Atlantis & In The Flesh: Does Their Cancellations Mean Something Regarding BBC?

Inspired by a thread on GallifreyBase, the cancellation of both shows was merely a week apart but it does make me wonder that aside from Doctor Who if we're in slight danger of getting less genre television from the BBC?

Atlantis seems poised to step in from where Merlin had left off and with the same crew manning the show, surely it should've been as successful as the magical series had been for five series? It seems not as last week, BBC1 announced that Atlantis wouldn't be returning for a third series, so the remaining seven episodes of Series 2 (which have yet to air) would serve as a final run for the show. I wish I could say that Atlantis's cancellation was a shock to me but if I'm being honest, I was more shocked when it got a second series in the first place. I knew it wouldn't get a third one and I think many people did and while the show has had some good moments (I quite liked the mid-series finale back in December), it just lacked the spark and instant connection that Merlin (even with it's fair share of dire episodes and characters acting like idiots for cheap laughs at times) had with viewers. It's a shame because if the writing had been better, Atlantis could've easily been as great if not better than it's predecessor. I will watch/recap/review the remaining episodes from the second series as I'm interested in the return of Medusa, arrival of Icarus and inevitable shitstorm when Jason finally learns that Pasiphae is his mother.

Then there was BBC3's In The Flesh, whose cancellation was announced a week prior to Atlantis's and not as surprising but personally, one I found a lot more disappointing. Mainly because we'll never have the cliffhanger regarding Amy resolved (unless the show is lucky and someone like NetFlix steps in) but also because unlike Atlantis, at least In The Flesh was doing something different within it's genre. It wasn't simply coasting on the successes of other zombie led dramas such as The Walking Dead and Les Revenants/The Returned, it had it's own unique take and storylines and let's be honest, not only was it one of BBC3's better programmes (far superior to it's increasing low brow comedies and utterly dreadful entertainment documentary shows) but it was a show that actually gave audiences a prominent LGBT lead character with Kieren Walker (Luke Newberry). Personally, despite the low ratings for the show, I really do think BBC3 could've at least commissioned a special or something to tie up loose ends but with both In The Flesh and Atlantis getting cancelled and Wizards Vs. Aliens being put on some kind of hiatus, could it mean less genre television on the BBC?

Perhaps not. The reason why both Atlantis and In The Flesh were cancelled were down to ratings and the BBC speak of wanting space for newer dramas (which would make sense if either show had run longer than two series) and there's a slight chance at some point that Wizards Vs. Aliens could return for a fourth run (even if it wasn't entirely a rating juggernaut for CBBC) but with the exception of Doctor Who, Wolfblood and the upcoming series, Tatau for BBC3, I do wonder if we're getting a slight cooling off period of genre television on BBC and it's other channels or if perhaps, I'm just overlooking things and within the next few months/years, more genre shows will emerge. It's certainly time for a female led supernatural show or even a female hero centred show as well, either with a historical figure or a brand new character altogether. ITV2 got close enough with Switch back in 2012, but the show only lasted one series and their upcoming Jekyll & Hyde will probably be more male centred than female as well.

Come on, BBC. There's only so many costume dramas, one-offs, detective and procedural dramas that audiences can take. Don't let the cancellations of of In The Flesh, Wizards Vs. Aliens and Atlantis be the start of a death knell for genre television on your channels. Test out some new writers, adapt other less known genre material and generally step out of your comfort zones. Shows like Doctor Who, Merlin and Being Human have proved beyond doubt if the material is good, audiences will embrace it and watch for multiple series. You just need to pull your finger out here.

And if we're going to compare to US television, you could try your own version of American Horror Story. Now British television in general needs to try and produce a show with a similar level of whimsy and crazy like that one.

Wizards Vs. Aliens - Series 3 Confirmed

It might have taken them a while but it seems that the CBBC have finally confirmed that a third series of Wizards Vs. Aliens is currently in production.

According the press release ....

In this brand-new series, the pace steps up as Tom and Benny come face to face with a new alien race and a whole variety of magical creatures. Meanwhile, Varg has a new wife by his side, but the mysterious Lady Lyzera has a secret of her own…

Controller of CBBC, Cheryl Taylor, said: “CBBC is the home of thrilling and inspiring drama for children and Wizards Vs Aliens is a perfect example of that. The series is vivid and brave and our audience loves the portrayal of loyal friendship alongside exciting alien battles and stunning wizardry. Children want to talk about Tom, Benny and the Nekross and we know they’ll be delighted to hear a third series is being conjured up by the talented team in Wales.”

I like that we're getting some new aliens and Varg's wife certainly sounds like an interesting character but I am a little surprised they didn't mention how many episodes it's coming back for though. However, it's good news the show is returning and it's nice that they're adding more into the mix as well.

