The Complete Ninth Series Boxset Review
Connor Johnston gives his verdict on the Series 9 Boxset.
In a year where there really isn’t a huge amount of ‘massive’ events on a Whovian’s calendar, something as exciting as the release of a major piece of merchandise automatically feels much more exhilarating than usual. All around the world this week we’ve seen the release of “The Complete Ninth Series” boxset, with many fans seizing the first possible opportunity to get their hands on Peter Capaldi’s second series. Today, for anyone still undecided on whether or not making the investment is worth it, I’ll be taking a closer look at the set and giving you somewhat of an informed opinion on what to expect from the release.
The 14 Episodes
Without a shadow of a doubt, one of the most appealing factors of this boxset is the sheer amount of episodes it contains, with the addition of not one, but both of Peter Capaldi’s Christmas Specials accompanying the 12 episode long Series 9. From the North Pole to Skaro, Gallifrey to Darillium, Series 9 saw us travel to every corner of our imaginations, rarely stopping to take a breath. Throughout the series we laughed, cried and celebrated as Peter Capaldi, Jenna Coleman and Steven Moffat took the show to the peak of its quality. We saw a friendship reunited, fought the Daleks on Skaro, stunted a Zygon revolution on Earth, outsmarted a ghostly threat from across time, discovered trap streets, saved a frightened young girl from death, witnessed the toll immortality takes on a woman, battled against the Sandmen in deep space, witnessed River Song meet the 12th Doctor for the first time and even returned to Gallifrey; only to steal a TARDIS and run away again. Driven by profound storytelling and exceptional performances; Series 9 was one of the boldest, most ambitious and utterly rewarding line up of episodes we’ve ever seen – and is a collection of stories every fan should have unlimited access to.
Rating: 10/10
Design
There are a number of variations of the boxset’s exterior designs around the world, all of which are equally impressive. Perhaps the most extraordinary element however are the cover designs by Alice X Zhang which are featured on both the special edition Blu-ray Steel box and Australian/New Zealand releases of the series. Both portraits of the Doctor and Clara (chosen by Peter Capaldi himself) are utterly stunning and really capture the essence of the series in such a profound piece of art. The disc artwork is quite striking, featuring an array of promotional pictures with the Doctor, Davros, the Fisher King, Clara, Ashildr, Osgood, Rassilon and River each given their own opportunity to shine.
The actual layout of the menu pages is utterly breathtaking, taking us on a journey through some of the most iconic locations of the series in a stunning animation unlike any of the menu screens of the past. Starting in deep space we see the stars slowly form the outlines of a Dalek city before Skaro is revealed in all its glory. As the animation continues we are thrown into the Confession Dial before emerging onto the burning sands of Gallifrey. Our stay – like the Doctors – is short and sweet, as the citadel fades into clockwork spirals and we end up inside the Doctor’s “Castle of Grief” featured in “Heaven Sent” – all the while clips from throughout the series decorate the screen. The fact that each menu screen in accompanied by a clean track from the “Breaking Down the Wall Scene” of “Heaven Sent” is simply a bonus.
Rating: 10/10
Commentaries
After a few years of lackluster line ups, Series 9 finally takes a step in the right direction in bringing back some acting talent into the commentary team with fan favorites Sophie Stone, Maisie Williams and Reece Shearsmith joining a selection of writers and producers behind the mics. While I do slightly lament the lack of lead actors or showrunners (for yet another year) there is a notable improvement in this year’s group which will hopefully lead towards both Steven Moffat and Peter Capaldi having a chance to participate before their time on the show is up.
The included commentaries available on the Series 9 Box set are:
- “Under the Lake” and “Before the Flood”: actor Sophie Stone, writer Toby Whithouse, producer Derek Ritchie
- “The Woman Who Lived”: actor Maisie Williams, producer Derek Ritchie
- “Sleep No More”: actor Reece Shearsmith, writer Mark Gatiss
Doctor Who Extra – The Complete Series 2
You may have thought you’d seen the last of Doctor Who Extra after it wasn’t released weekly on BBC iPlayer last year as it was in 2014 – though rest assured you’ll be able to find all of the previously unreleased ‘Behind the Scenes’ specials in full throughout the boxset. The duration of each episode range from about 8-15 minutes each, with “The Husbands of River Song” receiving an extra special 20-minute length. Critics of the first series will be pleased to know that the spirit, energy and informative nature of “Doctor Who Confidential’s” early days are retained in this second run of episodes, which will hopefully return alongside the main show in 2017. More good news is that both the previous narrator and the tiresome ‘history lessons’ that received the brunt of last year’s complaints have been omitted, with Rufus Hound taking over the reigns with ease.
