The Reaping [AUDIO/2006.9.18]

 

(Created by Sean Longmore)

★★★★★

  Here we have what I consider to be one of Big Finish's classics: a harrowing journey into Peri's past as well as a chilling look into just how menacing the Cybermen could be in the right hands. The Reaping fits itself nicely within the timespan between Revelation of the Daleks and The Mysterious Planet, with the as-of-yet less mollified Sixth Doctor being forced to face the consequences of his presence on his companions and their pocket of the universe. It's fitting, to see this Time Lord of pride and intellect struggle to be an emotional rock to his companion. Peri is given an opportunity to cement herself as an actual character, with past pains and hardships that carry over to the present. God bless Nicola Bryant for bringing the material to life with her entire heart, because some of the things Peri has to go through here are terrifying. It's one of those stories that make me want to give her a hug.

  Speaking of terror, The Reaping has to be one of the best outings for the Cybermen; their physical presence is made to be like zombies — resurrected dead crawling out of a graveyard — while their overall invasion is shown to be from behind the shadows, subjugating an entire city by infiltrating mass media and figures of authority. It shows that while these silver machines from Mondas can be great as marching soldiers and conquerers of solar systems, there's a special layer of intrigue and horror in portraying them as body horror monsters and manipulators of ideas, institutions and the status quo. 

  Sound design and music wise, this adventure is particularly noteworthy. David Darlington brilliantly realizes the streets of Baltimore, silent graveyards, police stations and video cassettes holding secrets; the crisp audio design is unlike anything I've ever heard. Peri's guitar theme is one of Big Finish's best pieces of music, so hopeful, young and deeply sad at the same time. 

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ  

  The Reaping feels like a twisted fairy-tale as well as a cry for the importance of emotions in an increasingly digitalized world (United States, 1984). Colin Baker is great as always, but this is Nicola Bryant's moment to shine... and how brightly she shines indeed! With so many of its emotions delivered seamlessly, and with an entirely unique atmosphere, I have no problem calling it a classic.