorite companions. Now I just need some Ace McShane, Clara Oswald, and Bill Potts-centric adventures!
Episode-Specific Spoilers Beyond This Point!
The Flood Spoilers:
Ghost Machines Spoilers:
The Endless Night: ★★★★
The Flood: ★★★★★
Ghost Machines: ★★★★★
The Last Party On Earth: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★★
This is very similar to what I would expect from a RTD2 Disney+ era spin-off! Limited series style, entertaining, amazing quality, has a focus on global warming/climate change (which RTD confirmed will be discussed in Series 15), and stars a RTD1-era main character. This was the best Big Finish box set to start with for me, considering Rose Tyler is one of my favorite companions. Now I just need some Ace McShane, Clara Oswald, and Bill Potts-centric adventures!
Episode-Specific Spoilers Beyond This Point!
The Flood Spoilers:
Ghost Machines Spoilers:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2020
The Endless Night - 3.5 stars
The Flood - 4 stars
Ghost Machines - 4 stars
The Last Party on Earth - 4 stars
Overall - 4 stars
The Flood - 4 stars
Ghost Machines - 4 stars
The Last Party on Earth - 4 stars
Overall - 4 stars
December 14, 2019
1.1 The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris
Siamo nel mondo di Pete, il Dottore ha lasciato Rose nel suo universo parallelo e lei, sfruttando il Torchwood del mondo di Pete, è ben decisa a ritrovarlo.
Sappiamo tutti come andrà a finire, qui ci raccontano come ci arriviamo... saltando da una Terra parallela all'altra.
Ovviamente le costanti sono Pete e Jackie... e la fine de mondo, nel primo salto per la fine del sole.
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin
Nuovo salto, nuova Terra parallela, nuovo disastro assicurato.
C'è da chiedersi se, oltre all'assenza del Dottore, non sia Rose a portare un po' iella.
Il nuovo rimescolamento dei Tyler paralleli risulta nuovamente interessante.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
Situazione simile a quella del mondo di Pete, ma molto più oscura e angosciante.
Le cose, al solito, non vanno per il meglio per l'umanità e il Dottore ancora latita.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
Questa volta è Jackie a seguire Rose e la destinazione, oltre ad essere una nuova versione della Terra in aria di apocalisse, si rivela essere proprio casa loro. Una Powell Estate senza Taylor ad abitarla.
Non ero propensa a comprare lo spin off con Rose nel mondo parallelo, essendo lei una delle companion da me meno amate. Soprattutto dopo la delusione del boxset con il decimo Dottore, dove sembravano fin troppo compiaciuti nell'intepretare nuovamente i loro personaggi.
Invece, togliendo il Dottore dall'equazione e creando un gruppo ben affiatato, il risultato di questo quartetto di salti dimensionali si rivela più che vincente.
Non so se vorranno continuare nell'impresa, di salti prima di raggiungere la Terra di 'Turn Left' o quella giusta, rubata dai Dalek, se ne possono fare a decine... quindi incrociamo le dita.
Siamo nel mondo di Pete, il Dottore ha lasciato Rose nel suo universo parallelo e lei, sfruttando il Torchwood del mondo di Pete, è ben decisa a ritrovarlo.
Sappiamo tutti come andrà a finire, qui ci raccontano come ci arriviamo... saltando da una Terra parallela all'altra.
Ovviamente le costanti sono Pete e Jackie... e la fine de mondo, nel primo salto per la fine del sole.
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin
Nuovo salto, nuova Terra parallela, nuovo disastro assicurato.
C'è da chiedersi se, oltre all'assenza del Dottore, non sia Rose a portare un po' iella.
Il nuovo rimescolamento dei Tyler paralleli risulta nuovamente interessante.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
Situazione simile a quella del mondo di Pete, ma molto più oscura e angosciante.
Le cose, al solito, non vanno per il meglio per l'umanità e il Dottore ancora latita.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
Questa volta è Jackie a seguire Rose e la destinazione, oltre ad essere una nuova versione della Terra in aria di apocalisse, si rivela essere proprio casa loro. Una Powell Estate senza Taylor ad abitarla.
Non ero propensa a comprare lo spin off con Rose nel mondo parallelo, essendo lei una delle companion da me meno amate. Soprattutto dopo la delusione del boxset con il decimo Dottore, dove sembravano fin troppo compiaciuti nell'intepretare nuovamente i loro personaggi.
Invece, togliendo il Dottore dall'equazione e creando un gruppo ben affiatato, il risultato di questo quartetto di salti dimensionali si rivela più che vincente.
Non so se vorranno continuare nell'impresa, di salti prima di raggiungere la Terra di 'Turn Left' o quella giusta, rubata dai Dalek, se ne possono fare a decine... quindi incrociamo le dita.
November 15, 2023
4.5 rounded up.
Although I've read several of the New Who Adventure novels, this is the first work by Big Finish Productions that I've ever read and I'm hooked! These take audiodrama to a whole new level - the story and sound are so immersive and just throw you right into the thick of things. And the stories (while not like, Russell T. Davies level of storytelling) are fun and feel true to the Whoniverse. I'm really enjoying this particular arc that fills in some of the gaps in Rose's timeline after the events of "Doomsday" and before "Turn Left"/"The Stolen Earth". It helps flesh out relationships and even problems that we may have encountered in the show (like Rose being so chummy with Pete-who-isn't-her-Pete) while giving fresh adventures and giving us the chance to see Rose grow without the Doctor being by her side.
Although I'm a sucker for a happy ending, I was appreciative of the fact that "The Dimension Cannon" didn't try to force feed readers a neatly tied-up pleasant story, and instead took the chance to focus on other what-if style worlds that prompted reflection and some heavier themes. I can already tell that this is definitely a series where all three books will have to be read to get a conclusion, but I'm totally looking forwards to that process!
