Alien Isolation - NovelReview (2019)

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Originally published on dreamcage.com

Release date: July 2019
Writer: Keith R. A. DeCandido

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The Promise

One of the saddest things about Alien isn't that Ellen Ripley lost her crew-mates aboard the Nostromo at the hands - or jaws - of a vicious killing machine, it is the heartbreaking fact that she never returned home to Earth in time for her daughter's Eleventh birthday, and that she never got to see Amanda "Amy" Ripley EVER again! In Aliens DIRECTOR'S CUT we get to view the moment when Carter J. Burke, junior executive for the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, reveals that Amanda Ripley-McClaren died at the age of 66, two years prior to Ellen being found in deep space. She had died of cancer. However, what we as viewers never got to see was Amanda's own personal journey. Until now...


"Dallas wants me on the Nostromo, and they just took on a big contract to bring cargo back from Thedus."

Titan Books have published some terrific titles in the Alien catalogue, my favourite being Alien: River of Pain. However, there had yet to be a title covering Ellen Ripley's lost years, those being her 57 years absent in hypersleep aboard the Narcissus.

November 2137, the crew of the salvage ship Anesidora discover the flight recorder of the commercial space tug Nostromo, which had now been missing for 15 years. Altering course, the Anesidora goes to LV-426, the last known location of the missing ship. Those familiar with Alien won't be too surprised when things turn sour and one of the Anesidora crew gets attacked by a facehugger. With no time to lose, they leave the planet and head to Sevastopol Station where they hope to find help.


"Sevastopol's a supply depot in the region. It's a permanent freeport facility."

While repairing a Lagdamen X34 land buggy, engineer Amanda Ripley is told of the fortunate black box discovery by Christopher Samuels, a Weyland-Yutani Corporation employee. At first sceptical that the information could lead to yet another dead end, she eventually agrees to board the USCSS Torrens and head for Sevastopol. This being Alien, nothing goes to plan and Amanda finds herself trapped on board the space station among armed civilians and a deadly monster stalking the corridors and ventilation system. Her single goal: to locate the flight recorder and find out just what happened to her mother all those years ago.

As the book proudly states on the cover, Alien Isolation is an "original novel based on the hit video game" of the same name from 20th Century Fox. The game was a 2014 first-person survival console experience developed by Creative Assembly, it was published by SEGA for various gaming platforms such as PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One and PC. Once it was announced that a book would be released based on Alien Isolation, however, you can just imagine my excitement. Author Keith DeCandido, who has written a plethora of sci-fi works including media tie-in books such as Star Trek as well as his own fiction, was tasked to adapt the game. Titan Books couldn't have chosen a better writer. What you get with Alien Isolation the novel is a lot more than just a mirror image of someone else's work, he literally adds depth to the back story of Amanda Ripley. We get to see her childhood, and the moment when she had to say goodbye to Ellen before that ill-fated trip aboard the Nostromo. DeCandido also includes a scene one month before her eleventh birthday when her stepfather Paul gets the news that the Nostromo is being declared "missing in action".

There are other inclusions that I will leave for you to discover.


Celebration and the Xenomorph

Titan Books couldn't have chosen a better time to release Alien Isolation. It is now 40 years since director Ridley Scott gave us the Xenomorph in Alien (1979). The franchise has exploded like a Chestburster, impacting on every media from movies to novels, comics and video games. And collector's merchandise. Though the movies first focused on warrant officer Ellen Ripley, played so perfectly by Sigourney Weaver, follow-up titles such as Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Prometheus (2012) have opened the door for other characters to confront the nasty saliva-dripping creatures.

Considering this is an official canonical expansion of both the game and Alien universe in general, what is there not to love? Published 30th July 2019, you'd be crazy not to board the Torrens with Ripley and explore Sevastopol.

Just pick up your motion tracker, and watch out for bugs.

You can pick this up, as well as other great titles, direct from Titan Books.

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Doctor Who: The Sirens of Time (1999) - AudioReview

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Release date: July 1999
Writer: Nicholas Briggs. Director: Nicholas Briggs

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The Doctor's back, and it's about time...

In 1989, the longest running science fiction show came to an abrupt end. No farewell story to thank the fans for their loyalty, no handshake for the cast and crew who had worked so passionately. Instead, actor Sylvester McCoy was required to add closing dialogue to the final serial, "Survival" - "There are worlds out there where the sky is burning, and the sea's asleep, and the rivers dream; people made of smoke and cities made of song. Somewhere there's danger, somewhere there's injustice, and somewhere else the tea's getting cold. Come on, Ace. We've got work to do." 

Of course, those weren't the last ever lines spoken for the series... in 1996 a television movie was produced, starring Paul McGann as the Eighth Doctor and featuring a guest appearance by McCoy. But, seeing as no further production followed writer Matthew Jacobs's attempt, the "Classic" era was over.

Big Finish will always have a special place in my heart, for they did something quite remarkable: resurrected the Doctor, and persuaded actors Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy to reprise their most famous of roles. I can still remember how it felt to own "The Sirens of Time" on CD. It was a magnificent feeling, knowing that I was about to embark on a new adventure with a Time Lord. 1999 was 1989 all over again, with the past ten years seeming as if they had never happened at all...

The plot: Gallifrey, and time itself, is being threatened by the presence of an alien race, whose technologically-advanced warships have surrounded the Time Lords' home planet. And it seems that the Doctor is somehow involved... Written and directed by the legendary Nicholas Briggs (should I mention that he was also responsible for the music and sound design?), this first step for Big Finish into official Doctor Who territory simply cannot be faulted. As with the majority of the early audios produced, "Sirens" is a four-part story, with the first three focusing on each Doctor - Seventh, Fifth and Sixth - and the final part bringing them all together to face the villains of the piece. And it is a welcome decision not to include Daleks in this debut outing...


No Ace up the Doctor's sleeve

Part One reintroduces us to the Seventh Doctor (portrayed by McCoy) as he is drawn to a planet where spacecraft are crashing; a mysterious old woman called Ruthley looks after an equally mysterious gentleman, Sancroft; and a young girl named Elenya (Sarah Mowat) needs rescuing. Out of the three, Ruthley is a very unpleasant creature indeed, with her prime focus being on her own survival above all else - those familiar with this audio range might be interested to know that Ruthley is played by Maggie Stables, who later goes on to portray the role of Evelyn Smythe, companion to the Sixth Doctor in the first "original" pairing for Big Finish. There is much to dislike about Ruthley, and her own feelings mirror similar dislike towards those who are unfortunate enough to be within her company.

Companionless in this one, McCoy easily fits back into the role he had briefly revisited during the 1996 TV movie. We are also introduced to The Knights of Velyshaa.


"The Time Lords really do want me dead!"

Part Two focuses on the Fifth Doctor, and his encounter with the crew of a German U-boat. He is also joined by Helen (Mowat), the only other survivor of a British freighter torpedoed moments earlier. Though rescued by the German crew, it is clear that the danger is far from over. Determined to recover his TARDIS, the Doctor finds himself at the hands of his own people when they use a crewmember, Schmidt, to try and kill him following time distortion. This is the work of Coordinator Vansell (Anthony Keetch), a member of the Celestial Intervention Agency. The situation is a desperate one as Vansell believes the Doctor is somehow responsible for history to be altered - preventing him from reaching his TARDIS is a priority in saving the Time Lords and restoring the course of history!


"Would you please keep the noise down, old chap?"

Part Three brings us a Sixth Doctor who finds himself at some conference on a spacecraft, the Edifice, in the Kurgon system. They are present to investigate the Kurgon Wonder, a spatial anomaly. Things turn bad when more time distortion affects the ship, killing everyone except for the Doctor, a waitress named Ellie (Mowat), and an android. One of the threads through all parts of the story is the young woman that the Doctor encounters in his three incarnations. Just who is she? Mowat certainly delivers a strong performance with each character. She would later go on to play Susan Mendes in Big Finish's Dalek Empire series.


"Beware the Sirens of Time..."

And so to Gallifrey, and the Doctors are brought together in the final fourth part. In television history we've only ever seen multiple Doctor adventures three times: The Three Doctors (1973), The Five Doctors (1983) and The Two Doctors (1985). We could include Dimensions in Time (1993) though it is not official canon as it was a charity event crossover with a British soap, Eastenders.

It is rather lovely hearing Peter, Colin and Sylvester meet up, it's definitely a reunion with old friends. As the plot evolves we learn that beyond the Doctor, the Time Lords, and even the Knights of Velyshaa, there is a menacing threat that feeds on the energies of chaos, and that it is these creatures who have been pulling the strings and manipulating since the start.

It is difficult to think of a better beginning than The Sirens of Time, it sets a nice standard that Big Finish absolutely builds on and improves over the following years. It seems unbelievable that, at time of writing this article, Sirens of Time is 20 years old! Just where has that time gone? I'm sure the Doctor knows...


