vivdunstan

20 years ago "Rose", the first episode of the relaunched Doctor Who, aired. This was the start of an opening series starring Christopher Eccleston as the Ninth Doctor and Billie Piper as his companion Rose. And what a return.

Though I felt that Christopher Eccleston sometimes seemed uncomfortable in the part, particularly the more humorous sections, Billie Piper was a revelation. I knew her before then as a pop singer, a pre Britney UK version of Britney Spears. And then wow, she could really act. And now is a multi award winning stage actress. There's no way that Doctor Who would have been such a hit on its return without her part in it.

The overall feeling from the first season for me was fun and vitality. Doctor Who was back with confidence and pizzazz, and it sure delivered. Albeit with often scares and even pathos. Losing the Ninth Doctor at the end of the season was a shock, but as a one-season run for that Doctor (before Big Finish made many audios more recently with Christopher Eccleston returning to the role) it was very strong, and remains so viewed today.

My favourite story from this opening series by a long way is the two-part "The Empty Child" / "The Doctor Dances". When this aired it even bumped 1979's "City of Death" from the all-time top spot for me. And it's retained that place in the two decades since. This story is a perfect mix of historical, terror, horror, humour and pathos. It was also the first time I'd seen Steven Moffat's writing (yes I missed the 1999 "The Curse of Fatal Death"!) and I was wowed.

The other absolute standout for me from this series is "Dalek" by Robert Shearman. Cleverly reworking a Big Finish audio, this relaunched Daleks for a new audience, all through presenting just one of them on screen.

And my other favourite story is "Rose". Which was a superb introduction for new viewers and old timers alike. Absolutely brimming with confidence.

I could write much more, but for now just want to say "Happy birthday New Who!" And yes, I will be watching my all-time favourite story again tonight.