| WAR TIME by Andy Lane and Helen Stirling |
| Story ? Synopsis: Warrant Officer John Benton is helping transport a radioactive device when he finds himself drawn to a childhood haunt. Plagued by memories of his father and brother, he tries to rationalise what's happening. His brother died in an accident for which he was blamed, though he did try to save him. His father was later killed in a bomb attack during WW2. His father had always wanted his other son to follow him into the army, but he wasn't keen. When his father died, John did his best to match up to his father. Free from his reverie, he stops a hijack attempt on the device, and he sets off again. |
| Review:- In its way, a landmark spin-off that created a serious new story using elements from Doctor Who, without the Doctor, or the TARDIS, or even any aliens. The main character is Benton, and his brief nostalgic quest, remembering long-buried events in his own past. John Levene is the lead star, ably if briefly supported by Michael Wisher as his father. The locations are excellent, and it's easy to understand why the decision was made to shoot here, because it's really helps ground the story. What's perhaps less enthralling is the pacing of the story. Considering this only runs to half an hour, it takes 2/3 of that before the real crux of the problem is reached. Fortunately, the emotions involved, and the crises depicted, are simple enough to rationalise, and whilst it might not work to compare this to his appearances in the main series, Benton's lost brother and father do give the character a credible background to build from. Anyone with a sibling can probably understand the rivalry that can exist, and anyone who's lost a parent, or had a domineering parent who wished their child to follow in their footsteps, will know immediately what's going on. Considering this was such a success, despite its limitations, it's probably churlish to be too critical. The nebulous set-up and the really ropey finish (Benton suddenly abandons his trip down memory lane, conveniently in time for a short fight to save the day) comes out of the blue. But it improves rather than detracts from the character of Benton, which is better than usually seems to be the case. Worth seeing. |
| Disclaimer: I've seen the video. |