Beyond the Sirens...

Co-ordinator Vansell will return in several audios including The Apocalypse Element, Neverland, and the spin-off Gallifrey range.

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Doctor Who: The Curse of Davros (2012) - AudioReview

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Release date: January 2012
Writer: Jonathan Morris. Director: Nicholas Briggs

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Escaping The Daleks...

The return of the Daleks is always a welcome one. And if that story happens to include a certain Kaled scientist, then much the better. In The Curse of Davros we are reunited with Philippa "Flip" Jackson (Lisa Greenwood) and her boyfriend Jared Ramon, who we last encountered in The Crimes of Thomas Brewster (2011). This time, however, the Doctor is alone and in danger. He is wanted by the Daleks. As the plot progresses we learn that his enemy can swap minds with Humans, literally taking over their physical bodies, using mind swapping technology created by Davros. The use of this weapon is obvious enough, allowing Daleks to move freely on Earth.

When Flip and Jared witness a spacecraft crashing in London, they go to investigate. The incident hasn't gone unnoticed and so it isn't long before the area is swarming with military and police officers. What DOES go unnoticed is the escape capsule that ejected from the main ship and landed nearby. From within, the Sixth Doctor emerges...

It has to be said that the casting is first rate in this one, and Big Finish delivers more often than not with their catalogue of audio adventures featuring EVERY Doctor they are fortunate to direct. It has also been an opportunity for BF to create an extension to what came before, building not just on the original television series that Colin Baker contributed to from 1984-86 but to add extra mythology surrounding the character. In the world of audio, the Sixth Doctor has met new companions such as Evelyn Smythe and Charlotte Pollard. They have been positive role models, feisty and curious, determined and loyal. These qualities can also be found in Flip. From the start she is unstoppable, a modern girl with a no nonsense approach, although she certainly has a heart.

One of the things that we do get to see in The Curse of Davros is that the Doctor - our Doctor - isn't quite himself. This gives Baker a nice juicy opportunity to step into someone else's shoes for a while, and it delivers nicely. When Jared is mind-swapped with a Dalek, the Time Lord and Flip go on the run. As usual, we see just how ruthless his deadly foes are when they threaten to exterminate a group of innocent people unless the Doctor surrenders. They clearly keep their word, as they did in Destiny of the Daleks (1979) when similarly they began systematically killing slaves until the Fourth Doctor gave in. This is what they know, and the price of a life means nothing except its usefulness as a weapon.


Meddling in history...

One moment we are on modern day Earth, the next we're witnessing the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. This is such a fantastic contrast, bringing new dynamics to the development of the play. Davros plans on using his mind-swapping tech to change Human history and aid Napoleon Bonaparte in defeating the British and Prussian armies. It would be catastrophic! Just think how the lyrics in a certain pop song from 1974 would differ, no more "At Waterloo Napoleon did surrender". But far more than that, such meddling would change the course of Human history.

Those familiar with BBC Books will recall a previous Doctor Who adventure set at the Battle of Waterloo. World Game, written by Terrance Dicks and published in 2005, featured the Second Doctor in a plot involving the Celestial Intervention Agency, Lady Serena, and Players (immortal beings who liked to tamper with history).


Holmes Vs Moriarty

Ever since he first appeared on our screens in 1975, Davros has become Moriarty to the Doctor's Holmes. With only a single televised story between them, Revelation of the Daleks (1985), it was always welcome when Big Finish decided to bring the two together again in audio. 2003's "Davros" is a particular favourite of mine. Out of all the Doctor's, Baker's incarnation feels the best fit to Terry Molloy's mad scientist. It is also fitting that this particular Doctor finally understands and shows empathy for his enemy, though that in itself doesn't stop the Gallifreyan from defeating him. We've always known that Davros' life is one of pain and suffering, though it is these that have kept him focused and hateful. Has he always been evil, or just ruthlessly efficient and practical? For that answer we have to look no further than "I, Davros", the four-part story also from Big Finish.


The adventure continues...

Given the opportunity to return home with boyfriend Jared, Flip instead decides to travel with the Doctor. This is very reminiscent of Rose Tyler's own reaction to embracing the chance of adventure through time and space. It also helps that Flip is very likeable, thanks to both the writing of the character and Greenwood's solid performance.


"Shall I compare thee to a summers day?"

How does this story compare to previous Dalek adventures? Well, it's an interesting mix, that's for sure. Over the years we've been treated to so many Dalek plots that it could easily become monotonous. The Curse of Davros, however, manages to keep a few surprises and delivers in the right areas. This is actually less about Daleks and more to do with rivalry between two old enemies: imagine if Davros could live again, without pain and mental torment... Imagine if the Doctor could spend the rest of his days trapped in a different kind of prison... It is a frightening concept indeed.

Looking on the Big Finish website I notice that they had the working title Waterloo of the Daleks, I'm so glad they changed it. Mention must also go to cover artist Simon Holub, who's work also includes favourites of mine such as "Doctor Who - The Companion Chronicles: Here There Be Monsters" and "Doctor Who - Robophobia". The use of blues in his The Curse of Davros looks stunning. I've just found some up and coming titles featuring his cover art and "Doctor Who: Interstitial / Feast of Fear" is particularly amazing!

I absolutely recommend The Curse of Davros, it is certainly an enjoyable ride through history. And you get to spend more time with Flip Jackson.

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Ewoks: Battle For Endor (1985) - FilmReview

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Terak, the Sanyassan warlord who seeks all power

As reviewed previously, 1984 Star Wars spin-off Caravan Of Courage: An Ewok Adventure left a vastly positive impression on my childhood. I was in love with Ewoks, owned most of the Kenner action figures in the 1980s and do consider Return of The Jedi to be my favourite of the original trilogy. The funny thing is I recall seeing Ewoks: The Battle For Endor, the 1985 television movie sequel to Courage, on VHS cassette in a video rental store back in the day. For some reason it wasn't picked up and taken home for a viewing. Perhaps my father refused to rent it out - I never received any pocket money so always had to rely on parental generosity on occasions such as these. In some ways I am now grateful the events of The Battle For Endor were unseen by my younger eyes. How heartbreaking would it have been to witness Cindel Towani, recently reunited with the parents she helped rescue from the Gorax lair in Courage, become an orphan and lose her older brother Mace (Eric Walker) in a Marauder attack on the Ewok village? Cruel, and so unnecessary, clearly bruising the happy ever after nature of the previous installment's conclusion, in my opinion. Still, I promised myself a fresh look at this fantasy sci-fi classic and so DVD disc at the ready...

Escaping the Sanyassan Marauders (who have already captured many Ewoks and are transporting them to their castle), Cindel and Wicket meet up with Teek, a tiny furry rodent-like, simian creature with a faster than light drive installed in his rear - in other words, he can move with incredible speed thanks to an accelerated metabolism. The friendly but mischievous creature leads them back to the hut he shares with Noa Briqualon (Wilford Brimley), a shipwrecked space trader. At first the old man refuses to let his new guests stay, but eventually shows a softer side. Think Heidi (another orphaned little girl created by Swiss author Johanna Spyri) and you get the idea. Besides, who could resist Cindel's porridge and muffins?

One morning the young girl hears a song, the very song her mother used to sing to her, coming from somewhere close by. Investigating, she encounters a beautiful young woman with a white horse. It is, of course, a trap - the woman transforms into Charal, a Nightsister and witch who serves as second-in-command to the Sanyassan warlord who ordered the attack on the Ewoks. Cindel is taken to the castle also as a prisoner. Once there, she learns that Terak (the warlord) wants her to activate a crystal oscillator from a wreckage, believing it will bring him great "power". His lack of knowledge regarding general technology proves him to be an ignorant savage. One wishes a Jedi Knight would rise to show him what true power looks like. Neither Cindel or Charel are able to meet his demands, and are both imprisoned with the Ewoks. Noa, Wicket, and Teek make a daring rescue by scaling the walls and infiltrating the heart of the Marauders.

Heidi and her grandfather. Sorry, Cindel (Aubree Miller) with Noa (Wilford Brimley)

The rescue storyline is comparable to its predecessor though clearly lacking in similar scale and ambition. The Marauders make a poor army and the overall direction feels clumsy. Directors Jim Wheat and Ken Wheat fail to really bring anything new to the table - at least Caravan had the Gorax, evoking thoughts of those early monster features that displayed Ray Harryhausen's work. Hard to believe that the Wheat brothers would go on to write the screenplay for Pitch Black (2000), one of my favourite movies starring Radha Mitchell. I am also a little surprised by Wilford Brimley, who I adore in Cocoon (1985) but fail to enjoy in the role of Noa, he just doesn't feel right in the part. Perhaps it has more to do with the feeling that the character isn't particularly significant, the film instead needing a much stronger Obi-Wan Kenobi-esque hero to lead. Imagine Alp-Öhi (Heidi's grandfather) with a lightsaber. In an interview with Eon Magazine, Ken Wheat said of the movie, "Lucas guided the creation of the story over the course of two four-hour sessions we had with him. He'd just watched Heidi with his daughter the weekend before these took place, and the story idea he pushed was having the little girl from the first Ewok TV movie become an orphan who ends up living with a
grumpy old hermit in the woods. We'd been thinking about the adventure films we'd liked as kids, like Swiss Family Robinson and The Seventh Voyage of Sinbad, so we suggested having space marauders, which was fine with George - as long as they were 7 feet tall, of course! The rest of the brainstorming was done along those lines. Joe Johnston (the production designer and second unit director) and Phil Tippett (the creature supervisor) were involved in the second day's story session, and they contributed an assortment of bits and pieces".

