The world of
“Doctor Who” has many rules and technicalities to the storyline, no doubt
adjusted to continue the franchise from generation to generation. Among these
are the specifics behind the doctor’s changing appearance through the years
since his arrival in pop culture in 1963. Apparently there are a certain amount
of incarnations of the same doctor over the years, which explains the change in
actors playing him. The episode, “The Time of the Doctor,” marked the departure
of Matt Smith and the introduction of Peter Capaldi for the eighth season.
Unfortunately, “The Time of the Doctor” hasn’t been included in this
collection, despite past seasons making a habit of including the traditional
Christmas special.
There are other
traditions forsaken in this season, as well as rules bent or broken. Despite
the departure of Smith, Jenna Coleman remains as Clara. This has been an area
of contention for some fans, because there is clear lack of chemistry between
Coleman and Capaldi. Part of this simply comes from the shift back to an older
Doctor after the last four seasons of Smith’s youthful energy. Others will find
this change refreshing, throwing back to the darker seasons of David Tennant
over the more childish elements from Smith’s seasons. I suppose it is all a
matter of preference, but “Doctor Who” fans are still likely to watch it. If
nothing else, it gives them something to complain about.
As upsetting as
it may be for some to accept that they must buy the Christmas special (and
transition to new Doctor) separately, season eight comes with plenty of
additional extras to soften the blow. What are included are the twelve season
eight episodes on five discs, along with a ten-minute behind-the-scenes featurette
for each, and a commentary tracks on four of the episodes. Additional extras
include “The Ultimate Time Lord” and “The Ultimate Companion,” two TV specials
hosted by Peter Davison about the two most important characters of the series
in anticipation of the new Doctor. They promoted this change in the cast
greatly, as seen by the featurette “Earth Conquest,” showing the 7 city tour
over the course of twelve days. Additional media coverage is included, such as
footage shot for pre-show and post-show coverage by Chris Hardwick, and a
post-premiere Q&A in London
Entertainment Value:
7/10
Quality of
Filmmaking: 7/10
Historical
Significance: 8/10
Special Features: 9/10
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