Press Release: http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2014/wizards-vs-aliens-s-3.html

Production for Wizards Vs. Aliens Series 3 begins next month with an airdate scheduled for 2014/2015.

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x07: "All Out War"

Written by Russell T. Davies
Directed by Joss Agnew

Tom (to Varg): "The wizards won."

Well, they certainly got as close to properly winning against the Nekross as we've seen them do for a while now. As a finale, this was certainly a superb one and in some respects, almost could serve as a series finale if the show has the misfortune of not getting picked up for a third series as well.

I liked that after weeks of scheming together that both Jathro and Kooth finally pitted Varg and Lexi against each other to try and take out Tom and his friends while at the same time, declaring open season on the royal family themselves. My only disappointment is despite some brilliant moments, both Varg and the Nekross King lived to see another day. After all, if this story could find a satisfying of bringing Lexi to an end, there's no real reason to keep them on either.

Getting to the Lexi bit - did anyone not expect her to turn human and live with Benny Jr? As soon as Tom became all Bad Wolf/consumed the 'salute'/raw magic, her fate was practically sealed and she had already chosen Tom over her family as well. While it's a shame to perhaps lose Lexi as a character, this was a great and dignified way of exiting her from the series.

As for Benny - I kind of had an inkling that he might be gay but even I was surprised when he outright admitted in front of Tom. I know the CBBC intended to have Luke come out during The Sarah Jane Adventures but I'm pleased it happened here as well. It was a beautifully written and acted moment and everyone involved should be involved for the way it was handled as well.

- We had another misguided bunch of wizards (Bizme and her family) being forced to help Varg with his plans to destroy Tom once and for all.
- Ursula, well I was convinced that she was going to die but I'm actually glad she didn't, even if was a bit of a copout how she survived the explosion of the chamber.
- Perhaps in least surprising news, we found out that Kooth and Jathro were mother and son. Kooth also ended up being eaten by the Nekross King as well.
- No Katie or Quinn in this story. What are the odd both of them will be love interests for Tom and Benny next series?

Personally, I thought that was an excellent finale. Series 2 has certainly been something of an improvement and if the show is picked up for a third run, it could easily be the best we've got. Though I still think the Nekross need scrapping as main antagonists though.

Rating: 9 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x06: "Endless Night"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Joss Agnew

Ursula: "This won't just be a war between wizards and aliens, Tom. This will be a war like no other."

Actually this was more of a prelude to a war that the trailer for the finale showed looked suitably epic. It was also a story where the Nekross actually had a decent that was hampered in the last minute. More to the point - some actual continuity and fall out for Tom and Lexi and the life they had made for each other in the Neverside.

I'm glad the show actually had the both of them remember they had a son and more to the point, I'm glad that it seems that Lexi has started to side with Tom as well. Back in the first series, she wouldn't have been that bothered about her father wanting to extract his magic raw. Here she very much was bothered and I have a feeling that she might end up helping Tom in the finale next week. Even Varg could see her feelings for Tom shifting in this episode.

As for the moon blocking the sun and putting the wizards in a vulnerable position - I do think it was nicely handled but more from the perspectives of giving Benny's parents and Katie and Quinn a tiny bit more to do. It really didn't take Benny too long to suss out that the stones from last series were key to scuppering the Nekross's latest plot.

As for the creepy stones - very apocalyptic, right? It does seem like instead of actually teasing some danger, the show might actually show some legitimate danger instead. I'm probably asking for too much here but aside from one casualty I can see coming a mile off, can we please be a Nekross or two down for next series?

- I'm not shocked that Benny seems to come from a family of star gazers but it was nice to see this story try and flesh out his parents though.
- Katie wants to see the Northern Lights - snap! Quinn wanting to be newspaper photographer was interesting too.
- Lexi shifted into human mode briefly and Tom referred to her as Lucy as well.
- I think Randall Moon being affected by the moon shifting was overdone a little. I did like that the stones were voiced by Gabriel 'Sutekh/the Beast' Woolf as well.

Overall a great story. Not as thrilling as the previous one and definitely more of a set piece for the finale but pretty entertaining nonetheless though.

Rating: 8 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x05: "The Thirteenth Floor"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Paul Murphy

Lexi: "But I am your enemy."
Tom: "Not anymore."

Had things been different, The Thirteenth Floor would've been a story that audiences would've seen in The Sarah Jane Adventures but instead, it's a story that has now emerged on this show and quite the story it turned out to be. If ever there was a turning point for this show, then it certainly had to be during this one.