Watch it for: Jenna Coleman’s final day of filming, Matt Lucas’ hysterical narration of “The Husbands of River Song: Extra”, Alex Kingston’s excitement at the new Sonic Screwdriver and Sonic Trowel, as well as Peter Capaldi bidding the team farewell for 2015 at the wrap party after receiving a touching gift.
Rating: 9/10
Sarah Dollard’s ‘Writing Who’ Documentary
Having the privilege of interviewing Sarah Dollard late last year before the airing of her debut episode “Face the Raven”, I can say with personal experience what a humble and enthusiastic spirit she is. Personally, the journey a writer undertakes watching their script come to life has always been one of the most intriguing sections of a series’ construction – so having a documentary created specifically to documenting that journey was incredibly rewarding. Throughout the duration of the special we see each part of the scripting process detailed quite extensively: including everything from initial meetings and pitches to various script editors, the numerous drafts, the first read through and finally the filming and editing of the finished product. At each step of her journey Sarah Dollard’s passion and excitement associated with her career is extremely apparent, lending itself to a documentary that is as entertaining as it is informative.
Watch it for: Sarah Dollard’s enthusiasm throughout the entire experience as well as Steven Moffat’s high praise of her abilities and future on Doctor Who.
Rating: 10/10
‘The Adventures of River Song’ Documentary
The story of River Song is one that we have followed (and will continue to follow) intimately for many years now. Appearing across five series of the show as well as her own spin-off, River Song has become the most prominent reoccurring character of the revival and as such one of the most loved and appreciated characters of all time. With “The Husbands of River Song” seemingly seeing her departure from our television screens (at least for the foreseeable future) there seems no better a time to reflect on and catalogue River’s known adventures. The 10 minute documentary narrated by Nina Toussaint-White (Mels in “Let’s Kill Hitler”) isn’t as extensive as some of the tribute timelines that have arisen in recent years (be them fan made or official), however it does include some welcome commentary from both Alex Kingston and Steven Moffat on bringing the character of River to life. From the original concept of her character being a product of a discussion about physic paper to celebrating her eventual return with Peter Capaldi, “The Adventures of River Song” is a solid inclusion and fitting tribute to one of Who’s greatest characters.
Watch it for: Alex Kingston reflecting on her emotional reaction to filming her final scenes with Matt Smith in “The Name of the Doctor”.
Rating: 7/10
‘Doctor Who – Sublime Online’ Compilation
Next on the list is the “Sublime Online” feature which is essentially a 20-minute compilation of the various behind the scenes videos released online throughout the series as well as a selection of previously unseen footage. This is probably the closest thing one will find to a Series 9 Blooper Reel, and in many ways it’s so much more entertaining. What I really loved about these short clips was how it allows viewers at home to have a little insight into the personalities of various actors and actresses as well as the atmosphere established on set. The fact that the entire team appear to be as much fun creating the show as we have viewing and discussing it is quietly rewarding in the way it unites us all in a common passion for the series – be it via construction or appreciation.
Watch it for: Michelle Gomez corresponding each individual Dalek to a fashion brand, an insight into Cass’ character and the challenges Sophie Stone faced on set, the hilarious banter between #RufusCam and #MaisieCam, Jenna Coleman reflecting on Peter’s journey as the Doctor and the privilege of working on Doctor Who.
