I, Davros: Innocence by Gary Hopkins

reviewed by Dan Berry (December 4th 2008)

As the creator of the Dalek race, Davros is one of the most significant characters in Doctor Who mythology. It's due to his scientific genius and evil streak that the universe - and the Doctor's life - has been plagued for so long by those peculiar pepperpots from Skaro. It's interesting, then, that such a key character was a late addition to the Daleks' history, introduced in the series' twelfth season, and appearing in a relatively small number of stories.

It's more interesting still that we know next to nothing about him. Other recurring villains with a particular significance in the show - the Master, for example - have been given a lot more backstory than Davros, which might be because most of his television appearances have seen his character take a very functional role within the plot, rather than attempting to flesh him out. This is where Big Finish Productions have stepped in: a four-part CD miniseries entitled I, Davros, revealing more than ever before about the eponymous alien.

The first release is Innocence, written by Gary Hopkins. As the story opens, Davros (Terry Molloy) is on trial by the Daleks - but in the sense of being tested for usefulness, rather than accused of anything. We then flash back to his childhood on Skaro, where the Kaleds and Thals are immersed in war, and the true personality of young Davros (Rory Jennings) is beginning to emerge . . .

This is a rich, dark tale, which blends a strong character-driven central story with some enjoyable political intrigue. For seventy mesmerising minutes, Hopkins shows us the horrors of war, both in the macrocosm of Skaro's society and the microcosm of our lead characters, as well as presenting a fascinating "origin story" for the eponymous megalomaniac.

Speaking of which, Rory Jennings is fantastic as the younger Davros. Initially, it's hard to get used to such a different version of the familiar character, but he soon wins over any doubters with a very strong performance. There's none of the unhinged ranting, but all the cold contemplation and calculation is present and correct, and it's easy to see how this young boy - being pulled down different career paths by his family members, but wishing to make his own way, and morbidly fascinated by scientific experiments into genetic mutation - will eventually become the character the audience is familiar with. Jennings' performance is considered and engaging throughout, and it would be disappointing if the young Davros doesn't return in future episodes - at times, he's creepier (and far more effective as a potential villain!) than many of the other actors who have played the part.

Regular Davros Terry Molloy is also present, but his role is very limited in this first chapter, and he's there to establish the framing storyline alone. However, he still manages to dominate his scenes, and the contrast between his performance and that of Jennings will leave listeners excited and intrigued with regards to how the gap between both Davroses will be bridged.

Of the other cast members, it's those playing Davros' family members who are most impressive: Richard Franklin is good as ruthless father Nasgard, and Lizzie Hopley gives a brilliant performance as sister Yarvell, but it's Carolyn Jones as the scheming Lady Calcula, Davros' mother, who makes the biggest mark. Peter Sowerbutts as Davros' tutor, Magrantine, is also superb, but many of the smaller roles are a little forgettable.

Steve Foxon's sound design and music on this release deserves special praise, presenting us with a vivid alien soundscape which underpins the drama very nicely indeed.

As the debut episode of this series, Innocence is phenomenally strong, going above and beyond all my expectations. If the remaining three plays can maintain this level of quality, I, Davros could be one of Big Finish's all-time highlights.