Although I've read several of the New Who Adventure novels, this is the first work by Big Finish Productions that I've ever read and I'm hooked! These take audiodrama to a whole new level - the story and sound are so immersive and just throw you right into the thick of things. And the stories (while not like, Russell T. Davies level of storytelling) are fun and feel true to the Whoniverse. I'm really enjoying this particular arc that fills in some of the gaps in Rose's timeline after the events of "Doomsday" and before "Turn Left"/"The Stolen Earth". It helps flesh out relationships and even problems that we may have encountered in the show (like Rose being so chummy with Pete-who-isn't-her-Pete) while giving fresh adventures and giving us the chance to see Rose grow without the Doctor being by her side.
Although I'm a sucker for a happy ending, I was appreciative of the fact that "The Dimension Cannon" didn't try to force feed readers a neatly tied-up pleasant story, and instead took the chance to focus on other what-if style worlds that prompted reflection and some heavier themes. I can already tell that this is definitely a series where all three books will have to be read to get a conclusion, but I'm totally looking forwards to that process!
April 21, 2020
I didn't like Rose Tyler. I think a bit part of it was the disparity of her behaviour and the way others talk about her. The way the Doctor talks about her you'd think she was near perfect, but she often came across as mean and selfish, especially in how she treated Mickey Smith. I'm fine with flawed characters, I'm less fine with flawed characters that the writers constantly tell me are perfect. Her exit was fine though and I was okay with it. Then she came back for one of modern Doctor Who's most self indulgent finales.
So I was not thrilled when Big Finish announced that Rose Tyler was getting her own series. I was happy for the fans, just not particularly excited myself, but I bought it on a whim during a sale.
During the fourth series Rose spends most of her off-screen time trying to come home to her universe to find the Doctor. This series tells that story. Rose is using a technology that Pete invented called The Dimension Cannon. Each story is a standalone adventure in which Rose arrives in an alternate universe and tries to discover if the Doctor is nearby in the hopes of finding her way home.
Each world is also dying.
The Endless Night: Rose arrives on her first alternate Earth and teams up with Clive (the conspiracy theorist from the pilot) to find if the Doctor is there. Soon though they are interrupted by the news that the sun has burnt away and all of humanity will die in a few days.
The Flood: Rose and Clive find themselves on an Earth where it has been raining since the 80's. Technology was basically halted in the 80's to ostensibly fight climate change, but despite this the Earth is going to lose all its top soil in about 50 years.
Ghost Machines: This one is the most traditional Doctor Who type of a story and felt really out of place to me. They arrive on an Earth that had a technological boom, by using the spirits of the dead in machines. The world isn't ending, or if it was I missed it somehow. It's a perfectly fine story but felt like it belonged in a different set than this one.
It does deal with one of the glaring problems with Rose's time on Doctor Who though.
One of the problems with Rose's second exit in Doctor Who is that the show surrounds her with echos of people she loves and acts like that's a happy ending. The Metacrisis Doctor isn't her Doctor, and Pete is a version of man she didn't even know, but the show doesn't confront this. Big Finish does and has Rose and Pete discuss this and talk about what it means. It's a great moment and I hope they return to this.
The Last Party: Rose and her mum arrive on an Earth where a meteor will hit the planet in 8 days. Instead of rioting like the people of "The Endless Night" the people of this Earth have a party and even become more generous and altruistic. Rose and Jackie meet some people they knew on their Earth and attempt to play matchmaker at the end of the world.
None of the endings are satisfying. Rose leaves these worlds in a state of crisis and the people we meet throughout brace themselves for the end. This is first time I can remember Big Finish really confronting the climate crisis head on; here we have 3 stories all about living at the end. What if we can't slow the pace of climate change? What if we can't adapt fast enough? How should we respond as individuals and as a species if this really is the last days of humanity. As "The Last Party" points out, we were always all going to die. Sometimes we just get a definite deadline, and what can that mean for us?
As I write this I am confined to my house due the the Coronavirus pandemic. It's a time that makes me consider the way I have lived and the way I want to continue living. Life is so precarious and we can lose everything at any moment. The question cannot be "What should my legacy be?" but rather "How should I live each day and every moment?" I think we need to get better at caring for each other and loving one another. I need to get better at spending my life with people cherishing what I have while I have it.
Big Finish has been in a bit of a rut lately, and I especially find their New Who contributions often dissapointing, but this reminds me of what I loved about them in the first place. They have an ability to take the flawed and weird corners of Doctor Who and use them to tell deeply meaningful and emotional stories.
So I was not thrilled when Big Finish announced that Rose Tyler was getting her own series. I was happy for the fans, just not particularly excited myself, but I bought it on a whim during a sale.
During the fourth series Rose spends most of her off-screen time trying to come home to her universe to find the Doctor. This series tells that story. Rose is using a technology that Pete invented called The Dimension Cannon. Each story is a standalone adventure in which Rose arrives in an alternate universe and tries to discover if the Doctor is nearby in the hopes of finding her way home.
Each world is also dying.
The Endless Night: Rose arrives on her first alternate Earth and teams up with Clive (the conspiracy theorist from the pilot) to find if the Doctor is there. Soon though they are interrupted by the news that the sun has burnt away and all of humanity will die in a few days.
The Flood: Rose and Clive find themselves on an Earth where it has been raining since the 80's. Technology was basically halted in the 80's to ostensibly fight climate change, but despite this the Earth is going to lose all its top soil in about 50 years.
Ghost Machines: This one is the most traditional Doctor Who type of a story and felt really out of place to me. They arrive on an Earth that had a technological boom, by using the spirits of the dead in machines. The world isn't ending, or if it was I missed it somehow. It's a perfectly fine story but felt like it belonged in a different set than this one.
It does deal with one of the glaring problems with Rose's time on Doctor Who though.
One of the problems with Rose's second exit in Doctor Who is that the show surrounds her with echos of people she loves and acts like that's a happy ending. The Metacrisis Doctor isn't her Doctor, and Pete is a version of man she didn't even know, but the show doesn't confront this. Big Finish does and has Rose and Pete discuss this and talk about what it means. It's a great moment and I hope they return to this.
