Doctor Who BF-161 The Butcher of Brisbane

"Adopting the alias of Weng-Chiang, the 51st century war criminal Magnus Greel will one day arrive in Victorian London by Time Cabinet – only to meet his doom, his plans undone by the Time Lord known as the Doctor."

It feels like I've been waiting for this story forever. Not only is it more of my currently favourite TARDIS crew, but it's also the return of Magnus Greel, who hasn't been seen since another favourite of mine "The Talons of Weing-Chiang."

I like the idea that this is actually a prequel and a sequel to TTWC. But I can't remember if Magnus recognised the Doctor by name in the televised adventure. I'll have to rewatch the story again.

I really liked the idea of Nyssa pretending to love Magnus so she could find out what he was really up to. Creating sympathy for the character I've thought of as "A really evil being" for years, is a difficult task. And Big Finish did it incredibly well.

I had a very vivid image in my head of Mr Sin chasing people round with a knife, and I found it hilarious, even though I'm sure it was meant to be a serious scene. I guess there's no way for me to escape the low production values of classic who.

All the cast made brilliant performances, I knew that I recognised Magnus' voice, and it turned out that he portrayed Mister Dred in a Sarah Jane Adventures episode. As soon as I realised, all I could imagine was Magnus walking round wearing a suit and sunglasses.

I liked the idea of both groups having an intelligent person with them. Turlough and Nyssa went one way, and the Doctor and Tegan went the other. I still haven't warmed up to Nyssa, though. Maybe it's because two intelligent minds in the TARDIS isn't as fun? I don't know.

In conclusion, this is a fantastic story, and didn't let me down in the slightest. Brilliant mental imagery is created throughout. And it's always good to see the Fifth Doctor and Tegan bicker. Even if Miss Jovanka has always secretly annoyed me...

8/10