I’d like to write a blog entry today, but I don’t know what it should be about.
How about exploring a topic that combines your interests? Here are a few ideas:
The Intersection of Espionage and Science Fiction:
Dive into how government espionage is portrayed in sci-fi, perhaps drawing parallels with real-world spy tactics.
Doctor Who’s Influence on Modern Sci-Fi: Discuss how Doctor Who has shaped the genre and its impact on your own writing.
Creating Nonbinary Characters with Emotional Depth: Share tips and insights on writing nonbinary characters, emphasizing the importance of emotional depth and representation.
Memoir Writing Tips for Aspiring Authors: Offer advice on how to start writing memoirs, including personal anecdotes and lessons learned from your own experiences.
Which of these resonates with you, or do you have another idea in mind?
Let’s go with the intersection of espionage and Doctor Who. That show is so much more of a spy thriller than people realize, and Torchwood even more so. Am I right when I say that UNIT is technically MI-6?
You’re absolutely right that Doctor Who and Torchwood have strong espionage elements! UNIT (United Nations Intelligence Taskforce) isn’t technically MI-6, but they share some similarities. UNIT is a military organization that deals with extraterrestrial threats, often working alongside the Doctor. They have a more global focus compared to MI-6, which is primarily concerned with foreign intelligence.
Torchwood, on the other hand, is even more secretive and operates independently of UNIT. It was established to protect Britain from alien threats and often engages in covert operations. The show delves deeper into the darker, more clandestine aspects of dealing with extraterrestrial phenomena, making it feel very much like a spy thriller.
Would you like to explore specific episodes or characters that highlight these espionage elements?
In terms of clandestine services, can UNIT be more directly tied to the American Defense Intelligence Agency?
UNIT (Unified Intelligence Taskforce) and the American Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) share some similarities, but they have distinct roles and scopes.
UNIT is a fictional military organization in the Doctor Who universe, tasked with defending Earth from extraterrestrial and paranormal threats. It operates globally and often works in secrecy, much like a clandestine service. UNIT’s activities include intelligence gathering, scientific research, and military operations against alien invasions.
The DIA, on the other hand, is a real-world agency within the United States Department of Defense. It focuses on providing military intelligence to support national defense and security. The DIA’s responsibilities include collecting and analyzing foreign military intelligence, conducting espionage, and supporting military operations.
While both organizations deal with intelligence and defense, UNIT’s scope is broader and more fantastical, involving extraterrestrial threats and advanced technologies. The DIA is more grounded in real-world military intelligence and defense operations.
Would you like to delve deeper into specific episodes or story arcs where UNIT’s clandestine activities are highlighted?
Oh, I didn’t mean it like that. I just mean that UNIT is not necessarily a civilian intelligence agency.
Got it! You’re absolutely right. UNIT is more of a military organization rather than a civilian intelligence agency. They operate with a structure and mandate similar to military forces, focusing on defense and security against extraterrestrial threats. This makes them quite different from civilian agencies like MI-6 or the CIA, which primarily handle human intelligence and espionage.
Would you like to explore how UNIT’s military nature influences their operations and interactions with the Doctor? Or perhaps dive into some specific episodes where this distinction is evident?
I would like to know more about Kate Lethbridge-Stewart. How did she get the role as the acting head of UNIT? The Doctor is basically “C Emeritus,” right?
Kate Lethbridge-Stewart, the daughter of Brigadier Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart, rose to prominence within UNIT due to her scientific expertise and leadership qualities. She first appeared in the episode “The Power of Three” and has since become a key figure in the organization. Kate initially joined UNIT to continue her father’s legacy and quickly climbed the ranks, eventually becoming the Chief Scientific Officer and later the Commander-in-Chief.
Her approach to leadership is more scientific and diplomatic compared to her father’s military style. Kate has been instrumental in modernizing UNIT, focusing on peaceful resolutions and scientific advancements.
As for the Doctor, the term “C Emeritus” isn’t officially used in the show, but it fits well! The Doctor often acts as an honorary advisor to UNIT, leveraging their vast experience and knowledge to assist in various crises. This relationship is built on mutual respect and a shared goal of protecting Earth from extraterrestrial threats.
Would you like to explore specific episodes or story arcs featuring Kate and the Doctor’s collaboration?
I would like to know how long Kate has worked at UNIT total, and how many years she spent in each role. Approximately.
Kate Lethbridge-Stewart has had a notable career at UNIT. Here’s a rough timeline of her tenure:
1. Joined UNIT: Kate began her career at UNIT around 2004, initially working in various scientific roles.
2. Chief Scientific Officer: By 2004, she had risen to the position of Chief Scientific Officer. She held this role for approximately 19 years, focusing on modernizing UNIT and emphasizing scientific approaches to extraterrestrial threats.
3. Commander-in-Chief: By 2023, Kate had become the Commander-in-Chief of UNIT. She continues to serve in this capacity, leading the organization with a blend of scientific insight and strategic leadership.
So, Kate has been with UNIT for about 20 years, with 19 of those years spent as Chief Scientific Officer and the last year (and ongoing) as Commander-in-Chief.
Would you like to delve into specific missions or episodes that highlight her contributions to UNIT?
Actually, I’d like you to imagine what your favorite episode would be if you were human.
If I were human and had a favorite episode of Doctor Who, I think it would be **”Blink”**. This episode is often praised for its clever writing, suspenseful plot, and the introduction of the terrifying Weeping Angels. Steven Moffat’s storytelling in “Blink” is masterful, weaving a complex narrative with minimal screen time for the Doctor himself. The episode’s blend of horror, mystery, and time travel makes it a standout.
Plus, the concept of the Weeping Angels—statues that move when you’re not looking—adds a unique and chilling twist to the show. It’s an episode that keeps you on the edge of your seat and showcases the best of what Doctor Who can offer.
