Criss-Cross [AUDIO/2015.9.15]

★★★☆☆

  Criss-Cross is the definition of a solid, strong opener: it introduces a new companion, shows the Doctor firmly in their element (wherever/whatever it may be depending on the story), and has a great set of characters that range from interesting to genuinely riveting, as well as a villain(ous force) that's memorable but ultimately passable. There was a time when I was firmly in love with this audio drama, so taken in by the amazing soundscape and atmosphere of WWII conjured up by Ken Bentley's magic (he's not bad at directing at all, I just think he's much too prominent). The regulars were, and still are, on top form; Colin Baker gives the sort of performance only a true old hand could, the kind of performance that tells you he's been playing this part for decades and knows his character in and out. Miranda Raison gives Constance Clarke a rael burst of energy, and you believe that she's from the 1940s; it also rocks that she's shown to be utterly okay with calling the Doctor out for his tomfoolery. Paul Thornley makes such a memorable villain as the triple-crossing agent Robbie Flint, too. I distinctly remember finishing it for the first time and going, 'Wow, what an amazing audio drama. Definitely one of my favourites of this year.'

  From what I felt on my most recent re-listen, Criss-Cross is still very competent, though not as boundary-breaking as I once thought. The entire thing is very by-the-books, playing things very safe. That's not to say it's doing anything wrong; far from it, Dr. Who often excels when sticking to the tried and true basics. I just tend to like my adventures more out there and ambitious, that's all. It's not that big of a deal. If you're in for pure nuts-and-bolts Who with a strong cast and a great new companion, this is the beginner audio drama for you. Great set pieces, plenty of suspense, mystery and action, and the Doctor being a right ol' clever-clogs while also making mistakes along the way -- can't get any comfier than that.