The Neverside/way/whatever it's been called has been mentioned so many times this series, I thought we were going to have to wait until the last story of the series to actually see it. Instead a meddling gatekeeper by the name of Mervyn kept tricking people into entering Floor 13 in the Psyke Games building and for Tom, Lexi and Varg, it turned out to be one hell of an experience.

I always suspected there was a bit of an attraction between Tom and Lexi and when the latter's latent desire to be human meant that she became one during her stay in the Neverway, it wasn't too much of a shock that her and Tom got closer. I was however a little surprised that they'd end up having a child together and that in a more monstrous form, we'd see a tender side to Varg.

Of course what happened in the Neverway remained there, so when both Lexi and Varg returned to their usual selves, Benny Jr also disappeared. My ambivalence towards the Nekross still remains but after this story, the writers really cannot simply have both Lexi and Varg going back to their usual ways. A part of me hopes they don't either as well.

As for Tom - I definitely think this was one of his strongest stories and stuck in a magical environment, he managed to adapt to the situation pretty quickly. The idea both him and Lexi might forget their experiences together isn't surprising but it is rather sad as well.

- Benny might have gotten him a girlfriend in the shape of the bubbly but geeky, Alicia.
- Both Michael and Ursula only appeared in the second part of the story and Randall Moon was absent.
- Lexi is actually the same age as Tom - 17 and Nekross don't seem to care for meat.
- No secret plotting meetings this week with Jathro and Kooth.

This was a superb story. I have to admit, it did make me want to cry in parts and like I said earlier, it definitely seem to be a turning point story for both Lexi and Varg. I could easily see one of them becoming human and the other doing something heroic.

Rating: 9 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x04: "The Curse Of Crowe"

Written by Gareth Roberts
Directed by Mark Everest

Ursula: "I'm waiting."
Randall: "What for?"
Ursula: "For the greatest power in the universe."

Every week it does seem like this show does play with the most familiar of tropes and while it often doesn't always do anything too radical with them, they still manage to be a lot of fun. This week, we had to have a story where Tom and Benny's friendship was erased and they were barely on speaking terms. All because Gemma Raven wanted to save her mother from being fed to the Nekross.

I do like that without Tom and Benny's friendship and the use of Ursula's bloodline, there was some near danger that threatened the Crowe bloodline and while the story did resolve itself nearly at the last minute, this was a nice exploration of Tom and Benny. They might be very different people (not just the magic vs. science stuff) but clearly this story highlighted the importance of their friendship.

Back in the first series, I doubt we would've had the likes of Quinn or Katie trying to get Benny and Tom to patch things up and both Ursula and Michael also seemed to know the importance of their friendship as did the Nekross as well (which is why they agreed to let Gemma cast that spell in the first place).

Speaking of Gemma - I thought she was a pretty decent character. She might have done a bad thing but it was for a reason. As much as I am enjoying some of these guest wizard characters from time to time, I am starting to wonder if we'll ever see any corrupt ones on the show. Surely, it has to happen at some point, right?

- Why did Gemma and Madeline just use their magic to teleport out of the ship when the defenses were down?
- Are we ever going to get some continuity on Chloe? It does seem like an important plot strand that's being ignored now.
- Both Benny's mother and Ursula seemed to have similarities to Benny. I also found Ursula being briefly a Neverwas fairly effective.
- So, Jathro is in cahoots with Kooth from the opening story then? Whatever they're planning, I wish they'd just get on with it.

Nice story and overall, a good examination of Benny and Tom's friendship. This series has certainly been stronger than it's first run and the next story certainly looks like it could be the show's best one yet.

Rating: 7 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x03: "The Cave Of Menla-Gto"

Written by Joseph Lidster
Directed by Mark Everest

Ursula (re Tom): "You need him, Michael. Magic needs him. I'll give him my life force, he'll live."

We're at the halfway point of this series and we get a two parter where we learned a little more about magic and Tom's life ended up being in mortal danger after one of Benny's experiments went wrong. I liked this one and I especially enjoyed having Tom, Ursula and Michael going to Tibet to see the cave of Menla-Gto and it's spiritual keeper as well.

I did worry a little that we were going to lose Ursula in order for Tom to fulfill his mission to stop the Nekross but having the spirit lady actually sacrifice herself for Tom did stop that though. The caves scenes certainly had their moments, more so with Lexi nearly faltering at her mission. I hope that's something that is explored in later episodes too.

Of course while half the good guys were on the side of the world, it was up to Benny and Randall Moon to team up, leave the house and prevent Varg from shattering the shroud of magic and that was actually the better plot of the week.

