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"GANGLAND: TIME TRAVEL MEETS SWINGING 60S NOIR"

Gangland drops the Doctor and Clara into a gloriously stylised version of 1960s America, complete with mobsters, sharp suits, and smoky jazz clubs. The Doctor, looking particularly dapper in a proper suit and hat, fits right into this era, making for a visually striking take on the character. This setting is an absolute treat—cool, vibrant, and dripping with atmosphere.

ALIENS, TIME GUNS, AND A TOUCH OF RASSILON

This isn’t just a historical romp—the story weaves in sci-fi elements through an alien criminal that Rassilon supposedly defeated long ago. The fusion of gangster-era crime drama with high-concept sci-fi (including time guns and octopus-like aliens) gives this story a wonderfully bonkers feel, the kind of blend that Doctor Who excels at but could never quite pull off on television.

SHARP ART STYLE AND STRONG DOCTOR MOMENTS

The artwork here is crisp and stylish, capturing the noir aesthetic beautifully while seamlessly integrating the more outlandish elements. The Doctor is particularly well-written, exuding charm and confidence as he navigates this world of crime and corruption. Clara is also handled better than in some other stories, making her feel less grating and more integral to the narrative.

Frankie Seneca, clearly inspired by Frank Sinatra, adds some fun flair, though the supporting cast as a whole isn’t particularly standout. They do their job, but they don’t leave a lasting impression beyond their archetypal roles.

A CLIMAX THAT FEELS FAMILIAR

For all its stylish worldbuilding and exciting setup, the resolution feels a little underwhelming. While it fits the modern Doctor Who template, it doesn’t quite deliver the punch that the build-up promises. That said, the journey itself is so enjoyable that the slightly muted finale doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience.

VERDICT: A COOL, STYLISH ROMP WITH A SLIGHTLY WEAK FINISH

With its impeccable 60s aesthetic, noir-infused storytelling, and a fantastic take on the Doctor, Gangland is an absolute joy to experience. While the climax doesn’t quite match the high energy of the setup, the sheer style and creativity of the story make it one of the most visually and thematically memorable Doctor Who comic stories in a while.

📝8/10