Issue 2 of the new Doctor Who: Prisoners Of Time series and, of course, a new Doctor. Prisoners Of Time #2 moves the focus to the second Doctor, and offers a new adventure and style to match.

First, the official description from IDW:

Our yearlong celebration of Doctor Who’s 50th anniversary continues! Oh my giddy aunt! It’s time to break out the recorders, as the Second Doctor takes the spotlight in this issue of a 12-part epic adventure featuring all 11 incarnations of the Doctor!

If there’s one thing I love about this issue, its the design. The bright and simple color scheme evokes older comic book styles, as does the general design. Likewise, the various aliens themselves look like something one might find in older Doctor Who. That is, a lot of them look like men in suits; something that perhaps offsets the more serious underlying theme of slave labor. That said, there are a couple of Martian Ice Warriors that are just perfect. The art style makes them look very close to their costumed originals. Even the hands lack and digits or fingers, evoking a simple glove or mitten. Its the subtle hints like this that will undoubtedly appeal to older audiences, yet also offer new audiences some unique and different from the current Doctor Who staple.

As for the plot itself, it has a somewhat serious tone. It takes themes of slavery to a galactic level. Of course, the Doctor makes anything more whimsical and charming, but the fact that these activities are shown shows a slightly more serious Doctor. This, if anything, makes the story more interesting. Again, some people might not appreciate this combined with the more lighter or old fashioned art style.

Finally, this issue doesn’t have much to do with the overlapping arc. Issue one opened up with some strong hints. This issue has very little besides an abrupt ending. This ties it in, sure, but I’m sure many readers would like a little extra detail or clues for their efforts.

4/5