The Last Party: Rose and her mum arrive on an Earth where a meteor will hit the planet in 8 days. Instead of rioting like the people of "The Endless Night" the people of this Earth have a party and even become more generous and altruistic. Rose and Jackie meet some people they knew on their Earth and attempt to play matchmaker at the end of the world.
None of the endings are satisfying. Rose leaves these worlds in a state of crisis and the people we meet throughout brace themselves for the end. This is first time I can remember Big Finish really confronting the climate crisis head on; here we have 3 stories all about living at the end. What if we can't slow the pace of climate change? What if we can't adapt fast enough? How should we respond as individuals and as a species if this really is the last days of humanity. As "The Last Party" points out, we were always all going to die. Sometimes we just get a definite deadline, and what can that mean for us?
As I write this I am confined to my house due the the Coronavirus pandemic. It's a time that makes me consider the way I have lived and the way I want to continue living. Life is so precarious and we can lose everything at any moment. The question cannot be "What should my legacy be?" but rather "How should I live each day and every moment?" I think we need to get better at caring for each other and loving one another. I need to get better at spending my life with people cherishing what I have while I have it.
Big Finish has been in a bit of a rut lately, and I especially find their New Who contributions often dissapointing, but this reminds me of what I loved about them in the first place. They have an ability to take the flawed and weird corners of Doctor Who and use them to tell deeply meaningful and emotional stories.
December 9, 2023
Rose Tyler catapults across the dimensions searching for the Doctor, landing on a series of doomed parallel earths all rapidly approaching their end. These stories give off an eery post-apocalyptic desperation, with some incredible emotional beats.
July 16, 2022
Rose Tyler: The Dimension Cannon 1 - 4.625/5 stars
I love parallel universe stories, seeing where characters' alternate versions end up. Billie Piper, Camille Coduri, Shaun Dingwall and Mark Benton all fall back into their roles and also play great versions of their original roles perfectly.
The stories mainly involve Rose (and sometimes other people) showing up, seeing the differences, then getting into some trouble and trying to help out before leaving. Sometimes things work out for the better, but mostly Earth is sent to its death, however long that will take after the story's events.
1.1 The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris - 5/5 stars
Rose goes on her first trip to test the dimension cannon. In her search for the Doctor, she recruits this story’s new universe’s Clive Finch. The story plunges into apocalyptic as the Reality Bomb from Doctor Who Series 4 destroys the universe. With the sun gone, Earth starts to freeze over.
This version of Earth ending creates a bleak and depressing atmosphere. With a mix of comedy and sadness, this story is such a strong opening for this spin-off series.
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin - 4.5/5 stars
Rose meets her male counterpart. Clive meets another version of the love of his life. This story had a fun government conspiracy, global warming parallels and a version of Earth flooding and heating up.
Elli Garnett falls back into her role as Caroline perfectly, despite her original role being a small side character in one episode, she really gives a great performance and her original character is expanded upon.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict - 4/5 stars
A parallel Earth that has been ruined by… Pete Tyler. This story changes from the last two and has it that Pete Tyler’s invention, the soul machine, which puts the recently deceased into technology to run it. Only the souls don’t like it and the machine uprising begins.
I liked how the story was more about exploring how Rose sees all versions of Pete and Jackie are her parents and I like that the characters leave the story thinking the world will change for the better just for a post-credit scene to reveal the hellscape that has been left behind.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton - 5/5 stars
The Jackie Tyler episode. She’s my favourite, funny and adorably sweet. Her best moment is when she complains about this version of Earth not having Kevin Bacon meaning there would be no Footloose. With the Earth on the verge of death instead of riots like in the first two stories, the planet is having a massive party before they die.
I love parallel universe stories, seeing where characters' alternate versions end up. Billie Piper, Camille Coduri, Shaun Dingwall and Mark Benton all fall back into their roles and also play great versions of their original roles perfectly.
The stories mainly involve Rose (and sometimes other people) showing up, seeing the differences, then getting into some trouble and trying to help out before leaving. Sometimes things work out for the better, but mostly Earth is sent to its death, however long that will take after the story's events.
1.1 The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris - 5/5 stars
Rose goes on her first trip to test the dimension cannon. In her search for the Doctor, she recruits this story’s new universe’s Clive Finch. The story plunges into apocalyptic as the Reality Bomb from Doctor Who Series 4 destroys the universe. With the sun gone, Earth starts to freeze over.
This version of Earth ending creates a bleak and depressing atmosphere. With a mix of comedy and sadness, this story is such a strong opening for this spin-off series.
1.2 The Flood by Lisa McMullin - 4.5/5 stars
Rose meets her male counterpart. Clive meets another version of the love of his life. This story had a fun government conspiracy, global warming parallels and a version of Earth flooding and heating up.
Elli Garnett falls back into her role as Caroline perfectly, despite her original role being a small side character in one episode, she really gives a great performance and her original character is expanded upon.
1.3 Ghost Machines by AK Benedict - 4/5 stars
A parallel Earth that has been ruined by… Pete Tyler. This story changes from the last two and has it that Pete Tyler’s invention, the soul machine, which puts the recently deceased into technology to run it. Only the souls don’t like it and the machine uprising begins.
I liked how the story was more about exploring how Rose sees all versions of Pete and Jackie are her parents and I like that the characters leave the story thinking the world will change for the better just for a post-credit scene to reveal the hellscape that has been left behind.
