In Review: Big Finish: Doctor Who: Rutans vs Sontarans: Rendition

Synopsis: Big Finish spotlights the war between the Rutans and the Sontarans!

It’s a tale told across millennia. It stretches from before the war to its possible end.

At the edge of the Sontaran-Rutan War, a large medical ship lingers in space. The Doctor and his friends find a group of strange survivors aboard planning something unusual to save their commander.

What new powers do the Rutans possess? What secrets does the Lockhart hold? 

As the conflict creeps closer, the Doctor must work out how to rescue those no longer versed in war.

Review: Doctor Who: Rutans vs Sontarans: Rendition was a poignant continuation of this arc. The story culminated in one of the most lyrical cliffhangers Big Finish has ever done.

Story

Indeed, Tim Foley’s tale pivoted upon the healing power of poetry. The strength of Foley’s storytelling lay in how universal that healing was.

Consequently, I absolutely adored how he developed Jamie. Foley allowed Jaimie to perform a sobering and necessary role for another creature, as he came to grips with his past.

Meanwhile, Foley remembered who Zoe was. He brought her mathematical ability to the fore.

Along the way, he balanced the darker elements of the story with wonderful bickering and banter among the TARDIS team. I particularly enjoyed the custard incident.

Acting

As ever, the entire cast was brilliant. That said, I must give kudos to several performers.

For his part, Jonathon Carley did a masterful job playing the different Sontarans. Tom Alexander, in turn, delivered subtle pathos in various Rutan roles.

However, the hour belonged to Frazer Hines. He had emotionally fraught material to play throughout. He navigated the soundscape with awareness and care.

Overall

Doctor Who: Rutans vs Sontarans: Rendition set up next month’s installment perfectly. I can’t wait to hear how the foreshadowing gets paid off.

You can purchase Doctor Who: Rutans vs Sontarans: Rendition here.