It was nice to literally take Moon out of his comfort zone and the bond that got forged with him and Benny worked pretty well when they both discussed the benefits of using both magic and science to outsmart Varg. It's just a shame that science seemingly has no place in the Chamber, but at least something was retained from the time that Benny and Moon spent together.

- Seriously, still nothing on Chloe? Isn't Tom just the tiniest bit concerned about her not being in contact with him?
- Jathro's scheming scenes are fine but it would be nice to actually see who he's reporting to at this point.
- I don't think I could handle three versions of Moon but it did serve a nice way of tricking Varg as well.
- Stickley's still around then.

Overall, another satisfying story for the show but again, I do feel if this show gets to go to a third series, perhaps we need something other than the Nekross as enemies? I can't be the only one, right?

Rating: 7 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x02: "Vice Versa"

Written by Clayton Hickman
Directed by Beryl Richards

Squiggley: "They'll find their lives greatly changed, now Squiggley has had them rearranged."

I said in my previous review that the writing this series has improved and it continued nicely enough with this episode too as the 'trading places' trope was effectively used in giving Tom some smarts, Benny the magic and altering the personalities and abilities of Ursula and Varg as well.

The Tom and Benny stuff was pretty cliched but enjoyable. Both of them got to experience the other side of things with an appreciation of each other towards the end but I actually thought the Ursula and Varg swap was more interesting to watch.

Ursula herself became pretty hot tempered and cold while Varg spent a good portion of the story nearly being killed by his own sister before the eventual capture of the second Hobbledihoy, Stickley managed to change things back in the nick of time. Either way, I've noticed this series that Varg has taken more centre stage while Lexi has taken a backseat.

As for the Hobbledihoy part of the story - it was a mixed bag. Both Squggley and Stickley's use of couplet was amusing but also a little distracting at times too and I'm not sure if keeping the latter with Randall Moon is the best of ideas. Then again, the poor guy doesn't exactly get out much either.

- Jathro seems to be spying on the Nekross and informed someone about Lexi and Varg's feuding.
- What was the obsession with chickens in this story? Varg couldn't stop with bringing them forth when he had Ursula's magic.
- Quinn and Katie need a bit more to do and it was a little annoying that we didn't get any continuity on Chloe either.
- So does Benny actually fancy Katie because that flirting scene with them did seem a tad random?

Overall, while the couplets did grate a bit and the role reversals with Tom and Benny were hardly original, I do think "Vice Versa" was actually a lot of fun to watch.

Rating: 7 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 2x01: "100 Wizards"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Beryl Richards

Tom: "You belong with us now."
Chloe: "I've never belonged with anyone before."
Tom: "You do now."

The first season of Russell T. Davies and Phil Ford's joint venture of Wizards Vs. Aliens was certainly something of a mixed bag but as the series progressed, the writing did improve a bit. With the opening story to the second series, there's still some room for improvement but there's also a lot here that really should be praised as well.

First of all, the addition of new wizard and love interest for Tom, Chloe Martin turned out to be a great new character. In the space of this opening story we saw Chloe use her 'telekinesis' for some TV fame before learning that she was a wizard and eventually she suffered a rather unfortunate fate at the hands of the Nekross just as she was bonding with Tom as well.

I've never really found the Nekross that threatening or interesting and I kind of feel that their continued presence on the show is somewhat holding the series back as well. Aside from their malicious dealing with Chloe at the end of this opening story, their scheme to drain a hundred wizards in a TV studio was easily the type of plot that could've been done within the first series.

It was fun to see Tom and company best them for the millionth time again but it's a reminder that this show really does need some new enemies if it stands a chance of making any further progress though. It's not that they're terrible antagonists but aside from the odd bit of conflict of interest with Lexi and Varg, there's not a whole else that can seemingly be done with them I think.

- Katie dumped Tom in this episode and the latter thinks that Chloe is no longer interested in him. At least he's still got Benny for now.
- It was nice to see some new wizards with Miranda and Nathaniel. I thought Ursula's crush on the latter (even if he threatened to endanger the Neverside) was a little sweet.
- Jodie Prenger played Chloe's guardian, Mrs Meeks. Did anyone else think she came across as a tad similar to Gita from The Sarah Jane Adventures?
- I liked that Michael had a bit more to do in this story than he did in the first series. I hope that's a sign of more character development for him. I also enjoyed Benny's geek off with Jathro as well and seeing the likes of Chancellor Kooth as well and Varg in human form.

For an opening story, "100 Wizards" did a good job of returning the show. The writing is still not entirely perfect but there was a lot of fun in this story and the twist with Chloe at the end was a nice stinging moment as well. I think there's definitely a sign of improvement here.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Wizards Vs. Aliens - Series 2 Press Release

The second series of Russell T. Davies and Phil Ford's magic/science mash up series, Wizards Vs. Aliens is upon and the BBC have given us a taster of what to expect with this press release ...

