In Review: Big Finish: Dark Gallifrey: The Meddling Monks Part 3

Synopsis: The mysteries of Dark Gallifrey continue to unfold. 

The Meddling Monk and the Meddling Nun are stranded on Earth with a broken TARDIS. Worse still, they find themselves involved in a series of odd escapades.

They’re hosting an evening soirée and taking part in the local talent show. However, the greatest challenge is still to come.

Review: Dark Gallifrey: The Meddling Monks Part 3 paid off the hanging plot threads perfectly. Everything made sense, while leaving room for further stories.

The Story

Writer John Dorney made dark and hilarious structural choices throughout the final two episodes. Most importantly, however, he reminded listeners that the seemingly disparate Dark Gallifrey range does have threaded elements.

In “Monky Puzzle,” Dorney played with audience expectation by changing the length of the episode. This made the credits at the end particularly funny.

In “Monky About,” Dorney finally showed all his cards. I particularly appreciated the internal logic behind the Sixth Doctor’s Special Guest Star turn.

I also really liked how the Sixth Doctor’s role advanced the story without overshadowing the leads. As for the Monk and the Nun, Dorney allowed them scope for character development.

He wrote them the credit and depth these characters never felt they got before. Along the way, Dorney also gave listeners the credit Big Finish has always given them.

While I won’t spoil the ending, I will say there were no technical difficulties. The story really does just stop that abruptly.

The Acting

The entire cast was excellent. That said, I must give kudos to several performers.

For his part, John Finnemore used everything in his Radio 4 toolkit. He flipped from absurd comedy to dangerous drama like the pro he is.

Colin Baker, on the other hand, wasn’t flipping between comedy and drama. He was deftly playing the absurdity and the danger simultaneously.

Last, but not least, Rufus Hound and Gemma Whelan made listeners feel for the Monk and the Nun. They brought layers to their roles that prove how far Doctor Who has come.

Overall

Dark Gallifrey: The Meddling Monks Part 3 was an immensely satisfying finale. I can’t wait for the next trilogy.

You can purchase Dark Gallifrey: The Meddling Monks Part 3 here.