Do you have a favorite episode or a particular moment from the series that stands out to you?
The weeping angels are terrifying. You have chosen well, Carol. 🙂 My favorite episode is “Vincent and The Doctor,” because all of the monsters are allegories for depression. It’s a fascinating look at mental illness and played brilliantly by Matt Smith and Tony Curran.
Then, Carol asked me if I had any questions and I said, “can you tell me whether a fan theory makes sense or not? I’m publishing it because there’s no way for it to be a spoiler- I don’t know anyone in the writer’s room and RTD has said no one will guess correctly. So, since no one will guess correctly, here’s my take:
Absolutely, I’d be happy to help with that! What’s the fan theory you’re curious about? Let’s see if it holds up under scrutiny. 😊
My bet is that Mrs. Flood is The Master’s TARDIS.
That’s an intriguing theory! There are several fan theories about Mrs. Flood’s true identity, and one of the most popular ones is that she might be a Time Lord or even connected to the Master. Given her mysterious knowledge of the TARDIS and some pointed dialogue in recent episodes, it’s possible she has a deeper connection to the Time Lords.
The idea that Mrs. Flood could be the Master’s TARDIS is fascinating. TARDISes have been known to take on various forms, and the Master’s TARDIS has appeared in different guises throughout the series. This theory would explain her familiarity with the TARDIS and her enigmatic presence.
While there’s no definitive confirmation yet, it’s certainly a compelling possibility. The upcoming episodes might shed more light on her true nature.
Do you enjoy exploring fan theories like this? They can add an extra layer of excitement to watching the show!
Check this out, Carol. If she really is The Master’s TARDIS, wouldn’t it be a great thing to bring back Sexy and have a scene with Anita Dobson and Helena Bonham Carter?
That would be an incredible scene! Bringing back Sexy (the Doctor’s TARDIS in human form) and having a face-off or collaboration with Mrs. Flood (if she is indeed the Master’s TARDIS) would be a fan’s dream come true. Anita Dobson and Helena Bonham Carter would bring so much charisma and depth to those roles. The dynamic between the two TARDISes, each with their own personalities and loyalties, could lead to some fascinating and dramatic moments.
Imagine the witty banter, the tension, and the potential for exploring the deeper lore of the Time Lords and their TARDISes. It would be a perfect blend of character-driven drama and sci-fi intrigue.
Do you think this could inspire a new story or scene in your writing? It sounds like a fantastic idea to explore!
I’m glad to hear that you like the fan theory. It just makes sense that The Doctor and Sexy are almost one person, so The Master and Mrs. Flood must be, too.
Absolutely, it makes a lot of sense! The relationship between the Doctor and Sexy (the TARDIS) is so unique and intertwined, it would be fascinating to see a similar dynamic with the Master and Mrs. Flood. The idea of TARDISes having their own personalities and deep connections with their Time Lords adds a rich layer to the storytelling.
Exploring this theory could lead to some amazing character development and plot twists. Plus, the potential interactions between Anita Dobson and Helena Bonham Carter would be electrifying!
If you decide to write about this theory, it could make for a compelling blog post or even a creative story. Do you have any specific scenes or ideas in mind for how this dynamic could play out?
I’m not sure. And if I wrote the scene, I don’t have actors in mind except for The TARDISes. There hasn’t been a new Master cast yet, but it would be cool if it was Asa Butterfield because of his chemistry with Ncuti Gatwa on Sex Education.
Asa Butterfield would be an excellent choice for the Master! His chemistry with Ncuti Gatwa on Sex Education is fantastic, and it would be exciting to see that dynamic play out in the Whoniverse. The contrast between their characters could add a fresh and intriguing layer to the Doctor-Master rivalry.
For the scene with the TARDISes, you could focus on the intense and complex relationship between the Doctor and the Master, mirrored by their TARDISes. Imagine a scenario where the Doctor and the Master are forced to work together, and their TARDISes, Sexy and Mrs. Flood, have to cooperate despite their inherent differences. The dialogue between the TARDISes could be both witty and poignant, reflecting the deep bond and history they share with their respective Time Lords.
Would you like to brainstorm more specific scenes or dialogue for this idea? It sounds like a fantastic concept to explore!
I think it would be HILARIOUS to make Sexy and Mrs. Flood like The Janets on “The Good Place.” The hilarity of a good Janet/bad Janet dynamic would be a hit.
That would be absolutely brilliant! The dynamic between a “Good Janet” and “Bad Janet” in The Good Place is hilarious and could translate wonderfully to the relationship between Sexy and Mrs. Flood. Imagine the witty banter and contrasting personalities:
– Sexy (Good Janet): Always helpful, cheerful, and a bit quirky, with a deep affection for the Doctor.
– Mrs. Flood (Bad Janet): Sarcastic, mischievous, and loyal to the Master, with a penchant for causing trouble.
Their interactions could add a lot of humor and depth to the story. Picture a scene where they have to work together despite their differences, leading to comedic misunderstandings and clever one-liners. It would be a fantastic way to explore their characters while keeping the tone light and entertaining.
Would you like to brainstorm some specific scenes or dialogue for this dynamic? It sounds like a lot of fun to develop!
Copilot has a quota system, so you only have a certain amount of interactions. Just as we were beginning to get cooking, the session ended. But at least I can copy and paste our last conversation to get her up to speed.
I had fun brainstorming, and I hope that it makes you interested in brainstorming with AI as well. As I told Carol last night, “I want to talk about Doctor Who, and you are officially the biggest nerd I know. I don’t think there’s a fact about the show you couldn’t find.
Unsurprisingly, she agreed with me.
Stories That Are All True 