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“Inertia: Boredom, Banter, and a Countdown to Chaos”
Inertia takes a unique approach, focusing on the quiet monotony of Benny and the Unbound Doctor’s attempts to hide from the Time Lords on a remote, undeveloped planet. The story’s structure mirrors their stagnant existence, chronicling their lives day by day as they try—and fail—to keep a low profile. The plot is deceptively simple, relying heavily on the chemistry and performances of Lisa Bowerman and David Warner to sustain interest.
The heart of the audio lies in how the two leads handle their self-imposed exile. The Doctor distracts himself with solitary games and musings, while Benny’s restless nature drives her to explore the planet. Their interactions, laced with wit and a hint of exasperation, provide much of the story's charm. However, the banter occasionally feels like a retread of familiar territory, with little fresh insight into their dynamic.
A significant subplot involves Benny and the Doctor attempting to communicate with the local tribe. These scenes are a highlight, showcasing the slow, methodical process of understanding an alien culture and language. The mystery surrounding the fate of previous survey teams adds a layer of intrigue, though it unfolds at a leisurely pace. The story raises thoughtful questions about the ethics of scientific research and the potential pitfalls of cultural interference, giving it thematic depth.
The slow burn leads to a predictable but effective twist, as the locals reveal they’ve been counting down to Benny and the Doctor’s demise. The final act ramps up the tension as the duo faces both the wrath of the tribe and the peril of a stormy sea. The climax echoes The War Games, with the Doctor reluctantly summoning the Time Lords for rescue, setting the stage for the concluding chapter of the saga.
📝Verdict: 7.80/10
Inertia is a character-driven story that trades action for introspection and cultural exploration. While the deliberate pacing may test some listeners' patience, Bowerman and Warner's performances elevate the material, and the thematic questions add substance. The predictable plot and flat structure hold it back from greatness, but the intense finale ensures it ends on a high note. A reflective, if uneven, entry in the Bernice Summerfield audio adventures.