- First of all the series is back for fourteen episodes, so basically seven stories.
- Tom and Benny will be meeting new Wizards and new Aliens as well.
- Both lads will be facing their greatest challenges so far this series.
- Expect not only to see suburbia and spaceships this series but we'll also be seeing Tibet as well.
- Haunted castles and galactic wars will also factor into the new series.
- Tom Bell will also be appearing this series too.
- The Nekross will also be threatening their most powerful attacks yet.
- Tom and Benny's friendship will also be centre stage again this series too.

Overall, sounds like an interesting second run of episodes to look forward to. I'm also interested in seeing how that intended story for The Sarah Jane Adventures will translate on this show as well.

Press Release: http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2013/wizards-vs-aliens-second-series.html

Wizards Vs. Aliens - Series 2 will air on CBBC later in the autumn.

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x06: "The Last Day"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Joss Agnew

Helen: "I've been so lucky, Tom, I had one more day with you. One day I should never have had and I'm so glad I did. I love you so much. I love you."

Okay, this episode was inevitable. Rarely do genre shows stick with established character deaths meaning that we're unable to see them again and I guess seeing Helen Clarke was bound to happen at some point. To be honest, the only thing that is really surprising about this story is that it happened in the first series but other than that, this is an excellent story.

The idea of Helen somewhat haunting Tom's dreams as he began to think about her death was a good way of leading us into the reunion between mother and son. I wasn't too shocked however that Helen was merely a clone and that the Nekross were setting up their own battery farm in order to keep themselves supplied with magic.

However as plans went though, it was probably one of the Nekross's  better (if monstrous) of ideas and had Helen not decided to do the heroic self-sacrifice thing (along with the fact that as a clone, she couldn't live for long either), it might have worked. Still a part of me was hoping this story would see the Nekross out of the show but I guess it was an inevitable conclusion.

I still enjoyed the family scenes between Tom/Helen/Michael/Ursula and though cheesy, it was a pretty good way for mother and son to stop the Nekross's overall plans and I guess it did give Tom more assertion to take down the Nekross next series as well giving both Michael and Ursula a chance to see Helen again, even if like Tom, they knew it wasn't meant to last.

- Tom went on a date with Katie in this episode. I guess that means she will get something of a bigger role next series.
- Loved Benny's attempts of trying to rationalise Helen's existence and is Randall's mother really over 1000 years old?
- Varg is still needling Lexi about her loyalty towards Tom. I guess that will play a bigger part in the second series.
- Helen was 35 when she died. Also, the actress who played her is another former Doctor Who guest star, having appeared in the episode, Gridlock.

The Last Day is a strong finale for a show that's actually improved nicely over the course of it's first series. That being said, for it's second run, it might want to expand on threats because the Nekross are running the risk of wearing thin. Overall, a wonderful finale.

Rating: 8 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x05: "Fall Of The Nekross"

Written by Gareth Roberts
Directed by Joss Agnew

Benny (to Varg): "I'm a genius. I might be compassionate but I'm not stupid. Bye."

Well, it's good to know that Benny Sherwood isn't stupid but he's certainly capable of bringing the Nekross to their knees as this story managed to point out big time. Contrary to the title, this story almost saw the fall of the Nekross. They still managed to survive at the end of the episode, due to both Tom and Benny's compassion it seems.

I liked that this story decided to take the fight to the Nekross and even that when their ship was threatened, there was some genuine, almost adult like conflict as well between Benny, Tom and Ursula with Michael trying to play peacemaker. It was the best use of all four characters and it proved that the writing for this show has come leaps and downs since it's rather modest opening story as well.

Another good point about this story was the Nekross themselves not taking matters lying down. They may have ridiculed Ursula's first attempt of getting rid of them but when Benny succeeded, Lexi was quick to play on Tom's emotions to risk his life for both his friend and righting things with the Nekross by consulting the stone circle from the first story as well.

The Nekross might live to threaten another day but the stone circle suddenly became more interesting. Ursula had a deal with them that she managed to make them forget and we got that rather prophetic message at the end in relation to Tom. Considering that the trailer for next week spoiled it, it looks like Helen's coming home after all.

- The rivalry with Michael and Randall Moon was rather amusing. I also liked the red coloured, Nekross, Jathro as well, even if he was a bit of a yes man.
- I'm guessing the deal Ursula made was something that involved Helen's life being the cost. I didn't like that she considered using magic on Benny though.
- Varg seemed to know or suspect that Lexi may have helped Tom in the previous story. She didn't seem that conflicted about manipulating Tom in this one though.
- I think was the only story that solely seemed to focus on Tom/Benny without Katie or Quinn appearing in it.

