10 Last Minute Christmas Gifts for a Special Whovian
Connor Johnston provides a gift guide for some last minute Doctor Who presents.
The last-minute Christmas gift is a tradition as hallowed as the holiday itself. Despite our best intentions, each year, plenty of us find ourselves scouring stores for presents with only days to go before December 25. We all mess up. Whether we’ve waited until the items we wanted were sold out, overestimated our shopping window or flat out forgotten someone, it happens. Luckily, our options are never truly exhausted… especially not as rabid Whovians! Thanks to the Internet and overnight shipping, we can always find a present for a relative or an overlooked friend, even at “The Eleventh Hour” (see what I did there). Today, with only a few days to go until the sun dawns on Christmas morn, join me in considering 10 last minute gifts for Whovians this year.
Warning: Some options will not obtain to a reasonable price range, and some may only appeal to a select number of Whovians, but one thing is certain… there will be at least one option for everyone on this list that will have you frothing at the mouth and making silent prayers to Santa hoping to find it under your Christmas tree this Thursday morning.
10. Any and Every Big Finish Audio Adventure
There will never come a day where I do not mourn for the millions of Whovians left underprivileged by the lack of Big Finish audio stories to add to their extensive knowledge of Doctor Who. The beauty of an audio story is that it strips the plot bare! There are no special effects to draw your attention away from the narrative, no attractive actor or stunning starlet for you to gawp at through domineering pages of dialogue, and no sets to convince you of a setting. It all comes down to the acting and expression: the pure plot and your imagination are all that’s needed to dream up a world and step into an adventure…and it’s wonderful! The main issue with getting into Big Finish audios is that it’s a fairly expensive habit to get invested in with a constant flow of new material being sent our way all year round, however with an abundance of self-control one can be made aware of the brilliance of Big Finish without suffering the fatal symptoms of an audio overdose. One of the absolute best directions to start a Whovian off on their own audio adventure is with the either the serial structured EDAs or the critically acclaimed Dark Eyes boxsets, both choices featuring Paul McGann as the Eighth Doctor available from the Big Finish or BBC websites.
9. Doctor Who 3.75” Range
I’ll admit I was one of the most annoyed and vocally opposed when the 5” range of Doctor Who Action Figures seemingly ‘downgraded’ all further releases to a 3.75” size. After their first selection of releases I was left silenced and pleasantly surprised at the attention to detail to such small figurines with a few specifics one can’t avoid marvelling at. After over 30 figures and variants under their belt including models of Clara Oswald, Zygons, Cybermen, Daleks, Ice Warriors and many more, the dedication and effort by Character Options to remain loyal to the range that hardly anyone thought would work is a commendable effort and seems to be paying off tremendously with its newest batch including an extraordinary Skovox Blitzer figure as well as Amy Pond and the 10th, 11th and 12th Doctors in new costumes. The new batch of 3.75” Character Option action figures continue the trend of increasingly rewarding models and will serve as the perfect stocking fillers or Kris Kringle gifts for a Whovian this Christmas.
8. RubberToe Replicas The TARDIS Siege Mode Cube
For those who don’t know, RubberToe Replicas are the company of geniuses that create countless props and set pieces used on the actual show such as Sonic Screwdrivers, Vortex Manipulators, Lasers and Gallifreyan Décor. Occasionally, RubberToe generously elect to open their stock for public sale and while they may not be the most cost effective gifts they most definitely gain their value given their genuine dimensions, authentic attention to detail and as always, the fact they are hand crafted in Cardiff doesn’t hurt either. The latest (and arguably most visually stunning) replica that’s only just exploded onto their online stores is the to-scale version of the TARDIS in siege mode as featured in the Series 8 Episode “Flatline”. As with all RubberToe Replicas, the TARDIS Cube is made using the same techniques and materials as the original prop and is available for purchase on the RubberToe official website.