1.4 The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton - 5/5 stars
The Jackie Tyler episode. She’s my favourite, funny and adorably sweet. Her best moment is when she complains about this version of Earth not having Kevin Bacon meaning there would be no Footloose. With the Earth on the verge of death instead of riots like in the first two stories, the planet is having a massive party before they die.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
I was ecstatic as soon as I heard that this set was coming out. I absolutely loved Rose as a companion and obviously, I love Billie Piper, so I was already sold. This collection takes place during series 4 of Doctor Who, when Rose is using the Dimension Cannon to try to locate the Doctor to help save the universe as the stars are gong out across multiple realities and the walls between dimensions have grown thin enough for her to travel between them. This set sees her visit 4 different realities in search of him, though he never turns up. Some mysteries from the show are answers, such as how long one can last on a jump, how many people can cross over, the identity of "Control," and background about Mickey's mother. Having an alternate reality version of Clive join the team was pure genius, as I felt he was a great character and a lot more could have been done with him. Billie Piper really shines in this set, having found her stride here; this Rose is confident, caring, strong, determined, and more mature than she was when we last saw her on the Beach at Bad Wolf Bay. I loved Rose in the first 2 series, but the older, harder Rose we saw in series 4 was even better. Camille Coduri is a standout cast member for this set; I just love her, she's so British and I just love it. The different versions of Jackie that we encounter in this story are all great and their sad stories were heartbreaking. I am glad that they brought back the real Jackie for the last story, though. I hope that there will be more to this series, because this set was brilliant!
October 20, 2019
Dimension-hopping Rose is my favorite Rose. We didn't see nearly enough of her on screen, so I was delighted to learn that Big Finish had this audio drama in the works. The finished product did not disappoint!
September 22, 2019
It felt uneven but I very much enjoyed it. Could have done with a hell of a lot more Clive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2022
Definitely one of the best Big Finish audios. So haunting and upsetting
January 23, 2021
" Dooms day"後のローズの物語。
・The endless night
パラレルワールドを行き来できるディスクを使ってドクターを探す任務についたローズ。パラレルワールドに移動したら、エネルギーの再充電が完了するまで移動できない。ローズは移動した先で、かつてドクターの動向を追ったウェブサイトを運営していたクライブに会いに行く。この世界にドクターはいないと知り、ローズはこの世界のピートに会いに行く。この正解でピートとジャッキーは離婚していた。次にジャッキーに会いに行った時、この世界の太陽がまもなく消滅し、地球は滅びるしかないことをローズは知る。ローズはせめてこの世界のピートやジャッキーを助けたいと思いつめるが...
感想
Doomsdayのあとのローズの話。ドクターと旅した経験を活かしてピートを手伝っている。任務中はピートのことを“コントロール*と呼ぶことになっている。パラレルワールドでまた別のジャッキーとピートに出会うことになるローズ。素直じゃないピートとジャッキーの関係や2人のローズに対しての感情がなかなかドラマティック。なかでもジャッキーとローズの絆に泣かされる。クレイグがどうやら今後ローズの旅のコンパニオンとなるもよう。ローズはドクターを見つけることができるのかなぁ。(あ、ドラマで語られる時点まで無理か)
・The Last Party on Earth
ドクターかドナを探して今回はローズとジャッキーがパラレルワールドへ飛ぶ。
今回はタイラー家が存在しない世界。ジャッキーはそこでミッキーの母親オデッサとあう。オデッサはかつてジャッキーの親友だったが、こちらの世界では初対面。しかもミッキーも生まれていなかった。
あと8日で滅びるとわかっている世界。最後は楽しくと終わらないダンスパーティが続いている。今回は誰も救えない。 世界の終わりを目前にしてそれぞれが気持ちの落ち着けどころを見つけていく。いずれも切ない。
・The Flood
ドクターを探してくクレイブと共にパラレルワールドに飛んだローズ。街で偶然であったロブという若者とすっかり意気投合するが、ロブがこの世界の自分であることを知り、狼狽える。 この世界ではジャッキーが既に他界しており、ピートとロブは地球の温暖化現象について政府が国民に対して隠蔽していることをつきとめようとしている。
ドクターがこの世界にも存在しないとわかった後はロブたちの手伝いをするローズ。
ロブの恋人はミッキー。ローズは自分自身に惚れかかっていた自分にショックを受ける。相変わらず惚れっぽいローズが面白い。
クレイブは別の世界では自分と結婚するキャロラインと出会い、この世界には自分に該当するクレイブは存在しないことを知る。急速に惹かれ合う二人。キャロラインはクレイブが別の世界から来たとしり、共に行きたがるが最終的にコントロールから許可がおりず断念。一瞬、クレイブもこの世界に残るといいだすかと思った。
ロブとローズのコンビネーションがよく、今回もとても楽しく聴けた。
・The Ghost Machine
今回はピートとがローズと共にパラレルワールドに飛ぶことに。二人がついたのはピートが火葬した灰や骨で思い出の品をつくるというソルテックという会社で成功している世界だった。しかし二人が到着する一週間前にピートは交通事故で亡くなっており、それをこの世界のジャッキーから聞かされたローズはショックを受ける。この世界のジャッキーはピートがかつて失ったジャッキーに似ており、ピートも動揺する。二人は立ち去ろうとするが、ジャッキーからドクターを知っているときかされ、とどまって調べることにする。
ローズとジャッキーが別の世界のピートと家族になるにはそれぞれの努力が必要だったということが垣間見られたお話。ローズの中では自分の本当の父親であるピートと今一緒に世界を救うために働いるピートは同一人物ではないという思いが強いようだ。今回はサイバーマンを彷彿とさせるくだりが多い。ソルテックが死者の遺灰や遺骨で思い出の品をつくっているといことと、ピートがAIアシスタント搭載マシンを社会に浸透させたというのはなんとなくわかるのだが、死人の意識がマシンの中にはいるというところがどういう過程を辿っているのかよくわからなかった。ソルテックは死んでも家族の側にいて守ることができるというような売り文句をピートの看板が言ってるので、遺灰と遺骨以外になにかあるのだと思うのだけど....。マシンに搭載されているAIが死者の意識をベースにしているとかなのかな？ピート自身が取り込まれてみて、はじめて自我が残っていることを知り、苦しみを理解したということなのか、それともピートだけが取り込まれた意識で、あとはAIが自我をもったことということなのか。ちょっとそのあたり聴きとりきれず。
まぁ、音楽がとてもいいのでいまいちわからないことがあっても気にならず最後までいい感じに聴けてしまう。
・The endless night
パラレルワールドを行き来できるディスクを使ってドクターを探す任務についたローズ。パラレルワールドに移動したら、エネルギーの再充電が完了するまで移動できない。ローズは移動した先で、かつてドクターの動向を追ったウェブサイトを運営していたクライブに会いに行く。この世界にドクターはいないと知り、ローズはこの世界のピートに会いに行く。この正解でピートとジャッキーは離婚していた。次にジャッキーに会いに行った時、この世界の太陽がまもなく消滅し、地球は滅びるしかないことをローズは知る。ローズはせめてこの世界のピートやジャッキーを助けたいと思いつめるが...