Undoing the good of the first instalment to fit Cindel into the Heidi role is very unfortunate, as they could have easily cast a new young actress for an altogether newer role. That said, Aubree Miller is a sweetheart and it is rather nice to see her again, especially as Cindel's friendship with Wicket the Ewok continues to grow. Wicket W. Warrick has been played (in costume) by Warwick Davis in all three Stars Wars movies to feature him, but did you know that it was Darryl Henriques who voiced Wicket in the two Ewok spin-off films? The actor is best known to sc-fi fans as the Romulan Ambassador Nanclus in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991). Personally I'm still wondering why Lucas had Wicket talk at all, you don't have to understand a pet dog to be its friend and life companion.

There are many Star Wars fans who loathe Ewoks and their movies, who feel Return of The Jedi (1983) would have been a much better chapter without them. So perhaps I'm in a minority for liking the residents of the Moon of Endor? I just can't help embracing fond childhood memories. The fact that Battle For Endor was not part of that nostalgia might explain my dislike for the story, it's entirely possible.

Remember Daffy, the cross-eyed Gremlin from Gremlins 2? Well Teek quite reminds me of him. There's always one goofball who steals the show, though there isn't anything particularly stupid about him. He's clearly intelligent and loyal, playful and kind. Originally intended to be a puppet, the character was eventually portrayed by Niki Botelho. Actor Brimley had refused to work with a puppet and the quick decision was made to fit someone into costume - sixteen-year old Botelho was chosen from set.

Ewoks: The Battle for Endor premiered as a television special on 24th November 1985. It saw a limited UK theatrical release in the Spring of 1986. It was later released on home video in 1990, and on DVD in 2004 as a double feature paired with its predecessor Caravan of Courage. Neither film are considered canon since Disney's reorganisation of the franchise, I believe, which is a shame. Ewoks: A Star Wars Story would go so nicely with the company's current run of spin-off material. At the very least they should be given a re-release on bluray. I am sure many would rather see old copies burn alongside the body of Anakin Skywalker on his funeral pyre. That's the fun thing about fandom - we are all different...

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Alwyn Ash
Alwyn is a genius with the pen. Give him a keyboard and he's in heaven. He lives in Chester with his personal collection of books, movies and a pocket Universe.
Follow @AlwynAsh

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Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure (1984) - FilmReview

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Cindel and Wicket - the cutest couple in Hollywood.

Originally published on the /G-f website to celebrate Ernest Cline's Ready Player One.

I am one of the lucky ones, I fell in love with Ewoks from their first appearance in Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi, and owned most of the action figures - my collection needing only the Ewok village to complete an otherwise fun set. "You'll live the adventure... You'll love its heroes." The tagline for George Lucas’ 1984 spin-off made-for-TV film promised excitement and adventure, and it certainly delivered. I was ten years old, and Star Wars crazy. Honestly, I was likely crazy about a great many things being so full of wonder with that twinkle in my eye, but the space opera in a “galaxy far, far away...” was unlike anything I’d seen before, or since.

The Caravan of Courage took me further into a world I had briefly experienced through the eyes of rebel soldiers as a last stand against the Galactic Empire took hold. Now, in An Ewok Adventure, we got to explore the forest moon of Endor with two children, Mace and Cindel Towani, who are separated from their parents following a crash landing; unbeknown to them, their mom and dad (played by Fionnula Flanagan and Guy Boyd) have been taken by the Gorax, a giant of a beast that keeps them caged in its mountain lair. It is these very kids that are found by Ewoks and taken back to their village. Mace, being the protective older brother, is temporarily regarded as a threat and bound after he tries to overcome the furry warriors. Thankfully trust is gained and medicine is given to his young sister, who quickly develops a friendship with Wicket, the lively Ewok from Return of the Jedi.

After consulting Logray, the wisest Ewok, Mace and Cindel go on the very adventure promised in the film’s title. They are joined by Wicket and other Ewoks who wish to help reunite the Towani family and defeat the monstrous Gorax. What follows reminds me of Dr Who & The Daleks, the feature length movie that had Peter Cushing’s Dr Who join a group of Thals to infiltrate the Dalek city; both even share a deadly lake. Then again, same could be said about Krull. No wonder I geek out on these films!

The Towani family and Ewoks. They're all furry (very) photogenic.

Caravan of Courage was filmed on a much smaller budget than that available to the original Star Wars trilogy, and it shows. It’s safe to say that the effects haven’t aged well. That aside, it remains a beautiful piece of television history that is just as warm and cuddly as the Ewok animated series that aired the following year. Director John Korty works well with a screenplay by George Lucas and Bob Carrau, and the inserted narrative featuring the voice of Burl Ives gives the film a nice storybook quality perfect for children. Without doubt the true stars of this feature are Eric Walker as Mace, Aubree Miller as Cindel, and Warwick Davis as Wicket. Though Walker and Miller aren’t perfect child actors they do get the job done and manage to deliver touching performances nonetheless.

It is nice to finally explore more of the world’s terrain than just forest, as we get to experience a desert of acid pools and dry lakes, and the treacherous mountainous regions.

Lucas understandably had full control over each step of production, not wishing this to become a second Star wars Holiday Special, which has never been positively received by critics, Star Wars fans, or Lucas himself. Even a TV ad featuring Walker in character to promote the movie was prevented from airing because Lucas disliked it so. There is also the question of the films continuity within the franchise, it has been said that An Ewok Adventure takes place between events depicted in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, but that plausibility doesn’t quite add up – as time progresses, Wicket learns to speak some English thanks to his blossoming friendship with Cindel (as we see in Ewok sequel The Battle For Endor), and yet his encounter with Princess Leia in Jedi clearly projects him as a creature without that ability. It is more than likely that the Ewok movies follow events in the original trilogy, it would also explain why there are so few Ewoks present in Caravan. No? Well, it’s always fun to speculate, and it doesn’t truly matter either way, I’m just glad to experience its light-hearted magic.

What I do find discouraging is the way in which the film has been treated in recent years regarding international release: though a double feature DVD was greenlit to include the sequel, there has been no attempt since at restoring either movie for blu-ray. Whether regarded as canon or not, it would be a shame to overlook the beauty and simplicity of Caravan of Courage – the Star Wars universe is full of wonder, and some of it can be found on the forest moon of Endor.

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Alwyn Ash
Alwyn is a genius with the pen. Give him a keyboard and he's in heaven. He lives in Chester with his personal collection of books, movies and a pocket Universe.
Follow @AlwynAsh

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Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999) - FilmReview

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"Hello, I'm going to be responsible for helping to eliminate the Jedi."

It had to happen! Following on from my review of Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones comes a look at how it all began: Midi-chlorians included!

Back in 1999 I had been excited at the news concerning brand new Star wars; George Lucas was a Hollywood God in my eyes, a man who could do no wrong: he had given my childhood an amazing gift, one that I am eternally grateful for, so no "He's ruined my childhood" comments in this article! I was 25 years-old when the eagerly awaited Star Wars I: The Phantom Menace was released, and there was so much excitement it could barely be contained in one body. Thankfully I didn't explode. But witnessing the birth of a new trilogy in the Star wars saga was almost like discovering a single rare crystal leading to a pool of treasure. My first taste of this new movie wasn't at the theatre but on VHS cassette - yes, I was yet to embrace the beauty of the DVD player! And so, crystal in hand, I sat to watch this magnificent piece of cinematic magic...

Trade dispute? Strange-looking aliens out of lip sync? Not exactly the beginning I was looking for, but still... plenty of promise... Then come the Battle droids, not exactly Stormtroopers, are they? So we are introduced to the Trade Federation. I guess the main issue with TPM is just how political it becomes, and how we witness Senator Palpatine's manipulation as a shadow threatens to engulf the Senate. We already know that it is Palpatine who ends up playing such a vital part in the "original trilogy", and that he is actually Sith Lord Darth Sidious. But it seems we must learn just how he becomes so powerful politically. And we get to meet a young Anakin Skywalker, portrayed by Jake Lloyd (who has gone on record saying that the film actually did ruin his childhood, and acting career - I've seen "Jingle All The Way", so I can honestly say George Lucas can't be completely blamed).

