Rose teams up with Harry as the Doctor discovers who is really controlling the monsters!
The concluding chapter to Official Secrets begins with UNIT soldier, Lieutenant Mishra, recounting her career progression where her father’s pride is used as a clever subversion to the current predicament she finds herself in- exposing UNIT (or so you think).
Writer Cavan Scott justifiably intercedes modernism with military precision as Rose stands up to Albion Defence as they subtract UNIT materials, including alien subjects. The inclusion of diversity stands strong within the story which corresponds positively to the social crisis that is happening in today’s world.
Compelling Character Development
A compelling piece of character development features the Brigadier’s observation of the Doctor’s change from fumbling scientist to what he calls, ‘Commanding Officer’. The Doctor’s role in the Time War is affably present and so the Brigadier’s questioning provides interesting parallels to how similar the Doctor is to him.
There is a clever twist to the story regarding Mr Yaxley’s son which develops the sense of family futility, reminding the Doctor and UNIT that they are fighting for a family’s future. The style is very politically driven as Albion Defence aims to use Mishra as a means of governmental funding.
Wonderful Balance
Artist Adrianna Melo’s high rise tones and gaping brisk blues balance wonderfully with the more intimate character expressions, the Brigadier’s military greens and the huge expanse of fizzled light blue and white engage the story’s best qualities.
Each panel is directed towards the reveal of a seamless decorative immersion of textual presentation. Every setting is given its own heartbeat from shiny, surgical greys to reds and browns to convey the Albion Defence’s quarters, this is an admirable process which Melo has taken to thrust us into the story.
This final chapter is an incentive of science-fiction family orientated drama, and with fabulous art pieces full of vigour and zest of colour, this is a satisfying and marvellous end to a mish mash of old and new.
Blogtor Rating 8/10
Titan Comics Ninth Doctor #8 is available now in print form.
