Doctor Who The Complete History was a series of hardback volumes which came out every two weeks and covered 3-4 stories each. These were in-depth volumes covering the production of each episode from the first in 1963 to the end of the Peter Capaldi era of the show. In addition to the extensive production notes there were also merchandise and publicity updates and actor profiles. The quality of each volume was exceptional overseen by several different editors. The volumes were only available in the UK and Ireland so were difficult to obtain in other locations. I am more of a Watsonian fan but if you are a Doyalist you will greatly appreciate these books. Even so I give the entire series a solid 8 out of 10. I will rate each episode covered below.
The Time of Angels / Flesh and Stone sees the reappearance of River Song and the continuation of her arc that will be a focal point of The Eleventh Doctor‘s first two seasons. The scenes with the soldier Bob are truly chilling when the Angels use his dead body to speak. Iain Glen has a memorable performance as Father Octavian. The scene with The Doctor and Amy that turns out to be the Doctor from his future is well played and the realization many episodes later is Steven Moffat at his best. 9.5 out of 10.
The Vampires of Venice sees the addition of Rory to the Tardis Team. Rory has one of the best character arcs in the entire series. He starts off as a milk toast type of hanger on only to become a strong-willed and loyal husband and associate. His reaction to the size of the interior of the Tardis is unique and an indication of his character growth. The story itself without the scenes with The Doctor and Rory were somewhat pedestrian. 7.5 out of 10.
Amy’s Choice sees the beginning of the Doctor-Amy-Rory triangle that is evident in several future stories as well. The episode sees the first of Rory’s “deaths” and there are some authentic emotional scenes with Gillan and Darvill. Toby Jones as The Dream Lord calls back to The Valeyard as a culmination of the Doctor’s dark nature. 8.5 out of 10.