Of all the actors to star in TPM, Ewan McGregor is the most interesting, a young Obi-Wan Kenobi, apprentice to Liam Neeson's Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn. Originally played by legend Sir Alec Guinness, Obi-Wan remains an intriguing character, whose eventual escape following Order 66 (Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith) leads him to live as a hermit on the planet Tatooine. In "Episode I" he is young and impatient, more reflective of how Luke Skywalker appeared in Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back. That said, the "prequels" are less about the heroes and more about how Anakin Skywalker becomes the evil Darth Vader. Young he may well be but Anakin is already showing signs of being exceptional, even if he does ask the strangest questions: "Are you an angel?" No, she's co-star Natalie Portman aka Queen Padmé Amidala!

"Meeza fan!"

I find it fascinating how any actor can claim that a movie either destroyed their career, or nearly did so, and Portman is another reported to have made such a statement. Personally I rate her highly, and have enjoyed performances in movies such as Léon (1994), V for Vendetta (2006), and The Other Boleyn Girl (2008). To step away from near disaster and actually make good is a sign of a talented actor! I like Padmé very much. And though she doesn't have the strong character of Leia Organa, her presence in TPM is a vital one, giving warmth to an otherwise lifeless world. Considering how the next two instalments connect the Queen of Naboo and a future Sith Lord romantically, it certainly would have been far more consistent for Anakin to have been represented by someone older than Lloyd, too - I find it odd how we leap from Lloyd to Hayden Christensen in the first two films.

Just imagine if, for Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, we had had someone other than Mark Hamill to play a young Luke Skywalker, only for Hamill to take the reigns in TESB (The Empire Strikes Back).

Much is made of the mystery surrounding the Sith Master (Palpatine) and his apprentice (I shall come to Darth Maul in a moment), just as TPM seems obsessed with suspicion and plot: it could almost be a futuristic Guy Fawkes feature, with the Jedi Council stepping in for Parliament. If it had morphed into a sci-fi thriller then okay, I'm totally fine with that, but George Lucas' script fails to satisfy any need for true suspense or drama. Instead, everything feels convoluted and in need of strict editing. The Battle Droids make for a weak nemesis. Even the Jedi never live up to expectations - "For over a thousand generations, the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic. Before the dark times... before the Empire." If Ben Kenobi's mention of this ancient "religion" felt exciting and mysterious then going back to a time when they were still present only goes to show them as lacking in greatness. Sad but true! Only Nute Gunray, viceroy of the Trade Federation, seemed wary of them. There is also so much going on in this movie, including the Battle of Naboo, that most Jedi are off "investigating", it seems, or sat around pondering. After doing some research into Jedi mythology, I am amazed by its richness, something that is never truly realised onscreen.

Many fans have taken dislike to both the Midi-chlorians explanation regarding the Force, and the introduction of Gungan Jar Jar Binks. The latter is fine with me, a character that brings light relief. Let's face it, the original trilogy had enough light-hearted humour to entertain, such as the Ewoks, Chewbacca's Tarzan antics, and most of C-3PO's scenes. Is a native of Naboo (Jar Jar) really that big of a deal? And I certainly don't get the racial caricature allegations: he's an alien from a galaxy far far away, not a Jamaican... He certainly doesn't deserve to be described as "the most hated character in cinema". How wude!

Alistair Crighton writes an interesting article on Star Wars stereotypes for Aljazeera. On a personal note, all I see are characters whose motivations have nothing to do with the real world - it's called escapism...

So, back to the film. If TPM delivers an ace from up its sleeve then let's take a look at Sith apprentice Darth Maul, whose presence is severely lacking and needed much development. For the most part he skulks, only fully engaging in the movie twice: both times to clash lightsabers with Jedi master Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson). The climax sees both Qui-Gon and Maul killed, but what a waste of an opportunity to extend the latter's legacy - it could have been him instead of Christopher Lee's Count Dooku who faces off against Yoda in Attack of the Clones and is eventually executed by Anakin (at Palpatine's invitation) in Revenge of the Sith after he outlives his usefulness, marking a path for the new Galactic Empire (and Darth Vader's rise to power within). Just like Vader, Maul is portrayed by two people: Ray Park and Peter Serafinowicz (the latter for the voice). It is a crime that this Sith wasn't given more to do other than looking like a model for a toy line. Yes, in the end it's all about profit but let's make the character earn his money, shall we?

As Qui-Gonn is cremated on a funeral pyre, Yoda says, "Always two there are, no more, no less. A master and an apprentice." We know the answer. But the mystery remains for the Jedi, as the Clone War approaches. Thankfully by then C-3PO will be less "naked"; Jar Jar will appear less frequently, and Anakin will have grown to fancy his "angel". Sadly, Samuel L. Jackson's look of boredom will continue. At least Mace Windu has something exciting to do in the sequel, with a purple lightsaber...

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

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Robocop (1987) - FilmReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash
"At the right time, in the right light, everything is extraordinary"

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After viewing the most recent 2014 remake by director José Padilha, I knew it was time to revisit Paul Verhoeven's classic affair.

The horrific memory of seeing a deadly ED-209 (Enforcement Droid Series 209) gunning down an innocent OCP (Omni Consumer Products) employee still lingers; a legendary moment in cinematic history that deserves status alongside the likes of the famous shower scene in Psycho (1960), the revelation that was "I am your father" in The Empire Strikes Back (1980), or the first Sarah Connor kill in 1984's The Terminator (poor Marianne Muellerleile). There is so much more to Robocop. First off, the casting of Peter Weller and Nancy Allen is just too perfect, a pairing that works well. Though my knowledge of Weller's career is limited, Allen has been a favourite of mine with a catalogue of movies such as Carrie (1976), The Philadelphia Experiment (1984), The Gladiator (1986), and Poltergeist III (1988). In Robocop she plays Officer Anne Lewis, opposite Weller's Officer Alex Murphy (aka Robocop).

Interestingly, American actress Stephanie Zimbalist was originally intended for the role but a commitment to television series Remington Steele meant that she had to opt out, instead allowing Allen to take the part. It is now difficult to imagine that Arnold Schwarzenegger, too, was believed to be in line for the lead role - how different this vehicle would have been with Schwarzenegger and Zimbalist firmly in the hot seat.

We now live in an era of over-the-top CGI, so it is good to look back at the stop motion visual effects of yesterday. The ED-209 was designed and built by Craig Davies, whose other work includes Willow (1988) and Jurassic Park (1993). The themes of Robocop are as significant today as they were in 1987. Though set "In the near future", the movie explores crime, privatisation and capitalism, and its use of media manipulation is to be applauded - we exist in a world of greed and exploitation. As for the former, plans are afoot to bring control back to the streets in the form of a cyborg. "Serve the public trust, protect the innocent, uphold the law". If the scene with ED-209 malfunctioning and slaughtering an OCP board member was terrifying, then how about the death of Alex Murphy? One can only watch, open-mouthed, as criminal Clarence Boddicker (Kurtwood Smith) and his sociopathic gang callously blast the officer multiple times, severing limbs and leaving him for dead. Partner Anne can do nothing but secretly watch this heartbreaking assassination, or risk being murdered! Later, Murphy is rushed to hospital; he is later pronounced dead.

"He doesn't have a name. He's got a program. He's product". And so the dead officer is selected for the Robocop programme. A new law enforcer is in town. It is clear, however, that Robocop is far more than a "machine". That is another of the themes I find fascinating: identity of self... should a cyborg that contains Murphy's brain, and memories, consider itself to BE Murphy? Or, is everything that made the man now just a stream of data? What exactly makes us who we are? The conflict is obvious.

During the course of the movie we learn that Boddicker (the man involved in Murphy's "killing") has connections to OCP senior president Dick Jones, who is knee-deep in corruption and murder. And so, passionately, we rally for Robocop to bring justice against those whose own lives have brought terror and death to others. Anne Lewis, discovering that her partner is "alive", seeks to help him, even if it means risking her own life and career. This is where the bond between Weller and Allen develops, two buddy cops whose sense of right from wrong are maintained - it is perhaps a miracle, in such an unscrupulous world, that anyone is still capable of preserving a code of honour. The film might be called "Robocop", but it is as much about comradeship and duty; and Anne plays an active role in securing the outcome - let's face it, Murphy's sidekick could have been another male protagonist. I'm so glad it wasn't!

Did you know that Robocop was part inspired by Ridley Scott's Blade Runner? Well, it's certainly a nice idea. Writer Edward Neumeier, who also wrote the screenplay for 1997's Starship Troopers, stated that it was Blade Runner's concept that sparked his thinking of developing a robot cop; Scott's plot involved a cop hunting bioengineered androids referred to as "replicants". Another influence, for Robocop, was Mega-City One's Judge Dredd. And so, with writing partner Michael Miner, Neumeier developed the screenplay.

