The long-running science fiction series Doctor Who has brought back a beloved character, Vislor Turlough, in a new short film. Mark Strickson reprises his role as Turlough, marking his first onscreen appearance since 1984. This revival is part of the promotional material for the Doctor Who The Collection season 21 Blu-ray release.
The short film features Peter Davison as the Fifth Doctor and Janet Fielding as Tegan, as they confront the Daleks in London. The narrative kicks off when the Fifth Doctor and Tegan receive a distress message from Turlough, revealing that his home planet of Trion is under attack. This plot twist adds depth to Turlough’s character and hints at potential future storylines involving the Doctor’s quest to assist him.
Since the celebration of the 60th anniversary, Doctor Who has seen a resurgence of former actors returning to the screen. The list includes notable figures such as David Tennant, Catherine Tate, and Billie Piper. The series has maintained its connection to past characters through various short films featured in the The Collection releases, which have explored different storylines and character dynamics.
Continuing the Legacy of Classic Characters
The short film dedicated to season 21 is a continuation of this trend, showcasing the chemistry between Davison and Fielding, who have appeared together in recent episodes, including “The Power of the Doctor” and “Tales of the TARDIS.” While the characters may not be physically together in the new film, the emotional connection resonates strongly with fans.
Turlough’s last significant appearance was in “The Caves of Androzani,” where he was seen only in a vision as the Fifth Doctor prepared to regenerate. The return of Turlough serves as a reminder of the show’s rich history and its ability to intertwine past and present narratives. The implications of Turlough’s plea for help suggest a larger narrative arc that could develop in upcoming short films or audio stories.
The Future of Doctor Who’s Short Films
Previously, the Doctor Who The Collection season 15 included a successful short film titled “The Final Battle,” which featured Leela on Gallifrey and is regarded by fans as one of the best entries in the series. However, the series faced a hiatus after producer Pete McTigh announced it would be “rested” for future releases.
The recent reunion of Davison, Fielding, and Strickson indicates that this period may be coming to an end. The new short film, while more modest in production compared to its predecessor, retains the charm that has endeared the series to its audience. With the main Doctor Who series not set to return until December 2024, the continuation of these short films could provide fans with much-needed content during the hiatus.
As the Doctor Who franchise continues to evolve, the incorporation of classic characters like Turlough ensures that the spirit of the show remains vibrant and engaging. Fans can look forward to more exciting developments as the legacy of Doctor Who unfolds in the coming months.
