The history of Doctor Who, spanning both its original and current seasons, is famously complex. Starting in the 1960s, Doctor Who quickly became a popular science fiction show, attracting a large international fanbase long before the internet was commonplace. While many excellent Doctor Who episodes have been made in the 21st century, fans still enjoy the classic episodes from the show’s earlier years, which were often longer stories told over four or more parts.
A significant Doctor Who story is often forgotten due to its place in the show’s timeline. The 1996 Doctor Who TV movie, featuring Paul McGann as the Eighth Doctor, is officially part of the show’s history (aside from one plot detail about being half-human). Though it was once considered one of the weaker stories, many viewers now recognize how good it actually is. The BBC recently announced on February 19th that the 1996 movie will be getting a high-definition Blu-ray and 4k upgrade, and it will be available to pre-order soon.
Paul McGann’s Eighth Doctor in 4K
As a lifelong Doctor Who fan, I’ve always felt the 1996 movie gets a bad rap. It actually has a lot going for it, especially the fact that it gives us two Doctors! We see Sylvester McCoy regenerate into Paul McGann – a really dramatic moment where he’s literally shot as he exits the TARDIS. Then, the newly-regenerated Eighth Doctor finds himself in a crazy San Francisco on the eve of the millennium, and he has to race against time to foil the Master’s latest scheme. It’s a fun, fast-paced adventure, and I think it deserves more love from the fandom.
This movie isn’t flawless, but that’s typical for a Doctor Who story. Like any production, it has some weaknesses. The Doctor’s companion, American doctor Grace Holloway (Daphne Ashbrook), isn’t quite as memorable as companions like Rose Tyler or Amy Pond, but she serves the story well enough. Some people have criticized it for feeling too American for a British show, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying it.
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The BBC hasn’t announced when the Blu-ray and 4K versions of the Doctor Who movie will be available, but they have confirmed the 4K edition will be a limited release steelbook. Both versions will include extra features like an uncensored UK cut, two new audio commentaries, and a behind-the-scenes documentary, which will be especially exciting for dedicated Doctor Who fans.
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2026-02-19 17:05