Robocop was a success, receiving positive reviews and is considered to be one of the best movies of 1987. Feminist author and journalist Susan Faludi went on record saying that in many war and action films of the 1980s "...women are reduced to mute and incidental characters or banished altogether". Personally, I cannot agree. Allen's character was far from incidental, in my opinion; Anne remains an important foil to Weller's character, the one human link that can be relied upon when the whole world turns against him. Without Allen there would have been far less heart in the film. Undoubtedly, Weller, too, should be admired for his portrayal of Robocop. Finding the best balance is not easy, and a lesser actor would have come across as far too... well... robotic. Weller, however, portrays both programme and emotion with such focus and depth that one feels drawn to Robocop's plight. One scene where he revisits his family home to find it empty, both wife and child moved away believing him to be dead, brings anger for a life lost. If this is, indeed, Murphy and not just a database of programming, then his new existence feels very cruel - how better to have just died at the hands of Boddicker?

I always remembered Robocop being extremely violent, mirrored by its adult rating. Perhaps I was shocked back then. But there was also fascination, for a future in which someone still believed in law and order. After all, why build Robocop unless you are seeking to change the way of things? How naive I was back then. Must we forget that a man who should have been given respectful burial was, instead, violated and recycled just like the OCP "product" they believed him to be... Never trust the corporations! If you have never seen the original Robocop, then now is the time to do so.

"Excuse me. I have to go. Somewhere there is a crime happening."

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Follow @AlwynAsh on Twitter. Image source courtesy of www.imdb.com. Article © Alwyn Ash 2015. Quotes (if applicable) used for publicity purposes only; no infringement of copyright is intended.

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The Scarifyers: The Secret Weapon of Doom - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


"Lionheart investigates the disappearance of a fabled super weapon - and discovers they aren't the only ones searching for it... Death stalks our heroes at every turn. Lionheart and Dunning must fight for their lives..."

More rollicking good fun from those people at Bafflegab Productions (formerly Cosmic Hobo) with the fifth installment in their hugely popular "The Scarifyers" audio plays. Sadly this is also Nicholas Courtney's last appearance in the series, who passed away in 2011. Produced in 2009, "The Secret Weapon of Doom" ultimately serves as a swan song for the actor, whose other roles included that of Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart in popular BBC production "Doctor Who".

As you can expect from such a fantastically-produced play, there is much in the way of word play, humour, frolics, mysterious happenings and a taste of the supernatural. It has to be said that both Terry Molloy (as Professor Edward Dunning) and Courtney (portraying the role of Lionheart) work well together, delivering fine entertainment and intriguing plot. Without doubt Simon Barnard and Paul Morris write something pretty amazing here, bringing prison escapes, murders, and phantoms into being with swift talent and passion. Just where do they get their ideas from?

Following an accident, Professor Dunning is temporarily out of action, allowing his partner Lionheart to team up with MI-13 agent Victor Bright (Nigel Havers). Together they engage in a new case: investigating the whereabouts of a new super weapon so secret that no one knows what it does, where to find it, or what it looks like! Just another day at the office for Lionheart, then? Bright is such a fun character, and Havers' casting is pure genius: "A man noble of brow, stooped of gait and fat of belly.."

Keeping himself occupied, Dunning decides to spend his spare time writing, collaborating with friends of his writing group the Fantasists. However, it looks as if this simple pastime could conceal dangers of its very own... The biggest question is: just what is the connection between the professor's recent experiences and Lionheart's investigation? Add to the mix legendary English actor Leslie Phillips as Colonel Black, a man whose obsession with wasps equals my own, and you have an ingredient for success! First mentioned in The Scarifyers debut "The Nazad Conspiracy" (published in 2007), Black had not appeared in a single story until "The Secret Weapon of Doom", so it makes for a nice addition.

Ever since discovering Bafflegab with their sixth installment of The Scarifyers, The Magic Circle (thank you, Simon Barnard), my appetite for more of this kind of audio play has grown. Set in the 1930s, The Scarifyers explores all manner of supernatural creatures, ghosts, demons and strange phenomenon. Inspector Lionheart had once refused to believe in unearthly beings, until life taught him otherwise. Professor Dunning is a naive and rather easy going horror writer - Oh crumbs! Together they make for an interesting team.

In this installment, prepare for more of Edwin Sykes' deliciously composed music, as Barnard and Morris dream up yet more ways for people to die. Voice artists David Benson, Alex Lowe, Lizzie Roper, and David Bickerstaff play multiple roles, as some face death in unusual ways: for example, what better way to kill Heinz Soss (Bickerstaff) than with some soup? Heinz... soup... Courtney's involvement brings humorous scenes such as face-offs with soup (yes, as previous) and out-smarting a matron (Roper). Did I mention soup? How can you also not enjoy a tale that throws such characters as "Jimmy the Spiv" and "Primula Manningtree" at you? What delightfully imagined names...

Anyone who appreciates the art of audiobooks will no doubt admire the sound design for The Scarifyers, this time around the work of Anthony Danbury, who has been with this audio series since its first outing; he was later replaced by Martin Johnson for "The Magic Circle". Another mention should go to Garen Ewing, whose fabulous cover art brings an extra dimension to each story - he is the writer and artist of award-winning comic "The Rainbow Orchid" featuring the character of Julius Chancer.

Carry On Scarifying (as I like to think of it) is a highly recommended series that will entertain all who enjoy their radio with a slice of sharp humour and wonderful fantasy. The quality improves with each, and the laughs increase. The perfect companion.


Purchase The Secret Weapon of Doom from Bafflegab Productions:
CD or download

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Sometime Never - AudioReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"This is my experiment, not yours!"

7th July 1983. Ghost hunter Nancy Timperley visits what used to be the Summervale Holiday Camp, on the East Yorkshire Coast - the location of a tragedy that took place many years earlier. Tape recorder at the ready, she calls out to the spirits, hoping for a connection with the supernatural. However, out of the darkness steps the mysterious David Voland... He is friendly, engaging, and seems to know a great deal... But what is his connection with Nancy's work? Come to think of it, just what is Nancy's connection with ghost hunting? There are mysteries to uncover...

"Sometime Never" is new ground for Spokenworld Audio, a company that has, until now, focused solely on single-voiced dramatic readings and radio documentaries. New territory perhaps, but not an unfamiliar one to award-winning writer and director Neil Gardner, whose hard work and dedication (along with his team, including partner Tanja Glittenberg) has seen an increase in productivity. And so, 2014 welcomes the first full-cast audio from Spokenworld, starring Simon Jones and Rosalyn Landor, with a thoroughly intruiging story written by Scott Harrison.

Almost half an hour in length, this is one tale that crafts an instant ear-grabber, enhanced with fabulous sound design, and music by James Dunlop. Nancy has been to Summervale before, as a child, the sole survivor of a devastating fire that caused the death of 500 people. David, however, is far from being just a passer-by, for he carries a secret that must remain hidden. Via flashback, we learn of the shocking truth, and the length someone must go to to protect their children. It is a look at morality and consequence. It does also make you think, about how we live our lives, and what defines us, and how we may be perceived. Loss plays a huge part in this story, perfectly performed by the cast.

Fans of popular sci-fi comedy series "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" (created by English writer Douglas Adams) will no doubt be familiar with Jones' work: he played lead character Arthur Dent in both the radio and television series! In addition, his career has graced both film and stage. Other work includes various voice acting and audiobooks such as "The Adventures of Sexton Blake", which originally broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in 2009. It is therefore rather delightful to find this highly-esteemed actor playing the part of David in "Sometime Never". That is the beauty of Spokenworld, casting actors of this caliber and really giving the listener something to cherish. Equally rewarding is the performance by Landor as Nancy - an award-winning audiobook narrator, this lady is known for roles including that of Helen Burns in the 1970 film adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre", as well as her being cast as Pru Standfast in British television series "C.A.T.S. Eyes", spin-off from police drama "The Gentle Touch".

Neil Gardner and James Dunlop have worked together previous to "Sometime Never" on the second series of "The Confessions of Dorian Grey", published by audio company Big Finish, in 2013. Clearly the working relationship established during this period has grown to developement of other equally as stunning projects, and we can only benefit from such a collaboration. Full-cast audios are enriched by skillful sound design and music, capturing vivid imagery that permeates the mind and senses, and Spokenworld know this all too well - Harrison's script has been brought to life in the best way possible, the perfect "calling card" for a new audience whilst pleasing regular fans too!

Gardner has been a champion of audio for over twenty-four years, with a deep passion for independent productions. He has always believed in the medium, and appreciates its qualities and diversity. After all, where else can you create kingdoms, universes and magic on a respectable budget? Sound has the ability to engage in history, culture, religion... and conflict, whether it be either personal or global. For him "Sometime Never" also signals a dream come true, as he says: "I launched Spokenworld Audio in 2010 specifically to get to a time and place where we would be able to do just this sort of thing, commission and produce our own audio drama."