7. The Day / Time of the Doctor Soundtrack
One of the most hotly anticipated musical releases by Whovians in recent history, The Day of the Doctor/ The Time of the Doctor Soundtrack most definitely didn’t disappoint when it was released late last month. The album is jam-packed of gorgeous sweeping music full of emotion, grandeur and quality from a composer who is proving that TV does not have to suffer with less quality than the movies. Murray Gold’s impeccable soundtrack added another layer to the shows 50th Anniversary specials and that effort and talent is sensationally documented in this set. Featuring an abundance of previously unreleased and even a greater range of previously unheard tracks, the 2 disc set pays tribute not only to 2 musically exceptional episodes, but is also easily Murray Gold’s love letter to the entire history of the show. It’s undoubtedly one of, if not the, greatest soundtracks the show has ever released and is sure to deliver hours upon hours of nostalgic enjoyment from any fan lucky enough to receive it this Christmas.
6. BBC Books’ Twelfth Doctor Novels
Being a self-confessed read-aholic, Doctor Who novels have always appealed to me personally as being something to combine two of my passions in exploring many enthralling adventures. While there have been many exceptional novels during Doctor Who’s long history, personally I’ve found the “Series Tie-In Novels” have improved dramatically in quality during the last two years and luckily the three Series 8 titles didn’t buck the trend.
After 12 sensational adventures with the 12th Doctor and Clara already this year – Who among us wouldn’t be keen for 3 more? “Silhouette” is a slightly strange addition to the line-up and is quite a light and easy read while still managing to be somewhat entertaining. The inclusions of the Paternoster Gang definitely work to the story’s benefit and is perfect for anyone who loves steampunk mysteries with a sci-fi twist. Off the back ‘The Crawling Terror’ had for me at least the most gripping premise with giant insects having started to terrorize a normally peaceful village, and the Doctor attempting to get to the bottom of it. One particular excerpt captures how spot on the portrayal of Clara and the Doctor’s dynamic is in the novel will leave you in no doubt as to why it comes extremely close to “The Blood Cell” to be one of my own favourite of the bunch…
“The Doctor’s eyes blazed and Clara felt a tingle of anticipation run down her spine. Despite the danger, despite the death, it was these moments that brought her alive, that made every second of her extraordinary life worth living. Her and her Doctor, side by side, facing whatever the universe could throw at them.”
“The Blood Cell” is something very special indeed. It’s unique to find a novel that can be as eerie and chilling as one of the scariest television episodes, but book is sensational in capturing that atmosphere and translating it to the reader throughout many spooky sequences. From the blurb to the last line The Blood Cell had me hooked, so hooked that I read the entire book in one sitting – it is one of those memorable reads that also carry with it one of the greatest mottos for the show itself hidden in the pages:
“Sometimes, it’s not the destination that counts, but how you get there. And sometimes both the journey and the destination are most rewarding.”
5. The Vault
I know, I know! While this book might be a little dated having been released especially to commemorate the 50th Anniversary over a year ago, it’s a gift that seemingly and unfortunately fell under the radar of many Whovian’s wish lists last year. Being quite the avid collector of all things Who-y (4 bookshelves and a cupboard… I need help) I can say with clear certainty “The Vault” is the most extensive and indulgent guide to Doctor Who there is, putting fierce rivals like “Who-ology” and “Celebrate Regenerate” (both brilliant in their own right) to shame! Aside from being visually stunning, ‘The Vault’ offers a range of insightful essays exploring ideas, motifs, details on the history and growth of a worldwide phenomenon. To its merit, the Vault is a more attractive title then what in reality should be branded: EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT DOCTOR WHO THAT YOU DIDN’T ALREADY… AND SOME!
It’s not an exaggeration to say that this book is everything that someone interested in the show would like to know because it offers information and pictures about each season of the show’s history as well as providing summaries of each series and accompanying features that tell all about the events influencing the show behind the scenes. Where the book really excels are its illustrations and design which is both sleek, sophisticated and overwhelmingly impressive. Marcus Hearn attributes a chapter to each of the 50 years making sure that every platform of Doctor Who media is attributed proper justice. Billed as a collection of “Treasures from the First 50 Years” this magnificent piece of literature in itself becomes a treasure that should be a compulsory ownership for any and every Whovian.
4. The Series 8 Retro Poster Collection
Featured in both Radio Times and DWTV’s own “Weird and Wonderful” – Stuart Manning’s quirky and edgy Series 8 Retro Poster Collection that have impressed an impressive amount of fans over the course of their gradual release has now impressed the peeps over at BBC Worldwide with a collection of official prints being available for pre-order just in time for Christmas this year. The prints will be exclusively available in two formats: sold in a set of twelve designs in a bespoke string and washer envelope with cover letter and certificate of authenticity and also sold individually as limited edition art prints using archival quality pigment inks onto fine art matte paper. Perhaps this could be the initial steps in signing the artistic genius Stuart Manning to make official Series 9 Posters for each episode? Here’s hoping!
