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"Morbius the Mighty: A War Doctor Epic"

Big Finish launches its new War Doctor range with Morbius the Mighty, a gripping adventure that pits Jonathon Carley’s rendition of the John Hurt incarnation against the infamous Time Lord criminal Morbius, chillingly portrayed by Samuel West.

The story begins with an evocative narration that sets an epic tone, transporting listeners to a ship navigating the Time Vortex during the Time War. Tied to the recent Dark Gallifrey: Morbius release, the crew encounters the crashed Proteus from that storyline, setting the stage for a high-stakes confrontation.

Following the events of The War Doctor Begins, the Doctor has retreated from the war, weakened by an illness that impairs his ability to travel through time. The Time Lords locate him, urging him to rejoin the battle just as Morbius re-emerges, hell-bent on revenge. Though the premise is straightforward, it’s enriched by complex character dynamics, gripping performances, and the expansive backdrop of the Time War.

Samuel West steals the spotlight as Morbius, delivering a performance that is both terrifying and magnetic. His commanding presence is balanced by Carley’s eerily faithful portrayal of the War Doctor, capturing the character’s signature weariness and resolve. The supporting cast enhances the drama, with Sheila Ruskin excelling as Cora, a Karn apothecary, and Gareth Armstrong standing out as Judd, Morbius’s conflicted servant. Theo Solomon also impresses as a scheming Gallifreyan official, adding layers of intrigue.

The story unfolds across three acts. The opening part establishes the stakes as the Doctor is hunted while Morbius begins assembling his forces. The tension mounts with a shocking twist revealing Judd’s loyalty to Morbius. The second chapter deepens the narrative, exploring the Doctor’s relationship with Cora while introducing Morbius’s partnership with the formidable 1-8-1, a Dalek-augmented Time Lord. Though this section moves at a slower pace, it effectively builds suspense and sets up the explosive finale.

The final act is a whirlwind of chaos and confrontation. Morbius’s army clashes with the Daleks in an epic battle, while the Doctor, weakened and vulnerable, faces off against Morbius aboard the TARDIS. This climactic encounter, raw and emotionally charged, serves as the story’s highlight, offering a poignant exploration of two broken figures caught in the throes of war. The resolution is satisfying, tying up key plot threads while leaving room for future developments.

The production excels in sound design and music, creating an immersive atmosphere that heightens the drama. Nostalgic references to Doctor Who lore—such as Exxilon, Marinus II, and Movellans—add depth, though some feel slightly forced.

📝Verdict: 8/10

Overall, Morbius the Mighty is an impressive start to the new range, combining action, intrigue, and compelling character drama. While the middle chapter drags at times, the riveting performances and powerful finale make this a must-listen for fans of the War Doctor and the Doctor Who universe.