With further two-person audiobooks coming in 2014, and a feature-length full-cast project in the pipeline, things are looking fantastic for the team. I, for one, cannot wait to see what develops at Spokenworld HQ over the coming months. Having recently reviewed shorts "Twin Points" and "Inside The Machine" (which precede a collection of science-fiction stories to be launched this year), I can honestly say the future of independent audio is safe in the hands of these fine people! And with past and present collaborations including such names as Nicola Bryant, Emma Darwall-Smith, Michael Fenton Stevens, Barnaby Edwards, and Debbie Chazen (along with many more yet to come), the passion for audiobooks is reaching out to a diverse public whose own tastes are as varied and appetising...

Final mention must go to Harrison, who not only engineers a well-thought out idea for "Sometime Never" but shows genius in his approach, masterfully teasing us with a plot that will not only surprise but satisfy too - with past work including projects for Big Finish such as "Blake's 7" and "The Confessions of Dorian Gray", what else can you expect?

You can obtain the audiobook of "Sometime Never" for download at
Spokenworld Audio (£3.99 ex. VAT for UK/EU)

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Inside the Machine - AudioReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"The mechanisms rotating and intertwining and reciprocating. The eternal operation... the infinite movement..."

The Machine. It exists. It is the whole, the centre, the life of all things. It is needed and hated. But regardless of feeling and change... there is always the Machine! It has accompanied time for so long that no one remembers its beginning...

One of the most popular four-word questions in the Universe, "Why am I here?" is the reality facing the female character in this intriguing and well-written tale from the mind of writer and audio producer Neil Gardner. Trapped inside the Machine, the woman cannot understand the reason for her being there, or comprehend the workings and reason for the Machine. An impossibility, for how can she truly be within such a place? Of course, throughout the course of just over 11 minutes we never learn of its function or even the woman's identity. It is enough to know that she is there, and needs to escape. "If the world revolves around the Sun then life revolved around the Machine."

Though a short story, "Inside The Machine" manages to create a sense of purpose, and design, and a world whose relationship with the Machine is divided by those who worship it and feel its power, to those who share no love for it at all and wish its demise. For the woman, it is neither, just an insignificant mechanical device. Now, however, the Machine has her fullest attention.

I applaud the mystery to this story, and the way in which the author crafts the wording to build up the true message here: the Machine is all! Its evolution has absorbed the knowledge of so many eras, taking what is required to make it a far more efficient entity, perhaps in the same way that Humans adapt to change, learning new skills and acquiring a little of everything throughout a lifespan to face tomorrow's challenges. The Machine, too, is growing within itself, developing. But, for all its mix of ingredients and mechanics, there is conformity.

If you have never explored the works available from Spokenworld Audio then you are honestly missing out on something really quite special. Founded in 2010, the company proudly shares its work with those passionate about audio books, featuring downloads covering many genres including horror, sci-fi and humour. The company also champions independent authors, working hard to promote and support. Rather than seeing a decline in audiobook production, Spokenworld believes that such a medium should be embraced by the majority, taking advantage of the digital market and enjoying instant entertainment. As someone who admires the audio form in all its colours, I am always keen to explore and experience what these creative people invent and realise.

And so back to "Inside The Machine". Not underestimating what is required to conceive an audio spectacle, Spokenworld gives us an excellent writer in Neil, atmospheric music to enhance the overall flavour, and the perfect narrator, in this case the lovely Nicola Bryant, whose other work includes film, stage and television - who can forget her wonderfully camp performance as Millicent in "Blackadder's Christmas Carol", or the part she is most famous for, that of Perpugilliam "Peri" Brown in the BBC sci-fi series "Doctor Who - perhaps you have even enjoyed her audio work reprising that same very role, for Big Finish? It is always a treat to hear Nicola narrating and performing, and with "Inside The Machine" it is indeed a delightful thought-provoking journey.

I am reminded of Dean Koontz's "Demon Seed", that feeling of something completely out of your control, a machine whose plans are unknown and unnerving, emotionless and precise. In this audio you feel the growing fear as the Machine's ultimate goal is still far from realised, though the tension increases dramatically in its intensity as the tale reaches its conclusion. Interestingly this story precedes a collection of sci-fi audio works by Neil Gardner to be released in 2014. Other short tales to listen to on the Spokenworld website include "The Sound Within" and "Saya's Last Gasp", read by John Banks and Louise Jameson respectively.

Descriptive and poetic, you will find yourself analysing the possibilities and meaning, as the Machine keeps its secrets from both the woman and the listener. That is the most intriguing part: giving just enough to tease and yet, never surrendering any where near the truth. Just like the Monoliths in Arthur C. Clarke's "2001: A Space Odyssey", a mystery is maintained. Only the Machine understands its true intent - or does it? To sum up: a delicious appetiser of what is to come, will be and what has already been. Though the bigger picture is far from clear, this snapshot is enough to terrify, conjuring up all kinds of nightmare scenarios. An engaging precursor...

You can obtain the audiobook of "Inside The Machine" for download at
Spokenworld Audio (FREE audiobook)

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After Earth (2013) - FilmReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"Fear is not real. The only place that fear can exist is in our thoughts of the future. It is a product of our imagination, causing us to fear things that do not at present and may not ever exist."

I can never quite understand Hollywood, or movie critics. So often we either have a spate of inventive and emotional films that receive poor reviews, or directors who go with the flow and hand us poorly-conceived reboots or sequels, which are given either mixed to positive reviews. Thankfully, "After Earth" is an inventive sentimental science fiction adventure focusing on father and son who crash on an earth abandoned for a millennium. Though not perhaps the most original premise - John Hillcoat's 2009 offering "The Road" succeeded in more dramatic fashion - there is still plenty of promise.

Following a worldwide cataclysmic event on Earth, mankind repopulated on a distant planet, Nova Prime. However, this new world became the target of an alien race known as the S'krell. Using blind predatory beasts called the Ursas as weapons, the S'krell intended to invade our new environment. The Ursas can sense fear, which allows them to hunt their prey. The Ranger Corps, led by General Cypher Raige (Will Smith) struggle to overcome their enemy. Defeat looks certain until one fateful day when Cypher overcomes his fear during a close-to-death moment, only to realise that without the scent of fear the Ursas are unable to track their intended victim. The Rangers are later trained in this "ghosting" technique, and the balance of power is firmly on their side, leading to victory over their invaders.

During the war, sadly, Cypher's daughter is killed, leaving only a son, Kitai (played by Jaden Smith, real life son to Will Smith) and Faia, Cypher's wife (portrayed by Sophie Okonedo). It is clear that Kitai feels guilt for not protecting his older sister, feelings reflected by his father, who is close to retirement from the service. What follows is one final mission for the general and a chance to bond with his son, who accompanies him off world. Hit by an asteroid shower, their ship is forced to take immediate action, resulting in both ship and crew crash-landing on a quarantined Earth. After one-thousand years the indigenous wildlife has evolved, including the landscape. To make matters worse, one of the Ursas was being transported on the spacecraft at the time of the crash, now on the planet with them but perhaps still contained in its cage in the tail section of the ship, which broke off during atmospheric reentry...

Unable to activate a damaged emergency beacon from their present location, and with both of Cypher's legs broken, it is up to young Kitai to trek across land and locate the tail where he will find a backup beacon. The journey will take much courage and instinct. Kitai, though, was rejected from becoming a Ranger due to his reckless behaviour, so just how will he cope in what is effectively an alien environment?

Whatever your thoughts on director M. Night Shyamalan, he has worked with great actors on some wonderful screenplays. "The Sixth Sense" (1999) will always be one of my favourites, starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment. Regardless of the controversial Scientology and Nepotism allogations, I like "After Earth" very much. As for the teachings of Scientology, I know of such things but have never taken an interest in such beliefs; and the accusation of Nepotism is remarkably pointless as I found Jaden Smith to deliver a finer performance than some actors I could mention, including those who have been in the business for years and have made astonishing success out of it. Jaden, of course, had worked with his father once before, in the 2006 American biographical drama "The Pursuit of Happyness", and has starred alongside actors such as Jennifer Connelly and Jackie Chan.

For a movie that was heavily panned by critics, being described as "dull, ploddingly paced exercise in sentimental sci-fi", I cannot help but disagree. Perhaps the sentiment is a little dulled by the performances of both Smith and Smith, but these are military-minded characters whose focus relies heavily on honour and discipline, with emotion taking a back seat. There is much morality to be found here, with the core being that fear is of our own making, especially that which is yet to meet an imagined scenario. Fear plays the "What if" game, allowing ourselves to be overcome by something that may not happen, or at least not occur in the way we originally perceived. "Ghosting" is a means of accepting this, and controlling unwanted emotions. It is something that Kitai needs to learn...

