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

“NOW IS THE NEW DARK: MEDIEVAL MADNESS WITH A TWIST”

Finally, The Dimension Cannon delivers a world that feels truly distinct. In this alternate London, society is stuck in a medieval state, ruled by the wonderfully detestable Assessor, who arbitrarily categorises and imprisons people based on a warped interpretation of the humoral system. Her ability to twist logic to fit her own worldview makes her both hilarious and terrifyingly realistic, serving as a sharp critique of authoritarian regimes throughout history.

A MURDER MYSTERY WITH A DOCTORLY RED HERRING

While Rose and Clive navigate this bizarre society, a whodunit unfolds: someone is hunting and killing members of the Melancholy class, and Clive is framed for it. The story does an excellent job of showcasing Clive’s intelligence as he pushes back against the Assessor’s absurd logic and ultimately turns the tables on her. Meanwhile, Rose’s subplot delivers an amusing fake-out—after building up the idea that the Doctor may exist in this universe, it turns out to be Doctor Acres, a forward-thinking physician on the verge of discovering germ theory. He and Rose make a surprisingly strong team, working together to solve the mystery in a way that feels more natural than Rose’s usual dynamic with the real Doctor.

JACKIE AND ARCHIBALD BRING THE FUN

Jackie gets to shine as Jaqueline, the Assessor’s right-hand woman, providing a much-needed voice of reason within the madness. Her presence, while relatively minor, adds an extra layer of charm to the story. Meanwhile, Archibald—the Assessor’s sycophantic enforcer—steals scenes with his desperate need for validation, making him as pitiful as he is entertaining.

VERDICT: A FRESH DIMENSION WITH A BRILLIANTLY INFURIATING VILLAIN

Now is the New Dark is The Dimension Cannon at its best, blending dark humour, social commentary, and an engaging mystery into one of the strongest instalments yet. With a compellingly awful villain, a genuinely clever twist, and standout performances from Clive and Rose, this is exactly the kind of variety the series needed.

📝9/10