感想
Doomsdayのあとのローズの話。ドクターと旅した経験を活かしてピートを手伝っている。任務中はピートのことを“コントロール*と呼ぶことになっている。パラレルワールドでまた別のジャッキーとピートに出会うことになるローズ。素直じゃないピートとジャッキーの関係や2人のローズに対しての感情がなかなかドラマティック。なかでもジャッキーとローズの絆に泣かされる。クレイグがどうやら今後ローズの旅のコンパニオンとなるもよう。ローズはドクターを見つけることができるのかなぁ。(あ、ドラマで語られる時点まで無理か)
・The Last Party on Earth
ドクターかドナを探して今回はローズとジャッキーがパラレルワールドへ飛ぶ。
今回はタイラー家が存在しない世界。ジャッキーはそこでミッキーの母親オデッサとあう。オデッサはかつてジャッキーの親友だったが、こちらの世界では初対面。しかもミッキーも生まれていなかった。
あと8日で滅びるとわかっている世界。最後は楽しくと終わらないダンスパーティが続いている。今回は誰も救えない。 世界の終わりを目前にしてそれぞれが気持ちの落ち着けどころを見つけていく。いずれも切ない。
・The Flood
ドクターを探してくクレイブと共にパラレルワールドに飛んだローズ。街で偶然であったロブという若者とすっかり意気投合するが、ロブがこの世界の自分であることを知り、狼狽える。 この世界ではジャッキーが既に他界しており、ピートとロブは地球の温暖化現象について政府が国民に対して隠蔽していることをつきとめようとしている。
ドクターがこの世界にも存在しないとわかった後はロブたちの手伝いをするローズ。
ロブの恋人はミッキー。ローズは自分自身に惚れかかっていた自分にショックを受ける。相変わらず惚れっぽいローズが面白い。
クレイブは別の世界では自分と結婚するキャロラインと出会い、この世界には自分に該当するクレイブは存在しないことを知る。急速に惹かれ合う二人。キャロラインはクレイブが別の世界から来たとしり、共に行きたがるが最終的にコントロールから許可がおりず断念。一瞬、クレイブもこの世界に残るといいだすかと思った。
ロブとローズのコンビネーションがよく、今回もとても楽しく聴けた。
・The Ghost Machine
今回はピートとがローズと共にパラレルワールドに飛ぶことに。二人がついたのはピートが火葬した灰や骨で思い出の品をつくるというソルテックという会社で成功している世界だった。しかし二人が到着する一週間前にピートは交通事故で亡くなっており、それをこの世界のジャッキーから聞かされたローズはショックを受ける。この世界のジャッキーはピートがかつて失ったジャッキーに似ており、ピートも動揺する。二人は立ち去ろうとするが、ジャッキーからドクターを知っているときかされ、とどまって調べることにする。
ローズとジャッキーが別の世界のピートと家族になるにはそれぞれの努力が必要だったということが垣間見られたお話。ローズの中では自分の本当の父親であるピートと今一緒に世界を救うために働いるピートは同一人物ではないという思いが強いようだ。今回はサイバーマンを彷彿とさせるくだりが多い。ソルテックが死者の遺灰や遺骨で思い出の品をつくっているといことと、ピートがAIアシスタント搭載マシンを社会に浸透させたというのはなんとなくわかるのだが、死人の意識がマシンの中にはいるというところがどういう過程を辿っているのかよくわからなかった。ソルテックは死んでも家族の側にいて守ることができるというような売り文句をピートの看板が言ってるので、遺灰と遺骨以外になにかあるのだと思うのだけど....。マシンに搭載されているAIが死者の意識をベースにしているとかなのかな？ピート自身が取り込まれてみて、はじめて自我が残っていることを知り、苦しみを理解したということなのか、それともピートだけが取り込まれた意識で、あとはAIが自我をもったことということなのか。ちょっとそのあたり聴きとりきれず。
まぁ、音楽がとてもいいのでいまいちわからないことがあっても気にならず最後までいい感じに聴けてしまう。
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2021
Really enjoyed The Endless Night, but for whatever reason there was a definite drop in production quality in the subsequent stories - mostly in the voice acting, which felt quite rigid at times and distracted me from the plot.
This wasn't too noticeable in The Flood, which was great as well. As someone else said on here, these first two stories explored very well the complicated family dynamics between Rose and Parallel Pete, and the importance of keeping "detached" when the main characters visit alternate versions of their loved ones. I've always appreciated this about Doctor Who - and Sarah Jane Adventures, for that matter - that the family dynamics may be complicated, but there is always love there. This resonates with me, and it's why I'm grateful for having grown up with these stories.
So even though the acting was a bit off at points, it was great to spend some more time with these characters and to get some more backstory to series 4 of NewWho. As another person said, it's a good place to wrap up this arc - on a high note.
