213. The Two Masters

Schemes upon schemes abound in the finale of the Two Masters trilogy. Both Masters shine with fine acting and writing that brings them in all their narcissistic glory. The plot demands your full attention (with two Masters, would you expect any less?) as it intertwines, ebbs, and flows chronology. The previous 2 installments are required listening for this one to make sense. It would have probably been better served as a box set but as long as you know this is a trilogy you are in fine shape. The Doctor is along for the ride with the listener for most of the tale as the focus is front and center on The Master and his insidious plan. And what a plan it is. I'll avoid spoiling anything and only say that it well encapaulates the motives of both generations of Master into a remarkably epic plan that could be my favorite all time of his machinations.

The final act may be hard to swallow for some as it plays out in an exposition-heavy reveal. Any fans of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle won't have an issue and it is certainly fitting will the 7th Doctor's character but if you prefer to unravel a mystery yourself you will probably wish this story were a part or two longer. As for me, this is near perfection.

One word: Fantastic!

One of the very best BigFinish productions to-date. Award winning writer John Dorney at his best. It’s devious, original and incredibly funny. The pace is full on right from the start. It has plenty of well crafted twists and turns that’ll keep you guessing right to the end. Music and sound design is exceptional, definitely listen on headphones.

You can’t go wrong. Highly recommend. It’s stories like this that have justifiably positioned Mr Dorney at the cente of BigFinish story telling. It’s well deserved.

This story is, in a word, epic. It's very much reminiscent of some NuWho episodes (and particularly--NuWho finales). The fact that one requires little foreknowledge coming in helps make this episode accessible to someone just starting with the audios. I adored this episode for several reasons, most of which boil down to the acting, the story, and the high concept premise. A fun romp.

Very disappointed.

Whilst Beevers and MacQueen were great, especially when together. I'm continually annoyed with McCoys performance.

The plot wasn't confusing, but lacked "believability". It was more like a NuWho episode, with the body swapping, the non-sequential script lay out, and changing of the past.

Not a classic!