In Review: Big Finish: Doctor Who: Stranded 3

Synopsis: In Stranded 3. After crashing in 2020 London, the TARDIS is healing. It can now take its passengers through time and space. Unfortunately, the future has changed around them.

A sinister force steers humanity’s destiny. As the Doctor and friends investigate the mystery they’re trapped inside, they may make the outcome even worse.

Review: Doctor Who: Stranded 3 continues a marvelous arc. Unfortunately, the set also ends on a cliff-hanger. Consequently, I’ll be touching on plot points very lightly.

Story

The four installments in Doctor Who: Stranded 3 are linked through non-linear storytelling.

“Patience” by Tim Foley unfolds in medias res. It’s built around a trippy central idea. Moreover, this idea manifests as another Time Lord artifact that will likely factor into the arc’s conclusion.

“Twisted Folklore” by Lizzie Hopley also begins in medias res and tells a tale set in the future. The story hinges on the power of stories. More importantly, however, the narrative explores the power to reclaim stories that have been stolen.

“Snow” by James Kettle is another story set in the future. It’s also a meditation on grief and commitment.

“What Just Happened?” by John Dorney is yet another chapter set in the future. What’s more, the story unfolds backwards. Yes, you read that right.

Dorney does an incredible job building tension. He also manages to convincingly expand on the power behind Divine Intervention. I’m now fully invested in the fate of that organization.

Acting

As ever, the regulars are exceptional. That said, the set is a showcase for Nicola Walker. Walker plays every emotion as Liv comes to terms with how much Tania means to her.

For her part, Rebecca Root continues to portray Tania with every layer and nuance. I now regard  Tania is a fully integrated member of the Tardis crew.

Overall

As I said, Doctor Who: Stranded 3 is a marvelous effort. Furthermore, the cliff-hanger shockingly sets up the fateful conclusion in April.

However, I’m afraid the cliff-hanger is so massive that any resolution would be anti-climactic. I look forward to being proven wrong.

I also hope the Curator returns to help the Tardis crew address Divine Intervention once and for all.

You can purchase Doctor Who: Stranded 3 here.