One must wonder what is going through Leela's mind as she battles the robots. After all, she lives in a low-tech society until the previous serial, when she chooses to join the Doctor as his latest companion. While all the companions have quite an adjustment to make, hers seems even more extreme than most. She handles it well, of course, as she is a worthy assistant to the Doctor. But still, a transcript of the words going through her head in this story would be invaluable.
Like other Doctor Who Special Editions, "The Robots of Death" is loaded with extras, this time crammed remarkably onto a single disc. The usual photo galleries and PDF materials are included, as well as two audio commentaries. The first is the one that was packaged with the original release of "The Robots of Death" twelve years ago, featuring producer Philip Hinchcliffe and the writer of the story, Chris Boucher. The second brings in actors Baker, Jameson, guest star Pamela Salem (Never Say Never, French Fields), and director Michael E. Briant.
Picture and sound are remastered, of course, making for a better viewing experience than was previously available. A thirty-two minute feature entitled "The Sandmine Murders" is the expected Making Of short documentary for this serial. A studio sound feature lets viewers hear the robot voices without special effects for comparison, and to better appreciate the post-production work that goes into such a show. There is a neat, interactive layout of the studio. Seven minutes of the original model insert film, in black and white, are also present.
The most enjoyable feature may be "Robophobia." Toby Hadoke, an actor, writer, comedian, and Doctor Who fan, goes over the history of robots. Hadoke uses his comedy chops to keep "Robophobia" as entertaining as it is informational, making for a delightful surprise.
Doctor Who - "The Robots of Death" Special Edition is on sale now.
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