An excellent story. Fall Of The Nekross is definitely an excellent story but with a bit of tweaking, it probably could've been the season finale. Though the one intended for next week does look rather good and may actually give closure in other areas as well, if not the Nekross.

Rating: 8 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x04: "Friend Or Foe"

Written by Clayton Hickman
Directed by Griff Rowland

Tom: "So, the next time we see each other, are we friends or enemies?"
Lexi: "What exactly are we now, Tom?"

Two species forced to work together because this story decided we were overdue a human villain for a change? That might sound glib but if you want a quick synopsis for this particular story, it's the best one I can think of. It's also another example to me however of this show actually improving just that little bit more as well.

I liked that Lexi had this smart plan of pretending to be a human woman with Lucy, trying to get Tom's trust and encourage his football aspirations and had things gone differently, she might have successfully nabbed him and he might be a powerless, withering old man now. Luckily for Tom and even, Lexi there was someone much worse than the latter in this story.

Ruthie Henshall may have hammed it up a few times as greedy rich businesswoman, Stephanie Gaunt but she was a more interesting villain than the Nekross King has been and her nasty streak certainly forced an alliance between Tom/Lexi and even Varg/Benny/Michael/Ursula as well as the rival species worked together to stop the scheming rich lady and save themselves.

Overall, the Tom and Lexi scenes were a joy to watch. Lexi's shown in past episodes that she isn't as bloodthirsty as her sibling and father for magic and by pretending to be human (for a short time) and working with Tom, she seems to have come a little more sympathetic towards them. Though, obviously not enough when she exacted revenge on Stephanie but I have a feeling both her and Tom's new found understanding of each other will serve a purpose in the finale though.

- Ruthie Henshall was apparently Russell T. Davies's choice to play the Rani if he had stayed on Doctor Who and introduced the character. I guess Stephanie was kind of Rani like.
- I bet Gwendoline Christie was delighted to spend some of this story not having to wear the Nekross makeup and costume.
- Crown jewels? Maybe Stephanie should've tried something a bit bigger. I'm surprised she just didn't ask Tom and Lexi to make her ruler of Britain straightaway.
- Katie and Quinn need a bit more development as characters. They seem as underused as Michael has been so far.

A good story, Friend Or Foe would be my favourite if the previous one wasn't that slightly bit better but as shaky as the overall premise for the series, it's hard to deny that there's been improvement it. I am definitely enjoying it more and more.

Rating: 8 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x03: "Rebel Magic"

Written by Joseph Lidster
Directed by Griff Rowland

Tom: "The great Jackson Hawke, just a normal wizard then. Just like the rest of us."
Jackson: "Me, normal? Not exactly."

Well, I suppose every good hero needs a rival/enemy/possible other ally of sorts and if Harry can have Draco Malfoy, then Tom Clarke can have someone as volatile and slightly unpredictable as the rather interesting Jackson Hawke for good measure.

Played by Andy Rush, Jackson might be the best guest character we've had so far in this series (not that we've had many). A wizard skilled in the dangerous Grimm magic, Jackson's presence in Tom's life doesn't take long for Tom to ignore Benny and dabble in some rebel magic but if you were expecting anything too naughty, then you might be disappointed.

The worst thing Tom really does under Jackson's influence is disrupt a couple by messing with their milkshake, getting free pizza and ignoring Benny. It's probably a good thing then that we have both Jackson and Tom making a misguided attempt to take out the Nekross once and for all with Benny's life being threatened used as the catalyst for Tom snapping out of it.

As a friend goes, Jackson definitely started out as a bad influence but between a tragic backstory with his family (he inadvertently banished them) and a moment of redemption by risking his own life to save Tom and Benny, I think it's a safe bet that once he's accomplished his own mission, he'll be back to be Tom's brother in magic.

- Tom's friend, Quinn seems to be annoyed by him hanging out with Benny and losing at a recent football match.
- It seems that they're pushing forward with a romance between Tom and Katie as well. I'm guessing she's going to learn about Tom's magic by the finale.
- I liked seeing Lexi saving Varg from being eaten by that scorpion creature the King had. Looks like there is some love between them after all.
- Ursula's still a lot of fun in this episode but Michael's role does feel rather thankless at times. I did like him offering Jackson a place to stay though.

A solid, strong story delving nicely into the Tom/Benny and Tom/Jackson friendship. Rebel Magic does show that this show is worth getting into but perhaps this was another story that could've done without the Nekross or a threat other than them. Either way, I think this show is finding it's groove nicely.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x02: "Grazlax Attacks"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Daniel O'Hara

Tom (to Benny, re Grazlax): "It didn't explode. It had kids."

