Crews have started filming a new sci-fi drama set in the Doctor Who universe. The five-part miniseries, called “The War Between the Land and the Sea,” brings UNIT into a conflict with an ancient sea-dwelling species. Showrunner Russell T. Davies revealed details about the project during a recent interview.
The series centers on an international crisis as an old species emerges from the ocean to endanger humanity. UNIT, a military organization that investigates alien threats, works to stop the sea creatures. Filming started three weeks ago in Cardiff, Wales and will continue in a single block through December.
Davies explained the challenges of this approach, noting scenes from the first episode may not film until close to wrap. “Normally episodes would divide filming into blocks, but this is one continuous shoot. So an actor’s first appearance could be the last scene of the last episode,” he said. The production team must carefully coordinate cast and crew schedules.
Despite logistical difficulties, Davies feels the single block shoot allows more flexibility and limits spoilers. It presents unique planning issues though, with scenes from different episodes recording over months. “It’s logistics galore,” Davies said of the process.
The miniseries boasts A-list talent like Jemma Redgrave, Russell Tovey, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Though Tovey and Mbatha-Raw starred in Doctor Who before, they take on new roles here. Newcomers include Gentleman Jack actor Vincent Franklin. Dylan Holmes Williams directs the entire drama.
Classic villains the Sea Devils, last seen facing the 13th Doctor, again threaten humanity. Their inclusion connects the original and modern shows. The series may air in 2025 after season two of Doctor Who starring Ncuti Gatwa. Until then, the Christmas special “Joy to the World” comes in 2024.
With its innovative production, star performers, and promise to thrill both loyal and new fans, “The War Between the Land and the Sea” looks set to be compulsively watchable when it surfaces on screens.
