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“THE MANY LIVES OF DOCTOR WHO: A VISUAL REGENERATION”

The Many Lives of Doctor Who is the framing story of Titan Comics’ collection of the same name, offering a unique perspective on the Twelfth Doctor’s regeneration into the Thirteenth. Set during the very moment of transition seen in Twice Upon a Time, the comic adds a layer of internal monologue, providing a glimpse into the Doctor’s thoughts as they bid farewell to their past selves and embrace an uncertain future.

The story is interwoven throughout the collection, appearing between short adventures featuring the Doctor’s previous twelve incarnations. As the regeneration unfolds, the Doctor’s mind wanders through past selves, reminiscing on old battles, friends, and defining moments. It’s a clever way to tie the Thirteenth Doctor’s arrival to the character’s long history while maintaining the structure of an anthology.

A VISUAL MASTERPIECE

What stands out most about The Many Lives of Doctor Who is its artwork. The comic’s photorealistic style perfectly captures the visuals of Twice Upon a Time, making it feel like a seamless extension of the episode. The attention to detail, from the lighting effects of the regeneration to the expressive faces of the Doctor, is stunning. Each panel is beautifully crafted, offering a cinematic feel that enhances the weight of the moment.

A SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE TRANSITION

Narratively, the comic doesn’t introduce anything groundbreaking. The regeneration itself plays out just as it did on-screen, with the added dialogue boxes simply giving voice to the Doctor’s internal reflections. The thoughts feel authentic, blending nostalgia for the past with excitement and trepidation for the future. There’s a distinct sense of optimism, reinforcing the idea that, no matter the change in face, the Doctor remains the Doctor.

However, for those expecting a deep psychological exploration of regeneration or a mindscape-style adventure, this story won’t quite deliver. It’s more of a poetic reflection than a plot-driven tale.

📝VERDICT: 7/10

A visually stunning but straightforward framing device, The Many Lives of Doctor Who provides a contemplative look at the Twelfth Doctor’s final moments. While it doesn’t offer a deep dive into regeneration mechanics or an entirely new perspective, it serves as a respectful and nostalgic bridge to the Thirteenth Doctor’s era. A pleasant addition for fans, but not an essential read unless you’re a completist.