3. Doctor Who Series 8 DVD/Bluray Boxset
I cannot praise the BBC enough for what is to me without a doubt one of the best organised and high value boxsets that Doctor Who has had in years in the form of the Series 8 release. One only needs to look towards my own review from late November to see how highly I regard the release. At the end of the day, the Series 8 Box set is unquestionably one of the sleekest, surprising and most effectively organised series box set we’ve ever had with a design almost as striking as the episodes it contains. While the lack of exclusive mini-episodes, unseen prequels, deleted scenes and cinema intros are initially noticeable and admittedly slightly disappointing, let there be no question that the extras that are included in the box set are so extensive that will almost make you forget about any opening quarrels. It’s the quintessential and fall-back gift for any Whovian yet to pick up the collection of 2014 episodes and one that will be treasured considerably for many years to come.
2. 2015 Calendars and Diaries
Much like making sure my DVD collection is up to date with latest releases, collecting and using the official Doctor Who diary has become somewhat of a personal tradition, with the last 4 annual diaries finding their homes jam-packed with past dinner dates and overdue homework reminders on my desk. For any Type A, OCD or self-confessed obsessive organiser; anyone of the many Doctor Who calendars or diaries available for 2015 are some of the most cost effective and fulfilling last minute gifts available this year. The vast array of options include a Series 8 Mini-Calendar, a 13 Doctors Special Edition 12 month Wall Calendar, ‘50th Anniversary Specials’ 2015 Diary and a Classic Who Retro Desk/Wall Calendar. My own personal recommendation in the form of the 2015 Diary includes far more than one would expect from a basic log book with extensive fact files on the Daleks, Cybermen, Clara Oswlad, The Various Doctors, The Sisterhood of Karn and more as well as the pages decorated with images and quotes from “The Night of the Doctor”, “The Name of the Doctor”, “The Day of the Doctor”, “The Time of the Doctor”, “Deep Breath” and “Into the Dalek” sure to leave you feeling nostalgic with every appointment recorded.
1. Doctor Who Magazine Subscription / The 2015 Yearbook
I did warn you that some choices on this countdown today would not obtain to a reasonable price range, and our top answer today most definitely is one that will scare a lot off with the prospect of empty pockets. Having just renewed my DWM subscription for the third time in my life, I cannot stress how it is easily one of the most worthwhile and rewarding investments one can make for themselves – (or if feeling extremely generous, make for a friend.) It’s a gift that literally keeps on giving all year round with a new issue being released every 4 weeks. Featuring exclusive interviews, episode previews and seasonal features; DWM is the number one place to go for up to date and topical insider looks into the making of our favourite TV show.
The regular articles include the criminally underrated “Relative Dimensions” where Jacqueline Rayner writes about how Who affects family life, “The Time Team” that study in depth each episode of Doctor Who History in chronological order, “Beyond the TARDIS” which explore the extended works of our favourite actors, actresses and crewmen, “Gallifrey Guardian” recapping the latest series news, “Public Image”, “The DWM Review”, “Comic Strips”, “Public Image”, “Crosswords”, the ever entertaining “Wothca!” and much more headed by the extraordinary Letter from the Editor by Tom Spilsbury and of course the enthralling and humorous column by Steven Moffat (and by special occasion Russell T Davies) offering indulgent inside to the minds of the men responsible for keeping Doctor Who alive.
Apart from the main range of magazines, DWM also release regular “Special Editions” that devote themselves in detail to recording and exploring the history of Doctor Who’s most iconic topics. The most recent release “The 2015 Yearbook” will seemingly become one of the most sought after issues of all year, hopefully working out to be a more age appropriate, fleshed out and indulgent version of the fairly amateur Doctor Who Annual.
And with that we end our Christmas List of Who-y goodness, hopefully having gained 10 solid ideas which anyone struggling to buy for a Whovian can draw inspiration from today. Have we missed any obvious choices? What Doctor Who goodies are you hoping will be waiting for you Christmas morn? Let us know in the comments below. Happy shopping Whovians!
