Doctor Who
The Three Doctors
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Publisher: Titan Comics Writers: Nick Abadzis, Al Ewing, Rob Williams, Robbie Morrison Artists: Elena Casagrande, Dave Taylor, Simon Fraser
There have
been many different ranges of Doctor Who comics, but Titan Comics’ may be the most ambitious yet, comprising three ongoing monthly series. That’s one each for the Tenth, Eleventh and Twelfth Doctors. What, no Eccles?
The Tenth Doctor range, by Nick Abadzis and Elena Casagrande, lands the TARDIS in New York and quickly pairs the Doctor up with new companion Gabby, just as a wave of psychic attacks hit the city.
With a glib, quippy hero, love as a force that can defeat conquering armies and lots of verbal call- backs to past adventures, this is unmistakably Tennant’s Doctor. The story is stretched at three issues, though, and while Casagrande’s art is good, the book never rises above being just a decent pastiche.
The Eleventh Doctor title, by Al Ewing and Simon Fraser ( aided by Rob Williams on the first issue), is much better. It takes a more episodic approach and has a stronger focus on characterisation thanks to new companion Alice, who brings a dash of reality to a series featuring space dogs and sinister theme parks. It’s smart, funny and often moving.
At the time of writing we’re only one issue in with the surly Twelfth Doctor, but Robbie Morrison’s story is fun ( if rather slight) and the dialogue is sufficiently snarky. Dave Taylor’s art is strong on the alien landscapes, but less hot on the character likenesses. Still, it’s a promising first instalment, and overall this is a strong start to Titan’s time with the TARDIS. Will Salmon The Twelfth Doctor debut has 32 alternate covers available across different retailers. Some are lovely; others, bloody hideous...