The production is certainly a family affair, with Jada Pinkett Smith (Will Smith's wife and mother to Jaden) and Caleeb Pinkett (Jada's brother) producing, but is it fair to describe the enterprise as a "vanity" exercise? And though I do not criticize Jaden heavily, it is true that the protagonist of the story (Kitai) does lack charisma - such charm had always been evident in Will Smith's performances, whether he portrays Captain Steven Hiller combating aliens in "Independence Day" (1996) or Del Spooner facing a robotic revolt in "I, Robot" (2004). That aside, the scenario is believable and well-paced enough to work.

It is also welcome to see a sci-fi movie that isn't overwhelmed by CGI, relying instead on plot rather than a landslide of visual migraine, which sadly appears to be the thing these days. The effects employed are decent enough, with the design of the Ursas well realised and effective. There is even an emotional couple of scenes that had this reviewer frowning with sadness, following a death scene involving a giant condor. By the end of his journey, taking him to a volcano where he must activate the backup emergency beacon, it is inevitable that young Kitai must face his greatest of fears - and both his life and that of his fathers are at stake. A confrontation with the escaped monster...

Perhaps not the best film of 2013, nor one that will make much impact, but a nice watch if you are prepared to give it a chance and not expect too much. It is recommended that you rent the film, rather than buy. Though my review is positive, it is not a feature that I will revisit again for quite some time. Or perhaps try the novelisation of the film instead, which has been described as "better than the movie".

Purchase After Earth from the Store:
DVD - Blu-ray - Running time: 100 minutes

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The Night of the Doctor - WebReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"I'm a Doctor... but probably not the one you were expecting."

Had anyone seen this coming? There has been so much focus on the 50th anniversary that it is impossible to escape the madness of a mad man with a blue box, no matter what incarnation he appears or body he wears. The excitement of a landmark occasion such as this must overwhelm. And if anyone was in doubt as to whether there would be any involvement from classic Doctors, then now is the time to rejoice. To mark the approaching 50th anniversary story entitled "The Day of the Doctor", the BBC launched its prequel mini webcast episode "The Night of the Doctor", a tale that would not only introduce in chronological order the arrival of Hurt's mysterious character but also treat us to a glimpse of the last moments of the Eighth Doctor - a character so under-serviced by the show, having never featured in a season of his own. Yes, actor Paul McGann was back, and it most definitely is about time!

Battered and tired but still a man of hope, this version of the Doctor has witnessed the Time War escalate to a point where existence itself is threatened, as Time Lords and Daleks engage in the bloodiest of battles, a continuing campaign that has lasted since quite possibly "Genesis of the Daleks" (1975), when the Fourth Doctor was asked by the Time Lords to avert the creation of their Skaro-born enemy. Another example of this feud can be seen in "Resurrection of the Daleks" (1984) in which the Daleks attempt to clone the Fifth Doctor and his companions, and use the Doppelgängers to assassinate the High Council of Time Lords on Gallifrey. It is a theme that has run through many Big Finish audio plays also.

Though only about 6-7 minutes in length, "The Night of the Doctor" is a welcome part of Whovian mythology and a final glimpse into the last moments of the Eighth Doctor. It feels kind of ironic that, in 1996 we witnessed his birth after a gang shooting, only to now watch his final sacrifice. The serious tone of the piece is welcome, this is precisely how Doctor Who should be: powerful drama!

So what does the episode tell us about the Doctor, the Universe and the Time War? Much, quite frankly. We see that the Doctor is his usual self, even in the darkness of war he is looking to save lives. Cass a typical example, the solitary figure of a gunship whose fate has already been decided, having transported her crew to safety and with no means of escape for herself. The hero of time wants to rescue her, and together they race to the TARDIS at the back of the ship. However, upon discovering that her saviour is a Time Lord, Cass withdraws, locking herself In the front section of the vessel, separating herself from the Doctor and salvation. Her feelings for the Time Lords are clear: they are as destructive and ruthless as the Daleks in this chaotic war, and she would rather die than trust even one of them. The Doctor refuses to leave her, and the gunship crashes...

The planet Karn, once a Gallifrey colony. The Doctor has been here before, in the Fourth Doctor televised serial "The Brain of Morbius" (1976), and in Big Finish audio adventures "Sisters of the Flame" (2008) and "The Vengeance of Morbius" (2008). The Sisterhood of Karn has a long and interesting history regarding the Time Lords: in the days before Rassilon, old Gallifrey was ruled by the Pythia, matriarchal leaders who possessed psychic and precognition abilities. When the very last Pythia to rule Gallifrey was exposed for spying on Rassilon, she sent her followers to live on Karn and committed suicide. It is her followers who later became known as the Sisterhood of Karn.

And so the Doctor has returned, but he perished in the crash. Resurrecting him for four minutes, the Sisterhood offers him a lifeline - the ability to choose a regeneration, and bring an end to the Time War once and for all! At first the Time Lord refuses, knowing that he is the Doctor, a man of moral goodness. But seeing Cass's body forces him to make one of the darkest decisions of his lives... "I don't suppose there's any need for a doctor any more. Make me a warrior now."

Given a chalice, the Time Lord pays respect to old companions (for the first time in television history the show references characters from the Big Finish range of audiobooks) before saying, "Physician, heal thyself" and drinking from the cup, sparking a forced regeneration. The glow, and the Doctor, our Doctor, is no more. In his place, via a reflection, we see a young John Hurt as "The War Doctor". The very last words, "Doctor no more" do send a slight chill - for this is an enigma of a character, a man whose only purpose is to commit the most desperate of acts to bring an end to bloodshed.

One of the strangest of opinions concerning the Eighth Doctor is that... he is not canon at all, just a displaced character perhaps similar to that of Peter Cushing's Dr Who? Not my opinion, you understand, but the misguided belief from a small pocket of Whovians. This I find totally preposterous, for if this were true and Paul McGann's Doctor is so far from canon, then why did Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy reprise his role to guest star in the 1996 TV movie? And why link the two Doctors with a direct regeneration sequence if not to satisfy a continuation of the legendary show instead of a total reboot? One fan has even had the nerve to suggest that McGann's Doctor never appeared on "television", so how can he be a true Doctor? Well, what is a TV movie if not for television?

For such a long time there has been a strong desire for McGann to resurrect his role as the Eighth Doctor beyond his already popular audio outings for the Big Finish range. And whether or not a spin-off series is likely, the fans' wishes have been granted! He not only returned after a seventeen year television absence, but McGann performed such brilliance that his place in Doctor Who's legacy is unquestionable and assured.

For this review it is also important to highlight the wonderful work of both Clare Higgins (as Ohila, Sisterhood of Karn) and Emma Campbell-Jones (portraying the role of Cass). Higgins, an award-winning English actress, is known for her role as Julia Cotton in the horror feature "Hellraiser" (1987). Doctor Who fans will also remember Campbell-Jones for her performance on "The Wedding of River Song" (2011) in which she played Dr. Kent - you do feel that McGann and Campbell-Jones would have been good together if a spin-off series was to be commissioned; perhaps Big Finish should take note...

It is inspiring that showrunner Steven Moffat had the vision to reunite the Eighth Doctor with his fans, feeling that the "completist" in him needed to see the regeneration scene finally happen on screen. Talking about the idea in an interview, Moffat said, "Well, we had our new ‘hidden mystery’ Doctor and I was thinking, what else can we do for our anniversary year... I thought... Why don't we get Paul McGann in and regenerate him into John Hurt? I’d like to see that! And we had this possibility that we could do it as a surprise, so we got in touch with Paul who was dead keen and I’m delighted to say he was so happy to join in with the idea of keeping it secret. He was childishly excited about it!"

Of course, every fan has been "childishly excited" about it, too, since the surprise was first unveiled. We now have the bookends of a Time Lord, with Big Finish providing the filling as the audio adventures of McGann's Doctor continue. If you have never discovered the magic of these stories, then begin now. If you are a regular listener, perhaps revisit your favourites. For both, it is an absolute magical treat to experience "The Light At The End", a true celebration of Doctor Who's classic years. Be sure to watch an interview with Paul McGann over at Flicks And The City, where the actor talks "Night of the Doctor".

Purchase The Light At The End from the Store:
(Standard Edition)
CD Audio - Feature running time: 120 minutes

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Doctor Who: Dimensions In Time - TVReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"Mayday, mayday. This is an urgent message for all the Doctors. It's vitally important that you listen to me for once. Our whole existence is being threatened by a renegade Time Lord known only as the Rani..."

I have never understood the dislike for Doctor Who's 1993 two-part charity event "Dimensions In Time", designed as a nod and a celebration of the show's 30th anniversary. According to statements that have been made since, "Dimensions" was to be a rather different affair, with intelligible plot and solid dialogue. However, due to time restraints, cost issues, and other requirements, Doctor Who marked an important occasion with a host of faces old and new, and monsters galore. The Daleks were perhaps absent, due to legal reasons, but this was something quite special - utilizing a 3D method called the "Pulfrich effect" (accompanied by the viewer wearing special spectacles with one darkened lens and one transparent one) to give an extra dimension to the Doctor's adventure. It was not, as some see it, a "final insult" - perhaps proceeds raised going to charity is irrelevant?

