XPost: uk.media.tv.sf.drwho, rec.arts.drwho, rec.arts.sf.tv 
 XPost: rec.arts.tv 
 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 In *Doctor Who: The Sound of Drums*, 
 the stakes rise dramatically as the Master (played by John Simm) 
 takes center stage as Prime Minister Harold Saxon. 
 This episode is fast-paced, thrilling, and loaded with political intrigue, 
 fear, and chaos. Written by Russell T. Davies, the story continues 
 from *Utopia*, diving deeper into the Master's plans 
 to reshape the world-and the universe-under his control. 
 It provides viewers with a dark and captivating look at 
 what happens when one of the Doctor's greatest enemies gains ultimate power. 
  
 The opening sequences give the audience a glimpse of just how deeply Saxon, 
 or rather the Master, has entrenched himself in human society. He has 
 manipulated the media, politicians, and even public opinion to believe 
 that he is humanity's saviour. The sense of helplessness as the Doctor 
 (David Tennant), Martha (Freema Agyeman), and Captain Jack (John Barrowman) 
 are on the run adds urgency and tension to the episode. 
 Tennant plays the Doctor as more vulnerable than usual, 
 coming face to face with a foe he knows all too well, yet feels powerless 
 to stop. 
  
 One of the strongest elements of *The Sound of Drums* 
 is the Master himself. John Simm€€€s portrayal is electric, 
 brimming with maniacal energy and unpredictability. Unlike previous, 
 more measured incarnations of the Master, Simm's version is a chaotic 
 force, blending humour and menace in a way that makes him a standout 
 villain. His interactions with the Doctor are some of the best 
 in the episode. The two share a long history, and the dynamic 
 between Tennant and Simm adds layers of complexity to their rivalry. 
 It's clear that beneath the Master's sadism lies a deep connection 
 to the Doctor, a bond twisted by envy and hatred. 
  
 The episode also reveals the origin of the drumming sound in the Master's 
 head, a key element that has driven his madness. The sound of drums-a 
 constant, inescapable rhythm-symbolises his mental torment, 
 and the episode builds sympathy for the Master, 
 even as he commits atrocities. It's a fascinating exploration 
 of the villain's psyche, making him a more three-dimensional 
 character rather than a one-note antagonist. 
  
 Meanwhile, Martha's family is tragically caught in the Master's 
 web of manipulation. Their capture raises the emotional stakes 
 for Martha, whose resolve is tested as she witnesses her loved 
 ones suffer under the Master's control. Freema Agyeman continues 
 to deliver a strong performance, portraying Martha's fear, 
 but also her growing determination to stop the Master. 
 Her arc in this episode is particularly compelling, 
 as she moves from being the Doctor's companion to a key figure 
 in resisting the Master's rule. 
  
 The visual aesthetics of the episode are striking. 
 The Master's public appearances are staged 
 with an eerie mix of political grandeur and dystopian undertones. 
 The towering Valiant aircraft and the imposing Toclafane-mysterious, 
 deadly spheres that the Master uses as his enforcers-add 
 to the episode's atmosphere of impending doom. The Toclafane, 
 revealed to be the remnants of humanity from the far future, 
 offer a bleak glimpse of what could happen if hope is lost, 
 further emphasising the stakes of the story. 
  
 One of the most memorable moments in *The Sound of Drums* is 
 the Master's use of pop culture references, including his gleeful 
 dancing to "Voodoo Child" by Rogue Traders as he launches his plan 
 to enslave the Earth. This adds a surreal and unsettling edge 
 to his character, as he revels in destruction with almost 
 childlike glee. It also contrasts sharply with the Doctor's 
 more sober and compassionate demeanour, highlighting the differences 
 between the two Time Lords. 
  
 The episode doesn't shy away from showing the Doctor's vulnerability. 
 Stripped of his TARDIS and faced with the overwhelming power 
 of the Master, the Doctor is at a rare loss for how to proceed. 
 His moments of doubt and fear make him more relatable and human, 
 even as he is a Time Lord. The reveal that the Master has hijacked 
 the Archangel Network to manipulate humanity's perception 
 of him adds a clever layer of political commentary about media 
 influence and public opinion. 
  
 Captain Jack, as always, brings his own charm and sense 
 of heroism to the table. His immortality, a blessing and curse, 
 is briefly touched upon, adding more depth to his character. 
 His loyalty to the Doctor and his willingness to fight, 
 even in seemingly impossible odds, makes him a strong 
 ally in this battle against the Master. 
  
 The cliffhanger ending of *The Sound of Drums* is one of the most 
 intense in the *Doctor Who* series. The Master launches his plan 
 with devastating effect, as the Toclafane rain down destruction 
 on Earth, and the Doctor is left aged and powerless. 
 It's a gut-wrenching moment, leaving viewers desperate to see how 
 the Doctor and his companions will overcome such insurmountable odds. 
  
 In terms of pacing, the episode balances action and drama effectively, 
 though the frenetic energy can feel overwhelming at times. The Master's 
 fast-talking, chaotic demeanor sets the tone, but occasionally 
 the episode moves so quickly that it's hard to catch a breath. 
 Still, this fast pace serves the plot, conveying the urgency 
 and danger of the Master's takeover. 
  
 In conclusion, *The Sound of Drums* is a thrilling, dark, 
 and captivating episode that delves deep into the Master's 
 character while also exploring themes of power, manipulation, 
 and humanity's hope for survival. John Simm's portrayal of the Master 
 is electric, providing a sharp contrast to David Tennant's vulnerable 
 but determined Doctor. The episode sets the stage for a grand finale, 
 leaving the Doctor and his companions in their most perilous position yet. 
  
 Rating: 9/10 
  
 This episode offers a well-executed balance of suspense, character 
 development, and political intrigue, marking it as one of the standout 
 stories in the Tenth Doctor's era. The Master's chaotic energy 
 and the Doctor's sense of hopelessness make for a compelling 
 confrontation, building anticipation for the epic conclusion to come. 
 -- 
 Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca 
 Yahweh, King & country!Never Satan President Republic!Beware AntiChrist 
 rising! 
 Look at Psalms 14 and 53 on Atheism ; 
  
 --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05 
  * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)