Rating: 8/10
‘Clara’s Journey’ Documentary
Given how monumental Jenna Coleman’s role in Doctor Who has been since 2012, it’s no secret that her send off deserved an immense amount of attention to both play tribute to and celebrate her enduring legacy. Luckily, this 20-minute-long documentary detailing her character’s journey across all 3 series doesn’t disappoint in exploring the developments and plots that shaped Clara’s time on board the TARDIS. Embedded with interviews from Peter Capaldi, Matt Smith, Steven Moffat and of course; Jenna Coleman – the special guides us through the creation and motivations behind the companion’s initial appearances and how her personality, morals and dynamics with the Doctor evolved throughout her experience. A solid and enjoyable trip down memory lane, rich in both nostalgia and emotional reflection – “Clara’s Journey” is without question one of the strongest inclusions on the boxset.
Watch it for: Jenna’s first steps onboard the TARDIS on the set of “The Snowmen” as well as Jenna and Peter reflecting on their intense friendship.
Rating: 10/10
The Fan Show’s Finest
For the record – there was a considerable amount of pre-conceived bias I had to attempt to ignore going into “The Fan Show” given its strong connections to “The Five Who Fans” – of whom I do not refer to very fondly. Despite this however, I did walk away from this compilation of the series’ greatest moments somewhat impressed that it wasn’t as much of a train wreck as I’d anticipated. For the most part, Christel Dee assumes the hosting role quite confidently and it’s clear to see why she was chosen to headline the YouTube series. As entertaining and capable as Christel is however, the strengths of the show are fairly limited to any interactions with famous faces and personalities. Does it deserve all the flack it gets on comment boards around the web? Not at all. It’s a fun little treat and there’s no disadvantage in tuning in, but ultimately it’s nothing that special, nor do I feel a pressing need to catch up on complete episodes.
Watch it for: Peter Capaldi’s Jon Pertwee impersonation and an interview with the creator of the Doctor Puppet.
Rating: 5/10
Deleted Scenes
One honestly can’t remember the last time Deleted Scenes were included in a Doctor Who Boxset – so it’s no secret that my first item of viewing as soon as the set arrived on my doorstep was all 19 (yes – 19!) scenes which span across every story from “The Magician’s Apprentice” to “The Husbands of River Song”. Some notable inclusions include a humorous exchange with Prentis from “Before the Flood”, a stunning scene between the Doctor, Clara and Ashildr in “The Girl Who Died” in which a moment is shared reflecting on the actions of a certain deceased soldier (That definitely should not have been cut!), a moving collection of clips from “The Woman Who Died” which tracks Ashildr’s eventual loss of faith in the universe (which includes a shocking cameo towards the scene’s conclusion) and Rigsy’s breakdown following Clara’s sacrifice in “Face the Raven”. Of course not every scene can be utterly amazing – and among the bunch there are a few short and forgettable snippets – particularly from “Under the Lake” and “Sleep No More”, but the rest more then enough fill the void.
Watch it for: Danny Pink, Mrs. Rigsy and a familiar face hidden behind a mask.
Rating: 8/10
Other Extras Include:
- The 2015 Comic Con Panel featuring Peter Capaldi, Jenna Coleman, Michelle Gomez and Steven Moffat (which you can find a summary of written by yours truly here)
- The Series Nine Prequel: “The Doctor’s Meditation”
- Every Series Nine Trailer
- “The Magician’s Apprentice: A Prologue”
- Series 8 Recap
- “Dalek Devotion”: Peter Capaldi and Steven Moffat embrace their inner fans and gush over the return of Davros, the Daleks and Skaro.
- Wil Wheaton interview with Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman.
Final Verdict
In a similar vein to last year’s boxset, once again the Doctor Who team fails to disappoint with a release that’s incredibly well organized and jam packed full of rewarding extras including plenty of never before seen material whose excitement stems from its exclusiveness. No matter which design variation one chooses you’ll no doubt be impressed with the bold and sophisticated design – and more than that: the quality of the episodes it contains. The Series 9 Boxset not only achieves the precedent of rewarding boxsets set by the series in the past, but in many ways ups the bar in feeling much more fuller and satisfying.
Of course little niggles include the lack of mini-episodes and once again the ignored opportunity to have lead actors lend their voice to episode commentary – though in the grand scheme of things these criticisms are soon forgotten when basking in the joy of what we are given. A must-have collection for merchandise aficionado and casual fan alike… and in this reviewer’s opinion a tremendous value for money.
Overall rating: 9/10