Okay, second story in (or episodes three and four if you like) and this show is definitely fun to watch but at the same time has a feeling of familiarity about it. The Nekross might not have decided to capture Tom or his grandmother again but Lexi's idea of trying to please her father (the Nekross King) and outwit her brother with the use of the Grazlax was doomed to failure from the beginning.

Clearly, Phil Ford has possibly watched Gremlins one too many times because the basis of this story seemed to be the Grazlax trying to kill both Tom and Benny when they weren't multiplying all over the place. As aliens, they're blue, furry with teeth that look anything but razor sharp but at the same time, the sheer camp factor in Benny and Tom trying to outwit them was actually the highlight of the episode.

I don't know if it's entirely intentional but Scott Haran as Tom really did seem to up the camp factor in this story with a performance that seemed very reminiscent of a lot of 80's Doctor Who. Tom's still a likeable enough character, though clearly not always the most reliable in a sticky situation as it was Benny who seemed to figure out a lot in relation to defeating the Grazlax and a lot of that seemed obvious too in retrospect.

I will say that four episodes/two stories in, the show has succeeded in building a nice rapport with Tom and Benny. Both of them are outsiders due to one being magical and the other being a geek but as a team, they seem to work well together. That in of itself might be the show's biggest selling point and it's most successful one too.

- We met Benny's parents, Tricia (Nina Sosanya) and Richard (Don Gilet) for a bit in the first part of this episode. Benny's violin playing turned out to be useful, if not nice on the ears.
- Katie is clearly being set up as a love interest for Tom.
- I did laugh at Ursula's attempts of changing Benny's house back, especially with the gingerbread house mistake.
- The rivalry between Varg and Lexi has a lot of potential. I sense that perhaps Lexi isn't too comfortable with the idea of destroying humanity.

While it's hard to deny that this show isn't a massive step forwards for children's TV, it's still a lot more entertaining than it should be. Grazlax Attacks was an amusing story but I am hoping the show does get a little serious as it progresses in the next four stories.

Rating: 7 out of 10

My Review of Wizards Vs. Aliens 1x01: "Dawn Of The Nekross"

Written by Phil Ford
Directed by Daniel O'Hara

Benny (re chamber of Crowe): "Narnia, Tim Burton style."

I wasn't going to but I've decided to do some reviews for this series after all. With The Sarah Jane Adventures no longer with us, I have to give both Russell T. Davies and Phil Ford credit in trying to come up with a decent replacement by mashing up the genres of magic and extraterrestrials with this series. Watching this opening two part story, it's something of a mixed bag but there's potential here.

Scott Haran may not have the same charisma as Daniel Anthony's Clyde Langer but he makes for a sympathetic and engaging enough lead character. Tom Clarke is a regular sixteen year old boy who happens to be a wizard and it's something that runs in his family tracing to his deceased mother and very much alive grandmother, Ursula, brilliantly played by Annette Badland.

Within the two parter, Tom's secret is exposed to nerdy fellow student, Benny (a likeable but stereotypical geeky character), ably played by Percelle Ascott as the two unlikely new friends band together in order to save Tom's grandmother as well as another wizard and his son from the Nekross.

The Nekross are the villains of the piece - an alien race that feeds on magic and Earth is the last place that has it in abundance, with Brian Blessed playing a face version of them - quite literally. They're not strictly defeated in this episode, which means that we've got them as a recurring bunch of villains for the series. Stylistically, they look good, are somewhat more campy and OTT than threatening but serve as solid enemies. Whether or not, they're a sustainable threat though is hard to tell but so far, they do have some promise.

- Michael Higgs plays the role of Tom's father, Michael, the only non Wizard of the family. It seems that Helen (Tom's mother, Ursula's daughter) was quite powerful.
- The Chamber of Crowe and it's guardian really were something that came out of Harry Potter. I think a bit more subtlety could've gone into that design.
- I found the driving back to Earth in the car scene both magical and cringe worthy. Pretty much a rip off of flying the TARDIS home as well from a certain Doctor Who story.
- Originally, there were plans for this series and The Sarah Jane Adventures to run alongside each other. What are the odds that a crossover would've happened if circumstances had been different?

Not a bad start to the show. The tone is pretty lighthearted but that's to be expected with a series opener though. Hopefully though the show does have a couple of surprises up it's sleeve, so it doesn't become too formulaic but either way, Dawn Of The Nekross is a good start to the show.

Rating: 7 out of 10.