I can fully appreciate the fans' longing for something quite special, in line with previous celebrations "The Three Doctors" (1973) and "The Five Doctors" (1983), and I for one wished a grander affair had been approved. But let us not forget that, sadly, the show itself had been cancelled in 1989, and there was not a single sign that Doctor Who would ever return as a drama series every again. Even the originally planned 30th Anniversary feature-length drama "Lost in the Dark Dimension" failed to materialise, which would have starred Tom Baker reprising his role as the Fourth Doctor and joined by companions and fellow Doctors - as various actors and production crew have stated in interviews following the cancellation of "Dark Dimension", the presence of Jon Pertwee, Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy would have been little more than cameos, which was not only a disappoint to the actors but would not have become the true equal gathering of the show's stars that fans would have surely wished for at that time...

Had "Dark Dimension" been both produced and a huge success, perhaps the BBC would have given the green light for a new season, but that is now uncertain. And so, with nothing else on the agenda other than a documentary entitled "Thirty Years in the TARDIS", it was decided to go ahead with "Dimensions In Time". One of the ideas settled upon during the genesis of this "Children In Need" reunion was that Doctor Who must intergrate with another popular BBC drama show at that time, "Eastenders", a soap opera following the residents of Albert Square in London. Not such a strange notion when you take into consideration that this was to be a fundraiser for children, and not a canon-based chapter in a long-running television series...

This is perhaps where I feel slightly amused. It is hard to believe that some members of Doctor Who's fanbase have tried to place or explain "Dimensions In Time" into the canon, as if just accepting that it was nothing more than a charity event is too difficult an idea for them to comprehend. It was a sketch, nothing more. And if it is true that "Dimensions" raised over £101,000 for Children in Need, perhaps just a thank you to everyone who took part is required, instead of criticism? 3-D week, which televised a number of special BBC shows using the Pulfrich 3D technique, included "Dimensions" as part of its one-off programming.

The story. Well, the "plot" focuses on renegade Time Lady the Rani (Kate O'Mara) attempting to trap all of the Doctor's incarnations in a time loop. The First and Second Doctors have already been snared, and the Fourth Doctor (played by Tom Baker) sends out a distress message to his remaining other selves; one can only watch and admire the man who had portrayed the role of the Doctor the longest. Following this scene we meet the Seventh Doctor (McCoy) and companion Ace (Sophie Aldred) who arrive in London, 1973, after the TARDIS is drawn off course - McCoy was, at the time of filming "Dimensions", the current Doctor, having starred in the show's last classic canon serial "Survival" in 1989. Using the method of time jumps, we are introduced to other Doctors and companions as the Time Lord attempts to understand the reason for this phenomenon.

Seeing familiar faces again such as the wonderful Nicola Bryant, Sarah Sutton, and Carole Ann Ford (playing companions Peri Brown, Nyssa and Susan Foreman respectively) is always a delight, and the all-too short scene between Colin Baker and Nicholas Courtney is a reminder of just how good the Sixth Doctor and his old friend Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart would have been together in a televised story had Baker remained for further seasons. Talking of a union between these two fabulous actors, it is always a blessing to hear them perform in Big Finish's audio drama "The Spectre of Lanyon Moor", released in 2000, featuring a Cornish landscape and a haunted moor...

I do find it quite a shame that "Dimensions In Time" may never be available, even as a DVD extra. Due to both cast and crew giving their services free of charge, conditions were laid down unequivocal by Equity, the actors' union, which stipulated that "Dimensions" would be transmitted the once only and should never be "exploited commercially in any way". Though I am sure there are some who would not care if this light-hearted sketch was ever seen again, it does make a nice example of what can be achieved when people are brought together to help those who are less fortunate. Television presenter Noel Edmonds (whose popular UK show "Noel's House party" aired both parts of the Doctor Who charity special) could not have worded it better when, referring to a phone-in to decide the outcome of a moment in the sketch, said, "When you make your call you will be invited to make a pledge for Children In Need. So you'll not just be helping the Doctors, but you'll actually be helping children everywhere..."

Ironically, during the special two-parter, we see Jon Pertwee and Elisabeth Sladen visit Albert Square in 2013 - it seems they are with us in spirit for the 50th Anniversary! And a final word from McCoy, who says at the end, "Certainly I, I mean 'we', are difficult to get rid of." Never a truer word said.

Purchase More Than 30 Years In The TARDIS from the Store:
(Included in The Legacy Collection)
DVD - Feature running time: 200 minutes (Includes "Shada")

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Night of the Comet (1984) - FilmReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"It was the last thing on Earth they ever expected."

Imagine a movie, one watched so many years ago now that the title had become temporarily forgotten, a gem of a sci-fi tale featuring sisters Regina "Reggie" (Catherine Mary Stewart) and Samantha "Sam" (Kelli Maroney), who wake one morning to discover that the Human race has vanished, replaced by red dust and a scattering of clothes. Written and directed by Thom Eberhardt, "Night of the Comet" focuses on an apocalyptic event caused by the passing of Earth through a comet's tail. Crowds gather in districts all over the world to watch this unusual event. The problem is, the comet's previous encounter with the blue planet took place 65 million years ago, coinciding with a similar event that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. Of course, what follows isn't exactly logical, but the fun to be had allows for the script to take liberties. The night of the comet, an electrical storm, and then sunrise...

Having spent the night with her boyfriend Larry (Michael Bowen) in the projection booth of a local movie theatre where she works, Reggie is unaware that anything strange has occurred outside. However, when separated, Larry is killed by a zombie-like Human affected by the comet's presence and Reggie flees, returning home to find her young sister alive and ignorant to what has occurred in the past few hours. As realisation dawns, the two women hear the voice of a DJ and head for the radio station, believing there to be other survivors. The disc jockey's voice, as it turns out, is a recorded message, the whole radio production automated. Just when all seems lost, Hector Gomez (Robert Beltran) makes an appearance, gun in hand. Sci-fi fans will no doubt remember Beltran for his portrayal of Commander Chakotay on "Star Trek: Voyager".

Seeing how the "storm" worked so incredibly well, one does wonder why the Martians didn't launch such an attack in HG Wells' classic 1898 novel - fighting-machines just seem so inadequate by comparison now... It is also interesting to compare Eberhardt's story with both George Romero's "Day of the Dead" and Boris Sagal's "The Omega Man". Of course, there is a little of "Maniac Cop" thrown in for good measure during a nightmare sequence involving the pretty Samantha (Maroney) in a rest room.

"Night of the Comet" takes no foot wrong as it mixes sci-fi with horror and comedy in a perfect blend, and the pairing of Stewart and Maroney nothing less than superb casting, both actors relishing in the parts given. Even among realisation that the world has suffered terrible loss, the spirited young ladies manage to enjoy "shopping" at a local mall to the bouncy sound of Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want to Have Fun", during which they are being watched and ultimately attacked by stockboys infected by the virus that transforms survivors into zombies, although their present state is less advanced than the one who had killed Larry earlier on in the movie. An amusing line in the shopping mall, as the leader says, "Just a few days ago we were only stockboys, now we own the store".

Though Reggie and Sam are the true stars, let us not forget the importance of scientist Audrey White (Mary Woronov) and her team, who are seeking out other survivors and taking them back to their desert underground installation, though their motives may not be entirely good natured. When the girls meet this dedicated team of "experts", there is much trust and the sisters are separated, Reggie transported by air to the base and Sam being told she is infected but a simple injection will cure her.

When I think back to films that captured my heart from long ago, this is most definitely one of them - another being the romantic sci-fi "Starcrossed" (1985). "Night of the Comet" gives you girls with Uzi's, zombies with ambition, and enough red dust to twin the Earth with Mars... The movie is so engaging you will not want it to end. In a time when films are now far too reliant on CGI, it is a pleasure to take a look back at something that had minimum special effects but shined with such character. The ending, too, doesn't fail in delivering the fun - Sam is somewhat agitated by her sister warning her not to cross the road before waiting for the lights to change. The young girl looks about her at the ghost town, bemused. Ignoring the advice, she moves to make a demonstration in the road that there is no one else around, just as a car comes into view and screeches to a halt, to Sam's amazement. The young man in the driver's seat instantly takes her eye. She thanks her lucky stars...

Being reminded of just how amusing the 1980s could be really brings a smile. I am so looking forward to revisiting further classic cinema and television from this and other decades. Perhaps "Nighthawks", a 1981 movie featuring Catherine Mary Stewart? That said, how dare Dutch actor Rutger Hauer commit such a horrific act of terrorism and murder her during an attack on a London department store!

Purchase Night of the Comet from the Store:
Blu-ray + DVD - Running time: 95 minutes

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