This wasn't too noticeable in The Flood, which was great as well. As someone else said on here, these first two stories explored very well the complicated family dynamics between Rose and Parallel Pete, and the importance of keeping "detached" when the main characters visit alternate versions of their loved ones. I've always appreciated this about Doctor Who - and Sarah Jane Adventures, for that matter - that the family dynamics may be complicated, but there is always love there. This resonates with me, and it's why I'm grateful for having grown up with these stories.
So even though the acting was a bit off at points, it was great to spend some more time with these characters and to get some more backstory to series 4 of NewWho. As another person said, it's a good place to wrap up this arc - on a high note.
June 5, 2021
This is an interesting concept, but I found myself kind of bored by the end. These short stories are bland because they follow a predictable pattern: "Hello new dimension!" -> Do some things you probably shouldn't. -> Tell a person or two you're from another dimension, they don't believe you, then they do. -> World's ending, the Doctor's not here (which you basically knew after a minute) -> Time to go.
In terms of recent TV companions on "solo" adventures, I found the Donna Noble: Kidnapped! to be much more enjoyable.
In terms of recent TV companions on "solo" adventures, I found the Donna Noble: Kidnapped! to be much more enjoyable.
April 11, 2023
I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would.
Rose tyler has been a very mixed companion for me. I went through a period of disliking her, but now I enjoy her the more older I get.
I enjoyed the concept of this boxsets, and the idea is refreshing but still ultimately and fundamentally Rose Tyler. I also enjoyed having her parents and Clive on board, and thought the stories were fun with a haunting message about how the world would end and who we would chose to spend it with.
I particularly loved Matt Fittons story: Party at the end of the world. That story was beauty written.
I am looking forward to picking up series 2 tomorrow.
Rose tyler has been a very mixed companion for me. I went through a period of disliking her, but now I enjoy her the more older I get.
I enjoyed the concept of this boxsets, and the idea is refreshing but still ultimately and fundamentally Rose Tyler. I also enjoyed having her parents and Clive on board, and thought the stories were fun with a haunting message about how the world would end and who we would chose to spend it with.
I particularly loved Matt Fittons story: Party at the end of the world. That story was beauty written.
I am looking forward to picking up series 2 tomorrow.
September 23, 2022
I wasn’t really a fan of Rose Tyler on the TV show, but I really enjoyed these stories. I know we’re at a time where the market feels oversaturated with multiverse stories, but the concept isn’t touched on in Doctor Who all that much, surprisingly. So it’s great having this prequel to the overall arc of series 4, showing Rose hopping from universe to universe. Bringing back Clive from “Rose” was a great choice, as his removal from the series felt like a missed opportunity. And unlike some other multiverse stories, this these ones dare to get existential at points.
June 6, 2025
I really enjoyed hearing this story. It was exactly what I needed, something focussed on the great Rose Tyler, the Doctor's best companion. Of course I miss seeing her on screen and I've never got over her farewell to the series, but I really love seeing how important she is in the history of Doctor Who. Big Bad Wolf, I'm still waiting for you to come back on screen again. Even though I'm at the end of season 8, I'm still hoping, but anyway. I loved listening to this story, especially the fact that Rose is the centrepiece of the story. I'm looking forward to hearing the continuations.
August 31, 2020
Rose’s quest across the multiverse begins with two wonderfully melancholic stories before losing its way trying to force the intrinsic emotion of the doomsday scenario (particularly when relying on minor characters resurrected from Russell T Davies’ Rose novelisation). Nevertheless a welcome return.
★★★★☆ The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris
★★★★☆ The Flood by Lisa McMullin
★★★☆☆ Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
★★☆☆☆ The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
★★★★☆ The Endless Night by Jonathan Morris
★★★★☆ The Flood by Lisa McMullin
★★★☆☆ Ghost Machines by AK Benedict
★★☆☆☆ The Last Party on Earth by Matt Fitton
July 20, 2022
Very good stories , still missing a certain umph for my taste, but I’m sure it’s coming in the upcoming series. So great to hear Billie back as Rose again. The final story was the most interesting one to me, I particularly enjoyed Jackie on it.
October 17, 2022
i love dimension hopping rose
September 21, 2023
the endless night - 5/5
the flood - 3.5/5
ghost machines - 3/5
the last party on earth - 5/5
the flood - 3.5/5
ghost machines - 3/5
the last party on earth - 5/5
March 8, 2024
Really Enjoyed this!
December 6, 2024
1 The Endless Night 3.5
2 The Flood 3
3 Ghost Machines 2.5
4 The Last Party on Earth 3
available on a podcast app
2 The Flood 3
3 Ghost Machines 2.5
4 The Last Party on Earth 3
available on a podcast app
December 16, 2024
enjoyed!
interesting concept, easy listen. exciting format, almost like a collection of short stories, each showing a small slice of an apocalypse. would listen to more!
interesting concept, easy listen. exciting format, almost like a collection of short stories, each showing a small slice of an apocalypse. would listen to more!
January 8, 2025
Really a 4.5
Been stuck inside for days due to snow. Needed this.
Been stuck inside for days due to snow. Needed this.
September 10, 2020
Holy cow, I've never felt more robbed of "Rose Tyler: Earth Defense" in my life. Raise a glass to the parallel universe where that actually became a show. *sigh* Guess I'll just have to go and binge Turn Left/Stolen Earth/Journey's End again. I'm not complaining.
April 12, 2023
1.1 'The Endless Night' by Jonathan Morris: 4*
1.2 'The Flood' by Lisa McMullin : 4*
1.3 'Ghost Machines' by AK Benedict: 5*
1.4 'The Last Party on Earth' by Matt Fitton: 5*
1.2 'The Flood' by Lisa McMullin : 4*
1.3 'Ghost Machines' by AK Benedict: 5*
1.4 'The Last Party on Earth' by Matt Fitton: 5*
August 23, 2025
The first in a new series of stories, this has the interesting premise of exploring alternate realities instead of space and time – a sort of Sliders set in the
Doctor Who
universe. Rose is the central character, travelling through the parallels to find the Doctor – presumably in connection with the events of Turn Left. Three out of the four worlds visited here are themselves facing doom allowing different interpretations of how people would react to the end of the world. There’s also a strong theme of family as we see different variations of how life could have turned out for the Tylers – something that’s appropriately reminiscent of RTD’s first run on the show.