Wizards Vs. Aliens - Series 1 Airdate Confirmed

Yes, the new kids show from Russell T. Davies will air in a similar format of The Sarah Jane Adventures, every Monday and Tuesday (times to be confirmed) at the end of this month and will air for 12 episodes. Below is a synopsis for the first four episodes, Dawn Of The Nekross  and Grazlax Attacks...

Dawn of the Nekross (Part One)

Tom Clarke is hiding a secret - he's a schoolboy wizard! But when the magic-eating alien Nekross arrive on Earth, a battle for survival begins. Tom must use his magical powers to protect his family - but only the school geek, Benny, can help him against the plans of the terrifying Nekross King.

Dawn of the Nekross (Part One)

With his gran trapped in outer space, Tom and Benny must dare to go inside the mystical Chamber to ask the mysterious Randal Moon for help. But with time running out for Ursula, and Tom's dad joining the fight, can even a magical hobgoblin fight an enemy from beyond the Earth?

Grazlax Attacks (Part One)

Tom’s Saturday at Benny’s house becomes a thrilling fight for their lives when the alien Grazlax hunts them down. The two boys must learn to fight together, combining Tom’s magic with Benny’s science, or the Nekross’s savage pet will unfortunately succeed. 

Grazlax Attacks (Part Two)

The Grazlax is out of control! But Tom’s used up all his magic, and Benny’s scientific genius is useless against a creature from beyond the stars. It’s a race against time for both humans and Nekross, as the Grazlax menace continues and grows – but will stopping the rampage help people survive? 

Official Site:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/shows/wizards-vs-aliens

Wizards Vs. Aliens is due to air on CBBC from October 29th.

Wizards Vs.Aliens - Cast Picture/Casting News

So, you know, spoilers and all that.

And here is the first proper cast picture of Scott Haran as boy wizard, Tom Clarke and Percelle Ascott as best mate, Benny Sherwood in the upcoming series, Wizards Vs. Aliens by Russell T. Davies. I have to admit, I am rather intrigued by the series. The casting so far has included the likes of Annette Badland, Gwendoline Christie, Nina Sossanya and Don Gilet and now an even more interesting cast member has been announced ...

It seems that King Yrcanos himself, Brian Blessed will be playing the role of the Nekross King in the series, the main antagonists for Tom and Benny who feed on magic. Russell T. Davies has also been on pointing out that the scenes on Earth and the ones with Nekross will contrast with each other as wizards were previously unaware of alien existence. It looks like it's going to be some battle. As a replacement for The Sarah Jane Adventures, this is starting to shape up rather nicely.

Casting News: http://www.digitalspy.ie/tv/news/a405980/russell-t-davies-wizards-vs-aliens-to-feature-brian-blessed.html

Wizards Vs. Aliens is due to air on CBBC next month.

First Look: Wizards Vs. Aliens

And it's been months since the announcement of the latest television project from Russell T. Davies but now we know more on the slightly renamed, Wizards Vs. Aliens. Casting wise, newcomers Scott Haran and Percelle Ascott will play the roles of Tom Clarke and Benny Sherwood, two friends whose lives are changed when the aliens Nekross (sounds familiar that) decide to invade Earth. It seems Tom comes from a family of wizards and Benny is the supersmart one of the duo.

Premise wise, it seems to be a reasonably straightforward enough story but while there's some support adult cast wise with the likes of Don Gilet and Nina Sosanya as Benny's parents, as well as the likes of Annette Badland, Michael Higgs, Gwendoline Christie and Jefferson Hall, I can't help but thinking there's a lack of female teen characters in the mix, which is odd when you think of how successful Maria and Rani were in The Sarah Jane Adventures.

The 12 part series will feature episodes written by Russell T. Davies, Phil Ford, Gareth Roberts, Clayton Hickman and Joseph Lidster to name but a few as well as directors such as Daniel O'Hara, who has helmed some of the opening installments of the series. What does everyone else think? I'll give it a go but I won't be reviewing it episodically though.

Press Release: http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2012/270412-wizards-vs-aliens-filming.html

Wizards Vs. Aliens will air on CBBC during the Autumn.

RTD's New Project

It's been a while since we've heard a lot from Russell T. Davies, apart from the news about his partner (get well soon, Andrew) and while it's hard to determine what the future holds for Torchwood or even that Cucumber series that was being discussed last year, RTD does have another project in the pipeline though.

Called Aliens Vs. Wizards, the show for CBBC will focus on two young boys who are wizards and battle aliens. Writers for the series will include both Joseph Lidster and Phil Ford. To me, it sounds like a replacement of sorts for The Sarah Jane Adventures but considering how well that show went, this could be another success story for Russell. I'll certainly give it a look when it airs during the Autumn period.

Press Release: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-16677583