📝9/10

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

LADIES ON HOLIDAY: SECRETS, SCHEMES AND SELF-DISCOVERY

Picking up directly from Lies, this instalment finds both Leela and Romana at breaking points. Leela, disillusioned with the Time Lords after discovering the truth about Andred’s fate, is weary of Gallifreyan politics. Meanwhile, Romana, exhausted by the relentless scheming against her, struggles to maintain control. Darkel’s plotting against Romana continues to loom in the background, keeping the political tension simmering.

A Reluctant Getaway:

Romana whisks Leela away on a much-needed holiday—though it’s one Leela doesn’t want. The trip provides a rare opportunity for the two women to connect away from the pressures of Gallifrey. Their conversations highlight the stark differences in their worldviews, beliefs, and priorities, offering a fascinating exploration of their dynamic. Lalla Ward and Louise Jameson deliver their best performances yet, bringing depth and nuance to Romana and Leela’s relationship.

A Mysterious Intrusion:

The peaceful interlude is disrupted in the second half when a TARDIS arrives carrying a mortally wounded Time Lord who cannot communicate. The threat of a trap pulls Romana back into the political fray, injecting the story with a new layer of tension. This shift reintroduces the broader stakes while maintaining the personal focus on Romana and Leela.

Dreamscape Delights:

One of the story’s standout moments is the dreamscape sequence, where Romana and Leela experience a temporary role reversal. Romana becomes attuned to sensations and instincts, while Leela gains access to the intellectual and emotional depths Romana normally conceals. This sequence is both insightful and entertaining, with Ward and Jameson brilliantly mimicking each other’s characters.

Hallucinogenic Revelations:

The final third of the story plunges into hallucinatory territory, blending surreal moments with significant character development. These sequences explore the inner conflicts of both Romana and Leela, deepening their arcs and providing a fresh perspective on their struggles.

Pandora and the Broken Man:

The overarching threat of Pandora continues to cast a shadow, while the mystery surrounding the wounded intruder—potentially the Broken Man—adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. This balance between personal introspection and larger, looming dangers keeps the story compelling from start to finish.

Final Thoughts:

This episode offers a refreshing change of pace, focusing on character-driven storytelling while teasing the larger mysteries of the series. The interplay between Romana and Leela is a particular highlight, elevated by stellar performances and thoughtful writing.

A rare holiday that delivers both meaningful character moments and intriguing developments for Gallifrey’s ongoing saga.