Doctor Who: DWO Whocast
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| Doctor Who: DWO Whocast | |
| Hosting | Paul A.T. Wilson (2006-2008) Sebastian J. Brook (2006-2008) Trevor Gensch (2008-) Tony Gallichan(2008-) |
|---|---|
| Updates | Weekly (irregular) |
| Length | 50 minutes |
| Audio format | MP3 AAC |
| Debut | April 23, 2006 |
| End date | Ongoing |
| Genre | Science fiction |
| Website | Main Website Podcast Alley Podcast Blaster |
Doctor Who: DWO WhoCast (commonly known as The Whocast, but officially titled Doctor Who Podcast: DWO WhoCast) is a weekly podcast which discusses the British science fiction/Drama series Doctor Who. This Podcast is notable because it is the most popular Doctor Who Podcast worldwide as shown within the independent iTunes[1]. The Podcast is produced by Doctor Who Online which is a Doctor Who Fan website based out of the United Kingdom by Sebastian J. Brook and Paul A.T. Wilson.
Contents |
[edit] History
The Whocast was started in April, 2006 during the original run of Series 2 of Doctor Who by Paul A.T. Wilson in conjunction with a Doctor Who meeting group based out of London[2]. Although the early episodes could be considered somewhat derivative of both Podcast Who and Podshock it soon established its own style, with very much a British slant. Also due to its location, the Podcast was able to start featuring interviews with actors and production staff from both the current and classic series.
In September, 2006, The Whocast teamed up with Doctor Who Online, with a significant format change and the addition of a permanent co-host, Sebastian J. Brook[3]. With the format change, the podcast attracted more listeners and has experienced a dramatic growth in distribution[4]. It is unclear if the format change was brought about by the association with Doctor Who Online or if it was a natural progression. However, it has been commented that the hosts can appear smug or ...like children's show hosts...[5]. On the reverse side, the personality of the hosts, the podcast format and length of the show have been a major draw and have led to a perceived rivalry between Podshock and the Whocast. This rivalry has been refuted by both camps, they have constantly maintained that they are all friends and the hosts of each show have been featured on each others podcasts.
In May, 2007, The DWO Whocast: DWO TorchCast was rated 4/5 by SciFiNow Magazine [6].
This slick Podcast may not have been updated lately, but it's still essential for followers of the raunchy Barrowman vehicle. Unlike the Doctor Who Podshock, Torchcast caters for those who don't have a PhD in the subject, offering a light but intelligent dissection of the show. The most recent episode covers the final three Torchwoods of the series, giving a brief synopsis before entering classic review format. The interplay between the two presenters makes for great listening and at just over half an hour, you don't feel like you're losing too much of your life. Roll on a second series.
In December, 2007, The DWO Whocast was rated 5/5 by SciFiNow Magazine, the podcast was featured and referred to as 'Must hear now'[7].
They claim it's the UK's largest Doctor Who, Torchwood and Sarah Jane Adventures podcast. A bold claim indeed, but one that's sure to attract a large number of listeners to tune in. Luckily those who do just this will be in for a treat. One of the most common problems that plague many of the podcasts we listen to are that they're sloppy - a poor structure made worse by hosts who get far too wrapped up in themselves. Not only does 'WhoCast' jump both of these hurdles, but it puts together a very solid and interesting show that's a joy to listen to. It's not surprising, mind you, considering the team has managed to arrange interviews with the likes of Doctor Who director Graeme Harper. Simply put, this is top-notch stuff. If you want a decent podcast on the Doctor then look no further than 'WhoCast'.
In January, 2008, The DWO Whocast: Sarah Jane Adventures Mini-Cast was rated 4/5 by SciFiNow Magazine, the podcast was featured and referred to as 'Must hear now'[8].
Last month's glowing review of 'DWO WhoCast' was more than enough reason to investigate related content, and the 'Sarah Jane Adventures Mini-Cast' was what took our fancy. Focusing on the Doctor Who spin-off, Paul and Seb argue about whether or not the offshoot resembles the Doctor's exploits or is creating its own niche. It's certainly refreshing to hear an adult's take on what is essentially a series aimed at children, but younger addressees may be baffled by how in-depth the conversation gets. Still, the mature beings among you who secretly sneak away to catch the show will be pleased to hear two knowledgeable experts delve as deep as they can. Another great listen.
In Episode #66, which was released on April 21st 2008, Paul and Seb hosted their last DWO WhoCast, stating that time was one of the reasons behind the recent drought in WhoCast episodes. They named their successors who will continue the DWO WhoCast. The new hosts as of Episode #67 are Trevor Gensch (from the MMM Commentaries and Fantragic podcasts) and Tony Gallichan (from the Staggering Stories podcast). The handover was smooth with a touching signoff from Paul and Seb 'walking off into the sunset' as the new presenters introduce themselves. Paul and Seb have since stated they are working even closer together as they re-design the main Doctor Who Online website.
In June, 2008, The DWO Whocast was rated 4/5 by SFX Magazine (Issue #171).[9].
Doctor Who Online has been hosting these weekly magazine-show 'casts for a while now, but trusty presenters Seb and Paul have left, to be replaced by the more avuncular Trevor and Tony. The balance of news, opinion and features is still spot on, and it's slickly produced, but Trev and Tone don't seem as spontaneous or as sparky as their predecessors, But give 'em time.
[edit] Current Podcast Format
During the airing season of Doctor Who and when major releases happen, the WhoCast features reviews and commentary. Most reviews are discussion based, with the co-hosts giving their views and sometimes having listener participation.
The Podcast usually features interviews with people involved with the new and the old series of Doctor Who and Big Finish. Interviews with members of the cast and crew from the classic and the new series of Doctor Who are common; the team are regularly joined by not only minor cast members but actors who have played The Doctor, such as: Colin Baker and Peter Davison. They have had members of the effects team such as Neill Gorton and Mat Irvine as well as other members of production staff.
Alongside their guests, they are well known for holding competitions, ranging from signed autobiographies, scripts from Big Finish to tours of the Millennium FX Studios.
[edit] Spin-off Podcasts
In October, 2006, Paul and Seb produced a podcast during the original UK run of Torchwood called TWO (Torchwood Online) TorchCast. This ran for 10 episodes covering all 13 episodes of the Torchwood Series One run. This spin-off podcast was renamed the DWO Torchast in October, 2007 with the promise that they will be returning soon [10].
In October, 2007, Paul and Seb started producing a "Mini-Podcast" for Series one of Sarah Jane Adventures. This mini-podcast is a cut down version of the full Whocast and can only be accessed through iTunes.
[edit] Similar Podcasts
[edit] External links
- Whocasts' main website: http://www.thewhocast.com
- Podcast Alley's Whocast website: http://www.podcastalley.com/podcast_details.php?pod_id=25530
- Whocasts' email: feedback@thewhocast.com
[edit] References
- ^ iTunes Store when searching for both Doctor Who and Doctor Who Podcast
- ^ Doctor Who Online - DWO WhoCast
- ^ Doctor Who Online - DWO WhoCast
- ^ http://www.thewhocast.com/reports
- ^ The Doctor Who Forum at gallifreyone.com
- ^ Issue 2 of SciFi Now Magazine
- ^ Issue 9 of SciFi Now Magazine
- ^ Issue 10 of SciFi Now Magazine
- ^ Issue 171 of SFX Mahazine
- ^ DWO Torchast Series 2 Trailer
