📝8/10

Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time!

PANDORA'S POLITICS: AMBITION, INTRIGUE AND THE BROKEN MAN

After the brief respite with Romana and Leela in the previous story, this instalment returns full force to Gallifrey’s labyrinthine political intrigue, the growing menace of Pandora’s influence, and the chilling mystery of the Broken Man.

Schemes and Power Plays:

The heart of this series lies in the relentless scheming and clashing agendas of Romana, Wynter, Braxiatel, Narvin, and Darkel. The tension among these characters is palpable, with Narvin’s increasingly manipulative actions making him especially easy to loathe. His alliance with Darkel and exploitation of Wynter show the depths he’s willing to sink to in pursuit of his goals.

Darkel’s shadowy manoeuvring is a highlight, with her cunning manipulation of events positioning her as a truly formidable adversary. Lynda Bellingham delivers a brilliant performance, bringing a calculated menace to Darkel that makes her presence all the more chilling.

Unmasking the Broken Man:

The mystery surrounding the Broken Man provides some of the most engaging moments of the story. The investigation builds an atmosphere of suspense and anticipation, even if the thread is somewhat sidelined during the middle act. When the narrative refocuses on this mystery in the final act, the revelation of Wynter as the Broken Man delivers a visceral punch. The accompanying body horror and sharp audio design amplify the impact of this twist, though the conclusion veers into slightly chaotic territory.

Subplots and Shifting Loyalties:

A subplot involving Andred catching a Free Time supporter trying to poison Gallifrey’s water supply offers a glimpse of his efforts to reconcile with Leela and rebuild their fractured relationship. However, this storyline is somewhat underdeveloped, leaving it feeling like a missed opportunity.

Braxiatel’s elevation to Chancellor is another intriguing development, as his newfound authority is bound to stir further chaos. His calculated plan to trap Pandora within himself by feigning a desire for the presidency adds layers to his character while raising the stakes for what lies ahead.

Themes of Ambition and Manipulation:

The concept of a creature feeding on ambition adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative, particularly as Darkel weaponises this idea in her pursuit of power. This theme ties neatly into the larger political drama, where ambition and manipulation drive every decision and betrayal.

Final Thoughts:

While much of Pandora unfolds as a solid political thriller, the narrative intensity crescendos in its final moments, delivering memorable twists and chilling revelations. The story skillfully balances its themes of ambition and power with its character-driven intrigue, though some threads could have used more focus.

Gallifrey’s political storm shows no signs of abating, and the shadows of Pandora continue to deepen.