The Endless Night – The first story has to set us up with the basic premise for the series, so that it’s quite a while before any additional science fiction elements make an appearance. Instead, we see Rose tracing the history of her family on the parallel Earth to determine how close it is to her target one, interspersed with brief flashbacks explaining how she came to be doing this. Significantly, this reintroduces us to Clive, the conspiracy theorist killed off in the very first episode of the modern TV series, who becomes a regular in this audio one. The story is primarily personal, with no explanation as to how the catastrophe facing the parallel Earth has come about. Instead, it serves only as a backdrop to exploring this alternative reality’s Pete and Jackie and how their lives took a different turn – an effective, but low-key start that doesn’t throw too much at us at once but obviously requires some prior knowledge of the characters. 4 stars.
The Flood – While the first episode depicts a world that’s essentially like ours until the catastrophe strikes, with the basics out of the way the second opts for more significant changes. This time, we visit a London drenched in perpetual rain (more so than usual, that is) and where technological progress stalled and even reversed in the 1980s. The episode finds time not just to give us a glimpse of the changes in the Tyler household, but also gives Clive some good moments as he realises how his own life could have been better. Add to that some elements that are reminiscent of Aliens of London as Rose decides to get to the bottom of what is happening with the weather, and we have a strong story that bodes well for this series’ future. 5 stars.
Ghost Machines – The third story takes a break from the wider theme to give us something much more like a typical Doctor Who episode. The world visited here has more differences from our own than the others and is the only one not (so far as we can see) facing any sort of apocalypse. Instead, the story concerns a piece of newly developed technology that is having unforeseen consequences – something we’ve seen often enough on the TV show. That allows more of an opportunity for action, as the characters are placed in direct peril and have to come up with a solution to stop the marauding machinery. Taken in that context, it’s a decent story, preying on fears of artificial intelligence and giving us a look at another alternate take on the Tyler household (I’m beginning to get the impression that Jackie was really unlucky in our universe, given how much richer all her parallels seem to be). But it doesn’t quite live up to the premise of this particular series, and feels out of place amongst its fellows, although it does provide some needed variety. 3.5 stars.
The Last Party on Earth – As the title indicates, the final episode takes us to another doomed Earth, although the actual details of the impending disaster aren’t relevant this time around. Nor do we see an alternate Tyler family with the story instead being about the parallel version of the Powell Estate responds to the news their world will shortly end. After Clive and Pete in the precious two episodes, this time it’s the turn of Jackie to join Rose on the mission, and the results are predictably entertaining while also giving us a chance to see her caring side as she responds to the different coping mechanisms people are using. It’s a surprisingly optimistic take, despite some darker moments along the way, with a positive message about love and family – but no science fiction elements beyond the presence of the travellers, should that be what you’re after. 4.5 stars.
The Endless Night – The first story has to set us up with the basic premise for the series, so that it’s quite a while before any additional science fiction elements make an appearance. Instead, we see Rose tracing the history of her family on the parallel Earth to determine how close it is to her target one, interspersed with brief flashbacks explaining how she came to be doing this. Significantly, this reintroduces us to Clive, the conspiracy theorist killed off in the very first episode of the modern TV series, who becomes a regular in this audio one. The story is primarily personal, with no explanation as to how the catastrophe facing the parallel Earth has come about. Instead, it serves only as a backdrop to exploring this alternative reality’s Pete and Jackie and how their lives took a different turn – an effective, but low-key start that doesn’t throw too much at us at once but obviously requires some prior knowledge of the characters. 4 stars.
The Flood – While the first episode depicts a world that’s essentially like ours until the catastrophe strikes, with the basics out of the way the second opts for more significant changes. This time, we visit a London drenched in perpetual rain (more so than usual, that is) and where technological progress stalled and even reversed in the 1980s. The episode finds time not just to give us a glimpse of the changes in the Tyler household, but also gives Clive some good moments as he realises how his own life could have been better. Add to that some elements that are reminiscent of Aliens of London as Rose decides to get to the bottom of what is happening with the weather, and we have a strong story that bodes well for this series’ future. 5 stars.
Ghost Machines – The third story takes a break from the wider theme to give us something much more like a typical Doctor Who episode. The world visited here has more differences from our own than the others and is the only one not (so far as we can see) facing any sort of apocalypse. Instead, the story concerns a piece of newly developed technology that is having unforeseen consequences – something we’ve seen often enough on the TV show. That allows more of an opportunity for action, as the characters are placed in direct peril and have to come up with a solution to stop the marauding machinery. Taken in that context, it’s a decent story, preying on fears of artificial intelligence and giving us a look at another alternate take on the Tyler household (I’m beginning to get the impression that Jackie was really unlucky in our universe, given how much richer all her parallels seem to be). But it doesn’t quite live up to the premise of this particular series, and feels out of place amongst its fellows, although it does provide some needed variety. 3.5 stars.
The Last Party on Earth – As the title indicates, the final episode takes us to another doomed Earth, although the actual details of the impending disaster aren’t relevant this time around. Nor do we see an alternate Tyler family with the story instead being about the parallel version of the Powell Estate responds to the news their world will shortly end. After Clive and Pete in the precious two episodes, this time it’s the turn of Jackie to join Rose on the mission, and the results are predictably entertaining while also giving us a chance to see her caring side as she responds to the different coping mechanisms people are using. It’s a surprisingly optimistic take, despite some darker moments along the way, with a positive message about love and family – but no science fiction elements beyond the presence of the travellers, should that be what you’re after. 4.5 stars.
November 28, 2019
I should probably start by saying that I am bias as hell because I love Rose Tyler. That being said, I wasn’t sure whether or not this boxset was going to work, and I am so glad it did.
