In Review: Big Finish: UNIT: Nemesis 3: Objective – Earth

Synopsis: Axos has been freed from the time loop and is plotting to drain Earth’s energy. Without the Doctor’s help to stop the powerful space parasite, UNIT are forced to rely on a multi-personality renegade Time Lord known as the Eleven.

UNIT Chief Kate Stewart and her squad now have to confront her father’s past foe.

Review: UNIT: Nemesis 3: Objective – Earth ratchets up the tension admirably. New friends and old enemies collide. This latest set has everything, including another doozy of a cliffhanger.

Story

The synopsis is wonderfully vague. Certainly, Axos is involved, and it’s a major highlight. That said, there’s a lot more happening.

“The Vulpreen Encounter” by Andrew Smith picks up where the previous set left off. Smith does an excellent job reestablishing the stakes and then leveling up. I particularly appreciated learning how Jacqui McGee is progressing.

“By Jacqui McGee” by Lisa McMullin is a showcase for UNIT’s resident reporter. Jacqui McGee has come a long way. Indeed, she’s able to assist the latest POV character, Yang Li, navigate their shared predicament.

Yang Li is my favorite POV character to date. I love how listeners experience World Heritage sites and Chinese mythology through her. 

Additionally, her dynamic with Osgood is absolutely heartwarming. Osgood functionally has her own companion.

“Axos Unleashed” by Katharine Armitage is fan service with emotional resonance. “The Claws of Axos” is heavily and happily referenced. All the while, the characters process other developments, which force them to reorient themselves.

“Time of the Vulpreen” by Roland Moore deftly sets up the cliffhanger. Before that, though, our heroes make moves and counter moves. All the time, they’re completely unaware of how sideways everything is about to go.

Acting

The regulars are superb throughout. That said, I have to single out two standout performances. 

Jacqui goes through a lot all at once in these stories. Tracy Wiles plays every ounce of nuance along the way.

For his part, Mark Bonnar continues to own every second as The Eleven. However, his scenes with Axos were especially well done.

Overall

UNIT: Nemesis 3: Objective – Earth leaves me wanting more. I can’t wait to find out how Kate, Osgood, and the rest get out of this latest mess.

You can purchase UNIT: Nemesis 3: Objective – Earth here.