The Flames of Cadiz

Companion Chronicles #7.7

Released: 9 January 2013

Listened: 1/5/20

This is a departure from the Companion Chronicles formula, being four parts (the length of a Main Range story), and featuring both William Russell and Carole Ann Ford, in addition to a supporting actor. It’s another historical, set in Spain in the 1580s, which means the Inquisition and the Armada, so it’s pretty grim, as historicals often are. The spotlight is definitely on Ian, but he’s unusually reckless in this one, beyond his normal levels. Getting arrested by the Inquisition because he doesn’t want to see injustice done is typical Ian, but running off to meet Francis Drake just for fun, while he’s still wanted by the Inquisition, is over the edge. The Doctor also mis-steps badly, in a way that’s unexpected for him. And there’s a definite push in developing a relationship between Ian and Barbara, although it can’t go too far while there’s still TV episodes left to cover.