Basic Summary: Rose Tyler uses a dimensional cannon with the help of her family to look for the Doctor in various universes that are ending.
Overall, the box set is very cohesive, and it feels just like Davies era storytelling. The characterization is solid and consistent, and the stories are interesting despite their similar core premise. It’s especially nice seeing a bit of what Rose went through to find the Doctor, as well as just how bad the situation was with the various universes. We even get a bit of teasing of Donna Nobel, the same way we got teases of Rose returning before she actually got back.
The Endless Night: This one really set up what is going on in the box set, so it’s a bit bland compared to the others but we get some important information. First, we get to see the complicated and still unsteady relationship between Rose and the alternate Pete her mother is now with. It’s raw and turbulent, like it should be for such a complicated situation.
Rose is perfectly in character- she’s still young, a bit immature at times, full of heart, and determined as hell. Seeing her take on the almost Doctor like role is really interesting to compare to when Clara did it with 12. Unlike with Clara, it isn’t mocking or arrogant or reckless, it’s genuine and built from her desperation to find the Doctor and to save all the universes that are being destroyed. Rose adds a depth of empathy and sweetness even when taking on tactics she learned from the Doctor. Through this adventure, Rose faces the horrible reality that she can’t save everyone, no matter how badly she wants to.
The Flood: Here we start to get more interesting universes- this time Rose meets a gender bent version of herself. Having this male version of herself with her as a temporary companion brings out her cheeky and playful side while also giving us an introduction to just how many possible types of universes there could be. The story is a bit more interesting with the flood and the intrigue involved with a government cover up of their apocalypse. We also get a cute love story on the side for Clive which sets up the idea that even from different universes, people still have the same core of who they are and so they often end up loving the same people. That theme is only further supported by the fact that male version is with Mickey.
Ghost Machines: The stories honestly get more interesting as you go along, and this one is especially fun. It’s based on a twisted concept of using the deceased for menial labor by putting them into technology. A way to help your family even in death and in a way become immortal. Pete goes with Rose this time, and the conflict between them is finally given a chance to rise to a head. This story asks the question of what it means to love someone. Is a carbon copy of them enough? Is their voice coming out of an appliance enough? It doesn’t tie everything up with a nice little bow, but the relationship between Rose and alternate Pete is developed and they get to air their feelings more straightforwardly- putting them on a more positive road.
The Last Party on Earth: Jackie accompanies Rose this time and we find ourselves in a universe that is partying it up during their end of days. This is a beautiful story that shows just how similar Rose and Jackie are in their limitless compassion for those around them. We also get a sweet LGBT story of some boys that grew up with Rose and we get to meet Mickey’s mother. The feeling of being home- yet not home creates an interesting overall atmosphere that affects Jackie the same way we saw Rose affected in the first story. This story leaves us with a strong understanding that it’s important to make the most of your time, and it also is starting to show Rose maturing in the sense that she is facing the fact that she can’t save everyone, she can only keep moving forward on her journey.
Basic Summary: Rose Tyler uses a dimensional cannon with the help of her family to look for the Doctor in various universes that are ending.
Overall, the box set is very cohesive, and it feels just like Davies era storytelling. The characterization is solid and consistent, and the stories are interesting despite their similar core premise. It’s especially nice seeing a bit of what Rose went through to find the Doctor, as well as just how bad the situation was with the various universes. We even get a bit of teasing of Donna Nobel, the same way we got teases of Rose returning before she actually got back.
The Endless Night: This one really set up what is going on in the box set, so it’s a bit bland compared to the others but we get some important information. First, we get to see the complicated and still unsteady relationship between Rose and the alternate Pete her mother is now with. It’s raw and turbulent, like it should be for such a complicated situation.
Rose is perfectly in character- she’s still young, a bit immature at times, full of heart, and determined as hell. Seeing her take on the almost Doctor like role is really interesting to compare to when Clara did it with 12. Unlike with Clara, it isn’t mocking or arrogant or reckless, it’s genuine and built from her desperation to find the Doctor and to save all the universes that are being destroyed. Rose adds a depth of empathy and sweetness even when taking on tactics she learned from the Doctor. Through this adventure, Rose faces the horrible reality that she can’t save everyone, no matter how badly she wants to.
The Flood: Here we start to get more interesting universes- this time Rose meets a gender bent version of herself. Having this male version of herself with her as a temporary companion brings out her cheeky and playful side while also giving us an introduction to just how many possible types of universes there could be. The story is a bit more interesting with the flood and the intrigue involved with a government cover up of their apocalypse. We also get a cute love story on the side for Clive which sets up the idea that even from different universes, people still have the same core of who they are and so they often end up loving the same people. That theme is only further supported by the fact that male version is with Mickey.
Ghost Machines: The stories honestly get more interesting as you go along, and this one is especially fun. It’s based on a twisted concept of using the deceased for menial labor by putting them into technology. A way to help your family even in death and in a way become immortal. Pete goes with Rose this time, and the conflict between them is finally given a chance to rise to a head. This story asks the question of what it means to love someone. Is a carbon copy of them enough? Is their voice coming out of an appliance enough? It doesn’t tie everything up with a nice little bow, but the relationship between Rose and alternate Pete is developed and they get to air their feelings more straightforwardly- putting them on a more positive road.
The Last Party on Earth: Jackie accompanies Rose this time and we find ourselves in a universe that is partying it up during their end of days. This is a beautiful story that shows just how similar Rose and Jackie are in their limitless compassion for those around them. We also get a sweet LGBT story of some boys that grew up with Rose and we get to meet Mickey’s mother. The feeling of being home- yet not home creates an interesting overall atmosphere that affects Jackie the same way we saw Rose affected in the first story. This story leaves us with a strong understanding that it’s important to make the most of your time, and it also is starting to show Rose maturing in the sense that she is facing the fact that she can’t save everyone, she can only keep moving forward on her journey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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