Dreamland (Doctor Who)

"Dreamland" is the fourth episode of the 2009 Doctor Who specials, bridging the gap between "Planet of the Dead" and "The Waters of Mars." It is presented in a partially animated format, a decision made due to budget constraints and the desire to explore a different visual style.

The episode sees the Tenth Doctor, played by David Tennant, accidentally arriving in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1958. There, he encounters a stranded alien race known as the Vargas, who are being hunted by the US military led by the unscrupulous General Stark. The Vargas are attempting to return to their homeworld, but require a specific crystal to power their damaged ship.

The Doctor becomes embroiled in the conflict, teaming up with area 51 worker Mr. Serling and a waitress named Cassie Rice to uncover the secrets surrounding the Vargas and General Stark's intentions. The episode explores themes of government conspiracy, xenophobia, and the moral dilemmas faced by the Doctor when dealing with powerful forces.

The animation style is rotoscoped, meaning live-action footage was traced over by animators to create a distinctive look. This approach was intended to evoke the feel of classic science fiction films.

"Dreamland" is generally considered one of the weaker installments of the Tenth Doctor's era. It received mixed reviews, with criticism directed towards the animation, the plot's simplicity, and perceived lack of impact on the overall narrative of the specials. Despite its reception, the episode remains a notable experiment in Doctor Who history, showcasing the series' willingness to explore different formats and storytelling methods. The events of "Dreamland" are generally self-contained, with minimal lasting impact on the wider Doctor Who universe.